Qld Guides | Beenleigh - February 2022

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There is so much to be excited about this month. From Valentine’s Day to the Chinese New Year, not to mention the launch of our Logan app!

For this February issue, it’s all about love. Make sure you stop and smell the roses, because love is in the air (for some of us, that is). Whether you’re in a lifelong committed relationship or single trying to decipher what your crush texted you, we at the Logan City Guides are here to make your Valentine’s Day all you’ve ever dreamed of and more on page 13 and 76. With these articles, you can also take Valentine’s Day beyond Feb. 14 and past a date night with your significant other.

While you’re at it, why not stop by at your local café for brunch or to catch up for a coffee with friends. We’ve put together a list of some of the best breakfast spots in Logan for you to try!

This month, among other topics in this issue, you’ll read about kindness. In the midst of a lonely pandemic, there is evidence that kindness is contagious – only it can’t be neatly plotted on graphs or reduced to its reproduction number.

Despite the many obstacles and challenges this month, we’ve managed to push through! We’re also mindful not to take anything for granted; especially our advertisers and contributing writers across our four publications. Thanks to all.

We hope you have an amazing month and a lovely start to the year. Enjoy our February issue.

BEENLEIGH & DISTRICT RAILWAYS

By Dr. Graeme Nicholson.

The Beenleigh District had four different railways up to 1960. The first was the line to Beenleigh which opened in 1885 and extended to Southport in 1889 and eventually to Tweed Heads (Coolangatta) in 1903. Second, was the branch line from Bethania to Beaudesert; the first section opening in 1885 with the line being completed in 1888/1889; fur ther extensions to this line went to Rathdowney and Lamington. Third, was the Logan Village to Canungra branch line opened in 1915 with an extension from Canungra built to service Lahey's timber enterprise. The fourth was the narrow-gauge railway built at the Rocky Point Sugar plantation in 1923.

THE CANUNGRA RAILWAY

A railway from Logan Village to Canungra was first proposed in 1900 with a survey com missioned in 1908. In 1911 the Queensland Government decided to construct the Canungra branch line from Logan Village railway station to Canungra. Construction began in 1913 and the line opened to Canungra on 2 July 1915.

Timber traffic started to decline from 1923 and most of the timber in the area had been cut by the 1940s. There was substantial traffic on the line during the Pacific War after the Jungle Warfare Training Centre opened at Canungra in November 1942. Traffic declined after World War II, and the line closed on 1 June 1955.

The Heck locomotive, now on display at The Beenleigh Historical Village and Museum, will be shown in a future issue.

June

Lahey's Locomotive Hauling Timber on the Canungra to Logan Village Line

1922, The Governor arriving by rail motor at Tambourine station on the Canungra line.

Queensland Railways Map:

A 1923 Map Showing Railways in the Beenleigh District

Logan City

The Logan City app is a one-stop destination for finding local businesses, to see, do and explore Logan.

WORLD CANCER DAY

“CLOSE THE CARE GAP”

Each year, individuals around the globe come together for a day of dedication in the fight against cancer. This day is February 4th—World Cancer Day.

World Cancer Day is a global initiative dedicated to fighting cancer on all fronts. Over the past 20+ years, this international day has demonstrated one very important message: everyone has a role to play in reducing the global impact of cancer and TOGETHER we can do it!

This message of unity has never been more evident as it is now, as we watch the world come together to fight COVID-19. And because of the risk the virus poses to cancer patients and the impact it’s had on cancer research funding, it’s never been more important to come together and unite to defeat cancer now.

What is the theme for World Cancer Day 2022?

This year’s World Cancer Day theme, “Close the Care Gap”, is all about raising awareness of the equity gap that affects so many individuals and communities and costs the lives of those impacted by cancer. Income, education, geographical location, and discrimination based on ethnicity, age or lifestyle are just some of the many factors that can negatively affect ones’ cancer care.

What can you do for World Cancer Day?

There are hundreds of activities and events taking place across the world which you can engage in, both virtually and in-person, to support World Cancer Day. Here are some of the ways you can help:

Post on social media, sharing your commitment

Light up a significant building or monument on World Cancer Day in the official colours –orange and blue

Find a World Cancer Day event near you, or host your own Donate to a cancer charity

Of course, there are many, many other ways to add your support. If you’re still not quite sure, how you, your workplace, school, city, or your community can get involved, take a look at the World Cancer Day website,worldcancerday.org.

There, you will find, freely available resources to get you started, as well as examples of what other individuals and organisations are doing in and around the Day.

IT’S TIME FOR TEA

he KBF Cultural Precinct will be a place where people will come together and connect” stated Devon Pixies owner, Arwen. Located previously in Logan Village, Arwen has now ventured her business across to Kingston, the heart of Logan City. The historic caretaker's cottage at the recently redeveloped cultural precinct is where Devon Pixies now reside.

This is why we’ve chosen Devon Pixies as the starting location for our new community networking initiative,

Here is how it works. Each week a business fills the plate with their gift then takes the plate to another destination. They then introduce themselves to another business that they’ve always wanted to know. Photos of the swap will be taken and posted to the Logan City Guides social media page with the hashtag

#whereistheplatelcg to track the plate’s journey. The process is then repeated so on and so forth.

The goal is to bring people together, and drive action aimed at strengthening the Logan community. Moreover, we encourage you to bring your own contribution. It doesn’t have to be something huge - just a quick like or follow to the participating businesses or give them a visit if you haven’t yet. We invite you to get involved!

“One of the marvelous things about community is that it enables us to welcome and help people in a way we couldn’t as individuals”, Jean Vanier.

With the historic cottage now transformed into a charming tea room and the museums close to completion, Devon Pixie is a must do destination.

“With so many great attractions in such close proximity, it’s the perfect place for people to stop by to relax and unwind after a busy day or catching up with friends and family” says Arwen.

“We celebrate many things - birthdays, new babies, weddings, engagements, new jobs, and even the end of a lifetime. At Devon Pixies, I want to give you and your family and friends the experience of a traditional high tea in this beautiful cottage”.

The historic caretaker's cottage is not the only thing that has had a facelift in the recently redeveloped cultural precinct. Scheduled to

open in early 2022, the Kingston Butter Factory is a vibrant cultural heritage and performing arts hub.

Originally, the Kingston Butter Factory began life in 1907, at the height of Kingston's dairy farming days and as a timber structure. Now, it has been transformed into a place where the City of Logan’s rich cultural heritage and diversity is celebrated. The precinct features the Living Museum of Logan, the Logan City Historical Museum and the brand new Butterbox Theatre in the re-imagined Kingston Butter Factory building, as well as the city’s largest outdoor events space, which will host indoor and outdoor performances and events.

The pièce de resistance is, of course, the City of Logan’s largest purpose-built outdoor events space, which will have a capacity for up to 5,000 people and will attract national and international acts and host major festivals, weekend, farmer and night markets as well as community events including the upcoming Milky Way Markets on the 18th February and Eats and Beats on the 25th February.

For more information about the Kingston Butter Factory and any upcoming events, visit their website https://www.loganarts.com.au/ venue/kingston-butter-factory-precinct/.

For more information about Devon Pixies or to book your high tea or special event (all high teas and events must be booked in advance), head to https://devonpixies.com.au/ or call Arwen on 0449 285 277.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR FLOWERS

LAST LONGER

Where there is great love, there are always wishes ... and flowers”.

The tradition of sending flowers on Valentine’s Day flowers comes from the 18th century custom of sending floral bouquets to pass on non-verbal messages. Each flower had a specific meaning attached to it, with the rose signifying romantic love.

According to IBISWorld, today, Australian’s spend over $90 million on flowers for Valentine’s Day, accounting for 10% of a florist’s annual sale.

So, with Valentine’s Day approaching – we’ve taken a look at how to keep flowers fresh in a vase for longer.

Tips For Keeping Cut Flowers Fresh

• Make sure your vase and cutting utensils are clean, to stop fungus and bacteria-killing your flowers.

• Keep your pruners sharp so you don’t squash the stems when you cut them.

• Use clean water and change regularly.

• Remove all the foliage that sits below the waterline.

• Cut the stems on a 45-degree angle, and re-cut each time you change the water.

• Give the flowers a light mist of water each day to keep the petals hydrated.

• Keep ‘em cool. Place arrangements in cool spots, away from heating ducts and vents.

• Don’t place ethylene producing fruit, such as bananas, apples and kiwi fruit, with or next to your flowers. Ethylene accelerates aging.

HISTORY: KINGSTON BUTTER FACTORY

Dairying was one of the major industries in Logan in the early 1900s. During this time, the prospects of building a butter factory was first discussed by the Logan Farming and Industrial Association.

In April 1905, the matter was again raised and in 1906, it was agreed that the dairymen needed a location that was close to water and a railway line. Kingston was chosen as the best option.

In 1907, the original butter factory made of timber was finally completed. The initial staff included a butter maker, two engineers, a cream tester, two carters and two labourers. The business grew steadily and by 1927 there had been ten additions to the building.

By the 1930s, the factory was producing 40–50 tons of butter each week. It was then declared

by the dairy board that the old wooden factory needed upgrading.

In 1932, a new brick structure was built around the old timber factory, which continued to operate while the building proceeded. The project was not completed until March 1933 and costed £15,000.

The dairy company Peters took over the factory in 1958 and by June 1979, the factory had stopped getting milk from farmers, and only produced cottage and baker's cheese. The factory officially stopped making anything on April 15, 1983 ending a long history of dairy production in the Logan Area.

Orginal timber Kingston Butter Factory in 1920s

Kingston Butter Factory in 1952

SCAM AWARENESS SESSION (FREE)

Date & Time: Wed, 2nd of Feb at 10am Place: 9-11 Jacaranda Ave, Logan Central

GREASE SING A LONG

You’re the one that we want to come reminisce about, oh, those summer nights – Grease is the word, you might have heard? Sing along to such ballads as ‘Hopelessly Devoted to You’ and ‘Sandy’ at Yatala Drive in Theatre.

5 TH SAT 7:00PM

WAITANGI AT TWILIGHT

Celebrate 21 years of Waitangi Day in Logan with cultural songs and dance and a full program of events: Official Welcome, KAPA HAKA cultural songs and dance, Live entertainment, Food stalls including HAANGI and merchandise stalls and Fitness activities.

4 TH FRI 3:00PM

Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct

KIDS PIZZA WORKSHOP

Date & Time: 5th & 6th of Feb at 10am Place: Hyperdome Shopping Centre

HARRY POTTER

ACTIVITY PACK (FREE)

5 TH SAT 9:00AM

Celebrate Harry Potter with take home fun! Take home a Harry Potter activity or some books on magic and fantasy. Celebrate the 25th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K.Rowling. Visit your local library and collect an activity from the friendly staff.

Local Libraries in the Logan Area

5 TH SAT 10:00AM

CHUNG TIAN CULTURAL DAY

Chinese New Year at the magnificent Chung Tian Temple. Calligraphy, Tea Ch’an, Food fair, a Light Offering Blessing Service with a Chinese Lion Dance and cultural performances. A truly amazing experience in this culturally diverse city.

Dates: 5th & 6th of Feb 10am - 3:30pm Chung Tian Temple

CELTIC ILLUSION – REIMAGINED

Date & Time: Wed, 9th of Feb at 7:30pm

Place: Logan Entertainment Centre

INTO THE WOODS

11TH FRI

7:30PM

The first production of the year for the Beenleigh Theatre Group, “Into the Woods”. This classic, by the late great Stephen Sondheim, is an intrepid adventure into the depths of your favourite fairy tales. Season: February 11th - 26th. Crete Street Theatre

MILKY WAY MARKETS

BEENLEIGH TOWN SQUARE MOVIE NIGHT

Bring your own chair or picnic blanket and enjoy a free cup of popcorn if you are one of the first 100 to arrive. Support our local businesses and pick up dinner in the city centre before you visit!

Beenleigh Town Square

11 TH FRI

5:30PM

DISTILLERY NIGHTS

Happy Hour, Live Music, Food...

Date & Time: Fri, 11th of Feb at 5:00pm

Place: Beenleigh Artisan Distillery

18THFRI 5:00PM

Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct’s new Milky Way Markets are a twilight market like no other! Held on the 3rd Friday evening of every month, these markets are action-packed with food stalls, live entertainment and fun for the whole family.

Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct

THE BLACK SORROWS

Date & Time: Fri, 18th of Feb at 8pm Place: Beenleigh Tavern

EATS & BEATS @ KBF

25 TH FRI

5:00PM

It’s Eats & Beats and a music festival rolled into one –register now to celebrate the Kingston Butter Factory’s rebirth as a vibrant new cultural precinct. It’s a perfect date night with your special someone or a great night out with the family. Experience Eats & Beats like never before with over 25 food trucks and a world-class free music lineup featuring Dami Im and Zeek Power.

Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct

THE ABORIGINAL FLAG ‘FREED’ FOR PUBLIC USE

Over the past 50 years, the flag has become an important symbol of protest and celebration for Australia's Aboriginal people - an iconic symbol of Aboriginal Australia. Created in 1970, by Luritja Artist Harold Thomas, the flag represents Aboriginal people and their connection to the land.

However, only recently did the Aboriginal Flag become freely available for public use?

While it has been an official national flag since the end of the last century, its copyright remained with Mr Thomas. Meaning that anyone who wanted to use the flag legally had to ask permission or pay a fee. However, after lengthy negations with the Australian government, they have struck a $20 million deal with designer Harold Thomas to transfer the copyright of the Aboriginal flag to the Commonwealth. Ending a long-running debate about its public use stemming from nonIndigenous company WAM Clothing buying the exclusive rights to the flag in November 2018.

The licence had meant anyone wishing to use the flag on clothing or in physical and digital media had to ask permission and pay a fee. Several organisations were sent cease-anddesist notices.

However, now that the Commonwealth holds the copyright, it belongs to everyone, and no one can take it away.

Mr Thomas said he hoped Australians would use the flag with respect and pride.

"I hope that this arrangement provides comfort to all Aboriginal people and Australians to use the Flag, unaltered, proudly and without restriction," he said. "I am grateful that my art is appreciated by so many, and that it has come to represent something so powerful to so many."

Mr Thomas will retain moral rights over the flag but has agreed to give up copyright in return for all future royalties the Commonwealth receives from commercial flag sales to be put towards the ongoing work of NAIDOC.

The government has also agreed to establish an annual scholarship in Mr Thomas's honour worth $100,000 for Indigenous students to develop skills in leadership and to create an online history and education portal for the flag.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the flag would be managed similarly to the Australian national flag - where its use is free but must be presented in a "respectful and dignified way".

"All Australians can now put the Aboriginal Flag on apparel such as sports jerseys and shirts, it can be painted on sports grounds, included on websites, in paintings and other artworks, used digitally and in any other medium without having to ask for permission or pay a fee," Mr Morrison said.

"We’ve freed the Aboriginal Flag for Australians."

CAPTAIN LOGAN:

EXPEDITION IN 1828

Captain Logan went on many expeditions during his time as Commandant of the Moreton Bay Colony to explore the surrounding areas; like the expedition in 1828 with Cunningham and Fraser.

Allan Cunningham and Charles Fraser were both botanists and explorers. Cunningham was collecting specimens of new plants for the botanic gardens at Kew in England, while Fraser was the Government Botanist of New South Wales and had been instructed to set up a garden for tropical plants at Brisbane. In 1828, Logan accompanied them on a trip to Mt Barney, the mountain he had failed to climb the previous year.

They were ready to set out on July 22, with a party consisting of Cunningham, Fraser, Logan, one soldier and five convicts.

Due to encountering numerous delays when loading and transporting their provisions, the expedition departure was setback by several days. Finally, on July 24, they started from South Brisbane (approximately where the Performing Arts Centre is today) and followed a rough track that had already been marked to Coopers Plains.

Their exact route is difficult to follow, as Logan’s readings of longitude are not exact. However, the route seems to have been through Rocklea and across the edge of Archerfield Aerodrome to Acacia Ridge. Here they crossed Oxley Creek and camped for the night on the western side, probably in the Willawong area.

They followed Oxley Creek southwards on the western side, noticing several Aboriginal camps with shelters different from those they had previously seen.

The twisting of Oxley Creek finally made them decide to cross back to the eastern side. They unpacked the loads and allowed the bullocks to rest while they carried the loads across themselves, took the bullocks across and with considerable difficulty, reloaded the reluctant animals to continue their journey through a forest of honeysuckle oak trees and casuarinas.

They continued, passing through Greenbank, camping that night beside a small creek, possibly

Allan Cunningham (left) and Captain Logan (Right).

Norris Creek. As they walked through the area which is now part of Logan City, they noted that there were at first forests of Banksia Integrifolia (now Logan City’s emblem) and then open forests of sandy soil.

The group then continued southwards to Mt Barney where Logan achieved his aim of reaching the summit. Cunningham climbed to one intermediate ridge, then wisely stopped, particularly as he was carrying a barometer.

Fraser recorded in his journal that “on a careful scrutiny of the fearful precipices which overhung us, Captain Logan detected a path by which it appeared possible, and barely possible, to ascend….and leaving the rest of the party behind, he and I began scrambling on hands and knees to the first peak, a height of about 300 feet, with great difficulty, but having once attained a certain elevation, we had no alternative but to proceed, any attempt at returning in this direction appearing totally impracticable.”

OUR FACILITIES

Plaques commemorating the 150th anniversary of the climbing of Mt Barney by Captain Logan.

HISTORY ON WHY WE BRUNCH

It’s the weekend. You’re feeling lethargic and tired from waking up so early for the whole week. But how about waking up late and heading straight for a good brunch? That sounds like the best plan ever. Because it is!

Millennials believe that brunch is the hottest new trend created by them. But history begs to differ. The first known written mention of the word brunch was penned by Guy Beringer in a 1895. In a London publication called Hunter’s Weekly, Beringer made it clear in his article, “Brunch: A Plea,” that a late social breakfast on Sunday, “Would make life brighter for Saturday night carousers”.

Here in Australia, the late 1940s and early 1950s began to see mentions of brunch, usually as a means of entertaining casually at home.

By 1953, it seems some cafés and restaurants were responding to the trend, with mid-morning dishes such as Welsh rarebit, herrings on toast and “quickie” omelettes.

The modern day Australian café breakfast menu often extends beyond mid-morning into lunch time, or even all day. Whether it’s catching up for coffee, relaxing over brunch or indulging in a long lunch, it is about coming together to enjoy this communal, relaxing and lovely bonding experience. With all the great aspects of brunch to love it’s no wonder the popularity of brunch has seen a steady climb this past century and become the star of weekend meals in recent years.

Want to experience something new? Why not grab a few friends and try some of these local cafes and restaurants producing some of the best breakfasts in Logan.

Don’t fritter away your time with a person who isn’t going to change his or her mind about something. You may end up wasting your time and everyone else’s by continuing to insist that things be done a certain way.

Use this day in the most productive way possible. You have the potential to be extremely successful with whatever you pursue. Take advantage of the certainty you have today because it may not be there tomorrow.

Make sure you show your support to people in all situations. Don’t be just a fairweather friend. Your loyalty to others may be tested today when conflict arises and tempers get high.

Tension connected with work continues to build and there seems to be no end in sight. Take time out for yourself in order to preserve your sanity. Getting too caught up in the drama of your job is dangerous right now.

You will run into some tough opposition today. Don’t let uneducated perspectives tarnish your idea of the truth. Listen to what other people have to say but remember that the final judge is your little voice from within.

Unfortunately, you aren’t able to make the connections you want to today. People you call are unavailable or your unable to attend the virtual meeting you scheduled. Accept this and trust that these things have happened for the best.

Beware of unexpected circumstances today. The good news is that your flexible attitude is perfectly suited to deal with the twists and turns that this day is likely to offer. You’ll find that you can surf the waves easily and turn any situation into a positive one.

Come out of your shell today. You will never find the exact path you want to be on until you explore the different options. You should be feeling quite strong emotionally, giving you the confidence to approach people with authority.

Skirting around the issues today will not get you where you want to go. You are better off facing the music. When you do so, you will actually find that they are playing your tune. Opportunities in the business world are picking up for you. Keep it up!

You may try violently to stand your ground today, but why bother? It is worth it to actually take the opposing argument into account. You have an incredible opportunity in front of you in which you can grow and learn a great deal. Embrace it.

Don’t let another person’s small, thoughtless comment ruin your entire day. The more you tell someone else that they’re wrong, the more that person is going to reject your advice. In general, this is a good time to simply stay out of other people’s way.

Don’t make mountains out of molehills today. Someone’s off-the-cuff comment made this morning could cripple you for the rest of the day if you are not careful. Your sensitive nature is easily hurt. Protect it with a suit of armor.

HELPING PEOPLE LIVE THEIR BEST LIVES

Lifestyle Solutions offers everyday disability support you can count on. From helping you build connections with your community to making your long-term goals a reality, their focus is on supporting you live to comfortably and independently.

Choosing the right services and supports to meet your needs now, and in the future, can be challenging and that’s where Lifestyle Solutions’ Support Coordination team can help.

Their experienced Support Coordinators have comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the NDIS and they will work closely with you to help you make the most of your NDIS funding.

Support Coordinators will discuss your NDIS Plan with you and help you choose and organise the supports you need. They’ll also develop an individualised management plan that addresses your specific needs and goals and have regular check-ins with you to make sure you’re getting the most out of each service.

Lifestyle Solutions also provides specialist dis ability accommodation through their Supported Independent Living (SIL) program. Their SIL pro gram offers people long-term accommodation and a supportive, respectful place to call home. The program gives you greater control over who you live with and how the supports in your home are structured. The program also encourages you to develop independence with your daily living and personal care skills, deci sion making, planning and budgeting.

For more information about Lifestyle Solutions’ Support Coordination and disability accommoda tion services call 1800 634 748 or visit www.lifestylesolutions.org.au

Bhutanese Dumplings

7/18 Fitzgerald Ave, Springwood 3892 2788

Dining Guide

COFFEE & DUMPLINGS

Coffee & Dumplings is a locally-owned community gathering place located in Springwood. Providing the community with an exciting fusion of East meets West flavoursome food at an affordable price for all to enjoy. People can expect generous portions, heavenly coffee, healthy smoothies and thoughtful service. Come along and let us provide you with an experience beyond your expectations.

Big Buns

American Shop 5A/111-121 Grand Plaza

Dr, Browns Plains

Fb: @bigbunsqld

Big Buns in Browns Plains is a game-changing burger joint slinging gourmet burgers and fingerlickin’ ribs. A collaboration between four mates, the American-style eatery was conceived in the midst of COVID-19. The mouth-watering menu has something for everyone, boasting 7 beef burgers, 5 chicken burgers, 5 plant-based burgers and 1 fish burger. So come along and try them for yourself!

MONTE ALE HOUSE

Bistro/Bar

Mexican Cuisine

What a little gem this place is! This is secret craft beer bar and eatery tucked away in the industrial backstreets of Slacks Creek. With an indoor and outside seating area, this place is perfect all year round for social gatherings, functions, Friday afternoons and simply catching up with friends. If it’s the classics you’re after, they have got that sorted.

SERRANOS MEXICAN CANTINA

Old fashioned home cooking using premium cuts of meat prepared and cooked in the traditional way with the freshest ingredients. Serranos Mexican Cantina knows it’s not all about the chilli, it’s about those beautiful Mexican flavours and smells. So if you love your Mexican, give Serranos a call or message and book a table.

HANG ON FOR 5

The problem of the new world of social media lies in the fact that people post all manner of things. People comment on all manner of things. People like, or not like, as may be their preference, on many different social platforms and this is often open to public scrutiny.

And why could this be a problem? As recruiters we have access to many different tools of assessment. Your resume, the interview, reference checks and yes, you guessed it, social media accounts. And dare we say it, it surprises us how many people have few privacy settings around their social media accounts.

Your future employers will search your name and view your public web offerings. They will look at your language, how you interact and

what pictures you post and what you comment on and how. It gives a great insight into their possible future employees.

So it’s not just at Christmas that you need to be conscious of what your social media profiles are telling the world, it’s every day.

I personally have a little 5 second rule – Take 5 seconds to stop, reflect and think of the children! If my children were to see it, or read it, or my future grandchildren stumble across it, would I make them proud? Or would I be embarrassed or ashamed? And not just because I got snapped with parsley in my teeth!

So do a ‘comfort test’ that works for you. You can always request to have a post taken down, or edit a comment but sometimes better not to have it posted in the first place.

Connecting local businesses with ‘Local Talents’.

TALENTIFY

LOGAN HOMELESS

SHELTER EXPANDS OPERATIONS

amid 'urgent' need for emergency accommodation

When Sarah walked into a Logan homeless shelter five months ago, she had no home, had lost custody of her children, and was addicted to meth.

Months later Sarah is, in her own words, "flourishing", with the support she needs to recover and rebuild herself and her future.

"I'd been on methamphetamine, ice or crack or whatever you want to call it, for a year and a half," Sarah told ABC Radio Brisbane.

"I'd been couch surfing, and one morning I just woke up after having acid trip and just decided to leave … where I was living and rung up Sheltered By Grace myself.

A DIFFERENT MODEL

Sheltered by Grace is a homeless shelter based in the Logan suburb of Waterford, with space for 24 people without homes.

Founded by Jason and Lisa Loakes, the notfor-profit charity offers people a safe, private bedroom of their own, with a communal kitchen

Sarah

"It's all referral-based and we don't advertise," Mr Loakes said.

"A lot of it is through government agencies — the local hospital systems will do referrals to us, but we are getting more and more self-referrals. "People that are homeless, a lot of them or most of them do have mobile phones and can google and find us that way."

About 50 people annually leave the shelter ready to be independent, Mr Loakes said, and it was, to his knowledge, one of only three shelters operating in south-east Queensland without regular government funding.

The shelter is almost entirely reliant on private donations and fundraising, while clients do pay some rent.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates about 21,000 people are homeless in Queensland, and during the pandemic, the state government offered rough sleepers emergency accommodation.

Many were then put into social housing or assisted into private accommodation, but others were not.

More broadly, 26,400 families remain on Queensland's social housing waitlist, and anecdotal reports show more people are being pushed into homelessness in the wake of rising rents across south-east Queensland.

There are so many ways you can support the work of Sheltered by Grace and be a part of the solution to end homelessness.

From simply making a cash donation, volunteering time, shopping in their store or recycling - no matter what works for you, they’re so incredibly grateful for your support!

You can learn more and find some inspiration below. If you don’t see what you’re looking for or have a great idea for Sheltered by Grace, please get in contact on 07 32007145 or admin@sbg.org.au

Jason Loakes

Lisa Loakes

LUNAR NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS

2022 may be well underway according to solar calendars, but Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year, is calculated according to the lunar calendar.

Traditionally celebrated over two weeks, Chinese New Year is an important time for many Logan families. This year, Chinese New Year falls on February 1st.

Celebrations at Priestdale’s Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple will be held on February 5th, 6th, 12th and 13th.

Built in 1992, Chung Tian Temple, which means “middle heaven”, was designed to resemble a Chinese palace.

Visitors are welcome at the temple to celebrate this cultural festival. Calligraphy, a vegetarian food fair and a light offering blessing service with a Chinese lion dancing and cultural performances will be held. This is also a great opportunity for people to ring the blessing bell and make a wish for their year ahead.

The final day of the celebrations is usually marked by the Lantern Festival. Many people celebrate this festival by letting paper lanterns off into the sky.

Each year, the Chinese calendar is also linked to one of 12 zodiac animals, each with their own specific characteristics.

The twelve animals are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

The animals are assigned in cycles of twelve years, so 2020 was the Year of the Rat, and so was 2008, 1996, and so on.

2022 is the year of the Tiger! People born in this year are expected to be courageous and active people who love a good challenge and adventure in life.

Make sure you give the Chung Tian Temple a visit and experience what our culturally diverse city has to offer.