The Western Echo May 2022

Page 1

The

May 2022 ISSN 1327-676X

Western Echo Western

Published by: Hot Metal Publications Phone: 3300 1846 - Email: hotmetal@aussiebroadband.com.au Over 15,700 Copies delivered each month to homes, businesses and clubs in the Western Suburbs

ANZAC Day 2022 Not Dampened by Rain

Despite some torrential downpours and fairly constant showers, both the Dawn and Morning ANZAC Day Services held by The Gap RSL Sub-Branch at Walton Bridge Memorial, were packed to capacity to remember the sacrifice of the servicemen and women. The catafalque party was mounted by Lance Corporal Brierton, Craftsman Badger, Privates Lister, Sanchez and Herrmann of the 2nd 14th Light Horse Regiment. Story page 3

Mechanical -Tyres - Batteries *All Mechanical Repairs *Log Book Servicing *Safety Certificates *Brake & Clutch Repairs *Air Conditioning *Wheel Alignments *Tyres *Batteries wyattauto.com.au sales@wyattauto.com.au 3300 2077

Located at BPhttp://www.westernecho.com.au The Gap, 850 Waterworks Road, The Gap 4061 website:

AU17393

Trading Hours: Monday to Friday 7amThe to 5.30pm Western Echo May 2022 Page 1


ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANT R G Goodman Phone: 3289 1700 pg 10

AUTO AIR CONDITIONING Wyatt Automotive Phone: 3300 2077

pg 1

BATHROOMS Steve Froggatt Phone: 0402 730 177 pg 13

BEAUTY

Colin Bushell Photography Phone:0409 107 079 pg 20

PHYSIOTHERAPY Physiologix Phone: 3511 1112

pg 16

PLUMBER Pandanus Contractors Phone: 3300 3934 pg 14 Plumbers We Are Phone: 3351 0016 pg 14

POLITICAL/GOVERNMENT Jonty Bush Phone: 3554 9100

pg 4

Peter Cossar - Labor for Ryan Phone: 0415 936 511 pg 5

La Belle Vie Phone:0435 200 282 pg 11

PRE-SCHOOL CENTRE

SHOPPING CENTRE The Gap Village Shopping Ctr Phone: 3300 3377 pg 17

Mitchelton Pre-School Ctr. Phone: 3355 2535 pg 21

Taylor Range Country Club Phone:3366 1560 pg 8

COMPOUNDING PHARMACY Keperra Compounding Pharm. Phone: 3355 3905 pg 19

HEALTH FOODS Go Vita The Gap Phone: 3511 0772 pg 17 LAWYERS Hollingworth & Spencer Phone: 3123 5700 pg 10

ASHGROVE

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS MAY BE NEEDED SHORTLY We are anticipating a need for more volunteer drivers. It can be for as little as a few hours each month. We deliver each morning: Monday to Friday, from around 9.30am until noon.

Can you help us? If you are interested, please phone Carolyn on 3366 4299 between the hours of 8.00am and noon.

MORTGAGE ADVISOR Mortgage Choice Ashgrove Phone: 3463 0500 pg 12

MUSIC TUITION The Gap Piano Studio Phone: 3166 8353 pg 23

ORGANIC PRODUCE The Gap LOCO thegaploco.com.au

pg 15

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

PHOTOGRAPHY

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

Ashgrove Meals on Wheels

Printcraft Ph: 07 3291 2444

Ph 3366 4299

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524 Waterworks Road

MEDICAL CENTRE Keperra Family Practice Phone: 3351 0323 pg 18

SCHOOLS The Gap State School P h o n e : 3 5 11 3 3 3 3 p g 2 3

TYRE & MECHANICAL Wyatt Automotive Phone: 3300 2077 pg 10

BRICKLAYING PAVING CLUBS/GROUPS

RESTAURANT

Julian Simmonds MP Phone: 3378 1599 pg 7 Cr Steven Toomey Phone: 34071900 pg 6 Elizabeth Watson-Brown 52 Douglas St Milton pg 9

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

Inness Green Phone: 3300 1555 pg 14

REAL ESTATE Harcourts Inner West Phone: 3511 0666 pg 13

You can now read The Western Echo ONLINE - click on the links on either our website www.westernecho.com.au OR our facebook page

IVE Distribution Ph: 1800 670 727

www.facebook.com/pages/ The-Western-Echo

NOTICE TO READERS

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’. For those residents who wish to collect a free copy, we have newstands located at: • Night Owl Enoggera - Cnr. Samford Rd & Wardell St • Stewart Road News Ashgrove • Ashgrove Library • Jonty Bush’s State Electorate Office • Cr. Steven Toomey’s Gap Ward Office Copies are also available at Red Hill APO, West Ashgrove APO, The Gap APO, The Gap Village, The Friendly Grocer The Gap, Wyatt's bp The Gap, & Ashgrove Golf Club

Advertisers/contributors please note:

Deadline for June 2022 5pm Tuesday 24th May 2022

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 15,700 homes and businesses in: Ashgrove, The Western Page website:Keperra http://www.westernecho.com.au Ashgrove West, St.Echo JohnsMay Wood,2022 Dorrington, The2Gap, and selected areas of Bardon, Red Hill, Enoggera, and Mitchelton


A Damp But Uplifting ANZAC Day 2022 The President and Members of The Gap SubBranch take this opportunity to thank the local community for their tremendous support for the events centred on ANZAC Day, Despite the unanticipated inclement and unpredictable weather, The Gap community support was beyond expectations, continuing the tradition of “village” support for the annual ANZAC Day Dawn Service and later in the morning the March from The Gap State High School down Waterworks Road to the Walton Bridge Memorial for the 9:35am Commemoration Service. Both Services were extremely well attended, despite the downpours. The Gap RSL Sub-Branch members express their gratitude for the support of the ANZAC Day ceremonies themselves. With ANZAC Day 2022 occurring on Monday 25 April, making it a long weekend, it was not a normal school day but nevertheless it was wonderful to see so many local school students and their parents attend both ceremonies. For the first time in the last few years COVID-19 posed less of a threat as many locals are now fully vaccinated and, the enthusiastic support from

all age -groups was very encouraging. Special thanks go to those who participated in the Dawn Service and the March to make the occasion more impressive. The Reviewing Officer was Capt. Ben Esler (RAN) and brother to Gap RSL Sub Branch President and MC for the Service David Esler and Parade Commander Ray De Vere MC OAM. The Catafalque Party, from the 2/14th Light Horse Regiment was mounted by Lance Corporal Brierton, Craftsman Badger, Privates Lister, Sanchez and Herrmann. Pastor Gary Rucci conducted the service and resolutions were given by The Gap State High School’s Captains Douglas Kirkland, Ella Passfield, Peta Kioupelis and Joshua Ho. Caleb Hodgkinson was the bugler while Nell Fulloon was the Piper at the 9.30am service and Fiona Harris at the Dawn Service. The reverence and respect, shown in the usual low-key, understated Australian way, once again clearly demonstrated that Australians quietly hold dear the underlying core principles of the ANZAC Spirit. We Will Remember Them Lest We Forget

Piper at the Dawn Service, Fiona Harris Photograph courtesy Colin Bushell Photography

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

Gap RSL Sub Branch member Rod Adamson

Despite the wet weather the Dawn Service at Walton Bridge Memorial was extremely well attended Photographs courtesy Colin Bushell Photography

Inside the May Issue...

Amnesty International..................................................................13 Arana VIEW Club..................................................................................20 Art in Bark Association.......................................................................14 Ashgrove Forum................................................................................24 Ashgrove Historical Society..............................................................10 Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club....................................................8 Balaangala Community Group...........................................................12 Brisbane Tramway Museum...........................................................30 Chess T’Minit.......................................................................31 Enoggera Historical Society.......................................................14 Hear and Say........................................................................25 Ithaca Probus Club...............................................................20 Mitchelton Garden Club..........................................................28 Neighbourhood Watch The Gap..................................................29 Newmarket Bocce Club.......................................................................31 Older Women's Network Mitchelton...........................................31 Paten Park Native Nursery (PPNN).............................................28 Picabeen Community Association..............................................24 Principal’s Points....................................................................22 & 23 Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap .......................................................18 Seranata Singers..............................................................................26 SOWN (Save Our Waterways Now)...........................................29 State Update - Jonty Bush - Member for Cooper.........................4 The Gap Historical Society......................................................26 The Gap Probus Club.................................................................30 The Gap RSL Sub Branch...........................................................3 The Gap Sustainability Initiative ...............................................................12

Ward Happenings.................................................................................6

West Brisbane Orchid Society............................................................27

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 3


State Update

Jonty Bush MP

Member for Cooper

ANZAC Day Services

Congratulations to all the local RSL sub-branches, churches, community groups and schools who turned out to support our veterans and serving Defence Force personnel. Despite the weather, we had record numbers. It was beautiful watching the children and young people march – many in honour of family members lost in conflict.

Small Business Month

Queensland’s small businesses contribute around $113 billion to our economy and employ around 44 per cent of the private sector workforce. We have around 2500 small businesses in our electorate, and May is the perfect month to celebrate them. As part of Queensland Small Business Month 2022, we are celebrating local small businesses with a ‘Love your small business’ campaign throughout May. Share your good experiences with small independent businesses on social media using the hashtags #QSBM2022 #loveyoursmallbusiness #shoplocal #buylocal. Don’t forget to leave your favourite businesses a good review online.

ANZAC Day 2022 Dawn Service at The Gap - with David Esler, Rob Sherman and Cr. Steven Toomey - photograph courtesy Colin Bushell Photography

Flood Resilience Financial Assistance

The Palaszczuk Government has committed, along with the federal government, to provide $771m in financial assistance to those whose homes were significantly flooded during the recent Brisbane flooding event. Guidelines for the Resilient Residential Recovery Package are yet to be released. However, the assistance package will provide options to retrofit, build back higher and in some cases, to buy back homes in floodprone areas.

Local Climate Forum

With John from BIWCC talking about Small Business

Exciting News for St Johns Woods Scouts Den

The much-loved St Johns Wood Scouts Den was severely inundated during the February flood, with flood water reaching a record height of 2.3m. As the water receded, the huge clean-up job became clear. Everything was covered in mud. But that did not deter the Scouts and many community members who joined them to get the job done. Needless-to-say, I was thrilled to hear Peter Cossar, Labor’s Candidate for Ryan and Shadow Minister for the Environment and Water Terri Butler announce a federal election commitment of $250,000 to help the Den rebuild. The Scouts Den has so much history in our community and now the future is looking even brighter!

Thank you to Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Renewables, Chris Bowen, for zooming into a recent climate forum I moderated in Paddington. Many people don’t know that the Queensland State Government leads our nation in terms of our climate targets and energy with record investments in renewables, the first electric vehicle strategy in the nation, the strongest land clearing protections in the country, Great Barrier Reef regulations and the strongest koala protections in the nation, those being just some of our achievements. The highlight for me was hearing that an Albanese government would end fossil-fuel subsidies, and prioritise funding into renewables including hydrogen, broad-scale solar (including storage and upgrading the electricity grid) and wind-farms. The future could certainly be powerful! If you have any questions about anything you’ve read here, please contact our office.

Shop 2/230 Waterworks Road, Ashgrove Q 4060 t 3554 9100 e cooper@parliament.qld.gov.au f www.facebook.com/jontyforcooper

Jonty Bush - working hard for us The Western Echo May 2022 Page 4

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


Peter Cossar LABOR FOR RYAN

PETER COSSAR IS THE LABOR CANDIDATE FOR RYAN AT THE FEDERAL ELECTION ON MAY 21 As a husband and father of two sons that has lived locally in our community for over 25 years, Peter understands the issues that are important to us. Peter has seen firsthand how much Scott Morrison’s mistakes and failures have hurt local families and businesses in our community. As part of the Albanese Labor team, Peter will help deliver Labor’s plan for a better future for Australia, including bringing manufacturing back to our state, strengthening Medicare, and creating more secure local jobs in more industries. ALBANESE’S BUDGET REPLY SPEECH: ONLY LABOR WILL FIX AGED CARE Labor’s plan for aged care will mean older Australians will retire with dignity and confidence. Labor will ensure there is a Registered Nurse onsite 24/7 at every facility and mandatory nutrition standards for residents. Labor will give the Aged Care Safety Commissioner more powers to ensure there is accountability and integrity with the way public funds are spent in aged care. Only Labor has a plan to fix our aged care sector and restore dignity to older Australians. ANTHONY ALBANESE WILL MAKE IT EASIER FOR FAMILIES TO SEE A DOCTOR Labor will make it easier to see a doctor. In the seat of Ryan alone, the out-of-pocket costs to see a GP have gone up 39% since the LNP took Government in 2013. Costs to see a specialist have got up 64%. Anthony Albanese has committed to 50 Urgent Care Clinics across Australia that will deliver 24/7 GP services to communities that need it most, relieving pressure on our hospital emergency services.

Peter_Cossar

PREPARING FOR THE JOBS IN A RENEWABLE ENERGY FUTURE Only Labor has a plan for a better future by investing in renewables to modernise our energy grid and provide cheaper and cleaner power to local homes and businesses. Labor has a clear plan to ensure the jobs of the future are secure and wellpaid and that job seekers in the future economy have the skills they need. Labor has committed to more university places and fee-free TAFE places for in-demand industries and sectors – including Pharmacy and aged care.

labor_for_ryan ARealVoiceForRyan 0415 936 511 | WWW.LABORFORRYAN.NET | PETER.COSSAR@QUEENSLANDLABOR.ORG

Authorised by Julie-Ann Campbell, Australian Labor Party (State of Queensland), Level 1, 16 Peel St, South Brisbane QLD

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

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 5


WARD HAPPENINGS WITH

Cr Steven Toomey

Councillor for The Gap Ward Cor Infinitus Plaque at Walton Bridge Memorial

On Friday 8 April 2022 I joined Mr Kevin Humphries the founder of ‘Cor Infinitus’ along with the Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and David Esler President of The Gap RSL Sub-Branch to unveil the ‘Cor Infinitus’ plaque on the Memorial at Walton Bridge Reserve, The Gap and is the first in Brisbane City Council. This meaning behind the words ‘Cor Infinitus’ define heart’s courage and infinity. Courage is needed by the families to face each day moving forward after a loved one has taken their life and their hearts need to share rather than hide their pain. Infinite is the magnitude of loss felt by families when a loved one takes their own life & the amount of time left without that person. Cor Infinitus is completely inclusive of all individuals, eras, services and circumstances. The Cor Infinitus symbol is the only symbol, apart from the Australian National Flag, to represent all those who have served our country since Federation. I’d like to acknowledge the great work of Cor Infinitus and the support The Gap RSL provide to this cause. Cor Infinitus badges are for sale in my ward office, feel free to pop in and have a chat.

Green Happenings in The Gap Ward MobileMuster Program As re-cycling and sustainability is important to me I have added The Gap Ward office to the MobileMuster collection point. MobileMuster is committed to recycling your old mobile phones with the surety that they will be recycled to the highest environmental standards. The program accepts all brands and types of mobile phones, plus their batteries, chargers and accessories. Check out their website www.mobilemuster.com.au and get your old phones ready for recycling.

l to r: David Esler, The Gap RSL, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, Kevin Humphries, founder Cor Infinitus

Upcoming Events May-June 2022 confirm dates & times at steventoomey.com.au Saturday 14 May 2022 Outdoor Cinema in the Park Wittonga Park, The Gap with food trucks from 4.30pm or bring your own picnic. Movie ‘The Queen’s Corgi’ commences at 6.30pm. Monday 30 May 2022 Yoga Day The Gap 9.00am bring your mat or towel and enjoy a free outdoor yoga session, Wittonga Park, The Gap. 4 June 2022 Community Corners go to www.steventoomey.com 12 June 2022 9-10am Free Morning Coffee in Arbor Street Dog Park, Ferny Grove. 12 June 2022 Forest Footsteps is outdoor walking and eating festival with 1km to 13km nature trails and prizes for everyone at Trek2Health Headquarters, 1434 Waterworks Road, The Gap. Funds raised support our Queensland Frontline Workers and Veterans. Family friendly event proudly supported by Brisbane City Council. Visit www.trek2health.org.au for details.

477 Waterworks Rd Ashgrove West, 4060 Phone: 07 3407 1900 Email: thegap.ward@bcc.qld.gov.au Web: StevenToomey.com.au The Western Echo May 2022 Page 6

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


My Local My LocalPlan Plan 1

Continuing to fix local roads and reduce traffic

2

Protecting our local lifestyle now and for the future

3

Securing our economic recovery and keeping Australians safe

4

Reducing emissions and increasing renewable energy

5

Supporting families with better health and education

I need your support to continue delivering

VOTE 1 Julian SIMMONDS Federal Member for Ryan

Authorised by Julian Simmonds MP, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 188 Moggill Road, Taringa 4068. Authorised by Julian Simmonds MP, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 188 Moggill Road, Taringa 4068.

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

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 7


Ashgrove / The Gap Lions Club

Memberships available! Quality Family Recreation in a Safe, Relaxed Environment 3 Swimming Pools

2 Floodlit Tennis Courts

4 Glass-Backed Squash Courts

Numerous Gas Barbecue Areas

Don't Miss Out! Contact the Club today trcclub@bigpond.net.au (07) 3366 1560 www.taylorrangecountryclub.com.au 28 Greenlanes Road, Ashgrove

We Look Forward to Hearing from You! The Western Echo May 2022 Page 8

Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club recently received nominations for the Board of Management for their Lions Club for 20222023. These Lions will be officially sworn in at our official changeover on 28th June at Ashgrove Golf Club Our club continues to be busy in our community supporting those in need, as well as conducting fundraising BBQ’s which allows us to assist our community Upcoming Events On 22nd April we conducted a BBQ with our Tucker Box BBQ Trailer for the Mater Dei Primary School to celebrate the “Welcome to School” On Anzac Day this year, Ashgrove-The Gap Lions Club laid wreaths at Ashgrove & The Gap to remember those who lost their lives protecting our country Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club had their monthly Partners & Friends meeting at the Ashgrove Golf Club on Tuesday 26th April where we had a relaxed social evening and enjoyed the company of Partners, Friends & Guests. Our special Guests were Johnny Donalis & CEO of Trek2health Bruce Barker who talked about the Star of Taroom, which is a very special Aboriginal groove stone which was pulled from the earth with a tractor over 45 years ago and loaded into a utility and removed from Iman Country. It was explained how the stone was transported by hand cart over 500km across the back roads and backblocks of South East Queensland from Brisbane to Taroom On 21st of May our club will be conducting a Plant & Gardening Sale Fundraiser in Paddington to support our club to raise funds for needs in our community. If you would like further information, please go to our face book page Ashgrove-The Gap Lions Club in conjunction with the Member for Cooper Jonty Bush will be conducting a series of Community BBQ’s in our region in recognition of those who assisted or supported with the recent floods On 29th May our Club will be supporting Cystic Fibrosis with their “Great Strides” Fundraiser by conducting a BBQ to support the great work that they do for those people suffering this debilitating disease. The event will be conducted at 54 Frasers Road in Ashgrove from 7.30am to 10.30am, please come along and support this great cause One of the wonderful projects that Lions Australia conduct is the Lions Eye Health Program where Lions members are trained as screeners, where they will go into schools in our community to carry out screening on young children to ascertain the condition of their sight capabilities which also includes testing for color blindness. This program is fully supervised by professionals and in the case where the child’s eyesight needs attention they are recommended to see an optometrist for further examination If you would like to find out more about Lions and the involvement we have in your community or if you would consider joining Lions or become a friend of Lions please email Susie Green at Lionatg19@gmail.com.au or call 0407 750 781. website: http://www.westernecho.com.au


Western Echo full page May 2022 print-ready.pdf

1

26/4/2022

8:12 am

VOTE 1

ELIZABETH N W O R B N O S T A W

FOR RYAN

As your strong voice in Parliament, Elizabeth will fight for: Climate Action

We can’t address the climate crisis if we keep opening up new coal and gas mines. LNP and Labor’s plans for over 100 more coal and gas projects are escalating the climate crisis. The Greens will freeze all new coal, oil, and gas projects and protect workers during the transition to renewable energy with a job-for-job guarantee and financial security for coal workers.

Dental into Medicare

The best way to tackle the rising cost of living is to make community services like healthcare cheaper, not by one-off handouts that get eaten up by inflation. The Greens will make dental and mental health free under Medicare to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

Housing Affordability

Millions of people are locked out of the housing market, renters are struggling with high rents, and the wait list for social housing in Queensland has blown out to 50,000. The LNP and Labor have put the banks and investors ahead of everyday people. The Greens will build a million new affordable homes across Australia to ensure everyone has a roof over their head, and fight for longer leases and stable rents.

Integrity in Politics

Stopping the regular rorts by the federal government requires a corruption watchdog with teeth to hold all politicians to account. The Greens bill to establish a national integrity commission has already been passed by the Senate. If the LNP were serious about integrity and honesty, they could have put this bill to a vote already.

The Greens will push the next Government to do better Authorised by K. Carra for The Greens, 52 Douglas St. Milton, Brisbane, 4064. AN 2022/0733

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

for more: ElizabethForRyan.com 0481 983 002 elizabethwatsonbrown@qld.greens.org.au @EWatsonBrown ElizabethWatsonBrown.Greens @ElizabethWatsonBrown

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 9


Ashgrove Historical Society Inc. The Ashgrove Historical Society meets at the Ashgrove Library on the first Saturday of the month at 10am. Bookings are no longer necessary as meeting room restrictions have been lifted. Visitors are most welcome. Speakers and topics for 2022 can be found on the society’s website and Facebook page. The publication Local Government in Ashgrove: A History is the final work by the late John Laverty who was an acknowledged expert on the history of local government in Brisbane. John was an inaugural member of the Ashgrove Historical Society when it was formed in 2003. He subsequently began to concentrate his research on local government in Ithaca and Enoggera as it affected the emerging suburb of Ashgrove. Ithaca Shire Council originally served

the developing suburbs of Ithaca, Enoggera, Newmarket and Kelvin Grove, as well as Ashgrove, each of which had its own needs. Italics footnote: The Ithaca Town Hall was built in 1910 and is located on the corner of Kennedy Terrace and Enoggera Terrace, Red Hill. Local Government in Ashgrove: A History which has numerous illustrations, is the culmination of John’s research. It will be launched by Cr Steve Toomey on Saturday 4 June 10am at Ashgrove Library. Ashgrove Historical Society members Dick Paten and Paul Sayer (editors) and Barry Shaw from the Brisbane History Group will also speak. The book will be available for purchase at the launch. The cost for Ashgrove Historical

ACCOUNTANTS - TAX AGENTS on 32 Main St, Samford (next to Farmers Hall)

T 07 3289 1700 F 07 3289 2110 E reception@rgoodman.com.au

Hollingworth & Spencer W E L ills and states awyers The Gap Professional Centre, 6/23 Glenaffric Street, The Gap

Our Wills & Estates team has expertise in:

• Advice on Wills, Enduring Powers of Attorney & Advance Health Directives • Advice on Testamentary Trust • Estate Administration & Family Provision Claims Contact Adam Robinson or Sue Hobbs

Phone: (07) 3123 5700 www.hslawyers.com.au

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 10

Society members is $30, nonmembers $35.

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

NOTICE TO READERS

We wish to advise that delivery of the Western Echo can not be legally made to letterboxes displaying Australia Post Only or Authorised Mail Only. For those residents who wish to collect a free copy, we have newstands located at: • Night Owl- Corner Samford Rd & Wardell St • Stewart Road News Ashgrove • Brumby's Bakery, 974 Waterworks Road, The Gap

Copies are also available at The Gap Village, The Gap Ward Office, Ashgrove Electorate Office, Ashgrove Library, Red Hill Australia Post, Ashgrove West Australia Post & The Friendly Grocer The Gap Brumby's The Gap and bp The Gap. Distribution is currently being made by Ovato Residential Distribution. Delivery is made to all domestic letterboxes, providing there is no signage requesting non-delivery of unsolicited mail.

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


Degustation Menu

Let us take you on a culinary journey of French flavours and techniques with our 6 Course Degustation Menu - $98 pp Vegetarian degustation menu available - $85 pp Complement your experience with our expertly matched pairing wine option. A Bientôt! To make a reservation, contact the restaurant: PHONE: 0435 200 282 WEBSITE: WWW.LABELLEVIE.COM.AU EMAIL: HELLO@LABELLEVIE.COM.AU ADDRESS: 60 MACGREGOR TERRACE, BARDON QLD 4065

@LABELLEVIE.BISTRO

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

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 11


COMMUNITY EDUCATION SEMINAR – 26 APRIL 2022 – Many members of the community attended The Gap Sustainability Initiative (TGSI) event on Tuesday evening including students of local schools, members of other environmental groups, as well as Councillor Steve Toomey. The Queensland Chief Scientist Prof Hugh Possingham was the key note speaker and shared his work experience which was influenced by his formal training in mathematics and economic modelling and applied to the fields of ecology, conservation and decision science. Prof Possingham provided a useful summary of the climate change challenges on a global scale and then shared his view of the major trends that are currently influencing sustainability initiatives which included indigenous cultural engagement, climate change, and biodiversity conservation. Prof Possingham then reflected on three projects TGSI has proposed for wider community support and suggested we conduct a decision assessment exercise across all projects in order to prioritise and communicate the rationale for community groups allocating time and financial investment where there are competing demands. Examples of assessment criteria include the likelihood of the project’s success, financial costs, as well as the environmental benefits like carbon emission reduction and biodiversity protection. For example, he explained that saving

Steve Froggatt Bathroom Renovation Specialists

• All work completed by Qualified Tradesmen • 40 Years Experience

Ph: 3863 3089 or

0402 730 177 QBCC Lic No. 1177107

www.stevefroggatt.com.au stevefroggatt@hotmail.com The Western Echo May 2022 Page 12

a threatened species such as the Platypus had much greater and wider effects than just on this single species alone. This multiplier or umbrella effect is a result of preserving an ecosystem which not only supports the Platypus but will also help to conserve many other species such as freshwater crustaceans and fish. Prof Possingham stated that conserving freshwater environments is among of the most beneficial conservation activities that can be undertaken. He encouraged everyone to follow his example by identifying and doing something good for nature every week, whether it is planting a tree, using public transport, or picking up rubbish and recycling. For further information on Prof Possingham you can follow him on twitter @HugePossum and to learn about commitments you can adopt those which are tagged each week as #good4nature. We’d like to note our appreciation for The Gap State School leadership team for their participation of this event and for supporting the student leaders who provided a great contribution to the evening with their own questions. TGSI next meeting will be held on the 24th May which will be a working group format focussed on the nominated three projects from the March workshop. We hope that many of you can come along and contribute your skills and energy into these activities.

Balaangala Community Group

Since 1998, people across Australia have come together to acknowledge and pay respect to members of the Stolen Generations. This day is called Sorry Day. Balaangala Community Group invites you to their 2022 commemoration of Sorry Day to be held on Sunday 29th May, commencing at 3pm in the Balaangala Garden, 98 Yoorala St, The Gap. Everyone is welcome to attend this local event, to remember, reflect and participate in a shared journey of healing. There is no cost to attend this event, however r.s.v.p. would be appreciated for catering purposes. For more information, please email balaangalathegap@ gmail.com

Quote of the Day

Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent. - Napoleon Bonaparte website: http://www.westernecho.com.au


In a recent book, ‘Solitary: Unbroken by Four Decades in Solitary Confinement’, Albert Woodfox described his experience of being incarcerated in solitary confinement in Louisiana, America. Convicted of a crime he didn’t commit, Mr. Woodfox was confined in a 6-foot by 9-foot cell in the infamous Angola Prison for 23 hours a day for four decades. Keeping his sanity intact during that time in the face of a brutal and corrupt prison regime required all his commitment and strength. He became an activist in prison fighting for his and other prisoners’ human rights. Eventually being released in 2017 after decades fighting his unjust sentence, he continues to uses his time to campaign against the torture and inhumanity that is the solitary confinement system in the United States. As Mr. Woodfox notes in his book, there are still 80,000 men, women and children in solitary confinement in the US, even as research has shown that it causes adverse psychological and physical effects on prisoners. Amnesty continues to campaign against solitary confinement particularly as the US federal government continues to expand its use. With international agreement about the harm caused by solitary confinement, it is time for this cruel practice to end. The Helen Black Amnesty International group meet between 9-11am on the second Monday morning of the month in The Gap and would love to hear from anyone interested in joining the group. 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.

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

Carmen BRIGGS

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

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 13


Enoggera & Districts Historical Society Inc. - 1994-2019 Can you help us out? This month the Society is seeking assistance from a helpful source out there. Attached is a photo from our collection of the intersection of Samford Road and Blackwood Road

(now street) at Mitchelton looking west towards the then Monastery on the hill on Church Road. However we don’t know what year the photo was taken. We are also after

Plumbers We Are P L

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LICENSED PLUMBERS & DRAINERS

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The Western Echo May 2022 Page 14

Shopping Centre, corner of Samford and Blackwood Road, Mitchelton, showing St Matthew's Church and Redemptorist Father's Monastery in the background

details of the other businesses located at this intersection in addition to the Butcher. If anyone out there can assist complete our records, it would be greatly appreciated! Simply email enoggerahistory@gmail.com or drop in to our display at the Enoggera Memorial Hall (36 Trundle Street) any Thursday morning. And don’t forget the Enoggera & Districts Historical Society will have a stall at this year’s May Fair

at Lanham Park on Saturday, 7 May from 12 noon. Please feel free to drop in and say hello. And stay tuned for details about our ‘Open Day’ event which will return in July this year. For further news and updates about the Society check out our Facebook page or our website www. enoggerahistory.org Take care, everyone. Andrew McMicking President

Art in Bark Association

Brisbane City Hall will be open for the Art in Bark Workshop on 9th May from 9am – 11am in the basement. Skylarkers will be open on Thursday for craft workshop 9am –11.30am, Nundah Apostolic Church 43 Robinson Road Nundah will be open 14th May 9.30am for Monthly Meeting, Workshop afterwards 12.00 pm. For more information please phone Joy 0407 178 064, Barbara 3271 2130 or Hazel 0408 157 117.

Quote of the Day What is a soul? It's like electricity - we don't really know what it is, but it's a force that can light a room. - Ray Charles website: http://www.westernecho.com.au


Funding To Deliver New Bus Pull-In Bays In The Gap The Federal Member for Ryan, Mr Julian Simmonds MP has secured $3 million in funding to deliver new bus pull in bays on Waterworks Road in The Gap to keep traffic flowing and our kids safe. Mr Simmonds has advocated tirelessly for additional funding to support the growing area in Ashgrove and The Gap to ensure local residents can commute safely and efficiently. “Traffic on Waterworks Road is an issue for all local families here in The Gap, particularly at peak times,” Mr Simmonds said. “These indented bays will mean no more stopping behind buses as they drop off and pick up, helping to keep traffic flowing.” Mr Simmonds has spoken with many local residents directly in The Gap about the need for more bus pull

in bays and is asking for the community’s support on May 21 to deliver these vital pull in bays in line with community expectation. “I made a commitment to fixing local roads to ensure our infrastructure meets the demands of our growing area and I am delivering on this promise having already secured over $230 million in federal funding to fix local roads,” Mr Simmonds said. “With your support I will continue to deliver congestion busting projects like this for our local community, so you spend less time in traffic and more time at home with your family.” Mr Simmonds is looking forward to delivering more projects and continuing to work with the local community to protect our lifestyle now and into the future. “ To g e t h e r w e h a v e

achieved a great deal for our local community but only with your support will I be able to complete this project and continue to deliver my plan for our local area,” Mr Simmonds said.

For more information on this important local project, you can contact Mr Simmonds on (07) 3378 1599 or by email to Julian.Simmonds.MP@ aph.gov.au.

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The Western Echo May 2022 Page 15


The Physiologix Corner Physio for Achilles Tendinopathy What is the best treatment and how do you find a physio for Achilles tendinopathy in Brisbane? Look no further. Gabriel Fernandes, based at Physiologix, upstairs at the Gap Health and Racquet Club, is your man. For the last few years Gabe has made this condition his obsession and passion, embarking on a Ph.D. looking at the topic. What is the Initial best treatment for Achilles Tendinopathy Initial best treatment for Achilles Tendinopathy is conservative management. This means trying to get your pain better without injections or surgery. So what treatments would we use in physio for Achilles Tendinopathy? Load management is key, thus, advice and education form a large part of your first session. Why might your condition have developed? Have you had a sudden increase in what you are doing? A sudden change in your activity levels that uses the tendon too quickly without enough time to adjust to demand, or without enough time for recovery might be linked to the onset of your pain. Or might it be related to something else? These include other medical reasons that your physio will ask about. How can Physio for Achilles Tendinopathy help me recover? What can you do to help the pain? This is another common

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At The Gap Health & Racquet Club 200 Settlement Rd, The Gap The Western Echo May 2022 Page 16

question people ask of their physio for Achilles tendinopathy. Firstly we will look at things you can do immediately to reduce pain. This might be around changing what you do, how you do it and how much you do. The current up to date research guidelines about what medications might help reduce pain and considerations when you take pain relieving medications can be discussed. Ways to self massage your lower leg muscles, but not your tendon, may also help you reduce your pain. Remember do not rub your tendon, it does not help, and it can actually make pain worse. Exercises are an important part of your recovery road from Achilles tendinopathy. The best exercises for you to use in your recovery is an essential component of your physio with Achilles tendinopathy. We will lead you through a range of tests to ascertain what level you are at (both in terms of your level of fitness and injury severity/irritability), which exercises to start with and how many repetitions you should do. We will then guide you throughout your treatment on how to progress these. It is also very important that you look at other exercises for the rest of the body. It may be you need strength work further up the leg or around the pelvis. And it is very important you don’t completely stop – Achilles tendinopathy is not an inflammatory condition, so rest does not help Achilles tendinopathy. In fact, it can make it worse, as your tendon and muscles will get more and more unfit. In your physio for Achilles Tendinopathy, we will help guide you as to what you can continue to do, how much, how often and what alternatives you may want to introduce to help keep your body fitter and stronger. In most cases, physio is all you will need to get back to doing what you love. But should things take longer than expected we have a great team that we can work with to help ensure your recovery. Gabriel Fernandes: Physio for Achilles Tendinopathy When looking for a physio for Achilles Tendinopathy in Brisbane, Gabriel Fernandes is one of the leading professionals to see. He knows the very latest research on this subject and he has vast experience working with those struggling with this often long term injury. He is currently completing his Ph.D looking at Achilles Tendinopathy and runners at QUT. Call us on (07) 3511 1112 or book online on our website Physiologix.com.au Lastly if you are a runner with or without Achilles Tendinopathy Gabriel needs you - he is recruiting for his latest PhD research paper. - if you would be interested in being involved please email us at admin@physiologix.com.au website: http://www.westernecho.com.au


Going Healthy The Gap has been in its new location for almost one month, and the Team have been overjoyed to see the regular customers and the new faces the change of locale has brought. Winter is slowly creeping up, and experts have predicted that the nation could be in for a bad flu season. A rise in respiratory illnesses may accompany the upcoming chilly weather. Bearing this in mind the Team at Going Healthy has brought in a range of products to help you strengthen your immune system. The Team have the knowledge to help you make an informed choice on what’s most suitable for you. To further thank and assist our customers, say the code phrase ‘Winter Wellness’ when purchasing products related to Immune health and receive a 15% discount. Shop 29 1000 Waterworks Rd, The Gap Village Shopping Centre, The Gap

07 3511 0772 Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm Sat 9am to 4pm Sunday 10am to 2pm

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The Western Echo May 2022 Page 17


Ashgrove/The Gap Rotary Club Celebrates 50th Birthday On Friday the 22nd April the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/ The Gap celebrated its 50th birthday at the Arana Leagues Club. In attendance were 80 guests representing both past and present Rotarians together with representations from local Councillors Steven Toomey for The Gap Ward, and Andrew Wines for Enoggera Ward and Federal government MP for Ryan Julian Simmonds. We also had in attendance in total seven Past District Governors and District Governor Elect Tim Keeler, from whom, came three past Rotary District Governors all who have been from

Ashgrove/The Gap Rotary Club. It would be unfair to mention all names of Past District Governors or special invitee names as it would constitute nearly all of this article on this highly entertaining evening. Our longest serving member David Magee was

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David Magee and President Peter Kamau cutting the 50th birthday cake

recognised for his 40 years in our club. Master of Ceremony for the evening was Tim Boyd, who kept a well-timed and interesting evening platform of events. President Peter Keggans Kamau welcomed guests and visitors and gave apologies for those unable to attend. Rotarian David Magee did the Toast to Rotary International. Past District Governor Rotarian John Lane gave the response toast to Rotary International. The evening was kept entertaining with two segments of: The Club History first 25 years and then followed by the Club History over the following 25 years. T h e f i r s t 2 5 Ye a r s presented by Rotarian John Giles O.A.M accompanied by photo presentations of accomplishments and Rotarians from that earlier era. The second 25 years was presented by Past District Governor, Rotarian Russ O’Malley also with photo presentations of accomplishments up to the present day. With every birthday comes a cake and with no exception, our youngest member Olivia Hill, our longest serving member David Magee and President

Peter Kamau cut the cake on this special day. There were so many friendly reunions, many making renewed contacts after many years of not seeing or knowing where friends were. Fran Hamwood designed table place-mats that each attendee could take home as mementos. Following the raffle draw of prizes there was joviality by our Master of Ceremonies Tim Boyd, for a fun auction at each table of the centrepiece potted flowers, which was organised by Club member Olivia Hill, having arranged with Bunnings for the donation of $150 worth of items. President Peter Kamau, closed the meeting and thanked everybody for attending.

Longest serving member of the Club, David Magee

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The Western Echo May 2022 Page 19


Arana VIEW Club News Arana VIEW Club’s June meeting is on Wednesday 1st

June at Arana Leagues Club, Dawson Parade, Keperra,10.30 for 11.00 start. Cost for the 2-course lunch and tea and coffee is $30.00. We will have our usual Lucky door and Raffle prizes, the proceeds of which support our Smith Family Learning for Life students. Our Guest speaker on the day will be James Lergessner and the topic will be “Aging Down Under. Is the Seventies the new Fifties”? it is sure to provide some lively discussion in the group. At our April meeting we celebrated our 25th Birthday. It was wonderful to see everyone getting into the spirit of the day and wearing silver where possible. We welcomed guests from Pine Rivers, Newmarket and Redcliffe VIEW Clubs and hoped they enjoyed the celebrations. Past Presidents who were present cut the anniversary cake and we then enjoyed music from “Boom Baby” who took us for a trip down a musical memory lane. Don’t forget our book table again this month. New books

Cutting the Anniversary Cake. L-R Judy Dittman (President), June Ralston, June Wall,Sheila Siggins, Lorraine Duke, Lyndsay Basford

you have enjoyed are always welcome. Phone Carol on 3355 5349 by midday on Monday 30th May if you are attending. New members are always welcome.

A promising start to a new club year at Ithaca Probus Club back in full swing at our

The new Probus year began with high hopes of returning to a near normal program of activities. Election of a largely recycled leadership team in March was celebrated with a very enjoyable lunch at Zegato’s Restaurant at Ashgrove Golf Club. The first full day out for some time took us on a bus to Caboolture and Bribie Island. A typically excellent self-catered morning tea in the grounds of the Abbey Museum got the day off to a great start. Then a fascinating talk in the Abbey Church about the history of the church, with

a detailed discussion about the centuries-old stainedglass windows. That was followed by a stroll through the Abbey Museum. Just a cursory glimpse – it would take hours to carefully study every exhibit and read all the informative notes. Then off to the Bribie Island Surf Club for a very tasty lunch in their upper-level restaurant with its panoramic outlook across the Bay to Moreton Island. Club member Geoff Crane was the guest speaker in April with a commemorative photo tour of ANZAC memorials. Then on the fourth attempt we visited the Awassi Cheesery in the Lockyer Valley. Lunch

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 20

at the Royal Hotel in Gatton, a quick look around the shops, then the scenic route home via Laidley, Grandchester and Rosewood. Club member HelenMary Blake will reprise her “Stay on your Feet” talk in May. A timely reminder – this issue becomes increasingly more important as we all get older. Bob Walker (Qld Office of Fair Trading) will talk on “Avoiding Scams” in June. The cards group and the poetry group are each holding monthly meetings in members’ homes, and the book exchange table is

monthly general meetings. 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 at the Red Hill Community Sports 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


Children helping children at Mitchelton PreSchooling Centre: The Great Book Swap Mitchelton Pre-Schooling Centre is a keen supporter of the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF). The Great Book Swap is a wonderful initiative to raise money so that ILF can purchase culturally relevant books for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Many families took the opportunity to explain to their children why they were bringing in a book/books from home to add to the growing collection. When the week for the Great Book Swap arrived, many children perused the extensive display to choose ‘the one’.

When children added gold coin/s to the donation box, it was a great way for children to experience helping children. It was a win/win scenario for all. Parents with an extensive collection of children’s books at home were able to reduce and contribute in a positive way, children increased their understanding of helping others, the ILF was able to buy appropriate books for children in different communities and left over books were donated to Picabeen, a local organisation supporting local families. For more information about Mitchelton Pre-Schooling Centre, why not pop along to their Open Day on Saturday 4th June between 9.30am and 11.30am.

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ild lp your ch e h e w e r Whe ing! e of learn v lo a p lo e dev The Western Echo May 2022 Page 21


.....Principal's Points.......Principal's Points...... Mt Nebo State School Mount Nebo State School is excited about Term 2 after a very disruptive Term 1. Many will know that we were cut off from The Gap for nearly 4 weeks after the flood, which meant teachers and students who live on The Gap side of Mount Nebo had to either miss school or drive the long way around through Samford. This was a challenge, but we are all excited that the road re-opened in time for the last week of school in Term 1. Everything was postponed or put on hold. This year we have two students who took on very important leadership roles. Aisha was announced as School Captain for 2022 and Grace announced as ViceCaptain. Both girls have taken on their leadership roles confidently and proudly. Our other school leaders are Aya, who is leading Creative Arts and Tom who is working hard in the Outdoor Learning area. On ANZAC Day, Tom and his brother Dexter proudly marched amongst much bigger schools than ours. They confidently laid the wreath which was handmade by the Mount Nebo students, assisted by staff. This year two or of our Year 6 students, Aya and Aisha will participate in the Mount Coot-tha Young Writers Camp, at Rainworth State School. They are looking forward to this experience. This year, we have ten Prep students at Mount Nebo. That is actually ¼ of our school population, which has increased to thirty-nine this year. All students have settled very well into school, despite the disruptions of the year. I am proud to announce that this year I was formally announced as the principal

of Mount Nebo State School after acting in the role for three years. I am excited that we have a very active P and C and we will be advertising our May Raffle across various social media platforms shortly. I urge anyone who is able to support our school and also to drop in if you are on a leisurely drive to Mount Nebo or Mount Glorious. I’m sure you will be pleasantly surprised. Robyn Burke - Principal

Payne Road State School Clean Up Australia - At Payne Road SS we recently celebrated and promoted National Ride2School Day on the Green before school. This was combined with our school’s Clean up Australia Day/Clean up our School active engagement day. By celebrating those who rode to school, we promoted healthy activity as well as a healthy impact on our environment. On the Green our student forum openly discussed that riding, scooting or walking to school contributes to: Reduction in noise pollution Reduction in energy use Reduction in carbon emissions In fact, on this day last year, students across Australia saved 27 tonnes of CO2 – the equivalent of planting 187 trees. That’s only one day of the year. Imagine if we did that every day. Over a year we’d save 5,400 tonnes of CO2 – the equivalent of planting 37,800 trees! This was an exciting proposition for our students! Mrs McMahon, our leading environment teacher, led our ‘Clean up the School’ day by designating school areas for all year levels to actively clean up on the day.

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 22

Students were very proud to show genuine care for their environment as they collected and recycled the rubbish they found – and our Environment Captains Clara and Quil were actively supporting! By students and staff all wearing Green we made a visible statement of our support, and we raised a combined total of $229.90 which we donated to the Balaangala Community Group in continued support of their efforts to regenerate and maintain our local green environment. Mrs McMahon also represented our school at The Gap Sustainability Initiative community meeting so that our school had a strong local voice! If you have a passion for sustainability, come and join our passionate school team! Nicky Brazzale - Principal

Dick Dunstan, Vice President of The Gap RSL and Reverend Rod Fisher from The Gap Uniting Church attend our ANZAC Day ceremony. All 1700 students and staff were engaged, listening to our guest speakers talk about the ANZAC spirit and mateship. Four of our very talented musicians have been selected to participate in the Creative Generation State School’s stage for 2022. Creative Generation is Queensland’s largest annual performing arts show and will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from 12 to 16 July. Congratulations to these students on their successful auditions. Anne McLauchlan – Principal

The Gap State High School

O n We d n e s d a y 2 0 April, Year 4 to 6 students enthusiastically cheered and participated in our annual Inter-house Cross Country Carnival. Our students are congratulated for their comradery and team spirit and their outstanding behaviour on the day. It is my pleasure to announce our age champions: (12 yrs) Ayil & Josie; (11 yrs) Mindi & Tommy; (10 yrs) Charlie & Ellie; (9 yrs) Ava & Riley. Our winning house for the 2022 Inter-house Cross Country is Endeavour, taking out the perpetual P&C Shield with the most points earned on the day. On the last day of Term 1, our Student Council held a free dress fundraiser day, raising funds to donate to the Red Cross Flood Appeal. The event was a huge success with $576.05 raised to contribute to the appeal, providing support to communities and

We have had a busy start to term 2. Our cross country was held on 20 April, it was a beautiful day students and teachers ran or walked a 4km circuit. The students enjoyed dressing up in their house colours showing great team spirit. We had a great turnout for our open day on Thursday 21 April. Many families and community members visited our school, our facilities were open to show everyone what The Gap SHS has to offer. Our concert bands played throughout the night, student leaders conducted school tours, the P&C hosted a BBQ and there were lots of activities in our quadrangle to enjoy. This was our first open day since 2019 so we are grateful for being able to open our school to the community again. On Friday 22 April we were honoured to have Mr

The Gap State School

(Continued on page 23)

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


Principal's Points...... The Gap State School (Contd.) (Continued from page 22)

people in QLD damaged by the 2022 floods. Thank you to all families who contributed. O u r s c h o o l ’s A n z a c Commemorative Service took place on Friday, 22 April. It is one of our most important whole school events and it was wonderful to be able to once again host the event where all students in the school could attend and share in the experience together. The Anzac Service was filled with meaning and reverence and student behaviour was outstanding. We continue to be inspired by the music performances of our students and the Girls’ Choir, led by Mrs Katherine Ruhle was simply inspiring. We had the pleasure of having the first performance of Katherine’s original piece “Grandpa” and the Girls’ Choir sang with great emotion as they told the story of Grandpa sits in his rocking chair telling us stories of long ago, of mateship and courage and pride. Music Teacher, Mrs O’Shea and a select group of students led the whole school in singing Parcel of Care, Lest we Forget and Abide With Me. We are truly blessed to have such talented people in our school. Again, hearing the whole student body share in the experience

of singing connected us all to the purpose of the Anzac Service. Special mention to Mr Glyn Hickling who played the Last Post and the Rouse. An exceptional musician, Mr Hickling stood in for his son Harmon who was unable to make our service this year. School Captains and flag bearers, Abbey and Michela also participated. Thank you to parents and family members who were able to attend. It was lovely to have you back in our school sharing the special time of togetherness. The Gap State School was 46 students strong at our community’s Anzac

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service. Thank-you parents for allowing your children to march and represent the school. Warm regards, Joanne Nicholls - Principal

Gap State School - Prep Open Day 26 May - 9am to 10:30am The Gap State School Prep 2023 Open Day will be held on Thursday, 26 May 2022 from 9am – 10:30am. For prospective parents to attend the Open Day, we ask that they visit school’s website to register attendance. The option to submit an expression of interest for enrolment is now open. Our school community is looking forward to welcoming guests to the Open Day. What is on offer: • Principal’s address • P & C welcome • enrolment process information • small group tours with our senior students • opportunity to meet speak with staff members Prep 2023 Expressions of Interest Expressions of interest for 2023 enrolment are currently accepted for Prep and all year levels. Enrolment interviews for eligible children will commence after the Open Day, for children whose primary place of residence is inside the school’s catchment area and for siblings of current students of The Gap State School. Offers of enrolment for children who reside outside of the school’s catchment area will occur later in the year, dependent on available spaces. If you have a child eligible to commence Prep in 2023, please visit the school’s website for full enrolment information and to complete an online Expression of Interest Form.

The Gap State School Cnr Waterworks and Settlement Roads The Gap Qld 4061

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www.thegapss.eq.edu.au

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The Western Echo May 2022 Page 23


ASHGROVE FORUM For more information on Forum Communicators public speaking association, please visit the website www. beconfident.org.au The fourth General Meeting of the Ashgrove Forum Club for 2022, the 972nd, was held at 6.30pm on Wednesday 27th April in the Ashgrove Library Meeting Room, 87 Amarina Avenue, Ashgrove. The main speaker for the evening was newest member, Rosslyn Knight, who delivered an inspirational speech on the topic “Every Little Thing we do has an impact”. Ronda Nix followed with a 3-minute Soapbox Address on a current topic “Trans women and women’s sport”. The Speaking Session topic for the previous meeting on 16 March was “High Hopes”. All members delivered 5-minute speeches addressing this topic. Pam Nugent mesmerised all present with an inspirational speech about Aaron Fotheringham a young man born with Spina Bifida, which resulted in him having no use of his legs. After watching his older brother Brian, a skateboarder, perform Aaron Fotheringham

Yoga has started back at Picabeen. We have 2 Yoga classes running. Yoga with Angie, Zoom only, 8am Monday morning. For the Zoom link call the Centre. Yoga with Asta in Centre 9.30am Monday morning. To book call the Centre 3354 2555. Our office is open 9am-4pm Monday to Thursday, Friday 9am-12pm. Picabeen cooks a community BBQ every Tuesday at 12pm1pm. Anyone is welcome to come down, have a fresh cooked sausage or burger and meet locals. Every Thursday from 10am-12pm we have Art classes. People of all abilities are welcome to come along. Friday 10am Picabeen has Scrabble games. Anyone is welcome so join us for a game and cuppa. These and much more are happening every week at Picabeen. For more information call our office or look online at https://picabeen.org.au/ and https://www.facebook.com/Picabeen Picabeen Community Centre 22 Hoben Street Mitchelton

tricks, Aaron had high hopes that he could use his wheelchair as a tool, not a restriction and master all the stunts and flips in his wheelchair. In 2006, Aaron landed the first wheelchair backflip. Four years later he landed the first ever double backflip. He so inspired others confined to wheelchairs that wheelchair MX is now a major worldwide competitive sport. On 12th March three Ashgrove members joined with Ipswich Forum members and members of other Clubs to celebrate the 60th year of Ipswich Forum at an enjoyable lunch held in Ipswich. The next meeting will be held at 6.30pm on 18th May at the Ashgrove Library. As always visitors and prospective members are most welcome to attend without obligation. For enquiries, please ring the Secretary, Ronda Nix, on 0409 615 514.

Picabeen Change Room Op-Shop has pulled out our winter stock! Scarves jackets boots hats and more at our little op shop with a big heart. So many styles of pre-loved clothes for the whole family to choose from. Open Monday-Friday 9am to 4pm and Saturday 10am-1pm the Op-Shop is situated at 65 Gilston St Keperra. All proceeds from sales go back into Picabeen to support the community. The Western Echo May 2022 Page 24

Ronda Nix OAM, Pat Pepper, Carmel Towler (Ashgrove Forum) with Margaret Townsley (Chermside Forum)

Quote of the Day

It is better to know some of the questions than all of the answers. - James Thurber website: http://www.westernecho.com.au


Nothing is holding 14-year-old Vivek back Vivek fits the bill of an allrounder, he loves all kinds of sport, from cricket to soccer and even volleyball; he also enjoys playing the piano and signing in the choir at school. When Vivek was one year old and living with his family in India, he was diagnosed with profound hearing loss. Vi v e k g o t h i s f i r s t cochlear implant at one and a half years old, and moved to Brisbane shortly after. “A frantic Google search for cochlear implant support brought us to Hear and Say. Being new to the country, in very unfamiliar circumstances, the support and understanding we received from the team was a blessing to say the least,” said Bindu, Vivek’s mum. “I get goose bumps every time I drive past the original centre location; I tear up when

I tell the story of how we found Hear and Say and the wonderful staff that helped Vivek to hear and speak,” she said. “From responding to puppets playing hide and seek at our cochlear implant programming sessions, to learning cooking vocabulary in speech therapy lessons, Vivek blossomed through those initial years.” At three years old Vivek got his second cochlear implant. “Despite delays in getting his first and his second implant, Vivek was vocal and ready for kindy by the time he was four years old,” said Bindu. “We were lucky once again and had extremely supportive and diligent kindy teachers. Vivek continued to build his vocabulary, stringing words into sentences, he also

Vivek with Australian Cricketer Marnus Labuschagne

learnt to count, sing and write.” Thanks to the hard work of his family, his cochlear implants, and specialised speech therapy, Vivek started school at five years old, alongside his peers.

“Hear and Say will always be Vivek’s life-long partners. The impact they’ve had, especially the love, care and professionalism of the staff, was evident when Vivek recently expressed a desire to consider audiology as a career option.”

Hearing and Speech Therapy

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• Cochlear implants • Tinnitus support • Occupational therapy

Book an appointment 29 Nathan Ave, Ashgrove Qld 4060

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

07 3850 2111 hearandsay.org.au

Book an appointment today.

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 25


The Gap Historical Society Inc. by George Stoddart

This is the second of 4 articles detailing some little known facts about our country. This information is reproduced from a 2016 article by John Minness. 23. M e l b o u r n e i s considered the sporting capital of the world, as is has more top level sport available for its citizens than anywhere else. Narrabri, NSW, is Australia’s sportiest town. 24. Before the arrival of humans, Australia was home to megafauna; 3 metre tall kangaroos, 7 metre long goannas, horse-sized ducks, and a marsupial lion the size of a leopard. It is theorised that it was also covered in rainforest before humas applied a burning style of hunting. 25. K a n g a r o o s a n d emus cannot walk backwards,

one of the reasons that they are on the Australian Coat of Arms. 26. Speaking of which, Australia is one of the only countries where we eat the animals on our Coat of Arms. 27. If you visited one new beach in Australia every day, it would take over 27 years to see them all. 28. M e l b o u r n e h a s the world’s largest Greek population outside of Athens. 29. The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest living structure. 30. And it has its own Post Box! 31. The male platypus has strong enough venom to kill a small dog. 32. A n d w h e n t h e platypus was first sent to England, it was believed that the Australians had played a joke by sewing the bill of a duck onto a rat. 33. Before 1902, it was

Sing with Serenata in 2022!

Make 2022 the year you take your singing beyond the confines of the driver’s seat or the shower. The Serenata Singers, a community choir based in The Gap, offers an open invitation to you every Monday at 7 pm in the auditorium of The Gap Uniting Church, 1050 Waterworks Road. This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the choir, observe and join in a rehearsal if you so desire, and meet the choir members. We are keen to welcome you. After a tough couple of years, which saw the choir The Western Echo May 2022 Page 26

illegal to swim at the beach during the day. 34. A retired cavalry officer, Francis Dr Groot, stole the show when the Sydney Harbour Bridge officially opened. Just as the Premier was about to cut the ribbon, De Groot charged forward on his horse and cut it himself with his sword. The ribbon had to be re-tied and De Groot was carted off to a mental hospital. He was later charged for the cost of one ribbon. 35. Australia has 3.3 x more sheep than people. 36. P r i m e M i n i s t e r Harold Holt went for a swim at Cheviot Beach (Victoria) and was never seen again. 37. Australia’s National Anthem was ‘Gos Save the Queen’ until 1984. 38. Wombat poop is cube-shaped. This helps it mark its territory. 39. European settlers in Australia drank more alcohol per capita than any other

Est. 2000

society in history. 40. The Australian Alps receive more snowfall than Switzerland. 41. A kangaroo is only 1 centimetre long when it is born. 42. Sir John Robertson, a five-time Premier of NSW in the 1800’s, began every morning with half a pint of rum. He said: “None of the men who in this country have left footprints behind them have been cold water men”. 43. The Box jellyfish has killed more people in Australia than stonefish, sharks and crocodiles combined. 44. Tasmania has the cleanest air in the world.

Remember – Love and Mind The Gap.

cancelling most performances, we are looking to bounce back strongly in 2022. The choir, which sings a variety of popular, traditional, spiritual and show tunes, has entered 2022 with exciting plans and high expectations. The Serenata Singers are an SATB choir. That is, we sing in four parts – Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass, but don’t let that confuse you. We have very talented musical directors who break tunes down, show us the way, give example, and with gentle hands, lead us to greener, “sounder” pastures. Although our tenor and bass numbers are low, and we would love to see more males, we are calling for anyone to give our numbers a lift, and hence the volume and timbre of the choir. The choir generally performs for people in retirement and aged care facilities and, toward the end of the year, a Gala Concert and Christmas Carols presented to a broader audience. The choir is looking forward to the future and expects to build in 2022 stronger than ever. If you can hold a tune and are interested in joining us, you will be made very welcome. For more information, you can check out our website https://serenatasingers.org.au/ , or drop us an email at serenatasingersthegap@gmail.com. What: Invitation to Serenata Singers The Gap When: Monday at 7.00pm Where: The Gap Uniting Church Hall, 1050 Waterworks Road The Gap website: http://www.westernecho.com.au


The urban farming movement is picking up S.T.E.A.M. Since 2019 supply chain disruptions have left supermarket customers reeling and pantry shelves bare. Interruptions have come to us in the form of the Black Summer bushfires, COVID-19 pandemic response and most recently the East Coast Floods. “What is often forgotten,” says Christopher Fullon, founder of Australian Urban Growers (AUG), “is that at a base level, risk to the food supply chain is amplified by the distance which food must travel to reach you at home.” AUG has been working to address these risks with Kelvin Grove State College (KGSC), through the creation of Barrambin Farm, an urban and vertical farming training facility established on disused land at the college campus. “Barrambin Farm will bring together students with diverse interests, to learn about the multidisciplinary and collaborative skills required across the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths (S.T.E.A.M.) to meet the food needs of future cities.” From May 2022 students from the KGSC gardening club will participate in activities, growing over 2000 plants from seed right through to harvest in this first of its kind nursery system. Teachers of science, geography, food technology, mathematics have expressed interest in developing classroom learning opportunities that work with the system, and AUG is poised to support engagement in practical, vocational, and academic learning pathways. The bonus: KGSC can use the food grown at the school and share it with local community; closing the loop. With population growth, cities have sprawled, and more intensive farms have been established further away. “Urban farming can help return food growth to within the city limits, reducing the strain on resources like energy, fuel, water, and land, while also reducing the risk of stretched supply chains. It’s important to provide students with opportunities to learn about farming, food, and sustainability; these are our future farmers, and our future leaders.” Barrambin Farm was formally opened at KGSC on Friday

The vertical plant-pods prior to planting

29 April 2022, celebrated with due respect to our traditional custodians, and with guests from across industry and government including The Honourable Grace Grace (QLD State Minister for Education) and The Honourable Trevor Evans (Federal Assistant Minister for Waste Reduction and Environmental Management) who will be in attendance. “Australian Urban Growers looks forward to the continuing support of our community, government and elected leaders as we strive to embed sustainable food futures within our cities”. Contact us Ph: 0432 967 829 walkingfootballbrisbane.com.au info@walkingfootballbrisbane.com.au

West Brisbane Orchid Society Show 18 & 19 June

Following post-Covid resumption of meetings, the West Brisbane Orchid Society is planning a Show, to be held at the Auditorium, Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens, on 18 and 19 June. The Show promises a colourful display of native and exotic orchid species and hybrids, plus plant sales. Pots and fertilisers, and cultivation advice. Admission: Adults $4.00, children under 16 free. The Society meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at The Gap Baptist Church, 1125 Waterworks Rd., The Gap. Visitors and New Members welcome.” I have also attached a flyer with details of the Show. For further information please contact Ian at 0418 873 725. website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 27


Maiden's Wattle 3300 6304

www.ppnn.org.au

Maiden’s wattle (Acacia maidenii) is a fast growing, small tree (either slender or bushy) with fissured bark. As with many wattles, the leaves are replaced by expanded leaf stalks that are dark green and function as leaf

blades. In Maiden’s wattle these phyllodes are long and narrow, slightly sickleshaped and alternate along the stem. Six centimetre long, pale yellow flower spikes, growing in pairs from leaf axils, appear between late summer and winter. These are followed by tubular seed pods that become highly coiled. The brown seeds are each encircled by an orange strap (aril) which attaches it to the pod. This wattle naturally occurs in coastal and subcoastal regions from Proserpine in Queensland to Orbost in Victoria, where it usually grows in more fertile soils on the edges of rainforests. However, it will

grow in a variety of welldrained soils. This ability to tolerate a range of soil fertility is most likely linked to the nitrogen-fixing bacteria that live symbiotically in nodules in roots of all wattles. Although mulching and some watering, particularly in dry periods, is needed for the first year or two, Maiden’s wattle is drought-tolerant once established and can grow in a range of climates in full or partial sun. It will not survive, however, in soils that are prone to water-logging. As an added bonus, it is fire resistant and thus is significant in the regeneration of fire-damaged habitats. Being a small tree, Maiden’s wattle is a good specimen plant for suburban gardens. It is an attractive ornamental or shade tree and is very good in reforestation projects due to its soil nutrient-producing benefits

for successive species. It is a wildlife habitat plant. The caterpillar of the common grass yellow butterfly eats the leaves. It attracts both birds which eat the seeds and insects and butterflies which feed on the nectar of the perfumed flowers. Many of these insects are important pollinators of surrounding plants.

Mitchelton & Districts Garden Club

All being well in connection with the Covid situation, the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club will meet at the Enoggera Memorial Hall on Thursday, 2nd June.Guest Speaker, Barbara Beerling, will talk about Repairs to Flood Damaged Gardens. Being a qualified horticulturist, Barbara specialises in garden problems, disease control, plant identification, roses, fruit trees and pruning, so her advice, available at this meeting, will be invaluable to those present whose gardens were damaged during the Feb.- March floods. Visitors and new members are most welcome. Morning tea is served at 9.45 a.m. and the entrance to the hall is at 36 Trundle Street, Enoggera. This month (May) is the last month of Autumn. Already when the sun is not shining there’s a chill in the air. Temperate climate

indoor plants would benefit from being placed outside at night a few times. If you are considering planting fruit trees, nurseries have new stock available. A well drained sunny position with lots of organic material in the soil is required. For areas where space is limited, dwarf fruit trees will cater for your needs. Given correct conditions they will grow and produce successfully in large containers. Azalea growers will notice buds getting fatter for flowering in spring. If the buds are turning brown or dropping, this could indicate petal blight fungus. You should be able to control this if fungicide applications begin straight away. Have you noticed about dusk, the intensity of mosquito attacks? Mosquitoes transmit disease, so always protect yourself from bites by using an insect repellant or covering your bare skin. Check no water is

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 28

in vessels in your yard, e.g. pot plant saucers, or forgotten pet dishes. Don’t be concerned about the water in the ‘cup’ of bromeliads as these plants provide a chemical to prevent mosquito eggs hatching. During the Christmas-New Year recess, a foundation member of the club, Berenice Corvi, had her 90th birthday, making three club members over this age. At the April Foundation Member Berenice Corvi meeting, on behalf Champion Award for a potted of the club, Margaret Morrow, the club patron, flowering orchid. presented Berenice (Bernie) This club meets on the with a floral arrangement first Thursday of the calendar of chrysanthemums and month except January. The carnations. Despite the hall is close to public transport bad weather beforehand, and accessible by wheelchair. club members’ show bench For more information please entries were commendable. phone the president, Pat, on Hedi Marshall received the 3356 1256. website: http://www.westernecho.com.au


Weed tree transferred for native wildlife Brisbane’s youngest bushcare leader, Aidan Ameer, has transformed a huge Camphor Laurel weed tree into a refuge for native wildlife. The transformed weed tree is located in Glen Harding Park on the bank of Ithaca Creek where is crosses under Coopers Camp Road. Aidan teamed up with arboricultural company Habi-Tec, Brisbane City Council’s Habitat Brisbane program and Gardening Australia’s Jerry ColebyWilliams who joined with the local community to plant 250 native species around the base of the tree. Prior to the planting on 24 April, Habi-Tec had removed the crown of the tree leaving the trunk and major branches. Holes were drilled in the wood to create wildlife hollows. Jerry said it’s an incredible win-win. “One of the brilliant things about Camphor Laurels is that their wood is soft. They often produce hollows at the age of 30 years whereas a native Eucalypt will take 100 years to produce equivalent hollows,” he said. Aidan said the hollows were various sizes to accommodate species as diverse as possums, gliders, microbats and native bees.

Gardening Australia’s Jerry Coleby-Williams and bushcarer Aidan Ameer with the Camphor Laurel which has been transformed into high-rise accommodation for native wildlife. PHOTO: Anne Jones

The teenager has become an enthusiastic bushcarer after living near Ithaca Creek all his life. “I saw the creek was not well looked after. It was full of weeds and I thought I could do something here,” Aidan said and so he became a bushcare volunteer. A neighbour introduced Aidan to the Gardening Australia team which led to the Camphor Laurel project.

SOWN President Renée McGlashan said Jerry and Aidan made an inspiring duo. “Their combined enthusiasm for plants is inspiring and infectious,” she said. The story will feature in a future Gardening Australia episode. See sown.com.au for more information and future events.

Neighbourhood Watch The Gap 4061 Neighbourhoods are built and sustained by the people in them!! Here are a few ideas about simple ways in which you can help to continue to help grow this amazing culture and community that we treasure so much about our suburb of The Gap 4061. Share with Neighbours information about: • Bushfires in the area • Storm Warnings • Any local utilities issues, burst water mains, emergency power outages • Any crimes which may have been reported in your street or streets nearby • Neighbourhood parties or community events • If you see something suspicious happening at their house when they are away

• Mow your neighbours nature strip (*if you don’t know them, best to check first) Made too much dinner or been baking? Why not put together a little treat for your neighbour? Cuppa on the kerb... choose a time and meet neighbours on the street for a seasonal catchup M a k e a homemade gift, pick some flowers, herbs or a little thought to say thanks to awesome neighbours!

Spark a conversation with your neighbours and learn about their story: Ask about family Ask about their passions/hobbies/interests Ask about great places to eat, great places to go, great things to see If you see they need help, offer to help them Simply ask... How are you? Support local businesses; purchase from them, visit them and share positive recommendations about them! We are so grateful to have you ALL as our 4061 Neighbours.

Your Suburb, Your Home, Your Family, Your Community 4061 www.fb.com/neighbourhoodwatchthegap neighbourhoodwatchthegap@yahoo.com.au

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

www.nhwq4061.com

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 29


Brisbane Tramway Museum Good Reef! It’s Curtin’s for Clunkers News and views from a Tramway Muse David Fryer

Have you ever wondered where all those clapped-out clunkers and bald tyres go? Or the beaten-up boats and rust-bucket barges that have passed their use-by date? Well, you may be surprised to hear that hundreds of old car bodies, more than 20,000 spent tyres, and dozens of rusty boats have been dumped into Moreton Bay over the years; and it was all done with the blessing of successive State Governments. Curtin Artificial Reef is located just offshore of Cowan Cowan, a humble hamlet on beautiful Moreton Island. It’s one of several artificial reefs created for recreational purposes - fishing and scuba diving.

The clutter of old clunkers was followed by hundreds of abandoned shopping trolleys, navigation buoys, over 1000 tonnes of concrete pipes, a huge dry-dock gate, and even a historic Brisbane tram that was dropped from a Chinook helicopter in 1981! Brisbane trams only come in two sizes: big ones and whoppers. FM Tram 502 was a true whopper, still weighing a thumping 8-tonnes even after the heavy under-carriage was removed. Fortunately, the RAAF Chinook was a whopper chopper in its day and it managed to deliver the discarded people parcel without any collateral damage along the way

Tram 502 made quite a splash on her watery debut, but it was all over in seconds. The old lady quickly disappeared to join a long line of decrepit shipwrecks climb aboard today, but if and crumpled clunkers that that sounds too challenging, litter the sea floor. Divers you can visit 502’s cousins recovered the lifting straps at Ferny Grove. Crabs and soon after the drop and they lobsters may be in short reported that a large groper supply, but the museum has had already claimed the plenty of bottled water. And if that sounds a tad lame, you driver’s cab! The old lady has lost some can take your own bubbles weight over the years as she and a pair of floppy rubber gently decomposes between flippers to boot........ © David Fryer a brace of ancient whaling boats. You’ll need full scuba maximalist@bigpond.com diving gear if you want to The Brisbane Tramway Museum is proudly sponsored by the Brisbane City Council. Photo courtesy of the RAAF History & Heritage Branch.

The Probus Club of The Gap

Our guest speaker this month was Rae Cummings from Communify. She is based at their Day Respite Centre at Paddington, and her topic was a survey of the services offered locally by Communify, especially those of interest to those in an older demographic, such as our members. These include Home Support Packages, lawn mowing, gardening, grocery shopping, home help, personal care, day respite, activities for socialisation, mental stimulation and interaction at the centre, outings, transport, and appliances. That made her talk of great interest and relevance to the club. She recommended registering

(via My Aged Care) even if services are not immediately required, just to get into the system. To demonstrate that we can manage our own outings, members went on a tour of the RACQ LifeFlight centre at Toowoomba, and were treated to an explanation of the financial, operational and technical challenges of this vital service, together with a

The Western Echo May 2022 Page 30

close-up examination of one of the helicopters. Bitten by the aviation bug, we made a last-minute decision to visit the new Wellcamp Airport as well; when we got there it was open but eerily deserted – not a soul in sight. Apart from the Cessna suspended from the roof it was just like any other minor passenger terminal. After all the news everyone

has heard, it was interesting to see how boring it was! If you are interested in joining Probus, or just giving it a try, we would welcome your enquiry. Just call Rhoda on 0409 484 219. Places are available – no waiting list – and we’d love to put you on the mailing list and include you in the clubbishness!

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


Newmarket Bocce Club News Given the fact that there is a great deal of heartache in our current times because of many issues that have occurred and are occurring, I sincerely hope that we all had a happy and safe Easter with our friends and families. As to an update on the flood crises, our club has come through with flying colours. If you have a look at our club today you would not think that about 4 weeks ago it was devastated by flood waters. We are nearly there with a full paint job of the complex to come. It’s amazing what human kindness does in these types of events. About 20 members over the last 4 weeks took part in restoring the club to its former condition. Tradies offered their services free of charge and Bunnings Stafford and Keperra helped us with donations. Thank you all very much. Well as our courts are up and running we invited Redlands Bocce Club for a friendly competitive (I know what you’re thinking, but it

by Mario De Marco. Secretary of the Newmarket Bocce club

is achievable) competition on 23 April. Four teams of 3 players from each club resulted in 4 games, with morning tea after the first game, lunch after the third game and then the remaining game, finishing up at about 3.30pm. WOW what a day. We are all winners when it comes to playing bocce, however at the end of the day

CHESS T'MINIT Wi t h t h e r e l a x a t i o n of restrictions, physical tournament and social play has recommenced with Covidsafe play rules in place. The Flood cup is underway with a round robin tournament being played with 7 players. Earlier, the first tournaments of the year were completed, with Bradley Simmons winning the St. David’s Day match and Andrew Robinson the Prize night and lightening tournaments. 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 problem comese again from lichess. com, the site which the club has used for online games during Covid (and the floods) Black to play and win.

Solution to last month’s puzzle. Bb5 wins instantly as the knight is uncomfortably pinned.

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

Newmarket Club took out 1st, 2nd and 3rd. place. Photo’s attached. Place getters at the front. Remember, come over to have a bowl or two. At

the rear of 23 Foster street Newmarket. We play Tuesday morning, Wednesday and Friday nights. Call me on 0403 257 325 or Bill on 0431 458 481.

OWNQ NEWS The Mitchelton Branch of the Older Women’s Network Qld Inc (OWNQ) meets formally and informally throughout the month and you are welcome to join us for any or all of our get togethers. Our full list of upcoming events are: Saturday 14th May 12pm - Lunch at Arana Leagues Club Tuesday 17th May 10am - Coffee/Techno Morning at Arana Leagues Club Saturday 21st May 10am - Casual Coffee - Birds & Bees, Everton Hills Wednesday 25th May 10am - Monthly meeting at the Panthers Den Function Room, Arana Leagues Club.The Panthers Den is upstairs from Reception. (Cost $5.00). Poet Noel Stallard will be joining our Monthly meeting to introduce us to the history of bush poetry. Tuesday 7th June10am - Coffee/Techno Morning at Arana Leagues Club The aim of our group is to provide information to women relating to a healthy outlook on ageing and to meet in a friendly, social atmosphere. OWNQ Mitchelton is part of a state-wide organisation with groups in 3 states of Australia, as well as a National Branch. There are also Older Women’s Networks in the UK and the USA among other countries. We are a part of a great organisation. For more information about Mitchelton OWNQ ring Judith on 0431 159 921 or 0434 811 566. The Western Echo May 2022 Page 31


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