The Local Times Feb 2023

DREAMS DO COME TRUE

THE NINJA ZONE

IN BRIEF

MORAYFIELD

New Ambulance Station

PLANS are now complete and tenders have been called for a new $6.2 million ambulance station in Morayfield.

Construction of the station, to be built at 396 Morayfield Road (also fronting Lindsay Road), will commence later this year.

BURPENGARY

Funding For Pony Club

THE Burpengary Pony Club received two grants from the previous Federal Government in which they purchased a John Deere “Gator” four-wheel drive utility vehicle and new Fridge and Freezers.

CABOOLTURE

Bunnings Now Open

BUNNINGS has opened its doors as part of the $80M retail precinct at the Big Fish Business Park on Pumicestone Road, Caboolture.

MANGO HILL

Woman of the Year 2023

DOLPHINS DEBUT

The Dolphins will take on the Sydney Roosters on 5 March

2023 is a landmark year for local rugby league fans, who are celebrating the longawaited debut of The Dolphins into the National Rugby League.

With a proud 76-year local history behind them, the Redcliffe team will play their first game in the NRL when

they take on the Sydney Roosters on Sunday, 5 March.

The game will be a stern first-up test for Queensland’s fourth NRL team, with their southern opponents finishing sixth place out of 16 during the regular season last year.

The Dolphins are looking strong and cohesive. Inaugural Captain Jesse Bromwich spoke

to Fox League, saying the team is united and ready to go.

“Everybody is really levelheaded and prepared to work hard; that’s the best sign,” he said.

Thirty-three-year-old Bromwich played 295 games for the Melbourne Storm before moving to The Dolphins with his brother

Kenny

and

The Dolphins already boast a strong fan base, receiving strong support across Moreton Bay and all over Australia.

As the first new team to enter the NRL since the Titans in 2007, Coach Wayne Bennett’s men will begin a new era for the rugby league-mad

MANGO HILL Marketplace has called out to the local community, asking them to nominate local women to be in the running for Mango Hill’s Woman of the Year 2023.

More on p5

Peninsula when they run onto the Suncorp Stadium turf at 3pm, 5 March.

Finally The Dolphins are where they belong. Ready to challenge any NRL team as represent their community in the big league. The game will be shown on Fox and go free to air on Channel Nine.

GRIFFIN

Freshwater Hub Launched

Construction set to begin this year, Freshwater Hub will include boutique retail at Freshwater Village, Freshwater Harvest (an urban farm), Freshwater Park and Freshwater Place – a residential development - by Marquee Development Partners

More on p15

Bromwich

teammate Felise Kaufusi.

BRUCE GIDDINGS

Nine-year-old Narangba Ninja, Benny Dows, is swinging into the ninja spotlight, one obstacle at a time.

Queensland Police Service's newest recruit is five-year-old Hamish from Caboolture.

Local band, The Phosphenes, release their first EP

Ozzy Auto Ready for Moreton Bay Expo

BLACK TIE GALA TO SUPPORT OUR PARALYMPIANS

THE National Disability Leadership Organisation (NDLO), along with hundreds of Disability Service Provider organisations, Australian Companies and Businesses, are launching 2023 Galas to raise funds and support our Paralympians, starting with the Brisbane Gala in March 2023.

THE caravan, camping and off-grid specialist team at Ozzy Auto Electrics are excited to be exhibiting again at The Moreton Bay Expo from 17 to 19 February. The expo will display all things caravan, camping, 4x4 and outdoors.

“The expo is an ideal place to visit for those looking to buy a camper or caravan to compare what is out there in the market,” said Alex Marks, Director at Ozzy Auto Electrics.

“It is also a great location to meet businesses like ourselves who complete your after-market work.”

Ozzy Auto Electrics has a team of qualified auto electricians specialising in caravan, camping and off-grid setups. From guidance on upgrading solar or lithium battery systems to ensuring you are towing-ready by installing an electric brake

controller in your vehicle before you head off on that next adventure!

“Our work is carried out by highly qualified technicians who love what they do and pride themselves on 100% customer satisfaction,” said Alex.

“The caravan, camping and off-grid fitouts we recommend and install are all custom designed to suit our customer’s needs and wants. It is safe to say that our one hundred plus five-star Google reviews speak for themselves.”

Local outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to say hello to the Ozzy Auto Electrics team when visiting the 2023 Moreton Bay Expo at the Redcliffe Showgrounds.

Tickets are available online at www.BayExpo.com.au.

Use discount code OZZYAUTO for 25% off online tickets.

All Australians, businesses and supporters are urged to access the online donation and bidding system and bid for a range of great items or to donate directly.

The fundraising campaign also needs more items and offers for people to bid on, so if you want to donate a great item, contact the NDLO.

"Those Australian athletes training and working hard to represent us on an international stage need support now and every year leading up to each Paralympics," Mr Night, Public Officer at the NDLO said.

"The 2023 Gala dinners are focused on raising those funds needed to support the next generation of Paralympians as they work hard towards the

Paralympics in Paris 2024."

"Every sponsor dollar and ticket sale goes towards funds raised for Paralympics Australia.

Mr Night invited all Australians to attend the 2023 Brisbane Disability Staff Recognition Awards Gala, Sponsored by Holistic Horizons Support Services.

"This isn't just for Disability Service Providers, but for all Australians to come along and support the Australian Paralympic Team by helping us raise funds and have a great night out."

For more information visit developingauscommunities. com.au/gala-dinner

When: Friday March 3, 2023

Time: 6pm welcome drinks / Gala 6.30-11pm

Where: The Great Hall Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre

Dress: Black Tie

Fundraising and auction page now live https://app. galabid.com/brisbanegala/ items

More information: developingauscommunities. com.au/gala-dinner

YOUNG NINJA STAR IN THE MAKING

Benny Dows might only be nine-years-old, but he’s already going from strength to strength in the Ninja Warrior domain. The Narangba youngster has participated in state and national competitions over the past year and is already setting goals to tackle the sport overseas one day.

WHILE hanging from monkey bars or gripping rings like your life depends on it isn’t everyone’s idea of fun, Benny (pictured) is proving his worth in a sport that is quickly becoming a big part of his life.

Benny’s foray into the sport began three years ago. Still, it wasn’t until after his family travelled the country and returned home that he decided it was time to start taking it to the next level and enter competitions.

His first competition in May 2022 saw Benny place third which meant he qualified for the Ninja Challenge League national finals in Melbourne in September. Although his end results weren’t quite what he was hoping for, Benny is grateful for the opportunity to compete at such a high level.

“In the first stage, I got a lucky catch on the double ring lache, which meant I completed the course without any falls and placed the seventh boy in my age category (nine and 10-yearolds compete together),” he says.

“That then allowed me to go through to stage two, where I, unfortunately, fell on the cable drum balance, a new obstacle I hadn’t tried before.

“This meant I came ninth overall out of the boys in my age category. I was a little bit sad not to be able to go through

to stage three, but I had a great time in Melbourne, and I had the chance to make more ninja friends from other states and play on new obstacles.”

Benny first jumped on an obstacle course outside where his mum was doing fitness at Todd’s Personal Training Studio. Now it’s the exact spot where Benny does all his own training with the two people he looks up to for help and guidance.

“My coaches Todd and Cory are the best mentors and have taught me so much and are always trying to help me get better,” he says. “And Ashlin Herbert is my favourite ninja (from Australian Ninja Warrior) because he is superfast and so strong.”

While he cites learning new tricks and spending time with his ninja friends as his favourite part of the sport, Benny also finds time to dabble in other areas of interest, including Little Athletics, rock climbing, swimming and even reading. An eagerness to expand his ninja skills has meant the family home also plays a part in Benny’s training, with a set-up in the backyard.

“At home, I have monkey bars, some grips, and I just got a new salmon ladder,” Benny says. “But Dad is building a new shed to put more obstacles in for my brothers and I because we spend so much time on our monkey bars.”

Benny’s parents, Tegan and Daniel, couldn’t be more proud of their son’s achievements.

They look forward to seeing what the future brings as he advances his ninja abilities.

“We love watching him learn new things and seeing how de-

termined he is to achieve his goals,” Tegan says. “He works very hard and has to overcome a lot of fears. He is terrified of heights but still sends himself

flying through the air, so I love seeing how good he feels once he’s overcome something he’s been afraid of. We are so proud of how strong he is and how

hard he tries.”

Despite how tough ninja is and the toll it can take on the body physically and mentally, Tegan highlights how much Benny pushes through the pain to achieve his goals.

“He has the hands of a 60-year-old concreter, they are so rough and blistered, but he will still be out on his monkey bars every day regardless,” she says with a laugh. “And we also love our ninja family at Todd’s Personal Training. Benny has plenty of older kids to look up to, and the kids and other families are all so encouraging of each other. When the kids learn new things, everyone is celebrating with them. We are so excited to watch their little team compete and have fun doing what they love.”

Benny has been busy training for the Australian Ninja Games national competition (held in January) after finishing first in the Queensland Ninja Games back in October. It’s all building toward his ultimate goal of an international ninja competition.

“I would absolutely love to make it to the world championships in America one day,” he says. “The top five boys and girls in each age group at nationals get to go there.

“And at the moment, I am really trying to learn the salmon ladder and get better at my balance obstacles too.”

SHEREE HODDINETT

NOMINATE FOR MANGO HILL'S WOMAN OF THE YEAR

Mango Hill Marketplace is asking the local community, to nominate local women for Mango Hill’s Woman of the Year 2023.

THE theme for International Women’s Day this year is #EmbraceEquity, which focuses on gender equity in every aspect of society.

To support this theme, Mango Hill Marketplace has called out the local community, asking them to nominate local women to be in the running for Mango Hill’s Woman of the Year 2023.

This local competition is the latest engagement project from centre management, JLL.

Mango Hill Marketplace customers have proved to be a highly engaged community that enjoys celebrating their locals and are also embracive to the new and emerging community they live in.

The Woman of the Year campaign brings the local community together to celebrate women who make Mango Hill a great place to live.

JLL has generously donated a $300 Mango Hill Marketplace gift voucher for the main prize winner and 2x $100 gift vouchers as runner-up prizes.

The winners will be featured on posters throughout the centre with QR codes allowing customers to scan through to

the Woman of the Year website, where the community can read about the winners and celebrate their local heroines.

JLL’s Regional Marketing Manager, ISPT, Setareh Ferdousian, has expressed her excitement for this new community engagement piece for the centre.

“International Women’s Day has always been an important event for the local Mango Hill community to celebrate. The Woman of the Year competition is a way in which all members of the community can be involved and celebrate their amazing local women.”

“The Woman of the Year competition is a great way to communicate the International

ONLINE ASSISTANCE FOR VOLUNTEERS

Volunteering Queensland will launch a new online tool this month designed to guide volunteers serving on local committees.

MY Governance Journey covers all stages, from starting out to handing over and has a concise collection of relevant information that is easy to find and understand, making things a little easier for the local volunteers who keep our footy clubs, kindies and community organisations running.

ON THE MOVE

Qld's Inaugural First Nations Justice Officer

Women’s Day campaign theme for 2023 #EmbraceEquity, a sentiment that focussed on gender equity in all aspects of society.”

Mango Hill’s Woman of the Year competition will be open 2 February, with the winners being announced on International Women’s Day, 8 March 2023.

For further updates about Mango Hill’s Woman of the Year 2023, follow their Facebook page @mangohillmarketplace.

To stay informed about upcoming community projects, you can subscribe to their email database by visiting mangohillmarketplace.com.au/

“Across our community, many volunteers sit around tables late into the night making decisions, reviewing finances and planning ahead to ensure our local organisations, which are our community’s lifeblood, keep doing what they do,” said a Volunteering Queensland spokesperson.

“However, when you serve on a local committee, there’s a lot you need to know, and it’s not always easy to find help.”

The My Governance Journey tool does not contain everything there is to know. Still, it is an easy-to-understand guide to get started from the view of the individual rather than from the organisation’s perspective, following a circular lifecycle diagram.

“We built the tool with local volunteers who serve on

committees, so it’s designed specifically for the needs of local people who have put their hand up but who may not have much experience sitting around a Board table,” said Volunteering Queensland CEO Mara Basanovic.

built the tool with local volunteers who serve on committees...”

“One of the things people told us is that there is already a lot of information out there –too much, in fact – so what they were looking for was one place to make sense of it all,” said Mara.

The My Governance Journey tool will be released on the Volunteering Queensland website, volunteeringqld.org.au, on 6 February 2023 to coincide with the organisation celebrating 40 years of operation.

The Queensland Government has appointed Stephen Tillett as the state’s inaugural First Nations Justice Officer.

Stephen a Torres Strait Islander man with broad experience working in the criminal justice system. He has also been a volunteer director for the Northern Pride Rugby League Football Club and member of the Queensland Rugby League Indigenous Advisory Committee and Australian Rugby League Indigenous Council He commenced his role on 16 January 2023.

MBRC CEO Resigns

After three years at the helm of Australia’s third largest Council, Greg Chemello has resigned as CEO of Moreton Bay Regional Council. His resignation will take effect on Friday 19 May 2023. Mr Chemello will continue as an independent director of Millovate Pty Ltd in Petrie effective from Monday, 22 May 2023.

See page 15 for more...

“We

THE BOMBING HAS NOT STOPPED

Moreton Bay visual artist Dr Natalia Balo, an Australian citizen who migrated from Ukraine in 1995, views the destruction of her native Ukraine with a sense of increasing dread.

ACKNOWLEDGED world-renowned avian artist Dr Natalia Balo (pictured below) was determined to assist the Ukrainian refugees fleeing to Australia from their devastated homeland. Volunteering with the Australian Translators and Interpreters Service, which provides much-needed language interpretation assistance to newly arrived refugees worldwide, she completed a NAAT certification, allowing her to become an official interpreter.

The hours of talking and listening to the horrific stories of cruelty, barbarism, and depravity meted out to these now-homeless refugees have taken an immense toll on Natalia.

“On 24 February 2022, the incomprehensible news of a horrible war in my birthplace Ukraine hit me very hard,” she recalls.

“Russian planes were bombing Ukrainian cities and towns, and Russian troops were invading Ukraine.”

“I started calling my friends who were left in Ukraine, many of whom live in apartments in my home city Kharkiv. They told me they were awakened by explosion sounds at about five o’clock in the morning. They spent the whole day waiting for the sounds of the sirens and explosions to stop, but they didn’t. Nobody could believe that this was happening. It was a real war!”

Now, after a year, the bombing still has not stopped. Kharkiv has come under continual attack since the start of this terrible war. Ukrainians still listen for the air raid warning sirens and run to seek shelter in basements, cellars and underground train stations.

Ukraine has a population of 45 million, which is nearly twice

that of Australia. After a month of warfare, the United Nations recorded almost 18,000 civilian adult deaths. After ten months, an estimated 500 children died, with another 877 injured. Many volunteer organisations who are on the ground believe these figures to be conservative. Sadly not everyone can leave the devastation.

“My beautiful home city Kharkiv is in ruins, with many residents being found dead under their homes bombed by the Russian military,” Natalia shared openly. “A dear friend Irina and her family, including her elderly mother, have been hiding in their basement for months.”

“Many families cannot leave Kharkiv as they have lost all their savings. Others have elderly relatives who, because of their age, cannot travel. One of my close friends has an elderly father suffering from a stroke and a mother who has had a heart attack.”

“A lot of people I know personally have been injured or killed, including my classmates and members of their families. My old house has been destroyed, and so has my old school building and countless

other places I used to love.”

A vast number of the population of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city located only 40 km from the Russian border, are of Russian ancestry. Many speak Russian as a first language yet do not support Russia.

“I was born in Kharkiv and lived in the city for 29 years,” Natalia said. “I studied at the Kharkiv State Academy of Design and Arts (KSADA), one of Ukraine’s oldest artistic educational establishments.”

“The Kharkiv historic city centre is ruined, and cultural centres are targeted by the Russian bombs. Much of the city’s historic architecture is badly damaged or destroyed, including many

theatres and even the University.”

Kharkiv has been the hardest-hit city; however, urban areas are equally targeted by constant missile strikes on civilian infrastructure. The true impact of the Russian rocket strikes is hard to estimate, as tragically, with power shortages, many vulnerable and elderly residents of Kharkiv are stranded in the ruins of highrise buildings without heating, water, electricity and gas. They cannot reach the shelters or call an ambulance if they are injured.

Natalia said it was hard to describe the complex feelings of the Ukrainian people. She could only name horror, pain, and fear.

“Despite this, everyone is doing what they can. People who are injured help others who are wounded, showing genuine courage.”

The pathos of speeches about heroism always had seemed somewhat phony to Natalia, and the frequent banalities about peace on earth and justice sounded oversimplified.

“I don’t think that way anymore,” she explained. “Now, when I see and hear of the Ukrainian people’s everyday

courage, those simple phrases now acquire a deep meaning for me.”

Natalia and her family, like many other people, contribute to Ukrainian fundraising efforts. Her brother, Vlad Balo, participated in the Barefoot for Ukraine marathon in Auckland in October 2022.

“It is impossible for us to help everybody, but we can have a tremendous impact,” she said. “If you have been thinking about donating to a charity that helps Ukrainians in this humanitarian crisis, now is the time.”

Many people worldwide have expressed their support for Ukrainians, and Natalia says that the people of Ukraine are grateful for that support.

“This kind of unity reinforces us all. Even the power of simple, supportive words gives us hope and faith. Humanity has hope, after all!” she said.

Natalia conveyed the gratitude of Ukrainian refugees and the Ukrainian community in Australia for the Australian Government’s assistance and help from volunteers and everyday Australians.

“My Ukrainian compatriots are so lucky to have the support

of the Australian people and from people from all over the world!” she said.

An acknowledged world-renowned avian artist, Natalia recently achieved additional fame with her bestselling pictorial book Bird Anatomy for Artists featured in the CSRIO’s prestigious book Feather and Brush- A History of Australian Bird Art by Dr Penny Olsen. She had always thought that art could change the world; however, since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, she reached a point where she was finding it difficult to create any art.

“War is incomprehensible; compared to it, art does not appear strong or meaningful,” said Natalia. “Who needs art when the world is burning on fire? However, I am slowly returning to my regular work schedule and research into the Anatomy of Birds.”

“We don’t know how long this hell will last in Ukraine. All we want is to live in a peaceful democratic world and freely create art, express our views, and be open to the world.”

May we never have a war in Australia and Europe.

Vinnytsia, City in Urkraine | Image: Contributed

RICHARD LANCASTER

“...Kharkiv is in ruins, with many residents being found dead under their homes...”

I have pre-planned my funeral, to help take some of the burden off the kids

We all deserve a meaningful farewell and what better way to guarantee it, than by pre-arranging it yourself. You get to choose exactly what you want and in doing so, you’re lifting the burden off your family so they can focus on honouring your life.

SIGN ON TO CLEAN UP

CLEAN Up Australia Day is the nation’s largest community-based environmental event; more than 20 million Australians have participated since its inception. Registrations are now officially open for 2023.

Registration is free, and participants receive a free Clean Up kit containing gloves and bags and other resources, with acks for individuals, families and community groups available Businesses are asked to pay a small fee to cover costs.

Those seeking to create a Clean Up event are encouraged to go through the registration process via cleanup.org.au to ensure their event is covered by Clean Up Australia’s public liability insurance.

“If planning to join an event, we encourage you to register online as it helps site supervisors anticipate numbers and ensures you will be notified if the Clean Up is rescheduled,” said a spokesperson from Cleanup Australia. Donations can be made to Clean Up Australia for those unable to join in. 100% of funds raised through donations go directly to empowering Australians to take positive action for the environment. To register or donate, please visit cleanup.org.au

DREAMS DO COME TRUE

Five-year-old Hamish from Caboolture was recently welcomed by the Queensland Police Service as their newest recruit.

HAMISH (pictured) suffers from dyskeratosis congentia. This multi-system disease affects the brain, causing developmental issues and a degenerative lung condition.

Recently, he spoke with Senior Constable Cameron Clancy of Burpengary Police about his love of policing and wrote a letter to Commissioner Carroll, seeking permission to be appointed as a member of the QPS.

Recently, alongside his family and kindergarten classmates, Hamish’s dreams of becoming a police officer were realised as he was sworn in and issued his own police identification and certificate.

Arriving by Police Vessel Casey Blain, Hamish was given a glimpse into life as an officer as he was piped in by Police Pipes and Drums, enjoyed a ride on the all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and met his new colleagues in the Dog Squad, PolAir, Highway Patrol and Mounted Unit.

In preparation for the day, an

official acceptance letter and police uniform was delivered to Hamish.

“Hamish has demonstrated extraordinary bravery already in his young life and I have no doubt the service would benefit from him joining,” said Commissioner Katarina Carroll, who performed the swearing-in of Hamish.

“This bravery is a quality seen in our frontline police every day, and our organisation is made stronger with Hamish’s appointment.

“The QPS is grateful to be here and be part of fulfilling his dreams of becoming an officer.”

Minister Ryan said he was truly honoured to be part of young Hamish’s celebration today.

“Hamish, you have all the ingredients of a great officer; a passion to help others and courage!

“I hope that you enjoyed your day today and am sure that you will have some very exciting things to take to your next Show and Tell at kindy!”

WALK TO FIGHT MICK’S MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

have known him,” Debbie says.

FOR Mick and Debbie Haworth (pictured), living with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS) has brought about a myriad of changes.

While full of ups and downs, their world is now about doing as much as possible to try and halt the progression of the disease as it continues to take over Mick’s body.

Along with clean eating and exercise, they have taken on the task of raising funds (both here in Australia and the UK) to send Mick to Mexico for Hematopoietic stem-cell transplan-tation (HSCT), an intense chemotherapy treatment for MS.

Knowing it’s a trip that could make all the difference in the world to Mick’s PPMS, Debbie is planning a fundraising walk on 12 February to help get them across the line.

Mick and Debbie have been together since she was 16 and he was 21. They’re now 50 and 55 and have forged an even stronger bond since coming to terms with Mick’s official diagnosis of PPMS two years ago.

“Mick has had ongoing problems with his legs as long as I

“He had numerous tests and no answers for a really long time. He was tested for MS when we were living in the UK, but it came up as a negative result, so we took that as great news.

“Then, about 18 years later and now living in Australia, Mick was diagnosed with Lupus and also needed a big back operation, that was followed by the diagnosis of PPMS. It was pretty hard to hear because there’s no treatment for it here in Australia and it’s a condition that will only worsen over time.”

Multiple Sclerosis means damage to the protective sheath (known as myelin) that surrounds the nerve fibres in the brain and spinal cord. This damage causes scars or lesions in the nervous system, meaning that the nerves can’t send signals around the body properly. PPMS causes brain and nerve function to worsen without notable periods of remission and relapse. About 10–15% of people with MS have PPMS.

Initially, they hoped to head to Mexico in February but didn’t quite reach their fundraising goal. They have now pushed

their departure date back to 28 May.

Mick is a support worker and Debbie is part of The Redcliffe Breakfast Club - but this is one time in their lives they’re turning to others for help.

The procedure will mean Mick and Debbie will be overseas for a month, with 12 months off work and no guarantee of success. Still, this devoted couple is willing to try anything to stop this horrible disease.

“We don’t ask anyone for anything; that’s not who we are,” Debbie says. “But the money we need to send Mick to Mexico is hard to come up with on our own. Having to push back our departure was heartbreaking, but we’re trying to stay positive and hopeful that we can still make it happen.

“Mick is getting worse; his walking is deteriorating fast; he has Optic Neuritis, MS Hug - which feels like he has a belt-tightening around his waist, his balance isn’t great, and he has chronic fatigue, but he never complains.

“He is staying very positive, we have changed his diet (much to Mick’s disappoint-

ment), he regularly attends the gym, and we go on daily walks; we are doing everything possible to keep him mobile until we get to Mexico.”

Once treatment is complete and they return to Australia, Mick will be on a very strict diet. With no immune system, he won’t be able to socialise or even spend time with his grandchildren. Debbie admits that while they are staying as positive as possible, they

don’t want to think about the alternative.

“You always think you have a long time to do the things that you want to do until it’s taken away from you,” she says.

The Walk to Leave Mick’s MS Behind is on Sunday, 12 February, 2023 from Toombul to Redcliffe. Participants can walk anywhere from 5km to 30km or whatever is managable.

The cost is $25, which includes a shirt to wear on the

walk, and prizes will be awarded to the individual and team with the most sponsors. To join up for the walk, visit trybooking. com/CEOCLor to donate; visit the Go Fund Me page at gofund. me/ace58fb3. There are also opportunities available for businesses to sponsor a kilometre for $50.

Mick and Debbie Haworth are doing as much as possible to halt the progression of Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis as it continues to take over Mick’s body.

Mick and Debbie after Debbie shaved her hair to raise funds for Mick’s HSCT journey

SHEREE HODDINETT

For more information visit Facebook page 30K Walk to leave Micks MS behind.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: ANGIE MOORE

OWNER of The Coffee Patch on Hasking, Angie Moore, is a single Mother who ranked in the Top Five Businesswomen category in the 2022 Moreton Bay Business Awards.

Her dream was to create a funky cafe where visitors can have a moment with friends, do a spot of shopping, sit in the garden and be amazed at the food, all without having to travel to Brisbane.

She has achieved it all by doing business a little differently.

Angie grew up with parents who were canteen operators, which meant she was cooking for pony clubs, dog shows, schools and tuckshops by age seven. Although Angie pursued a career in education for 15 years, she still dreamt of owning a cafe.

She opened the doors to the Coffee Patch three years ago and was busy from the get-go.

Three months later, pandemic lockdowns threatened its viability, so Angie and her team scrambled. They kept the cafe afloat by introducing burger and rib nights, picnic and Mother’s Day hampers, beach food takeaways and catering options. It worked.

As a mother of a child with

special needs, Angie understands the power and positive value a kind gesture or a show of empathy can have in lifting the spirits of another person struggling emotionally.

Showing care and concern for her customers is a habit she’s adopted in running the Coffee Patch cafe, and it is evident the customers love it.

“It is not hard to engage and check in with other people because, honestly, sometimes, life is really tough,” confesses Angie.

You rarely see customers checking their phones at Angie’s cafe, making it unique. Instead, the customers will browse for gifts and pot plants or chat with others.

Angie says, “People want to engage because we engage with them.”

Her bubbly, larger-than-life presence, chatting or cracking joking with patrons, is a significant part of the cafe’s popularity, but Angie remains modest.

“The public might say, ‘I am

the Coffee patch,’ but it’s about my team, it’s not about me,” she insists.

Despite not having had a day off in five months, Angie praises her team’s hard work, emphasizing their collaborative, efficient qualities – which she considers crucial in hospitality.

Angie believes the consistency of her products also accounts for the cafe’s success, post-Covid, adding, “It’s not just about fresh food or delicious coffee. It’s about truly valuing customers because, without them, I don’t have a business.

Angie wants customers to leave the cafe saying they can’t wait to return. She believes the cafe hasn’t done a good job until a customer has been back three times, and she thinks they are on track with that.

Being listed in the Businesswomen’s Top Five at the 2022 Moreton Bay Business and Innovation Awards, Angie hopes to inspire everyday women and Mums to enter the business world.

Not one to rest on her laurels, Angie is currently tossing over new ideas for her business which will do doubt involve a lot of hard work and many kind, caring words.

MARNIE BIRCH

S TRIKING A CHORD

Up-and-coming local band, The Phosphenes have recorded their first EP and look forward to growing their presence in the music scene.

TOBY Vinton, Reece Depasquale and Rosie Bowman, better known as The Phosphenes, are finding their rhythm in the music world just one year after joining forces.

The trio of young musicians are all students at St Columban’s in Caboolture, meeting and forming their band in early 2022. Now, they also have an EP under their belts and are eagerly looking forward to spending more time performing gigs as they continue to spread their wings on their journey to hopefully becoming professional musicians.

With idols including the likes of Kurt Cobain, Dave Grohl, Robert Smith, Stewart Copeland, Jimi Hendrix and Chris Cheney, The Phosphenes who also list bands Nirvana, The Living End, Foo Fighters, My Chemical Romance, The Cure and Radiohead as influences in their style, play a mix of alternative rock.

As the lead guitarist and singer in the band, 17-year-old Reece, along with 15-year-old bassist Rosie, had played together previously before they discovered 17-year-old drummer Toby and The Phosphenes came to life.

“It all came about at the start

of 2022 at school when I had moved from Burpengary and Reece reached out to start a band,” Toby says. “Rosie was the best bassist at school and she and Reece had already played together a little bit before.

“Reece found the name of the band on Instagram and thought it sounded cool. Phosphenes are the squiggly lines and shapes you see when you close your eyes really tight.”

It’s hard to imagine recording your first EP at such a young age.

Still, The Phosphenes have been interested in music for most of their lives, deepening their dedication over the last year as they spent time practising and performing together.

Their EP is called Loose: The Demos and features original songs called Loose, Summer Be Mine, Growing Up, Self Confidence (Lack Of), Enemy #1 and Without You. It’s available on all major streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Music and more.

“We recorded our demo EP at Airlock Studios in Samford and we did everything within a day,” Toby says. “There’s probably a few small mistakes here in there, but overall, we’re extremely proud of the work we put into the EP.”

With a strong support base and the backing of their families, this dynamic trio are sure to go far in the music world.

“All of our parents are super supportive of our music, which is something we’re all extremely grateful for,” Toby says. “Our long term plan is to hopefully play music professionally and be able to travel the world doing it.”

With Toby and Reece undertaking their final year of high school and Rosie going in to year 10, they’ll all be busy with their studies, other hobbies and interests (cricket and soccer for Reece, rugby and baseball for Toby), as well as cramming as much band time into their schedule as possible.

“We’ve already played open mic nights at Solbar, which is something we plan to continue,” Toby says. “We’re really looking to get out and play gigs as much as we possibly can.

“We’d really love to be able to get back in the studio to record some more songs as well. But other than that, you’ll find us playing any and every event that we can at school.”.

Follow on Instagram @thephosphenes_band

With many costs on the increase, it makes sense to secure your cremation at today’s prices with a guaranteed Cremation Deed.

It’s a very simple, secure way of saving and it doesn’t matter whether your service is held in your local church or our beautiful chapel, as all you’re locking in, is the cremation. And should you want to go one step further, you can even select your memorial at the same time. Great Northern has acres of beautiful memorial gardens, featuring commemorative rose bushes, streams, green lawns and columbarium walls, all surrounded by natural bushland. CREMATORIUM I

SHEREE HODDINETT

KINMA VALLEY REDEFINES NEIGHBOURHOOD LIVING

A collaborative co-creation between Lendlease and the local community, Kinma Valley, features open space within streetscapes and numerous community gathering spots, such as parks, within walking distance of every home.

Located close to the future Neighbourhood Hub, a key convenience centre within the community, Kinma Valley’s first residents will enjoy easy access to this connected and vibrant destination. Excitingly, this hub is proposed to feature a grocery store, childcare centre, coffee shop and local specialty retailers.

Paying homage to a part of the history of the site, the first stage of the Neighbourhood Hub, a Sales and Information Centre, will be repurposed from an existing house that currently sits on-site.

Lendlease Senior Development Manager

Tanya Martin said “The Neighbourhood Hub preserves an element of the land’s history, while aligning with Kinma Valley’s sustainability ethos.”

“Future residents of Kinma Valley can look forward to having the perfect space to connect in the community,” Tanya said.

“The aim is to carefully renovate the old house to retain its history and charm in a mul-

ti-million-dollar upgrade, which will see it transform into a space that meets the needs of our community.”

“People will be able to go and grab a coffee and some food, use the open space to hang out, play and have picnics. It will also provide locals with the convenience and amenity they need to live well with flexible workspaces, meeting rooms and office spaces for professionals and small businesses in the area to utilise, being explored as a part of plans.”

Designed by Brisbane-based architectural practice Vokes and Peters, the Neighbourhood Hub occupies the most elevated position within the masterplan, overlooking the future central park with views to the Glasshouse Mountains.

Renowned for creating homely, private spaces in picturesque residential suburbs and cultural and commercial projects that incorporate nature and authentic narratives, Vokes and Peters Director Stuart Vokes said “The building echoes the practice’s unique urban design ethos that is all about creating a sense of belonging and community.”

“Over the past 18 years, Vokes and Peters has been heavily involved in conservation work in

the inner city of Brisbane and a lot of our thinking is around adaptation, careful reuse and studying cultural significance,” Stuart said.

“What emerges is an architectural language, which uniquely belongs to the place it sits in. The language we’re bringing to Kinma Valley is consistent with its values as a place, which espouses wellbeing, healthy living and connection to nature and community.”

A masterplanned community set on a stunning 234-hectare site in Morayfield, just metres to Carmichael College. Kinma Valley is a 10-15 year project that seamlessly blends the built and natural environments.

Future residents will enjoy an array of amenities, including an expansive 31-hectare central park, a Neighbourhood Hub, parks and playgrounds, and over six kilometres of walking and cycle trails across more than 30 per cent of the site.

To learn more about Kinma Valley or enquire now about land within the Hazelwood precinct, visit www.kinmavalley. com.au or call 1800 861 908.

Top Reasons to Call Kinma Valley Home

• A connected community that seamlessly blends the natural and built environment

• A vibrant Neighbourhood Hub for friends and families to explore, play and learn with views over the Glasshouse Mountains

An expansive 31-hectare central park for local wildlife that’s more than twice the size of Brisbane’s South Bank parklands

• More than 6 kilometres of dedicated walking and cycle trails for the Moreton Bay community

A variety of lot sizes and types, designed to suit every family and lifestyle, are now selling

A variety of lot sizes and types are now selling within Kinma Valley’s first neighbourhood, Hazelwood, which has been uniquely designed to appeal to families of all sizes.

Bribie Island Bridge Upgrade HAVE YOUR SAY:

The Bribie Island bridge turns 60 this year and whilst the original bridge is still holding strong, the idea of adding a new one has been thrown into the mix a few times in recent years. It is now back on the agenda again. As part of the process, the community is being asked to have their say on a new bridge.

The existing Bribie Island bridge was constructed in 1963 and consists of two traffic lanes and a narrow shared pedestrian/bicycle pathway. It is currently the only road link between Bribie Island and the mainland.

Plans for a proposed new bridge were outlined in a recently released business case.

The planning for the business case will consider opportunities to retain the existing bridge and add a new, two-lane bridge with improved pedestrian, bike rider and mobility device facilities. In this scenario, another two-lane bridge would eventually be required to replace the existing bridge.

A further alternative is an entirely new four-lane bridge. The results of the detailed assessment of the existing bridge will be essential in determining its current condition, remaining life, maintenance and rehabilitation costs and if continued use is a practical option.

While previous inspections confirmed the existing bridge is structurally safe and has been properly maintained, continued growth is increasing the demand for a new bridge.

Member for Pumicestone Ali King described the bridge as an icon but highlighted the need to improve access to and from Bribie Island. Ms King said technical investigations to help develop the new bridge’s concept design had begun.

“A detailed assessment of the existing bridge began in November 2022 and crews will soon start geotechnical drilling in Pumicestone Passage to assess where a new bridge could be built,” Ms King said. “How to look after local pelicans will be a key consideration, and we will be working closely with wildlife specialists during the planning phase.

“We know how important it is to improve transport connections to Bribie Island, so this

is an important step forward. I encourage anyone wanting to have their say on the future bridge to make your voice heard.”

An upgraded bridge will provide a range of benefits. These include enhancing connections between the island and the mainland, increased surety of emergency access by road, reduced congestion and delays on the bridge, improved traffic flow and improved active transport facilities. Separating opposing traffic flows, increasing the number of lanes and improving traffic flow will reduce the likelihood of vehicle crashes, leading to improved safety.

Community consultation is open until 27 February 2023. The feedback will help develop a concept design to provide four lanes across Pumicestone Passage and consider the future of the existing bridge.

The concept design will be presented for further community comment later this year.

Funding for new bridge construction will be considered in future funding rounds against other transport infrastructure priorities across the state.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Bongaree Jetty was built in 1912.

The official announcement that a bridge to Bribie Island would be built was made on 17 November, 1959.

Spanning 2,736 feet (8,31.4 m), the bridge cost $716,321 to build with the construction taking approximately two years and 40 men .

The bridge officially opened on Saturday, 19 October, 1963 by Queensland Premier, Frank Nicklin

A toll of ten shillings was charged from 20 October, 1963 to 22 March, 1975.

For more information visit tmr.qld.gov.au search

TO THE POINT

DRIVERS FAIL RBTs: More than 600 drink and drug driving offences have been detected across Queensland between 1 and 9 January this year. This figure comprised 353 drink driving and 248 drug driving offences.

The figures indicate that two in every hundred motorists tested at a RBT stop during that period failed the test.

BRUCE HIGHWAY

RESURFACING: Resurfacing works started late last month on the Bruce Highway between Roys Road and Caloundra Road interchange..

Six kilometres will be resurfaced northbound, and two kilometres southbound, with work expected to take about three months to complete, weather and conditions permitting

Works will take place Sunday to Thursday from 8pm to 5am to minimise impact to traffic along the highway

NEW MILESTONE FOR

CROSS RIVER RAIL : Construction in the 20-metre-deep Roma Street station box has now reached the surface level marking the mega project’s latest milestone with 7,520 cubic metres of concrete and 14,700 tonnes of steel being installed in the station box so far.

SAFETY BOOST FOR BUS

DRIVERS: Bus drivers will be protected with more full safety barriers and additional Network Officers patrolling public transport services, in a major boost to safety across Queensland’s public transport network

SHEREE HODDINETT

NEW DIRECTION FOR GREG CHEMELLO

can reflect on some well-deserved successes over a bumpy three years.

The problems he specified were ‘governance, councillor-management relations, community engagement, human resource management and dealing with rapid urban growth’.

During his three-year tenure, Mr Chemello has demonstrated a nuanced and intimate understanding of the controversial divide between city and country within the Moreton Bay region.

identify as one, but having an identity as a network of communities that function very well individually and collectively as great places.’.

Moreton Bay Regional Council is the third largest local government area in Australia, growing fast, and spans a mix of rural, regional and suburban spaces over a diverse geography.

E-SCOOTER RIDERS CAUGHT OUT

GREG Chemello (pictured) has navigated the council through the Covid epidemic, overseen major planning scheme reforms and helped change the council’s priorities towards a greener and more sustainable future.

More importantly, he has transformed the culture within the council with the help of Mayor Peter Flannery and the new Councilors, who began their term just weeks after Mr Chemello started his job in January 2020.

Mayor Flannery paid tribute to his CEO recently, saying that Mr Chemello had proved to be the right person at the right time for Moreton Bay.

“He has never shied away from making tough but fair deci-

sions, and he has always provided good counsel to myself and the other elected members.”

Mr Chemello came straight from the job as Interim Administrator at the troubled Ipswich City Council in 2020 and immediately tackled similar problems in Moreton Bay.

He knew what he was signing up for.

“It was, like Ipswich, an opportunity that I could not miss,” he said, according to Ipswich First, the Ipswich City Council Newsletter.

In the article, which quoted an email Mr Chemello sent to Ipswich City Council employees, he labelled his future employer, the Moreton Bay Regional Council, as ‘an organisation that needs to address a number of significant issues’.

.In a 2021 interview with CEO magazine, he addressed the area’s identity issue that sparked the Moreton Bay Regional Council’s City versus Region debate in 2022.

He described Moreton Bay’s size, composition and geography as a challenging environment for the council and CEO.

“With most other organisations, it’s been a matter of painting a clear vision and making sure people agree, concur and work towards it.

“Here, we haven’t been so much about that because it’s this loose diversity of communities. It has been more difficult to craft a shared vision.”

Mr Chemello defined his challenge as ‘not trying to craft one single identity because I don’t think all these communities will

Mayor Peter Flannery described Mr Chemello as an agent of change for the council. He expressed hope that they could find another changemaker to build on the foundations laid by him.

With his resignation taking effect on Friday, 19 May 2023, Mr Chemello said he will aim for a better work/life balance after 40 years of full-time employment by taking on some board and advisory roles.

He is undoubtedly qualified, with 35 years of senior management experience, much of it in the property and development sectors.

Mr Chemello will continue as an independent director of the MBRC-owned Millovate Pty Ltd in Petrie, which administers Millovate-The Mill at Moreton Bay.

QUEENSLAND Police have issued fines to hundreds of e-scooter riders for speeding and other offences over a twomonth period ending December 2022.

780 infringement notices were issued under new rules for personal mobility devices introduced late last year.

The most common fines were for speeding, not wearing a helmet, riding on prohibited roads, disobeying road rules, including mobile phone use, and doubling (riding with a passenger).

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said more changes will be announced later this year, specifically on drink riding.

Under Queensland’s e-scoot-

er rules, riders must limit their speed to under 12 km/h on footpaths and shared paths unless otherwise signed and know where and at what speed they can ride.

Mr Bailey said the new rules are already the most comprehensive in Australia.

For more information visit streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au

Do you know the penalties?

Exceed the speed limit by:

1-13km/h = $143

14-20km/h = $215

20-30km/h = $359

>30km/h = $575

Fines similar to bike offences (helmets $143, doubling $143)

Use mobile phone = $1,078

Drink liquor while riding = $431

Use on prohibited road = $173

CITY MEETS COUNTRY IN GRIFFIN

Freshwater Hub development will include boutique retail. park and an urban farm, combining city living with rustic country charm. .

WATTLE Run recently launched the Freshwater Hub development in Griffin with construction to begin this year.

Dr Jennifer Fisher, Director of Wattle Run, said Freshwater Hub combines the convenience of city living via the mixed-use tenancies available in the Freshwater Village Shopping Centre with the rustic country charm of an urban farm and parkland.

Freshwater Hub will include boutique retail at Freshwater Village, Freshwater Harvest (an urban farm), Freshwater Park and Freshwater Place – a residential development by Marquee Development Partners.

“Freshwater Hub will provide locals with an urban farm, vast parkland, family-friendly cafes, restaurants, groceries, specialty shops, medical and fitness services.'

“There will be plenty of lush green spaces intertwined within The Village and the entire complex making outdoor meetings, catch-ups with friends or a lunch break in the park the new norm at Freshwater Hub,” she said.

“Our mantra for Freshwater Hub was to design a truly unique development where lifestyle and convenience are imperative

for creating the ideal community that lives, works and plays together with everything on their doorstep.”

Dr Fisher said having such a unique direction meant finding

the right team of specialists to help realise this vision.

“GEON Property was not just the logical choice for Freshwater Village leasing and property management, but their values

closely aligned with Wattle Run and the Freshwater Hub’s mantra, making them the perfect fit,” she said.

Ben Griffin, CEO of GEON Property, said the contemporary

design, masterplan and community focus make Freshwater Hub a unique and premium location for businesses seeking quality space in a high-demand area in Griffin.

“Like Wattle Run, creating valued spaces that enhance the quality of life for all Queenslanders is at the heart of everything we do.

“The synergies between our companies resonates with business and local communities who see the opportunity to be part of something different.”

Freshwater Village, anchored by Woolworths, has already attracted significant support from the business sector, with some high-profile leases already in negotiation.

These include Woolworths and BWS, which will open a full-line supermarket with a full range of groceries, fresh meat, bakery, deli, frozen goods, fresh fruit and vegetables.

The Village will also see restaurants and cafes, a Chemist, a medical centre, a barber, a newsagency, and so much more join the retail hub when it opens in 2024.

For more information, visit thehubatfreshwater.com

When he leaves his job as CEO of Moreton Bay Regional Council in May, Greg Chemello

BRUCE GIDDINGS

BRUCE GIDDINGS

SUPPORT AND ADVOCACY FOR WOMEN OVER FORTY

RESEARCH indicates that Australian women become happier as they age. Ironically, they are also at higher risk of economic insecurity and homelessness than their male counterparts.

The newly-established Caboolture branch of the Older Women’s Network Queensland Inc. (OWNQ) is one of a dozen groups operating across SouthEast Queensland supporting and advocating for women aged forty and over, promoting their rights, dignity, health and well-being.

Margaret Carr established the Caboolture branch last September along with Barbara Gray, who advertised for members on social media. With around twenty members attending their monthly meetings and coffee mornings, OWNQ is more than just a cuppa and friendship. It is vital in providing local knowledge of care services, transport assistance, social justice options and advocacy.

The ‘dynamic duo’ of Barbara

and Margaret disseminate salient information for older women, arranging guests to speak at their monthly meetings on topics including security, home care services, scams, fitness, hearing and emergency wristbands. And if that’s not enough, the group squeezes in a bit of charity fund-raising via a raffle, with prizes each meeting.

It is well known that feeling connected to your community correlates with better health outcomes. The OWNQ members confirm that having a friendly chat over coffee is a powerful way to address loneliness and feel supported by others in your area. Between coffee mornings and meetings, there is an opportunity for members to chat and connect every two weeks. The group will even assist with transport so all members can attend.

Joining OWNQ can be especially helpful for those who relocate to the area to be closer to family or feel lonely when widowed.

According to Margaret, many

women were restricted to the home, in the past, caring for invalid family members. Their only social outing was to shop or visit the Doctor.

Barbara reveals that these ladies may find going into a large shopping centre daunting, and it takes time for them to gain confidence again, so the OWNQ Coffee mornings are held at smaller venues. Such supportive and considerate friendships are something the members appreciate most about the group, particularly in times of ill health.

“You are never alone,” says Barbara. “There’s always someone just a phone call away.”

Margaret reveals that housing and financial security is the most challenging aspect for women as they age.

After illness, divorce or death of a spouse, older women are more likely to be living in poverty due to a lifetime of unpaid, low paid or irregular work, time out of the workforce caring for family and no superannuation.

Margaret comes across older households where the husband handled finances and administrative matters. Without financial knowledge or skills, the wives may fall vulnerable to scams after their husband’s death. Rents become unaffordable on one

LOCAL MENTORS NEEDED TO HELP BRAKE THE CYCLE

pension. Some house-sit or stay with friends or relatives to avoid homelessness.

OWNQ branches promote the economic empowerment of older women through mentorship, coaching, and networking. They offer advice and a checklist for those considering moving to a retirement home or aged care facility. They also advise women to obtain affordable legal and financial advice.

Margaret says there are still barriers that hold women back: from the gender pay gap to carrying an unfair share of home and family care. She advocates for low-cost housing solutions

for women and recommends they “Keep fighting. Speak with your local representatives. Come to OWNQ meetings and learn about their rights and what is available.”

The Caboolture Older Women’s branch has a lot of wisdom and local knowledge and welcomes new members. They’re a great example of living happier, healthier, better-informed lives in their older years.

$5.45M For New Veterans Hub

Mr Terry Young MP has announced that a $5.45M grant has been approved to Lives Lived Well to support the establishment of the Southeast Queensland Veterans and Families Hub in Caboolture.

The Veterans’ and Families’ Hub will facilitate services that may include mental and physical

health services, wellbeing support, advocacy, employment, and housing advice, as well as social connection to veterans and families.

Lives Lived Well said that they looked forward to providing a dedicated, welcoming, and confidential space for veterans and their families.

Nominate a Qld Great Before It's Too Late

THERE are only a few weeks left to recognise a Queenslander or Queensland-based organisation for their significant contribution to the Sunshine State and to nominate them for a Queensland Greats Award.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the awards were an opportunity to honour Queensland’s homegrown heroes.

THE Braking the Cycle program at PCYC Caboolture urgently seeks volunteer driver mentors. Braking the Cycle is a learner driver mentoring program that helps disadvantaged youth get their mandatory 100 hours to obtain their licence. We match our volunteer mentors with program participants and supply all materials and training.

PCYC Caboolture Braking the Cycle Program Coordinator Emma Hart states, “ob-

taining a driver’s licence is a major milestone for most young people. A licence helps young people secure employment and access further education and housing opportunities.” The Braking the Cycle program in Caboolture has had over 50 successful licence graduates since the program started in 2019.

For thousands of young Queenslanders, completing their mandatory 100 hours of

supervised driving is a significant obstacle. PCYC Caboolture is experiencing this firsthand, with over 150 young people waiting to access the program. Volunteers must have (or be able to obtain) a blue card, have held an open licence for more than one year and be able to commit at least two hours per week to become a driver mentor.

For more information, email emma.hart@ pcyc.org.au or call 0400 538 565.

“This is an amazing opportunity to celebrate the people and organisations that make Queensland great through their commitment, courage and drive,” the Premier said.

“I encourage everyone to look around their communities and their workplace because Queenslanders are doing amazing things every day and deserve to be nominated for a Queensland Greats award.

Since the awards’ inception 21 years ago, we have honoured 115 individuals, 18 institutions and 8 posthumous recipients as Queensland Greats across the fields of business, science, health, education, Indigenous affairs, sport, arts, conservation, community and philanthropy Nominations are open across three categories − Individual, Institution and Posthumous – and close at 5pm, Friday, 17 February 2023.

Award recipients will be announced in June 2023 and honoured with commemorative plaques displayed at Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane.

For more information about the Queensland Greats Awards and to submit a nomination for the 2023 Awards, visit qld.gov. au/qldgreats

OWNQ Caboolture meets on the first Thursday of each month.

A DE-SIGN OF THE TIMES

Rhondda Devin certainly has a flair for putting the right colours and textures together. As an interior designer, Rhondda is the face (and hands) behind all the fixtures, fittings and splashes of colour you see in and around Seasons Living retirement communities.

You may not be familiar with the name Rhondda Devin, but there’s a pretty good chance you may have seen her work. Rhondda is the interior designer for Seasons Living and is the brains behind all the colour, décor, bricks, render and more, that you see when you make your way around one of their retirement communities. Rhondda knows a thing or two about tiles, the best colours to match in a room and despite being in the industry for more than 30 years, still shows a passion and flair that seems to come naturally.

Believe it or not, Rhondda used to be an accountant. Her path into the world of interior design started when she was decorating houses for her own benefit and after requests from others, she decided to take the journey even further.

“People kept asking me if I’d help them with their houses, which is a great compliment to what I could do but I didn’t feel right helping them without the proper qualifications,” she says. “I decided to go and study architecture interior design. But, I dropped the architecture after about a year because I’m not good at the drawing side of things, but I was doing really well in other aspects of the course.

“So I decided to go to the interior side and leave architecture to the architects that can draw better than I did. Because back then, we’re talking 35 years ago, it was sort of freehand drawing and you had to be pretty good at it. I made interior design my focus, gave up accounting and started up my own business.”

It was while she was undertaking work for a Chinese developer that Rhondda met Philip Usher, the man behind Seasons. When Philip started his own business, Rhondda joined him and she’s now been working with him for 30 years.

“Philip is a great guy to work with because for the most part, I get to do what I want,” Rhondda says with a laugh. “He draws up the building and then I have input with how things will look both inside and outside. If Philip decides to build it in brick or use render and I come along and mark the placement of a brick or where render should be used. It may not sound exciting to some, but I really enjoy it.”

Interior design certainly involves a lot more than most people realise. For Rhondda, her role with Seasons Living even involves letter boxes, choosing where the gardens go and even working out where plumbing and lights should be placed. Everything you see in the building comes from what Rhondda has chosen. So, where does she get her inspiration from?

“Sometimes it’s on the hop,” she says. “What I actually look for first is the floor coverings. I used to look for tiles, but now it’s all coverings and fabric. And so the inspiration comes from the fabrics, or floor coverings that suit those fabrics.

“When you’re doing interior design work for other people, you actually have to think about them... because what you give them may not represent what you like.”

SHEREE HODDINETT

“There have been times where I’ve spent months searching for just the right fabric and the same with carpet. You just keep looking until you find it.”

Rhondda admits that there’s often a lot of different ideas ticking over in her brain and it’s difficult to turn off. But it’s her connection to her work that allows her to walk into any Seasons she’s worked in the last 20 years and know if something is missing or out of place. Working in the same industry for so long, also means Rhondda has had to adapt to many changes along the way.

“The biggest change would have to be technology,” she says. “And I’m still not very good at it. I’m a bit old fashioned where I don’t even have emails on my phone.

“But I remember long before we had computers to do the work on and we used to do everything by fax machine. Technology today is definitely advantageous in getting everything done and submitted a lot quicker, it certainly makes life a little easier. Could you imagine trying to write out all the plumbing and lighting specifics for a high rise building down the Gold Coast, it would take forever!”

One of Rhondda’s favourite projects to date is the second stage of Seasons at Mango Hill along with some apartment building projects sticking in her mind. There has been plenty of design success mixed with a few failures, including incorrect roofing colours and tile installation which went horribly wrong. But Rhondda appears to take it all in her stride, even if she hides the stress.

“Nobody is perfect,” she says. “When you’re doing interior design work for other people, you actually have to think about them and how they’re going to live because what you give them may not represent what you like.

“I like a very modern, minimalist style. I’m the type of person who has nothing sitting on my benchtop. We’re all here to work for our client and it’s about what the client wants.”

Although Rhondda has been working in interior design now for more than 30 years, she’s not quite ready to hang up the fabric samples and colour swabs just yet.

“I’m definitely not getting any younger though,” she says. “But I think I’ve still got a few years of design left in me yet.”

“There have been times where I’ve spent months searching for just the right fabric and the same with carpet. You just keep looking until you find it.”

SHOULD I FIX MY HOME LOAN?

Benefits If You Fix Your Interest Rates Now:

Rate rises won’t affect you until your fixed term ends. Experts have predicted that there are more rate hikes ahead and they will not come down until early 2024 at the earliest.

Your monthly repayments will remain the same, saving you money.

Budgeting is easier, as you have predictable monthly repayments.

Risks If You Don’t:

Rate cuts also won’t affect you. Rates can start falling before your fixed loan expires. In this case, you are stuck paying a higher rate.

You might not be able to access features such as extra repayments, redraw and offset facilities.

You may have to pay large break fees if you refinance or switch back to variable rates before your fixed-rate period expires

Once your fixed-rate period ends, your lender will roll you to potentially higher variable rates unless you refinance or make other changes.

At the beginning of 2023, the cash rate sits at 3.10%. These are the predictions as to how high rates will go, offered by senior economists from big four banks:

ANZ: Cash rate will go as high as 3.85% by May 2023 with a series of 25-basis-point hikes each month.

CommBank: Cash rate will rise to a peak of 3.35% by February 2023, when it will potentially pause.

NAB: Cash rate will rise to a high of 3.60% by March 2023 and remain stable for the rest of the year before lowering again by March 2024.

Westpac: Cash rate will rise to 3.85% by 2023 and potentially decline by 2024.

If we look closely at the predictions, interest rates are expected to peak in the middle of 2023 and will start declining from early 2024. Assuming that banks pass rate rises in full, fixed rates are expected to find their ceiling at around 7%.

The pace of rate rises over the last year suggests that they have not reached a peak yet. Borrowers who think a fixed rate might be a

good option for them might consider a term of less than two years. This would save them from increasing rates in 2023 and allow them to benefit from the anticipated falling rates once their fixed period expires. If they lock in a rate for more than two years, variable rates might fall before their fixed term ends and there would be a high chance of them being stuck paying a higher rate.

Benefits If You Keep Your Variable Rate

Save money in interest and repayments if interest rates start falling earlier than predicted.

You can refinance with low or no break fees and reduce your repayments.

You are more likely to be able to make extra repayments and access additional features, such as offset facilities.

Risks If You Don’t:

Be sure you are able to adjust to increasing repayments if the rates keep rising. If not, you could risk missing repayments or even default.

The main reason borrowers opt for fixed rates is that they expect rate hikes in the near future and want to avoid them. However, since fixed rates are currently higher than variable rates, borrowers need to evaluate how much their monthly repayments would be at any fixed rate offered and whether it’s worth it to pay that increased repayment in exchange for cost certainty.

It’s always a gamble, as nobody can predict the future of the economy.

If you’re weighing up your options get in touch with a broker to discuss what might be the best fit for your circumstances and risk profile.

Whether you should switch to a fixed rate depends on your home loan objectives and financial situation. Here are some factors to consider.

VANESSA BRAGDON | VB HOMELOANS

Get Engaged with your Retirement Savings

ONE in four Australians with super (26%) know their precise balance and regularly monitor its performance. This group will likely have higher balances and say they are in the best-performing funds.

A UMR survey of 1,042 Australians found overall, 37% rate their super fund as above average or excellent.

More than half (54%) of those who claim to know their exact balance say their fund’s performance is at least above average, compared with 28% of those who check their super balance once a year and 13% of those who regularly check it.

Men are more likely to say they are in a good fund - 47% of men rate their fund’s performance as at least above average, compared with 29% of women. Only 12% of people with a super fund rated its performance as below average or very poor.

Age does not determine engagement with super either - 30% of those over 55 claim to know their super balance exactly, but so do 26% of those aged 35-54 and 23% of those aged 18-34.

Industry Super Australia (ISA) is urging Australians

HOW AUSSIES ARE BUDGETING FOR 2023

Australian adults were recently surveyed by Savvy, Australia’s largest online financial brokers, regarding their plans to pay off large Christmas expenses and how they’ll keep on top of finances in 2023.

A representative survey of 1,000 Australians about how they’ll avoid financial stress in 2023 has shown that a little over a half of those polled (53%) say they’ll create a budget to keep their finances in order.

(36%) this may prove a winning strategy as the older part of the cohort enter more senior positions.

to get to know their super fund by using these four easy steps:

First, make sure you are being paid all your legal entitlements. Unpaid superannuation impacts three million workers annually, costing them a total of $5 billion.

Second, consolidate your super funds into one account. Finding lost or unpaid super is simple now using the Australian Tax Office tools.

Third, compare the pair and make sure you are with a top-performing super fund. Investment returns after fees are the most important metric in measuring performance. The stapling reform has meant that workers who don’t switch out of poor performers are stuck there for life. ISA research shows being stuck to a dud super fund potentially costs up to $225,000 at retirement.

Fourth, consider making extra contributions to super. A 30-year-old on average wages that salary sacrifices $20 a week into super has $67,000 more at retirement and gets a tax saving now.

62% of women said they would create a budget; while the 25-34 and 35-44-year-old demographics said they would be the most likely to create a budget (65% and 62% respectively.)

12% of Australians (9% of men and 14% of women) said they’d use a budgeting app; 7% said they would consult a financial planner or adviser.

16% of Australians – 12% of men and 20% of women – said they would set up an automated savings plan, such as direct debit to a savings account or managed fund.

Interestingly, a shade under a quarter (24%) of Australians said they’d simply “earn more money than last year.” For the most optimistic demographic, 18-24s

12% would pay more into a mortgage offset account; 16% would make investments (12% into shares, 4% into cryptocurrency.)

As for how Australians are planning to pay off their Christmas expenses, the overwhelming majority (64%) said they would be using their savings.

25% said they would use income from their paycheque, while only 14% said they’d rely on the credit card.

Savvy spokesperson and personal finance expert Adrian Edlington says that inflation and higher interest rates have given people a crash course on managing their personal finances better.

“Over the last couple of years Australians have had to really pay attention to every dollar that comes in and out of the household, and people are mak-

ing more responsible choices with their finances as a result,” he says.

“In our last survey, 76% Australians said they’d only use their savings to fund their Boxing Day purchases if they were buying post-Christmas and 48% said they wouldn’t be making any purchases at all.

“7% said they would consolidate debts, which is pleasing to see – reducing debts and the interest paid on them will mean more money for savings and better overall financial health for households.

“This could all indicate Australians are beginning to spend only within their means, so they could be better prepared for whatever economic ups and downs may eventuate during 2023.”

For the full survey report with graphics visit savvy.com.au.

Research reveals that those who know their exact retirement balances are the most likely to say they are in an above-average performing super fund.

INDUSTRY SUPER AUSTRALIA

COMPUTER WHIZZ-KID'S MORAYFIELD SUCCESS

JACOB Iversen (picture) loved electronics from a young age.“ Computers were all I was really interested in at primary school, he says. “Well, computers and motorsport.”

Jacob’s high school years at Chancellor State High School on the Sunshine Coast saw his focus on computers develop further.

He smiles and labels himself. “I’ve been fascinated by this industry my whole life. That makes me a nerd, I guess.”

Jacob’s mad skills and a natural affinity for people have taken him to his current position, Second in Charge of Pro Computers, a chain of seven computer stores in southeast Queensland up to Rockhampton.

He is based at the Morayfield store, where he works with Kaleb Furminger, another enthusiastic tech head with a stellar background in computers. From the shop in Morayfield Shopping Centre, Jacob keeps in touch with all seven Pro Computers outlets and, at the same time, manages the Morayfield store.

Both guys at Morayfield are sociable by nature, have an

inbuilt customer focus, and are proud to be building and selling a quality product.

Pro Computer builds all their own desktop computers in their onsite workshop, using only “off the shelf” upgradeable parts, avoiding even a hint of refurbished or used parts.

Jacob finds the pace busy yet satisfying, noting that he doesn’t spend as much time under the bonnet of a racing car as he used to. “Too busy for that these days,” he says.

Instead, he indulges his passion for all things technical and “hands-on” during work hours.

Jacob loves to talk about custom design and emphasises the importance of investing in a computer that will suit your particular requirements. “That’s why you are better to talk to a professional about your computer needs and not a salesman,” he says.

He advises that a desktop computer is usually the best buy over a laptop. “It’s a common misconception that desktop computers are “old school.” The only reason I would recommend a laptop is if you need that portability.”

“When it comes to choosing a desktop, a custom-built PC is always the better option over a pre-built system like you get from the big chains,” he says.

“Custom-built PCs use higher quality parts and offer longer warranty periods. They are easy to upgrade and repair in the future and can be built to your exact requirements.”

Pro Computers at Morayfield are experts in computing. They are backed up by a specialised team dedicated to corporate and larger business work. This includes networking, NBN

installs, upgrades and repairs, and other IT support services. This mobile team operates anywhere between Noosa down to the north of Brisbane.

Jacob says the computer business is an all-year-round activity “A computer doesn’t care what time of year it is when it stops working.”

Although he spends much time with administration and designing new systems, Jacob enjoys getting out onto the shop floor to talk with people. “It’s a great balance between the technical side and the people side

PLACE LAWS NOW IN EFFECT

of the business. I get the best of both worlds,” he said.

“And when I get home, I still find time for my racing car stuff. Also, In between my work and cars, I try to find time for gaming and virtual reality worlds.”

Jacob says that Pro Computers Morayfield designs and builds quite a few desktop gaming systems for gamers. “ I love getting deep into design and specs with customers. We specialise in quality gaming systems built to a standard.”

Jacob and Kaleb enjoy their work and are excited about the progress at the Morayfield store.

Jacob says every day is different. “We can’t get bored. There is so much to do.”

“It’s great to see the business growing so fast. We’ve been open in Morayfield since July last year, and judging by the response we’ve had, we’ll be here for a very long time to come.”

The store is located in the northern end of the shopping centre, not far from Big W and next door to House homewares store. You can reach Pro Computers online at procomputers. com.au or by phoning Kaleb or Jacob on 5407 0397.

NEW workplace laws about pay secrecy and what can be included in job advertisements (ads) now apply, with some transitional arrangements. These changes are part of the Australian Government’s new Secure Jobs, Better Pay legislation passed in December 2022.

The new laws include giving employees the right to share (or not share) information about their pay, banning pay secrecy terms in employment contracts and other workplace instruments, and prohibiting job ads with pay rates lower than the legal minimum entitlements that apply to the job.

Businesses with 15 or more employees are reminded to pay family and domestic violence leave from 1 February 2023. Employees of small business employers can access this leave from 1 August 2023.

The Fair Work Ombudsman has expanded their website information and updated resources concerning these changes. The site also provides a helpful timeline of key start dates you can refer to..

Jacob’s mad skills and natural affinity for people have taken him to his current position, Second in Charge of Pro Computers, a chain of seven computer stores.

FOOD and art are two of life’s great pleasures and necessities for a full life. One is nourishment to keep the body and brain ticking over. The other provides sustenance for the heart and soul. What a grim and short existence it would be without them.

At Art So Lively Art Academy, we recently recognized a strong link between food and art, returning to the earliest times. Stone Age artists used food to depict food! Using animal blood and fat to bind plant pigments, they described the animals they hunted. Perhaps the purpose was to bring the image to life as food.

There has always been a significant meaning attached to this tradition. Like their Stone Age counterparts, Egyptian artists interwove spiritual and artistic expression, ensuring that all the foods needed for a good life after death were represented in an important person’s tomb. Also, Roman artists helped society truly celebrate food and wine with Bacchus, god of wine and Ceres, goddess of grain, featuring alongside culinary delicacies in many house-

hold frescoes. But not only the walls! Floor mosaics depicted food scraps on unswept floors after a lavish banquet.

Illustrations in medieval manuscripts provide detailed snapshots of this era’s food culture - both preparation and consumption. Often there was a biblical moral attached, such as

“gluttony is a sin”.

Then in Renaissance times, food continued to be a significant subject for artists and patrons. The standout for me is 16th-century Italian painter Guiseppi Arcimboldo, with his portraits of the Emperors (pictured). These were composed of fruits and vegetables, perhaps

MEET THE ARTISANS

saying this ruler was creating an era of abundance.

Dutch and Flemish painters of the Baroque era became masters of Still Life, skillfully depicting lavish scenes of rare foods as reflections of the patron’s wealth.

Echoing ancient cave artists, Filippo Marinetti, in the early

1900s, started to create art from the food itself. His `Futurist` movement promoted cooking and dining as the centrepiece of this new art form. Following this, Food Art entered the artistic expressions of feminist ideology. Food Art launched new restaurants as art projects. Specially-themed food prepa-

ration was carried out in art galleries, and exotic sculptures were created using food, to name just a few ways art and food collided during the last hundred years.

It seems that food and art remain firm friends, continuing to feed our imaginations.

FOOD AND ART WORLD PREMIERE MUSIC AT MALENY

In ternationally famed bandoneon soloist Owen Salome will perform with the Brisbane Tango Orchestra in Maleny this month.

THE Brisbane Tango Orchestra will welcome famed Australian-born/Buenos Aires-based composer and bandoneón soloist Owen Salomé (above) to perform at the Maleny Community Centre next month, featuring world premiere music specially commissioned for the series.

The bandoneón is quintessential and rarely heard in Australia instrument of tango music. Since the early twentieth century, Argentine tango music and the tango have become a world music phenomenon thanks to notable musicians and composers such as Astor Piazzolla.

Amongst his many accolades, Owen Salomé, an Australian composer/performer based in Buenos Aires, is one of the bandoneónists of the 16th iteration of the 2-year ‘Or-

questa Escuela Emilio Balcarce’ tango program in Buenos Aires: the first ever Australian to hold the position.

Double Bassist Chloe Ann Williamson started the Brisbane Tango Orchestra (BTO). In 2021, despite the constraints of the pandemic, she created a pilot project uniting three smaller Brisbane-based tango ensembles to a local tango orchestra. The sold-out performance of The Piazzolla Effect, a tango concert celebrating the 100th anniversary of Astor Piazzolla’s birth, was hosted at Brisbane’s Old Museum Building.

In 2022, the opportunity to perform at the inaugural Moonlight Tango Winter Festival allowed her to restructure the ensemble – it now features eight virtuosic musicians who perform across various styles of music.

“Artistic development opportunities for tango music in Australia are virtually non-existent. Only a small number of Australian musicians have been able to marshal the resources to undertake the significant training required (usually including travelling to Argentina) to master the complexities of the tango style. My training has allowed me to pass on my knowledge to colleagues in the BTO. “ said Chloe.

The Brisbane Tango Orchestra (BTO) specialises in Argentinian tango music. It will share some brand new and thrilling repertoire with Moreton Bay audiences.

Details: Maleny Community Centre

Friday 10 February | Time: 7pm Location: 23 Maple St, Maleny

Tickets: events.humanitix.com

GABRIELLE TURNBULL

Who are you wearing RED for?

HEART disease is the leading cause of death in Australia.

It kills one person every 28 minutes. Not only is it deadly, but people suffering from heart disease can report significantly decreased quality of life and level of function.

Everyone is at risk of having heart disease to some degree which is why this month is Heart Research Australia’s Red February (RedFeb), raising money for life-saving research, bringing awareness to heart disease and helping keep families together for longer.

Unfortunately, some things that impact our risk level we can’t control. As we age, the risk of heart disease increases. Males have a higher risk than females, but this can change as we age, with risk levels for women increasing. A family history of a heart condition may also place you at a higher risk. However, it is critical to

address the things we have control over. Not only can this positively impact your health, but it may also help improve the heart health of friends and family. Some common risk factors which we can change include the following;

Smoking, including second-hand smoke: smokers are almost twice as likely to have heart disease, and second-hand smoke has been proven to increase your risk

Physical inactivity: two in every three people over 18 years old are either sedentary or have low levels of activity

High blood pressure: high blood pressure is often unnoticed due to the lack of obvious symptoms, but long term, it can lead to serious complications and decreased heart function

High cholesterol: cholesterol is a fatty substance in the blood produced by the body. It also comes from your food. Too

VALENTINE'S DAY CAN BE ALL ABOUT ... YOU

much can create plaques that constrict or prevent normal blood flow.

Being overweight: In Australia, one in four children and two in three adults are overweight

We can all look at our health and see what can be done to care for our hearts. Some people have never had an issue with their heart, and others may have more experience with this than they’d ever want.

It’s never too early or too late to take better care of our hearts. Seeing a health professional with an understanding of Heart Disease to assist with any challenges you may have is a great start.

Participating and donating to causes such as RedFeb helps raise awareness and funding. It is as simple as wearing red and donating.

For more information, visit www.heartresearch.com.au/ redfeb

FORGET the flowers, teddy bears and cheap boxes of chocolates. Who said Valentine's Day needs to be about receiving love from someone else? The best place to start is with yourself. Whether you're single or in a relationship is entirely irrelevant here. Ignore all the claims of loved-up couples on social media platforms and spend time celebrating you and all the best attributes you offer the world.

Need a massage, pedi, mani or facial? Go and get one! Feel like turning the music up and dancing around your house because you can? Just do it. It's good for your body and mental health and, most importantly, can soothe your soul. If you really want that bunch of flowers, a giant teddy or the most expensive box of chocolates, get them yourself! Who cares what anyone else thinks!

When everyone else is getting gooey and lovey-dovey as they head out on the 'most romantic night of the year,' treat yourself to a big yummy meal at home. You can either cook it yourself or have it delivered straight to your door. Carbs don't count if no one sees you

eat them (I'm just kidding, of course!). And don't forget dessert! Even though I'm talking about all the yummy foods that make us feel good, if you like the healthy side of life, treat yourself to your favourite foods there!

Have a laugh. You'll feel better. Not sure how to make yourself laugh because life isn't exactly being super friendly to you right now? Find a funny show or movie, look up terrible dad jokes or watch a comedy special to get those good full belly laughs to help you love the world again.

If exercise is your go-to when focussing on yourself, don't forget to go for a run, do some yoga, pilates or head to your local boot camp. Or slow down the pace and take a leisurely stroll around your neighbourhood and stop to enjoy the simple things.

Being a writer myself, sometimes the best thing I can do is jot things down. It doesn't always help, but putting your thoughts on paper can alleviate your mind and help you in the long run.

Take up a new hobby or learn a new skill. Let's face it, life gets busy, and we forget to take time out for fun or to learn new things. Give yourself time to go and do

ASK AN EXPERT

something different or learn to dance, sew or even use the opportunity to find out to become 'handy' around the house!

Catch up with an old friend you haven't seen in forever. Sometimes being around the people who were once a big part of our lives can help us feel more at ease, especially if you spend time sharing stories and having a great laugh.

One of the biggest things you need to remember is that the most important relationship you have is with yourself, so you must look after yourself first and foremost. Another way to do this is sleeeeeep! Yes, I know, easier said than done. I, too, am guilty of not getting enough sleep; the bags and dark circles under my eyes are a testament to that!

Do yourself a favour when you feel like you need a pickme-up, stay away from social media. In fact, if you can, turn your phone off altogether and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Above all else, be true to yourself and remember there is only one you. Valentine's Day doesn't have to be the only day to practice self-love. You can do it any day or every day!

What is an AromaTouch Technique?

IF you’re looking for better sleep, more energy, a stronger immune system, neurological balance, relaxation, less discomfort, and overall elevated wellbeing you will want to try the AromaTouch massage technique!

Unlike traditional aromatherapy massage, the AromaTouch massage technique utilises eight specific essential oils and blends to promote relaxation and stress relief, offers immune support, decreases pain and inflammation, and elevates mood.

The oils and oil blends used are dōTERRA Balance®, Lavender, Tea Tree, dōTERRA On Guard®, AromaTouch®, Deep Blue®, Wild Orange, and Peppermint.

Balance and Lavender are used for stress management.

Tea Tree and On Guard for Immune Support. AromaTouch and Deep Blue for Inflammation and Wild Orange and Peppermint to bring balance to both body and mind.

The essential oils are applied along energy meridians and on reflexology points to stimulate and promote homeostasis and bring balance in the body.

Environmental factors have a negative impact on overall

health and wellbeing, disturbing homeostasis – the balance our bodies need to function optimally. Such challenges, even when they do not immediately result in disease, cause our bodies to function below optimal levels. AromaTouch massage technique can assist and support your mind, body and soul to come back to balance as a whole.

The... technique utilises eight specific essential oils and blends to promote relaxation...

SHEREE HODDINETT

Landscape Matters to us all, even though it may not always be immediately obvious. Our lives, personal environment and lifestyle are constantly enriched by the landscape we regularly experience; not only through plants and gardens, but in many other beneficial ways.

We are fortunate to live in Moreton Bay a region with a very diverse and attractive natural landscape which is strongly influenced by the varied topography sweeping inland from the eastern foreshores to the foothills and ranges of the west and north. A diverse system of waterways meander across this regional landscape, each providing specialised landscape corridors defined by cascading waterfalls, creeks and rivers, lakes, dams, wide estuaries and wetlands. Every one of these environments display a specialised, attractive and useful plant community, all directly related to the varied landform, soils and waterways. Within this subtropical landscape mosaic, over the past 100 years a city has been slowly emerging, formed by many localities each separated but defined by the local natural landscape elements to create their own special character. Think of the differences between the character of Redcliffe, Petrie, Caboolture, Samford and Woodford, now all part of the one rapidly ex-

MATTERS

panding urban locality abutting Moreton Bay.

It is vital to ensure that the existing diverse natural character of the new and rapidly expanding urban areas is identified, planned and managed to retain and celebrate their botanic and visual differences. Obviously, if our city expansion is carefully integrated within and inspired by this quality preserved natural landscape mosaic, then for all time this will define the urban and suburban character. Moreton Bay has the opportunity now, and only once to create a city that is environmentally responsible, and celebrates a unique enduring natural landscape that has the potential to rank with other ‘garden’ cities such as Canberra. That is the basic reason why ‘the local landscape of Moreton Bay matters’.

PLANTS OF THE MONTH: February

These four local native species represent the four major landscape zones of the Moreton Bay area – coastal, wetland, riverine and hills. Although each is found naturally in a differing zone, they are versatile and will tolerate most other site conditions. These are only a few of the many attractive species that contribute to the flora diversity of the region.

The natural habitat of this attractive tree is along the coast in sandy moist soils, often in full exposure to sun and sea breezes. The yellow ‘bottlebrush’ flower spikes are displayed attractively over the canopy in contrast with the evergreen leaves. This tree with an open, upright, sometimes irregular form, is an ideal street or garden specimen, and very attractive to honey eating birds.

Ask Lawrie

‘Paperbark Tea Tree’ Melaleuca quinquenervia

Although found naturally in the wetter soils of coastal wetlands, this ‘Paperbark’ tree will also tolerate much drier conditions. Late summer rains stimulate many pale cream bottlebrush flower spikes, laden with nectar to attract birds and bees. The new apple green leaves turn dusty green and together with the decorative peeling bark, provide an all-season accent plant.

Bean’ Castanospermum australe

This tall graceful evergreen tree, found naturally as part of the riverine rainforest along local hinterland waterways, makes an ideal specimen shade tree. Decorative yellow and orange pea flowers display in clusters under the canopy in summer, followed by large woody green pods with several egg size brown fruits (non-edible), providing early autumn colour and interest.

This very attractive upright habit tree from the drier hillsides, will provide three consecutive seasons of colour interest, displayed over the decorative diamond shape dark green leaves. In spring to summer attractive large heads of creamy white flowers cover the tree canopy, followed by massed clusters of pea size orange seed capsules which persist decoratively well into autumn.

Lawrie Smith is one of Australia’s more influential landscape architects, best known for the unique landscape of Brisbane’s World Expo 88, and Roma Street Parkland, one of the world’s largest subtropical gardens. He has also designed sixteen botanic gardens throughout regional Australia, using his extensive knowledge of native plants; and leads the Garden Design Study Group of the Australian Plants Society. If you have a question for Lawrie email editor@localtimes.com.au or write to The Local Times, PO Box 105, Narangba Q 4504.

‘Coastal Banksia’ Banksia integrifolia

‘Diamond-leafed Pittosporum’ Auranticarpa rhombifolia

‘Black

LAWRIE SMITH AM LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT

Expanding residential areas of Moreton Bay from Narangba Valley to Redcliffe

Eco Eve

Simple Tips for Home Recycling and Sustainability

Almost one million wheelie bins are serviced every month in Moreton Bay. Did you know that every household in our region produces nearly a tonne of waste each year?

As the population in the region grows, ever-increasing amounts of waste create a considerable disposal problem. Of the 400,000 tonnes of waste collected each year, 18,000 unsorted recyclables are collected and go straight into landfill. Almost 75% of the trash thrown into our wheelie bins could be recycled, mulched or composted.

But there’s good news around waste disposal, too, with new initiatives and disposal services that are opening up options for households to decrease the waste that goes to landfill.

Landfill gas is converted from the Caboolture and Dakabin landfills into green energy to power local households connected to the electricity grid. Currently, it powers over 6,000 homes each year.

Free Mulch: Adding mulch to your garden is one way to preserve moisture in the soil during hot spells, cut down on water usage, improve soil health and deter the growth of pesky weeds. Moreton bay residents can collect garden mulch, free of charge, from the Caboolture and Dakabin waste facilities.

Dakabin and Caboolture Treasure Markets: One man’s trash is another’s treasure, so they say. Used indoor and outdoor household items in good, saleable condition, such as furniture, bikes, kitchenware, construction materials and recreational items, can be dropped off at any waste facility.

Treasure Market items are then available for sale at the Dakabin and Caboolture sites on Tuesdays to Sundays between 10am –2pm. You may be pleasantly surprised by what’s on offer: I noted some good quality patio glass tables and outdoor chairs in very good condition.

TOWARDS the end of the 19th century, the Art Nouveau movement swept through Europe, revolutionising architecture and the decorative arts.

Art Nouveau was more than a design concept centred on a desire to revive the crafts and offer good design to a mass audience. These new consumers, the ever-growing rich from the industrial age, bought everything the factories produced.

At its height in 1895, it affected every branch of the applied arts throughout the western world. This design concept changed how furniture, glass,

china, lamps and household items looked to consumers. In no area was it more impressive than in jewellery.

Fantasy was one of the essential ingredients of Art Nouveau. No jewellers took this to a greater extreme than the famous French jeweller than Rene Lalique. Paris took the style to her heart, and by 1900 jewellers such as Lalique, Fouquet and Vever produced some of the best pieces of jewellery ever seen in this century. Their subjects were mainly drawn from nature, such as animals, fish, plants and insects. There was also an Oriental influence,

such as a dragon head pin in gold with bird feathers or a serpent brooch in gold and emerald. The jewellers had a vast range of materials to impress their customers – such as gold, silver, opal, glass, horn, diamonds, rubies and emeralds.

By 1910 their scope was considerably widened by the use of platinum which rapidly replaced silver for diamond settings. Unlike silver, the new material did not tarnish and, because of its greater strength, reduced the metal required to hold a stone securely.

Then in 1914, WW1 reached every corner of the civilized

world and brought about a virtual halt in jewellery production, which ended the Art Nouveau movement. The Art Nouveau movement was dead, a victim of its own self-indulgence and lack of discipline.

These days we scrap most of these hat pins, brooches and rings for gemstones, diamonds, opals, gold and silver, as these items are out of fashion today. If you want to view some lovely Art Nouveau jewellery, visit Lynzay Antiques website www. lynzayantiques.com.au.

Across

2 The phrase soft drink describes this type of beverage (12)

6 Mickey Mouse has traditionally worn shorts that are this colour (3)

7 Peso is the basic unit of currency in this country (6)

8 Name of the main character in The Secret Life of Pets (3)

10 You perform an ollie refers in this sport (13)

14 A male sheep is called a ___ (3)

16 A pharaoh is a ruler of this country (5)

17 Flavour typically in Neapolitan ice cream (10)

19 Number of points scored when a goal is kicked in AFL (3)

20 The only mammal that can y (3)

22 The number of times a whale's heart beats per minute (4)

25 A fruit with three 'eyes' in it's outer shell (7)

28 A sport in which players aim for the 'pin' (4)

29 Earth's primary source of energy (3)

30 Company that used the jingle 'My dad picks the fruit that goes to…' (7)

Down

1 Jack Horner was eating this sort of pie (9)

3 Sudoku puzzles consist of these (7)

4 On Sesame Street, this character lives in a trashcan (5)

5 The name of a fruit which also describes a problematic car (5)

9 Type of drum beaten with hands (3)

11 This continent is home to the fewest countries

Puzzle

(10)

12 One of the Seven Dwarfs who doesn't speak (5)

13 Most wine is made from this fruit (6)

15 Captain Hook's Bo'sun in Peter Pan. Mr ____ (4)

18 The smallest puppy in a litter (4)

20 A famous saying from The Terminator movies, "I'll be ____" (4)

21 The hottest planet in

Solutions on Page 30

our solar system (5)

23 The number of sections in a hopscotch pattern (5)

24 TV show about the antics of an after-school music club (4)

26 The number of years in a decade (3)

27 A magazine that focuses primarily on entertainment and celebrity news (3)

SUDOKU #76

DATE CLAIMERS

IT’S NATIONAL MARGARITA DAY

Celebrate with a cocktail masterclass featuring a Classic, Spicy and Passionfruit Marg! Held in the premium Atonik Spirit Bar at North Lakes Sports Club on Thursday 23 February and hosted by Brown Forman QLD Brand Ambassador Carmen Hartwich. You will learn everything there is to know about tequila!

Every Saturday Narangba Park Run Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate at Narangba’s 5k park run.

Details: FREE, 7am, Harris Ave, Narangba. www.parkrun.com. au/register or www.parkrun. com.au/harrisavenue

4 February

Celebrate World Wetlands

Day at Osprey House and raise awareness of the importance of wetlands. Experience a variety of aquatic life up close with displays of living sea creatures and artefacts provided by Ocean Life Education along with many free wetlandthemed craft activities. Details: FREE, 10am-1pm, Osprey House, 975 Dohles Rocks Rd, Griffin Ph: 3480 3902.

4 February

The Moreton Bay Region

Lunar New Year event will bring a jam-packed, familyfun evening to celebrate the start of the Chinese New Year! Experience authentic Eastern culture, history, traditional music and dance, mouthwatering traditional oriental food, Chinese Dragon dancing, cultural displays, cracker displays, pyro showcases, market stalls, and workshops.

Details: FREE, 3-8pm, Caboolture Town Square, Caboolture. Ph: 3453 1400

5 February

The Thunder From Down

Under, Manpower Australia is an intimate stage production of chiselled bodies, seductive dance routines, cheeky humour and that boy-next-door charm! This isn’t the type of show you just sit and watch – Manpower is a fully interactive experience you won’t forget any time soon!

Details: M$40/NM$42, 7pm, Norths Leagues Club, Kallangur, northsleagues.com.au

5 February

Narangba Rangers Sign-On day. Boys and Girls 5 to 12 years, Boys 12 to 18 years and

Opens 19+ years. Details: 9am-12noon, Williamina Sports Complex, Williamina Court, Narangba.

11 February

High Voltage - The AC/DC Experience. All the heartpounding, blood-pumping, high-octane energy that AC/ DC is famous for as well as perfected note-for-note renditions of all of your favourite AC/DC hits! Details: FREE, 8-11pm, 18+ after 10pm, Caboolture Sports Club, Station Road, Morayfield. cabsports. com.au

11 February Bribie Triathlon Test your endurance by taking part in the last race for the 2021-2022 Bribie Island Triathlon series! Stay up to date with the latest race news by checking the Bribie Triathlon Series Facebook page. Details: from $35, 6am, contact the race organisers on 0481 134 054, or email raceevents@theruninn.com.au

11 February

With a list of world-first stunts in his holster, The Night of the Horse show director Dave Manchon brings an all-star lineup of horses in a never-beforeseen production in QLD. Set in the QSEC Main Arena, this show is sure to get hearts racing, hooves galloping and whips cracking. Details: A$65|C$50, 7pm onwards, QSEC, Cnr Tuckeroo Dr and Beerburrum Rd, Caboolture. Ph: 5433 3222

13 February

The Super Bowl LVII is currently slated for 12 February in the US, which translates to Monday, 13 February for Australians. Details: www.nfl. com

13 February

PRAG Kids’ Art Classes

Starting Term 1 2023, Pine Rivers Art Gallery (PRAG) will be providing kids’ art classes covering different artistic skills

including shading and drawing in 3D, perspective, landscapes and printmaking. Details: $7.50$10, 3.30-4.30pm, various dates, Ages 6 to 12 years, contact Pine Rivers Art Gallery, Ph: 07 3480 6941

14 February

Celebrate Valentines Day at The Boardwalk Cafe with a three course candlelit dinner by beautiful Lake Eden, North Lakes. Details: $129 per couple, 5pm onwards, ph: 3180 2888

17 February

2023 Moreton Bay Expo

Discover a World of Adventure as you browse and compare the latest caravans and camper trailers, plus holiday destinations, boating & fishing, 4×4’s & vehicle accessories,

camping gear, and more!

Details: $12 to $18, Under 16 Free, 17 to 19 February, Redcliffe Showgrounds, Scarborough Rd, Redcliffe. Ph:07 4634 7288 See Ozzy Auto story on p3 for 20% off your tickets.

18 February

Splash and Play at The Mill Water Park! This family friendly event will feature plenty of activities in and out of water. Food trucks, local musicians plus more. Details: FREE, 10am2pm, The Mill Water Park, 1 Moreton Pde, Petrie. Ph: 3453 1400

18 February

Official opening of Taste of Synesthesia by Dagmar Maini. Provoiking news undiscovered neural athways for how we

interpret and experience art.

Details: FREE, 1pm, Redcliffe Art Society, Old Fire Station Gallery, 395 Oxley Ave, Redcliffe.

23 February

Learn everything there is to know about tequila as you celebrate National Margarita Day with a Margarita Masterclass featuring a Classic, Spicy and Passionfruit Marg!

Details: $55pp, 6-8.30pm, 18+, Limited Spaces, North Lakes Sports Club, Atonik Spirit Bar, Flinders Pde, North Lakes, northlakessports.com.au

24 February

1950s Summer Nights Jump back in time to celebrate 1950s fun and games. Why not challenge your family and friend in fun 50’s inspired activities

such as: hula hoops, quoits, hopscotch and retro board games. Details: FREE, 5-8pm, Pine Rivers Heritage Museum, 901 Dayboro Rd, Whiteside. Ph: 07 5433 2710

GET INVOLVED IN:

Ovarian Cancer Awareness

Febfast Challenge

Red Feb Heart Research

International Asperger’s Day (18th)

World Cancer Day (4th)

National Apology Day (13th)

Hearing Awareness Week (25th)

Teal Ribbon Day (22nd)

Rare Diseases Day (28th)

Note: Whilst this information was correct at time of printing. we encourage you to check with the organiser in the instance of any event changes.

THE CRYPTIC CRITIC

The Ukraine/Russia war continues.

Is it not time... to call Putin’s bluff?

RICHARD LANCASTER

THE continuance of the near yearlong Ukraine/Russia war is beyond my comprehension. Every day we are bombarded with appalling scenes of unbelievable inhuman cruelty and devastation on Ukraine and its long-suffering people by a Putin-led Russia. Ukraine’s only wish was to stand proud as an independent nation, to determine its own future and retain its sovereign territory as determined when the old Soviet Union disintegrated in 1991.

The western world and the members of NATO in particular, whilst verbally condemning Putin’s atrocities, imposing apparently ineffective sanctions as well as providing Ukraine with weaponry to defend itself with, which has only created more destruction and misery, had done what they should have done in the first place.

Had NATO members acted promptly and positively when Ukraine first applied for NATO membership, Putin would have been forced to think again about invading Ukraine? By being a new NATO member, it

The World According to Kate MUMMY MAFIA

would have then forced him to declare war on NATO. Instead, Putin was given an open door into an alone Ukraine and has since been able to thumb his nose at the West’s and NATO’s efforts to curb his territorial ambitions. The world and Ukraine watches themselves being destroyed. At the same time, Putin waits, knowing that the allies will, sooner rather than later, get tired of being involved in this protracted, drawn-out war.

Why is Ukraine’s application for NATO membership remaining unfulfilled? Is it not time for the allies to call Putin’s bluff? Or are they concerned that it may not be a bluff?

Other Putin-aligned countries are watching his progress with interest. They are testing the allies by shooting off ballistic missiles towards peaceful territories and encroaching into neutral countries by providing aid to them. The Allies need to show moral courage and strength in these matters or they are in danger of being viewed as Chamberlain’s before the start of World War Two!

THE start of a school year presents many obstacles for parents to overcome, and it is around this time of year when I spare a thought for the first-timers. Parents this is, not children.

There are endless tips on preparing your child for their first day, the quest to find the acceptable uniform shoes, stationery items and ideal school bag that will fit the lunchbox, and all the other requirements. By the time the children have been successfully delivered on their first day, I am confident most new school parents want to hit the pub and celebrate their conquest of the new-to-school obstacles. But it is not over. Not by a long shot.

Age-old obstacles faced by generations of parents are on their way. Lack of time and the challenge of fundamental moral values are just the beginning. Yet there is one obstacle many parents face, which is as old as time itself – the mummy mafia.

I say mummy mafia because, in my experience, men are generally not too concerned with what others think. Not enough to make it the centre of their universe and the foundation of their identity as a parent. On the other hand, we women can be-

Letters and emails must be dated, carry the full address of the writer and a daytime telephone number for verification. Letters should be concise and topical. Writers may choose to have their name and email address published rather than their name and suburb or town. Letters are submitted on the condition that Local Times Moreton Bay as publisher of The Local Times may edit and has the right to license third parties to reproduce in electronic form and communicate these letters.

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

come a sickening ball of anxiety just thinking about whether we need to converse with someone.

The mummy mafia exists at every school, though it is rarely discussed openly, so let me lay out my view of this group of parents who are simply adults who have perfected the art of bullying.

I honestly believe this group is behind the ‘modern-day’ school rules. If their child is allergic to certain foods, the whole school cohort should not be allowed to have that food either. If their child identifies themselves as a different sex, then everyone else needs to do that too. If their child doesn’t come first, second or third, they should get a medal anyway because they tried. Seriously people, do you think that type of thinking will cut it when they get a job?

Then there is the simple lunchbox. It used to be a sandwich with jam, vegemite or something similar, an apple and a drink. Most of the time, they were just thrown in the school bag. Somewhere along the line, lunchbox envy became a thing. Members of the Mummy mafia will try to make you feel bad by

not cutting your child’s Apples into star shapes or putting a wrap in a sandwich bag instead of wrapping it in baking paper and tying it up with twine.

In short, the Mummy mafia are people who have nothing to do with their time. Hence, they spend their days doing stupid things, like cutting cheese into dino shapes and then seek validation by showing everyone else.

In my experience, it is hard not to notice the clique master. Other parents hang on their every word, like the people in the background who nod and say ‘yeah’ in rap videos or news reports. The clique master wields a strong power over other parents, forming a small loyal group – the Mummy mafia. Then, collectively, they use time-honoured mean-girl tactics to make you feel excluded. You try to shake it off but being in their company makes you feel like a teenager again.

Over the centuries, the Mummy mafia has adapted its style to be more incognito. The subtleness of it can send you crazy, thinking that you are imagining things, misunderstood or too sensitive. The judgemental glare

We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Country across our region. We also acknowlege and pay our respects to the Kabi Kabi, Jinibara and Turrbal Tradditional Custodians, and their elders past, present and emerging.

SUDOKU SOLUTIONS

of the Mummy mafia leaves parents feeling excluded and bullied.

You don’t need to conform to the standards of those who fancy themselves to be influencers. A person is only an influencer if you allow yourself to be influenced by them. Who cares if you haven’t run 5k and completed a one-hour yoga class before the kids wake up. Whether you choose to cut your child’s cheese into dino shapes or not, what is essential is being kind to yourself about your decision.

The Mummy mafia can’t be pleased because they need to be the best, so they keep changing the rules. The energy you spend trying to keep up could be spent on your child. At the end of the day, a well-adjusted adult is the genuine badge of successful parenthood.

So as you enter the new school year, may you be determined to not allow the few alpha parents known as the Mummy mafia to hinder your pursuit of school-gate friendships.

KPOST: PO Box 105, Narangba Q 4504

EMAIL: editor@localtimes.com.au

ONLINE: www.localtimes.com.au

FACEBOOK: @localtimesmoreton

Previously known as Feature Magazine

MAZE SOLUTION

LETTERS

FROM THE EDITOR

Many of us have missed the free local paper and the community news it brings.

Like Sandra from Caboolture, we celebrate the return of community papers in the area.

Some of us are more fortunate than others, as we have multiple newspapers to choose from. For example, Caboolture receives Moreton Bay News Sentinel, The Local News Island and Surrounds and The Local Times

Each paper is owned and operated by separate editors and carries a different voice on local matters.

Whilst the papers cross over in some suburbs, they primarily focus on different areas.

The Local Times concentrates on Caboolture, Petrie, North Lakes and the surrounding suburbs. Other editors can clarify their focus should you wish to contact them.

We hope you enjoy the variety of stories and information published in our local newspapers.

POINT OF DIFFERENCE

Two articles in your January edition caught my attention. One, the report that a majority of Moreton Bay residents don’t want to become part of a city. The other contained a quote from The Mayor saying ‘I believe Moreton Bay is the only council now capable of preventing Southeast Queensland becoming a mega city that sprawls from Coolangatta to Coolum.’ Surely one step towards that is to maintain our point of difference in not be a city. The Mayor suggests being called a City will make obtaining grants easier but I have not seen anything to confirm this. Let’s hope he rethinks and considers the wishes of the majority rather than his ambition.

Peter | Ningi

LOVING

LOCAL TIMES

I just wanted to thank you for your ongoing support and generosity with covering our NFP into your publication over all this time, and to wish you huge success and health in 2023!

I really love the new format of The Local Times, I love the size and style.

I am seeing new people turn up each week at different meetings I go to on the northside looking for help. And mostly young ones believe it or not. It’s a great sign and thanks to you,

I am sure a lot of people read your newspaper and see the advert and make a decision.

My home group Burpengary Beginners seems to have a brand new person every week!

I always ask “How did you find us?”

Thankyou again so much. SC

A SAD LEGACY

I READ with interest your item on page 2 of the January issue of Local Times, which describes the commencement of work on the Cedar Woods housing development in Hunt Road, Burpengary.

While this is no doubt a moment for celebration by the developers and the Moreton Bay Council, for many local residents it is a day which they will long remember with anger and resentment, as they feel grossly betrayed by their own elected representatives.

The Hunt Road development involves the destruction of many acres of prime koala habitat, and this fact is admitted in the official paperwork relating to the development application. In view of this severe environmental impact on our threatened wildlife, the development application should have been turned down at the outset, as completely inconsistent with the council’s declared policy of protecting our native wildlife

and their habitat. The project involves replacing the previous human inhabitants of the area concerned (who numbered less than 50), with approximately 850 newcomers, living on very small housing plots.

It is ironic that page 10 of the same issue of your paper features an article by Bruce Giddings entitled “Unknown future for koalas” in which he quite rightly warns of the disastrous decline in koala numbers in this part of Queensland, stating that ‘land clearance for housing development is the biggest threat to koalas’.

Yet the Moreton Bay Regional Council continues to approve massive housing developments amounting to environmental vandalism on a grand scale. I note with interest a booklet published by the MBRC with the title “Koala Conservation in Moreton Bay Region” which states “we know we must do all we can to protect these beautiful native animals and their habitat”, and yet by far the biggest offender in this respect is the council itself !

It seems very likely that the present council members will principally be remembered in the future as being primarily to blame for the total extinction of koalas in this region. Is that really the legacy they wish to leave to their community ?

Chris | Morayfield TURD TUNNELS

I am writing to you about an appauling issue in our community which everyone seems to

ingnore. Dog poo.

We have many dogs in our Griffin estate and I am a dog owner myself. My question is: When will dog owners take responsiblity for picking up their dog's poo? Afterall, it is the law. It has reached a point where my the regular council footpath I walk down each day may as well be a tunnel of turds. What is worse, recently I have been required to dodge poo on the footpath!

We all knew we would be required to pick up the poo when we got our dog so please, if you are going to own a dog, be responsible and own the poo.

George | Griffin

CONFUSED

It has been a while since we have had a newspaper in the community and now we seem to have three.

I do think it is wonderful to have the newspaper back but I am confused. What is the difference between the papers?

Sandra | Caboolture

Dear Sandra

We agree with you. It is great to see the Community Newspaper back in force. I hope my Letter from the Editor, published on this page, helps to lessen your confusion.

The Editor KEEP IT COMING

A note to say I enjoy your cartoon A Dose of Dorin. Please keep it coming.

Tony | Petrie

www.localtimes.com.au

PUBLISHER

Local Times Moreton Bay 07 3886 9040 PO Box 105, Narangba Qld 4504

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Darren More 0416 430 792 editor@localtimes.com.au

BUSINESS HOURS: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

CONTRIBUTORS

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Lawrie Smith

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Richard Lancaster

Sheree Hoddinett

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NOT SO CRYPTIC CRITIC

I must take issue with a couple of issues raised in Richard Lancaster’s column “The Cryptic Critic.” First of all, the column is really not cryptic at all. Oxford languages online dictionary defines “cryptic” as “having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure”. Richard seems to make his views quite clear, and not at all cryptic.

Richard announced in his column (January The Local Times) that the council had debts over $300m. He did not mention where he sourced that figure. I spent an agonising 30 minutes looking at the MBRC annual report on their website and could not find that figure. But then again I am not a qualified accountant, and the report is presented so that a layperson would get a headache trying to decipher it.

Perhaps Richard is better able to read the report than I am. I know his column is labelled as “opinion”, but surely a bit of a fact check is in order. If Richard knows that the council owes over $300m, then where did he hear that? Can he kindly direct the reader to the source?

Until he can substantiate this $300m claim, I will continue to doubt it. Surely the MBRC could not have run up a debt of this size?

Tevor | North Lakes

Dear Trevor

Thank you Trevor for your recent Letter to the Editor and your questions relating to my column’s use of `cryptic` and its meaning and my claim as to the Council’s current debt level of over $300 Million.

Cryptic` can mean many things to many people. The Oxford interprets it as `enigmatic’, ‘secret`, `obscure` and `mysterious`. I have always preferred the latter one, certainly not `obscure`.

Secondly I would refer you to a budget speech made recently by Mayor Peter Flannery, as reported by the online Moreton Daily recently.

`On the Region’s debt Mayor Flannery said the Council’s debt would be “extremely manageable over the coming years. The total assets currently owned by Council on behalf of our communities are valued at about $8 billion, while the debt is only around $313 million.”

Trevor, I hope this is to your satisfaction.

From the mysteriously Cryptic Critic

OUT AND ABOUT

GLAMPING OR ROUGH AND READY WHICH STYLE ARE YOU?

You either love camping or you hate it. You’re either prepared for a trip or have no idea what you’re doing. Believe it or not, we all fall under a different style when it comes to hitting the open road and the type of camper you are might just surprise you!

SHEREE HODDINETT

FEELING the warmth of the sun on your face, the wind in your hair, sitting back and listening to the waves roll in or the birds calling in the distance, camping life in Australia is full of magic. But, when it comes to heading out into the great outdoors and getting ready for your big camping trip, how do you get organised? Are you the type to just throw everything in together and hit the road or do you like to be super prepared and have all your ducks in a row? Believe it or not there are so many different types of camping style, you may find yourself falling into one category or taking on a mixture of two.

FULL GLAMPING STYLE

Are you the type of camper that likes the idea of getting away but still prefer some of the comforts from home? No lying on the ground in a small tent for you. You much prefer the comfort of a glamourous tent with full set up (think four poster bed and a fridge), a camping trailer with full inner spring mattress and kitchen on the end or even better, a decked out caravan/bus with all the modern amenities including TV! Of course, you’ll also be wanting some fancy amenities including hot showers and flushing toilets. Don’t forget, you’ll want the best spot on offer too because you saw it somewhere on social media.

ROUGHING IT

A far cry from glamping, is those who throw the basic necessities in their car and ute and head in whichever direction they like the look of. You might head bush for a bit of under the stars camping or even somewhere with a bit of water, you don’t care as long as you’re as far away from civilisation as you can get. You might have a sleeping bag, old mattress or even a swag if you’re feeling a little fancy, along with a 12-volt fridge or esky with a few drinks and food bits inside. Maybe you might throw in a torch too, just so you can find the nearest tree for your night time pit stop.

ALWAYS READY FOR A TRIP

There’s no better feeling than finishing work on a Friday afternoon and heading straight off on your trip because everything is already packed and ready to go. If you’re a regular camper, chances are you have everything set up and in its place, all you have to do is add the food and beverages and hit the road. You’re also the type of camper who has every aspect of your trip planned from the toilet stops along the way to all the sightseeing you’ll do every day while you’re away. Also a seasoned camper, it’s likely you’ll have everything on board to help someone not so prepared, along the way.

THE NOT-SO-SURE CAMPER

Will it rain? Will you need 10 days worth of food even though you’re only going for three? What happens if you get stuck and need help? Can the car drive on sand? If camping isn’t your forte or you’re heading out on your very first trip, chances are you’re the type of person who’s madly doing Google searches in the lead up to your trip, ensuring you dot all your i’s and cross all your t’s. Find a camping buddy, they come in handy and you’ll become an expert in no time!

THE OVER PACKER

How much is too much to pack for camping? If you answered a boot full of food and drink for just one-weekend away, you might be overdoing it just a little. You’re also the person who packs all the wet weather gear with no sign of rain, winter clothes “just in case” in the middle of summer, a full first aid kit in case little Johnny manages to lose a finger, a tracker in case you somehow get lost in the most popular camping spot on the coast and you never know, a fire hose might come in handy, right?! Don’t forget to throw in the kitchen sink because you already have everything else on board!

SHE’LL BE RIGHT MATE

Who needs clean clothes? The ground or the back of the ute will do for a bed for a few nights. I booked a site and my access permit, I’ve done my bit. All I need is a few drinks, snacks and my mates, then I have everything I need for the best camping trip.

We all know someone who fits into one of these categories or is a combination of them all. Either way, we have the best country to camp in, get out there and enjoy it!

As for me, I’m a mixture of The Over Packer and Full Glamping Style – only for a comfy bed, I definitely can’t handle roughing it anymore!

HOLIDAY RADAR

2023

MAKING their Outback entrance in 2023 is the Outback Rail Adventure (launching in May) where guests travel through ancient landscapes and the country town of Ilfracombe in a refurbished 1970’s heritage Rail Motor and the Cunnamulla Hot Springs (launching in June) featuring seven artesian bathing pools on the banks of the Warrego River.

From bush to beach, Barns Lane Farm on the Sunshine Coast will deliver a paddock-to-plate experience on a working farm later in the year, focusing on connection to environment, local producers, sustainability, community and family.

A couple of hundred klicks up the Bruce Highway at Bundaberg, Lady Musgrave Experience will refurbish their original pontoon and relaunch it as a citizen science-based platform. Opening late 2023, the pontoon will offer experiential learning for guests including Marine-Biologist-for-a-Day activities and guided snorkel tours while researchers undertake data collection and Reef research, coral adoption and transplanting programs and Reef health surveys.

While in Bundaberg, drop in for Taribelang Bunda Deadly Dining Experience coming in the middle of the year. Here guests can come together to sample native bush tucker and the best of Bundaberg’s produce, while connecting with Indigenous culture and history.

Brisbane’s skyline has been transforming with the construction of the highly anticipated Queen’s Wharf integrated resort which is scheduled to open in the second half of 2023. The development will deliver a stella line up of hotels, residential apart-

TAKE THE TRAIL

ments, dining, retail and entertainment experiences.

On the Gold Coast, Burleigh Headland will welcome five-star hotel, The Mondrian adding an extra 208 hotel rooms to the bustling beachside suburb.

While in autumn 2023, Essence Boutique Hotel and Holiday Homes at Peregian Beach will bring a 32-suite boutique hotel and 20 custom-built holiday homes to the Sunshine Coast.

In Mackay the Mackay Adventure Lodge will open in March providing lakeview, no frill comfort and shared rooms for up to ten people. Intrepid travellers can sleep under the stars at The Homestead at Lotus Creek, a farm, cafe and campground south of Mackay, opening early this year.

Further north in Townsville, the Morris Group, known for exquisite accommodation options like Mt Mulligan Lodge and Orpheus Island Lodge, will add their magic to the new $88 million five-star Ardo luxury hotel, scheduled to open in late 2023, plus a secluded island residence – Pelorus Island – will unveil five private suites by the water at the south-west corner of the island. Also anticipated in the Townsville region this year is the Museum of Underwater Art’s second installation – the Ocean Sentinels. In Cairns, Accor will launch the 75 room Mercure Hotel Cairns early this year.

There are plenty of undiscovered and surprising experiences to pack into a 2023 calendar of travel. Log onto queensland.com and start planning your next Qld escape today.

TAWNY Trails is open the last Sunday of every month. It is a crafted journey that takes you through the heart of the creative Moreton Bay Hinterland.

The trail takes you from the country feel of Woodford through the lush green rolling hills of Mount Mee, the Glass House Mountain backdrop of Ocean View, and onto the character-filled creative, cultural, and historic towns of Dayboro and Samford.

Tawny Trails is The Creative Living Experience; It’s discovering what it means to live creatively through interactions with artists, exploring creative spaces, and discovering creatively inspirational locations.

You will meet award-winning artists that have had creativi-

The Sunshine State is absolutely bursting with tours, attractions and accommodation that popped up in the second half of 2022, and there’s plenty more on the horizon

FISHING AND RESOURCE SUSTAINABILITY

I was twelve years old when I first started competition fishing as a junior in 1975. The only resource sustainability was size limits; this governs the species of fish and breeding maturity. There were no bag limits or possession limits on recreational fisher people. There were no Total Allowable Catch limits (T.A.C.) on commercial fishing and no green or yellow zones or Snapper and Pearl Perch breeding closures. It was a time when there were no public liability issues, duty of care and drink driving was a normal part of the journey home by the seniors.

As years went by, you could see that there was definitely a decline in the fish stocks in Moreton Bay. Then in the early 1990s, a deal was made for the Bribie Passage to become a netfree zone with the late deputy Premier Mr Tom Burns, who instigated the Burns Enquiry. A levy was put on boat registration, now called the Recreational Use Fee, to pay for this net-free zone. Today the annual return to Fisheries Queensland for this fee is over $5 million a year, so we are more than paying our way.

In 2008, the South Queensland Amateur Fishing Clubs Association (S.Q.A.F.C.A) also negotiated the green and yellow zones, followed by bag limits and possession limits some years later. At the time, it was decided to trust science and embrace the limits for the future.

S.Q.A.F.C.A had to adapt immediately- we halved the weight points from ten points per kilo to five points per kilo and doubled the fish points to two points per fish. This was to stop upgrading in weight and encourage competitors to chase other species such as

ty running through their veins since birth, as well as those with academic, holistic, and opportunistic creative backgrounds.

Creativity and/or its appreciation can be found in us all, and this trail will help you find yours.

Tawny Trails maps out all the:

Gar etc.

Most of the S.Q.A.F.C.A. clubs also decided to spread themselves out and chose to fish ‘go as you please’ trips from Double Island Point to the Nerang River regularly. We have also increased the size of our hooks to avoid gut-hooking undersized fish.

When Fisheries Queensland banned the fanning of the top tail on measuring, we had a large number of custom 120mm wide aluminium measuring sticks made for our members. We also release the fish if the fish is just legal on capture as the fish will shrink on ice which will incur a 50-point penalty on the first fish and disqualification on a second undersized fish.

S.Q.A.F.C.A has done its part in resource sustainability over the years. The saying that 10% of recreational fisherpeople catch 90% of the fish is so true. Our current data shows that the Moreton Bay fishery is quite healthy and that we can co-exist with commercial fishing.

Recently, Leanne and I went on a week’s holiday and drove up to the main creek at Yellow Patch, Moreton Island. There were four guys there who stated that there were no fish. We caught 60 Yellowfin Whiting and one Dart right beside them. The difference was we were using $50 worth of live worms with a 1.5m trace and a light one-ball sinker. The guys were using soft plastics with a heavy paternoster trace.

Leanne and I, both bagging out on Whiting, were at our possession limit, which meant we couldn’t catch another whiting unless we had a feed of them or gave some away. We decided to clean and freeze them to take home. So our seven day fishing trip was just three hours.

interesting, scenic, and cultural locations between Woodford and Mount Glorious. It’s also giving you access to private galleries and studios that are not otherwise open to the public.

Its a self-drive adventure that can be enjoyed by yourself, with

partners, family, or friends.

Tawny Trails is the place to escape the mundane, for creative inspiration, to discover new artists, and for motivation to enjoy life and start creating. Offering you the best kind of trail, with options for entertainment, ex-

periences, food, accommodation, and culture. And with our boutique tour guide, you don’t even have to drive.

BRISBANE BAR –

tion and images. Don’t forget, you may not fit all the trail in one day, but they will be here for you next month as well. visit tawnytrails.com

The Bureau of Meteorology gives no warranty of any kind whether express, implied, statutory or otherwise in respect to the availability, accuracy, currency, completeness, quality or reliability of the information or that the information will be fit for any particular purpose or will not infringe any third party Intellectual Property rights. The Bureau's liability for any loss, damage, cost or expense resulting from use of, or reliance on, the information is entirely excluded.

Copyright of the tidal prediction tables is vested in the Commonwealth of Australia represented by the National Tidal Centre, Bureau of Meteorology.

DINING OUT with Marnie Birch

a-la-carte Restaurant with full table service and a range of freshly prepared Café meals with all your favourite treats, drinks & hot beverages. Banyan Restaurant: Lunch from 11.30am | Dinner from 5.30pm. Crave Cafe: Daily from 10am

Ph: 1300 006 572

36-42 Flinders Pde, North Lakes www.northlakessportsclub.com.au

@northlakessports

SPORTS CENTRAL CABOOLTURE

Sports Central Caboolture is Queensland’s newest Club! The Club features a tasty Bistro menu with a range of classic menu items including parmy’s, pastas, steaks & more. The Grounds Café boasts freshly prepared meals, a grab & go selection, cake cabinet & specialty coffees daily from 10am

Breathe Easy Cafe

455 Anzac Ave, Rothwell (opposite Bunnings)

E: admin@breatheeasycafe.com.au

P: 0404 253 429

Pet Friendly Rating:

RARELY do you find a cafe where the staff puts in 100% effort, but Breathe Easy is exceptional. The team takes a genuine interest in customers and serves up Cleanskin full-throttle coffee and reliably nourishing food. Wholesome Gluten Free, Dairy Free, vegan and meaty options are included on the menu. Trina and the crew offer dining-in, takeaway and the outdoor area welcomes pets.

Word in the community has it that their slow-roasted pork infused with garlic on a roll is to die for. Lunch and all-day breakfast dishes, waffles, muffins and slices are complemented by Naked-berry Smoothies with amazing flavour and incredibly only 100 calories a serve.

But there’s more – Breathe Easy offers free music and entertainment at their signature Green Room Burger and BYO nights, held monthly. RSVP to reserve a table as they fill up fast. With an open mic of music and comedy, a range of burgers and a kid’s menu, you’ve got a recipe for a laid-back cruisy vibe the whole family will enjoy. Thanks to the talented chef Tash, my first time trying a VEEF burger definitely won’t be my last.

Opening Hours:

Monday - Friday 6.30 – 2 pm.

Saturday - 7am to Midday.

Ph: 07 5495 1699

Cnr Hasking St & Beerburrum Rd, Caboolture www.sportscentralcaboolture.com.au

budgets at Queensland’s 2019 & 2020 Club of the Year Choose from The Mill Restaurant, Laneway Café or Tempo Lounge & Bar. Open Daily from 10am

Ph: 5497 9711 19-27 Station Rd, Morayfield www.cabsports.com.au

@cabsports

For The Diary:

Monthly Green Room Burger Nights Sessionlive music, stories, comedy, and performance art. BYO! Kitchen opens from 5 pm. Live performances kick off at 6pm. RSVP to reserve a table. Check the Facebook page for upcoming dates.

In Restaurant 3747 enjoy a friendly, fresh vibe with kids’ outdoor playground and kid’s electronic play area. We have a tasty menu designed to cater for all tastes including vegetarian and vegan friendly options. Join to become a reward member and enjoy the benefits of membership prices and exclusive member only meal deals. We highly suggest making a booking to ensure we have a seat for you. Open 7 days.

Lunch

Lunch from 11:30am and Dinner from 5:30pm.

Ph: 3491 1000 34-47 Golden Wattle Drive, Narangba www.narangbavalleytavern.com.au

@NVTavern