The Sentinel 27 March 2024

Kick in the teeth for volunteers

Rural firies slam new laws

THE Rural Fire Brigades Association of Queensland (RFBAQ) says it has been left out of the loop in the drafting of new legislation that will see an overhaul of Queensland’s fire and emergency services.

RFBAQ president, Ian Pike, said the association had been given less than a week to respond to the new legislative changes, introduced on March 7. He said the RFBAQ had been left in the dark over the proposed reforms, saying the amendments were causing angst among brigades.

“The outcome will be that the Rural Fire volunteers are not going to be happy,” he said.

In its submission, the RFBAQ rejected several

proposed legislation changes to the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990, calling for all amendments to be dismissed ahead of a full legislative rewrite after the state election in October.

Those include concerns around autonomy of rural fire brigades and assets, incident response protocol, extended commissioner powers and a perceived bias away from volunteer firefighters.

Caboolture RFBAQ representative and vice-president Ian Swadling AFSM said the manner in which this announcement was made shows “complete contempt for volunteers”. Story p7

Elections make history

MORETON BAY councillor

Mark Booth has won Division 2 with the largest first preference count in council history, receiving 86.24 per cent of votes over Animal Justice Party Queensland candidate Gregory Dillon.

Cr Booth said the massive victory validates the approach he took into the campaign, valuing

transparent communication and community engagement.

Among the first items on his agenda is to “get stuck into preparation for the next planning scheme”.

Somerset councillor votes are still being counted, with the sixth seat a close call between sitting councillor Bob Whalley and newcomer Michael Bishop. Full story p3

FROM THE EDITOR

WELCOME to our first editorial for the new-look Sentinel newspaper.

My aim in introducing these entertaining weekly missives is to not only give a voice to a newspaper, which has faithfully served the region for decades, but to give a platform and a voice for our readers.

The aim is for the Sentinel to have its say on matters across the community, but also to encourage as much as possible two-way engagement from readers.

Send us your letters and we will gladly publish.

Stolen Rav 4 involved in vehicle traffic crash

BETWEEN 6pm and 10.30pm on March 18, it is alleged that a man entered the backyard of an address on Archer Street, Woodford.

It is alleged that a vehicle was entered unlawfully and a set of keys to a Toyota Rav 4 was located and used to steal a vehicle from the address. A purse was also stolen from the insecure vehicle.

At around 10.35pm it is further alleged that the stolen Rav 4 was involved in a traffic crash on Jenkinsons Road in Woodford.

The single occupant of the vehicle was entrapped after the vehicle left the road and travelled down an embankment where it was extensively damaged.

Passers-by stopped to assist the driver from the vehicle.

It is alleged the contents of the stolen purse were located on the man. The 35-year-old Curra man was treated at the Caboolture Hospital and released shortly after.

He was charged with unlawful entry to a premises and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. He is scheduled to appear in Caboolture Magistrates Court on April 9.

What are your concerns about what is happening across your community? What needs fixing? What has been fixed - it’s not all about brickbats.

As much as there are countless issues, we also

want to celebrate the people in the community.

Who are the people and community groups doing amazing things in your neck of the woods? We’d love to shine a spotlight on all the positives across Somerset and Moreton Bay.

There’s never been a more important time to have an independent media willing to go in to bat for its community.

Doom scrolling through social media will almost certainly raise your blood pressure, but where to from there? The media - us - play a critical role in drawing attention to and getting action.

This week’s edition is no exception from our stated aims. For starters, a round of applause to Top Hat Tony for raising over $300,000

Mitch Gaynor r

for children’s charities. This unassuming bloke takes old-fashioned fundraising to a new level.

Despite copping a bunch of abuse, you can’t dismiss the results, including help in acquiring a neonatal Giraffe Omnibed Carestation, which has been designed to support the care of extremely preterm or critically unwell newborn infants for the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation.

(Story p5)

In the wash-up of the local council elections, two things have become obvious, one is the need for a review of the Electoral Commission Queensland following challenges experienced by many on election day. Mistakes were clearly made and that could have a telling impact on future elections.

Namely, could there be a sharp rise in postal voting as more voters avoid the potential of long queues at booths. Will this change the method of campaigning?

And what of the democracy sausage stands? Surely the P&C deserves to keep making a dollar or two out of our compulsory voting rules. One person who might not mind either way is Moreton Bay’s Mark Booth, who created history with this highest ever first preference count in the council’s history.

(Story p3).

While the council elections have come and gone, the state election will be a fascinating contest in the lead-up to October 26. We look forward to covering this comprehensively in the months to come.

Happy reading! Mitch

Bill is set to ease rent

A NEW bill was introduced to parliament on Thursday, March 21, hoping to make renting easier and fairer.

The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2024 (the Bill) will make law a number of actions outlined in the government’s housing blueprint, including: banning all forms of rent bidding; requiring bond claims to be supported by evidence; protecting renters’ privacy by requiring a minimum 48 hours’ entry notice; setting up a prescribed form to be used to apply for a rental home, with any information collected to be handled securely; limiting reletting costs based on how long is left on a fixed term lease; giving renters a fee-free

option to pay rent and choice about how they apply for a rental property

The Bill will establish a head of power to establish a rental sector code of conduct, a framework for parties to agree on installing modifications in rental properties and a portable bond scheme.

It will also amend laws to attach the 12-month limit on rent increases to the property instead of the tenancy, to help stabilise rents and provide more certainty for renters.

To make sure reforms are enforced, the Bill will also put the focus of Residential Tenancies Authority’s role on administering and enforcing rental reforms.

Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said, “These reforms

are about making renting fairer, safer and easier.

“Renters won’t have to find additional money for a new bond when they move, and they won’t have to bid more than advertised on a rental.

“Renters will have their privacy protected and a new code of conduct will stamp out dodgy and unprofessional practices.”

The Bill delivers on a raft of National Cabinet commitments under A Better Deal for Renters, including prescribing a rental application form, limiting what information can be requested from a prospective renter and limiting reletting costs.

The Bill builds on reforms introduced in 2021, including: Ending

without grounds evictions, strengthening protections for renters against retaliatory actions; setting minimum housing standards; making it easier for renters to have a pet; giving renters experiencing domestic and family violence the right to end their tenancy with limited liability for end of lease costs.

Following its introduction, the Bill has been referred to the parliament’s Cost of Living committee ahead of debate in parliament later this year.

Further information:

Anyone who needs housing assistance can contact their local Housing Service Centre during business hours or call the 24/7 Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753.

Election day chaos faces new review

QUEUING, ballot paper shortages and other related election day issues will be examined in an expanded in-depth external review commissioned by the Electoral Commission Queensland (ECQ).

Following election day, the ECQ discussed expanding the scope of the evaluation with Nous Group to include specific focus on known election day issues, such as queuing and ballot paper shortages.

In addition to the external review, information will be gathered by reports from auditors working in the field on election day, data on voting trends and polling booth demand and a postelection survey following the Easter period.

Premier Steven Miles said these issues really shouldn’t be happening in 2024.

“We have heard from some of our Queensland communities that voting in this year’s local government and by-elections was far from ideal. We owe it to Queenslanders to make sure the ECQ gets this right.”

It’s expected the full evaluation will be completed by mid-year and will inform the ECQ’s report, which is scheduled for public release prior to the October State election.

DIVISION 2 councillor Mark Booth has won his ward with the largest first preference count in Moreton Bay Council history, receiving 86.24 per cent of votes over Animal Justice Party Queensland candidate Gregory Dillon.

Cr Booth said the massive victory validates the approach he took into the campaign, valuing transparent communication and community engagement.

Among the first items on his agenda is to “get stuck into preparation for the next planning scheme”.

“We know the 2016 Scheme didn’t quite fit residents’ expectations, so I want to make sure we get the next one right,” he said.

“As the current co-chair of the Planning and Development Portfolio, I’d love to have it delivered within the next four years.

means we can keep the momentum we have built up over the past four years and deliver even more for

Cr Booth thanks all his supporters and says he will “continue to deliver for all residents, regardless of which box you

re-elected councillors also made the list of rst preference

and Division 10 councillor Matt Constance being 10th, winning with 65.32 per cent of votes.

Adam Hain (Div 3) and Tony Latter (Div 12) have also been declared winners, along with uncontested candidates Mayor Peter Flannery, Brooke Savige (Div 1), Jodie Shipway (Div 4), Yvonne Barlow (Div 7), Catherine Tonks (Div 9) and Darren Grimwade (Div 11).

Cr Hain said the win was “very humbling, but also a

to deliver this next term,” he said.

“This election was really tough, never before have I felt such a genuine unease in the community in general.

“A large amount of the issues that were raised aren’t in council’s abilities to action, but some were, and I have noted all of them and will action accordingly.”

Divisions 5 and 8 are still counting votes, with Sandra Ruck and Jim Moloney looking like the probable

Bob Whalley and newcomer Michael Bishop. With less than 300 votes between them and just 85 per cent of votes counted, the winner could be either one (as of March 26).

Tiara Hurley, Sally Jess, Helen Brieschke, Brett Freese and Kylee Isidro seem to be locked in for the other five Council seats.

Jason Wendt has officially been declared Somerset mayor, winning by a 22 per cent margin over Sean Choat.

Young painter shines

Caravan parks at risk

18-year-old Lowood artist gets to showcase his talent in April exhibit

BEAUTIFUL birds painted with stunning watercolours are putting young Lowood artist Jack Lait on the map, as he and his mother and siblings put their work on exhibit at the Lowood Open Door Gallery in April.

The 18-year-old artist focuses on painting scientifically accurate, realistic birds, as a way to study nature while expressing his creative mind.

“Art and science are fields that often clash, so I find it thrilling to find value in both and combine them,” Jack said.

“I usually don’t know the bird well before drawing it, so I like to go out in the field and be able to study it, so I’m learning while I paint.”

For Jack, adding science to his art gives it more depth

and meaning, as it sets itself apart and can teach buyers about nature, too.

Having started drawing birds and watercolour at age 11, Jack is now the youngest member of the Somerset Art Society and uses his talent as a way of disconnecting from the busy world of humans and sooth himself in nature and art.

“To do art is to practice self-discovery and I’m very fortunate to know that at a young age.”

As much as he loves studying birds, Jack would rather focus his professional path on the artistic side of his drawings rather than the scientific, having already sold paintings in high school for $400 and claiming he doesn’t want to become an ornithologist.

“I prefer to focus on each individual bird at a time and learn about them as a draw, rather than about the groups,” he said.

“We never know who we truly are, but for now I know I want to do something with art as a profession.”

Jack’s mother, Robyn Northey, will also showcase her art at “The Weird and the Wonderful” exhibit, focusing on painting silhouettes, such as sunsets, the outback, underwater and the African savannah, on glassware.

She also does a lot of 3D painting on canvas and pots, hoping the exhibit will help her make a living off her art.

“Due to where we live, we are limited in where we can sell and showcase our work as it’s difficult to travel to bigger markets such as

Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast,” the mother of three said.

“I visited the Lowood Gallery and realised people could sell art there and actually make a living so I decided to give it a try.”

Robyn, Jack, and his two younger siblings Charlie (13) and Madison (17) will have their work showcased, along with local artists Sue White and Alexis Starke, at the exhibit “The Weird and the Wonderful” at the Lowood Open Door Gallery in April. A morning tea will take place at 10.30am on April 7 to meet the artists.

Jack Lait, Robyn Northey, Sue White, Alexis Starke and Charlie Lait will showcase their art at the Lowood Open Door Gallery in April.

Below: Paintings by Jack Lait

THE Caravan Parks Association of Queensland (CPAQ) expressed disappointment with the Manufactured Homes (Residential Parks) Amendment Bill 2024, fearing its impact on future development and sector viability.

CEO of CPAQ Michelle Weston emphasised concerns over limiting park owners’ reinvestment abilities, potentially resulting in fewer upgrades and facilities for homeowners.

Proposed changes, particularly limitations on rent increases and removal of market rent reviews, ignore rising operational costs, including council fees and insurance.

Ms Weston noted the modest growth in manufactured home site rents compared to other property rentals, urging reconsideration of the amendments. The buyback scheme could further threaten park financial viability.

CPAQ called for a review, stressing the disproportionate impact on smaller parks, often in regional areas serving older Queenslanders.

In manufactured home parks, residents own their homes but rent the land, with modern parks targeting over 50s, though some also cater to tourists.

● LOWOOD

◗ Marina Gomide

Top Hat Tony raises over $300,000 for sick children

Tony Moroney challenges tattoo-prejudice by raising funds outside Woolies

Liam Hauser

D’AGUILAR resident and Woodford identity Tony Moroney has reached another milestone in his never-ending quest to help children with illness, disease or injury.

The heavily tattooed and bearded man known as ‘Top Hat Tony’ has notched a little over $300,000 for children’s charities, having begun this venture nearly 13-and-a-half years ago.

He carries a sign with the breakdown of figures, revealing $113,463.50 for Heart Kids, $107,030.65 for Cystic Fibrosis and $80,177.40 for the Gold Coast Hospital Foundation (GCHF).

Tony said he hoped to raise another $20,000 to lift his tally to $100,000 for the GCHF, while he hoped to one day lift his overall tally beyond $400,000.

After Tony previously walked up and down the Woodford CBD for a couple of hours most days to raise funds, he changed his approach due to an array of arthritic ailments which have hampered him.

For many years, Tony has also been a full-time carer for his wife Annie, who battles chronic muscle pain.

Nowadays, Tony is content to sit outside Woolworths with his collection bucket for a couple of hours, five days each week. He also remains a fixture at the Caboolture Country Markets each Sunday, where he has become something of a cult figure.

“They’re very giving down there,” he said.

“Kids give me high-fives.”

Tony began his fundraising venture after seeing a young boy who had had multiple open-heart surgeries, and a young girl with cystic fibrosis.

“Without children, there’s no future,” he said.

Unfortunately for Tony, he was unable to continue fundraising for Heart Kids and Cystic Fibrosis, after the Queensland Government introduced laws which were tough on bikies.

Tony’s physical appearance has sadly generated many spiteful and

horrific comments over the years, with his vast number of tattoos making him an easy target for abusive remarks.

Many people have crudely told him to go away, while others have called him obscene names or unjustifiably labelled him a thief.

On one occasion, someone drew his finger across his throat and called Tony an infidel.

“Don’t judge me, google me,” he said.

“It does hurt if people call me a thief.

“You can’t judge a book by its cover.

“People must be very miserable themselves if they abuse others.”

For all the nastiness he has been subjected to, Tony has also received many compliments for his generosity. A number of people have also changed their minds about him after they had been wary of him.

Tony was named Moreton Bay Regional Council’s Citizen of the Year in 2015, and he has also been

Lions have 40th

● WOODFORD

THE Woodford Lions Club celebrated the club’s 40th birthday at the monthly meeting at the Woodfordbased Lions Den, on Tuesday March 12.

Homemade chocolate cake was consumed, and new member Phil Helgesen was inducted during the meeting.

Other activities on the night included organising a donation for Woodford P-10 State School, organising a seniors morning tea, and discussing an early bird breakfast at Delaneys Creek State School.

With the Woodford Lions Club chartered on February 17 1984 and sponsored by the Deception Bay Lions Club at the time, there were 29 charter members including president Jeff Rowland, secretary Ken Baker and treasurer Trevor Phillips.

Following ups and downs with membership numbers during the ensuing 40 years,

the number of members stood at 28 following the induction of the newest member.

Some of the current members said one change among the club in recent years was more women becoming involved.

nominated for an Australia Day Award.

GCHF fundraising manager Vicki James said Tony’s fundraising helped acquire a neonatal Giraffe Omnibed Carestation, which has been designed to support the care of extremely preterm or critically unwell newborn infants.

“The incubator (carestation) creates a controlled and protected environment for the baby, whilst supporting complex care requirements that nurses and doctors are required to perform on these critically unwell babies,” she said.

Vicki said Tony also funded many sensory items for the Paediatrics Emergency Department, while also contributing to events such as the International Wave of Light, and Children’s Memory Day.

“Tony’s funds go a long way towards helping kids who are sick or injured, and their families,” she said.

“He helps out children he’ll never know and they’ll never know (what he’s done).”

One of the original charter members was Andrew Clews; the only one to remain with the club 40 years later. Another current member, Derrick Sutton, came on board in 1985.

Andrew recalled the club having different locations for its home base, including the Woodford Hotel, Community Hall, Catholic Church and Anglican Church, before settling at the Lions Den about 15 years ago.

‘Top

always sought to raise funds to spend among the local community, although there were exceptions with cases such as the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.

“The fact is that it’s community, and you’re

Woodford Lions members Ruby Gregory, Ruby Derrick Sutton, Andrew Clews, Allan Handsley, Moya Handsley and Judy Wenham

Original Woodford Lions member Andrew Clews and the club’s newest member, Phil Helgesen

Woodford Lions life members Derrick Sutton, Andrew Clews and Allan Handsley.

Riding into Somerset

Australia-wide trikies showcase their engines across Somerset

TRIKE riders from around Australia converged in the Somerset region recently, as part of the United Trikers Australia group’s annual general meeting (AGM).

Sixty-five trikes were at the event while there were 127 members and guests, as the AGM ran from March 14 to 17.

Rides took place across all four days, with destinations including Maleny, Blackbutt, Crows Nest, Kilcoy, Fernvale and Glamorgan Vale, while passing the Somerset Dam was also part of the journey.

In Kilcoy, the riders stopped at Aston Park before having lunch at various eateries including

president Paul Gosling said the drawcard for trikes was different for most people, “from the security of having the three wheels under you, which reduces the possibility of falling off a motorbike”.

“The trikes also provide a stable platform for passengers, with a lot of members’ partners enjoying the stability of the trikes over that of a motorcycle,”

Mr Gosling said the conditions were excellent,

Mr Gosling said members came from Mildura (Victoria), Alice Springs, and NSW locations including Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle,

“The members enjoy the different locations that we attend, with each year’s event bringing something new,” Mr Gosling said.

area, and visiting the small towns are a great attraction.”

been to Somerset, it was a new location for many of the

“The event locations are selected by a group of locals

organise the event, with our members Colin Peake and Darryn Klein (both from the Toowoomba area) selecting Esk as the 2024 venue,” Mr Gosling said.

Many of the members stayed at Esk Caravan Park for the weekend, while others stayed at the Esk Wivenhoe Motor Inn.

The AGM and an accompanying dinner took place at the Esk Grand Hotel on the Friday night, before raffles were held at the same venue the following night. On the Sunday morning, 118 people attended the farewell BBQ breakfast at the caravan park.

Mr Gosling thanked the organising team, the staff at Esk Grand Hotel, 2 Bears Studio staff Gordon and Darren, and the team from Brisbane Valley Roasters for their efforts.

With the AGM changing location each year, the NSW

$30M in community grants

By Sonia Isaacs

COMMUNITY groups and not-for-profit organisations are encouraged to jump on board the Gambling Community Benefit Fund’s (GCBF) massive $30 million super round.

2024 marks the 30th anniversary of the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, and local not-for-profit clubs and organisations can apply for a slice of this special edition mega-round, offering the largest pool of funding available since the Disaster Recovery Round in 2022.

Super-sized grants of up to $100,000 are available for community groups and not-for profit associations.

While the latest GCBF round is not a standalone Disaster Recovery Round, community groups impacted by extreme weather over the summer period are encouraged to apply.

Over the grants program’s 30-year history, nearly 70,000 community organisations across Queensland have benefited in a share of more than $1.173 billion, making the GCBF the state’s largest one-off grants program.

The Super Round is open now and will close on April 30. justice.qld.gov.au/initiatives

Tracey Simmons and Andrew Simmons Photo credits 2Bears Studio.

Malissa Nigro on her Panther Trike

UTA vice-president Stephen Schreiber (left) and his wife Janelle

Macka on his Touroz Trike

Council contributes to brigades

SOMERSET Regional Council has recently contributed $160,116 in support to the region’s 20-plus volunteer rural fire brigades.

The funds were generated through Council rates notices for the six months ending June 30 2024 and follows from Council’s contribution of $158,843 in August 2023.

Council’s Disaster Management Officer, Adam Staunton, said the ongoing contribution made by Council recognised the importance of rural fire volunteers.

“Rural fire brigades are a key part of the puzzle in managing bushfire risks in Somerset. The 2019 bushfires are still fresh in the memories of many and had a huge impact on Somerset with significant losses to homes and property,” Mr Staunton said.

“We recognise that the impact of previous floods and fires could have been much worse if it wasn’t for our local rural fire volunteers who do a tremendous job in protecting the community.

“Council is proud to support the wonderful work they do.”

Brigades fear for future

Proposed laws show ‘complete contempt for volunteers’: Association

◗ Sonia Isaacs ◗ Marina Gomide

THE Rural Fire Brigades Association of Queensland (RFBAQ) say they have been left out of the loop in the drafting of new legislation that will see an overhaul of Queensland’s fire and emergency services.

RFBAQ president, Ian Pike, said the association had been given less than a week to respond to the new legislative changes, introduced on March 7.

He said the RFBAQ had been left in the dark over the proposed reforms, saying the amendments were causing angst among brigades.

“The outcome will be that the Rural Fire volunteers are not going to be happy,” he said.

“We are hearing that members are going to park up their trucks and walk away.

“They believe they have lost the respect of the powers to be, as they’ve been left out of the conversation.”

In its submission, the RFBAQ rejected several proposed legislation changes to the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990, calling for all amendments to be dismissed ahead of a full legislative rewrite after the

state election in October.

Those include concerns around autonomy of rural fire brigades and assets, incident response protocol, extended commissioner powers and a perceived bias away from volunteer firefighters.

The new bill will see QFES transition to a new entity - the Queensland Fire Department (QFD), with the Rural Fire Service Queensland and Queensland Fire and Rescue as separate and dedicated fire services within the QFD.

The changes follow an independent review of QFES, which recommended a suite of departmental reforms, including Emergency Services moving under the control of the Queensland Police Service.

Caboolture RFBAQ representative and vicepresident Ian Swadling AFSM said the manner in which this announcement was made shows “complete contempt for volunteers”, as the rural brigades and the association were not given any information about the announcement ahead of time.

“We were not extended an invite to attend the announcement and Minister Boyd had four urban

firefighters on stage and not a single volunteer”, he said.

“This legislation is a stab in the back of volunteers.

“If there weren’t volunteers, the fire service would cease to exist.”

While Mr Swadling shared Mr Pike’s experience, with brigade members threatening to walk away, he assures people that they will always support the community.

Rural Brigades grew from the community and continue to do so, so we are not saying we won’t support the community anymore

Ian Swadling AFSM

“Rural Brigades grew from the community and continue to do so, so we are not saying we won’t support the community anymore.”

The RFBAQ, which typically only meet once a month, held an emergency conference on the weekend of March 16, with all 18 Queensland representatives attending and adamantly rejecting the changes.

Fire Minister, Nikki Boyd, has reassured rural fire brigades that local funds and

assets would stay local, following legislative change currently being considered through a committee process.

“This Bill contains amendments that will set up the structures for QFD, RFSQ and QFR, support accountability and management of the services and Rural Fire Brigades, and ensure there are legal protections for fire volunteers,” Minister Boyd said.

Mr Swadling has said Minister Boyd’s claim of rural brigades retaining autonomy is false, as “it is blatantly obvious that they do lose their autonomy” and claiming the Minister is “soft soaping the brigades”.

Craig Young, Group Officer of the Caloundra Rural Fire Brigade Group, which includes seven local brigades in the Glasshouse Mountains region, said day-to-day operations would largely not be affected by the proposed reforms.

He said there had been

a lot of concern raised, particularly by the RFBAQ, however he understood many of the concerns to be unfounded.

“There is no doubt the draft legislation can be seen as a little ambiguous, however at a local perspective we don’t share all the same concerns raised by the RFBAQ and we don’t believe the changes will have a detrimental effect on our operations,” he said.

“We see many positives for the Rural Fire Brigades.”

President of the RFBAQ

Ian Pike

◗

● MOUNT MEE

Liam Hauser

IT’S hard enough being left to your own devices to wander aimlessly on a property for eight years, let alone that your owners didn’t even know your gender.

Such has been the life of Shetland pony ‘Stormi’, who, at 28 years of age, is proving nothing if not a stayer at her Mount Mee property.

At one stage the pony had the name ‘Double Trouble’ while it was classified as a male, before it was identified as a female and given the name ‘Stormi’.

After Les and Betty Hyde had a house built at the

sold their property, Myshell visited last year and met the new owners. She saw the pony was still there, and was “elated” to see they were happy to keep it.

A vet checked out the pony and said it was amazing that the animal was still alive.

One of the current co-owners, Natalie, said they had showered ‘Stormi’ with love.

“We basically treated her as a companion pony for the first six months of living in our home,” Natalie said.

Natalie said one day she was saddling up their other horse, when ‘Stormi’ came and stood in front of her as if

Moreton Bay’s turtle save

‘Family Turtle Awareness Expo’ educates kids and community on turtle conservation

Contributed by Redcliffe Sunrise Rotary Club

BIODIVERSITY loss has become a pressing concern globally, with initiatives like the first Global Nature Positive Summit held in Sydney in October 2024 shedding light on the urgency of protecting ecosystems and threatened species.

According to the recently released 2024 Biodiversity

Council Concern report, a staggering 85% of Australians prioritise the protection of nature, underlining the importance of conservation efforts.

In response to these challenges, the Redcliffe Sunrise Rotary Club, in collaboration with its Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG), is organising a “Family Turtle Awareness

Expo” on Saturday, April 20th, at Queens Beach North, Scarborough.

The event aims to address the issue of turtle hatchlings crossing roads and to raise awareness about the threats they face.

Following incidents of hatchlings crossing into dangerous territory, the City of Moreton Bay Council has invested $250,000 in specialized lighting

to safeguard the turtles’ journey to the ocean.

Moreton Bay is home to Loggerhead turtles, listed as a threatened species, making conservation efforts crucial.

The expo will feature educational sessions by experts such as Dr Elvis Okoffo from the University of Queensland, who will discuss plastic sediment research in Moreton Bay.

Assoc Prof Daryl McPhee from Bond University will provide insights into turtle habitat in the area.

The event will commence at 10am with an opening speech by City of Moreton Bay Environment lead Cr Cath Tonks, followed by State MP Yvette D’Ath drawing lucky event prizes at 1 pm. Activities for children include simulated turtle nest digs and painting sessions.

The expo, supported by a grant from the City of Moreton Bay council, aims to engage the community in conservation efforts and promote awareness of the threats facing turtles and marine ecosystems.

Admission to the event is free, inviting families to participate in a day of education and fun while contributing to biodiversity conservation.

Free

MONDAY 8 TO SUNDAY 14 APRIL

FREE Stage Shows 11:00am and 1:30pm daily

FREE 1 Hour Circus Workshop 11:30am daily

LOCATED IN THE ATRIUM

What's on

Easter Carnival

When: Friday March 29, 11am-6.30pm

Where: Caboolture

Showgrounds

Info: Kick off the long weekend with a day of family fun! With a range of food and beverage vendors, browse the variety of stalls and enjoy some live entertainment. $5 Entry Fee

Age 12+. Free Entry Under 12. Range of Stalls, Rides, Food & Beverage Stalls, Buskers, Easter Egg Hunt, Fireworks Presale Unlimited Ride Bands - $30. Unlimited Ride Bands at the Gate - $35. https://www.ticketmaster. com.au/caboolture-eastercarnival-caboolture

MARCH

Kilcoy Yowie Markets

When: Saturday March 30, 7.30am

Where: Yowie Park Kilcoy

Info: Markets held every 2nd and last Saturday of the month.

Stall holders can call Vicki on 0488 081 243 or Dave on 0438 927 964. Plants, coffee, honey, metalwork, woodwork, and gifts are available.

Email your events to admin@sentinelnews. com.au

Exchange Hotel

When: Sunday March 31st, 12pm

Where: Exchange Hotel Kilcoy, 13 William Street, Kilcoy

Info: Lunch specials, jumping castle and egg hunt. Live soloist from 7.15pm

Kids Yoga and Mindfulness

When: Tuesday April 2nd, 10am - 11am

Where: Caboolture Memorial Hall, 61-65 King Street , Caboolture

Info: Kids yoga and mindfulness programs to inspire and empower children with the tools to breathe, move and connect, for calm, confident and positive kids. Note: Participants 11 years and under require adult supervision for the duration of the activity. Wear enclosed shoes and comfortable clothing. Bring your own water bottle.

Meet a KnightWoodford

When: Tuesday April 2nd, 11am-12pm

Where: Woodford Library, 1 Elizabeth Street, Woodford

Info: What was it like to be a knight in medieval times?

Try on a knight’s armour for size and find out about jousting and a knight’s life with The Abbey Museum team. Free. Bookings required. Children only require tickets. Ages 7+.

Minecraft museumCaboolture

When: Tuesday April 2nd, 3.30pm-5pm

Where: Caboolture Library, 4 Hasking Street, Caboolture

Info: Hear ye, hear ye, we’re taking a trip back in time. Build a replica of some of the artefacts we hold in our Museums. Why not head off to see one in real life? Book a spot to play from home using your own Bedrock or Java account or come in to use library accounts and devices. Ages 6-17. Free. Bookings required. Child/teen only requires ticket.

Mad Hatters Tea Party

When: Wednesday 3rd April, 9am - 12pm

Where: Clock Park, Peace Street, Lowood

Info: Commencing at 9am the free family friendly, fun filled morning includes a host of activities to keep children entertained. This year ABC Animal Farm will be there along with many regulars offering craft activities, outdoor games,

children’s disco and face painting. The morning includes a free sausage sizzle and children’s prizes will be awarded for the best hat and creative costume themed outfit. For more information phone council on 5424 4000.

Create a Maze

When: Wednesday 3rd April, 10am-11am

Where: Kilcoy Library, Kennedy Street, Kilcoy

Info: Test out your engineering skills by making a maze using lego, recycled items or our wooden marble maze. Bookings Essential. Ph 5424 4000.

Historical Exploratorium - Woodford

When: Thursday April 4th, 11am-12pm

Where: Woodford Library, 1 Elizabeth Street, Woodford

Info: Be inspired by history with the science experiments that explore what the technological advances looked like through the ages. Ages 8-12. Free. Bookings required at moretonbay. events.mylibrary.digital

Paper Mache Bowls

When: Thursday 4th April, 10am-11am

Where: Toogoolawah Library

Gunyah Street, Toogoolawah

Info: Make and decorate

a paper mache bowl for your Easter Eggs. Bookings

Essential. Ph 5424 4000

Beads and Beasts

When: Thursday 4th April, 10am-11am

Where: Esk Library, 19 Heap Street, Esk

Info: Need some new bling? Join us to make funky bracelets and monsters with beads, buttons and other materials. Bookings Essential. Ph 5424 4000

Dinosaurs Roar!Woodford

When: Friday April 5th, 11am-11.30am

Where: Woodford Library, 1 Elizabeth Street, Woodford

Info: Put your tails and scales and dinosaur roars on to explore the picture book I’m a Dirty Dinosaur. Have a roaring great time digging, decorating and dancing to the dinosaur beat too. Ages 2 - 5. No bookings required.

Weird and the Wonderful - Art Exhibition

When: Saturday April 6Sunday April 28

Where: Open Door Gallery, 45 Railway Street, Lowood Info: We invite you to our exciting exhibition,

displaying works from our local award-winning artists and aspiring artists, ranging from ages 13 to 80. With a morning tea to meet the artists on Sunday April 7 at 10.30am.

APRIL

Toogoolawah Charity Rodeo

When: Saturday April 6, 3pm

Where: Toogoolawah

Rodeo, 30 Ivory Creek Rd, Toogoolawah

Info: Toogoolawah Charity

ALL ROUND commencing at 3pm.

Linville Monthly Markets

When: Sunday April 7, 7am12 noon

Where: The Linville Hall Info: Come and browse the market stalls in the Linville community hall and around the Community Garden. Enjoy a fresh bacon and egg sandwich and mingle with the locals and other likeminded visitors. After the markets, head over to the famous Linville Hotel for lunch.

If you are interested in having a stall, please contact Gail on 0402 845 186.

Email your events to admin@sentinelnews. com.au

We are committed to being a g

want to deliver the best outcomes for the local community This is where community benefits comes in

We want to hear from you to ensure our approach to delivering benefits aligns with your community’ s needs and aspirations

Discover a fresh new bakery, delicatessen, fresh fruit & veg department and more at our fresh new look Woolworths Super Centre.

We’re excited to announce our fresh new look store is complete. You’ll find our same friendly team and a large fresh food department offering everything from Australian fruit and veg to The Odd Bunch range.

We have a great, convenient range that is easy to shop. You’ll fall in love with our new deli, with cured meats sliced to order.

We’ve got everything you need for a party platter, plus a fantastic selection of Australian and imported cheeses.

Walk past our in-store bakery and explore the delicious range of bread, including crusty loaves, sliced white to wholemeal rolls. Our artisan-style breads are divine and are made with Australian

There’s so much to see and try at your new look Woolworths, we suggest heading over to the seafood counter. Seafood is a big part of our fresh food offering and we’ve a range of great value, locally sourced favourites.

Just a small taste of what you’ll discover at our fresh new Woolworths Super Centre.

Cancer dreads

● LOWOOD

◗ Liam Hauser

THE Lowood and surrounding community is encouraged to support local butcher Kurt Brown, who is about to undergo a dramatic makeover for a good cause.

The co-owner of M&K Butcher Brothers, Kurt will have his distinct dreadlocks shaved off at the front of the butcher’s shop from 10am on Saturday, April 6.

A sausage sizzle will also be a part of the occasion, involving a gold coin donation, while all proceeds go to the Leukaemia Foundation.

“I’m raising funds for the

Leukaemia Foundation to give Australians facing blood cancer life-changing practical and emotional support,” Kurt said. “And to fund critical research, bringing us closer to the day when zero lives are lost to blood cancer.”

Having always had hair, and having grown his dreadlocks for about six years, Kurt said “it’s going to be very different” for him.

Kurt said he could see himself growing dreadlocks again, “maybe not straight away but down the track”.

Donate at http:// my.leukaemiafoundation. org.au/kurtbrown

Henry Somerset

Easter School holiday fun

AS THE Easter school holidays approach, City of Moreton Bay is gearing up to keep the kids engaged and entertained with a diverse range of budget-friendly events and activities from April 1 to 14.

From our libraries and galleries to museums, environmental centres and the Active Holidays program, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Mayor Peter Flannery said the program offered a wide variety of affordable activities, suitable for all school-aged children, with most of the events free of charge.

“The activities on offer

during Council’s School Holiday program, coupled with 2024 Youth Week events (April 7-13), are sure to keep kids and young people entertained during the holiday break,” he said.

“With a huge range of free or low-cost options on offer over the two weeks, it’s a great opportunity for kids to meet new friends, get creative and learn new skills in their community.

“Families can easily plan their holiday adventures by visiting Council’s website, where a comprehensive list of activities searchable by dates and locations is available.

The 2024 City of Moreton

Bay autumn school holiday program includes a huge range of activities with some special highlights:

• Queensland Youth Week

• Monster Siege big adventure: family fun day

• Active Holidays program

• Visit our galleries and museums

• What’s on across our libraries

• Explore an environmental centre Start planning your school holiday adventures today.

https://www.moretonbay. qld.gov.au/Events/MoretonBay-school-holidays

the Olympics.

Quite frankly most people in our region are just wide-eyed at how our state government can be deciding whether to spend a few billion on this or that stadium.

We in the outer suburbs and surrounding countryside keep being told this same government ‘doesn’t have the budget’ for whatever minor works we may need.

The so-called ‘Resilience Fund’ for repairing damage from the February 2022 floods is parsimoniously putting out funds that has far from completed various repairs to roads, bridges, parks and facilities.

Just the $450,000 spent on the Quirk Olympics Stadia Report, largely thrown out within hours of it being released, would be welcome to fix some of the damage still unrepaired two years after the big flood. As I have pointed out before, the inner city elite of our smartest business and

bureaucratic leaders seem to rarely think about anything beyond what they can see from their high rise office suites in central Brisbane.

Oh, they scatter a few pennies around the regions to stop what they see as hayseeds and ferals, which they best describe as ‘punters’, from uprising with

pitchforks or surrounding the inner suburbs with tractors and 4WDs.

And of course the inner city ‘gentrification, with multi-billion dollar stadia and tree covered walkways and multi-billion dollar public transport, is always sold as ‘showing off the best of Queensland’ and that it will attract tourists and investment.

Few tourists venture into the wind swept congestion of inner Brisbane. They brave the potholed ‘highways’ to scenic beaches and forests far from the small elite corner of Queensland.

And the investment that pays for the multibillions of inner city infrastructure comes from mines and farms across the state, mostly serviced by shamefully third world roads and facilities.

Seething over the wasted Olympic stadia debate brought to mind that brilliant TV series played in the lead-up to the Sydney Olympics. Those great comedians the late John Clarke and Brian Dawe wrote and starred in The Games. It actually was closer to a documentary than a comedy - perhaps a tragedy. One episode was a forecast of the Brisbane Olympic stadium dilemma.

Clarke and Dawe were wondering how to deal with the issue that the 100m running track was only 98 metres long. Now the reason the previous Premier wanted to demolish the Gabba was that with all the warm-up and finish distance required, our cricket ground could not fit a full 100m straight sprint track. Nor can Lang Park.

Quite frankly I think a 98m track would be a real winner for Brisbane 2032 Olympics.

For a start, every race would set a new world record.

And it would save billions in demolishing and rebuilding stadia used for only a couple of weeks.

The savings could be used to complete the February 2022 flood damage and provide a few more cost effective and not fancy facilities for us hard working Queenslanders who pay for the inner city gleaming infrastructure that we will probably never get to use or afford to attend.

This is just the common sense solution you can dream up when you’re not part of the inner city elite. My consultancy fee, Premier Miles, is in the post.

Kurt Brown is shaving off his iconic dreadlocks to raise funds for cancer research

Time Out

Play-itt celebrates in green

PLAYITT patrons on March 14 were resplendent in green for St Patrick’s Day, and the Irish persuasion was reflected in much of the musical content.

“Wild Irish Rose”, “Whiskey In the Jar”, Mountains of Mourne”, “Danny Boy” and “Athen Rye” were just some of the offerings. We had a visit from the Woodford Singers who are always a delight,

and are currently seeking, and would welcome, new members to bulk out their thinning numbers these days.

The highlight of the evening was a rousing and robust presentation in both verse and song of The Dubliners “McAlpine’s Fusiliers” from Lindsay, really capturing the essence of the gathering… Superb work! Winners of

the dress-ups were Jordie, Terry and Shirley.

Playitt 21st March 2024 was a test run of a revised format for streamlining the flow of performers to and from the stage with a pleasing result.

Throwing out a challenge: come up with an Easter related song or costume for Thursday, March 28, Woodford Bowls Club 6.30pm. Free entry.

Maleny Players murder on stage

THE elegant romance of Agatha Christie’s murder mysteries is captured in The Real Inspector Hound by Tom Stoppard at the Playhouse in Maleny Showgrounds April 5-21 (7pm evening and 2pm matinee performances over three weekends).

The dress-up gala performance audience on Friday April 5 will be the first to unravel a fascinating mystery in a theatre set within a theatre set, complete with two critics ready to strut their knowledgeable pomposity. The glamorous characters within the Christie-style play under review are the usual confident but confused artistocrats, trapped together in an isolated manor - with the BBC warning of escaped murderer at the door. Add an unidentified body hidden in a sofa and

you have the recipe for suspense – and a manorful of laughs.

Fours at the Bridge table, threes in love triangles and twos in passionate encounters keep Lady Cynthia Molloy (Deb Holland) and competing debutante Felicity (Claire Watkins) busy charming new and old lovers… alive and dead.

Inventive and playful playwright Stoppard in 1967 was taking a potshot at the London theatre critics who were keeping The Mousetrap open (71 years now) while behaving badly with up-and-coming stars. An internal hierarchy endorsed them ‘first-string’ or lower; appointing ‘stand-ins’ to

indulge as well.

Tickets available via trybooking.com or Maleny Art & Design Gallery (cash sales only).

Entertainer Lindsay

Winners Terry and Shirl

WEASEY’S PROPERTY REPORT

Migration and Housing Market Dynamics: there are some surprises in the data.

In ongoing discussions about Australia’s housing market, migration is a regular part of the commentary and said to be a major factor, driving demand and propelling property prices upward.

On face value, new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) unveils recordbreaking figures, revealing a population increase to 26.8 million in the past year. This growth, a robust 2.5 percent, equates to an influx of 659,800 individuals up to September 2023. Overseas migration accounts for 83 percent of the overall increase. ABS’ demography expert, Beidar Cho, highlights a remarkable

60 percent uptick in net overseas migration, driven predominantly by temporary visas for work or study.

India tops the list of birth countries for migrants, followed by China, the Philippines, and the United Kingdom, with returning Australians rounding out the top five.

For proper perspective, however, it is also interesting to note that new overseas migrants also have more people per household than the average Australian household and while there is no doubt that these figures have increased demand on the rental market to some degree, the data makes it clear that the impact is not huge.

Propertyology expert, Simon Pressley, has

previously released a study on the breakdown of Housing Demand (Rentals). Of the total pool of 3.5 million properties, approximately 8.4% are adolescents/young adults pursuing independence, 4.2 % are divorcees/ relationship changes/DV resettlements, 84.2% are existing tenants on the move and overseas migrants only 3.2%. Approximately 100,000 households become first home buyers and thereby exist the rental pool.

Also of note: according to Census data, only 38 percent of overseas migrants buy a home with 5 years of arriving in Australia, 56 percent within the 5 – 10 year window and 70 percent of overseas migrants take 10 or more years to purchase a home.

Under My Skin

Cupboard fools “out” themselves

Here’s something we can all have a good laugh about.

The 30-day Queensland Cabinet disclosure rule comes into effect this week, in time for April Fools’ Day. How absolutely appropriate.

Here’s why. A bloke with an intimate knowledge of how Cabinet operates has predicted the Miles Government decision will produce a “complete and utter farce beyond anything we’ve seen so far from Monty Python or Yes Minister”.

Keep in mind, Queenslanders will not be given access to deliberations at last week’s meeting, which possibly included ideas to surrender the 2032 Olympic Games, until 2044.

My informant explained the unworkable situation by quoting the Premier. This is what the Premier told parliament last week: “We don’t discuss what is discussed in Cabinet and I don’t intend to do so in here today. It is a key tenet of a functioning government that those discussions are confidential and so I won’t be confirming or denying any particular discussion.”

I must repeat part of that

statement: “It is a key tenet of a functioning government that those discussions are confidential.”

So the “key tenet of a functioning government” — the main principles on which a “functioning government” is based — is no longer required because last week the Premier also said: “This week’s Cabinet meeting will be the last meeting kept under lock and key for decades, while next Monday’s meeting will be released to the public within 30 days in line with integrity reforms.”

The Premier’s use of the words ‘integrity’ and ‘functioning government’ gave us all a laugh and wasn’t missed by my informant who said: “Taking minutes of what may or may not have been said in Cabinet is somewhat of a black art in the first place, but surely this is going to render the process a complete and utter farce.

“If Miles is determined not to ‘discuss what is discussed in Cabinet’, in future there will be nothing to minute, other than to record for public release that nothing was said, because they will all be sitting in silence.”

He added, “I wonder if thought has been given to

placing a three wise monkeys statue in the foyer and possibly smaller ones on the Cabinet table and the Cabinet Secretary’s desk”.

The rapid release of Cabinet documents was a key recommendation from Professor Peter Coaldrake’s review into government culture, which said the public would have more trust in government if decisions were “made in the open and subject to scrutiny”.

I think the good professor should change his name to Peter Pan, because only someone who thinks he can fly because he has happy thoughts could believe the Miles Government is capable of being open and subject to scrutiny.

Reading of will?

“By 1990, no Australian child will be living in poverty”. Former Prime Minister Bob Hawke, June 23, 1987.

“Every person in Queensland shall have a roof over their head”. Premier Miles, March 14, 2024.

“Governments make commitments, and they stick to the timelines. If government changes in October, so will the political will when it comes to this project (Sunshine Coast

Shifting focus to domestic migration, the allure of Queensland remains unparalleled, attracting 32,625 interstate migrants in the past year. Western Australia follows suit with 11,233 new residents, while New South Wales lost 33,202 individuals to other states.

Overall, Western Australia emerges as the frontrunner in total population growth, boasting a remarkable 3.3 percent increase from the previous year. Victoria and Queensland trail closely behind, with growth rates of 2.9 percent and 2.7 percent, respectively, while Tasmania experienced the slowest growth at 0.3 percent.

So migration continues to be a puzzle piece in the complex dynamics of

rail)”. State Opposition Leader David Crisafulli, March 2, 2024.

Careful Mr Opposition. If you follow the laughable examples of the other two, your “political will” could be your “political last will and testament”.

Harmful music

I didn’t realise music festivals were such dangerous places. Health Minister (oxymoron) Fantastic Fento has plucked $1 million of our money out of a dark crevice to test illegal drugs so that festival goers can safely take the illegal drugs illegally.

We’ve also been told a man who allegedly slipped and fell in the mud at a Queensland music festival is suing organisers for almost $800,000, claiming the event should have been cancelled due to rain.

I can’t figure out where personal responsibility comes into these equations, given all concerned are supposedly adults.Surely if you’re attending an outdoor event and it’s raining, you either don’t go or you go home. If you want to slosh around in the mud, isn’t that your decision?

And if you buy illegal drugs from dodgy suppliers, and insist on illegally taking your illegally-acquired illegal drugs into a public event, who is responsible for the

Australia’s housing market, with both international and domestic movements exerting some influence on demand, supply, and property values. Almost half of our current population are now first or second-generation Australians who were born overseas, or whose parents were born overseas. As the population landscape evolves, so too does the real estate landscape and upon balance, the data shows that existing Australians (not new arrivals) are driving competition to buy and rent real estate here - in the wake of decades of successive Government policies that have fallen short.

Please reach out anytime if you have any questions or need advice about your

quality of those illegal drugs?

Queensland taxpayers?

Also, why are we only testing illegal drugs at music festivals? If we are trying to protect vulnerable adults, why not have testing stations open 24 hours a day on every street corner? So many questions, so few answers.

Triple F result

By definition: A farce is “a comic dramatic work using buffoonery and horseplay and typically including crude characterisation and ludicrously improbable situations”; a fiasco is “a complete failure, especially a ludicrous or humiliating one”; and failure is “the neglect or omission of expected or required action”.

Can you think of three better words to describe the Queensland Government’s handling of the 2032 Olympics?

But not one person has lost a job (apart from Annastacia) during this tragedy of Olympic proportions. Many have actually gained, financially and/or by job promotion.

One could be forgiven for thinking the Miles Government welcomes mediocrity, encourages failure, and rewards incompetence. A quick glance at the Coffee

Woodford 6 Canando Street

Chris Wease 0427 536 725 or cwease@remaxliving.com.au. living

personal Real Estate goals and in the meantime, Happy Easter to all our readers - may you enjoy a safe and special time with your friends and family. Please feel welcome to contact me anytime, I look forward to being of service.

By SKINHEAD

Clutch Cabinet members, especially their fearless leader, confirms that theory.

Just briefly

I’m told for one fleeting moment PM Albo considered banning TikTok, but Chinese Ambassador to Australia (oops, sorry) Australia’s Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, stepped in with her Mean Girls hat on. The metaphorical TikTok timebomb is still tick-tocking away.

I have just realised I am at least partly qualified to be Reserve Bank Governor and collect a salary of $1 millionplus a year. Every few months I simply call a media conference and announce the bank may or may not increase or decrease interest rates in the future — “We are not ruling anything in or out.” Job done.

Thought for the Week: There’s a distinct possibility the Miles Government will take longer to decide what venues are required for the 2032 Olympics than it took the Romans to build the Colosseum.

Auction On-site Saturday 4 May 2024 at 10am

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Rural Cattle Sales

Queenslanders urged to act ahead of bushfire season

QUEENSLANDERS are being urged to prepare now for the upcoming bushfire season, with a wet summer contributing to significant vegetation growth.

Widespread heavy rainfall across large parts of the state has led to increased bushfire fuel loads and with drier than average weather conditions expected in autumn, vegetation is expected to dry out quickly.

Above average temperatures are expected to bring a mid-autumn peak in fire activity in grassland country in the western parts of northern and central Queensland.

Although autumn is not expected to bring significant bushfire activity across the majority of the state, landholders are being urged to start preparing their properties now ahead of Queensland’s bushfire season.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) is working with partner agencies to plan hazard reduction burns in the

coming weeks, peaking during the winter months.

Residents are reminded that preparing their property does not always require fire to be introduced into the landscape. Other mitigation activities such as clearing vegetation, trimming trees, mowing and removing dead leaves and branches also decrease fire risk.

“Bushfire mitigation is a year-round process and QFES is actively working with its partner agencies to strategise for the cooler months, ahead of the start of bushfire season in August,” Minister for Fire and Disaster Recovery Nikki Boyd said.

“We appreciate the fantastic work our Rural Fire Service and dedicated volunteers do in reducing the risk, protecting properties, and keeping our communities safe in times of disaster.

“We need Queensland landholders and residents to start thinking about the risk on their own properties. Getting ready for bushfire season doesn’t always

require burning and there’s several simple things you can do to safeguard your home.

“Queenslanders can check the Fire Danger Rating (FDR) for their community at any time on their phone or computer, so they keep up to date and know what actions to take. This rating is updated daily.”

“The Rural Fire Service (RFS) is busy undertaking preparation for crucial mitigation work to be completed during the cooler months ahead of bushfire season,” Acting Chief Officer Rural Fire Service Queensland, Ben Millington said.

“While we are expecting a normal level of bushfire activity in autumn for most of the state, there is a significant amount of fuel on the ground which will dry out over the coming months.

“The work done by RFS staff and volunteers right across the state never stops and their focus is now on ensuring communities are as ready as possible for the upcoming bushfire season.”

Stariha Auctions Laidley cattle sale on Thursday. There was competition for all descriptions of cattle, although buyers were operating with reduced rates. Local restockers were more active than in previous weeks, with the easing market.

Derek Schulz, Gatton, sold lines of Droughtmaster backgrounder steers for $1180, $1145, $1120, $1100 and $1020.

Nev Stallin, Mt Tarampa, sold Droughtmaster steers for $1350 and $1200.

Ken Klein, Cedarton, sold a line of Braford cross cows & calves for $1600.

Kerry Harris, Ropeley, sold Murray Grey cross cows for $1300.

Dick Smith, Withcott, sold Limousin cows for $1300 and steers for $1100.

Sarah Milne, Calvert, sold Brahman steers for $950.

Ross & Cheryl Steinhardt, Blenheim, sold Droughtmaster steers for $960.

Harrison Rural, Tenthill, sold Droughtmaster weaner steers for $860, $860 & $800. Malcolm Russell, Clarendon, sold Droughtmaster cross weaner steers for $860.

Speedy Family Trust, Rosewood, sold Droughtmaster weaner steers for $810.

Jeff Armstrong, Laidley, sold Droughtmaster steers for $880.

Next Laidley sale – 4th April 2024. Sales start 8.30am every 2nd Thursday.

WOODFORD

201 head were sold at Stariha Auctions Woodford cattle sale on Monday. In line with the current market trend we saw a softening for all descriptions.

Moreton Saleyards market report

301.2c/kg $843/head.

A Taylor sold Backgrounder Steers Santa Gertrudis 315.2c/kg $1221/head.

short weeks, and the price reduction over the last fortnight. All export cattle today regained last fortnight’s losses.

G & V Brewster sold Vealer Steers Limousin x 299.2c/kg $710/head.

RAAU P/L sold Weaner Steers Santa Gertrudis

T Strong sold Feeder Steers Droughtmaster 307.2c/kg $1413/head.

A & P Elsley sold 8 Tooth Ox Brangus x 271.2c/kg $2386/head.

J Spann sold Medium Cow Droughtmaster 236.2c/kg $1251/head.

B & A McLoughlin sold Pen of Medium Cows Droughtmaster x 236.2c/kg

$1342/head.

T Dunning sold Heavy Cows Charolais x 240.2c/kg $1357/head.

A & D Cutler sold Heavy Cows Angus x 230c/kg $1472/ head.

D & B Delaforce sold Bulls Santa Gertrudis 255.2c/kg $2118/head.

For Sale Details, Market Reports and more Info visit our website www. moretonsaleyards.com.au or find us on Facebook @ Moreton Saleyards.

Raynbird Creek Pastoral, Laceys Creek, sold a line of Droughtmaster cross steers for $840.

Max Richardson, Neurum, sold Droughtmaster heifers for $840.

Max Tones, Sheep Station Creek, sold Murray Grey cows for $1200 and weaner steers for $830.

Josh Sippel, Mt Mee, sold Charbray vealer heifers for $560, $520 & $500.

Jeffrey Shallcross, Kilcoy, sold Charbray steer calves for $600.

Darcy Pratten, Mt Kilcoy, sold Brangus steer calves for $550 and heifers for $430.

Grant & Julie Langridge, Beerwah, sold Senepol cross cows for $1300 and $1010.

Peter Cavanagh, Harlin, sold Braford cows and calves for $1400.

Note : there will be no sale on 1st april Easter Monday.

Next Sale 8th April 2024

Weaner steers at Moreton Saleyards March 26

Laidley cattle sale

Values ease at Toogoolawah in line with market trends

Grazing of Commissioners

content showed significant price deductions. Feeder steers were slightly cheaper than the previous sale, in line with the current market trends. Feeder heifers, weaner and backgrounder heifers all saw a price reductions this week, in particular the second grade cattle. Cows and Calves remained firm on the previous sales results.

A & D Brennan of Beaudesert sold Droughtmaster X feeder steers, 20mths old for $1470/head. Arabanoo of Cooeeimbardi sold Droughtmaster X feeder steers 20mths old for $1440/head. B & Z Holdings of Kohlo sold Charolais X steers 18mths old for $1400/head. Stanley River

Flat sold Charolais X steers 14-16mths old for $1320/head. B & L Dunn of Beaudesert sold Simmental X steers 16-18mths old for $1300/head. Neil Hobart of Toogoolawah sold Charolais X steers 14mths old for $1110/head.

G & T Reiser of Gregors

Creek sold Charolais X steers 14mths old for $1100/head.

Graham Scholl of Gatton sold Charolais X weaner steers 10mths old for $1020/head.

Sarger P/L of Linville sold Charolais X weaner steers 6-8mths old for $1000/head.

G & L Bischoff of Coominya sold Droughtmaster steers 12mths old for $930.

Glenvale Pastoral sold Angus X weaner steers 6-8mths old for $860/head.

A & A Cousins of Harlin sold Charolais X heifers 16mths old for $960/head. Toberpatrick of Gatton sold Charolais X heifers 16mths old for $920/head. M & C Bridges sold Angus X heifers 16mths old for $850/head.

R W Wainwright of Mt Byron

sold Charolais X heifers 16mths old for $830/head. M & S Symes of Eidsvold sold Santa heifers 14mths old for $830/head & Charolais X heifers 14mths old for $750/ head. M Burrows Family Trust of Cooeeimbardi sold Droughtmaster X feeder heifers 18mths old for $810. Graham Scholl of Gatton sold Charolais X weaner heifers 6mths old for $600/head. R W

Wainwright sold Charolais X heifers 10mths old for $590/ head.

Aged Droughtmaster Cows with Angus Calves at foot sold for $1600/unit & $1380/unit. Eden Park of Kurwongbah sold young Droughtmaster cows with calves at foot for $1520/ unit. R & K Johannesen sold young Brangus Cows and Calves for $1200/unit.

Helping farmers grow healthy relationships

LIFE on the land can be great, but it can also put a lot of pressure on romantic relationships. Now, rural health experts from the University of South Australia have launched a new online resource to help farmers build and maintain a healthy relationship with their partner.

The new ‘Building healthy relationships’ module is based on what research shows will help couples stay in successful relationships.

Offered through ifarmwell* – a free online toolkit that helps farming communities cope effectively with life’s challenges – the 30 to 60-minute module will help farmers to check in on their relationship, explore how to improve the quality of their relationship, and learn how to repair it when things get tough.

UniSA Research Fellow, Dr Chloe Fletcher, says maintaining a healthy relationship is incredibly important for farmers and their families.

“When you live on a farm and in a small community,

romantic relationships can feel intense, in a way that might not happen for people living in the city,” Dr Fletcher says.

“Farmers tend to be more physically and socially isolated than people in the city. They often spend more time with their partner - not only living and socialising, but often also working together - and share more resources, interests, and friends.

“Farmers also work notoriously long hours, often alone, with long workdays leaving little energy to connect meaningfully with their partner; this can put pressure on a relationship and lead to frustration and resentment.

“Sometimes stress within a romantic relationship can even lead to mental health challenges, which is why it is so important for farmers to invest time in the wellbeing of their relationship.”

The module delivers proactive content that is relatable to farmers. ifarmwell.com.au/buildinghealthy-relationships

Charbray Steers 16mths old account of Stanley River Grazing sold for $1320/head.

You may find your self in a romantic situation. You will find their philosophies worth exploring. Problems with peers is apparent. You can accomplish a lot if you work out of your home this week.

Don’t reveal information that is personal or confidential.

Emotionally, things may not run so smoothly. Visitors may be likely to drop by. You could easily lose your temper at work. Don’t push your opinions or ideas on others.

Finish overdue paperwork and catch up on letter writing and reading. Do you really want to start something with someone you can’t reason with? You may have difficulties with family members if you get involved in petty arguments. Reevaluate your motives.

You will have to be careful not to let infatuations with colleagues get out of hand. You can beautify your surroundings by renovating or redecorating. Read between the lines before you sign your name. If you try to manipulate emotional situations you will find yourself alienated.

Be discreet and don’t present your ideas until you’re certain that they’re foolproof. You can gain distinction; however, it may be for the wrong reasons. You can dazzle members of the opposite sex with your quick wit and aggressive charm. Club memberships or donations could be expensive and prove unnecessary.

Be sure not to reveal private information to the wrong individuals. Don’t confide in anyone for the time being. You should expect to have changes in your home. You can expect to feel confused about your personal prospects.

You should put your efforts into creative projects. Look into physical activities that will help get rid of some of that tension you may be feeling. Focus on your domestic scene. Get together with friends or relatives. Be cautious of making any residential changes this week.

Romantic encounters will develop through colleagues. You will be able to contribute a great deal to organizations that you join. You will be inclined to make unwise investment choices. Don’t volunteer private information about yourself unless you’re prepared to be talked about behind your back.

You can’t do everything on your own. Jealous attitudes may lead you astray. You may not be that popular at home but you should be able to shine at social gatherings. You can get your point across if you don’t beat around the bush.

new romantic connections. Travel will be exciting. You will have a productive day if you organize yourself well at work.

Trips will be enjoyable, and communication with your lover will clear up any misconceptions. Your lack of interest in your partner is a problem. Someone you care about may not be too pleased with you. It’s time to make professional changes.

Lowood golf

Kilcoy bowls

SATURDAY March 16 –

Hasson, Sharon Carseldine and Bill Green 16-13.

TUESDAY March 19: Single Stableford. Men’s winner B Lowe 41, r/up A Bolton 40.

Men’s BRD: J Ormaechea, A Puig 37; B Green, J Morris 36; D Olsen, B Victor 34 on a count back.

Ladies winner Peta Dwyer

38, r/up K Jessen 33.

NTPs: 2 D Sharp, 5 A Kingdon, 11 D Olsen, 14 H Buckley, 2nd shot 3/12 Div 1 D Olsen, Div 2 M Whitwell.

Thursday March 21: Single Stableford. Winner M Callander 43, r/up Shane Kopelke 39.

BRD: D Sharp 38; V Bales, A Bolton 37; P Cattanach, G Milady 36; M Whitwell, S Henshall 35.

Toogoolawah golf

WEDNESDAY March 20: Ladies 9-hole Single Stableford. Winner Chris Stevens 17 points, runner-up Sandy Gleeson 14.

Enid’s NTP no 4 Sandy Gleeson.

PM Chook Run was also a 9-hole Single Stableford. Winner Richie Marschke 25 points, runner-up Eric Cox 21.

NTPs: 3/12 Richie Marschke, 5/14 Agg Dagan.

Saturday March 23: The event was a 2-person Ambrose with Golfer/Golfer, Non-Golfers and Golfers.

NTPs: 2 Pat Dwyer, 5 K Doyle, 11 Shane Kopelke, 14 Peta Dwyer, 2nd shot 4/13 Div 1 S Henshall, Div 2 B Lowe.

Men’s Matchplay final: Shane Kopelke def S Mahoney 4/3.

Saturday March 23: Single Stableford. Winner H Buckley

38 on a count back from r/up Paul Coles.

BRD: A Page, Sue Kopelke

38; J Harvey, D Gray, G Sippel 37; O Abakumov, Shane Kopelke 36; D Johnstone 35 on a count back.

NTPs: 2 Peter Coles, 5 P Thode, 11 G Milady, 14 E O’Farrell, 2nd shot 9/18 Div 1 J Grace, Div 2 L Burton.

Men’s Matchplay final Div 2: J Brady def K Glover 3/2.

Encouragement award went to Len Smyth and Trevor Friedrich.

NTPs: Ladies 2/11 Enid Faulkner, 5/14 Men’s Longest Putt Trent Hancock, Ladies Enid Faulkner, 7/16 Men’s Blair Broad, Ladies LeaJayne Marschke, Men’s 8/17 Trent Hancock, 3/12 Troy Edwards(K), 4/13 Jeff Yeo, 6/15 Judie Marschke.

A big shout out to Joe and Roxy of the Grand Hotel Esk for their sponsorship for the day. The weather was beautiful, and all the winners went home happy.

Coming events:

Kilcoy defeated Narangba at Kilcoy 2 rinks to 1 in our final Q7 game for 2024.

Tuesday March 19 – Star of the Green: Noel Lanes defeated Sharon Walker and will play Trudi Pratt on April 2.

Raffles: Sharon Walker and Marg Worrall. The jackpot did not go off, so it will be $182 on April 2.

Winners for the day were Dave Tonkin, Tom Hunter and Michael Dunn who defeated Renie Lauchlan, Gerry Carseldine and Sandra Sansom 21-14.

Other scores: Ron Sansom, Damian Bathersby and Lester Bechly defeated Greg Staniforth, John Pratt, Trevor Stewart and Col McGrath 15-12; Noel Lanes, Mike Saltmarsh and Jan Bathersby defeated Joe

Esk golf

THE Turkey Run was played last Friday, which was a pleasant afternoon for 9-hole golf. Peter Cook won with 43/32, and he also won a pin shot. Jim Lumsden was runner-up with 51/33 after a three-way count back.

NTPs: 13 G Ray, 17 P Cook.

Best Putts: D Bitossi 13.

Two Ladies Singles championship games were played, with Rhonda Cochran defeating Marg Worrall, and Trudi Pratt defeating Pam Taylor.

Coming events:

Wednesday April 3: Turbo Triples sponsored by Kilcoy Funeral Directors.

Friday April 5: Monthly Meal Night. Please book via either the Kilcoy Bowls Club Facebook page, or call 5497 1084 and leave a message with your name, contact number and group size.

Wednesday April 10 - Pub Day.

Social bowls is every Tuesday - names by 8.45am for 9.15am start. Everyone is welcome. Experience is not necessary, and we can loan you some bowls if needed. Flat soled shoes are the only requirement.

the r/up spot.

Three other pairs finished on 43 points.

Brett Farnham took a pin shot, with Proc getting the No. 17 pin shot with a birdie. In the same group, Arwee also got in for two shots but it was too late.

Many thanks to Geoff Smith for sponsoring the day, and providing some top prizes.

J Humphrey won last Sunday’s 9-hole Chooky with 31 nett, while runner-up P Cook had 32.

Golfer/Golfer winners Michael O’Connor/Troy Edwards(K) 62.5, runners-up Lea-Jayne Marschke/Todd Edwards(K) 63.5, 3rd Richie and Judie Marschke 66.25, 4th Garry Hutchinson/Tim Fairburn 66.75, 5th Eric Cox/ Enid Faulkner 67.25.

Non-Golfers/Golfers winners were Trent Hancock/Jake Richter 66.75, runner-up Jeff and Julie Yeo 69.5.

Caboolture darts

CECIL and Max were the winners while runners-up were John M and Conner in Monday night’s pot luck doubles at Caboolture Social Darts Club.

Twenty-two players took part.

High scores came from Sherrie (145) and Correy (125).

Saturday March 30 (Easter Saturday): The Josey Family Trophy Day - a Single v Par Event (+and-). Open to golfers and non-golfers. You have not seen such big bunnies as the ones on this day. Hit-off is at noon.

Tuesday April 2: club meeting for all members 5.30am.

Wednesday April 3: Ladies AM Golf 18 holes 7.30am, 9 holes 8am. PM Chook Run 3.30pm start.

Other good shots came from Matthew (85 peg) and John (57 peg plus 140 shot score).

Members are reminded of the Saturday game against Deception Bay on Saturday April 13. This is the first of the 2024 challenge.

Anyone interested in taking part is required to put their name down by Monday April 1.

For information, contact Dale on 0459 344 493.

Darts is played at the Combined Services Hall at 21 Hayes Street each Monday, with names required by 7.15pm.

Run-down: S Lerm 46/33, G Ray 49/33, B Glanville 47/34, D Bitossi 43/34, G Punch 47/35, J Humphrey 48/35, B Thorogood 47/36, I MacIntyre 57/39, M Beetz 48/41.

Last Saturday was Smithy’s Sponsored Day, which was a 4BBB Stableford. Winners were T Adams/G Proctor with 48 points, and runners-up were D Lockwood/R Weier with 45.

Run-down: B Tumney/D Richards 43, B Moore/I Macintyre 43, C Pettet/S Lerm 43.

NTPs: 4/13 B Farnham, 8/17 2nd G Proctor.

It was a good turnout for the Saturday competition, with Trev and Proc winning while Lockie and Arwee took

Run-down: G Ray, S Wilson 34; C Pettet, B Glanville, D Back, M Winchester 35; V Scott 37; J Wood 42.

Putting competition: Gordon Ray 14 putts.

NTPs: 13 B Glanville, 17 2nd V Scott.

There were the usual players for the Chooky, with a visitor from Clermont staying in the caravan park and calling in for a game. Jeff had another win, while Cooky came second. Gordon took out the putting comp, with Victor getting one pin shot and Brian the other one.

Back Row: Richie Marschke, Lea-Jayne Marschke, Jeff Yeo, Yeo, Michael O’Connor and Eric Cox. Front row: Enid Faulkner, Julie Yeo, Jake Richter and new member Trent Hancock. new member

The

panel antennas, 2.7m long, on a new headframe

Installation of three (3) panel antennas, 0.8m long, on a new headframe

Installation of ancillary equipment including fifteen (15) remote radio units, antenna mounts and cabling

77145 Rothwell-O: 59 McKillop Street, Rothwell QLD 4022 (RFNSA 4022002)

The proposed facility consists of the addition of new equipment and associated works, including 5G, as follows:

Removal of existing Vodafone antennas and equipment

Installation of three (3) panel antennas, 2.7m long, on a new headframe

Installation of three (3) panel antennas, 0.8m long, on a new headframe

Installation of ancillary equipment including fifteen (15) remote radio units, antenna mounts and cabling

1. Vodafone regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), based on the description above.

2. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Should you require further information or wish to comment, please contact Shreya Rekhapalli at Indara, 02 9495 9000, community@indara.com or Level 1, 110 Pacific Highway, St Leonards NSW 2065 by Tuesday 16 April 2024. Further information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/4019001 and www.rfnsa.com.au/4022002.

Make a

Material

to

Where: 62 Archer Street WOODFORD QLD 4514

On: Lot 7 on RP 18161

Approval sought: Development

Permit

Application ref: DA/2024/0199

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

Moreton Bay Regional Council 2 Hasking Street Caboolture QLD 4510

council@moretonbay.qld.gov.au (07) 3205 0555

https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/

Management of the Kilcoy Indoor Sports Centre

Tender 1368

Tender responses for Tender 1368 – Management of the Kilcoy Indoor Sports Centre are invited.

Tender 1368 closes 11am on Wednesday, 8 May 2024. Tender documents may be obtained via www.somerset.qld.gov.au/tenders.

A mandatory tender site inspection will be held on Tuesday, 16 April between 10am and 11am. Tenderers are to confirm their attendance at the meeting by no later than 5pm Monday, 15 April 2024 via email –mail@somerset.qld.gov.au or phone – 07 5424 4000.

LG000690

POSITIONS VACANT

Sales Support Merchandise

www.somerset.qld.gov.au

Caboolture Clay Target Club TENDER FOR CONSTRUCTION OF AN AMENITIES BUILDING

Tenders are invited for the construction of an amenities building for the Caboolture Clay Target Club, which is located at Uhlmann Road in Burpengary.

An electronic version of the RFT is available via email request to: mblomer@tennis.com.au

Your building company details will then be registered, and any relevant tender updates or clarifications will be emailed to you.

For queries, contact the Project Manager (Mick Blomer) on 0434 561 025.

The tender closes on 26 April 2024.

GRACE COMMUNITY CHURCH

DELANEYS CREEK HALL

(Cnr Mt Mee and Bleakley Roads)

Sunday evening 6pm - 8pm.

message, wonderful fellowship

by supper - all welcome.

Enquiries: 0432 579 250 or 0407 736 244

EASTER SERVICE

Grace

QUEEN BED, 3 seater leather couch, buffet and other miscellaneous furniture. Going cheap. Contact Annie on 5493 0343

FISHING GEAR; fishing rods and reels, light and heavy tackle, lines, lurers, crab pots. Camp stove and bottles. All in good condition. Located Morayfield, call 0427 593 999

SHED 16m x 26m x 6m, Colorbond, New Australian Steel. Reduced to $59,000 or Make an Offer. NB Ph 0467 969 444

YARDMAN RIDE-ON MOWER 42 inch cut, Briggs and Stratton 17HP, and Alco 19HP 2 cylinder. $450 each. PH 3203 1073 between 9am - 8pm. Burpengary.

CATTLE CRATE Fits on ute. 2.3m x 1.7m $950 as new. Phone: 0409 494 136

MACHINERY

MASSEY FERGUSON

- 2 disk plough with cutting disk, plus a spare new disk; Bonell Reversable Plough - large cutting discs. Napier Rippers - 3 tines ripper

Sport

Tight soccer tussles at The Gap

THE Caboolture Snakes senior women’s soccer team had its first victory of the year while the U23s gained their first competition point, as these teams contested The Gap at Walton Bridge Reserve last Sunday.

Following their 1-all draw in the season-opening round the previous weekend, the Snakes seniors won 1-0 following a goal to Courtney Bargh around the 25-minute mark.

The Snakes were under enormous pressure in the final 15 minutes after one of their players was red-carded, while another player was yellow-carded.

Caboolture’s breakthrough victory enabled the Snakes to sit in equal-fourth place on the 10-team ladder.

In the U23s, the Snakes followed up their first-round 2-1 loss with a 1-all draw to move to equal-sixth.

It was one of three 1-all draws in this women’s U23 division.

Molly Arnot scored for Caboolture in the lead-up to half-time before Polly Jones equalised for The Gap about 15 minutes into the second half.

Win and a loss for Snakes

THE Caboolture Snakes senior men’s soccer team lost 2-0 while the U23s won 2-0, as they contested the Southside Eagles at Bulimba Memorial Park last Saturday.

Southside scored a goal in each half in the senior men’s game, while Caboolture rued ill-discipline as two players were sent from the field.

Thanasi Kalatzis opened the scoring for the hosts after five minutes of play, before the first red card was issued about three minutes before half-time.

The second red card was issued about seven minutes from full-time, and the Eagles sealed their win a few minutes later when Lachlan Smith scored from a penalty kick.

After being undefeated in the first three rounds, the Snakes have since lost two on the trot to fall to seventh place on the 12-team ladder.

Caboolture’s U23s moved from eighth to fifth place with their victory, which featured several yellow cards but no red cards.

Shay Kajewski found the back of the net after nine minutes, before Cormac Mccarthy scored from a penalty in the dying stages.

Hat-trick hero for hero Eagles

● NARANGBA ◗ Liam Hauser

THE Narangba Eagles maintained a share of the ladder lead, as they became one of only two teams to remain undefeated in their Football Queensland Premier League (FQPL) division.

Narangba and the Logan Roos chalked up four wins from as many rounds in the FQPL5 Metro Men’s division, with the Eagles beating Pine Rivers 3-0 at Harris Avenue last Friday.

Following a scoreless first

half, the Eagles appeared rejuvenated when play resumed.

It took Hugh Moore just four minutes to find Ryan Shaughnessy with a pinpoint pass, and Shaughnessy made no mistake with his strike.

Just after the restart, Moore again found Shaughnessy who again made no mistake as Narangba suddenly jumped to a 2-0 lead.

The Manchester-born Shaughnessy completed a hat-trick in the 59th minute.

The score would have been a lot higher had it not been for some resolute goalkeeping from Pine Rivers stalwart Joel Turner.

Earlier in the night, the Eagles U23s also maintained an undefeated start to the year as they prevailed 3-1.

Tristan Knopjes scored twice for the victors, while Brock Pearce scored once.

It was the third win for Narangba’s U23s, who had a drawn result back in round two and now hold the outright ladder lead.

Charlie brings home the medals

● MORAYFIELD

Liam Hauser

MORAYFIELD-BASED Red

Dragon Martial Arts athlete Charlie Bale achieved a staggering collection of medals at the recent International Sport Karate Association (ISKA) NSW Open, staged at Whitlam Leisure Centre.

Charlie was among more than 400 competitors, while it was the first time he took part in the ISKA NSW Open.

In the 8-9 years advanced/black belt division, Charlie earned three gold, three silver

and three bronze medals. Charlie came first in Extreme Forms, Sumo, and Creative Forms, while placing second in Tricking, NoGi Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ),

and Flag Karate. Charlie’s third placings were in Extreme Weapons, Point Sparring, and Clash Sparring.

Charlie now has his sights set on his first international competition, which will be the ISKA US Open.

Red Dragon Martial Arts owner Brett Fenton said Charlie trains hard most days and does private lessons to work on competition skills.

Brett will travel to coach Charlie in the US Open, which will take place in the city of Orlando during July.

Bowlers take to the Woodford green under lights

Rain destroys cricket premiership hopes

WET conditions enabled Tewantin Noosa to win the Sunshine Coast Division 1 cricket premiership at the expense of the Caboolture Snakes, as the grand final was abandoned without a ball bowled.

The first-placed Tewantin Noosa and second-placed Snakes were scheduled to contest the decider at Read Park on the past two Saturdays, after wet weather had also prevented any results in the semi-finals.

Ultimately, the ladder leader won the premiership without even taking to the field in the finals series, while Caboolture had limited game time in its home semifinal against Maroochydore.

The grand final situation

was somewhat similar two years ago, also when Tewantin Noosa hosted Caboolture. The decider was a three-day match on that occasion, with the first two days washed out before the hosts claimed the premiership as the visitors were unable to force a firstinnings victory on the final day. The Snakes went on to win the following year’s premiership, in addition to the one-day competition title, before wet weather scuttled their chances of back-to-back titles in both formats.

Meanwhile, Tewantin Noosa won both formats this year while Caboolture was the runner-up in both, with the one-day decider having also been washed out.

TUESDAY night bowls has become a hit in Woodford in the past several weeks, with numerous businesses and local community groups taking part in the triples event.

Following the unveiling of new floodlights late last year, the club sought to trial a weekly ‘business bowls’

competition which has since flourished.

More than 50 bowlers have often attended, as competitors have come from organisations including the Woodford Lions Club, Woodford Men’s Shed, Ray White real estate, Stanmore Rural Fire Brigade, Woodford Hotel, D’Aguilar Hotel, Priceline Pharmacy, Walker’s

Pharmacy, Woodford Medical Centre, Advance Remedial Massage, and Paul Burnage Plumbing & Gas.

Many of the attendees enjoy a meal at the clubhouse from 6pm, before taking to the greens at 6.30pm.

Woodford Bowls Club chairperson Raymond Auer said a lot of long-term locals were giving bowls a

go for the first time, while the occasion also enabled people to make new friends and establish community networks as well as interact with various businesses and community groups.

“It’s a community thing to bring the businesses together,” he said.

Raymond said a lot of activity at the club had

gone into a lull during covid, before many people came back to the club last year.

With the club also staging events like birthday parties, Christmas parties, wakes, Playitt and other functions, Raymond said upcoming changes would include kitchen upgrades, new carpet, and a new outside toilet block.

● WOODFORD ◗ Liam Hauser

Many businesses and community groups have taken to Tuesday night bowls in Woodford.

Charlie Bale with his medal haul

Ryan Shaughnessy scored all of the goals as Narangba defeated defeated Pine Rivers. Photo credit Yvonne Packbier MMM Photography.