The LOCAL News, Island and Surrounds

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Hello Readers

Welcome to Issue 90,

The Voice has become a major controversial issue for the federal government. We are being bombarded with arguments both for and against. To bring truth and awareness to this topic we welcome a new columnist to the LOCAL Gecko Chirps, who will highlight some of the facts regarding the Voice. Whilst Gecko Chirps is not a replacement for our Cranky Lizard, who I know would have had a lot to say about this particular topic, Gecko Chirps has some insightful truths worth reading about and which will no doubt add some fuel to some already heated discussions taking place in our community.

Our feature story is the latest federal budget with whom there are winners and losers. Regular contributor Mem ber for Glass House Andrew Powell discusses how it will affect our local area and those already feeling the cost of living pinch.

It is confirmed that our beautiful Moreton Bay Region will become a city bringing it in line with other areas in the south east corner. The Breast screen Queensland mobile service will be back at Bribie Island Library from June 5 to August 11, providing a vital service to the women in our region. Alistair Gray writes a lovely article about Derek Patey – an insight into the man behind the Anzac Day stat ues.

As usual we cover a wide variety of lo cal 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

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

not necessarily those of the editor or publishers of the newspaper.

Equality for Who?

Thank you to H Beneke for your insightful letter printed in the May edition of The Local.

If your figures are correct, and I am sure they are, that 70% of Australians intend to vote yes in the upcoming referendum, then I as part of the remaining 30% need to try and understand why we have got it all wrong.

I, like many Australians, am a little fed up with this one-sided, ill-informed YES campaign. Strangely, even a lot of the Indigenous people don’t want this in its current form. They are speaking out everywhere, but unfortunately not being heard.

Australian taxpayers now provide 39 BILLION DOLLARS a year on Indigenous programs, which is currently more than is spent on Medicare. As a result of past government actions and high court decisions, Indigenous Australians currently have some form of land rights over more than 40% of the land in Australia and if you have

rights over that land, these Indigenous Australians also receive hundreds of millions in mining royalties each year. In the Northern Territory alone, these royalties amount to more than 230 million dollars.

In 2020 alone there were 3273 registered Aboriginal corporations delivering health and other services and making representations on their behalf to our government. More than 1000 bureaucrats currently work in the National Indigenous Australians Agency.

H Beneke, I could go on and on. These figures are only the tip of the iceberg and run deep.

As I said in one of my previous notes – we already have a parliament that represents all Australians and I beContinued page 6

Budget surplus, but not everyone is a winner

By Sheree Hoddinett

While there were a few big pieces of spending and savings to come out of the 2023 Federal Budget, overall it wasn’t very exciting. It was touted as a budget that would focus on the cost of living but there doesn’t appear to be a lot in there to help ease the burden on families doing it tough. It’s only small, but this budget is heading towards the first surplus in 15 years, coming in at $4.2 billion for this financial year. It’s expected to be short lived, with a deficit of $13.9 billion in 2023-24 and even more lower deficits in the years to come.

Some of the Cost of Living highlights:

• Low-income households will receive relief in the form of a deduction of up to $500 from their power bills from July 1, 2023. Eligible small businesses will receive a deduction of up to $650.

• Those on JobSeeker will receive an increase in their payments of $40 a fortnight from September 20 this year, while those over 55 on JobSeeker will receive an increase of $92.10 a fortnight, which is currently reserved for those over 60.

• Also in September (subject to being passed in parliament), eligible single parents will receive the single rate of Parenting Payment until their youngest child turns 14 (currently only available until the youngest child turns eight). The current base rate of Parenting Payment (single) is $922.10 per fortnight, compared to the JobSeeker payment base rate of $745.20 per fortnight.

• The maximum rates of Commonwealth Rent Assistance will also increase by 15% (subject to being passed in parliament). For a single CRA recipient with no dependants who does not share their rental home with anyone else and who is receiving the maximum amount of assistance, their payment would increase from $157.20 a fortnight to $180.80.

Some of the budget winners:

• Small business – The government will reward small business owners with a range of financial measures. The instant asset write-off threshold will be temporarily increased to $20,000 from July 1 for a year. This means small businesses with an annual turnover less than $10m will be able to instantly deduct the entire cost of certain assets that cost less than $20,000, which are first used between July 1, 2023 and June 30, 2024. The $20,000 threshold applies to each asset, so small businesses can take advantage of this measure to buy multiple assets.

• Health - The government will spend $3.5 billion to triple the bulk-billing incentive that GPs receive, meaning there will be more common consultation types which doctors can choose to bulk bill. The government will also spend hundreds of millions to better coordinate healthcare, including on telehealth, the digitisation of records and increasing Medicare rebates for consults longer than 60 minutes. Aged care workers will also benefit from a 15% pay rise.

• Veterans - Services for veterans will be better funded, including $64.1m over the coming financial year for additional resourcing to tackle the backlog of claims for supports, as well as increased demand for complex case

management, rehabilitation, pharmacy and health approvals. Another $2 million will be spent over two years to continue the Department of Veterans Affairs mental health literacy and suicide intervention training program for the ex-service community.

• Cash boost for young carers - Young people aged 12 to 25 who are caring for a loved one will get a cash boost so they can continue their education. The nearly $10 million funding increase to Carers Australia’s Young Carer Bursary Program will be increased from $3000 to $3768 and the number of bursaries offered will increase by nearly 60% to around 1600 each year over the period 2023 to 2025.

Some of the budget losers:

• Travellers - Whether you’re going on holiday or moving for good, you’ll have to pay an extra $10, as the government increases the passenger movement charge from 1 July 2024 from $60 to $70 a passenger.

• Tobacco and vaping companies

- Nicotine products will be more expensive, less attractive or illegal. The budget includes a 5% tax hike on cigarettes, taking the average price of a packet to roughly $50. The measure is expected to raise more than $3 billion in revenue. There will also be a ban on all non-prescription and single-use vapes, while all medically prescribed vapes will be flavourless and come in pharmaceutical-like packaging.

• Scammers - A national anti-scam centre will be established from this coming financial year, at a cost of $58m, to respond to a spike in online scams and fraud. The centre will share scam data across government and the private sector. Scammers sending phoney text messages have also been put on notice, with $10m allocated for an SMS sender ID registry to stop criminals impersonating government and industry names.

• Visa applicants - Applying for a visa is about to get more expensive. All application costs will rise at least six percentage points from July, except for applicants from the Pacific Islands. That means tourists will pay $40 more ($190 overall), a backpacking visa will cost $130 more ($640 overall) and students will pay $65 more ($715 overall).

Member for Longman Terry Young had a mixed reaction to this budget:

“I was pleased to see the continuation of some of the work that we, the Coalition started in the last term of government

such as the extension of the instant asset write off for small businesses, investment in programs to help women who are victims of domestic violence and additional funding for the processing of veteran’s affairs claims,” Mr Young said.

“What I am not pleased about is that this budget has an extra $180 billion dollars of spending which will drive inflation up even further. At the election Mr Albanese promised Australians that under a Labor government they would be better off, that electricity prices and mortgage payments would drop when in fact nothing is going down, everything is going up, except real wages, noting that JobSeeker payments

will increase.

“So, wage earners effectively will earn less and job seekers will earn more? Surely, all Australians should be better off, not just some of those on welfare? The economics are simple - when government spending goes up, so does inflation and everything else.”

With our community struggling with infrastructure issues such as roads, Mr Young was disappointed to see there was no mention of any infrastructure spending at all, including the promise of a fourth lane on the Bruce Highway between Uhlmann Rd and Dohles Rocks Rd or the $3 million for Bribie Island Road.

“There is also no mention in the budget of all the other election promises made by Labor for our electorate of Longman,” Mr Young said.

“No mention of the $3 million for new clubhouse at the Narangba Eagles Football Club, no mention of the $3 million for the new Caboolture Rugby League Clubhouse and no mention of the $3 million for the splash park at Centenary Lakes in Caboolture.

“The people of Longman have been snubbed by this government and promise after promise has been broken, its simply not good enough and I will be holding them to account. I was truly hoping that this budget would help relieve cost of living to average Australians but sadly it does just the opposite.”

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

lieve that the Indigenous people are very well represented by those members of parliament.

We are one together – not two divided. In finishing, I would like to ask the 70% of yes voters, how much more do the Indigenous Australians actually want and where and when will it ever STOP?

R Hansen Bongaree

The Voice

I read with interest and some trepidation the articles in Letters to the Editor. I have tried to avoid becoming embroiled in a topic that after all is a personal choice. So, I put forward the facts:

1. We are told that a NO vote is racist, but surely the whole concept of THE VOICE is just that, racist! It is also undemocratic, as it gives one group of people more say in running Australia than the other 96%. That is not democracy. Jacinta Price will tell you that they already have many voices but nobody including the state and federal governments listen.

2. The Australian governments over the years have poured eye-watering amounts of taxpayer’s money to try and rectify the problems in Aboriginal communities. I had the privilege of spending a week in one many years ago and saw firsthand some of the issues. The real problem is that for all this money that has been

spent, there is very little to show for it. The problem is that there needs to be more oversight and accountability as to who, where and when this money is spent and the contracts that are approved should also be under the magnifying glass.

As well as the VOICE, Australians should be very worried about the following:

A health system that is falling apart with staff under extreme pressure, ambulance ramping and insufficient beds and hospitals (including Bribie Island) for an expanding population.

A justice system that has soft laws and even softer penalties for most serious crimes including teenage crime, drug trafficking, armed robbery, domestic violence, assault and car theft, that should all have far more serious consequences.

Roads that are clogged with traffic because successive governments have not ‘planned’ for the future.

A power supply that is shortly going to be a total disaster because we are closing down and not replacing base load power stations in the interests of saving the world, when countries like China are building new coal fired power stations as fast as they can. Our power prices should be the cheapest in the world given the natural resources that we have including clean coal, gas, uranium and so on. But we have become obsessed with solar energy and wind turbines and there is nothing wrong with these as an addition to the grid power, not as the basis that they replace it. Let alone the pollution that the product causes at the end of its life. So, when the lights go out and you cannot charge your

electric car at days end, think of this. Yet we charge in Queensland a 40% royalty tax (vs 10% in NSW and WA) on mining companies who we rely on for the bulk of our overseas earnings. Do you want them to go to pastures new where they will be welcomed with open arms, at our expense? Dare I suggest that THE VOICE has been designed to take your mind away from the other serious issues, of which there are many more than the above. That both state and federal governments (and previous governments) have been negligent in addressing all of the above issues for many years. I support clean energy but not at the cost of our businesses, our jobs, our standard of living and our kids and grandkids future wellbeing.

I say NO to the VOICE and YES to pro-

Stuart A. Banksia Beach

The Voice and the Political Weaponising of Truth-Telling

This article is for all the ‘wokesters’, the uninformed, the misinformed, the sympathisers, those that don’t care and should care and lastly, the few intelligent people that have common sense and understand the gravity of going down this path to establish a Voice (another one) and enshrine it in our constitution.

Years ago, the public was not inundated with the current propaganda coming from our government and largely aboriginal activists. The new norm is to force all this rubbish down our throats by accusing those of having a different opinion as racists and appealing for a ‘sympathy’ vote because “it is a good thing”.

No, it is not a good thing for Australia!

So, let’s raise some truths relating to all this propaganda we are hearing.

Aboriginality.

Many of the assertions being made by individuals who proclaim their aboriginality are being accepted without challenge, yet to question those claims is condemned as a racist. Aboriginals make up about 3.8% of the population, a dramatic increase which cannot be linked to procreation. To claim aboriginality, first you must identify as an Aborigine, then accept the culture, be part of the community and then make a pledge. The checks and balances to prove aboriginality simply are not there. Even some genuine Aborigines question this lack of proof. No wonder the population of Aborigines has increased dramatically in recent times.

First Nations People.

The term is now being used instead of tribe. It is understandable to use this term as the latter has negative connotations, conveying a sense of primitiveness. The use of ‘First Nations’ conveys a sense of grandeur and dignity but this has been copied from North America. What is a Nation?

Aborigines claim they are ‘First Nations’ people. Well, they are not the first people to inhabit Australia. Anthropologists have evidence that Aborigines are about the tenth race to inhabit Australia prior to current Aborigines. Aborigines were never a nation, nor are they now. Why?

Because they were never united as an autonomous group – they were small family groups, roaming from one area to another in search of food and water. Furthermore, when confronted by other tribes, battles often ensued, so they were never united. To this day, nothing has changed regarding being united.

Unlike the indigenous people of Canada and the USA, who mostly lived in large groups of hundreds or thousands, the

THE WORLD’S OLDEST UNCHANGED CULTURE

indigenous Aborigines of Australia were small family units, occasionally gathering in larger numbers for trading or ceremonial purposes (corroborees). The description of indigenous Australian Aborigines as comprising a nation is an example of exaggeration and misrepresentation. Unfortunately, it is now commonly used and passively accepted without challenge.

The World’s Oldest Living Culture.

The truth is that it is ‘The World’s oldest unchanged culture’. Aboriginal culture remained static for millennia. Thirty thousand years ago and more, homo-sapiens were hunter-gatherers. Exactly what Aborigines were, hunter-gatherers. Anthropologists categorise the evolutionary phases as Iron Age, Bronze Age and so on. Inventions and civilisations were developed. Aborigines purport to have been here for 65,000 years. What did they achieve in that time? There are no written languages, no woven clothing, no houses with roofs or doorways, no evidence of agriculture, inventions or developed civilisations – nothing to boast about in terms of achievements in 65,000 years. In contrast, other peoples such as the Aztecs, Incas, Greeks, Romans and so on, all developed civilisations with the history to prove it. If Europeans had not settled Australia or if Australia was never to be inhabited by anyone else, then Aborigines would never have progressed. Aborigines have benefited from Australia being settled by Europeans. And we are all Australians!

Sacred Sites.

The word ‘sacred’ is over-used to meet a purpose. The word has a general notion of something being spiritual or divine. Certainly there are places that have a special importance to local indigenous communities but while they may be of cultural, historical or family interest, in no way can they be categorised as sacred in the religious sense because religion has little place in indigenous mythology.

Aborigines cannot give you a list of unnamed sacred sites but if you ask them an opinion of a certain place, you can bet it will be designated a ‘sacred’ site. Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremonies.

Some renowned Aboriginals will tell you this is a load of rubbish – so why do we pander to this so-called rite? Such events have become fashionable in recent times, never before, a modern contrivance and many indigenous groups have no recollection of such rituals. Indeed some describe these rites as embarrassing nonsense. Welcome to Country was invented and now used everywhere. Who needs a welcome to their own country? Smoking ceremonies are copied from North American Indians. Of course, it is very profitable to conduct these rites.

Uluru Statement from the Heart. This is the cornerstone for pushing for a Voice to Parliament. The ‘Uluru Statement from the heart’ is a copy (almost word for word) from an ‘African Concept’ (Zaire) from 1975. The Uluru Statement from the heart is all about sovereignty. This newly proposed Voice is but a steppingstone to the end game, which is sovereignty. The Constitution.

Why is it necessary to change the constitution?

It’s not!

The convention defines the term “racial discrimination” as any “distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise, on an equal footing of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field of public life”.

Parties to the convention, including of course Australia, are required to prohibit and eliminate racial discrimination and are specifically required “to guarantee the right of everyone, without distinction as to race, colour or national or ethnic origin, to equality before the law, notably in the enjoyment of the following rights: ...........(c) political rights, in particular the rights to participate in elections – to vote and to stand for election – on the basis of universal and equal suffrage, to take part in the government as well as in the conduct of public affairs at any level and to have equal access to public service”.

Unless a relevant exception applies, inserting the words of the Albanese Amendment into the constitution would be an act of racial discrimination in breach of the convention because it would confer privileged access to political rights and public service on Aboriginal Australians.

In the absence of a relevant exception, Australia would have a continuing obligation under the convention to “amend, rescind or nullify any laws and regulations” including the Albanese Amendment and any laws passed pursuant to it.

Why do you think the federal government refuses to give any detail about The Voice, how it will work, its specific aims or how it will achieve its aims?

And, most importantly, how will it benefit the Aboriginals that actually need help?

There is no requirement to change the constitution to include Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders. Why? - Because we are all Australians and they are already included as Australians.

Let’s examine some International Treaties’ obligations.

We have obligations under the International Convention on the ‘Elimination of all forms of racial discrimination’. Australia is bound by that convention because we ratified it when parliament passed the Racial Discrimination Act in 1975 (unlike the UN Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which we voted against at the UN and have never ratified).

Note – There is much more to the Voice and everyone needs to know what has happened in other countries that have gone down this path. It is not good news. The Voice will lead to reparations for all of us. Until next time.....

Gecko Chirps

When I am out and about talking to people in the electorate, many different issues are raised with me depending on who I am talking to, where they live and what stage of life they are at. What matters to a retiree on Bribie is different to what matters to a young family in Narangba or a farmer in Wamuran.

I must say recently the number one item is cost of living. As the world normalises after the pandemic and we face challenges in areas such as energy supply going through a transition, the war in the Ukraine affecting oil supply and costs, interest rates rising, workplace shortages, supply chain issues and unheard-of inflation rates, this is when governments at all levels need to step up and lead.

I am often asked if I believe that governments can really have an impact on cost of living when most factors that impact this are outside forces like the war in the Ukraine and international issues outside of Australia’s direct control. The simple answer is absolutely and I would say this is the very job of the governments of the day – to put in place policies and legislation that soften the blow and mitigate the impacts on the Australian people. Most average Aussies could get up and

state the facts on what the current issues are and the reasons for them. People don’t want to hear about problems from governments, they want to hear solutions.

Real leadership takes the cards we are dealt as a nation, find solutions and implements them so the Australian people’s lives are less affected or not affected at all by these outside factors.

In the last term of government, the Coalition government had to deal with a little thing called the COVID pandemic. When faced with this real threat to our standard of living, we analysed and tried to predict what these impacts would be and found solutions for these issues either in advance or when they arose.

We implemented JobKeeper to keep thousands of small businesses afloat and employees and employers connected. To ensure the construction industry didn’t collapse, we introduced the $25,000 Home Builder grant for first home buyers which actually created a boom during a global pandemic. The fuel excise was halved when the war in the Ukraine started, to ease prices at the bowser by 22 cents a litre, which has been discontinued since the change of government. There were worker shortages as we had no backpack-

ers and seasonal workers for farms, so we introduced the PALM program to give easier access to workers for the agricultural industry.

The results of these measures? Lowest credit card debt per capita, lowest interest rates, lowest unemployment rate, highest household savings in decades and low inflation rates.

So yes, the Australian people’s standard of living is directly tied to the government of the day and they should always be judged and held accountable on this.

Again, I say, true leadership doesn’t blame others or outside influences, it doesn’t whinge about the facts or circumstances of the day, true leadership takes the cards they are dealt and goes about finding and implementing solutions. At the moment, this type of leadership in this country and state appears to be sadly lacking. So, I encourage the governments at state and federal level, don’t complain and blame, just lead and provide solutions to keep our country moving towards a nation of prosperity and strength. The Australian people who elected you rightly expect and deserve it.

- Terry Young, Member for Longman

Still waiting on empty promises

Last week marked the due date for the Palaszczuk Labor Government’s flagship Satellite Hospitals Program, but Bribie Island is still waiting to see their so-called hospital.

Two years ago, the premier promised Queenslanders they would be “up and running” by now, but there’s not a single doctor or nurse in sight. What’s even worse is that even when it’s complete, the Bribie Satellite Hospital won’t offer the care we have been promised.

We were promised a hospital, but instead we’ll get a multi-purpose medical centre, without an emergency department and without 24-hour care.

Unfortunately, this will do little to address the concerns of residents about having access to an emergency department on the Island, despite the many promises of the local Labor MP.

Residents on the Island will still be faced with the same issues of getting to Caboolture Hospital in an emergency and hoping there are no accidents on the Bribie Island bridge. This failed promise is yet more evidence Queenslanders can’t trust Premier Palaszczuk or any promise she makes.

Our state is facing a health crisis with the worst hospital ambulance ramping in the nation, specialist wait blowouts beyond clinically recommended times and Queenslanders losing their lives while they wait for ambulances.

In fact, this month marks two years since the Palaszczuk Labor Government announced a $100 million strategy that was supposed to fix the hospital ramping crisis. Instead of fixing ramping, Queensland now has the worst ambulance ramping in the country, thousands more patients

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 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.

are waiting 24 hours in emergency departments, patients are dying waiting for an ambulance and bed block is crippling our hospitals.

Our health system is in crisis and this government is incapable of healing it. Queenslanders want solutions, they want to know when they call an ambulance it will arrive and when they are in an emergency, they can get into the emergency department. Queenslanders deserve a world class health system no matter where they live.

The LNP has put solutions on the table to heal the Queensland health crisis, including more resources, improving triaging, real time data monitoring and giving power back to local doctors and nurses who know what health services their community needs.

In an attempt to distract

Queenslanders, last week the premier tried to ‘reset’ when it comes to the government’s health, youth justice and housing crises gripping Queensland and our region. How? By swapping around a handful of ministers in her government. But don’t be fooled - this is not a reshuffle and is certainly not a reset. It’s the same faces, around the same cabinet table, on the same pay, making the same bad decisions.

At the heart of the chaos and crisis running through the Palaszczuk Labor Government and across Queensland, is a premier and a conga line of ministers who take no accountability or responsibility for their actions. They are no longer listening and think their own political survival trumps the real issues impacting our local communities. Last week’s stale ‘rebrand’ does not change the make-up of cabinet and proves Premier Palaszczuk cares more about how she and her government look, instead of driving the genuine change to improve the lives of Queenslanders.

After nearly a decade in power, the premier has prioritised her own political survival over the needs of Queenslanders. This is a government in a state of full-blown chaos and crisis. Queenslanders see right through this desperate attempt to rebrand the chaotic Palaszczuk Labor Government.

I repeat - it’s the same faces, around the same cabinet table, on the same pay, making the same bad decisions. Bribie residents deserve better.

Through

we are committed to helping people realise their wellbeing goals and lead meaningful lives. Chat to us today about what we can do to help you feel right at home.

Regis

Rotary celebrates 100 years in Queensland

In 2023, we celebrate 100 years of Rotary in Queensland. This is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our past accomplishments and to imagine what Rotary can achieve in the next 100 years.

Rotary International is a worldwide organisation with more than 1.4 million members who deliver community service both locally and internationally. Beginning in Chicago on February 23, 1905, the organisation became international in 1911.

On November 24, 1922 a meeting of business and professional men was called in Brisbane and on May 29, 2023 the Rotary Club of Brisbane was granted its Charter by Rotary International.

By 1927, Rotary Clubs had formed in Rockhampton, Townsville and Mackay. Although World War II inhibited further development of Rotary by 1939 many new clubs had been formed in Queensland.

Clubs are divided into districts and Bribie Island is included in District 9620. This district has more than 2000 members incorporating southern and south-east Queensland and includes Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Nauru.

Clubs are organised around Rotary’s Five Avenues of Service: Club, Community, Vocational, International and Youth. Recently, areas of focus have extended to basic education and literacy; peace and conflict resolution; disease prevention and treatment; water; sanitation and hygiene; community and economic development; maternal and child welfare and support for the environment.

Membership is open to any person who is willing to serve their community locally, nationally and internationally.

Bribie Island Rotary Club was chartered in March 1988 and has actively served the community since. The club aims to involve the community in our Rotary projects and functions such as the monthly community markets; the Australian Rotary Health Mental Health Walk (in October); youth projects such as Rotary Youth Driver awareness; youth leadership awards; youth programme of enrichment; youth exchange program and the National Youth Science Forum. Rotary’s most far-reaching international service has been the eradication of Polio and Bribie Island Rotary Club has made this one of our priorities.

If members of the Bribie community are interested in Rotary you can reach them through:

1. Bribie Island Rotary Club meetings (for dinner on Thursdays at the Bribie Island Hotel at 6pm).

2. By visiting www.rotarybribie.info or their Facebook page.

3. By email bribierotary@gmail.com or phone 0406 373 218.

Moreton Bay Region set to become a city

By Sheree Hoddinett

It won’t be a case of skyscrapers suddenly popping up all over the place, but by the end of 2023, Moreton Bay Region will be no longer. Instead a new name will be in place: Moreton Bay City.

Whether you like it or loathe it, the change (of name) is coming. Moreton Bay is pretty much already a city in terms of our population and the many bustling urban centres spread across the council area. As the third-largest council in Australia and still growing, the Moreton Bay Region change of classification to city will bring us into line with the other councils adjoining Brisbane. This includes Redland City, Ipswich City and Logan City. Our council area is larger than these neighbours in terms of geographic area, population and number of local businesses.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Local Government Steven Miles referred a request from the Moreton Bay Regional Council to the independent Local Government Change Commission for assessment last year. The Change Com-

mission concluded its assessment and recommended the change proceed. Mr Miles has recommended the change for consideration by Governor-in-Council, with the change likely to take effect before the end of this year.

It is the first time a Local Government Area has requested a reclassification under the current regulation. It is believed the change of name is expected to put the ‘region’ on the map, in turn bringing the potential for more visitors and jobs.

“Living in Moreton Bay with my family, it’s easy to see why the region is booming,” Mr Miles said. “The Moreton Bay Local Government Area is one of the fastest growing in the country with a population of more than 480,000. This is forecast to grow to close to 700,000 by 2041, a larger population than the state of Tasmania.

“Council met all the criteria for a name change set out in the Local Government legislation and after considering the Change Commission’s assessment, I agree with the change and have recommended to the Governor-in-Council for the change to take effect.”

Mayor Peter Flannery describes the change as a coming-of-age moment and admits that Moreton Bay will always be a ‘region’ but had long outgrown the title. “We have advocated for this change due to the size of Moreton Bay and also in recognition of our contribution to the southeast Queensland economy,” Mr Flannery said.

“While this reclassification won’t have any major impact on the day-to-day lives of locals, it will be a gamechanger for us politically and for our business community.

“I want to embrace our many existing communities and towns to spread opportunity and reduce traffic to one central location, to create Queensland’s first subtropical ‘polycentric city’ with many centres. This will create more job opportunities locally, better traffic flow, more greenspaces and a better connection to our beautiful existing environment.

“And when I meet with federal politicians in Canberra to secure funding for our region, they won’t think of Moreton Bay as a backwater shire in rural Queensland.”

Man charged with murder following death of Caboolture mother

A 29-year-old Morayfield man has been charged with murder after a mother of four was fatally stabbed in Caboolture on May 17. The man was charged with one count of murder (domestic violence), two counts of attempted murder, two counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, one count of evading police and one count of contravening a domestic violence order.

Emergency services were called to a Short Street unit at about 8.30pm that night, following reports a woman had been assaulted. Officers found a 27-year-old woman suffering from critical stab wounds. She was rushed to Caboolture Hospital but died from her injuries soon after.

Queensland Police said the suspect, allegedly known to the victim, initially fled

the scene on foot. Patrolling police located a Holden Commodore being driven by the suspect which allegedly evaded police and was driving dangerously including through a red light and at high speeds. Despite a tyre deflation device being successfully deployed, the vehicle continued driving before crashing into a police van on the Bruce Highway at Yandina just before 11pm. After the pursuit, the man was taken into custody and transported to Sunshine Coast University Hospital to be assessed. Two police officers – a male senior constable and male sergeant – were also transported to hospital with minor injuries but were later discharged.

Police continue to appeal to anyone with information, CCTV or dashcam footage in

the vicinity of Short St on the night of May 17 to come forward.

The 29-year-old Morayfield man was expected to front Caboolture Magistrates Court via video link just days after the incident. Meanwhile, tributes from family and friends have flooded social media for the victim, who has been named as Heather Ball, remembering the young mum as a ‘beautiful’ person. The four children are now being cared for by family and friends, with a GoFundMe campaign established to support those efforts.

If you or someone you know has been affected by domestic or family violence call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). If this story has affected you, support and counselling is also available via Lifeline 13 11 14.

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Have your say on coastal building design

The future look and feel of Moreton Bay’s coastal suburbs is up for discussion with Council’s Coastal Building Design Review for Redcliffe and Deception Bay now open for public feedback until June 16. Council will be conducting a separate community consultation for Bribie Island in July/August.

Mayor Peter Flannery said this investigation was an information gathering process that will help inform future changes to the Moreton Bay Regional Council Planning Scheme.

“We’re so lucky to have 295km worth of beautiful coastline from the southern point of the Redcliffe Peninsula all the way up to our 4WD beaches on Bribie Island at our northern most point,” he said.

“Roughly one third of the Moreton Bay Regional Council population lives by the water, so it’s important that we preserve what makes these coastal areas such a great place to live in the face of significant population growth, while accommodating for changing community expectations.”

“That’s why we’re reviewing the design elements of coastal buildings and how we assess development applications for new buildings in the future.

“The feedback gathered from the community will help inform design features such as proportions of buildings, building separation and setbacks, overshadowing, creating interesting frontages and

sub-tropical design features such balconies, green roofs and green walls.

“Part of this discussion will include building heights as council looks to preserve 75% of the region’s landmass from development. We want to ensure that residents and wildlife have greenspaces and natural environment to enjoy for years to come.”

“The best way to achieve this is to build up, rather than out and in existing urban centres like Redcliffe and Deception Bay that already have infrastructure and services in place to accommodate for new residents.

“Through good design and planning we can enhance the coastal character of these suburbs and build on the existing lifestyle, while accommodating for population growth.”

So tell us what you love or don’t love about your coastal suburb by visiting the Your Say Moreton Bay website (https://yoursay.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/ coastal-building-design-peninsula) and providing feedback, or you can visit a drop-in session where you can talk to staff in person.

Drop-in sessions:

• Saturday June 3, 9am - 1pm at Crockatt Park, Woody Point

• Saturday July 29, 8am - 12pm at Tintookie Park, Woorim

Meet and greet group to help combat loneliness

By Sheree Hoddinett

While some people like to spend time on their own, for others loneliness is an unwanted part of their lives. Even though he is going through his own experience of loneliness, Jesse Riley has come up with the idea of a local meet and greet group to bring people together, form new bonds and maybe even build new friendships.

“I originally thought of how lots of people don't necessarily have many close and significant friends,” Jesse said. “Loneliness has led to an interesting case of how it affects the body negatively, not just emotional/mentally. Bringing people together like this can be a good opportunity to learn from everyone and people don’t always allow themselves the chance to get out and meet others.

“I think it also has potential for those who come along to meet close minded people and a lot of people can make good and meaningful bonds with others that they may not normally get to do.”

With the hope of achieving a stronger community, Jesse said the idea behind the group was slowly gaining traction.

“Historically we are social creatures,” Jesse said. “It was in the 19th century people stopped socialising like they used to. Of course there are multiple different reasons for this but I feel the reason behind it being (from my observations) advancements in technology mostly.

“As you can see in Japan, they have lots of tech but not necessarily a lot of communal spirit. You also don't need to go far to notice that some parents don't really bond with their kids either and in some cases, kids now hate their parents so it’s not an ideal situation.”

Hailing from Sandstone Point, Jesse has highlighted Centenary Lakes at Caboolture as a more central location for the group to meet on a weekend, so more people can come along and be a part of the interactive and social event.

“This is a group that will be open to everyone who feels like they need to come along,” Jesse said. “It will be held at Centenary Lakes because it’s a big area and it means lots of people can join in. Plus there’s the added bonus of having a friendly game of footy on the field every now and then if people are up for it. We all know loneliness can affect people of all ages, so this is just something I’ve thought of for people to meet up and get to know others. Children can come along too, as most of our brain’s social skills start from childhood, so why not get the ball rolling early!”

If all goes well, Jesse is hoping the meet ups will become a regular monthly thing.

To find out more search for the Centenary Lakes Meetups group via Facebook

BreastScreen Queensland mobile service back on the Island

BreastScreen Queensland’s mobile service will be back at Bribie Island Library, Bongaree from June 5 – August 11, offering free breast cancer screening for women aged 40 years and over.

“A breast screen every two years is recommended for women aged 50 to 74 years as the best way to find breast cancer early,” Acting medical director Lisa Hammerton said. “However, less than half of Bribie women in their fifties are taking advantage of this service.”

A lack of time and not prioritising their own wellbeing are two of the major barriers women face in looking after their health.

To make it easier for busy women, there are breast screen appointments from 7.30am so women can book an appointment before work. There will also be appointments up to 5.30pm on some days. It takes less than 30 minutes and no doctor’s referral is needed.

“Our service is fast, free, friendly and

female,” Dr Hammerton said. “Women should book ahead to make sure they can get an appointment at a time that best suits them.”

Bookings can be made by calling 13 20 50 or visiting breastscreen.qld.gov.au or scan the QR code for more information.

THE FACTS:

• 75% of women diagnosed with breast cancer are over 50. Younger women do get breast cancer, but the risk of breast cancer increases dramatically after the age of 50.

• 9 out of 10 women diagnosed with breast cancer have NO family history of the disease. While women with a family history of breast cancer are more at risk, most women diagnosed have no family history of the disease at all.

• A breast screen every two years is the best way to detect breast cancer early, well before you or your doctor can feel anything.

Chemo services still growing for locals

Do you know where the nearest chemotherapy service is? If you guessed Caboolture Hospital, you would be right… once it’s actually open that is.

Caboolture Hospital currently supports patients to access cancer care services either at Caboolture or specialist services at another Metro North facility. So where does that leave patients in the meantime? In limbo and travelling further from home than they probably need to while undergoing treatment.

Member for Longman Terry Young has also highlighted a need for chemotherapy services closer to home, when he spoke in parliament earlier this year.

“In March, I spoke in parliament highlighting the need for chemotherapy chairs at the Satellite Hospital on Bribie Island. I secured funding for eight chemotherapy chairs for the Caboolture Hospital in 2019 from the last Coalition federal government, to take travel pressures off locals suffering with cancer. Recently, I recommended one or two of these eight chairs be diverted to the Bribie Island Satellite Hospital.

Unfortunately, the Queensland government recently confirmed that not a single chemotherapy chair will be located at the Satellite Hospital on Bribie Island. This will continue to pile on the stress to those who are already having a tough time fighting cancer by having to travel to the

Caboolture Hospital finishes, those living on Bribie will still have a minimum one hour round trip to access these facilities, which I believe should be accessible on Bribie Island.

While the state government keeps ignoring the needs of Bribie locals on important issues such as these, I will keep fighting to make sure local voices are heard and we are able to get positive results for our local community.”

All New Menus Now Cooking plus Introducing Wednesday Winter Warmers just $15

New Menus for Lunch and Dinner with that same great value and taste you have come to expect from us are now cooking.

Our new menus have some of your old favourites plus a variety of new and seasonal dishes. A wider selection of steaks is available, plus some new exciting pastas and pizzas and the return of the Lamb Shank with creamy mash, just the way you like it! And be prepared, our Chef’s Special Selection menu is also available.

New Wednesday Night Winter Warmer Menu – 15 meals at $15 each

You read it right, Wednesday nights are heating up with 15 different menu items available for just $15 each. The 15 meals include Chef’s curry of the day, 3 different pasta dishes, Thai spiced Calamari, Fisherman’s Catch, Battered Snapper, the Vernazza Pie, 5 different Pizzas and a Beef or Vegetarian Lasagna. Our full menu is still available as well as the Chef’s Specials and desserts.

Thursday Reef n Beef Special: Our popular Steak, Garlic Prawns, salad and chips deal for just $23 is available – often imitated by other venues but never beaten. Full menu and specials menu available. 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.

Senior Lunch Special – Monday to Friday: 11.30am to 2.00pm we offer a selection of Senior Lunches for just $12 each. Full lunch menu is also available.

Remember we are open everyday for lunch (except public holidays) and Wednesday through Friday nights for dinners and bookings are preferred. We now open for dinner from 5.00pm for those who like to eat early!

See our website for bookings and more details.

Contact the Club Office for more details or see our website at: www.bribiegolf.com.au

finished.

“I worked hard to get us chemotherapy at the Bribie Island Satellite Hospital, but until the new chemotherapy service at Caboolture Hospital is up and running properly, a satellite service can’t be delivered at Bribie,” Ms King said. “That door isn’t closed, though - I’ll keep working hard to get us a Bribie chemotherapy service at the Satellite Hospital once the Caboolture chemotherapy service is up and running.”

A Caboolture Hospital spokesperson said as part of the $399.5 million hospital redevelopment, patients in the region would have access to expanded services closer to home.

“This includes an eight-chair chemotherapy and infusions unit, supported with additional funding from the federal government,” the spokesperson said. “The design and development of this new service will progress in line with the proposed funding milestones committed by the federal government. The new day chemotherapy unit is expected to open in 2024, along with the broader refurbishment program planned for Caboolture Hospital after the opening of the new Clinical Services Building in 2023.”

Looks like the wait isn’t over yet!

**More information about cancer care services currently available at the Caboolture Hospital can be found at: https://metronorth.health.qld.gov.au/ caboolture/healthcare-services/cancer-care-services**

ting Communit y

Voney Kajganic, Mark Andrew and Joe Kajganic at Elvis Leaves his Mark at Bribie RSL

Jacki Moon, Stephen Moon, Nathan Moon, Brad Moon, Debbie Kelly and Megan Williscroft. Having a shucking great time, at the Oyster Bar for Stephen’s 60th

Kathy Stewart and Rowan Gladman at Park Run Bribie Island

Robert Hazelwood, Mark Andrew and Bev .....# Viva Las Vegas at Bribie RSL

Bringing your stories to life

Words is about “capturing the essence of our clients’ lives” and providing them with a once in a lifetime experience.

For Caroline, who has spent more than 25 years in business across the executive recruitment, retail and hospitality industries, bringing YLYW to fruition came about because of experiences in her own life.

“I wrote both of my parent’s eulogies,” she said. “I wish I had had stories to draw on, information on what mattered to them the most. I wished they had left behind even a small diary. But there was nothing.

By Sheree Hoddinett

Have you ever wanted to tell your life story, but just don’t know where to start? Imagine being able to sit down and share all the bits and pieces of your life as you remember them and have someone put it all together for you. Believe it or not, there is someone out there who can do it for you and it all started right here on Bribie Island.

Your Life Your Words (YLYW) is all about writing people’s life stories, using their own words to share with their loved ones…today. In the words of the woman behind the scenes, founder and managing director Caroline Jamieson, Your Life Your

“So when I turned 60, I took some time out to write my own memoir. I wanted my children, grandchildren and beyond, to know who I really am, where I came from and where I’ve been and everything in between. It took me 18 months to complete my memoir and upon reading it from woe to go, I was a bit disappointed. Somehow I hadn’t captured the real me, the essence of my soul. I thought to myself how different it would have been if I had had a professional writer by my side, writing as I spoke, crafting sentences and moulding words into place. I imagined myself sitting in the comfort of my own home, simply talking and sharing my life story with my own personal writer. This is how Your Life Your Words was born.”

Caroline found her own attempt at writing a memoir quite an arduous task. So with that in mind, she created each and every process of the business to be as easy, enjoyable and effective as it

HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT ABOUT WRITING YOUR LIFE STORY?

Many people do… but never get around to it!

Carolina had her memoir presented to her at her home in Newfarm last week. This is what she had to say…"Overall, it was a wonderful experience. It’s what I wanted it to be. I didn’t know how I would go, whether I’d like to tell my writer my story or what I would tell her, but she made it easy. I thought my writer was very easy to talk to and very helpful, and I enjoyed it very much. I think the memoir is very well presented in the leather; it’s my story but the way it’s presented makes it feel important. I love my story and how my writer wrote it.

I’m just very happy overall." Carolina Kidd

If we don’t share today… tomorrow it is gone, forever!

Why not be the next one to enjoy a journey down memory lane.

It is simply an experience of a lifetime!

could be. Caroline also personally matches each writer on the team with the client they will work with and write for.

“The skills, experience and disposition of each writer is fundamental to the journey of the client with Your Life Your Words,” Caroline said. “Our writers are exceptional people! There are more than a few online writing services and essentially the onus is on the client to undertake the writing. But nothing comes close to having one’s own personal writer, sitting with you in the comfort of your own home. All one needs to do is talk and the writer will take you down memory lane and compose your heartfelt memoirs, with your very own words.”

So, what is the process behind it all?

Caroline is the first point of contact and ensures everything is very personable for all clients.

“I spend some time chatting with the client, asking pertinent questions,” she said. “This information is then relayed to the writer so they can conduct certain research about the client before they meet with them.

“Clients are provided with a profile of their writer before they meet with them. This crossover of information makes for easy conversation at the first meeting. Writers will visit with clients three to four and even five times, depending on how many words a client chooses to book

for. The client can also choose to have a video recording of themselves speaking directly to the ones they love the most. Every step of the way, the writer will be by the client’s side.”

Knowing that the reputation of every business she has owned and operated is paramount to her, Caroline takes great pride in what Your Life Your Words has to offer.

“I feel extremely proud to have identified and established a unique ‘one-of-a-kind’ service to the Bribie community, Queensland as a state and down the track to be an Australia-wide business,” Caroline said. “And wow wouldn’t it be fantastic if we could establish the service overseas!”

Given the demographic of the Island, Caroline knew there was potential for a good market for a product like Your Life Your Words.

“I think Bribie Island has been the perfect place to launch Your Life Your Words,” she said. “Each member of the community that has engaged our services have been thrilled with the process and outcome. Absolutely thrilled! Some have even cried tears of immense satisfaction. To put it simply, if we don’t share our stories today, tomorrow it is lost forever.” For further information about pricing and how Your Life Your Words works, visit yourlifeyourwords.com. au or contact Caroline on 0401 544 153.

By Alistair Gray

If you need a problem solved, something fixed or a creative approach, the man to see on Bribie is Derek Patey. With plenty of wisdom to share, he loves to yarn. As the Men's Shed president, Derek has become well-known to Bribie locals for the incredible wire sculptures of the soldiers seen by many on Anzac Day. His wife Sonia is a sculptor, potter and a hard-working volunteer at the Bribie Arts

Derek Patey – an insight into the man behind the Anzac Day statues

involved helping to design the donkey's nostrils, which was no mean feat when working with chicken wire. A lot of research went into getting the right size and shape of the donkey to ensure the sculpture was as authentic as possible. The study included researching the donkey’s breed and skeleton on the internet. Using this information to build a steel frame before wrapping and wrapping with chicken wire to form the donkey's shape. The process is much more complex than the summarised version shown here. Derek also entered the completed sculpture into the Brisbane Show (also known as The Ekka) and was declared the Ekka Division Champion and Grand Champion – a deserving award. The sculpture has since been proudly donated to the Bribie RSL, pleasing many on Anzac Day. He has since made another two soldiers, donating them to the Sunnybank RSL.

Derek is very proud to be the Men's Shed president, a place where guys can meet and connect. Some come to do woodworking, metalwork or just to make things and be with others. He feels he can contribute with his skills and experiences.

Centre. Along with Derek, who does much of the maintenance at the centre, they make an awesome team quietly providing service to our community.

Upon completing his apprencticeship in London as an electrician, Derek was given a van and became the emergency break down person.

“If a factory had a motor blown up, 40 people would be standing there doing nothing, right! So I'd arrive with my little orange light going,” Derek said. “Every body's stood staring at you and you're Johnny on the spot. After the first year of doing that I learned more about solving problems than anything I'd ever known.” He continued to utilise and apply the valu able skills he learnt in those early days throughout his career and when helping others. When the Anzac Day march was cancelled when Covid came along, Derek decided to put together a footpath display of cutouts of soldiers. RSL sub-branch president George Franklin spotted these and then approached Derek showing him a picture of some ghost-like sculptures of soldiers from World War One (WW1) created by Jackie Lantelli at the Slimbridge churchyard in Gloucestershire. Eleven chicken wire soldiers sculptures are placed around the graves to mark 100 years since the end of WW1 (worth the

sculptures. Six were funded and specifically made for the RSL, with another two made for display purposes and held by the shed. With a huge learning curve for everyone, their involvement built great camaraderie and pride within the men's group of 60-plus members, including some veterans. How do you shape chicken wire to create the sculpture? How do you make a button, a hat?

The project tested Derek's problem-solving skills and the group's collective wisdom. There was lots of excitement when the

eight soldiers were completed and first displayed on Anzac Day, with the RSL and public completely in awe of what they saw.

While working on the original soldiers, Derek became intensely interested in WW1 history, particularly trench warfare. Derek decided to make Simpson, with his donkey Duffy and a patient. To ensure that the display was not too understated, he added two honour guards completing this project at home, independently from the Men's Shed. His wife Sonia became

At the age of 11, Derek witnessed a nasty accident experiencing shock. His mother told him not to think about it and that it would go away. This childhood trauma led to nerve problems, skin rashes and anxiety issues eventually leading to the diagnosis of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). Many people have since shared their own experiences and situations with him. Should he have experienced this type of trauma today, he would have had people crawling all over him offering support. Derek also suffered verbal abuse, developing a fear of failure and as a result he is now very driven. Derek didn't understand the cause of these things and never connected them to the earlier events in his life.

He had been an electrician with his own contracting business and electrical retailing company, which he sold following an anxiety attack. Then he and Sonia moved to Toogoom, near Hervey Bay and built a general store with hardware and newspapers, working seven days a week and working themselves into the ground before selling it. He was then unemployed (self-funded) for about six months before gaining employment with a hospitality training company. Here Derek went through the mill having a nervous breakdown and almost committed suicide, but thanks to a good doctor and psychologist, he was recognised as having PTSD and over time was given the appropriate help.

"I grabbed Sonia and danced around the kitchen because I suddenly understood all my behaviours back in the past and knew what it was all about,” Derek said on finding out he had PTSD.

It is easy to see how much value Derek brings to the Men's Shed and the Bribie community.

Derek Patey putting the final touches on his sculptures.

Derek Patey at home

Simpson, Duffy the Donkey, the patient and two honour guards at an ANZAC Day service.

Mojo Mama – creates new connections and support for mums

By Alistair Gray

This is a call out to all the young mums out there looking to connect with other mums on the Island and nearby. Often mums are so tied up in the day-to-day chores of looking after their kids that they struggle to get some “me” time to look after themselves and connect with other women to perhaps plan their future, set up a small business or start taking steps to return to work. Or maybe they simply want someone to chat with, share life’s challenges and have social outings. The good news is that Mojo Mama has held its first few meetings on the Island and is growing fast as it meets the insatiable needs of local mums.

I was thrilled to meet with Miranda Murray and Eileen Tiller to learn a little about their new group. Miranda is relatively new to the Island, having come north from Sydney, where she ran women’s circles. Eileen lives in Sandstone Point and was recently a sales consultant in the beauty industry. Both with young children, they understand only too well the demands of motherhood and the need for outside connection.

Mojo Mama’s tagline is “To connect, celebrate and reignite your mojo”. It is appropriate for mums who have been away from the workforce for a few years and want to regain control over their lives and careers.

“We wanted to create a space where mums can come, where they feel safe,

Miranda Murray and Eileen Tiller, the Founders of Mojo Mama at the Bribie Island Art Centre.

where it is a warm and a welcoming environment for them to meet. Initially, very much a focus on connecting with other mums,” Miranda said. They have held two events so far. One

Super fund keeping it bright for their members

If you’re lucky enough to have your superannuation with Brighter Super, it looks like you’re banking some nice savings! Residents north of Brisbane (which includes Bribie Island) who are with the not-for-profit industry fund Brighter Super, have over 50% more in their superannuation than the average Australian.

Brighter Super revealed that the average balance of the fund’s more than 8712 account holders living on or near the Sunshine Coast is around $221,353, which is higher than the average Australian’s $145,388 superannuation balance.

Brighter Super, which currently has three of its investment options in the top five rankings in the country, according to the latest Super Ratings data for financial year to date as of March 31 2023, attributes some of this success to investing in local infrastructure and property investment opportunities.

Brighter Super CEO Kate Farrar said that members were increasingly interested in how their hard-earned superannuation was being invested, particularly locally, for a consistent long-term return.

the mums want as the group evolves. They are very protective of what they are creating - a safe place, a place of no judgement, no competition and the welcoming of all emotion and mutual respect with the gradual development of a Bribie Women’s Circle and Business Club.

If you would like to know more about Mojo Mama, please contact Miranda Murray 0439 905 901.

The top five (Sunshine Coast) postcodes, ranked based on the average Brighter Super member balance include:

1. 4552 - $305,196: Maleny, Witta, Conondale

2. 4566 - $278,802: Noosaville

3. 34507 - $271,560: Bribie Island, Banksia Beach, Bongaree

4. 4554 - $263,636: Eudlo, Ilkley

5. 4558 - $256,578: Maroochydore, Cotton Tree, Kuluin Brighter Super has been supporting Queenslanders with their superannuation for more than 57 years.

UNIQUE OCEANFRONT RESIDENCE - STEPS TO THE BEACH

Welcome to 1 Avalon Street - offering unique executive living whilst embracing the 180-degree ocean views. This privately set home is where you simply stroll to the beach daily to enjoy amazing sunsets beside Moreton Bay.

Immaculately presented plus first time to market, the home blends all the appeal of a luxury coastal retreat. This impressive character home is set upon an easy-care elevated 835 m2 level block, providing superb entertaining options for those who love to cater for friends and the ever-expanding family.

Innovative design with full attention to captivate those forever views across to Brisbane and beyond! Complete with a wide manicured reserve as your side neighbour, is crafted to take advantage of natural sunlight all through.

Open concept kitchen enhanced with views and walk-in-pantry continues towards your massive rear patio that overlooks the superb scenery. Features a functional island plus generous custom cabinetry inclusive of prime storage capacity. This culinary delight spills onto an alfresco terrace overlooking established raised gardens.

Central formal lounge enjoys direct Bay view whilst leading to the tremendous all-weather covered entertainment area. Easy-care living continues with additional glassed-in area that encloses the secondary lounge room.

Awnings~Blinds~Shutters

while delivering desirable features galore, this home combines character plus charm, ticking every box for most discerning buyers. Positioned within a quality neighbourhood of a highly desired waterfront location – view now for an enviable lifestyle!

Stately attributes within this impressive ambience reveals an exceptional master haven with walk-in robe, sizeable ensuite with spa bath and shower recess plus the iconic direct water outlook. Positioned separately are the remaining 3 bedrooms, main bathroom, and powder room. Beneficial tall side access enables parking for the motorhome/caravan, and boat plus all the additional vehicles. Easy care landscaping surrounds this quality low maintenance address. These elements allow time for recreation or any desired water sports as being so near!

Embracing extended family living options

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1-9 Fairhaven Drive

A Country Atmosphere

It's a lifestyle change where country meets the coast. 3271m2 Allotment 5 mins from Bribie Island. 3 double sized bedrooms with built in robes, WIR & ensuite to main. 5 bay powered workshop & double carport with water tanks, solar hot water, solar energy, Ducted aircon, solid timber cabinetry & a claw foot bath. Daily visits from the bird life & wonderland gardens with ploughs & wagon wheels as ornaments.

A Great Family Home Set on just under 1000 (1/4 acre) of prime land is this stunning home with open plan living, steel frame construction, & the added advantage of a triple lock up garage with one being drive through. 4 Zone ducted throughout, side access, beautifully set out entertainment area at rear overlooking pool & jacuzzi. Media room, 36 panel solar system.

Stage 1 Palm Cove

The owner's plans have changed, and they need to sell their block in stage one Palm Cove. 574m2, Registered, flat, fenced, and ready to build on now. Why wait, do not hesitate, only minutes from everything the Island has to offer. High and dry with no body Corp fees.

Bongaree 2/14 Hill Street

Bongaree Townhouse Under $400k

2-bedroom townhouse. Located in Hill Street, Bongaree. Close transport, and a short walk to the Bribie Island RSL. Currently rented until August 2023. Low body corps per annum.

Real Estate Talk

As the state peak body for real estate professionals, the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has welcomed reassigned ministers to the Palaszczuk government cabinet.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella congratulated Meaghan Scanlon on her appointment as the Minister for Housing and Yvette D’ath on her appointment as the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.

“We welcome these appointments and renewed focus, and look forward to continuing to work in an effective and constructive fashion with both Ministers as Queensland faces significant challenges ahead,” Ms Mercorella said.

“In particular, housing accessibility and affordability are complex and critical issues in our state that are increasingly demanding attention and action from all levels of Government – after all, these are matters impacting us all.

“It also comes at a time when the REIQ is calling on the Queensland Government to reconsider its proposed second stage of rental law reforms, with potentially dire consequences for the health of the rental market.

At their monthly board meeting, the RBA decided to increase the Cash Rate by 0.25 basis points to 3.85%. The decision to increase interest rates is expected to be the last in the current tightening monetary policy cycle, given the outlook for inflation and the economy as a whole. This decision was driven by ongoing strong inflation numbers, very tight employment markets, and a strong outlook for population growth, which will put inflationary pressures on housing costs.

Despite the increase in interest rates, we expect the positive momentum in the property markets to be maintained throughout the winter. Auction clearance rates have remained high, attendance at open homes has improved, and price growth has turned positive after passing the bottom of the cycle. As the RBA holds steady over the coming months, prospective buyers will become more

confident that mortgage rates have reached their peak, allowing them to budget for their next purchase.

The strengthening property market indicators will also provide confidence to homeowners who have been waiting to sell. This should result in a gradual increase in listings over the coming months, as we have passed the bottom of the market.

Locally we have been transacting great numbers of property, and prices are still up given the lack of stock coming to the market. Rental vacancy rates are also low locally with only a handful of rental properties available.

“The REIQ will be writing to the ministers to outline our positions and progress our ongoing work that’s well underway

on various working groups, plans, and legislative reviews and reforms.

“We will take this as an opportunity to help navigate the complexities of the landscape, inform government policy, and ensure real estate’s crucial contributions continue to be represented, heard and carefully considered.”

Ms Mercorella also thanked the outgoing ministers for their important contributions and close working relationship with the REIQ.

REIQ welcomes new ministers to critical portfolios RBA hikes: Is this the end of the rate hiking cycle?

“We thank Minister Leeanne Enoch for her hard work and passion in the portfolio over the past three years, and in particular her ability to work effectively across the entire sector,” she said. “Minister Enoch was instrumental in driving the establishment of the Housing Roundtable and subsequent Housing Summit.

“We also thank Attorney, Shannon Fentiman for her pragmatism and drive in the portfolio especially in relation to the amended Property Law Bill and Mandatory CPD (continuing professional development) for the real estate profession.”

Be the difference this Pie of Origin

Sunshine Coast bakery Beefy’s has proudly pulled on the maroon again, ready to kick off Pie of Origin for another year in 2023.

“Glenorie Bakery in New South Wales has put out the challenge and we’ve said yes,” Beefy’s Mark Hobbs said. “That means it’s state against state as we out-fundraise one another and help the sick kids for our statewide children’s hospitals. There can only be one winner and I’m backing Queensland!”

Footy legend and Pie of Origin ambassador Kerrod Walters is backing Queensland too.

“We claimed the trophy last year and I know we’ve got another win in us,” Kerrod said. “C’mon Queensland. All you need to do is get into Beefy’s and make it a Big Queenslander Pie – it’s that easy.”

Beefy’s will donate $1 from every Big Queenslander Pie sold during the Pie of Origin series to the Children’s Hospital Foundation and overall fundraising tally.

“The Big Queenslander Pie is a limited-edition pie baked just for this contest,” Mark said. “It’s bigger than our traditional lunch size pie and it’s crammed with our award-winning, melt-in-your-mouth signature steak pie filling.”

This year (2023) marks the eighth year that Beefy’s has been raising funds for the Children’s Hospital Foundation. “Every year, our success comes back to the generous support of our loyal customers,” Mark said. “During the time we’ve been involved in Pie of Origin, they’ve helped us raise almost $125,000 to help sick kids across the state. No matter how you look at that, it’s been a mighty Queensland effort. We can’t thank our customers enough.”

Children’s Hospital Foundation CEO, Lyndsey Rice is thrilled to see the return of Pie of Origin, to make a difference in the lives of kids across the state.

“Every dollar raised through this year’s Pie of Origin plays a vital role in helping Queensland’s sickest kids and

their families through the toughest of times – we’re incredibly humbled to have the support of the Beefy’s community,” Lyndsey said. This year, Beefy’s and their customers will raise funds for cutting-edge equipment, vital research and on-theground support for sick and injured kids, just like Harley.

Harley was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome – one of the rarest and most severe heart defects. At two-years-old, Harley has already undergone two open-heart surgeries for his condition.

To help kids like Harley, simply make it a Beefy’s Big Queenslander Pie every time you’re in store to support the Children’s Hospital Foundation. A Beefy’s Big Queenslander Pie makes a great choice for lunchtime, dinner time and for footy times with your mates. They’re available in all Beefy’s stores.

You have until the whistle blows to signal the end of the State of Origin Game 3 on July 12 to get your hands on one and be the difference every kid deserves.

Bribie Garden Centre

HugeVariety

and Veges are here!

The weather is cooling down meaning it's the perfect time to get in and get that herb and vege garden for a good spruce up. What better place to start than here at Bribie Garden Centre. We have everything you need including a wide variety of herbs and veges ranging from several types if tomatoes, beans, cauliflower, broccoli, parsley, chives,coriander and much more. We also have what you need to ensure your garden bed is prepped full of nutrients including, quality premium garden soil, tomato and herb potting mix, tomatoes and herb slow release fertilizer and the all time favourite active grow soil improver.

Don't forget to come in and check out what's going to give your garden that winter flowering colour we all love including a range if stunning lavender, our native favourites including a range of grevillea and leptospermum, the beautiful camelias, magnolias and gordonias.

Come on in a check out our ever-changing fully stocked range of gift wares is also a must. This includes hand made baskets and cane pot holders, gorgeous ornaments, and beautiful wind chimes.

We also have new in store some unique pieces of furniture, indoor and outdoor pots and stunning new wall art.

gift vouchers available

Open 7 days

Mr Beefy, Footy Legend Kerrod Walters and Beefy’s Mark Hobbs are all backing Queensland in Pie of Origin 2023.

Queensland kids like Harley will benefit from the funds raised

60-year anniversary John and Bernice Bench 1963 - 2023

In 1958, John drove his gleaming new Ford Zephyr 6 from the farm in Nudgee for a night out at Cloudland and there they met once more on the dance floor. This time John couldn’t resist Bernice’s beaming smile, later offering to drive her home. The rest, as they say, is history.

John managed to convince Bernice that her future lay in Kallangur. So, after their wedding in 1963, they settled on some farming land and built their new home. A year later came child number one, followed by another three years later. They took a gamble and gave up their jobs to purchase a fruit shop in Aspley Arcade. It wasn’t long before John’s particular attention to quality fruit and vegies, as well as Bernice’s magnetic personality, attracted the locals, ensuring a solid customer base along with a successful and hectic lifestyle. They added a milk bar with almost everyone in the family helping out at some time over the years.

job for them both for many years. By 2005, Kallangur had grown and the farm was now surrounded. They both realised it was time to sell up and move on. A rural home in Elimbah attracted them with regular visits to the Bribie passage often ensuring local mudcrabs on the table.

Known to their family as Mum and Dad/ Grandma and Granddad, John and Bernice

covered each other’s weaknesses. They are two individuals with their own personalities but when combined made their marriage last through the decades. They recently celebrated their 60th anniversary with their two children and families, including their four grandchildren, along with many old friends and family at the Caboolture Sports Centre, arriving in style one more time.

Happy 60th Wedding Anniversary John and Bernice, from the staff at ‘The Local’.

John and Bernice first met back in 1957 on the dance floor at Cloudland in Bowen Hills. John was a storeman for Olympic Tyres in Geebung while Bernice worked at Woolworths in the city. They parted that night without trading contact numbers. John went off to do service in the Nashos while Bernice and her family moved from Bardon to Kedron.

By the ‘80s the pair decided to sell the shop as new supermarkets were gaining momentum and killing off the small stores. They tried their hand at milk and bread deliveries. Bernice was often seen delivering Meals on Wheels in the Pine Rivers area. In the background however, the farm was gearing up. What started as a small production of vegies to sell to passers-by quickly turned into ‘The Strawberry Farm’. Each year due to public demand the output increased and John and Bern became best known for “that strawberry

SMALL BUSINESS AND TRADE’S NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY BUDGET

WRAP

This is your opportunity to mingle with other like-minded businesspeople in your community. Explore ideas, exchange business cards, and expand your business.

Our presenters for the evening will be Andrew Powell MP for Glass House, and Brent Mickelberg Shadow Minister for Employment and Training. Both are down-to-earth, entertaining, and informative speakers.

Finger food will be provided.

Simply buy a drink and network, network, network!

Where: Bribie Island RSL Club, 99 Toorbul St, Bongaree

When: Thursday 22 June

Time: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

Cost: Event & finger food FREE! Drinks @ bar prices.

Please RSVP using the QR code by 4 PM Monday 19 June!

at Morayfield

standards. Session availability is 51 to 102 dialysis sessions per week currently.

For more information or to arrange a tour of our Morayfield Renal Care Centre, please call or email us.

Presenter Andrew Powell MP for Glass House

Presenter Brent Mickelberg Shadow Minister for Employment and

GARDEN WITH

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

Hi Gardeners,

It is the beginning of winter and a feeling of contentment settles into the garden, signalling cold nights. Let’s take a moment to reflect upon the positive side to winter’s ways. These cold mornings have a devastating effect on many garden pests like spider mite and aphids. Although some damage will occur to soft-leaf and fleshystemmed plants, resist the temptation to prune as this will leave the plants even more vulnerable during further cold periods ahead.

GENERAL PLANTING GUIDE

You have just arrived home with your new plants. Water the plants thoroughly each day and place in a semi-shaded position until you are ready to plant out the same day. Do not wave the hose across the foliage and pot but fill the pot with water two or three times, allowing it to soak away in between each water. Remember – plants in pots dry out much quicker than those planted in the ground, so you should plant your trees or shrubs as soon as possible after getting them home.

• Dig the hole twice the size of the plant’s pot size. Dig a square hole not a ‘well’.

• Blend soil from the hole with compost and blood and bone fertiliser.

• Spike the hole with a garden fork to create good drainage. If the hole is not spiked, it may form a ‘well’ when the plant is watered.

• Remove plant from pot and gently tease out any twisted roots from root-ball (with the exception of bougainvillea and native plants). Do not leave to dry out.

• Maintain a strict watering pattern every day for a period of two weeks. After the two-week period, reduce watering until a pattern is found to meet the needs of the plant, soil and weather conditions.

Enjoy your plants!

GERBERAS

compost.

Carefully remove the plant from its container and hose away about one half of the potting mix. This allows the roots to extend out into the new soil, letting the plant become established quicker. Plant the crown of the new gerbera at, or slightly above, soil level in the prepared garden bed. A light application of Rose

The first sign of stress is wilting of the tips and/or leaves and a plant still in its pot should be quickly immersed in a bucket of water and left until the bubbles stop. Sometimes, if the plant has been in this stressful state for a period of an hour or more, temporary damage can be done to the plant. However, most plants will respond to a thorough soaking.

Now everyone can be a successful gardener. All you need is common sense and a little guidance. Following are some basic steps which should get your new trees and shrubs growing in no time and make you proud to have produced such results. Remember, plant a tree today for a cool shady tomorrow.

When purchasing plants, take note of their height at maturity, preferred position and any special water requirements and match these carefully to your planting position. Water the plant thoroughly every day from purchasing to planting. Don’t let the pot dry out.

Place a portion of blended soil and compost into the hole, then place the plant in the hole so that the surface of the root-ball and surrounding soil is level. Replace blended soil around

Mound soil around the top of root-ball to create a slight depression to catch

Add recommended rate of slow-release fertiliser e.g. Osmocote around

Cover surface around the plant with mulch (e.g. tea tree, Lucerne, pine bark chip), to help maintain and prevent weeds. DO NOT build mulch up around the trunk of the plant as this

Water the plant thoroughly.

• If required, place a garden stake outside root-ball of plant and push gently into ground. Tie plant to stake in a loose manner to allow plant movement and growth – remove when the plant is strong enough to support itself or it will become weak. Remove the label as it may tighten and cause stunting of growth.

• Buy a photo album to keep your labels as future reference. That way they are not blowing away in the garden.

These have been one of the most popular plants grown in gardens for decades. Bearing single to multi-petaled flowers, in a large range of strong rich colours, gerberas can always be relied on to brighten the garden.

The gerbera bed should be sited where it can at least get the morning or afternoon sun without reflected heat from brick walls, etc and should be built up about 20cm above the surrounding ground. Soil should be free draining open loam to allow a good air supply to the plants root system.

Prepare the bed in advance by covering it with a layer (approximately 5cm) of very old compost. Apply approximately one handful of Rose Fertiliser per square metre to the bed, plus one handful of trace elements per four square metres. All this should be evenly turned into the soil. (Note - do not use undecomposed compost, fresh animal manure or grass clippings, as they can induce root rot fungi.)

Heavy clay soils can be improved by digging in larger amounts of compost and Gypsum to open up the clay. Lime may then have to be added to correct the pH due to the acidifying effect of the

Fertiliser at two monthly intervals should be sufficient to promote healthy plants. The use of fertilisers containing high nitrogen levels will result in excess leaf growth and reduction in flowering.

Gerberas may also be successfully grown in large pots (300mm in diameter or larger) provided that they are only fertilised with slow release for pots and a liquid fertiliser like Flourish. Soil pH should be maintained around 6.5 for best results. There are some pests and diseases that can affect the gerberas, like black leaf spot, a fungus which can occur during the long dewy nights of autumn or during periods of showery weather. Use Copper Oxychloride. Red spider mites can breed under leaves during hot dry weather causing the leaf to have a mottled appearance. Caterpillars sometimes appear in the flower heads during hot weather and these are easily controlled by spraying with Dipel. Root rot, which occur during periods of prolonged wet weather, can be best controlled by drenching with Anti-Rot.

Happy Gardening,

Greetings readers of ‘the LOCAL’ newspaper, Hi everyone, Danny and Michelle from Island Fishing Supplies, Banksia Beach and now Bellara. We are excited to announce we have opened another shop at Marine Parade, Bellara!

SKIRMISH POINT/WOORIM

There are plenty of Tailor off the beach, spinning with small metal slugs along with a few nice Whiting and Dart caught on bloodworms.

SANDSTONE POINT

Using live yabbies and bloodworms, there are some nice Summer Whiting and Grunter on the flats, mostly getting caught on an incoming tide.

BANKSIA BEACH

Snapper and Jew caught around the ripples on the last hour of the outgoing tide with squid strips as bait. The Pacific Harbour canals have been fishing well

THE PASSAGE

There have been Tailor all the way from the Bribie bridge to White Patch. Some Long Tail Tuna have moved in around the bridge chasing the hardy heads. Plenty

been excellent as they come on throughout the bay and passage. From July 15, the month-long Snapper closure begins so anglers still have a bit of time to target them before the closure comes into effect. With fuel prices being so high recently, it is great being able to score fish land-based and by boat in the passage without having to trek long distances offshore.

pursuit. Current strength and water depth will determine the jig head weight needed and this can vary between 1/6oz and 3/8oz.

Atomic Prongs for snapper in the passage.

BAITS

Some of the best baits are whiting heads, whole whiting, garfish, cuttlefish and squid, basically any small fish. I usually rig my bait with a running ball sinker just enough weight to get it to the bottom and a 4/0 to a 6/0 Gamakatsu Octopus Hook. I fish with Mono around 20lb, because I like my line to have some stretch in it just in case they go for a big run.

RODS & REELS

In a boat, I prefer to use a 7–8ft spin stick. Land-based, I like to use 9-10ft spin stick around the 5-10kg range. Reel size 4000–6000 Okuma Dynadrag bait runner. Consistent results come with experience from time on the water and observation. You never stop learning and there are no set rules to fishing, there are so many different variables affecting the echo system and how it operates.

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

Danny and Michelle

canals on a Zman 4-inch Diezel Minnowz.

Results for Bribie Island Women’s Golf April 20 to May 11

20/4/23 – Single Stableford (2nd Round Silver Salver)

A Grade Winner: Fitzie Jackson 38 ocb, 1st R/Up Gaby Bennett 38, 2nd R/Up Paula Mckenzie 37

B Grade Winner: Jennifer Stafford 32 ocb, 1st R/Up Sue Graham 32, 2nd R/Up Angela Jordan 31 ocb

NTPs: Hole 4 Yuko Nakamura, Hole 7 Sue Navie, Hole 14 Gill Lee, Hole 16 (2nd shot)

27/4/23 – 4BBB Stapleford (Ann Caird Memorial Day) sponsor Bribie RSL Winners: Debra Dunn & Helena Winterflood 45, Runners Up: Margaret Peterson & Angela Roberts 43, 3rd Place: Leonie Buxton & Roslyn Crossley 42 ocb, 4th Place: Vivi Lloyd & Judith L’estrange 42 ocb

NTPs: Hole 4 Linda Urquhart, Hole 7 Diane Fitzpatrick, Hole 14 Ros Gardiner, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Sue Navie, Hole 4 (Div 3 2nd shot) Jennifer McKay

Smith 73

NTPs Hole 4 Margaret Parkinson, Hole

7 Bibby Davies, Hole 14 Judy Graham, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Val Smith

Best Gross: Sandra Smith 89

Yellow Course Winner: Jennifer Mckay

75, R/Up Angela Jordan 76, 3rd Lulu

Crossley 43 cb, 2nd Tricia Brown & Lesley

Urquhart, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Di Croft, Hole

11/5/23 – Single Stroke

A Grade Winner: Sue Graham 71, 2nd Gwen Clutterbuck 72, 3rd Val Smith 73 cb

B Grade Winner: Lyn Cockerell 75, 2nd Carol Lobegeiger 77, 3rd Heather Croukamp 78

NTPs: Hole 4 Jo Malone, Hole 7 Ros Gardiner, Hole 14 Vicki Jones, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Debra Dunn, Val Smith, Linda Urquhart, Hole 14 (Div 3 2nd shot) Angela

2/5/23 – Single Stapleford (Patron’s Bowl)

A Grade winner: Pauline Grooby 38, 3rd Abby Driver 37

B Grade Winner: Debra Dunn 37, R/Up Lyn Beavan 35 ocb, 3rd Maureen Bailey 35 ocb

C Grade Winner: Yvonne Nicklin 34 ocb, 3rd Roslyn Crossley

34

2023

NTPs: Hole 4 Linda Urquhart, Hole 7 Val Smith, Hole 14 Ros Gardiner, Hole 16 (2nd

Dolphins nab win over lacklustre Dragons Street to be named after swimming champ

Dolphins winger Jamayne Isaako marked his 100th NRL game with 18 points to his name to help his team take down the Dragons 26-12 at their Redcliffe ground Kayo Stadium in round 13 of competition on Thursday night (May 25).

Most of the damage came in a six-minute period midway through the first half, during which time the Dolphins scored 18 unanswered points to set up a 18-12 half-time lead, which they never looked back from.

Early on it looked like the match could go either way when the Dragons kicked a penalty goal and crossed the try line to take the initial lead.

A determined effort from Isaako to grab a high ball and fight his way over the line was followed by an untouched try for prop Mark Nicholls and another four points from five-eighth Anthony Milford. The Dolphins just kept the ball rolling as the Dragons struggled to make ground.

Isaako secured his second try early in the second half, showing fierce determination to make his 100th game a memorable one. Isaako put the end result beyond doubt with a penalty goal three minutes from full-time and cementing a spot in the top eight for the competition newbies, while the struggling Dragons have sunk to the bottom.

Isaako also extended his lead as the NRL's top points-scorer this season with two tries and five goals.

The game wasn’t without some questionable action when a “forceful contact around the knee” during a tackle on Dolphins lock Ray Stone, saw Dragons Jack de Belin sent to the sin bin.

The last time these two teams met back in round five, it was a very different result

with the Dragons taking home the win 38-12. It seemed the hunger was there for the Dolphins this time, determined not to let their home base fans down!

The latest win for the Dolphins tops off a few weeks of mixed results after going down to the Storm 24-16 in round 12, a bye in round 11 and a smashing result against the Sharks in round 10, finishing up victorious 36-16.

The Dolphins are heading across “The Ditch” for the first time, to take on the Warriors in Auckland on Saturday June 3. With the game taking place just three days after State of Origin Game I, only time will tell if Maroon reps Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Tom Gilbert will back it up to hit the field in the round 14 match.

Upcoming matches:

Round 15 (Friday June 9) – Dolphins V Manly Sea Eagles at 4 Pines Park, Sydney Round 16 – Bye

Round 17 (Saturday June 24) – Dolphins

V Paramatta Eels at Sunshine Coast

Stadium

Round 18 (Saturday July 1) – The local grudge match, Dolphins V Broncos at The Gabba, Brisbane.

Not only will Moreton Bay become Australia’s newest city, one of its streets will also get a golden upgrade. Earlier in May, council voted for Leisel Drive in Rothwell to be renamed Leisel Jones Drive, after an intense campaign by Triple M Radio for the swimming star to be immortalised locally.

Mayor Peter Flannery said the location was just 800m down the road from Southern Cross Catholic College, where Leisel Jones went to school.

“I’m thrilled to be acknowledging Leisel Jones OAM in this way, as one of Moreton Bay’s greatest ever talents and one of Australia’s most successful sportswomen,” Mayor Flannery said. “She has nine Olympic medals, 10 Commonwealth Games gold medals and 14 individual world records to her name. Moreton Bay has a proud history of generating some of Australia’s best swimming talent like Jessicah Schipper, Bronte Barratt, Dane Bird-Smith, Brenden Hall and Lakeisha Patterson to name a few. As we look ahead to the Games here in 2032, it’s also important to reflect on our Olympic and Paralympic legacy and celebrate the luminaries who’ve made Australia such an incredible sporting nation.”

Mayor Flannery said he was keen to see more local Olympic and Paralympic legends recognised and encouraged the community to make suggestions online.

To suggest a name for a local road visit: https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Building-Development/DA-Process/ Road-Names

To suggest a name for a local park visit: https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/files/ assets/public/services/parks/application-to-name-park.pdf

Silver Salver Winner (Maree Bailey) and Runner Up (Debbie Dunn)

Patron (Cr Brooke Savage) and Winner (Vicki Jones)

Linda Urquhart

Maureen Bailey

Jennifer McKay

New hotel to help meet thriving tourism growth

Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery enthusiastically welcomed Elanor Investment Group’s increased investment in the region, recognising that it will help fill the demand for more hotel rooms.

“Moreton Bay’s billion-dollar tourism industry is on the rise, with 4.3 million annual visitors, more than double the total visitor numbers to Noosa, is home to Australia’s newest NRL team – the mighty Dolphins and we’re a host venue for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Mr Flannery said. “We have become Australia’s hotel hotspot as we are currently significantly undersupplied to support the needs of a thriving region and growing visitation. Moreton Bay needs eight hotels and 1035 hotel rooms by 2032, with four hotels required by 2026 and to help us we’re providing hotel investors and developers with incentives and a dedicated concierge service to make investing in Moreton Bay as easy as possible.”

Moreton Bay Regional Council has given Elanor Investor Group approval to build a new hotel to address an urgent need for hotel rooms to meet the region’s growing tourism numbers.

The Sydney based, ASX Listed, Elanor Investment Group, which was established in 2009 and currently manages over $2.7 billion of real estate investments across Australia and New Zealand, will build the new hotel above the Bluewater Square Shopping Centre in Redcliffe, which they purchased in 2017.

The new 142-room, eight-level hotel, situated in close proximity to Bris-

bane’s domestic and international airports and Brisbane CBD, will provide much needed short-term accommodation in the region to support growing tourism numbers, as well as the influx of visitors the 2032 Olympic Games is expected to bring to Moreton Bay.

Public art and murals will adorn the hotel’s frontage, with a bar for hotel guests and the public on the top level with a 360sqm function area, kitchen, swimming pool, offering panoramic views to Moreton Island, providing visitors world-class accommodation in this highly sought after retail and tourism destination.

The new hotel will become an integral part of Bluewater Square, a modern and convenient retail and leisure precinct, which focuses on non-discretionary retail, including medical, gymnasium and government offices and professional suites, and now offers luxury accommodation.

Anchored by a strong performing Woolworths Supermarket and supported by national retailers including Club Lime Gym, BWS, Terry White Chemist and Australia Post, the new hotel development will be a must visit destination for locals and tourists.

For more information about investing in Moreton Bay, visit the Invest Moreton Bay website.