Qld Guides | Spring Daisy -April 2023

LOGAN CITY

Beekeeping:

The Sweet, Sticky, & Sustainable Passion of Ally & Steph

5

WELCOME TO THE APRIL 2023 ISSUE!

"Travel can serve a purpose far greater than entertainment….”

Tina does just that in this month’s Travel column, along with our regular ‘Along the Bruce HWY and weekend trips feature! I hope you take the time to read our travel stories and perhaps visit some of the highlighted locations with kids during these holidays and have a great time.

We are featuring Ally & Steph, local beekeepers sharing their story of love for bees, our natural environment & what bees mean to them. Let us know what you think about their inspiring story. And don’t forget to try some of their locally produced honey too.

In this issue, we continue to connect, discover and introduce new local businesses. Recently we have had the pleasure of connecting with Fitstop Slacks creek where they continue to support our community through sponsorship & useful articles. We have had Pet Domain also join us in helping our readers better informed about pet products & care in general. We trust you will enjoy another issue of the Guides, and hope you have a great April!

Happy reading!

QLD GUIDES TEAM : )

OUR

GRACING THE FRONT COVER:

Ally from Norma May Honey and Steph from The Urban Bee Co!

All good stories come from the locals. Do you have a story to share?

E: editor@ qldguides.com.au

Madsen Law Solicitors, Loganholme

Tina Pizzoni, Helloworld Travel Rochedale

CONTRIBUTORS Former Teacher Springwood

Brigitte Hawkins, Local Tutor

Helen Cowley, SBIS

AFTER THE FLOOD CAME THE RAINBOW

By Hazel Hillier, Retired Teacher

Although I didn’t have to get a new driver’s licence last year because of the Optus hack, my personal details were stolen. I suppose that is how the scammers found out my name and phone number, and as I am a Queenslander, assumed I was a Suncorp customer.

In November, the Suncorp “Fraud Department” rang me, and told me there had been suspicious activity on my account, and while I was waiting to be put through to the “supervisor” I heard the normal Suncorp robot voice message that you hear when you are on hold. I was told they would ring me again the next day after they had investigated the matter thoroughly.

There were red flags I should have noticed, but when I queried the “supervisor” she told me that had she been dishonest, she could have taken my money the day before.

Fortunately, I didn’t have $50,000 in my bank account, like others who were reported in the Courier Mail, but I did lose nearly $9,000. An expensive lesson, my son told me.

I had been going to go to Melbourne to see David Wenham perform in Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” after Christmas, but decided I couldn’t afford it anymore. Fortunately, I had

only booked a night’s accommodation in a backpackers in the city, and I was able to cancel that.

But my wonderful children gave me the best Christmas present ever. One gave me the plane tickets, another the theatre ticket, a third gave me a night’s accommodation in a hotel apartment and the other two gave me money for dinner at a special Greek restaurant and other spending money.

AIR CANADA

I’ve spotlighted many destinations and cruise lines in my previous articles, but I haven’t (yet) focused on a specific airline. There are many reasons for this, but I believe this airline deserves a mention - not only for their fabulous product but also for the destinations on offer and the ease in which to get to them!

Have you guessed which airline it is? Air Canada of course!

Flying directly from Brisbane with daily (DAILY!) services

Canada is the best and easiest way to travel to

Canada, the USA and even further abroad. You’re wondering how and it’s really very simple - they just make it ‘easy’ for us and we all know how much more enjoyable air travel is when it’s easy. They do this by offering the smoothest trip from Australia to Canada and the U.S, including customs pre-clearance and no need to recheck bags. I have shared an infographic on the top right which is a comparison of flying Air Canada vs other airlines.

Did I mention DAILY flights directly from Brisbane yet? I think I may have… but in this post COVID world where Brisbane is still only at 64% capacity from pre COVID levels, yet demand is higher than ever before, an airline that gives us this commitment is greatly favoured. Flying the Boeing 777-200 (our plane is going to be bigger than Sydney’s!)

with a 3-cabin offering of Economy, Premium Economy and Business, clients can choose the best option for their travel needs and budget.

From a travel agents’ perspective, we love supporting airlines and suppliers that support us and more importantly, our clients. When we have products that we can confidently recommend for their value, security, service, ease, and enjoyment it makes the transactional process a more enjoyable one. I must admit that in this post COVID world finding partners like them is harder but (luckily) for our team we have a few of these travel partners.

The first port of call in Canada for travelers from Brisbane is Vancouver, located in British Columbia. A waterfront city, Vancouver is a

bustling city surrounded by mountains. This friendly and scenic city made Time Magazine’s Top 50 ‘Extraordinary destinations to explore’ list and I would have to agree. Vancouver is a city that caters for everyone with incredible outdoor activities, diverse culinary indulgences, a thriving art and music scenic with the most picturesque parks and scenery.

continue next page

FACTS:

Air Canada departs Brisbane at 10am, arriving in Vancouver at 6.50am – THE SAME DAY! On return, you get to really maximise your time in Vancouver or allow for easy transits with the flight leaving Vancouver at 11.15pm, arriving into Brisbane at 7am (2 days later)

14 Hour Direct flight to Vancouver (give or take with winds)

From Vancouver, there is so many travel options to consider:

• Head out to the Canadian Rockies onboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer (refer to my article in June 2022)

• Board a cruise up the Inside Passage to Alaska

• Visit the beautiful city of Victoria and the Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island

• Travel down into the tech giant of Washington state and the city of Seattle

• Travel to the ski resort town of Whistler or jump back on Air Canada to another destination with Canada or the USA (it’s the quickest and easiest route to New York!)

I hope I have shared some really positive reasons why when you’re next considering your airline options for travel to North America, you can confidently choose our friends at Air Canada.

Until next month, Tina

Connect and catch up at Devon Pixies with our new Summer casual dining menu. Celebrate with friends and family over an indulgent high tea of ribbon sandwiches, mini hot savoury bits, freshly baked scones, and sweet treats, and a pot of tea.

Head to our website to make your booking or call us.

IS A MATTER OF HOW TO BE, NOT HOW TO DO

This week I have had at least 3-4 discussions around customer services, so of course, it is on my mind! How do I handle bad reviews on social media, including those spam ones? How do I treat a customer who is wrong about something and lastly, a comment and discussion that customer service is about price?

All relevant and emotional issues when it happens to you, and you are the leader in your business. Are they customer service problems or culture and leadership problem? As a business leader, handling difficult customer service situations is a crucial aspect of your role. Customer service can be emotional, and dealing with bad reviews, incorrect customer complaints, and pricing concerns can be challenging.

Try to think differently when it comes to challengers:

1. Think win – win: A successful leader should strive to create mutually beneficial outcomes. This means looking for ways to make deals and partnerships where everyone involved can come out ahead. This approach helps build positive relationships and can lead to long-term success even in the worst situations.

2. Broaden your mindset: Be open to new ideas and perspectives. Don’t be afraid to seek out advice and feedback from others, whether its from your employees, customers or other businesses. Keeping an open mind can help you stay adaptable and responsive to changes in the market. – Don’t be a know-it-all. It stifles your growth and adaptability!

3. Lead by example: As a small business owner your culture starts with you. You are the brand and the role model for your customer standards, your employees, even your suppliers. If you want people around you to follow a certain standard you need to model that behaviour and standard yourself. This means showing up on time, putting in the effort, and demonstrating a positive attitude.

4. Communicate clearly Good communication is essential for effective leadership. Make sure you are clear about your expectations, goals and plans. Regularly check in with people around you to make sure everyone is on the same page and deal with any concerns or issues as they arise

5. Empower the people around you encourage them to take ownership of their work and give them the freedom to make decision and solve problems. There is nothing worst or more destroying to moral than a control freak.

Your business brand and culture is a combination of what you create and what you allow.

Be the best person you can be and the rest will follow.

BOREDOM-BUSTING SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES ON OFFER

Drumming, street art, pottery wheel turning and bee keeping workshops are among the activities on offer in the City of Logan during the April school holidays.

Action-packed activities will be run by Logan Libraries and through the KRANK School Holiday Program.

Bookings for KRANK are now open. Some activities are expected to fill quickly and those interested are urged to book as soon as possible.

The program runs Saturday, April 1 to Sunday, April 16 and activities are suitable for children aged from 5 to 17 years.

The KRANK booklet is available online at logan-krank

Copies are available at Council’s Customer Service Centres and Libraries or can be requested by calling Council on 3412 3412.

Logan Libraries free school holiday workshops are also open for bookings. Visit loglib.org/schoolhols to book for activities for teens and younger children.

Musician and professional singer Mark Lowndes will hold a number of workshops.

Children can learn basic drumming techniques on a djembe drum while older teens can take part in song writing workshops.

Information about bees, bee keeping and beehives for children will also be presented by Norma May Honey and The Urban Bee Co.

The informative session will showcase why bees are important to the environment and the different types of bees, including native bees.

Take-home bee activities will also be available at library branches and the educational robot Bee-bot can also be borrowed.

Learn all about the fantasy role-playing game Dungeons and Dragons with expert Damian from Imaginary Adventures in a series of workshops aimed at children aged 10 years and over.

In an online Zoom workshop graphic novel artist and author James Foley will present tips and tricks to help children and teens draw their own cartoon-style characters and how to create graphic novels.

For older teens interested in developing their drama skills and becoming commercial voice actors, voice coach Angus Brennan will present a workshop on the art of voiceovers.

In the Zoom workshop with James, participants will be given tips and tricks to help them draw their own cartoon-style characters.

Bookings are essential for all library activities and can be made at Events – Logan City Council Libraries (loganlibraries.org)

City Lifestyle Chair Councillor Laurie Koranski said there was no excuse to be bored these school holidays in the City of Logan.

“We have an extensive program of free and low-cost activities on offer to interest everyone,” Cr Koranski said.

“I encourage everyone to take the time this week to check out what’s on offer through KRANK and our Libraries as popular activities often book out very quickly.”

BEEKEEPING: THE & SUSTAINABLE ALLY &

THE SWEET, STICKY, SUSTAINABLE PASSION OF STEPH

The buzz of a bee is a sound that can't be replicated. For Ally and Steph, the buzz of their passion for beekeeping has been life changing. These two dynamic beekeeper friends have been working tirelessly to promote sustainable beekeeping practices, educate people about the importance of bees, and share their love for honey.

For local mum of one, Ally, beekeeping is a way to help navigate her son's world as an autism superhero. But it's also become a passion that fuels her desire to preserve our planet's ecosystem. "My priority is always my family," she says. "But when it comes to the bees, I'm always talking to Steph, who is my incredible bee mentor. We work alongside each other and continually learn from each other."

Steph has over 60 hives in urban yards across Logan and has been keeping bees for over five

years. Beekeeping has made her realise the importance of maintaining a healthy ecosystem. "I've seen firsthand the amazing pollination service bees provide and also how much garden poisons affect all our living garden friends in bad ways."

Together, Ally and Steph advocate for sustainable beekeeping practices and educate people about the importance of bees in our ecosystem. They run beekeeping classes in local high schools, teaching mini beekeepers how to maintain hives, check for pests and diseases, identify different bees, and harvest honey. They also teach swarm prevention and how to build and paint hive boxes.

When asked about the impact beekeeping has had on their personal growth and outlook on life, Ally says, "Mindfulness. Watching the bees come and go has help quiet my mind... Looking into veteran bee therapy - I saw that the mindfulness of watching bees come and go helped with their PTSD." Steph adds, "Beekeeping has made me realise all the little things in life that are important to maintain a healthy ecosystem."

As young people become more educated and aware of the problems facing our world, it's inspiring to see the work of beekeepers like Ally and Steph, who lead the charge in promoting sustainability and education. They empower the next generation to take care of our planet and all its inhabitants, one bee at a time. So, let's take a cue from these amazing beekeepers and help save the bees, one sweet, sticky, and sustainable step at a time!

On the next page, we have a Q&A session with Ally and Steph, where they share more about their experiences and insights as beekeepers.

What inspired you to start? Was there a particular moment or experience that sparked your interest?

Ally: I moved house after the covid pandemic. I had lost my father to lung cancer suddenly and was deep diving into depression. After moving we needed to cut down a dead stringy bark tree. Inside was a 40 year old intergenerational beehive. I had to save them. We moved them into bee box and that’s how everything began.

Steph: It was my husband who always wanted a beehive, and I had decided to gift him one for Christmas one year. After getting his first hive, I completely fell in love with them. I always had a love for gardening and with the arrival of bees in my yard, I had more of a passion to plant more bee friendly flowering plants. As the bees began dancing from flower to flower, it made me so happy.

What inspired the name of your business, and what does it mean to you?

A: Norma May is my 101 soon to be 102 year old grandma. She is the most resilient woman I know. I was inspired by the life she lived and the way she survived. My method of beekeeping is very similar to the way her brothers collected honey 100 years ago.

S: (The Urban Bee Co) My inspiration for my business name came from the way I bee keep which is in urban areas. It means a lot to me to incorporate my ways of bee keeping into my business name so I can tell customers where my honey comes from and why it tastes so different and amazing.

When it comes to beekeeping, what is your priority? What values do you hold most dear in this line of work?

A: Education is key!! Honey is just the by product of what the bees create. I want people to be educated about both our native and European bees. With bees in decline - I want to educate the best type of plants to plant, how intelligent these girls are and why to buy local Australian honey. I want to start creating a Buzz about bees

S: My priority in the way I bee keep is and always will be the health of my bees. I will

never take more honey than they will need,

I would hate to substitute sugar water for honey as I believe in never taking too much from them. I have also decided to cold press my honey so I rotate brood ‘baby bee cells’ to the honey super and give them fresh sheets of wax in their brood box. I feel this is like constantly giving them clean bedding in their bee nursery. This allows for me to rotate old wax out of the hive quickly as I brood rotate each inspection. I decided this method of keeping due to the fact early on in my bee keeping journey I had to deal with AFB (American Fowl Brood) which is termination of infected hives.

Could you tell us a bit about where your hives are located?

A: My bees are like my family! I have 8 hives on my property at Daisy Hill and one at Rochedale south. I collab with Steph who has over 60 hives in Urban yards across Logan.

S: My hives are placed all around Logan in mostly urban areas. At the moment, I am running about 80 hives.

What does a typical day look like for you as a beekeeper, honey mixologist, business owner, and bee advocate?

A: I’m a busy bee! Firstly, my priority is always my family. My son is an autism superhero so my day always starts helping navigate his world. Then when it comes to the bees, I’m always talking to Steph (the urban bee co) who is my incredible bee mentor. I work alongside her and continually learning from her. We start doing bees early in the morning and don’t stop until we are literally dripping in sweat and laying on the ground. Then it’s cold crushing the honey (which is a long lengthy process and a 100 year old method) then between all of this - educating myself, studying bees, reading about naturopathic herbs to find the perfect infusion, and running talk to a beekeeper events and now taking on a podcast.

S: A typical day in the life of my beekeeping journey can look super busy. I can be building and painting bee boxes and making up frames to swap out of my hives doing constant and regular brood inspections on my hives and harvesting honey only as my bees need me to take some. I also do beekeeping classes in high schools where I teach mini beekeepers how to maintain bee hives. They learn how to check for pest and disease, how to identify all bees that maintain a hive and how to harvest honey when the time is right. They also learn swarm prevention and how to build and paint hive boxes. After all that I then cold press my beautiful location honey and render down beautiful yellow bees wax.

Finally, we have to ask: what is your absolute favourite way to enjoy honey?

A: In a herbal tea or over crumpets !!!

S: My absolute favourite way to enjoy honey is on warm porridge on a cold winter’s morning.

To learn more or buy delicious honey, contact Ally at Norma May Honey via Alyson@normamayhoney.com. For Steph at The Urban Bee Co, email urbanbeeco@ gmail.com.

WONDER WOMAN

By Pete Hutton

Have you ever wondered, “should I? Could I? Would I?” and still not taken that leap to make a change? Well never fear, Telesia is here, and hopefully her little story can help make you pick up the phone….

If anyone was deserving of a ‘SuperMum’ title, then surely Telesia Lata is a strong candidate. Telesia is orignally from Samoa and moved to Australia in 2015. She had been looking to get back into the workforce after being a stay-at-home mum for 7 children, (yes, 7!) when she found out about MultiLinks Cert. III Individual Support course and made contact. “I felt ready and wanted to give Support Work a go”. Speaking about her culture, Telesia says it is custom for Samoans to take care

of family, so growing up in that environment is where her passion for support work comes from.

Telesia enrolled and completed her studies with Blue Stone Medical in Yatala and was able to secure emplyment as a Personal Carer with TriCare Aged Care Residence in Sunnybank.

At MultiLink, we were so excited to see Telesia gain a new job, but the story gets better. Telesia said, “I’m so happy and just loving the work. I’m getting plenty of hours and my family have been really supportive. It has motivated me to study more. I now want to become a Registered Nurse. TriCare have been supportive and I keep encouraging all the students we get coming through. I’m now doing a training program so that I can deliver presentations at work, which will be exciting. Oh, and I got Employee of the Month for two months running in December and January!” (Of course you did SuperMum!)

Telesia is a genuine superstar with a postive happy nature and hard working values she takes into the workplace on a daily basis. An asset to her employer in a short space of time no doubt!

If you have been thinking about a career in Aged Care or Disability, take a leap like Telesia and contact MultiLink today. Training is funded under Queensland Governments ‘Skilling Queenslanders for Work’ program and available at NO cost to eligible participants. Aged Care and Disability Services can contact MultiLink to enquire about supporting participants like Telesia.

The Ultimate Mother's Day Gift Guide

Thoughtful Ideas for Every Type of Mum

This year is moving quickly, it feels like it was Christmas just last week and yet Mother’s Day is rolling around again. If you’ve planned ahead and already have something planned for Sunday May 14, then you’re doing better than most, but if you still don’t have a clue what to do for Mother’s Day, check out this list below.

Bucket list adventure

Looking for a unique and exciting gift idea for your mother? Consider gifting her an experience with Oz Paragliding and Hang Gliding. With an experienced team and top-notch safety standards, your mother can choose from a variety of options including tandem hang gliding or paragliding flights or even a full day course.

Located in the beautiful hinterland of the Gold Coast, she'll have the opportunity to take in breathtaking views while soaring through the sky. Give your mother the gift of adventure and memories that will last a lifetime.

www.ozparaglidingandhanggliding.com.au |

0457 287 200

Radiant Skin Experience

Pamper your mum this Mother's Day with a voucher for a luxurious skin treatment at Aura Skin. Aura Skin's team is committed to empowering their clients with knowledge and understanding to achieve the best possible results. Your mum will be able to relax and rejuvenate with a customised treatment designed to meet her unique skin goals.

Vouchers can be picked up at the salon or posted directly to you or your mum for added convenience.

www.aura-skin.com.au |

0414 046 090

One-of-a-Kind Treasures

Looking for a special Mother's Day gift that supports local artists and the arts community? Visit the LAA Able Gallery, located in Loganlea, to discover a diverse range of artwork, pottery, textiles, jewellery, and other crafts created by talented local artists and LAA members.

From stunning paintings to unique handmade jewellery, the LAA Able Gallery offers a one-ofa-kind shopping experience for those looking for a thoughtful and personalised gift. Be sure to check out the LAA Able Gallery's Instagram page @loganartistsassociation to see some of the items available for purchase. 27 Coral

Brew-tiful Gifts

Treat your coffee-loving mother to the ultimate gift this Mother's Day with Simply Beans. Let her indulge in the rich aroma and flavour of freshly roasted beans, conveniently brewed in the comfort of her own home. Simply Beans also offers a range of high-quality coffee equipment and accessories to help her create the perfect cup every time. With Simply Beans, your mother can enjoy the best of both worlds: award-winning coffee blends and specialty single origins, as well as the tools to make it at home. Shop online or In-store today!

A Beautiful masterpiece

Surprise your loved ones, whether it's your wife, mother, or grandma, with a truly unique gift this Mother's Day. LC Jewellers can help you create a special piece of custom jewellery that they will cherish forever. With the latest computer-aided design technology, they can accurately bring your designs to life, making previously impossible designs possible. From sourcing the perfect diamonds and coloured stones to casting services, LC Jewellers has the expertise and equipment to make your imagination a reality. The team at LC Jewellers can help you design the perfect piece of jewellery. Don’t wait and start the design process now!

THE HIDDEN STRUGGLE: UNDERSTANDING ANXIETY IN CHILDREN

A

Anxiety is a common mental health issue that affects people of all ages, including children. However, children may have difficulty understanding or expressing their feelings, which can lead to behaviours that seem aggressive or oppositional. For example, a child who is anxious about going to school may refuse to get dressed or throw a tantrum when it's time to leave the house.

It's important to recognise that these behaviours are not intentional or malicious. Instead, they are often a sign that the child is feeling overwhelmed, frightened, or out of control. It's important for anyone who interacts with children to recognise the signs of anxiety and offer tools and strategies to help them cope. By working together, we can create a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes emotional wellbeing and helps children thrive.

One effective approach is to help children build emotional regulation skills. This can include teaching children deep breathing exercises, meditation, or other relaxation techniques that can help them manage their emotions in the

s a parent, caregiver, or educator, it can be challenging to see a child struggle with anger, tantrums, or meltdowns. It's easy to assume that the child is simply misbehaving or acting out, but sometimes these behaviours can be a sign of underlying anxiety.moment. Additionally, it can be helpful to give children opportunities to practise problem-solving and decision-making skills, so they feel more in control of their environment and their choices.

Equine therapy and other alternative therapies can also be a valuable resource for children who are struggling with anxiety and related behaviours. For example, working with therapy ponies can provide a calming and nurturing environment that promotes emotional regulation and social connection. Additionally, equine therapy can help children build confidence, self-esteem, and resilience.

By recognising the signs of anxiety in children and providing them with the support and resources they need, we can help them navigate the challenges of growing up with confidence and resilience. It's essential to remember that anxiety is a natural human response to stress, and with the right tools and strategies, children can learn to manage their anxiety and lead happy, healthy lives.

MANAGING

ANXIETY SESSION’S

FURRY FRIENDS ON THE GO

Tips for Traveling with Pets

Are you planning a road trip with your furry mate? Whether you're hitting the beach, exploring the countryside, or just going on a joyride, taking your pet along can make the journey even more fun! But before you and your furry friend hit the open road, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure a safe and comfortable trip. In this article, we'll share some pawesome tips to help you and your pet make the most of your travels. So buckle up and let's get started!

First things first, make sure you plan ahead and make reservations at pet-friendly accommodations and transportation options. And don't forget to call ahead to confirm any restrictions or fees.

Now onto packing for your pet, make sure you bring enough food, water, treats, and medication for the duration of the trip. Also, pack their favourite toys, a blanket or bed, and a leash or carrier. And if you're travelling by car, don't forget to bring some doggy bags for those much-needed bathroom breaks.

Once you're all packed, make sure your pet is safely secured in a well-ventilated crate or carrier while traveling. Not only does this keep them safe in case of an accident, but it also prevents them from distracting the driver or running away at rest stops. It's also important to note that in Australia, it is illegal for pets to sit on drivers' laps while traveling in a car.

During the trip, it's essential to keep your pet comfortable and relaxed. Take frequent breaks for exercise and bathroom breaks, and offer plenty of water and treats to keep them hydrated and happy.

Last but not least, schedule a visit to the vet before traveling to ensure your pet is up-todate on vaccinations and healthy enough to travel. And don't forget to get a copy of their medical records to bring with you, along with any medication they may need during the trip.

Now that you know these tips, you and your furry friend can hit the road and create unforgettable memories together!

FINDING YOUR CHILD'S RHYTHM A Parent's Guide to Navigating Different Dance Styles

As a parent, choosing the right dance style for your child can be a tricky decision. With so many different styles available, it can be overwhelming to figure out which one is best suited for your little one. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a list of popular dance styles in Australia and what each style entails.

Jazz dance is all about fun and energy. It's a high-energy dance form that combines elements of ballet, tap, and contemporary dance styles. Jazz dancers often wear colourful costumes and perform to upbeat music. This style is great for children who enjoy moving to fast-paced music and want to learn fun, show-stopping routines.

Hip-hop is a popular dance style that originated in African-American communities in the United States. It's a street dance style that includes popping, locking, and breaking moves. Hip-hop is a great choice for children who love music, want to learn cool dance moves, and express themselves creatively.

Ballet is a classic dance style that has been around for centuries. It's a formal dance style

that emphasises technique, grace, and fluid movements. Ballet dancers wear traditional tutus and pointe shoes and perform to classical music. Ballet is a great choice for children who are looking for a more disciplined and structured dance experience.

Contemporary dance is a modern style that combines elements of ballet, jazz, and modern dance. It's a fluid and expressive dance form that allows dancers to tell a story through movement. Contemporary is a great choice for children who want to explore different dance styles and express their emotions through dance.

In addition to the popular styles mentioned earlier, there are other dance styles like Acro, Breaking, and Tap that may also interest your child. Ultimately, the right dance style for your child will depend on their interests and personality. Encouraging your child to explore different styles and try out different classes can help them discover the style that resonates with them the most. Who knows, they may even uncover a hidden talent and become a future dance sensation!

At Reset Dance Studio our classes are suitable for both boys and girls from 2 to 15 years of age. We offer many different classes from hip-hop, break, ballet, jazz, acro, singing & more

BOOK ONLINE:

www.resetdancestudio.com.au |

Week of FREE Trials!

THE GREAT DEBATE: Morning Workouts vs. Evening Workouts

Are you trying to decide whether to work out in the morning or at night? It's a common debate among fitness enthusiasts, with strong opinions on both sides. Some people swear by their morning workouts, while others prefer to hit the gym after work. So, which is better? Let's take a closer look.

First, let's address the argument in favour of morning workouts. Many people believe that exercising in the morning helps them establish a routine and set a positive tone for the day. This can be especially true for those who have busy schedules and struggle to make time for exercise later in the day. Plus, some

research suggests that morning workouts may help regulate your appetite and improve sleep quality.

However, there are also benefits to working out at night. For one, your body temperature tends to be higher in the evening, which can make it easier to perform at a high level during your workout. Additionally, evening workouts can be a great way to unwind after a long day and release any pent-up stress or tension.

But what about the notion that working out at night can disrupt your sleep? While some people may experience difficulty falling asleep if they exercise too close to bedtime, this isn't a universal truth. In fact, research has shown that exercising at any time of day can help improve sleep quality, as long as you give yourself enough time to wind down and relax afterwards.

So, is working out in the morning or at night better? The truth is, it depends on your personal preferences and schedule. If you're a morning person who likes to get their workout done before starting their day, go for it! But if you find that you perform better and feel more motivated in the evening, then that's the best time for you. The most important thing is to find a time that works for you and stick to it consistently.

Bruce Highway

CAIRNS

SIXTH STOP

FINAL STOP FIFTH STOP

CAIRNS

Get ready to soak up the sun, breathe in the salty sea air, and experience the ultimate tropical paradise as we finally reach the end of our epic journey Along the Bruce Highway - Cairns! From the lush greenery of the Wet Tropics Rainforest to the dazzling blue waters of the Coral Sea, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and modern sophistication.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and let’s dive headfirst into this unforgettable journey through the vibrant heart of Far North Queensland. This is our grand finale, and we’re going to make it one to remember!

First on the agenda? The Great Barrier Reef, of course! Cairns is the gateway to this natural wonder, and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a reef tour. Ocean Free and Ocean Freedom are two popular tour operators that offer reef tours from Cairns. Ocean Free is a luxury

FOURTH STOP

ROCKHAMPTON

THIRD STOP BUNDERBERG

SECOND STOP

HERVEY BAY

FIRST STOP

SUNSHINE COAST

BRISBANE

catamaran that takes guests to two exclusive reef locations for snorkelling and diving, while Ocean Freedom offers a more intimate experience with smaller group sizes and a personalised snorkelling and diving experience. Both tours provide knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and unforgettable views of the Great Barrier Reef.

But the Great Barrier Reef isn’t the only natural wonder that Cairns has to offer. Just a short drive from the city centre is the stunning Daintree Rainforest. This ancient forest is one of the oldest in the world and is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna. Take a guided tour to learn about the plants and animals that call the rainforest home, or explore at your own pace on one of the many walking trails.

If you’re looking for a unique experience in Cairns, why not try Hook-A-Barra? This fishing park allows visitors to catch their own barramundi and have it cooked on-site for a delicious and fresh meal. With multiple fishing ponds, experienced guides, and a beautiful tropical setting, Hook-A-Barra is a must-visit destination for a unique family fun.

Of course, all that activity can work up an appetite. Luckily, Cairns is home to some of the best restaurants in the region. For a truly unique dining experience in Cairns, consider Brett’s Outback Tasting Adventures. This tour takes guests on a culinary journey where you can sample a range of delicious local produce, including tropical fruits, cheese, chocolate, and

coffee. With stunning views, expert guides, and a focus on sustainable and ethical food practices, Brett’s Outback Tasting Adventures is a must-try for any food lover visiting Cairns.

But that’s not all that Cairns has to offer! Here’s a list of must-do things while you’re in town:

Cairns Lagoon: The massive outdoor swimming pool, known as the Cairns Lagoon, is located on the beautiful Cairns Esplanade. Surrounded by sandy beaches and grassy areas, it’s the perfect place to take a refreshing dip or cool off on a hot day.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: This incredible cable car ride takes you over the rainforest canopy, giving you a unique perspective on the beauty of the forest. Stop at the two mid-stations to explore the rainforest at your own pace.

Kuranda Scenic Railway: This historic railway takes you on a journey through the stunning rainforest and past cascading waterfalls. It’s a truly unforgettable experience and a must-do while in Cairns.

So, there you have it, road trippers - our final destination along the Bruce Highway. Cairns is a beautiful, vibrant city that’s sure to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Cairns has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover all that this amazing

HOOK A BARRAFISHING,FARM TOUR, BARRA BITES & DELIGHTS

We’ve got thousands of fish here, big silver beauties measuring up to and over 1m. Expert guides help you with tips and tricks, so you can practice or fine tune your angling skills Catch and release fishing, with the option to catch and keep. Fun for the whole family!

REEL IN FAMILY FUN AT

HOOK A BARRA:

The must-try fishing experience in Cairns!

Cairns, a city full of exciting activities and unique experiences. One such experience is Hook-a-Barra, offered by the award-winning Daintree Saltwater Barramundi Farm. This experience provides both seasoned and amateur fishers the opportunity to catch and release the prized barramundi, known for both its fighting spirit and delicious flavour.

Hook-a-Barra offers an hour of catch-andrelease fishing with all necessary equipment, tackle, bait, and guidance included. The multispecies ponds at the farm are stocked with over 1500 barramundi, ranging from 50cm to over a metre. However, don’t expect these wild creatures to jump on your hook without a fight. The expert fishing guides are available to help you perfect your technique and increase your chances of success.

After an exciting fishing session, guests can head over to the Hook-A-Barra kitchen to enjoy some of the finest Daintree-caught Barramundi dishes.

Hook-a-Barra is suitable for people of all ages and skill levels. If you’re an experienced angler, there’s even a fly-fishing option available. Nonfishing guests are also welcome to enjoy the experience. With general admission, you have access to all facilities, picnic areas, and special viewing tanks.

Overall, Hook-a-Barra at the Daintree Saltwater Barramundi Farm is an exciting and informative experience that’s not to be missed while visiting Cairns. So gather your family and friends and give it a try!

SEARCH WORD

Ready, set, search! Join us on a journey through Queensland’s cities with this fun word search

Logan

Cairns

Townsville

Mackay

Toowoomba

Ipswich

Gladstone

Bundaberg

Warwick

Gympie Charters

Innisfail

Longreach

Kingaroy

Roma

Atherton

Cardwell

Charleville

Cloncurry

Emerald

Ingham

Mareeba

Mount Isa

Nanango

Stanthorpe

Texas

Weipa

Yeppoon

Goondiwindi

Rockhampton

OR

TRUEFALSE

The Great Wall of China is visible from space. True or False?

The first recorded Olympic Games were held in Athens, Greece in 776 BC. True or False?

The shortest war in history lasted only 38 minutes. True or False?

The largest desert in the world is the Sahara Desert. True or False?

The world’s largest snowflake on record was 38 centimeters wide and 20 centimeters thick. True or False?

The national animal of Scotland is the unicorn. True or False?

A group of flamingos is called a flamboyance. True or False?

A group of hedgehogs is called a prickle. True or False?

SUDOKU

Think you know it all? Put your knowledge to the test with this fun True or False Quiz! Chewing gum takes seven years to pass through the human digestive system. True or False?

A cockroach can live several weeks without its head. True or False?

The longest word in the English language has 189,819 letters. True or False?

WHAT'S ON

APRIL

Dusty the digger school holiday show

LOGAN NORTH LIBRARY

WED, 5 APR | 2PM (FREE)

Join in a free, fun packed show with children’s entertainer and bestselling author and musician Dean Yipadee! For children aged 8 and under. Book via Logan Libraries website.

"HELLO" WE'RE THE WIGGLES LIVE IN CONCERT

LOGAN ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

TUES, 4 APR | 10AM, 12:30PM, 2:30PM ($)

Following the runaway success of last year winning the converted ARIA for ‘Best Live Act’ The Wiggles are bringing their all-singing, all-dancing stage show hit to a venue near you! Book your tickets through Logan Arts

WHAT'S THE BUZZ ABOUT BEES?

LOGAN HYPERDOME LIBRARY

TUES, 11 APR | 11AM (FREE)

Learn all about bees, bee keeping and beehives for children with Norma May Honey and The Urban Bee Co. Find out about the different types of bees including native bees and why bees are so important to the environment. Take home some bee activities and borrow a Bee-bot from the library. Bookings are suggested via Logan Libraries website.

Children's workshop

LOGAN ART GALLERY

WED, 12 APR | 1PM (FREE)

Create your own tiny homes with personality with artist Kris Estreich. Use found objects and paint to create a 3-dimensional artwork.

IMAGINATION CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL

KINGSTON BUTTER FACTORY

CULTURAL PRECINCT

SAT, 15 APR 2023 | 9AM (FREE)

ImagiNation Children’s Festival offers six activity worlds - Entertainment, Nature, Action, Digital, Creative, and Culturalthat aim to develop children’s innovation, technology, creativity, and connection to nature and culture. The free event features CoComelon’s live shows and Meet and Greets, along with other activities like rock climbing, reptile shows, and magic shows.

STORY TIME IN THE PARK

FUNDERWOOD HOLLOW

PLAYGROUND, UNDERWOOD PARK

THURS, 27 APR | 10AM (FREE)

Book via Logan Libraries website.

FREE MOVIE NIGHT

BEENLEIGH TOWN SQUARE

FRI, 14 APR | 5PM (FREE)

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.

BUTTERBOX BEATS: ZEEK POWER

KINGSTON BUTTER FACTORY

CULTURAL PRECINCT

FRI 21 APR | 7:00PM (FREE)

Zeek Power, an Australian Indigenous and South Sea Islander, is a multiinstrumentalist and must-hear storyteller with a soothing R&B Pop sound that reflects his upbringing in a beach-town. He recently hit a music milestone of over 5.5 million combined platform streams and is establishing himself as an emerging artist. Food trucks and markets will be available from 5pm.

Horoscope April 2023

Aquarius

Jan. 20 - Feb. 18

Collaborate with others to bring your visions to life. This month, focus on building relationships and partnerships that align with your goals. Together, you can achieve great things.

As a Pisces, it's important for you to prioritize self-reflection and introspection. Use this time to strengthen your connection with your inner self and explore your emotions and intuition.

Aries

Embrace your spontaneity and take some risks this month. Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try something new. This could lead to exciting opportunities and personal growth.

20

Focus on nurturing your relationships with loved ones. This month, prioritise spending time with family and friends, and strengthen your connections through open communication and heartfelt gestures.

Stay flexible and adaptable as unexpected changes arise. You may face some surprises or challenges this month, but your ability to pivot and adapt will help you navigate any obstacles.

Prioritise self-care and rest to avoid burnout. Take time to recharge and focus on your well-being. This will help you show up as your best self in all areas of your life.

23 - Aug.22

Your creativity and passion will be heightened this month. This is a great time to pursue creative projects or hobbies that bring you joy. Your energy and enthusiasm will inspire others around you.

Use your analytical skills to make practical decisions. Your attention to detail and logical thinking will help you make sound choices and navigate any challenges that come your way.

Sagittarius

Oct. 23 - Nov. 21

Be open to new experiences and let go of control. This month, practice letting go of perfectionism and embrace the unexpected. This could lead to personal growth and new perspectives.

This is a good time to pursue personal growth and learning. Whether it's through travel, education, or self-reflection, prioritise activities that expand your knowledge and experiences.

Trust your intuition and don't be afraid to take action. Follow your instincts this month, even if it means stepping outside your comfort zone. This could lead to exciting opportunities and growth.

22 -

19

Stay grounded and focus on long-term goals. This month, take a practical approach to your ambitions and prioritize actions that will lead to longterm success.

GAMING OPEN 10AM EVERYDAY

Gaming open 10am till everyday and we have LUCKY 8s daily promotion 7 days a week. With all the latest games & links like Dragon Unleashed, Lightning Link, Fu Dai Lian, All Aboard, Grand Star & Cash Stack.

Young writers of Logan

Too Close For Comfort

By Jasper Lim – Grade 7

Iwalked into my grandpa’s house feeling miserable. It was boring there with nothing to do. Even the grass was wilted. That’s how I felt. Wilted. I took my first step into the house and stood there, rapidly trying to think of the limited things I could do. I only came up with two – laptop or stare into space. Walking

Jasper

wooden walls… empty! I sighed and tried to close the cupboard door, but before I could, I felt a bristle of wind tugging at my shirt. I turned around and before I could see what it was, the wind pulled me in.

Umph!! My shirt tugged at my neck as I found

Health or Enjoyment

By Tamim Khan (Grade 4)

Would you like to walk around overweight or with rotten teeth?

Do you like soft drinks? Lots of people do! But is it good for your health? If you walk down the drink aisle of any supermarket, what type of drink would you mostly see? Soft drinks! There are many reasons why soft drinks are popular. However, there are also many reasons why we should not drink them.

Why do people enjoy drinking soft drinks? Certainly, the most popular fact is that it tastes terrific and there are lots of flavours. The bubbly fizz puts a refreshing zing in your throat which feels fantastic! And these bubbles help an upset stomach feel better. Since people really

Tamim

like very sweet-tasting drinks, soft drinks are extremely popular. However, there are many bad aspects.

Soft drinks can definitely be harmful and people can easily become addicted to them. That means they are addicted to sugar, and sugar is terrible for oral health. In addition, if we drink them to get energy, after about 5 minutes our energy quickly runs out so we drink more and more. Soon our teeth rot; furthermore, we have harmed lots of other things in our body. These drinks not only ruin our oral health, but make us overweight and hyperactive. That is because soft drinks often have artificial flavours and high sugar content.

Now we can see there are many reasons why soft drinks are popular. But there are also many reasons why we should not drink them frequently. Choosing to drink water instead, we will prevent rotten teeth and obesity.

Now think! Which one is more important? Our health, or our enjoyment?

RECOGNITION FOR VOLUNTEERS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE

City of Logan residents are encouraged to thank their local heroes through this year’s Logan Volunteer Awards.

Nominations are closing soon for the Frank Lenz Memorial Award for Volunteer of the Year, and the Davida Steele Memorial Award for an Outstanding Community Organisation.

City Lifestyle Committee Chair, Cr Laurie Koranski said it is important to recognise those who help improve the lives of others in our city.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our community and play an integral role in so many of our community organisations,” Cr Koranski said.

“These awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise and reward those who give up their time to help make our city an even better place.”

Previous winners of the Frank Lenz Memorial Award have included passionate football administrator Abdul Samim Khan, tireless community volunteer Peter Harrison-Kyte and dedicated cat rescuer Deborah Bright.

The Rotary Club of Beenleigh, the Muslim Charitable Foundation and the Rochedale Springwood Meals on Wheels are previous

recipients of the Davida Steele Memorial Award.

Rotary Club of Beenleigh President Janee Hong said it was wonderful to see the club recognised for its efforts in last year’s Logan Volunteer Awards.

“We are so proud to be the local Service Club recognised for the work we do in our community,” Ms Hong said.

“Our introduction to our meetings always starts with ‘This award-winning Club…’, and we believe this recognition has helped with grant applications and attracting sponsors and corporate partners.”

Nominees must be Logan residents or organisations and must be aware they are being nominated.

Nominations can be made on the Logan City Council website. Nominations close at midnight on Monday, April 10.

Winners will be announced at the Logan Volunteer Thank You Breakfast on Saturday May 13.

MEADOWBROOK HEALTH PRECINCT LOOKING BETTER BY THE DAY

Anew milestone has been reached in the treatment plan for the City of Logan’s growing Meadowbrook Health, Knowledge and Wellbeing precinct.

Construction on the next health facility for the area started today, as the sod was turned at the site of the new Meadowbrook Health Centre on Nestor Drive.

The facility, slated for completion in 2024, will include public and private health services in a bid to address growing demand in the city.

A new Logan Urgent and Specialist Care Centre (LUSCC) – catering to minor injury and illness – will operate from the facility alongside a dedicated women’s health service run by Logan Hospital.

The Australian Government will provide $33.4 million through its Community Health and Hospitals Program for the LUSCC, which will be operated by Metro South Health.

The Meadowbrook Health Centre is being delivered by Office Park Developments (OPD).

It will facilitate a day hospital including multiple operating theatres, oncology services, private

practice suites and specialist medical services, with expressions of interest for future tenants now open.

'A holistic health and well-being precinct' City of Logan Mayor Darren Power welcomes the start of construction on the Meadowbrook Health Centre

Mayor Darren Power said every step taken to improve local health services was worthy of celebration.

“I am thrilled to be breaking ground on this latest health offering for Meadowbrook, which puts us closer to realising Council’s long-term vision for a holistic health precinct,” Cr Power said.

“Council is passionate about seeing better health investment in our city, which is why I continue to advocate for closer collaboration between ourselves, the Australian and Queensland Governments and the private sector.

“This project is a prime example of what can be achieved when we put people first, and work to deliver the health services that will help our community thrive.”

Federal Treasurer and Member for Rankin Jim Chalmers said the project is a ‘gamechanger for our local area’.

“It means better healthcare, quicker and closer to home for thousands of people in our community,” The Treasurer said.

“The people of Logan and surrounding areas deserve the same access to timely, high quality care that’s available in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne and through this project, we’re helping to deliver it.

“To keep pace with demand, we need to invest in new infrastructure.

“This new centre will ease pressure on the emergency department at Logan Hospital and (given the specialist services that will be offered), it will give women in our community easier access to quality care.”

The Minister for Public Works and Procurement and Member for Springwood Mick de Brenni said boosting local capacity with this initiative shows how the Queensland and Australian Governments are delivering equitable healthcare for all.

“This new service will make the world of difference to local families and help ease the pressure on the Logan Hospital emergency department, one of the busiest in the state, the Minister said.

“Local families deserve the highest standard of care, which is why the Palaszczuk Government is investing more than $1 billion in expanding Logan Hospital, as part of this major health precinct.”

Construction of the Meadowbrook Health Centre follows the opening of the nearby Meadowbrook Medical Centre on Logandowns Drive in 2021, which provides services including GP

visits and immunisation and is partially occupied by UQ Health.

Logan City Council is also assessing a development application by Australian Unity for a private hospital opposite the Logan Hospital on Loganlea Road, which would provide up to 90 inpatient beds.

If approved, construction of the $150 million facility could commence later this year.

Logan City Council works to improve pedestrian access through Meadowbrook are complementing and connecting the expanding number of health services in the area.

Stage 1 of Council’s $5.4 million Loganlea Road Healthy Street project, funded through Council’s Meadowbrook Implementation Fund, included a new off-street shared pathway, shade structures, public art, landscaping and a signalised pedestrian crossing between Logan Hospital and Meadowbrook Shopping Centre.

The project received $2.4 million from the Queensland Government’s Unite and Recover Fund.

Loganlea and Meadowbrook were also allocated $45m for movement and accessibility investments as part of the SEQ City Deal struck between the local, state and federal governments in March 2022.

Projects associated with this funding are likely to commence this year.

COOLING

Feel refreshed, cool, and comfortable with clean outdoor air

VENTILATION

Expels cooking odor, pet dander, smoke, germs, gases, & other unwanted airborne annoyances

SAVINGS

Use just a fraction of energy compared to A/C

Sunshine Skylights is a family business owned

peace of mind with our 10 year guarantee on most of our products which includes the labour and it’s also transferable should you sell your home or building.