Beaudesert Bulletin 13 January 2023

By Susie Cunningham

The thing Leonie Walsh noticed about rural life, when she started visiting Beaudesert for dances more than 50 years ago, is that people in the country make their own fun.

“A weekend looked

like going to a ball Friday night, farm work for the fellas Saturday, Saturday night at Tamrookum, Hillview or Kerry dance, Sunday morning mass then go to somebody’s house for tennis and drive back to Brisbane. It was very social,” she said.

Leonie, a self-described ‘city girl’ before she met her beloved husband Terry and moved here from Deagon, embraced country life.

To this day Leonie, 70, loves life on their 12acre pocket at Tabooba - Brookville Stud - and regularly uses produce from their veggie patch to create goodies to share.

Leonie’s parents Charles and Mary Wilson (nee Gentle) were married during the war in 1941.

They conceived four children but lost their son and one daughter to placenta previa. Leo-

nie, born seven years after big sister Kate, was a placenta previa baby too, born at eight months by emergency caesarean.

“I’m grateful mum’s doctor by that stage was tenacious enough to give it a go because mum was nearly 41 when she had me,” she said.

Leonie and Terry have four children - Loretta, 45, Lyle, 41, Kate, 37 and Elizabeth, 33 and dote on their granddaughters Violet, 11, Lola, 7, and Poppy, 6. Their home is filled with family photographs and Leonie loves sharing the latest snapshots of their grandchildren.

“I would have had them first if I’d have known how much fun they were,” she said.

Leonie loves the satisfaction of a job well done.

She got a job at Woolworths as soon as she was old enough and has worked ever since, for the Commonwealth Bank, the Queensland Permanent Building Society, Queensland Country Bank (initially Beaudesert Credit Union) and Riding Pony Stud Book Society.

She is into her 11th year with the Rural

Doctors’ Association of Queensland and has also worked for decades at federal, state and local government elections and for three censuses with the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

She got the volunteering bug when the kids were young and continues to give her time generously to the equine and theatre worlds.

She trained St Mary’s debutantes for 20 years, was president of Beaudesert Quota, started Boonah Quota, won an Australia Day award for her work with BAMS Theatre, was secretary of Tamrookum Memorial Hall committee, volunteers with Sunnybank Theatre Group, is Chief Horse Steward for Beaudesert and Boonah shows and is an international horse judge.

Above everything else, Leonie treasures her relationship with Terry, who she met age 17.

“He’s my best friend. If I’m lying on a hospital bed and a decision is to be made about me, he’s the only person I trust, he knows me that well. So, I’m screwed if he goes before me,” she said.

Leonie Walsh

Alwyn Todd’s service celebrated

By Susie Cunningham

When the Beaudesert Local Ambulance Committee was seeking another volunteer in 1992, Alwyn Todd did not hesitate to put his hand up.

“I just felt I could do it I suppose, at the time,” he said.

Little did Mr Todd know he would end up holding the position of Local Ambulance Committee combined Secretary/ Treasurer for 30 years.

Mr Todd, who will be 90 this April, decided to hang up his hat after three decades in 2022 and was recognised with a Commissioner’s Certificate of Appreciation for his valued service.

He also received a celebratory plaque, a pin and a chiming mantle clock.

Mr Todd was working full-time as Administrator of Wongaburra when he took up the voluntary role of Local Ambulance Committee Secretary/ Treasurer.

“Dr Michael Glover was Secretary and wrote to Wongaburra asking if

they would provide a representative to go on the committee. I was administrator at Wongaburra at that time and was nominated for the position. I went to the first meeting in February 1992 and Dr Glover resigned so I had the job, not realising I’d have it for 30 years,” he said.

“It was an interesting role, and occasionally we’d have somebody from the head office of the Queensland Ambulance Service come and tell us about things. I think the ambulance service is having more difficulty now, with the ramping up at hospitals and I think the drug problem is a lot worse now than it was 30 years ago.”

He said it had been an honour to serve in the position and he was grateful to get to know other locals through their time together on the committee.

“The role of the committee, really, is to be a liaison between the community and the ambulance service, and the other objective is to raise funds,” he said.

“We were in the very fortunate position that we didn’t ever need to raise any funds, because about 35 or 40 years ago now a man from near Brisbane, in his will, left a large sum of money to Beau-

desert Local Ambulance Committee.

“We have invested that money and we’re able to use the interest to purchase equipment for staff and to send people on conferences. So, we

never needed to go into fundraising as the previous QATB (Queensland Ambulance Transport Brigade) did through chocolate wheels at the show and campdrafts and those sorts of things.”

Alwyn Todd

Hospital auxiliary seeks volunteers

By Susie Cunningham

Volunteers at Beaudesert Hospital are seeking new recruits with a passion for people and a love of community.

For more than 60 years, Beaudesert Hospital Auxiliary volunteers have made a significant impact on the hospital community, providing countless hours of their time to run the hospital’s kiosk.

The Beaudesert Hospital Auxiliary, formed at a public meeting on 11 April 1962, is behind that little kiosk with a big heart, known for making some of the best sandwiches around.

Auxiliary President Pat Burnett said the kiosk currently operated four days each week but adding more volunteers to the team could help them return to five days.

Mrs Burnett said the role of a volunteer at Beaudesert Hospital was dynamic and exciting, giving people the chance

to be a part of a dedicated team serving the community and staff.

“Working in the kiosk gives us a chance to give back to the community,” she said.

“It’s a lovely feeling to be a part of a team where compassion and caring interactions are at the heart of everything we do, and of course there’s the added bonus of raising money to donate to the staff wish list of items needed in the hospital.”

The Beaudesert Hospital Auxiliary has raised more than half a million dollars since it was formed in 1962.

At the group’s 60th AGM on 27 July 2020, Mrs Burnett reported the auxiliary had donated more than $530,000 since its formation in 1962.

Mrs Burnett encouraged people from all walks of life to register their interest in becoming a volunteer and said there was no such thing as a ‘typical volunteer’.

“Some people volunteer during high school

or university to gain exposure to different health care professions, while others join us on retirement for social interaction and a challenge,” she said.

Beaudesert Hospital

Auxiliary volunteer services recommence in January 2023.

If you are interested in experiencing the many benefits of volunteering, and have a warm and compassionate nature,

please register your interest by contacting Beaudesert Hospital Auxiliary President, Pat Burnett on 0428 411 835 or Roster Clerk and Convenor, Lynn Loweke on 5543 2686.

Long serving Beaudesert Hospital Auxiliary volunteers Therese Cahill, Beatrice Flesser, Pat Burnett, Lyn Loweke, Ros Lahey, Patricia Castles at the 60 year celebrations

Triple surprise for treechange farmers

By Susie Cunningham

Rare triplet calves born at Cainbable Creek are growing from strength to strength after their surprise entrance to the world.

Triplet calves in beef cattle are reported to be as rare as one in a million, and it is particularly rare for all three triplets to survive.

Jess and Ayden Hogan and kids Josie, 13 and Thomas, 11, moved from one acre at Maudsland on the Gold Coast to the 60-acre property at Cainbable Creek after buying it from locals John and Lise Leatherbarrow 18 months ago.

The Hogans are new to farming and have a small herd of 16 Brangus cattle for their own use, a vegetable garden and some chickens.

The

Beaudesert

Bulletin received the news tip about the triplets from the excited Leatherbarrows, who were proud of their old cow Toots, 7, for the rare feat.

The Bulletin met the triplets on 12 December (they were born on 16 November) and confirmed in early January all three triplets and their mum were still going well.

Jess said it was an exciting experience.

“I came into the paddock and Toots was licking a calf, and I thought it might be someone else’s because she was still in labour. I went inside and had lunch because she was okay and I came back out and she’d had a second one and was looking after both calves,” she said.

“She laid down again,

heaving. I thought, ‘It couldn’t be three - beef cows never have three,’ then a third one came out. I got straight onto Lise and said, ‘has Toots ever had more than one calf?’ and Lise said, ‘absolutely not’. I said, ‘Well I think she’s got three’.”

Jess said Josie named

the calves Kevin, Sunny and Sack-a (because she turns into a sack of potatoes when you pick her up).

“Josie was feeding the bull calf and called him Kevin because he was always bellowing. We were watching a lot of Christmas movies and

Kevin from Home Alone, screams a lot.”

She said the triplets were faring well.

“I’m happy to bottle feed whoever, but if they don’t have to be separated, I don’t want to do it. They’re all doing really well so we’ll leave them for now,” she said.

Jess and daughter Josie Hogan are proud of Toots for her healthy triplets.

Mununjali Ngari brings in 2023

By Susie Cunningham

Local dance group Mununjali Ngari shared culture with a crowd twice the population of Beaudesert at the opening of the popular Falls Festival on New Year’s Eve.

Mununjali Ngari joined the Mirrigingi Dancers on the ‘El Capitan’ main stage at North Byron Parklands, on Minjungbal Country, to share the Welcome to Country in a joining of saltwater and freshwater connections.

Lead acts like Genesis Owusu, the Arctic Monkeys, Ocean Alley, Chvrches, Spacey Jane and even The OG Wiggles took to that same stage after the dancers’ ceremony.

Falls Festival, which has been going since 1993, is widely considered Australia’s favourite New Year’s festival and is

held at Melbourne, Byron Bay and Fremantle.

The 31 December to 2 January Byron event alone reportedly attracts about 13,000 people.

Waylene Currie from Mununjali Ngari said it was about connection.

“The saltwater mob when they go to big ceremonies for festivals ask the freshwater mob to come join them. It’s about our family lines between the saltwater and freshwater people. Mununjali Ngari did Splendour in the Grass last year and we also join in on the Kinship Festival in Murwillumbah,” she said.

She said, while it was not the first time Mununjali Ngari had opened a major music festival, it was the biggest stage she had been on.

“Everyone took time to

dive within themselves to create and hold that space to open it up. That land in itself actually holds such a significant story,” she said.

“We embraced the country, ceremony and coming together - we merged so well and learned from one another

through that process.”

She said the dancers’ role at the festival was unique.

“We don’t do it to perform. We do it to show recognition of the country and us as people and our continuing connection to that place and respect for the land, bringing in that

good spirit and making sure everyone is looked after,” she said.

“We acknowledge Uncle Magpie Currie who has organised being at these big festivals for years. When we do these big opening ceremonies, we do it in representation of him, too.”

Mununjali Ngari and Mirrigingi Dancers pictured with several of The OG Wiggles at Falls Festival. Image supplied.

1960 scholarship class reunites

By Jim Costello

In November 1960, two Year 8 classes at the Beaudesert State School sat for the annual Year 8 public scholarship examination.

Many of the students had been together since the start of prep or Year 1.

Many continued on at the high top (then situated at Beaudesert State School) to do Years 9 and 10 and then onto the new high school to do Years 11 and 12 before further studies or employment and the start of an adult life.

Over the years there have been various state school activities, fetes and reunions where the former students met up again.

On her return to live in Beaudesert, Denise Martin (Greenwood) contacted others from her era for a reunion and in 2010, the 50th anniversary of Schol-

arship was held at the primary school.

Quite a few of the group had retired or were nearing retirement, some had caravans and suggested they could meet yearly at a nearby caravan park within a twohour drive of Beaudesert.

It wasn’t to be a single day get together but one that lasted for days or a week or for however long.

The Melbourne Cup week has been a popular choice for our reunion, with a flutter on the race, a sweep amongst ourselves and our chicken and salad roll for lunch.

Morning tea starts from about 10am with a break for maybe a ‘nanny nap’ before happy hour gets underway about 4pm till mealtime if you want it after nibbling all day.

There always seem to

be plenty of homemade cake, biscuits, snacks, dips etc available all day long. Visitors are welcome any and every day and we all get together one night for an evening meal at a local club, restaurant or

hotel. Over time there have been up to 35 past pupils and partners at these events. The 2022 reunion was at the Golden Beach Caravan Park on the Sunshine Coast.

Numbers were low in 2022 with Covid restrictions lifted, some were away caravanning and as they all get older, caravanning is not a proposition they all can take, so cabins are a popular option now.

Janette Tomkins (Fraser), Denise Martin (Greenwood), Pamela Evans-Groenendyk (Daley), Shirley Mavor, Shirley Antcliff (Veivers), Peter Preston, Jim Costello. Image supplied.

Otis gets the win

By Susie Cunningham

Local schoolboy Otis James Brown has got a taste of the fun planned for kids his age after winning the Youth and Community Centre (YACC) Beaudesert jellybean counting competition.

Otis, 9, had the closest guess of 1654 jellybeans when YACC ran the competition at Beaudesert’s Carols in the Park to raise awareness of their ongoing progress toward a PCYC in Beaudesert.

Otis, who was gearing up to share his spoils with his classmates, was thrilled with the win.

“I gathered from a hint it was between 1000 and 2000. I was originally

going to pick 1054 but I quickly realised it was not a big enough number, so I changed that zero to a six and here I am,” he said.

YACC President John Powell said the competition, which attracted 72 entries, was a good opportunity to engage with families and children like Otis, who would ultimately benefit from a Beaudesert PCYC when it comes to fruition.

Senior Sergeant Ken Murray said things were progressing well toward a PCYC.

“It’s really positive, it’s going good places and I’m so happy the Council is supporting us,” he said.

“Everyone is happy, PCYC are very approv-

ing and it’s just a matter of time. Support is what we need, it keeps us going, it’s what matters and without support we can’t get to where we need to be - and thankfully we’ve always had that.”

Mr Powell said enthusiasm was strong for a PCYC locally, particularly amid projected population growth.

“A lot of people did say, if I handed them a YACC brochure, ‘please tell me it’s going to happen’, or ‘when’s it going to happen?’ so the community’s got an expectation now,” he said.

“We’ve been on this for two and a half years now and the community rightly have an expectation that we need more

Alice Warby from the YACC Fundraising Committee said it was about engaging children now to make the most of the future PCYC.

“The aim is to get the kids engaged age 10 and take them through,” she said.

facilities here for young people.”

Winner Otis Brown, his dad Mathew, Senior Sergeant Ken Murray and YACC President John Powell.

Here is a small study in simplicity, featuring some of our chook eggs and silverbeet. I’d been wanting to be more resourceful with our backyard produce but never seemed to find the time or energy. In mid-December, inspired by a CWA cookbook my friend Dallas gave me, I made a simple spinach pie! It was so dense and full of all the good stuff (like cream, butter and bacon we bought from my friend Kay down the road at Tommerup’s) that I portioned it up and froze it immediately, for savouring. On that note, I wish everyone a year flavoured with simple joys.

Cancer Council volunteers recognised

By Susie Cunningham

Cancer Council Beaudesert Branch volunteers have received recognition for their significant contributions to helping those affected by cancer.

Natashia Gotke and Rhonda Thorpe picked up 10 years of service awards as did their daughters Makyla Gotke and Sarah Thorpe.

Secretary Ellen Logan, who has been involved for about 30 years with the local branch, received the Spirit of Volunteering Award, to the delight of fellow volunteers.

“Ellen’s award was so deserved. We may be a

good team, but she is our driving force, our captain and organiser,” said President Julie Ferguson.

“We were all so pleased her efforts were recognised.”

When the Beaudesert Bulletin congratulated Ellen Logan on her award, she was characteristically humble about the achievement and instead praised her fellow volunteers for their contributions to Cancer Council Queensland.

The awards were presented at an annual thank you event for volunteers on the Gold Coast on 13 December.

At a separate awards

ceremony in Brisbane in late November, Russell and Jenny Jenner received the Highest Individual Award for fundraising in Queensland for the Cancer Council for their Kalbar Sunflower Festival, which Beaudesert volunteers help significantly with.

Through the help of volunteers like Beaudesert Branch members, the Jenners raised $60,000 for Cancer Council Queensland and were able to tour the Berghofer Queensland Institute of Medical Research to see firsthand where the money raised goes to help find cures for cancer.

Rhonda Thorpe, Ellen Logan, Natashia Gotke, June Herbohn and Julie Ferguson. Image supplied.

FROM THE Keer Moriarty

There’s no place like home

Returning from my month-long sojurn to the other side of the world, I have a new appreciation for my life here.

Have Your Say!

Locals recognised in Australia Day nominations

By Keer Moriarty

Scarecrow Festival

From My Window

with Keer Moriarty, Editor

Still Printing...

I was fortunate to travel to Paris, Brussels and the United Kingdom and saw some things that I really never thought I would see in my lifetimethe Eiffel Tower, beautiful buildings in the heart of Belgium, snowflakes falling on woollen gloves. It was surreal.

It is difficult to explain the feeling I had with the news that 100 regional News Corp papers stopped printing in a restructure that sees these papers with online presence only.

Beaudesert and surrounds feature strongly in this year’s Scenic Rim Australia Day Awards nominations, with RSL Beaudesert Sub-Branch’s Anzac Commemorations and Tamrookum Hall 70th Anniversary amongst those recognised.

The first morning of my return I sat outside, drinking a coffee and thinking “How good is this?”

I was warm and it wasn’t raining! There’s no place like home.

I feel very privileged to have been able to make that journey. Childhood dreams of seeing the Yorkshire countryside that author James Herriot described came true. The sight of the Eiffel Tower lighting up at night and the atmosphere of Christmas markets in Europe were things I will never forget.

It is sad for communities who will lose their local newspaper. Years ago, the local paper was the backbone of a community. The people who owned the paper and the people who worked there were involved in their communities, they had their finger on the pulse and they knew the people in the towns.

No doubt this is still true for local journalists - but how many of those jobs will be shed in the move to digital?

I also feel very fortunate to have people at home I could rely on to keep the Beaudesert Bulletin running.

Kate Cahill and Susie Cunningham managed their own jobs and mine - in a very small team it puts pressure on everyone if one person is awayand I am very grateful to them.

What will the record keeping of townships look like? How can truth be disseminated without this grassroots vehicle of news? Because it is easy to see that a report about the refurbishment of the soccer club’s canteen or ‘what we did in the pandemic’ is real and true, but who will remember this when they are relegated to the archives of the internet? Where are the pictures to cut out and keep on the fridge? Or does none of that matter?

We have a lot planned for 2023 and a few surprises in store for our readers - keep watching this space. We look forward to a great year and taking you with us on our journey!

•

•

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presented in the categories of Community Event of the Year, Citizen of the Year (31 to 65 years) and Citizen of the Year (65+ years).

Dear Editor, Is the Tamborine Mountain Scarecrow Festival still on? The answer is yes but in what format is still undecided. The Scarecrow trail is definitely on and the dates are 11th to 20th September. Advertisements in papers, web site and face book will be appearing in early June providing all the detail. We hope to have a special guest on the Mountain who may open the festival and then provide an activity for families on Saturday 12th September. The Lantern Parade and other activities are subject to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions. We have set a date of 1st August for a decision.

Seventeen nominations for the Awards were received, with seven from Beaudesert and immediate surrounds.

Mayor Greg Christensen said the awards, to be announced in conjunction with a Citizenship Ceremony on Australia Day, acknowledged some of the quiet achievers and local organisations which are at the heart of community life.

“The awards nominations remind us of the richness of community life in the Scenic Rim,” he said.

Other local nominees included Beaudesert Boxing Club’s Justin O’Leary, Mina Ibrahim, Geoff Mills, Adrian Sandell and Gwen Tyson from Kooralbyn, and Cecil Miles from Harrisville.

The talk of Scarecrow Town is who will be the winner this year? We can put smiles back on faces by putting scarecrows out on the trail and entering the competitions. We are sure that Scarecrow Senior Poetry will be on and children can take part in their Colouring In and Poetry competitions.

Entry is free and Entry Forms will be at various locations around the Mountain and on our web site for those off the Mountain who are coming to engage.

Tamrookum Hall President, Lani Deeran said the committee was really excited about the nomination and the anniversary had rekindled interest in the Hall and dances.

“It is heart-warming to know that we live in communities in which people are still willing to give of themselves and their time without any expectation of reward and are ready to reach out to others when they see a need.

Beaudesert Bulletin columnist Amanda Hay is also amongst this year’s nominees for her dedicated defence of the Scenic Rim’s fauna, flora and lifestyle.

So, the message is: put huge coloured circles around the 11-20 September on your calendars, get your planning hats on for making a Scarecrow display or visiting the Mountain. If visiting, consider an overnight stay, enjoy our fabulous sunset and visit some of our attractions.

The Committee is keen to have a festival in whatever format is possible because it brings the community together and that is what we will need by September So, please plan on producing a scarecrow or visiting and staying on the Mountain and, if we can get the lantern parade and other activities up and running, we will do so.

“We had 75 people at our New Year’s Eve dance,” she said.

The Canungra Times belongs to me, but really it belongs to the community and I’ll keep doing what I can to make sure that continues.

“We’ve had people come out of the woodwork, one lady came back recently who hadn’t danced for 50 years.”

In the words of George Bernard Shaw: “I am of the opinion that my life belongs to the whole commu nity and as long as I live, it is my privilege to do for it whatever I can. I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work the more I live.”

Regards, Nigel Waistell Scarecrow Coordinator, Tamborine Mountain Chamber of Commerce

Letters to the Editor

“Everyone who has been nominated for an award should be proud of the recognition they have received and the high regard in which they are clearly held.

The Awards will be

“I am sure everyone will be as inspired as I have been by the level of commitment shown by many of our community champions, often over many decades, and by the example they have provided to others,” Mayor Christensen said.

The Canungra Times welcomes letters on topics of general interest to our readers.

Letters

The views and comments expressed in Letters to the Editor and are those of the

COUNCIL WATCH

WITH AMANDA HAY

Email:

frangipani1956@msn.com

the conditions proposed by myself and TMPA Inc were unlawful.

SRRC’s legal representatives were supportive of the developer’s proposed conditions without change.

Development Applications

MCU23/001 170-178 Brisbane Street, Beaudesert (servo site). An ‘other change’ is sought to change the approved retail showroom to a warehouse. Nineteen per cent site coverage, 34 car spaces.

the legal proceedings to have the heritage listing of the Pig and Calf saleyards removed. Will all be revealed at the first council Ordinary Meeting for 2023?

Update

The following are my views, not those of the Editor. Any threats of legal action can be directed to me. Was anyone else charged a Public Holiday surcharge on both Sunday 1 January 2023 and on the actual declared Public Holiday date of 2 January 2023? I was. This is double dipping and has been reported to the ATO.

I doubt the staff benefited from increased wages on the Sunday. There is no legislated percentage for such a charge, however the “norm” is 10-15%.

Bouquet

Council is to provide the details of the cost of

Appeal 2001 of 2021 –SDA Property Nominees P/L -v- SRRC. “Disability tourist cabins” Tamborine Mountain – costs award.

The conditions of approval were not resolved at the review on 21 December 2022. The Appellant’s legal representative stated (in open court) that

His Honour seemed bemused by the unlawful assertion which he dismissed. Next review: 30 January 2023.

We were concerned at the degree of urgency to have the conditions set on 21 December 2022 ... until we realised the developer had submitted a new DA with SRRC on the same date for 1-11 Eagles Retreat Place for a large house, after having purchased an adjoining property (9 Witherby Crescent) and incorporating it into the development site.

I can feel a minor change application coming on ... more once the appeal is finalised.

MCU22/032 14 Hart Street, Beaudesert. Multiple dwelling – shows as “determined” 20 December 2022 but records show Council requested an extension of decision period as may be an over-development of the site, density, bulk, scale and setbacks. Nothing that can’t be overcome with a bit of paperwork.

MCU22/128 35-37 Tubber Street Beaudesert. Lodged 13 December 2022. Multiple dwelling Triplex, five car spaces, three garages. Lot size 2.023SqM.

MCU22/129 23 Birnam Street Beaudesert. Lodged 15 December 2022. Multiple dwelling. In a feat of planning genius, apparently an existing house, two new three bedroom dwellings, two garages and five car spaces can be accommodated on a 1,012SqM lot!

Further afield

RAL22/052 71 Coronation Dr Boonah. Subdivision: 34 residential lots.

MCU22/135 70 Sarabah Road, Sarabah. Tourist Park. 25 self-contained sites/cabins and central facilities.

SRRC Court Cases

Planning and Environment Court: 13762/19 (Supreme Court) – Scenic Rim Developments P/L v SRRC. Damages claim. Three years on and no closer to a resolution. Review 2 February 2023. I think I will attend this one….if it is not adjourned before commencement as seems to be the norm.

Stronger laws for community safety

The Queensland Government has announced new action and stronger laws to further protect community safety.

This tough new action includes: 1. Increasing the maximum penalty for stealing a car from 7 years to 10 years imprisonment 2. A more severe penalty of 14 years if the offence of stealing a car is committed at night, where the offender uses violence or threatens violence, is armed or pretends to be armed, is in company or damages or threatens to damage any property 3. Amend the Youth Justice Act requiring courts to take into account previous bail history, criminal activity and track record when sentencing 4. Increased penalties for criminals who share these crimes on social media 5. Extreme High Visibility Police Patrols 6. A $9.89 million fast-track sentencing program in Brisbane, Townsville, Southport and Cairns so children spend less time on remand and more time serving their sentences 7. The construction of two new youth detention centres 8. A trial of engine immobilisers in Mt Isa, Cairns and Townsville 9. The appointment within Queensland Police Service of an Assistant Commissioner to the position of Youth Crime Taskforce Commander 10. The increased penalties apply to adults as well as juvenile offenders.

The Government will introduce the required legislative changes into the Queensland Parliament in February 2023.

For more information and to have your say visit www.qld.gov.au/strongerlaws

Authorised by the Queensland Government, William Street, Brisbane.

Make a difference with Beaucare

DO YOU WANT TO:

• make a difference?

• work closer to home?

• work for an agency that values you and respects your need for work/life balance?

• work for an agency that encourages and invests in your professional and self-development?

• are you semi-retired or a student looking to supplement your income?

• are you looking for a career change?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, it’s time to consider a career with community-based organisation Beaucare, delivering aged care, disability support, childcare and community services locally.

Established by locals for locals in 1985, Beaucare has a long and respected history as a local place-based agency, operating as a not-for-profit charity with a volunteer Board of Management.

“Most people who work for us are part of the community and local people are on our volunteer board, so we know the community,” said General Manager Louise Dwyer.

“We provide a high-quality service, our client feedback is really positive, our staff are highly-regarded and if you work here your manager will really appreciate the work you do.”

WHAT BEAUCARE OFFERS AS AN EMPLOYER:

• Warm, respectful and welcoming workplace where you will be valued for your strengths and compassion

• Alignment to the Social, Community, Home Care and Disability Services (SCHADS) Award

• Supply of IT device for staff

• Employee Assistance Program

• Commonwealth Workplace Banking Program

• Kilometre allowance paid and paid travel time between clients

• Salary packaging up to $15,900 and up to an additional $2,650 for meal and entertainment expenses for permanent staff members

• Regular supervision and support by a manager who cares about your wellbeing

• Beaucare is willing to support workers who are interested in joining the Human Services sector, and will arrange for on-the-job training and support and assistance to access certificate qualifications in aged care or disability

• Casual support work and domestic assistance roles can provide flexible employment opportunities for tertiary students and older people wishing to work reduced hours and for school leavers who wish to earn a wage whilst training.

WHY THE NEED FOR STAFF?

• Beaucare already has about 90 staff but, as the sector faces an employment shortage across Australia, they need more in order to service the growing needs of the community.

• The NDIS National Workforce Plan shows Australia will need 84,000 more disability staff by 2024

• The Committee for Economic Development of Australia says there is a current aged care staff shortage of 35,000 with a projected 285,800 aged care staff needed in Australia by 2049

• National employment statistics report 16,000 more staff are currently needed nationally

TYPES OF WORK:

• Shift work

• Overnight supervision

• Domestic cleaning

• Individual support shifts

• Supported shopping

• Home maintenance services

• Allied health services

• Transport

• Group programs

• Community connection

ALL BEAUCARE STAFF ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE:

• Working with Children Blue Card

• NDIS Worker Screening Check

• Driver’s licence

• COVID-19 Vaccination certificate

Alan Watkins

Aged Care Counsellor and Men’s Group Coordinator Disability Services Support Worker

All his life, Alan Watkins has been a good listener. Friends and family members come to him with their problems and he always dreamed of being a counsellor.

“I’ve always regarded that as a privilege, for people to tell me their life stories or what’s concerning them at the time,” he says.

Alan didn’t pursue his dream until he was 50 years of age. Feeling unfulfilled in his role as a Purchasing Officer, he decided to enrol part time in a university course in psychology. When he completed his studies, the first position he applied for was as a Counsellor with Beaucare, which changed his life.

“I left it fairly late but it was the best thing I’ve ever done,” Alan says.

“I’ve enjoyed the last five years of my life … not just my working life but my life. A lot of that has to do with work satisfaction, enjoying what you’re doing and who you are as a person.”

Inititally, he was employed by Beaucare as a Counsellor for people who were affected by cyclone Debbie and was mentored through this early stage of his career. He is now an Aged Care Counsellor and Disability Support Worker.

Now 67, Alan has no intention to retire any time soon. Beaucare enabled him to run with initiatives including starting Men’s Groups in Kooralbyn and Beaudesert.

“I’m given the freedom to help the community and support people as only I can do.”

“That’s important because you don’t feel you’re just another cog in the wheel, what you do is important, what your team does is important.”

“I’ve become a lot happier now, I’ve got a lot more friends. There was a change in my life that happened about five years ago and I can only put it down to working here.”

Kasey Whittaker

Disability Support Worker

Kasey Whittaker’s vibrant smile and enthusiasm for her job is infectious. She obviously loves her work as a Disability Support Worker and says every day is different.

Nine years ago she went to an employment agency to look for work and when she mentioned that her partner was in a wheelchair, the employment officer asked if she would be interested in work in the disability sector. It was a question that would change her life.

Kasey secured a position as a Disability Support Worker and commenced studying a Certificate III in Disability Support. She started working with Beaucare in 2016.

Being a Disability Support Worker is about making sure her clients can do things that are in their capacity and are assisted with the things they can’t do.

“If you’re a 25 year old person, you wouldn’t be spending every

day with your parents. You’d be doing activites, you’d be getting your own groceries, seeing movies. It’s about making sure our clients have a normal life.”

“It is not possible for all our clients, but you should be always thinking, how can I help this person to be more independent?” she said.

Kasey herself has ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory bowel disease which requires regular treatment and frequent medical appointments. Diagnosed just before she commenced working for Beaucare, she says accommodating her illness has never been a problem.

She says Beaucare has ensured that she can manage her illness and continue to work, while providing the best possible care for her clients.

“I can go home, know that I’ve done a good job and I want to come back the next day. Not every job is like that.”

“It has added to how I parent as well. You’ve got to be so calm and patient with your participants, so I use those skills I’ve learned at work to keep that patience and calm at home.”

www.beaucare.org.au

Shae-Lynn Parsons

Beaucare’s youngest employee, 19 year old Shae Parsons, initially approached Beaucare to do a placement while she was studying a Certificate III in Individual Support at TAFE.

“I had to do 120 hours of work placement as part of the course,” said Shae.

“I looked on Seek and saw a Disability Support Worker job advertised so I called up and asked if they took placement students.”

Beaucare was unable to provide a placement, but they did offer Shae a job interview and she was successful. This enabled her to complete her qualification and gave her the opportunity to learn practical skills while completing her studies.

Her role as a Disability Support Worker involves caring for clients on a one on one basis, helping with household chores, cooking, taking clients into the community for shopping and outings as well as sleepovers and hydro sessions with some clients.

Disability Support Worker Paul Kangethe Operations Officer

Paul Kangethe grew up in Kenya and moved to Australia in 2014 as a student. He was studying his Masters of Accounting and had degrees in Marketing and Management as well as a Masters of Business Administration.

Paul began working as a Disability Support Worker in Melbourne in 2015 and while he enjoyed working in the not-for-profit sector, accounting remained his first love. In 2019, he moved to Queensland and got permanent residency two years later, continuing to work as a Disability Support Worker. When he secured the role as Operations Officer with Beaucare, it gave him practical experience to support the study he had completed.

“Specifically, I wanted accounts in a community based business. Because I had been working in disability support, I did not want to move my accounting to another different field

She became interested in a career in Disability Support when she was still at school. Seeing teachers and teacher aides working with students with disabilities inspired her to pursue disability support work as a career.

Shae finds the work very rewarding.

“I love seeing the clients happy, seeing them achieve their goals. A few clients have made healthy choices and achieved weight loss goals. I like seeing them loving life.”

“It makes me feel great, I feel like I have achieved something as a support worker.”

Prior to working with Beaucare, Shae worked at Woolworths after completing Year 12. She believes her maturity helped her adjust to the work at Beaucare but credits the management with providing an easy transition.

“The management is very approachable, everyone at Beaucare is. I can always go to them and ask questions and they are always there to help. They are always there to help me get through any challenges I have.”

“I always knew this was something I wanted to do – I just love it.”

– that’s why I chose Beaucare.”

“The managers here are good, they are flexible, they are willing to teach. The Finance Manager, Rebecca Seager, has trained me and now I’m being trained in reporting to the Board – that’s another process.”

Paul smiles and says he loves his work. He feels he is where he is meant to be.

“Beaucare is a good organisation, they consider the workers and their clients. That means a lot to me.”

“I’ve really learned a lot, especially how to manage a business. That was key. Learning accounting processes and how those systems work for the benefit of the company.”

Having flexibility in his workplace is important to Paul, who has four children aged eight to fourteen years. When the children have appointments that his wife can’t take them to, Paul has been able to step up for his family, working from home to complete his work.

Paul is now working towards becoming a Chartered Accountant and says his role at Beaucare has been invaluable.

POSITIONS VACANT

Disability Lifestyle Assistant

As a Disability Lifestyle Assistant, you will work with people living with disability to live independently and engage with their community. This support can include preparing meals, support with daily activities, transport, building life skill capacity, group activities, attending appointments, personal care and medication assistance along with maintaining connection with family and friends. Work will also involve ensuring clients are following their allied health plans. This work can happen 24 hours a day, including sleepovers, 7 days a week and Beaucare is open to negotiating rosters to best suit work life balance.

Disability Support Team Leader

As a Team Leader, you will support the Manager of our disability program to provide a comprehensive support network for our staff. This includes but is not limited to rostering and coordination of staff, supervision of some staff, hands on client support including personal care and domestic duties. You will also be responsible for developing, planning and implementing client specific programs to help our clients achieve their goals reflected in their care plans which includes liaising with their carers, allied health professionals, GP’s, specialists and the Community Nurse.

Aged Care Support Workers and General Domestic Workers

Aged Care Support Workers have or are working towards a Certificate III and provide support to people over the age of 65 to enable them to live independently in their own homes and their community of choice as long as possible. Support can include assistance with mobility, transport, daily activities, personal care, medication support and domestic assistance.

General Domestic Workers assist clients by undertaking general domestic cleaning including vacuuming and washing floors, cleaning bathrooms, toilets and kitchens and providing laundry services.

House to Yard Worker

As a House to Yard Worker you will assist vulnerable members of our community to remain living in their own homes by ensuring their environment is kept safe. You will work within a team environment travelling around the Scenic Rim and have access to well maintained mowing and home maintenance equipment. You will utilise your sound communication skills to engage daily with the clients and duties will include mowing, whipper snipping, gardening, gutter cleaning, window washing, removal of rubbish, pruning, weeding and minor household repairs.

Community Nurse

You will be either an enrolled or registered nurse with a passion for delivering in- home nursing care with innovation and skill. Your primary client group will be people over the age of 65 but you will also work people

who are terminally ill, people living with disability, children, young people and those with special needs. You will provide high quality clinical care and be supported by a multi-disciplinary team who place the client at the centre of all decision making.

Aged Care Services Assessor

In this role you will work with Aged Care clients, carers and families to undertake review assessments and develop care plans to support our clients to remain independent and living in their own homes within their community. In this role you will provide reassessments and source resources and services as required to meet client needs. You will develop care plans based on person-centred support. You will provide timely referrals where identified needs are unable to be met by the Beaucare team. You will assist clients to navigate the aged care system and you will work collaboratively with the clinical staff to complete assessment/reassessments where required.

Assessment, Referral, Intake and Allocation (Aged Care) Support

In this position, your primary role will be to assist clients over the age of 65 to access support. This can include immediate telephone support, assessment, referral and case management services. You will undertake initial assessments for eligibility into suitable aged care programs and facilitate referrals to external services. You will support clients to interact with My Aged Care so they can be screened for eligibility and referred for appropriate assessments. You will support and guide clients through the assessment process and also be required to provide one-off interventions to support clients immediate needs. You will also assist your ARIA Team with more general client support as required.

Youth and Family Support Worker

As a Youth and Family Support Worker, you will support families, and young people to engage with the community, develop strong relationships, provide effective parenting, manage stress and anxiety, maintaining connection with the community and to increase their strength and resilience through proactive persistent engagement, focused case planning and case management which combines practical support with skills development.

Child Care Educator

In this role you will be a self-employed contractor working under our guidance to provide care for children aged from birth to 12 years in a home environment. You will assist with planning and coordinating activities, educating children by providing high quality learning experiences, supervising the daily routine of children, managing children’s behaviour and monitoring their social development. This in an opportunity to work with children providing an educational service from your own home or working with families in their home.

More information about each role and specific criteria and requirements will be available at www.beaucare.org.au and SEEK when they are advertised.

People

Lukah Williams is Parley the cat’s person, and Parley is like Lukah’s baby.

Parley came into Lukah’s life in July 2021 as a rescue kitten, and she has adored him since.

Here is what Lukah has to say about Parley;

Pets

by SUSIE CUNNINGHAM

Paws Veterinary

Living in the Moment

I don’t make New Year’s resolutions. Perhaps it is because most people will have abandoned them by the end of February – me included! However, this time of the year does provide an opportunity for us to review the past twelve months and to consider the coming year. This can be helpful as we take time to reset and refocus.

But as good as that is, James warns us that we can’t sit in the past or the future. ‘You who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money. Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes’’ (James 4:13-14).

“I say his birthday is 12 May, because the RSPCA didn’t really know how old he was. I always like to get him a little something. He eats dry food normally, but he’s obsessed with wet food so that’s his little treat,” she said.

“He always wants to know what’s happening and he definitely has a sweet side to him. In the mornings, he’ll pop up on my bed and let me know it’s time to get up.

“Parley’s definitely my baby but mum is like Parley’s nanny and when I’m at school she’ll send me photos of him laying on her lap and I say, ‘yeah, he’s just doing that because I’m not there’.”

People and their Pets is about celebrating the animal friends in our lives, whether they’re furry, feathered, reptilian, hoofed or pawed. If you’d like us to feature you and your pet, or tip us off about a great People and their Pets story, please get in touch via news@beaudesertbulletin.com.

That sounds harsh, but we live in the here and now, the present reality. Jesus understood the value of living in the moment. He was present with people in their sorrow and joy. He lived out His Father’s will. He gave of Himself for humanity. He said, ‘I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly’ (John 10:10).

The present is the only time that is available to us. Let us live well in it this year!

Sponsored by Hoof n

Pastor Josh Cocks Beaudesert Baptist Church

Welcome to 2023, I hope that your Christmas was filled with joyous family memories and that this New Year will bring happy and prosperous times.

The last three years have been a challenge for all within the Scenic Rim with the impact that COVID has had not just in the social and work environment but more importantly within the family setting.

I believe that the next 12 months will see challenging financial times globally which will impact down to the Scenic Rim.

By staying united we can help everyone get through these upcoming challenging times.

New Development

Eucalee is a new subdivision development in Gleneagle that faces onto the Mt Lindsay Highway.

The first stage will begin construction soon with most of the initial lots having already been sold.

Access to this stage will be via Arbour Drive off Tullamore Way.

I have spoken with the developer who has indicated that a separate access track will be built coming off Fields Road for heavy vehicles, trucks and equipment that should help minimise the affect on the residents of Gleneagle.

Governance Advisor

Mr Gary Stevenson (PSM) commenced in his role as Governance Advisor to Scenic Rim Regional Council on Monday 9 January.

Gary has a distinguished local government background, having spent time as the Chief Executive Officer at Isaac Regional Council (Qld), City of Perth (WA), Redland City Council, Rockhampton City Council, (both Qld), and Corangamite Shire Council (Vic).

In the Advisor role Gary will have a focus on good governance, including the management of conflicts of interest, inappropriate conduct matters and meeting procedures.

Gary will also conduct a comprehensive review of Council’s policies and procedures, ensuring that Scenic Rim Regional Council is aiming for best practice.

Gary’s role is not to be involved in the actual running of meetings, that is still the responsibility of the Mayor. Gary will give advice and guidance and then report back to

CONTACT ME

the Dept on the Council.

Disaster Management

We are now in that time of the year where summer storms and flooding become more frequent.

I ask that if you have not already done so save the Council’s Disaster Management page to your mobile device. This page will give you all the information needed during disasters including roads closures, flooding data and any evacuation guidance should it be needed.

These are my own personal views. I do not purport to speak on behalf of Council.

Jubilee Park

By Ailsa Rolley

What to do with the children with no town park to play in?

It was the 1940s - and Beaudesert still had no park.

At that time, Council straightened and dredged the town section of Spring Creek to reduce flooding, and stored the soil nearby.

This area behind the L & A hotel was once a billabong where ducks (not children) played, but now that the flooding had been addressed, this could be the answer to the long-awaited park. The Civic Progress Association drove the project.

1901 was the Federation of Australia with the British giving Australia their own constitutional rights and when time came to celebrate the 50th Jubilee, the government handed out grants to beautify Australian towns and villages. Beaudesert Council received a grant of £150 and the hard work of planting and watering the trees began.

With no town water supply, the Enright family offered the use of their private reticulation system which they had installed

back in 1939 to protect their store against fire. A 10,000-gallon tank had been erected at Tom Enright’s house in Telemon Street, from which galvanised pipe was laid to the store. Water was obtained by connecting three underground wells, the main well being at Plunkett’s house in Bromelton Street. It is still in good condition and capped with a steel plate.

The wells were dug by hand by Vic Scells and Albert Garwood using a hand windlass and bucket.

Eric Arthy levelled the area with his bulldozer, and W. Blunck loaned his machine to rotary-hoe strips where trees needed to be planted.

Jubilee Park was opened in 1955 and the Beaudesert Girl Guides, Brownies and Rangers held a Guide Reverie at the end of Queen’s Row where they had previously planted seventeen trees as a Coronation tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. She was once a girl guide, and Princess Margaret a brownie and guide.

Today Jubilee Park is a feast of fun and games for children, families and visitors.

Trees at Jubilee Park.

GROW YOUR OWN

with Bill O’Sullivan TULLAMORE FARM

Have you had the good fortune to harvest your own fresh corn?

Have you lightly steamed the cobs and then feasted? If you get it right there is no need for butter as it will be super sweet and juicy.

Very few vegetables compare when prepared and eaten this way. We grow corn here at Tullamore Farm in the Kerry Valley around eight months of the year. Our first bed is planted during the first week of September.

Corn is a heavy feeder and we always plant in beds where we have recently added our quality compost. This gives a great success rate and a great start. We plant the seeds about 15 to 20 centimetres apart and five to seven centimetres deep.

Plant a couple per hole and then keep the best if both sprout. You can use any extra to replace holes where neither seed has germinated. After planting we water in deeply and then leave the watering until after the seedlings begin to appear. If you overwater at that early stage the seeds can rot.

Corn is quick growing and needs regular watering. As they start to grow taller we mound around the base of the stalks, using our compost. The added compost supports the plant and ensures good crop outcomes. We typically add a total of eight to ten centimetres over two or three times.

Corn is wind pollinated with the male flowers at the highest point and this drifts down on to the silky section at the end of the immature corn cobs. The flowers are always covered in bees when they are doing well.

The first sign the corn is ripe is when the silks at the top of each cob start to go brown.

To check further just use your finger nails to pierce the leaves surrounding the corn cob exposing the corn. The kernels should be plumpish. Prick one and it should release a milky fluid. When ready to harvest, twist the cobs using a downward movement, removing the corn cob from the plant. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS:

Dressing: ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar ½ teaspoon crushed black pepper

Salad: 2 teaspoons honey 3 ripe peaches, halved, de-seeded 4 cups rocket ¼ of red onion, finely sliced ⅓ cup pecans, roughly chopped or crumbled 60g goat’s cheese or feta

METHOD

Grilled Peach Salad

Place the oil, vinegar, and pepper in a jar and shake until combined. Combine 2 tablespoons of dressing mixture with honey and brush over the cut surfaces of the peaches. Heat a non-stick grill pan (or BBQ) to high. Place peaches cut side down on the hot grill. Grill peaches for 2 minutes or until golden brown then remove and allow to cool. Slice thickly. Place rocket, sliced grilled peaches, red onion, pecans, and fresh goat cheese in a large salad bowl. Drizzle with the remaining salad dressing. Gently toss and serve immediately.

Corn grows for eight months of the year at Tullamore Farm.

TENDERS

THANKS

Your

Your

We

Toney, Clarice Harriet Passed away 14/1/1998 Miss you Mum Pam & Paul, Vicky & Gary, Toni, Daniel & family

are seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified contractors within the Scenic Rim region to quote on the construction of a Change room facility at Moriarty Park, Coburg Rd Canungra.

Closing date Friday 17 Feb

is seeking expressions of interest from suitably qualified contractors within the Scenic Rim area to quote on the construction of a building (Fine Arts Pavilion) at the Canungra Showgrounds. Closing date 31st January 2023 Email: canungrashowsociety@gmail.com for documentation

31/12/1946 - 17/12/2022 We wish to thank all those who sent cards or offered condolences following the passing of Dawn Bartlett, our much-loved wife and mother. We appreciate the care provided by Metro South Palliative Care Service and Beaudesert Blue Care and the support of Michelle Fillery from Brown Family Funerals, Celebrant Rebecca Kesby, Beaudesert Uniting Church and Beaudesert Bowls Club in assisting the family give Dawn the farewell she deserved.

IN MEMORIUM To commemorate your loved one, place an In Loving Memory Notice 3cm advertisement $39 4cm advertisement $52 5cm advertisement $65 in Beaudesert Bulletin Email: ads@ beaudesertbulletin.com JANUARY 27 DEADLINE: 12noon Friday, January 20 Email: ads@beaudesertbulletin.com or phone 0407 671 286 Produced by LOCALS For LOCALS NEXT EDITION

Moses Russell-Thirkill

Naomi Russell

Elijah Russell

Winter Russell-Thirkill

Piper Russell

REGIONAL COUNCIL

Inaugural Sporter/ Hunter Classic a success

By Susie Cunningham

Beaudesert Rifle Club is gearing up for a strong 2023 after welcoming 48 competitors to its inaugural Sporter/ Hunter Classic.

Entrants enjoyed close competition at the event, shot over three ranges, and club member Peter Broom won overall.

Sporter/ Hunter Club Captain and Range Officer Lawrie Berry said the club was pleased to see a strong turnout and looked

forward to seeing plenty of people on the range in 2023.

Beaudesert Rifle Club runs a Sporter/ Hunter competition every second Saturday from 8am at the Moss Family Range at 303 Spengler Road, Tabragalba.

The first event is 28 January.

For more information follow Beaudesert Rifle Club on Facebook or email secretary@beaudesertrifleclub.com.au

Peter Broom - Canungra

Rodney Wilson (Beaudesert Rifle Club member) and family Ashleigh, Jane and Kerrod Wilson

Beaudesert Rifle Club’s Tim Daniels (President), Lawrie Berry and Lee Robinson

Rachael Emms and Troy Benson of Gleneagle

Russ Benson of Gleneagle

Dave Kennedy, Barbara Moss and Jeff Day of Beaudesert Rifle Club

Boyle’s first gold

By Susie Cunningham

Keen Beaudesert cyclist Charles Boyle rode into 2023 on a high after winning his first gold in track racing.

A part of the University of Queensland Cycling Club, Boyle’s team won gold in the Masters 150 TP at the AusCycling Junior and Masters Track Championships, Queensland, at Anna Meares Velodrome in December.

The event was also the competitive track racing debut for Boyle’s daughter Charlotte, 13, who held her own against more experienced riders in the under 15 age group.

Boyle, 52, was thrilled to win his first gold after previously having won two bronze and a silver on the track.

His UQ Team Pursuit team also shaved five seconds off the time they recorded at the 2022 nationals.

“It was a pleasing result and it felt good to finally get that gold, especially with Charlotte being there as well and experiencing her first state titles,” he said.

Boyle, who usually does track training in Brisbane several times a week, is taking some time off the travel to focus on road cycling locally before he hits the tracks again to train for the nationals in April.

Charlotte Boyle. Photo by Bear Liang.

Charles Boyle (second from left) and teammates. Photo by Bear Liang.

work pays off

By Susie Cunningham

Local schoolgirl Ali Reinke has outshone a class full of adult professional riders to win Australasian National Medium Show Pony Champion.

Beaudesert High student Ali, 12, won the title at The Nationals Australasian Showhorse and Rider Championships at Sydney International Equestrian Centre in December.

It came after she won Supreme Champion Show Hunter on Mundoora Park Davito at Beaudesert Show Society’s rescheduled Horse Show on 29 October.

At The Nationals, Ali rode in three classes, placing fourth in her rider class and winning Australasian National Medium Show Pony Champion on Thorne Park Dance All Night.

She was the only child rider in the class she won, with every other person in her class of eight being a professional adult rider.

After starting competitive showing in 2020, Ali went to The Nationals in 2021 but didn’t place, then rose to the top in 2022 with her new pony Thorne Park Dance All Night, nicknamed Daizi.

She rides five times a week, including twice with coach Paul Austin, and competes nearly every weekend at Show Horse Council Australasia and Equestrian Queensland events.

She also works hard shovelling and selling horse manure to earn some spending money for when she competes at the royal shows.

Her closest weekend competitions are at Park Ridge and in 2022 alone she travelled to Canberra, Werribee, Adelaide, Sydney, Brisbane, Toowoomba and Caboolture for events.

Ali’s mum Jess Pamment-Reinke said local ag shows like Beaudesert were important.

“Beaudesert Show was a qualifier for us to be able to do Ekka but also a qualifier for us to do Can-

berra Royal and Southern Cross. It was great they still put it on because there were so many who needed that extra qualification just to be able to go,” she said.

Ali will go to the Roy-

al Canberra Show in February and the Southern Cross Show Horse Spectacular and Show Horse Council Australasia Grand National in Sydney in March-April. Ultimately, she has her

sights set on doing dressage at the 2032 Olympics.

“It’s not about the winning or the losing it’s about going out there and having fun and doing your best,” said Ali.

Ali Reinke on Thorne Park Dance All Night. Photo by Angie Rickard Photography.

By Susie Cunningham

When Ali Reinke won Australasian National Medium Show Pony Champion, she was so excited she wore her garland - complete with flashing lights - for three days straight.

She did celebratory laps around the yard on her scooter until 10 at night, by the light of her flashing garland, and slept for three nights with her pony’s winning rug. Hard work pays off: story page 31