Enews edition 7

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Gotta Love Logan eNews

November 2015 CITY OF LOGAN RELAY FOR LIFE

PHOTOGRAPHER KATHLEEN DE LEON

IN THIS EDITION

Features Traffic Congestion Logan Village Scouts Award Poppys Chocolate Local Hero A Touch of Compassion

Welcome to our seventh edition of the Gotta Love Logan e-Newsletter! We are so excited about our community based e-Newsletter 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! It can be about the history of a local business, community group, sports club or it could be about achievements or someone who has done something extraordinary in Logan!

WELCOME!

strong and stand up for Logan City - all 64 suburbs of us!

In My Opinion Shop Local Relay for Life

Monthly Logan Lost Pets Garden Clippings Logan Look Back

Gotta Love Logan is a community campaign designed 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 and its people.

Councillors Corner Shannon Fentiman MP Go Duckling’s Family Tips Community Snap Shots

The way we were

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

We are a great City! Remembering our past and being proud of our future. Stay

KEEP UPDATED

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Our People, Our Community

Photograph: Donna Lowe and Kathleen de Leon

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GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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Traffic congestion, Public transport and Cycleways in Logan

By Brent Strain

The suburb of Meadowbrook is one with an exciting future. It shows all the hallmarks of future economic development. Currently housing a growing educational and medical precinct along the Gold Coast – Brisbane rail corridor, this will form the cornerstone for the future growth of the local economy. Behind the scene, the Local Government’s ‘Meadowbrook Masterplan’ and the State Government’s ‘Meadowbrook Economic Development Strategy and Structure Plan’ envisage the suburb to become a central community hub and activity generator, offering a platform for diverse housing and employment opportunities that will transform it into an ever more vibrant community in the years to come.

As someone with an academic background in community development and sustainability, to me, I thought there must be a way forward that celebrates this social and cultural vibrancy, while creating and maximising economic opportunity for the local residents.

In my view, community building is about putting people together in such a way that

invites new conversations, new alliances and new possibilities. There is no better way to tick all the boxes than by creating a community market. And after chatting to some fellow residents, the idea of the shopping centre in Meadowbrook came up.

Traffic congestion, Public transport and Cycleways in Logan The success of Logan as a place to live is becoming somewhat of a double-edged sword. The rapidly accelerating population in a region built for hypermobility and complete reliance on cars, creates a number of transportation issues that carry complex, multi-faceted solutions. Anyone who has travelled down Loganlea, Wembley, Kingston, Logan roads during the morning and afternoon peak hours would know, the roads are at capacity. Traffic signals in many places are not synced for optimum flow, leading to increased commuting times and inefficient petrol consumption.

We are all contributing to the problem as there is currently very minimal or no other viable options for many of our point-to-point car trips. With rising urbanisation in Logan – nearly 500,000 by 2050, we need to get serious about a modern multi-modal transport system solution that encompasses walking, cycling, rail and bus. A level of infrastructure that connects our homes to bus stations, Park n Ride facilities and rail stations that doesn’t rely on cars.

Of course some trips are multi point, and cars are a necessity - Like dropping kids at school, stopping at shopping centres, before continuing on to the final destination. But what about those of us who only drive single point trips to work or university, the train or bus station to park our car. What if there are genuinely viable options?

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2  Surely as a community, it is time we have a conversation about building alternative transport options for Logan’s future. With our growing population, the roads and motorways are only going to get worse.

Fortunately, there is however a very good base range of transport infrastructure in Logan that we as a community can use to build a sustainable transport system into the future. The crux of the problem is that it is fragmented and largely inaccessible for the majority of residents. So what can we do? We need to connect them all together. Connect the ‘last mile’.

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4 Genuine sustainable walking and cycling infrastructure that connects the division’s suburbs with the existing cycleway network.

Multi-modal transit opportunities to connect housing estates with Loganlea train station, Bethania train station, and Slacks Creek ‘Park n Ride’ and Loganholme bus station.

Re-establish community interaction with our parks and biodiversity of Logan.

Link the area with Griffith University, The Hyperdome, Logan Hospital, Tafe, Canterbury College, shops and parks.

Provide intangible public health benefits.

I would love to know the communities thoughts on this issue. Please drop me a line at http://www.brentstrain.com Images supplied by Brent Strain

By upgrading the cycleway infrastructure to connect fluidly with public transport, shops, schools, workplaces and parks, not only would this provide genuine multi-modal alternatives to single occupancy private vehicle trips, but also maximize incidental exercise and the intangible public health benefits.

In my local area for an example, Division 6 of Logan, there exists an opportunity to connect Armstrong road in Meadowbrook to Murray road in Tanah Merah via Riverdale Park and over Slacks Creek. Connecting the suburbs of Waterford and Bethania via station road, due north via a public land corridor to a pedestrian and cyclist only bridge over the Logan River to connect with Riverdale Park, Griffith University and the existing Logan City Cycleway including the East West Route, Slacks Creek Route, Shailer Park Route. (As located on the map below) The benefits of increased cycleway infrastructure would provide a whole host of benefits to the community.

Logan Village Scouts Red Cord Award

The Pioneer Badge; to achieve this they must complete three badges (Campcraft and Citizenship are compulsory) then the Scout may choose either the Air Activities, Construction, Environment, Water Safety, Emergencies or Water Activities). Jarrod & Jack completed the Emergencies.

Two Proficiency Badges (chosen from Abseiling, Agriculture, Animal Keeper, Art, Astronomer, Bushcraft, Caving, Collector, Commerce, Communications, Craft, Crime Prevention, Cultural Heritage, Entertainer, Fire Awareness, Individual Sportsman, Information Technology, Literary Arts, Modeller, Multi Media, Music, Outdoor, Performing Arts, Science, Team Sport, Technology, Top Rope Climbing, Trade, World Scouting) Jack & Jarrod completed the Music & Team Sport badges Plus One Patrol Activity Badge (an activity or activities of 8 hours that the Scout chooses and the Troop Council give permission for) As you can see there is a lot of work, but if the Scout wants to achieve it, then it can happen.

Jarrod & Jack also had a goal which was to go to Jamboree, which they needed the Red Cord.

On Tuesday, Scouts Jarrod Lord and Jack Danbury from Logan Village Scout Group were presented with their Red Cord by the Region Commissioner (Gold Coast Region) Bob Campbell and Scout Leader Jason Danbury.

Jarrod and Jack have been working very hard since January to complete the scouting requirements to be awarded with the Red Cord. Now that Jarrod & Jack have their Red Cord, they meet the requirements to go to the Australian Jamboree in January 2016, which is the biggest event in Scouting, where over 12,000 Scouts will camp for 2 weeks having fun, fantastic adventure and friendship.

Congratulation to Jarrod and Jack on being awarded the Red Cord.

To achieve the Pioneer Red Cord, Scouts must first complete the following:

Images supplied by Logan Village Scouts

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Community Snapshots

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Tranquillity, peace and calm are just a few words that quickly come to mind when I think of how to describe this paradise in our own back yards. Green Frog Hollow is situated on 85 Waterford-Tamborine Rd, Waterford.

Stroll through the gardens/nursery, admire the animals, purchase a gift or simply have a nice quiet cup of coffee‌ whatever you choose to do.. you will certainly enjoy and remember the experience.

Community Support!

A huge thanks to Shane from Sign IT for the awesome sign and stickers created and donated in support of our Gotta Love Logan Relay for Life team! They looked fabulous and our team/camp won best camp. Also, another big thank you to the Crestmead Neighbourhood Watch for again lending the

Youth Night: PCYC Beenleigh You can easily see that the Youth group that gather and meet at the Beenleigh PCYC will be our future leaders. The youth group proactively organise and provide a fabulous line up of entertainment and activities. The Youth Group meet 3 or 4 times a year and each meeting is always well attended.

marquee, pickets and tools!

Green Frog Hollow! Paradise in our own back yards!

Photographs: Donna Lowe and Kathleen de Leon

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Poppy’s Chocolate!

When Lynda Pedder moved her new business, Poppy’s Chocolate, to Beenleigh in 2006, it was a choice based on convenient location midway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast and rent prices and certainly not a strategic move. Now Lynda (also known as Poppy) says she wouldn’t be anywhere else.

Images supplied by Poppy’s Chocolate

+++++A Beenleigh local visited Poppy’s Chocolate last week and exclaimed that when she tells people there is a chocolate factory in Beenleigh that has the “best chocolates in Australia” they don’t believe her, until they visit for themselves or she gives them a gift. Now is the best time to visit Poppy’s as they craft all their Christmas chocolates which are like no other chocolates you will see in the shops.

Previously only wholesaling, Poppy’s expanded in 2011 into the newly vacate next door unit and opened their doors to the public. Poppy had no idea whether the local community would understand the difference between store bought cheap chocolates and Poppy’s premium handmade chocolates. Poppy had already opened the very first chocolate café in Queensland in 2005 at Pacific Fair and had watched the interest grow steadily in premium quality chocolates but it was still new to most people.

She sold the cafe in 2011 to concentrate on selling wholesale and ironically, then opened the retail outlet in Beenleigh.

Lynda was bowled over by the community support in the Logan region. Poppy’s Chocolate has become a tourist attraction, something Poppy never imagined would happen with their unusual location amongst the car mechanics.

All of Poppy’s chocolates are sold at factory direct prices which is a bonus for Logan locals, and they also have the best Rocky Road! You can also watch the chocolatiers making chocolates and you will be greeted

6 with a sample as you inhale the chocolate scented air.

Unlike other chocolate places that have been purpose built for tourism, when you visit Poppy’s, you are visiting a real working small business. Poppy is the sole owner of the business and is a single mum with 3 children.

She says it is a juggle and a struggle but she loves her team of 8 and the local area and it keeps her passion alive.

Currently Poppy’s are working on their latest product which will be export ready and they are so excited about putting Logan on the International stage.

Visit Monday to Friday to watch the chocolatiers 8.30 – 4.30 or Saturday 9-1 for just getting your chocolate fix.

MORE INFORMATION 5/2 Spanns Rd, Beenleigh. www.poppychocolate.com.au 38071936

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Logan Look Back

stop, but of course.. time was never on my side. But on this night, we had time to waste so it was the perfect opportunity pay our resting pioneering families a little visit.

By Kathleen de Leon

7 Timber for both houses was milled at Schneider's mill at Waterford.

They farmed the land and raised large families. Our pioneering families faced many hardships and struggles as all Pioneering families do particularly with floods.

The cemetery really could do with a good clean up out of respect for our pioneering families who worked so hard to settle and forge the very communities in which we now live in.

Pioneering Families!

Immediately you see the various names etched on the gravestones and you suddenly have a sense of familiarity and connectedness.

Prominent local families including Charles and Harriet Kingston, John and Emily Mayes, the Armstrong’s, Cordingley’s, Laughlin’s and Seeleither’s are buried here at the Kingston Pioneer Cemetery.

While waiting for my daughter’s awards night to start, we wandered down the hill to the Kingston Pioneer Cemetery. I have driven past this cemetery so many times with the various trips to school and always wanted to

Our pioneering families operated our first sawmills and general stores. Charles Kingston worked as an engineer at Henry Jordan’s Sugar mill and built a slab hut overlooking Jacaranda Avenue in which the first Post Office operated from 1877 – 1885.

John and Emily Mayes selected land in 1873 immediately to the north of Kingston's land.

John Mayes built a slab hut which remains today in the grounds of the second home of the Mayes family, Pleasant Place, also known as Mayes Cottage. Pleasant Place was built in 1887. Charles Kingston also built a new house in 1890 and it stands today in Collin Court, on the hill overlooking the railway station.

Source: Trove http://trove.nla.gov.au/ and http://www.logan.qld.gov.au/aboutlogan/suburbs/kingston

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Logan’s Long Lost pets

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near the corner shops. He could be anywhere near this area: Bethania or Waterford. He is very tame and whistles every song you can think of. He is dearly missed and we just want him back. If you see him or find him, please phone 0423646621

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MISSING - DOG – NORTH MCLEAN - LOGAN REGION 18/9/2015

English Springer Spaniel, brown and white, Kiah has been missing from Clifton Drive, North Maclean since Friday 18 September 2015. Was last seen on Teviot Road, near Pub Lane, Greenbank on Wednesday evening 23rd September 2015. Kiah is microchipped but was not wearing a collar. I need to find my girl who is much loved family member and deeply missed. Please keep a lookout for someone with a recently acquired English Springer Spaniel. Reward Offered for safe return on Kiah or information leading to her return.

Please phone Sharyn on 0407119068

Photographs: Supplied by QLD Lost Pet Register (Logan)

MISSING - CAT- MARSDEN- LOGAN REGION 09/09/15

My little man has gotten out and has gone missing on the 9th of September His a big boy, but extremely friendly.

He is very loved and missed.

If you have seen him please contact me.

Marsden (second/third ave)

What else is GLL doing?

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

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MISSING - BIRD – Edens Landing - LOGAN REGION 25/10/15

Urgently trying to find my best friend. He is lost. He is a white and grey cockatiel and his name is Moe. He flew out of the back door last on the 25th of October in Edens Landing area

Promoting Logan City and strengthening our community though Facebook, Instagram, Storify, Twitter, Google + , 612 ABC, FM101 and Local Media Relay for life! 5th and 6th of November 2016. This is a fabulous worthy cause and Logan is known for our big hearts and ability to raise funds to fight cancer and this of course will be another event that Logan will pull together to raise much needed funds. Come and join the Gotta Love Logan team or make a donation of any size : http://fundraising.cancer.org.au/sit

e/TR/RelayforLife/CCQLD?team_id =42612&pg=team&fr_id=3777 Gotta Love Logan will be having a Christmas Toy Drive and Santa photos on the 6TH December. Save this day! We will be looking for volunteers and ideas to make this a special community day.

Logan Directory. Gotta Love Logan has created a local business directory in response to so many local business asking what it was that we could do to help them.

Register on the Directory and be part of our Shop Local initiatives. http://gottalovelogan.com.au/index. php/logan-directory Christmas Light registry. If you have gone to so much trouble putting up your light display… then make sure we see it.. register on our Christmas Light registry. More details to follow.

Stories If you have a story that must be told 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. Sports, Teams, Clubs, Missions, History.. anything!

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

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

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

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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Local Hero

Dan also makes appearances at Yarrabilba and Berrinba park runs. Dan’s motivational calls can be heard all over the park. You can’t help but want to meet his expectations of you.

Dan has coached and supported many Logan runners to reach goals and urged them to go on and reach even greater achievements that they themselves did not think were possible.

We are very fortunate in Logan City to have as many heroes that we have! This week’s hero is someone who I am very proud to call a friend.

I guess our paths crossed because of our mutual love of Logan City and its beautiful people and, of course, park run attracts some pretty awesome people! Dan can easily be heard most Saturday Morning’s at the Logan River Park Run.

Dan is loved by many so when the call went out to the masses to surprise Dan on his 100th Park Run day, the answer was loud and clear. The hat was passed and enough money was raised to purchase a Forerunner Watch as well as a voucher. The masses turned up all dressed as mini Dan’s with their green singlet, grey shirts and white sweat bands. As Dan founded the 40min pacer run, everyone also wore similar 40min pacer bibs in recognition of Dan and as a show of how much he is appreciated.

Dan also attends many charity events, supports local as often as possible and is always helping out friends and family. Dan really loves to help anyone who needs him. I once heard him say that he believes that is what he was put on this earth to do… help others.

Thanks Dan. Logan parkruns would not be the same without you!

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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A Touch of Compassion We are A Touch of Compassion Inc. In December 2012, husband and wife Chris and Angela founded A Touch of Compassion Inc. Together with a group of volunteers who share the same heart and vision, we launched and initiative to provide free sit down dinners.

We are currently serving dinners at the Crestmead PCYC, initially we were serving dinners at the Browns Plains Bears rugby league club, but due to renovations, we shifted to Crestmead PCYC. The dinners enable us to have a one on one relationship with The Community and to also assist families with free food parcels and free clothes.

The dinners have brought many youth and our aim is to make them feel valued, to be encouraged and build their self-esteem, because “they don’t care what you know, until they know that you care”.

Families come to our dinners through other organisations or simply by word of mouth.

Everybody is welcome, no matter what religion or culture.

We understand many people experience hardship, and encourage The Community to come along for a sit down meal, and get to know those in need of companionship, lend a shoulder or simply to make a new friend.

Everyone is welcome.

MORE INFORMATION For more information on upcoming programs, go to www.facebook.com/hearttiesprograms.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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Garden Clippings

By Nicole Gardner

Such a beautiful time of year with the Jacaranda mimosafolia, from the family Bignoniaceae, creating a stunning scene of purple/blue masses of colour everywhere we look. In October/November, flowers are borne on the bare wood having dropped their leaves briefly in late Autumn/early Spring.

Contrary to popular belief, they are not endemic to Australia, rather, they are native to Central and South America and now naturalised in many countries including Jamaica, Bahamas and here in Australia.

Jacarandas became a popular tree here in the South East after being planted in the original Botanic Gardens, now known as the City Botanic Gardens at Gardens Point in the Brisbane CBD, back in 1864.

The stunning blue/purple flowering and Summer shade giving canopies soon saw the tree planted by local residents and by many local councils as street trees. Their flowering in late October to early November also came to herald the start of serious studying and exam taking for local universities.

Jacarandas are often only seen on large properties and parks now not only due to their height and spread being 10-15 metres, but also because they rated in the top 200 most important weeds in SE Qld which has limited their availability through nurseries and no longer being used by councils.

Due to their easy germination of their papery, winged seeds, often in the thousands that can travel far from the mother tree, Jacarandas have now become an environmental concern dwarfing and limiting the growth of native species therefore impacting native fauna as well. It is advised not to plant the tree close to bushland, especially national parks for these reasons and further limitations could be in place by local councils so always check first.

There are many well established trees around for everyone to still enjoy their beauty, and their contrast with the golden Silky Oak (Grevillea robusta), which is also blooming, is certainly a sight to behold this time of year. Happy Gardening !!

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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Rum Rump and Rumba Festival 2015 The Queensland Young Achiever Awards are now open invite you to nominate a young person you know that is actively involved in community activities and/or achieving great results in their field of endeavour.

The purpose of the Queensland Young Achiever Awards is to acknowledge, encourage and most importantly promote the positive achievements of all young people up to and including the age of 29 from throughout Queensland.

I have attached an eflyer, it would be great if you could email staff, community groups and the young people you are involved with to

Nominations are being sought in these categories:

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The Coffee Club Arts and Fashion Award

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AustralianSuper Career Kick Start Award

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IFly Online Achievement Award

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Wade Sawmill Environment and Sustainability Award

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BB Print Leadership Award

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Kennelly Constructions Aboriginal Achievement Award

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Access Community Services Multicultural Youth Queensland (MyQ)

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Cultural Diversity Award

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The University of Queensland Create Change Award

MORE INFORMATION Nominations close on Friday 29th January 2016 and nominations are made online at www.awardsaustralia.com

advise them about the opportunity to nominate. You may also be able to put a note about the Awards in your newsletter and on social media.

and the residents of Beenleigh wanted this face-lift and I am glad it has been delivered.

Beenleigh is perfectly positioned, within the growth corridor between Brisbane the Gold Coast, to be a business and commerce hub for Logan and South East Queensland. This new face lift will add confidence to the area and I believe many great things will flow from it.

Nothing gives businesses looking to invest or families looking for somewhere to settle, more confidence than a friendly, bustling main street complimented by an open and welcoming Town Square. Beenleigh now has both.

Shannon Fentiman MP On Friday November 6 2015 I had the privilege of helping open the new Beenleigh Town Square alongside the Prime Minister and Mayor Pam Parker.

The new Wilson Town Square is a large, open and

By Royce welcoming space that will play host to markets, music, events and it will just be a nice play for people and families to meet. The Town Square was delivered by all three tiers of Government, with the Palaszczuk Government also contributing $1.5 million to the redevelopment of the Southern District Court House adjacent to the square. Both these redevelopments will breathe fresh air into Beenleigh.

I used to work on George Street in Beenleigh so I know how desperate businesses, retailers

The new Town Square is a credit to Mayor Parker, Cr Breene and the hard-working and energetic team at Logan City Council and they deserve much of the praise.

I look forward to seeing how this Town Square showcases the talent and culture we have in Logan.

Councillors Corner Jennie Breene: Division 12 What an exciting day it was on Friday 6 November as we officially opened Beenleigh Town Square, especially with a visit from Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and then the Eats and Beats event later that night.

It was a fantastic event and I’d like to thank everyone who came along to explore the new Town Square precinct.

Eats and Beats will return to Beenleigh Town Square on Friday 4 December as part of the City of Logan Christmas Festival, and I’d love to see you there.

Find out more information www.visitlogan.com.au/eatsandbeats

at

If you require assistance with any council matter please don't hesitate to contact me on 0411 658 297.

Graham Able: Division 5 I am pleased to announce that the much anticipated landscape improvements to the value of $80,000 is underway at Berrinba Wetlands.

These improvements will be finished in time for summer holidays and I urge all residents to come and see the wonder that is the Berrinba Wetlands. There is something for everyone including many kilometres of walking tracks, playgrounds and picnic areas to be enjoyed by the whole family.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

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business competitors, small business allies and family friends for as long as I can remember.

Apparently he came to a point when he could no longer sit back and see me give my time, knowledge and services to people that, as far as he was concerned, had the earning capacity to pay good money for my professional services.

It came to a head one day when the treasurer for a small

In My Opinion

By Shane Drew

Is there any value in being generous?

A while ago I was given a lecture by a wellmeaning colleague, chastising me for being far too generous for my own good. I would, he said, never be rich and successful until I learned to me more frugal when it came to being helpful and generous to total strangers.

Firstly, I feel it should be clarified that wealth can be measured in many ways. Some of the wealthiest people I know are no happier than some of the poorer people I know, so money isn’t necessarily the answer to happiness.

To quote American Businessman Jim Rohn, “whoever renders service to many puts himself in line for greatness - great wealth, great return, great satisfaction, great reputation, and great joy.”

soccer club rang me out of the

blue, explained who he was, and told me the small club was trying to arrange a ‘sign on day’ and membership drive. He wanted to ask me for a favor. They needed signs, and asked if I could help in any capacity.

I make signs, so it was an understandable question.

Do I like soccer? Not really.

Was I a member of the club? No. Was there anything in it for me? Probably not.

After a short conversation, I agreed to donate the signage he was looking for to help attract juniors for the sign on day.

But I digress.

I’ve known this colleague for years and he’d never said anything before. I was somewhat surprised.

This was apparently the last straw for my colleague and friend. If there was nothing in it for me, why bother?

He’d even benefitted from my generosity many times over the years, having been

Initially, I put my generosity down to my upbringing and I still credit that to this day.

But as I have progressed in business, I have expanded on my views about why it is in the best interests of anyone who has the capacity to help in the community.

From my earliest memories my parents have always worked hard. We have never been on ‘easy street’ and it has always been a struggle in one way or another. In many ways it still is.

That’s not to say we were never successful, because you can measure success in many ways too.

Financially, my parents always worked hard for everything they got.

Nothing was handed to them on a plate. My parents however never measured success in terms of money. So it stands to reason I guess that I inherited a similar view.

Sadly, my parents discovered that some people see generosity as a flaw and weakness that should be taken advantage of. And yes, just like my parents, I have been on the receiving end of some fairly ruthless and downright shameful behavior from men and women that were nothing less than evil in their manipulative and dishonest endeavors to get what they want for nothing.

For similar reasons, many people believe that a generous person will rarely be successful.

I’m here to tell you that of all the people who have screwed me over, I’m still here and they are no longer in business. I’m not going to pretend it has not been easy, nor am I going to admit how close we came some days to throwing in the towel, but end of the day the ones that appreciated our generosity are the very ones that saved the day. For that I’m eternally grateful.

So is generosity the answer to improving your community pride? No, not really.

Why? Because it is not the act of generosity that is the key, it’s the sincerity attached to the act.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2 Just like children, the community can be pretty perceptive when it comes to knowing if it is a sincere offer, or an underhanded way to get more business cheaply.

For instance; signs I donate don’t feature any of my details on them. That would, in the eyes of most people effectively be a cheap opportunity for advertising. If they ask me to put my logo on the sign, that is a different story. But I don’t make it a condition of the donation in the first place. It is often appreciated way more than the physical cost saving of the signage.

Relationship building, sometimes incorrectly called ‘networking’, is a practical and honest way of connecting with the community. You can’t put a value on this type of bonding.

Mutual respect is a by-product of this type of connection. With mutual respect comes honesty and understanding. Before you know it, you have a trust in each other that is much like a good marriage. And like any marriage, without mutual respect, trust and understanding, it will simply never work.

The online magazine ‘StartupNation’ makes the point: Generosity is defined by your willingness to do good, and no amount of money can equal an open heart.

A little known fact is that 41% of Australians volunteer their time for charity work. There is a good chance your neighbour either supports

a charity or volunteers for one. Donating your own time for a charity in your area builds community relationships that can’t be bought.

The key to anything of this nature is the sincerity that is attached to the arrangement.

Clearly, if you want or expect the community to support you, then you should likewise be prepared to support the community.

It isn’t rocket science.

On a business level, my small family business has excellent relationships with some of Australia’s corporate giants as well as some of the nation’s smallest business operators, all built on trust, mutual respect and understanding. It is something we never take for granted and treasure immensely, no matter the size or spread of the company in question.

Over the years, I’ve donated extensive signage, or helped support charities from Breast cancer awareness, Bowel cancer, prostate cancer, premature babies all the way through to struggling cricket clubs needing signs to help raise money for new equipment.

Did I do it for financial gain? No. But I’ve built some great relationships along the way, and that is something money will never buy. We can apply the same attitude to the community. Extend yourself for the community and you’ll make some great relationships and in most cases, lifelong friends.

That is the backbone of any successful community. Mutual respect, trust and understanding all help build a sense of community pride. But most of all, it’s the selfless motivation behind the act that is the clincher..

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GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Verandah’s Restaurant

By Stacy McIntosh

A new dining experience for Logan City The restaurant, a vision of both Juleane Radcliffe and Dr Charles Kent, brings to Logan a unique New Orleans dining experience with a menu of authentic dishes. Diners are also entertained with a selection of live music from local and professional musicians.

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Located in the Queenslander on the Corner of KingstonBeenleigh Road and Nerang Street, Waterford, patrons are spoilt with views down to the river. A private dining area by the river is available for special occasions and the venue can cater functions for up to 350 people.

Open Friday and Saturday night for dinner and Sunday for brunch.

Verandas Restaurant is an experience not to be missed.

Verandahs restaurant create the experience of New Orleans dining for discerning foodies looking for a unique dining experience in the city of Logan.

Opening night diners experienced a share plate selection menu, highlighting the variety of cuisine that can be expected from the full menu options. A highlight of the menu was the Cider Braised Pork Belly and Bourbon Street Beef Ribs complimented by the restaurants signature ice tea.

Unlike many local restaurants, Verandahs Restaurant combines the menu, the meals, the music and the meeting place to provide a truly memorable evening for you, your family and friends.

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FURTHER INFORMATION Friday and Saturday nights Sundays for brunch Live jazz on weekends Call 3472 5526 or 0416 141 410 Charles or Juleane to secure a place .

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Go Duckling’s Family tips

By Korenza Korostovetz

Child-Friendly Christmas Cookery (www.goduckling.com.au) The following no-bake Christmas recipes have been tried and tested on countless occasions. As a Special Education teacher, I would make these treats with my classes every year. I wouldn't describe them as "foolproof," but these recipes are very easy to follow and provide opportunities for younger or less capable children to participate.

There are many shared ingredients, making these cooking activities economical. All recipes can be made gluten free by using pure icing sugar and GF alternatives as advised.

Treats can be made several weeks in advance and can be stored in zip lock bags in the freezer.

Rum Balls Ingredients 8 crushed Weetbix or GF alternative 1 tin condensed milk 2 tablespoon coconut 2 tablespoons cocoa 1 cup mixed fruit 2 tablespoons rum essence

Method 1. Mix all dry ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Place in refrigerator for 20 minutes 3. Add condensed milk and rum essence; knead through with hands.

4. Roll into balls and toss in coconut.

5. Chill in the refrigerator.

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White Christmas Ingredients 2 cups Rice Bubbles or GF alternative 1 cup mixed fruit ¾ cup icing sugar 1 cup coconut 1 cup powdered milk 250g Copha 1 teaspoon vanilla Method 1. Mix all dry ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Melt Copha in a saucepan.

3. Add to bowl and stir to combine.

4. Pour mixture into a paper-lined tray.

5. Chill in the refrigerator and cut into squares.

Ingredients 500gm Icing Sugar ¼ teaspoon creao of tartar 1 egg white 3 tablespoons condensed milk I cup desiccated coconut Pink food colouring Method: 1. Sift icing sugar and cream of tartar into a mixing bowl 2. Make a well in the centre 3. In a second bowl, lightly beat the egg white.

4. Add egg white and condensed milk to first bowl.

5. Stir in half the coconut. Add the other half and mix in with one hand.

6. Divide mixture in half. Tint one half pink with food dye.

7. Press the pink half over the base of a paper lined tray. Top with the white half and press down lightly 8. Chill in the refrigerator and cut into squares.

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Brigalow Country Community Club!

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The very popular Carols are on again this year so don’t miss out!

By Linda Ottaway

The Legs on the Elvis clock kept up the swivel and Dracula played Bass. And I wondered if the Keyboardist complexion was naturally deathly pale.

It was the first Social Night of the month at The Brigalow Country Music Club, and a Halloween Night theme. The girls couldn’t wait to get up for a Line Dance, the atmosphere was party mode and the guests were all chilled. Everybody made the effort to dress up and everybody made the effort to have a good night. A live Country Music Band jammed with various members popping up to take turns. The music was great and very danceable. Later, the supper table groaned with the weight of all the delicious goodies.

Images supplied by

There are two social nights at the Brigalow Country Music Club – the 1st and 3rd Saturday nights of the month. Everybody is welcome.

I also had the pleasure of attending another function at this wonderful which was also down to earth, chilled, and very comfortable.

Eagleby resident Cecil Nunis, and other members of the SE Queensland Blues Club, took over the stage for a memorable jam, and the birthday bash for Jacqui Nunis.

Max, the host, and a recently named Logan Senior Ambassador, couldn’t do enough for the comfort of his patrons.

The staff tell me Brigalow Country Music Club is all about the music - Country, rock n roll, jazz & blues, gospel, country rock, and the good times. The club facilities include a large hall with seating at tables for about 150, kitchen, licensed bar, medium size stage and a multi-functional outdoor area. The club is available for hire.

Linda Ottaway

FURTHER INFORMATION Brigalow Country Community Club 297 Logan Street, Eagleby Phone: Lynda 0405 494 498 and Max 0412 536 877 www.brigalow-country.com 3807 5170

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Shop Local!

Logan City Directory One of Gotta Love Logan’s latest initiatives is to encourage our community to shop locally.

Shop where your heart is. Our local business are able to uniquely serve us in a very personal way. Local Businesses learn what our community needs are and cater for them.

Local Business owners and employees live locally and re-invest their money back in the community.

To further support our Shop Local Initiative, we have created our very own Logan Business Directory. I encourage all local businesses to register. All business who do register automatically become part of any future Shop Local initiatives. We are putting together a great initiative for Christmas so get in early.

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There are several options to suit all budgets. Funds raised go towards future Gotta Love Logan initiatives. Help us, to help you!

Should you choose a Gold or Premium package, you will be able to post deals by logging in and using your own online dashboard!

Once you post an instore deal, Gotta Love Logan will promote your deal for you! You can also post instore events such as sales or sausage sizzles, and once again, Gotta Love Logan will promote your events for you! This is awesome bang for your buck. Our reach exceeds 50,000 and growing.

LOGAN DIRECTORY Email: gottalovelogancity@gmail.com Web: www.logandirectory.com.au Ph: 0438201166

Images provided by Kathleen de Leon

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

City of Logan Relay for Life!

What a blast!

What an exceptional time we had participating in the City of Logan, Relay for Life! Gotta Love Logan raised over $2100.00! which is fantastic! The relay has raised close to 50,000 (waiting on final figures) and if you want to help make sure we get to the 50,000 it’s not too late.. you can donate here: http://fundraising.cancer.org.au/site/TR/Rela yforLife/CCQLD?team_id=36570&pg=team& fr_id=2350 This is a very important cause which is close to Gotta Love Logan hearts having very close family or friends undergoing traumatic treatment for the scourge that is cancer.

Gotta Love Logan went over the top with our theme of Medieval and took out the Best Dressed Team award. Gotta Love Logan’s entrant, Hamish de Leon, also too out the top prize in the “Miss ter” competition as “Jennifer” Congratulations to the organisers who organised a very heart felt and heartwarming relay which provided us the opportunity to remember those that we have lost and give us hope for the future. The beautiful Candle Ceremony saw the lighting of three candles representing the past, present and future.

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them. Relay also provides an opportunity to celebrate the memory of loved ones lost to cancer.

Each Relay For Life event is organised by a local volunteer committee on behalf of Cancer Council.

Teams of 10-– 15, which are headed up by a team captain, get together and fundraise year-round. Everyone then meets at the Relay to celebrate the amazing fundraising achievements of the past year. Teams participate in a relay-style walk or run, challenging themselves to stay on the track overnight. Each event is unique and you can stay for the whole event and camp overnight, enjoy the fun activities and attend the moving ceremonies that make Relay For Life so special.

Put your thinking cap on to plan your team theme, campsite decorations and costumes.

It all adds colour to the event. While it's not compulsory to dress up, many teams do.

From superheroes of hope to clowns, pirates and space outfits, dressing in theme is a great way to get your team having fun.

Each person on the team pays a registration fee, which includes a shirt and breakfast in the morning. There are no age limitations or fitness requirements – Relay For Life is suitable for everyone. Join our team, or create your own! There is entertainment, challenges, lip syncing… so much.. and our team has a few surprised up our sleeves as well (of course).

Come and join our Gotta Love Logan team and have an absolute blast raising money for an extremely worthy cause. Beenleigh Relay for Life 5th and 6th November 2016!

How Relay Works:

Beenleigh Relay for Life

Relay For Life is a chance for communities to recognise and celebrate those who have overcome cancer or are undergoing treatment, as well as the people who care for

Images: Kathleen de Leon and Donna Lowe

NEED MORE INFORMATION? Di Dixon: 1300 65 65 85 relayforlife@cancerqld.org.au Or if you want to join our team or to donate to our team click on: Beenleigh Relay for Life

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

Events and Fundraisers Event: White Ribbon Day Logan Date: 25th November Where: Logan Brothers Rugby League Club Time: 3.00pm Event: Jimboomba Carols Date: 28th November Where: Jimboomba State School Time: 6.30pm – 8.30pm Event: Eats and Beats Date: 28th November Where: Cusack Lane, Jimboomba Time: 5.00pm – 9.00pm Event: Logan Cardboard Classic Date: 28th November Where: Civic Centre Park (Logan Gardens) Time: 10.00am – 4.00pm Event: Daisy Hill Family Fun Day Date: 29th November Where: Daisy Hill Koala Centre Time 10.00am – 2.00pm

Event: Kimberley Park State School Christmas Markets, Carols and fireworks Date: 4th December Where: Kimberley Park State School Time: 5.00pmpm – 8.00pm Event: Eats and Beats Date: 4th December Where: Beenleigh Town Square Time: 5.00pm – 9.00pm Event: Christmas Movie Night Date: 4th December Where: Underwood Park Time: Movie starts at sunset Event:Carols at Cedar Creek State School Date: 5th December Where: Cedar Creek State School Time: 5.00pm - 8.00pm Event: Crestmead Carols by Candlelight Date: 5th December Where: Pinnington Park Time: 5.30pm Event:Christmas Carols at Dunamis Date: 5th December Where: Dunamis Church Tanah Merah Time: 5.00pm - 7.00pm Ph 32097444

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Event: Family Funday Date: 5th December Where: Hyde Park Regents Park Time: 9.0am - 2.00pm Event: Eats and Beats Date: 11th December Where: Eastern St, Browns Plains Time: 5.00pm – 9.00pm Event: Santa Paws Photos Date: 12th December Where: Parkridge Tavern Time: 10.00am – 3.00pm Event: Christmas Fete Date: 12th December Where: Underwood Village 2770 Logan Rd Underwood Time: 9.00am – 4.00pm Event: xmas at the station Date:11th December Where: Greenbank Rural Fire Brigade Time: 6.00pm Event: Eats and Beats Date:18th December Where: Wembley Rd, Logan Central Time: 5.00pm – 9.00pm

GOTTA LOVE LOGAN ENEWSLETTER | Issue 2

The Way We Were Wembley Rd, Overpass. Source http://trove.nla.gov.au/

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