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Next Distribution dates – 5th April for Bribie Island, Sandstone Point & Ningi. 6th-9th April , delivered to Beachmere, 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, Donnybrook, Meldale, Central Lakes, Caboolture and Elimbah. Copies can also be picked up from IGA and other local businesses in these districts.

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Welcome to Issue 87

Our front page and feature article covers the wonderful story of Marjorie Williams, who celebrated her 100th birthday recently.

Bribie bridge will continue to have headlines in the LOCAL News until the state government commits funds to build a new bridge. We recently saw yet another accident on the bridge leaving locals and visitors, to and from the Island, waiting for hours until it was cleared. Moreton Bay Regional Council has even launched a campaign to save the old bridge.

An interesting article on smart water meters that will save customers dollars.

Wildlife Rescue needs our help! We tell you all about the work they do and what we can do if we come across an injured animal.

We also introduce you to Chloe Tanner, the new Abbey Director.

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.

Until next month, Warm regards,

Belinda

Legitimising Bad Behaviour

I have recently read on the internet that current local council laws are being reconsidered by council.

My concern is any leniency that may be put in place regarding backyard fire pits. For a number of years now I have been exposed to fortnightly garden rubbish and treated timber burn offs by a neighbour. The smoke is foul and affects my health.

The fire pit is lit in an unpredictable manner, eg. am-pm, smoking for up to five hours at a time. I can’t hang the washing on the line. I have to leave all the windows shut (even in the heat) and still the smoke manages to permeate into my home, resulting in my feeling dizzy, feeling ill and coughing. I have been informed by the perpetrators, with abuse and threats, that they will not adhere to current regulations, that they have no regard for my concerns and they will not stop.

My fear is that if council relaxes the current backyard fire pit regulations, this bad behaviour will then be legitimised and I will have no recourse.

I would like council to thoroughly investigate all possible consequences when considering any changes to current council laws regarding backyard fire pits.

K Handte Bellara

Preposterous

Proposal

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I read the LTE concerning the proposal for the Bribie bridge to go either north or south of the Toorbul township.

I could think of various unprintable comments.

Toorbul is a small community of under 600 residents surrounded by bushland and water, with one two lane road into our township.

The current bridge to Bribie is under one kilometre. It would be close to three kilometres across the passage to Bribie from Toorbul. The mind boggles to think of the cost of infrastructure if indeed it was ever a thoughtful suggestion.

I have not found ONE resident who thinks it is a good idea.

J Stephensen Toorbul

New Bribie bridge – What’s missing?

2nd APRIL

Mount Mee, Dayboro & Samford Village Day Tour"

What’s missing?

TMR is responsible for main roads, bridge planning and construction. The Bribie Road network however, is the responsibility of Moreton Bay Regional Council. We have yet to see the MBRC’s future road planning to deal with the potential doubling of traffic volume squeezing onto Bribie Island. There would have to be extensive changes to our road network and car parking, as congestion at peak times is already excessive.

With Moreton Bay becoming a city and with new townships being built close to us on the mainland, the future traffic loads will be huge.

Question?

How can I comment on the consultation process without this major piece of planning detail from MBRC?

I would like to keep Bribie as a distinct coastal village. Maybe the answer is that visitors, on arrival, will just have to slow down. A workable (renewable energy small bus and ferry hopper) dedicated public transport service would also help locals and visitors to easily move around and reduce that invisible pollution.

P Fitzgerald Banksia Beach

Facts not straight

I don’t know how E Adams worked out a win to the Greens with the third highest count in the last federal election. Then he states that 73.2% of voters didn’t want the Greens. However, that 73.2% didn’t vote for a single candidate.

At the same time he insists that ‘first past the post’ (FPTP) is the only fair system. However, unlike preferential voting, FPTP does NOT allow you to show which candidate you DON’T want to elect, or perhaps want to vote OUT of their current incumbency. Many people vote the way I do - mark the preferred candidate as ‘1’, then the least favourite with the largest possible number and fill in the others between. Surely that is fairer because it gives you more of a say.

I would also like to express my disgust with his deliberate attempt to confuse people about the referendum by stating “facts” which are clearly not true but part of a hypothetical court case. If he listened to Albanese, he might hear the correct facts.

H Beneke Banksia Beach

Transport and Main Roads (TMR) have asked locals to submit their opinions on a new bridge to Bribie. Bribie Island Road from the M1 will eventually be four lanes, undoubtedly bringing more traffic volume. In my opinion, from reading responses to the TMR Bridge Consultation Process, locals seem to heavily favour a four-lane bridge, which they hope will deal with the traffic volume increases. Again my opinion is that TMR also seems to favour a four-lane bridge rather than progressively building two bridges of two-lanes each. National and international evidence clearly proves that more lanes mean more traffic volume and continued flow blockages.

Man charged with murder to remain behind bars

A 47-year-old man charged with the murder of Janet Guthrie remains behind bars after his case was heard in the Caboolture Magistrates Court on February 22. Ms Guthrie, 51, was found unresponsive by police in her Bongaree home in Melia Street on Thursday February 16, when they were conducting a welfare check.

The accused was found by police in South Caboolture the following morning. After extensive investigations, the 47-year-old Caboolture man has been charged with murder (domestic violence), enter dwelling with intent, robbery and contravening an order about information necessary to access information stored electronically.

Police also revealed the pair were known to each other and were in a relationship. They described the scene at the Bongaree home as “confronting”. Ms Guthrie’s friends have continued to leave tributes on a GoFundMe page organised to support her family.

Police continue to appeal for anyone with information which may assist investigations, including anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage of a white 200 Isuzu NKR 200 truck with QLD registration 170ZBA, to contact police. The vehicle was seen at Bongaree around

5pm on February 15 and later at the Aldi store on the Island. Later in the evening it travelled to the mainland and was sighted at Beachmere and Margate.

The investigation continues.

If you have information for police (quote this reference number: QP2300282267), contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld. com.au.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, you should report it to police.

Support and counselling is available from the following agencies:

• DVConnect Womensline: 1800 811 811

• DVConnect Mensline: 1800 600 636

• 1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732

More information is also available from the Queensland Government Domestic and Family Violence portal.

By Sheree Hoddinett

Marjorie Williams has the energy and humour of someone half her age. That’s saying a lot for someone who has just celebrated turning 100. Not that she looks it or even acts it for that matter. If like me, you’ve had the pleasure of meeting this beautiful lady, you’ll know exactly what I mean!

Marjorie is certainly one of a kind, cheeky and wise, but respectful when it’s needed and definitely loved by all who know her, including her youngest friend Oxley, who is just eight-years-old. The pair have formed a long-lasting bond, with the youngster even making a birthday card for his ‘oldest’ friend, highlighting the many changes she would have experienced throughout her life. The smile on Marjorie’s face when she talks about her little friend lights up the room and you just know this duo could likely come up with a cracking joke or two!

Marjorie Hatch, believe it or not she has no middle name, was born in Kew, Victoria on February 16, 1923. She was one of four girls, a smaller family for that time period.

Marjorie lived most of her life moving throughout Victoria before settling on Bribie with her son Trevor and his wife about six years ago. It was a move that made all the difference for Marjorie, with the fresh air, mostly sunny skies and laidback lifestyle giving her a new lease on life, one she never realised was truly needed.

So other than laughter and living an amazing life on the Island, what is the secret to such longevity in life? Marjorie credits her long life to luck and always finding the positive side in all situations, not to mention no smoking or drinking.

“I never thought I’d make it to 100,” Marjorie said. “I thought surely I’d be gone by 70. I think it’s the genes you inherit and how you live your life, as well as your

A bundle of humour and positivity wrapped up in 100 years

Trevor said. “They had fashion parades on regular occurrences and they’d have models to show off the clothes. Mum was their top model.”

But that’s not the end of the amazing things Marjorie has achieved in her life. “I started roller skating when I was 16 and I also learnt to dance on roller skates,” she said. “I also did ice skating and then I started ballroom dancing when I was 17. I was pretty close in age to one of my sisters (she was 18) and mum said we could go together, which I know annoyed my sister because I was younger than her!”

Marjorie was 16 when World War II started. She worked as a packer in a factory that made socks and underwear for soldiers. “We had to work two nights a week or we got the sack and you didn't get paid a lot for that either,” she said.

“But I was doing my bit for the war.” Her memory recall is amazing. She can remember the street names of dances she went to in her teens and 20s, along with people she knew when she was young. Marjorie even met her husband (who passed away 13 years ago with dementia) at a dance, with the pair marrying in 1944. Their daughter Marilyn was born in 1952 and Trevor followed in 1955. Cracking a few jokes is a sentiment very much shared by Trevor, who clearly shares a very humorous bond with his mum.

“I used to give her a bit of grief,” he said. “I’d hide behind the curtain or pull the tablecloth off the table, just little things.”

“One night I got him back,” Marjorie adds with a twinkle in her eye. “I got the jar of sugar and I thought I'll stop you. When he went to grab the tablecloth, I banged the jar of sugar on the table. Can you imagine what happened? The jar broke and sugar went everywhere. Oh, that was fun to clean up and it was the worst thing. I got the sweeper out but sugar is horrible to clean up.

“But it was so funny, we laughed and laughed. No, you're never too old to play games with a kid or be a kid. If the rest of the world don't like it well, bad luck.

So you can see that's why I've reached 100, I think that's got a lot to do with it. We've had our periods of stress and anxiety and all the rest of it. I've gone through all sorts of things, but you can get past that and start laughing again.”

attitude to life. I’ve been fairly healthy and I feel I’ve been lucky. I feel I’m lucky because of the way my life has turned out I suppose. I didn’t think I’d make it to this age as a lot of people don’t.”

Marjorie has seen so much over 100 years, from multiple changes in the British monarchy (from the Queen herself to her father and even her grandfather before

that) to the hardships of war, the introduction of television, deaths of family and friends and of course changes in technology - no she doesn’t have a mobile phone and doesn’t need one thank you! She was also lucky enough to start her modeling career when she was 80-years-old.

“Later in life, mum was involved with the hospital auxiliary and the op shop,”

To celebrate her milestone birthday, Marjorie gathered with a group of family (including some surprise visitors she didn’t know were coming) and friends at Sun Lai Chinese restaurant. She also received letters from the King, Governor General of Australia and the Governor of Queensland, just to name a few. With 100 years already under belt, it’s no surprise that Marjorie isn’t planning on going anywhere anytime soon.

“Who knows, 10 years from now, we could be having another big party,” she said with a laugh. “I’ll keep going, I’ll do my walking and do as much as I can while I can. I’ll keep sitting outside under the trees and enjoy my fresh air as long as I can.”

Happy Birthday Marjorie!

A photo board of memories put together to celebrate Marjorie’s birthday

Just one of many examples of her humourous nature

Marjorie (on the left) was 16 and learning to dance on roller skates

Marjorie celabrating her 100th Birthday!

Rain falls from the sky as a result of several complex and inter-acting meteorological events. It falls on cities, on beaches, on people, on motor vehicles driving along roads and motorways, on the oceans, on rivers, on the land in the Outback of Australia and on farmland. Rainfall is indiscriminate. It goes where it goes and there is very little that humans can do about it !

For many people rain is inconvenient, messing up parades, dampening picnics, wrecking expensive hair styles, causing traffic crashes and, sometimes, lethal and destructive floods of water; which kill humans and animals and rip away homes, bridges and roads ; but for the most part, for most people, rain is just inconvenient

Except, in the case of people, who make their living from the land, producing food, in one form or another for human consumption.

For them, rain is life.

Rainfall on their land, their crops, and their pastures is the difference between living and working or not functioning at all. It is that fundamental.

Without waxing too lyrical, rain is a gift from the elements, or from the Gods of whichever religion you believe. It belongs to us all. It is not for the disposal or ownership of one individual or group of individuals.

It should not be a shattering glimpse of the obvious to say that rain provides the water upon which our lives depend.

No rain, no water : no water, no life. Simple.

Surrounding our cities like a necklace of bluestones, are the dams, lakes and weirs which hold the water which is reticulated through our cities to our homes by pipes which, in turn, end in taps, behind which lurks the water we need for our homes.

Turn on the taps………..water comes !

As rate payers and tax payers, we, collectively pay for that privilege, to have water reticulated to our homes and we also pay for the water we use in our homes by way of metered usage. Which is, as it should be.

In the rural sectors of our country, on our farms, sheep and cattle stations, water is not reticulated to our homes by any level of Government – if you want water in your home, you must find it, get it out of the ground and into your home – at your cost.

You must buy the pumps and the bore casings, pay for drilling the bore, pay for the pipes and the tanks and the ball valves in the tanks ; or you can pay for making a small dam on high ground on your property and pay for the pipes and the house tanks and domestic pumps to get water, under pressure into your home.

In the cities and towns, we pay for Government services : in the Outback, those who live there pay for doing it themselves, which was the normal order of the way things are done.

Until recently.

In some obscure office, in a Southern State Government, a grey presence, a bureaucrat, charged by the State Government to find revenue for that Government to spend on its programmes of social engineering peeled back a thin layer of common-sense and the grey presence lit up !! An idea crawled from the recesses of the bureaucratic brain, not a new idea, Oh No ! An old idea which

And so the water tax began to take form

snaking its way onto your water bill.

Cranky Lizard believes that water tanks attached to the rain gutters of domestic houses is a good idea. Capture your own water and use it in your garden, wash your car, stand under it on hot days, whatever ! It is your water, it came from rain from the sky, you captured it – it belongs to you.

It is axiomatic to common sense, that when those persons whom we vote into positions of Government, thus giving them power to regulate our lives, begin to believe that they own the water that falls from the sky ; it is time to vote them out on their bums !!

Cranky Lizard also believes that if enough people attach water tanks to their houses, thus diminishing the use of water through the meters attached to your houses, which in turn reduces the revenue gained by the authorities… another form of ugly water tax beetle will slime its way out of the petri dish of some bureaucrat’s mind and wriggle its way into your life and your own water

Remember, Governments will do to you what-ever you are silly enough to let

Proof of that lies in the programs that exist, which are designed to help us determine what gender we are !!

The days of “ she’ll be right, Mate ! “ are long gone in this country. And that diminishes us all.

gained new skinny, ugly legs and ran across the bureaucrat’s desk.

Why not tax the water that is collected in the dams on country farms and properties ??

This ugly, scaly backed, beetle sized idea, ran through various Government Departments and, as it did so, it gained followers. Glazed eyed, brown suited, combed over followers ; wild eyed metro humans with asymmetrical hair ; the clumping of the shoes and sandals resonated through the corridors – and the ugly, greedy, envy based water tax had its breech birth. And what an ugly mal formed creature it was ?

Who to tax ? How to tax? What rate to tax ? Became huge issues which required meetings, press conferences, marketing plans and focus groups. And so the water tax began to take form. Water, which came from rain and collected in dams, made by farmers at their own cost, would be taxed !! Brilliant. Whether this tax was fair and reasonable was a ridiculous issue. How dare anyone raise the issue of fairness ? It was much needed revenue and that was that. The ugly, scaly backed, water tax beetle was let loose and off it scuttled like the foul little creep that it was !

Cranky Lizard believes that Governments will do to its Constituents whatever its Constituents are silly enough to let them do !

Anger and resistance has risen rapidly against the water tax beetle and resilient, innovative people will find ways to defeat it…but the best way to beat it is vote out of office ,the turkeys who gave life to the beetle.

Cranky Lizard also warns that an ugly water tax beetle has a cousin. A cousin which lives its dark little life in water meters…if you do not use enough water through the meter into your house, you may find this ugly, greedy, little reptile

This is an extract from issue 15 in August 2017. The column relates to that time of political leadership only.

Steps toward reconciliation

A big thank you to the Pumicestone Indigenous Education & Employment Council (PIEEC), Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association (BEIPA) and the Bribie Island Community Kindergarten for hosting ‘Changing the Narrative’. This special Bribie Island event for Australia Day was held in the park at the start of the Joondoburri Walk and attended by about 250–300 members of the Bribie Island community.

The event acknowledged the coun try where we live, work and play, celebrated the legacy of its earliest inhabitants the Joondoburri people and honoured the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people. The event also launched the Joondoburri and Kabi Kabi language sign and the new Joondoburri Walk Book, illustrated by the local indigenous community and PIEEC jarjums. I’m looking forward to writing a story about this new book. It was a fabulous family day and an incredible learning opportunity listening and watching our local com munity. With Australia Day becoming so decisive it was great for a moment in time to be able to listen to the voice of the local First Nations people, to

hear their stories, understand their pain and the alternative narrative as we work towards reconciliation. Besides the speeches, what impressed me was the involvement of the Jarjums (young people), the smoking ceremony, the dancing, the banging of sticks and the singing which were all fantastic with the pictures telling this amazing story. And of course, you couldn't have such an event without a young man blowing on his Yidaki (Didgeridoo). Thank you to the organisers for all the hard work in preparing for this unique day. It certainly was a day to remember.

Pictures and story by Alistair Gray

Craig Weribone-Wright leading the smoking ceremony

The girl PIEEC jarjums with Aunty Sharron Mirii Bell danced the ‘Stomp’ connecting with Mother Earth.

Craig Weribone-Wright captures the attention of the crowd.

The boy PIEEC jarjums with clapping sticks.

Bribie Bridgethe big opportunity

By Alistair Gray

Moreton Bay Regional Council

Mayor Peter Flannery has launched a campaign to save the old Bribie bridge and turn it into Moreton Bay’s first ‘Green Bridge’.

Mayor Flannery has long advocated for a new bridge for Bribie. He is keen for the Island and Moreton Bay Region to benefit from the opportunity the new bridge construction would bring. That is of course, if the state government pulls its finger out and makes the funding available for constructing a new bridge well before the start of the 2032 Olympics. With many opportunities for the Island as a tourist hub, using the old bridge as a centrepiece would give us a much-needed point of difference when competing for the influx of visitors leading up to and after the Olympics.

“Bribie Island welcomes 827,000 visitors every year, which according to Tourism Research Australia is the highest visita-

tion for any statistical area in the Moreton Bay Region”, Mayor Flannery said. “If we’re ambitious, I believe the old Bribie bridge can become an icon in contemporary landscape architecture but first we need to save it from demolition. I would love to see the old bridge remain as a foot and cycle bridge, as an amenity to locals and visitors for recreation like fishing or

desperately need a second bridge before then.”

New Bribie Island Bridge Community Reference Committee (NBBCRC)

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 con-

struction 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@islandandsurrounds.com.au

NAME ADDRESS SIGNATURE

it could be

greened with plants to resemble something like New York’s High Line. Personally, I think it would be terribly wasteful to tear down an expensive piece of infrastructure rather than give it an exciting second lease on life. We must put our best foot forward when Southeast Queensland hosts the world for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, so we

Repurposing the bridge for pedestrians and cyclists is like having a blank canvas with endless opportunities to do something special and unique. So let’s create one extended recreational area for the community and visitors to enjoy. A place that oozes hospitality, fun and relaxation. With restaurants and cafes, places for artists, photographers, buskers and musicians to play and meet. Masses of gardens, vegetation and trees with extended shade areas including grass and seating for visitors to take in the spectacular views. Maybe an aquarium under the bridge and a small trackless train between the caravan park and the Bongaree Jetty to bring the recreational area together. We have a once-in-a-lifetime unique opportunity to create something special. So let’s get the ideas flowing and keep our old Bribie bridge.

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

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 1773 signatures. Issue 86 brought us again another 19 more signatures.

Warm regards

Belinda Ferguson

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Artist’s impression of the old and the new Bribie Island Bridge.

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It’s never too early to prepare yourself for bushfire season. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, in conjunction with Moreton Bay Regional Council, are running a community information session on March 30 at the Bribie RSL.

The session aims to inform Island residents on the new Australian Warning System and Australian Fire Danger Ratings System, while also educating on how to prepare for the upcoming bushfire season later this year. Particularly given all the wet weather over the past few months, it’s important members of the community are aware of what they need to do to prepare their properties.

All residents are encouraged to attend the session, whether you feel you’re already prepared or not, every detail you learn could make a difference, especially if you

find yourself in the middle of a disaster.

Rural Fire Service Bushfire Safety Officer Liane Henderson said the session would provide an important update on what to expect and how to get ready, as well as understanding bushfire warnings.

“During the information session we will discuss the different warning levels, so everyone is aware of the actions they will need to take should a warning be issued for the area. We will also discuss the new Australian Fire Danger Ratings System and simple steps everyone can take to ensure their home is prepared for bushfire season.”

The information session open to all Bribie Island residents will be held on Thursday March 30 (10am-12noon) at the Bribie Island RSL, Toorbul St, Bongaree.

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Healthy Habits What’s ahead for BIEPA

Written by Amelia Strazdins

There are many things in life we take for granted. From clean running water to our beautiful surroundings, sometimes it is easy to forget the important role these factors play in our lives. Perhaps one of the biggest things we can take for granted is our health. Maintaining balanced mental and physical wellbeing is vital in ensuring we live healthy, happy lives. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life it can be easy to forgo activities and practices that benefit our overall health.

As World Health Day approaches on Friday April 7, it is a time for us to consider what movement and actions we can implement into our lives to lead a healthier more positive lifestyle. Although it may seem daunting, you do not necessarily need fancy gym equipment or a strict regimented diet. Taking a realistic approach to building up health and fitness is imperative to creating long lasting habits. Making use of our local surroundings is one of the best ways to stay motivated whilst not having to venture too far from home.

Simple steps can include making the switch to buy fresh produce from markets and local suppliers. Free gym equipment located along the foreshore is a great way to add some extra

movement to your passage walk. Beach walks at Woorim offer another free form of exercise whilst providing some spectacular views. Another great community-based event is the Bribie Island Park Run, which occurs weekly and is a great way to get involved whether it

Regional Council website is a great place to start. The Healthy and Active Moreton tab on the website provides an extensive list of fitness options offered in and around the Moreton area. A plethora of events for each month are outlined including their time, place and age recommendations. These events include everything from group yoga in the park, dance class to parkour lessons, there is something for everyone and it is an amazing way to get involved with something new and challenging. For some, exercising is not just about the fitness aspect, but also about socialisation. Local organisations such as the Bribie on the Run or rowing groups provide friendly environments for all ages.

You can lend your support to the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association (BIEPA) with two events coming up in March and May.

• Clean Up Australia Day is on March 5 and BIEPA has registered clean up events where volunteers can join in. You can head along to one of their two sites and help collect litter to protect wildlife and stop it from getting into the waterways and ocean around Bribie Island. The two sites are Hornsby Road (behind Bribie Island Shopping Centre) and Turners Camp, Bribie Island Road (between Ningi and Spinnaker Sound). Visit www.biepa.online/event-details/ clean-up-australia-day

be by yourself or with a couple of friends.

If you are stuck for ideas but keen to join a local class, the Moreton Bay

It is important to remember health and fitness extends past physical movement, with mental health being of equal importance. From our local gyms to sports clubs to fresh produce, Bribie has something for everyone. Whether you are a fitness pro or just starting out, it is important to take the time to consider the importance of our health and not take it for granted. Give some thought to what healthy habits you might want to implement this World Health Day.

• Moving Parts welcome you to a Sunday afternoon of chilled tunes at the Bribie Island RSL Club on May 7 from 2pm. Proceeds will go towards new BIEPA projects to protect native flora and fauna, improve the natural environment and influence development and tourism on the Island. Moving Parts are mostly Bribie locals who write their own music, with BIEPA’s Richard Ogden on bass guitar. This emerging band plays a rich mix of reggae, rock and funky blues with heartfelt lyrics and an upbeat tempo. Visit www.biepa.online/event-details/ moving-parts

G’day folks,

My name is Andrew Powell and I have had the honour of serving the wonderful people of the Glass House electorate since 2009. In its current form, the electorate includes Beerburrum and parts of Elimbah and Caboolture. Previously, it also included residents on either side of Pumicestone Road.

I’ve had a long affinity with the area and grew up in Burpengary. I spent plenty of time in and around Caboolture, Beachmere and Bribie Island. It’s an amazing part of the world and a great place to raise a family or enjoy a well-earned retirement. But with the extraordinary population growth we’ve seen we also need infrastructure to keep pace to maintain our quality of life.

This includes health and hospital facilities. Just before the last Queensland election, the Member for Pumicestone and the Palaszczuk Labor Government made a big promise to the people of Bribie Island. It was a promise to deliver the Island’s very own hospital to save

locals the trip to Caboolture and give them the confidence they wouldn’t get cut off from services, if there was an incident on the bridge. It was also touted as taking pressure off the Caboolture emergency department.

But with no overnight beds, no emergency department and very limited services, the promised Bribie Island Satellite Hospital is little more than a clinic. The Australian Medical Association Queensland (AMAQ) is on the record as saying that the facility is only a hospital by name and certainly not by nature.

The AMAQ has also expressed concern that the ‘clinic’ may force the closure of local general practices and do nothing to reduce pressure on the emergency department at Caboolture Hospital. With ambulance ramping at Caboolture Hospital hitting 50% for the first time during 2022, the Member for Pumicestone’s Bribie Island health ‘clinic’ will do little to take the pressure off Caboolture Hospital and may in

fact further reduce the critical health services currently available on Bribie Island.

I know that access to critical health services is very important. The feedback received by the LNP at our health crisis town hall meeting on Bribie Island last year made that crystal clear. The LNP team will keep speaking up for you and demanding the Palaszczuk Government deliver the health services you rightly deserve. We want you to have access to health services and we want you to be safe.

Another major concern to locals and communities across Queensland is crime, particularly juvenile crime. In the past two years nine Queenslanders have allegedly been killed in incidents involving stolen cars driven by young offenders.

In the last two months alone, four Queenslanders have allegedly been killed by teenagers in brazen robberies gone bad. One was a mother trying to defend her family as youths broke into

her North Lakes home in the middle of the night.

Why is this happening? Because in 2015 the Palaszczuk Government watered down the Youth Justice Act. As a result, juvenile offenders neither respect the police nor fear the consequences. The current youth justice system is broken. It is failing to protect Queenslanders from the 17% of youths who are hardcore repeat offenders. It is failing to rehabilitate those children who are only starting down the path of crime.

After listening to Queenslanders across the state, the LNP has consistently put forward three practical solutions that could be swiftly implemented:

• making breach of bail an offence so that police don’t need to wait for the criminal to steal another car or break into another home.

• unshackling our judiciary so they can sentence as appropriate for the case AND

• reviewing and reforming early intervention services to help guide kids back onto the rails before it’s too late.

Faced with widespread community outrage and consistent pressure from the LNP, the Palaszczuk Labor Government last week reluctantly introduced some law changes to give the appearance of addressing the youth crime problem they created. While they agreed to introduce breach of bail (literally copying word-for-word the LNP policy) they haven’t taken the additional steps to unshackle the judiciary or reform early intervention.

I’ll leave it at that for this edition. Feel free to get in touch if there’s a local issue you feel I need to know about.

Andrew Powell MP Member for Glass House

A brush full of talent

By Sheree Hoddinett

age isn’t lost on Kyle, but he stepped up to the plate when he knew he was needed. Now it’s a mixture of hands-on work, paperwork and organising quotes for clients.

“At first it hit me realising what a big commitment it is,” he said. “Work can be on and off, so for a patch you can get absolutely hammered with jobs and then it settles down to a nice even pace. But it’s a great opportunity to be able to pick the jobs I want to do and set my own hours as well.

“I never would have thought at my age that I would be running a business by myself and that Bill trusted me enough to do it. It’s quite an honour as well.”

Kyle’s path into the world of painting cameabout after he left school in his early teens because it wasn’t the place for him. But it also turns out, painting was already well and truly running through the family.

“My uncle is a painter and my pa is a retired painter, so I went with my uncle for work experience over the school holidays between year nine and 10,” he said. “I loved it. I ended up finding a place to do my apprenticeship and it all went from there. “

The upside of running his own business also allows some flexibility for Kyle to participate in cue sports, something he very much

loves and which keeps him busy three nights a week. His interest also stems from his family, with his Pa guiding him into the sport and his uncle used to play as well. He also has a lot of respect for the Bribie Snooker Club, who have looked after him in the snooker domain

“I have played cue sports since I was eight-years-old,” Kyle said. “In my junior career, I won the under 12’s Australian Title, came second in under 18’s for 8 Ball and I have also won an under 18’s Australian Snooker Title. I’ve played in most Queensland sides and went to England to represent Australia for the World under 18’s. In November last year I travelled down to Albury New South Wales for the Men’s Australian Titles and in May this year I’m off to Morocco for the World under 23’s, which is a pretty

With so many achievements already to his name, what are Kyle’s plans for the future?

“I’ve always wanted to do excavating and earth moving,” he said. “So I’m looking at ways to make that happen by getting the licences I need. I’ve got that dream, but for now I want to keep this business running as long as I can because I feel I would be letting Bill down if I didn’t.” Eventually Kyle would love to make more of his cue sports hobby with his next biggest focus his trip to Morocco. He puts in as much practice as he can with tables at his mum and stepfather’s house, as well as at his grandparents’ house. He regards his Pa as very much his mentor and idol.

“I’ve always looked up to him. He achieved so much but he tells me he didn’t do anything like I have,” Kyle said.

“A lot has changed in the sport over the years even since I started, so imagine what it’s going to be like in 10 years’ time.”

If you would like to find out more about WJC Master Painters, contact Kyle on 0457 066 509.

It’s a serious sport as Kyle concentrates on his next shot

The Cliff Worsley Handicapped Memorial Shield

Kyle at work

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Queensland Police Pipes & Drums visit the Island

With a flurry of noise and excitement, the Queensland Police Pipes & Drums (QPP&D) paid a visit to Banksia Beach State School and Bribie Island State School on February 24 for the Kops in Kilts program. It was a fun filled day with plenty of singing and dancing and even a few surprise moves including cartwheels from Bribie station’s Constable Watson. Before returning to Brisbane, QPP&D

to a different aspect of policing, perhaps challenging their perspective of police. Kops in Kilts is a fun, interactive program involving both traditional music and children’s favourites.

Band members provide information

lages and community events on a regular basis to provide entertainment and crime prevention education to members of the community.

What do the QPP&D do when they attend schools?

The Kops in Kilts program is entertaining and educational, and introduces children

regarding their uniforms and instruments, and play age-appropriate music that students are guaranteed to enjoy. There is also the option for the Sergeant to deliver a fun and informative talk on a range of topics, which could be something relevant to your school, or a general

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discussion around safety including cyber or personal safety.

If you have an upcoming event and would like to request the Police Pipes and Drums visit https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/PipesAndDrumsBooking.

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The Queensland Police Pipes & Drums made an impromptu visit to the RSL.

The Queensland Police Pipes & Drums.

The Queensland Police Pipes & Drums perform for some of the Island’s young residents.

Bribie Island Golf Club – the place where winners are made!

Over the last 12 months we have run a major prize draw being a Yamaha Golf Cart, valued at around $12,000, and on Sunday, 19th February 2023, the winner was drawn. A big congratulations to winner, Adrian McCowan, a long-term golfing member of the club. Adrian’s winning ticket was one amongst over 37,200 entries in the draw which was drawn out by Queensland and Australian NRL legend, Greg Inglis who interrupted his Bribie holiday to participate in the drawing of the winner. Adrian was overcome with the win and the envy of the crowd of over 400 people at the draw. The special day also included the team from 101.5fm, Moreton Bay’s Own Community Radio station, providing the music and entertainment, and the Play It Central Nearest-the-Pin Shootout. Overall winner of the Shootout was Tony Partridge, with Men’s winner, Alan Simonic, Men’s Runner-up, Colin Chaplin, Women’s Winner, Sandra Smith, and Women’s Runner-up, Linda Urquhart. Another winner this month was Trent Flugge who took out the Member’s Draw. Trent walked away with $2,500 to the envy of all those in attendance. Well done Trent.

Our feature this month is our St. Patrick’s Day Evening – Friday, 17th March 2023, from 5.30pm

An evening of Irish fun and frivolity will be had on St. Patrick’s Day from 5.30pm with Leprechaun Races, Irish inspired meals, Irish beverages and some Irish Live music. Dress up in your finest Irish clobber to win a great prize! Bookings can be made direct at the Club on 3408 1457 or via email at: office@bribiegolf.com.au . Cost is $10 to reserve your space which includes a complimentary Irish beverage. The Saturday Session is coming back –Saturday, 29th April 2023 from 3.30pm

Our chefs have put together some beautiful canapés and our Mixologists will be mixing up some great cocktails for you to enjoy whilst watching the sun go down and listening to some relaxing live music. Bookings are essential by contacting the club via email or phone. Cost is $25 members / $35 non-members and includes one (1) cocktail or select beverage, and a canapé plate to enjoy.

Our Regular Dining Specials

Senior Lunches – STILL ONLY $12 – Available every Monday to Friday – 11.30am to 2.00pm –

senior card must be shown if asked. 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 (single meal $17 each). Choose from Chef’s Pizza, Chicken Schnitzel and chips, 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. Bookings are essential.

Saturday Lunch Special: 11.30am to 2.00pm: Purchase one of our hand-picked lunches for just $17 and receive a complimentary pot of beer, glass of house wine or a soft drink. The menu changes weekly and is the best value on the Island.

Friday Night Raffles / Quick Trivia /

Member’s Draw

Every Friday night we host our popular meat tray raffle and give all those who purchase a ticket the chance at winning $500 CASH in our Lucky 13 draw. We have 12 quality meat trays (supplied by Avondale Meats) up for grabs and the 13th draw (Lucky 13) is a chance at winning $500 Cash. For the Lucky 13 draw, pick a number between 1 and 18 and if it matches that drawn by our number generator you win! Also on the Friday nights we have a quick 10 question trivia playing for a nominal cash prize and we have our member’s draw which currently stands at $300 (correct at time of writing and may be different). If it is not won it jackpots by $100 each week. Combine all this with a meal in our restaurant and you have a great night out. Bookings highly recommended.

Social Membership – 2023 - $10

Join today as a social member for only $10 and enjoy discounted member pricing on restaurant snacks and meals, clubhouse beverages and specified events.

07 3408 1457

– 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 suited 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.

Who has nicked the helicopter door?

By Alistair Gray

The landmark Vietnam Veterans’ War Memorial helicopter has lost its door and someone has picked it up. Or has it been vandalised?

Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia, Bribie Island & District Sub-branch president Rod Devenish-Meares thinks the door has blown off in the wind.

“The helicopter flew without doors when in service in Vietnam,” Rod said. “Doors were later added for the memorial display with two small pins which could have broken in the wind. There were no scratch

marks to indicate vandalism. We want our door back.”

A search of the local surroundings failed to find the door. No one has dropped it into the Bribie RSL and the police have had no reports of someone finding the door. However, the door must be somewhere!

The helicopter is a centrepiece of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Gardens and valued by our Veterans and the local community. If you have any information to help recover the door please get in touch with Rod Devenish-Meares on 0407 767 653.

The gaping hole left by the missing door.

Chloe steps into the limelight as the Abbey’s new director

By Sheree Hoddinett

It’s been a big change for Chloe Tanner but she’s settling into her role as the new director at the Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology. She is energetic and excited about bringing her wealth of knowledge and experience into the museum and everything it entails - including the Abbey Medieval Festival. Chloe certainly has big shoes to fill, taking over from Edith Cuffe who has held the role for many years, but she’s not deterred.

Chloe made the move from South Australia late last year to take up the director’s position. She’s getting used to the local area and already falling in love with the region.

“It’s been a big change but I’m already loving it,” Chloe said. “It’s certainly different from South Australia, but for all the right reasons. I’m loving living and working in such an amazing part of the state and country.

“Being surrounded by our natural environment is good for our well-being. Being able to look at the ocean every day and arrive at the lush surrounds of the Abbey Museum overlooking the chapel, is absolutely beautiful. It's such a rich, natural environment I wasn’t expecting.”

With fresh eyes and clear vision, Chloe is looking forward to implementing a myriad of ideas in 2023 and beyond.

“I’ve stepped into a role that was held by someone who is extremely skilled

in what they do, both Edith and of course Michael Strong being the head curator,” Chloe said. “The work has been incredibly well-researched and Edith's vision over the decades has been absolutely impressive. Their two brains together have been the foundation of the entire museum and festival. “The vision and the strategy I have will build on the incredible work that has been done and pivot. We need to open our doors to the wider public and we need people to know about the hidden treasures we have here.”

Well aware of the impact Covid has had over the last couple of years, Chloe recognises the importance of funding from Moreton Bay Regional Council and also the Department of Tourism, Innovation and Sport in Queensland, which will see a new art gallery and café built in 2024.

“In 18 months, we will be opening the doors to our new art gallery and cafe,” Chloe said. “We are going to create an experience for people to engage in art, artefacts, history and stories that create wonder, connect us to ourselves, to each other and to country. I want people to be able to connect to their natural environment and to the history of the human story, one of darkness and depth, as well as light and joy.

“I'm extremely excited about the new art gallery which will hold both temporary and permanent exhibitions and also hold our own collection for the very first time. It is my personal passion to nurture young artists and

we hope to provide a space where they can also show their work.”

Underpinning it all, is of course the Abbey Medieval Festival. Chloe is excited to be a part of the “action”.

“It’s going to be wild!” she said. “I already have my Medieval and Viking outfits chosen, thanks to our sewing volunteers.

“I know I'll be absolutely blown away. We're already in full planning mode for the festival with less than six months to go. I’m feeling great about it and because I come from a festival background, I love the buzz it creates. I am very lucky to have an extremely competent and professional event manager (Joel) leading the event.

“Michael and Edith are fully supporting us and on call with advice. I think it is a testament to how beautiful this entire community is, to have a previous director that supports you from the wings is an incredible privilege. Most people would never get that.”

Taking on board feedback from last year’s event, Chloe and the team are already implementing changes ahead of this year’s festival.

“I come from a marketing background and so my number one priority is seeing the customer experience elevated,” she said. “My priority is having people walk in and just say, wow and be in awe of the festival and their weekend, without having the pain points that can often dampen their experience. I'm always asking my team to wear that hat and see it from the customer’s perspective.

“We also have an incredible body of volunteers, up to 350 volunteers that we could not operate without. As volunteering declines, we feel very lucky with the dedicated and loyal helpers we’ve had for such a long time.”

Chloe brings with her a wealth of worldly, educational and professional experience. Her father is from Minnesota in the United States, her mum is from Adelaide and each of her siblings was born in a different part of the world. Her parents work in international aid and development and Chloe spent most of her younger years moving around the world. She had a keen interest in studying history and different cultures, which she did through a program at the University of Oxford, before studying marketing and international business which led her into the corporate world for a decade. Serving on multiple boards as a professional board director, Chloe has also been a practising jazz singer, with music and the arts expressed from an early age. Chloe pays tribute to both her grandmothers Johanna and June, for the legacy they instilled in her.

“I've not walked a linear path, I truly have an insatiable appetite for learning and new experiences,” Chloe said. “Catapulting myself into challenges is how I’m motivated.

“I never thought that all the odd jobs I’ve had, starting with a pizza bar when I was 15, would accumulate to something this exciting. I am very privileged to be leading the Abbey Museum and Festival.”

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Real Estate Talk

Summer has been and gone and thankfully, for most parts of the state it was a drier season then 21/22! Let’s do a quick recap so you are all caught up.

Autumn Guide

Interest Rate Rises:

Many of you have likely felt the pinch of the consecutive interest rate rises that we have and will continue to (according to the Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)) experience. Thankfully, most of our landlords continue to retain their properties and even purchase additional despite the rising interest. The jump in rental returns throughout 2022, and for some into 2023, has helped alleviate the additional financial stress when it comes to owning an investment. We encourage our owners to explore options within the financial markets to look at reducing increasing mortgage costs:

• Have one of our friendly brokers review your mortgage to see if they can get you a better deal.

• Make sure you get a professional tax depreciation schedule before tax time.

Autumn Investor Update

• We are hyper aware that the cost of owning an investment has and will continue to rise, as we mentioned above. Please let us work with you to save you money on your mortgage. Email your property manager today, it’s that easy!

Vacancy Rates:

Supply and demand continues to dominate the headlines across most of the country. According to our friends at Corelogic, the vacancy rates remain at an all-time low while the value of rents rose 13.1% in Brisbane, 10.7% in regional QLD and an average of 10.2% nationally over the 12 months to December 2022. Rental yields remain strong in most parts with Brisbane’s gross rental yield at 4.3% and regional QLD even higher

The mainstream media strategically hyped the changes to the rental reforms and the result was that it really plagued fear throughout many investors across the country. We are pleased to report

approval.

Bribie Island

Rent control not a panacea for rental pain

With the rental crisis an ongoing issue, the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) says calls from tenants’ advocates for rent control in Queensland is a short-sighted solution to a complex problem. s

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said rent control would not be a panacea for the rental crisis and would likely have the opposite effect and instead exacerbate challenging rental conditions.

“We are acutely aware of the devastating impacts of the rental crisis and against that backdrop, it’s understandable that some tenants’ advocates are proposing rent control as a solution - but rent control is not the panacea that many argue it to be,” she said. “It’s clear Queensland does not have sufficient rental housing supply to meet the ever-increasing demand for rental properties and, as a result, we are living in the tightest rental market in the history of our state. These tight conditions make for an incredibly challenging environment for renters. However, rent control is a short-sighted solution to a complex problem and could in fact significantly deter property investment and reduce rental supply at a time when we’re already in a rental crisis.”

Ms Mercorella said everyone was feeling the pressure of inflation and increasing costs.

“It’s unsustainable to assume property investors will keep meeting free-market driven cost increases such as mortgage repayments, rates, repairs and maintenance, and insurance, while artificially capped rents create a hard limit on their return to cover such expenses,” she said. “Given regular Mum and Dad property investors provide the vast majority of housing for our state’s rental community, with the Government’s social housing supply program accounting for under four per cent, it needs to be recognised that the

contribution of property investors to housing Queenslanders is vital. If even a small percentage of investors were to sell their properties or withdraw them from the permanent rental market, this would have a material impact on the Queensland rental sector.”

Ms Mercorella stressed the importance of ensuring our state has fair and balanced rental legislation.

“We are in extraordinary times and we need to be careful about creating a regulatory framework designed to respond to some fairly exceptional circumstances,” she said. “Rental legislation needs to work in all markets and it needs to be fair and balanced because on one hand, renters need to be afforded statutory protections and on the other, if restrictions on what property owners can and can’t do become too onerous, there will be a proportion of property owners who simply choose to

tricky one to get right, but it’s important that the regulatory framework is fairly balanced and isn’t too tipped in the favour of one party.”

Ms Mercorella said last year the State Government introduced rental reforms to give greater rights and protection to tenants.

“There are already statutory constraints that relate to rent in Queensland that limit how frequently you can increase rent and provide rules around the way rent increases are implemented,” she said. “There’s also important statutory safeguards in place to enable tenants to dispute excessive rent increases with QCAT.”

She said the rental crisis ultimately came back to supply.

“This is not a problem that has emerged overnight and while COVID has had a

being built in Queensland has diminished considerably over the last five years and our future pipeline is also likely to fall short of demand,” she said. “Until we are able to achieve a greater balance between the demand for rental housing and supply, and introduce greater diversity of housing, we won’t be able to fix this critical problem we are facing.

What’s needed is a concerted effort from all levels of government to create the right environment to sustain existing established rental stock and to build new housing each year that matches targets based on detailed population forecasts.”

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Ben Hobson: Life in the creative world

Compassionate volunteers needed at Caboolture Hospital

many new friends along the way.

“My feeling is that it’s been a win for both the hospital and for me because I’m out in the community and enjoying what I’m doing,” she said. “I enjoy the people I work with, the visitors, the staff.”

Caboolture Hospital executive director Angie Dobbrick said volunteers were valued members of the hospital team and appreciated by patients, visitors and staff.

By Sheree Hoddinett

After a whirlwind interstate tour promoting his latest book, The Death of John Lacey, author Ben Hobson is now back with his students and planning his next project. The Bribie Island High School English and music teacher has always had a flair for the creative side of life, but never imagined he’d end up a published author.

Ben’s foray into the world of writing kicked off in about 2009. He was in a band in Victoria but met a girl in Queensland (now his wife, Lena) and decided to make the big move interstate leaving the band behind. Ultimately, it was a decision that would lead him to where he is today.

“So it was actually my wife who suggested I could try writing, especially because I would read a lot,” Ben said. “So I wrote four books before I wrote my fifth book and it was to become my first published novel. It takes a long time to practice and get something good and I guess I needed to make a few wobbly chairs before making a good one. So, To Become a Whale came out in 2017 and was followed in 2019 by Snake Island. And here we are with my latest novel The Death of John Lacey, which was out at the end of January.”

Inspiration isn’t always easy to find as a writer, but Ben explains he was always a creative kid and also a little on the stubborn side, which can be great attributes for those in a creative field.

“I don't know where it comes from exactly,” he said. “I remember as a kid designing levels in video games. It's never been enough for me to just sit and enjoy watching a movie. I had to try writing one, I had to try directing one and everything it entails.

“There is something very special about having people engage with something you've created and I'm always sort of chasing that. It's pretty awesome.”

With the support of his wife Lena and their two young sons, Ben has been able to follow through with book tours, more writing, online book clubs and a podcast whilst continuing to teach at the school.

“My wife is an amazing person, she’s been at home looking after the kids while I’ve been travelling on my book tour,” he said. “She is very proud and supportive and for that I am eternally grateful. My boys Henry and Charlie really love it. They love going to see their dad and see his book in bookstores and if they see their names in an article, they feel like they're famous or something.

“I've always wanted to show them that you can go after something and you can lead a life that you can be fulfilled by

and it's fine if that's your job. I have a wonderful job as a high school teacher. And it's very fulfilling in itself, but I just felt like I would be letting my kids down if I had this dream and never went after it. I want them to learn that they can go after dreams as well.”

When you spend a lot of time lost in the world of writing your own novels, is there any spare time left to read the work of others? It turns out Ben does have a few favourite authors up his sleeve whose books he enjoys to read.

Do you have what it takes to be a volunteer at Caboolture Hospital? With a major redevelopment underway, the hospital is seeking more volunteers to help our community.

Jan has been volunteering with Caboolture Hospital now for 20 years and still enjoys helping others during every shift.

“When I finished working in Brisbane, I decided I wanted to be involved in the Caboolture community where I lived,” Jan said. “I kept looking in the newspapers because I knew something would pop up and one day there was an advertisement for a volunteer at Caboolture Hospital and I decided - that’s me! The little notice sat on my fridge for several months then one day I decided I’m ready, so I rang the number and here I am 20 years later!”

“We know coming to hospital can be stressful and worrying for patients and visitors,” Angie said. “Our volunteers offer kindness and compassion to help ease that worry for people. Staff really appreciate their help as well and look forward to seeing the volunteers come to their areas.”

From welcoming people to the hospital, to lending a hand to new parents in maternity, to feeding the fish in Ward 4A, there is a volunteer role for everyone at Caboolture Hospital. As the hospital is growing quickly, they are looking for more incredible community members to come forward and join as volunteers. This is all coordinated by The Common Good. The Common Good marketing general manager Chloe Nguyen said the service of volunteers in the hospital could be underestimated.

“The Common Good is delighted to be part of a program that will meet the needs of an expanding hospital and services that better support the growing population of the Moreton Bay Region,” Chloe said. “These are exciting times and we look forward to more volunteers sharing this journey with us.”

“The big three for me would be, Ernest Hemingway because I like how clear he is with his writing, it’s very clear minded, just on a sentence level,” he said. “I really love Cormac McCarthy. Even though I didn't like his latest books as much, he is always extremely interesting. He has written some incredible books like The Road, No Country for Old Men, All the Pretty Horses and Blood Meridian. He’s amazing. And then probably the third one, just to include someone from Australia, would probably be Richard Flanagan. The Narrow Road to the Deep North is just an amazing read.”

Ben has already started work on two other projects, but he’s letting them sit for a bit and enjoying some downtime before jumping back into the writing pit again.

“I’m taking a bit of time to sit with it and when I get to it, I’ll get to it,” he said. “But I've got some really exciting stuff cooking up. One is set in the world of YouTube and things like that, so we'll see if that pans out.”

For further information about Ben, his books or anything else he’s involved in, visit www.benhobson.net

Jan recommends others take on a volunteering role at the hospital, because along with the positive impact it can have on people’s lives, she has made

If you would like to help your community and meet new people, volunteering at Caboolture Hospital might be just right for you. To find out more about becoming a volunteer, contact Karen on 5433 8634 or email info@thecommongood.org.au

Ben Hobson - Credit to Maryanne Lister Photography

Jan has been volunteering at Caboolture Hospital for 20 years.

RAMBLINGS

By Richard Lancaster

Wildlife Rescue Queensland needs our help

Story by Alistair Gray

Photographs kindly supplied by Colleen Ogilvie

In a recent edition of the Courier Mail, there were calls for the government to get smarter not tougher in dealing with youth crime. The latest crime report shows that youth crime has steadily increased since the period 2015/16. Why?

The problem starts in our schools, where certain youth quickly learn that anti-social behaviour, like abusing and assaulting fellow students and teachers as well as dealing drugs is quite acceptable and the resulting punishment if any, is light on. This, coupled with a lenient Youth Justice Act are two ingredients in the mix, for youth crime to flourish!

Surely its common sense that if the penalties for stealing and wrecking cars, breaking into homes and as-

saulting people are light, often a slap on the wrist, the errant youngster will take the risk and commit the crime. To them, it’s fun! A chance to big note themselves with an ever-widening audience on Instagram and Tik Tok. By all means get smarter by eliminating these offensive social media blogs, ferret out the drug dealers and criminal gangs which help promote these teenage criminals. Start a crime prevention program in our schools. When caught and sentenced, lock these young criminals in isolation, for as long as it takes to properly rehabilitate them. But don’t go soft on being tough. The young criminal must understand `if you do the crime, then you will receive an appropriate penalty`.

We are the Window Film

I am in awe at our wildlife warriors’ work here on Bribie and in the Moreton Bay Region as they support and protect our native wildlife. These volunteers are unsung heroes prepared to venture out in the middle of the night to rescue an injured animal, quietly battling away under the radar performing this important job. Wildlife Rescue Queensland (WRQ) is largely underfunded, dependent on the goodwill of donors and volunteers and operates with little government support other than the occasional grant and desperately needs our community’s support, funding and more volunteers.

I recently caught up with well-known Bribie local Colleen Ogilvie WRQ’s Membership Coordinator, who before Christmas mentioned that they desperately needed funding for a new ambulance to transport injured animals to Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. Thankfully, a generous local business donated a vehicle to be used as an ambulance and now they are looking for funding for a second vehicle to accommodate the great demand for Wildlife Rescue services. Businesses and other donors may also be able to assist by sponsoring the ambulance's ongoing maintenance, insurance and fuel costs.

Rehabilitating Kangaroos and Wallabies

To give readers an idea, Colleen outlined some of the work WRQ does in rehabilitating kangaroos and wallabies leading up to their release back into their natural habitat. They mainly receive calls to help macropods, eastern grey kangaroos, swamp wallabies, black striped and red neck wallabies. A huge commitment is required by carers as joeys can be in care for up to 18 months.

Hairless joeys (pinkies) are cared for in a pouch until they are big enough to be allowed out into the sunshine to strengthen their muscles and get used to the grass and surrounding environment. Macropod joeys are cared for in a creche, bonding together as they grow.

Hairless joeys are fed multiple times a day with a special formula and teat, being toileted after each feed just as Mum would do if they were still in her pouch. During this time, a joey can become ill and require an urgent trip to Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital (open 24 hours). As the joeys grow they will spend more and more time out of the pouch. To introduce them to eventually being outside 24 hours a day,

Meet baby Clarence. In mid-January, Clarence’s mum was hit by a car in Cotterill Ave, Bongaree and passed away. It took him a few days to settle into care –he didn’t understand why things were so different.

‘mobs’ gather before release into the wild surrounding areas, never to be seen again. Great homage and gratitude must be paid to the care and dedication of the team of carers who make all this happen for they are very special people indeed.

Possum boxes

WRQ currently has more than 50 possums (both brushtail and ringtail species) in care. They have a great ongoing need for possum boxes to house possums in care prior to their release. They currently require 80 boxes as each brushtail possum requires two possum boxes. Thanks to the financial support of Busy Fingers and with the help of the Men’s Shed Bongaree, these boxes are being made and will shortly be installed. WRQ is also working closely with Bribie Woodies to source materials for more boxes to be made. Ringtail possums require a drey, which in the wild is normally a nest of sticks usually high up in a tree. To replicate this, Wildlife Rescue uses hanging baskets and cable ties.

When releasing possums great care is taken to ensure that suitable wild food sources are available and that the area is not overpopulated. Wildlife Rescue is always in need of suitable release sites. If you can help with possible release sites, please get in touch with WRQ (see details below).

Containers for Change

The next time you return your ‘containers for change’ please consider donating this money to Wildlife Rescue Queensland and help save our wildlife.

Hotline Operators

Wildlife Rescue needs another 10 hotline operators to handle calls and enquiries and to share the load. Currently, this workload is being shared between four amazing volunteers. Your help would mean that each operator would only have to be rostered twice per month.

they are placed into an enclosed predator-protected area where they will feed on more grass and native bush that has been collected by carers.

After this time human contact will diminish as they mature and are prepared for release into the wild. They are then moved to land bordering state forests with access to suitable feed and water. Here the

No experience is necessary with full training and support provided. These rewarding roles may suit people who want to help but don't want to care directly for injured animals. Call operators can work from home and it is an ideal role for someone in a wheelchair. Your contribution will bring you much joy and satisfaction and make an appreciated contribution to a valued cause.

For more information

Please call - Moreton Bay Region 24-hour Hotline at 0478 901 801

Email: enquire@wrq.org.au

Website: www.wrq.org.au

Clarence is now thriving, putting on weight and starting to ‘velvet’.

More funding available for small community projects

You can now nominate projects for grants of up to $20,000 with expressions of interest open for round eight of the Stronger Communities Programme.

Federal Member for Longman Terry Young said more funding for Longman would deliver the infrastructure and equipment our communities needed to be successful and grow.

“This latest funding injection will support up to 20 projects across our communities, supporting jobs and delivering an economic boost to drive our recovery on the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mr Young said. “This type of investment brings people together by strengthening social connections, building community participation, and delivering a brighter and more vibrant future

for communities.”

Local community organisations who have benefited for this program include:

• Beachmere Community Gardens – shade structures

• Burpengary Pony Club – utility vehicle and fridges

• Woodford Agricultural Association – PA systems and projectors

“I strongly encourage interested organisations to contact my office regarding projects important to them and our community,” Mr Young said. “Grants from $2500 up to $20,000 are available to cover up to 100% of eligible project costs or up to 50% of eligible project costs for local governing bodies.”

Smart water meters saving money for customers

Smart water meters have saved Unitywater customers more than $1 million on bills and 231 million litres of water over the last two years. To put that into perspective, that’s the same volume of water the entire Caboolture community uses in nearly two months.

Smart water meters can help identify hidden leaks, enabling Unitywater to

customers money and had significant environmental advantages.

“As we adapt to changing weather patterns it’s more important than ever to look at the ways we use water, think about water security and ensure the sustainability and liveability of our region,” she said. Over the next 12 months Unitywater will analyse the data from the smart water meters to assess and value the benefits they can provide.

quickly let customers know to have them repaired. Unitywater executive manager customer and community Katherine Gee said reaching $1 million in savings was a significant milestone.

“It demonstrates the huge benefits of this technology – that’s $1 million that otherwise would have been on those customers’ bills,” she said. “And it’s more than 1500 customers who have experienced a leak, which shows how common leaks can be and how important it is to check for them.”

Ms Gee said the project, known as the Smart Meter Network, helped save

Ms Gee said the utility hoped to roll out smart water meters more broadly across the region to help customers manage their water usage, detect leaks faster and save money on their bills.

For further information visit www.unitywater.com/smart-meters.

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GARDEN WITH

The good, the bad and the ugly

Hi gardeners,

This article could be called “the good, the bad and the ugly”. Here I am sitting in a pool of water and no doubt you will be thinking, lucky girl you have a swimming pool, but it is not the case. This humidity is a killer. Not only for people, but also for the garden, with all manner of fungal pests and insects creating problems. The stressful conditions of February mean constantly watering and mulching your soil.

The ugly and the bad – maintenance

Hydrangeas should have finished flowering, so now is the time to prune to ensure development of new shoots upon which next season’s blooms will grow. If your hydrangea is in a pot, repot or top up with some new potting mix and fertilise. Keep the water up to your Hibiscus

Sometimes a summer prune is helpful to the plant with less demand for water.

What will March bring? As this hot weather continues, don’t get upset because of burnt foliage, spent flowers and disappointing lawns. Autumn will be on us soon enough. Remember, excitement lies ahead for you and your garden with new flowers, vegetables, bulbs and seed planting.

The good

2023 officially marks 100 years of operation for Growcom, Queensland’s peak industry body representing fruit, vegetable and nut growers.

In store at the moment are the following: -

Mulberry

There are two varieties: black dwarf which is good for growing in a pot and white with no staining of your mouth or fingers. What’s the fun in that?! Both will tolerate most soil conditions, temperatures and frosts. Remember to prune after fruiting.

Miracle Fruit

A nice shrub with olive shaped red berries. The flesh, when eaten, changes sour foods or drinks to sweet, with the effect lasting a couple of hours. Very good for cancer patients whose sense of taste changes due to chemotherapy.

Tamarillo or Tree Tomato

Will grow in full sun or part shade however, doesn’t like a windy area. These are great for the home garden. The egg-shaped fruit is a good source of Vitamin C and

African Violets

an added bonus is it requires very little pruning.

Jaboticaba

If you want a striking tree in your garden, this is one for you with the Jaboticaba producing fruit directly on the trunk.

From flowering to mature fruit only takes one month. It is said the fruit tastes like a Muscat grape.

Strawberries

Runners can be planted out from March onwards. Plant 40cm apart with 75cm

between the rows. Best planted late afternoon in moist soil. Water immediately after planting and don’t let the soil dry out for the next two weeks.

African Violets

What does everybody want - flowering African Violets! Bright velvety blossoms in white, shades of blue, pink, purple and some with two colours. The flowers can be star-shaped, crested, fringed or ruffled with petals that are single, semi-double or double. Failure to flower can usually be attributed to inadequate light, watering with cold water, low humidity or high temperatures. They prefer temperatures between 15-22 degrees. A mature plant has one rosette of leaves called a crown. And often other rosettes will form at the base. These rosettes should be removed before they get too far into formation if you want a show plant.

They prefer a well-lit area out of direct sunshine during summer. As the weather cools, give them all the natural light possible with a couple of hours of direct early morning sunshine daily. A south facing window for the warm months and move to an east facing window in the cooler months. Too much light will burn the leaves and too little will not nourish the plant adequately for it to flower. Use only water at room temperature to water your plants as cold water causes white spots on the leaves. Water from the bottom by placing the pot in a container of water allowing it to suck up through the drainage holes. Every so often you can water from the top to stop the soil from forming a top crust which cuts off air circulation to the roots. Keep the plant soil constantly moist, but not soggy. You can add extra humidity by placing the pot on a tray of moist sand or gravel. This provides extra surface area from which the moisture can evaporate.

Mealy bugs and mites are enemies of African Violets. Mealy bug can be removed by using a cotton ball dipped in methylated spirits and for the mites use a miticide. When potting up, do not use a pot larger than 10cm in diameter, use African Violet potting mix and fertilise weekly with Manutec African Violet Food.

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

Hibiscus

Hydrangeas

Strawberries

Island Fishing

By Danny & Michelle

Sandstone Point

Anglers have been successful catching whiting and flathead, using live yabbies and bloodworms in Sandstone Point.

Red Beach & Skirmish Point

Along Red Beach and Skirmish Point, bloodworms have been the bait of choice for whiting and dart, with some school mackerel and tailor caught on pilchards.

White Patch

Great whiting caught in the White Patch area on live bloodworms and flathead on soft plastics. With plenty of blue swimmer crabs in the passage at Banksia Beach through to White Patch.

TIDE TIMES 2023

Turners Camp Road

Decent flathead have been caught down Turners Camp Road on live baits and soft plastics, with some good grunter bream hooked in the mouth of Ningi Creek.

MANGROVE JACK MADNESS

Jacks are mostly cover orientated and may not bite for long periods during a tide cycle. Good jack anglers with cover ground test each pontoon, rock wall and bridge pylon, marking the location for next time, once they find a red fish.

Jack bite times vary, but many like the build-up to an afternoon storm or hot humid mornings on a rising tide. Whilst others prefer the change on low tide. Night time is also favoured

for trophy hunters. Jacks will take hard bodied and soft plastic lures, mostly in the 70–110mm range. However, the next one to grab a 50mm crank will not be the last. Some anglers also use big swim baits with some success.

Hard bodies lures for mangrove jack available instore

Anglers need a stronger outfit to wrestle these hard fighting fish from structure. Many fish will win their freedom with lure losses high. In Southeast Queensland, jacks in the canals can reach well over 50cm and some huge fish in the 60-70’s have been taken.

Enjoy your fishing and remember to only catch what you need!

Blue Swimmer Crabs – Banksia Beach

Another mangrove jack caught in the canals by Lochie

A nice mangrove jack caught in the canals by Lochie

Results for Bribie Island Women’s Golf January 31 - February 21

31/1/23 – Single Stableford

Div 1 Winner: Carole Watson 41, 1st R/Up: Jo McCowan 37, 2nd R/Up: Vicki Jones 36

Div 2 Winner: Judith L’Estrange 39, 1st R/

Up: Lyn Cockerell 37, 2nd R/Up: Sheena

Bath 35

Div 3 Winner: Leonie Pratt 35 ocb, 1st R/

Up: Nadia Aylott 35, 2nd R/Up Louise

Keleher 34

NTP’s: Hole 4 – Hazel McDonnell, Hole

7 – Debra Dunn, Hole 14 – Judith Umlauft, Hole 16

(2nd shot all in) – Kate Wilson, Hole 14 (Div

3 2nd shot) – Carol Lobegeiger

2/2/23 Monthly Medal – Single Stroke -

Sponsors Churches of Christ QLD

White Course Winner: Christine Pronk 75, 1st R/Up Myra Dickson 76 ocb, 2nd R/Up

Di Benghamy 76 ocb

NTPs: Hole 4 Suzanne Vallely, Hole 7

Sandra Smith, Hole 14 Ann Rogers, Hole 16

Pauline Grooby

Best Gross: Di Benghamy 83

Red Course Winner: Kate Wilson 72, 1st R/

Up Maureen Bailey 73, 2nd R/Up Leonie

Pratt 75

NTP’s: Hole 7 Vivienne Learoyd, Hole 14

Kate Wilson, Hole 16 Toni Grossmann

Best Gross: Val Smith

Yellow Course Winner: Sandra Power

76, 1st R/Up Jennifer Mckay 79, 2nd R/Up

Mary

Barbeler 80

NTP: Hole 16 Sandra Power

Best Gross: Sandra Power

Sandra Power

C Grade Winner: Leonie Pratt 75, 1st R/ Up Nadia Aylott 78, 2nd R/Up Roslyn

Crossley 79

NTP’s: Hole 4 Gill Lee, Hole 7 Susie Smith, Hole 14 Charmaine Price, Hole 16 (2nd Shot)

Rita de Bondt, Hole 4 (Div 3 2nd Shot)

Margaret McBride

9/2/23 – Single Stableford

A Grade Winner: Robyn Harper 35, 1st R/ Up Judith Umlauft 33, 2nd R/Up Maree Bailey 32 ocb

B Grade Winner: Lyn Cockerell 39, 1st R/

Up Kate Brown 33 ocb, 2nd R/Up Hazel McDonnell 33

NTP’s: Hole 4 Marjorie Sills, Hole 7 Sandra Power, Hole 14 Gwen Clutterbuck, Hole 16

(2nd shot) Judith Umlauft, Hole 4 (Div 3 2nd shot) Laureen Healy

Hole in One – Sandra Power Hole 7

14/2/23 – Single Stableford

A Grade Winner: Gay Burnham 38 ocb, 1st R/Up Leonie Buxton 38, 2nd R/Up

Toni

Grossmann 35

B Grade Winner: Tricia Phillips 40, 1st R/ Up Leonie Pratt 37, 2nd R/Up Margaret Peterson 33

NTP’s: Hole 4 Judith Umlauft, Hole 7 Maureen Bailey, Hole 14 Carol McLeod, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Sandra Smith, Hole 4 (Div 3 2nd shot ) Yvonne Nicklin

16/2/23 – Single Stableford

A Grade Winner: Desley Neilson 41, 1st

R/Up Sylvia White 39 ocb, 2nd R/Up Roz

Gardiner 39

B Grade Winner: Marjorie Sills 38, 1st

R/Up Stina Barnuff 37, 2nd R/Up Mary Barbeler 36 ocb

C Grade Winner: Kate Brown 38, 1st R/ Up Heather Croukamp 36, 2nd R/Up

Margaret McDonald 33

NTP’s: Hole 4 Myra Thomsen, Hole 7

Carole Watson, Hole 14 Marjorie Sills, Hole 16 (2nd Shot) Abby Driver, Hole 4 (Div 3 2nd shot) Val Miller

21/2/23 – Single Stableford

A Grade Winner: Gaby Bennett 35 ocb, 1st R/Up Maree Bailey 35 ocb, 2nd R/Up

Time for the DOLPHINS to show us what they’ve got

They might be the new team on the block but could the Redcliffe Dolphins NRL side prove to be one of the teams to watch this season? Although they were unable to match the power of the Gold Coast Titans in their second trial match in February, the Dolphins going down 40-16 on home turf, they certainly showed their worth when they took on the favourites of the north, the Cowboys, pulling off a 22-all draw in their other pre-season game.

Being the newbies in the competition is certainly going to up the ante for the Dolphins, but with a swag of players coming in from other clubs, it may take some time for them to find their feet. Coach Wayne Bennett is considered one of the most successful

Kate Wilson

7/2/23 - Single Stroke

A Grade Winner: Magrit Pearce 71, 1st R/

Up Kate Wilson 75 ocb, 2nd R/Up Robyn

Colbran 75

B Grade Winner: Susan Brown 74, 1st R/

Up Vivienne Learoyd 76, 2nd R/Up Vivi Lloyd 78 ocb

Jennifer De Ruyter 35 ocb

B Grade Winner: Kate Brown 37, 1st R/Up

Lyn Beaven 35, 2nd R/Up Laureen Healy 34 ocb

NTP’s: Hole 4 Jo McCowan, Hole 7

Angela Claxton, Hole 14 Susan Brown, Hole 16 (2nd shot)

Desley Neilson, Hole 4 (Div 3 2nd shot)

Tricia Phillips

coaches in the game’s history and will make sure the proper foundations are in place, however even he has conceded it will likely take time in terms of results.

Jesse Bromwich has taken the helm as captain. This 33-year-old New Zealand skip per and former co-captain of Melbourne certainly has a big job ahead of him at the Dolphins, with his younger brother Kenny, former Storm teammate Felise Kaufusi and ex-South Sydney veteran Mark Nicholls beside him to share the load.

The club also has a number of represen tative forwards and some exciting young prospects in their wider squad and you can’t go past coach Bennett as being one of their greatest strengths. The former Broncos, Dragons, Knights and Rabbitohs mentor has assembled some talented staff around him. Dubbed the ‘Supercoach’, Bennett has also recruited a number of players who have previously played what is widely considered their best rugby league under him. He will be working to unlock the skills of signings like Anthony Milford and Brenko Lee, who have both played State of Origin and international football, when in good form.

The first new team to enter into the NRL since the Gold Titans back in 2007, the Dolphins have already built quite the fan base and will certainly bring a new dimension into the competition in 2023. The big

test will come in round 4 (March 24) when the Dolphins take on fellow Queensland side the Brisbane Broncos, who will no doubt be out to show the new side their well-established place in the competition.

The next home game at Kayo Stadium, Redcliffe is on Saturday March 11 at 4.30pm against the Canberra Raiders. For further info visit dolphinsnrl.com.au

Chris Pronk

Dolphins supporters at a recent game

Dolphins team arrive!

Coach Wayne Bennet at a practice session

Photos with thanks from www.facebook. com/dolphinsnrl/photos

MR or HR License Adhoc Driver

MNM Transport is a family-owned transport company. We specialise in the baking, distillery &landscaping supplies, between the Tweed NSW and Gladstone areas. Being a smaller player in the transport industry, MNM can offer our clients a more personalised service level, ensuring a great record of ongoing regular clients.

The person we will be looking for will be required for MR pickups and deliveries. Helping to load and unloading of trailers, with hand unloads approx. 60% of loads. Work hours would vary, depending on in coming freight volumes but would be expected around 30 - 40hours per week, with overtime as needed.

Our depot is located at Wakerley.

MNM Transport run a well maintained, modern fleet of vehicles and are very committed to the safety and comfort of our drivers, whether on the road or in our warehouse.

We are looking for someone with the

following skills:

MR License, AUTO

HR License MANUAL would be a Bonus

Forklift experience with License

Ability to maintain vehicle cleanliness. Sanitary agents will be supplied.

Good work ethic

Excellent paper workskills

Good time management is essential. The ability to think outside the square. To apply for this job please send through a recent CV with all experience.

MNM Transport Logistics

Contact on email: sales@mnmtransport.com.au