The Western Echo December 2022/January 2023

ACCOUNTANT

RGA Business & Tax

Phone: 3289 1700 pg 18

AUTO AIR CONDITIONING

Wyatt Automotive Phone: 3300 2077 pg 1

BATHROOMS

Steve Froggatt

Phone: 0402 730 177 pg 9

BEAUTY

The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy Phone: 3300 1555 pg 32

BRICKLAYING PAVING

Inness Green

Phone: 3300 1555 pg 20

CHRISTMAS CAROLS

Rotary Carols and Fireworks

4.30-8pm 10 Dec 2022 pg 17

CHRISTMAS SERVICES

St Mark's Anglican Church Phone: 3300 1502 pg 15

CHOIR

Queensland Choir Phone: 3257 0489 pg 23

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Communify - Christmas Lunch Phone: 3510 2700 pg 6

Communify - Mingle & Jingle Phone: 0419 129 093 pg 17

FLIGHT ALLIANCE

Brisbane Flight Alliance bfpcal.org.au/noisesharing pg 11

GARDENING

Good Deal Mowing

Phone:0439 734 142 pg 20

KITCHENS

Kitchen Design Qld Phone: 0419 020 121 pg 8

LAWYERS

Hollingworth & Spencer

Phone: 3123 5700 pg 18

MUSIC TUITION

The Gap Piano Studio

Phone: 3166 8353 pg 22

NEWSAGENCY

The Gap NewsXpress Phone: 3300 6890 pg 14

ORGANIC PRODUCE

The Gap LOCO www.thegaploco.com pg 16

PHARMACY

The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy

Phone: 3300 1555 pg 32

PLUMBER

Pandanus Contractors

Phone: 3300 3934 pg 21

Plumbers We Are Phone: 3351 0016 pg 20

Same Day Trades Phone: 3062 2339 pg 8

PHYSIOTHERAPY

Physiologix Phone: 3511 1112 pg 19

PODIATRIST

ProHealth Podiatry

Phone: 3076 7306 pg 19

POLITICAL/GOVERNMENT

Elizabeth Watson-Brown

Phone: 3378 1599 pg 7 & 10

Jonty Bush Phone: 3554 9100 pg 5

Cr. Steven Toomey Phone: 3407 1900 pg 4

InsidetheDec/JanIssue...

Amnesty International..................................................................15

Arana VIEW Club.........................................................................21

Art in Bark Association...........................................................................31

Ashgrove Forum.......................................................................9

Ashgrove Historical Society..............................................................19

Ashgrove RSL Sub Branch...........................................................10

Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club....................................................12

Brisbane Tramway Museum.......................................................31

Chess T'Minit.............................................................................26

Clean Up Australia Day 2023...................................................30

Enoggera Historical Society.......................................................20 Ithaca Probus Club................................................................29

Libby's Latest - News from Ryan ......................................................7 Mitchelton Garden Club..........................................................28

Neighbourhood Watch The Gap..............................................................6 Newmarket Bocce Club.......................................................................31

Norths Hockey........................................................................27

Paten Park Native Nursery (PPNN).............................................28 Picabeen Community Association.............................................21

Principal’s Points....................................................................22-24 Queensland Choir......................................................................23

Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap - Carols & Fireworks .............................17

Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap - Citizenship Ceremony 2023............25

SOWN (Save Our Waterways Now)...........................................29

State Update - Jonty Bush - Member for Cooper.........................5

The Gap Historical Society......................................................14

The Gap Probus Club.................................................................26

The Gap Sub Branch RSL...........................................................................16 The Gap Sustainability Initiative ...............................................................8 Ward Happenings.................................................................................6

REAL ESTATE

Harcourts Inner West Phone: 3511 0666 pg 15

Team Dangerfield Phone: 0422 564 007 pg 9

SCHOOLS

St Peter Chanel Primary Schl. Phone: 3300 1202 pg 18 & 23

SHOPPING CENTRE

The Gap Village Shopping Ctr Phone: 3300 3377 pg 13

TYRE & MECHANICAL

Wyatt Automotive Phone: 3300 2077 pg 1

The Western Echo

is produced monthly by Hot Metal Publications PO Box 270 The Gap Ph: 3300 1846 http://www.westernecho.com.au editor@westernecho.com.au Proudly Printed by Printcraft Ph: 07 3291 2444

Distributed by IVE Distribution Ph: 1800 670 727

http://www.westernecho.com.au

Santa is Coming to The Gap this December

Santa will be on his Sleigh and all his wonderful helpers are excited to be once again visiting The Gap this year. Rotary Club of Ashgrove/ The Gap is proud to be able to keep up this beloved tradition of over 40 years.

Look out for Santa between 6.00 pm and 8.00 pm from Thursday 1 December through to Wednesday 7 December.

Every year the residents of The Gap give generously to our collectors and we hope you are able to do so again this year. All money collected goes towards a wide variety of Rotary Programs, such as Rotary Health (which conducts research into preventing youth mental health issues), the global elimination of Polio, assistance to victims of natural disasters in Australia, to name just a few. We also assist local community organisations such as Meals on Wheels and DV Connect.

If you do not have cash, we are able to take donations via card EFTs.

Please be aware we cannot go down all streets. The tow vehicle and the sleigh are long and heavy.

The ever increasing numbers of cars and other vehicles parked on the side of the road has made it increasingly dangerous to travel down these streets. Your safety and the safety of our volunteers is our first priority.

Sometimes the weather does not allow Santa and his helpers to go out. Or he has to finish his run early. Last year storms had a serious impact on our ability to finish our nightly run. We hope this will not happen again this year –but we have no control over climactic situations. You will understand we can not have Santa, his helpers or you taking any risks during heavy rain and storms. Everyone’s health and safety must come first.

Don’t forget to have your photo taken with Santa! Santa’s helpers will help you find a suitable place to stand near the sleigh. Please be patient while you wait your turn.

Santa will still have wrapped lollies and other goodies for all children.

We will be publishing daily maps on our facebook page from 1 December. Keep

Sa nta Sleigh 2022

1st to 7th December

6.00pm until 8.00pm

an eye out for these maps and find the closest place for you and your family to see Santa.

We wish to thank everyone who have helped Santa visit The Gap each year. We could not dothis without your help.

Santa and all his helpers will have a friendly smile and Christmas greeting for all of you and bring the joy of Christmas to as many streets and residents as we can.

Area 1 Thursday 1st December

2 Friday 2nd December

3 Saturday 3rd December

4 Sunday 4th December

5 Monday 5th December

6 Tuesday 6th December 7 Wednesday 7th December

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

STEVEN TOOMEY THEGAP

WARD

The Gap Ward office will be closed from Wednesday 21 December 2022 to Monday 9 January 2023.

During the Christmas shutdown period, please contact the 24/7 Brisbane City Council Contact Centre on 3403 8888.

For all other enquiries, please email thegap.ward@bcc.qld.gov.au

The Ferny Grove Resource Recovery Centre and The Ashgrove Library will be open throughout the Christmas shutdown period. More information on opening hours is available online or through the Call Centre.

Keep up to date by signing up to my e-News

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

State Update

Celebrating our Year 6 and Year 12 Graduating Students

As our Year 6 students across Cooper reach their final weeks of primary school, I would like to congratulate them all for everything they have achieved in the last 7 years. No doubt, there will have been challenges particularly in recent years, as we all navigated the changes brought by COVID. However, when visiting primary schools this year, I was always struck by the incredible resilience and optimism of the students. They continue to make the most of the opportunities presented to them and I am sure will go on to do the same as they begin their exciting journey through high school next year. Further, as our Year 12s complete their final week of school and head off to Schoolies in droves, I have been left thinking … I cannot help but reflect on the excitement and fear I felt leaving school for the very last time. I believe that now more than ever, our students have a lot to look forward to. In this year’s Queensland Government Next Step Survey, it was found our school leavers have some of the highest levels of engagement in education, training and employment in more than ten years. I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate and wish all of our wonderful graduating students the very best of luck!

2022 Snapshot

Yet again, we have had another eventful and busy year. In addition to meeting with many of you to hear your concerns, achievements in Cooper this year have included organising community capacitybuilding sessions covering topics such as: legal obligations and responsibilities, mental health resourcing, renter’s rights and grant writing skills. In addition, we have hosted neighbourhood community barbeques, coffee with a cop events, Park Road traders’ meetings and of course our very own Eco Forum. Cooper was also successful in securing an SEQ Flood Review Forum and an aircraft noise consultation. A favourite memory from 2022, was the amazing event that was the Sunlit Sounds Festival

Jonty Bush MP Member for Cooper

where I was privileged to help support the event by booking Auslan interpreter, Mikey, (pictured above) to sign the night away.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

This year, we decided to host a Christmas card competition for primary school students across Cooper. We received 52 fantastic designs for consideration. Remember to keep an eye out in your letterboxes from mid-December to discover our local winner and to see the talent on display in our student community. As our final State Update for the year, we would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Holidays. Over the Christmas break, our office will be closed from Monday 26th December until Friday 6th January. Until we see you all again, we wish you all the best for the New Year from our Cooper team: Jonty, Clare, Tyler, Chloe and Gabriella.

working hard for us

Mater Dei Seniors Visit to Parliament

Neighbourhood Watch The Gap 4061

Please support our fundraising and purchase tickets in our Christmas Raffle, lots of great prizes to be won: https://nhwq4061. com/product/raffle-tickets/

To help you all have a safe and enjoyable Christmas, we’ve put together: 12 Days of Christmas –Top Safety Tips

1. Remember the Fatal Five: Buckle up, Don’t speed, Don’t drive fatigued, Don’t become distracted, Never drink and drive.

2. Plan your transport needs before you go out. Have a designated dry driver – a mate who has a great night out and doesn’t have an alcoholic drink.

accept drinks from people you trust and monitor who makes your drink.

4. Lock all doors and windows, observe movements in your street, check your home security, know your neighbours, secure your shed and garage, engrave your property.

5. With school holidays happening, waterways are expected to get busier. Police are reminding recreational boaties to check their safety gear before venturing to the water.

6. Beware of different scams out there including unexpected money or winnings, fake charities, dating and romance, buying or selling, jobs and schools and report any suspicious activity to School Watch over the school

8. Keep your curtains and window blinds closed at night, making sure valuable items are out of sight as

10. Sign up to the myPolice Brisbane West blog for local updates https://mypolice.qld.gov.au/ brisbanewest/

11. Ensure you like/ follow our Facebook page for specific information in

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

Dear Ryanites, I can’t quite believe this is my last column for the year: my first 6 months as your MP have flown by! I’m looking forward to spending some relaxed Christmas time with my children and grandchildren, and enjoying some down-time in the (hopefully!) glorious Queensland summer. Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, I hope you can enjoy a good break over the summer, alive in the sunshine!

In the federal Parliament, my Greens colleagues and I have been pushing for real action on climate change, stronger integrity laws, and real cost of living relief. The Labor government took some very tentative steps in the right direction on a few key issues, but big corporations, and coal and gas multinationals in particular, are still holding too much sway. There is $42 billion in the current budget in subsidies for fossil fuels, while many coal and gas corporations pay little/no tax. When parliament resumes, I’ll be back in there, fighting against these vested interests and for public money to be invested in things that benefit everyday Australians.

At the local level, I’ve been listening to the needs of the community, and there are a few recurring themes. Traffic congestion and the lack of public transport is a well-known problem, so I’ve launched the Ryan Transport Survey to get a complete picture. There are also huge problems with access to services. My office receives far too many calls from people who are approved for Aged Care or NDIS services but can’t find service providers, or who can’t find a bulk-billing GP. Many small businesses struggle with poor Internet connectivity too. I’m hoping my recent advocacy to the Communications Minister to get Ryan suburbs prioritised in the next NBN upgrade makes a big difference for those people.

I’ve loved meeting so many people at our pop-up offices and at community events. In the New Year, I’ll be in the community again, listening to your needs and working with you all to advocate for the things we need to make life in Ryan better for everyone.

I wish you all a joyous holiday, filled with the spirit of peace and goodwill to all.

Warm regards Libby

The Ryan Office will be closed from 19 December until 6 January.

We want to take the opportunity to thank everyone in the community for supporting us over the past year. It is also a good

time to reflect on some of our key achievements, since we started our organisation in November 2020:

We now have over 250 people on our email list who follow our news and events,

and we have more than 30 paying members

We became an incorporated association under QLD law and now formally recognised as a charity by the Australian Charities and Not for Profits Commission

We have an active website and social media presence to keep the community informed about important sustainability issues

We organised nine community seminars in 2021 and six in 2022 with excellent speakers including the Queensland Chief Scientist, regularly attracting 25-30 attendees and up to 80 attendees.

We held a strategic planning workshop in March 2022 and decided to focus on three major projects:

• Elevate the awareness and impact of local volunteer organisations

• Platypus project

• Energy independence

We held regular working group meetings to progress each of these three major projects, and met with relevant stakeholders from various organisations to obtain their insights and guidance including the Brisbane Sustainability Agency, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Services, and South East Queensland Water.

We have applied for and were shortlisted for our first (small) grant.

We have supported activities of many other community groups including Habitat, SOWN and Men’s sheds.

All of this would not have been possible without the excellent input by the many volunteers who offer their advice and support without hesitation, including our amazing expert seminar speakers, who often continue to send us valuable information long after each event has been held.

TGSI Next Events

Saturday 3rd December at 10.30 am we will hold a very brief AGM (all positions open for election) followed by a social barbecue at the Lions Shelter Walton Bridge Park. We welcome Councillor Toomey who will be giving an update on the council activities with regards to sustainability.

Sunday 18th December we will be hosting the Barbecue tent at Keperra Bunnings. This is an important fundraiser for TGSI as proceeds go to our annual insurance costs. Help with the barbecue would be very appreciated, pls let us know if you can do a morning or afternoon shift by email thegapsustainability@gmail. com.

Philippa Wightman OAM - Publisher/Editor

ASHGROVE FORUM

The 978th General Meeting of Ashgrove Forum Club was held at 6.30pm on 16th November at the Ashgrove Library.

The speaking topic for the night was “Fairness”. Ronda Nix was the main speaker for the evening. She gave a most interesting PowerPoint presentation with examples which postulated that, not only is Australia the land of the “Fair Go”, but fairness is also at the core of Australian Society and a deep-rooted sense of fairness informs the Australian character. Other members gave short 5-minute speeches on the same topic, but with different subject matter.

In a separate segment of the meeting, Ann Davies impressed all present with her passionate rendition of John of Gaunt’s patriotic “Sceptered Isle” speech from Act 2, Scene 1 of Richard II.

The visiting Assessor, Margaret Townley from Chermside Forum, who is a qualified Speech and Procedure Assessor, gave both praise and valuable feedback for improvement to all speakers.

At the recent Annual General Meeting of the National Council of Women of Queensland held on Saturday, 19th November, one of Forum’s two delegates, Pat Pepper, stepped down after four years as NCWQ State Coordinator of Advisors. These specialist Advisors provide advice to the NCWQ Committee for submissions to both State and Federal Government advocating on women’s issues. The other Forum delegate, Ronda Nix OAM, was re-elected to the NCWQ Committee and will again act as a NCWQ Bursary Coordinator.

For enquiries, please ring Secretary Pat on 0458 696 267.

Team Dangerfield has over 55+ years of combined local experience.

If you would like to have advise from a dynamic, forward-thinking and local team, we are here to assist.

For a completely confidential and free appraisal, please scan the QR code or contact us directly.

teamdangerfield@mcgrath.com.au

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

Stephen Dangerfield, Jack Dangerfield and Riley Lucashenko

ASHGROVE –BARDON SUB BRANCH

Remembrance Day 2022 has been marked by a surge in participation following the end of Covid restriction that have limited activities for the past two years. It is truly gratifying to see the participation and inclusion of young people who in reality are so representative of the age group who went to fight for their Country and it’s values during the Great War.

The Sub Branch conducted stalls at various supermarket and shopping venues in both Ashgrove and Bardon. The proceeds from sales are used to provide support and assistance to veterans and their families and to help fund the ANZAC Day commemoration services throughout the district. The commemoration services which has become quite expensive with the Sub Branch now having to fund traffic control.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

2022 also saw the awarding of Life Membership to long time Ashgrove Sub Branch Executive and SED representative Sam Komarowski. The award was presented by retired RSL Queensland Deputy President John Strachan OAM on behalf of the QLD State Branch at a luncheon held at the Gaythorne RSL Club and we wish to thank the organizers and the Club for making the event a truly memorable occasion for Sam and many of his family members who were present, and all of the Sub Branch who were able to attend.

Sam Komarowski (left) and John Strachan OAM (right)

SUBURB NEXT?

bfpca.org.au/noisesharing

Airservices Australia and Brisbane Airport Corporation want an unlimited number of planes flying over greater Brisbane to make them rich. Their solution to the devastating noise pollution this is causing is to “share” it to new suburbs, including yours. BFPCA is fighting for a better solution; a curfew and a total flight cap just like Sydney Airport has.

Lions Celebrate 60 Years of Service

member of the Castle Hill Club.

The new club web-site was also launched on the night. Community members can keep up to date with club activities and information at www.ashgrovethegaplions. org.au

The Lions Club of Ashgrove/The Gap celebrated 60 years of community service with a gala dinner, Saturday 19 November at Arana Leagues Club. Over 90 guests attended including past members, current members and members of other Lions Clubs as well as representatives from many of the local community organisations that the Club supports.

The Lions Club of Ashgrove was chartered in 1962 and The Lions Club of The Gap in 1967. The 2 clubs combined in 2007 to form The Lions Club of Ashgrove/The Gap. Noel Kendall OAM, a charter member of the club, was presented with a trophy to acknowledge his 55 years of service.

Lions Neil Phillips and Tony Molloy entertained with many stories of the various projects undertaken over the last 60 years, some

more successful than others! Many of these are covered in the 60th Anniversary Book, which was launched on the night. The book provides a colourful overview of the people and projects in the Club’s history and provides an interesting perspective on the social history of our local community. Copies are available for $10 by emailing lionatg19@gmail.com

The Club has supported a wide range of local, national and international causes over the years through distribution of funds and through volunteer service.

Ray Pascual (The Gap Lions Club) and Neil Phillips (Ashgrove Lions Club) accepted a certificate of service from The Lions Club of Castle Hill, Townsville, which also celebrated a 60 year anniversary in 2022. The certificate was presented by Lion Colleen Lang, whose father was a long-serving

In the lead up to Christmas, Club members are busy selling Christmas Cakes and Puddings, which are available in our local community at the following locations:

Red Hill Pharmacy; Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club; Cartridge World, Waterworks Rd, Ashgrove; Bardon Pharmacy; Voices of Birralee, Bardon; Star Discount Chemist in The Gap Shopping Village; The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy; Bank of Queensland in both Ashgrove and The Gap; West Ashgrove Pharmacy; Brisbane City Council Ward Office; George The Barber in

Ashgrove.

Thank you to all in our community for your support throughout the year and best wishes for a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Amanda Ross, The Gap SHS, Rochelle Manderson, Voices of Birralee and Kevin Manderson

Noel Kendall OAM, cut the 60th anniversary cake

Members of Valleys District Cricket Club, who attended the anniversary dinner

Lions Ray Pascual, Colleen Lang and Neil Phillips with the certificate from the Lions Club of Castle Hill

Debbie Williams, President of the Lions Club of Brisbane Inner North and Vice District Governor, Richard Williams

Santa will be at the Centre from Tues 20th to Thurs 22nd Dec from 10am to 2pm. (Located opposite WeCare Massage.)

The Serenata Singers will be singing carols at the Centre from 11am on Wed 21st Dec

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

17 Dec 2022 8.00am - 7.00pm 7.00am - 10.00pm

18 Dec 2022 9.00am - 6.00pm 9.00am - 10.00pm

19 Dec 2022 8.30am - 8.00pm 7.00am - 10.00pm

20 Dec 2022 8.30am - 8.00pm 7.00am - 12.00 midnight

21 Dec 2022 8.30am - 8.00pm 7.00am - 12.00 midnight

22 Dec 2022 8.30am - 9.00pm 7.00am - 12.00 midnight

Friday 23 Dec 2022 8.30am - 9.00pm 7.00am - 12.00 midnight

Saturday - Christmas Eve 24 Dec 2022 8.00am - 6.00pm 7.00am - 6.00pm

Sunday - Christmas Day 25 Dec 2022 CLOSED CLOSED

Monday - Boxing Day

26 Dec 2022 9.00am - 6.00pm 9.00am - 6.00pm

Tuesday - Christmas Day Holiday 27 Dec 2022 9.00am - 6.00pm 9.00am - 6.00pm

Wednesday

Thursday

28 Dec 2022 8.30am - 8.00pm 7.00am - 9.00pm

29 Dec 2022 8.30am - 8.00pm 7.00am - 9.00pm

Friday 30 Dec 2022 8.30am - 8.00pm 7.00am - 9.00pm

Saturday - New Year's Eve 31 Dec 2022 8.00am - 7.00pm 7.00am - 9.00pm

Sunday - New Year's Day

1 Jan 2023 10.00am - 6.00pm 9.00am - 6.00pm

Monday - New Years Day Holiday 2 Jan 2023 9.00am - 6.00pm 9.00am - 6.00pm

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

The Gap Historical Society Inc.

The time is approaching when we must, with all due reluctance, signal the closure of the society.

The society came into being on the 22nd July 2000 when it held it’s first meeting attended by 29 people. Richard Speechley (dec’d 2019) became the first President, Bev McMullin the first Secretary/Treasurer and Jeff Hilder the first Vice President.

Office-bearers as above maintained their positions until September 2003 when Jeff Hilder and others left to promote their own pioneer and photography group. In the course of time, prior to and after the start of The Gap Historical Society, Richard Speechley had been a dedicated producer of articles on the district, as well as the compilation of three independently published booklets of “Reflections

– Memories of The Gap”. Richard for many years contributed articles for The Western Echo – our local monthly community news magazine since 1994, on happenings in the area.

Apart from the officebearers mentioned above, several foundation members still part of the society are Jack & Maureen Proctor, Bob & Julie Rowe, Graeme and Philippa Wightman OAM (owner of The Western Echo), Elaine and Paul Zendler, Bev & Ken McMullin and Maureen Hogan (widow of Pat Hogan). Early members were Nurdon Serico (dec’d 2022) and George and Lyn Stoddart (who were not active until recent times).

During the course of it’s existence the society had premises at 6 School Road, called the Nullagundi Centre but now meets at the Resource centre of The Gap

State School. Plans are under way to distribute the assets of the society to like-minded research and library institutions. These assets include photographs and minutes and books. The society will leave, on the internet, its well established documentation on photos, Founding Families, Local History, Veterans and a home page.

It’s last task will be to finalise it’s current work on a timeline titled “A Journey Through Time – Events That Shaped The Gap”. This project will be finished next year and will mark the termination of the society on a high note.

Current members Patron Neil Lyons, Bob Rowe and Beryl Hogan are in their midnineties, George Stoddart is in his early nineties and the rest of the members are in

Est. 2000

their seventies and eighties. The society retained loyal members for long periods but, despite trying all methods, were unsuccessful in acquiring the youth needed to ensure it’s progress and continuation.

The members of the society have enjoyed many good times together and will part company enriched by their experiences.

George Stoddart - President

Quote of the Day

Good friends, good books and a sleepy conscience: this is the ideal life.

- Mark Twain

We wish all Western Echo readers and their families a very happy Christmas and New Year. A very welcome item has brought much Christmas cheer recently to another family. This is the news on radio and TV that Sean Turnell, an Australian economist and former economic advisor to Aung San Suu Kyi, was released from detention in Myanmar after 650 days of unfair, unjust imprisonment. Amnesty International Australia’s Tim O’Connor, campaign manager for Amnesty, has welcomed the decision saying that, like many others, Sean should never have been arrested or jailed in the first place. The news for Sean’s family is a wonderful outcome. Yet there are still many other such cases worldwide and it’s for people like Sean that Amnesty International works to support those who are arbitrarily detained for peacefully exercising their human rights.

For anyone interested in knowing more about Amnesty International local groups see below:

The Helen Black Amnesty International group meets between 9-11am on the second Monday morning of the month in The Gap and would love to hear from anyone interested in joining them. Please contact Di on 33001861. The Ashgrove Amnesty International group meets on the first and third evenings of the month and can be contacted by calling Sally on 3366 2046 or 0476 006 990.

BRIGGS

Real Estate Agent | Justice of the Peace M 0418 742 511 P 3505 4444 carmen.briggs@harcourtssolutions.com.au

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

The Gap RSL Sub-Branch Inc

Remembrance Day

On 11th November, under welcome sunny skies, The RSL Gap SubBranch conducted its annual Remembrance Day Ceremony when at 11.00 am we joined thousands of similar ceremonies throughout the Commonwealth., to pause and remember all those who have served, especially all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice , “ The Glorious Dead “. In the USA , our allies in two World Wars, 11 November is celebrated as Veterans Day.

So those who “ remembered “ at The Gap were joining with literally hundreds of thousands of others paying their respects worldwide. The respectful participation of the large number of representatives of

all our local schools, the next Australian generation, was most impressive.

We Will Remember Them

Other photos may be seen on the link Remembrance Day 2022 courtesy of Mr Colin Bushell C.P.P., Colin Bushell Photography ( 0409 107 079 info@biggerboat.com. au ) a long term supporter of The Gap Sub-Branch. Please browse through this interesting pictorial record of the day’s activities .

The members of The Gap RSL Sub-Branch extend to their many friends and supporters our very best wishes for a happy, peaceful and fulfilling Christmas as this year, difficult for many so many ways, draws a close. We especially thank those who have supported our community sales for

L to R : Ms Elizabeth Watson-Brown MP Member for Ryan; Piper Mr Brendan Williams, GSHS; Honour Guard Mr Ron Ward; Dr Ian Marshall AM AE; Cr. Steven Toomey, Councillor The Gap Ward; Chaplain Pastor Gary Rucci; The Gap RSL Sub-Branch Secretary Mr Douglas Clendinen and Gap RSL Sub-Branch President Mr David Esler

both ANZAC Day and Remembrance Days; it enables us to continue our welfare projects.

“For those who have fought for it, freedom has a taste that the protected will never know “

Lest We Forget

P.O. Box 122, THE GAP QLD 4061 Email: info@thegap.rslqld.net.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 (in the Oakleigh Scouts car park)

Deliveries are on Mondays and we also run a pop up shop between 10am and 5pm on Mondays at 15 High St Ashgrove (in the Oakleigh Scouts car park)

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

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

Rotary Carols By Candlelight Concert

Here we are again Around the Christmas Tree Family and Friends With Santa for Company.

Yes, that’s right folks. Time to start getting into Christmas mode.

Only 18 days to the next big Rotary Carols by Candlelight night which will follow closely after the Rotary Santa Sleigh excursions around The Gap and West Ashgrove.

The Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap invites all in the community to our free family friendly Christmas Carols Concert at Dorrington Park, Mirrabooka Road, Ashgrove, on Saturday, 10 December, 2022 from 4.15pm to 8.00pm.

We have a super Concert Program arranged for the enjoyment of all ages. All our wonderful concert musicians and artists will be back.

Leading off will be the stirring National Servicemen’s Memorial Pipes and Drums followed by the Rocus Big Ban with great swing band renditions to get the toes tapping.

A short interval will allow Santa to pay a visit after which our wonderful MC, the ABC’s weather girl, Jenny Woodward, will introduce the Carols segment of the Concert.

The Tessitura A Capella Singers will lead followed by the 45 piece Queensland Wind Orchestra under the baton of Rachel Howley and the 60 plus Choiristors of the Ignite Choir under Music Director, Harmony Woollett.

All the words for the Carols will be on our big LED screen for the audience to join the choir.

And then the big finish, with our famous Ace Fireworks presentation of their usual dazzling Fireworks Finale.

For all of our community business supporters, we invite you to consider an advertisement or simply a Christmas greeting to your customers or clients on the big LED screen to help us allay the costs of this great Concert.

There is a special covered area for people with disabilities and/or wheel chairs or otherwise needing assistance.

The Face Painting and the Gingerbread House Raffle is on again and Christmas Candles and other goodies are available.

Food and drink will be on sale at the grounds.

Although there will be a Credit Card reader available, to ease the queues bring CASH

Of course, none of this could proceed without the assistance of the 12CE Army engineering personnel from Gallipoli Barracks, local workers, businesses and organisations, and the Lord Mayor’s Community Fund Program and both Enoggera and The Gap Ward Councillors. Thank you all.

For further information, including if you would like to advertise your business, send Christmas greetings, or any other message on the big LED screen, contact John Giles on 0412 740 360 or email at jga@it-unlimited.com.

As the song says “it’s the most wonderful time of the year”. See you there.

Ashgrove Historical Society

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 (except January). The first meeting for 2023 will be held on Saturday 4 February. The topic will be Oakleigh State School – The Early Years presented by Lindy Sugars.

Oakleigh State School, Ashgrove, will be 90 years old in 2024. Officially opened on 3 March 1934, Oakleigh was one of a number of public buildings constructed during the Great Depression. Lindy coordinated the school’s 75th anniversary events in 2009 and has a keen interest in Oakleigh’s history. Her presentation will describe the very beginnings of the school through to the 1950s when enrolments peaked at 1100 students. Photos and memorabilia from the 1930s-1980s will also be on display. Lindy looks forward to meeting students, parents and staff from the past and present. She is encouraging people to begin the process of organising a class or grade level reunion as soon as possible so they can take place during the school’s 90th anniversary year.

There will be a shared morning tea following Lindy’s presentation which will provide the opportunity to chat with her, view the photos and memorabilia and meet other people interested in local history.

Need a last-minute Christmas gift for someone interested in our suburb’s history? Look no further than the society’s publications which make interesting presents. Local Government in Ashgrove: A History by John Laverty (published this year) is available for $30 for Ashgrove Historical Society members and $35 for non-members. Other books include Lost Ashgrove, an easy-to-read pictorial record of Ashgrove then and now (members $20, non-members $25); the revised Ashgrove Heritage Tour (2019) $10; Ashgrove 150 Timeline ($6) provides added information on the plaques that are in place along the Enoggera Creek bikeway (Ashgrove Sportsground section); Brisbane: People and Places of Ashgrove (2010) $15. Due to another covid outbreak, our sales stall on 2 December was cancelled. If you would like to make a purchase, please contact the secretary, Julie by email: ahs.secretary@bigpond.com or phoning her on 3366 4621 and she will make arrangements for you to collect it or receive it by post.

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 and the quarterly newsletter, Tram Stops. Please contact the secretary, Julie, (ahs.secretary@bigpond. com) and she will let you know the EFT details. Alternatively, you are most welcome to come along to a meeting. Funds raised from memberships, raffles and sale of our publications supports the research, preservation and recording of Ashgrove’s history.

5 top tips to survive the festive season this year

Avoid prolonged sitting – with long car journeys and lots of functions coming up, many of us find ourselves sitting for hours, flaring up pain either at the time of the next car. Try to pick seats where your hips are slightly higher than your knees. Try to sit well in your seat and not spend too long leaning forward talking, or crossing legs. Keep getting up regularly. At Physiologix we sell ‘Pressure Relief Cushions’ ideal if the pressure of the seat is what you feel the problem in. ‘Wedge Cushions’ are another wonderful way of helping to sit keeping your hips higher than your knees. Cushions are cheap, can go anywhere, and can help reduce hours of pain –well worth trying out!

Stand on a mat – many of you spend hours standing in the kitchen prepping. Standing on a mat is a cheap, easy way of helping anything from back pain down. Just be careful you don’t trip on the mat!!!

Don’t stop moving – you might have your routine totally turned on its head and be no-where near your usual exercise location. But don’t stop moving. Being static is one of the worst things for us humans – we are born to move and our body loves us for it! Our physios can set you up with an exercise program on physi-app that you can take anywhere with you and access at any time. This is ideal for keeping niggling injuries in check. Keep walking, jump in the pool and get moving. Every little bit is better than nothing!

Plan ahead – if you have family and friends descending on you, make a plan of house and garden chores to slowly work through over the few weeks before. Pacing help prevent injuries from flaring up. If they do it will be to a lesser extent than if you had done everything at once. Just one visit to the physio/massage therapist should see you back on track.

Sleep well – it sounds ridiculous, but the research says differently. Sleep helps everything from stress, to anxiety, to pain, to healing. Don’t let sleep loss become an issue. An hour earlier to bed can make the world of difference.

From all of us at Physiologix, our physios, massage therapists and clinical pilates instructors, we wish you a very merry Christmas and a fantastic healthy and happy 2023!

Are you embarrassed by your fungal toenails and find yourself hiding them behind thick layers of nail polish or in enclosed footwear. We have three months to get your feet summer ready. Come in and let us help you https://www.prohealthpodiatry.com.au/bookings/.

Bookings – Pro Health Podiatry

Flexible appointments and urgent care. Fill in the details to receive a FREE 10 minute phone consultation.

Enoggera &

Historical Society Inc.

Love Actually ...

comes in many forms. And at this time of year, here’s a few things to think about doing between now and Christmas Eve:

..

Call or message an old school friend you haven’t chatted to in years. See how they are. What have they got up to since school?

Contact a family, you know, who have had a loved one pass away this year. Check to see if they need any further support or help with anything.

Think of a favourite teacher you had during school. Reach out with an email or call. Let them know how integral they were in helping set you up for your future career and life.

You know of someone doing it tough. They’re down due to being bullied at work, they’ve had a relationship break-up, they’ve lost their job, or similar. Take them to coffee. Check that they are OK. Is there anything you can do?

Think of a local cause, club or community activity you are interested in. It could be an environmental group, Men’s Shed, the local soccer team, a community centre – even an historical society! Look them up and get contact details. Find out how you can get involved and help out.

Reach out to someone you had a falling out with during the year. Patch things up and start afresh.

Visit the wonderful Christmas lights display at Cobalt Street, Keperra (see pic). And watch the magic in children’s faces! ? BELIEVE.

Merry Christmas and a Happy 2023 to all in our wonderful community from the Enoggera & Districts Historical Society inc. Take care over the holiday season – especially when travelling on the roads and around water.

The 2023 Enoggera Historical Society calendars are now on sale for just $10! For enquiries phone 3355 2230.

Don’t forget to check out our Facebook page or visit www. enoggerahistory.org

Peace and goodwill, Andrew McMicking- President

It is the mark of an educated mind to be able to enterain a thought without accepting it.

- Aristotle

Picabeen Community Centre will be holding its Christmas event on Tuesday December 13th from 11am. We welcome everyone to come down and celebrate with us.

As the year draws to a close we with everyone a safe and happy festive season.

The Community Centre will have our last day open for the year on Thursday 22nd of December. Closed Friday 23rd until and including Tuesday January 3rd. We reopen on Wednesday 4th January.

Please refer to our FaceBook page Picabeen Community Centre for information on activity closures.

From the Change Room

As the year draws to a close we would like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful community for the support, by shopping, the donations and friendship instore.

Have a wonderful restful Christmas we look forward to seeing you in 2023. MERRY CHRISTMAS?

The Change Room will have our last day open for the year on Saturday 24th 1pm closure. We will reopen on Tuesday January 3rd.

Arana VIEW Club December Update

Another successful year for Arana VIEW Club is drawing to a close. It has certainly been a better year than the 2 previous years and we have been able to attend meetings and social activities on a regular basis.

Our December meeting on the 7th December at the Arana Leagues Club, 10.30 for 11.00am start will hopefully see many interpretations of “Angel” outfits and other members dressed in white and silver. Cost is $30.00 for the 2-course lunch with tea and coffee. We will have our super Christmas Hamper raffle and our lucky door prizes with the proceeds going to support our Smith Family “Learning for Life” students.

Our Bring and Buy in November was again a resounding success and we have been able to comfortably meet our commitments to the Smith Family to support our Learning for Life Students. Our Make, Bake and Grow table in December will enable us to support other Christmas projects run by the Smith Family.

The new year meetings will commence in February with our Annual General Meeting and we are always happy to have new members join the committee.

The Committee would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and we look forward to seeing everyone back in 2023.

Just a reminder that it is important to contact Carol on 33555349 by noon on Monday 5th December if you are attending the December Meeting.

http://www.westernecho.com.au

Payne Road State School

This term our Prep children are investigating movement. They are learning to describe how movement can impact on the behaviour of familiar objects. Over the past week students in Prep L, children have been experimenting with how eggs can bounce! Max and Ray were delighted to show me how they were working with some ingredients the eggs are soaking in to prepare them to bounce. I look forward to being an observer when we discover if the experiment has been successful!

In Prep H the students have been experimenting how paint can move. Aurora and Artie are pointing to their favourite paintings that have been created by using different techniques. Aurora said that her favourite painting was created by rolling a marble and Artie told me that he liked the Spin It painting.

We would like to thank the parents, carers and grandparents and significant others who have supported our students and the school through 2023. We held a breakfast to officially say “Thank you” to our volunteers for the hard work and continued efforts that our community

has made this year. 2022 will be remembered as a year of student curiosity, great teaching and strong success!

Wishing our community and yours a very safe and merry Christmas and 2023!

Nicky Brazzale - Principal

local lizards, birds, and bush turkeys are well looked after.

The almighty Lego Club used Lego Mindstorm to create a programmable robot. Their creations were displayed in the library and so the entire school had a front row seat to the building process.

St Peter Chanel Primary School

St Peter Chanel’s Extracurricular activities have been Extrafantastic this year!

The St Peter Chanel Community have been busy collaborating through enriching activities.

Students have had the opportunity to participate in lunchtime clubs provided by passionate teachers. The clubs cover a wide variety of options and engage participants in challenges and skill building activities throughout the term. The Semester 2 clubs included Chess, Technology, Gardening, Debating, Basketball, Lego, Choir and Crochet.

The Gardening Club took advantage of the beautiful spring weather and have recently planted an assortment of Australian Natives. Together, they have worked hard to ensure the gardens that surround SPC are presented well. They have even made sure that our

The race was on when the Technology Club attended the BCE eSports Gala Day participating in a Minecraft game design challenges. They built and coded a four-player teamwork style game around the themes of WW1 and Covid 19. The teams hosted and participated in all games and earned extra points by supporting other schools. It was wonderful to see students excel in the technology field and we hope to participate again next year!

Debaters put their best foot forward to verse Mater Dei, St Finbarr’s and Our Lady of the Rosary in Term 4. All students presented their arguments convincingly. ‘Zoo’s Should be Banned’ was the topic given to the teams and they prepared arguments for both the affirmative and negative sides. Ultimately it came down to rebuttal and delivery. It was a challenging competition and they had an incredible opportunity to showcase their public speaking skills.

In their own words,

students share their experiences participating in these lunchtime clubs. Year 6 student Molly said, “Debating was challenging but I enjoyed researching and having discussions with my team.” Students Brocton, Hamish and Josh said that they loved Lego club. They enjoyed working together and found the programming component challenging yet rewarding. Ned, Sam and Ollie agreed that the best part about Technology Club was using Minecraft as part of the curriculum. Year 4 student Archer said, “Technology club was awesome, I loved that we got to have fun while learning.”

St Peter Chanel is gearing up for another enriching year with incredible opportunities for its students. The school highly values children that are diverse and thrive in many different ways. 2022 has been a thrilling year for the school. The staff are excited for much more to come in 2023.

Paul McGlone – Acting Principal

The Gap State High School

The Gap State High School gave a rousing farewell to its year 12 cohort with a guard of honour snaking through the school grounds, which

Principal's Points......

The Gap State High School (Contd.)

(Continued from page 22) followed a ceremony in the packed sports hall.

More than 1000 Parents, grandparents, teachers and special guests attended the ceremony which featured inspiring speeches by Principal Anne McLauchlan, Heads of Year 12 Michael Clarke and Ashleigh Emblem, and parent representative Chris Saines.

The students were inspired to ‘float your own future’ – the theme of the day.

“This 2022 cohort is second to none and we can’t wait to see what these amazing young people achieve,” said Mrs McLauchlan.

“They have not only survived, but have thrived on all the challenges placed before them in the past COVID-filled years, building their resilience and determination.”

Scholarships for highachieving students: Year-12 students Ella Passfield and Nicholas Milne have been awarded the UQ Ramsay Scholarship.

This scholarship was established in 2019 with support from the Ramsay Centre for Western Civilisation.

The scholarships are intended for academic highachievers who desire to make a difference in the world.

They are for students who are creative and intellectually curious with the critical skills to challenge the status quo and cross boundaries, and who value discussion, debate, and the opportunity to learn from others.

It was great to see so many in our community visit the school for our open day to inspect our fabulous new building.

It’s a wonderful new facility for students and teachers and has been enthusiastically embraced by the school population.

There will be an official opening early next year.

Year 11 student Cooper represented Queensland in the Indoor Netball Australia Super National Championships in Adelaide in October when his Under 19s team took the silver medal.

Cooper’s team did amazingly well over the

week dropping only two pool games. A great achievement!

Bronze in table tennis championships

Two TGSHS students came home with bronze medals from the Queensland Schools Table Tennis Championships.

Congratulations to Vincent and Yahli for representing the school so superbly.

Gold silver and bronze for Specialist Volleyball Program

Our Specialist Volleyball Program produced gold, silver and bronze medals in the recent Queensland Beach Schools Cup.

A total of 104 athletes in 29 teams from years 7 to 11 took part in the competition. Anne McLauchlanPrincipal

(Principal's Points are continued on page 24)

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

Ella Passfield after receiving the 2022 Outstanding Principal Excellence in Engagement & Outstanding Principal Academic Excellence awards. Ella also won the Exceptional Leadership Award

Nicholas Milne after receiving the Principal’s Awards for Academic Excellence and Excellence in Engagement awards

.....Principal's Points.......Principal's Points......

The Gap State School

Music Fest Success

At the end of October our school’s Senior Band, Junior Band and Senior String Ensemble all participated in the 2022 Music Fest competition. Each ensemble was a credit to our school, and reflected all of the dedication, hard work and enthusiasm of our students and teachers. Senior Band was awarded Gold and the adjudicator commented particularly on their program which showcased their ability to tell a story. They displayed outstanding musicianship, balance and blend. Junior Band performed at their very best and the adjudicator commented on the lovely characteristic sounds and how well they worked together. Junior Band received a rarely awarded Platinum. The Senior String Ensemble had excellent focus towards musical elements including phrase shaping and control. They played sensitively and showed their flexibility to play music from different genres, receiving Gold.

We are so proud of all our students’ achievements and I thank parents for their continued support of our music program.

Aquathlon

Several students from our school recently competed at the All Schools Aquathlon Trials at Lake Kawana. Faye, Evalina, Olivia and Ava were all competing in their first Aquathlon. Race conditions were unfavourable with heavy rain, strong currents and winds, however our students showed great resilience and grit to compete in the multi discipline event. Race distances varied depending on the age group. Olivia competed in the 300m Ocean Swim and 2.5km run enticer event for students aged 12-13years. Ava competed in 7-9 Years event which saw her navigate a 500m run, 100m ocean swim and 500m run. Faye and Evalina were vying for a place in the Met North Regional Team, competing the 1km run, 200m ocean swim, 1km run All Schools Event. We are extremely proud of our students for their individual achievements.

Congratulations to Faye who was selected in the Met North Regional Team after qualifying for the Qld School Sport Aquathlon State Championship.

Special Assembly Guest World champion swimmer, Mollie O’Callaghan was our special guest a recent senior assembly. Mollie’s achievements which were shared with students, staff and families, are stunning. Mollie described some of her challenges and how she has overcome difficulties and disappointments, also offering words of guidance and encouragement to our Year 6 students soon to make the transition to high school, to our Year 5 students considering student leadership roles and to our eager young athletes. To then have Mollie share some of her medals was truly dazzling –who knew they were so big! A truly inspiring morning. Thank you, Mollie!

Rotary Junior Community Award

Members of Ashgrove / The Gap Rotary Club recently joined 15 of our Year 6 students, their proud parents and teachers, to recognise and celebrate achieving the Rotary Junior Community Award. Each recipient shared their journey of learning with a table display, examples of their new skills, a public address and slide show presentation. Recurring themes shared by the recipients included the need for persistence and confidence to overcome challenges, the benefits of goal-setting, gaining a greater sense of self-awareness and connection with others.

Appreciation of the support and encouragement provided by their parents, teachers and the Rotary Club was also shared frequently and sincerely, with special thanks given to Club President Mr Tim Boyd, RJCA Coordinator Mr Russ O’Malley and school coordinator Mrs Rietha de Beer. Congratulations to our 2022 Year 6 award recipients!

Garden Party

Our P&C hosted a Garden Party event in November and it certainly exceeded everyone’s expectations. From the lavish decorations, scrumptious food and memorable fashion show, it was an absolute delightful afternoon of fun and fellowship. Thank you to our parent organiser, Bonnie, whose distinct class and flair were evident in all aspects of the Garden Party. An event of such quality could not happen without an army of volunteers which included parents (lots of dads) as well as community partners. Many thanks to all involved.

Halloween Disco

A very big thank you to the wonderful team of volunteers who organised our annual Halloween disco. It was lovely (and scary) to see the many students and parents all dressed up in ghoulish costumes and enjoying time together. Special mention to Mr Williams for being the spookiest and coolest disco DJ. Thank you to the P&C and all involved.

On behalf of our school community, I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.

Warm regards

Joanne Nicholls - Principal

Quote of the Day

All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he/she grows up.

- Pablo Picasso

During these trying times - shop local - buy local & please support your local businesses

The Gap Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony - 28 Years - a Valued Tradition!

In 1993 the Rotary Club of Ashgrove (now Ashgrove/ The Gap) came up with the idea that the mass citizenship ceremonies conducted by Brisbane City Council were vast and impersonal: what was needed was a smaller, more intimate and welcoming ceremony.

This was made reality on Australia Day 1994, with the help of BCC Councillor Brian Hallinan, who sadly passed in November 2021. The club conducted Australia’s first ever service club ceremony at Wilcannia Park, here in The Gap. It has hosted one every year since, so the 2023 event will be the 30th in this unbroken sequencedespite Covid-19 in 2020 and 2021. The ceremonies were moved to Wittonga Park and more recently to The Gap

State High School, who have generously made their J. A. Robertson Hall available so candidates can have a weather-proof event.

Covid-19 has made everything more difficult. Thankfully in 2023 we can now invite the community in so candidates and their closest family and the community can this year be accommodated.

Our local Councillor Steven Toomey is the Presiding Officer, our State and Federal elected representatives generally attend, local schools, other service clubs such as Lions and Probus are represented, and this community newspaper is generous in its coverage, for which Rotary is grateful.

With individual rather

than mass pledge-taking, a modest morning tea, and Aussie music from the local Royal Bounty Bush Band, we do have a very worthwhile “Welcome to Australia” for local candidates!

For further information

please contact the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap Australia Day Coordinator: Tim Boyd 3300 1071 or 0411 141 304.

Tim Boyd - Convenor, Citizenship Ceremony Rotary Ashgrove/The Gap

New Aussies photographed at the 2021 Rotary Club of The Gap/Ashgrove Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony

Supporting the community that supports us!

Boomerang Bags The Gap and Surrounds (BBTGS) volunteers are excited to announce the results of their 2022 round of Community Grants. Five grant recipients were identified, from local schools and community groups in The Gap, Ashgrove, Mt Nebo and Keperra. They were assessed against our stated goals of generating environmental benefits; helping with developmental outcomes of primary and secondary students; and/or for generating meaningful engagement and connectivity withing the community.

This year, the focus is on supporting our local youth to become good citizens.

In 2023, The Gap State High School’s student-led LAUNCH Project will offer an after-school opportunity to teach attendees how to design and create things using the club’s Cricut machine and special tools purchased with their BBTGS grant. This community project aims to serve and build relationships with senior citizens and new arrivals in The Gap and surrounding suburbs (www. thegapshs.eq.edu.au). To join in the fun, book a place by scanning the QR code.

The Mt Nebo State School will use their grant to help the school rebuild their greenhouse which was damaged in a recent storm. The greenhouse gives the students opportunities to learn about sustainable living by raising herb and vegetable seedlings which are later transplanted into their garden beds (www.mtneboss.eq.edu. au).

The Gap Little Athletics will use their grant to buy communication ‘walkietalkies’ to help committee members and volunteers

communicate more easily during training and events. Better communication will improve safety for the kids and help athletic events to run on time. (www. thegaplittleathletics.org.au).

The children at St William’s Primary School in Keperra have set themselves a goal to make 1000 small ‘pocket hearts’ from felt material. These hearts are to be gifted to others, to spread kindness and love in the community. They will use their grant to purchase felt, needles and thread required to make the hearts, so that more children can participate in the project, and experience the joy of making others happy with a random act of kindness (www.stwilliamsgrovely.qld. edu.au).

Not-for-profit organisation “Days for Girls” aims to empower women and girls around the world by improving access to menstrual care solutions and health education. In 2023, the ‘Days for Girls – Brisbane Northside team will engage with students at Mt St Michael’s College and The Gap State High School, through their Rotary Interact Clubs. The students will learn about ‘period poverty’, increase their understanding and compassion for those less fortunate, and raise funds to help make reusable sanitary kits for women and girls in our neighbouring Pacific Island countries. BBTGS has pledged to match their funds raised up to $1000 in total. (www.daysforgirls.org/ australia).

If this resonates with you and you’d like to get involved, volunteering with our local not-for-profit community group, Boomerang Bags The Gap and Surrounds, has many

benefits! It does more than just repurpose unwanted fabrics into innovative products, thus preventing them from going to land fills, and reducing our climate footprint. BBTGS volunteers also find some ‘me time’ while enjoying the company of other likeminded community members

attending our regular sewing bees, which are held at The Gap Baptist Church on Friday mornings. You will also experience the joy of helping raise funds to ‘pay forward’ to schools and other community groups that do good work for our environment and/or support our young and old alike. Come and join us!

Facebook:www.facebook.com/ boomerangbagsthegapandsurrounds Instagram: www.instagram.com/ boomerang_bags_the_gap/ Email: bbtgs4061@gmail.com

Probus Club of The Gap

Shane Richards is a nurse on Childrens Cancer wards, she is also part of ‘Bravery Box’. Shane gave an interesting and heartwarming talk to the club on how challenging it is for children to undergo repeated treatment visits to hospital, and how gifts from the ‘Bravery Box’ distract children from the dread of treatment and its effects. Shane’s friend Tanya Allen started the charity when her daughter had just completed 800 days treatment for lymphoblastic leukaemia and confessed that when she felt pain and terribly ill she would “fake” her bravery. Many children intensely fear the treatment which can involve long infusions of cold (refrigerated) medications into the chest or other parts of the body, many pleading with their parents not to go to Brisbane (hospital) for the treatment. Tanya founded the Bravery Box to help children look forward to their hospital visits. An award from the Box helps children overcome their fears, which is what bravery is about. The depth of meaning to the children is clearly shown by the number of children who go on to raise money and gift presents to the Bravery Box. Over $400 was donated on the spot with more to follow. https://braverybox.org.au/

Activities at the club have picked up pace with the Melbourne Cup Party enjoying a very nice lunch at the Gap Tavern with plenty of prawns and oysters included. Followed by a well attended soiree for new members. We’re now looking forward to the entertainment at our Christmas Party on the first of December.

The club welcomes guests so you can try before joining, and new members. If you’d like to enquire, just call Rhoda on 0409 484 219, we’d love to welcome you to the club.

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

Norths duo making hockey history

Northern Suburbs Hockey Club members have been creating history in Australia’s national hockey competition.

Aleisha Neumann became the first person who play and umpire in the Hockey One national league.

In 2019, Aleisha was a member of the Brisbane Blaze playing squad which won the inaugural Hockey One women’s title. In 2022, she umpired the gold medal match of the Hockey One competition.

Darren Fowler became the first Norths member to coach in an Australian national hockey league, leading the Brisbane Blaze men’s side to a third-place finish in the Hockey One competition.

Norths members are also finding success in indoor hockey, with more than 20 players from the Ashgrove-based club competing at Queensland state titles.

Holly Gilbar and Jess Moffat were selected in the Queensland women’s side, and Grace Dixon named in the Queensland Under 21 team, following the Super Sixes state championships.

Trish Hughes, Susana Matus and Maddie Staff also competed at the Queensland Super Sixes state titles, with Carter Chappell, Dylan Pember, Jack Tucker and Roy Tucker set to feature in the men’s tournament.

Chai Harvey, Madeline McDonnell, Daniel Thirgood (Under 13), Riley Bisseling, Emily Dowden, Phoebe Schweitzer, Quinlan Carey, Charlie Lang, Lucas Mendes, Riley Nixon, Isaac Pratt and Hayden Scholes (Under 15) competed at Queensland junior championships.

Quinlan and his Brisbane 1 team won the Queensland title in Maryborough and he was selected in the Queensland Under 15 side. Australian indoor hockey championships for all age groups will be held at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre in January.

Norths members are also achieving great things off the hockey field, with Bronwyn Morris named the Brisbane Women’s Hockey Association (BWHA) senior volunteer of the year.

Bronwyn has volunteered with BWHA for 15 years. In 2022, she served on numerous Brisbane hockey boards, assisted with the management of fixtures at Downey Park, and was convenor of the under 18 women’s state championships held at Chermside.

Contact us Ph: 0432 967 829 walkingfootballbrisbane.com.au info@walkingfootballbrisbane.com.au

Aleisha Neumann, right, with fellow Hockey One umpire Tara Leonard. Image by Annette’s Action Photos

Brisbane Blaze men’s hockey coach Darren Fowler on the sideline during a Hockey One national league game.

Photo by Andrew Blanchard

Lillypillies in general are a group of tropical and subtropical tree or shrubs that produce attractive flowers and edible fruit. The powderpuff lillypilly (Syzygium wilsoni) is perhaps one of the most spectacular of this group. Endemic to north Queensland, this shrub with its pendulous branches, glossy, large green leaves and red-bronze new foliage has stunning deep red flowers in November. As the common name suggests, the ‘flower’ looks like a

powderpuff that is composed of a cluster of individual flowers in a panicle-like cluster. The most obvious parts of each flower are the numerous stamen, each up to 20 mm long and tipped with a whitish, pollen-producing anther. These are followed by white, elliptical fruit to 20mm long that can be used to make jam.

The powderpuff lillypilly is a beautifully rounded shrub that grows to between

Powderpuff lillypilly

2 and 3 metres tall and 2 metres wide. Although it has tropical origins, it grows well in subtropical and temperate regions. It thrives in dappled shade in well-drained, rich soils but needs to be watered in hot, dry conditions. Pruning ensures the desired shape and denser foliage whilst encouraging flowering and fruiting.

This is an excellent feature plant and can be used in hedging and screening or incorporated into a rainforest garden. It is an attractive potted plant and as such is particularly suitable for townhouse dwellers or those

with smaller gardens. The flowers attract honeyeaters and bees whilst the fruit attracts other birds.

Mitchelton & Districts Garden Club

On 1st December at the Enoggera Memorial Hall, the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club will hold its 2022 end of year meeting. before going into recess until the first Thursday in February 2023.

Attendance at the December meeting is for members and invited guests only. End of year activities such as presentation of prizes to successful exhibitors and entertainment will take place.

After the guest speaker’s talk at the November meeting this club conducted its A.G.M. All executive positions were declared vacant. Pat Killoran who served as president for a few months short of twelve continuous years announced she would not be available for re-election. In fact she felt it was time she made a clean break from the garden club. When she and Jack, her husband (now deceased), became members in the 1970’s or 80’s, they were great workers for the club, exhibiting and helping prepare for and set up displays. Pat was left without transport after Jack’s death and ever since, she

has walked a distance more than half a kilometre, from her home to the hall, with a knapsack on her back and a basket in her hand. She has accepted invitations to other functions to represent this club, sometimes having to catch two lots of public transport and then ending up with a fifteen minute or more walk to the destination. On many occasions she has baked biscuits and cake for this club’s morning teas. On meeting days Pat was always the first person to arrive at the hall and the last one to leave after checking everything was in order. It would be hard to find a more dedicated member of a club, and she is wished good health, peace and happiness for the future.

You could say December is a maintenance month for gardeners. Any fruit or vegetables that have dropped to the ground should be picked up and left in the sun in a

black plastic bag to destroy disease organisms, before being placed in the rubbish bin. Also check if spraying is needed for fruit fly activity. Make sure there’s adequate mulch on garden beds and water indoor plants more often. Should you be going away on holidays for a week or two, arrange for someone to keep an eye on your plants.

This club has vacancies for new members. Meetings

are held at the Enoggera Memorial Hall on the first Thursday of the calendar month except January. Starting time is 10am. As the club will be in recess until the first week in February a phone number for enquiries has not been given in this publication.

Wishes for a peaceful, happy Christmas Season are conveyed to all.

Homestay families required in 2023

The Gap State High School requires homestay families for short-term study tours in February 2023. You will need to provide a bedroom and three meals a day as well as supervision to and from school and of course to a warm, welcoming homestay experience!

You will receive remuneration for your hospitality.

• Tour date: 4 February to 16 February 2023 (12 nights)

• Country of origin Japan

• Age range 13 to 15 years

• Sharing a room is fine, but you need to provide a bed for each student

• Requirements: three meals a day and facilitate daily transfers to and from school.

Valid Blue Cards (all family members +18 y/o). If you would like to be a part of the 2023 Homestay program Phone 3511 3877 for further information.

2022 : Challenges and achievements

Any year with two major floods is going to be challenging for an urban creek catchment.

Despite considerable infrastructure damage, erosion and destruction of habitat, Enoggera Creek Catchment is bouncing back with a little help from Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN) and our wonderful local community.

SOWN President Renée McGlashan thanked all our volunteers, members, community and the funding bodies that support our nursery, monitoring, bushcare and events.

“We are partners in nature,” she said.

Enoggera Creek flooded in February and again in May 2022. By the end of May, The Gap had recorded almost 1800 mm of rain.

It had rained so much, no planting events could be held until July.

On Saturday 9 July at Yoorala Street, hundreds of locals rolled out to plant 3000 native species on the bank of Enoggera Creek.

The following month a further 1700 plants were planted at Wittonga Park on Fish Creek.

Meantime, SOWN’s 30 Habitat Brisbane groups were cleaning up flood debris, collecting rubbish and working to restore their sites.

Some areas in the flood zone are still waiting for replanting and restoration due to concerns about further flooding this summer.

Nature is one step ahead of us with bushcare groups reporting strong natural regeneration along the creeks.

Pioneer plants such as

End of Year Celebrations at Ithaca Probus Club

To round out an active year at Ithaca Probus Club members will again enjoy the traditional Christmas lunch at the Paddo Tavern. Another regular December activity will be the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Party for seniors at City Hall – a great social morning.

Regular club activities continued in November with the return of popular guest speaker Denis Wayper telling us about the fascinating career of Sir John Monash – soldier and engineer. Club member Judy Blaney related the experiences on her small farm, answering the question “What do you know about donkeys?”

The new year will start as usual with the Aussie Day BBQ. Most of the wide range of interesting activities - talks, outings, and other socially engaging events, take a break over the end of year, resuming again in February. Meanwhile our monthly newsletters continue keeping members connected.

We are delighted that we will be welcoming new members in coming months. New members are always most welcome at our meetings 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, and 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.

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

Macaranga, Native Hibiscus and Poison Peach are popping as well as Casuarinas, Black Beans, Silky Oak and Enoggera Creek’s signature tree the Creek Lilly Pilly Waterhousea floribunda.

If you want to get involved in caring for our catchment, BCC and SOWN

are currently looking for a new group leader for Michaela Crescent Bushcare Group on Fish Creek.

Renée paid tribute to Gail and Ray Norval who retired as group leaders recently.

For more information go to sown.com.au.

CHESS T'MINIT

With the are relaxation of restrictions, physical tournament and social play has recommenced with Covidsafe play rules in place. On 21 October the annual Marcus Porter memorial was played at Marist Brothers Ashgrove. This year a tie resulted after 6 rounds of rapid play, with Jeela Praveen and Jacob Edwards sharing the spoils with 5 wins, ½ point in front of Leo Gua in third place. The Martin Laizans Cup is close to completion and with one round to play, Andrew Robinson leads by ½ point from Elizabeth Williams and Ryan Lyons. With the completion of this tournament he club will take a recess, with play recommencing at the end of January. Anybody interested in playing in club tournaments should contact the club through its webpage. Game night starts 7.30 pm on Friday nights

at Room B6, The Gap State High School. The club has a web page, https://www. thegapchessclub.org.au/ with updates on club play, local chess news and puzzles.

This month’s puzzle is a pretty study by Josef De Koning. White to move and checkmate in 2 moves. This problem featured on the cover of the 2022 American Chess Magazine ‘A Year of Chess Puzzles’ calendar.

Solution to last month’s puzzle: Rh8 is the obvious first move but the continuation after 1… Kg1 is stunning. 2. Rh1 then mate follows Kxh1 3. a8=Q Kg1 4. Qa7 Kh1 5. Qa1 Kh2 6. Qe5 Kh1

BCC Community Conservation Partnerships Officer Nomusa Nzama celebrates recording a huge Waterhousea (behind her) at a recent SOWN citizen science event.

PHOTO: Brendan McIntyre

Carinity getting young lives back on track

Imagine that you have never felt loved or experienced a sense of self-worth. Or that you have never felt safe in your home or enjoyed the reassurance that there will always be a place where you feel welcome.

Unfortunately, young people across Queensland experience theseemotions every day.

Teenagers needing to overcome challenges that stem from their disadvantaged upbringing can find refuge, support and guidance from Gaythorne-based community service organisation, Carinity.

A majority of young people who arrive at the Carinity On Track service have experienced significant trauma such as domestic violence and drug or alcohol abuse in their home.

“These are young people who have gone through significant hardship and, through no fault of their own, are unable to live with their parents or other carers,” says Carinity On Track Program Coordinator, Janine Haddon.

“We help the young people to feel safe by providing them with a nurturing and supportive home environment.”

Carinity On Track’s initial priority is to make residents feel safe and secure – providing them the home-like environment they have lacked in their lives to date.

Once the teenagers develop those feelings of security, the Carinity On Track team turn their focus to building the skills

the young people need to rise above the challenges they have faced and turn their lives around.

“We encourage our young people to engage in education or work and provide them with a supportive and nurturing environment to help them achieve their goals,” Janine said.

“We are there for the young people 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We celebrate and support their successes, hopes and dreams.”

You can help Carinity to continue providing invaluable services to at-risk youth in a number of locations throughout Queensland, by donating to the Carinity Christmas Appeal.

Donate online at www.carinity.org.au/donations. All donations are tax deductible.

Sign Up for Clean Up Australia Day 2023

As our world faces unprecedented environmental challenges, Australians are being encouraged to join together to take positive action. Registrations are officially open for Clean Up Australia Day 2023.

Pip Kiernan, Chair of Clean Up Australia said, “Our environment is facing pressure unlike ever before. As all Australians know, over the past two years, we’ve seen severe bushfires, cyclones and floods, pressures on our biodiversity and an evergrowing volume of waste which leaks into our natural and marine environment.

Australians tell us every day that they are concerned about the world we live in but often feel frustrated and unsure how to make a positive impact.

“Clean Up Australia Day is a great opportunity to work

together and take practical action. We seek the support of all Australians. Together we can all make a real difference,” Pip continued.

Registration is free, and participants receive a free Clean Up kit, containing gloves and bags and other resources, with packs for individuals, families and community groups available (businesses are asked to pay a small fee to cover costs). Anyone who signs up before December 31, 2022 is automatically in the running to win one of three Coles gift cards valued at $1000.

“Signing up now means you’re making a pledge to improve and protect Australia’s environment. Whether you are 9 or 90, participating in a Clean Up Australia event changes the way you think about your

everyday habits and the practical changes each of us can make. Everyone who gets involved tells us how rewarding the day is and how it has made a lasting impact.” Pip said.

If you can’t join in Australians are encouraged to make a donation to Clean Up Australia. 100% of funds raised through donations

go directly to empowering Australians to take positive action for the environment.

To register or donate, please visit cleanup.org.au

Clean Up Australia Day –Sunday 5 March, 2023

Schools Clean Up Day –Friday March 3, 2023

Business Clean Up Day – Tuesday February 28, 2023

Gaythorne-based community service organisation Carinity provides invaluable services to at-risk youth across Queensland

Brisbane Tramway Museum

The Kindness of Strangers

News and Views from a Tramway Muse

When Tennessee Williams wrote the script for his Pulitzer Prize-winning play - A Streetcar Named Desire - it included the now famous line delivered by Blance DuBois: “I’ve always depended on the kindness of strangers.

In this, the season of goodwill, we often find ourselves focusing on acts of kindness. You may be the recipient of a thoughtful gift or gesture of kindness at Christmas, or you may be the donor. Either way, it can be a deeply rewarding experience.

The Brisbane Tramway Museum relies heavily on government and council funding for survival, but money is tight and grants are becoming harder to obtain as priorities shift elsewhere. Visitor numbers collapsed during Covid and it impacted badly on the museum’s bottom line. Unfortunately, entry fees don’t cover the running costs, even in good times. If it wasn’t for the kindness and generosity of hard-working volunteers, the museum would probably have to close its doors.

A recent article requesting donations of consumables and tools generated an impressive response. A number of very kind locals rallied to donate everything from bags of rags to tool chests of tools. One person even donated a full trailer load of surplus tools and a large steel cabinet of nuts and bolts, something the metal shed was lacking.

To all of our wonderful volunteers and kind donors, we say a heartfelt THANK-YOU!

The museum may not boast a New Orleans streetcar as featured in the highly acclaimed play, but you will find a good selection of early American trams to ride. You can even gift someone special a family tram pass for 2023. That would surely be something to desire………

© David Fryer. maximalist@bigpond.com

The Tramway Museum is proudly sponsored by the Brisbane City Council

Art in Bark Assoc.

Are you looking for something new to do?

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 bark, board, glue etc. for the first lesson.

If you can’t get to Brisbane we have a Workshop for all ages at:-

Nundah Apostolic Church Hall on Saturdays, 43 Robinson Road Nundah, love to see you.

Please phone us first....

For more Info:- Barbara 3271 2130. m Joy 0407 178 064 m Hazel 0408 157 117.

Newmarket Bocce Club News

by Mario De Marco. Secretary of the Newmarket Bocce Club

Another year is near to closing and what a year it has been. I have reported on most events that the club has had.

In relation to the World Bocce Titles Australia had a relatively novice team and although we did not bring home any medals we certainly are proud of their achievements. Well done to all. You can catch up on the events on the Bocce Australia website or in Facebook.

We had no competitions in November but we did have a sausage sizzle at Bunnings Stafford and it went very well. I was there and also thank you to Tony D, Silvio, Fausto, Vince, Bill, Tony S, and Philippe. It was a big day but the club will benefit from the day. Sorry but forgot to take photos as it was so busy. Next time.

When this goes to print our Bocce Christmas party will be done and dusted. It’s on the 27 November 2022 and I will report it on the next edition. If you follow Facebook, join the Newmarket Bocce Club page and enjoy all my articles in there.

I hope you have enjoyed the Bocce articles. Have a happy and safe Christmas to you and your families and we will do it all over again next year.

Catholic Bushwalkers

Join the Catholic Bushwalkers in all varieties of walks – city, local bush, mountains, rainforest, and creeks. Some areas are seasonal depending on the weather and time of year. The Club also programmes “beginner’s walks” to let visitors find out if they like walking distances – a bit more than the morning fitness walk around the block. For the beginners, we try to stay near the city.

For more information ring Greg on Ph: 3351 4092.

The Western Echo December 2022/January 2023 Page 31 website: http://www.westernecho.com.au