The LOCAL News, Island and Surrounds

Published every four weeks.

Phone: 0447 007 966

PO Box 1019 Bongaree Qld 4507 www.islandandsurrounds.com.au www.facebook.com/islandandsurrounds

100% independently owned While great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy and contents of the publication, the Island and Surrounds accepts no responsibil ity for inaccuracies. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the views held by TIAS. All content is copy right and may not be reproduced without permission. The production of this FREE newspaper is only made possible by you con tinuing to support our local advertisers. In order to maintain acceptable editorial standards we reserve the right to edit content and, where necessary, the spelling, punctua tion, grammar and readability of all articles submitted for publication in The Island and Surrounds News. We are a small Community Newspaper and welcome submissions from our readers and community groups which will provide us with relevant information about our region and provide a platform on which to voice their opinion. Responsibility for the accuracy of the content of submis sions remains with the contributor.

Next Distribution dates –14th December for Bribie Island, Sandstone Point & Ningi. 15th-16th December, delivered to Beach mere, Caboolture, Toorbul, Donnybrook and surrounding areas.

Delivered to homes and local businesses in the following areas:-

Bribie Island, Sandstone Point, Ningi, Godwin Beach, Beachmere (including Peel Road & Beachmere Road) Bribie Pines, Toorbul, Don nybrook, Meldale, Central Lakes, Caboolture and Elimbah.

Copies can also be picked up from IGA and other local businesses in these districts.

Circulation 24,000

PUBLISHER AND ADVERTISING SALES

Belinda Ferguson 0447 007 966. belinda@islandandsurrounds.com.au

CHIEF OF STAFF

Kym Braithwaite cos@islandandsurrounds.com.au

JOURNALISTS/WRITERS

Sheree Hoddinett, stories@islandandsurrounds.com.au

Alistair Gray. alistair@thegoodnewswriter.com Amelia Strazdins.

DESIGN & ADVERTISING

Roger Small design1@islandandsurrounds.com.au

WEBSITE & SOCIAL MEDIA

Matthew Owen

Sadly, there has been an increase in crime in our region, with some arrests being made. Some locals have creat ed a new facebook page called Bribie Crime Report with more than 5000 locals already joining the page as Bribie residents’ interest in law-andorder skyrockets - get online and have a look. We also look at cybercrime and how to protect yourself.

There are exciting new changes hap pening at Sandstone Point Hotel and Big Fish Junction shopping precinct will open soon. Snake season is upon us and we have a brilliant article about ‘what to do if a snake slithers into your piece of paradise’.

With our usual informative fishing report and our boating tips discuss ing lightweight cartopper dinghy’s, we have our anglers covered. We have an update regarding the Bri bie Island Bridge petition and wish to thank all of you who have signed the petition with the last issue adding an additional 69 signatures.

With Christmas just around the cor ner, it’s hard to believe we only have one more issue for 2022.

As usual we cover a wide variety of local issues, while showcasing our local businesses. It is our local businesses who make this publication possible so please support them.

Warm regards, Belinda Ferguson

Bribie residents’ interest in law-and-order

crimes successfully apprehending the offenders.

There have been many concerns raised about youth crime on the Island. When I briefly discussed this with Senior Con stable Arthur, she said Bribie was similar to other areas when, from time to time we get a group of individuals that visit a place, cause havoc and then move on to another site to do the same again. How ever, the figures for youth crime on the Island are generally low and we shouldn’t penalise young people who live on the Island when visitors are committing most of the youth crimes.

Congratulations must go to the local Bribie Police for their rapid response and quick apprehension of the young offend ers following the alleged violent assault. For this, your community is very grateful.

However, despite this success, Bribie has always had an undertow of petty crime. Generally, they are non-violent crimes like break and enter, petty thief and some are drug-related. More of a nuisance though and can be scary if you are personally involved.

jolt and are now becoming active crime spotters, as evidenced by the Bribie Crime Report Facebook page which has seen ex traordinary growth. With a membership of more than 5800, representing about 25% of the total population of Bribie, it’s a reflection of a population that is scared and has had enough. Residents want to feel safe in their homes and want an end to crime on the Island. The good news is that residents are now working together and sharing more information.

The downside of this is that many Bribie residents are making the mistake of posting on social media but not reporting the information directly to the Police first or thinking the information is insignificant and won’t be acted upon by the Police. Quite to the contrary. Every morning Senior Police from the different command areas meet online to discuss information collected and use this to strategically determine the placement of critical resources and active strategies to apprehend criminals. It is much like put ting together jigsaw pieces and building a picture of their target so they can act and get these criminals off our streets.

It is of the utmost importance that residents report any information about criminal activity directly to Police, no matter how small. It is no good putting information on a Facebook page and not reporting it to Police. Police are too busy to monitor a Facebook page. The more data the Police have the better chance they have of apprehending offenders.

Queensland Police Service Moreton Community Engagement Officer, Senior Constable Jo-Anne Arthur, gave examples Yet when the Police obtained the informa tion they effectively connected it to other

Another way residents can help minimise local crime is by getting involved in their local Neighbourhood Watch. The only active group on the Island is the Bongaree group, holding meetings on the third Tuesday of each month at Bribie RSL at 9.30am.

I also spoke to Councillor Brooke Savige who has been closely monitoring the community feedback and asked her about installing more security cameras and graffiti removal. Brooke said there are cameras on the Jetty and the Bridge which are connected to a very sophisticated close-circuited TV network, are closely monitored and one of the best in the region. The alleged bashing occurred on a residential street and putting cameras in such places was not practical. Brooke said the problem with graffiti comes and goes and the Police are very good at catching offenders. Council takes responsibility for the removal of graffiti from public buildings. Otherwise removal was the responsibility of property owners with council having a free graffiti removal kit available for property owners affected. The blue building by McDonald’s is one property I am sure the community would like to see cleaned up. Maybe that could be a good service project for the local Rotary or Lions Club or perhaps the wall could be painted by a local artist like they do in the cities. Food for thought. Let’s keep our Island graffiti free.

How to contact the Police

• Ring Triple Zero 000 if you are in danger or a crime is in progress. Emergency calls only.

• Call Policelink 131 444 if you have information for the police or to report a non-urgent incident.

• Lodge a Report Online – 24 Hours - www.police.qld.gov.au/policelink-re porting

New location of an Island bridge

Forget a replacement of the bridge at current location on Bribie Island. The bottle neck of traffic is happening NOW at the bridge. The road network to and off the bridge cannot possibly handle four lanes merging into a two-lane round about.

Consider a feed off the highway on Pum icestone Rd to Toorbul to a NEW BRIDGE built across the passage to White Patch which feeds to Banksia Beach and North St Woorim. This would create less dis ruption to the population of Bribie and surrounding areas

Ray Bribie Island

Paying our respects

By Amelia Strazdins

On November 11, we paid our respects and acknowledged the members of our armed forces who have dedicated their lives to protecting us, our country and our freedom.

Many of us showed our respect through attending services and giving a minute silence. Although we all take the time to remember those dedicat ed to our armed forces, it remains important to ensure that our support continues throughout the year.

Bribie Island is home to a multitude of individuals who have devoted their lives to protecting others, from veterans to currently serving members. Supporting these members of our community takes a variety of forms from helping others learn about history and the sacrifices made, to assisting local organisations and groups, our community support remains an important aspect of displaying our respect. Taking the time to learn and understand the history of our armed forces helps to provide a deeper understanding of the sacrifices that have and continue to be made. Ensuring this history remains discussed in modern context also allows for the recognition of those who have previously not been acknowledged for their duty. First Nations peoples in particular have not always been recognised for their efforts with the Australian armed forces. It is through discussion and learning that the involvement of In digenous peoples in past conflicts has gained recognition and is beginning

to be more broadly acknowledged. This history is learnt not only through the internet and books but also by those brave individuals willing to share their stories. Emphasising the importance of historical learning helps to ensure that younger genera tions remain informed and aware of a longstanding legacy within Australia and of the great sacrifices made.

Assisting local groups and organ isations such as the RSL and the Vietnam Veterans also provides support particularly to those who are no longer in active service. These groups not only support veterans and armed forces but also our local community. Whether it be having a meal at the RSL or donating either your time or money to one of these organisations, every action helps the growth and continuation of these support systems.

There is no doubting the importance of Remembrance Day as it provides a day to honour those who have both previously and currently make sacrifices for our country. However, the respect, acknowledgement and support given to Australian armed forces must occur throughout the year.

Ensuring strong support groups through organisations, opening up conversations regarding mental health and recognising the impor tance of sharing history assists in displaying our respect for those who have served or are currently serving within our armed forces.

We will remember them.

Local government award win for council’s ‘City

Vision’ pitch

Moreton Bay Regional Council’s proposal to be reclassified as a city has received recognition from the Australian gov ernment, by winning the 2022 Local Government National Award for Regional Growth. Driven by council’s discussion paper, Reimagining Our Moreton Bay, the proposal received high praise for its ambitious goal to strengthen investment and improve liveability in the Moreton Bay Region.

Mayor Peter Flannery said the win proved council was on the right track with its proposal to put the Moreton Bay Region on the map nationally and reclassify itself as a city.

“It’s a huge honour for council to receive such high praise from the Federal Gov ernment and to beat more than 300 other Australian councils to take out the top prize,” he said. “This just reinforces all the hard work we’ve put into our proposal to officially be recognised as a city. Moreton Bay is the third largest council in the country and we’re one of the fastest growing too, which means we need infra structure to keep pace with population growth and to deliver the facilities that our residents deserve.”

Mr Flannery said now was the time to make the right decisions to protect the region’s way of living and provide further opportunities for residents and business es.

“Becoming a city will help us to define what our city looks like before population growth happens to us and we can avoid becoming another concrete jungle like the Brisbane, Melbourne or Sydney CBD’s,” he said. “We want to get on the front foot now so we can create a city we want, by building on the many urban centres we already have across the region and better connect them so that there is no central point. The great part is that a city reclassification will come at very little cost to ratepayers and we have no obligation or intention to go out and change signage until our current signs require replacing.”

Moreton Bay’s City Reclassification Proposal underwent significant commu nity engagement in early 2022 and the submission is currently with the Electoral Commission for formal review.

Arrests made in relation to assault

A group of youths have been arrested and charged in relation to the assault of a couple at Bongaree on October 21.

A 57-year-old woman and a 59-year-old man confronted a group of fighting boys in the middle of the street on Dolphin Drive, where it is alleged they were then assaulted. Four boys were seen running from the scene.

A 15-year-old boy from Sandstone Point was charged with assault occasioning bodily harm. He was also charged with the unrelated offences of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, stealing, attempted unlawful entry, trespass, driving whilst unlicenced and driving an unregistered motor vehicle.

A 14-year-old boy from Bellara was also charged with assault occasioning bodily harm. He has been charged with unrelated

offences of the unlawful use of a motor vehicle, two offences of attempted unlaw ful use of a motor vehicle, unlawful entry to a motor vehicle and unlawful entry.

Both of these boys are expected to appear in the Caboolture Children’s Court at a later date.

A 15-year-old Bribie Island boy has been charged with assault occasioning bodily harm. He has also been charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle, two stealing offences, four counts of attempted entry to premises and attempted unlawful use of a motor vehicle in relation to a separate incident. He will reappear in the Caboolture Children’s Court this month.

A 14-year-old boy from Banksia Beach has been dealt with under provisions of the Youth Justice Act.

Big Fish Junction shopping precinct opening soon

Big Fish Junction is set to change the shopping scene in Caboolture with the first stage of stores set to open from Friday November 18.

Major retailer Coles will be among the first of the retailers to open their doors on November 18. Drop in and squeeze your own fresh orange juice, access the pet food treat bar for the fur members of your family or check out the frozen dessert bar for a tasty and cool summer treat.

Other Big Fish Junction retailers and specialty stores are expected to include:

• Bunnings

• Liquorland

• Chemist Warehouse

• KFC (opening date yet to be con firmed)

• Subway

• Sushi Tamashi (opening date to be advised)

• Dhamaka Indian Restaurant - open ing Friday November 18

• Cignall featuring lotto and giftware

• Ozze Nails and Spa

There are still some stores experiencing shop fit out delays due to construction and supply challenges with further updates still to come. While a handful of stores and outlets will open on November 18, there are plans for a pre-Christmas grand opening celebration to take place on Thursday December 15. There will be heaps of fun for the whole family with activities, giveaways, special retailer deals and so much more.

Big Fish Junction is located next to the Big Fish Tavern on 459 Pumicestone Road, Caboolture, just off the Bruce Highway.

Sarah Adams

What to do if a snake slithers into your piece of paradise

By Sheree Hoddinett

The last place you want to find a snake is in your bedroom or wrapped around your toilet, but it does happen! Would you know what to do if you come across a ‘nope rope’ hanging from your show erhead or curled up in a drawer? Most people would probably run away (myself included!), but there are a few things you can do to help have your new slithering friend relocated and it’s best to call in an expert, rather than attempt it yourself.

With so many different snake species calling Australia home, most of us wouldn’t know at first glance which ones are harmless and those that are extremely deadly, unless you have a trained eye.

Steve Brown from Brisbane North Snake Catchers and Relocation said if you come across a snake in close proximity to you, the most important thing to remember was to stand still.

“If you do this, the snake will feel less threatened and not see you as a threat, so it will move on and not feel it has to de fend itself,” he said. “If you do see a snake in or around your home, never attempt to catch it or kill it as this may result in your life being turned upside down in the blink of an eye. Always call a professional to catch and relocate a snake. If you are unsure what species it is grab a photo from a safe distance (no closer than 5m) and send the photo to a snake catcher.” While we can’t keep snakes completely out of our lives, there is a couple of things

you can do to make your property a little less tempting.

“Keep your yard clean and maintained –short grass and garden beds clean from foliage,” Steve said. “Try to make your place less inviting to a snake.”

Rhien Talbot is certainly no stranger to snakes and can often be found removing them from spots in and around local homes from Bribie and further afield.

“With the current time of year and weather events happening, there are a few

snakes on the move,” Rhien said. “Most are looking for dry ground away from the rain but we are also in the middle of breeding season so we have males out and about in search of mates. This isn’t anything new, it happens every year around the same time! So there definitely isn’t more snakes around and they aren’t getting any bigger!”

Along with keeping your yard tidy, Rhien recommends removing items so snakes don’t have places to hide and also elim inating any potential food sources like mice and rats.

“One of the main reasons snakes will enter a yard is while hunting for food,” Rhien said. “Chicken pens, bird cages and even pet food kept outdoors will attract rodents to your property and snakes can soon follow. If you have outdoor pets it is best to feed them when needed, then clean up and remove food to ensure no rodents come in. Even with these steps you aren’t guaranteed to never have a snake in your yard. They are wild animals and will sometimes just pass through.”

If you do spot a snake, Rhien highlights the importance of making sure everyone including pets, is safe.

“If everyone is at a safe distance you can monitor the snake and it should move on in no time,” Rhien said. “If you want to ensure it is moved on, you can call your local snake catcher and keep an eye on the snake until they arrive to relocate it.

If a snake is inside your house you should remove everyone from the room and use towels to block the gap under the door. Once that is done, give your local snake catcher a call and monitor the door to ensure it doesn’t slip out past the towel. Also, it is important to note that snake catchers are a paid service and we do charge a callout fee.”

**You can reach Steve Brown from Brisbane North Snake Catchers and Relocation 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 0449 922 341**

**Rhien is contactable via 0478 712 638 or Rhien’s Snake Removals on Facebook**

Carpet Python lying in wait! Photo Roger Small

CYBERCRIME

Get set for the new big screen

By Sheree Hoddinet

The countdown is on for Limelight Cinemas to open at Morayfield Shopping Centre. While an official date has yet to be announced, moviegoers will be in for a treat once the doors finally open. The former Event Cinemas complex is undergoing a complete refurbishment to become a modern and stylish 7-screen cinema complex with new screens, sound, seats and more. You’ll be spoilt for choice as you select from a range of ‘ways to watch’ the latest releases at what is being touted as affordable prices.

So what can you expect?

There are three different experiences to choose from when you go to watch your chosen flick:

The Gold Experience

A luxury dine-in cinema experience. Indulge with a drink from the bar, choose from an extensive food and beverage menu, then kick back in a comfy recliner, where your meal and drinks will be delivered directly to your seat.

The XD Experience

A premium large format cinema experi ence. Wall-to-wall screens, 4K projection, state-of-the-art immersive sound and a

choice of our new and improved ‘Premium View’ standard seats or electric recliners.

The Classic Experience

Limelight has taken the ‘Classic’ cinema experience up a notch. New screens, new sound and a choice of ‘Premium View’ standard seats or electric recliners in every cinema.

There will be more than just the big-name movies screening at Limelight with a wide variety of signature programming and events coming to Morayfield in a bid to create a community entertainment hub for all age groups. There will be the Girls Night Out, Friday Fright Night, BYO Babies and Seniors Morning Tea programs as well as live sport, big-screen gaming, singalongs, trivia and more.

When it comes to movie treats get ready for something a little different to just the usual popcorn and choc-top deliciousness. As part of the cinema complex, Ruby’s Kitchen and Bar offers an expanded grab and go menu. You can liven up your movie viewing with options like gourmet pizza, hot dogs and ice cold-drinks.

If you’re planning a special party or event, Limelight will also have private party and function spaces available. Watch out the Limelight difference is coming soon!

and your private information from an online scam.

From my own experience and research I have put together a few tips. I don’t pro fess to being some internet security guru. You need to be responsible for your own situation and proactive in reviewing your online security. Don’t assume everything is OK. Scammers and identity thieves can create absolute havoc by pretending to be you, accessing your bank accounts and details, stealing your money and ordering products using your private information. Hopefully some of the following ideas may help and even surprise you.

1. Create completely different passwords for every login that is required - A unique password for each login is critical as part of your essential security. For example don’t use a password like Bribie1973 and another Bribie1974. Most sites have a username - usually your email address. Hackers have systems that

password manager is via a master password and once you get used to the system it is relatively easy to use and very secure.

3. Never, ever share your passwords - If you do for some reason share a password immediately change it after use.

4. Always use multi-factor authentica tion when available - As frustrating as multi-factor authentication is it will significantly enhance your information security by using two different forms of authentication, either via an authentication app, text message, email, fingerprint or even facial recognition, then entering a code or tapping the authentication button.

5. Use your smartphone to make pay ments - Contrary to what many may think making payments by swiping the traditional plastic credit card or even using tap-and-go is significantly

COVID – 19

At JNR Plumbing we are committed to the safety of our community and our at-risk elderly citizens of Bribie Island and Surrounds.

Due to the risk of COVID -19 our plumbers and labourers will be fitted with masks when we enter your home, this is for your safety and the safety of the community and will minimise the risk of our team transmitting the virus from one home to another when caring for your plumbing needs. In the event of a blocked sewer or other high-risk tasks our team will be suit ed in disposable suits to again help stop the risk of spreading COVID-19.

We ask that when we come to your home that you practice the government supported social distance of 1.5 meters at all time and to remain polite to our team as they are wearing protective clothing for your benefit and to keep our community safe.

From the team at JNR Plumbing - please stay safe and care for one and other.

secure than making a payment directly from your phone using an app like Apple Pay or the Android equivalent. The reason is that the app uses a one-time authorisation code making another payment impossible. As a result plastic cards could be open to skimming.

Install and use Antivirus and internet security software - Ensure you are using all the tools that come with your antivirus and security software which warn you of bad links and doubtful websites, signifi cantly minimising malware risks and providing vital virus protection. You can usually extend protection to your phone and other devices.

7. Don’t connect to unsecured public wi-fi networks - Scammers and cybercriminals can access your data at free hot spots and wi-fi networks at airports, clubs, cafes, motels and libraries. Avoid them unless they are a trusted connection like your home or work networks, particularly if you are conducting sensitive transactions like banking. I seldom use public networks preferring to use my phone data directly for such transactions. Another way you can secure yourself is to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) which encrypts all your internet data.

8. Clear your cache- Your internet history including saved searches and cookies, is held in your computer’s cache. Clearing this can enhance your security. Research this before clearing so you have an understanding of the implications around losing some of your cookies.

9. Turn off the ‘Save Password’ feature in your browser - Password managers when set up, offer to import your saved password data from your browser. As a result a cybercriminal could do the same thing. Therefore it is suggested you protect yourself by not keeping your passwords in your

browser.

10. Update and back up your devicesThe world of cybercrime is changing very fast. So it is wise to keep your devices updated with the latest software and backed up.

11. Be ultra-careful of links to websites where they want your personal information - See comments in 12 below.

12. Phishing scams with bogus lookalike websites - Cybercriminals will send you an email or text message encouraging you to visit a bogus look-alike website to get you to sign in, thus giving them your personal information and password. Once they have this they immediately take control of your account. They can ac cess further information, potentially taking over your identity and stealing from you. An example is a recent email I received from Telstra that looked very real except for the fact that I don’t have a Telstra account. I have also received a series of emails from Netflix saying my account is about to close and I need to update my details.

You should always carefully examine emails to ensure their authenticity by carefully examining the website name which is often a giveaway. For example, a web address like www.telstra.idiotcus tomer.com is clearly not an actual website. Look at the landing page they are sending you too. Often the colours, the logo and the quality of the website tell you some thing is wrong. DO NOT FILL IN YOUR DETAILS. If in doubt, pick up the phone and talk in person to whoever sent you the email to confirm it is valid. It is better to be over-cautious than have your bank accounts emptied.

Want to find out moreAn excellent place to start is the eSafety Commissioners website www.esafety.gov.

au.

Or talk to your local computer specialist.

The villains are back in town!!

CCTV SURVEILANCE

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DONT BE COMPLACENT

Statistics show that approx. 50% of offenders are deterred by functioning alarm/surveillance systems. CCTV recordings help authorities trace culprits and recover stolen property.

Real-time monitoring helps keep your family and belongings safe. Most insurance companies offer premium discounts if professional security systems are installed.

Ride for Red raising money for cancer

The Gronks Social Riders Club have done it again! Taking part in the annual Ride for Red for the sixth consecutive year the club raised much needed funds to support Cancer Council Queensland in their quest to cure cancer. The members started this initiative after losing a much-loved member to brain cancer in 2016.

Held over the October long weekend, riders gathered at the Big Fish Ampol Service Station Caboolture with about 50 bikes including cruisers, sports bikes, adventure bikes and trikes along with ten cars featuring supporters. Some riders even travelled from as far as Ayr, Bundaberg and Sydney.

Riders and vehicles made their way through the scenic twists and bends via Somerset Dam to Enigmas Café Esk for coffee, vanilla slice and the first raffle of the day. The next stop was for a scrumptious barbecue lunch hosted

by Jackie and Reece at the Harlin Hotel with a raffle whilst supporters relaxed in the friendly atmosphere, making new friends and sharing memories of Red. From Harlin, riders and supporters made their way to the Exchange Hotel Kilcoy, a delicious buffet roast dinner and an overnight stay. Fundraising continued with an enormous multidraw raffle followed by a bidding war for a variety of donated items in the auction.

A total of $8000 was raised through a combination of donations, raffles and auctions for the 2022 Ride for Red. Since

“We are grateful to help contribute to such a good cause and it was great to see so many new faces join in this year,”

Social Riders Club said. “We received such positive feedback regarding the comradery and the diversity of people and bikes, with some people already enquiring about the details for next year’s event. A huge thanks goes to Moreton Bay Region councillors Adam Hain and Brooke

Pumicestone Ali King and all contribut ing businesses and the community for the very kind donations. We can’t forget to mention the supporters, without these people the event would not have been the success that it was.”

The annual Ride for Red is held on the same October long weekend every year. The Gronks Social Riders Club extend the invitation to anyone who would like to be involved in supporting the Cancer Council in finding a cure for cancer. To become involved as a sponsor or par ticipant, join the Ride for Red Annual Charity Motorbike Ride facebook group or phone Gary Blake on 0407 570 651.

starting the event in 2017, the Gronks Social Riders Club has donated a whopping total of $35,000 to the Cancer Council.

Gary Blake (Blakey) from the Gronks

Savige, Member for

Group Shot (left to right) Helen Weir (event organiser), Ali King MP (State Member for Pumicestone), Councillor Adam Hain (Moreton Bay Regional Council), Gary Blake (organiser) and on bike Councillor Brooke Savage

Helen Weir And Rachael Liddell

Final Stop Exchange Hotel Kilcoy

First Stop Esk, Enigmas Café

Lunch stop Harlin Hotel On

Helen Weir (Organiser), Jessica (from Cancer Council Queensland) Gary (BLAKEY) Blake (Organiser)

Mark and Jessica from Cancer Council Queensland

Bikes at the start Ampol Service Station Caboolture

Bribie Island Golf Club – Time to Book your Christmas Celebrations

We offer some fantastic options for you, your family or your work colleagues to celebrate Christmas and the end of 2022. Whether it be a golf package, dining package or a combination of both, give us a call or drop us an email to arrange. Christmas is almost upon us and spaces are limited so act now! Looking for a different Christmas gift, we can do Gift Vouchers of any denomination.

Sunday BBQ Buffet Lunch – Sunday, 20th November

Why not spend a lazy Sunday afternoon listening to some great live music and soaking up the atmosphere of our clubhouse grounds and course? You can do this on Sunday, 20th November 2022 as we present live music by local artist, Kroozy Tunes from 11.00am. Our new BBQ will be cranking from 11.30am with a great menu including pork riblett, chargrilled chicken and steak, sausages, burgers and a selection of salads, all for just $20 per person. Enjoy our wide selection of cool beverages and pass the time away.

Give us a call to book a table on 3408 1457.

Our Regular Dining Specials

Senior Lunches – Available every Monday to Friday – 11.30am to 2.00pm – still only $12. Your choice of Northern Rivers Roast Pork with Roast pumpkin, potato, steamed vegetables and gravy.

Beer Battered Saltwater Fish and Chips, Chicken Schnitzel and chips, Chicken Caesar salad, Seafood Catch or Bangers and Mash, with peas and gravy.

Double Meal Deal Wednesdays: Any two meals from our select menu for just $30. Choose from Chef’s Pizza, 300g Chicken Schnitzel, Bangers and

Mash or Snapper and Chips. Full menu and specials menu also available.

Thursday Reef n Beef Special - Our popular Steak, Prawns and chips deal for just $23 is available as well as the full menu and specials menu.

Saturday Lunch Special - 11.30am to 2.00pm: Purchase one of our handpicked lunches for just $17 and receive a complimentary pot of beer, glass of house wine or a soft drink.

Christmas Ham Raffles – starting soon Join us on a Friday night and you could win your Christmas Ham in our regular Friday Night Raffles. You could win a Meat Tray or two, plus one lucky winner has the chance to walk away with $500 cash in the Lucky 13 draw. We also run a quick 10 question trivia and conduct our members draw.

Social Membership – 2023 - $10

Join today as a social member and we will give you the remainder of November and December 2022 as well. As a Social Member, you can enjoy discounted member pricing on restaurant snacks and meals, clubhouse beverages and specified events. Join today and you can also book for our Member’s Christmas Party, a night not to miss.

Make sure you’re ready for storm season

By Sheree Hoddinett

Storms. Rain. Wind. It’s all part of Mother Nature, but there are times when she strikes a little bit harder and the impact is felt around the community and beyond. When it comes to severe weather in the Sunshine State, we all know it’s not a case of if, but when. With rain having already impacted the region and hot, humid weather indicating summer storms are coming, there’s a number of steps we can all take to try and ensure we’re ready for any crazy weather that may come our way.

Moreton Bay Region SES Controller Sean Harrop said it was really important residents prepared themselves and their family for severe weather.

“I know the community is tired and weary from what feels like endless bad weather but now is not the time to let their guard down with the predictions of another severe season,” he said. “It’s really important that everyone makes sure they are prepared. These are proactive steps residents can take to make sure they and their family are prepared and safe for this severe weather season.”

Tips on how best to be prepared:

• Make an emergency kit.

• Make an emergency plan.

• Make any arrangements needed for your pets. This includes making sure their microchipping information is correct, you have their food, medicine, leads, and/or carry cases easily acces sible. Many residents are prepared for their human family members but forget about preparing their furry family members for severe weather and possible evacuation.

• Ensure you have medicine prepared and scripts, if required, for refills or replacement medication.

• Keep important documents relating to your home, yourself and other family members in a safe place so they can easily be taken with you if you need to evacuate your property.

• Keep the roof of your home in good condition - check the gutters and downpipes are clear of leaves and debris.

• Trim trees and branches away from your home.

• Know how to turn off the mains supply for water, power and gas, in

case of emergency.

• Secure, weigh down or put away loose objects around the house and yard. Large items like patio furniture and trampolines can become airborne in storms causing severe damage to your home and your neighbours. They are also potentially dangerous if they hit someone.

• Ensure contents, home and vehicle insurance policies are up-to-date and have adequate coverage.

• Register for Moreton Bay Regional Council’s free SMS early warning system MoretonAlert.

“This may seem like a lot of steps but if your family spends half a day on a week end working together to complete these points you will have it done in no time and you will be prepared for severe weather,” Sean said. “You do need to check each of these steps every couple of months to ensure they are all still complete. It’s also important to ensure there is no new damage to your property and the contents of your emergency kit are still in date.”

More information on being prepared can be found on the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) website www.qfes.qld.gov.au/prepare.

Beachmere Seniors Expo met with huge support

With over 20 stalls and more than 130 visitors the Beachmere Seniors Expo was a huge success.

Held at the Beachmere Hub and orga nized by Beachmere U3A President Barb Woodroffe the afternoon was packed with guest speakers, entertainment and an afternoon tea.

Local community groups as well as local businesses that support seniors kept up with a steady demand for information about their activities, events and prod ucts.

“We really didn’t know what sort of interest or support we would receive as it was the very first time we have organized such an event. We had speakers on legal matters, travel and scams with each session being full. It was wonderful to see so many people interested and visiting each of the stalls,” a very pleased Barb Woodroffe said.

The Illume Skylight Alternative has a sleek design, using solar technology to transform any room into a bright space by simulating the lighting conditions outside, without the need for a light shaft.

Colin and Mavis met at an old-time dance in early 1961, marrying at ‘Queen of Peace’ Catholic Church Woody Point on December 1, 1962.

They first lived in Kallangur where Colin built their first house making all the rock faced bricks by hand and digging the foundations by hand, which was extremely hard work for a clerical worker. The whole project took three years to complete.

After saving some money Colin went on to build an 18-foot Trailer Sailer which took two years to complete. Meanwhile their family grew to three girls and one boy and twin baby girls who were sadly deceased.

In 1979 with a growing family, they decided to purchase a parcel of land from Mavis’s parents at Narangba, constructing a kit home which became their family home for a very happy 40 years.

They formed a small dance band entertain ing at many aged care and respite centres. Throughout the years to make ends meet, Colin and Mavis joined Bessemer cookware party plan, Hobbytex and Avon. Mavis nursed at an RSL home for 10 years with Colin driving school and shopper buses. Colin’s health issues eventually forced his retirement.

Over the years they have enjoyed many camping and caravan trips, including five overseas cruises.

They continued with their love of old-time dancing, adding square dancing to their repertoire in 2004, continuing to dance until Colin became too unsteady on his feet. Now Colin takes Mavis along so she can still enjoy the exercise.

Eventually the property at Narangba became too much to manage. In 2021 they decided to find something smaller, acquiring a quarter acre block with a lovely home in Donnybrook, keeping Mavis busy with her love of gardening and Colin in his shed with

his wood turning.

They don’t get to use their lovely boat as much as they would like and are hoping to rectify this in the near future. Since mov ing to Donnybrook they have joined the local garden club and also regularly enjoy picnics along the beautiful foreshore. They are best mates who have always enjoyed each other’s company. How lucky they are!

They will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with their four children, five grandchildren and four great-grandchil dren along with a few of their friends and relatives.

Staff from ‘The Local’ would also like to congratulate Mavis and Colin for this incredible achievement.

May, 2017.

Cranky Lizard directs no criticism or support for any Australian political party. Cranky Lizard observes, like a gecko on a wall, and then comments on what is observed. Cranky Lizard comments and expresses opinions on what is available for all to see. Cranky Lizard expects that there will be many who disagree with the expressed opinions, some will be outraged [ poor buggers ], others will make sensible and critical comments [ good bloody on ya ! ] and others won’t even be interested in any- thing said….[ also good bloody on ya !

] Some of this material, not all, appeared earlier in a Cranky Lizard blog.

It is budget time again in Federal Parlia ment.

What that means is that the Federal Government will tell us how it is going to spend our money over the next few years ; the Federal Opposition will generally oppose everything, because that is what they do ; the rest, the “ unrepresentative swill “ according to a former Prime Minister, will grasp at any opportunity to get something, anything at all, so that they can display their achievements to the three or four hundreds of Australians they claim to represent.

Underneath, deep underneath the media noise, the prancing, the posing, the print

media front page splashes of nonsense, the electronic media ‘ live breaking news ‘ ; within the community, grows a layer of anger like a bacterial froth in a petri dish.

The whole thing is similar to a slow mo tion dance……but only one partner seems to hear the music……and so; the dancing continues and the anger rises.

The violins resonate shrilly, the drums pound the ancient rhythms of steps and heartbeats from times long gone, the oboes oboe, the trumpets trump and the piano tinkles and rolls…

The swirling becomes a vortex of Gov ernment, Opposition and Others, smiles grimly held on vacuous faces that, in some cases cannot believe their luck ; pudgy, ungraceful forms jerk and gyrate to noise, a breast touches here, a wink flashes there, a penis bulge is accidentally brushed and a bum is gently felt : the Parliamentary dance swishes for the media and the activists, whose acclaim the dancer’s crave. Blonde locks are flung, bobbed helmets of hair spin undisturbed, silvery manes flop and trays of moving alcohol, Dom Perignon of course, are swept clean like a paddock overwhelmed with locust crawlers !!

It is all funded by the taxpayers, of course, as it should be !! They claim.

And, it all happens in the halls of our capitals.

Outside of the halls, in the small country towns and the sprawling suburbs, the Jackie Howe singlets and the K-Mart

Continued from page 2

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Diddly squat

I would like to draw your attention to your latest attempt for funding for the new bridge.

I have been on the Island for 6 years and have seen and heard many stories from our local press and community, mostly either health related or regarding some local infrastructure issue e.g. bridge, hospital.

The belief that a politician will help us with a new bridge seems odd as each and every political side has had the same story to entice our votes with the fob off attitude due to the lack of life skills and knowledge. I’m sure they believe the reasons they are running are validated. However, if you have no knowledge of de velopment infrastructure, which has been going on for longer than I have been here, then monies are paid by these developers for these infrastructure purposes. So where is that money being spent?

Advertising from developers bring more people to our Island and lifestyle. With our countries problems regarding weath er issues etc I wonder if any thought has been given to our evacuation in the event of a natural or man-made disaster. How the hell do we get off the Island in those times?

I’m sure I have said enough and leave it up to your staff to investigate my claims. PS forget asking any politician about the reality they now diddly about what’s going on. To them it’s just a job!

John Bellara

trakkies, watch the false nonsense and the contrived spectaculars which now comprise “ The News “ and they know, they know, they are being conned !!

Their work has gone, replaced by wind machines, robots or flushed off-shore ; they live in ‘ splitter ‘ blocks where they can hear each other fart or make love or both !! They watch fat, aggressive crea tures in burquas, neither male or female, just fat aggressive creatures in burquas, screeching in their Courts and on their TV screens.

They do try, very hard, to believe in what they believed in when they were young, boys were boys and girls were girls……all that was OK. It had order and common sense. But now, they are rubbished by the media, by marketing trollopes in shopping malls, by school teachers wearing political messages on their grubby, cotton clothing ; all shouting bug eyed bullshit about ‘ halal food ‘, gender neutrality, safe spaces, baby boomers taking all the houses and so on and on…………………!

And.

They know, they know, that sure as guns are iron, that we are spending more than we earn ; we are allowing people into our country not to contribute but to take, by fraud, by religious posturing, by any means possible, by having four wives/ partners, money from us……because it is our money, not the Government’s, Govern ments don’t have money, they only have ours.

Three out of five people living in our communities do not work, some can’t, some won’t but they all take our money.

They used to believe, and some still cling to that belief that the political leaders they voted for, from whatever side of politics, will know what is happening and will fix it !!.

But.

They are beginning to believe that their political leaders don’t listen anymore ; they are too busy dancing.

Anger simmers and grows.

The central theme in the capitals, where the ‘ pollies ‘ live seems to be.. “ There is no business like show business “

Cranky Lizard knows that coming into politics rarely makes anyone better, it is tough, unrelenting and vicious. Very few survive long term and they are never better for the experience. But we have allowed a system of ‘ payback ‘, identity politics, class warfare and relentlessly irresponsible spending to cloud our judgement and clog up our Parliaments so that nothing seems to happen except prolonging the sense of entitlement, and, of course, the dancing.

Cranky Lizard can hear the ghostly voice of Leonard Cohen humming………………..”

Hallelujah “

Hallelujah, indeed.

Cranky Lizard also knows that only love makes people better……not politics !!

Our society is burning

Our leaders fiddle while all around us our society burns.

A couple of major policies touted by the Labour Party at the last few state elec tions focused on our hospital system and youth crime. And while being elected to deal with these important issues, we have been left sadly wanting.

Our hospital system is in tatters with closed wards, staff shortages and ambu lance ramping while youth crime contin ues to flourish before our eyes.

The usual response by Premier Palaszczuk and Health Minister D’Ath is to announce a review. The current state government has undertaken many reviews since 2015. 242,000 to be precise. That’s an awful lot of reviews to achieve nothing.

With youth crime sadly on the rise it is plainly obvious that our youth justice system needs a major shake-up. Clearly the ‘softly softly’ approach is not working with many youths thumbing their noses at the law while society hides behind the curtains. With gangs wandering the streets, damaging or stealing property, racing each other on scooters while hurl ing abuse at anyone that dares to look at them, how long will it be before some concerned residents decide to take matters into their own hands and form vigilante groups?

Rodney Bongaree

Extract from issue 12 May/June 2017 and article was relevant at the time of publication.

RAMBLINGS

By Richard Lancaster

Dogs come out on top

Arguments between cat and dog owners as to which species of the two is the smartest will never end well, such is the passion of these respective pet owners. But before we go too much further, neither species is the smartest of all the domesticated animals. The unlikely winner in the intelligence stakes is the domestic pig which displays the largest number of intelligence traits according to most scientific research. But that’s another story!

Science tells us that dogs have twice the number of neurons in their cerebral cortexes than cats have, which could suggest that dogs are twice as intelligent as cats. Dogs not only follow directions but are brilliant readers of human body language. They are capable of understand ing subtle gestures, facial expressions and even human moods, being equivalent to a two-year-old child. As well, dogs are able to tell if you are sad or happy. Our canine companions are capable of understanding nearly 250 words and are able to count to

five! In tests they have even been able to perform simple mathematical calculations. With more than 220 million olfactory receptors in their noses, the nose of a dog is one million times more effective than the human nose, which only has five million receptors. Therefore dogs are being taught to detect cancer in humans as well as identifying explosives, drugs and other noxious substances, even hunting down escaped criminals. They have also been trained to withdraw money from ATM’S for their disabled owners. Dogs can detect the sex, age and condition of other dogs by simply smelling their urine. Dogs don’t sweat like humans, their noses evaporate fluid from them which helps them keep cool. Their hearing is vastly superior to that of humans. With ears that are able to rotate they can maximise and pick up sound waves that we humans cannot. Dogs also have three eyelids. The third acts as a windscreen wiper for clearing away dirt from the eye.

How have dogs become so smart? 10,000 years of domestication has given the dog a unique opportunity to becoming adept at reading human instructions and moods. And that makes them canine psycholo gists!

CAROLYN’S TAX UPDATE

SHARES AND CAPITAL GAINS

I have spoken before on this subject but during this tax season I feel that I need to ensure clients have full information available when they sell their shares.

Shares can be owned any number of ways – purchased through a broker, via online bank trading, left to beneficiaries through a will, or transferred from a trust fund set up when they were younger.

The valuation of the cost price for these various situations is quite different. Purchasing them outright is obviously the money you paid for them, the same for online trading. Being left shares under a will distribution can be calculated either of 2 ways. If the original owner purchased them before capital gains tax came in (28.09.85), then the share value is the market value or sale price for up to 2 years from date of death. More than 2 years and the shares revert to market value at date of death. If the shares were purchased by the deceased after capital gains started, then the cost and date of purchase is deemed the same as for the original owner.

Receiving share via a trust fund is similar.

Sometimes shares are purchased through Dividend Reinvestment wherein the dividend received is used to purchase further shares. The cost of these new shares will

generally be the same as the franked amount received converted into the purchase. A copy of all the dividend reinvestment statements must be kept for assisting in the calculations together with the Buy contract for any initial purchase.

Maintaining documentation for cost price is critical in determining the capital gain. The difference between the cost price and the sale price is the capital gain and if the shares are held over 12 months, then possibly a 50% discount on the gain is available.

Regards Carolyn Wheeler, FCPA 07 54961156 appointments or website CMWheeler.com.au email: cwheeler@caliph.net.au Bribie Island or Woodford appoint ments available.

CM WHEELER & ASSOC,

Grand waterfront masterpiece of unique design

180-degree ocean views. This amazing property unveils a level of grandeur and luxury unmatched throughout the entire Moreton Bay region. Innovative design with full attention to captivate those for ever views across to Brisbane and beyond!

Complete with natural reserve as your side neighbour, every room experiences prestigious scenery.

Entertainers will appreciate the mag nificent kitchen calibre completed by phenomenal rear garden landscape and appliances to match. Features an oversized island plus generous custom timberworks inclusive of quality stone

manicured gardens.

Formal lounge with direct Bay view com prises of soaring cathedral ceiling, built in gas fireplace cabinetry, whilst leading to the tremendous covered entertainment area. Tiled through living continues with additional glassed-in areas that encloses the private inground pool on 3 sides.

Further benefits include your own regal cinema experience together with electric leather recliner lounges.

Inviting curved timber staircase takes you to the sumptuous master suite to further explore an awesome parents’ retreat. Open views meet you at the top of stairs,

ter vista. This destination provides double balconies, to enjoy choice of all-weather sunroom or optional open Bay views.

Stately attributes within this impressive ambience reveals an exceptional walk-in robe, spa bath, kitchenette, and lounge all upon beautiful timber flooring.

Downstairs provides sizable bedrooms with 2 rooms having a substantial inter connecting ensuite. An extra powder room is beside the separate 4th bedroom, or the bonus perfect home office.

Superb parking is catered for with the oversized drive through double remote ga rage plus mezzanine loft. Perfect tall van/ boat parking provided with cemented area

for additional vehicle. Profound storage facilities are throughout this residence, as like the laundry's walk in linen room.

Inside or out this home effortlessly entwines rich open water views into one serene space that boasts sprawling living options. Nestled peacefully upon 1035 m2 of a distinctive headland quality precinct, this breathtaking dress circle address within an esteemed setting offers firstclass waterfront living.

sheri@bribierealty.com.au

The Australian property market soared in 2022 with a post-pandemic boom which brought about house price growth not seen since the 1980’s. This created phenomenal new wealth for Australian homeowners, and for the first time, we’ve seen this play out in equal measure across the cities and region

In 2023, rising interest rates and inflation have taken some exuberance out of the property market, with buyers now less inclined to outbid competitors by large margins at auction.

As we look ahead and crystal ball what might happen as a result of changing market conditions, is there an opportunity in the midst of what feels like chaos for astute sellers and buyers to invest smart money? Contact Tracie to receive your copy of the McGrath Report 2023 now to find out!

As always, if you’re thinking of selling and would like genuine care and exceptional assistance navigating your timely sales journey, make contact with Tracie for her insightful recommendations and an obligation free chat.

Spring Investor Update

There goes another winter and before we knew it, spring is on the doorstep. Take a brief moment to review some of the critical information that came to light in winter and where to prepare for before 2022 comes to an end.

Winter Guide

Changes to Land Tax: The Labor Gov ernment have passed a law that will change the way land tax is calculated for Queensland landholders. This may apply to you if you own – or have a share or interest in – property in Queensland and in another state or territory. Under these new laws, the rate at which that land tax will be calculated will depend on the value of the taxpayer’s landholdings Australia wide. Here is an example of how the new tax rate will be calculated from the next financial year –

Individual who currently owns one property in Queensland with a taxable value of $745,000.00 and one property in

New South Wales with a statutory value of $1,000,000.00.

Current arrangement:

The individual will pay $1,950.00 in land tax this financial year in Queensland for the Queensland property. This liability is calculated at the second tier as set out in Schedule 1 of the Act ($500 plus 1.0c for each $1 more than $600,000 up to $999,999).

The new calculation is done in two steps: First by applying the relevant general rate for an individual to the total value of all Australian land owned by the landholder to reach a gross rate (in this case the applicable rate being $4,500 plus 1.65c for each $1 more than $1,000,000, which for landholdings of $1,745,000 across the country amounts to $16,792.50); and secondly, by applying this gross rate to the Queensland proportion of the total Australian land value.

i.e. the tax liability = $16,792.50 x ($745,000

REIQ applauds new housing accord following federal budget

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has welcomed the wide range of initiatives announced in the recent federal budget which puts housing front and centre of the national agenda.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the budget demonstrated a clear commit ment to collaboration and an encour aging focus on addressing the supply issues at the heart of the crisis.

“The REIQ has always acknowledged that we can’t rely on just one level of government to tackle housing affordability and address the serious housing supply shortage we face,” Ms Mercorella said. “That’s why this budget, which includes buy-in from all levels of government on planning reform and housing targets, funds to accelerate the delivery of more social and affordable housing supply, support for pathways to ownership, incentives to downsize and innovative ways to encourage institu tional investment in developments, is incredibly encouraging. These initiatives complement the Queensland State Government’s Housing Investment Fund for new housing supply and it’s great to see both state and federal governments are unified in their commitment to solve housing supply and affordability issues.”

Ms Mercorella pointed out the desper ate need for more housing needed in

Queensland due to pressures such as decreased household population with the average household now sitting at only 2.5 persons per dwelling.

“Concerningly, it’s also been identified that our state has a shrinking rental pool with 55,000 fewer properties on the permanent rental market than the historical trend projected, as well as reduced listings on the sales market,” she said.

“This shortfall tells us that there has never been a more important time to encourage and recognise the critical role private investors play in housing Queenslanders – with around 36% of people living in our state renting their homes and the vast majority of that housing provided by mum and dad investors.”

Ms Mercorella said the REIQ also welcomed the establishment of the Na tional Housing Supply and Affordability Council to review barriers to institution al investment and innovative financing models and independently advise the government on housing policy.

/ $1,745,000) = $7,169.29 – an increase of over $5,200

Maximise Your Investment: With so many changes to the rental sector its critical, now more then ever, that you are exploring all pathways to maximise the value of your investment and recover ex penses that are part of being an investor in Queensland.

• Get a professional tax depreciation schedule each year

• Ensure you keep on top of mainte nance so that you can achieve market value rent

• Get a sales appraisal annually to track the performance of the capital growth

• Ensure your Property Manager is providing you with a Current Market Analysis each lease renewal

• Review your mortgage rate to ensure you are getting the best interest rate –don’t be afraid to switch & save

Changes to Rental Laws: By now your Property Manager should have explained the details of these changes to you, what that means to you as an investor and their best practice procedures moving forward. For many of you, it means your Property Manager is likely to now issue a Form 12Notice to Leave, with each lease renewal, as best practice advice by the Real Estate Institute of Queensland. If you aren’t sure of these changes, please ask one of our expert Property Managers today.

Exciting changes at Sandstone Point Hotel and holiday resort

By Sheree Hoddinett

Things are heating up for a big summer of fun at the Sandstone Point Hotel and holiday resort with exciting new facilities in full swing and more still to come. A new heated pool, swim up bar and jacuzzi spa are now open at the holiday resort with construction underway for 21 new eco villas and also a mini golf course.

Situated in a paperbark forest the Eco Vil las are the first of their kind at the resort. Immersed in tall trees and greenery, you’ll be close to world-class facilities but feel far away with nature at your doorstep.

Construction work is also taking place on the hotel’s Oyster Shed Beach Club with plans to open this summer. What was once the Oyster Shed fish and chippery has been reimagined into a Bali-style beach club. The idea came about after director Rob Comiskey holidayed in Bali with family in 2019. He was inspired to bring a taste of the laid-back experience and offering of the incredible beach clubs typically seen in Seminyak and Canggu. The Oyster Shed Beach Club will encom pass the same Sandstone Point feel you all know and love but with cruisy daytime DJs, more cocktails and new exciting facilities.

Sandstone Point Hotel’s waterfront will soon be lined with palm trees, bean bags and an all-new cocktail bar and restaurant. The Oyster Shed Beach Club

will still continue to offer fresh seafood and stunning views of the Pumicestone Passage but with even more to enjoy.

Rob Comiskey is excited to see visitors get even more out of their experience at the hotel and resort.

“We always try to stay innovative and continually improve our businesses,” Rob said. “We aim to keep reinvigorating our venues, giving guests new and exciting facilities to look forward to and enjoy. We are always trying to see what’s missing or what we could do better, we even ask our kids! A swim up bar is one of my favourite holiday past times and I know my wife would agree. My kids can’t wait to have a putt at the new mini golf course and I hope yours are just as excited!”.

The new eco villas and mini golf course are expected to open in late 2022/early 2023 with the Oyster Shed Beach Club planned to open in December.

In other news for The Comiskey Group, they have also announced the develop ment of the Dakabin Hotel, shopping centre and boutique village across 3.75ha of land with construction set to com mence in early 2023. The development will sit adjacent to Alma and Old Gympie Road with a 2500sqm shopping centre, a gym, cafes and other outlets including Guzman Y Gomez, KFC and a Night Owl service station.

GARDEN WITH

Hi Gardeners,

Hope you have been enjoying your gardens whilst getting stuck into all those spring jobs. As we gardeners all have different styles and tastes in plants I thought I would mix it up a bit and make this article a bit eclectic.

CITRUS

With citrus now available in nurs eries, I thought I would write about rootstock and citrus trees, so you will understand why they take a lot of looking after before they are sent to retail nurseries for your purchase. The most successful and productive

to grow healthy plants. It would be impossible and very expensive to attempt to use all the different types of rootstocks.

A lot goes into providing good citrus plants for your home garden enjoy ment. Remember, if you see growth coming from the graft it should be removed immediately. Most citrus should be fed in March, July and November with a Citrus and Fruit Tree Fertilizer. If you only have one (1) citrus tree a Rose Food can be used.

As one of the young workers here Reilly said to me the other day ‘Citrus are really cool’. Yes, Reilly they are.

GRAPE VINES

Grapes have been available now for a little while. It is best to plant them approximately 3 metres apart on a two-wire trellis, fence or pergola. All varieties are self-pollinating. They will tolerate most soil conditions, but do not like heavy clay soils or wet feet. The soil must be well prepared and include a dressing of Blood and Bone. Fertilise in late winter or spring, however they don’t like a fertiliser with a high nitrogen content. When pruning cut back the strongest cane on the plant to two (2) buds. Then train their growth in two directions along the bottom wire of

the trellis. Next winter prune back to sturdy wood leaving three (3) buds on each. The next winter prune back these six secondary arms leaving two (2) buds at the base. Continuing to do this process each year. The fruit buds appear on the 1-year-old wood which arise from 2-year-old wood.

HIPPEASTRUMS

Beautifully flowering like a dream in most gardens at the moment. Hip peastrums are dormant during May, June and July. Careful not to fertilise or over water your bulbs. Apply a slow-release fertiliser in August along with some Sulphate of Potash

part of the citrus plant is the root stock which may be unseen and not very often considered by the average home gardener. With the correct root stock your tree will develop a strong and healthy root system lasting decades. For centuries growers have developed the large juicy varieties of citrus that we enjoy today by using two plants.

One is the rootstock that provides the root system and the other is the tree above the rootstock that provides the fruit. In Australia there are over a dozen different types of citrus root stock in use. Each rootstock is suited to certain varieties of citrus and holds different characteristics.

Most production nurseries use be tween three to five different varieties to provide the best possible results

and water at least once a week. You should then re-apply the Sulphate of Potash in September or October as your Hippeastrums will be starting to flower. Snails are currently active so beware. Slow-release fertiliser can be re-applied in November or December.

In the January, February, March or April every 3 - 5 years lift and divide your bulbs.

For those gardeners who want to have that lovely red and white theme for Christmas, now is the time to start looking at planting those seedlings with Petunias, Dianthus and Begonias all coming in red and white. Remem ber, you are only limited by your imagination.

Happy Gardening,

Jill Ross from Mitre 10 Bribie Island. (Meet Jill on the floor at Mitre 10). Jill is a horticulturist and has an Associate Diploma in Horticulture and has worked in the horticulture industry at various nurseries round the greater Brisbane area for 30 years

Whiting season is proving to be the best in year

Hi readers of ‘the LOCAL’ newspaper. So far, this Whiting season is proving to be the best in years with reports of 20-plus fish of substantial size being caught.

Whiting have been in abundance from Skirmish Point through to Eighth Avenue especially on the incoming high tide using live bloodworms as bait.

Another great spot out of the wind to catch these is White Patch. Through the week one of our regular customers Lochy caught this huge Summer Whiting on our 95mm bassday sugapen.

crabs. The water temperature is high at this time especially in the creeks, causing the bait to go off within a short period of time, so it is best to regularly change out for fresh bait.

There are many ways to catch Mangrove Jack as they become active from lures through to live and dead baits. Prawn im itations successfully work all year round with many good quality prawn style lures on the market.

Mullet Fillet working just as well. When chasing Jack’s, live bait will also attract good quality bycatch such as Mulloway, Trevally and even the odd Barramundi. Dust off the crabpots, pack the cast net for some

Let’s talk cartop tinnies

In recent years Australians have been exploring this great country in ever increasing numbers, sales of caravans, camper trailers, motor homes etc have soared along with cartopper style light weight boating packages.

When buying a cartopper tinnie many people go for too large a boat and motor which becomes difficult to load and unload so best to keep it manageable. The ideal size is about 3.2-3.6metres giving you enough room for a few crab pots etc and still only weighing 55kgs.

We now have the new Zman PrawnZ” in-store. It has been the go-to lure in the canals and it represents the Jelly Prawns perfectly that are moving through the canals. The Mangrove Jacks can’t resist them.

old fish trap at Sandstone Point.

There is still the odd Tailor around especially under the Bribie bridge using pilchards or metal slugs.

There have been some good reports of Grassy Sweetlip caught around the Ripples and Gallaher’s Gutter with the top or the bottom of the tide being the best time to target these.

The Pacific Harbour canals are starting to fire up as the Jelly Prawns start to move in and right behind them the Trevally, Grunter Bream and Mangrove Jacks which they feed off them.

Mangrove Jack and Mudcrab

The prime time is coming for these two summer species as the afternoon storms and high humidity get them moving. Fresh bait is key to success on the Mud

These fish do find it hard to resist live bait with cut bait such as Pilchards and

When choosing which size outboard there are a few things you need to consider. If fishing in dams or enclosed waterways a 2.5hp or up to a 4hp would be ideal. If the engine is up to and including 4hp it does not require registration in Queensland. If you want a bit more horsepower I would suggest a 6hp which would require the vessel to be registered. In Queensland if the engine is up to and including 6hp no license is required.

The following weights are based on a Stacer 3.6 Skimma tinnie and Yamaha 4 stroke outboard motor.

Vessel - 55kgs

2.5hp - 17kg

4hp - 27kgs

6hp - 27kgs

8hp - 41kgs

These weights are a guide only and vary from brand to brand.

The advantage of the 6hp is that you get an extra 50% in horsepower over the 4hp for no increase in size or weight.

There are a large range of boat loaders, fold-up trailers etc, available to make boating easier. To keep it simple and man ageable a pair of clamps on dinghy wheels in recommended. These simply clamp onto the lower chine rails and gunnel top. You position them on the point of balance so you can easily walk the boat to the water without having to lift any weight. A fold-up outboard motor trolley will make transporting, storing and flushing your motor much easier. Your local marine dealer has the experience to set you on the right track for all your boating needs.

Check all your safety gear, life jackets, anchors, flares, EPIRB etc.

Remember as the master of the vessel YOU are responsible for the safety of everyone on board.

HAPPY BOATING Roger

By Danny & Michelle

Alana – Mangrove Jack

Women’s Golf

7th October to 2 November 2022

6/10/22 - Monthly Medal – Sponsors

Churches of Christ

A Grade Winner Di Benghamy 73, 1st R/U Carole Watson 76 c/b, 2nd R/U Val Smith 76 c/b

NTP Hole 4 Susie Smith, Hole 7 Di Beng hamy, Hole 16 2nd Shot Di Benghamy

Best Gross Di Benghamy

B Grade Winner Myra Dickson 70 c/b, 1st R/U Maureen Bailey 70, 2nd R/U Toni Grossman 71 NTP Hole 7 Fitzie Jackson, Hole 14 Sue Graham, Hole 16 2nd Shot Toni Grossman

Best Gross Myra Dickson

C Grade Winner Lyn Cockerell 77 c/b, 1st R/U Angela Jordan 77, 2nd R/U Paula McKenzie 79 c/b

NTP Hole 4 Jennifer Warburton, Hole 14 Lyn Cockerell, Hole 16 2nd Shot Hazel McDonnell

Best Gross Lyn Cockerell

11/10/22 - 3 Person Group Aggregate –Sponsors Hairdressers with Hearts

Overall Winners Paula McKenzie, Maureen McGlone and Lesley Heap 107 R/U Maureen Bailey, Anna de Bondt and Rita de Bondt 99

NTP Hole 4 Nadia Aylott, Hole 7 Bibby Davies, Hole 14 Bibby Davies, Hole 16 Open 2nd Shot Suzanne Fowler, Hole 14 Div 3 2nd Shot Paula McKenzie

Shot Nadia Aylott

18/10/22 - Canadian Foursomes – Spon sors Late Bloomers

Overall Winners: Lyn Ball & Pauline Grooby 75, 1st R/U Roslyn Crossley & Vicki Jones 75.75, 2nd R/U Sina Barnulf & Tony Grossmann 76.5 c/b

NTP: Hole 4 Kris Tomalin, Hole 7 Myra Thomsen, Hole 14 Stina Barnulf

Today’s event was sponsored by some of our lady golfers – The Late Bloomers – Suzanne Vallely, Carole Watson, Magrit Pearce and Di Benghamy. Unfortunately Di was unable to stay for presentation and neither were the winners – they all sent their apologies. We do have photos of the 1st and 2nd R/U though.

27/10/22 - Single Stableford Day Event

A Grade Winner Sandra Power 37, 1st R/U Dianne Hayward 35 c/b, 2nd R/U Myra Thomsen 35 c/b

B Grade Winner Gay Burnham 37 c/b, 1st R/U Diane Fitzpatrick 37, 2nd R/U Sylia White 34 c/b

C Grade Winner Roslyn Crossley 35, 1st R/U Vicki Lawrence 33, 2nd R/U Sonia Ferrante 32 c/b

NTP Hole 4 Nadia Aylott, Hole 7 Di Benghamy, Hole 14 Di Benghamy, Hole 16 Open 2nd Shot Judy Graham, Hole 14 Div 3 2nd Shot Ann Mitchell

1/11/22 No ladies competition and unfor tunately rain stopped play for the Mel bourne Cup. A very successful Melbourne Cup lunch was held with 150 plus people attending.

10-12/1022

- Bargara Ladies Open Classic

Five brave Bribie ladies faced into howling gales and for some of us rain as well for three days of golf up on the usually clear, sunny Bargara coast. Mixed feelings about the golf, but one of our ladies very well and was awarded the 54 Hole Gross Winner – Di Benghamy

15/09/22 - Hole in One Hole in One Award to Leonie Pratt (Hole 14 Thursday 15 September). Well done Leonie!

To: The Honourable the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland

The Petition of Electors of the Division of Pumicestone draws the attention of the House to the Bribie Island Bridge and the bridge’s limited capability to accommodate the steep increase in the population and visitor traffic to Bribie Island. Also with the increasing number of local and state development approvals, infrastructure has not keep pace with the demands of the Pumicestone Electorate.

Your Petitioners therefore request the House to immediately commence the process of the feasibility, design, and construction of a new Bribie Island Bridge to accommodate the pedestrian and vehicular traffic to Bribie Island. The Federal Government has made $20mil available to assist with the cost of upgrading Bribie Island Road and we request this funding be used towards this project.

If you and your friends wish to sign this petition,cut it out, complete and post to The LOCAL News, Island and surrounds, PO Box 1019, Bongaree QLD 4507. Alternatively the completed form can be scanned and emailed as a pdf or image file to belinda@islan dandsurrounds.com.au

NAME ADDRESS SIGNATURE

13/10/22 - Single Stroke (President’s Trophy Rd 1)

A Grade Winner Ailsa Lauchlan 71, 1st R/U

Gill Lee 72 c/b, 2nd R/U Gwen Clutterbuck

72

B Grade Winner Lyn Cockerell 68, 1st R/U Stina Barnulf 70, 2nd R/U Jennifer Stafford 71

NTP Hole 4 Dianne Hayward, Hole 7 Stina Barnulf, Hole 14 Marjorie Sills, Hole 16 Open 2nd Shot Lyn Ball, Hole 14 Div 3 2nd

25/10/22 - Single Stableford

Overall Winner: Gwen Clutterbuck 38, Ailsa Lauchlan 37, Lyn Ball 36 c/b

NTP: Hole 4 Di Benghamy, Hole 7 Ros Gardiner, Hole 14 Gaby Bennett, Hole 16 Open 2nd Shot Vicki Jones, Hole 14 Div 3 2nd Shot Nadia Aylott

27/10/22 - Single Stableford – Profes sional/Manager’s Day

Overall Winner: Gill Lee 39, 1st R/U

Update on signatures for a new Bribie Bridge

Thank you again for those people who took the time to email and mail the signatures into me. It was great to see all lines of the signatures were completed on so many. It is clear the community does want to see a new bridge built. We are growing as a community with an increase of population in this region and now a popular destination for tourists.

Once again because of you we will keep on the new Bribie Bridge campaign. We currently have 1689 signatures. Issue 82 brought us 69 more signatures. Keep those signatures coming! Warm regards Belinda Ferguson

New Bribie Island Bridge Community Reference Committee (NBBCRC)

Helena Winterflood 38. These two ladies go away for a day’s golf, mini golf, lunch, drinks and travel with our Professional Brayden Campbell and our Club Manager Steve Middleton. Professional -v- Manager Teams

Jones, Di Benghamy, Suzanne Vallely (Roz Crossley –absent)

(Left to right): Suzanne Vallely (LB), Roz Crossley 1st R/U, Vicki Jones 1st R/U, Carole Watson (LB), Magrit Pearce (LB)

(Left to right): Suzanne Vallely (LB), Stina Barnulf 2nd R/U, Magrit Pearce (LB), Toni Grossmann 2nd R/U, Carole Watson

Leonie Pratt

Tis the season to shop and celebrate with The Abbey Museum

Ready for the silly season? The Abbey Mu seum certainly is and this year they have put together a new shopping experience. They are pleased to introduce the 2022 Abbey Museum Gift Guide. It features new and exclusive products, creating the perfect opportunity to get shopping done early for unique and wonderful gifts.

Created for your viewing convenience, you can interact with this digital style mag azine by turning the pages and clicking on the product links either on your phone or computer. Jump online https:// theabbeymuseumshop.com/ to view their gift guide.

In other Abbey news, their festive celebra tions are back this year with both ‘A Medi eval Christmas: An Evening of Gregorian Chant’ and ‘A Very Victorian Christmas: A High Tea Experience’ returning for 2022.

On Saturday November 26, Gregorian

Chant Choir, Schola Cantorum, will perform a series of medieval chants and carols in the ambience of the Abbey Church in what is now a traditional commencement to Advent for the Abbey Museum. It is not only the eyes and ears which are treated to a feast but also the taste buds, with a supper of delightful medieval Christmas treats following the recital. Bookings are essential.

On Saturday December 3, guests will en joy a beautifully presented and delicious ‘High Tea’ as Victorian Carollers perform nostalgic Christmas favourites. Come celebrate the spirit of Christmas and pause for a photo around the four-metre Victorian Christmas tree. You may dress up or come as you are to what will be a most joyful experience. Available to book in 2 sessions, 10.30am and 2.30pm. For further information visits abbeymuseum. com.au

Morayfield Renal Care

better health services for the community. He has highlighted the importance of the facility and how it will help take pressure off the public system.

“Our growing community needs access to more and more health services and thanks to the investment by B Braun and Health Hub Doctors Morayfield our community is getting this support,” Mr Young said. “Eligible private health and DVA gold card holders will have no ‘out of pocket’ expenses. To ensure we receive

been operating for 12 months has 17 dialysis chairs and is an advanced private dialysis clinic. This new facility is run by an expert care team of highly experienced nephrologists and renal nurses and is set to provide a world-class patient health care experience for the Moreton Bay community. The centre is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 7am-2pm. Phone 5432 7500 or email morayfield-reception. au@bbraun.com.

SODUKU SOLUTION

The official unveiling of the renal centre at the Morayfield Health Hub.