The Western Echo November 2022

Jonty Bush, Member for Cooper welcoming speakers, exhibitors and visitors to the 2022 Eco Forum held on Saturday

Photo by Colin Bushell. Story page 3

ORTHODONTIST

Olivia

PHYSIOTHERAPY

PILATES

PODIATRIST

ProHealth

Phone: 3076 7306

POLITICAL/GOVERNMENT

Elizabeth Watson-Brown Phone: 3378 1599

Jonty Bush Phone: 3554

REAL

Harcourts Inner

Phone: 3511 0666

Team

Phone: 0422 564 007

BRICKLAYING

Inness

Keperra

GARDENING

Hollingworth

ASHGROVE

The Western Echo

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we back-in Queensland’s transition to renewable energy.

UQ’s Principal Planner in Residence, Stephanie Wyeth, pictured right, certainly gave me a lot to think about. Stephanie is committed to making our suburbs more sustainable, liveable and equitable, and identified some of the strengths in our community (for example, over 8900 people actively volunteer, and we have high levels of employment). She also identified opportunities that exist around working from home and facilitating greater active transport.

Expect to see a broader local discussion from me on this.

great were our panellists! Sharing with us the local action they’re taking to reduce food miles, create a local circular economy and design our homes and buildings in ways that they fit within their

natural environment. Leanne Wiseman spoke about the Repair Café movement, which started in Amsterdam in2009, and now has over 2200 cafés globally – including one in The Gap!

Chris Fullon from Australian Urban Growers proved popular – receiving a lot of questions from the floor about creating sustainable food systems both in our own backyards and in neighbourhood systems. We have three community gardens in our electorate – Yoorala Street in The Gap, The Green Corner in Ashgrove and Baroona Farm in Milton.

Sarrah Hurley from Hurley Architects offered highly relevant thoughts to those who are rebuilding after the recent flooding events. Illustrating the value in understanding and working with our natural environment.

And of course, there were our exhibitors – too many to list but wow – what a diverse range of pursuits and talents we have locally. I’ve setup a page on my website – www. jontybush.com – which lists all our exhibitors so please hop on and support local. I

would also love to hear your feedback on the Eco Forum and any ideas you might have about helping Cooper become more ‘sustainable, liveable and equitable’.

Many thanks also to local photographer Colin Bushell who captured the lively discussions of the day – Colin you’re truly talented.

The Panel: Sarrah Hurley, Hurley Architects; Professor Leanne Wiseman, Australian Repair Cafe Network; and Christopher Fullon, Australian Urban Growers. Photo courtesy Colin Bushell Photography

Stephanie Wyeth, Planner in Residence, UQ. Photo courtesy Colin Bushell Photography

Join Repair Cafe The Gap: Be Part of the Climate Solution!

Did you know that by changing your consumer behaviour, you can reduce your carbon footprint, and thereby help reduce the frequency and intensity of extreme climatic events right here in Queensland, and all around the world?

Every product we purchase has its own carbon footprint, comprising the emissions from the energy used at each stage of the manufacturing, transportation, and disposal processes. The longer a product lasts, the lower its average emissions become over time, and the more slowly our aggregate carbon emissions accumulate. Unfortunately, as the saying goes, “they don’t make them like they used to”, and society’s growing demand for cheaper products has led to lower quality and durability. This often makes it easier and cheaper for people to toss broken items and replace them than attempt to repair them, even though it may only require a simple fix, as we’ve found during our Repair Cafe events.

What is the solution? We can all help by changing our consumer behaviour: REFUSE things we don’t need; REFRAIN from purchasing new items, opting instead for second-hand or even borrowing rarely-used items; RESEARCH items before you buy to find the most durable item you can afford; and also REPAIR the things we already own!

Community-driven Repair Cafes throughout the world, including Repair Cafe The Gap, are doing just that –helping communities to reduce their carbon footprint by encouraging changes in individual consumer behaviour, repairing household goods, and lobbying for more durable and repairable products to be manufactured. Their mission is to change the way people value their possessions, by fixing or teaching people how to repair their items rather than throwing them away and buying replacement items.

Repair Café The Gap is run by volunteers, who offer their time and skills to repair your consumer goods for free. Since its inception in March, over 180 items have been brought in for repair by around 100 community members, and attended to by at least 15 volunteers each month. Experienced repairers come with their tools to help repair your clothes, furniture, electrical appliances, bicycles, camping

equipment, tools, toys – the list goes on! In the eight months of operation, over 56% of the items brought in were electronic/electrical goods. Around 60% of all items were successfully repaired! Unfortunately, about 25%, particularly electrical items, could not be repaired, either because the item could not be opened, or they required parts that were not easily sourced or would have been more expensive to obtain than a new item! This is why Repair Cafe The Gap is also working with the Griffith University and other Repair Cafes in southeast Queensland to lobby for “right to repair” legislation in Australia.

So get involved! Bring your broken items along – the chances are good that they can be fixed, which will help save our precious planet, and also save you some money! Why not volunteer? If you are great at fixing things, we are always happy to welcome new repairers, particularly licenced electricians. We also welcome general volunteers to help with the smooth running of the event on the day. In return for just 4 hours each month, you will experience the joy of volunteering, find that bit of ‘me time’ and meet like-minded people from the community. We meet on the third Saturday of each month (except December) at The Gap Scouts den, Paten Rd, The Gap .

Facebook: Repaircafethegap Instagram: repaircafethegap Email: thegaprepaircafe@gmail.com. Photographs with permission Ange Costes Photography

State Update

Celebrating our Senior Students

Last week, I had the pleasure of presenting the Learners Who Flourish

to Peta Kioupelis at The Gap State High School, and it got me thinking. Our Year 12 Seniors are – right now – heading into their final exams and I cannot help but reflect on my own excitement and fears heading into exam week all those years ago. While that feeling may not have changed, so many other things about Senior School have. Where I barely knew how to turn on a PC (the things we had before laptops), students now are digital beings and can access global information within seconds. That opportunity also comes with additional stress, and I’m proud to be part of a government that has delivered supports to help our children navigate their final months at school, like accessing chaplaincy services and GPs. This year, the Queensland Government introduced a 50-school pilot programme to support the delivery of GP services in schools. The Gap State High School is one of these schools and students now have access to a free GP clinic at school, every Thursday. Staffed by a designated GP and Nurse, students have access to most services available in the community, including management of physical, mental and sexual and reproductive health issues. I believe this is a significant step towards supporting our young people navigate their incredibly busy lives. Congratulations and good luck to our wonderful Year Twelves!

Queensland Housing Summit

Jonty Bush

Member for Cooper

Last week, I was invited along with a small number of other Government members to attend the Premier’s Housing Summit. It was great to see local organisations such as Communify there as well. Some interesting facts came from the day, including how the increased number of residents renovating their homes has impacted the availability of ‘tradies’ and how mediumdensity development approvals have almost halved in the past decade – both significantly reducing the availability of homes. Positively, the Premier started the day with the announcement of an additional $1b towards social and affordable housing – doubling the State’s investment. If you have an interest in housing issues, please let me know as we will have a lot occurring in this area over the next two years.

Inspector-General of Emergency Management (IGEM)

The February flooding event that occurred in South-East Queensland resulted in approximately 20,000 homes being damaged and caused distress to many. The Premier requested that the Office of the IGEM undertake a review of the event to amongst other things, assess the effectiveness of preparedness activities of Queensland Government agencies and relevant local governments. The Review Report was released on 31 August and contained 19 recommendations for State and Local governments. These will help drive improvements for severe weather preparedness, response and recovery in the future. The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services have already made this work a priority, with the implementation of all recommendations already underway and some on track for completion by 1 November 2022.

Christmas is around the Corner

Calling all Prep to Year 3 students in Cooper! I would love to have one of your amazing works of art on the front of my Christmas Card this year. Finalists will have their artwork featured on my Facebook page and the people of Cooper can cast their votes for their favourite. The lucky winner will receive a gift card for $100 and two runners up will each receive a gift card for $50. Please drop your entries off to my Electorate Office or post to 230 Waterworks Road, Ashgrove QLD 4060. Entries must be received by Monday 14 November 2022.

Learners Who Flourish Award Winner - Peta Kioupelis, The Gap State High School

Neighbourhood Watch The Gap 4061

If you change your mind, you can notify us at any time to have your registration removed from the database.

system at your home that you would like to register, we require your full name (as it appears on your driver’s licence), your current residential address, your contact details and some details regarding your CCTV system.

To register visit : https:// forms.police.qld.gov.au/ CCTVRegistration

Community Camera Alliance is an opportunity to register your closed circuit television (CCTV) system with the Queensland Police Service.

This initiative aims to promote the relationship between the community and the QPS by encouraging registration of CCTV systems to prevent crime and make the community safer.

CCTV has become a crucial investigative tool in modern policing. CCTV footage holdings are regularly used to investigate and solve often serious crimes and are invaluable when used as evidence. It provides an unquestionable account of the identity and actions of offenders. CCTV images can potentially reduce investigation times, resulting in swifter outcomes.

Historically, investigators have benefited from CCTV systems in business or

commercial premises. Recent advancements in technology, affordability and accessibility have resulted in more people choosing to utilise CCTV at their homes for safety and security.

Knowing the location of established CCTV systems within the community will maximise the efficiency of investigative resources and minimise the loss of potential evidence. Locating cameras can be time-consuming and resource-intensive but it is crucial, particularly in serious investigations.

How will my CCTV registration be used?

Members of the QPS will be able to access the details of your registration for purposes of investigating crime. CCTV footage may be used for court purposes.

Security of the information you provide will be maintained by the QPS.

Your registration advises police where a CCTV system is located.

If police believe that your system can assist to solve a crime or help in any other way, you will be contacted and asked to help.

What information do I need to provide to register?

If you have a CCTV

Or scan the QR Code below:

Your Suburb, Your Home, Your Family, Your Community 4061 www.fb.com/neighbourhoodwatchthegap neighbourhoodwatchthegap@yahoo.com.au www.nhwq4061.com

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 and The Gap Australia Post & The Friendly Grocer The Gap Brumby's The Gap and bp The Gap.

Distribution is currently being made by IVE Residential Distribution. Delivery is made to all domestic letterboxes, providing there is no signage requesting non-delivery of unsolicited mail.

Libby’s Latest

Dear Ryanites,

Being your MP for Ryan makes me so grateful for the incredible work done by community groups and volunteers. Every week I gain more appreciation of how so many of you involved in these groups help enrich our lives. I can’t imagine what sort of place Ryan would be without the voluntary effort of community members. Meeting you all is what keeps me going when I encounter the worst of the Canberra bubble!

One of my goals is to foster this amazing energy and community spirit. A practical way I can help is by providing groups access to the resources of my office, like the gorgeous new marquees you might have seen on display at school fetes around the electorate recently! We can also help you with photocopying, provide assistance with grant applications and provide raffle prizes. Please let my office know if you are organising in the community: we would love to help.

At the time of writing, we were all glued to weather alerts as we faced the chance of more flooding. We’ve recently learned the previous government undermined our ability to respond to these crises by making cuts to departments like BOM (sorry ‘The Bureau’) that provide critical information. As I said in Parliament recently, the Labor government’s new $200 million ‘Disaster Ready Fund’ is a start, but seems woefully inadequate for the crises we face.

I have also spoken in parliament about housing stress. The recent interest rate rises mean that the median home owner in Ryan is in financial stress, paying an extra $700 or more a month in mortgage repayments. All this money is going to the banks, while families are struggling to put food on the table. Likewise renters across Ryan are struggling with skyrocketing rents.

Be sure to RSVP if you plan to come to our forum on The Future Of Moggill-Bellbowrie. You can also find me at our next pop-up offices in Kenmore and Bardon, at community events and perhaps even on your doorstep, because my team and I have been doorknocking again to make sure I don’t get too wrapped up in the goings-on in Canberra

Do reach out to me and the Ryan office team: we are here to serve you, and we can’t do it without you.

All the best Libby

On the 22nd October TGSI hosted a stall at Jonty Bush’s EcoForum. While the weather was not of the party, many people still attended and had an amazing time. It was so great to see how the many groups from The Gap, but also from the wider Brisbane and Queensland communities coming together to celebrate a focus on sustainability. Examples included Paten Park Native Nursery which provided a butterfly attracting plant to each attendee, SOWN, which explained how planting native flora is important for the local ecosystem, Repair Café, Boomerang Bags, and many others. Some groups petitioned for change in

policy or local action. The great turnout clearly showed how much people care and the many creative ways we can try to protect our local ecosystems. It also provides evidence for how important events like these are to bring the community groups together and showcase their efforts. This will also positively impact wideranging communication and policy plans.

At the forum, we very much enjoyed showcasing our three environment improvement projects and were encouraged by the positive responses from members of the community that not previously heard about them. These projects are currently at the outcomes design phase and open to anyone who wishes to contribute. Topics include:

Michael and Monika manning the table at the EcoForum

Elevate the awareness and impact of local volunteer organisations

Platypus project

Community energy –renewable and independent

Please come and join us at our next two events:

Tuesday evening, 8th of November: community

seminar with keynote speaker Prof Leonie Barner from QUT, topic of waste reduction and management plans. Venue: Taylor Range Country Club.

Saturday morning, 3rd of December: AGM, followed by end of the year community BBQ. Venue: Walton Bridge Park Lions Club shelter pls RSVP thegapsustainability@ gmail.com.

The Gap Sustainability Initiative Mgt Committee

Ashgrove / The Gap Lions Club News

On 16th October Ashgrove The Gap Lions combined with neighboring clubs to conduct a BBQ at 7th Brigade Park to support the Cure for Brain Cancer Foundation walk which saw over 700 walkers support the cause. Our club also presented an award to the Best & Fairest player at The Gap Football Club on this day.

On 19th October our club presented a Senior Excellence Award in Public Speaking at The Gap State High School.

From 21st to 23rd October and 28th to 31st October our club sold tickets in our annual Melbourne Cup Trifecta Fundraiser at Ashgrove Marketplace and The Gap Shopping Village where a member of our community could win $1,000 in prize money.

On each Friday of the 4th School Term from 21st October, our club will be supporting the All Abilities Cricket Program at the Valleys Cricket Club in Ashgrove.

Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club welcomed the Clinical Nurse Manager from the Choices Program at the Wesley Hospital as our Guest Speaker at our Monthly Partners & Friends Dinner Meeting on 25th October. Our club has supported this program at the Wesley Hospital by selling Christmas

Cakes there to raise funds for the program to assist those suffering from cancer.

Lions Club of Ashgrove The Gap conducted a celebration dinner at Arana Leagues Club on Saturday 5th November to celebrate 60 years of helping and supporting our community, the evening was a huge success, many thanks to those that supported this special event.

Upcoming Events

Our club will be selling Christmas Cakes and Puddings in our community at Star Discount Chemist, Bank of Queensland at Ashgrove & The Gap, The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy, Brisbane City Council Ward Office, George the Barber, Red Hill Pharmacy, Bardon Pharmacy & Ashgrove Fresh, please contact our face book page for further details.

From 4th November to 12th December our club will be supporting Ray White Real Estate at the Gap with their Christmas Giving, where community members drop of gifts for Christmas that are donated to those in need at Communify for their Christmas Market.

On 13th November our club will be conducting a BBQ, Plant Sale and sale of Christmas Cakes & Puddings at Art Scope Christmas

Market at Quinn Park 560 Milton Road Toowong.

On 19th November Ashgrove The Gap Lions will be supporting Serenata Singers at their concert at The Gap Uniting Church on between 3pm and 6pm, Tickets can be purchased from Serenata Singers or Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club

On 22nd November we will be welcoming Sue Wighton who is a Brisbane based singer and songwriter who will be a guest of our club at our monthly Partners & Friends Dinner Meeting. 26th November will see our club at the She Shed

Christmas Market at The Gap Football Club where we will be selling Christmas Cakes & Puddings.

On 30th November we will be presenting the Public Speaking Award at the Junior Excellence Awards Ceremony at The Gap State High School.

4th & 18th December Ashgrove The Gap Lions will be selling Christmas Cakes at Bunning’s at Keperra.

On 10th December our club will be assisting Ashgrove The Gap Rotary Club with our Tucker Box BBQ Trailer for their Carols by Candlelight at Dorrington Park in Ashgrove.

Club of Ashgrove/The Gap

Both The Gap State School and Hilder Road State School have held Rotary Junior Community Award presentation nights this month, at which those students who have shown commitment and capability have received their wellearned certificates of achievement. There are some impressive Year 6 students at these schools, with teachers to support them through this endeavour.

Over many years, our Rotary Club has developed and nurtured programs to support and enhance the lives of children in our community’s schools.

RJCA – Rotary Junior Community Award is an exciting and innovative Rotary-sponsored program developed for students in their final Primary School year. The Award is based on the Duke of Edinburgh Award - but with modifications to suit the younger age group and was begun at The Gap State School in 2010. The

program is now conducted at two Gap schools – The Gap S.S. (13 years) and Hilder Road S.S (3 years).

RJCA evolved to give students the opportunity of developing attitudes and skills that will assist them both as members of communities and as future leaders. The Award is based on a series of activities, within predetermined categories, during the first three terms of the school year, tailored by/for each participant to suit their own set of skills and opportunities. It is non - competitive and monitored by adults.

The Award requires students to focus on four main aspects of community life:

Community Service : helping other people:– with regular assistance to a person or community group.

Personal Skills: Learning a new hobby or interest.

Physical Recreation : Developing a physical skill or learning a new

one – participation and performance.

Social Experience : taking part in a range of community activities including - meetings, a cultural exchange, a religious experience, and an arts performance.

The RJCA Award helps students:

• Bridge the generation gap.

• Learn about the joys and challenges of volunteering.

• Find out that people are different and that’s OK.

• Learn how community decisions are made.

• Gain confidence and selfworth.

• Develop healthy attitudes towards physical fitness . . . and more.

• Gain many life skills, important social values, and a positive attitude.

Although the student completes all the activities, the parents’ role is crucial in assisting the student to stay motivated! Each student has a special diary for designing their program and tracking their activities and is overseen by a Coordinator/supervisor from each school.

Want to try something new?

Come and join us, learn how to create 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 - bark, board, glue etc. for the first lesson.

Other venues include: Nundah Apostolic Church Hall on Saturdays, 43 Robinson Road Nundah, love to see you.

Please phone us first to book! For more Info:- Barbara 3271 2130. m Joy 0407 178 064 m Hazel 0408 157 117.

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

The Gap State School Rotary Junior Community Award winners with Rotarian Russ O'Malley and Club President Tim Boyd

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The Gap Historical Society Inc. Est.

As we move towards closing down The Gap Historical Society, perhaps it is appropriate to go back to the beginning of significant European settlement of our district, formerly roamed by the Turrbal aborigines who were the traditional custodians of the Brisbane area.

Since I first become interested in the history of The Gap, I had read that Darby McGrath had occupied the whole of The Gap area to graze cattle and sheep. No further information seemed to be written in local publications about him. Eventually I decided to see if I could discover more. It turned out to be an interesting tale. There is only space here for part of his story.

Following Darby McGrath’s death on 9th May 1892, his obituary in the Queensland Times stated that, “He spent some time in pastoral pursuits in New South Wales, and afterwards came to Moreton Bay…”. This was stretching the truth a little.

Born Michael McGrath in 1799, to parents John and Ellen McGrath, Darby was, in fact, tried at the Waterford Summer Assises in1833 for assault on an excise officer. His occupation was recorded as “farmer/illicit whiskey distiller. He was transported on the Royal Sovereign to New South Wales in 1834, for seven years. Darby’s brother, John, was transported to Brisbane on the Waverly in 1837. After receiving his ticket of leave in the early 1940’s at Berrima, Darby moved north as well.

By the late 1840’s Darby described first as “squatter”, and later as “land speculator” had acquired the use of land from Moggill to Aspley. Presumably Darby was active in The Gap area during this period. Pastoral leases near the current Moggill and Rafting Ground Road, intended to supply the Moreton Bay settlement with meat, were acquired by Darby and his brother John. They covered one square mile each but did not allow for building or cultivation.

At various sales of leases of land held by auction on 17th June 1851 Darby made successful bids for sixteen lots of between700 and 1500 acres, a total of 14,710 acres, for which he paid eleven pounds and one penny (about$22).

The first Crown leases by auction of land along Enoggera creek were made in 1849 and the last in1856. At the first Crown sale of land at Ashgrove in 1856 Darby bought lot 27, one of three lots sold.

Although married with two children in Ireland, Darby married Mary Ann Connolly in Brisbane in 1851. They had nine children.

In 1854 Darby purchased Rosewood Station and he also purchased Willowbank Station on Warrill Creek which was located where the current Air base is sited at Amberley. Here he and Mary Ann raised their large family. Darby built a school on his property which was later given to the government and became known as Warrill Creek School and later Amberley State School A friend of the notorious Patrick Maye, Darby became an influential member of early Brisbane and its surrounds.

Local Community Consultation Welcomed for Proposed Brisbane Airport Flight Paths

Proposed changes to Brisbane Airport flight paths could bring significant additional aircraft noise to the western suburbs.

The proposals were made by a consultant engaged by Airservices Australia as part of reviewing implementation of Brisbane’s second runway. Airservices has now issued a draft of its final implementation review report which will identify work to be undertaken in relation to flight paths. The draft states that Airservices intends to proceed with development and assessment of options for moving the northbound departure flight path. Airservices’ consultant identified the primary option for moving the flight path was to re-locate it over inner west and northwest suburbs and that could include areas such

as Red Hill, Kelvin Grove, Enoggera, Bardon, Ashgrove and The Gap.

To date, Airservices has avoided directly consulting these areas but just recently advised that a drop in session relating to the Draft Implementation Report will be held at Ashgrove Golf Club on Monday 14 November between 12pm and 7pm.

Public comment on the draft report is open until 20 November. It is available on the Airservices Australia website at:- Brisbane Airport Flight Path Changes Post Implementation Review | Engage Airservices

The final report can be viewed - https://www. airservicesaustralia.com/ trax-final-report-availableto-view/

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

http://www.westernecho.com.au

Stephen Dangerfield, Jack Dangerfield and Riley Lucashenko

Illustration of northbound departure routes from runways - pg 50

Illustration of arrival routes from the north to the new runway - pg 53

Scottish international to coach at Norths hockey

Norths Hockey Club will have a Scottish flavour next year with Lucy Lanigan returning to the Eagles as part of the club’s coaching team.

Lanigan will take on the head coach role for Norths’ top junior girls’ side, to contest the Brisbane turf hockey competition in 2023. Norths is aiming to field JT1, JT2 and JT3 girls teams next season.

Lanigan brings a wealth of hockey experience, skills, expertise and knowledge to the Ashgrove-based club including playing for Scotland at the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.

Former Scottish international player Lucy Lanigan has joined Norths Hockey Club at Ashgrove as a junior girls coach. Photo by Andrew Blanchard.

Northern Suburbs Junior Girls Hockey Club President, Vanessa Kramer, said Lanigan’s appointment as a top-level Eagles coach will “continue to strengthen the development pathway for our juniors into the senior club”.

“Norths is excited to welcome Lucy back to the club, this time in a coaching role for our top junior girls’ turf hockey team,” Vanessa said.

“Lucy’s appointment as coach provides a great opportunity for our up-and-coming players to learn from an international player of Lucy’s calibre and expertise.”

The 28-year-old made her international playing debut representing Scotland against Spain in 2016. She played a total of 37 games for Scotland between 2016 and 2019.

Lanigan previously played for the Norths Division 1 senior women’s team in the Brisbane Premier League in the 2015 and 2020 seasons.

Any girls interested in playing for Norths Hockey Club

2023 can email nsjwhc@gmail.com or send a message via the club’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ NorthsHockeyBrisbane.

team compounding your

locally

Natalie Blaine Tahnee Kirsten Holly "the compounder" Isabelle

The Physiologix Corner What to do about Back Pain

Low back pain is believed to affect the lives of one in seven to one in four Australians at any time. The first thing to know, is that is most incidences your episode of low back pain will resolve. It is thought about 10-40% of adults experiencing an episode of sudden back pain go on to experience ongoing persistent and disabling symptoms. But what can you do about back pain? How will we at Physiologix, help you to manage your low back pain?

When you experience low back pain, your pain could originate in the low back itself, into the buttocks, or into other areas of the pelvis and lower legs. It might be that you experience pins and needles or numbness. And you may also experience weakness in certain muscles of the legs. Your muscles may be often very tight, known as muscle spasm. This is a

reaction of your body to the back injury to protect the area, in a way self-bracing.

Your movement will usually be restricted and your ability to do normal, everyday activities can be difficult or impossible. Sleep may well also be affected.

Here are some of the key things you can do to help yourself if suffering from back pain..

If pain is severe then medication can be extremely useful, helping relax your muscle spasm. Consult with your GP regarding medication.

Heat, and in less frequent cases, ice or a cold pack can be useful for pain relief. Gentle movement is essential. Exercises that we prescribe will depend on your injury and restrictions. There are a range of fantastic back exercises to try. Walking

short distances can be useful. Moving in a pool can be wonderful (as long as it’s not too cold!). As Physios we will educate you about what types of movement activity are best and how much to do.

Physio treatment will focus primarily on advice and education about what is going on and what is the best way to get you on the road to recovery. Hands on treatment that we, as your back pain physio, will use may include:

• Massage and other soft tissue techniques

• Dry needling

• Joint mobilisation techniques

• Taping/bracing are other aspects of physio treatment for back pain that can be fantastic in the initial stages.

Things to help back pain

Sleep and stress management are very important in helping in the management of your back pain. As Physios, we will advise you about the best postures for sleeping, but again medication can be very helpful. Good sleep is essential for healing and to manage coping with your pain. Stress management helps to keep your muscles relaxed rather than feeding into an overactive pain protective muscle system. As Physios we will help you find ways to do this. Meditation can be a wonderful way to start with your relaxation.

There are millions of app’s now on the market you might want to try, for example, “Head Space” https://www. headspace.com and “Calm” https://www.calm.com

Pilates is a fantastic way of getting fit, strong, and flexible, and in turn helping maintain your health and looking after your back. At Physiologix we run clinical Pilates for back pain. Our classes are on Pilates equipment, our instructors are all highly trained, and your program is overseen by a physio and totally individualised for you. Being stronger and fitter allows you to do tasks without injuring yourself that previously you might have struggled with. Extreme care must be taken while doing Pilates with back pain. We will help you understand what types of movement and exercise are best.

There is so much you can do to help yourself if you have back pain. Get in touch and book an appointment with one of our extremely experienced Physios. No matter your age, injury, sports involvement, or lack of activity, we are here to help get you back on track.

Call us on 3511 1112, or email admin@physiologix. com.au or book an appointment by clicking on the “Book Appointment” box at the top right of our website page physiologix.com.au

http://www.westernecho.com.au

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.

The topic for the 3 December meeting is Crossing Enoggera Creek at Ashgrove West. Guest speaker, Morris Moorhouse, will discuss the physical crossing of Enoggera Creek and present a wider view to include such things as the creek itself, the water flow along the creek, how people were affected by having to cross the creek and other items about this prominent natural feature of Ashgrove. The PowerPoint presentation will include many photos.

There will be a shared morning tea following the presentation which provides the opportunity to meet the guest speaker and other

people interested in local history.

Thinking about Christmas giving? The society’s publications make wonderful presents. All publications can be purchased at our meetings, at our December sales stall (see below) or by contacting the secretary, Julie by email: ahs.secretary@bigpond. com or phoning her on 3366 4621. 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.

Our sales and information stall will be outside Woolworths Ashgrove on Friday 2 December 10am5pm. As well as our publications, there will be a raffle of a lovely Christmas gift basket. Be sure to stop by and view the photo display, share your Ashgrove memories and perhaps purchase one of our publications and/or a raffle ticket.

If you would like to become an AHS member or purchase membership as a Christmas gift for someone, fees are $10 single per annum (1 July - 30 June), or $15 couple/

family. Membership includes the quarterly newsletter, Tram Stops. Please contact the secretary, Julie, (ahs. secretary@bigpond.com) and she will let you know the EFT details. Alternatively, come along to a meeting or visit the December sales stall (see above). Funds raised from memberships, raffles and sale of our publications supports the research, preservation and recording of Ashgrove’s history.

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

Enoggera & Districts Historical Society Inc.

Who remembers Cracker Night?

It’s November! And the 5th of November has been long remembered as the date to commemorate ‘Guy Fawkes Night’ in memory of the infamous Gunpowder plot in London in 1605. Since the 17th century, Great Britain has marked the date with bonfires and fireworks.

And for anyone growing up in Australia during the 1950s and 1960s – and even the 1970s – the evening of November 5th was simply known as ‘Cracker Night’.

Cracker Night was a BIG event in every home and neighbourhood. Many looked forward to it just like Easter, Birthdays and Christmas. For weeks prior, children would collect old timber, logs and anything else that would burn and build a large bonfire.

In the lead-up to the night, local shops would sell an array of fireworks for use in the night’s festivities – such as Sky Rockets, Catherine Wheels, Throwdowns, Blazing Parachutes, Roman Candles, Penny Bungers and Jumping Jacks – which kids and adults alike would buy.

Cracker Night was also sometimes celebrated on 5 May in commemoration of Empire Day.

Most Australian States have now banned the purchase and use of fireworks for private use due to accidents and injuries. And Cracker Night is now just a distant memory.

Does anyone out there still remember Cracker Night? And the smiles on childrens faces as sky rockets soared into the night sky bursting into colourful stars and sparkles?

We’d love to hear from you! And also collect any photos you may have for our records! Please email enoggerahistory@ gmail.com or drop into the Enoggera Memorial Hall any Thursday morning.

And 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

Probus Club of The Gap

The speaker at our October meeting, Bob Walker, could not have been more timely. His subject was scams, especially the online ones that now plagues our lives – and in the wake of the Optus and Medibank data breaches are likely to even more pernicious. Bob recounted some of the more common ones, such as the pretence that the caller is from Telstra or the Tax Office, and threatens dire consequences if you don’t either send them money or give them control of your computer. Don’t ever so either of these! Apparently men are more likely to be taken in by investment scams, and women more likely to

fall for romance stories and subsequent requests for help (i.e. send money!). What does this say about the differences in attitudes to life?

On a more positive note, who knew that Ipswich had so many beautiful and impressive historical houses? Twenty-two members took a guided bus tour of some churches and houses of Ipswich, and it’s fair to say some were surprised by what was available. Magnificent wooden original Queenslanders, well-maintained in beautiful gardens. Very far from the lazy stereotype of Ipswich common among Brisbane residents.

Phone: 3300 3934 Mobile: 0488 782 650 www.pandanus.net.au admin@pandanus.net.au

Apart from the Melbourne Cup lunch, the Christmas party, coffee mornings, the odd excursion and the informal meetings of likeminded people, there’s hardly anything going on!

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. We are inducting four new members at our next meeting, but places are still available – no

waiting list – and we’d love to put you on the mailing list and include you in the clubbishness! Most of what we call management consists of making it difficult for people to get their work done.

- Peter Drucker

Payne Road State School

Proactive Engagement For Mental Health Week

During Mental Health week Payne Road SS, at whole school assembly, all students from Prep to Year 6 joined in to whole-heartedly sing out with the song ‘Where we Begin’, led by our music teacher. Students passionately used this power of music to uplift their spirits with words such as “singing’s a joy, it’s where we being”, and with clapping sticks and percussion instruments!

Our Wellbeing Captains helped to create a special ‘Choose Kindness’ display of children’s books in the library with posters, great stories and puppets. They created a special nook with soft and textured creative cushions where all students could lose themselves with these books at playtimes or class visits. Hand puppets are a favourite way of acting out social tricky situations where kindness can and should be shown.

Prep students drew pictures of things they were grateful for at school, and displayed these proudly in our Breezeway, thus deepening our ‘Attitude of Gratitude’ stance that we celebrate each week through our ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ Awards –again managed and presented by our two Wellbeing Captains Mia and Molly!

Our Environment Captains, Clara and Quil, were thrilled to passionately share with the Senior Environment Club the book Costa’s World – Gardening for the Soil, the Soul and the Suburbs’ which was kindly donated by one of our grandparent helpers. Each week our senior and junior Environment Club tend to our many gardens, Yugari Muk (Spirit of Creative Energy),

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

Bush Tucker Garden, Edible Garden and Maze Garden as places to find calm, to be productive and to de-stress.

In fact, all students from Prep to Year 6, actively engage with the Zones of Regulation strategies to assist them with co- and self-regulation at their level. They play with glitter jars they have constructed, use fiddle toys and bubble blowers as sensory tools, take time away in ‘green caves’ they have designed or comfortable tipis in their classrooms, and spend time connecting with each other in wellbeing circle times.

We are very proud of the diverse work being done by our Wellbeing and Environment Captains toward promoting positive and proactive mental health for all students at Payne Road SS!

Nicky Brazzale - Principal

The Gap State High School

Focus on mental health

The Gap State High School had a full program for Mental Health Week.

It included market stalls from Piccabeen, trying out ‘beer goggles’ with the Queensland Police Service to warn against drink driving, singing and dancing with the Brisbane Army Pep Band, planting succulents, writing notes to make you smile, creating rock art, painting hands with Henna and getting creative in photo competition.

Well done to Tayla for taking out the hotly contested photo competition with her entry Caterpillar.

Hair today gone tomorrow

The Gap SHS teacher Max Reiner sacrificed his lustrous locks to raise funds for the Black Dog Institute. His ponytail went to Sustainable

Salons to be made into a wig. Nathaniel from Jimmy Rod’s barber shop at The Gap was on hand to buzz off Mr Reiner’s hair. The Black Dog Institute aims to create a mentally healthier world through science, compassion and action.

Inspiring time for year 10s

The Gap SHS year 10 students learned the value of courage, mateship, perseverance and sacrifice during a week-long camp at Emu Gully. They were challenged and empowered through activities inspired by the story of the Anzacs Vale Sumaia Toto

Teachers, staff and students were saddened at the passing Sumaia Toto. Sumaia was a valued staff member of The Gap State High School community for the past 14 years. Her contribution, commitment and service was truly appreciated. We offer our condolences to her family and friends at this difficult time.

Gap students are good sports

Congratulations to Indigo who was selected to compete for Queensland in next year’s Youth National Climbing Competition. Her selection follows outstanding performances this year in the Queensland State Bouldering competition and the Queensland State Lead Climbing competition. She was placed third in her category in each event.

And, in the September school holidays, year 8 students Harry competed in a Queensland Representative team. His team won the grand final and Harry was singled out by Football Queensland coaches for having the tenacity, strength and courage of a Lion despite his small stature. Harry also played in the National Schools Futsal

tournament at Nissan Arena. He was selected by all the coaches to be a part of the “All Stars” team and received recognition at the awards ceremony at Dreamworld. As a result of such success Harry has been selected to represent Australia in their upcoming tour to the UK in April 2023. Congratulations Harry, an amazing achievement.

Congratulations to Dylan, Joshua, Indigo, and Thomas who competed at the Australian Orienteering Championships (AOC) during the Spring break. The AOC, held in the heart of Victoria’s historic gold country, involved students competing in a gruelling nine events over nine days against the best orienteers in Australia and New Zealand. The events included the Australian Schools Championships, as well as the Australian Sprint, Middle and Long-Distance Championships, Australian Relay Championships and the Victorian Middle Distance Championships.

Indigo was first in the Australian Long W Easy and Victorian Middle Distance W Easy.

Dylan’s best result was fifth place in the M16A relay. Joshua’s top result was fourth in the M21AS Australian relay. And, Tomas’ best result was fourth in the M14A Australian relay.

The results represent the commitment Dylan, Joshua, Indigo and Thomas have shown to the sport of Orienteering during 2022.

Congratulations also to student Georgia who won gold in her artistic skating event in the Australia Oceania Championships in Whanganui, New Zealand.

And, Congratulations also to Oliver who was placed third

Principal's Points......

The Gap State High School

(Continued from page 22) in the Under 13 boys’ race at the 2022 AusCycling QLD XCO State Championships - Castle Hill (Ipswich) last weekend.

He placed third in the Cyclocross State Champs in August, and the Track State Champs last December.

And if that’s not enough, Oliver is in training for his first triathlon on 23 October and is in the AusCycling Junior Emerging Talent Squad (JETS).

Lighting the way for PNG students

The Gap SHS students discovered that many hands make light work when they put together Solar lights for students in Papua New Guinea, where energy poverty affects their ability to study at night. TGSHS Interact Club members raised funds to buy the components as part of the Solar Buddy program.

Young writers raise funds for cancer

Budding authors at The Gap SHS have raised $6520 for The Kids Cancer Project. They took part in the Write a Book in a Day Competition. Congratulations to Maddie who won the short story section, and Gabriel who won the Encouragement Award. The highest fundraising team was Justus League who raised $1035 and the winning writing team was The Marauders with runners up Insert Team Name.

Good luck year 12’s

We also farewelled our Year 12s as they finished their formal lessons to knuckle down to serious revision for their final exams.

We had a fantastic senior awards night in front of a full house and it was great to

see so many of our students’ achievements recognised.

We are also grateful to our community supporters including University of Queensland, Australian Defence Force, our hard working P&C and School Council, the Member for Ryan Ms Elizabeth Watson-Brown MP, Ritual HQ, Honeywill Consulting, Member for Cooper Ms Jonty Bush MP, Councillor for The Gap Ward Steven Toomey, Café Tara, Brisbane Inner West Realty, Olivia Rogers Orthodontics, The Gap Health and Racquet Club, Lions Club, Volleyball Queensland, Queensland University of Technology and former student Daniel Quill who supported a new TULA Arts Excellence Award.

We can’t wait to see what they all do next as they step out into the world of further study and work.

Ann McLauchlan – Principal

The Gap State School

Students in Years 3-6 each year are offered the opportunity to register for ICAS competitions and for the Australian Maths Competition (AMC). Student results have been received from the organisers and I had the pleasure of awarding certificates to a number of students on our recent assemblies. Congratulations to the students listed below, who received a Distinction or High Distinction in these optional tests. I also congratulate Amber in Year 4 for earning a Distinction and ‘Best in School’ for her result in the AMC.

AMC (Distinctions): Arlo, Charles, Tenyu (Year 3); Amber, Ben, Jason, Shreyans (Year 4); Alex S, Liam Mc, Sophie. ‘Best in School’ –Amber (Year 4)

ICAS Digital

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

Individual piano tuition Mariella Farrugia MTAQ (prof) LLCM, ALCM, 30 years teaching experience Online lessons available via ‘FaceTime' or ‘Zoom'

ph: 3166 8353 Mob: 0409 204128 more info on: www.thegappianostudio.com

Technologies: Ben (Distinction Year 4), Tenyu (Distinction Year 3)

ICAS English: Laura H (Distinction Year 6), Elsa (High Distinction Year 5), Liam Mc (High Distinction Year 5), Alex S (Distinction Year 5), Caitlyn (Distinction Year 3), Nicholas M (Distinction Year 3)

ICAS Mathematics: Sophie (Distinction Year 5), Alex S (Distinction Year 5), Jason (Distinction Year 4), Shreyans (Distinction Year 4), Nicholas M (Distinction Year 3)

ICAS Science: Liam Mc (Distinction Year 5), Joseph (Distinction Year 5), Alex S (Distinction Year 5), Tenyu (Distinction Year 3)

In October, five students from Year 6 participated in the Metropolitan Region Choral Honours Program, which was held over three days at The Old Museum in Bowen Hills. Students were involved in singing and learning along with other students from 25 schools, with the event culminating in a concert for

their families. Well done and thank you to AJ, Eva, Raphael, Indigo, Emma and Bethan for representing our school so beautifully.

Recently, four Year 6 students enjoyed the challenge of participating in a five-day writer’s camp with author and literary consultant Brian Falkner. Along with other young writers selected from their respective primary schools in the district, our students were challenged to hone their skills of authorship as they each composed a short story for a soon to be published annual anthology of works completed at the 2022 young writer’s camp. Their efforts during and beyond the camp were significant and supported by their families to maximise the learning benefits gained from the experience. We look forward to receiving a copy of their work for our school library, to share with and inspire other students. Well done and congratulations Shani, Ava, Anika and Ivy G.

Warm regards, Joanne Nicholls - Principal

Ashgrove Rangers

Ashgrove Rangers Athletics Club would like to thank all those who attended our recent 60th anniversary dinner.

Past and present members enjoyed a night of reminiscing over triumphs and defeats and all the interesting accomplishments in between.

At the dinner, exemplary service to the club was recognised in three members being granted Life Membership. They were Hubertien Wichers, Tony Usher and Russell Adams.

A Hall of Fame was also inaugurated. Founding inductees were former National Marathon Champion, Jan Fredrick, 4-time State Open Pole Vault Champion, Bruce Arnold and former National 100k record holder, Don Wallace, (with a time of 6:39—an average pace of under 4 minutes per kilometre).

The history of the club, ‘Ashgrove Rangers Athletics Club: The First 60 Years 1962 – 2022’ was launched at the dinner.

It’s price is $30. It takes you right back to where it all began with many great stories that sum up what our club is all about.

It also includes a complete members’ list with over 1800 names.

We are appreciative of Paul Circosta, Graham Barralet and all the individual chapter authors for all the hard work that has gone into it.

Rotary Carols By Candlelight Concert

We know how much the community looks forward to this event so we are back again to put you all in a Christmas frame of mind.

The Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap can now advise the date and issue invitations to all the Community to a great, free, family enjoyment Carols Concert at Dorrington Park, Mirrabooka Road, Ashgrove, on Saturday, 10 December, 2022, with Pipe Band and Big Band Jazz entertainment from 4.30pm until Santa pays a visit around 6.00pm.

You will be entertained by a talented array of bands, orchestras, artists and choirs so magnanimous in giving of their time.

Come early and have a picnic in the park. Food and drink for sale including from Northern Suburbs Hockey Club and the Rotary BBQ Trailer plus other vendors.

We will have a special covered area for people with disabilities and/or wheel chairs or otherwise needing assistance.

And of course, our wonderful Compere, the ABC TV and radio presenter, Jenny Woodward, is back with us. The concert would just not be the same without Jenny.

There will be Face Painting by The Gap State High School Interactors and a raffle of a Gingerbread Mansion for Christmas with Mt. St. Michaels Interactors doing the raffle ticket rounds.

After Santa’s visit, Jenny Woodward, will introduce the A Capella Singers followed by a night of your favourite Carols with backing from the 50 piece, Queensland Wind Orchestra, and the 60 choristers of the Ignite Choir until around 8.00pm. All the words for the Carols will be on our big LED screen for the audience to join the choir.

Then the big finish, with Ace Fireworks presenting their usual dazzling Fireworks Finale.

Of course, none of this could proceed without the assistance of Army personnel from Gallipoli Barracks.

local workers, businesses and organisations, and the Lord Mayors Suburban Community Festivals Funding Program and both Enoggera and The Gap Ward Councillors.

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.

Put the date in your 2022 calendar and keep it free to come and get into the real swing of Christmas festivities and have a fun night. See you there.

Quote of the Day

- Walter Scott

Unless a tree has borne blossoms in spring, you will vainly look for fruit on it in autumn.

Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club

Renovations to areas of the club now include a new toilet block and the dog friendly community café at Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club. It is hoped that these works will be completed by the end of the year and the café should be operational early in 2023 where our community will be able to enjoy a coffee or maybe a meal relaxing whilst enjoying a game of bowls or simply having an enjoyable time at the dog friendly café.

The Club are conducting their Annual Christmas Bowls Carnival on 12 & 13 November 2022, where we will welcome 120 bowlers from Brisbane & country Queensland. This is a good opportunity for all bowlers to exercise their skills in a competitive environment. If you would like to come and see some good bowls being played, come along and enjoy the day

On Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd October, the Novice Singles which were originally to be played at Chermside Bowls Club were transferred undercover to Enoggera Bowls Club. The concept of the Novice Singles is for bowlers who have only been bowling since 2018 and are a full member of a Bowls Club. Steve Reddaway & Todd Carrall represented our club with both players playing competitive bowls with Steve reaching the Semi Final but being defeated in the Final. Our congratulations to both players

On Saturday 29th October the “B” Singles was played between Tony Kite & Todd Carrall at our club, and we wish both players the best of luck for this game. Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club have started playing Saturday Competition Bowls where we arrive at 12.30pm for 1 pm start. If you would like to have a game, please contact our club.

Would you like to be a member of our club for a very reasonable price, where we play Social Bowls every Wednesday and Friday afternoon and Barefoot Bowls at different times? On the first Sunday of the month, Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club invites people who would like to play Bowls to play in our Turkey Triples Bowls Day on a Sunday morning which includes raffles, prizes and lunch. Call 0412 765 805 for further details or visit our face book page at Red Hill Bowls, Sports & Community Club | Facebook

Red Bowls, Sports & Community Club now have a brand new website which has recently gone live where you can find out lots of information regarding Function Bookings, Bowls Programs, Sponsors and lots of other important information about our club. Please visit https://www.redhillbowls.org.au

Ashgrove

In lieu of the regular October General Meeting, Ashgrove members attended the State Forum Annual General Meeting and all-day Members’ Summit held at the Ipswich Sports Club on Saturday 29th October. The day included speech workshops and tutorials as well as inter-club speaking competitions in which representatives from all clubs took part.

Carmel Towler represented Ashgrove Forum in the 2-minute Impromptu Speaking competition. Impromptu Speaking is the art of responding quickly and logically to questions or a particular point of view and getting your point across even in hostile or emotional situations. Willo Riley was the Ashgrove representative in the Prepared Speech competition delivering an 8-minute speech on “A Moment in Time”. Both Carmel and Willo acquitted themselves admirably receiving high praise from the assessors.

Olivia Chissell, the recipient of the 2022 Forum Bursary in the annual National Council of Women of Queensland Bursary Program, was the guest speaker at Lunch on the day. She spoke about her future aspirations managing to hold the attention of all present, no mean feat with an audience of highly experienced public speakers.

The next meeting of Ashgrove Forum will be held in the Ashgrove Library Meeting Room at 6.30pm, Wednesday 16 November. Visitors are most welcome to attend without obligation.

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

Amnesty International has been making the news for key campaign areas on domestic media recently. To name but a few issues this includes our Raise the Age of criminal responsibility campaign, and calling out harm to children and Indigenous kids in youth detention.

Our campaign for a Human Rights Act in Australia gained front-page headlines for students marching for their rights in Launceston, Tasmania.

For Amnesty’s International work we gained national TV coverage for reports on Iran’s brutal crackdowns on protestors following the death of Mahsa Amini. We also featured on radio current affairs for reports, polls and calls for FIFA to compensate migrant workers in the lead-up to the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

THE WORK GOES ON!

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.

The Western Echo November 2022 Page 25website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

CHESS T'MINIT

With the are relaxation of restrictions, physical tournament and social play has recommenced with Covid-safe play rules in place. The Martin Laizans Cup is now underway to end the year of chess at The Gap. Following its completion in early December the 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

looks simple but has some fascinating twists and turns. White to move and win. The first move is obvious, but the follow up definitely not.

SOWN at the October Eco Forum

Solution to last month’s puzzle: Black played the remarkable move 1 … Rxb2, and after 2. Nxb2 the pawns were invincible. 2. …. c3 3. Rxb6 c4 4. Rb4 a5 5. Nxc4 c2 followed and at this point white resigned.

We had a great time at the Jonty Bush - Member for Cooper EcoForum on 22 October. Lovely to meet so many members of our community and talk about our creek regeneration work. We’re always after new members – not just to help out at our plantings but also at our nursery and with all the other tasks required to keep the organisation running and the plants growing!

The nursery is the best place to come and see us and we’re open Wednesday 9 – 12.30 and Saturday 9-11am. We’re right next door to Paten Park Native Nursery. Otherwise send us an email and get involved in looking after our wonderful creek.

Picabeen Community Centre

We celebrated our 30th Anniversary in October. Picabeen is so thankful to all who make our Centre the amazing place it is. The AGM and 30th Anniversary event saw staff, students, and

volunteers all come together and reflect on the people, services and opportunities Picabeen has provided. A 30th anniversary book has been produced and if you are interested, please come down to our Centre at 22 Hoben St Mitchelton and have a read.

Picabeen is currently collecting for our Christmas hampers. Anyone is welcome to donate non-perishable food items that will be distributed to people in need. Picabeen is hoping to pack 110 Christmas hampers this year. It is a huge undertaking, if you have a couple of hours to spare to volunteer in packing or sorting the hampers please give us a call on 33 54 2555.

Picabeen Changeroom

It has been a busy time for us all at the changeroom. Business continues to grow, helping our clients with formal outfits, costumes for parties, everyday wear and of course “that Something “special to wear for an occasion. Our shop receives so much support from the local community in the shape of donations, purchasing and just dropping in for a chat with our friendly, helpful volunteers. We also offer a small selection of books and DVDs for sale and a comfy couch to rest on while browsing the next new book title for purchase. Our clothing and accessories constantly updated with wonderful donations received on a daily basis.

So next time you’re in the Keperra area drop into our new store situated at 8 Dallas parade Keperra, and find your next Op shop hidden treasure. Look forward to seeing you soon.

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

The Gift of Sustainability

What better gift is there to consider for any special occasion than our beautiful, unique Boomerang Bags or other products, while also doing your bit for the environment and climate change? This was highlighted recently at the ECO FORUM ’22, whose focus was Sustainability: Opportunities and Challenges. Our State MP, Jonty Bush, gave the Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen, and other VIPS attending the Eco Forum, one of our products as a thankyou gift. The bags selected for the occasion were made from chook feed bags and fabric, donated by our own community members, and made with love and care by volunteers right here in The Gap.

At Boomerang Bags The Gap and Surrounds (BBTGS), we are all about responding to opportunities when tackling common sustainability issues. To address plastic pollution and textile waste challenges, including climate change, the BBTGS volunteers repurpose donated fabric - fabric that has had another purpose in a previous life - to make many different types of products. We also look for opportunities to turn other types of waste into useful items. For example, chicken feed bags become sturdy waterproof totes; hessian coffee sacks become foot stools and plant-pot holders; and insulated meal kit delivery bags become the lining inside coffee caddies to help keep the coffees hot. These items are sold through local retail stores and markets,

with the proceeds being paid forward to the community in the form of community grants and donations to other not-for-profit groups with similar environmental and social goals.

In the process, BBTGS makes a difference to the environment as well as helps reduce our carbon footprint.

Come and join us during regular sewing bees, not only for the environment, but also for your own

mental wellbeing. BBTGS volunteers enjoy connecting with friendly and like-minded locals, as well as finding much-needed ‘me time’.

We meet on Friday

mornings from 9am – 12pm during school terms, at The Gap Baptist Church, 1125 Waterworks Road, The Gap. For that perfect, sustainable gift, you can find our products at Café Tara, Kahlo Coffee, or visit our stall at The Gap She Shed Twilight Art and Craft Market on 26th November, 2-8pm at The Gap Football Club.

Facebook: BoomerangBagsTheGapandSurrounds Instagram: boomerang_bags_the_gap Email: BBTGS4061@gmail.com

Quote of the Day

I often quote myself. It adds spice to my conversation.

- George Bernard Shaw

6304

www.ppnn.org.au

Of the forty-two species of fig found in Australia, three have the common name of sandpaper fig due to the rough texture of the leaves. All grow along the east coast and top end of Australia in gullies, along creeks and in rainforest. Ficus coronata, so named because of the crownlike ring of bristles around the apex of the fruit, is the most common of the three.

Unlike other native figs, the sandpaper fig is a medium tree, usually growing between 6 and 12 m tall (the latter under ideal rainforest conditions) with a weeping growth habit. It is adapted to a range of habitats – rocky gullies, creeks, open country and rainforest – and will grow in full sun or low light and in poor soils. This tree is, however, frost sensitive in its early years. Although it has a smaller root system than other figs, the sandpaper fig should be planted a least 5 m away from plumbing and buildings. It can be pruned to maintain an elegant specimen tree or as a hedge. If space is a limitation, the sandpaper fig can be grown in pots and makes an interesting bonsai. This is a low maintenance, hardy, drought-resistant plant that produces edible fruit that can be eaten fresh, dried or

cooked into cakes, biscuits, jams or sauces.

Like all figs, the sandpaper fig has a fascinating reproductive cycle. The green, immature ‘fruit’ which emerges directly from the trunk or branches, is really a hollow, expanded stalk with a small opening (ostiole) at the apex. The flowers are found on the inside of this structure. For the fruit to develop, the flowers have to be pollinated and this involves an obligatory co -dependent relationship with a wasp specific to the fig species. The female wasp, carrying pollen from its host fig, enters the ostiole and deposits her eggs inside the flowers whilst coincidentally pollinating them. She then forces her way out and dies. Pollination stimulates development of the fruit during which time the wasp eggs hatch into larvae that eventually pupate. The emergent adult males mate with the female pupae, and each burrows out of the fig (providing a funnel for the pollen-laden females to escape) and then dies. This hole reduces the carbon dioxide level inside the fruit and stimulates ripening. And so, the cycle continues. The fig produces an enzyme (ficain) that digests any trapped dead wasps, the resulting nutrients being absorbed to assist in ripening the fruit and seeds.

Sandpaper figs have been important to First Nations people. The leaves were used by women to remove the hairs on their thigh to enable fibres to be rubbed painlessly to make string. The men used the leaves to smooth weapons and wooden implements. The fibres of the inner bark were spun into string for fishing and animal traps. The fruit

Sandpaper fig

was eaten when ripe after removing the fine, surface hairs whilst the milky latex was used to treat warts and ringworms. The wood was used in tool making and for fire.

The sandpaper fig is also an important provider for a

variety of wildlife. It is the host plant for the caterpillars of the purple moonbeam butterfly. Lizards, several birds (including the figbird, green catbird, olive-backed oriole and topknot pigeon) and the grey-headed flying fox feed on the fruit.

Mitchelton & Districts Garden Club

Where has this year gone? It’s the second last month, and Christmas plans are underway. The December meeting of the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club will occur at the Enoggera Memorial Hall on Thursday, 1st December. (Attendance at this meeting is for club members and invited guests only.). It will consist of end of year activities and presentation of prizes to successful 2022 exhibitors. Despite all the adversities during the past ten months the entries on the show bench each month have been a delight and the exhibitors are congratulated for their efforts.

It looks like there’s going to be plenty of wet weather, but if there isn’t. make sure your lawn receives a deep soak once a week. This will encourage the grass roots to penetrate deeper into the earth and increase the area to mow. Don’t hesitate to plant grass seed or pieces of turf in bare spots, You may need to use a ‘weed and feed’ spray to control unwanted material

in the lawn. If not, give your lawn some nutrition each month. Citrus trees have been in blossom and tiny fruit is forming. Watch out for citrus leaf miner and gall wasp which may be pruned away to keep these problems controlled. Azaleas and spring flowering shrubs need attention too. If they are not very old, tip prune them to develop their shape. Old shrubs may have lots or woody parts removed to encourage new growth. After pruning, apply a fertiliser and make sure there’s plenty of mulch on the soil to conserve moisture. Vegetable growers may still plant lettuce, sweet potatoes and sweet corn.

Meetings commence immediately after morning tee which is served at 9.45am. Entrance to the hall is at 36 Trundle Street, Enoggera. The hall is close to public transport and accessible by wheelchair. Visitors and new members are welcome.

For more information please phone the president on 3356 1256.

Banks St Big Butterfly Count is back

Join Brisbane’s Big Butterfly Count for the first butterfly survey of the summer on Saturday 19 November 9 am till 11 am.

The event is at Banks Street Reserve which is considered a very important Brisbane butterfly site according to event organiser Chris Galbraith.

“In December last year, SOWN combined with Brisbane’s Big Butterfly Count to run the second survey in Banks St Bushland Reserve.

“It was a fun morning, learning how to catch, identify and release butterflies under the guidance of butterfly guru Cliff Meyer,” she said.

Twenty-seven species were identified on the day, making a total of 44 species identified as part of the ongoing survey in the reserve.

Brisbane’s Big Butterfly Count is an initiative of Brisbane Catchments Network which includes Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN).

Around 160 different butterfly species have been recorded in the Brisbane area and 400 in Australia altogether.

All local catchment and bushcare groups work to create and enhance habitat, to build connectivity to allow for wildlife movement and to conserve our biodiversity.

Monitoring native species such as butterflies is part of rehabilitation activities and informs bushcare efforts.

Interesting times for members of

Ithaca Probus Club

Members of Ithaca Probus Club continue to enjoy a wide range of interesting activities - talks, outings, and other socially engaging events. Guest speaker for October, retired journalist Michael Beatty, brought back memories for us all with anecdotes from his life as an overseas journalist, mostly involving all the big names of the rock music scene of some decades ago.

A small number of members enjoyed a full day out on a bus tour to the border ranges, with morning tea at Canungra and lunch at the O’Reillys’ eco resort.

Our guest speaker for November will be the ever-popular Denis Wayper telling us about Sir John Monash – soldier and engineer. And club member Judy Blaney tells us about their small farm and asks “What do you know about donkeys?” Our monthly newsletters continue keeping members connected, and more very important social interaction continues with our card days and poetry reading days. 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 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

“Plus it’s a fun and educational experience for all the family,” Chris said.

Cliff Meyer will again share his expertise and guide participants through Banks Street Reserve in pursuit of butterfly records.

The survey suitable is for people of all ages and knowledge level. Survey equipment and instructions are provided.

Chris said the event combines fun with learning and helps to highlight the importance of natural native vegetation for the survival and the thriving of native butterflies and other fauna.

Participants should wear protective clothing including closed shoes and bring a water bottle.

For more information on how to register go to sown.com.au.

The Embroiderers' Guild, Queensland Inc Patron: Ms Janet De Boer, OAM

The Embroiderers’ Guild, Queensland Inc

Patron: Ms Janet De Boer, OAM

you to its

Street,

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

Street,

November

to

Butterfly guru Cliff Meyer at the 2021 Butterfly Count.

PHOTO: Naomi Tuttica

Proceeds will assist the Lions Medical Research Foundation and Serenata Singers

Check us out at: https://serenatasingers.org.au/

Tickets: $25 Adults

$10 Students

Available from Allan at 0400 210 357 and at venue - includes Supper and Door prizes

Venue: The Gap Uniting Church Auditorium 1050 Waterworks Road, The Gap

Time: 3:00pm Saturday 19th November 2022

Arana VIEW Club December Meeting

It Is that time of year again! Our December meeting is on 7th December at the Arana Leagues Club, Dawson Parade, Keperra. The doors open at 10.30 and the fun starts at 11.00am when we hope to see lots of members dressed in white/gold/ silver and wearing Angel Wings and maybe a halo. After all we are “Angels in disguise “as we support our Learning for Life students with the Smith Family. Cost for lunch is $30.00 for the 2-course meal and tea or coffee.

The December meeting will be extra busy. We will be having our final “Make, Bake and Grow” table for the year after deciding to move it from the November meeting. We are hoping for lots of Christmas Goodies to purchase and we will also have our book table where you can stock up on Christmas reading by filling a bag of books for $5.00.

Entertainment for the day will be by Ukulele Extravaganza and Ian Maurice and friend. Ian is well known in radio, television and the cabaret scene and is known as “The man for all seasons”. It is sure to be an entertaining finish to the year.

Members are also looking forward to attending the Lord Mayor’s Senior Christmas Party at City Hall, a very enjoyable concert, according to those who have attended in previous years.

Please contact Carol on 33555349 by noon on Monday 3rd October if attending. We would love to see more ladies coming to enjoy our company.

“Musical Journeys”

Come join us, The Serenata Singers, in partnership with Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club and students from The Gap State High School as we travel through time and place on a musical journey for our Gala Concert.

The program includes items especially prepared by Serenata Singers with themes that span the globe in time and space – some old favourites through to modern pieces, and solo acts performed by the accomplished musicians from The Gap SHS music program.

The Gala Concert includes a supper and door-prizes provided by Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club. All proceeds go to the Lions Medical Research Foundation and Serenata Singers program of providing Community Concerts.

Venue The Gap Uniting Church Auditorium

Date Saturday 19 November 2022

Time 3:00 pm

Tickets Adults: $25 Students: $10

Available from Allan at 0400 210 357 or at serenatasingersthegap@gmail.com and on sale at the door.

Brisbane

Tramway Museum

The Express Diner

News and Views from a Tramway Muse

Repurposing may be a trendy new buzz-word these days, but the practice is nothing new. In fact, it’s been going on since cave dwellers started clubbing and mugging in repurposed animal skins on the big-cat walks.

This month’s photograph shows the Express Diner in Chester Street, New Farm, probably in the 1950’s. The diner was repurposed from an old tram, but, sadly, nothing is known about this fascinating artefact. Presumably, it was used for dispensing saucy meat pies to local workers from the nearby tram depot in Light Street. The Charles Hope Bodyworks was also close by. (They built trolley bus No.1 at the Tramway Museum).

If you want to ride a repurposed tram driven by a repurposed volunteer, you can catch one from a repurposed bus shelter at the Tram Museum every Sunday afternoon (weather permitting). And if you know anything about the diner, we’d love to hear from you.

© David Fryer maximalist@bigpond.com

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

“Musical Journeys”

Serenata Singers Gala Concert in conjunction with Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club

A Gala Concert featuring the Serenata Singers and Guest Artists from The Gap State High School

Ashgrove/The Gap Men’s Shed now 10 years old

Time flies and it is now ten years since our local Men’s Shed tentatively kicked off at the Ashgrove Blue Care centre with a small but enthusiastic team of new members. Now we have over 100 members and our own dedicated facilities - a work shed and separate activities building - at Yoorala Street, The Gap. On days we don’t meet, we share the use of the activities building with five other community organisations.

That we have a steady influx of new members reflects the attraction and need for the range of activities the Men’s Shed offers to members. Nearly all of us are retired and for people of our typical age group, all the evidence points to the importance for mental and physical wellbeing of being socially engaged and keeping both brain and body active. Well, the Shed has a range of activities catering for those needs. We offer:

A Book Club, with the convenor adept at stimulating interesting discussion. It’s as challenging as you want to make it, while always very relaxed.

A weekly Discussion Group reflecting on topical events and issues, solving the problems of the world - although not too seriously - and sharing humour.

The Cards group play 500 every Shed meeting day.

Monthly guest speakers, with both invited and in-house presenters.

“Talking Technical”, a fortnightly group that discusses any technical-type subject.

The Verandah of Knowledge where members casually sit, talk and laugh on the Shed verandah over a tea or coffee. This is an important aspect of Shed life - the opportunity to simply meet and engage with other men in a friendly and agenda-free environment.

The Work Shed - always busy on a range of restoration projects and the regular toy repair service.

A Walking Group with a different walk every Tuesday morning, both locally and further afield in Brisbane and surrounds, followed by coffee.

Newmarket Bocce Club News

by Mario De Marco. Secretary of the Newmarket Bocce Club

Well the club has certainly been busy this month. I have posted in the past the Precision Bowl competition, I think this is the clubs fourth and it was no different on Wednesday 19th. We are getting better at this game each time it is played.

We had 26 players on the night. We start off with dinnerlasagne and panini followed by desert and coffee and then off to have four competitive games. But have I told you that we also have a lot of fun? I was referee. It’s certainly a challenging job with nail-biting decisions to be made. But we got there! Winners were Tony L, Vittorio and John M.

Enjoy the photos and remember there are no losers in bocce, we are all winners.

Call me, Mario on 0403257325 or Bill on 0431 458 481.

website:

A Bike Group who get together for a weekly bicycle ride (both regular and e-bikes) with a refreshment stop along the way. These rides are not restricted to Shed Members and they work on an “Everybody Welcome” basis.

Model Trains. The Shed has an elaborate work-in-progress model train project for enthusiasts.

Monthly social events at the Shed such as barbecues, always well attended. We are grateful to Regis Aged Care, The Gap, for their support for these events.

Monthly lunches at local pubs and clubs.

Away excursions - bus, boat and train trips to interesting venues, expos, towns and the like, with wives, partners and friends included.

An annual camp at various localities around the south-east, again with wives and partners included.

For enquiries about the Shed see our website at ashgrovethegapshed.com giving details of our current activities, meeting times and contact details for key people.

Winners of the Precision Bowl competition were Tony L, Vittorio and John M.