It’s almost itching season for garden crashers - From September to April expect to see an increase of these nasty little midge and mosquito guests turning up for a free meal and a place to crash.
However if you’d like a licensed midge and mosquito bouncer (security) at your door, we have an effective and successful treatment that works and will keep those uninvited guests at your neighbors place and not yours.
Call 1300mozzie (1300 669 943) to organise a treatment to bounce the little buggers from entering your property.
Call our team on 1300 669 943 or email admin@1300mozzie.com.au
nother year is passing and as we look forward to 2023, we must say big ‘Thank You’ to you, the readers who pick up our magazine each month, reading & supporting the businesses showcased throughout the magazine. We would like to make special mention of businesses who have donated and participated in last month’s fundraiser event, Bowl for Crowson. Crowson Park Riding for the disabled is a wonderful organisation helping those with disability in our community. Read all about the event, sponsors and people who turned up in support! Big thanks to Beenleigh Bowls for providing the venue and donation too!
This December issue is packed with stories from our contributors to local business such as Cornubia Park Early Learning Centre, who recently opened the centre in Loganholme, together with our popular travel features and ‘Thank you’ messages from the local business owners for your support over the year 2022.
We must confess that it has been a joy for us to produce these guides, and as we look to 2023 with much planned ahead, we look forward to your continued support and bringing you with diverse range of articles, opinions and local business reviews.
Thank you from the team, and have a great Xmas!
A time to Celebrate the old and prepare for the new 2023 year.
We are coming toward the end of the year, but we all have the Christmas season’s busyness ahead of us!
Whether you are in your busiest business period, or the quietest period with family holidays to organise. Most of us will spend some time reflecting on the past year during the next month.
“
Sometimes the most important thing is the rest we take between two deep breaths. - Etty Hillesum
”
Here is a simple process you might consider for your reflections.
Take an hour or even half a day, a notepad or A3 sheet of paper, or even a new Planner, plus a quiet space in your life. Plus a good cuppa or glass of wine!
Relax, Explore, Revive
Acknowledge: What are your thoughts on the successes or challenges that 2022 has brought? Take this opportunity to look back at what has been done well. What have you achieved, and what have you overcome?
Acknowledge your successes and give them a place in your business life notebook. It is about acknowledging the contribution your efforts make to yourself, your staff, and your business. Give yourself (and your team) a pat on the back for those achievements. Without acknowledging achievements and the little successes, we
are not acknowledging our self-worth – it is what motivates us to pursue our future goals next year.
Reflect: Take the time to look at the good, bad, and ugly of 2022. What have you learned? Who have you met? What will you try again, and what do you need to try again? How did you go with your strategies for 2022? Did you achieve your targets? We learn from our reflections on our experiences.
“The best view comes after the hardest climb.”
Prepare for 2023: Start your new year with hopes of different opportunities. Be creative and dream big. Jot down things you would really like to achieve, learn or do. Think about your life and your business, and jot down the big and the small. Make them into SMART goals. Don’t want to do this on your own, then contact Helen or maybe you might like to try our Boost your success for 2023 program.
“If you want something you have never had, then you’ve got to do something you’ve never done.”
Wishing you all the very best for a well-earned Christmas break with your family and friends.
HOLIDAY PROGRAM OFFER: Boost your success for 2023. 30-Day Program: Online, Limited numbers Phone now!
Helen Cowley
Helping you build your knowledge, confidence, performance and profitability with your Small Business Specialist.
Never Underestimate the words "Just Breathe”. Taking the time to pause, close your eyes, breathe and relax as you embrace your natural surroundings while being gently soothed by a horse. What could be more calming than that?
Horses are special creatures. They are majestic, strong, and can display a broad range of emotions. The relationship between humans and horses has been sustained for over 6,000 years. More recently, these beautiful animals have become key participants in animalassisted therapy to improve the mental health of many people around the world.
Doreen Gagel from Calming Minds has firsthand experience with the positive influence and effect that horses can have on a person’s mental health.
“About 15 years ago, I developed extreme panic disorder and it was during this time I came to understand the benefits of meditation, Reiki, breathing and horse therapy,” explained Doreen.
them realise we can change; it can get better. That’s why I originally started Becky’s Place now known as Calming Minds.”
Located in Stockleigh, ‘Calming Minds’ is situated in a peaceful rural setting and feels like the solitude of the rural outback, but in reality, is barely 10 minutes from either central Logan Village, Yarrabilba or Jimboomba.
For over 40 years, Doreen has been around horses and for the past eight years, she has been providing a holistic approach to anxiety and stress management by utilising her mini horses. Originally aimed at children and young adults with anxiety, ADHD, autism and other learning or behavioural issues. Her mini horses can transmute stress, soothe the troubled mind and provide stability and calmness that lasts beyond the boundaries of the hour-long one-onone session.
“It’s all about connections and communication,” says Doreen. Many challenges faced by adults can be traced back to brain pathways that originated in early childhood with modelled behaviours being easily absorbed. It's about
Building resilience and improving the environments and experiences of the early stages of development will help ensure positive health and well-being for future generations.
After completing many certificates and qualifications in mental health/mind care, Doreen has come to realise how greatly underlying anxiety and stress affect the developing child’s brain and how neurological pathways shape all bodily development and function – at a cellular level no less.
“Currently, I have roughly around 20 to 30 students at the moment, with the number of sessions varying for each student. The best way to describe what I do is I explain neuroscience to the everyday person. I help parents and children understand their brain and uncover the reasons behind their anxiety, anger and behaviour while giving them tools and strategies to implement in their day-to-day lives.”
In addition to the private 1 on 1 sessions she provides, Doreen also offers workshops to those providing support to the people who significantly shape a child’s life like childcare centres or disability support workers; either
at their place of work or at her centre with the horses in Stockleigh. The 1-hour workshops help staff understand anxiety and how it affects the people they are working with as well as understand their client's and children’s anxiety.
“I teach them strategies for regulating their own body and the people they work with, bringing calmness and relaxation to any childcare or disability setting,” explained Doreen.
“Calming minds is a place for everyone. We offer learning, peace, healing, and relaxation. There is so much that can be learnt from horses; so, come along, experience a session and let me and my 4 miniature horses give you what you are looking for.”
For more information about Calming Minds and the services and workshops Doreen provides, contact Doreen at 0421 659 052 or email doreengagel@gmail.com
MANAGING ANXIETY SESSION’S
If you blink, you will miss it! Driving down the Mundoolun Rd in search of the historical landmark was somewhat of a challenge. But once you find the entrance and drive up between the trees, what a magnificent sight it is! Have you been there?
Australian Pastoral Company in the Northern Territory. A world tour by the brothers led to their interest in preserving land in national parks. Robert became an independent Member for Albert in the Queensland Legislative Assembly and was Queensland branch president of the Royal Geographic Society. He lobbied for national parks to be established but did not live to see the proclamation of Lamington National Park in 1915, which he and Romeo Lahey had worked for. John Collins died in August 1898 and Anne in January 1901.
The remains of Bullum (who died in 1931) are buried in the Mundoolun Cemetery. He is otherwise known as John Allen and is best remembered for the work he undertook in documenting the language of the Wangerriburra tribe.
The name of Mundoolun is derived from the Wangerriburra word ‘mundunlgunn’, meaning death adder.
The Mundoolun property remains in the hands of the Fraser family, who are Collins’ descendants. The original homestead burnt down in 1939, and the resident of the time, Mrs D M Fraser, was able to save only a portrait of her father-in-law Simon Fraser. Simon Fraser had married Ann Bertha, daughter of John and Anne Collins in 1885.
It was designed by John Buckeridge, who was the official Diocesan Architect of Brisbane. St Johns was completed in 1901 and is one of a few privately owned chapels in Queensland. Today
are on the State Heritage Register. Its construction was supervised by Robin Dodds, who later designed another important local church, All Saints at Tamrookum. It was built for John and Anne’s son Robert Martin Collins in
Michael Fraser has been both a councillor and Mayor of Beaudesert Shire Council. During 1986–87, he undertook the construction of a new homestead at Mundoolun, using timber sourced from the property. The timber was milled at the Logan Village sawmill. Former Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser is a cousin to the residents.
The name of Mundoolun is derived from the Wangerriburra word ‘mundunlgunn’, meaning
As the weather warms up, pools around the City of Logan are being prepped and preened for another summer of fun.
As part of that preparation, property owners, parents and carers are being encouraged to become a ‘pool safety hero’ to make sure little lives stay safe.
Planning Chair, Councillor Jon Raven, said Logan City Council wants people to check their pool fences and gates to ensure compliance with Queensland’s pool safety laws.
“It only takes a moment for a child to slip away from supervision and tragedy can happen if your pool isn’t properly enclosed,” Cr Raven said.
“However, there are a few simple things you can do to earn your pool safety hero badge to make summer as fun as possible.”
Pool safety heroes should: • check pool barriers meet current safety standards
• never lock or prop open pool gates
• ensure pool gates are self-latching
• put phones away and always supervise kids
• teach kids how to be safe around pools
• learn CPR.
“All pool owners have a responsibility to comply with the legislation,” Cr Raven said.
“We want to help owners through education and support if an issue is found in the first instance.
“Fines or legal action are a last resort if someone doesn’t take the necessary steps to become compliant.”
To make your pool kid-safe, go to: logan. qld.gov.au/poolsafety
Rochedale South mum Natasha Pegg is a pool safety hero for her son Braxton.s Christmas approaches, now more than ever before, we’re all counting our money and budgeting for
for family and friends.
While the temptation of the big city lights might attract your attention, stop for a few seconds and consider staying and shopping local this Christmas (and all year round).
Behind every local business is a friendly face and someone who truly
cares. It’s in their best interest to give you the best service and provide a quality products.
We have put together a Guide to give you some inspiration on the many great gift ideas there is to choose from and the excellent offers they have.
Whether it’s gifts or necessities you require, this guide has a varied range that will certainly make your Christmas shopping a much easier task.
This year Santa is shopping local and so should you! From amazing products handmade right here in Logan to unique gifts from local small businesses.
A perfectly presented gift containing a beautiful BEEKind big bear in a refillable glass jar, a pack of 3 BEEKind beeswax wraps, a BEEKind baby bear and a nourishing camel milk and manuka honey soap. All hand made and sourced from their Shailer Park and Slacks Creek hives. $60 // To place an order, visit their Facebook page: @BEEKindLocalHoney
With the holiday season quickly approaching, nurture yourself and your love ones to optimum health and wellbeing. At Inspire Me Naturally, they stock beautiful unique wellness & lifestyle gifts, Himalayan salt lamps, crystals, diffusers, essential oils and much more! Amethyst (left) is an old favorite. It’s a calming and meditative stone, that is an easily giftable crystal. From $49.95 // www. inspiremenaturally.com.au
Sample some of the specially selected rums by the master distiller. Ranging across the limited cask expressions and special releases. Quote code QGB22 when arriving to receive a bonus tasting! $15 // www.beenleighrum.com.au
Spoil someone special this Christmas with a one-of-a-kind alcohol ink pot from What a Hoot Crafts. They come in various colours, with a wooden base or stand and can be custom designed to suit their decor. You can also shop a wide range of resin art including clocks, cheese boards and chip n dips. Pots $45 & Resin $45 - $70 // www.whatahootcrafts.com.au
Incorporating a piece of sculpture from Creative Wairua can truly revamp the look of any home with style and artistry. Their unique carving collection is 100% handmade and can be custom designed for that special someone. Brendon is a master carver, learning his technique and craft from some of the most influential master carvers in Rotorua, New Zealand. The work that Brendon creates is to the highest quality and standard, making his technique and craft sought after. $110 // www.creativewairua.com.au
Self-care and time out to nourish your mind and body is one of the most beautiful gifts to give. At Thérapie Skin & Beauty, you will find a targeted menu of skin treatments for all conditions and concerns. From Peels, IPL Skin Rejuvenation, Non-Surgical Facelifts and DMK Enzyme Therapy to complete Brow Mapping and Sculpting. The flexible option of a gift voucher is a great idea especially when you’re buying a gift for the person who has everything. From $50 // www.therapieskinandbeauty.com.au
Indulge your pup with a cool treat they will surely enjoy! Hugo’s Ice Creamery is a small, local based company created by dog lovers, for dog lovers. They offer a range of single serve, dog friendly ice creams for your doggie to enjoy under the table at your local café, at home, the park or after a visit to the vet! Not only is Hugo’s ice cream a delicious & special treat for the hairiest member of your family, it’s also made with all natural ingredients.Various locations around Logan // www.hugosicecreamery.com.au
At Australian Outback Opals, they showcase the exquisite beauty of Australia’s national gemstone on idyllic Tamborine Mountain. Sourced from all the major opal mining areas in outback Australia, they offer a wide range of Australian opals to suit all tastes. (07) 5545 0888 // www.outbackopals.com.au
Hobby One is your local Hobby shop for Radio Control Vehicles, Model Railways, Model Kits, Slot Cars, Hobby Supplies and more. Take to the skies with the WL Toys Cessna Radio Control Plane which is ready-to-fly, perfect for beginner pilots. All aboard! The Hornby Valley Drifter Train Set is a great addition for any model railway enthusiast. Discover the world of plastic model kits - Entry Grade Nu Gundam and Bandai Star Wars Grogu – The Mandalorian. More choice and heaps of fun at Hobby One! Open 7 Days. 2 / 124 Kingston Rd, Underwood // www.hobbyone.com.au
*Items advertised are while stocks last.
Pets are our companions, our friends, and members of the family. So why shouldn’t we treat them this Christmas just like everyone else in our life? This season, treat your pet in a way that is kind to them, kind to the environment and kind to yourself. The Treatery exists to craft real, whole food nutrition that your pets will love and devour. Their nutritious treats, supplements, and remedies are high quality and promote balance in your pet’s behaviour, wellbeing, and quality of life. For a limited time only, shop their entire Christmas range and treat your pet with 25% off all Thins and Meal Enrichers using the code LOGAN25 www.thetreatery.com.au
With a vast selection of activities here at Thomas N Co Games & Homewares, there’s enough to keep the whole family entertained for hours. Games include cornhole, giant jenga, giant connect 4 and giant dominosall handmade locally! They also offer a large variety of home wares sewn right here at home by Jo. All games are available for purchase via www.thomasnco.com.au
Cauldron Distillery is delighted to offer a very special experience – Gin Making Class!
You will enjoy and learn the art of Gin Making and the history of Gin throughout the centuries with this unique experience. A very intimate class, ideally enjoyed as a couple is limited to only 6 bookings per class. Duration of the experience is 2.5 hours and comes with 3 complimentary gin and tonics per person, and delicious cheese grazing board. $250 // www.cauldrondistillery.com.au
Creamy, rich, freshly made fudge is a fabulous gift to bestow upon family, friends, and lucky neighbours, especially during the holiday season. Granny Macs located right in the middle of famous the “Gallery Walk” on Tamborine Mountain, offers over 40 varieties of mouth watering fresh fudge. There are dozens of delicious flavours from the traditional such as chocolate and Russian caramel, to the more unusual, like lavendar rose or passionfruit. You can also shop array of lollies to suit all tastes. From $5.50 // www.grannymacs.com
Beautiful, bold and unique scrunchies, bows and accessories that are hand crafted with love by Claire Jane. Shop the limited edition Rose Gold Double Layered Classic Christmas Bows or the 4 piece gift pack suitable for all. These stunning bows are a must for the Christmas season and the best thing is that you can wear these all year round! Use the discount code SAVE20 at the checkout to get 20% of your purchase. From $9 // www.clairejanescrunchies.com
Today should present a very positive influence for you, Aquarius. The energy at play will allow for such things as making excellent decisions. Cooperation from colleagues, physical energy, and a sharp mind will support you.
Be careful about opening your mouth in situations in which it isn't appropriate. When the conversation lags, you feel it's your duty to pipe up. By doing so, you may launch the conversation onto an inappropriate topic.
You're susceptible to daydreaming and taking imaginative trips. Consider making a list of everything that you need to do to help you focus. This will help you meet your short-term objectives, and you can take it easy this evening.
You may find today that people are really attracted to you as a friend. This is because you're usually a good listener. You're open to other people's ideas and thoughts and can care easily.
It's good to dream, especially on days like today, Gemini. Expanding your mind and thinking of possibilities are positive ways to increase your knowledge. Give yourself time to think. Why not lie on your back and watch the clouds or stars?
The aspect of the day gives you the power to express yourself emotionally with the people you care about. Rather than wondering whether your emotions will be accepted or validated, express yourself and really let your friend know how you are feeling.
Your confidence is strong, and your emotional state is powerful and confident. Apply this wonderful attitude to workrelated issues whether you find yourself at work today or not. The breakthroughs that come to you today are extremely valuable.
Your method of operation may be very different from that of other people, but this doesn't mean that they are wrong, and you are right. Remember that a judgmental attitude can easily lead to anger and frustration. Let others live their own lives.
Take all of your pent-up aggression from the past week and get it out in the form of physical exercise. Group sports of any kind are especially favored. There is a tremendous amount of frustration within you. Now is the time to let it go.
You have renewed energy. There is a surge of power within you. Use this energy to come up with a new plan of attack with regard to your career and the people you work with. Perhaps it is time you take a stronger stand on something you believe in.
You are in a position of great power. Even if you were not at work, it would behoove you to think about work-related issues. Do some planning for the future. Seeds plated now will turn into a tremendous
will
You may find that you are feeling an uncharacteristic lack of confidence when it comes to your personal relationships today. You will be more aware of your shortcomings if you allow yourself to experience them directly.
Frolic to your heart’s desire on your next flower farm-visiting adventure. Flower fields are absolutely gorgeous – and when you get the chance to frolic amongst the flowers, it’s even better. From roses to lavender, here are some of our snap worthy flower experiences and flower fields near Logan.
Nestled within the Fassifern Valley at Mount Alford is Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm. Experience a meandering sea of vivid violet as you explore the six pretty hectares of vines and lavender fields – not forgetting those mountain views. Kooroomba Vineyard and Lavender Farm provide a southern France experience right on the doorstep of Logan.
Elderflower Farm is a boutique flower farm and garden/flower shop, set on the stunning grounds of The Scenic Rim Farm Shop and Cafe. Beautiful fresh cut heirloom blooms and rustic garden goods are sold on-site, and the flower field is open for enjoying. Floral workshops and ‘pick your own’ flower days are held regularly in the flower field.
Nothing says “summer” like the heavenly scent of roses in the air. Located 40 mins from Logan, Brookfield Rose Farm is home to over 1,500 roses. Customers are welcome to wander the open garden, between the rows of Flowers and experience the variety of blooms. Secateurs and buckets will also be supplied if you decide to ‘PYO’ (pick your own) – a concept most associated with strawberry picking. Flowers are charged per stem, but you get to determine your spend. In addition to the variety of roses available, they also have lilies and dahlias this summer.
True or False: Queensland is the third largest state in Australia?
What is a baby goat called?
QANTAS is an acronym for what?
Which of these is a natural World Heritage area: Riversleigh Fossil Fields, North Stradbroke Island, Mount Tamborine, or Mount Coot-tha?
Who was Queensland’s first Premier?
What is the most eaten food in the world?
Santa Claus is also known as Saint _____?
What lighthouse stands on the most easterly point of Australia? Which metal is heavier, gold or silver?
Test your knowledge with the Ultimate General Knowledge Quiz!
True or False: There are more kangaroos in Australia than people
When did Canberra become the capital city? What flower produced in Tasmania is used for ice-cream?
Answers: False, a kid, Queensland and Northern Territory Aerial Services, Riversleigh Fossil Fields, Sir Robert George Wyndham Herbert, rice, Saint Nicholas, Cape Byron Lighthouse, gold, true, 1913, Lavender
Sending thanks to all who joined us for the ‘Bowl for Crowson’ event in November –bidders, buyers, attendees and sponsors!
We hosted yet another successful fundraising event with the help of the generous Logan community. Clusters of business owners, councillors and members of the local community gathered at the Beenleigh Bowls Club, to show their support – raising over $7,000 for the ‘Crowson Park Riding for the Disabled’.
“As you know, we receive no ongoing funding, so this has definitely eased the burden on our finances” says Linda Gaffaney, the President of Crowson Park RDA.
Crowson Park Riding for The Disabled is a not-for-profit organisation that offers traditional riding tuition for physically and intellectually disabled people of all levels of ability and ages. Horse riding instruction works wonders for the riders in assisting them in reaching physical milestones of improved strength, balance, general mobility, postural correction and flexibility.
Over 60 people joined us that evening, taking part in a casual game of bowls, dinner and a live auction and raffle. While some of those who weren’t able to attend, donated items or funds.
Throughout the night, guests listened to several speakers as they enjoyed their meal. Speakers included Crowson Park RDA President, Linda Gaffaney and Stacey from Seahorse Swim School, who spoke about her experience volunteering at the organisation.
The highlight of the evening was the interaction between the auctioneer (a fellow guest selected at random) and the audience as they presented the live auction items. What followed was lots of laughter and fun, as people got into the spirit.
Some of the donated auction items included a camping pack from Anaconda Slacks Creek, a swim membership/pack from Seahorse Swim School, a painting by Kristy from the
Logan
Association, an Akubra hat from Horseland Underwood, a coffee machine from Bi-Rite Underwood, Gin Making Class from the Cauldron Distillery and a year Golf Membership from the Meadowbrook Golf Club.
Mon, Tues, Thur, Fri 9-5pm
Hours: Mon to Fri 10am-4pm
“A fabulous evening spent with @qldguides fundraising for Crowson Park RDA. We have some incredible small businesses in our Logan community and it’s with thanks to @qldguides for bringing us all together” wrote Tina, owner of Helloworld Travel Rochedale.
“Was such a wonderful night for such a worthy cause. Great job everyone and thank you for the laughs” says Alyson from Normamay Honey. This was our second charity event this year –our first back in May where we also raised over $7,000 for the Safe Haven Community.
North Stradbroke Island is the world's second-largest sand island and needs little introduction.
Referred to as Minjerribah to its traditional owners, the Quandamooka people, North Stradbroke Island has another nickname to match its down-to-earth character. Straddie, as it’s also referred to by locals, is a nature lover's dream. Located just a 15-minute boat ride from Brisbane’s bayside on the Redlands Coast (45 if you’re taking the car ferry).
Known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches, rich Indigenous culture, abundant diversity of wildlife and whale-watching lookouts. It is a treasure trove of endless opportunities for people to explore and charter their own adventures.
Looking for a place to stay on North Stradbroke Island? Stradbroke Island Coastal Homes, Straddie’s newest agency has got you covered, offering quality accommodation and sales. They can help find the best fit for
your needs and have accommodation to suit all budgets from high-end to studios. Their team is always available to take your call and assist with any questions.
Take a break exploring and satisfy your appetite at Straddie Eats. This food haven has some of the best food on the island and is beloved by locals. Open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch, Straddie Eats is serving up fresh homemade food and great coffee at The Point.
For a fine dining experience only available on Stradbroke, you can’t go past Sealevel21. Sealevel21 features modern Australian cuisine showcasing the freshest local ingredients such as freshly caught seafood, beautiful quality steaks, juicy signature burgers and tasty vegetarian options as well. The menu is based on the availability of the best quality fresh ingredients throughout the seasons. Dine in and takeaway options are available as well as dog friendly tables. Bookings are recommended.
Have you ever wanted to play golf on an island?
As the only golf course on the entire island, North Stradbroke Island Golf Club is a truly beautiful place to visit. Open 7 days a week from 7am, the course offers exquisite views and is set amongst native island flora and an abundance of bird and animal life, an awesome game of golf is only a part of the wonderful experience you’ll have at the Straddie Golf Club.
If a meal with a view is more your style, then eating at the Bistro Seymour at the North Stradbroke Island Golf Club is a must - situated virtually on the highest point on the island. From the dining room deck you have a bird’s eye vista overlooking Brown Lake, Moreton Bay and the big island (Australia) in the distance.
On a clear day you can see the Glasshouse Mountains. It truly is a menu and venue for all. Whether you’re a golfer wanting a bite after a round, taking in the view with a snack or a long lunch or dinner with friends, there’s something here for everyone.
For the more adventurous visitors of all ages, North Stradbroke Island has plenty to offer, Owned and operated by Traditional Owners of Quandamooka who live in a place people call “Minjerribah” (North Stradbroke Island), Straddie Adventures specialises in Bay Kayaking tours and Sand Boarding. Taking you on an experience into a territory known as “Quandamooka”, sharing, demonstrating and teaching their Aboriginal Kulcha passed on through the generations.
A trip isn’t complete without a souvenir to remember it by. You can’t leave Straddie without stopping by Island Souvenirs. Located in Dunwich, this local family business has been operating for over 30 years. Open 7 days a week, locals, day trippers and tourists are invited to call in and have a look as they design and print.
Straddie is an amazing place to explore or relax and do nothing! It has something for everyone. With so much to see, do and experience on Straddie, why not make it your next holiday destination?
www.stradbrokeislandcoastalhomes.com.au
Flagstone Twilight Markets and Community Carols return for another year of festive fun!
Come along and join Flagstonians to celebrate the festive season with com munity carols and twilight markets.
The beloved Flagstone Twilight Markets and community carols are back! On the 3rd December, locals from Flagstone and the surrounding areas are kicking off the festive season with Christmas carols, live entertainment, market stalls, food trucks, Santa and a laser show display!
This free event is starting at 4pm at Flag stone State School, 1-45 Poinciana Drive and concludes at 8pm. With so much to see and do, there is bound to be lots of fun had by the kids and adults alike.
A treat to be had will be the Flagstone Flag etts who are appearing this year. The Flagetts are made up of locals who enjoy sharing the spirit of Christmas with the community.
The Flagstone Twilight Markets and Community Carols are a Flagstone Community Association initiative with support from the Flagstone State School P&C and local busi nesses.
For more information about the event, visit the Flagstone State School P&C Facebook page.
Mackay is famous for its history as one of Australia’s largest sugarcane farming regions but it is just as famous for its natural beauty and attractions being renowned as a picturesque city surrounded by beaches and rainforests.
When you’re not uncovering Mackay’s hidden gems and taking part in some of the region’s must-do experiences, be sure to take the time to explore Mackay’s breathtaking natural encounters.
Here are some places you must visit on your next trip to Mackay.
Comprising three tiered lagoons, the Bluewater Lagoon is a free family-friendly leisure facility overlooking the picturesque Pioneer River in the heart of Mackay’s city centre. Covering an area equivalent to three 50-metre swimming pools, Bluewater Lagoon provides a safe allaround stinger-free swimming environment.
The Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens showcases the flora of the Central Queensland Coast Bioregion, a diverse area featuring lush tropical rainforests, wide sweeping beaches, mangrove-lined waterways and open eucalypt forests. Recommended visiting is from 5 am to 9 pm. Many of the unique natural features of the region are interpreted in specific areas/ precincts of the Gardens, such as the Finch Hatton Gorge Waterway, Regional Forest Garden and Eulamere Wetlands.
The diverse cultural heritage and makeup of Mackay are also celebrated in specialised gardens, displaying the plants of the South Sea Islands, Aboriginal culture and bush tucker and Torres Strait Islands.
Get out and explore this great region along the Bluewater Trail. Take a leisurely stroll or scenic bike ride along the award-winning
shared pathway whilst taking in much of the region’s natural beauty. Six of the region’s key attractions sit along the trail including the beautiful Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, the Sandfly Creek Environmental Walkway, the Catherine Freeman walk, the free three-tiered Bluewater Lagoon aquatic facility, Bluewater Quay (with barbecue facilities) and Iluka Park (all abilities playground). Get active and enjoy the ‘ring of activity’ which boasts pedestrian and bicycle pathways, raised boardwalks, environmental areas, disabled access and activities for children and young people.
Mackay is a vibrant and culturally rich region that is home to a great many artists, art groups, designers and crafts practitioners. Artspace Mackay is a regional art gallery owned and operated by Mackay Regional Council and is an ideal entry point to the unique culture and creativity of this region, creating connections and inspiring our region’s creativity.
Artspace has three impressive, contemporary gallery spaces and hosts exhibitions by local, Australian and international artists. A visit to Artspace Mackay is a creative, educational and enjoyable experience not to be missed. Viewing the exhibitions is free and several public programs are also free of charge.
The City of Logan Christmas Carols is the city’s biggest annual Christmas event which celebrates the magic and joy of the season. This free, family-friendly event on the 10th of December will have you singing along to all your favourite carols!
This is an alcohol-free event and will be held at the Griffith University Logan Campus (68 Uni versity Dr, Meadowbrook). Entry will be through ‘Gate 1’ at ‘Community Walk’ at the front of the venue via Evans Rd. Gates open at 2 pm, with the main show starting at 3 pm. Everyone is invited to come along.
Bring your own picnic or enjoy a fantastic vari ety of delicious food available. Get a free photo with Santa, take part in some face painting or Christmas putt putt, decorate a gingerbread man cookie, explore the Christmas markets in Santa’s village or have fun on a $2 amusement rides.
It's a packed program at this year's City of Logan Carols. With standout performances from Freedom Train, Briana Dinsdale, Isaiah Firebrace and the Christmas Light Robots, there will even be an appearance from Santa!
The amazing concert will finish with a spectacular fireworks display! Come along with the whole family – this is a night not to be missed.
For more information, either phone the Logan City Council Administration on 07 3412 3412 between 8 am – 5 pm, Monday to Friday; or email events@logan.qld.gov. au. Details about the event are available via ourlogan.com.au/whats-on/carols-22.
