The LOCAL News, Island and Surrounds - Issue 91

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Published every four weeks. Phone: 0447 007 966 PO Box 1019 Bongaree Qld 4507 www.islandandsurrounds.com.au

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

Next Distribution dates - 26th July for Bribie Island, Sandstone Point & Ningi. 27th - 28th July, delivered to Beachmere, Caboolture, Toorbul, Donnybrook and surrounding areas.

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

Bribie Island, Sandstone Point, Ningi, Godwin Beach, Beachmere (including Peel Road & Beachmere Road) Bribie Pines, Toorbul, Donnybrook, Meldale, Central Lakes, Caboolture and Elimbah. Copies can also be picked up from IGA and other local businesses in these districts.

Circulation 24,000

PUBLISHER AND ADVERTISING SALES

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

CHIEF OF STAFF

Kym Braithwaite cos@islandandsurrounds.com.au

JOURNALISTS/WRITERS

Sheree Hoddinett, stories@islandandsurrounds.com.au

Alistair Gray. alistair@thegoodnewswriter.com

Amelia Strazdins.

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Roger Small design1@islandandsurrounds.com.au

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Matthew Owen

From Belinda

Welcome to Issue 91

Hello Readers

Welcome to Issue 91. Thank you to everyone who contacted me regarding the new column Gecko Chirps. Most were very positive and the feedback both via email and phone calls was great to see.

If you’re a lover of orchids, then we have a great article from Alistair Gray about a local award-winning business called Red Fox Orchids. They have an expansive wholesale flowering Cattleya Orchid nursery in Elimbah where you can buy direct.

We cover Queensland’s state budget, with some of the winners and losers again.

This year’s local Red Ride was a huge success, raising awareness for domestic violence.

The Local News writer Alistair Gray covers Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price’s visit to Bribie Island. We also speak to Luke Binks, one of the competitors in the jousting competition this year at the Abbey Medieval Festival.

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

Until next month

Warm regards Belinda

The views expressed in Letters to the Editor are not necessarily those of the editor or publishers of the newspaper.

A gecko of brilliance

Thank you Belinda for a great read in Issue 90.

Your new columnist, Gecko Chirps, is quite brilliant without drawing any comparisons. Great timing on a subject that has a lot of meat yet to be published.

Just to add my bit:–

It seems strange that a prime minister is so determined to spend millions of taxpayer’s dollars to change a constitution that is most likely to bring division to a country, just after the country has spent millions of dollars to be rid of the same divisions.

I’m afraid it is beyond my understanding.

A very newsworthy paper, congratulations. I thoroughly enjoyed it. You definitely have your work cut out to better the Issue 90 read.

With much gratitude, S Warner Bribie Island

Thank you!

Thank you for printing our story on our 60th wedding anniversary. We love to get our copy of The Local every month and our story was beautifully presented. Regards

J & B Bench

Elimbah

Broaching the truth

Finally, someone willing enough to broach the subject of Aboriginality in Australia. I grew up in the Northern Territory in the 50’s and 60’s and lived amongst the Aboriginals, so I am very familiar with the culture from that area.

I never witnessed a smoking ceremony at any corroboree’s I attended. Before Ayers Rock became a tourist attraction, the government had difficulty finding someone to look after it. As tourists started to discover it, it then became a sacred site. I suspect this is the case for many of the now so called ‘sacred sites’.

Name and email supplied.

Biased and Untruthful

The article by Gecko Chirps about the Voice referendum in the last edition was biased and untruthful. Unfortunately, it represents misinformation that is circulating at the moment. Do your own web check for accuracy.

Firstly, Aborigines were not simply nomads. Search for the Map of Indigenous Australia to see the approximately 250 first nations who lived sustainably on their own country. Also, search for the nine CSIRO Seasonal Calendars that show the complex knowledge of food sources and note the quote that Aborigines were Australia’s first scientists.

Aborigines should have a voice on Closing the Gap for their most disadvantaged members after 150 years of non-citizenship and no say and many government programs imposed on them when they also had no say. Check out a website called Our Shared History.

Scaremongering about granting extra privileges and establishing apartheid are nonsense. Those who have been encouraged to worry about ‘the details’ after the referendum should understand that those details will be decided by parliament. The Voice will advise only, will receive no money or do work that other groups currently do and have no veto over government decisions. This will make us all more equal and is definitely not racist!

Joy Banksia Beach

Glad to see you read my informative article, but unable to interpret and accept the facts. Opinions are only worthwhile if they are based on fact. Perhaps you need to educate yourself so that you are aware of what the Voice is all about and what it means to all of us.

And by the way, just because there is a different viewpoint to yours, does not mean it is ‘racist’.

The Gecko

Contempt and the Voice

As a Kiwi living in Australia, let me say how refreshing it was to read your latest Gecko Chirps article about the Voice!

Nobody would dare write anything close to this in New Zealand, because they would be branded a racist and the witch hunt would be on. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when this sort of political ideology is implemented.

It separates the people into ‘us’ and ‘everyone else’, with nothing but contempt for the other side forming rapidly.

So thank you once again for being a voice for everyday average Aussies (and imports).

Name and address supplied.

Constitutional Monarchy

As the pomp and circumstance of the Coronation of King Charles III fades into memory, we should keep in mind the importance of our system of government here in Australia. The proposed, as yet unspecified, Voice to parliament poses a threat to the stability of our government by dividing our nation on the grounds of race.

Our constitutional monarchy, with its inherent checks and balances of power, has been a tried-and-true system for more than 120 years.

Our founding fathers worked on the preparation of the document for about a decade before it eventually came into use on the first day of the 20th century. They considered the types of governance in different countries, including Canada and the United States and ultimately rejected the republican system in favour of a constitutional monarchy.

Before the proposed referendum for the Indigenous Voice to parliament takes place, please take the time to read this short document, The Australian Constitution.

It is not about race.

M Keen Beachmere

Voice of Reason – or Voice of Virtue Signallers

So – we’re now called racist if we don’t vote yes to something most Aussies don’t truly understand. Not only do we not understand, but the proponents of the so-called ‘Voice’ do not understand. What will be its real powers, who will be appointed to it and by whom? What are the legal ramifications of such a change down the track? Why are we breaking with tradition and only allowing a say to the ‘Yes’ side of the debate? Why are so many senior indigenous people saying NO?! Why are so many legal people having second thoughts and doubts?

I saw an advert on TV claiming the ‘Voice’ was merely a device to ‘recognise’ our indigenous peoples. Surely the dozens of government bodies and numerous parliamentary representatives with indigenous heritage, already do this. Why do we need to amend our constitution to create a ‘Voice’? Once amended, it will be almost impossible to change it back if we find the ‘Voice’ is unmanageable. I appreciate the virtue signallers in our community clamour for the change, yet none seem to be able to define its benefits to all in our community and/or why it is truly needed in our multi-cultural society. Will other ethnic groups clamour for their own ‘voice’ in years to come?

Perhaps, what we really need is a Royal Commission into spending in Aboriginal affairs over the past 100 years. Where have the billions of dollars gone that has been spent in this area? Who received it and how have they acquitted their expenditure? Has this money been spent wisely or just

gone to specific causes and people? If we just keep ‘giving’ and not asking for accountability, this matter will never be satisfactorily settled. The money must be going somewhere.

The ‘Voice’ is a half-baked idea from the Labor party to change our very way of life. To reward some and placate others. And to show how ‘virtuous’ they are. We should all look at the reasons put forward for this ‘Voice’ and ask why it is necessary? Why do we need it and most importantly, do we really need to amend our constitution to achieve this so-called ‘recognition’? The same can be readily achieved by regulation in the federal parliament. Shouldn’t our indigenous peoples have the same rights as any other Aussie? No more, no less. If we have any doubts, worries or any lack of understanding whatsoever, we should vote NO to changing our constitution. Blackmail, threats and accusations are not a reason to vote yes.

M Matthews Bribie Island

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Jousting: A sport for the ages

By Sheree Hoddinett

The roar of the crowd going wild. The gallop of horse hooves as they connect with the ground. The clanging of armour jostling as the competitors head towards each other. When you watch the power and force going into a jousting match, it’s hard not to think about the preparation behind it all. If anyone knows how much time and effort goes into becoming a well-accomplished jouster, it’s Luke Binks.

Luke has been involved in the sport of jousting now for just over 20 years. His love and passion for jousting also brought him to the Abbey Medieval Festival, where he is one of the competitors and also the coordinator of the jousting event. His foray into the world of jousting and all things medieval started from a young age.

“Well as a child, I was quite interested in medieval things,” Luke said. “When I started to learn about history in school and popular culture at the time, watching movies like Braveheart and Robin Hood sort of stemmed my interest and started me on a path of learning about the Middle Ages.

“Then when I was in my early teens, my family moved from Victoria to Queensland. I saw a re-enactment group for the first time doing some medieval living history and decided that I wanted to get involved with that. There was no jousting up here in Queensland at the time. But there was everything else you see at the festival, so armour, swords, foot combat and other things like that.”

It wasn’t until the early 2000’s that Luke had his first experience with jousting. He already had some armour from foot combat, but the rest was about acquiring a horse, learning to ride and maintaining balance while being suited up.

“It was a lot harder than I thought it was going to be,” Luke said. “But as a determined young 20-year-old, you can almost make anything happen if you put enough effort into it.

“There’s a lot involved. To be able to manoeuvre your horse, let alone putting on 30 to 40 kilos of armour and restricting your vision to something that's like a slot in a post box, there's a big adjustment for actually getting used to that. But practice, practice fixes everything really.”

With a fully packed weekend of jousting for the festival, how much practice takes place in the lead up to the event?

“When I first started, I rode every day,” Luke said. “I was lucky enough to be working for myself at the time and could manage my day so I could take time off in the afternoon and do some stuff with my horse and then come back and work late into the evening so that I could accommodate that.

“These days I don't have to do as much. It's really about maintaining a skill level and keeping myself and my horses fit. But, ideally you want to be training at least three times a week. That's not always jousting, but some sort of training.”

While it may feel like the competitors are aiming for a kill in jousting, it is actually a sport and has evolved over time.

“It sort of evolved into a sport in the Middle Ages. It was their training exercise for a heavy cavalry charge,” Luke said. “So it actually started out from war games like militaries do today, where they would set out with small bands of people and do a mock battle and fight each other as training for war.

“Now that was incredibly dangerous of course, cause they didn't do a whole lot to mitigate the damage that could be caused apart from saying we shouldn't hurt each other. They were still using sharp weapons and they were still engaging in hand-to-hand combat. “So over the years that became more and more refined and as it got more and more refined, it became more and more obvious that it's actually a good spectator sport.”

And what does it feel like to actually take a hit?

“It feels probably more akin to a football tackle than most people expect it to,” Luke said. “A lot of people will look at the lance and think of it in isolation and expect an isolated impact area. But when you're wearing a shield and you're wearing a full suit of armour and you get hit on that shield, which is the best place to hit, it actually disperses the impact across your whole upper body. So it's more like tackling somebody than it is actually getting poked with a sharp stick. “Therefore, it doesn't necessarily hurt as much as it just gives a shock. But if it hits the wrong way, you can die like people have died doing this exactly the way we're doing it. That threat is real and it's one of the reasons that we have to have really strict entry conditions and strict training regimes because it is dangerous.”

When it’s competition time, what typically goes through the mind of someone ready to barrel towards another human atop a horse, lance in hand?

“I think the best way there is to joust, is to actually joust in almost a Zen state,” Luke said. “Where you are not caught up in any of the emotions or any of the activity that's going on around you.

“All you can do is focus on your target. Focus on doing what you do and what you've done a thousand times, doing it right and not think about your opponent, just hit your target. When you start to think about too much, it all becomes too much and it's very easy to be overwhelmed.

“There's always an element of nerves, I think sometimes more than others. It's a really big head game trying to make sure that you actually don't let those nerves rule you and that you can control your thoughts and control what you're working on.”

To find out more about the Abbey Medieval Festival and what you can expect across the two-day event (July 8-9), please visit www.abbeymedievalfestival.com

Red Fox Orchids – Another Moreton Bay Region Success Story

By Alistair Gray

With so much colour and a big welcoming smile, one can’t help but be impressed when they visit Red Fox Orchids in Caboolture (191 Dances Road). There are orchids everywhere, with an expansive wholesale flowering Cattleya Orchid nursery, supplying local nurseries with a high-demand product. Business is

going well, with the biggest challenge being how to meet the demands for their premium product. As the only flowering Cattleya nursery in Australia, they hold a unique market position brought about by hard work, innovation and cleverly focusing on a specific market niche.

Recent silver winners of the Glass House Small Business Awards More -

The History of Beachmere Bus Trip Hosted by Karen Wallwork

Who would know it is winter with these flowering beauties from Red Fox Orchids.

ton Bay, the business run by husbandand-wife team Kurt and Jennifer Ison were thrilled to win the award, a genuine acknowledgment. Jennifer is the face of the company and can usually be found in the retail shop attached to the main nursery. “Orchids are easy to grow and we are here to help our customers on

their orchid-growing journey,” she said. “We are a true family business. We moved to our current site three years ago from Landsborough and we haven’t looked back since.”

All this and more can be revealed when you take one of Karen Wallwork's historic walking or bus tours of Beachmere, exclusive to U3A Beachmere. Karen is the renowned author of two History of Beachmere books and is contemplating the third due to popular demand!

A nature lesson and a fascinating history tour all wrapped in local folklore. This is an excellent and informative way to spend two hours to develop a better understanding and deeper appreciation of where we

info@u3abeachmere.org.au. Our friendly volunteers will contact you with details on the next tour.

Specialising in growing beautiful orchid plants for the collector or hobbyist.

Open 6 days www.redfoxorchids.com.au

Boutique Family Owned Nursery Shop instore at 191 Dances Road / Caboolture

See our ad in the classifieds ad section

“As proud as punch” Jennifer Ison (holding their recent Glass House Small Business Award) is surrounded by orchids.

Government expenditure on the Voice

The government has allocated about $396m for the referendum, money that could have been spent on firstline assistance to Aboriginals in need. On top of the $39 billion spent each year (more than the funding for Medicare) on Aboriginal support programs, more money is to be spent on 3.8% of the population. How is this going to change the plight of a small number of Aboriginals that require better outcomes?

Let’s do some sums. Australia’s population is 25 million, Aboriginals make up 3.8% of the population which equates to 950,000. We spend $39 billion which equates to $41,052 per person – not counting all the other benefits through CentreLink and royalties!

The hidden behindagendathe Voice

because that document mentions sovereignty five times.

This is not fear-mongering because it is actually happening now. Today, Aboriginals have some form of control of 40% of Australia with treaties that already exist. There is a current push to take control of the rivers by one Aboriginal group.

Take Burrum Heads for example.

Aboriginals have currently taken over a section of the foreshore at Burrum Heads and locked out the general public, now living in the bush.

South Australia is the first state to legislate an Indigenous Voice to parliament. And we haven’t even had the Referendum! There will be 46 elected members representing six regions. Two members to be selected from each area making up a body of people that will have direct communication to parliament and government departments. What is the cost, the next level down? Local government?

Can you imagine that the $39 billion now spent yearly will increase exponentially. All for just 3.8% of our population! And that is just one state! This Voice is divisive, make no mistake about it. Divisiveness leads to animosity, and we as a nation should not be going down this path.

The propaganda coming from the government, inundating us with TV ads, continues to hide the real agenda behind the Voice.

How many voices do we need?

There are currently 3273 registered Aboriginal Corporations and Agencies delivering health and other services, making representations to government. At the top of the list is the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA). There are more than 1000 bureaucrats in the NIAA. The budget for Aboriginals is about $39 billion a year. Where does all this money go? It certainly does not go to get Aborigines out of poverty or to improve their health. With $39 billion to play around with, one would think there are sufficient funds to solve the problems. The sorry state is that there is no accountability, so where do you think all this money is going? Now is the time for a thorough investigation into this $39 billion funding. Why have outcomes not changed for Aboriginals in need? The Voice is just another layer of expensive bureaucracy – but one that has a hidden agenda that will affect all of us.

If you are yet to be convinced that the Voice will make a difference, here are some interesting facts from the NIAA. Below is some insider information from pages from a group of NIAA staff meeting to discuss what can be achieved with the Voice.

It was headed “Early Action/Opportunities for the Voice”, an Eleven Point

Plan. The Gecko does not profess this to be NIAA policy, however it gives you an insight into what they want from the Voice.

These are the points:

1. Job quotas: Minimum 10% appointments to be First Nations people for judges, magistrates, CW SES, ADF officers, AFP and state police forces, corrections departments, vice chancellors and ambassadors.

2. Universities: No entry tests and no fees for First Nations people.

3. Old age pensions: Reduced age eligibility for First Nations people “because we die younger”.

4. Public Housing: First Nations people to have first preference for all vacant public housing across all states.

5. Sport & Music: Entry fees reduced by 50% for First Nations people for any events on public land.

6. Beaches & National Parks: All beaches and national parks to be property of the relevant tribe and non-First Nations people to be charged to use the beaches, parks etc… Revenues to go to relevant tribe.

7. Rivers and Streams: To become property of relevant tribe and fees for water consumption paid to relevant tribe.

8. Mining Royalties: Same as for water.

9. Income tax: For First Nations people to be 50% of normal rate.

10. Liquor Licensing: All new liquor licenses across Australia to be vetted by Voice.

11. Voice Office: Research/policy staff to analyse and review all proposed government policies, legislation and appointments. Same size and pay as DPMC (Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.)

If the prime minister is aware of these initiatives set out by the NIAA, it would appear that Mr Albanese continues to mislead the Australian people over the extent of powers given to the Voice to parliament.

Establishing this Voice is only a first step in the process. The next step is ‘Treaties’ with every Aboriginal group - at least 500 treaties. Then, there will be a claim for ‘Sovereignty’.

The Gecko wants to remind you about the Uluru Statement from the Heart

The prime minister insists that voting ‘Yes’ is the ‘right thing to do’ to ‘give First Nations People a Voice’ ............. Really!

Why does a race of people need to be identified in the constitution? We are all Australians and the constitution includes all Australians and Aborigines are Australians, just like the rest of us.

Furthermore, it contravenes international conventions that we have already signed up to. Unfortunately, urban Aboriginal activists want to continue the ‘Victims Mantle’. Why? Because it is all about reparations. We are all Australians and we should not be denied access to anywhere in Australia. It goes without saying that we should respect all people, regardless of colour or ethnicity. We should respect the Aboriginal culture, but let’s do that without dividing the country.

Note – the Gecko will continue again in the next issue and let you know what is happening in other countries that have gone down a similar path and adopted a similar proposal. And it is not good news.

Until next time.

Gecko Chirps

Send a birthday card to Phoenix

Who loves getting a birthday card in the mail? Well you can help create some excitement for young Beachmere local Phoenix, who has a very special birthday coming up! It’s time for double digits for Phoenix who turns 10 on July 4. His family is reaching out to the community with a challenge to see how many birthday cards he will receive. His family did this for Phoenix’s fourth birthday and received 39 cards. Can we beat this record? (It’s already looking super promising!).

If you think Phoenix looks familiar, chances are you may have seen him before. He loves to visit Bribie as often as he can. He lives with Autism, is non-verbal with ADHD and loves adventure. A lot of people would remember him from earlier this year when he went missing on Bribie and was later found safe and sound at the Butterfly House.

If you haven’t seen Phoenix’s Facebook page The Adventures of Phoudini, be sure to check it out.

“We set up this page to help educate people on Autism (specifically non-verbal Autism) and advocate for all who are different in their own unique way,” his mum Jayme-Lee said. “You can follow Phoenix on his journey through life, share in his achievements and support him through his struggles. Phoenix turns 10 on July 4 and we decided to set a challenge to see how many people would send him a card to celebrate this big birthday milestone!

“The outpouring of kindness so far has been

overwhelming. This past year has been a tough one for Phoenix, so the love and support that everyone has shown Phoenix and our family, will never be forgotten, or taken for granted.”

Phoenix’s family are also hoping to start a foundation in his honour called The Phoudini Foundation, to help support other families with non-verbal loved ones.

If you would like to get involved in Phoenix’s birthday challenge, you can do so by dropping off or sending a card to

the following locations:

Drop off points:

• Jazzabelle Hair Studio, 7/878 Beachmere Road, Beachmere (Tuesday to Saturday).

• Beachmere Health Centre, Shop 4/874 Beachmere Road, Beachmere (Monday to Friday).

• Moreton Bay Regional Council Caboolture Chambers, c/- Councillor Mark Booth, 2 Hasking Street, Caboolture (Monday to Friday).

• Member for Pumicestone Ali King, 1/43 Benabrow Avenue, Bellara (Monday to Friday).

• Inside Out Therapy Burpengary, 8/164 Station Road, Burpengary (Monday to Friday).

• Inside Out Therapy Kallangur, Unit 5/1420 Anzac Avenue, Kallangur (Monday to Friday).

Postal address:

• The Adventures of Phoudini, PO BOX 295, Beachmere, QLD, 4510. Shhhhh, it’s also a secret, this is all going to be an amazing birthday surprise for Phoenix.

Phoenix’s family are also hoping to start a foundation in his honour called The Phoudini Foundation, to help support other families with non-verbal loved ones. The team at The Local also wish Phoenix a very Happy 10th Birthday!

This month, I thought I’d share the following excerpt from the Leader of the Opposition, David Crisafulli’s budget reply speech:

The best part of my job is listening to the stories of people right across our great state. It’s an indescribable honour when Queenslanders trust you with their personal stories – when they trust you to fight for them.

I’ve placed a priority on getting away from George Street to listen to Queenslanders in their homes and in their communities, to talk about the issues impacting them. Right now, more than ever, Queenslanders need to be able to trust the government to provide a pathway out of the chaos and crisis that is enveloping this state.

Queenslanders are prepared to give a government a break and understand that sometimes circumstances conspire to impact these factors. But Queenslanders won’t be taken for mugs, they don’t want to hear an excuse repeatedly. They don’t want their government to blame everyone other than themselves. They don’t want to see a government throw its arms in the air and say it’s not possible to run things on-time and on-budget.

It is simple. Promises made must be promises kept. If promises can’t be kept, don’t make them. I would like to believe the promises made by this government, unfortunately, the record proves we can’t.

Overwhelmingly, Queenslanders believe this government is heading in the wrong direction. The chaos and crisis is sapping Queenslanders’ confidence that this government can be trusted to lead us through the challenges we face today.

For example, Queenslanders don’t trust the Palaszczuk Government to fix the Queensland Youth Crime Crisis. They don’t trust them to fix the Queensland Housing Crisis. They don’t trust them to fix the Queensland Health Crisis.

To have any hope of fixing a problem, you must admit you have one in the first place and the premier and her government have shown neither the insight nor the inclination to offer this admission.

The Palaszczuk Government cares more about big flashy announcements than actually delivering the solutions

Queenslanders need and deserve. Nowhere has trust in this government been eroded more than in health.

The government went to the last election promising to keep us safe. On this basic commitment, they have failed.

After nearly a decade in power, Queensland’s health system under the Palaszczuk Government is broken, in dire need of repair. The glue that keeps this broken system together is the incredible doctors, nurses and allied health professionals. It is our health professionals and patients who bear the burden of this broken system.

While the minister tries to shift blame to governments a decade in the past, it is the call centre operator who must explain to a father there are no ambulances available to come to the aid of his daughter who is suffering an asthma attack.

Throughout the Queensland Health Crisis, I have heard this question more than once – where is the premier? The premier has

been caught up in the glitz and glamour of the job, while patients wait at the end of a phone line for an overworked ambulance officer who never comes.

I spoke earlier of trust and of the government’s inability to deliver what they promised. Nowhere is it truer than in health.

The satellite hospitals that were announced before the last election were deliberately misleading.

While they will provide important medical services, they aren’t what was promised –hospitals!

It’s not just the opposition who say this, senior Queensland health officials say this. They don’t have overnight beds. They’re not open 24 hours. They don’t have an emergency department.

Call them what they are and focus on delivering these missing services at the nearby hospitals that are bursting at the seams.

This is a failure to deliver.

The premier herself promised these satellite hospitals would be open in May this year – all seven of them. How many are open right now? None. This is a failure to deliver.

They are more than $110 million over-budget. That’s $110 million that can’t be spent reducing the surgery waiting lists. This is a failure to deliver.

As I travel around the state, Queenslanders are telling me they do not trust this government to solve Queensland’s Youth Crime Crisis. After reading this budget, you can’t blame them. All we have here is more of the same.

Again, it’s the men and women on the frontline that are the only thing holding a broken system together and so today I acknowledge the hard work being done by the Queensland Police Service. It’s been a tough time for them of late. Some of them have made the ultimate sacrifice for us. I say to those police officers – Queensland thanks you for your service. Contrary to the protests of the minister and as I indicated earlier, the reality is that the thin blue line is getting even thinner. This week it has been revealed that there are 72 fewer full-time equivalent, front line officers than at the time of the last election. I’ll repeat that, 72 fewer full-time equivalent frontline police officers. This in the middle of a youth crime crisis. We must restore the hope of Queenslanders.

Hope this government has trashed.

I say to Queenslanders, we will continue to earn your trust back in the opposition and if elected, we will restore your trust in government. By restoring that trust we will end the chaos and crisis the Palaszczuk Government has inflicted on Queensland.

In just under 500 days Queenslanders will have a choice to make – real delivery over announcements, stability over chaos. Hope over fear.

For a copy of the full speech, which includes more of our commitments, please email me at Glass.House@parliament.qld. gov.au

It was all go for Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli on his recent visit to Bribie

By Alistair Gray

It was great to tag along and see Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli in action on his recent visit to Bribie Island. His visit included dropping into the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre, where he met with board members from the Bribie-Moreton Hospice Health Service Inc. to discuss a building project. A tour of the Bribie Island Arts Centre followed. He clearly loved what he saw with great

facilities available for local artists to display their work. He was keen to learn as much as he could about Bribie and the local issues, with briefings provided by Councillor Brooke Savige and Member for Glass House Andrew Powell. From there, it was time to get an update on the housing and rental market from local realtor Lyn Petrohilos from First National Real Estate, before returning to Brisbane.

Principal of First National Real Estate Lyn Petrohilos and some of her team meet with Member for Glass House Andrew Powell, Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli and local Councillor Brooke Savige.

Brooke Savige, Tara Quirke, Belinda Ferguson, David Crisafulli, Andrew Powell, and Maree Cunningham from Bribie-Moreton Hospice Health Services Inc. are in deep discussion about a new project.

We are the Window Film Specialists!

At Channi’s we specialise in creating solutions for your window requirements. We fit and supply, on site, anything from solar film to save your carpets from the sun, frosted tinting for security/ privacy, custom designed for effect or just for your car or boat. Call us, we will have a solution for anything you need to adhere to a window!

Red Ride a roaring success

By Sheree Hoddinett

A sea of red rode through the streets of the Moreton Bay Region on Saturday May 20, raising awareness for domestic violence. More than 200 bikes took part in the Moreton Bay Red Ride covering about 184km of road from Caboolture out to Redcliffe, down to Strathpine, across to Dayboro and then on to Woodford and Beerburrum before finishing back in Caboolture at the showground. An afternoon of festivities followed with a show and shine featuring 20 cars, loads of fun and entertainment for all family members. A beautiful day of fine, sunny weather set the scene for an event that was all about turning heads. Red Ride committee member Randall Macey was grateful for the sunshine and positive feedback they received about the ride.

“It was a great day, full of red which is what we wanted to see,” he says. “The weather was awesome. When I woke up that morning, I rode out there at 5:30am to help start the set up and to see the sun coming up was the best view. It’s everything – the planning and behind the scenes stressing – it’s all worth it to see the smiles on people’s faces as the ride takes place. We actually had one lady that started tearing up because she realised what the event was for. So when you get people out in the community talking to you and actually recognising this is all about a good cause, it makes it so worth it.”

All too often now we hear about domestic related incidents happening to families out there and the Red Ride is all about trying to combat it from happening.

“We can’t save everybody,” Randall says. “As much as you want to help everybody and give them all the money, you just can’t. But if you can save say 10% out there, that’s 10% more getting the help they need. We’re just doing our best to get the awareness out there and then hope at some stage, it will all become preventable.”

Creating awareness is a big focus of the Red Ride with participants encouraged to wear red or even add the flag featuring the event emblem to their bike. All funds raised from the day will be donated to organisations that provide services and support to victims of domestic violence.

For Randall, doing his part to make his bike stand out was up there as his favourite part of the day.

“Setting up my bike and having people looking at it was just the best part of it for me,” Randall says. “I had a big flag on the back and another small flag at the front, along with a fair bit of red ribbon all the way around it…I wanted it to stand out. And then riding it, that was pretty special

too.”

Planning is already underway for the next Red Ride to be held on May 18 next year, with members of the community already putting their hands up to take part. But none of it would be possible without the contributions of the many volunteers and sponsors.

“Planning an event of this size takes quite

a lot of combined effort,” Randall says. “There’s a lot of people involved in the background and a lot of unsung heroes. For everyone who helped out and did their bit, whether it was volunteering, sponsorship or riding in the event itself, thank you so much!”

For further information about the Red Ride, please visit redride.org

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What Do We Want… Justice!

Written by Amelia Strazdins

Democracy is built upon notions of justness and fairness. Living in Australia grants us a multitude of human rights and freedoms that others around the globe unfortunately may not be entitled to. These freedoms are protected by systems and processes that many of us are unaware of because they do not directly impact our daily lives.

One of the most important systems in Australia that assists in protecting our freedoms and in ensuring justice is our legal system, which is built around ensuring just and fair outcomes.

International Justice Day is recognised on July 17 as a global acknowledgement of the importance of both international and domestic justice systems. The premise of the event is to assist in promoting the rights of those who have been wronged by these systems and to promote the importance of ensuring justice systems remain just and equitable to all.

While many of us recognise the importance of our legal processes, it would be ignorant to believe it is capable of operating on its own and to believe that it is without its flaws. Courts and lawyers, the words go hand-in-hand, maintaining our legal systems require more people than many of us believe. Our courts operate on many levels both locally and federally and require members from all over the community to ensure it remains functioning.

Take our local community, for example. There are so many important groups and members that help to ensure our systems run smoothly. From our local police who play an important role at the start of the

process to politicians who advocate for important issues, to family and child services who play a vital role in ensuring safety and protection. After these community members have done their jobs, it than falls upon lawyers and those assisting to help ensure that justice prevails. Therefore for us in the community, when we think about what we can do to help others access justice, we cannot just think about the courts, we must think beyond.

There are many non-profits, charities and organisations which assist in promoting and helping individuals get access to the representation and assistance they need to get their justice and support. Unfortunately, even in 2023 there are still people who are unable to gain access to proper representation, are not represented or judged in an unbiased manner and do not receive the just and fair trials promised by our system.

Court is an expense that many cannot afford. If an individual is unable to pay for a lawyer, this individual is often represented by lawyers through legal-aid or non-profit organisations. These organisations are a key step in ensuring proper representation, however they remain under-funded and in need of community support.

It is important that we take the time this month to not only consider how lucky we are to have the freedoms we do, but also what we can do to help others. Whether it be donating to a legal-aid charity or educating yourself more on issues of bias and the inability to access justice, every action plays an important role.

Photo Roger Small

Generosity shines through for Fishability QLD Inc.

It’s amazing what can happen when different facets of the community band together. Fishability QLD Inc. now has a set of wheels to help with day-to-day operations and it’s all thanks to another Bribie Island based outlet - Busy Fingers. For those who aren’t familiar with Fishability QLD Inc., they provide a range of socially inclusive fishing and outdoor recreational opportunities for people who experience disadvantage, isolation and marginalisation. For the past 10 years, they have been relying on the generosity of their volunteers using their own personal vehicles for logistics and service delivery. Now, it’s all changed!

“The group formed as a not-for-profit and charity officially in 2018, however we have been running unofficially since 2013,” chief executive officer Emma Dyson said. “Since then, we have been trying to fundraise and source grants to fund a suitable vehicle to allow us to continue independently. We were unsuccessful in the state government opportunities available, as COVID, flood and natural disaster relief has been the main focus of funding distributions.

“We have always found local support to be a viable and fabulous opportunity to source funds to support our vulnerable community members who are impacted by social isolation and loneliness. We approached Busy Fingers and they came back to us with an approved outcome.” The van will be used to support individuals in the community who need assistance to attend medical appointments and other community based mainstream support services, as well as for Fishability Qld Inc. socially inclusive outdoor recreational events and other inclusive activities held in the local area and surrounds.

“It will mean that we can transport more individuals at risk and that Fishability

The team at Bongaree Dental can help!!!

We can provide an oral appliance therapy for snoring, sleep apnoea and teeth grinding.

QLD Inc. can be identifiable to the general public to make them more aware of who we are and why we are here,” Emma said.

“Many people can rely on families and friends to help them in their time of need. There is a large number of people who do not have this support and rely on mainstream community groups to assist them with their health-related needs.”

QLD Inc. the van donation gave them a feeling of being overwhelmed with support and acknowledgment for what they do.

“Busy Fingers understand how social isolation is an ongoing issue and without support from the local communities, social isolation and loneliness can

impact an entire community if it goes unaddressed,” Emma said. “It wasn’t long after we acquired the van that Bribie Island Signs and Merchandise generously stepped in to cover the artwork. Again, we were overwhelmed and enormously appreciative of the local assistance and encouragement.”

Fishability QLD Inc. see up to 300-plus people per month at their socially inclusive events and activities.

“We create boating and fishing opportunities to bring people out of the confines of social isolation and loneliness into a community where it feels easier to belong,” Emma said. “Our focus is to build skills, capacity and confidence. Fishability QLD Inc. envisions a community where all people are empowered to break through social isolation and diversity and repair health and wellbeing.”

They have some events coming up including:

• Kalmakuta Drive Park Diversafish Program (Sponsored by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries) on Thursday July 20, 10am-1pm at Kalmakuta Drive Park, 1697-1711 Kalmakuta Drive, Sandstone Point. There is a free barbecue lunch sponsored by Holistic Horizons.

• Wynnum Jetty Diversafish Program (Sponsored by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries) on Thursday August 17, 10am-1pm at Wynnum Jetty, 137 Wynnum Esplanade, Brisbane. A pizza lunch is provided with a $5 donation requested if you can.

Anyone who is interested in participating or volunteering as a community driver, please email info@fishabilityqld.org.au or phone 0435 778 510.

The donation of the van to Fishability QLD Inc. will now mean volunteers don’t have to use their own personal vehicles to help those utilising the group.

Busy Fingers and Bribie Island Signs and Merchandise have made it possible for Fishability QLD Inc. to make a difference in the community with a new van.

Advice Specialists

New Menus and New Events at Bribie Island Golf Club

With the cold weather of late, we are looking to warm you up with our Christmas In July event – great food, great music and great prizes.

Our Christmas in July will be on Saturday, 22nd July 2023 from 6.00pm. Come and enjoy all the Christmas festivities Including a Buffet Dinner with Desserts, Live Entertainer by Lloyd, a Best Dressed Christmas Theme and a special Mystery Christmas Raffle with $250 in cash to be won. For BIGC members it is just $55.00 per person or non-members $60.00 per person. Bookings are essential by contacting the Club Office on 3408 1457 or email to: office@bribiegolf.com.au

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

You read it right, we are the place to be on a Wednesday night 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 Lunches – still only $12 – Monday to Friday from 11.30am: 11.30am to eat

Your choice of either: Northern Rivers Roast Pork, Beer Battered Fish and Chips, Chicken Schnitzel and Chips, Chicken Caesar Salad, Seafood Catch or Banger and Mash. Available from 11.30am to 2.00pm. Full lunch menu is also available. See our website for bookings and more Contact the Club Office for more details or see our website at: www.bribiegolf.com.au

“Vote No for the Voice” says Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price

By Alistair Gray

It was a perfect Bribie morning. The sun was out and umbrellas were up as more than 300 Bribie Islanders gathered at the Bribie Hotel to hear Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price discuss why we should vote NO in the up-and-coming Voice Referendum. As senator for the Northern Territory and former deputy mayor of Alice Springs, she understands well what the Voice means for Indigenous Australians and all Australians. Her address was insightful and welcomed by the assembled crowd. Member for Longman Terry Young opened the meeting.

Like most Australians, Mr Young said he favoured constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

“John Howard, Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison, all the autonomous prime ministers, tried to work with the Labor Party to make this a reality,” Mr Young said. “However, the demands were not practical or achievable. No party has done more for the indigenous people in Australia than the Liberal Party. There was a coalition under Harold Holt, who in 1967 held a successful referendum to change the constitution to allow Aboriginal people the right to vote, to be counted in the census and be part of an electorate.

“The first indigenous federal member of parliament was Neville Bonner - a Liberal. The first affairs minister that was indigenous was Ken Wyatt, again a Liberal.

“There is no question there is a gap between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians. The statistics show that indigenous Australians have higher incarceration rates, unemployment, suicide, health issues, domestic violence and substance abuse than non-indigenous Australians. These statistics also show they have a lower standard of living and education and less chance of making a go in life in general. The Australians I spoke to don't want this and we all want the gap to close. But the question is, will the proposed indigenous Voice to Parliament close the gap? I think not. I'm against the proposed voice department for many reasons, but the main reasons are these.

“First, to take an issue as serious as this to a referendum without first legislating it to me is stupidity. If this government wants to make this change it should be first done through legislation. I say this because I don't care if Albert Einstein wrote the proposed document, no one can foresee all the issues that could arise in the future. Legislating it allows amendments to be easily made through the parliamentary process at no cost to the taxpayer. In contrast, by enshrining it in the constitution from the start any future changes will need to be done by a referendum at a cost today of $300 million for each change. This is akin to buying a car without taking a test drive and that will just be plain dumb.

“Secondly, this will be a Canberra-based voice that won't consider the needs and opinions of the indigenous people outside of Canberra. I'm sure there will be token discussions with the various groups. But at the end of the day, the Canberra elite will have the final say and that's not right. I want people like Aunty Flo, Uncle Mick and Michelle (some of our community elders) to have the greatest say in what's best to close the gap in our community, not some Canberra elite.

“Thirdly, with three levels of government we're already over-governed. I regularly see developments like North Harbour, infrastructure like the Bruce Highway and issues like the housing shortage delayed because all three levels of government must do a report and have their say. To add another body that must be consulted, will just further slow down much-needed

projects for the Australian people and I cannot support anything or anyone that does this.

“Lastly and most importantly, the motivation behind this initiative is to unite our country, which is commendable. But in reality, I firmly believe it will have the opposite effect and will divide our nation and undo much of the healing that has taken place to this point. We will never heal as a nation until we stop talking about indigenous and non-indigenous Australians and accept that we all are simply Australians. I will finish with this statement. There is already an indigenous Voice to Parliament. Three percent of the population identifies as indigenous and five percent of elected members and senators identify as indigenous. That is the indigenous Voice to Parliament. We don't need another one.”

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price opened her comments by saying she loves Queensland. She is very passionate about her opposition to the Voice to Parliament and what it means for not just our most marginalised indigenous Australians, but all Australians and her own family.

“I haven't worked hard to make my way into federal parliament to be told that my voice is insignificant,” Senator Price said. “While we celebrate the fact that there is an over representation of indigenous parliamentarians, you're still not good enough. Because we need a Voice to Parliament, it lacks any detail of how it will operate. How our most marginalised will gain from it? I didn't come this far to be told this.”

Senator Price then related her personal story to set the context. Her grandparents grew up in the bush in central

Australia. They first came across ‘the white fella’ in their early adolescence with their world-changing rapidly. Her forward-thinking grandfather wanted to embrace change. Her mother who was born under a tree, grew up partly living in a traditional humpy-style shelter. English was not her first language, it was probably her third language. She wanted a life on her terms, an education and a way out of the traditional way of life. She gave birth to Jacinta, earned a university degree and went on to become a minister in the Northern Territory government and the only woman in the cabinet at that time. She became the minister for local government and had the joy of swearing in her daughter Jacinta as a councillor of Alice Springs Town Council. Now, her daughter has become the senator for the Northern Territory and the shadow minister for indigenous Australians.

“Neither my mother nor I required a constitutionally enshrined Voice to Parliament to earn these accomplishments in our lives. We worked hard and got there because Australia provided the opportunities for us to do so. And they still exist for every Australian. The Voice to Parliament suggests that, as a racial group of Australians, we are inherently disadvantaged for no other reason but because of our race. To me that is racism and I won’t stand for it.”

The senator said the proposed Voice to Parliament suggested we should do something different, so let’s build an expensive bureaucracy. No different than we have done before but we stick it into our constitution where we know we can’t dismantle it if it fails.

“What we haven't done is identify where the real marginalisation exists. The

further you move out from a capital city in our country, the more marginalised Australians become and that is everybody,” Senator Price said. “But it just so happens that our most marginalised are in the remotest parts of this country where their first language is not English. Where they still live a traditional form of life. They are our most marginalised. Privileged indigenous Australians, the elites, want to inject themselves into our constitution and suggest that this voice will help them when they have been at the helm for decades. They’ve done very little to help the most marginalised. We should be serving Australians based on need, not based on race. This is why we can't support the voice.”

Senator Price then talked about the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the notion that all Aboriginal people think the same, believe it, get behind it and support the values and initiatives.

“We know that is simply not true and we don’t treat any other race of Australians along these lines,” she said. “The Uluru Statement from the Heart had a conversation with 1200 indigenous people from around the country, all handpicked by those running the dialogues. Some didn’t agree at the final stage and there are those who walked out. Those who disagreed were threatened with cultural punishment if they didn’t agree or walked out. And then 250 unelected individuals signed the Uluru statement and so started one of the largest PR campaigns.

“The proponents of the voice don't even have a spiritual connection to Uluru. Unlike someone like me who does have a connection to that part of the land. Our family has a dreaming story that travels from our country and comes to Uluru, but our family's signature is not on the Uluru statement. Australians are being sold a lie to suggest that this wonderful event, this wonderful statement, is somehow backed by all indigenous Australians when it simply is not. And our job is to make sure that those voices that don't support the voice are heard throughout the lead-up to this referendum.

“This is the best country on the face of the earth and it is so because every single one of us has contributed to this wonderful nation. Whether we come from the first people, whether we come from the settlers, the convicts of which I'm all part of that. Or whether we come from the migrant community. We have all contributed to this country together and know how great it is. We must bring it back and believe in and be proud of our wonderful Australian values. To be proud to be Australian once again. Voting NO in this referendum is a huge step in that direction.”

During the general discussion, concern was expressed that the voice would have the opportunity to make representations to the executive. The executive is not just the government, it's not just parliamentarians. It's also state, territory, governments, local government, your local council, the bureaucracies, the agencies, the public service, with significant potential delays to decision-making. The lack of detail was troubling and a red flag for why we should vote NO to the voice. Space doesn’t allow me to go into more detail, but one comment from Senator Price stood out, which I am sure will interest our readers. “We haven’t taken a fine-tooth comb and done a forensic audit of the $33 billion spent to address the gap and to address the disadvantage and hold to account those who have not produced the outcomes they should have to close the gap. We're hoping to regain government again. And if I was still holding the indigenous affairs portfolio, that is one of the first steps I will implement going forward.”

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price speaking at the gathering with Terry Young

Members of the Bribie community packed in at the Bribie Hotel

lab Bosworth’s first time at Woorim Dog Beach with Sasha, Tony and Oliver Barnes

Enjoying lunch at the Jetty, from left to right - Morrie Greig, Jac Samson, Keema Gale, Dave Logan, Laurel Davies and Kerry Pensow, celebrating Dave’s 66th birthday.

Celebrating Eileen Graham’s birthday with her daughter Lisa Biddle and son-in-law Mark Biddle.

From top left - Michelle Beasley, Avril, Aaron Colvin, Mark Beasley, Kylie Kruza, Steven Kruza and Jeff enjoying a beautiful lunch at The Jetty Restaurant.

State budget focuses on cost of living

It’s hard to keep everyone happy but with a catchcry like “it’s a budget for all Queenslanders”, you would hope there’s a little something in there for everyone in the 2023-24 Queensland budget, which was released on June 13.

Just like the federal budget before it, the cost of living is also at the forefront of our state budget. Young families and seniors have been considered, along with a more promising outcome for those struggling to find affordable housing.

In recognition of the many families struggling with the cost of living, the government is providing a record $8.224 billion in concessions in 2023–24 to Queensland families and businesses, an increase of more than 21% compared to 2022–23.

Here’s a breakdown on just some of the winners and losers of the 2023/24 Queensland budget.

Winners

• The Queensland Budget 2023-24 will invest $16.3 million over the next four years to support Queensland seniors. What will this go towards? This commitment will ensure essential supports for seniors can continue, including seniors social isolation services, prevention of elder abuse and support for carers.

• Those with young families will receive 15 hours of free kindergarten next year, with an average

saving of $4600 for many families, thanks to the $645 million promised over four years. More than 50,000 children will be able to attend kindy for free, up from 14,000 currently.

• Queensland families with kids aged 0-4 will also be eligible for $150 swimming lesson vouchers in a new SwimStart program aimed at teaching kids how to swim. The $4.8 million going towards the project is to encourage families under cost-of-living pressures not to ditch potentially lifesaving swimming lessons.

• Over two years, $2.7 million will be spent to expand school breakfast programs in areas experiencing hardship across Queensland.

• In good news for households, the

budget includes a $550 electricity rebate for every household.

• Those on concession cards will continue to receive an extra $372 concession, as well as an additional $150 cost-of-living payment.

• In public housing news, an extra $332 million funding will be used for 500 new social homes.

• The state's health budget in the next financial year will be a record $25.8 billion — a 9.6% increase — which is the largest jump in health spending in Queensland's history.

• The government's capital program for the next four years is forecast to cost $89 billion. $1.9 billion over four years will be spent on infrastructure for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Queensland has recorded a $12.3 billion budget surplus in the current 2022/23 financial year, which is largely thanks to huge revenues from coal royalties. The high price of coal and oil resulted in a $10.462 billion increase in expected royalty revenue this year, leading to a total General Government Sector revenue of $87.623 billion. However, it won’t last long. In 2023/24, we can expect to face a $2.182 billion deficit, which the treasurer puts down to a big spend on cost-of-living measures, though returns to surplus (on a smaller scale) are projected for 2025/26 and 2026/27.

Losers

• In bad news for taxpayers, Queenslanders will pay $5.6 billion a year in interest payments to service total debt of $147 billion by 2026-27.

• For households, Queensland will face an inflationary squeeze in fiscal 2023 of 7.25% against wages growth of 3.75%.

• Renters have pulled the short straw this budget, with no extra measures announced to assist with renting in the cost-of-living crisis outside of social housing.

• The coal industry will pay $17 billion in royalties over the next four years, courtesy of the new royalty tiers.

• There’s no stamp duty or land tax relief in sight for property developers.

Gets Things Done!

Finding her sparkle again

By Sheree Hoddinett

found her sparkle

After everything she went through as a child, Romecca knew the importance of creating a book that children could relate to. She wanted to get the message across that no matter what was happening in their lives, they weren’t alone and that it was okay to have feelings about it, but to also talk to others about how they were feeling. It also highlights a lot of important factors for adults too.

“The messages within it are all things that I think are really important, for the adults to become aware,” Romecca said. “So as adults are hearing it, there'll be those almost like subliminal messages like what is really important and how to support that child when they're feeling the way they are, but ultimately just noticing those signs when they appear.

it just came through to me. It was almost like taking myself back to being a child and I thought about what would have been helpful for me.”

Now published and available to read, Romecca is excited everything has come to fruition. She also has nothing but praise for illustrator Dani Rasmussen, who has brought Pika and the other characters to life.

“Pika is my alter ego and it’s amazing to watch her come to life through Dani’s work,” Romecca said. “Dani's just such a beautiful and talented person. And I think a lot of what I had to say and my perspective of things was aligned with hers. So I was so grateful for us to have this, for her to be able to show what she can do as well, that makes me happy.”

Romecca Sawers has experienced so much unimaginable trauma in her life. While you wouldn’t know to look at her now, she’s certainly been in the absolute depths of despair. Romecca is a survivor of physical, mental, sexual and emotional abuse, which she encountered from a young age. She released a book about it in 2019 called Because I was abused Using her past to make a difference in the future for others that may find themselves going through difficult times, Romecca, a Caboolture-based author, has now released a children’s book called Pika: The fairy who

“And because it doesn't actually say sexual abuse obviously, because it's for children, but it can actually be for any child who's going through any childhood trauma. This could be domestic violence or bullying or something else major happening in their lives that’s affecting them in a big way.” Although she had never thought about writing a children’s book, for Romecca, writing this story was relatively easy. It came together a lot quicker than her current book she’s still working on!

“I was doing a fairy festival in May last year when a friend who’s very intuitive asked me when I was writing the kids book,” Romecca said. “I told her I don’t write kids’ books; I write books for adults to read.

“Then after spending time with kids at the fairy festival, getting ready and putting on my fairy wings, that whole experience inspired me and when I was back at home,

Interest in Pika: The fairy who found her sparkle is building, with requests for Romecca to visit local childcare centres to read with the children.

“I’d love to make it a whole event where I get dressed up, bring my little worms and I go in and read with them, but also things like where we make Pika’s favourite rainbow bread or cinnamon sugar sprinkle toast,” Romecca said. “I’d also love to do sound meditation so that way the kids can have a bit of fun.

“I also included questions in the back of the book, where adults reading it can ask those questions. It's just a guide and then there's a little activity at the end where they can dance. Then they can say to themselves I am safe and I am loved. So if there is anybody or any child who is sitting in this space who might get a little affected by it all, then I want them to come back to that feeling safe.”

So, will there be more books about Pika?

“Everyone keeps asking me that,” Romecca said with a laugh. “It is a possibility, I mean my journey is far from over, so Pika’s journey can continue as well.

“I’ve bought myself a hula hoop and I’ve thought about taking that with me when I visit kids and do a reading so they can do a little fun activity with hula hoops. Maybe Pika can go on a circus adventure. Watch this space, you just never know!”

Pika: The fairy who found her sparkle is available on Amazon. If you would like to find out more about using this book as a resource in a childcare or educational facility, please reach out to Romecca on 0400 921 091 or via email romeccasawers@ gmail.com

Caboolture based author Romecca Sawers with her children’s book Pika. The fairy who found her sparkle.

Romecca as her alter ego Pika, ready to share her story Pika. The fairy who found her sparkle with kids in the community

In the prime position, at the end of the cul-de-sac on an impressive 1,051m2 block and 465m2 under roof with a massive 50m canal frontage, this is Bribie Island living.

From the moment you walk through the front door of this beautiful property, you will be impressed. Featuring up to 5m high ceilings, allowing you to look down onto the formal living area from the gang way that leads to the upstairs parents retreat and Master bedroom, which features your own personal balcony, overlooking the canal, an ensuite, with spa bath, double vanity and separate shower, plus a walk-in robe big enough for both of you.

Upstairs also has the guest room with it’s own ensuite, ready to pamper your friends. Another 3 double sized bedrooms downstairs, 2 of which open out onto the patio, ready for that perfect sunset. There is a study that has both entry from the house and double garage with a remote controlled panel lift door, making it perfect for the home office. The home features a combination of formal and informal living, all of which over looks the impressive canal views. The well-appointed 2-pac kitchen is centrally located making it the perfect entertainer, and easy to access the marble top bar with under stair wine storage. A separate laundry with loads of storage and bench space with an entry to the yard and garage. Inside or out, the property has that wow factor.

Awnings~Blinds~Shutters

A pool and pontoon, make it a complete package for the whole family. Quality features throughout including: ducted air, ceiling fans, solar system, window shutters, chandeliers, marble and bamboo flooring. Close to the local school, bowls club, shopping complex, park lands, bird sanctuary, Pumicestone passage and the lifestyle Bribie Island

We need properties for quality tenants we have waiting. If you or someone you know has a vacant property they can’t fill, or are unhappy with their current managing agents, we have approved tenants waiting. Refer potential landlords to us, and we will reward both of you with a $250 Visa Debit Card and shall offer any new landlords a great introductory management fee. Experience the LJ Hooker difference.

Real Estate Talk

Increase in interest rates is unlikely to impact property prices

The recent decision by the Reserve Bank of Australia to increase interest rates is unlikely to impact property prices with a shortage of listings and high demand driving growth, according to the LJ Hooker Group.

LJ Hooker Group’s Head of Research, Mathew Tiller, said strong population growth and tight employment markets have resulted in increased competition for homes adding buoyancy to the market.

“The RBA’s focus at the moment is on reducing inflation and the latest data show it is coming down but remains sticky and is not falling as fast as anticipated,” Mr Tiller said.

“This decision shouldn’t lead to a flood of mortgagee repossessions hitting the market, but it is likely there will be homeowners looking to downsize their mortgage as a way of managing their household budget, so we are expecting listings to slowly rise.

“Property markets are more positive for homeowners who do decide to list with elevated auction clearance rates, rising prices and higher attendances at open homes all pointing to a stronger winter selling season. “

The latest CoreLogic figures show house price recovery continued for the third consecutive month up by 1.2 % in May. In Sydney, house prices increased by 1.8 % during the month and 4.8 per % since January.

Listings remain below the five-year average and demand remains high due to increased levels of immigration and the return of international students. Strong rental growth, low vacancy rates and increased property prices have seen tenants consider making the switch to homebuyers, while investors are also back in the

REIQ says state budget is hollow on housing

Queenslanders struggling to get a foot on the property ladder or find sustainable shelter for their family will find little hope in the 2023-24 Queensland State Budget, which lacks a long-term housing plan, according to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ).

market.

Mr Tiller believes property prices have also benefited from buyers trying to pick the bottom of the market. In addition, there are owner-occupiers looking to upgrade with unemployment low and wages growing.

“We often hear about the FOMO during the peak of the market, but the same mindset also occurs when people are trying to buy before the prices start increasing, so you have a lot of people looking to purchase at the moment,” he said.

“We didn’t have the traditional spring market last year with many vendors sitting on their hands as prices soften, so we are anticipating a stronger end-of-the-year with more listings as selling conditions improve. The opportune time to sell is now before the traditional selling season.”

With inflation not falling as fast as the RBA would like, they will be hoping the 12th rate increase in just over a year will have the desired effect. However, rapidly rising house rents are a key driver of persistently high inflation levels.

“With a limited supply of new properties in the construction pipeline and a rising population growth, it is anticipated that rents will continue impacting the housing component of CPI for some time to come,” Mr Tiller said.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said while the short-term handouts will be welcome reprieve, the budget is a missed opportunity to plan and reshape Queensland to be ready for future growth and opportunity.

“For the past week, Queenslanders have been told to keep an eye on the budget for the answers they seek about housing relief,” Ms Mercorella said.

“With today’s budget, their escalating costof-living demands have been tempered with some much-needed support, but the elephant in the room remains around how Queensland will adequately boost its housing supply.”

BUILD-TO-RENT INCENTIVES

Ms Mercorella welcomed the formalisation of the incentives previously announced for the build-to-rent sector.

“The REIQ have been advocates for incentivising build-to-rent schemes in Queensland, as a way to complement the traditional private housing investor and to help ease the pressures of the rental crisis,” she said.

“It’s particularly pleasing to see the flexibility extended to ensure the developments are mixed use, however questions remain around the compliance requirements and the definition of ‘affordable housing’.

“We also note that the incentives provided to large institutional investors are at direct odds with the way small investors are treated. This puts the future drivers of housing supply at risk if a majority of resources are directed towards build-torent projects.

“We need diversity of housing to meet the ever-changing demands of Queensland’s growing population, so we need to be encouraging investment in all types of housing.”

HOUSING

Ms Mercorella said increased rental rebates for low-income families and individuals and the concessions to ease cost of living pressures were welcome announcements, particularly with the cessation of NRAS.

“The continued Government Managed Housing Rental Rebate and new electricity Cost of Living Rebates will provide reprieve for Queenslanders doing it tough,” she said.

“However, social housing funding still remains dreadfully deficient with expenditure on social housing in this budget 75% below historical averages, which puts Queensland dead last in the country.

“Sadly, there are no incentives to meaningfully boost supply and increase the current rate of build, while we face a continued shortfall and a 50,000-waitlist growing longer by the day – all at a time when Government seems intent on reducing private housing supply.”

TAXATION

Ms Mercorella said this year’s budget had missed a valuable opportunity to reform property tax.

“Stamp duty significantly hinders home ownership, discourages housing turnover, and restricts mobility, and it’s abolishment would open doors in Queensland for many,” she said.

“The windfall from coal royalties gave the Government the opportunity to scrap stamp duty and move to a long-term, broad-based land tax.

“Taxes from property have doubled over the last decade, hitting property investors who provide the vast majority of housing for Queenslanders who rent their homes.

“With the Government expecting to raise $31 billion over the next four years from the property sector, it’s disappointing that there’s no relief in sight for property investors.”

The Pumicestone Gardening Club celebrates its 30th birthday

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.

It is party time for members of the Pumicestone Gardening Club.

By Alistair Gray

It was all smiles and chatter as all the local gardening gurus met to celebrate the 30th birthday of the Pumicestone Gardening Club. Formed on June 15, 1993, the club has come a long way since those early days. The club was founded by Heather and Rod Barlow from Barlow’s wholesale/retail nursery Donnybrook.

Heather Bienke, one of the original founding members at the party, said Heather Barlow used to connect with the local ladies informally for gardening advice and friendship.

Rod was a horticulturist and they used to meet in a shed out the back of the nursery. When the club began they had 26 members, including a representative from the Queensland Council of Garden Clubs, with meetings held monthly. Today, they have a membership of 60. The club grew bigger and moved to the Donnybrook Community Hall. During this time club founder Heather Barlow, was president for 20 years, followed by Arthur Richards.

“The meetings were very much about friendship, in the then relatively isolated community,” Heather Bienke said.

There were recipe and cutting swaps, lessons about propagation and effective grafting techniques. They used to raise lots of money from raffles and various other activities. With the help of the council, the funds raised went towards constructing seating along the different walking paths in the area.

During the meeting Barbara Worthington, another club founding member, was awarded a life membership in recognition of her long contribution to the club. The 30th anniversary was celebrated with a sit-down spit roast luncheon and entertainment provided by bush poet Noel Stallard in the Toorbul Community Hall.

“We continue to encourage and

educate local gardeners with regular presentations on all things gardening including soil composition, composting, worm farms, grafting, native bees and other local community interests including dugongs, stroke prevention and yellow bin management,” current president Wayne Kelly said.

Bribie Garden Centre

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.

Founding Member Heather Bienke is cutting the 30th birthday cake.

Louis and Catherine Carlile 1963 - 2023

60-year anniversary

blossomed, they became engaged and made plans for their wedding. Unfortunately, tragedy struck when Louis was involved in a severe motorcycle accident, landing him in hospital and necessitating a postponement of their original wedding date.

Throughout Louis' arduous recovery, Catherine stood by his side, offering unwavering support despite the potentially life-threatening injuries he sustained. By the time their rescheduled wedding arrived on June 1, 1963 Louis had largely recovered and the couple was able to seal their relationship at St. Andrews Church in Lutwyche.

It all began when Louis sought advice from a judge that his mother worked for. It was in regard to purchasing a plot of land where he envisioned settling down with his future wife. When he knocked on the door, a stunning young lady named Catherine who turned out to be the judge's niece, greeted him. He

said hello in his Lancashire accent and they exchanged pleasantries, seemingly unimportant.

In a twist of fate, Catherine and Louis became neighbours, residing in separate houses owned by Catherine's grandmother. However, it wasn't until years later that Louis was formally

Their first date took place at the Fortitude Valley Swimming Pool in the early 1960s. As their relationship

Following their nuptials, Louis and Catherine moved into the home they had built on the very plot of land Louis had acquired years earlier upon the advice of Catherine's uncle. It was within those walls that they raised their four children - Jim, Margie, Pam and Sam. While Catherine dedicated more than 50 years of her life to working as a pharmacist, Louis pursued various occupations, initially in chemical plants and later as a turner and fitter.

They lived in that cherished home until their retirement, when they relocated to Beachmere, settling into the house Catherine's father had previously built and inhabited. In this new chapter of their lives, they joyfully welcomed nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild (so far). On June 3, 2023, the couple commemorated a momentous 60th wedding anniversary at the Silver Spoon in Beachmere. Surrounded by loved ones they revelled in the celebration, cherishing the family they had lovingly nurtured since 1963.

Louis and Catherine are adored for their warmth and compassion as grandparents, their generosity as parents and their unwavering willingness to extend a helping hand to all who cross their path. In Beachmere they continue to savour the joys of life, enveloped by the family they cultivated throughout the decades.

Six of the nine grandchildren with Louis & Catherine

Cutting the Cake 1.06.1963

Cutting the cake 03.06.2023

Engagement Photo introduced to Catherine by his mother. From that point forward, their love story began, marked by stolen kisses exchanged through the kitchen window.

At Regis, we believe a good life is built

great relationships.

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,

Hope you are all keeping well. I’ve been gallivanting around the countryside. First stop was Hervey Bay, then northward to Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Yeppoon, before heading south again to Tin Can Bay and Rainbow Beach and then home. Of course, I checked out all the botanic gardens in the local areas. Hervey Bay has a beautiful orchid house and just out of town is Bamboo Land. As Molly Meldrum used to say, “do yourself a favour and go for a visit”, it is spectacular. Bundaberg boasts Bert Hinkler House set in the lovely Bundaberg Botanic Gardens. Rockhampton Botanic Gardens are not only massive and also include a small zoo. Lots of walking and so much fun.

LIME

I often write about pH in your soil and correcting the soil by using lime or Dolomite to sweeten it up or sulphur to bring down the pH. As you are probably aware the soil on Bribie Island is very sandy, therefore the soil needs to be sweetened. During my holidays I watched an interesting program on the Dudley Canal Trust in England - the history of lime. About 420 million years ago, tiny fossils took steps to create the earth. The Dudley Canals were completed in 1791, with lime and coal mined in the area.

Interesting fact if you have a fireplace. The ash from your fire contains calcium which has similar properties to agricultural lime. The ash also contains potassium, phosphorus and magnesium. All these nutrients help plant growth. Waste not want not!

EPSOM SALTS (Magnesium sulphate)

Although famous for the Epsom Derby horse race, Epsom was also the place where Epsom salts were discovered. One of my favourite chemical compounds to be used in the garden, especially in acidic conditions. This does come with a warning - only to be used when there is a magnesium deficiency. This can be seen by yellowing between the leaf veins and sometimes a reddish tint. Most nurseries carry magnesium sulphate. However, if you are buying from the supermarket, use it at a rate of two (2) teaspoons of Epsom salts to five (5) litres of water. Add a little bit of warm water to dissolve the crystals and then add the cold water.

WINTER WONDERS – SORREL, SPINACH, FENNEL AND THYME

SORREL

Sorrel is a great herb and is pleasant, lemony and astringent. It is particularly beneficial if you have acidic soil and a companion plant for thyme and strawberries. This self-seeding plant can be grown in the garden or a pot and likes to be kept on the moist side. The leaves have an

acidic taste so bugs keep well away. It can be used in salads and soups. As spinach and spring onions are now available, here is a recipe for you to enjoy.

SORREL AND SPINACH

SALAD

• 100g sorrel leaves

• 100g spinach leaves

• 6 spring onions

• Lemon juice

• Vegetable oil

• Salt and pepper

• 4 hardboiled eggs – cut into quarters lengthways.

1. Pick and wash sorrel and spinach, discarding the stems.

2. Shred or tear the leaves into small pieces.

3. Clean and chop spring onions.

4. Mix together in a bowl.

5. Mix 15ml (1 tablespoon) of vegetable oil and a little lemon juice, salt and pepper, pour over salad and mix with shelled hardboiled eggs.

6. Serve as a starter with bread and butter.

DRYING HERBS

Make sure you pick your herbs on a fine morning when the plants are dry. They are at their best just before they flower. Hang in bunches in a warm dry place, but do not hang in full sun. They need not be

covered; however you can make bags of cheese cloth or CHUX to protect from flies and dust.

Seed heads like fennel should be picked when seeds are ripe and dried upside down. Shake off the seeds when completely dry and store in opaque jars, clearly labelled.

When your herb leaves are dry, rub or crush them lightly and store. It is important not to keep herbs in clear glass bottles or jars, as the flavour will deteriorate.

covered with feathery foliage. Traditionally used with fish, the leaves, stem and seeds can all be used for cooking. Fennel also plays a part in the nine-herbs charm: Thyme and fennel, a pair great in power, The Wise Lord, holy in heaven, Wrought these herbs while he hung on the cross, He placed and put them in the seven worlds to aid all, poor and rich. My passion for plants came from a very special lady called Edna Walling, a horticulturalist and landscape designer. Edna Walling finished up living in Buderim, Queensland with a memorial garden dedicated to her. She is particularly famous for her thyme lawns and her use of thyme in her garden designs.

There are many varieties of thyme, which is a low-growing plant with pretty lilac and pink flowers. It likes a sunny position in the garden and has a delicious scent. It has been used for embalming and to fumigate clothes and rooms. Bees absolutely love it. Thyme is also a great herb to be used in cooking.

Happy Gardening, We're here for you!

Flower heads can be dried in the same way. Pick at their peak when the scent is really heady. Hang upside down and when dry, gently rub the flowers from the stems.

Fennel is an attractive and showy plant putting up heads of flowers held on stems

Big Dart at Skirmish Point

Greetings readers of ‘the LOCAL’ newspaper, Hi everyone, Danny and Michelle from Island Fishing Supplies, Banksia Beach and now with our new shop at Marine

poppers and some very nice bream caught around the pontoons using whole herring and hardy heads.

POP POP BANG – BREAM ON SURFACEChasing the humble bream on surface lures can be very exciting, especially in shallow water. Nothing beats the excitement of the noise from a fish hitting a surface lure when you least expect it, whether it’s a Spanish mackerel, GT or a big blue nose bream. We are very lucky here at Bribie, with so many options both land-based and by boat, where we can target bream on surface lures. Weed beds and yabbie banks are a great place to start. I do like the start of an incoming tide when the fish are coming up on to the flats to feed. Remember you don’t need a lot of water to catch fish. I have caught

Technique

I have found that bream really like to hit the lure on the pause. Cast as far as you can, then two to three really sharp rips, then pause. I have counted up to 10 seconds before a bream has hit the lure. They will follow that lure and sit underneath it, staring at it before deciding to eat it. Don’t be surprised if they come right up to your feet and hit the lure up to the last metre in front of you.

So there you go, a great fun way to catch the humble bream. It is always good to go back and chase the fish you grew up chasing as a kid.

SANDSTONE POINT

Using live bloodworms and yabbies, anglers are catching summer whiting on the flats, along with some nice flathead on the sand patches in between the weed beds.

BANKSIA BEACH/WHITE PATCH

Lightly weighted whole small squid have proven the best bait for snapper on the last hour of the runout tide from the ripples through to the ledge at White Patch. There is also plenty of blue swimmer crabs through the same area.

BRIBIE BRIDGE

Under the bridge on the slack water top and bottom of the tide floating pilchards around the pylons is successful for snapper and tailor.

PACIFIC HARBOUR CANALS

Big eye trevally and tailor at night on

stick with my rod of choice being Atomic Arrowz bream surface 7’6, ideal for casting small poppers as far as possible.

Reel

I like a reel 2000-2500 size. Major Craft have an awesome 2500 Ceana, which is extremely light and tough. You can cast all day without getting a sore arm. I normally put 4–6lb braid and similar size leader.

Suicide prevention training

Wesley Mission is offering a free suicide prevention training workshop (for people to recognise and respond to someone who may be at risk).

When: Wednesday July 19

Time: 9am – 1pm

Where: Bribie Island Neighbourhood Centre (9 Verdoni Street, Bellara)

To register, email LifeForce@wesleymission.org.au or phone 0439 050 559.

The

Leyla F age 10

Harper B. age 10 Zahli

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

16/5/23 – Cancelled due to inclement

weather

18/5/23 – Single Stableford

A Grade Winner: Carol McKenzie 38, 2nd Barbara Newcomb 36 cb, 3rd Linda

Urquhart 36 cb

B Grade Winner: Judith Umlauft 40, 2nd Maureen Bailey 37, Jennifer De

Ruyter 34

C Grade Winner: Di Croft 34, 2nd Tricia

Phillips 33, 3rd Angela Roberts 32

NTP’s: Hole 4 Maureen Bailey, Hole 7

Sandra Smith, Hole 14 Sandra Smith, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Linda Urquhart, Hole 14 (Div 3 2nd shot) Angela Roberts

23/5/23 – American Foursomes

Winners: Ros Gardiner & Chris Pronk

73.875, 2nd Desley Neilsen & Jo Malone

74.875, 3rd Sandra Smith & Rita de

Bondt 75.125

NTP’s: Hole 4 Gay Burnham, Hole

7 Roslyn Crossley, Hole 14 Suzanne

Fowler, Hole 16 Toni Grossmann

25/5/23 – Single Stableford

A Grade Winner: Kris Tomalin 36, 2nd

Gwen Clutterbuck 35, 3rd Val Smith 34

B Grade Winner: Vivienne Learoyd

37, 2nd Paula Mckenzie 34, 3rd Mary

Barbeler 33

C Grade Winner: Margaret McDonald

31 cb, 2nd Nadia Aylott 31, 3rd Hazel

McDonnell 30

NTP’s: Hole 4 Diane Fitzpatrick, Hole

7 Sue Navie, Hole 14 Judith Umlauft,

30/5/23 – 4 Person Ambrose Scramble

Winners: Gwen Clutterbuck, Vivi

Lloyd, Lyn Ball & Pauline Grooby 65 Runners Up: Sue Navie, Susan Smith, Sandra Smith & Sylvia White

NTP’s: Hole 4 Judy Graham, Hole 7 Tricia Brown, Hole 14 Abby Driver, Hole 16 Angela Jordan

1/6/23 – Monthly Medal (Sponsor –Churches of Christ Qld)

White Course Winner: Sue Navie

Can the Dolphins stage a comeback?

NTP’s: Hole 4 Di Benghamy, Hole 7 Sue Navie, Hole 14 Linda Urquhart, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Suzanne Vallely

Red Course Winner: Carol McKenzie

76, 2nd Robyn Harper 77 cb, 3rd Toni Grossmann 77

NTP’s: Hole 4 Dianne Hayward, Hole

7 Toni Grossmann, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Judith Umlauft

Yellow Course Winner: Mary Barbeler

73, 2nd Jude Dorhauer 75, 3rd Jennifer McKay 78

NTP’s Hole 4 Mary Barbeler, Hole

14 Mary Barbeler, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Angela Jordan

6/6/23 - 2 Person Aggregate Stableford

Overall Winners: Carol Williams & Magrit Pearce 74, 2nd Angela Roberts & Val Smith 70, 3rd Gaby Bennett & Louise Keleher 69

NTP’s: Hole 4 Chris Tomalin, Hole 7 Toni Grossmann, Hole 14 Sue Graham, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Gill Lee, Hole 7 (Div 3 2nd shot) Kate Brown

8/6/23 – Single Stroke

A Grade Winner: Debra Dunn 70, 2nd Judith Umlauft 72, 3rd Vicki Jones 73

B Grade Winner: Mary Barbeler 71, 2nd Lyn Cockerell 73, 3rd Anna de

C Grade Winner: Sonia Ferrante 74

cb, 2nd Angela Jordan 74, 3rd Jennifer

NTP’s: Hole 4 Linda Urquhart, Hole 7 Sandra Smith, Hole 14 Jo McCowan, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Kris Tomalin, Hole 7 (Div 3 2nd shot) Angela Jordan

13/6/23 – Single Stableford

A Grade Winner: Lyn Ball 38, 2nd Kris Tomalin 36, 3rd Abby Driver 34 cb

B Grade Winner: Christine Pronk 40, 2nd Maureen McGlone 37, 3rd Ailsa Lauchlan 36

C Grade Winner: Angela Roberts 33 cb, 2nd Louise Keleher 33, 3rd Lulu Drew 32

NTP’s: Hole 4 Rita de Bondt, Hole 7 Vicki Jones, Hole 14 Lulu Drew, Hole 16 (2nd shot) Lyn Ball & Magrit Pearce, Hole 7 (Div 3 2nd shot) Angela Jordan

Accuracy Drives: Div 1 – Kris Tomalin, Div 2 – Beverly Isaksen, Div 3 – Sonia Ferrante

A few lacklustre performances from the competition newbies has seen them unceremoniously fall out of the top eight as we head into the tail end of the 2023 season. Going down to the Warriors in Auckland (30-8) in early June, was just the beginning of their downward spiral. Round 15 against the Sea Eagles in Sydney was an even bigger loss, going down 58-18. Coach Wayne Bennett highlighted in the post-game press conference that there were still some games ahead for the Dolphins to put a few more points on the board and hopefully up their chances at making it to finals.

“I don’t think there’s a team in the comp that doesn’t have a bad day or game,” he said following the loss to Manly. “We had ours tonight and I just hope it’s our last one and we’ll do everything we can to

“The reality of the competition we’re in is you’re going to be up for a bit, then you can find the scoreboard going against you and everything going against you. We just need to regroup right now and a week off will help us do that.”

Following a bye, diehard Dolphins fans are still ‘Phins up’ with a handful of games left in the draw for them to redeem themselves. The pressure will be on when they come head-to-head with fellow Brisbane team, the Broncos at The Gabba on Saturday July 1. The last time these two faced off in Round 4, the Dolphins were sent packing by their ‘bigger brother’ with just six points in it. Will this game see a change in the end result?

The Dolphins will stay in Queensland for their next few rounds. Following the ‘local’ clash with the Broncos, they’re up against the Titans on the Gold Coast on July 9 before heading back to their home base in Redcliffe on July 16 to take on Penrith, who are sitting very comfortable towards the top of the points table.

Radio sailing wrap up for last month

Dragon Force65 (DF65) racing has been well-represented on Sunday afternoons for the past four weeks. There was no sailing on May 21, as our members were involved with a promotion and a stand at the Bribie Island Classic Boat Regatta at Sylvan Beach.

Breezes were predominantly light so A+ rigs were the most popular choice. Competitive racing produced many close finishes and there were different winners for many of the races.

Weather permitting, we try to complete 12 races on the day scoring points for each race all recorded by our dedicated trusty RO, Barry.

RESULTS:

Winners of the Handicap races

Name Boat number Date

Wally 92 April 30

Wayne 98 May 7

Roy 48 May 14

Wayne 98 May 28

Winners of the Scratch races

Name Boat number Date

Ken 14 April 30

Bob 52 May 7

Wally 92 May 14

Wally 92 May 28

For more information contact Bribie Radio Controlled Yachts via email bribieradiocontrolledyachts@gmail.com or phone Wayne Cowling on 0402 945 045.

Monthly Medal Winners & Sponsors

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