




















Another 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!
GRACING THE FRONT
COVER:
Rebecca Tapper, co-owner of Cornubia Early Learning Centre
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 OUR CONTRIBUTORS Former Teacher Springwood Brigitte Hawkins, Local Tutor Helen Cowley, SBISLocated in Mary St, Kingston, Substation33 is an amazing place that achieves many things. It is a not-for-profit organisa tion, where anything that is electrical, from a TV monitor to old Christmas lights or even a threepin plug, is dismantled, the parts repurposed and saved from adding to the landfill. Anyone can go there to drop off anything electrical that is broken and is of no further use to them.
Begun in 2013 by Tony Sharp, it endeavours to teach new skills to people who are long-term unemployed or from marginalised backgrounds, to help them transition into the mainstream workforce and/or further education and training, and to communicate better with others.
Their workforce is a volunteer one, and anyone can join, even if they have no skills. Year 12 students can also do work experience there. There are about 40 people working there at present.
One of the things they do is refurbish computers. Recently ten were given to Yarrabilba School, having been donated by the
Logan Chamber of Commerce. Emma Green, the Transition to Employment Officer said,
They have a 3D printer which is used for manufacturing products such as the Road Flooded signs, which not only light up, but send a message to the emergency services. They have a laser cutter for the Perspex that is found on the front of TV screens. From this, they make battery packs, which are sent to Indonesia.
They have a solar powered trailer with a coffee-making machine, also solar powered, that can be hired. The solar power comes from recycled laptop batteries. Substation33 is a true powerhouse.
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If anyone knows of a family with limited means but who needs a computer, they can pay us $150 and have it given to that family. ”
Christmas is a time of celebration, excitement and catching up with family. Ho Ho Ho…How wrong that is for some. It can be painful, even an abusive time when alcohol and poor behaviour abound. If this has been your unfortunate experience, please plan to stay clear of those troubles or at least have an exit strategy for escaping the situation.
Plan for PEACE this holiday season. We recommend having some clear personal boundaries when around those unsafe people who can cause you harm emotionally, physically or psychologically. Limit your time with them.
Boundaries may include: (These decisions are informed by your past experience of how unsafe these people can be):
• Who you are willing to associate with,
• Where you are willing to go,
• Limit your time with them,
• Plan a safe place to resort to,
• Plan how you will travel when it is time to go,
• Inform a trusted friend of your exit strategy,
• Pack a bag with important documents, your precious items, and necessities.
Sensible strategies may include:
• Take a trusted friend with you,
• Have access to a vehicle,
• Keep yourself sober and able to drive if necessary,
• Meet in a public place (if a person is habitually critical of you, they are likely to be so much more so in their own home, but less where there are others around).
An unsafe person does not have these personal boundaries and will not respect your personal boundaries either. That is why they are unsafe. Please respect your own boundaries. It is an unsafe person who becomes domestically violent (emotionally, financially, or physically). Both men and women need to know what unsafe behaviour looks like and how to avoid it.
If you have a Domestic Violence Order against you, even a temporary one, please be vigilant to follow it even if it means you cannot see loved ones this Christmas. A breach can result in prison or expulsion from chosen careers. It is not worth it. A Domestic Violence Order is troublesome to live with, and expensive to remove. Again… plan for peace this Christmas.
Plan to be with Safe People this Christmas. Value you and stay safe. You are worth it!
Acountry of many contrasts. From bustling vibrant cities to historic towns, hill-tribe villages and limestone cliffs jutting from emerald waters. It’s one of my favourite countries and one that I’ve been blessed to visit on several occasions. Whether it’s the beautiful people, the food (we all know I’m all about the food!) or the sights, there will be something here that will ignite your spirit and leave you breathless and wanting to return.
For those that are unfamiliar with Vietnam it borders China to the north with Laos and Cambodia to its west. The capital is Hanoi
with the largest city being Ho Chi Minh City (commonly known as Saigon) and is home to 98.17 million people*.
There are many reasons to visit Vietnam and you will always learn something different with each visit. It has a detailed and complicated history, an abundance of food, spiritual traditions and UNESCO world heritage listed towns.
Hanoi – In the North
Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and although a city I always feel it has a small country town feel. It’s the resting place for ‘Uncle Ho’ (Ho Chi Minh) which is a rather confronting and different sight when you visit him in his resting place at the mausoleum.
Within Hanoi is the Old Quarter and I absolutely love wondering around the streets and getting lost. The streets within the Old Quarter are dedicated to certain trades - haberdashery street, hardware street, porcelain street, art street – to name just a few.
Another must is rising early and walking around Hoan Keim Lake which is located right in the middle of the Old Quarter. Here you will find locals exercising, talking, drinking the strong Vietnamese Coffee and enjoying the morning.
Central Vietnam is home to the two more popular towns of Hue and Hoi An (below photo).
Hue – Located on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue is a charming town and one filled with a diverse history once being one of the main royal capitals of Vietnam. Home to many pagodas and museums and temples the architecture alone is stunning.
One of my favourite trips that will take you from Hue to Hoi An is the drive along the Hai Van Pass. This road, being 21km in length, weaves itself through mountainous ranges that overlook the coastal region with spectacular views. During the Vietnam war (or American War as
it’s referred to by the Vietnamese) it was an important link between Hue and Danang. At the top of the pass, there are remains of buildings which still house bullet holes.
Hoi An – My favourite town in Vietnam. It’s old. The buildings will quite literally have you using up all the memory in your camera!! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site with no vehicles permitted in the old town. Hoi An is famous for its many tailors and you can have anything made (including shoes!) within days. It’s also home to incredible dining.
Ho Chi Minh City - HCMC (Saigon, photo below) – This city will have your jaw dragging behind you from the moment you enter. It’s the true epitome or organised chaos. I often mention when I hear our impatient drivers beep their horns that I would love to teleport them
to the middle of HCMC and let them really learn the art of patience and understanding! Built along a river it’s home to many modern restaurants and roof top bars but also still home to many historical sites and museums. You also have the busy Ben Thanh markets where you will find a bargain and the great street food of Dong Khoi Street. You could spend weeks in HCMC and never see the same thing twice.
From Ho Chi Minh City you can also visit:
• the Mekong Delta - the ‘Rice Bowl’ of Vietnam a fertile region of canals and rivers, the Cu Chi Tunnels
• Cu Chi Tunnels – an incredible network of tunnels which stretch over 250km and extends 3 levels underground. These tunnels played a major role in the Viet Cong’s strategy to victory during the war.
I hope the above has whet your appetite for a country that is truly beautiful. If it’s somewhere you have always wanted to visit but been a little hesitant, join myself and Logan City Guides for a fully escorted tour from Brisbane in late 2023.
To register your interest for this exclusive departure email: tina.rochedale@helloworld.com.au
Dates, prices and a full itinerary will be released by Christmas!
Until next year, Have a wonderful Christmas and I look forward to sharing more wonderful destinations with you in 2023.
- Tina
Loganholme evolved as a placename from the ferryman Holmes, who operated the Logan River ferry here in 1867–68 and is now home to 6,863 people, according to the 2021 Estimated Resident Population.
The region was originally part of three large estates established under the regulations covering cotton, coffee and sugar. In 1863, land was set aside for Thomas Oldham and the Queensland Co-operative Cotton Growing and Manufacturing Company. Oldham’s land bordered Carbrook and the Cotton Company estate stretched from Slacks Creek to Drews Road. From 1865, surveyor William Fryar had a sugar lease on land between Drews Road and the Pacific Motorway.
The cotton plantation at Loganholme was not successful and the estate changed hands a number of times. A ferry was established on
the river at Loganholme in 1867 and Henry Eden was awarded the first official ferry lease. He employed Mr Holmes to run the ferry. In 1868, a wharf reserve was established.
By 1869, the first sugar mill was established on the river at Loganholme by William Fryar and James Strachan, a former engineer for Louis Hope of the Ormiston Cotton turned sugar Plantation near Cleveland. This was initially a very successful business that employed up to 100 men at crushing time, including labourers and punt operators who brought the cane to the mill by river boat. In the early 1870s, James McMillan established nearby a store.
The area continued to grow and in 1871 residents started to lobby for a school. In May 1873, the Loganholme School opened with 37 pupils and on October 25, 1876 the Loganholme Post Office was opened. The first post master was Charles Welsh.
Uncovering the local businesses, history and community that makeup Loganholme
Major flooding in January 1887 caused much damage to surrounding farmlands. Up to two metres of sand was deposited along the banks of the river in Loganholme and eye-witnesses thought it resembled the Sahara Desert. In the late 1880s, the sugar industry went into rapid decline, following the flood of 1887 and the drought of 1888. In 1885 there were 40 sugar mills in the region and by 1888 there were only 9. Farmers in the region turned to dairying, which became increasingly important, particularly after the opening of the Kingston Butter Factory in 1907.
From 1910, the first cars started to use the ferry. Traffic increased and by 1930, ferry operator Vince Kunde built a second ferry to cope with the demand. However, the days of the ferry were numbered, because a bridge was under construction.
The Loganholme Bridge opened on 1 July 1931. It was a toll bridge, with the toll collector occupying the old ferryman's cottage. The toll booths operated until November 1945, even though the bridge had more than paid for itself by then. By 1967, a new bridge was built in conjunction with an upgrade of the Pacific Highway. The new bridge carried southbound traffic and the old bridge carried northbound traffic.
In the 1960s, the tourism industry began to develop. Both Ashton’s and Bullen’s Circuses lobbied the Albert Shire Council to approve
construction of lion parks. In December 1968, Bullen’s negotiated to purchase land at Stapylton. In April 1969, Ashton’s opened Ashton’s Animal Kingdom on the corner of Bryants Road and the Pacific Highway. Both ventures were short lived.
In October 1977, Ashton’s Animal Kingdom was bought by Myer Queensland Stores Ltd as a site for a regional shopping centre. In July 1979, a new tavern opened in Loganholme and in October 1982, the Wild Waters Water Slide Park opened, adjacent to the old Ashton’s site. While Myer delayed plans for the major shopping centre, the smaller Loganholme Shopping Village opened on Bryants Road in December 1987. Throughout 1984, ongoing negotiations for a regional shopping centre involved the sale of Wild Waters. The planned regional shopping centre eventually got underway and the Logan Hyperdome officially opened in July 1989.
In 1986, a new bridge at Loganholme was constructed with bi-centennial funding. This led to the decommissioning of the old 1931 bridge, but left the 1968 bridge in use. In April 1996, plans for the Pacific Motorway were announced. Construction began in late 1997 and was completed in September 2000.
Today, Loganholme is a tight-knit, active community. Here is a selection of iconic local businesses that make up the Loganholme community.
Celebrating 40 years in Logan. Started by Syd and Anna Emms in 1982. The business has only had 2 family owners in all that time. The Emms family of Cornubia and now the Latimer family of Shailer Park.
All the products are still made using the traditional methods bought out from Scotland all those years ago and the business is still run-on traditional values that have proven to be the only way to stand the test of time.
• Quality
• Service
• Responsibility to the tradition
• Brotherly and sisterly love for customers and each other.
A big thanks you to all our loyal customers, many of whom have been with us from the beginning and huge, heartfelt thanks to staff past and present. These are the true heroes of the Syds Pies and British food story. Make sure you say hello when you see them out and about with their blue Syds Pies Exit 31 shirt on.
pet that comes through their doors like they are their own. All consultations are 30 minutes long, allowing plenty of time to provide quality care and advice for your cat, dog or pocket pet. For more information, visit their website, bryantsroadvet.com or call (07) 3801 1744 to speak to one of their lovely staff.
Bryants Road Vet is your local vet in Loganholme. Owned and operated by Dr Caroline Kerr, the clinic is staffed by a small team of dedicated vets and vet nurses who love what they do.
The team at Bryants Road Vet treat are committed to providing professional and personalised veterinary care and treat every
The much-loved Fitzys is your go-to local. A place to gather and connect with your family and friends while enjoying a cold drink and a bite to eat. The modern dining room offers a relaxed, family-friendly environment, ideal for casual weeknight dinners, long weekend lunches and group celebrations serving up all your favourite pub classic like their delicious chicken parmigiana or kick back, relax and soak up the sunshine or enjoy live music in our Sports Bar every Friday and Saturday night.
There is something for everyone at Fitzys. Why not come along and see for yourself! For more information, the latest deals & events, visit their website, fitzysloganholme.com.au.
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.
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Sometimes the most important thing is the rest we take between two deep breaths. - Etty Hillesum
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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.
It was years in the works but a newly opened childcare centre is officially open in Loganholme. Conveniently located on Bryants Road, near the Cornubia Shopping Centre and just down the road from the Hyperdome.
The brand-new centre is set on an acre of land in an appealing leafy suburb, bordering Loganholme and Carbrook, with a delightful location.
The facilities exude a relaxed style aesthetic, with large decks encompassing the children’s rooms and a touch of country charm. Each room features large undercover decks for yearround inside-outside play and large natural playgrounds for children to explore.
Cornubia Park Early Learning Centre is the latest addition to the well-reputed boutique Children’s Centres of Excellence Group – a dream created by Jenny Balson, David Balson and Rebecca Tapper.
“With over 40 years of combined experience in the childcare industry, our family wishes to welcome you to our centre,” stated co-owner, Jenny Balson.
“We have created an environment that promotes and enables children’s participation and is welcoming, culturally safe and inclusive for all children and their families.”
Jenny Balson is the creator and visionary of numerous ‘Exceeding’ childcare centres. Her journey has paved the way for many directors, educators, families and children to be a part of a caring, educational community. From a young age, her ideal was to create a safe space for all to flourish. As a result, her dream has been the catalyst for providing exceptional childcare centres around Queensland.
Her journey started over 30 years ago back in central Gold Coast where she founded her first Centre, Benowa Early Learning – Children’s Centre of Excellence. Since then, Jenny’s contagious vision has inspired her son, David Balson and her daughter, Rebecca Tapper to follow in her footsteps to create
Haven Education Group’s Cornubia Park Early Learning – Children’s Centre of Excellence, a place of opportunities, where dreams develop, and more importantly, are made into a reality.
“The centre caters for 130 children from 6 weeks to 6 years, as well as an active before and after school program to accommodate for the needs of schools nearby and siblings of children at St Matthews Catholic School,” explained co-owner, Rebecca Tapper.
In November, the centre held a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new facility. The ceremony was attended by local politicians and other dignitaries including Aboriginal elders who performed a welcome dance and smoke ceremony – meant to encourage healing and bring people together. Throughout the day, visitors were invited and encouraged to play, explore the centre and experience the facilities for themselves.
However, it has been a long journey to get to this point, with the process beginning in 2017.
“The initial concept was of a much larger facility, which we felt too big for the area, so we reduced the number of children, so we ended up in council for a few years,” explained Rebecca.
“We had 2 major hurdles with building, one being Covid with a lack of materials and contractors and two being the rain in January through to May. We refer to our construction process as being more like a slow-cooked meal. The reward at the end is so much better than we ever could have imagined!”
At Cornubia Park Childcare Centre, children are encouraged to engage in endless opportunities; where curiosity, excitement and spontaneous imagination are nurtured. It is a place of laughter
and joy, of friends and memories. They have embraced the Reggio Emilia Approach and Nature Play pedagogy to deliver a community of kindness, honesty and respect.
The Reggio Emilia approach has a strong emphasis on the importance of family and community and the belief, ‘it takes a village to raise a child’. “A Village” is symbolic of the ‘whole environment’ in which a child grows up.
“Our vision encompasses a supportive, nurturing community that values relationships and enriches education. We provide an environment for children, where they feel safe and secure, giving them the best chance of developing and flourishing. Children are given a voice, are taken seriously and encouraged to believe in themselves to realize their hopes and dreams,” stated Rebecca.
“Here we view all children as capable learners and co-construct the daily experience (with them) to make learning as enjoyable as it is educational. We understand each child has an innate desire to explore, learn and develop. At Cornubia Park, we believe in The Child “as the catalyst and the centre of their own learning,” stated Rebecca.
Every child is capable of (and inclined to) direct their own learning journey. The Centre offers play-based child-centred learning where every child is supported to:
• Have their own voice, to have their ideas and intentions valued and appreciated
• Be aware of, listen to, and express their feelings
• To trust their instincts, and follow their interests. To be led by their own curiosity
• Balance their skills against the demand of the task or environment (risky play)
• To create and apply meaning in ways they see fit
• To have success or not, and believe in their ability to cope, learn and grow.
For more information about the centre and its facilities, visit their website, cornubiaparkelc.com.au or call (07) 3154 5711 to speak to one of the lovely staff.
I'm Bowie and this is Daisy. Hello, hey there. We have a story we'd like to share. You see we're endangered. Yeah we're rare and we need all you humans to show you care. Everyone, everywhere reckons we're sweet and toys like us are considered a treat.
So we plan to travel to help our cause. We'll have people everywhere eating out of our paws. I'll be drawn on a box and sent overseas and people will say "can I have one please".
The treasures inside will be such a treat. Aussies made goodies that no one can beat. So go jump on insta and follow us there, cause Koala Box is gonna go everywhere.
We all know life is full of ups and downs. Just like a roller coaster. Annoying speed bumps. Forks in the road. Which path to take? Take the High road or the Low road? Samuel Smith had been feeling this way when he discovered our Certificate II in Automotive Pathways course and decided to make contact.
Sam had not attended one full week of school for two and half years
and had been struggling with what do next in his life, but he knew he wanted to do something in the Auto industry as he always held an interest in cars.
So Sam attended our info sessions for the Cert. II Auto course and decided to give it a go. Brighter days then lay ahead as Sam went from a young lad disengaged in school, to being completely engaged in the Automotive training at RTO Motor Trades Association Qld.
Sam found the training “really good” and appreciated the daily combination of some classroom time, mixed with hands-on experience in the state-of-the-art training facility. Along with the wrap-around personal support he was receiving from MultiLink, Sam was never in doubt to complete the program.
He attended class every day and proudly received his Certificate II Automotive Pathway qualification earlier this year. But wait, there’s more….. After the training, Sam was able to secure a trial with a Rapid Tune mechanic’s service and within no-time Sam was offered an apprenticeship!
Sam is feeling really positive about his future and eventually hopes to do something in heavy machinery or become a diesel mechanic.
Sam’s training was made possible with funding from Qld Gov. Skilling Queenslanders for Work initiatives. MultiLink aim to be running more or these programs in 2023. If you want to find out more or are a business that is looking to help make a difference to someone’s life, please contact us today.
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 Artist 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.
“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.
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.Customers can discover national brand over-runs, end-of-ranges, goods with slight imperfections and value for money merchandise at 40%-80% off.
Dimmeys is a familiar name when it comes to ‘bargains! Established originally in 1853 it is one of the oldest ongoing Retail Company in Australia, with a fascinating history that has had many twists and turns over the past 165+ years, it is a remarkable story of survival in an extremely tough retail industry.
Dimmeys is an old-fashioned, no-frills organisation that focuses on keeping overheads low so that it can honour their promise to customers – “Always a Bargain”.
It states, ‘Our philosophy ensures a truly fun and unique bargain basement style shopping experience’.
Customers can discover national brand over-runs, end-of-ranges, goods with slight imperfections and value for money merchandise at 40% - 80% off. There’s nothing like the exhilaration of getting a bargain to keep you coming back for more!
The quirky thing about Dimmeys is that you never know what you are going to find in the stores.
“We buy products from local suppliers here in Australia and also deal with agents throughout Asia so we are constantly inundated with many product offers” says Steve, owner and manager of the Springwood store.
“We get offered stock by companies as large as Calvin Klein, Bonds and Sheridan and also from
local retailers who may have closed down. We are often the go-to company for all manner of clearance products” he adds.
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Regular Dimmeys customers know they do not need to pay $79.99 for an Elle McPherson bra, they know at Dimmeys they’ll pay just $12.99
They know they could shop at DJs or Myer and pay $299 for bed sheet sets, but they prefer to shop at Dimmeys where they pay only $99 for the same brand. There are hundreds of examples of these sorts of savings spread throughout their stores.
The story of Dimmeys has a long and distinguished past and a very bright future. Having recently opened a store in Springwood, the feedback coming from locals has only been positive.
“So far, so good! We had locals express their joy about picking up a bargain or them getting what they need on a budget”, said Steve.
Visit Dimmeys Springwood at Springwood Mall, Fitzgerald Ave Springwood. Open 7 days a week. Ph: (07) 3808 2990
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
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 spec tacular 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.
Whether
get in shape, or
Dance can be a powerful tool for enhanc ing and developing many positive attri butes of a growing child. Dance helps children mature physically, emotionally, socially and cognitively. The physical benefits of dance are widely accepted, but the emotional, social and cognitive attributes have only recently begun to be appreciated.
Improved Physical Health Dance improves physical and mental strength, corrects poor posture, increases flexibility and range of motion, creates better balance, coor dination and heart health and impacts on the capable range of gross motor and fine motor movements.
Dance promotes psychological health and maturity. Children enjoy the opportunity to express their emotions and become aware of themselves and others through creative
movement. A pre-school child enters a dance class or classroom with a history of emotional experiences. Movement within a class offers a structured outlet for physical release while gaining that all important awareness and ap preciation of oneself and others.
Dance fosters social encounters, interaction and cooperation. Children build trust and create friendships with their teachers and other dancers. They improve their communications skills, confidence and self-esteem through the real and immediate mode of body movement, whilst reducing their shyness and anxiety. As the ongoing and sometimes challenging pro cess of cooperation evolves, children learn to understand themselves in relation to others.
Your children will create movement spon taneously when presented with movement ideas or problems that can be solved with a movement response. Movement provides the cognitive loop between the idea, problem or intent and the outcome to the solution. This teaches an infant, child, and ultimately, an adult to function in and understand the world. The relationship of movement to intellectual development is a field of study that continues to be explored.
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
Week of FREE Trials! BOOK ONLINE: www.resetdancestudio.com.au
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
We know how difficult your first Christmas will be without them. The reminders of the ones we have lost become clearer during the holidays. Chances are you will drink from their cup or throw their favourite blanket over your knees at night.
Remember, these memories are how they remain with us. Each little reminder of the moments that you shared confirms your love for them.
Light a candle of remembrance to honour their legacy and speak their names around the table as you toast to another year passing and to a new one to come.
Merry Christmas to you all –White Lady Funerals, Tanah Merah
s Christmas approaches, now more than ever before, we’re all counting our money and budgeting for presents and
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
What is the secret to great scones?
I hear this asked on a very regular basis, usually while my guests are enjoying my scones and a cup of tea or coffee. The Scones we know today are quite different from the origin of scones. Said to originate in Scotland and made from oats. Scones were baked or griddled over a fire. These scones would have been denser and heavier than our present-day scone.
As milling and baking techniques were refined, scones were made with fine flour and baked in the ovens, then popularised in the 1840s at the beginning of the Afternoon Tea service by Anna, Duchess of Bedford.
Now scones come in many different flavours, with different ingredients and baking tech niques. The two common things amongst all the recipes are your oven temperature and how you handle your dough.
Firstly, you need to have your oven at the opti mal temperature. I have my oven on 180 Cel sius, fan forced, and it takes about 25 minutes to cook a tray of two dozen scones (turn them
at about 15 minutes). However, another oven may cook better at 170, or at 190 without fan forced. You also need to know the sweet spot in your oven – not too high, not too low.
Secondly, do not overhandle your dough. The more you handle the dough, the more the air is knocked out of it and your scones will not rise. I turn out my dough onto a floured board, spread out to about 5 cm thick, then flip over, and spread out the dough again. Scones are cut with the cutter and placed directly onto a lined baking tray. There should be a light dusting of flour on the top.
These two rules apply to any scone recipe you use. One final tip. Do not overcook your scones. Take them out of the oven when they are only just browning on top, any longer, they will start to overcook and become chewy, hard, flat, or a combination of all three.
Come and try our traditional Cream Tea of two scones with jam & cream, plus your pot of tea or cup of coffee.
P: 0449 285 277, E: tea@devonpixies.com.au W: www.devonpixies.com.au
A favourite with the locals, George’s Grill Seafood & Burgers is popular for its range of top-quality seafood, varied cooking techniques and original recipes. Its menu features traditional and specialty items including Grilled Baby Octopus and Moreton Bay Bugs, and the famous gourmet burgers. The fish here is beautifully battered, crumbed or grilled and is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. A must try visit!
Whether you like sweet and soft or crunchy and succulent, Little Red Dumpling serves some of the best and most authentic dumplings in Logan. Prepared daily, their dumplings are made from fresh local ingredients and served with a delicious secret sauce. Why not expand your repertoire and try some of their ‘Not Dumplings’ dishes. Stand-outs include fried chicken baos and the wonton in red chilli sauce. They are open 7 days from 11am-9pm.
Local favourite, Mosaic Pizza uses the highest-quality ingredients to create delicious, crave-worthy food. Freshly baked gourmet pizza, hand stretched and delicious fresh, ingredients and a strong passion for cooking perfection; focusing on flavour and service. In 2021, Mosaic Pizza won the title of Logan’s best pizza. Endless options, all made fresh to order.
When asking most children, “Why don’t you want to write a story?”, the usual answer is “I don’t know what to write about!”
However, if they knew how easy it is to borrow ideas, they might be far more inspired, and they might have a lot of fun creating their own version – from simple story to mini masterpiece in minutes. Interestingly, many people find short stories far more entertaining than long ones.
Folk tales, fables, and movies are just the start of an idea-rich line-up of stories ready for the harvest. It is also very helpful for children to discuss and clarify the story problem and the solution before they start writing.
After helping the child decide “What to write”, the next problem is “How to write it”.
Certainly, a clear story structure is a valuable tool, and keeping to a reasonable sentence count is important. Less is best. However, meaning is critical.
The following story structure is only a guide, and writing less or more sentences is definitely an option.
Introduction (3 to 5 sentences) Who is in the story? Where are they?
Problem (5 to 8 sentences) What do they need? What do they want? How do they feel?
Solution (3 to 5 sentences) How do they get what they want or need? How do they feel?
Epilogue (1 or 2 sentences) How does life get back to normal?
Moral ( 1 sentence) What lesson is learned?
A well-known story triggered the ideas for the following narrative.
Shadows lengthened as the sun dipped secretively behind a menacing forest—home to an everhungry wolf.
After a long day tending their corn crop, the fearful yet determined three little pigs raced, as they did every day, to somewhere safe for the night. Evening shadows, like creeping tigers, devoured them as they sheltered in their secret cave.
There they enthusiastically planned their strategy to build a house-trap to teach this tyrant wolf a lesson.
The wolf was a powerful and cunning foe so their building materials would have to be strong, their designs would have to be clever, and their timing would have to be perfect. It was victory or victim. Purposely, they made the first house-trap out of straw so it would be easily blown down by the wolf, and the second house-trap, made of sticks, would be easily snapped and scattered. However, the third house-trap, made of bricks, was designed to cleverly
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follow his peaceful plan. At last, the three little pigs were safe and their cornfields flourished and the wolf enjoyed growing many different fruits and vegetables… except corn.
Moral: A peaceful plan benefits all.
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?
KBF CULTURAL PRECINCT
SAT, 10 DEC | 7AM - 12PM
Come down to KBF Precinct and visit the markets, where there is something for everyone this festive season!
EDITION
124 DISTILLERY RD, EAGLEBY THURS, 15 DEC | 4PM
Local vendors from across SEQ include a mix of fresh produce growers, fresh meat, seafood, small goods, spices, bulk foods and artisan makers showcasing, jewellery, pet products, children’s products, homewares and more.
AT AREA 51
51 KINGSTON RD, UNDERWOOD
MON, 19 DEC | 10AM - 2PM
Join Australia’s Largest Indoor Family Entertainment Centre, Area 51, for a fun filled day - Santa Appearances, roving entertainment, face painting, dancing & Christmas carols and more!
GRIFFITH UNIVERSITY
CAMPUS SAT, 10 DEC | 2PM - 8PM
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 will have you singing along to all your favourite carols! Bring your own picnic or enjoy a fantastic variety of delicious food available.
Join Quiz Master, Dean Hurst for funfilled quiz competitions, one delivered in-person (for 1 and a half hours) and another online (for 1 hour only). For adults and children 11 years and above. Book via Logan Library website.
Year 12 students from the Class of 2022 who have their sights set on further study can apply now to receive $5000 through a bursary program coordinated by Logan City Council.
The Tertiary Education Bursaries are awarded each year to City of Logan students who are starting full-time undergraduate studies after finishing school.
Governance Chair, Councillor Karen Murphy, said students from families with limited financial resources were particularly encouraged to apply.
“It can be expensive to go on to university after leaving school, with textbooks and other resources being quite costly,” Cr Murphy said.
“We have some of the brightest young minds here in the city and money shouldn’t be a barrier to reaching your potential, especially if you’ve demonstrated commitment to your studies throughout high school.
“Council has provided these bursaries for more than 20 years to help local residents succeed in a range of careers including health, arts, law, engineering and business.”
The bursaries are funded by Council as well as businesses and organisations from South East Queensland.
Applications for the bursaries are open until Friday, December 23.
Students will be assessed on their academic ability, educational highlights, motivation to succeed, financial hardship and personal or social circumstances.
More information about the program, including the eligibility guidelines and how to apply, can be found at logan.qld.gov.au/ tertiaryeducationalbursaries
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.
The City of Logan has embraced its proud cultural diversity by producing an historic multi-lingual video that encourages migrants and refugees to learn to swim.
The trailblazing video from Logan City Council includes messaging in seven languages –Burmese, Mandarin, Swahili, Arabic, Dari, Somali and English.
It features new Australians in the City of Logan
The video, which can be viewed online is being shared across a range of multicultural media and social media platforms.
The City of Logan is home to more than 327,000 people from around 217 different cultures.
More than 83,000 of the city’s residents were born overseas. Many speak their native tongue at home.
City Lifestyle Chair, Councillor Laurie Koranski, said safety in water-based environments was important for everyone in the City of Logan. “This amazing multi-lingual video and our Now I Can Swim awareness campaign reaches out directly to our multicultural residents but also is good advice for the whole community,” Cr
Kingston resident and participant Thereze Miburo believes swimming is a life skill everyone should have, especially in Australia.
She was a non-swimmer when she arrived from a Burundi refugee camp in 2007 and has set about making sure her sons aged from five to nine-years-old have learnt how to swim.
“We want everyone to safely enjoy more of the summer fun that the City of Logan and neighbouring areas have to offer.”
The Now I Can Swim awareness campaign uses activities including going to the beach, water parks, pools and fishing to explain the safety benefits of knowing how to swim.
It highlights the importance of supervising children around water and features two refugees who not only learned to swim but have now graduated to become swim instructors.
“It is good to be safe around the water. We should enjoy the water rather than be scared of it.,” she said.
Posters featuring participants in the video will displayed across the community and at City of Logan’s five Council-run public aquatic centres.
A digital marketing campaign and a website Now I Can Swim - Logan Leisure Centres will also spread the water safety message.
Statistics from Australian Royal Life Saving show 27 per cent of drowning deaths in the last decade involved people born overseas.
2022 has been packed. Just this year, there has been a war, natural disasters, the Winter Olympics, Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee and Prince Charles became King, just to name a few! So, as we approach the end of 2022, it’s important to take time to give thanks and reflect on what has happened throughout the year – the good and the bad, to close the door to 2022, in preparation for a clean slate in 2023.
We asked the local students what they were thankful for and here are some of the responses we got.
My biggest highlight this year, 2022, was visiting Spark Lab and the Museum. It was intriguing looking at all the experiments and how things work but we looked suspiciously at the unusual native animals of Australia. The Spark Lab experience was like a very surprising roller coaster with 100 loop-tee-loops. I award Spark Lab with “The Best Learning and Entertainment Centre for 2022”.
Liyana, Grade 3
A highlight for me this year was when I saw the total lunar eclipse on November 7. It was a very fascinating moment because we could observe something extraordinary happening in space without the need of a telescope. This was definitely an amazing phenomenon to see.
Mayeda, Grade 9
2022 is the best year in 2020 decade! This is the year where covid is unofficially over & we started to resume normal life. The Pandemic is not yet over though, but the thing is the global pandemic has come much on a controlled level. I would like to share a beautiful message to students and readers to keep pushing through! If you are facing a new challenge or being asked to do something that you have never done before, don’t be afraid to step out. You have more capability than you think you do but you will never see it unless you place a demand on yourself for more.
This year became really busy for me because I had many difficult lessons to complete. Something that made the year feel like it was going even faster was the uncommon phenomenon which happened in June and July as the earth spun faster leaving clocks behind. Another important aspect of this year for me was that, although I was quite lazy in 2021, I worked much harder in 2022.
This year was fast and difficult for me because I had more studies to complete and more work to do. However, the activity I enjoyed the most was coding. I think next year will be even busier for me.
It was a challenging year for me but this following quote from Steve Jobs really helped me. “Our work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it”
One of the best moments of 2022 was when my article was featured in this community magazine. I really liked how many people in my community can read my ideas. Thank you, Logan City Guides.
Anh Do, a Vietnamese refugee who immigrated to Australia and who is now a famous person, once said, “There’s only two times in life, there’s now, and there’s too late.”
If we don’t act now, it will be too late! Do we want our world to be a place where beauty is destroyed, resources are lost, and emotions are severely damaged? Or do we want a place where everyone is working together in peace?
To begin with, where there is war, the environment is transformed from beautiful to horrid! All the clean, fresh air that we breathe becomes unclean, unhygienic air and our natural and man-made environments as well as our resources, are destroyed. This can easily lead to a point where we are not be able to fix anything. Furthermore, to mend all of this destruction takes a lot of money, and money doesn’t grow on trees. However, if we work together, we will not have such terrible problems and we could fix things peacefully. This is why war is nasty and unity is critical. Not only does war destroy our environment, it also impacts our emotions.
Another very important reason to choose unity over war is that when there is war, people all around the world receive negative emotions. One reason these unhappy feelings occur is because people and animals die. Even
when they have nothing to do with the war, they perish. There are also many people who become refugees with no home. Even worse, people have the negative feelings of no hope because they believe nothing can be fixed. Tragically, war also causes prices to go up around the world which is highly stressful for a lot of families. Isn’t war destructive? Wouldn’t unity be much better?
Most importantly, we must think about the benefits of unity. Where there is unity and no war, there are a lot of positive emotions. When unity is applied, there are lots of superb ideas to solve any problems. When we work together in peace, we enjoy learning about different cultures which is very exciting, because we share different ways of doing things and better ways to care for our environment and use our resources.
It is tragic to see our world’s beauty destroyed, our resources lost, and our emotions severely damaged. Unfortunately, this damage can be irreparable! However, we still have time to work together in peace to save our environment, to take care of our resources, and to encourage our emotions. We need unity not war!
Are you a person who is a couch potato? Honestly, I’m now picturing this image: a person eating junk food and drinking soft drinks. Uugh! They look like a balloon about to pop! I’d say to them,” Be smart and realise, you can’t be happy without being healthy!”
If you eat too much and don’t exercise, you will be drowsy with no energy, no strength, and no enthusiasm. However, when you play a sport like running or cycling, you will not have fat but fitness and more muscles. Think of your favourite soccer player or sports person. You definitely want to be like them, don’t you? So, don’t sit there on the couch and watch TV! Go outside and play lots of sport or run around and exercise. You too could be like these fit, healthy sports people and even become an Olympian and earn a lot of money! Not only will you be fit but you will also have a refreshing sleep.
Sleep is very important; no one can live without it. Watching TV while laying down on a couch, you feel drowsy but it’s still difficult to have a good sleep. However, when you exercise, it’s very easy for you to go to sleep because your body feels refreshed, relaxed and relieved of bad posture and stiffness. After exercising, you don’t have to force your body to sleep because within a blink of an eye, you will start to sleep peacefully. Ahhhh… you softly sigh and relax and start snoring… In the morning you stretch to the sky and say hello to a new day. Now your body is ready for friends and fun!
Sport by yourself… boring! Sport with friends… exciting, entertaining and very healthy! Imagine running, cycling, playing and your best
companions… not a serious competitive competition, but uplifting and amusing games. When you go to a park, you might see lots of children playing and you can ask them if you can play with them, and often they will say “yes” because they want to have fun! Furthermore, while you are playing your body is becoming healthier.
I hope you now wisely and willingly change your mind and act like a person who thinks about the consequences of not exercising, not sleeping well, and not being active in the warm sun with your friends. SO, INSTEAD OF SITTING THERE DOING NOTHING,
Pop the champers, practise your speech and prepare to catch the bouquet as Phoenix Ensemble’s latest musical ‘It Shoulda Been You’ has opened to rave reviews.
As the father of the bride might put it, “Oy.” “It Shoulda Been You,” which opened in November at the Pavilion Theatre in Beenleigh, confirms the sad truth that weddings — those supposed celebrations of everlasting love — bring out the worst in some people. That includes cynics, show-offs, heavy drinkers, envious have-nots and it would seem, the creators of musicals.
Phoenix Ensemble’s production of ‘It Shoulda Been You’ is the Queensland premiere of Brian Hargrove’s sensational Broadway musical. Featuring a sensational cast of powerful singers accompanied by a live band, this rendition is sure to entertain, shock, and deliver uproarious laughter. Filled to the brim with zeitgeist and chutzpah, with a little sprinkling of fabulous, the
cast and crew have done a tremendous job in bringing this hilarious family-drama, romanticcomedy musical to life.
On the 4th of November, I had the opportunity to attend the opening night alongside my sister, Kate and without spoiling too much, ‘It Shoulda Been You’ delves into the controversies that arise when dealing with opposing religions, gay rights and in-laws; with more drama than any regular family soap-operas. Chaos ensues as everything goes wrong in the lead-up to a wedding ceremony between a Jewish bride (Grace Clarke) and her Catholic groom (Luke Devine). Throughout the show, the bride’s sister (Danika Saal) tries to hold everything together in
the face of disaster including the bride’s exboyfriend (Shane Webb) showing up uninvited, and the mothers of the nuptial pair clashing claws (Della Days & Miranda Selwood).
When we first arrived at the theatre, we were unsure if we were in the correct location. From the outside, The Pavilion Theatre may seem like a big workers shed sitting quietly in a corner of the Beenleigh Showgrounds. However, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover for once the audience was settled in their seats and the show began, it was truly amazing to see the talent we have hidden in Beenleigh.
For when the performance began, the entire audience was captivated by the compelling storyline, and the actors’ performances – each wonderful balance in their comedic acting and the authenticity in their singing. From the very beginning of the piece, it was clear that the Director, Sheryl-Lee Secomb, has put a lot of thought and consideration into the production – working with the talented group of creatives,
Secomb has certainly created a thoroughly entertaining, and refined piece of theatre.
One of the stand-out performances for me was Danika Saal who portrayed Jenny Steinberg. This absolute force of nature was a highlight of the show. Along with her stunning vocals, she truly embodied her character. Owning the stage throughout her performance, especially during ‘Jenny’s Blues’ which marked the self-confident rebirth of her character.
Another highlight was the co-maid of honour and best man, Annie and Greg played by Chynna Santos and William Chen, who opened the second act with a fabulous and highenergy number, ‘Love You Til the Day’. Their performance had the audience in stitches and was reminiscent of every epic best man or woman's speech. It was a perfect way to open the show and possibly one of my favourite performances on the night.
The biggest surprise of the night came after the show had ended and the performers had taken their final bows, when Mark Rickell who portrayed Albert proposed to his girlfriend, Fiona Mumford in front of a shocked, yet ecstatic audience. What better way to finish an evening celebrating love than an actual proposal! Congratulations to the happy couple and best wishes for the years ahead.
For more information about the Phoenix Ensemble and their upcoming shows, visit their website, phoenixensemble.com.au.
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