The Sentinel 23 July 2025 by SomersetMedia

SPORT Lights, camera, compassion for Cranky’s p6

Community roars to life in Wamuran

Wamuran Lions Family Carnival pics p8

No charge ahead

◗ Marina Gomide

THE company behind a controversial Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Hazeldean, near Kilcoy, has withdrawn its Development Application (DA), following over a year of community objections.

Developer Enervest formally withdrew its DA with Somerset Council on

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Friday, July 18, just a month a er they requested a 60 business day extension to the decision period.

According to the Enervest Hazeldean Project team, the decision to withdraw came a er ongoing conversations with Somerset Council, key stakeholders and the local community.

“It became evident during these discussions

that concerns remain around battery technology, its visual and potential impacts, and associated planning complexities,” they told The Sentinel.

“A er carefully considering this feedback we concluded that withdrawing was the most appropriate decision at this stage.”

Full story p3

Bruce’s rough route

◗ Marina Gomide

DOZENS of families between North Lakes and Caboolture are facing the possibility of losing their homes under a newly released Bruce Highway upgrade plan, with up to 90 properties ﬂagged for full or partial resumption.

The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) last week unveiled details of the $34

million proposed upgrade to an 18-kilometre stretch of the highway between Anzac Avenue in North Lakes and Caboolture-Bribie Island Road in Caboolture.

Some aﬀected homeowners only learned their properties were in the ﬁring line a er a media release was issued on July 16. Letters were mailed out later that same day, prompting confusion and frustration. Full story p4-5

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FROM THE EDITOR

THE folk at Transport and Main Roads are slow learners.

Fresh from their woeful communications gameplan over the proposed Bruce Highway Western Alternative (BHWA) in 2023, comes the $34 million upgrade proposal for the Bruce Highway.

This will impact 90 residents who face the loss, or partial loss, of the family home.

Some of them at least heard about this unwanted and unexpected upheaval to their lives ‘oﬀicially’ via snail mail.

Communities put at the heart of renewables

THE State Government has implemented new legislation aimed at strengthening community inﬂuence over largescale renewable energy developments across regional Queensland.

The new Planning (Social Impact and Community Beneﬁt) and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2025, passed by Parliament in June, introduced mandatory public notiﬁcations for proposed solar and wind farms.

It also required Social Impact Assessments (SIAs) that included genuine community engagement, and mandated Community Beneﬁt Agreements (CBAs), negotiated in collaboration with local councils. Under the updated framework, the State will take on the role of assessment manager for large-scale solar projects, in partnership with local governments.

This move ensures consistent approval

processes and planning rules across all 77 Queensland council areas. Now, even pre-existing applications yet to be decided must comply with the enhanced requirements— demonstrating social impact considerations and delivering tangible beneﬁts to host communities.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie emphasised that regional Queenslanders will now have a stronger voice in renewables development.

“The State is listening, and we are delivering a new era of renewables accountability, clarity, transparency, and community legacy,” he said.

He added that the legislation ensures renewable energy projects build social licence, giving both industry and communities certainty regarding expectations.

Unfortunately, though, they’d been made aware of the news via the media, a er TMR apparently sent out a media release earlier the same day.

Seeing video of your street named as one set for resumption before having any other information

to hand leads to some unpleasant conclusions.

Back when the BHWA was announced (just prior to Christmas and with a limited timeframe for feedback), the community rallied in a big way.

An action group was formed, a leader chosen, and it was on for all money.

The then Labor government made few concessions and, with a state election in play, it ended up playing a part in the loss of the local member in favour of the LNP.

While a state election isn’t an issue this time, it could serve as a useful blueprint for how the community can get action.

While there’s a long way to go—and we need an eﬀective road network to keep the south-east moving—the messaging and support for local residents’ needs to be sharper and

more empathetic than has been the case in these two examples.

People power

While it’s easy for community members to feel isolated and disenfranchised in the face of big business and government, the move by Enervest to scrap its planned Battery Energy Storage System at Hazeldean shows that all is not lost if people work together.

As we report this week, Enervest pulled the plug on its project, which would have been a massive battery storage facility in the ruralzoned area.

In large part, this is due to the groundswell of community action, concerned about the project and its potential impact on local amenity.

While Enervest tried to assuage concerns with

public meetings and information campaigns, residents were having none of it. We don’t know for sure, but if it was rejected by Council, the unpopular project would likely have dragged on for months, if not years, through the Planning and Environment Court—and cost ratepayers a fair amount to boot.

While some of the concerns may have been overegged, the main objection—having such a large-scale project in a rural area—carried merit.

As Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt tells The Sentinel: “These types of developments need to establish clear local community beneﬁts and not supersede the qualities which make Somerset a special place.”

Tree planting fun

MORETON Bay is empowering locals to roll up their sleeves and get their green thumbs out on Sunday, 27 July to celebrate National Tree Day.

Council has its sights set at planting 4,000 native trees, shrubs, and vines with the support of the local community.

In past years, over 150 volunteers have jumped on board to help, and Council is encouraging even more people to come along this year.

Mayor Peter Flannery

environment, while learning more about the natural spaces around them.

“Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or it’s your ﬁrst time, everyone is welcome to plant some native trees with us this National Tree Day. Come prepared for the outdoors

rest, including a well-earned and delicious sausage sizzle for our incredible volunteers,” he said.

“Protecting

we all have a opportunity to do that in way. Whether

and shape the future of our natural environment.

“We’re committed to going green as we grow, and that means creating opportunities for the community to get involved in events and initiatives that protect and improve our City’s environment.”

National Tree Day 2025 events will take place between 9am - 11am at:

• Bubke Crescent, 41 Bubke Crescent, Caboolture

• Sir Dapper Drive Park, 48 Sir Dapper Drive Park,

Mitch

Mitch Gaynor r

Volunteers at previous National Tree Day in Moreton Bay.

Community pushback discharges battery

Hazeldean battery plan pulled after year-long opposition

THE company behind a controversial Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Hazeldean, near Kilcoy, has withdrawn its Development Application (DA), following over a year of community objections.

Developer Enervest formally withdrew the project with Somerset Council on July 18, just a

received nearly 300 public submissions against the proposed project, including the creation of a vocal opposition group called Save Somerset.

According to the Enervest Hazeldean Project team, the decision to withdraw came a er ongoing conversations with Somerset Council, key stakeholders and the local community.

“It became evident during

opportunity to continue engaging with the community and other stakeholders.

“Understanding and addressing local concerns and expectations remains essential to our future planning and project development activities.”

Enervest deeply thanked Council, the community, and other stakeholders for their feedback and input in

In February of this year, Enervest had contracted independent researchers to ask residents how the development could beneﬁt the community.

The survey identiﬁed a lack of training and equipment for local ﬁre brigades as one of the main concerns raised by residents.

Toxic ﬁre runoﬀ was also named as one of the top worries, along with

the need for renewable energy developments to be mindful of locations and communities.

“The application was ﬁrst lodged in September 2023 and Council has engaged the applicant over this time to address planning matters,” he said.

“Our region has, like many other local governments, experienced a rise in interest for the development of such renewable energy facilities.

“These types of developments need to establish clear local community beneﬁts and not supersede the qualities which make Somerset a special place.

“As a fundamental consideration for any type of application; it must be the right development in the right place and at the right time.”

Somerset Council made a submission to the Queensland Government regarding the social impact of renewable energy facilities in June, asking standalone BESS facilities to be included in the state’s new assessment of renewable energy facilities.

“While not generating power, large scale BESS are a key feature of renewable

energy infrastructure and, like large scale solar or wind farms, they have signiﬁcant social impacts on communities,” Cr Wendt said.

“Currently, stand-alone BESS facilities are not subject to the proposed assessment process. We would like to see this amended.

“We do not want to halt the progress of renewable energy, but we also do not want to see our communities negatively impacted by large scale developments.

“We look forward to the State Development, Infrastructure and Works Committee’s review for a proposed assessment framework.”

The Enervest Hazeldean Project team said they recognise the “unique” planning, technical, and regulatory complexities that energy storage systems present.

“We look forward to continuing to engage with Local and State Government to ensure that there is an appropriate and consistent assessment framework in place for energy projects across Queensland, that considers community feedback appropriately,” they said.

COOMINYA

NARANGBA

◗ Marina Gomide

Residents opposed to the Hazeldean BESS project gathered last year. Photo: Marina Gomide.

Prepare to for bushﬁre season

MORETON Bay residents are being urged to prepare now to avoid needlessly putting their lives at risk as bushﬁre season approaches.

The call comes as Council conducts a series of planned burns across the City in a bid to help minimise the risk and severity of bushﬁres.

“A er one of the wettest seasons in years, we’ve seen rapid growth in some of our bushlands. But more growth means more fuel on the ground for a bushﬁre,” Mayor Peter Flannery said.

“These mild, low intensity burns help keep the bush healthy, maintain habitat for native wildlife, reduce fuel loads and protect our homes.”

Mayor Flannery said residents could do their part to minimise risk by cleaning up their yards and gutters and trimming low-lying branches or native shrubs growing close to their house.

Residents can stay informed of planned burns in their area by signing up to MoretonAlert for SMS and email updates.

Those with asthma or respiratory issues are advised stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed while planned burns are being conducted.

For more information on upcoming planned burns visit www.moretonbay.qld. gov.au/Services/DisasterManagement/PlannedBurns#schedule.

Residents on a collision course over highway

Upgrade proposal could see 90 homes resumed

◗ Marina Gomide

The Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) last week unveiled details of the $34 million proposed upgrade to an 18-kilometre stretch of the highway between Anzac Avenue in North Lakes and Caboolture-Bribie Island Road in Caboolture.

The project includes additional lanes, new interchanges and service

road realignments—but its potential impact on residents has triggered community anger and claims of inadequate consultation.

Some aﬀected homeowners only learned their properties were in the ﬁring line a er a media release was issued on July 16.

Letters were handdelivered or mailed out later that same day, prompting confusion and frustration among those set to lose homes or land.

A resident of Forbes Court in Morayﬁeld, who asked not to be named, said they ﬁrst heard of the plans via social media.

“I look on Facebook in

Join business workshops

SOMERSET Regional Council will host two free workshops designed to support businesses with tendering and building capability statements, with the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning presenting both workshops, Economic Development and Tourism Committee Chair, Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt, said the workshops would give businesses greater conﬁdence in preparing tenders and marketing their product or service.

The ﬁrst event is the Tendering for Business Workshop, to be held 4pm to 7pm on Wednesday, July 30

at Esk Library.

This will cover how to interpret tender documents, how to respond to key criteria, common pitfalls and traps, and where to ﬁnd tendering opportunities.

“This practical and interactive workshop will help businesses prepare comprehensive and conforming bids to tender for government and private sector contracts, both large and small,” Cr Wendt said.

The second event is the Capability Statement Workshop, to be held 4pm7pm on Wednesday, August 13 at the Kilcoy Visitor Information Centre.

Cr Wendt said participating businesses

would further improve their chances of securing contracts through this workshop.

“Capability statements accompany tender submissions to help market your product or service,” Cr Wendt said.

“This workshop will cover best-practice fundamentals for developing and dra ing a powerful capability statement, and how to access information on QLD’s supply chain opportunities.”

Bookings are essential.

For the 30 July workshop, visit TenderingforBusiness. eventbrite.com.au For the 13 August workshop, visit SomersetCapability Statement.eventbrite.com.au

news video talking about an upgrade and expansion and was like ‘that’s our street’,” they said.

“We only got a letter in the mail later in the day.”

The resident later met with TMR representatives, but described the encounter as largely dismissive.

“They showed us pretty pictures and told us how good it will be for the region, but we won’t be part of the region anymore,” they said.

“If we get market value for our property, we’re going to have to move to Bundaberg or somewhere else far away to aﬀord the same kind of house. We won’t be able to stay in this community.”

The resident said the only previous correspondence from TMR came in 2023 and referred to minor upgrades and a lane addition, with “minimal disruption and resumptions”.

“They said people would lose one or two metres of their back fence, but now

Government changed, the whole thing changed.”

TMR has said it consulted the community between October and November 2023, but locals argue the scale of this latest proposal goes well beyond what was initially indicated.

Member for Morayﬁeld, Mark Ryan, described the situation as “a disgrace”.

“My goal is to make sure that aﬀected residents are not blindsided by this Government,” he said.

“People are owed the decency and respect of meaningful consultation and consideration before ﬂashy videos and graphics are distributed to the media.

“It is my expectation— and the expectation of our community—that all aﬀected

He added: “My job is not to stand in the way of progress, but to ensure people are treated with respect when

environmental efforts

THE Rotary Club of Redcliﬀe Sunrise recently marked its annual changeover with a celebration of service, sustainability, and a renewed focus on community collaboration.

Having been founded in 1905 by Paul Harris and three colleagues with the aim of doing good in their Chicago community, the Rotary continues to thrive, as shown at the recent changeover dinner.

This year’s global Rotary theme for 2025–26, “Unite for Good,” captures the spirit of the club’s work and the collaborative ethos that drives it forward.

As part of the evening’s formalities, outgoing and

incoming club president Paul Harcombe awarded one of Rotary’s highest honours — the Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) award — to fellow Rotarian Peter Row.

The award, presented by District 9620 Governor Mark Williams, recognised Row’s outstanding commitment to environmental education and action.

Mr Row has been the driving force behind a monthly environmental program held at the Deception Bay Environmental Hub, featuring researchers from UniSC, University of Queensland,

and REF Environmental. These sessions, held on the third Thursday of each month from 7–9 pm, have explored topics ranging from koalas and kangaroos to crocodiles and shellﬁsh reefs.

Building on this success, the program has inspired a major upcoming event: the Moreton Bay Sea Country Showcase, scheduled for Friday, November 7 at the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Petrie Campus. The event promises to be an insightful day of science, culture, and community. For more information and to register, please scan the QR code provided.

District 9620 Governor Mark Williams presenting ‘Paul Harris Fellow’ award to Rotarian Peter Row.

Proposed upgrade to Arthur Drewett Drive in Burpengary.

resumed at this time,” a department spokesperson

“We will work closely with property owners to provide transparency and outline options available to them. Property owners can remain in their homes until construction funding and timelines are conﬁrmed in Resumptions are no expected to be required for many years, and the next stages are subject to

In addition to homes, the project is expected to aﬀect council land, state-owned parcels and commercial

The upgrade is being developed in three business

Island Road.

TMR said it had provided “advance notice” to property owners where expansion may be required and is prioritising direct meetings.

– Anzac Avenue to Uhlmann Road; – Uhlmann Road to Buchanan Road; – Buchanan Road to Caboolture-Bribie Island

Between Anzac Avenue and Uhlmann Road, the preferred solution is to add an additional northbound and southbound lane within the existing median, increasing the number of lanes from three to four in

From Uhlmann Road to Caboolture-Bribie Island Road, TMR proposes building multi-lane, one-way collector-distributor roads on both sides of the highway to handle local traﬀic and reduce access points onto the main carriageway.

better connectivity to the local road network.

TMR said this is the most viable option for a stretch that includes three interchanges and access to nearby service centres.

The Uhlmann Road interchange will be upgraded, with the existing two-lane overpass bridge replaced by a higher, longer structure.

Signalised ramp intersections will be added to improve eﬀiciency.

At Buchanan Road, the existing overpass will also be replaced.

Roundabout ramp intersections will be removed and replaced by new signalised junctions designed to better manage ﬂow and accommodate increased traﬀic volumes.

travel from Caboolture towards Brisbane.

Signalised ramp intersections will also be introduced to better regulate merging traﬀic.

TMR says the overall upgrade will deliver “multiple long-term benefits”, including improved safety and network efficiency, reduced congestion and queuing, better flood resilience and enhanced capacity for active transport like walking and cycling.

were submitted via online and traditional methods, 24 phone calls were received, 180 letters were sent to properties in the area, and 160 email notiﬁcations were issued to stakeholders.

A second round of community feedback is now open, with residents, motorists and business owners able to make submissions until 14 September 2025.

Somerset groups share in $100K

THREE Somerset community groups are among 14 local organisations receiving a share of $101,200 in federal funding through the latest round of the Australian Government’s Stronger Communities Programme.

In the Somerset region, $10,000 will fund a covered entertainment area at the Glamorgan Vale Community Hall, the PCYC Fernvale will replace vital deﬁbrillators, and the Linville Progress Association will receive $6,700 for an E-Bike charging station for Brisbane Valley Rail Trail users.

Federal Member for Blair, Shayne Neumann, said he is “very proud” to have delivered for local organisations.

“We’re making sure our suburbs and country towns remain great places to live, work and play by investing in critical community assets and in a fair and transparent way,” he said.

“No properties are being

TMR has called on the public to engage with the planning process and provide feedback while details are still under consideration.

“Community feedback is vital in shaping the ﬁnal design and outcomes,” the spokesperson said.

More information, including maps and artist impressions, is available on the department’s project website: www. tmr.qld.gov.au/projects/ programs/Bruce-HighwayUpgrade-Anzac-Avenue-toCaboolture-Bribie-IslandRoad to

Collector-distributor roads are designed to separate shorter local trips from highway traﬀic and provide

At the northern end of the upgrade, the Caboolture-Bribie Island Road interchange will be transformed with two new overpass bridges, additional lanes and a loop ramp that will allow uninterrupted

Still, residents remain sceptical. Several have criticised the Government’s messaging around the project, accusing TMR of presenting the latest plan as a continuation of previous community engagement rather than a dramatic escalation in scope.

The department said that in 2023, community consultation was promoted through newsletters, social media, its project website and email notiﬁcations.

In total, 90 comments

“Having high-quality community infrastructure in outer suburban and regional areas is absolutely vital, and this funding will help build and upgrade key facilities that can be enjoyed for years.”

$30M ﬂows into SEQ’s rivers

◗ Marina Gomide

MORETON Bay and Somerset rivers will be beneﬁting from a record $30 million to revitalise the health and resilience of South East Queensland (SEQ) waterways and wetlands, ahead of the 2032 Games.

Funding from the Resilient Rivers SEQ program will accelerate works to rehabilitate the region’s rivers and streams, preventing more than 16,000 tonnes — equivalent to over 21,000 ute loads — will be prevented from entering local waterways each year.

The two-year investment (2025-26 and 2026-27) is the largest coordinated program of waterway and habitat revitalisation since the program was established following the 2011 floods. Investment will help establish the first regional platypus monitoring program using innovative eDNA water sampling to uncover vital information about platypus as well as freshwater turtles and the endangered Australian Lungfish, a species that dates back over 100 million years.

More than 200 purposebuilt ‘cod hotels’ will also be constructed to provide shelter and breeding habitat for the critically endangered,

Mary River Cod.

An additional 200,000 new native plants will support some of SEQ’s most vulnerable species, using cutting-edge science and natural solutions to combat invasive weeds.

The program is set to deliver long-term beneﬁts across the region from Noosa River in the north to Albert River in the south, restoring more than 115 hectares, or 161 soccer ﬁelds, of native habitat.

Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery welcomed Council’s share of the investment, which included more than $4.8 million in projects that will directly beneﬁt the City.

The Caboolture River (Weir to Bruce Highway) Riparian Rehabilitation and Caboolture Arboretum Riparian Rehabilitation projects are amongst those beneﬁted, aiming to restore vegetation and provide protection from invasive weeds and enhance endemic biodiversity of species such as the platypus and koala.

“This funding will enable us to deliver projects designed to support the overall health of our waterways, which are vital to sustaining native plants and animals,” he said.

“These projects will shore up Council’s eﬀorts to ‘Go Green as we Grow’, which is all about safeguarding

our environment amid a booming population, while also improving water quality in Moreton Bay.”

A signiﬁcant initiative for Moreton Bay will be the establishment of Catchment Action Plans for the Pine River and Caboolture River Catchments, which will guide coordinated eﬀorts and future investments in these priority catchments.

Moreton Bay will also receive funding for other on-ground works including:

• Reconnecting 60 kilometres of ﬁsh passage across Beerburrum and Six Mile Creek catchments, improving movement for native ﬁsh;

• Planting 30,000 new plants around Cabbage Tree Creek to improve water quality, reduce erosion and boost habitat for species including reptiles, woodland birds, koala and platypus;

• Improving water quality, biodiversity and ﬂood resilience with more than 3,000 new plants at Freshwater Reserve.

Somerset Regional Council Mayor Jason Wendt called Somerset rivers the “lifeblood” of the land, as they ﬁll Brisbane’s taps, provide water for farming,

and oﬀer residents and visitors places to rest and play

“Our Council will work closely with the program and our local stakeholders to ensure we deliver tangible beneﬁts for the community,” he said.

“We will be installing large ﬁsh habitat structures and releasing up to 30,000 ﬁngerlings across SEQ.

“In Somerset we will construct 200 new ‘cod hotels’, underwater log structures which will provide shelter and breeding habitat

for the critically endangered Mary River Cod.”

Minister for the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, Andrew Powell, called SEQ’s greatest “tourism drawcards” its natural assets: from the beautiful Moreton Bay to lush rainforests and our unique Aussie wildlife.

“Through the Resilient Rivers Initiative, we’re partnering with Councils to deliver real, on-the-ground action to restore waterways, revitalise native habitats and ensure Queensland’s natural beauty is protected for generations to come,” he

said.

The newly announced Resilient Rivers SEQ program includes $21.3 million already committed through the SEQ City Deal, a partnership between the Federal Government, State Government and Council of Mayors SEQ, alongside the $8.7 million from partners including SEQ councils and Seqwater.

Resilient Rivers SEQ is an initiative of the Council of Mayors SEQ which aims to improve the resilience of SEQ’s waterways through coordinated catchment management.

Mayor Jason Wendt at Twin Bridges, Fernvale. Inset - Caboolture River.

Shayne Neumann MP with Geoﬀ Beattie - Glamorgan Vale Hall.

Forbes Court (red) proposed to be resumed next to Bruce Highway.

Forbes Court

Bruce Highway

Buchanan Road

Snaps for sanctuary

Photoshoots

◗ Marina Gomide

TOOGOOLAWAH-based pet and horse photographer, Adam Wyatt, has launched a heartwarming fundraising campaign in support of a Mount Mee animal rescue.

Cranky’s Farm Animal Rescue is a registered not-for-proﬁt sanctuary that provides a safe and loving home for more than 60 previously abused or neglected farm animals.

Mr Wyatt hopes to help Cranky’s with their winter feed, which costs the charity about $3,500 per fortnight. By donating his entire $200 photoshoot fee from the ﬁrst 10 pet or horse photography sessions booked, Mr Wyatt hopes to raise $2,000 for the rescue.

“I just love the work founders Brett and Natalie do. They both work full time jobs, but still run this amazing sanctuary, so I wanted to support them somehow,” he said.

“I wanted to come up with a way that I could fundraise for them using the photography skills that I have.”

help feed rescue animals

cause is very close to his heart.

“I’ve been passionate about animals my whole life, so pet and horse photography sort of seemed like a natural ﬁt to do,” he said.

“So many animals suﬀer without any assistance and it’s quite sad to see animals that are suﬀering and don’t

Natalie Stevenson, said they currently have 60 animals at the farm, including around 30 cattle, eight horses, goats, donkeys, ponies, pigs, ducks, chickens, and a turkey.

In 2010, while sitting in a petting zoo, she discovered petting zoos typically sell young animals to meat works when they get too big.

with some of their rescue animals.

have anywhere to go.

“So with Cranky’s there is an ability to rescue an abused or neglected animal who would otherwise continue to suﬀer for a long time.

“That’s just something that speaks quite deeply to me, because I think all lives are equal, and animals shouldn’t suﬀer because

She contacted a petting zoo and oﬀered to take three dairy cows that were going to be sent to slaughter. Shortly a er, they rescued two goats through a friend.

“Once we had those ﬁve animals, it became clear that I didn’t even realize before that animals, apart from domestics, had all these personalities. And they were just amazing,” she said.

When their monthly rescue costs reached about $6,000, they decided to establish Cranky’s Farm as a registered charity in 2017.

Being a charity, they rely almost entirely on donations and community support to continue their work.

Through their website, people can pick one of their residents and sponsor them for whatever amount of money they can spare

Some of the abuse and neglect stories they have helped with include Johnny the Pony, who arrived with severely overgrown hooves that looked like “long bananas”. Vets initially suggested putting him down, but a er ﬁve months of careful trimming, he now runs and plays freely.

Two cattle with dislocated hips also underwent groundbreaking surgery

during her surgery and is now thriving at 5 years old.

Lastly is the $6,000 turkey: a turkey with a completely fractured leg who was rescued from being sold as Christmas dinner. She underwent leg reconstruction, including having her leg re-broken and pinned. A er eight weeks of rehabilitation, she now walks without a limp.

Ms Stevenson said she thinks Mr Wyatt’s

“When he advertises his photographs of the chickens and farm animals, even people who have backed up backyard chickens, then associate the chickens as pets,” she said.

“I think when people see those photos and see the word pet associated with what people predominantly think of as a production animal, a lot of people see they’re just the same as a pet.”

The fundraiser is open to anyone located within 1.5 hours of Mount Mee, and the full $200 photoshoot fee will go directly to Cranky’s Farm.

To support the campaign and book a session, register via: https://www. adamwyattphotography. com.au/fundraiser Donations can also be

Kilcoy RSL to Honour Korean Veterans with service

Korean War.

Following the service, attendees are invited to a light lunch in the Sub Branch rooms.

Those planning to attend are asked to notify the Sub Branch of any dietary requirements by contacting 5422 0564 or emailing info@ kilcoy.rslqld.net.au.

In the lead-up to the event, Kilcoy RSL Sub Branch has also continued its support for Legacy, presenting two donations raised during the Anzac Day period.

Treasurer Dutchy

Blair roundtable to build economic reform

FEDERAL Member for Blair Shayne Neumann will convene a Blair Economic Reform Roundtable on August 7, with the aim of unlocking new ideas to build a stronger economy in Ipswich and the Somerset Region.

The forum is intended to canvass opportunities and challenges in the local economy, and develop ideas to feed into the Federal Government’s national Economic Reform Roundtable, to be held in Canberra on August 19-21.

New Federal Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, Dr Daniel Mulino, will be the keynote speaker, and will set out the Government’s broader growth and productivity agenda.

The event will bring together up to 50 participants from across Ipswich, Somerset and beyond, including local businesses, unions, community groups, government agencies and experts to address shared economic challenges.

Mr Neumann said that the roundtable will be guided by the Government’s 5-pillar productivity agenda around:

• Creating a more dynamic and resilient economy.

• Investing in renewables and the net zero transformation.

• Building a skilled and adaptable workforce.

• Harnessing data and digital technology.

• Delivering quality care more eﬀiciently.

“Our region is

Vandeklashorst presented a $500 donation to May Wallace, a representative of the Kilcoy Legacy Group.

Vice President Jock Ruthven also presented a separate donation of $750 to Kerry Morrow, representing Queensland Legacy.

Both donations reﬂ the Sub Branch’s ongoing commitment to supporting the families of fallen and injured veterans, with funds raised through community contributions during local Anzac Day commemorations.

The upcoming Korean

experiencing growing pains, and need to be investing in more housing, infrastructure, services and skills to meet the needs of a booming population and ensure a good quality of life for people, so there’s more to do,” Mr Neumann said.

“I want people in Blair to have their say, and I am interested in ideas to improve productivity, build economic resilience in the face of global uncertainty, and strengthen economic and budget sustainability.”

The Blair Economic Reform Roundtable will focus on proposals that are:

• in the national interest, rather than the interest of particular sectors or states.

• ﬁscally responsible

– budget neutral at a

minimum but preferably budget positive overall.

• speciﬁc and practical, not abstract or unrealistic.

The Blair Economic Reform Roundtable will be held on Thursday, 7 August 2025, from 10:00am to 12:30pm at Jets Leagues Club (Lowry Street, North Ipswich).

Most participants will be invited, however any individuals or organisations interested in attending can contact the Blair Electorate Oﬀice on (07) 3201 5300 or at Shayne.Neumann.MP@ aph.gov.au

For more information

Brett and Natalie Stevenson

Daniel Mulino and Shayne Neumann.

Kilcoy RSL Vice President, Jock Ruthven, and QLD Legacy representative, Kerry Morrow.

Kilcoy RSL Treasurer, Dutchy Vandeklashorst, and Kilcoy Legacy Group representative, May Wallace.

Pet portrait by Adam Wyatt.

Garden showdown now open

ENTRIES for the 2025 Somerset Garden

Competition are now open and will close 4pm Thursday, September 11.

Potters, planters and pruners across the region are invited to enter their garden in the annual spring competition for a share in a $3,500 prize pool.

Thanks to event major sponsor Searles, all entrants will receive a signature Searles gi pack.

Somerset Councillor Sally Jess will be one of the lucky judges touring the region.

“I encourage all residents, businesses and community groups in Somerset to participate,” Cr Jess said.

“This competition is a chance for residents to show oﬀ their gardening talents and we’re excited to see what Somerset can grow.”

Major categories include Best Rural Garden, Best Urban Garden, Best Tiny Garden and Best First Time Entrant. There are bonus category prizes for the best Habitat Garden, Floral Garden, Sustainable Garden, and Repurposed/Upcycled Garden.

Competing gardens will be open for public viewing over the weekend September 27 and 28.

Entry forms will be available at Council’s Customer Service Centres and Visitor Information Centres, and on Council’s website.

Cut off at the source

Moreton Council calls on State for law reforms following $500,000 of damage

◗ Marina Gomide

MORETON Bay Council is calling on the State Government to fulﬁl its election commitment to introduce legislation targeting copper the s that cost Council almost $100,000 in the past 12 months.

During this period, incidences of copper the and vandalism have occurred at parks and several sporting complexes and ﬁelds, including those used by local soccer, rugby league, baseball and AFL clubs.

Since 2021, City of Moreton Bay has incurred around $500,000 of repairs due to copper the . The cost is just from Council-owned assets, not counting damage to private land and resources.

The cost to ratepayers includes covering the replacing of wires and materials.

“There is also the cost of council staﬀ time in addition to the impact on local organisations including sporting clubs, community groups and volunteers,” a council spokesperson said.

Mayor Peter Flannery is asking the State to immediately amend the Second-Hand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act 2003, making it harder for copper

thieves to sell scrap metal.

Some of the called-on amendments include:

- Prohibit scrap metal dealers from paying cash for scrap metal,

- Require scrap metal dealers to report suspicious transactions to the police,

- Require scrap metal dealers to keep and maintain corresponding records of transactions for buying scrap metal, including details of the person selling the scrap metal;

Cr Flannery said he is keen to see the State Government implement its promised new laws.

“In the lead up to last year’s election, the LNP said Queensland was ground zero for cost of living and crime as it announced it would introduce practical new laws to crack down on ‘oﬀ the books’ scrap metal trade,” he said.

“While we understand the new government has a substantial legislative agenda to deliver, costly copper the will continue to run rampant until action is taken.

“Addressing a legislative loophole would stamp out what’s become a lucrative crime, help the state’s coﬀers and stop wasting ratepayer dollars.”

The call to update the Act has been backed by

the Local Government Association of Queensland and also led to a parliamentary inquiry into scrap metal the under the previous government in 2023.

“Current legislation allows thieves to take stolen copper to a pawn broker without identiﬁcation and receive a cash payment,” Mayor Flannery said.

“We’re stuck in a circuit of the and repair – this situation cannot continue.”

While Somerset has not experienced copper the in the past year, Fernvale Sports Park was vandalised in April 2024 by perpetrators looking for copper, costing Council $25,000 in repairs.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister for Integrity, Deb Frecklington, called metal the “a serious crime” and added her oﬀice has been in contact with Moreton Bay Council.

“The criminals responsible couldn’t care less about the major disruptions they cause, not to mention the huge cost impact on community groups, businesses, councils, and transport networks,” she said.

“The Crisafulli Government remains committed to cracking down on metal the in Queensland.”

Somerset Council Mayor

Jason Wendt said the perpetrators removed aluminium cabling from ﬁeld lighting and dumped the cabling nearby a er discovering there was no copper in the April 2024 incident.

“Following the incident, Council put in place a range of mitigation strategies across all showground and outdoor sporting facilities to prevent future attempts,” he said.

“Our Council would

Dancing fun in winter cool

THE Woodford Memorial Hall was alive with music, movement, and community spirit on Saturday, July 12,

A well-stocked bar, sausage sizzle, and delicious nachos added to the lively atmosphere, with Councillor and cleaning. Special mention was given to Barry and Narelle for their

need to consider any new legislation put forward by the State Government on copper and scrap metal the , but we’re supportive of City of Moreton Bay’s eﬀorts to address this issue.”

The 2023 parliamentary inquiry into scrap metal the report is being considered by the Crisafulli Government and the next steps are being worked through, including with the Department of Justice.

Copper the at Redcliﬀe Dolphins Soccer Club in June 2024. Photo: Facebook.

Electrical cables cut at Fernvale Sports Park in 2024.

Photos: Woodford Lions Club.

A carnival to roar about

◗ Marina Gomide

OVER 1,200 families, performers and stall holders brought the Wamuran Sports Grounds to life on Saturday, July 19, as the inaugural Wamuran Lions Family Carnival took place. With plenty of free entertainment, including a giant slide, chair swings, rock wall, mini train, face

bubble artist, farm animals and a petting zoo, kids and adults were able to enjoy a stunning day out.

Wamuran State School and Delaneys Creek State School students wowed the crowds with various performances, including clown acts and choirs from both schools.

Line dancing, blacksmiths, and

Inﬁnity Circus and Acro performance group.

Inﬁnity Circus and Acro group, along with Rhee Taekwon-Do ensured for endless entertainment.

A er being rained out last year, the ﬁrst-ever Wamuran Lions Family Carnival 2025 was a resounding success, hopefully becoming a new annual event.

Sod turned on $86M road works

WORK crews and equipment have begun arriving at the site of the Youngs Crossing upgrade project, with a sod-turning ceremony taking place on July 11.

Mayor Flannery said it was an historic day, with the countdown to the 2027 opening of the new-four lane bridge and road oﬀicially underway.

“This highly anticipated upgrade is one of the most extensive road infrastructure projects to be delivered by Council, with other improvements including new pedestrian, cycling and safety features,” he said.

“I’m pleased that our Council has been able to pull this project out of the ‘too hard basket’ where it has been stuck for decades.”

For generations, heavy rain events and water

River and Sideling Creek have led to the closure of Youngs Crossing Road, causing delays, congestion on surrounding roads and economic impacts.

Federal Member for Dickson Ali France said she knew just how much sudden road closures impact the community.

“This signiﬁcant road update will help people get home faster, so they can spend more time with their families and less time on the road,” she said.

State Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Brent Mickelberg, said the Government was committed to delivering the vital transport infrastructure communities across the State need “to ensure safety, reliability, and connectivity”.

For updates visit www. moretonbay.qld.gov.au/

‘Best day of my life’

Kilcoy bursts with laughter and learning for Under

LAUGHTER, excitement and community spirit were in full swing at Kilcoy State School on Friday 20 June, as more than 170 children celebrated Under 8s Day with a morning packed full of fun. One enthusiastic participant declared it “the best day of my life!”

The school grounds were transformed into a playground of adventure and creativity, with 30 diﬀerent activities on oﬀer to entertain and engage

young minds.

Thirteen of these were proudly hosted by local community groups and services, showcasing the strong ties between the school and its wider community.

Children moved between a variety of hands-on experiences, from cuddling animals at the petting farm to dancing, gymnastics, tennis, and a lively treasure hunt.

Ball games kept the

energy high, while cra kids a chance to slow down and explore their artistic sides.

A major highlight of the day was the presence of local emergency services, who gave children a close-up look at their work, with interactive displays that were as educational as they were exciting.

The mix of physical activity, creative exploration, and community involvement ensured there was something for everyone,

With

and a

perfect weather

buzzing atmosphere, Kilcoy’s Under 8s Day was declared a huge success — a memorable celebration of

8s Day

Councillors Cath Tonks and Jim Moloney with Mayor P

Rachel with Silas, Jude, Eli and Vera with Ottaba Llama. Alara, Ailry and Ayla.

Wamuran State School Performing Arts senior group.

Wamuran SS Performing Arts senior group.

Wamuran SS Performing Arts junior group. Rhee Taekwon-Do.

D’Aguilar Wildlife Experience.

$12M pumped into health tech

THE Australian Government is investing $12 million to develop new Australian-made medical devices and medicine for people with cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Fourteen Australian startup and innovator companies will receive funding and commercialisation support to develop improved treatment for management of cardiovascular disease and complications of type 1 and 2 diabetes.

Over 1.3 million Australians live with diabetes and 1.3 million Australian adults are living with one or more conditions related to heart, stroke or vascular disease.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Australia and diabetes is among the top 10.

The biotech and medtech companies were selected through a competitive process by MTPConnect’s Targeted Translation Research Accelerator program.

The funding is awarded through the Medical Research Future Fund program targeting commercialisation of Australian medical research and innovation products for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

The funded projects have attracted more than $17 million in additional contributions from industry.

Minister for Health and Ageing and Minister for Disability and the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Minister Mark Butler, said this funding will support new treatment and management options for Australians with cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

“Our government is expanding the Australianmade medtech and biotech sector as part of our vision of a future made in Australia,” he said.

“The Federal Government is supporting our health and medical research sector to ensure Australia remains a global leader in this ﬁeld for decades to come.”

MTPConnect CEO, Stuart Dignam, said they want to see these homegrown innovations scale in Australia ﬁrst rather than oﬀshore.

“We want to drive sovereign success, which will power local job creation and improve health outcomes for Australians and others around the world,” he said.

“Following an open and rigorous assessment process through our Targeted Translation Research Accelerator program, we’re backing established SMEs, start-ups and spin-outs in New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria and Western Australia.”

Somerset seniors invited to connect

“Whether it’s ﬂoods, storms or bushﬁres, it’s important everyone in our community understands their risks and how to be prepared,” Cr Bishop said.

“We’ll have information sessions across the region in August and I encourage as many seniors to come along as possible.”

Council will host sessions from 10.30am to 12pm on the following dates:

· Thursday, 7 August at the Somerset Civic Centre

· Thursday, 14 August at the Fernvale Visitor Information Centre

· Wednesday, 27 August at the Kilcoy Visitor Information Centre

· Thursday, 28 August

Another upcoming event is Mornings in Moore, which oﬀers seniors a relaxed opportunity to catch up over morning tea and enjoy a variety of games on the ﬁrst Monday of each month, until December 1, with the next meeting taking place on August 4.

Held at the Moore Soldiers Memorial Hall on Main Street, the sessions will run from 10am to 12pm.

In Coominya, Coominya Capers continues to be a favourite for social connection.

Held on the ﬁrst and third Wednesday of each month at the Coominya Public Hall, the sessions run from 9am to 11am and include free

morning tea and games such darts and more.

And for those closer to Kilcoy, a weekly seniors a ernoon takes place every Friday from 1pm to 4pm at the Kilcoy Library on Kennedy Street. Seniors are invited to join in with cards, games and casual conversations over a cuppa.

It’s a relaxed, friendly space that’s perfect for meeting new people and having fun together. This session is completely free, with the next event set for Friday, July 25. To learn more or to make a booking, contact Somerset Regional Council on 5424 4000 or email mail@ somerset.qld.gov.au.

Dementia rates falling in newer generations

A PERSON aged 75 to 80 today is less likely to have dementia than someone of the same age several decades ago, according to a new study from the University of Queensland (UQ).

Researchers analysed data from more than 62,000 people over the age of 70, born between 1890 and 1948, to examine

generational shi s in dementia prevalence across six age groups and eight birth cohorts.

Dr Sabrina Lenzen from UQ’s Centre for the Business and Economics of Health said several societal advances likely contributed to the ﬁndings.

“We o en see statistics that show dementia prevalence rates are

increasing – our study doesn’t refute that,” Dr Lenzen said.

“As more people live longer, the total numbers of people diagnosed with dementia will grow.

“What we found was a statistically signiﬁcant decline in people from more recent birth cohorts having dementia.”

Participants were

grouped by age and by ﬁve-year birth blocks— from those born between 1890–1913 to those born in 1944–1948.

“This enabled us to examine how dementia prevalence changes with age and across generations while taking into account when the surveys were conducted,” Dr Lenzen said.

She noted a particularly

striking diﬀerence in the US: “25.1 per cent of people aged 81–85 who were born between 1890–1913 had dementia, compared to 15.5 per cent of those born between 1939–1943.”

“We see this strong correlation between age and dementia, but I think it’s really important to understand that it’s not just age driving those onsets,”

she said.

“Some of the risk factors have been improving but we have been seeing a shi in terms of high obesity rates and things like air pollution.

“We know those are also related to dementia, so it’s not certain these trends will continue.”

The research was published in JAMA Network Open.

Over 55s rewarded with discounts and social connection at Morayﬁeld

MORAYFIELD Shopping Centre’s Over 55s & Seniors Club exemplifies a dedicated effort to enrich the lives of senior community members through a range of exclusive benefits and engaging activities. This initiative not only offers tangible perks but also fosters a sense of belonging and community among its members.

Upon joining, members receive a membership card. This card unlocks a variety of exclusive oﬀers, discounts, and rewards across participating

retailers within the shopping centre. Members are also invited to special club events throughout the year, enhancing social connections and community engagement.

Initiatives like the Over 55s & Seniors Club play a crucial role in combating social isolation among seniors. They provide opportunities for social interaction, physical activity, and community involvement, all of which are essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-

being. Such programs align with broader eﬀorts to support senior citizens, as highlighted by organizations like the Seniors Enquiry Line, which emphasizes the importance of social clubs in fostering community connections.

Morayﬁeld Shopping Centre’s commitment to its senior patrons through the Over 55s & Seniors Club not only enhances the shopping experience but also contributes positively to the overall well-being of the community. It stands as a testament to the centre’s

dedication to inclusivity and community support. Becoming a member is straightforward. Prospective members can complete an online application form or visit the Centre Management office (located next to the Police Beat) to fill out a hard copy. A valid photo ID is required to verify age eligibility. For more information, interested individuals can contact the shopping centre at 07 5499 4255 or reception@ morayfieldshoppingcentre. com.au

Somerset pushes understanding

SOMERSET Regional Council has been awarded $42,200 as part of a new State Government initiative to support agefriendly communities, leading the way with a creative intergenerational project that highlights the experiences of older people with cognitive decline. The funding will go towards the delivery of a project to address attitudinal and behaviour change towards older people with cognitive decline through the

development of a children’s storybook.

The storyline will be created in collaboration with primary school children, a local children’s artist and older people.

The project aims to promote positive attitudes and behaviour towards older people, particularly those living with cognitive impairment.

This initiative is part of a broader Community Development Grants program announced by the State Government,

delivering $300,000 to seven councils across south-east, north-west, and central Queensland.

The program is designed to strengthen connections between seniors and their communities, while celebrating the important contributions of older Queenslanders.

Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services Amanda Camm praised the local councils for their innovative approaches to community inclusion.

“We want to see a state

where seniors lead healthy and productive lives, are connected to their community and cared for when support is required,” she said.

“It’s wonderful to see local governments designing activities that ensure the voices of older people shape the communities they live in.

“Age-friendly communities are not just great for older people – they’re great for everyone.”

No falls, more freedom

STAYING active, healthy, and independent is possible well into older age — and one of the most eﬀective ways to support this is by preventing falls.

In Queensland, more than 130 older people experience a fall each day that requires medical attention.

Many of these incidents result in serious injury, hospitalisation, or longterm loss of independence.

Between 2007 and 2008, falls among Queenslanders aged 65 years and over emerged as a signiﬁcant public health concern, with data revealing troubling patterns in both frequency and severity.

The majority of falls occurred at home, particularly during the cooler months from May to July, when environmental factors such as wet or slippery surfaces may contribute to higher risk. Slips and trips on level ground were the most common causes of these incidents.

Injuries sustained in falls were most o en to the head, hip, and forearm, with fractures—especially hip fractures—being the most frequent and serious outcomes.

On average, each day saw 62 older Queenslanders requiring ambulance transport due to a fall, with the majority of these individuals being over 85 years of age.

Of those, 13 people required treatment in an emergency department, and 35 were admitted to hospital for fall-related injuries.

period.

These incidents were mostly unwitnessed and tended to occur during peak activity times in the morning (between 9 am and noon) and later in the a ernoon or evening (between 3 pm and 7 pm).

Tragically, unintentional falls claimed the lives of 493 Queensland residents in 2007, with nearly 95% of these deaths occurring in those aged 65 years and older. The good news is that most falls are preventable.

According to Queensland Health, the causes of a fall can usually be identiﬁed and the sequence of events leading up to the fall can be predicted and therefore can be prevented.

To reduce the risk, seniors and those who care for them can start by making simple, yet eﬀective changes to daily routines and environments.

- Maintaining strength and balance is essential. Health professionals recommend performing targeted exercises—twice weekly if possible—to build thigh and gluteal muscles that help with stability.

- It’s also wise to get eyes examined at least annually, use contrast strips on stairs if visibility is poor, and seek professional assessment for hearing, continence, or mobility issues.

active most days, attending regular health check-ups, and addressing barriers like falls-related fear or incontinence are foundational to remaining independent.

Hip fractures alone accounted for 10 of these daily hospital admissions, each costing the Queensland health system an average of $15,046. Falls were not limited to private homes. Hospital environments also recorded 32 falls per day during this

- Wearing shoes with ﬁrm, slightly rounded heels under 2.5cm, non-slip soles, good grip, and secure fastening can signiﬁcantly reduce slips or trips Queensland Health.

- A safe home environment matters greatly. Marked steps, ample lighting in bedrooms, bathrooms, and stairways, and removal of trip hazards—like loose rugs or cords—help reduce incidents.

- Bathroom aids such as stable shower stools and handrails, properly maintained ﬂoors, and clear pathways also contribute to safer spaces .

Following these accessible strategies, Queensland Health has introduced the Stay On Your Feet Toolkit, an evidencebased resource tailored to help anyone working with older adults—from individuals and caregivers to professionals.

based interventions, assemble stakeholders, set measurable goals, and develop communication strategies.

Implement: pilot programs, enact initiatives, and monitor progress while keeping stakeholders engaged . Review: evaluate what was done, measure results, celebrate achievements, and plan the next phase.

The toolkit also includes practical tools and templates—such as community stocktakes, social marketing plans, referral checklists, and clinical evaluation forms—to guide both communitylevel programs and individual risk management.

With an ageing population projected to more than triple older residents in coming decades and overwhelming costs associated with falls injuries, proactive prevention is urgent.

NEW research from the University of Adelaide and the University of South Australia reveals strong support among allied health professionals for naturebased therapy—but also highlights barriers to its routine use.

Published in Health and Place, the study surveyed 77 allied health professionals— including psychologists, physiotherapists, and social workers.

It found that 97 per cent believe outdoor environments help prevent and manage physical, mental, and social health conditions. More than 94 per cent regularly recommend spending time outdoors to their clients.

“Allied health professionals can play an important role in improving people’s access to and use of nature, to beneﬁt their health and wellbeing,” says lead author Dr Jessica Stanhope.

Despite this support, barriers such as limited green space access, mobility issues, patient safety concerns, and scepticism from other professionals limit use. Other challenges include weather, infrastructure, and client motivation.

Dr Stanhope adds, “Even when patients can’t physically get outdoors, exposure to nature— through images, sounds, or scents—can still be beneﬁcial.” Community gardens and indoor green spaces are valuable alternatives.

- Managing health conditions is another key strategy. Regular reviews of medications— especially those that cause drowsiness, dizziness, or altered alertness—can uncover and address fall risks.

The toolkit builds on a four-phase Community Good Practice Model: Investigate: assess local fall rates, existing services, and readiness to act Health and Wellbeing.

For more information on falls, prevention and the Stay On Your Feet toolkit visit https://www.health. qld.gov.au/stayonyourfeet 493

- Supporting healthy ageing is equally important. A balanced diet, staying

By combining straightforward personal actions—like exercising, shoe checks, medication reviews, and home safety— with structured community initiatives through the Stay On Your Feet Toolkit, Queenslanders can take tangible steps to help older adults remain safe, healthy, and independent.

Plan: choose evidence-

Figuring out aged care can be daunting. That’s why St Paul’s Aged Care’s dedicated Client & Community Advisor, Melissa Baker, is here to answer all your questions. Because a personal decision deserves personalised service.

UniSA’s Professor Mary Butler calls for nature to be integrated into allied health care, improving outdoor spaces and raising awareness so everyone can beneﬁt from nature’s health

Melissa can help you with:

Weekly wonder for Parkinson’s

New formulation could reduce pill burden

A NEW weekly injectable drug could transform the lives of more than eight million people living with Parkinson’s disease, potentially replacing the need for multiple daily tablets.

Scientists from the University of South Australia (UniSA) have developed a long-acting injectable formulation that delivers a steady dose of levodopa and carbidopa – two key medications for Parkinson’s – over an entire week.

Their ﬁndings have been reported in the journal Drug Delivery and Translational Research.

The biodegradable formulation is injected under the skin or into muscle tissue, where it gradually releases the medication over seven days.

– are managed with oral medications that must be taken several times a day.

The frequent dosing is a burden, especially for

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurological disorder, aﬀecting more than 8.5 million people worldwide.

Currently there is no cure and the symptoms – tremors, rigidity and slow movement

Sanjay Garg, from UniSA’s Centre for Pharmaceutical Innovation, said the newly developed injectable could signiﬁcantly improve treatment outcomes and patient adherence.

“Our goal was to create a formulation that simpliﬁes treatment, improves patient

compliance, and maintains consistent therapeutic levels of medication. This weekly injection could be a gamechanger for Parkinson’s care,” Prof Garg said.

“Levodopa is the goldstandard therapy for Parkinson’s, but its short life span means it must be taken several times

UniSA PhD student Deepa Nakmode said the in-situ implant is designed to release both levodopa and carbidopa steadily over one week, maintaining consistent plasma levels and reducing the risks associated with ﬂuctuating drug concentrations.

er years of focused research, it’s incredibly rewarding to see our innovation in long-acting injectables for Parkinson’s disease reach this stage. Our invention has now been ﬁled for an Australian patent,” she said.

Extensive lab tests conﬁrmed the system’s eﬀectiveness and safety:

Resort living just got cooler at The Sanctuary

AVEO has announced the completion of a sparkling new outdoor pool at The Sanctuary Retirement Living in Caboolture South, adding another standout feature to this vibrant and popular community.

The pool joins a suite of recent upgrades, including a gym, bocce court, clubhouse, cinema, and refreshed dining spaces, all designed to support active and connected retirement living.

For resident Mary, who moved to The Sanctuary 18 months ago, the move has been life changing.

“With my eyesight deteriorating, it was important to me that I live

somewhere that was ﬂat,” she said.

“And since I don’t have a car, it’s very handy to be so close to the shops, and I can easily catch the local bus to Redcliﬀe, walk by the water and stop for lunch at the club.

“I truly love the freedom I have here. As a passionate gardener I have a private courtyard, but I was thrilled when the community manager also oﬀered me my own space in the communal gardens.

“The new pool looks beautiful, and it is a great spot to catch up with friends. I couldn’t have picked a better place.”

With a selection of

affordable one- and twobedroom villas and optional services such as daily meals and housekeeping, The Sanctuary offers flexible, resort-style retirement living. Just 45km north of Brisbane, the community offers secure, gated living with easy access to shops, parks, and public transport. The Sanctuary is hosting a free Open Home event on Thursday, 7 August, 10-11am, offering people a sneak peek at display villas and a chance to discover more about the community. To learn more about the Open Home event or book a tour, visit aveo.com.au/ thesanctuary

YOU’RE INVITED • 7 AUGUST •

Get a sneak peek of the lifestyle you could enjoy at our free Open Home event. Explore our community, inspect our display villas and apartments, discover our social activities, chat with our friendly team

The Sanctuary

23 Adelaide Drive, Caboolture South Thursday, 7 August (10-11am)

Deepa Nakmode and Professor Sanjay Garg in the lab..

Health & Wellbeing

Burnout on the rise

AUSTRALIAN workers are facing signiﬁcant burnout, with new data from Beyond Blue highlighting young people and parents as the most aﬀected.

A community poll commissioned by Beyond Blue found that half of people surveyed had experienced burnout in the last year, with those aged 18-29 years experiencing the highest rates.

The primary drivers of burnout among young people included inappropriate workload (38 percent), lack of management support (25 percent), and inﬂexible working conditions (24 percent).

Beyond Blue CEO Georgie Harman AO said despite their shorter tenure in the workforce, there’s a lot going on for our young people.

“High rates of burnout sit in the wider context of constant change, disruption and uncertainty,” she said.

“Young people face compounding pressures and concerns including housing aﬀordability issues, cost of living pressures, climate change and rising loneliness.

“We need a re-think in how we support the mental health of our young people, including how workplaces can reduce the risk of burnout early in their working lives.”

While the sample for small business owners (SBOs) was small, the data suggested that SBOs were the employment type most likely to be experiencing burnout in the last 12 months, with 35 percent o en or always feeling burnt out in the last 12 months, compared to 26 percent of full-time employees, 18 percent of

almost half the private sector workforce, yet they operate in a unique and o en challenging context, facing ﬁnancial pressures, isolation, and long working hours,” she said.

“These factors, combined with limited access to resources and mental health support, create a perfect storm for mental ill-health.”

o en, always), compared to 67 percent of full-time workers.

Ms Harman said, SBOs are the backbone of our economy, and they should be looked a er.

“Small businesses employ

Summer skinstarts inwinter Repair

Half of those always burnt out also reported loneliness at work.

One in three workers feared discussing burnout with managers, worried about career consequences. Nearly half did not seek

professional support.

While two in five were dissatisfied with workplace efforts to reduce burnout, only one in five were highly satisfied. Respondents identified reduced workloads (41 percent), more staff and resources (28 percent), and increased managerial support (23 percent) as needed steps.

Burnout can leave people feeling exhausted, feeling negative about – or less connected to – the work they do, and reduces personal eﬀicacy, so people feel like they’re achieving less than normal.

“Burnout is never a personal failing,” Ms Harman said.

“Burnout is the result of someone facing too many demands, for too long, without enough support.”

The latest data also showed that around 1 in 2 people were experiencing burnout for non-paid work activities, with the top reason attributable to family and parenting responsibilities.

Ms Harman said understanding burnout at home and at work helps people to act sooner and protect their health.

“It’s never too late to reach out for support, but it’s better to address stress before it reaches the point of burnout,” she said.

Fasting boosts night shift workers’ health

A NEW study led by Monash University has found that intermittent fasting (IF) may help night shi workers lose weight and improve their health. Known as the SWIFt study, the research looked at IF as a simpler option than traditional daily dieting, also called continuous energy restriction (CER).

The results, published in The Lancet’s eBioMedicine, showed that IF, especially the 5:2 diet, helped with weight loss and insulin resistance.

The 5:2 diet means eating only 2100 kilojoules a day—about 25% of normal intake—for two days each week, and eating normally for the other ﬁve days.

Participants followed this plan for 24 weeks, with some fasting on their days oﬀ or during night shi s.

Researchers compared the outcomes to a group following the CER diet. They found both methods improved health, but the IF

Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Professor Maxine Bonham, said night shi workers have little choice but to eat at times of the day normally associated with sleeping, and because of this “weight gain and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes are recognised consequences of night shi work”.

“The reason we used intermittent fasting was to remove some of the challenges faced by night shi workers who faced limited food choices as a result of their work schedule,” she said.

“By testing the eﬀectiveness of two 5:2 strategies, we were able to understand that just by minimising food intake 1-2 days a week, without changing any other aspect of their diet, we can improve night shi worker health.

“Access to food at night can be challenging, with choices o en limited to take away or vending machines.

“For the ﬁrst time we have shown that the 5:2 ers an alternative approach to improving metabolic health, including blood pressure, body weight and insulin resistance, in night shi workers that may be more ﬂexible for their lifestyle.”

Horses help heal young minds

A NEW Australian study is shining a spotlight on the healing power of horses, revealing that equineassisted therapy could help address the growing mental health crisis among children. As childhood mental illness rates spiral, compounded by lengthy waiting times for counsellors and the limitations of many conventional treatments,

some social workers are turning to horses.

University of South Australia researchers have captured the lived experiences of 10 social workers and mental health practitioners delivering equine-assisted interventions (EAI) to children. Their ﬁndings are published in the Journal of Social Work Practice.

EAI is a type of on-ground therapy involving horses, oﬀered by qualiﬁed health practitioners in conjunction with highly-skilled equine practitioners.

The evidence in its favour is compelling, with practitioners describing how a child’s emotional world can be transformed through working with horses in a natural setting.

75 homes approved for Lowood

SOMERSET Regional Council has approved a development application for 75 residential lots and a park on land at 57 Russell Road, Lowood.

The majority the lots are larger than 4,000sqm.

The development will be progressed over four stages, and will include upgrades to existing infrastructure including underground stormwater and bitumen sealed roads.

Fernvale PCYC gets new deﬁb

THE PCYC in Fernvale will beneﬁt from a $5,000 grant as part of the federal Stronger Communities Programme.

The funding, awarded to the Queensland PoliceCitizens Youth Welfare Association, will go towards replacing deﬁbrillators at both Ipswich and Fernvale PCYC facilities, supporting vital community safety infrastructure.

PCYC Fernvale and Ipswich are among 14 local organisations receiving a share of $101,200 in federal funding from the Stronger Communities Programme.

Spotlight on... Fernvale & Lowood

Reining in conﬁdence

Kayla ﬁnds healing on horseback job

◗ Marina Gomide

LOWOOD local Kayla Wilson has discovered her passion working with horses, overcoming employment challenges faced by many individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Diagnosed with Attention Deﬁcit Disorder (ADD), the 24-year-old struggled to ﬁnd meaningful work that matched her abilities.

“I was having difficulty finding a job because I don’t have my license, and it was trying to find the right job that suited me,” Kayla said.

“It’s hard for me. I’m more of a hands-on person. If I have to write something on paper, it’s diﬀicult.”

Through APM’s Disability Employment Services (DES), Kayla connected with Employment Consultant Twahnee via the Lowood outreach oﬀice.

“People with disability are o en excluded socially and economically and ﬁnd it diﬀicult to gain employment, as we know a job changes

everyone’s lives,” an APM spokesperson said.

“This is particularly true for someone with an intellectual disability.”

Twahnee, who had only recently started with APM, met with Kayla and her support worker and made a clear commitment to help her ﬁnd a role that matched her strengths.

During their ﬁrst meeting, Kayla shared that she had previously worked at a stable and already held a stable hand licence.

Twahnee recalled another consultant had a contact at a stable in Ipswich and reached out to explore the opportunity.

Through this connection, Kayla was matched with a local stable, where she now works two days a week.

“I always had an interest in horses and animals,” Kayla said.

“It’s like a sort of therapy work. It gets you away from other stuﬀ, and just if you’re thinking about something, you just forget about it.”

Kayla’s current role involves cleaning stables and putting horses in

Fernvale artists shine in exhibit

VISITORS to Lowood’s Open Door Gallery are in for a vibrant display, with the eclectic work of the Fernvale Artists on show until the end of the month.

The exhibition features a diverse mix of styles and mediums created by members of the well-loved local art group.

Each year, the gallery welcomes the Fernvale Artists for their annual showcase, and this year’s collection is as engaging as ever.

paddocks, tasks that perfectly align with her hands-on learning approach.

While working happily now, Kayla’s journey wasn’t always straightforward.

Having previously worked at Eagle Farm racing stables in Brisbane, she experienced the challenges of long hours and diﬀicult transportation.

Now, her current position oﬀers a more balanced and supportive work environment.

Located less than half an hour from her home, her new job has provided Kayla not just employment, but a renewed sense of conﬁdence and purpose.

Kayla is now more engaged at work, looks forward to her shi s, and has become noticeably more outgoing and self-assured.

The Fernvale Artists group meets every Thursday morning from 9:30am to they bring along their own projects, share tips and techniques, and enjoy a cuppa and a chat.

Sessions are open to all levels of experience, with a small fee of $5 per session.

With the group always looking for new members, it’s a welcoming space for anyone who wants to create, learn and connect with likeminded people.

a brush and join the groups.

Many of the artists are volunteering at the Open Door Gallery on weekends throughout the month, giving visitors a chance to meet the creative minds behind the work, so pop in and have a chat with them about what inspires their creativity.

The exhibit is a great opportunity to learn more about the artistic process, the group and the gallery, hopefully inspiring other locals and visitors to pick up

The Open Door Gallery, located in Lowood, is open Thursdays from 9:30am -12:30pm and Saturdays/ Sundays from 9:30am2:00pm. Admission is free.

Kayla Wilson at her stable hand job. Photo supplied.

Stephen George. Photos: Facebook.

What’s On

Arts and Cra at

Linville

When: Friday July 25, 10am

- 1pm

Where: Linville Community Hall, 40 George Street, Linville

Info: Come and join us

– bring along your own crafts to do or share your knowledge or just come in for a chat and a cuppa. Everyone welcome.

Kilcoy Show

When: Friday July 25, 6am - 8pm, Saturday July 26, 8am - late

Where: Kilcoy Showground, Showgrounds Road, Woolmar

Info: Experience the magic of the Kilcoy Show. Enjoy Show day favourites such as: Prime and Stud Cattle Poultry, Horse Events Pavilion Displays, Donkeys and Hobby Horse Events, Aston Circus, Side Show Alley, Wood chopping and Chainsaws, Stalls, Free Entertainment, Saturday Night Live Entertainment.

Burpengary Men’s Shed

Market Day

When: Saturday July 26, 8am - 12noon

Where: 1-17 Maitland Drive, Burpengary East

Info: Workshops “open for inspection”. Sale of goods, including wooden toys, household furniture, machinery (mowers, whipper snippers), tools, odds and ends, arts and crafts. Sausage sizzle and morning tea also available.

“Bring ya money, we want a clear out!”Contact Rodney 0481 480 486 for details.

Toogoolawah Bird Sale

When: Saturday July 26, 8.30am - 11.30am Where: Toogoolawah Showgrounds, 30 Ivory Creek Road, Toogoolawah

Info: Birds for sale: Exotic & native finches, canaries, parrots and more. Cages, bird seed, toys and more. Easy parking, fully catered. General public entry $2. Birds to be benched by 8am. call Vern 0409 231 152 or Jonella 0417 738 590.

Toogoolawah Pictures – How to Train Your Dragon

When: Saturday July 26, 7.20pm - 9.30pm Where: Toogoolawah Pictures, 111 Cressbrook Street, Toogoolawah

Info: On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup stands apart. Catch the stunning liveaction re-imagining of How to Train Your Dragon at Toogoolawah Pictures these school holidays.Child to High School – $8 Adult –$10 Family – $30. Hot Dogs, Popcorn and Snack Bar on site. Eftpos available. Bookings to our Facebook Messenger or text/call 0467301924.

Stonehouse Moore Open Days

When: Saturday July 26

- Sunday July 27, 8.30am4pm

Where: Stonehouse Moore, D’Aguilar Highway, Moore

Info: Celebrate the historic Stonehouse established

in 1874 in Moore, with the opportunity to see the magnificent 150-year-old rubble stone buildings and to experience the ambience with history displays and horse events over the weekend of 26-27 July 2025. Access to the Stonehouse at Moore is via shuttle bus that departs from the Moore Soldiers Memorial Hall every 20 minutes. No vehicles or parking on site.

Mural launch at Burpengary Sports Complex

When: Saturday July 26, 1pm - 2pm

Where: 111 Station Road, Burpengary

Info: Join us at Burpengary Sports Complex to mark the completion of a vibrant new mural by artist Abraham Tongia, part of City of Moreton Bay’s Art At Large program. Meet Abraham, hear about his creative process, and discover how he used technology in a unique way. Enjoy free pizza, chat with the artist, and connect with the local community. All are welcome—bring your friends, family or come along solo!

PCYC Caboolture Open Day

When: Saturday July 26, 9am

Where: 2 Toovey Street, Caboolture

Info: We’re throwing open the doors and you’re invited! Come see what makes PCYC Caboolture such a fun, active, and welcoming place for the whole community!

National Tree Day 2025

When: Sunday July 27, 9am - 11am

Where: Bubke Crescent, 41 Bubke Crescent, Caboolture & Sir Dapper Drive Park, 48 Sir Dapper Drive Park, Burpengary

Info: Celebrate National Tree Day with Us! Get hands-on for nature and join us for a fun day out planting native trees and shrubs as part of Planet Ark’s National Tree Day. Meet your local Environment Officer, connect with community members, and help create a greener, healthier future. All tools provided—just bring sun-safe clothing, a hat, water bottle, and enclosed shoes. Sausage sizzle on the day. Everyone is welcome. Come grow something great with us!

Come and Chat –

Somerset Councillors

When: Wednesday July 30, 10am - 12pm

Where: Hav’A’Chat Café, 70 Cressbrook Street, Toogoolawah

Info: This is an opportunity for residents to speak directly with elected representatives and learn about Council’s projects and plans.

Baz’s Country Music Show

When: Saturday August 2, 10.30am - 3.30pm

Where: Brisbane Valley Darts Club, Main Street, Lowood

Info: For August only this will be held on the 1st Saturday of the month, then

back to normal schedule of every second Saturday of the Month. Walkup’s very welcome. $5 entry includes tea & coffee, light afternoon tea & lucky door proxes. Raffle tockets available, 6 for $5. Very affordable meals available. Enquiries: 0402 058 098 or 5426 6331

The Owl BookshopBook Sale

When: Sunday August 3, 9am - 3pm

Where: 162-168 Facer Road, Burpengary

Info: Massive Clearance, thouysands of unique and wonderful pre-loved books. One day only, all books $1.

Tech Savvy: Online

Shopping

When: Monday August 4, 10.30am - 11.30am

Where: Kilcoy Library Kennedy Street, Kilcoy Info: Grocery shop from the comfort of your home at IGA, Coles or Woolworths. Search and buy from trusted sites and learn to use Click and Collect. Bookings essential via the Somerset On The Go app or phone 5424 4000.

Creative Badge Workshop

When: Wednesday August 6, 10.30am - 11.30am

Where: Esk Library 19 Heap Street, Esk Info: Come along for a fun and engaging badgemaking session. Bring along cherished images, family photos, personal drawings or patterning. Or simply enjoy designing a template on the day. Booking via the

Somerset On The Go App or phone 5424 4000.

Street FeastCaboolture

When: Friday August 8, 4pm - 9pm

Where: Caboolture Showgrounds, Beerburrum Rd, Caboolture Info: Join us for a night of food trucks, dessert stalls, boutique retail stalls, music and a free movie. $3 entry per person.

Sew Cra y @ Esk

When: Friday August 8, 10am - 12pm

Where: Esk Library 19 Heap Street, Esk Info: Bring your own craft for a morning of conversation, creating and a cuppa. Meeting on the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month. For more info phone 5424 4000.

Caboolture Family Fun Day

When: Monday August 11, 10am - 4pm

Where: Centenary Lakes Park, Caboolture

Info: Caboolture Family Fun Day is back with free rides, live entertainment, kids activities, show bags, markets, and more. It’s a colourful, fun-filled and affordable alternative to the EKKA—perfect for the whole family to enjoy without breaking the bank!

The

Capture

the

‘Spirit of the Bush’ comp

RURAL Aid has oﬀicially launched the sixth annual ‘Spirit of the Bush Photo Competition’, inviting Australians to capture and share the beauty, strength, and resilience of rural life.

Open until August 31, 2025, the popular competition oﬀers a powerful platform for regional communities to tell their stories through the lens.

Photographers are encouraged to submit a high-resolution landscape image that encapsulates the true ‘Spirit of the Bush’.

Entries can be made by tagging @ruralaid on Instagram or Facebook and using the hashtag #SOTB2025.

A panel of judges will select ten winning images, each to receive a $250 prepaid Visa card. Winners will be announced on September 15, 2025.

Rural Aid encourages everyone with a passion for photography and the country to pick up their camera and show the world what the ‘Spirit of the Bush’ means to them.

Submissions and full terms and conditions are available at www.ruralaid. org.au/spirit-of-the-bush.

$2K for lived experience art

ARTISTS, photographers and cra ers are invited to participate in the upcoming Graceville Art Festival, with three art prizes being up for grabs.

Returning for its ﬁ year, the festival is held at St Luke’s Lutheran Church in Nambour, and is inviting submissions from artists with lived experience of mental health or disability, with al forms of art accepted: canvas paintings, photography, drawings, artisan products, live art, etc.

Entries are open now and

The Graceville Art Prize, which will award $2,000 for an artwork that powerfully reﬂects the 2025 theme: “Earth, Sky, Sea, and Me.” The piece must communicate a lived experience of mental health or disability. A judging panel will determine the winner.

The Inclusive Photography Prize oﬀers $700, sponsored by My Supports, and is open to all photographic submissions. Digital editing is allowed, but entries must not use artiﬁcial intelligence. The winner will be selected by a photography expert.

The Heart Prize, selected by the festival’s packing room staﬀ, awards a one-

Get ready to sing the night back to the 20s

OPEN Mic enthusiasts are invited to dust oﬀ their fedoras and ﬂapper dresses for Woodford Play-itt’s upcoming Roaring Twenties Theme Night on July 31, held at the Woodford Bowls Club.

The event promises a celebration of vintage style, jazz-era moves, like the Jitterbug and Charleston, with great music to match.

The special night will wrap up a vibrant July of performances, with the most recent session on July 17 bringing warmth and variety to a crisp winter evening.

The evening opened with Bill’s smooth rendition of ‘Autumn Leaves’, perfectly setting the tone, while Norm followed with a strong take on ‘My Girl’, capturing the room’s attention.

Peter added energy with ‘Do You Wanna Dance’, Mike slowed things down with ‘Waiting For a Slow Song’, and Chas kept it classic with ‘Walk of Life’.

Carmel’s upbeat versions of ‘Nine to Five’ and ‘Let’s Have a Party’ got toes tapping, while Catherine’s ‘And Then He Kissed Me’ and Ann Murray’s ‘Could I Have This Dance’ added a touch of sweetness.

Leanne lit up the stage with ‘You Never Can Tell’ and ‘Maria’, Fay delivered heartfelt performances of ‘Please Help Me I’m Falling’ and ‘Pretend’, and Jo brought sincerity with ‘It’s a Heartache’ and ‘If You Could Read My Mind’.

Jan’s fun rendition of ‘Dandy’ and powerful ‘Dance Little Lady, Dance’ drew cheers, and Bill charmed with ‘He’ll Have to Go’ followed cleverly by its answer song ‘He’ll Have to Stay’.

Ken’s ‘The Night Hank Williams Came to Town’ and ‘Hello Trouble’ were crowd favourites, while newcomer John impressed with a cappella versions of ‘Distant Drums’ and ‘Until You Have Walked in My Shoes’. Tall John delivered smooth takes on ‘I Can’t Stop Loving You’ and ‘I Want to Wake Up With You’, while Richard rocked the house with ‘Let’s Stick Together’ and ‘Long As I

commissioned artwork, an art supply voucher, and a feature interview during the event.

Submissions must be original work, accompanied by an artist statement (maximum 200 words) explaining the work and how it aligns with the relevant Prize category. Artists can submit multiple entries and retain full ownership of their work.

The Graceville Art Festival runs from October 8 to 12, 2025, aligning with Mental Health Week. To enter and for more information, visit: https://donate. lutheranservices.org.au/ event/graceville-art-festival/ art-prize

Her Standing There’, closing out another memorable night at Play-itt. With the Roaring Twenties night now in sight, attendees are encouraged to join in the fun, dress the part, and keep the music—and the memories—rolling.

Play-itt holds open mic nights at the Woodford Bowls Club every Thursday from 6:30pm, with meals, bar service and great musical fun on oﬀer.

Free dance classes step into Kilcoy

KILCOY and surrounds locals have the chance to try four free dance classes in as part of a national initiative oﬀering 4,000 free classes across Australia.

Hosted by Melbourne’s Just Rhythm Dance Academy at the Kilcoy Memorial Hall, the sessions are open to anyone looking for a fun, social way to get active.

The program is running until 30 August, on Thursdays, from 6:30pm to 7:15pm for adult beginners, with limited spots available. Only the ﬁrst 4,000 coupons can be redeemed nationwide before 28 September.

The classes are part of the Come and Try program, an eight-week opportunity for adults to explore dances such as the Cha Cha, Rumba, Salsa, Waltz and more.

Interested participants can redeem their coupon codes for free dance classes at https://www.freeclasses. dancesport.org.au/ . Once

contact Just Rhythm Dance Academy directly to book the ﬁrst class.

This initiative is funded by the Australian Sports Commission in partnership with DanceSport Australia and delivered locally with support from Somerset Regional Council, under the Play Well project.

Chairman of the DSA Play Well Committee, Martyn Kibel, said the program promotes dance in a convenient and accessible way.

Interested participants are encouraged arrive 10–15 minutes early. No partner is necessary, and comfortable clothing with suitable shoes is recommended. For local inquiries, contact Just Rhythm Dance Academy via info@justrhythmdance. com or call 0402 515 466. More information is available at www. freeclasses.dancesport.org. au or www.justrhythmdance.

Graceville Art Festival 2024.

Graceville Art Festival 2024 feature artist Bob Maas.

Jen and Leanne.

Linda and Chas.

Henry Somerset Henry Somerset

Ties that grind.

I have a tie presented to me by the Economic Society of Australia for being ﬁrst to pick ‘the recession we had to have’ (1988 -1991).

And I’m not an economist, which certainly pinged oﬀ all the federal and state government, bank and private business economists in the audience.

But I am a listener who travels around a bit.

My beautiful and wise lady says that’s just an excuse to go to the pub for a Lemonade (not sure if she has noticed that drink is now available as an alcohol laden version).

But there’s also listening to friends in a wide variety of businesses, at the barber, in the cafes, the shops and standing around with the fellas in various shop, farm and machinery sheds.

As I told the highly qualiﬁed economists 36 years ago, I don’t have their ability to turn numbers into fractions of percent or call a number of seven letter acronym to fool all non-economists.

I just listen and throw in the occasional gentle question to steer the conversation to what people really think, or are willing to reveal about their pay cheque, business revenue or forward orders.

And I steer clear of the echo chamber of economists.

That’s why 95 percent (that’s correct) got the last Reserve Bank interest rate decision wrong. Just add that to their long list of economic predictions.

Now we have unemployment increasing just a er the Reserve Bank held interest rates…..again.

Perhaps if the various bank and treasury economists

got out and about a bit more, they’d know what’s happening in the economy, rather than wait for dodgy and delayed ‘oﬀicial’ ﬁgures.

On my recent northern trip I caught up with mates ranging from a car and boat dealer to mine workers and farmers.

The message was not positive but not wholly

negative.

The mine workers were suﬀering reduced shi s and hours as the big coal and hard rock mining companies mined the easy seams for cash and were delaying the job intensive mine prep and stripping. Real take home pay in the mining community was dropping.

Under My Skin Under My Skin

Changing leaders to suit changing times

The 1 William St drums are beating out a loud and consistent tune — These Times They Are A-changin’ — but it ain’t the 1964 Bob Dylan song.

According to my Laborleaning informants, former Premier Steven Miles’ grip on his Opposition Leader title is slipping, the only disagreement being the speed at which he’s sliding down the popularity pole. His performance before and a er the election is being cited as the main cause for his fall from grace but his close links with, and his earlier supportive statements about, the CFMEU have apparently caused him enormous grief.

There’s general consensus he will be replaced within the next 12 months but what isn’t so clear is who will replace him.

I’m reliably informed the new Labor Leader will be a woman. Apparently the Liberals’ “women problems” at a Federal level have

spooked many in State Labor powerbrokers.

There is even one idea to have a two-woman leadership team but a female leader with a male deputy is more likely.

Lots of names are being thrown about with Meaghan Scanlon heading the list.

Those apparently on the outer include Shannon Fentiman, Grace, Nicki Boyd, and Jonty Bush, while Charis Mullen, Leanne Enoch, Melissa McMahon, and even new “star” Bisma Asif getting positive mentions.

Bart Mellish gets considerable support from the male ranks, as does Michael Healy and Glen Butcher, and one name slipped into the ring was Lance McCallum, the Member for Bundamba, but that might be future gazing.

Don’t expect Cameron Dick, Mark de Brenni, Mark Ryan or Mark Furner to ﬂy the male ﬂag.

One insider with a sense of humour said she would love to see MandM as the Leader/ Deputy team.

“Meaghan (Scanlon) and Mark (Bailey) are a personal team in real life and would make a dream team in political life,” she said.

“Meaghan would be a star and Mark would be the perfect punching bag when things go wrong. No one is better qualiﬁed than Mark to guarantee things will go wrong”.

Yeah Optus? Nah. I received two emails from Optus recently and immediately decided they were a scam.

I thought I’d do the right thing and called into the local Optus shop and let them know. The young attendant read the emails.

“Yeah”, she said. “It’s probably a scam. Just ignore them”.

So I got a yes and a no from Optus. Yeah, they agreed it was probably a scam, and nah, Optus couldn’t be less interested. Productivity pretence

Morons like me, with a knowledge of economics and ﬁnances equivalent to that of a gnat, have the

WEASEY’S PROPERTY REPORT

I have lost count of the number of times I’ve been warned over the past decade, that the property market is about to crash and the person is waiting until it does to buy a property and break into the market.

Every month - sometimes multiple times a week - this type of commentary is proﬀered, and my replies about the strength of the market are dismissed. Short of a catastrophic event (or widescale cyber-attack) or Australia becoming embroiled in a global conﬂict, it is unlikely that the fundamental pillars holding up our robust domestic property marketing are about to collapse. Beware of ‘paralysis by over analysis’ of information that is blatantly wrong.

The best time to buy a house was in the past,

the second-best time is as soon as possible in terms of getting a foot in the door. There will never be a ‘perfect’ time, there are pros and cons at every junction.

Looking at Queensland, Brisbane and regional markets in the Moreton Bay, Somerset and Sunshine Coast areas particularly, I would suggest that the market is stronger now than it has been at any other point in my 19-year career.

Our population is growing, infrastructure spend is booming by any measure, the Olympics are coming and our climate and lifestyle are broadly appealing. On top of all this, work-from-home options mean that regional markets are propped up by buyers seeking larger lot sizes than inner city apartments and/ or seek to avoid the metro

traﬀic chaos.

Keep in mind as well that from January 1st 2026, virtually all ﬁrst home buyers will be able to enter the market with just a 5 per cent deposit via a taxpayerbacked guarantee. The program will be available to an unlimited number of applicants instead of just 35,000 per year, with higher property price thresholds, and the income cap of $125,000 has been scrapped. A separate Government promise to build 100,000 new homes was also made –but that extra supply could take years to arrive, if it arrives at all. I will discuss new data regarding the issues in Construction over the next few weeks.

In Auctions: last week saw the second-highest preliminary clearance rate of the year. 1,574 auctions

Farmers and truckers are facing higher government charges and equipment and input costs. They were holding back any unnecessary spending. The same is happening around our region as building and infrastructure work stalls.

The result is an economy, not in 1988 or 1999 or 2008 freefall, but stalling. Wallets and purses are being opened more cautiously. Everyone is coping but feeling the cost pressures. An interest rate cut would help ease some of the caution.

But so would governments of all levels understanding the basic maths that if inﬂation has eased back to barely two percent, their fees and charges need to come back to that level…..or below.

And big companies enjoying market dominance, such as banks and telcos and

novel idea that productivity is important to a nation’s prosperity.

But apparently Australia’s top political and bureaucratic minds have failed to recognise the problem for a couple of decades.

One of Australia’s top policy minds has blown the lid on a future that is heading toward higher taxes and a lower standard of living, and has laid bare the impact of failing to deal with the country’s plummeting productivity.

Red ﬂags were waved 23 years ago but were ignored, especially by politicians who thought more about popularity and winning elections than doing their job.

Jim Chalmers, who poses as Federal Treasurer, has announced an “Economic Reform Roundtable to build consensus ways to improve productivity”.

Just what we need — a talkfest followed by a ﬂurry of magniﬁcent but nonproductive announcements.

What a bunch of

were held across Australia’s capital cities - up 9.9% from the previous week (1,432), but 11.4% lower than the same week in 2024 (1,777).

The preliminary auction clearance rate edged higher to 74.4%, up from 72.2% the week before (later revised to 68.0%). This marks the second-highest preliminary clearance rate of the year, just behind the ﬁnal week of June (74.5%), and the sixth consecutive week above the 70% threshold.

In Rentals: according to Cotality (RP Data have rebranded), rental growth was marginally slower across most of Australia, with the national rental index rising just 1.3% over the June quarter - the lowest second-quarter increase since 2020. But not so in our capital. Darwin reported the strongest rental growth, up 2.9% for the quarter, followed by Brisbane (2.0%)

some big box retailers, could also ease back their price rises.

And then we have the issues of the tsunami of over regulation that is pushing up costs, such as developing land for factories and houses, as well as building costs. We can’t leave it all to the Reserve Bank to ease the living cost pressures for families and business…. although that would help. Still got the tie. Don’t wear ties anymore. But it is a reminder to trust your own ears, not necessarily the twaddle of the economic twiddlers.

pretenders.

Adonis-like bods

Great news. Forget chiselled abs and ultra-lean physiques, research have found that dad bods, with their so er edges and a bit of extra padding, are actually the gold standard for male attractiveness.

If big numbers of so edges plus plenty of extra padding is all it takes, most of my friends and I must be in the Adonis class.

Just brieﬂy Schoolboy sprinting sensation, Gout, is said to have been named a er his father. I bet he’s glad dad’s name wasn’t Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Not sure what more The Trumpster can be blamed for.

We’re told our coffee will cost more because of US tariffs on Brazil. Maybe if we grew and roasted our own coffee we would have some protection. What a novel idea.

At last, great “research” news. Australian universities have developed “short, painless needles”. Can I just say, as a wimp with a needle

and Sydney (1.5%).

In Sales: short supply persists. Following a slight rebound in May, the number of new property listings declined in June, with just 33,159 new listings nationally over the four weeks to the end of June. This figure is down 11.7% compared to the same time last year and 9.2% below the five-year average - marking the lowest level for this time of year since 2020. The shortfall in new listings, combined with strong buyer demand to absorb well priced properties, has pushed the total listings lower. Nationally, Cotality recorded 127,020 properties for sale over the same period, down 11.8% from the recent March peak (144,025) and 16.7% below the five-year average for this time of year.

All in all, the Qld market is holding

and

phobia, thank you. When someone starts a sentence “with the greatest respect”, you can almost bet on the following words being most disrespectful.

Three Queensland universities, including UQ and Griﬀith, have admitted major payroll underpayments ($8 million each). Makes you wonder what a business degree is worth.

Another case of physician heal thyself. The Australian Tax Oﬀice, and therefore the Aussie taxpayers, have been scammed $2bn (yes, with a B) by staﬀ. And the ATO has the hide to unfairly persecute and prosecute small businesses at every opportunity.

Quote for the Week: “Only Labor can deliver the quality hospitals, local schools and infrastructure our community needs”. — State Member for Sandgate, Bisma Asif.

If I can be of assistance in any way, please don’t hesitate to contact me anytime on 0427 536 725 or cwease@remaxliving. com.au. I am grateful to be of service to our incredible communities. living

values continue to grow. Aﬀordability constraints are real, but not enough to drag the industry into negative territory. Continued growth is expected.

with Chris Wease, Senior Sales Agent at Remax Living, Woodford.

-Fantastic family home

-Kitchen including stone benchtops, microwave nook, abundance of cupboard & bench space

-Main bedroom with walk-in-robe, ceiling fan, an opulent en-suite and a large shower with a rainfall showerhead

-All bedrooms include wardrobes & ceiling fans

-Great size main bathroom including a bath tub, shower, vanity & stunning tiles throughout

-Outdoor entertaining patio with ceiling fan

-Fully-fenced block with side access gates

-Four bedrooms, including master with ensuite

OFFERS OVER $800,000 PRICE:

-Be quick to secure this acerage property which not only boasts selectively cleared land, multiple fenced paddocks, breathtaking country views, “privacy abounds” and numerous spring-fed dams

-Huge separate second dwelling, perfect as a home office,hobby room, rumpus room or teenager's retreat

-Beautifully maintained home block with a pool

-Three good-sized bedrooms, all with built-in robes & ceiling fans for comfort, plus a combined openplan kitchen & dining

-A large shed is equipped with power and high-bay

-Modern spacious open-plan kitchen with cooktop, big oven, and dishwasher

-Separate lounge + second family/dining room, plus another rumpus room

-Covered spacious outdoor entertainment area

-6 x 9m powered shed – Ideal for use as a workshop or home business base

-Two 3 x 3m sheds – Great for extra storage or hobby use, with power connected to one shed

CONTACT AGENT

-Five acres of beautiful serene Sandy Creek countryside with its very OWN CREEK

-Swimming Pool - Dive into relaxation or host poolside gatherings in your private oasis

-Equipped with solar power, promoting sustainable and cost-efficient living

-Newly Renovated Kitchen and bathroom - Stylish modern finishes

-Slow combustion wood heater - creates a warm and cosy atmosphere on cooler evenings

-Abundance of wildlife including Wallabies, Kangaroos, deer and birdlife

OFFERS OVER $1,060,000

- Custom-built

ROCKSBERG

Sweeney | 0427 374 117

SANDY CREEK

NARANGBA Colleen Mollentze | 0452 252 870

Tim Facy | 0447 051

Terry Lucas | 0409 147 721

Cattle markets

LAIDLEY

476 HEAD were sold at Stariha Auctions Laidley cattle sale on Thursday. The market was strong throughout, with all descriptions of cattle selling to dearer rates.

Craig Edwards, Plainland, sold a Charolais bull for $2320, steers for $1890 & $1600 and heifers for $1440 & $1270. Des & Carol Knopke, Lowood, sold Limousin feeder steers for $2060 & $1850.

Tod Eadie, Blenheim, sold pens of Charolais cows for $1720 & $1460. LeMann Investments, Lake Clarendon, sold pens of cows, with Angus cows making $1600, Droughtmaster cows $1600 & $1530 and 6-7 month old calves, with steers making $1080 & heifers $820. Jackson & Crowley, Fordsdale, sold Charolais cows for $1530. Mark Gelhaar, Gatton, sold Limousin cross feeder steers for $1710

& $1570 and milk tooth heifers for $1300. Robert Redinger, Mt Sylvia, sold Droughtmaster milk tooth heifers for $1375 and weaner steers for $1295. Kimberley Walsh, Ropeley, sold a pen of Angus steers for $1850. Lance Jones, Derrymore, sold Hereford cross feeder steers for $1750 and backgrounder steers for $1430. Reinke Family, Mt Sylvia, sold lines of Santa weaner steers for $1260 & $1110. WJ Latimer, Kents Lagoon, sold Santa feeder steers for $1830 and backgrounder steers for $1400. Ian Groves,

Ravensbourne, sold Angus cross backgrounder steers for $1620. Gaven Young, Grandchester, sold Charbray yearling steers for $1500 & $1470. Bruce Greer, Flagstone Creek, sold Brangus backgrounder steers for $1470. Bruce & Karen Peel, Laidley, sold Droughtmaster backgrounder steers for $1420. Trevor & Dot Manteufel, Laidley, sold Angus steers for $1400. Sim Jue Partnership, Dundas, sold Charolais steers for $1400. Kevin & Anne Utz, Coominya, sold weaner steers for

$1250 & $1190. Richard Conroy, Mt Tarampa, sold Charolais weaner steers for

Moreton Saleyards Market Report

well, topping at 299.2 c/ kg several times. Medium grade cows created strong

K & M Embrey sold Yearling Steers Charolais 455.2c/kg $1320p/head.

Tooth Heavy Feeder Steers Angus 329.2c/kg $1662p/ head.

R Dale sold Pens of Heavy Cows Charolais X 299.2c/kg $1907p/head.

Glenhills Pastoral sold Backgrounder Heifers Brahman 300.0c/kg $1005p/ head.

AB & RO Freese sold Backgrounder Steers Droughtmaster 359.2c/kg $1221p/head.

CT & TP Flemming sold Feeder Steers Brangus 396.2c/kg $1565p/head.

C Stokes sold 4 Tooth Pasture Heifers Brangus 315.2c/kg $1639p/head.

TK Pix Family Trust sold 6 Tooth Pasture Heifers Charolais X 288.2c/kg $1830p/head.

Marbeh Pastoral sold $

QASP -Gatton Uni sold 2 & 4 Tooth Grain Fed Steers Brangus 356.2c/kg $2224p/ head.

O’Briens Transport sold 6 Tooth Pasture Steers Santa X 333.2c/kg $2432p/head.

M & P Ruthenberg sold Full Mouth Ox Charolais X 341.2c/ kg $2473p/head.

N & D O’Connor sold Heavy Cows Droughtmaster 288.2c/ kg $1887p/head.

A Claydon sold Heavy Cows Droughtmaster X 294.2c/kg $1897p/head.

Oakcorp Pty Ltd sold Pens of Heavy Cows Charolais X 299.2c/kg $1914p/head.

G & S McNamara sold Medium Cows Brangus 297.2c/kg $1649p/head.

A Claydon sold Pens of Medium Cows Angus X 282.2c/kg $1693p/head.

Karreman Quarries sold Heavy Bulls Charolais 288.2c/kg $2363p/head.

Nindethana Pastoral sold Heavy Bulls Droughtmaster 293.2c/kg $2638p/head.

For Sale Details, Market Reports and more info, visit our website www. moretonsaleyards.com.au. All cattle consigned for sale, except for Bobby calves, must be branded.

Anglers lured in to celebrate 25 years of ﬁsh stocking scheme

THE State Government is marking 25 years of one of the most successful recreational ﬁshing initiatives in the State.

Queensland’s inland ﬁshing program, the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS), was introduced in 2000 and has since grown from 25 dams to 63 impoundments.

To celebrate, the “SIPS 25” ﬁshing competition will be held in the September school holidays at SIPS destinations.

Fisheries Queensland is teaming up with the Freshwater Fishing and

Stocking Association of Queensland and ﬁshstocking groups across the State for the competition with a swag of prizes on the line.

A er a decade of Labor’s anti-fishing agenda, Queensland’s recreational fishers and fish stocking groups can now feel confident that the Government supports them and their growth.

It defies logic that Labor was planning to do away with fisheries science altogether. In the recent Budget, we salvaged $13 million for scientific

capability and 38 public servants will keep their jobs.

Minister for Primary Industries Tony Perrett said the Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme was a major part of Queensland’s $2.5 billion recreational ﬁshing industry.

“The work of volunteer stocking groups should not be understated, it creates opportunities for tourists and locals alike to enjoy ﬁshing and camping at these facilities,” Minister Perrett said.

“In the last year 3.2 million ﬁngerlings including barramundi, Australian

bass, golden perch, silver perch and Murray cod have been released.

“I encourage local businesses to join forces with local stocking volunteer groups to make this year’s competition one to remember.”

The funds from the sale of permits, covers the management of the scheme as well as stocking the impoundments and supporting regional aquaculture businesses that supply ﬁngerlings.

The program relies on the hard work of volunteer ﬁsh-stocking groups, stock

impoundments across Queensland guaranteeing year-round recreational ﬁshing.

$1200. Gerry & Beryl Luck, Blenheim, sold Charbray

steer calves for $1190 & $975. Jim & Eileen O’Keeﬀe, Ingoldsby, sold Charbray steer calves for $955.

Cows $1720.

AGENTS Boyd O’Brien Bartholomew reported a yarding of 422 head of cattle.

All descriptions sold to a fully ﬁrm to slightly dearer market. Heavy cows sold

‘Cautious optimism’ for Agricultural trade conditions

BENDIGO Bank’s 2025 Mid-Year Australian Agriculture Outlook oﬀers a comprehensive update on supply, demand and pricing forecasts for key agricultural commodities over the second half of 2025. With around two-thirds of Australian produce destined for export, global market volatility continues to shape growth opportunities, reinforcing the importance of diversiﬁed trade relationships.

Two major forces are inﬂuencing the sector’s outlook: ongoing seasonal challenges and a volatile geopolitical landscape. Despite this, the overall outlook for Australian agriculture remains cautiously optimistic, with the potential for improved seasonal conditions, stronger consumer demand and lower interest rates helping to underpin conﬁdence.

While global trade uncertainty remains a headwind for producers, processors and exporters, strong international demand and more favourable trade conditions are expected to provide continued price support.

Bendigo Bank’s Senior Manager Industry Affairs, Neil Burgess, said, “Tariff changes by the US and China are contributing to market volatility. While the US’s 10 percent tariff on Australian goods is

likely to have limited direct impact, flow-on effects are expected. The easing of US-China trade tensions is encouraging, but a long-term solution is still a way off. This may boost the chances of Australia finalising a trade deal with the EU, which could open up significant opportunities for beef and lamb exports.”

Exports remain a bright spot.

“Beef demand is set to remain solid as US supply tightens, supporting strong export performance and potentially higher prices in the latter half of the year.

“Winter crop production is forecast to decline by 9% from last season to 54.5 million tonnes, but a late seasonal break in southern Australia has li ed optimism. Export demand for canola, barley and chickpeas is particularly strong, with stock levels at multi-year lows.

“Domestic demand for fresh produce is expected to li as retail prices ease. A record calendar year for exports is also predicted, with almonds, citrus, avocados, macadamias, stone fruit, potatoes, carrots and onions all performing well.

“Lamb export volumes may decline due to tighter supply, but demand remains strong—particularly from the US and China—for both lamb and mutton,” Mr Burgess said.

Weaner Heifers Sold to Top of

Shepherdson and Boyd reported a top-quality yarding of 3127 head for our July store and weaner sale. Heavy feeder steers sold to improved rates. A glorious line of weaner steers and heifers came to hand, for a strong panel of buyers which saw prices improve for all weaner backgrounder descriptions. A line of PTIC Brangus cows and heifers sold to a top of $1880 with the cows and calves selling to a top of $2000.

JK Trust of Coominya sold Droughtmaster Steers 20-24mths old for $1840/head.

Angle G Grazing of Monsildale sold Blonde X steers 18-20mths old for $1590/head. Rebbecca Rolph Smith of Coominya sold Santa X steers 16mths old for $1500/head.

Greendale Cattle of Tambo sold a line of 12mths old Angus X Charbray and Brahman steers with the lead pens of Charbrays topping at $1400, The Angus topped at $1430 and the Brahmans Topped at $1270/ head. Tandora Grazing of Maryborough sold a quality run of Charolais X weaner steers 10mths old for $1510/ head, $1420 & $1330/head.

steers 8mths old for $1330/ head. O’Briens Pastoral of Taloorum sold Simmental X Steers 6-8mths old for $1270/head. N & K Green of Kilcoy sold Limousin X weaner steers 8mths old for $1270/head. P & R Gordon of Mt Byron Sold Charolais X weaner steers 8mths old for $1260/head. Baker & Haseler of Dayboro sold Charolais X steers 8mths old for $1260/head. Luck Farming of Mt Mort sold Charolais X weaner steers

X weaner steers 6-8mths old for $1120. The Gittins Family of Goomeri sold Charolais X Weaner Steers 6-8mths old for $1170/head. Paradise Grazing of Nanango sold a quality run of light weight weaner steers 6mths old for $1120/head. Redland Grazing sold Charbray weaner steers 6-8mths old for $1110/head.

Tandora Grazing of Maryborough sold Charolais X weaner heifers 10mths old for $1260/head, $1140/head

for $920/head. Gittins family of Goomeri sold Charolais x weaner heifers 8mthys old for $900/head.

K & J Horrex of Crows Nest sold Angus X weaner heifers 8mths old for $890/ head. Alberton Investments of Monsildale sold Charolais X heifers 6-8mths old for $850/head. May Ebbern of Linville sold Charolais X weaner steers 6-8mths old for$800/head. O’Briens Pastoral of Taloorum sold Simmental X heifers 8mths old for $800/head. Barraclough Partnership of Toogoolawah sold Charolais X weaner 8mths old heifers for $860/head.

Samuel Holdings of Manumbar sold pens of Charolais X weaner steers 8mths old for $1350/ head & $1340/head. Gilla Partnership of Blackbutt sold a quality run of Charolais X steers 8-10mths old with pens topping at $1340/head. Alberton Investments of Monsildale sold Charolais X steers 8mths old for $1330/head. D & H Golinski of Colinton sold Charolais x Weaner

sold Charolais X weaner steers 6-8mths old for $1200/head. M & S Wilson of Maroon sold Simbrah Weaner steers 8mths old for $1200/head. K & J Horrex of Crows Nest sold Angus X weaner steers 8mth old for $1190/head. Banjo Paterson of Manumbar sold Charolais X weaner steers 6-8mths old for $1180/head. Barraclough P/Ship of Toogoolawah sold Charolais X weaner steers for $1110/head. Terry Bischoﬀ of Buaraba sold Santa X weaner steers 6-8mths old for $1140/ head. Eggleston Family of Toogoolawah sold Charolais

run of heifers 12-14mths old with the Charbrays topping at $1190/head, Angus X heifers topped at $1200 and Brahman X heifers topping at $1030/ head. Gilla Partnership of Blackbutt sold Charolais X weaner heifers 8-10mths old for $1100/head. Graham McPherson of Kilcoy sold Charolais X weaner heifers 8mths old for $980/head. D & h Golinski sold Charolais X Weaner heifers 8mths old for $950/head. P & R Gordon sold Charolais X weaner heifers for $900/head. Ian Gilliland of Blackbutt sold Charolais x weaner heifers

M & S Wilson sold Simbrah weaner heifers for $890/ head. Paradise Grazing sold pens of Charolais X weaner heifers for $820/head & $810/head. N & K Green sold Limousin X weaner heifers 6-8mths old for $810/head. Perin & Vonhoﬀ of Anduramba sold Angus X weaner heifers 6-8mths old for $800/head. G & T Reiser sold Charolais x weaner heifers 6-8mths old for $800/head. A quality run of Brangus Cows and Calves and PTIC cows came to hand, account Salerno Pastoral of Toogoolawah. The Cows and Claves sold to a top of $2000 and the pregnant females sold to t top of $1880/head. Shepherdson and Boyd would like to thank all their valued Vendors, Buyers and Staﬀ for their continued support. The next Toogoolawah Store Sale is on the 1st of August.

Brangus Steers account of Greendale Cattle Co from Tambo sold to $1430/head.

SUDOKU

Weekly Horoscopes

There is not much you can do to alleviate the problem, but consider putting some extra work into your house. Think of joining a health club that will beneﬁt your physical

Educational pursuits can bring interesting, helpful people. You will be appreciated for the competence you exhibit and for taking on responsibilities. Chances to express your ideas and beliefs can bring popularity as long as you’re not arrogant.

WORD SEARCH

You can continue to make gains if you call a few people who can help you close an important deal. Make money using your ingenuity and creative talent. Real estate should be lucrative for you. Things may not be as harmonious as you would like with colleagues or employers this week.

You can beneﬁt ﬁnancially if you put money or maintenance into your living quarters. If you can put some work into home improvements, you should. You should be putting in some overtime. Put your energy into your work or moneymaking ventures rather than into your emotional life this week.

Problems with your partner are apparent. Deception in your home is evident. Don’t beat around the bush. You may be emotional about the way an organization you belong to is handling its business. Erratic behavior at home may be hard to handle.

Your ability to come up with original ideas will bring recognition from superiors. Try to deal with it quickly; don’t dwell on past regrets. You may have been too agreeable to someone who just wanted to use you. Put your efforts into physical ﬁtness programs or competitive sports.

You may have difﬁculties with foreigners. Your obviously unique way of doing things has caught the eye of someone in a higher position. Offer consolation, but don’t give them any direction. Your accomplishments could exceed your expectations if you mix a little business with pleasure.

CLASSIFIEDS Sentinel

PUBLIC NOTICES

Proposed Development

Make a submission from 24 July to 15 August 2025

Retirement Facility (167 dwellings)

Where: 73 Bakers Flat Road

BEACHMERE and 31 Gillian Street

BEACHMERE QLD 4510

On: Lot 6 RP 226504, Lot 32 SP172958 & Lot 116 SP295499

Approval sought: Development

Permit for Material Change of Use

Application ref: DA/2022/1718

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

City of Moreton Bay PO BOX 159 Caboolture QLD 4510 council@moretonbay.qld.gov.au (07) 3205 0555 www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au

Public notification requirements are in accordance with the Planning Act 2016

www.developmentsigns.com.au

KILCOY KRAFTERS

Come along and join a fun group of craft, learn to sew, knit, crochet, patchwork and quilting. Beginners and experienced all welcome. Just turn up to the Kilcoy Library, Kennedy St, 9am each Thursday.

Sport results

Esk golf

Esk Golf Club saw a strong turnout of 36 players for Trev’s Sunday Session on July 13, with Stewart Dargan claiming top honours in the second round of the Monthly Medal competition.

Dargan’s sharp form delivered a winning score of 67 nett and 38 points, securing both the medal and nearest-the-pin (NTP) on 2/11 with an in-the-hole ﬁnish.

Mick Beetz ﬁnished runner-up on 35 points, also claiming an NTP on 9/18 and hole 4/13 (Esk IGA-sponsored), while D. Richards and C. Pettet each scored in the NTPs on multiple holes.

Trevor and Sandra Adams were thanked for providing standout prizes, as the event forms part of a three-round series designed to ﬁll gaps on race-day weekends.

A separate 9-Hole Chooky was also contested on Sunday, with P. Ross taking the win on 32 nett and claiming the putting comp with just 12 putts.

New social member Steve Varcoe impressed in his ﬁrst

Proposed Development

Make a submission from 16 July 2025 to 05 August 2025

Development Permit for Material Change of Use for Warehouse (Open Caravan Storage – Area 1,491sqm)

Where: 48 Twin Lakes Road, Coominya, Qld, 4311

On: Lot 59 on RP135414

Approval sought: Material Change of Use Application ref: DA26153

You may obtain a copy of the application and make a submission to:

Somerset Regional Council PO Box117, Esk, Qld, 4312

mail@somerset.qld.gov.au 07 5424 4000 https://www.somerset.qld.gov.au

Kilcoy RSL Sub Branch will be holding a Korean Veterans Day Service at 11 am on Sunday, 27 July 2025.

Kilcoy Memorial Wall, Cnr Kennedy and McCauley St Kilcoy and after in the Sub Branch rooms for a light lunch. Please notify the Sub Branch of any dietary requirements on 54220564 or info@kilcoy.rslqld.net.au

outing, earning runner-up on countback.

It was a clean sweep for Brett “Happy” Tumney at Esk Golf Club on Saturday, July 19, as players took to the short course for a single stroke club competition.

The modiﬁed course layout came about due to the Junior Campdra using the lower end of the golf course, but a good turnout of members ensured a successful day of play.

Special thanks were extended to Club President Luke for coordinating with the campdra committee and patrolling the shared boundary to keep things running smoothly.

Tumney led the field with a winning score of 52 nett, taking home both nearestthe-pin (NTP) prizes on holes 4/13 and 8/17, sponsored by Esk IGA and Brisbane Valley Meats respectively. He also picked up second prize in the raffle, capping off a stellar day on the green. Runner-up honours went to Steve Lerm with 59 nett, edging out Chris Neilsen on a countback.

Toogoolawah bowls

Wednesday, July 16

- Butch Stevens, Maida Canciani and Colin Giﬀin , travelled to Woodford for their Triples Day and had 2 very competitive games. Runnerup in both, but a great day as always. Thankyou Woodford for the invite

Sunday July 20

- unfortunately we only had 6 players due to several members being away however we enjoyed a game of triples with

Lowood golf

Tuesday Stableford (July 15): Brett Green claimed victory with 41 points, ahead of Steve Henshall’s 39. Best Round Daily scores went to B. Victor (38), P. Cattanach (36), and D. Sippel (35). Nearest-the-pin honours fell to W. Hankinson (2nd), H. Buckley (5th), P. Muller (11th) and R. Coolwell (14th).

Thursday Stableford

KILCOY CANCER SUPPORT GROUP BREAST & THE REST Meets third Tuesday (monthly) @ 10am

Kilcoy RSL Rooms (Kennedy St)

Contact: Sandra 0429 382 724 or John 0403 336 263

KeithMcWhirter, Neville Finlay and Maida Canciani defeating Len Smyth, Colin Giﬀin and Lyn McWhirter. Fruit Tray raﬀle went to Len Smyth again.

For your calendar:

Our next Club Meeting will be held on 10th August a er our Annual General Meeting which will be at 9.00am when all positions will become vacant. Please make yourselves available and if possible, nominate for a position on the committee.

It takes more than one or two to keep this club going.

(July 17): L. Greinke topped the leaderboard with 41 points, just edging R. Heathwood’s 40. B.R.D. winners included P. Brown (39) and R. Mancktelow (38). NTPs were awarded to S. Henshall, M. Whitwell, P. Brown, and J. Dunne.

Friday Women’s Medley (July 18): Robin McConchie and Dianne Meiers triumphed with 60.5 points; runners-up Barb Scott and Julie Nicholls (63

Nominations are required before 24th July.

Nomination forms are on the Bar. We now have 28 members and surely at least 6 are able to add to the few that currently wear the burden of running our club.

Positions available include: President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, Games Director, Greens Keeper, Providor, Kitchen Co-ordinator and Cleaner.

Our next Pub Day will be on Thursday 7th August. 10.00 for 10.30 start.

Our next Trivia night with

on countback), followed by Jan Brown and Robyn Flashman (63). Nearest pins awarded across multiple pairs.

Saturday Lowood Open Stroke (July 19):

Men’s A Grade: Gross winner A. Gemmell (70), runner-up B. Stieler (72); Nett champion K. Luinstra (71); runner-up J. Sumner (72).

Men’s B and C Grades: C. McKlaren (81 gross),

meal will be held on Friday 25th July.

All Members to note: Annual Membership Dues are required, preferably no later than 31st of July. Application forms for committee positions are available at the Club.

Sunday Social Bowling winter time for commencement is now 12.00 for 12.30.

Members are reminded that Toogoolawah Bowls Club Shirts are to be worn on all Sunday Social Games.

See you on the green.

M. Callander (71 nett – B Grade); A. Flett (72 nett – C Grade). Seniors, Vets, and Juniors saw strong net winners S. Henshall, P. Quirk, and S. Peachey. Women’s Stableford: S. Kopelke led with 38 points; C. Faneco (35) and K. Lawrenson (34) followed. NTPs included C. Wheeler and D. Smith, while BRD awards honoured players from across the region.

Inaugural Masters Competition kicked off this month

Kirra Livingstone

OLD Boys’ Day celebrations at the Caboolture Snakes Rugby League Club were elevated by a spirited clash between long-time friends and rivals, the Cookie Team and Caboolture’s Masters side on Saturday, July 12.

The annual event brought past players back together to relive their playing days and connect with younger generations of Snakes.

Club President Natasha Field said the Masters’

match added a deeper sense of camaraderie and community to the day.

“Old Boys’ Day is an annual opportunity for old team mates to come together and enjoy playing football,” she said.

“The Masters’ play brought a whole new depth to the day and Caboolture can’t thank Burpengary enough for coming over to join the day.

“The two teams have an amazing bond and always play in the spirit of the game and have developed a

great friendship.”

Field said the presence of former players provided valuable inspiration for the juniors and was warmly received by all who attended.

“Furthermore it was very much appreciated to have the old boys around the young teams – everybody commented about this,” she said.

The club plans to continue growing the event as a celebration of rugby league, mateship, and community tradition.

NAIDOC Week on the ﬁeld

Narangba Eagles proudly play in Indigenous Round

◗ Kirra Livingstone

THE Narangba Eagles Football Club hosted a triple header on Saturday, July 12 to acknowledge NAIDOC Week during Football Queensland’s Indigenous round.

Club president, Darren Magin, said this is the third consecutive year the club has commemorated the signiﬁcant week.

“Each year we release

a limited edition, one-oﬀ jersey to commemorate the occasion,” he said.

“Since 2023, each jersey has featured artwork from local indigenous artist, Robin Conlon.

“I think it’s very important, not just because grass roots sports clubs have the perfect platform as they’re usually in tune with the local community but it also gives indigenous club members an opportunity to

Rugby League

Stanley River Wolves

A Grade Men SCGRL

Stanley River Wolves (54) v Caboolture Snakes (10) - 20/7/25, Woodford

Showground

Reserve Grade Men

SCGRL

Stanley River Wolves (16) v Caboolture Snakes (16) - 20/7/25, Woodford Showground

Caboolture Snakes

A Grade Men SCGRL

Caboolture Snakes (10) v Stanley River Wolves (54) - 20/7/25, Woodford

Showground

Reserve Grade Men

SCGRL

Caboolture Snakes (16)

v Stanley River Wolves (16) - 20/7/25, Woodford Showground

Open Women SCGRL Caboolture Snakes Bye Round 14

Kilcoy Yowies

C Grade Men SCGRL Kilcoy Yowies (24) v Caloundra Sharks (32)19/7/25, Beachmere Sports Grounds

Beachmere

C Grade Men SCGRL

Beachmere (34) v Noosa Pirates (6) - 19/7/25, Beachmere Sports Grounds

Bribie Island

Warrigals

C Grade Men SCGRL

Bribie Island (24) v Mary Valley Stags (10) - 19/7/25, Jack Spicer Oval

tell their story and celebrate their culture with team mates and club mates.”

Darren added that the Indigenous round, which coincides with NAIDOC Week, is something the club looks forward to annually.

“We’ve held various diﬀerent types of events coinciding with our tripleheaders each year but it’s always the culmination of a traditional smoking ceremony and cultural

dance performance that tends to bring the club together,” he said.

The club doesn’t have any more big events coming up this year until the end of the season.

“We don’t have much planned until our enormous end-of-season presentation fun day on October 11,”

Darren said.

“ We usually have 2,5003,000 people on site for the day - giant inﬂatables,

Sport Club results

Soccer

Caboolture FC

Premier Men FQPL 1

Caboolture FC (1) v Holland Park Hawks (3) - 18/7/25, Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex

U23s Men FQPL 1

Caboolture FC (2) v Holland Park Hawks (0) - 18/7/25, Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex

Premier Women FQPL

Caboolture FC (5) v Grange Thistle (0) - 20/7/25, Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex

U23s Women FQPL 1

Caboolture FC (1) v Grange Thistle (1)20/7/25, Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex

Moreton City Excelsior

Premier Women FQPL

Moreton City Excelsior (3) v SWQ Thunder (2)-

19/7/25, Wolter Park

U23s Women FQPL 1

Moreton City Excelsior (1) v SWQ Thunder (3) - 19/7/25, Wolter Park

Premier Men FQPL 2

Moreton City Excelsior (0)

v North Star (2) O’Callaghan Park

U23s Men FQPL 2

Moreton City Excelsior (2) v North Star (4) O’Callaghan Park

North Lakes

United

Premier Men FQPL 2

North Lakes (1) v Maroochydore Swans (5) - 19/7/25, Kinsellas Sporting Complex

U23s Men FQPL 2

North Lakes (3) v Maroochydore Swans (1)19/7/25, Kinsellas Sporting Complex

Narangba Eagles

Premier Women FQPL 3 Metro

Narangba Eagles (4) v Rochedale Rovers (0)18/7/25, Underwood Park Premier Men FQPL 4

Narangba Eagles (2) v Logan Roos (4) - 20/7/25, Oates Park

U23s Men FQPL 4

Narangba Eagles (7) v Logan Roos (0) - 20/7/25, Oates Park

Moreton Bay Lions

QFA Div 1 Seniors

Moreton Bay Lions (83) v University of Queensland (95) - 19/7/25, UQ Playing Field

QAFLW Seniors

Moreton Bay Lions (6) v Morningside (106)19/7/25, Jack Esplen Oval

Narangba Crows

QFA Div 3 SC

Narangba Crows (20) v

Caloundra Panthers (84) - 18/7/25, Findlay Street

Sportsﬁelds

Redcliﬀe

Tigers (36) v Sandgate (10) - 19/7/25,

Redcliﬀe Tigers Men’s team player.

C Grade president’s cup Yowies v Sharks.

While the end of season is still a few months away,

potential to make ﬁnals this year.

Cookie and Caboolture Snakes players on Old Boys Day. Photo: MMM Sports Photography.

NAIDOC Round ceremony. Photo: MMM Sports Photography.

Short run for Hicks in NRLW debut

◗ Kirra Livingstone

FORMER Stanley River Wolves player, Reegan Hicks, made her NRLW debut for the Brisbane Broncos on Sunday, July 13.

Unfortunately for Hicks, it was not the ideal introduction into the professional rugby league competition.

Hicks debuted against the Titans, and was on the ﬁeld for six minutes as an interchange player.

Her debut was shortlived, a er being sent oﬀ in the 56th minute, for a dangerous tackle on Titans second rower, Sienna Loﬁpo.

Hicks’ matter was heard by the NRLW judicial system, and has since copped a two game ban from playing in the NRLW.

The former hinterland rugby league player won’t be eligible to be selected for a game until the Brisbane Broncos’ round ﬁve clash against the Cronulla Sharks.

Hicks was signed to the Broncos’ development squad late last year, and last month she played for Queensland in her second U19s Women State of Origin series. Playing in the NRLW has also been a life long dream for the young athlete.

Slam dunk for Kiahn

◗ Kirra Livingstone

MORETON Bay Suns

basketball player, Kiahn Crouch, won gold in the National One-on-One Basketball Association (NOOBA) U16 Queensland grand ﬁnal.

The grand ﬁnal, held on Wednesday, July 9, is a unique spin on the well known sport of basketball, where players go head to head on court.

Kiahn’s grand final match was a best out of three tournament, with both himself and other grand finalist, Mason Willis, both representing the Rising Suns Basketball Academy, which is based in Morayfield.

The inaugural tournament was hosted at Toowoomba by Coach Pops Dickerson’s SuperCamp.

Kiahn said that from the moment he heard of one on one basketball, he knew it would be something he’d be interested in trying.

He said that what he enjoys most about the new form sport, in the new rules

and competing, and has improved his skills.

“When I first stepped onto the court for my first one on one match, I was nervous but confident in my abilities,” he said.

“Skills I have learnt through playing one on one is to predict what the other player would do.

“It has also taught me to be more fast paced and react quickly, and I would say it has deﬁnitely made me more conﬁdent.”

Kiahn added that before a one on one basketball match, he gets in the zone, and surprised himself on the court. “I didn’t realise how competitive I would be and how much I wanted to win,” he said.

“What makes one on one diﬀerent is the rules and how I’m able to challenge a foul and discussing it with the refs.

“I recommend this game to people because it’s fun, fast paced and really competitive, it’s amazing.” Kiahn is now ranked number one in Queensland.

Kiahn Crouch repping his basketball club, the Moreton Bay Suns.

Dolphins on cusp of history

CITY of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery has urged locals to throw their support behind the Dolphins, as the NRL newcomers close in on a historic ﬁrst ﬁnals appearance.

Cr Falnnery said the club was building momentum and urged fans to get behind the team in the ﬁnal rounds.

“With ﬁnals fever around the corner, now is the time for our fans to cheer on the Dolphins to a top eight

ﬁnish. Let’s dare to dream,” he said.

Reﬂecting on the club’s journey since its formation, Mayor Flannery described the Dolphins as a core part of the region’s identity.

“From humble beginnings in 1947 to the club’s historic entry into the NRL, the Dolphins are an intrinsic part of the story of Moreton Bay and its proud rugby league tradition,” he said.

“They’ve grown with us,

shaped us and brought us together across generations.

The Dolphins belong to us.”

He also noted Council’s early backing of the club’s NRL bid, which included signiﬁcant investment in local infrastructure.

“With their promotion to the NRL, we know that the club is worth an estimated $74 million per year to our local economy,” he said.

“That means more jobs, more tourism and more

investment in our city.”

He said the team’s rise mirrored the City of Moreton Bay’s own transformation.

“As the team has risen from local heroes to national contenders, City of Moreton Bay has grown into one of Australia’s fastest-emerging urban centres – a shared story of grassroots, grit, and growth.”

The Council recently launched a new campaign titled ‘Phins for Life’, which

premiered at Suncorp Stadium on July 17.

The promotional video captures heartfelt moments shared by local supporters and families.

“It’s a touching tribute to how the Dolphins are with us through it all,” Cr Flannery said.

Dolphins Group Chairman Bob Jones welcomed the campaign, saying it highlighted the club’s strong local ties.

“Moreton Bay is where this club was founded and we continue to build from strength to strength in the NRL,” he said.

“I commend City of Moreton Bay for creating the Phins for Life Campaign as a way of highlighting the community’s connectedness with the Dolphins.”

As part of the initiative, libraries across the city will launch ‘Phlipping the Pages’ on September 7.

Park footy fun. Photos: Moreton Bay Council.

Mayor Peter Flannery showing Dolphins support.