The Western Echo - June 2023

For the Love of Books

By Sarah Krause

If you take a stroll around The Gap or surrounds, you will no doubt come across the gorgeous phenomenon of the Street Library! Our generous community members and neighbours are building little libraries where people can borrow and donate books. When searching the registered Street Libraries (www.streetlibrary.org. au), I came across 18 within a 5km radius of The Gap! Some local businesses such as Kahlo Coffee at the Ashgrove Golf Club, and Sonia Jones Travel on Wardell St, Ashgrove have also joined in.

Jason also likes to encourage people to talk about books. Like me, he recently discovered a hidden gem in Scrumptious Reads on Arthur Terrace, Red Hill. They hold two monthly book clubs – one for foodies which includes meals from a cook book and often the Chef/Author themselves, and the other for lovers of fiction and non-fiction (alternated monthly). You can find more information on their website at www.scrumptiousreads.com.au or Instagram @scrumptiousreads

Another local group sharing their love of reading is BAGS (Book Appreciation Group). Not your typical book club, as they don’t choose one book to read, but each bring along current reads to discuss at a different members house every 6 weeks or so. One of the organisers Meg Kapitany, says the group are open to new members and people can message her on Facebook if interested.

Lastly, if you’re keen to know what books to look out for when you come across the street libraries, you should check out #Bookstagram on Instagram. Book fanatics from around the world post photos of books, chat about books, write reviews, and host group reads. If you love discussing books – it really is the place to be.

Happy browsing!

Connect with Sarah Krause on Instagram: @sarahsbookchat

So why are people putting these mini libraries outside their homes, stores, churches or kindies? One of these people is Toni Lucke. Her Warana Street Library (@waranastreetlibrary) is affixed to her fence and contains an assortment of contemporary and literary fiction. Toni started the library in March 2021 as a way of connecting with neighbours and sharing her love of reading. “When I read a good book, I want everyone to read it!”. Another local little library owner is Jason de Souza. His library, located on Canterbury Place and constructed in January 2018 is quite unique and resembles a dog house. Originally it even had a dog head and tail and was aptly named “Canterbury Tails”. Jason says his family are “ferocious readers” who “consume a lot of books” and love to encourage reading – whether it’s borrowing library books or buying books. They started the library to be able to share with others. He says plenty of people drop off and borrow the books, and he regularly rotates them and cleans it out. He also swaps with other libraries around the suburb at times.

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

Coverimagecredit:photoofJasondeSouza,Sarah Krause,anddaughterAudreyKrausetakenby ©ColinBushellPhotography.

From theEditor

Dear Readers,

Thank you everyone the positive messages and feedback we have received from our first edition in May –we really appreciate the support.

We plan to share new articles and features over the coming months, starting with a new column this month called ‘Col’s Chat’. Many locals will already know Colin Bushell, a professional photographer based in The Gap, however what you may not know is that he’s also a very good creative writer. Colin loves uncovering local stories and characters, so we hope you enjoy reading his first column about Ron Ward in this June edition.

If you have any suggestions of local residents to include in future editions please send them our way, or please step forward yourself if you’re keen.

We also welcome Sarah Krause as a featured writer this month, sharing her story about street libraries in our local area. For anyone who loves books and writing (as we do), we are sure you’ll enjoy this article. Keep an eye out for her book reviews and ‘bookaholic’ news in our next editions.

As we continue to grow the publication, we are making online enhancements too. You have hopefully seen our Facebook page, and our new Instagram page. In addition, we are launching our new website in June – in time for this edition. Next will be our e-newsletter – so watch this space!

Facebook.com/TheWesternEcho

Instagram.com/thewesternecho

Competition Time – prize worth over $400!

Don’t miss the chance to win yourself (or a loved one) a gift voucher from Ebb and Flow Day Spa – see our promotion on page 6. The prize includes their signature Urban Rescue package and a 40-min Detox Hut session – valued over $400 total. Located in The Gap, Ebb and Flow offer a wide range of day spa treatments. Please visit our website to enter: www.westernecho.com.au

The competition closes midnight 30 June 2023.

Thank you to Natalie and Team for your generous support! www.ebbandflow.com.au

If you have any questions or feedback, please let us know. We would love to hear from you.

All the best, Mel & Kym

Melanie: 0409 440 501 | editor@westernecho.com.au or melanie@planetmarketing.com.au

Kym: 0402 450 568 | spotart@spotart.com.au

Notice to Readers

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

Night Owl Enoggera Cnr Samford Rd and Wardell St

Stewart Rd News 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

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

Being a Responsible Dog Owner

The relationship with our four-legged family members is one that comes with responsibilities to them and to the wider community I speak from personal experience as my dog Schatzi has been part of our family for over 13 years

If you are new to owning a dog, Brisbane City Council has five important rules to follow to being a responsible dog owner;

1. Register and microchip your dog – Under the Animal Management (Cats & Dogs) Act 2008 it is a requirement in Queensland to register your dog Council offers customised aluminium dog tags to help reunite lost dogs with their families.

2. Clean up after your dog – It is requirement to carry waste bags with you when out and about with your dog. Council has waste bags located at the entry points of most Dog Off Leash Areas across the city

4. Have a secured yard – A lost dog can be stressful for any family, so it is important to ensure your dog’s play space at home is secure Also regularly check the perimeter for breach points where your dog could have a Houdini moment

Upper Kedron Street Tree Planting

Thank you to all the green-thumbed volunteers who joined together in Upper Kedron to plant almost 300 trees on Saturday 6 May. This area will particularly benefit from these street trees as they provide habitat for native wildlife, cool the suburb, and increase property values.

5. Walk on a lead – Socialising and exercising your dog is great for their health and yours. It is important to ensure when walking your dog they are on a lead and that you have full control for their safety and your peace of mind.

Other helpful tips include ensuring that your dog is under supervision while in public spaces, even in Dog Off Leash Areas, and always carrying water when spending long times in the sun, to prevent your dog from overheating. Please contact the BCC 24/7 Contact Centre on 3403 8888 to report dog attacks or persistent barking dogs.

Owning a pet and the unconditional love that they provide is a privilege not a right.

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Schatzi Toomey on her 13th Birthday

It’s up to 7°C cooler under a mature tree.

Winter Wellness &Competition

Taking care of your Wellness and Skin in Winter

At ebb & flow Day Spa we get it. Even though it’s not snowing, Queensland’s winter can still impact your wellness and skin. To help combat this, we recommend changing up your skin routine when the weather changes. We know wellness is more than skin deep, which is why we also suggest a visit to our infrared sauna and magnesium spa, followed by a hydrating body treatment. This could change your entire outlook on the crisp season!

Our top winter skin and wellness tips:

1. Moisturise regularly: Cold weather can lead to dry and dehydrated skin. Use a rich moisturiser that suits your skin type to prevent moisture loss and keep your skin hydrated.

7. Change up your skincare for winter: Stick your daily skincare routine, including cleansing, moisturising, and applying sunscreen but add in hydrating serums and calming, moisturising masks. A regular skincare routine is key to maintaining healthy skin.

8. Stay active: Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which is beneficial for your overall health and skin. Stay active during the winter months.

9. A regular massage and facial: Does wonders for not only your skin but your sense of wellbeing.

Ebb and Flow has been operating in The Gap for over 13 years. See our website for all day spa treatments available.

2. Use a gentle cleanser: Foaming cleansers can dry out your skin. Switch to a mild and hydrating cleanser to gently cleanse your face without stripping away your skin’s natural oils.

3. Stay hydrated: Despite the cooler temperatures, it's important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. We suggest 2 litres of water per day.

4. Protect your skin from the sun: Although the sun may not feel as intense during winter, harmful UVA and UVB rays are still present. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 everyday to protect your skin and combat ageing. Always wear a hat outdoors.

5. Avoid hot showers: Hot showers may feel tempting in winter, but they strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Use lukewarm water instead and limit your shower time.

6. Eat a balanced diet: Include foods rich in essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants in your diet. Winter is the perfect time for healthy hearty soups and warming herbal teas.

Voucher

This prize is the perfect way to relax, rejuvenate, and rehydrate for winter wellbeing. Located in lush and leafy surrounds in The Gap, the team at Ebb and Flow will let you escape to a state of blissful relaxation.

State Update

Celebrating 50 years – Ashgrove Meals on Wheels

Ashgrove Meals on Wheels has been a backbone organisation for our community for a long time – fifty years actually! And last month many of the clients, drivers, volunteers and staff celebrated this achievement. Congratulations to Carolyn, and the incredible committee/s past and present, and to all the volunteers who continue to care for our community. Another thank-you to Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club for running the BBQ.

Regional Parliament in Cairns – and the Path to Treaty

I, along with my colleagues ventured to Cairns last month for regional parliament, and it was great to see so many Cairns students have the chance to come and watch the proceedings live. This sittings week was devoted to debating the Path to Treaty Bill, which was later passed. This is a historic moment, and I appreciate that people might have questions about what this means, or how Treaty interfaces with the Voice to Parliament for example. It’s perfectly understandable to have these questions, and I will be hosting a series of morning teas on this shortly. If you’d like to come along to that please contact my office.

Dance Studio celebrates 50 years in Ashgrove

Congratulations to Ashgrove State School Fete Organisers

The State Government continues to push for world-class public education, our most recent deliverables include air conditioning in all state school classrooms throughout Queensland, solar panel installations on all state schools and our recent wellbeing package including GP’s in high schools. But we know there are still shortfalls, which is where our incredible P&C’s step in! Shoutout this month to the P&C, and all volunteers assisting in the Ashgrove State School Fete – another epic day out for the family and a wonderful fundraiser for the school.

Cost of Living Support

For many of us cost of living is the number one issue affecting us and our families. Global inflation is impacting everything from groceries and petrol to rent, electricity, insurance and phone bills, and we’re all looking for ways to save on costs. The Palaszczuk Government recognises the stress this is causing Queenslanders, which is why we’re doing what we can to help Queenslanders with the cost of living. I’ve collated a list of subsidies and assistance available now to individuals, families, and charities – simply go to www.jontybush.com/cost-of-living

The Ashgrove Dance Studio is clocking up two major milestones with Judy and Wendy celebrating teaching for 50 years in the Ashgrove area, and a further celebration of its 124 year anniversary. Over the years, hundreds of families and young dancers have received their early dance training at the school - many of you have shared your special memories of this school with me. The dance studio is preparing a booklet of memories over the last 50 years and if anyone has any stories or photos to include please send them to principal@ ashgrovedance.com.au.

Men’s Health Week 12-18 June

Men’s Health Week is a great opportunity for men (and their loved ones) to encourage positive conversations and take action to improve men’s health. Stigma and shame can result in some men never coming forward to ask for help, which as we know can often make the issue worse. So let’s use Men’s Health Week to overcome that barrier and help connect men to greater support. A great resource is the Australian Men’s Health Forum – www.amhr.org.au

If there’s anything here you’d like to know more about, or would like to connect with me generally, please reach out.

Jonty Bush MP Member for Cooper

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Down History Lane The Western Echo

One of Philippa’s proudest moments during her 29 years of publishing the Western Echo was having several community groups band together and submit an application to the Australia Day Honours 2018 where Philippa was awarded an OAM (presented by Queensland Governor Paul de Jersey) for service to the community of northwest Brisbane. It was an incredible endorsement of The Western Echo and the esteem with which it was and is still held in our community.

It wasn't long before support increased, the magazine expanded to between 40 and 48 pages and distribution expanded to 15,700 copies each month, now covering Ashgrove, The Gap, as well as parts of Bardon, Paddington, Red Hill, Enoggera, Newmarket, Mitchelton and Keperra.

Keeping up with the needs of readers, The Western Echo also became available online. Whether it's the annual ANZAC Day services, Student Leader inductions, new management of local Service Clubs, or meeting dates and times of the myriad of fabulous clubs enjoyed and supported by residents, The Western Echo has been there capturing photos, telling their stories and letting new and longstanding members of our local Western suburbs know what is available to them.

The first Western Echo appeared in letterboxes and businesses in Ashgrove, Bardon and The Gap in July 1994, published by RPK Publications, a husband and wife team Roger and Lyn Fryer who had been publishing The Hills Echo since January 1992 and were based in Ferny Hills. The 24page, spot-colour A4 quarter-fold format on 40gsm newsprint was a much more convenient format for readers and was a welcome addition to many households who enjoyed the spotlights on new businesses, community group activities, profiles of local achievers and local, State and Federal news.

Each month 9,000 copies were delivered free to letterboxes, with affordably priced advertising for local businesses – many of whom were homebased.

Philippa Wightman contacted RPK and became a Gapbased member of their team sourcing news, support and new advertising in August 1994, then in July 1995 bought The Western Echo from Roger and Lyn and became the new publisher. Philippa continued as the editor, typesetter, photographer and jack-of-alltrades until April 2023, when Melanie and Kym became the new driving-forces behind the much-loved publication.

Thanks to so many local businesses, community groups, local political supporters and schools, the Western Echo has continued to keep thousands of locals abreast of news, changes, and new businesses over the past 29 years – and is still continuing to be the source of local happenings today.

Words and images: Philippa Wightman

COL’S CHAT Locals through my Lens

“I sometimes can’t believe it myself!”

Speaking about his adventurous life, local legend, Ron Ward, is a man whose youth resembles a Dickensian novel; a tale of hardship, endeavour and ultimate reward. Raised by two orphans and living in a tent, Ron began working from the age of five, selling everything from newspapers, chickens and puppies. Fast forward to 2023, and I’m chatting to a man whose positive appreciation of life is truly infectious: A boxing legend, a charity ambassador, a farmer, a roustabout, a soldier, a boilermaker, an athlete and – if our chat is anything to go by – a master storyteller! He’s even got a park in The Gap named after him!

“I left school at 12. I must have worked over 50 jobs, from tannery ‘stripper’ to gym owner.” The Courier Mail’s Fighter of the Year in 1957, Ron became synonymous with boxing in Queensland. “I never really liked fighting, but my trainer said I could do well. I always went flat out in everything I did, and

became amateur state champion, and eventually turned pro.” Many locals will know Ron from his service to the veteran community. “Becoming a soldier was not high on my list, but in 1958, I found myself called up for National Service and, for the last 30 years, have been Honour Guard for Brisbane’s ANZAC and remembrance ceremonies.”

Awarded the Lord Mayor’s Senior Australian of the Year in 2021; husband to Ruth, and father to four children, this effervescent octogenarian is a truly genuine, honest, inspiring and funny bloke.

Just make sure you set aside plenty of time if you ever say to him, “Tell us about the time when…”

Author: Colin Bushell

Colin Bushell is an award-winning photographer, writer and educator. OriginallyfromLondon,hehasbeen a Gap resident for 18 years but – when fate lets him – he spends up to three months of the year on assignment around the world, looking for stories and images.

Colin teaches photography in fun and engaging workshops, both in the classroom and out on location. He is always keen to share his secrets of the trade and has featured on the ABC and other media outlets.

Colin is also President of The Gap Creative Inc.

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The Gap CreativeExhibition

Local Art Exhibitions

The bubbles and conversations flowed recently at the hugely successful opening night of our second exhibition at Ruby Red Jewellers. Katherine Kemp has been a long-time supporter and the events provide a perfect space for members and potential members to interact.

Our president, Colin Bushell, reported a conversation which highlights what our ever growing creative community is trying to achieve – “I was wondering what joining The Gap Creative would actually look like. What was in it for me? Having come to this event, I can clearly see how amazing the camaraderie, talent and sense of fun is in this community. No ego, just a sense of fun, friendship and sharing. A wonderful group I will be thrilled to be part of.”

Artwork is on display and available to purchase at 107 Romea Street until the next exhibition on November 16th.

With the opening of the ‘As You Like It’ exhibition at The Gap State High School on June 16th, it is a case of following in the children’s footsteps for a few of our exhibitors. Marianne Wilson, Peni Meggison, Peta Harvey, James Baird, Craig McConachy,

Kathy Sullivan, and Di Briscoe are all parents of ex students. “Our children’s lives were enriched by their involvement in the outstanding arts programs offered by the school and it is a privilege to be able to exhibit in the magnificent Tula Art Gallery” said Marianne.

It isn’t too late to RSVP for the opening night celebrations – tickets are free but you will need to register via https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/as-you-like-itofficial-opening-16-june-7pm-tickets-598168737797

Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap

In the last edition of The Western Echo we reported the launch of Rotary Queensland’s Break Through Project to endow a chair (a professorship) at the Queensland Brain Institute, focussing on understanding brain function and developing preventions and treatments for disorders like dementia (including Alzheimer’s) and Parkinson’s Disease. This month we can report that we have made our first donation to this cause: $5000.

Where did this money come from? Partly from personal donations by members of the club, but largely from funds raised locally by our raffles, sausage sizzles, and public collections (Santa Sleigh, Carols by Candlelight). In other words, the good people of The Gap and surrounds have made this investment possible. And it is an investment: any of us in time may need the results of the Queensland Brain Institute’s medical research work as we age.

Where else have funds gone recently? To the nearly-nearly complete work of eradicating Polio from the planet we gave $2000. There has not been a case of “wild” polio anywhere in the world since September of last year, thanks to this project, originally conceived by Clem Renouf, a Nambour Rotarian and President of Rotary worldwide for a year.

confidential, but we supplied $1000 of supporting material this month.

To Rotary’s own Foundation, a large reserve for major projects in Australia and around the world we gave $3000.

All this is not just to blow our own trumpet, but to let people in The Gap, who support their Rotary Club so well in public events and fundraisers, know what happens to their dollars and cents after the sausage has been eaten.

This week we intend to continue our policy of being serious but not solemn: we will be supporting a local business by eating and drinking there.

If you feel you could handle the excitement, 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. Second and fourth Wednesdays of the month (except this month!) from 6:30 to 8:00pm at the Ashgrove Golf Club.

To Rotary Australia Repurposing Equipment (RARE) we gave $1500 towards the cost of sending a container. RARE was formerly known as Donations In Kind (DIK); it collects surplus medical and educational materials, packs them up, and sends them off to less fortunate countries, such as the Solomon Islands or Timor-Leste. It’s amazing how many perfectly serviceable last-generation hospital beds become available when a local hospital upgrades to the latest and best for the benefit of Queenslanders. It’s also amazing how expensive it has become to send a container overseas.

Feros Care is a not-for-profit provider of in-home and residential aged care, and NDIS services. It is a registered charity and we donated $2000 to support its nurses.

We also support a local Women’s Refuge. Details are necessarily

The Gap RSLSub Branch

ANZAC Day was particularly poignant in the 50th year since the end of the Vietnam War which was touched on during the President’s address at the Day Service. After that service there were several requests from those attending for a copy of that address – just get in touch. Thanks again, amazing community of The Gap.

THANK YOU to everyone who participated, volunteered, spoke, ushered, marched, set up, packed down, stood vigil in the rain, attended, paid respects, wrangled kids before first light, brought a friend, photographed, laid a wreath, attended, travelled, bought a sausage and a raffle ticket, helped to organise, cooked, decorated, provided water bottles, made coffees or otherwise contributed to our Sub Branch's ANZAC Day commemorations at Walton Bridge Reserve. None of this happens without the support of the entire community.

There are always so many people to thank it's difficult to acknowledge everyone in a way they deserve.

Our Sub Branch is a comparatively small Sub Branch and we work hard to make days like ANZAC Day a reality for all to commemorate and remember. For us and our members, we remember three of our members who have passed in the last year, Kiwi Gibbons OAM, Ray DeVere MC OAM, and Dr Ian Marshall AM. I know they would have thought that the turnout was amazing and would have probably enjoyed the rain during the Dawn Service.

If you ever want to drop in, we’re located at Nullagundi on School Rd. We’re open most Tuesdays 9-11am and the members meeting (for service and auxiliary members) is on the third Friday of the month.

Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club

On Sunday 21 May, our club supported Ashgrove Meals on Wheels to celebrate 50 years in our community by conducting a BBQ for those people and staff attending the celebration. Meals on Wheels provide meals in accordance with relevant nutrition and dietary guidelines at a low cost to assist people to remain independent in their own homes.

At our Partners & Friends meeting at Zegatos Restaurant in Ashgrove Golf Club on 23 May we welcomed the Director of the Lockyer Valley Fruit & Vegetable Processing Company who spoke about the Fruit and Vegetable Industry in that region.

Upcoming Events

On 4 June, incoming Board Members of Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club will be attending a training day at Voices of Birralee to prepare them for their roles in the club over the next 12 months.

Our club will be conducting BBQ’s for Trek2Health on 6 June, 9 June, 13 June, 18 June, 20 June, and 27 June.

Members, Partners & Friends will be attending a Thank You Morning at Trek2Health on 11 June with thanks for donating 50% of funds to purchase a treadmill for use in supporting front line workers and veterans to improve their mental and physical health and well-being. Our club looks forward to presentations regarding chronic stress, having nutrition for well-being, behavior change and gratitude and empathy, as well as going for a 1.5km walk around Enoggera Reservoir.

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 2pm to 4pm at the Ellis Room at Ashgrove Golf Club.

NATIONAL LIONS PROJECT

Did you know that since 1980, Australian Lions Hearing Dogs (ALHD) have provided a set of ‘furry ears’ to many hundreds of Australians, this is all made possible from the ongoing support of our generous donors and the Lions Clubs across Australia. Each Hearing Assistance Dog costs Australian Lions Hearing Dogs just under $40,000 to train, deliver and support. However, they go to their recipients free of charge, a gift from Australian Lions Hearing Dogs and the Lions Clubs of Australia in helping the Australian community.

One in six Australians has some form of hearing loss, with this number expecting to rise to one in four by 2050. Severe or profound hearing loss currently affects close to 400,000 people. Whilst hearing loss impacts all ages, the numbers are greater in the older generations.

The technological advances with hearing aids and cochlear implants continue to improve. However, there are times when something extra is needed. This is where the complementary assistance of an Australian Lions Hearing Dog makes a real difference.

A number of years ago, our club sponsored a Hearing Dog for Elizabeth who used to live in Windsor in Brisbane and recently our club visited the Multiple District Lions Convention and we visited the Lions Hearing Dogs Foundation and were fortunate to see Elizabeth again with another Hearing Dog which provides proof of the commitment of Lions Clubs to supporting our community. Leading into Christmas in July, we have Christmas Cakes & Puddings for sale if anyone in our community would like to purchase a 1.5kg Cake for $19, 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: lionatg19@gmail.com or call 0400 210 357. Ashgrove

Lions The Gap – Lions Club Australia

Northern Suburbs Hockey Club

Norths Eagles hockey players flying high

Northern Suburbs Hockey Club at Ashgrove has been celebrating the achievements of several of its high achieving players and umpires.

Three Norths members recently swapped sky-blue club jerseys for the green and gold of Australia. Trish Hughes, Raina McCarthy and Elke Swain represented Australia at the Masters Hockey Trans-Tasman tournament in Christchurch.

Trish (Australia Over 35) and Raina (Australia Over 55) both scored goals in their debut international tournament, while Elke coached Australia’s Over 45 team which won its three-game series against New Zealand. One week after returning from overseas, Trish become the first Norths Eagles player to reach 250 games in the Brisbane women's Premier League 1 competition.

Sam Verry represented the Australian Defence Force women’s hockey team in a three-game series against New Zealand Defence Force held in Christchurch.

Norths Division 1 players Diarmid Chappell, Holly Gilbar and Jessica Moffat will soon get their chance to represent Australia. Diarmid has been named in the Australian Under 21 men's hockey squad for 2023, while Holly and Jess will represent Australia at the Oceania Hockey 5s World Cup Qualifiers in July.

No stranger to international hockey, Olympic umpire Aleisha Neumann blew the whistle for recent FIH Pro League matches involving the Australian Hockeyroos, New Zealand and Great Britain.

Norths players have also excelled while representing their state. Thomas Quine and his Queensland team won the Australian Under 15 national title in Darwin, defeating Victoria 8-1 in the championship final. Nick Keir, William Ready, Oliver Harding and Max Mackley have been selected in Queensland’s Under 18 team after their Toowoomba and Brisbane sides reached the final of the state championship in Townsville.

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 17th June. This meeting will be a workshop preparing for the Qld Cake Decorators’ Association Cake Show in September this year. This would be a great time to come along and join our fun-filled meeting.

We recently held a day for cake decorators from South-East Queensland and had a great response. As part of the day, those attending created Mother’s Day hats in the workshop and saw some wonderful demonstrations from local and interstate decorators.

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

A huge fortnight of hockey saw Norths stalwart Trish Hughes represent Australia then play her club record 250th Division 1 game. Photo by Andrew Blanchard.

CoastalRosemary

Coastal rosemary (Westringia fructicosa), as its name suggests, is naturally found in coastal regions. It is endemic to NSW but has become naturalised in Queensland where it grows on sand dunes, cliff faces and in the heavier shale-enriched soils of dune forests and woodlands. It also has a similar appearance, although the leaves do not have a strong aroma, to true rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) to which it is closely related. Westringia fructiosa have small, simple leaves that form a whorl around the stem. They are hairy, giving them an attractive silvery sheen, and blue-green to grey-green in colour. The solitary flowers have five petals of varying size, fused at their base, and are heavily clustered in the leaf axils. The colour of the flowers ranges from pale mauve to white with orange to purple spots in the throat of the petals. Native and exotic bees as well as butterflies, other insects and small birds are attracted to the flowers which, in warm regions, flower throughout the year.

Although less flamboyant than bottlebrush, grevillea and banksia, coastal rosemary is a versatile plant that can be used as a formal hedge or topiary, a path border, an ornamental shrub, an expansive ground cover or in box gardens or containers. It will retain a healthy, bushy appearance for many years but benefits from regular tip pruning. In garden conditions it can reach a height of 2m and width of 1.5 m but can be pruned to the required size. It will grow in a range of soils as long as they are well drained and in full sun. Since they will survive on steep northern and western sites, they provide a useful buffer for more tender plants in exposed regions. Once established, these plants tolerate drought, heat, humidity, wind, cold and slight frost. Pests and diseases never seem to trouble this species.

There are a number of different cultivars and hybrids of the 25 different species of Westringia endemic to Australia. ‘Zena’ and ‘Blue Gem’ are a low-growing forms about a 1m tall whilst ‘Wynyabbie Gem’ is a medium shrub that makes a good screening plant.

Carmen Briggs

Sing with Us!

Serenata Singers’ Open Invitation to 2023

The Serenata Singers is a friendly community choir based in The Gap. We are celebrating 53 years of singing in 2023 and would welcome new members No audition is necessary. An ability to read music is helpful, but not required. The choir sings a variety of popular and show tunes, spiritual and folk songs.

The choir will be rehearsing every Monday in 2023 starting at 6:45pm for a 7:00pm start at The Gap Uniting Church auditorium, 1050 Waterworks Road, The Gap. You are welcome to meet choir members, find out about the choir, and join in or simply observe a rehearsal.

If you can hold a tune and love to sing, the Serenata Singers may

be for you!

For further information, check us out at: www.serenatasingers.org.au

Mitchelton & DistrictsGarden Club

The last few weeks have been a busy time for executive members of The Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club which participated in The Twilight Years Expo at Arana Hills. Also, at the June meeting a farewell function was held for Pat Killoran who retired from the club towards the end of 2022. Pat, apart from being president several other times, has recently served continuously as president for almost twelve years. Her club membership covers well over fifty-five years, and she is wished peace, good health, and happiness.

The next Garden Club meeting at the Enoggera Memorial Hall is on Thursday, 6th July. The guest speaker, Helen Rattenburg's topic is Good/Bad Weeds in the Garden. According to Encyclopaedia Britannica the definition of a weed is ‘a plant considered undesirable, unattractive and troublesome, especially one that grows where it is not wanted and spreads quickly’. There's a saying - One year's seed, seven years, weeds. How true it is! One such weed is the Dandelion, but its herbal qualities are beneficial for good health too. Some others are Clover, Onion Weed, Oxalis. Attend this meeting to see what Helen has to say. Visitors and new members are most welcome. Admission is $3. Morning tea is provided from 9.15a.m. The meeting commences approx 10a.m. More information is on Facebook: @mitcheltongardenclub

The guest speaker last month, Peter Starkey, had lots of different camellia specimens to show the audience. He even had a cutting from Camellia Sinensis, the bush that has its tips plucked and dried to make tea leaves. He pointed out that the Camellia is not a shrub, it is a tree. In China and Japan the trunks on Camellias are quite thick. On the tea leaf specimen there was one white

flower about the size of a fifty cent coin. The stamens in the centre of the flower were showy but there looked to be only one row of petals.

Do any of your shrubs or young trees look unhappy? If so, the cause could be the position where they are planted. This month is a good time to transplant them, but be careful - the less disturbance around the roots the better, and transplanting Natives is not always successful. First find out what conditions are required. Next make the new hole not much deeper than the depth of soil you are leaving on the roots. Stir in some rich organic compost. Make sure the soil around the plant to be moved is damp and clings together. Push a sharp flat spade vertically into the ground about 15cm all around the plant. After each push, force the spade handle towards your body, then downwards, to make a lifting motion. When the plant and root ball are free, drag it on a bag to the new hole. Fill in around it, and water well with Seasol which reduces transplant shock. Make sure the plant has some water for a few weeks. Herbaceous perennials may be lifted and divided this month. Also the last of winter vegetables may be planted.

Entrance to the Enoggera Memorial Hall is at 36 Trundle Street, Enoggera.

The hall is close to public transport and accessible by wheelchair.

For more information call 0438 268 212 or email the president Trish: mitcheltongc@gmail.com

Open your newspaper or watch the news any day of the week and you will find a story from somewhere of someone being imprisoned or executed because their opinions or religion are unacceptable to their government.

Take, for example, this week's news on ABC radio about Majid Kazemi, whose family in Sydney is calling on the Australian government to make representations to the Iranian government. Majid joined a peaceful protest in Tehran after the death in September of a young woman who was severely beaten for 'improperly' wearing her hijab. Majid is being held under solitary confinement in prison in Isfahan. His execution might come at any moment.

You, the newspaper reader, may feel a tremendous sense of impotence. Yet if these feelings could be united into common

action, it's in situations as these that Amnesty International can help by putting on pressure on the behalf of individuals at risk.

There are two local Amnesty International groups: The Helen Black Amnesty International group meets between 9-11am on the second Monday morning of the month in The Gap and would be pleased to hear from anyone interested in joining.

Please contact Di on 3300 1861.

The Ashgrove Amnesty International group meets on the first and third Thursday evenings of the month and can be contacted by calling Sally on 3366 2046 or 0476 006 990.

BrisbaneTramway Museum

NEWS AND VIEWS FROM A TRAMWAY MUSEUM

The "Phoenix" trams arose from the ashes of the catastrophic fire that destroyed the Paddington Tram Depot in 1962. Painted in distinctive two-tone blue and grey, they were essentially a recreation of the post-war FM (fourmotor) “Silver Bullets”.

Only eight Phoenix trams were built, each carrying a distinctive Phoenix bird logo just beneath the driver’s side-windows. Their working life was successful but brief, because the entire tramway system was dismantled just six years later. While the bulk of the Brisbane fleet was unceremoniously scrapped, four Phoenix trams were blessed with a second reincarnation, thus achieving a remarkable survival rate of fifty percent.

Today, Phoenix tram No. 548 enjoys a starring role transporting tourists at the Sydney Tramway Museum, while sister tram 550 is patiently awaiting restoration

at the Perth Electric Tramway Society (this tram was discussed in a previous article). The very last tram built in Brisbane - Phoenix No. 554 – entered service in 1964 and she also played a starring role on the last day of trams in 1969. The Brisbane Tramway Museum is fortunate to house this important machine and she is kept busy carrying visitors most weekends.

Sadly, not all Phoenix survivors have been so lucky. Sister tram 549 was dispatched to a Lions Park at Tara on the Western Downs in 1969. The young six year-old tram was a star attraction at the distant outpost for many years, but, as so often happens, she eventually fell from favour and was sent to browner pastures. She is now gently decomposing in an isolated paddock outside of town.

Phoenix sister 549 is sixty years old this year and she's definitely showing her age. Will the old lady ever be restored to her former glory?

It’s unlikely, at least in the short term. Her advanced

state of decay and high cost of transportation (even with a senior’s discount) make it an unlikely prospect.

Words: David Fryer. Contact: maximalist@bigpond.com

Photo credit:thanks to Adam Johnson Photography for the photo of Phoenix No. 549.

Monthly

workshops - see our Facebook page for details

Next workshop: 17 June

Bookings open (QR to book): 10 June

Facebook: RepairCafeTheGap

Instagram: repaircafethegap

Email: thegaprepaircafe@gmail.com

The Brisbane Transport Museum is proudly supported by the Brisbane City Council.

The Brisbane Tramway Museum wishes the fallen star well on her sixtieth birthday beneath a star-studded sky.

Newmarket BocceClub News

Well there is nothing more satisfying than getting 20 bocce member players for a friendly competition. On the 17th May we played a precision bowl competition at the club. Six teams played four games

and as always it comes down to the last game to decide the winner.

So, each team has 8 bocce balls and they are played into a set of rings drawn on the

courts. The inner ring is worth 10 points, then 5, 3, and 1 point. Get the idea? You add the points after completion of the teams play and that is the team’s score. Add all the points after 4 games and you get the podium standing. We had a great time, but not

before we all enjoyed a great dinner, threw down a little vino and coffee and the rest is history. The photo with the 9 players is the podium finish of third, first and second. Remember there are no losers in bocce, we are all winners.

Want to know more?

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

BalaangalaCommunity Group

Voice to Parliament to respond to the consequences of colonisation.

All of the paintings by local artist Colin Peile were focused on his reflections about colonisation including the wealth and advantages that came to his ancestors and have flowed to him through colonisation. The exhibition made it clear that colonisation is not something that happened, it continues in the present.

29 of the 37 paintings exhibited were sold, raising $13,000 for the Balaangala Restoration Fund.

Balaangala Community Group members were delighted with the success of their most recent event – a workshop about the ongoing impacts of colonisation and a fund-raising art exhibition based on the theme of colonisation.

One of Balaangala’s objectives is to better understand the history of colonization in Australia, the on-going consequences for First Nations people and the responsibility we all have to deal with these consequences. The workshop and the paintings exhibited encouraged much thought, reflection and discussion about the issue. Non-First Nations people were challenged to reflect on the privileges they have gained by living on land that was taken without permission, payment or treaty.

The exhibition began with a welcome to Country by local custodian Derek Oram Sandy. Derek spoke of the need for people to listen to First Nations people. Dr Mayrah Dreise, a Gamillaraay woman and founding member of Balaangala gave an opening address and shared her views about the need for a

The Restoration Fund is based on an acceptance that the land we stand on was stolen from First Nations people. Making financial contributions to the Fund is one way non-First Nations people can “pay the rent”. The fund was launched by Aunty Flo Watson in 2019 and has grown slowly over time. People’s contributions accumulate over a 12 month period and then a panel of First Nations people decide which groups will receive money that year. To receive funds, groups must be 100% owned/run by First Nations people and involved in activities that restore financial and cultural capital to First Nations people. The first distribution of $10,000 was made in 2020 and in 2023 the panel had $20,000 to share among five First Nations groups.

Restoration fund working group members are keen to talk with anyone individually or at their workplace, union or faith groups about starting to “pay the rent”.

For information email: balaangalathegap@gmail.com

Ithaca ProbusClub News

Keeping up connections at Ithaca Probus Club

Members of Ithaca Probus club again commenced our general meeting in May with enthusiasm. Renditions of several old favourite songs had everyone fully engaged. Our meetings begin with either a short talk on a topic of interest by one of our members, a singalong, or some other activity to bring everyone together.

For the months ahead guest speakers are lined up to inform and entertain us on diverse topics. May guest speaker Lorraine Walker from the Stroke Foundation gave a very informative talk on symptoms and prevention strategies for strokes. She emphasised the importance of a swift response to mitigate long term effects and told us that while strokes are more prevalent among older people, they affect people of all ages. In June Denver Beanland, the President of the Historical Society of Queensland, will tell us about the early days of European settlement in Queensland.

The many books brought along to the exchange table each month provide clear evidence that our members need no encouragement to keep up their reading. The benefits of reading to memory and maintaining an active mind are well documented.

Participants in our Poetry Group share poems of interest each month. And to stimulate general interest in verse our monthly

newsletters usually include a poem or two.

We have been getting out and about too. Keen music lovers are attending the Lord Mayor’s free weekly concerts in City Hall. We are planning a bus trip in June to Victoria Barracks, then lunch at a local restaurant after which the day will be rounded out with a visit to the Trade Coast Central Heritage Park. Several walks are also scheduled in coming weeks.

In addition to the wide range of interesting activities - talks, outings, and other socially engaging events, such as the cards group and the poetry group, our monthly dine-outs at local pubs, clubs or restaurants add to the range of opportunities for social interaction between members. Our monthly newsletters keep members connected with reports on past activities and details of upcoming events.

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.

Newmarket ViewClub News

VIEW (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) is a leading women’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.

Alan le May talks to Darien Dikumkana, who has completed a tertiary degree in Nursing with the help of The Smith Family. Darien’s younger sisters are also being assisted by The Smith Family. Newmarket VIEW Club calls on community to give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal

The theme for this year’s Volunteer Week was ‘The Change Makers’, which Newmarket VIEW Club President Ros Arden said is an accurate reflection of VIEW’s work across Australia. “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. Newmarket VIEW Club hopes to set up a “pop-up” stall in Stafford Shopping Centre in the near future, both to raise funds and to hopefully attract new members.

“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.”

Our students are: Abbee 19, Roudwan 15, Jesse 14, Tony 13, Mitchell 9, Abigail 8, Amy 10.

If you wish to know more about The Smith Family and the Newmarket VIEW Club, email us on newmarketview@ gmail.com or contact our President, Ros Arden on 0417 569 547.

Red Hill Bowls Sports & Community Club

Club News

Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club is located on Fulcher Road next to the Broncos Leagues Club and adjacent to Ithaca Creek Bikeway with plenty of car parking facilities.

Bowls News

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 non bowlers are welcome to come along and enjoy a fun morning including lunch and prizes.

Club Facilities

Recently some of our Division 1 bowlers participated in Queensland State Men’s Fours Championship at Coolum Bowls Club, congratulations to Steve Hayden from Red Hill along with the other team members who won the Gold Medal and to Ben Walsh from Red Hill along with other team members who won the Bronze medal.

Our club provides a licensed bar and lounge area for your enjoyment as well as an adjoining Hall which comfortably seats 100 people with a fully equipped AV system with remote screen. Next to

the Hall is a fully equipped Commercial Kitchen equipped with a Pizza Oven as well. These facilities are utilized by Not-for-Profit groups but as well they are also available for Barefoot Bowls gatherings, all types of parties including Corporate Functions.

Further details can be obtained by calling 0412 765 805, emailing

secretary@redhillbowls.org.au, or visit our facebook page: facebook.com/redhillbscc

Our club has recently carried out renovations at the club and also our Dog Friendly Café which will be open in July this year. The Café is in a prime location and has approved opening hours from 6am to 10pm with outdoor seating which provides a great opportunity for an experienced café operator in a great.

For further details visit: www.redhillsbowls.org.au

(https://www. redhillbowls.org.au/ news-and-updates/ cafe-lease-opportunityred-hill-ithaca)

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.

Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club travelled to Dalby in mid May to compete in the annual Dalby Bowls Carnival. We had 8 bowlers participating in the Pairs and Fours competition with the opportunity to win prize money over 3 days.

We welcome all community members to our club to utilize our facilities either socially or to play bowls. The club plays social bowls on

May 2023, 7.30pm

THE GAP SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE

State High School Library

ups working meeting progress three major projects:

unity energy independence: to provide sustainenergy to all residents

We had an excellent working group meeting this Tuesday, 16th May, with lots of actives to report. We received our first quarterly 4-page newsletter very kindly printed by Member for Ryan Elizabeth Watson-Brown’s office and delivered to The Gap households by The Gap Scouts. Look out for it in your letterbox or have a read online.

Enhancing existing capabilities: aims to strengthen and support all environmental community groups in The Gap

Craig and Daniel attended the opening of the new composting facility at St Mark’s Anglican Church, which was opened by Member for Ryan Elizabeth Watson-Brown this Tuesday.

On the 10th of May, Michael and Fanny presented at QUT to undergraduate students from the Centre for a Waste-Free World.

The Platypus Project: The Platypus group undertook a first walk last Saturday from Enoggera Dam to School Road to assess which areas of Enoggera Creek may be suitable habitats for Platypus. A second walk from School Road to Walton Bridge will be planned in the next couple of weeks. We discussed how to get the local community engaged with our creeks and platypus project.

three projects, please join us. Everyone welcome! of the High School’s library and best parking. thegapsustainability@gmail.com www.facebook.com/

Fanny presented an idea for fundraising – hand-made Platypus sewed with remnants or reclaimed fabrics, that we could sell for fundraising (see photo on the next page). Please email fdebusserolles@gmail.com if you would like to help.

The Enhancing Existing Capabilities needs volunteers for a verge garden project. Please be in contact if you would like to help identify a block of streets in The Gap that does not have enough tree cover.

The Community Energy Independence project discussed the value of community batteries, and of electric cars to serve as a household backup energy storage in the near future. Energex has been successful in its federal grant application for 12 community batteries including one in The Gap. We will keep you informed as we learn more about this impact.

NEXT EVENTS:

On the 20th of June, TGSI is very excited to welcome Sam Mullen from the Brisbane Sustainability Agency as our presenter.

Please keep the 1st July free as we will be hosting a barbecue fundraiser at The Keperra Bunnings to raise funds for our insurance. Please email thegapsustainability@gmail.com if you can help.

The Eco Forum organised by Member of Cooper Jonti Bush, MP, will again be held at The Gap State Primary School on the 15th July. This is always a great event, hope to see you there.

SOCIAL MEDIA:

YOU’RE INVITED TO A SEMINAR SUSTAINABILITY IN THE GAP

20st June 2023, 7.30pm

Meeting venue: The Gap High School Library

Topic: The Brisbane Carbon Challenge how to become a lowcarbon household

Guest speaker: Sam Mullen

The Brisbane Sustainability Agency aims to create a sustainable future for Brisbane and beyond.

Sam is the Agency’s sustainability specialist, and will speak about what a lowcarbon household looks like, and what actions we can undertake to achieve reductions in carbon footprint. We will discuss whether The Gap as a suburb may want to enter the Agency’s Carbon Challenge?

Please note our seminar venue: The Gap High School Library (red round circle). Best parking is on the western side of the High School as indicated with the red arrow.

Please stay updated about our activities by visiting our website www.thegapsustainability.org. We now also have an active presence on Facebook.

AshgroveHistorical Society

guest speaker and other people interested in local history.

Visitors are encouraged and very welcome at the Ashgrove Historical Society meetings held at the Ashgrove Library on the first Saturday of the month 10am-noon. The topic for the meeting on 1 July will be Banks

Street and the Banks Street Reserve presented by Rod MacIver. Not many Brisbane streets traverse three suburbs, have a book written about them and contain a significant bushland reserve with koalas and remnants of the Three Mile Scrub. Banks Street

also has houses that span over a century including one that received a prestigious architecture award. Rod’s presentation will include some of the changes in Banks Street over the years as well as tell the story of how the Banks Street Reserve was saved for the protection of its fauna and flora as well as the enjoyment of us all.

There will be morning tea following the presentation which will provide the opportunity to chat with the

Enoggera & Districts Historical Society

“Rescue”

Built on what had been the Sports Ground in Pickering Street, the Enoggera Bowls Club was officially opened in 1939 and was a popular sporting and community centre for many years. A shift in interest in the sport resulted in a restructure of the facility through 2019/2020 with the intention of encouraging younger players. During the rebuild three Honour Boards went astray. The Enoggera & District Historical Society in accordance with its collection policy was able to rescue two boards from an unknown fate. Tim Mander MP assisted the Society in the purchase of the boards. These are now on display at the Society rooms. Somewhere out there is a third board looking to be rescued.

Regards, Diana Secretary of Enoggera Historical Society

If you would like to become an AHS member or purchase membership as a gift for someone, fees are $10 single per annum (1 July - 30 June), or $15 couple/family. Membership includes discount on our publications. Please contact the secretary, Julie, (ahs.secretary@bigpond.com) and she will let you know the EFT details or join at a meeting. Funds raised from memberships, raffles and sale of our publications supports the research, preservation and recording of Ashgrove’s history.

Trek2Health

An innovative approach to Mental Health Services

From an evolutionary perspective, we are hard wired to operate in nature, not a sedentary lifestyle under artificial lights, working long work hours in front of a glaring screen. Exercising in nature acts as a counter measure to the irritation and chronic stress provoked by the modern, urban lifestyle.

We all know that exercising outdoors is good for us, but its benefits for mental health are more far reaching than you may realise. Research has shown how ‘green exercise’ significantly increases self-esteem, improves mood and reduces anger and stress.

Local non-profit Trek2Health is an organisation founded to support the mental health of our frontline workers with an innovative approach based on the proven benefits of ‘green exercise’. Trek2Health take their clients outside four walls to remote natural areas for team-orientated nature treks supported by experienced guides and physical trainers. The goal-orientated training program is custom designed to promote physical health and well-being, reduce stress and build physical and mental resilience. Medical staff provide regular evaluations to assist clients’ progress and help optimise the service.

This innovative approach is creating astounding positive results with Trek2Health’s 2021/22 client studies showing a 53% improvement in depression, 52.5% improvement in anxiety and 36.8% improvement in stress (DASS mental well-being variables, pre–post training client averages).

Trek2Health services are provided free of charge to current or ex-serving Emergency Services personnel and Veterans in recognition of the amazing contribution they make to our community. To learn more about Trek2Health services or to join a community trek and show your support for this important cause while enjoying the benefits of ‘green exercise’, please visit trek2health.org.au

L-R: Cr Steven Toomey–Trek2Health Ambassador, David Esler–Trek2Health Chairman, Bruce Barker–Trek2Health CEO

Neighbourhood Watch The Gap

Check

out “LOVE THE GAP”

http://nhwq4061.com/lovethe-gap/

Lot’s of great info on places to enjoy, eat, play surrounded by a wonderful safe community created by NHW The Gap!

We are normally able to report reductions in offences HOWEVER Quarter One 2023, was the BIGGEST number of recorded offences for Quarter 1 over the past 5 YEARS!

The good news; overall our offences to population % still remains low versus other suburbs at only .05% which is excellent.

Our 4 biggest areas were:

• Other Theft (Steal from dwelling, shop stealing, theft from vehicle & Other. QTR 32 offences / last 5 years 343.

• Drug Offences. QTR 14 offences / last 5 years 335

• Unlawful Entry. QTR 11 offences / last 5 years 147

• Other Property Damage. QTR 8 offences / last 5 years 128 What can we do about it?!!

• Check your doors are LOCKED in your home, your cars EVERY day & night - we often make it so easy for intruders here at 4061 with many offences recording that vehicles or homes were UNLOCKED

• Keep your keys out of sight so if offenders do manage to get into your house, they can't get the car or what's in it or manage an easy exit out of deadlocked doors with your valuables

• Lock the door between your garage and your house

• Crime Prevention through Environmental Design - in its

simplest form; if you can't see into your house from the street / neighbours, then no one can see the intruders either which gives them more time!

• Use things such as strategic lighting/sensors, trimmed trees to make it harder for offenders to have covered access to your home or vehicle

• Pack your tools / ladders and bins away and ensure that valuables are out of sight. Don't give the offenders a literal "leg up" to getting into your home, property, or car.

• Try not to leave valuables in your car at any time, and if you have to, keep them covered & out of sight

• GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOURS - you don't have to be besties, just know each other well enough to know who they are You are each other’s best and most invested community members for keeping each other safe. People in your street help keep your immediate part of our suburb safer in everything that they do!

www.fb.com/neighbourhoodwatchthegap

The Gap Local Organic Cooperative Ltd.

The Gap Local Organic Cooperative Ltd. (The Gap LOCO) has set up a new shop space. For the last 2 years this social enterprise has been operating under market gazebos in the car park of Oakleigh Scouts. Thanks to the support and flexibility of the Oakleigh Scouts, The Gap LOCO has now been able to move into a bigger shed to set up a shop for all their certified organic fruit vegies, dairy, bread and groceries. Lesley Williams, one of the LOCO workers, says “It is now so much easier to set up in the mornings. Previously when it rained we would all get soaked. It so much better now for us and our supporters

Another local group has been instrumental in assisting LOCO to fit out the shed. COOEEE (Community Owned and Operated Ethical, Environmental Enterprises Inc.) which is supported by 26 local households has the objective of assisting social Enterprises like The Gap LOCO. COOEEE members have assisted The Gap LOCO by providing $2700 to help their fit out of the shop. LOCO worker Colin Peile says “we are so grateful to COOEEE for their help. We proudly relied on mostly recycled materials and our own labour and so were able to build our shelving and serving counters within this budget. Several LOCO customers also contributed money and materials to assist in the renovations. It’s so good to

have this community support”

Michael Finn from COOEEE says that “most of its members are LOCO customers so we were very keen to help the LOCO build their business and it terrific to see them doing so in an environmentally supportive way”. LOCO worker, Rose Renkin enjoys being part of working with other community groups and adds, “We are so lucky to have the support and encouragement from the Oakleigh Scout group and COOEEE.” Paul Marnane from Oakleigh scouts says it’s a win for both groups as The LOCO rent provides a steady income for the Scout group, but they have also added some extra life at the site with their vegie garden and worm farms. It has been a pleasure working with these community orientated workers”

This is a good example of several different community groups and community members working together to support an ethical, environmental enhancing, community based enterprise.

10 to 3 at 15 High St,

The Gap LOCO is open Mondays

Ashgrove.

Pictured are Michael Finn, Lesley Williams, Gillian Agerholm, Emma Johnson, Rachel Walker, Paul Marnane and Rose RenkinPerry

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

Payne Road State School

STUDENT WELLBEING IS PARAMOUNT

Years 4, 5 and 6 students at Payne Road engage with the annual Queensland Wellbeing and Engagement Survey – as student wellbeing is paramount to us! This survey importantly asks students to reflect on personalised questions related to their: resilience, school climate, relationships (peers, teachers, home), sense of belonging, motivation and perseverance, academic self-concept, personal social capabilities, future outlook and aspirations, general life satisfaction and general health.

Our subsequent school report reveals critical insights into how –at a school and cohort level –our students view their own wellbeing and engagement! Through an inquiry approach, the deidentified information and emerging trends, inform our future planning and actions – particularly our proactive Wellbeing Program (for all students) and our personalised intervention strategies!

At present our school wide educational Wellbeing Program – Living your best life! is focussed on developing students’ skills and a positive mindset in relation to “ORGANISATION” and being “READY TO LEARN”. Key messages that students are engaging with are:

• I am organised when….

• Check your Zones of Regulation for when you need it…

• Am I ready to Learn?

Here you can see a critical ‘Ready to Learn Morning Routine’ that is being gradually developed!

We start very early to support wellbeing through our ‘Launch into Learning’ initiatives for pre-prep children! We had our pre-preps actively joining us for our Under Eight’s Morning on 26 May, engaging in age-appropriate fun activities and making healthy personal connections with students, staff and families!

Nicky Brazzale, Principal

........................................

St Peter Chanel

St Peter Chanel celebrates Under Eights Week with lots of Friends

St Peter Chanel School, The Gap, recently hosted some special visitors for Under Eights Week.

An annual event for over 50 years, this year’s Under Eights Week theme was ‘PLAY – You, me and our communities.’

Children from local kindys and Early Learning Centres (ELCs) joined St Peter Chanel’s early years students for a special morning of fun and activities.

Students and visitors were excited when Ashgrove Fire and Rescue arrived in a very large fire truck with sirens blaring. Little ones were able to see the fire truck up close and learn a bit about fire safety.

The Gap State School

North West District Cross Country trials were held at the beginning of May and selected students represented the school in their respective age-groups. Amongst the impressive results from the carnival were four of our students who were selected in the North West District team to compete at the Metropolitan North Team Trials. Congratulations to Ellie and Faye who placed first and second, respectively, in the same race, the Girls 11 Years event; Mindi who placed third in the Girls 12 Years event, and Seb who finished fifth in the Boys 11 Years event.

In May, 16 of our Year 5 and Year 6 students competed in the Problem Solving Challenge Day at Wavell State High School. 72 teams from various schools across Brisbane, competed in categories from Years 5–8, striving to solve the same Mathematics, Science and Technology problems. In close competition, all our teams worked well together and enjoyed the day of academic challenge. Well done to all our participating students: Alex, William, Liam and Mitch; Evie, Arlo, Andrew and Micah; Ben, Toby, Jason and Merrin; Harry, Krishav, Lucy and Sophie.

Our school inter-house Readers’ Cup was held during Term 1. Before the competition, students read (or listened to) excerpts from five different books by three Australian authors and during the competition, each student had to answer as many set questions correctly as possible to try and get the most points for their house. Results of the competition were close, with many students showing their talent for remembering the finer details from the books they read. The houses in second, third and fourth place finished all within two points of each other, so it was a close contest! The winning house this year, presented with the school’s Readers’ Cup was Dhagun.

Congratulations to the Top 5 students from our school Readers’ Cup who will be representing the school in the Regional Readers’ Cup competition later this termAbigail, Audrey, Krishav, Lucy S and Lucy W. The students

A Teddy Bear’s Picnic was a highlight of the morning with the school’s P&F Association supporting and providing a morning tea.

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

will need to read 5 novels in preparation for the competition against approximately 25 other schools. We wish them happy reading and good luck for the competition.

Presented by the P&C’s Music Supporters’ Group, the Soirée is an annual community live music and arts event featuring six local music acts covering a range of styles and genres plus an art gallery featuring works by local artists.

The Soirée has two goals: to raise funds for the Music Supporters Group of The Gap State School to support the instrumental and choral programs at the school, and; to foster local musicians and artists in the community through building the Soirée as a regular annual event. More information about the event and photos from previous events can be found on the official website https://gapsoiree.com and the Facebook page https:// facebook.com/gapsoiree. Tickets go on sale in July.

Joanne Nicholls, Principal

The Gap State High School SCHOOL MUSICAL

The Gap SHS is proud to announce our 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 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

This will be a fantastic community event as we support the dedication and hard work of our students.

Principal of the Year

The Gap SHS would like to congratulate our Principal, Mrs Anne McLauchlan, on being nominated for Principal of the Year (Government) with the Australian Education Awards. It is a significant achievement to be shortlisted for the Australian Education Awards. As an educational leader, Anne has achieved remarkable results by implementing various initiatives and strategies to improve student learning and well-being. One of her notable achievements was The Gap State High School's being named a State Finalist in 2022 for a Showcase Award by the Department of Education. This recognition was a testament to the positive impact of

her leadership on student outcomes by supporting staff to develop The Gap SHS contextualised pedagogical framework - Teaching for Innovative Learning.

From Term 1, 2023, Anne introduced the “Time4 Collaboration" during school hours, providing opportunities for staff collaboration to delve into systematic curriculum delivery and alternative activities for students to participate in and foster student learning and wellbeing. This initiative resulted in a more collaborative, cohesive and aligned staff and pedagogy with the intent of improving student engagement and academic performance.

Anne is a key driver in forging a peer review concept with two local schools so far and has received support from the KYRA Alliance in the United Kingdom. This collaboration is intended to provide opportunities for teachers to learn from one another and share best practices, leading to improved teaching and learning outcomes across all schools involved.

Well done, Anne; The Gap SHS Community is very

proud of the initiatives you have implemented that have resulted in improved student outcomes and a positive school culture.

Focus on Environment and Sustainability

The Gap SHS has a strong focus on Environment and Sustainability by cultivating a mindset of agility and sustainability conducive to igniting the aspirations of learners for an ever-changing world.

Our school goal is to be carbon neutral by 2032.

Throughout this year and the years to come, The Gap SHS will support this goal by introducing worm farms, native bee hives, vegetable gardens to service our tuckshop and hospitality, energy-efficient devices, solar panels and compost bins, to name a few. We will be educating our students and staff on ways they can reduce their carbon footprint. By engaging with The Gap Sustainability, Sustainability Consultants and Waste Management Suppliers, we hope to make our home (The Gap) a more sustainable environment for the many learners to come.

Westside Business Heart is a local business networking group in Ashgrove/The Gap.

Our monthly breakfast meetings are a great opportunity to get to know other local businesses and find out what’s happening in our community, build business relationships and referral business, and share business tips and news. We also work closely to support our local community and NFP groups.

All local businesses are welcome to come along to our networking breakfast events, usually held at a local café on the 2nd (or sometimes 3rd) Thursday of each month from 7-8.30am. There are no membership fees – just the cost of your breakfast.

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

BUSINESS NETWORKING BREAKFAST Invitation

THURSDAY 15 JUNE

For local Western suburbs business owners:

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

Event Details:

Date: Thurs, 15 June 2023

Time: 7.00 - 8:30am

Venue: Corn Street Café, Waterworks Rd, West Ashgrove

RSVP: to Melanie by 14 June please - or via the Facebook event https://www.facebook.com/events/274872194958327

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!

Benefits ofVolunteering

Volunteers play a vital role in our community, assisting people in need, homeless, elderly, the environment and wildlife, and other causes. Sadly, research from Volunteering Australia highlights that the number of volunteers has dropped off significantly since 2016, with 1.86 million less volunteers now than before covid started. A new $3million federal Government campaign across TV, radio, and social media hopes to encourage people to volunteer.

The campaign aims to ensure that all Australians, regardless of their background, have access to tools and information about how they can contribute their time and skills to volunteering, to do meaningful work and enhance others’ lives.

Some key findings from the April 2022 research done by Volunteering Australia include:

• 26.7% of adults volunteered in Australia; down from 36% of adults prior to Covid

• Women (28.6%) volunteered at a higher rate than men (24.7%)

• Older Australians (those aged 55 years and over) were more likely to have volunteered than younger Australians

• Education and employment status were also associated with the probability of volunteering

• The average number of weeks spent volunteering was 24.5 weeks, at an average of 6.8 hours per week. This equals 180 hours on average across the past 12 months.

• 31.3% volunteered for 200 hours or more, and 10% reported 450 hours or more over the previous 12 months

• Only 20.2% of volunteers said that they are likely to volunteer less frequently, compared to more than half (53.3%) of non-volunteers

• Only 9.4% of respondents who had never volunteered indicated they were likely to commence volunteering in the future

• The vast majority of volunteers (91%) were either satisfied (53.1%) or very satisfied (37.9%) with their volunteering experience

8 key benefits gained from Volunteering:

1. Personal Fulfillment: Engaging in volunteer work provides a sense of personal satisfaction and fulfillment. Helping others can bring immense joy and a sense of purpose.

2. Expanded Social Network: Volunteering allows individuals to connect with like-minded people and make new friends and build relationships and connections.

3. Skill & Professional Development: Volunteer work offers numerous opportunities to develop and enhance various skills and can serve as a valuable addition to one's professional resume and can help explore potential career paths or develop new interests.

4. Increased Empathy and Understanding: Volunteering often exposes individuals to diverse communities, cultures, and perspectives. Working closely with people from different backgrounds develops a deeper understanding of societal issues, cultivates empathy, and fosters a more inclusive mindset.

5. Enhanced Mental and Physical Wellbeing: Studies have shown that engaging in volunteer work can have positive effects on mental and physical health - reducing stress, promoting a sense of happiness, and provides a sense of belonging and purpose.

6. Exposure to New Experiences: Volunteer work often offers unique experiences and opportunities that individuals may not encounter in their everyday lives.

7. Contributing to the Community: By volunteering, individuals directly contribute to the betterment of their community. This sense of giving back and being a part of something greater fosters a stronger community spirit.

8. Impacting Lives: One of the most significant benefits of volunteer work is the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of others.

Our local community groups would all love more volunteers – please reach out to them.

Many of them feature in The Western Echo, with contact details included.

For more volunteer opportunities: www.govolunteer.com.au

More details and research: www.volunteeringaustralia.org