Gotta Love Logan E-news 2nd Edition

Gotta Love Logan eNews

June 2015 GRIFFITH FAMILY FUN RUN 2015

IN THIS EDITION

Features Green Thumbs up for Leaf Diversity Dance Company The Ultimate Bike Experience State Emegency Service YFS Celebrates 30 Years in Logan Inspiring a Healthy Change

Monthly Community Snapshots Logan’s Heroes Logan Look Back Nic’s Garden Snips Events and Fundraisers

Go Duckling’s Family Tips

WELCOME!

Welcome to our second edition of the Gotta Love Logan e-Newsletter! We are so excited about our community based eNewsletter which is written by the community, about the community for the community! How good is that? If you have an idea for a story, please let us know!

We are a great City! Remembering our past and being proud of our future. Stay strong and stand up for Logan City - all 64 suburbs of us!

Kathleen de Leon: Founder Gotta Love Logan

Gotta Love Logan is a community campaign to remind Logan City of our proud beginnings and to strengthen our community so we, as a community, can be strong enough to push back against the negativity and to abolish the misconceptions others have about our beautiful city.

KEEP UPDATED

Gotta Love Logan is reminding Logan City of our very proud beginnings by showcasing our colourful history through images and sharing stories by social media.

We are bringing people together with one voice to stand up for Logan City.

Gotta Love Logan believe that if you don't say “no" to the negativity, then it won’t stop as it just sends a message of acceptance.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Our People, Our Community

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GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Green Thumbs up for LEAF

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“It’s a fun day, being with likeminded people who are excited about caring for the local community and the environment” -Volunteers Lauren and Ashleigh

By Laurie Koranski

Logan Eco Action Festival FAMILY, friends and neighbours flooded into Griffith University at Meadowbrook to take part in the Logan Eco Action Festival (LEAF) on Sunday 31 May. The campus transformed into a hive of eco activity with dance troupes, live bands, wildlife presentations, interactive displays, face painting, games, recycling and composting workshops rolling out across the day.

"Logan City Council have done a lot of workshops for us to learn how to look after our land better so we can give something back to the environment".

- Frans & Merryl Vanderloos

“I like animals and I feel like I am doing something positive for wildlife. I have been toevery Leaf festival. I enjoy the excitement and meeting people” Deiter Lacko

“Refill” instead of “landfill” was this year’s catch cry with visitors encouraged to bring their own drink bottles to replenish throughout the day at conveniently located water stations across the campus.

“The Leaf festival provides opportunity to engage with the community and Council officers on environmental and sustainability projects” said VETO President, Mr Paul Casbolt “I’m particularly inspired by the fantastic home grown projects emerging out of Logan, like recycling parts to produce reconditioned lap tops, electric bikes and 3D printers”

“I like the ecofriendly trees, all the fruit and food tasting” – Peace Obi

“Leaf is fantastic and there are so many people here. I love the food, I’ve visited three of the food stalls today” – Peter Hancock

“These local initiatives are providing unemployed youth with opportunities to be involved in meaningful projects, adding value to our community and creating skills” he said.

LEAF is a free annual Logan City Council event aimed at fostering positive environmental action and awareness across the community. .

What you said: Laurie Koranski ventured out amongst the visitors of the festival and asked what they thought of LEAF.

"Leaf is a good initiative of Council, you meet a lot of Logan people with like minds who are keen to live sustainably " – Paul Casbot

LOGAN ECO ACTION FESTIVAL Over 6000 people attended this wonderful event 2015. LEAF is totally Logan with a village-style atmosphere, and a great Logan vibe

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Community Snapshots Berrinba Parkrun turns 1!

Gotta Love Logan attended the Berrinba parkrun 1st birthday celebrations… and what a day! The theme for the day was “Sports” so all the participants’ costumes were amazing!

Of course, there was cake to celebrate. To get involved in any of our great parkruns in Logan visit: http://www.parkrun.com.au

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It’s gone to the dogs!

By Kathleen de Leon

I am lucky enough to be included in a group of dog lovers who regularly meet at the Crestmead dog park to socialize our dogs and ourselves! This year we organized to attend the Paws Walk at Tamborine Mountain as a group, where we proudly wore our Crestmead Puppies t-shirts. As you can see, we had an awesome day out

Logan Chamber of Commerce Bill Richards and Barry Lane welcomed Gotta Love Logan at their Wednesday morning breakfast. As usual, I was a very nervous speaker, but Bill and Barry certainly made speaking easier. I enjoyed talking to Logan Business about Gotta Love Logan. We gave away stickers to display on their shop fronts or vehicles, so keep your eyes open for those!

Griffith Family Fun Run Day

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Radio 101FM Terry invited me back onto the radio for a catch up. It is a great way to spread the Gotta Love Logan message… and have a bit of fun!

Griffith Family Fun Run. Keep an eye out for 2016 for the next one. Great family day.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Jimboomba

By David Kenny

CCTV coming to Jimboomba Ten CCTV cameras will be installed across the Jimboomba region mostly in Divisional 11, which is represented by Councillor Trevina Schwarz.

Installing the cameras follows a long campaign by the Logan Country Safe City Group, which led to a Federal Government funding pledge by MP Scott Buchholz, as part of his election campaign.

Councillor Trevina Schwarz said the cameras were a win for the community and she was confident the locations chosen were the correct ones.

“Safety Cameras are a cost effective way of ensuring public safety in high traffic areas as well as monitoring anti-social behavior.”

The Cameras will be monitored 24/7 through the council’s live monitoring room and will be available to portable devices such as IPads.

In a recent Jimboomba Times editorial the editor endorsed these cameras and locations and gave credit to the community and all groups involved in the Logan County Safe City Group.

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Waterford West

By Rebecca Pullen

Major weather events can also attract keen photographers. Some people love taking photos of the storm clouds rolling in and then the magnificent lightning bolts during severe storms. During floods, people can be seen taking photos of the flood waters at Logan Reserve Road and Beutel Street. However, if there are police directions, do not ignore them.

Perfect Photo Locations Everyone loves taking a photo. A sunset, family celebration, a happy snap of the kids playing. Even taking photos of clouds, cars, trees, flowers, buildings, our local Logan events and our wonderful furry and fluffy pets can bring a memorable shot..

There is always a photo opportunity waiting to happen and everyone has a preference of what to snap. In today’s modern age, it’s easy to take one. A smartphone has a camera. A tablet has a camera. You can buy digital cameras relativity cheap .Some people would remember how cool it was to have instant photos. Yes, even the retro Polaroid camera has made a comeback. But where exactly are the best locations to take a photo in our wonderful suburb?

We are surrounded by local parks. There is Carnation Park located on Carnation Street, which has two playgrounds, exercise equipment and plenty of trees. It’s perfect to take the ideal family photo. If you are a bird watcher and photographer, you may see the occasional kookaburra, rosella or cockatiel flying around. Lancaster Park at Chambers Flat Road, also known as the rose garden, is perfect for a wedding photo. Tygum Park located at Tygum Road is ideal for that beautiful sunrise or sunset photo taken over the lake or the model boats on the lake. It’s an awesome spot to catch a family relaxing and having fun. It is also popular for local photographers..

Other top spots include Berrinba Wetlands at Browns Plains, numerous locations at Crestmead , Underwood Park at Underwood, Daisy Hill Koala Centre, Logan River Parklands at Beenleigh and Chung Tian Temple at Priestdale . And don’t forget to check out Gotta Love Logan on Facebook for locations and events!

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Logan Look Back

By Fiona Scott-Doran

When Royalty came to town!

The Kingston train line was part of the extension of the Beenleigh line, which was initially completed in 1885. The original train station was actually more of a rail siding, which allowed the steam operated trains to stop and take in water and pick up and deliver both passengers and goods. The Kingston Butter Factory paid for a siding to be constructed alongside the factory to make the delivery of cream and the dispatch of butter a simpler process. In 1893, this existing siding was improved and rebuilt to become a station rather than a siding, with the platform extended and lampposts added.

The Station played an important part in the fledgling community of Kingston.

The original Kingston Post Office was actually no more than a mail drop and pick up by passing trains via the Station Master. No doubt having access to the rail line made transport easier when gold was discovered a mere three to four hundred yards from the Station at the foot of nearby Mount Taylor in 1894.

On the eighth of June we all enjoyed a public holiday to celebrate the birthday of Queen Elizabeth II. Ignoring the fact that Her Majesty’s birthday is actually on the twentyfirst of April, did you know that the Queen actually visited Logan City? Would you believe me if I told you that Queen Elizabeth II had been on Kingston Train Station? Well read on…

However, none of this explains how the Queen came to visit Kingston Station. In April 1927, the then Duke and Duchess of York paid a royal visit to the State of Queensland. They brought with them their infant daughter Elizabeth, who was about to celebrate her first birthday. As part of the trip, the royal family boarded a train to travel south from Brisbane. When the train reached

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Kingston Station an unplanned stop was made in order for the train to take on water.

Word quickly spread of the royal visit and a group of local school children and parents hurried to make the most of the occasion. A bouquet of tango daisies was presented to the Duchess and a rousing chorus of God Save the King was sung, before the gracious royals smiled their thanks, reboarded the train and travelled off into the distance. The Duke would go on to become King George VI on the abdication of his brother over the Wallis Simpson scandal, meaning his infant daughter would one day become our own Queen Elizabeth II.

So there you go, Queen Elizabeth II has graced the platform at Kingston Station. If you would like to have a look at the photo of the Queen on the Station, or indeed the camera that took the photo of the Queen on Kingston Station – come on down to Logan City Historical Museum and discover more of the many stories our great city has to tell.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Logan’s Heroes

By Laurie Koranski

VASI’S CHANGING THE WORLD ONE STUDENT AT A TIME

school and provide a good life for her unborn daughter.

Vasi is quick to point out all students are special, but she remembers with particular fondness Ryan Whitwell-Dwyer who burst into her classroom in 2007.

The hardworking, polite and friendly student possessed a steely determination, strength and courage beyond his years, courage that would be tested when he bravely came out to his friends and family during year eleven.

“I was bullied horrifically, to the point I thought about taking my own life” Ryan said.

“If it wasn’t for Mrs Danbury listening, making me laugh and helping me push through … I don’t know where I would be today”.

“She singlehandedly saved a life”.“She may not be my teacher anymore, but she is certainly a good friend and a mentor and I respect her immensely” he said.

Vasi Danbury - Photograph Studio 4

Windaroo Valley High School teacher and everyday hero Vasi Danbury is stepping out from behind the chalk board to take a bow.

The experienced senior teacher and year eleven co-ordinator has been nominated by colleagues, friends, family and past students to receive A Day Made Better award.

A Day Made Better recognises exceptional school teachers who go above and beyond the call of duty to encourage, nurture and inspire students to gain knowledge, build confidence and acquire life skills.

“You really don’t know the journey the students are on, until they learn to trust you and share their story with you” Vasi said.

“There have been so many shining stars who did not realise they were shining so bright until they finished high school, but I knew”.

Over the course of a career spanning more than twenty years, Vasi has touched the hearts and minds of thousands of students.

Her influence has extended from an elated young Aboriginal boy, the first in his family to graduate high school, to a frightened pregnant teenage girl determined to finish

Vasi, the second eldest daughter of four children, was born into a modest tight-knit traditional Greek family in Darwin.

Christmas Eve 1974 is permanently etched in her childhood memory as tropical cyclone Tracy decimated Darwin and with it the family home. “I remember the Christmas tree was up one night, with presents underneath, then it disappeared along with everything else” Vasi said.

“Being a tropical home with the upstairs on stilts and louvre windows, the only thing left standing were the stilts and some floor boards”. “The sound of the wind was terrible, just terrible”. “To this day I cannot stand the sound of wind whistling through the house” she said.

Vasi studied on a scholarship at the Northern Territory University. Upon graduation the tenacious and plucky young teacher packed her bags, kissed her boyfriend Jason goodbye and headed to the outback to commence her teaching career.

Jason followed soon after and the couple spent four happy, memorable years in Tennant Creek.

Photo: Ryan Whitwell-Dwyer, National Business Development Manager - Brisbane Marriott Hotel

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“Vasi’s heart and passion for teaching are enormous” said former Tennant Creek colleague Maria Rizidis. “(Her students) are number one in her eyes and she does her utmost to ensure they receive the best tuition she can give them”.

“She became a senior teacher very early in her career, which shows how capable she is”. “Our students and schools would be in a great place if all teachers were like Vasi” she said.

Vasi married her “rock” Jason and followed him to North Queensland where he took up a position with the Queensland Ambulance Service and Vasi taught at Ayr State High School.

In 2002 the couple welcomed a son Jack into the world, ahead of moving south and settling into a new home in Jimboomba.

Vasi commenced teaching at Windaroo Valley State High School in 2004 where today she continues to touch hearts and help craft lives. “My students have made me cry and jump for joy” Vasi said.

“There are days when I have been angry and sad, where I have questioned my choice of career.”

“Then, there are days … where I quietly close my classroom door, look around and punch the air with a resounding “Yes””!

“I love my job, I always have” she said.

Vasi at work with student Alex Middis

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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Thanks Geoff and Wendy!

Thank you Geoff and Wendy for volunteering on the Griffith Family Fun Run. We had such a great day and the weather was awesome. Gotta Love Logan will need more volunteers for upcoming events so if you are keen, let us know. Email gottalovelogancity@gmail.com

Kids Drawings FAST FACTS

17% Of Logan People are working in the Technicians and Trades occupations which is our largest occupation group followed by 16% Clerical and Administrative.

10.4% Of Logan people provided unpaid assistance to a person with a disability.

Gotta Love Logan has created a new website! Thank you to our local photographers: Kylie Williams and Kanvas Kaptures, our banner looks awesome!

Some pages are still under construction as time seems to be in short supply lately!

Check it out www.gottalovelogan.com.au Griffith Family Fun Run. Gotta Love Logan Volunteer Geoff Smith

Look what was spotted.

We love kid’s drawings especially if they are drawings of something in our community!

Please send them to us by either email, or upload to our facebook page. gottalovelogancity@gmail.com

Bus Petition Do the inadequate times, amount of services, drop off locations affect you, your friends or your family?

Do you own a business which relies on young people getting there on time to work or to use your facilities?

Please sign and share our petition to have the needs of Logan City met.

Do you know someone who uses our Logan Buses?

Do you use our Logan buses?

Please sign and share if you want to improve the Logan City Bus services. http://www.parliament.qld.gov.au/work-ofassembly/petitions/e-petition?PetNum=2397

What else are we doing?

Gotta Love Logan also have many other projects going on! If you are keen to help out, let us know!

This was sent in by Trish. We love seeing people spreading the Gotta Love Logan message and good vibes! Thanks Trish! If you would like a sticker, please email gottalovelogancity@gmail.com.

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Promoting Logan City and strengthening our community though Facebook, Instagram, Storify, Twitter, Google + , 612 ABC, FM101 and Local Media Tour de Logan on the 26th of July.

Many locals are participating in the 40km ride. This is not a race and you do not need a flash bike! This is the best way to enjoy Logan City! http://www.tourdelogan.org/

We want to hear from you!

Stories If you have a story that is yearning to be written and is solely about/in/around/of Logan City‌ we want to hear from you!

Stories are to be no longer the 350 words and be accompanied with a picture. .

E-NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION Get our e-newsletter emailed directly to your email box each month hot of the press. Just follow the link: Subscribe here KATHLEEN DELEON

0438201166

Berrinba Wetlands

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Diversity Dance Company Local Business Spotlight Written by Artistic Director Miss Tina Livermore

Dance as we know it today, is an ever evolving form of human expression, communicating stories of history, culture and personal identity through symbols, gestures and movement. Dance is essentially using the human body as an instrument to capture ideas, emotions and meaning.

Diversity Dance Company developed as a result of working in local high schools where school aged students, from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, were in desperate need for an avenue to express themselves in a positive and nurturing atmosphere. After creating an extra-curricular dance class that provided students with this outlet, I saw the positive changes this had in their life, both

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inside and outside the classroom. With a change in jobs to another local school, I was no longer able to provide this experience nor did the previous school have the resources to keep it running once I had left, thus my inspiration for developing a dance program that can be offered to students and adults, at an affordable price.

Diversity Dance Company aims to build students self-confidence and heighten awareness for developing and expressing creativity and increasing the quality of ones wellbeing. It gives kids an opportunity to be actively involved in positive after school events rather than negative alternatives that some of our youth, unfortunately turn to.

Eventually dance classes will be offered in a range of styles including (but not limited to); Hip Hop, Contemporary, Modern Jazz, Musical Theatre, Ballet, Technique and Alignment and adult dance fitness classes. For the momen,t we are offering Friday afternoon Teen Hip Hop classes held at the Miss Temple Fitness Gym in Waterford West.

Our choreographer has recently competed in the Hip Hop Internationals competition placing third in the state and ranking highly nation-wide. We also have regular guest choreographers from the Academy of Brothers. Diversity Dance Company strives to create a fun, positive environment that enriches people’s love of dance and promotes a healthy lifestyle

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Classes held on Friday’s email: diversitydanceco@outlook.com

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Councillors Corner Message from Mayor Pam Parker I am passionate about building community pride in our city, and I would love to see all our residents and businesses becoming proud ambassadors of our great city and

By Royce Logan Wilson like there is no tomorrow. promoting Logan is the true “heart of south-east Queensland” with a community spirit that is second-to-none, so I hope wherever you are and whatever you do each day, you look for an opportunity to spread the word that the City of Logan is a great place to live, raise a family, work and play.

Laurie Smith: Division 7 2014 -15 footpath construction program now completed with new footpaths constructed on Abbey St Forestdale, Fedrick Street Boronia Heights, Coronation Road and Gisselle Street, Hillcrest.

New public toilets have been installed at Middle Park, Boronia heights and are due to open on the 15th June. New fitness station construction at Greenbank Recreational Reserve due to commence in early July.

Graham Able: Division 5 Councillor Graham Able would like to advise that some exciting new landscaping works are well progressed at Kingston Butter Factory Community Arts Centre. Logan City families will soon have another great playground to enjoy.

A sum of $200,000 has been committed to install a playground which will feature and array of climbing apparatuses designed to challenge the balance and coordination skills of children. The playground will feature a central climbing net, slides, spinners and balancing platforms.

The Kingston Butter Factory Community Arts Centre is home to the Butterbox theatre, a community arts centre, canteen and museum. It is located on Milky Way, Kingston.

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Hymenocallis Littoralis

The bulk of the civil works were completed in May, which enabled the opening of George St for traffic to travel in both directions.

Voting has now closed for the precinct’s name and we’ll be formally announcing the results in the next few weeks. We thank all local businesses, motorists and residents for their patience and understanding as we deliver this important project.

Being a semi-aquatic plant, they are able to tolerate river rises and flooding, continuing to look pretty whilst delivering important functions such as trapping sediment and filtering water of pollutants.

Spider Lilies are gaining popularity in Logan Gardens not only because of their long, glossy green leaves and long lasting flowers,

The works commenced in early May 2015 and will be completed by late June 2015. This new playground will be a great asset for Kingston residents and the wider Logan community. A copy of the concept plan is attached so you can see what exciting development are coming.

Nic’s Garden Clippings

Work on the $9.75 million Beenleigh Town Square project continues, with landscaping to the central medians being completed during June.

plants are often believed to be native, however they originate from the south of America but have become comfortable in many warm, semi to tropical climate areas around the world.

A swing will also be installed, along with rubber soft-fall play humps, a picnic shelter and a drinking fountain.

Carpark at Lincoln Green Park in Forestdale currently being realigned to make parking safer ,a fence and footpath between the carpark and playground will also assist parents in keeping children away from the carpark / road.

Jennie Breene: Division 12

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By Nicole Gardner

I am sure you are all familiar with this plant that goes quite unnoticed until the beginning of our warm, wet weather from Summer, and into Autumn (if warm and wet enough) By Royce Wilson when the beautiful white flowers appear on long, leafless stems brightening up areas, particularly on the banks of the Logan River. These bulb

but they are also tough as nails and will tolerate quite poor soils as well as thriving in pots and containers. They can be grown in full sun to part sun but will be at their best planted in moist soil, and if in the garden, will really pop with a regular feed of a liquid fertiliser which will also encourage prolific flowering of the lovely and unusual flower that has a sweet but subtle scent, becoming stronger in the evening. Spider Lily bulbs will multiply with clumps of around 1 metre in 4-5 years with growth height to around 70cm on average. ** It is really important to know though, that all species of Hymenocallis can be toxic if digested and just touching the plant can cause allergies in some people so please research as you would all plants before adding to your garden if you have any concerns.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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“The Ultimate Bicycle Experience�

BMX Racing This legendary downhill BMX Track has been a historic part of Logan and the BMX Racing Industry for over 30+ yrs. The track of choice is leased by the Logan City BMX Academy which is an incorporated non for profit club.

The thrilling and eye catching facility is Located Underwood Park, Underwood Rd, Priestdale.

A team of dedicated volunteers from Logan City BMX Academy upkeep this facility all year round to provide the ultimate but yet safe riding experience for its 200 + members and thousands of community users who seek opportunities to ride and participate in the healthy addictive activity of Bicycle riding.

This Legacy will serve and benefit hundreds of thousands of kids and families around Logan and will prove to become the Future Model and Education Centre for the future of Cycling.

All learn to ride programs are facilitated by Bike Play, so come down and see what everyone is talking about.

Logan City BMX track is open 24/7 to the public but closed when Club Activities are in progress due to insurance and riders safety.

The possessed vision for this space is to become a world standard BMX facility and Hi level BMX training compound that leads the way in Bicycle Training and Elite BMX Coaching to direct and fulfill rider pathways recreationally or competitively..

FOR MORE INFORMATION Details on how to join and when activities are in progress can be found here www.logancitybmx.org.au

‘Lenny’ – The Can Man

By Lisa Banyard

Whilst his route may take him to the two shopping centres in Marsden or Waterford, to the train stations at Woodridge, Kingston and Loganlea or to Kmart at Logan Central, Lenny will always get a friendly wave, a good morning, a bit of a banter with a shop owner, a pat from one of the 100’s of friendly dogs he knows on his walks or a cool drink and a chinwag over a friendly local’s fence.

When you think about where you live and you step outside the boundaries of your abode, do you ever think about how can you participate in the Logan community? There are plenty of you that volunteer, work, go to school, attend meetings, shop, play and use facilities and there are plenty of others that don’t. And then there are others that you may see every day and there may be some of you that think to yourself ‘who is that person’.

The chances are you have seen Lenny in our community.

But unlike some Lenny doesn’t just go to the local shopping centre to collect them. Seven days a week from 8am to 4pm rain, hale, shine, monsoons, 5 degrees or scorching 45 degrees Lenny is out in our community walking on average 70 klms a day collecting cans. He collects other things too – he collects what can be described as the heart of our community, acceptance.

Well Lenny we love you keeping our community clean and caring for it the way your do mate.

So if you see Lenny in your travels in his high viz with his ‘Can Man Truck’ in tow give him a wave, a friendly toot and thumbs up, a ‘good morning’ and or even silent thankyou of appreciation.

‘Lenny’ – He’s more than just The Can Man.

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Lenny has been collecting cans for almost 16 years around Logan and he reckons its fun.

He has met a lot of people and he also thinks that some people need to put more clothes on when they mow their lawns.

Lenny collects cans…….

Lenny has even found a lot oflost property that he’s handed into the police over the years. “I just love doing it he said, cause it gets me out and about. Mate you can’t just sit at home all day”.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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Friends of Plunkett

By Shaelene Hancock

Sometimes you discover hidden gems in your own region that you didn’t know were there and Plunkett Regional Park is certainly one of those. Situated near Logan Village, this open eucalypt forest caters for a variety of recreation activities including, bushwalking, horse riding and mountain bike riding. With views to enjoy from the rugged sandstone outcrops and spectacular wildflower displays during late winter to early spring, it’s certainly worth the visit.

The volunteer group, Friends of Plunkett have been working very hard over the past few years to bring the park back to its natural beauty. These enthusiastic volunteers comprising some of Logan’s outdoor adventurers, conservators and educators are all passionate about Plunkett Regional Park and group member are constantly seeking new members, Trisha Rogers says “Everyone is welcome, and we encourage you to share and explore our magnificent park, right here on our doorstep in Logan.” Trisha Rogers said.

The park is also home to endangered and vulnerable species of both plants and animals and the group works to ensure the park is protected, preserved and rehabilitated for future generations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Friends of Plunkett often have bushwalks and working bees throughout the park and all are welcome to attend. Visit www.FriendsOfPlunkett.org.au

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Logan Village

By Royce Wilson

My Home & the River Playground CHILDREN and families in Logan Village have a new place to enjoy outdoor life following the unveiling of a new playground in a local residential development.

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Adding to the excitement of the day, there was plenty of free entertainment on offer including miniature horse rides, a trainincluding miniature horse rides, a trainthemed chair swing, a bouncy castle, a petting zoo, and a classic car display from classic vehicle and motorsport clubs. The vehicles proved popular with visitors who enjoyed seeing a range of cars including an 1915 Model T Ford, a custom hot rod, a

The My Home and the River estate, located off Anzac Avenue on the

Chevy Bel-Air, and a 1960s Ford 1930s Dodge Brothers tourer, a 1950s Thunderbird.

My Home and The River developer Geoff Kerkow said the opening had gone well, with pleasant weather in the morning and a good atmosphere keeping with the area’s country community spirit.

banks of the Logan River, unveiled its brand new children’s playground during a family fun day on Saturday, The newly-installed playground features two separate installations; one designed to appeal to smaller children and another including a radio-mast like climbing tower appealing to the more adventurous.

“I’m very pleased with the number of people that have turned up,” he said.

He said people usually thought of Logan as being the suburbs on either side of the M1, but Logan Village, being in the city’s rural areas, prided itself on being something different.

“We have a saying out here – we’re a little bit country,” he said.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN Gotta Love Logan: Campaign for the community from the community to change people’s negative perceptions and to strengthen our communities.

Gotta Love Logan is not affiliated with any government body or business.

KATHLEEN DELEON

0438201166

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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Go Duckling’s Family Tips

Tammy was extremely professional, approachable and receptive to the needs and wants of the children. Her engaging and encouraging manner clearly enabled her to develop positive rapports with each child.

By Kerenza Korostovetz

The session was fun, educational and promoted creativity and independence. In consideration of the vast range of arts and crafts materials supplied, the forethought and preparation of activities / lessons and the provision of professional instruction, these sessions are most definitely cost effective and provide opportunities that could not be delivered in most households.

Children’s Classes at Tammy’s Art Studio

Upon arrival I was extremely impressed with the variety of proposed activities and the organisation of materials at each work station. Children were encouraged to select their preferred starting activity and to move freely between stations as desired. There were opportunities to participate in up to six activities: 1.

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Word is spreading about the fantastic children's art classes at Tammy's Art Studio, Loganholme. Owner Tammy has recently announced the addition of new classes, new students and a new teacher!

Tammy’s Art Studio offers hourly classes for children 2-5 years (Proharts), 1.5 hour classes for children prep-grade 3 (Picassos) and 1 hour 45 mins classes for children grade 4-7 (Michelangelos) and 8-12 (Da Vincis).

My three year old son and I recently participated in a one hour kindy class and had a fabulous time.

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Class details, including fees can be accessed via: http://tammysartstudio.com.au

Creating a cloud mobile with mock stained glass water droplets Paint rolling and stamping Creating an under the sea themed “treasure box” (children glued a seaweed background inside half an egg carton and decorated with small shells and assorted foam cutouts of sea creatures) Colouring and painting a lady beetle constructed from paper plates Painting at an easel Imaginative modelling of play dough and manipulation of associated tools.

The capped number of

students enabled Tammy to supervise the class and provide one on one attention as required.

Activities were introduced at the beginning of the lesson with brief +explanations of procedures – specific instruction and modelling of steps were then provided at individual work stations.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Please visit Go Duckling for comprehensive information of local parks and childfriendly events, attractions, activity programs and services.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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Beenleigh District Community Development Assoc Inc (BDCDA)

By Linda Ottaway

The purpose of the Beenleigh District Community Development Assoc Inc (BDCDA) 10 James Street, Beenleigh is

‘To improve the quality of life for individuals and families, whatever their circumstances, and to foster a strong sense of community where all people are safe, valued and empowered'. .

The Beenleigh Neighbour Centre provides room and hall hire for purpose groups such as Financial Counseling, Immigration Law Advice, Legal Help, and provide a Supporting Housing Service for families - please note this is not an emergency housing service. We hire rooms and hall at a minimal cost for fellowship, professional, community and learning groups. We aim to provide face to face and telephone information and contact details regarding all Beenleigh and districts Community help providers.

We had our Open Day (and 20th anniversary) on May 16th, and it was a fantastic success, enjoyed by all.

Sean Leader, President, BDCDA lead the proceedings with his welcome and introduction followed by the ribbon cutting by the Hon Shannon Fentiman Minister for Communities, Women and Youth, for Child Safety, and for Multicultural Affair. Cr Jennie Breene Division 12 Logan City Council then addressed the assembly.

The Hon Shannon Fentiman cut the cake which was then distributed to all by the ladies of the International Cooking Club.

Robert Hinton, Project Manager BDC and Cr Jennie introduced and launched the Beenleigh Arts and Cultural Alliance. We were then treated to entertainment from The Beenleigh State High School Culture

Group, Rowdy Strum, Brin and Jayden, Chris Macguire and Ben McGrory., and last, but not least, the members of Robert's Beenleigh World Music Club.

There were stalls and raffles, and fancy dress prizes, and an announcement of Beenleigh State School Art Competition winners 'Walk In My Shoes' a component of Beenleigh State School's 'Great Futures' initiative. Beenleigh State School's Great Futures Program (BGF) comprises a suite of school based community programs: The Breakfast Club, 'Walk in My Shoes' program and Mentoring program not only uses community resources such as volunteer mentors and donated food to meet the students' essential needs (e.g. food, warmth), through its Breakfast Club and providing footwear through it's the 'Walk In My Shoes' program, it aims to foster in each student a full sense of belongingness, a greater appreciation of their inherent worth and a greater capacity to 'bounce-back-nomatter-what' (resilience) and, identify, cultivate and release each students unique talents for their (and the community's) good.

In 2012 the BGF expanded to feature a coaching program to boost literacy and numeracy achievements of students through the work of trained community and corporate volunteers (Boost-It). As a result, Beenleigh State school is enjoying a growing reputation as a community-based school that demonstrates exemplary and inclusive practices.

The school has an alliance with the Beenleigh Neighbourhood Centre (BDCDA).

State Emergency Service

By Jim Ferguson

The Logan State Emergency (SES) needs YOU! Logan SES consists of volunteers dedicated to assisting the community by responding to emergencies and disasters, 24/7.

Logan SES currently has 142 active members for a

Education and training is provided free of charge to volunteers and uniforms are provided once a few basic courses and a probationary period have been completed. As an SES member, YOU will have the opportunity to participate in training and gain practical experience in a range of skills including; storm damage operations, general rescue, communications, teamwork, map reading and navigation, working at heights, first aid and chainsaw. · · · · · ·

Once trained, YOU could be activated for tasks such as: assisting the Queensland Police Service with a search for missing children rescuing people from swollen rivers or flood waters supporting other emergency services through the provision of welfare and emergency lighting responding to households for damage caused by rain, storm or flood.

Possible deployments interstate if required.

We have six SES groups spread throughout Logan, so there will be a group near you.

community that has a population in excess of 280,000. We are looking for new members who are willing and able to assist our current members in supporting our growing community Logan SES members hail from diverse backgrounds and professions and range in age from 16 to a LOT more than 16. If YOU are 16 years of age or over and interested in giving back to the community, why not consider joining the “Orange Angels” of Logan. We are looking for enthusiastic members with life skills that can be utilised and shared with other SES members.

FOR MORE INFORMATION If you would would like to come along for a look, to see what we do and perhaps join later, give Jim, the SES Local Controller, a call 0108715004

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

YFS celebrates 30 Years in Logan

YFS was an initiative of the Christian Brothers who moved to Logan City in 1983.

They worked with local residents to assess and meet the needs of at-risk young people and their families. Since then, many stories have taken place, many relationships have been forged and one community has been brightened. YFS’ story is built on many

stories: the stories of people from Logan. For 30 years, YFS has worked in the Logan community as an independent, secular organisation. We cater to people who are disadvantaged, vulnerable, or want to improve their circumstances.

Reflecting on 30 years of positively influencing families in Logan, YFS honours Logan, our clients and we are very grateful and humbled to be part of their story. “In our 30th year of working in Logan City we want to recognise the organisations and individuals who have worked with YFS along the way”, says CEO, Cath Bartolo. “As we look back, we are very proud of what we’ve accomplished. We are committed to our community and we will continue our work of building independence and participation in

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the lives of our clients”, she added. YFS has evolved into a very diverse organisation with a multitude of services delivered to the people of Logan and surrounding areas, including Redlands and the Gold Coast. YFS service areas include: children & young people, family and relationships, disability, domestic and family violence, housing, legal help, information, referral and assessment, mental health, money management & home energy and Social Enterprise. 2015 will mark the end of a yearlong celebration of our 30th anniversary with the Party in the Park: YFS’ gesture of thanks to the Logan community. Lots of activities for the whole family such as rock climbing, bike stunt shows, sausage sizzle, wildlife demonstrations and a free photo booth, have been arranged for the event to be held on the 3rd of July at Rowan Park (Kingston Road & Wembley Rd intersection) in Slacks Creek.

Logan residents are all invited to join in from 10 am to 2pm and celebrate YFS’ 30 years of serviceservice.

Make a difference Become a volunteer English Tutor You can make a difference in the life of new migrants by becoming a volunteer English tutor at TAFE Queensland. As a tutor you will assist students in the Australian Government funded Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) to learn English and settle into life in Australia. No prior experience as an English teacher or tutor is required. TAFE Queensland provides free training and resources.

Tutors are matched with a student according to gender, interests and location. Meetings occur in the student’s home, café or library at a mutually convenient time once a week.

By becoming a volunteer tutor you can help break down cultural barriers, make a positive impact in someone’s life, and establish friendships that will last a lifetime. If you are an Australian resident over 18 years of age, have a good level of written and spoken English and would like more information about becoming a volunteer English tutor please contact TAFE Queensland: FOR MORE INFORMATION Contact TAFE Queensland English Language and Literacy Services (TELLS) on 3244 5488 or email tells@tafe.qld.edu.au

Jazz and Shiraz

By Kathleen de Leon

Host Families Needed!

Logan is hosting some young Chinese students from our sister city Xinhua in the Shanghai area, from 6 - 9 July 2015. The organizers, Logan Youth Music Exchange, are inviting families to home host these students for 3 nights and be part of this unique event in the second week of the school holidays. This Orchestra of 69 will be performing at the Logan Entertainment Centre in a concert with local musicians and all host families would be given free tickets to this evening as well as other social occasions. The exchange started last year when musicians from Logan visited Xuhui and they were home hosted for their visit. All students visiting Logan this year will have some English language skills and can communicate quite well

ARE YOU INTERESTED? CONTACT: Shane Dorncy Director of Music Logan Youth Music Exchange 0411 644 028

Tim Keeler Logan Goodwill Ambasador 0431 504 978

A well organised intimate celebration of Jazz and shiraz with the people of Logan City …… and celebrate is exactly what we did. The event was filled to capacity proving that the rain was never going to stop the people of Logan coming together and having an unforgettable time. With the sharing of food, wine and great music, was lots of happy banter, smiles and laughter. The four hours of incredible finger clicking Jazz and entertainment was provided by Kate Ceberano, James Morrison and David De Vito. The atmosphere was buzzing and the rustling sound of plastic ponchos was barely audible, but kept the crowds dry while the coffee and wine kept us warm. While mingling amongst the crowds, I met some wonderful seasoned Jazz and Shiraz enthusiasts who came with good supplies of cheese, dips, crackers, olives and even tables. This was my first Jazz and Shiraz, but it won’t be my last

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Join the Gotta Love Logan army!

True Grit We are almost done gathering our army of 50 to take on the military style obstacle course that is True Grit! We will boldly march in as a united front proudly wearing out Gotta Love Logan singlets and showing everyone just how Logan People truly are! Thanks to our amazing sponsors (Logan Country Bendigo Bank, Timer Sports, Logan House Fire Support Network, Drews Sign IT, Big Tooks Sports and Gatecrash Security) we are will be dressed to impress! We are also having a celebratory BBQ afterwards.

Saturday 25th July, 12.10 at Mt Tamborine.

Bridge to Brisbane Come and Join us in the 10km walk! Let’s show Brisbane what community is all about...! Save the date 30th August.

If you are able to help sponsor t-shirts email: gottalovelogancity@gmail.com Register at: https://registration.bridgetobrisbane.com.au /registration/default.cfm Team Number to join: 94520 Join our event after registration: https://www.facebook.com/events/16417262 96071981

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GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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Scouts get a taste of the outdoors

Panther Patrol was on breakfast duty following. They also cooked on the open fire, preparing a delicious breakfast of bacon, eggs and pancakes for everyone.

Logan Village Scouts secretary Kristy Nixon said the campout had been great preparation for the regional camp, which involved the Logan

By Royce Wilson

MEMBERS of the Logan Village Scout Troop got a taste of the outdoor life on May 16 and 17 as part of a campout at their den in Samuel and Agnes Smith Park at 748-753 Waterford-Tamborine Rd.

Village scouts competing against scout troops from the Gold Coast region.

The scouts brought along their sleeping gear and scout skills for the sleepover event, which was being held in preparation for the Regional Scout Camp over the June long weekend at Numinbah Adventure Trails.

As part of the campout at Logan Village, the scouts – under the guidance of supervising leaders Jason Danbury and David Day were required to set up their own Queenslander tents including sleeping areas, as well as establishing up a kitchen and dining area.

That evening, Scorpion Patrol cooked dinner on the open fire, treating their fellow scouts to a meal of garlic bread and spaghetti bolognaise, with apple crumble for dessert.

asked to Scout Leaders from

“They will be required to set up their own camp sites and tents. On the Saturday night they will also be cook a roast dinner on an open fire for other Scout Troops,” she said.

The troop’s Cub Scouts, led by Michelle Everett, also recently returned from a Night Howl Camp, where they won the First Aid base along with several trophies.

Night Howl is an overnight camp where the Cubs are in teams of six and go around to 11 bases based on their Boomerang badge work.

The camp came about from a youth forum where Cubs wanted to do a similar event to the Night Hawk event their older siblings were doing.

Boys and girls are welcome to be scouts, with Joey Scouts (aged 6-8) meeting at the den on Mondays from 6-7pm, Cub Scouts (ages 7-11) on Thursdays from 6.30-8pm and Scouts (ages 10-15) meeting on Tuesdays from 6.30-8.30pm The Logan Village Scouts currently have vacancies in all sections for new members – for more information phone recruitment leader Sallie Fletcher, on 0412 985 554.

SCOUTS IN LOGAN CITY The Logan City District is comprised of 6 Scout Groups, they are; Daisy Hill Scout Group | Marsden Scout Group | Priestdale Scout Group Shailer Park Scout Group | Underwood Scout Group | Woodridge Scout Group If you would like some information about Scouting or the Logan City District please contact: Queensland Scout Centre 07 3870 7000

Pumpkin, Spinach and Feta Salad Serves 4

Inspire a Healthy Change

By Sasha Job

The Heart Foundation published data in May this year illustrating that we desperately need to inspire some positive health changes in our community.

According to the Heart Foundation’s analysis, based on data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, five out of ten of Australia’s most unhealthy regions are in Queensland. Their research demonstrated that nearly 50% of the population is obese and almost 75% are not meeting the recommended physical activity guidelines.

Ingredients

Sasha Job

Maintaining a healthy weight and sustaining a healthy lifestyle has always been a challenge for me.

After years of misunderstanding, I finally acknowledged that I was overweight. A health check followed and I learnt that I was morbidly obese, hypertensive, suffered from sleep apnoea and was clinically depressed. I was 19 years of age.

Setting many personal goals, taking control of my life and committing to a positive –and permanent – lifestyle change, ensured that I successfully lost 52kg. This achievement saw me crowned the 2010 Weight Watcher’s Slimmer of the Year, and a whirlwind of coaching and media commitments followed.

My personal success inspired me to follow my dream to inspire positive change in others and to guide them in living healthy and fulfilling lifestyles. I wholeheartedly believe that life gets better through change, not through chance, which is the founding belief of my new health venture, Inspiring Habits.

Gotta Love Logan is a wonderful campaign that brings our community together to strengthen our image. I cannot think of a better way to strengthen our image than by improving our health. Together we can inspire change, create a healthy future for our city, stay strong, and stand up for education and resources that promote better health. The formation of positive habits will be the key to improving the health status of our community. Connect with me through Inspiring Habits’ website and Facebook page for delicious healthy recipes that are family friendly and cost effective, as well as plenty of inspiration and information.

.

FOR MORE INFORMATION www.inspiringhabits.com.au www.facebook.com/inspiringhabits sasha@inspiringhabits.com.au

•600g pumpkin, cut into 1cm cubes •2 tsp olive oil •2 tsp sesame seeds •75g pine nuts •150g baby spinach •200g feta, cut into 1cm cubes and gently crumbled •1 tbsp olive oil •1 tbsp lemon juice •1 tbsp honey •2 tsp wholegrain mustard Method

Preheat oven to 220°C. Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Place pumpkin onto baking tray. Add the oil and sesame seeds and toss the pumpkin pieces until they are evenly coated. Spread the pumpkin into a single layer and bake for 30 minutes or until golden.

Put the pine nuts in a small frypan over medium heat. Gently shake the pan every 30 seconds for approximately 2 minutes or until fragrant and lightly browned.

Combine the spinach, feta and pine nuts in a large bowl. Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, honey and mustard in a jar and shake until well combined. Stir the dressing through the salad. Add the pumpkin and gently toss until just combined.

Enjoy as a meal of its own or as an accompaniment to grilled meat or fish.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

23 Tim Elford - Head of Department Senior Schooling and William Langton

STUDENTS MAPPING THEIR WAY TO SUCCESS

By Laurie Koranski

Marsden State High School students are exploring exciting workplace opportunities thanks to an innovative new stakeholder based initiative known as MAP. Tremayne Horn and Alex Maher

The Marsden Apprenticeship Program, is designed to help students find their bearings and navigate pathways into construction, manufacturing and trade industries.

The program squarely addresses the issue of Logan’s youth unemployment by streamlining students into local jobs as early as possible.

Last month’s industry symposium, held in the school’s state-of-the-art trade training centre, provided opportunity for leading students to liaise directly with representatives from technical and training colleges and local businesses.

“Today is about bringing top performing students together to talk to real industry providers” said TPS student Tremayne Horn.

“We’ve gone above and beyond the expectations set by the course requirements”.

“We’ve shown more initiative in class, we have more knowledge and more experience” he said.

The apprenticeship program adopts an innovative approach to motive and empower students to make educated decisions about their future, based upon experiences with local employment bodies.

“Having a trade gave me motivation and desire to make something of my life”.

“If you have a goal, you can get there through hard work, but nothing comes without sacrifice”.

“Make the most of this opportunity” he said.

Guest speaker, Justin Meharry, addressed the students on the virtues of securing trade qualifications.

“Once you get a trade, that’s security in your life” Justin said.

Principal Andrew Peach with Top Performing Students

LOOKING TO PROVIDE SUPPORT? Businesses looking to support the programme or provide sponsorship can contact Trade Training Co-ordinator Scott Lewis on 3299 0517 or slewi179@eq.edu.au for further information.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Events and Fundraisers

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Competition Winners!

RAW Cultural Conference

Jazz and Shiraz

Date: 26th June Time: 9.00am - 2.30pm Refugee Awareness Week Where: Griffith University Logan Campus Cost 30.00 per person

Our ticket winners for this unbelievable event was Angela Fischer! We had an awesome time and the rain did not dampen out spirits!

Eats & Beats

Adam

Date: 26th June Time: 5.00 - 9.00pm Where: Eastern St Browns Plains

“Why I love Logan? Because thanks to the Browns Plains Transfer station, I don't have to travel to Clive Palmers Dinosaur Resort to see dinosaurs. “

Family Fun Day Date: 27th June Cost: Free Where: Logan City Art Gallery Join in the circus themed celebration through visual art, music, performance and food.

Circus Ticket Winners

Canefields Clubhouse Charity Art Auction Night

Veronica

Date: June 27th Where: Able Gallery Space 27 Coral Street Loganlea RSVP June 24th Contact: 38070951 Time: 4-6pm Contact tinyurl.com/loganraw

“I love logan because it's my home, I have grown up here and now my kids will be to. I also volunteer weekly in the local community.

Logan rocks!”

Mr and Mrs Bossert “I love Logan City for all the parks family fun things it holds and that no matter what people say about us we are proud to live in Logan.”

DID YOU KNOW? Logan City has over 900 local and regional parks for you, your family and even your K9 friends to enjoy. Pack a picnic and get outdoors!

Paul Godwin

Margaret “There are many beautiful different parks,there is always so many things going on in and around Logan. And the people are the BEST!”

“The best thing about Logan city is the community minded people willing to help others, volunteers helping their community in times of need.

Gotta love logan!”

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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The Way We Were

IMAGE SOURCE Picture Queensland ~ State Library of Queensland