Beaudesert Bulletin 2 December 2022

Future is bright

By Susie Cunningham

Beaudesert school leavers are out in the world with their lives ahead of them after the Class of 2022 celebrated its way through graduation ceremonies, formals and schoolies.

McAuley College Beaudesert marked its milestone first graduating Year 12 cohort, with 23 graduates, and Beaudesert State High School had 154 graduates.

Kane Willis and Aidan Long

Class of 2022: full coverage page 16-21

By Susie Cunningham

Jacob Currie’s creative spirit grew when he used to paint with his dad as a child.

“That’s where I picked up painting. Dad did Aboriginal painting and landscapes,” he said.

“When I paint, I don’t

think about anything to be honest - I just paint.”

Jacob, now 19, expresses a lot of his creativity through his work as an automotive photographer, combining his love of cars and photography and working for car dealerships

He got his first cam-

era last year, was a quick learner and what started as a hobby, using his phone to do baby announcement photos for his family, turned into his livelihood.

Jacob got his first job as soon as he was old enough.

He was 14 and nine months and the gig was at Beaudesert McDonalds.

While he was grateful for the work, he knew even then that he wanted to be an entrepreneur.

“I wanted my own money I guess, but I figured out very early on that I didn’t love typical

jobs and I guess that stemmed from being a creative person,” he said.

“The industry I’m in now allows me to be more creative - I’ve always been creative whether it’s photography, drawing, painting or dancing.”

When Jacob lost his dad at a young age, he got by with the love and support of family.

Georgie ‘Doolie’ Currie passed away in 2013 when Jacob, his youngest son, was 11.

The loved local Mununjali man served for a time as Community Education Counsellor at Beaudesert High, where Jacob went on to complete his own high schooling and even met his girlfriend of three years, Emily Peach.

Jacob loved doing Creative Generation— State Schools Onstage, which incorporated traditional Aboriginal dancing, so much he went back to help choreograph this year’s dance for the students.

Jacob made headlines when he was born at Beaudesert Hospital on 4 June 2002.

He was born in Beaudesert through the sheer determination of his mother Shelly Currie after birthing services were closed there.

Ms Currie refused to travel 50km to give birth at Logan Hospital, determined Jacob would be born where she, former husband Doolie and their five other children were born.

Hospitals turned out to be a big part of Jacob’s life, starting with major life-saving surgery in ICU when he was 17 days old. He’s had 12 major surgeries at Mater Children’s Hospital with the same specialist the whole time.

These days he’s fit and healthy and has even worked as a fully qualified personal trainer.

Jacob, who has always been the baby of the family, now has nine nieces and nephews.

“Family has always been a big part of my life, and Beaudesert just has that sense of community - you always know someone, and someone always knows you,” he said.

Jacob Currie

40 years of service recognised

By Susie Cunningham

The vision and persistence of self-determined local volunteers in the 1970s set a strong foundation toward evening the playing field for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to get housing in Beaudesert.

Mununjali Housing and Development Company Limited (formerly the Beaudesert Aboriginal and Islander Cooperative Society), established in June 1976, received the 40+ Years of Community Service Award in the 2022 Queensland Housing Provider Recognition Awards.

General Manager Brad Currie accepted the award at the 2022 Housing First Nations Conference, a premier policy and networking forum for the Queensland housing sector.

Mununjali Housing started with nothing and now has at least 60 houses in Beaudesert and more than 30 houses in

Logan.

Three staff handle the housing side of things and there is a Board of Directors and more than 60 staff across the organisation, which also provides aged care, a wellbeing centre and a parenting and community education system.

Mr Currie started with Mununjali Housing in 1986 and was volunteering for the first five years.

“The beauty about this is the first meeting we had regarding Beaudesert Aboriginal and Islanders in the 1970s was in Petersen Street, and we purchased that block two years ago and have the opportunity to build on that now,” he said.

“In 1976 housing for Indigenous people was very limited - a lot of our people were living in well below standard housing in those days, living in old shacks on farms.

“I remember being at my cousin’s place where they lived in this hot little farmhouse and seeing

the ground through the floor. No windows, no hot water and still paying market rent.

“It wasn’t an even playing field, and the mob in those days knew they had to fix it for themselves, so they banded together. We need to acknowledge all those volunteers from the mid-70s - because of their vision, current and future Indigenous mob in Beaudesert and surrounds have this opportunity of a safe foundation.”

Mr Currie there was an urgent need to address the widespread current housing crisis and called for all levels of government to work together.

“There is such a need out there, now emulated across the housing sector,” he said.

“We’ve got to think smarter about how we all work together to fix the housing issue, because it’s not just an indigenous problem anymore - we’re all affected by it and we can’t stick our heads in the sand.”

Brad Currie

Yvonne

Aileen

Sarah Grodecki

Debby

State Government steps in amid Council woes

By Susie Cunningham

The State Government is appointing an advisor to help the Scenic Rim Regional Council address conflicts of interest, inappropriate conduct matters and meeting procedures.

The advisor is being appointed under section 117 of the Local Government Act, which applies if the Department of Local Government believes a local government is not performing its responsibilities properly, is not complying with laws applying to local government or it is otherwise in the public interest for an advisor to be appointed.

An advisor is responsible for helping local government build its capacity to perform its responsibilities properly or to comply with laws applying to the local government, and the local government must comply fully with the ad-

visor.

In a statement issued on 24 November, a Council spokesperson announced the appointment.

“Scenic Rim Regional Council has been advised that the Queensland Government Department of State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning (DSDILGP) will appoint an Advisor to the Scenic Rim Regional Council in accordance with section 117 of the Local Government Act 2009 (LGA),” the statement read.

“In a letter received from Director-General (DG) Mike Kaiser, Council was informed that the Advisor will be appointed to assist Council and Councillors in relation to governance areas, including conflicts of interest, inappropriate conduct matters and meeting procedure.

“DSDILGP will manage

the process of appointing the Advisor. While a commencement date is yet to be determined, Council welcomes the appointment and looks forward to working collaboratively with the Advisor over the coming months.

“The appointment of an Advisor will in no way impact the day-to-day operations of Council or

our ability to continue delivering services to our community. Further information will be released in due course.”

Member for Scenic Rim Jon Krause said it was a worrying development.

“An advisor being appointed to the Scenic Rim Regional Council is extremely concerning. Firstly, because the State is so

concerned to make such an appointment, but secondly because basically local control of council could potentially be taken away from locals and placed in the hands of the advisor,” he said.

“I have requested a full briefing on this matter from the Minister for Local Government as soon as possible.”

Scenic Rim Regional Council Mayor (centre) and Councillors. Image supplied.

New service coming to Beaudesert Hospital

By Susie Cunningham

Beaudesert residents will have access to a world first vertigo telehealth service when Dial a Dizzy comes to Beaudesert Hospital this month.

The service will provide specialist advice for patients presenting to the Emergency Department with acute dizziness, vertigo and imbalance.

Beaudesert Hospital Facility Manager Jacquie Smith said it was fantastic to be able to provide this innovative service to the Beaudesert community.

She said it gave Beaudesert and surrounding residents access to the first service in the world to provide a physiotherapy to external emergency department model of care.

“It also means that patients can access this incredible service closer to

home without having to travel to Logan Hospital.”

Consultant Vestibular Physiotherapist Leia Barnes said the unique service was part of the Complex Vestibular Service in partnership with the Integrated Specialist ENT service at Logan Hospital and the Healthcare Improvement Unit, Queensland Health.

She said it was exciting to bring the service to Beaudesert Hospital after its success in other rural hospitals.

“This means even more patients will be able to receive much needed assistance close to home, in their rural areas, and there are plans to extend to GPs early next year,” she said.

Ms Barnes said the service operated on a telehealth basis with Beaudesert Hospital Emergency Department clinicians dialling in to a Logan Hos-

pital Dial a Dizzy clinician for patient examinations.

“Videos of eye movements obtained using special infra-red goggles can then be uploaded for the Dial a Dizzy clinician to interpret before providing a report to the remote clinician,” she said.

“We work with the local treating team to provide onsite care for vestibular (inner ear) conditions, such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), or help with early recognition of stroke signs which allows the emergency doctor to quickly respond and es-

calate management.

“Not only is this providing patients with more timely and appropriate access to care, but it is reducing pressure on emergency departments and eliminating the need for regional and remote patients to have to travel.”

Consultant Vestibular Physiotherapist Leia Barnes tries Dial a Dizzy out on a staff member. Image supplied.

The best gift EVER!

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Just ask Carol, who’s sampling some of our region’s best cafes and restaurants courtesy of the Shop Scenic Rim gift card she received for her birthday.

Shop Scenic Rim gift cards are just like any other EFTPOS-based gift card, but with one difference.

Every dollar spent on a Shop Scenic Rim gift card stays in our community, supporting local businesses and local families.

They can be bought online or in selected lo-

specialty stores, services and Scenic Rim tourist attractions.

Carol couldn’t be happier with her birthday present.

“I’ve got $100 to spend on myself, and I’m using it to treat myself - guilt free! I’m two weeks into my coffee and cake tour of the region, and so far it’s been delicious!” she said.

Shop Scenic Rim gift cards can be redeemed at many fabulous local cafes and restaurants, including Teaspoons & Aprons, the Outpost Café, El Social, Forest Café, Cinnamon Bun Café, Wild Plum Kitchen, Curtis Falls Café, Revival Café, Glen’s Diner, The Story Tree, Fuel Health, The Monkey Tree

They’re perfect for slipping into Christmas stockings, and for endof-year staff, client and supplier gifts.

Carol will definitely be paying her gift card forward.

“I’ve ordered Shop Scenic Rim cards for a bunch of my girlfriends, and my mum, and I can’t wait to share regular coffee dates in the new year,” she said.

“I always try to shop locally and support local businesses. These Shop Scenic Rim cards make it so easy. Fancy, fun and yummy too!”

For more information about Shop Scenic Rim gift cards - the local gifts that keep on giving - visit

A COFFEE AND CAKE TOUR OF THE SCENIC RIM!

LEGACY WIDOWS THANKED

By Susie Cunningham

Legacy Beaudesert widows received a heartfelt thanks and a bag full of goodies to thank them for their efforts in support of the local veteran community.

At a special lunch on 23 November, widows received a wellbeing pack containing hand soap, tissues, hand cream, dishwashing liquid, body powder, Glen 20, toilet cleaner and other helpful household items.

The packs came from the Beaudesert RSL Sub Branch and were presented by Senior Vice President Steve Monteath and liaison Janice Heit.

There was also live music from local favourite Keith Dunn and raffles of meat trays and more.

Mr Monteath said the Sub Branch considered

Legacy members as allies.

“Legacy widows, widowers and Legatees are adjuncts to the RSL as veterans’ families and co-allies in supporting the veteran community,” he said.

“As part of the wellbeing, welfare services provided by the Beaudesert RSL Sub Branch, our outreach should include those who support ours through a variety of actions and programs.”

At the lunch, Audrey Bristol, Sandra Grieve, Janice Heit, Anne Nisbet, Vera Walsh, Jan Nisbet, Royal Mahoney and Legatee John Lacey received a wellbeing pack.

Fellow Legacy widows Dulcie Barker, May Edwards, Daphne Telfer and Ivy Reid, who was founding coordinator of the group, were not present at the lunch but Janice Heit was delivering their packs

Legacy widows Janice Heit, Sandra Grieve, Anne Nisbet, Royal Mahoney, Vera Walsh, Jan Nisbet and Audrey Bristol.

to them.

Widow Ivy Reid founded the Legacy Beaudesert branch after her war veteran husband died 27 years ago.

Mrs Reid, who is now in her mid-90s, founded

the Beaudesert branch of Legacy one year after her husband Ronald, a veteran of the Korean War, died suddenly in 1995.

Legacy supports war widows and the partners and children of servicemen

who have returned home mentally, emotionally or physically incapacitated by war.

Over the years, the local branch has cultivated an atmosphere of moral support among its members.

What Saw Susie

By the time you read this newspaper, the town will be blanketed in beautiful crochet yarnbombing, the town Christmas tree lights will be switched on and there will be festive cheer galore. This photo is from our morning walk on 23 November, when we caught the first glimpses of the yarnbombing magic in Jubilee Park. It made me smile when Vicki McAteer from Beaudesert’s Christmas Spirit Committee told me they’d been meeting in the park since 4 January to work on their yarnbombing for Christmas. Now that’s dedication!

Men inspired by triumph over tragedy

By Susie Cunningham

Men from Beaudesert and surrounds heard the inspiring story of soldier turned sporting star Curtis McGrath at the Scenic Rim’s 2022 International Men’s Day dinner at The Centre.

In 2012, McGrath was serving as a combat engineer with the Australian Army when he stepped on an improvised explosive device and lost both his legs.

Only 20 minutes after losing his legs, as he was being stretchered from the bomb site, McGrath vowed he would one day compete at the Paralympic Games.

He went on to do just that, deciding on canoeing

- a sport he loved to do in his younger days in New Zealand before enlisting with the Australian Army.

In 2013, McGrath and other wounded war veterans kayaked nearly 1000km from Sydney to Brisbane with the support of Mates4Mates. His father joined him on the journey.

He was then selected for the Australian Sprint Canoe Team, travelling to Russia to compete in the World Championship.

Ultimately, he was selected for the Paralympic Games in Rio 2016, where he won gold in the 200m KL2 event and was honoured to carry the Australian flag at the Closing Ceremony

At the Tokyo 2020 games in 2021, McGrath

claimed double gold, becoming the first paracanoe athlete in the world to claim two gold medals in the paracanoe event.

Now, he has his sights set on the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

At the International Men’s Day dinner, McGrath spoke from the heart in a talk titled Triumph over Tragedy.

He got up to speak after local community leader and singer Brad Currie provided live music and a Welcome to Country and Mayor Greg Christensen shared about the importance of International Men’s Day and the 2022 theme of mateship.

McGrath spoke about looking to where you’re going, to help overcome tragedy.

“Since being injured in Afghanistan I’ve been given a new perspective on life - now I understand what a pretty bad day is and in order to succeed, you need failure,” he said.

“It makes you realise

the process to achieve those goals, to get through those challenges, is important and what doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.”

More photos: beaudesertbulletin.com

Guest speaker Curtis McGrath.

Emergency Services Cadets program launched

By Keer Moriarty

The Scenic Rim’s PCYC Emergency Services Cadets had their official launch last month, with nine cadets receiving certificates of attendance.

PCYC Emergency Services Cadets is a volunteer-run program for 12–17-year-olds who wish to learn emergency response skills, contribute to community through volunteering, and may aspire to becoming an emergency services personnel or volunteer.

Cadet Edana Bony joined the Cadets to gain new life and social skills.

Edana’s parents were both firefighters and she hopes to follow in their footsteps.

Emergency Services Cadet Coordinators, Andrew Clarke and Chloe

Wilson said starting the Cadets was a long process, hampered by COVID alert levels.

They had aimed to start the program in June 2021, but were delayed until April 2022.

“We both went to Beaudesert High School and back then we didn’t have a program like this so we had to branch out on our own as adults trying to find our way into the Emergency Services,” said Andrew.

“As soon as a program like this popped up I thought it would be super beneficial to the area.”

“It is designed for young people who have an interest in Emergency Services.”

The program includes Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, Surf Life Saving,

Queensland Ambulance Service and Queensland Police Service.

The majority of the cadets are from Beaudesert but the program has also attracted young people

from surrounding areas. They have received training in communications, first aid, CPR, aquatic rescue and live fire training in a controlled environment.

The program is funded by Queensland Fire and Emergency Services and delivered by PCYC Queensland in partnership with Beaudesert Fire and Rescue Station.

The first intake of cadets proudly display their certificates at Beaudesert Fire Station.

FROM THE

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Have Your Say!

National Disgrace

On Tuesday 8 November Scenic Rim Regional Council (SRRC), through their Mayor, put on display their version of democracy, transparency, accountability and leadership.

Councillor Chalk over a supposed asset he held in a neighbouring council area.

Scarecrow Festival

Keer Moriarty From My Window

Congratulations

I was fortunate to attend both the Beaudesert State High School and McAuley College formal arrivals in November.

with Keer Moriarty, Editor

On that occasion, Councillor Chalk was allowed to defend himself and declared that the “suspicion” was fake and the mayor’s assertion was false.

by the above mentioned material, I find it hypocritical that the mayor, a little over two years ago, referred to one of the oldest community newspapers in the district as garbage.

Still Printing...

I always find the end of year celebrations really uplifting - from the awards ceremonies to the graduations, the celebration of these young adults finishing their schooling has become a rite of passage.

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.

Similar to the debutante balls, the formals have become one of those markers of life, signifying the transition between childhood and adulthood.

There is certainly a big difference between seeing the students in their school uniforms a week or so before their formal and then seeing them all glammed up for their big night.

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?

Upon opening the meeting, our Mayor set about silencing the Council and disenfranchising the region by declaring his suspicion of a conflict compromising every member of the Council over an agenda item. Coupled to this suspicion was his ruling that the matter of his suspicion could not be debated nor could the members offer any matters in defence of his suspicion.

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.

On formal night they are all shining, looking every bit like the young adults they are, excited and in some cases a little nervous.

The movie star arrivals with the red carpet rolled out certainly added to the glamour, but let’s not forget what they have actually achieved. In my grandfather’s day, he left school at 13 years of age to go to work.

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?

At 17 or 18 many of these students have persevered with school even when they might have felt like giving up. They have stuck with it, achieved excellent results each in their own way, whether academic, sporting, socially or in other fields.

Congratulations to the class of 2022 and to your parents, caregivers and teachers who have supported you.

Wishing you every success for your future.

•

•

•

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.

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.

The mayor similarly asserted that four members of the council were compromised over another issue. Mysteriously on that occasion after a prolonged and indecent pause in proceedings the mayor apparently taking some proper advice back peddled on his assertion with no explanation and no apology.

Should this behaviour by the mayor become the standard procedure for determining every issue, where the mayor’s point of view seems threatened by his councillors, who were elected to do exactly what they were prevented from doing in this instance then democracy is dead.

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.

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.

Readers will recall an incident where the same mayor had a “suspicion” of a conflict effecting

Apart from the fact that that assertion is an insult to the members suggesting they have no strength of character to form their own opinion uninfluenced

Letters to the Editor

If the mayor believes for one minute he is being governed by legislation in determining his actions he should be demonstrating some leadership to have the rules changed as no-one can tolerate a situation where a body of

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.

Beaudesert Bulletin welcomes letters on topics of interest to our readers. Letters should be less than 250 words. Please include the writer’s name (for publication), address and telephone numbers. We reserve the right to edit all letters for space, style or grammar. Email letters to: news@beaudesertbulletin.com or post to Beaudesert Bulletin, Shop 2, 61-85 Brisbane St, Beaudesert QLD 4285. The views and comments expressed in Letters to the Editor are those of the writer and not necessarily those of this newspaper.

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.”

Letters to the Editor

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

governance is either ended inoperative or passes their decision making process to an appointed official.

The Mayor then engaged himself in a couple of shouting matches with his fellow councillors and threatened a member of the gallery with eviction by force. Fortunately that threat was challenged by one of his members and the challenge was upheld.

The Mayor’s track record over the past two years has been to create a situation where his casting vote can be used to determine an outcome favourable to his view.

The democratic process, the transparency of governance and accountability for action to the public at large was trashed on this day of shame and the most deplorable of leadership was laid out for public examination.

Leadership is about finding a pathway through conflict, hatred, ridicule and the destruction of personal reputation and character. The leadership displayed on this occasion was more about the perpetuation of division, power and dictatorship to the extent that I regard it as a national disgrace.

Geoff Sharp Former Councillor, Beaudesert Shire Council

The Minder

Life as we know it on Tamborine Mountain is about to change.

The Queensland State

Government has decided that SRRC needs an Advisor (Minder) to deal with the problems at Council meetings. That is, improper conduct complaints, conflicts of interest, meeting procedure (unnecessary points of order).

In fact, the Mayor’s toy box has been taken away from him.

Section117 of the government Act states that this section applies if (a) A local government is not performing its responsibilities properly; or

(b) A local government is not complying with laws applying to the local government; or

(c) It is otherwise in the public interest.

Our Div 1 Councillor, Derek Swanborough will be able to come out from under the proverbial table and assume his position as an elected, experienced and qualified, vocal member of the team. Amanda Hay can take her seat in the council Gallery again. (Bring on the popcorn.)

Tamborine Mt will again have a voice in Council.

The new CEO starts on the 28 November. Interestingly, a Government Advisor was also recently appointed to the Mt Isa Council. The same council from which our new CEO promptly resigned, prior to applying for the position at Scenic Rim....

The SRRC (us) will have to pay the salary and allowances, costs and expenses of said Adviser.

Julie Wilkinson Tamborine Mt

Reflections

Dear Editor,

I want to thank Pastor Josh Cocks for his ‘Reflection’ column last issue. So important when mental illness and suicide point straight at the message in Solomon’s words, whom he quotes, that life is meaningless without the hope and purpose that comes with God as our Creator.

Therapist and philosopher Carl Jung writes on pages 87 / 89 of his book “Man and His Symbols”.

Quote: “Because we cannot discover God’s throne in the sky with a Radio Telescope … we assume that such ideas are not “true”… Modern Man’ may assert that he can dispense with them… that there is no scientific evidence of their truth… What fails to be considered is that the denial is as impossible to ‘prove’ as the assertion of religious belief….”

“There is strong empirical reasons why we should cultivate thoughts that can never be proved…A sense of a wider meaning to one’s existence is what raises a person beyond mere getting and spending… Had St Paul been convinced that he was nothing more than a wandering tent maker he could not have been the man he was. The myth that took possession of him made

him something greater than a mere craftsman”. End of quote.

Barry Kenny

Ernie Ferguson

I thought I would tell you about Ernie Ferguson, following his photo being in your paper last week, in the article regarding Lahey’s sawmill.

Ernie married my Dad’s niece, Jessie Jurd. Dad and Ernie were great friends and for a time worked a farm for the Drynan family at Esk. Ernie ran the dairy and Dad did the cultivation and cattle work but they shared various responsibilities as the occasion arose.

Ernie could do anything any able-bodied person could, peg leg and all. He never looked for assistance and never expected any.

In the 1940s-50s prostheses were not as they are today and were made of wood and attached with leather strapping and were heavy.

Imagine having to use your hips to heave that heavy lump of wood to take a single step.

He rode a horse with his peg in a jam tin, somehow attached to the stirrup; he loaded hay with a hay fork and sheer strength –hay balers were yet to be invented; drove cars and trucks – no automatics those days etc.

His favourite thing to do, to frighten us kids, would be to take his “flash” leg off and stand it on the chair next to him. It was a total mystery to me.

The family returned to Beaudesert and Ernie gained employment at Blunks’ garage, not in the shop but mowing the grounds and generally keeping the place tidy.

It was the first time I saw a motorised lawn mower, a Victa.

He seemed to prefer his peg leg rather than the more “dressy” prostheses. Following his retirement from paid employment, he kept himself busy by mowing and keeping the garden at Saint Thomas Church in pristine condition, still with his peg leg.

Sheila Venz

Ernie Ferguson after loading the work truck

Luka Trantalis

Ellie Ferguson, Lilly Wilcox, Brooke Jeffrey and Hayley-Rose Hoskins

Stacey-Lee Collis and daughter Lily Collis

Hayley-Rose Hoskins and Hannah Wilson

Natt Quinlan and daughter Tahlia Quinlan

Kane Willis and Jayden Bartlett, who did the Welcome to Country at their year 12 graduation

What’s Going on at BSHS

Beaudesert State High Highlights for 2022

Despite a backdrop of challenges, the school year has continued to provide highlights and celebrations in numerous ways.

Seeing students taking pride in wearing the school uniform and noticing an improvement in the discipline demonstrates that we are on the right track as a community. We want to thank you as part of this community for being patient especially with the building works that seem to have gone on for so long. The new Professional Development hub will provide the students and community with an additional resource and we look forward to an official opening in early 2023.

2022 has been a year of implementing even more services and support for students that have included a full-time nurse on site as well as GP visits for students every Thursday. Parents have been fantastic in their support and feedback about how these two services have made their families lives a little easier.

The Academy Programs initiated at the beginning of the year are producing engaged students keen to come back in 2023! These Academy programs reinforce the programs that have been in place for many years including our Agriculture and Automotive departments which have been producing young people with skills and knowledge that other schools cannot provide.

Our staff are a team of dedicated professional people who have shown their worth in challenging times. With a focus on adapting and implementing a new approach to teaching, we are excited about how our students will be further engaged and inspired to achieve their personal best.

Supporting this work are resources that include school buses to provide better access into the community and cut costs for families. Making the Multi-Purpose Hall available for more community groups has been made possible with the addition of large fans and an appropriately large screen – we look forward to hosting more indoor sport, weddings and of course our school events.

We look forward to seeing the continuing growth of Beaudesert State High as the school that serves the community and produces students that are engaged and feel supported throughout their education and beyond.

Let’s all be Beaudesert State High proud!

Until next time ...

beaudesertshs.eq.edu.au

with Grant Stephensen

PRINCIPAL BSHS

Rene Butterworth and Charlie Payne

Ryan Rudd and Alliana Cranswick

Jayden Bartlett and Sofiya Bentley

Xxavier Nizic

Lilly Wilcox

Beau Bryer and Ryleigh Ulting

Brooke Jeffrey and Peter Riddle

Cole Phillips

Chloe Fielding

Hayden Holmes and Miller Hopwood

Makenzie Rae and Tanaya Cameron

Lexie Browne and Daemon Kvassay-Bell

Annalie Becerra and Huntah Cresswell

Lily Wink and Gabrielle Vaughan

Phoenix Mendelson, Riley Leith and Clayton Norris

Tyler Bowles and Briannan Murtaugh

Monique Hartney and Zane Benstead

Photos by Susie Cunningham

Wyatt Navie and Luka Trantalis

Diana Prygunoba and Hannah Wilson Willem Auguszczak

Aysha Noy and Troy Mihic

Mason Cornelius and Mia Banks

Amielle Flanagan and Warren Bulacan

Aaron Disley and Alaysha Hurd

Phoebe Thiele and Josiah Gordon

Jess Leary and Jack Ellis

Isaac Gonzalez and Kyle Morris

Sam Blyton and Kennedy Whittaker

Sophie Moriarty and Anna Brandon

Maddy Townsend and Sam Fairley

Chad Knickel and Lily Kennedy

Sam Higgins

Joel Mugridge.

Hailey Waring

Gabi Wilson and Caitlin Nettle

Charlie Love and Chloe Dimmick

Aurora Maddern and Alexis Martin

Jake Robinson and Annalise Heit

Abi Henry and Peter Riddle

Harry O’Reilly and Zak Mackay

Photos by Keer Moriarty

McAuley students educated in faith and action

By Keer Moriarty

This year saw the first Year 12 students graduate from McAuley College.

Many of the students were in the Year 7 cohort when the school opened, mirroring the school’s growth over the last six years.

2022 School Captains Charlie Love and Abi Henry thanked everyone who supported them through their schooling, from teachers and administration staff through to the grounds staff.

An emotional Charlie thanked the parents, especially his mum, Deb Love, for “ironing our uniforms for 13 years straight”.

“A good teacher is like a candle, they consume themselves to light the way for others,” said Charlie.

Abi particularly men-

tioned Mrs Ashleigh Beattie and Mrs Pamela Brechin who were Pastoral Leaders for their Year 11 and 12, in a time that has been interrupted by lockdowns, learning from home and pivoting according to health warnings from COVID.

“We have all been

through this chaotic journey together.”

“Writing this speech I realised it takes a village to raise a child”

“Although we are moving on from this journey in our lives it has educated us not only academically but also in faith and action,” said Abi.

Incoming College

Captains Grace Cahill and Jim McLure spoke how the Year 12 students have represented the core values of the College.

“You have shown us that being good today allows us to be better tomorrow,” said Jim.

The Senior cohort

started a tradition of giving a gift to the College of three large metal banners each with one word - believe, learn, serve.

McAuley College held an arrival parade at the school for the community, followed by the formal at Alsace Polo Grounds in Veresdale Scrub.

Staff and students of McAuley’s class of 2022 gather for the last time outside McAuley College.

Unique gifts from the Makers’ Market 2022

This Christmas don’t miss the opportunity to buy from the artists at the BADCAP (Beaudesert and District Community Arts Project) Makers’ Market held at the Stationmaster House.

Open from 3 to 23 December, this unique marketplace gives everyone a chance to support local artists and obtain unique handmade Christmas gifts.

LOCAL LOCAL

BADCAP artists’ works are diverse, from modern art through to more traditional pieces - you never know what you’ll find!

In addition to the wide range of local art for sale,

there will be a number of workshops running during this time.

These provide the opportunity for you to create your own Christmas gifts for friends and family, or create something special for yourself!

Workshops include:

• Play with Clay

T C his LOCAL hristmas SHOP SHOP

• Raku Firing

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• Wreath Making

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hristmas hristmas

The Makers’ Market is open from 10am to 3pm every day from 3 to 23 December.

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For enquiries contact Chris Grimmett on 0421 006 220 or call into Kalico Country Monday to Thursday.

The Makers’ Market is at the Stationmaster House from 3 December.

Do something for

By Keer Moriarty

When you’re planning your Christmas gift list this year, consider staying closer to home and shopping locally.

Christmas 2022 is the first time in two years that we’ve had freedom of movement, but that doesn’t mean you need to head to the city for beautiful gifts.

There are many local options, from art to fashion and homewares, through to a pamper package for someone special.

All of these things are available locally from businesses owned and run by local people.

Our Little Shop has a huge range of Christmas gifts, decorations as well as ladies’ and children’s fashion, homeware items and a range of gifts for everyone.

Owner Jacqui Stephan and her staff will be happy to help you select a gift and they will even wrap it for you!

Just down the road at

community this Christmas

The Desert Skin and Beauty, treat yourself or a friend to a gift voucher for a beauty treatment or some of the luxurious beauty products Kymberley Griffiths has in stock.

Choose from Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics, Intraceuticals skin care products and the Aspect skin care range for the perfect gift for anyone who wants to look after their skin.

When you buy a gift locally, you are giving back to your town, as well as to your loved ones - there’s simply no better gift to give!

Made to liven your mood, our Libby Dress is the prettiest little number for the summer.

Lightweight and a relaxed fit - perfect for those Summer days! The mandarin collar adds a little touch of glam to the overall look, and our favourite part….we added POCKETS!

Our Little Shop has beautiful ladies’ fashions.

T C his LOCAL hristmas

SHOP

Raymond Adolphus of Adolphus Bodyworks is passionate about helping Scenic Rim residents’ with muscle health. He is a partnership focused Remedial Therapist and Muscle Health Coach, practising Manual Medicine for Muscle Health.

With qualifications in Remedial Therapy, Yoga and Personal Training, and Myotherapy studies underway, he incorporates; Stretching, Cupping, Dry Needling, Exercise and Technology as required, basing everything on Western evidence based muscle health science.

SHOP

his LOCAL LOCAL

Raymond’s clients are mostly professionals, working parents and the health conscious.

If you or a loved one has pain, hypertonicity, dysfunction or just looking to improve muscle health, call Raymond on 0423 592 607.

T C C

Christmas cards

By Susie Cunningham

Local children and the Beaudesert RSL Sub Branch Women’s Auxiliary have brought a smile to elderly people throughout the region through the simple but kind gesture of a Christmas card.

The Auxiliary received a significant response from local schools to their sixth annual Christmas card project this year, delivering nearly 2000 Christmas cards for school children to write in.

Joanne Heit from the Auxiliary said the project had grown from strength to strength.

“Originally the students

from grades three to six would write cards to soldiers who were serving overseas and unable to be home for Christmas with family,” she said.

“As nearly all of these soldiers are now based in Australia and with Covid happening we switched last year to get the children to write a card for an elderly person.

“Due to Covid, there were many restrictions which caused heartache for many families when they could not visit their loved ones in the festive season.

“We heard from many of these elderly that received cards last year that it was the highlight for them, especially those

Raymond Adolphus

that no longer have any remaining family.

“Some were brought to tears when they spoke to us of the joy they felt that children would take the time to do this out of respect for our older citizens.”

She thanked everyone involved in the project for their efforts.

LOCAL

“This year the response from the schools was enormous, with some schools having children from prep through to year six participating.,” she said.

“We really need to thank these schools for participating, the teachers for all their assistance and the children for their time and precious words, which go

on to mean so much to so many people.

his his

hristmas hristmas

“These cards will be distributed to local nursing homes and also to the organisations who look after the elderly in their own homes.

“If you wish to assist with this project, we are always looking for card donations towards this as this year we delivered almost 2000 cards to schools. We take this time to say a massive thank you and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”

Halle and Ryan Johnston with some of the cards.

Christmas Lunch Menu Entree

Cold Platter

Hot Platter

Sides

What’s On @ SCENIC RIM LIBRARIES

DIGITAL DAYS

Tech help sessions. Bookings are required, contact the library for more information.

Beaudesert: Mondays

Boonah: Wednesdays

Canungra: Mondays

Tamborine Mountain: Thursdays

STORYTIME

Sessions are available at each library! Bookings are essential as space and number limits apply.

Beaudesert

Storytime on the deck

Baby Rhyme Time Tuesday 9.30am

Story Time Wednesday 9.30am

Boonah

Monday 10am Friday 10am

Tamborine Mountain

Storytime, 2-5year olds, Monday 9.15am

Baby Rhyme Time, 0-2 year olds, Friday 9.15am

Outreach - Storytime in the park - 9.30am

Beechmont Wednesday 1 December

Beaudesert Unyah Jarjun Mununjali, Tuesday 6 Dec

Beaudesert Thursday 8 December

Rathdowney Wednesday 7 December

Canungra Wednesday 14 December

Kalbar Thursday 15 December

BoOkcluBS

Beaudesert Library

Youth Book Club - Last Tuesday of month, 4pm

Beaudesert Book Club - Last Thursday of month, 10am

Boonah Library

Cover To Cover - Last Tuesday of the month, 2pm

Book Lovers - Last Tuesday of the month, 3:30pm

U3A - First Wednesday of the month at The Boonah Community Centre, 4pm

Boonah Book Club - First Thursday of the month at Sandie Lee’s Coffee Shop, 12pm

Canungra Library

Canungra Book Club - First & third Fri of month, 10am

Tamborine Mountain Library

Wednesday Edition - Third Wed of month, 2pm

Gilt Edges Book Club - Last Wed of month, 9:30am

Last Thursday Book Club - Last Thu of month, 2pm

Mobile Library

Kooralbyn Book Club - First Wed of month, 1pm

Planning For Growth

The recently released 2021 Census data confirmed what many of us already know - the Scenic Rim Region is becoming an increasingly popular place to live.

The official population at 30 June 2021 was 43,595.

Significantly, the Queensland Government Statisticians Office projects the population for the region will grow to over 67,000 by 2041.

A Growth Management Strategy (GMS) has been undertaken to ensure that sufficient land is available to provide for 11,000 new residential dwellings as well

as commercial land for over 7,600 new jobs.

Following the last two years of planning, research, consultation and document development, the GMS was endorsed by Council in November.

While many locations across the region will play varying roles in providing for this growth, the Beaudesert area, as the principal rural activity centre, is anticipated to provide the vast majority estimated to be over 62% of the increased total dwelling numbers.

The GMS provides a strong basis for further planning for such considerations as com-

munity facilities and infrastructure, and opportunities for greater diversity in housing, in a way that reflects our region’s current and future needs. For more information www.scenicrim. qld.gov.au

Beaudesert Town Centre Revitalisation

It’s exciting to watch the progress being made in the Davidson Park precinct, including critical drainage upgrades and additional car and RV parking, as Stage 1

starts to take shape.

This area will become such a wonderful community space for residents to enjoy and an attraction for visitors to explore.

Shop Scenic Rim

Council recently launched ‘Shop Scenic Rim’ Gift Cards. This is a great way to support local businesses by encouraging spending locally and a fantastic idea for Christmas gifts!

They work just like a normal EFTPOS debit card and can only be spent at participating

CONTACT ME

Scenic Rim businesses. For more information www.scenicrim.qld.gov. au/shopscenicrim

Christmas Spirit

Christmas is fast approaching and Beaudesert’s Christmas Spirit Elves have been busy!

Thank you to this wonderful group of volunteers who have been decorating our town for the last seven years adding so much colour and excitement.

May I extend my best wishes to all for a safe and joyous Christmas.

If you would like to discuss something, please don’t hesitate to contact me by phoning 5540 5404 or 0409 316571 or email michael.e@scenicrim.qld.gov.au

COUNCIL WATCH

WITH AMANDA HAY

Email: frangipani1956@msn.com

The following are my views, not those of the Editor. Any threats of legal action can be directed to me.

What a difference a week makes in local government.

First we had a repeat performance on 22 November 2022 of the farce that was the “Council meeting” of 8 November 2022.

Perhaps that meeting was the straw that broke the camel’s back as the Director-General of the DSDILGP (Government Department which oversees local government in Queensland) took the extraordinary step of announcing on 23 November that an Advisor was to be appointed to SRRC.

This is a rare occurrence – think Ipswich City Council in 2020 when its period under administration ended, and Mt Isa Council which had an Advisor appointed on 22 October 2022, apparently because the Councillors could not play nicely together. Sound familiar?

This action was taken under s117 of the Local Government Act 2009 which cites the following triggers: a council is not performing its responsibilities properly or is not complying with laws applying to local govt or is otherwise in the public

interest ... or perhaps all three.

Brickbat

“Reasonable suspicion” and “conflict of interest” in the same sentence in a council meeting to eliminate certain Councillors from a vote.

I have a “reasonable suspicion” that this may have contributed to the appointment of an Advisor.

The words “egregiously offensive” and “clarity” should be banned from council meetings.

Brickbat

Mayor’s attempt to have me ejected from the Council meeting of 8 November for simply clapping one of the few intelligent comments made.

A night in the Beaudesert lock-up might actually be on a par with enduring another farcical Council meeting, prior to the commencement of the Advisor.

Brickbat

Appeal 2001 of 2021 –SDA Property Nominees P/L -v- SRRC. “Disability tourist cabins” Tamborine Mtn. Following the decision of 6 October 2022 in favour of the Appellant (developer), on 24 October 2022 both SRRC and the Appellant sought an Order re their costs applications against myself and the TMPA Inc.

To be heard on 2 December 2022, so I should know if I am to lose my house before Christmas.

Is it too early to announce that I intend to run for Council at the next election? Might run for Division 3 or 4.

Development Applications

MCU22/116 – 30 Oakland Way, Beaudesert. McAuley College seeking to expand existing educational establishment by developing Stage 3A of

the Schools Master Plan.

RAL21/054 – Subdivision, 8-16 Brisbane St, Beaudesert. 1 lot into 5. Multiple applications for dual occupancy across the Scenic Rim.

Court Cases

Supreme Court –13762/19 Scenic Rim

Developments Pty Ltd -vSRRC. Multi-million $ claim for damages. Back in court 02 Feb 2023. The outcome of this matter could have very significant implications for council and ratepayers if successful. Expect ducking and weaving.

District Court – 518/21 – SRRC -v- Qld Heritage Council. Beaudesert Pig and Calf Saleyards. Sadly, the decision handed down on 28 Oct 2022 found for the SRRC, but at what cost to ratepayers? Big yellow taxi…put up a parking lot.

What’s On? GUIDE

Christmas Lights Extravaganza until 26 December

Christmas cheer will abound when the Elysium Village Christmas Lights Extravaganza returns until 24 December.

The village will be lit up nightly from 6.30pm till 9.30pm and there are special entertainment nights every weekend with catering by Beaudesert Rotary Club.

The lights will be on every night and gold coin donations will be taken at the gate.

Beaudesert Christmas Carols - 2 December

The Beaudesert Carols in the Park will be back on Friday, 2 December at Jubilee Park. The event starts with Christmas markets from 4.30pm, then the carols will go from 5.30pm to 8pm.

Local vocalist and performance teacher Bec Teese will lead the singing of the carols.

For more information, follow the Beaudesert Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

Makers’ Market - 3 to 23 December

Buy direct from local artists at the BADCAP (Beaudesert and District Community Arts

Project) Makers’ Market at Stationmaster House from 10am to 3pm, 3 to 23 December.

There will also be workshops including Play and Clay, Wreath Making and Raku Firing to make your own Christmas gifts.

First 5 Forever -

6 December

First 5 Forever Rhyme Time at Beaudesert Library is a fun interactive session of songs, rhymes, books and movement to foster your child’s love of language. Suitable for parents/caregivers with children under three, it runs from 9.30am to 10am on 6, 13 and 20 December.

Small Business Hub with DESBT -

8 December

Meet the DESBT Officers from the South East Region to discuss grants, business development programs and other opportunities on Thursday 8 December from 10am to 2pm at Beaudesert Library, 58 Brisbane St, Beaudesert.

Scenic Rim Summer Splash - 9 December

Finish off the school year with an afternoon of free family fun at the pool!

Bring your friends on Friday 9 December from 3.30pm to 5.30pm at Beaudesert Swimming Pool, Brisbane Street, Beaudesert. No bookings required.

For further information phone 07 5540 5111.

Adult Craft Workshop - 12 December

Learn how to make beautiful handmade Christmas decorations with this fun, hands on workshop at Beaudesert Library. Workshop runs from 10am to 12noon on Monday 12 December. All materials provided.

Kooralbyn Christmas - 17 December

Enjoy a free night of Christmas entertainment at Kooralbyn Community Centre Hall,

Ogilvie Place, Kooralbyn on Saturday 17 December from 7pm to 8:30pm.

Local talented artists presenting your favorite Christmas carols and songs, sponsored by Kooralbyn RSL Sub Branch and Kooralbyn Community Hall.

For more information phone 0438 329 153.

Kids’ Flicks9 January

Vivo (PG) at The Centre, Beaudesert on Monday 9 January 2023 at 10am.

Tickets for Kids’ Flicks are only $5 for adults or children; and drinks and snacks are included.

Other dates and times: Wednesday 11, Monday 16 January at 1pm. Wednesday 18 January at 10.

Santa hunt is on

By Susie Cunningham

Dozens of little crocheted Santa Clauses are hiding in shops throughout Beaudesert just waiting for festive children and families to come find them.

The Beaudesert’s Christmas Spirit Committee Santa Hunt is on from 1-21 December, with prizes on offer across the 1-6, 7-12, 13-17 and family age groups.

Vicki McAteer from the committee encouraged locals to get involved.

“What the kids need to do is with their parents go into each shop that’s nominated on the sheet and find the secret Santa, and when they get their sheet filled there’s a red box in front of the town Christmas tree at Central Place, and they just need to put it in there with their name and phone number and tick their age group,” she said.

“On the 21st we pick the winners and deliver the prizes for every age group.”

It comes as volunteers have yarnbombed trees, park benches and poles throughout Beaudesert town centre for the festive season.

Yarnbombers have been meeting in Jubilee Park since 4 January to make repairs to existing yarnbombing pieces and work on new creations.

Vicki said the Santa Hunt and yarnbombing were about bringing the community together.

“Keep your eye out because we try to put some of the new pieces in with the old pieces to keep things interesting,” she said.

“It helps the town come alive - it’s quite amazing when we’re putting pieces up to see a lot of people who were strangers come and speak to you and say, ‘What a wonderful thing. How do we get involved? We want to be part of the community’.

“It’s about the community joining together to make something positive.”

Sheets for the Santa Hunt listing each participating business where the crocheted Santas are hidden are available at Mitre 10 and other local outlets.

To stay up to date, follow Beaudesert’s Christmas Spirit on Facebook.

People

by SUSIE CUNNINGHAM

Fritz is nine years old now and he’s been part of the family since he was eight weeks old.

Here’s what Marlene has to say about Fritz:

“Fritz travelled Australia in a motorhome with us for five years and he loved it,” she said.

“We were travelling, and my husband got sick, and we ended up here at Elysium Village. Fritz goes over and visits Errol at Wongaburra where he is now - he loves to go and see daddy.

“I think Fritz has got the best personality and he’s a great listener. He’s just great company for me and he loves living in the village because there’s lots of other dogs and he loves happy hour. He’s a very social dog and I think travelling Australia made him that way.”

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

about a great People and their Pets

Marlene Beavis received Fritz the pure miniature dachshund as a surprise birthday present from her husband Errol and they’ve been inseparable ever since.

Vicki McAteer (centre) from Beaudesert’s Christmas Spirit Committee delivers santa to Ken Wright and Trish Ryan from Wright’s Jewellers.

Thirty hands

By Ailsa Rolley

Six sons and nine daughters. That should be enough hands to work a share farm.

Lapped by the backwaters of Wyaralong Dam on the road from Beaudesert to Boonah is a silo. In the distance are remnants of a farm house, dairy and piggery. It is the old ‘Spring Farm’, home of Albert and Karvolinne Venz and their sons and daughters from 1923 to 1937 when they share dairied for Colin Philp.

The scene lies forgotten beside the modern changes to the dam: peaceful in one direction, but cars and trucks speed past on the busy highway behind as yesteryear intersects with today.

The Venz family were hard workers, labouring seven days a week from daylight till evening and the girls did not escape the hard work. The Sabbath was observed however, with only essential jobs done that day, like feeding the pigs and milking the cows, morning and evening.

Milking was done by hand into a bucket, with the skimmed off cream going to the butter

factory, and the remainder fed to the pigs. When bulk milk collection came to the district in the 1960s the cream and the pig milk mixed together which left no milk for the pigs. Small farm piggeries closed one by one. Today, it is humans who drink the skinny milk!

Corn was handpicked and horses were used for ploughing, planting and cutting the hay with horse-drawn mowers. The silo was only used once because the grain fermented that first year, but it now stands as an arrow pointing to the spot where the Venz family spent fourteen years of their lives.

Karvolinne Nielsen and Albert Gustav Venz were married in 1905. Upon leaving ‘Spring Farm’ the Venzs worked for a time at Nindooinbah dairy. Karvolinne died in 1954 and Albert in 1966. They are buried at the Beaudesert Cemetery in a peaceful spot on the hill. The headstone is inscribed with the words from that faith-stirring hymn, ‘Yes, we’ll gather at the river.’ (Information and photo courtesy Lawrence (Laurie) Sims.

Venz sons with father Albert, sons Harold, Cecil, Alex, Arnold, Ronald and Ossie. Photo: Laurie Sims.

OWN

O’Sullivan

TULLAMORE FARM

My first experience with fresh lychees was when we first visited North Queensland back in 1979.

In my younger years I had previously had lychees and ice-cream at the local Chinese restaurant.

Fresh lychees are very different to the experience of something loaded with syrupy sugar from a tin with a dollop of ice-

the surface. It also reduces the amount of competition for nutrients when the trees are small.

One of the most difficult things for lychee trees is that they don’t like wind and anything above 25 kilometres per hour is likely to damage young leaves.

We have four here and two are relatively sheltered and they seem to

with Bill

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: tullamorefarm.com.au

Carmel Ryan

Jagger Gilmore

Maylea Penny

Alfie Hughes

Photos by Susie Cunningham

The management of Elysium Village Over 50s Village in Beaudesert invite you to their 2022 “Christmas Light Extravaganza” recognised over previous years to be the biggest and best ever staged in an Over 50s Lifestyle Village in Queensland

All are welcome to stroll through this boutique quaint village and enjoy a wonderland of Christmas lights gayly adorning some 65 homes, along with displays of nativity and reindeers, keeping the Christmas family tradition alive.

The official opening will be Tuesday the 29th of November with many invited dignitaries officiating including entertainment commencing from 6:30pm until 9:30pm Local choir and guest singers, have been invited to perform

The Elysium Santa, will arrive around 7pm to hand out Christmas Gifts for every child from his Secret Santa Sack

There will be special live entertainment nights on the weekends and catering will be supplied by Beaudesert Rotary Club There will also be a host of other festivities, eateries and activities will available to enjoy

Elysium Village Christmas Lights Extravaganza will be open to the public from Tuesday 29th of November and will continue up until the 24th of December 2022 The Village is situated at 339 Brisbane Street (Mt Lindesay Hwy) Beaudesert There is ample FREE OFF STREET PARKING A gold coin dontation toward the purchase of more Christmas Lights would be greatly appreciated on

FUNERAL NOTICE

Love, Graham Colin

Graham passed away peacefully on 23/11/2022 aged 73 years.

Loving husband of Helen. Awesome Dad of Andrew & Natalie, Ainsley & Alexa. Adored Pa of Charlotte, Archer and Alasdair.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Graham’s life at his memorial service to be held at Beaudesert Seventh-day Adventist Church, 45 Anna St, Beaudesert on Thursday 8/12/2022 commencing at 10.30am.

TENDERS

Moriarty Park Community Sporting Group

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

Email: moriartyparkhall@gmail.com for documentation

Canungra Show Society

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 December 2022

Email: canungrashowsociety@gmail.com for documentation

Community Noticeboard

REGULAR MEETINGS

Beaudesert & District Restored Auto Club: Meeting second Monday each month at 8pm at the CWA Hall in Beaudesert (except January).

Beaudesert Branch QCWA: Meets Monday 9-12 for sewing and Thursday 9-12 for handcrafts. Second Thursday of month is meeting day. Contact President Bev Fehlberg on 0427 698 519 or Vice President Linda Lynch on 0407 193 752.

Beaudesert Camera Club: Meet fourth Tuesday of the month - Beaudesert Community Arts & Information Centre, 7pm. Cost $2 for non-club members. Enquiries 0410 688 012 (after 6pm).

Beaudesert Cake Decorators: Third Saturday each month at the Station Masters House, 100 Brisbane St. Email beaudesertcakedecorators@mail.com.

Beaudesert Districts Orchid and Foliage Society Inc Meeting: Third Wednesday each month 7pm at Canungra School of Arts Hall, 3-7 Pine Street, Canungra. www.bdofs.com.

Beaudesert Girl Guides: Every Friday during school term 5.30pm till 7.30pm, 5-7 Jane Street for girls 5-17 years. Facebook @Beaudesert Girl Guides or contact Group Leader on 0402 451 317.

Beaudesert Quilters: Wednesdays from 9am to 3pm. Call Robyn on 0439 721 325 or Chris on 0401 037 595.

Beaudesert RSL Sub-Branch Social Golf Club: Plays 18 holes of Golf on the second Monday of each month. Phone Noela 0412 273 885 or Janice 0409 000 767.

Beaudesert Scouts: The Den corner Eaglesfield and Hart Streets, Beaudesert Tuesday evenings 6 - 7.30pm. Joeys 5-7yr, Cubs 8-10yr, Scouts 11-14yr, Venturers 15-17yr and Rover Scouts 18-25yr.

Beaudesert University of the Third Age (U3A): U3A’s line dancing group meets 12.45 pm Tuesdays in The Centre, Brisbane St. Contact Marg 0422 415 145.

Historical Society of Beaudesert: Third Friday of every month at 2.30pm. Phone The Museum 5541 3740.

Kooralbyn - Bingo: Every Friday night, 6.30pm at Unit 4/13-31 Etruscan Drive. Cost $15 for 10 games. Contact Charlie 0400 513 635 or Lynn 0400 610 055.

National Seniors Australia Beaudesert Branch: Meet third Wednesday each month at Beaudesert Golf Club from 9am to 11.30am. Cost $10.00 includes morning tea. Contact Rosemary on 0409 265 472.

NASHOs: NSAA Beaudesert & District Branch meet 1st Monday each month. Odd months 10am morning tea, meeting, 2 course lunch $25. Even months 10am morning tea, BBQ lunch. All NASHOs and partners welcome. Contact: Peter 0408 221 512 or Brian 0413 897 608.

Pickleball: Pickleball at Beaudesert State High School Tuesday 5.30pm8pm. Contact beaudesertpickleball@ gmail.com.

Probus Club Beaudesert: Meet first Wednesday each Month at The Club (RSL) from 10am. Enquiries to Secretary Lyn 0439 733 026.

Rotary Club of Beaudesert: Meet Monday 6pm for 6.30pm at the Stationmaster House, 100 Brisbane St. Email beaurotary@outlook.com.

Rotary Satellite Club of Jimboomba-Sunrise: Meeting at Beaudesert Bowls Club every Wednesday at 7am. Phone Jeff 0427 870 061.

Senior Citizens Club: Every second Tuesday 9-1pm at Beaudesert Golf Club, entry is $12. Morning tea, lunch, lucky door ticket, music, indoor bowls and cards. Contact Lyn Kenny 0449 117 704 or Sylvia Hickey 5541 0869.

FOOD BANKS

Harvest Point Church: Food parcels available at Harvest Point Church, Walker Road, Gleneagle Tuesday 11am - 2pm.

Tracey’s Pantry: At Beaudesert Uniting Church. Fridays 1pm - 3pm. Phone: 0407 021 424.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE

JPs in the Community: JP signing services are available at the Qld Government Centre, 1 Telemon St Beaudesert, to witness your documents. Monday and Friday from 9.30am to 3.30pm and Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday from 9.30am to 12.30pm. The service is free and is operated by JP volunteers in the Beaudesert area.

JPs at the Library: Saturday morning

9.30am -11.30am at Beaudesert Public Library.

MARKETS

Beaudesert Markets: First Saturday of each month. Dick Westerman Park, Beaudesert (next to Wongaburra). Contact Jenny Young on 5544 8200.

Kooralbyn Valley Markets: Second Sunday of each month from 8am - 1pm opposite Billabong Village Shops. Stalls $5, phone Lyn 0400 610 055.

Jimboomba Country Markets: Third Saturday each month 7am - 12pm. Honora Street, Jimboomba. See Facebook page for details or phone 0488 793 799.

Tamborine Village Lions Markets: 1st Sunday of the month (except January) at Tamborine Memorial Hall Park Grounds, 7am to 12 noon. Stall site $15. Ph: 0487 770 114, email tamborinevillagemarkets@live.com.au.

Rathdowney Country Markets: Held on the third Sunday of each month from 7-12 (Oct-April) and 8am - 1pm (MaySept). Contact 0407 827 312.

Riley Dent gives Beaudesert Tennis the thumbs up!

Green Ball Singles Finalists - Hector Horne and Annalese Ward.

Beaudesert Tennis Juniors. Image supplied.

18 and Under Doubles WinnersStella Ahrens and Koa Payne.

18 and Under Doubles Runners-up Hayden Griffin and Typhoon le Garde.

Players showcase their skills

By Keer Moriarty with

Local tennis players took the opportunity to hone their tennis skills at the annual Grade Tournament over the weekend of 11 - 13 November.

Run by Beaudesert and District Tennis Association, the members only event is a fun, friendly event with a competitive edge.

Both juniors and seniors took part in the event, with several juniors playing very competitively in both divisions.

Twelve year old Hayden Griffin won the 18 Yrs/U Yellow Ball –Boys’ Singles and was runner up with Typhoon LeGarde in the 18 Yrs/U Yellow Ball - Doubles.

Playing in the Seniors division he won the Men’s Doubles, playing

Another junior to successfully compete in the Seniors division was fifteen year old Stella Ahrens.

Stella was part of the Mixed Doubles runner-up combination with Gary Ahern.

She was also Pennant Grade - Ladies’ Singles runner up behind Ebony Panoho; runner up with Lisa Quast in the Ladies’ Doubles and runner up with Jason Taylor in the Mixed Doubles.

Stella then went on to play her Junior matches, winning the 18 Yrs/U Yellow Ball – Girls’ Singles and 18 Yrs/U Yellow Ball - Doubles with Koa Payne.

Pennant and Reserve Grade events ran across Friday night and Saturday afternoon/evening.

The Junior events (Or-

Pennant Men’s Doubles Finalists - Crellen Pitkin and Jason Taylor, Hayden Griffin and Nick Thorpe. Image supplied.

ange Ball, Green Ball, 18/U Yellow Ball) were held on Sunday 13th November.

Beaudesert and District Tennis Association’s, Lauren Griffin said the

Tournament was a wonderful opportunity for the members of the Beaudesert Tennis community to showcase their tennis skills and abilities.

The Special Yellow

Ball Singles winners and Pennant and Reserve Grade winners (Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles) will be named on the Clubhouse’s Honours Boards.

Nick Thorpe.

Coleman lands dream role

By Susie Cunningham

Jude Coleman was the only girl in the whole competition when she played for the Kerry Under 10s cricket team.

She was eight years old, and there were no other girls playing cricket, let alone forming a girls’ team.

But she got into it by playing backyard cricket with her older cousins, growing up on the family dairy farm at Cainbable Creek.

Fast forward to today and Coleman, now 41, has landed her dream role as a head coach in the Women’s National Cricket League (WNCL).

Coleman starts as head coach of the Hobart Hurricanes and Tasmania Tigers on 6 December.

Her achievement is the pride of her family back home, with her proud big sister Jayne Heit tipping the Beaudesert Bulletin off for a story.

When the Bulletin caught up with Coleman, she was leading the Adelaide Strikers to victory in the Women’s Big Bash League season in Sydney.

As assistant coach of the Strikers and South

Australian Scorpions since 2019, Coleman has seen strong performances from her teams.

They’ve made three out of the four Big Bash finals since she’s been down there, winning the final this year, and last year they made the WNCL final.

“When I first started, we were finishing dead last,” she said.

“In my time down

there, we’ve had four players within the Australian setup - that’s pretty impressive for a South Australian group where the population is quite small.”

Coleman was also assistant coach of the Australian Women’s team that won a historic Commonwealth Games gold medal in Birmingham in August.

For three seasons be-

fore South Australia, she worked at Queensland Cricket in pathways as a coach, talent specialist and female pathway manager.

She played for Queensland for 10 years, juggling training and playing with working full-time as a PE teacher, sports coordinator and year coordinator at Beaudesert High.

She was also an Indoor

Cricket World Cup-winning captain for Australia.

Reflecting on her path from Kerry to Tasmania, Coleman said things had come a long way.

“There’s so many opportunities available for women now - playing but also sports admin, coaching, media - it’s a pretty exciting time now to be a young girl interested in sport,” she said.

Jude Coleman. Image supplied.

O’DONNELL REPRESENTS

By Susie Cunningham

Keegan O’Donnell comes from a cricket-mad family, so it makes sense that he is rising through the ranks of representative cricket.

O’Donnell, 20, was opening batsman for the South Queensland Cricket Conference under 21s, which was the ultimate winner at the 12-13 November Schaefer Shield in Ipswich.

A few weeks prior, he was batsman of the championship in the Dennis O’Dea Shield, which was a selection competition for the Shaefer Shield.

The local apprentice boilermaker has been playing cricket since he was about 10.

He is Vice President of Beaudesert Cricket Club (his dad Peter O’Donnell is President), he captains the senior side, and his little brother Declan also plays representative cricket.

Aside from a stint at Ipswich playing representative cricket, he has always played for Beaudesert, and he trains at Selwyn Park Thursday nights.

The Schaefer Shield was O’Donnell’s first time playing at the South Queensland level, a step up from the South East Queensland comp he’s played before.

O’Donnell said the Schaefer Shield win was significant.

“I think it was the first time in 21 years or something the under 21s won overall,” he said.

“It was a tough competition and some good players out there.”

O’Donnell said cricket had always been a big part of his life.

“We’re cricket-mad, my family - we live and breathe it,” he said.

“I play with a great group of fellas and, being a little club, everyone knows each other.

He attributed his success in the sport to the support of those around him.

“I’d like to thank my parents Angela and Peter (dad has coached me for most of my life), everyone I play with and longtime supporter Miranda Sellens, who has come to pretty much every game,” he said.

“Work’s really good - my bosses love their

sport and love their cricket so they’re happy to see me go ahead with it.”

Now O’Donnell has his eye on hopefully making the Open South Queensland side in 2023.

“It’s a pathway to Queensland cricketwhoever makes that Queensland Country team they fly to wherever and they verse all the other states - that’d be a tough comp,” he said.

Beaudesert Pickleball

Above: Keegan O’Donnell, second row, third from right. Image supplied. Below right: Keegan O’Donnell in action. Image supplied.

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