The Western Echo December 2017 January 2018

The

Western Echo

December 2017/January 2018 ISSN 1327-676X

Published by: Hot Metal Publications Phone: 3300 1846 - Email: editor@westernecho.com.au Over 15,700 Copies delivered each month to homes, businesses and clubs in the Western Suburbs

Santa Sleigh Visits The Gap 2-8 December

The Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap has brought Christmas to the streets of The Gap for over 40 years. Young and old alike delight at this local tradition which brings goodies to the children and a smile to everyone’s faces. Story Page 3.

Ph:

3351 4388

Massage Therapist Available Wednesday to Saturday

Quality experienced physios available 7 days all year round • Hands on physio • One on one appointments in private rooms • Same day appointments available 7 days IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT A • Heavy emphasis on self management with minimal ongoing treatment

PHYSIOTHERAPY PRACTICE NEAR YOU IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT A Phone 3351 4388 for an appointment 7 days ThePHYSIOTHERAPY PRACTICE NEAR YOU Gap Village shop 19b (ground level entrance near Bargain City) 1000 Waterworks Road, The Gap 2nd Office: 1300 Samford Road, Ferny Grove

1. Experienced physios providing quality website: http://www.westernecho.com.au The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018

1.

individual treatment.

Experienced physios providing quality 2. Available 7 days including after hours.

3. Appointments offered same day if individual treatment.

Page 1

ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY AUTO AIR CONDITIONING Wyatt’s BP The Gap Phone: 3300 2077

p g 11

BARBER George’s Barber Shop Phone: 3366 7435 pg 9 Men’s Studio Keperra Phone: 3351 2655 pg 12

BEAUTY

GUTTER VACUUM Big Boys Gutter Vacuum Phone: 0407 737 400 pg 9

HAIR DESIGN DHS Hair Shack Phone: 3300 4200

pg 20

HANDYMAN Specialized Handyman Services Phone:0419 437 470 pg 22

PHYSIOTHERAPY

SHOPPING CENTRE

Brisbane 7 Day Physiotherapy Phone: 3351 4388 pg 1 Physiologix Phone: 3511 1112 p g 21

The Gap Village Phone: 3300 3377 pg 16/17

PLUMBER Pandanus Contractors Phone: 3300 3934 pg 22 Plumbers We Are Phone: 3351 0016 pg 22

TYRE & MECHANICAL Wyatt’s BP The Gap Phone: 3300 2077 pg 12

POLICE-NON URGENT

VETERINARIAN

POLICE LINK Phone:

Blooms Beauty Salon Phone: 3300 1555 pg 32

LAWYERS

Intune Beauty Therapy Phone: 3300 9710 p g 20

Hollingworth & Spencer Phone: 3123 5700 pg 14

BUTCHER

MASSAGE

MeatU@Home Phone: 3161 5021 pg 18

Bernard Evens Remedial & Sports Phone: 3366 9997 pg 20

CAROLS EVENTS

MEDICAL CENTRE

Ashgrove/The Gap Rotary Phone: 0412 740 360 pg 6

Keperra Family Practice Phone: 3351 0323 pg 12

CHURCHES

MOWING / GARDENING

St Mark’s Anglican Church Phone: 3300 1502 pg 29

Good Deal Mowing Phone: 0439734 142 pg 22

Cartridge World Ashgrove Phone: 3366 5111 pg 14

CITIZENSHIP CEREMONY

MUSIC TUITION

PSYCHOLOGIST

Ashgrove/The Gap Rotary Phone: 3300 1071 pg 27

The Gap Piano Studio Phone: 3166 8353 pg 25

CLUBS/GROUPS Taylor Range Country Club Phone:3366 1560 pg 23

DENTURES Denture Square Phone: 3189 7085 pg 13

DOMESTIC ASSISTANCE Communify Phone: 3510 2707

pg 8

FINANCIAL ADVISOR Taylor Financial Advice & Solutions Phone:3310 1333 pg 19

GUITAR TUITION Rob’s Guitar School Phone: 3289 8020 pg 25

131 444

POLITICAL/GOVERNMENT Kate Jones Phone: 3366 6000 Jane Prentice, MP Phone: 3378 1599

Cr. Steven Toomey Phone: 3407 1900

WEIGHT LOSS

pg 7

Winning with Food Phone: 0403 085 640 pg 21

pg 4

PRINTER CARTRIDGES Cartridge World Alderley Phone: 3356 2233

Ferny Hills Veterinary Surgery Phone: 3351 2122 pg 14 The Gap Veterinary Clinic Phone: 3300 1533 pg 15

pg 5

pg 10

Proactive Coaching.net Phone: 0411 036 297 pg 14

PHARMACY

REAL ESTATE

Blooms The Chemist The Gap Phone: 3300 1555 pg 32

Harcourts Inner West P h o n e : 3 5 11 0 6 6 6 p g 6

You can now read The Western Echo ONLINE - click on the links on either our website www.westernecho.com.au OR our facebook page

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED

We urgently need more volunteer drivers. It can be for as little as a few hours each month. We deliver each morning, Monday to Friday, from around 9.30am until noon.

Can you help us? If you are interested, please phone Carolyn on 3366 4299 between the hours of 8.00am and noon.

Ashgrove Meals on Wheels 524 Waterworks Road

The Western Echo is produced monthly by

Hot Metal Publications

PO Box 270 The Gap

Ph: 3300 1846

http://www.westernecho.com.au editor@westernecho.com.au

Proudly Printed by

BEAUDESERT TIMES P/L 07 5541 1388 Distribution by

PMP Distribution Ph: 3275 9200 Advertisers/contributors please note:

Ph 3366 4299

www.facebook.com/pages/The-Western-Echo COPYRIGHT: All advertisements appearing in The Western Echo are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the written consent of the owner of the copyright. No guarantee is given to the positioning of the advertisements and the publisher takes no responsibility for errors or omissions or the accuracy of articles published. The Western Echo is delivered, by private letterbox distribution, to 15,700 homes and businesses in: Ashgrove, Ashgrove West, St. Johns Wood, Dorrington, The Gap, and selected areas of Bardon, Red Hill, Enoggera, Keperra and Mitchelton

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 2

SPRING WATER Mountain Dew Natural Spring Water Phone: 0416 692 837 pg 23

Deadline for February 2018 5pm Wednesday 24 January 2018

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Rotary Santa Sleigh 2-8 December 2017 The Rotary Santa Sleigh Why not get together with is coming to The Gap again, your neighbours and organise Inside the November Issue... bringing Christmas to the a street party to coincide streets of the suburb from the 2nd to 8th December.

The Santa Sleigh has been a tradition in The Gap for 40 years, and the jolly fellow is back again this year!

Weather permitting, the Rotary Santa Sleigh will begin its run on Saturday 2nd December in St John’s Wood and in the Bernarra Street area, visiting The Gap Tavern along the way.

Look out for Santa and his Sleigh in the streets of The Gap from 6.00 to 8.30pm each night from Saturday 2nd to Friday 8th December. Santa will be spreading goodwill whilst handing out lollies and small gifts to the children.

Donations are very welcome, and 100% the funds raised will be used for Rotary community projects.

with Santa’s visit? Send us a message through our website and let Santa know about your street party - Santa loves street parties!

The Sleigh can’t get to every street, so from 7.007.30pm on Monday 4th December, Santa and his Sleigh will park on the Payne Road service road at the corner of Hawthorn Street. Come and see him there - or just listen for the Christmas music and find Santa somewhere on his run!

Santa gets a lot of help - from Eagers Kia, Altus Traffic, Subway The Gap, local Scouting Rover crews and other members of the community.

A map of the area Santa covers each night is shown below and can be found at www.rotaryashgrovethegap. org.au

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Amnesty International..................................................................20 Ashgrove Forum................................................................6 Ashgrove Historical Society................................................22 Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club..........................................18 Boomerang Bags The Gap and Surrounds..................................8 Chess T’Minit.......................................................................28 Enoggera Historical Society..............................................22 Federal Update - Jane Prentice........................................7 Mitchelton Garden Club....................................................26 National Servicemen’s Association of Aust. (Qld Branch)........31 Paten Park Native Nursery (PPNN).............................................26 POWERtalk Brisbane.......................................................28 Principal’s Points....................................................24 & 25 Qld. Family History Society.............................................10 Reflections..........................................................................30 Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap.....................................3 & 27 Shed Happens for Men of Ashgrove/The Gap.......................................12 SOWN (Save Our Waterways Now)...........................................28 State Update - Kate Jones - Member for Ashgrove......................5 The Gap Garden Club............................................................9 The Gap Historical Society...............................................14 The Gap Probus Club.............................................................31 The Gap RSL Sub Branch..................................................13 Ward Happenings Cr Steven Toomey..................................4

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 3

Ward Happenings with Councillor Steven Toomey Cr Toomey can be contacted at The Gap Ward Office on Phone: 3407 1900

Walton Bridge Reserve The Gap Opening Saturday 2 December 2017 1.30pm-3.30pm Come and share the celebrations at the opening of the new playground at Walton Bridge Reserve, The Gap. To celebrate this upgrade we will be hosting a community bbq hosted by The Gap Lions, ribbon cutting ceremony and face painting for the kids to acknowledge the contribution of everyone that was part of this process! Walton Bridge Reserve upgrade is an election commitment from The Lord Mayor, Graham Quirk, we are proud to deliver this new playground and to create new lifestyle and leisure opportunities for the whole community to enjoy.

Plan Your Brisbane Plan Your Brisbane will be hosting an event from 9-12pm on 2 December at Walton Bridge Reserve by the Lions shelter, come and talk to a planner, start a conversation about shaping the future of our city, your contribution will help to keep us heading in the right direction. Take the opportunity to discuss The Gap neighbourhood plan draft strategy, submissions close 8 December 2017. For more information visit www. brisbane.qld.gov.au and search Neighbourhood Plans.

Christmas Community Events This year I am very pleased to have been able to support our major Christmas community events throughout The Gap Ward. Grab a blanket and share an afternoon with your family and community and celebrate the year that was 2017!

Bardon Community Carols at Bowman Park, Bardon - 5pm Sunday 3 December Entertainment suitable for all ages with school and local choirs leading the singing.

Carols and a fireworks display with end the evening. .

The Gap Farmers’ Market – Hilder Road State School, The Gap will be hosting Sunlit Sounds Festival on 23 December 2017 - live bands, food trucks, and plenty of market stalls, activities for the kids including Santa. FB: The Gap Farmers Market

The Year That Was 2017 Bridges, playgrounds and planning were the focus of my office over the last twelve months. Tennis Avenue Bridge Ashgrove and Glen Parade Bardon both saw removal of the old timber structures and replaced with structures having a minimum life cycle of 100 years. A number of new playgrounds and upgrades were completed throughout the ward this year and I have listed the full details of these parks on my webpage www. steventoomey.com.au The second stage of Walton Bridge Reserve has begun with a concept design for the upgrade of the Memorial. I look forward to seeing this project completed to celebrate Remembrance Day 2018.

Planning is underway for a new park at Honeyeater Park, Upper Kedron. The new play equipment will be staged over two years; the first stage will be a playground with shelters. The concept design for this play equipment will be available early next year for

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 4

community consultation.

Tw o n e i g h b o u r h o o d plans are in progress. The Ferny Grove/Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan is sitting with the State Government for endorsement. The Gap Neighbourhood Plan draft strategy has been released for public comment. Please make sure you have your say. I look forward to continuing to work with you to ensure the ward is a great place to live, work, and relax.

Christmas is the time of year we get together with family and friends to celebrate what is dear to us. We are all looking forward to the break over Christmas and the office will be closed from Thursday 21 December to Monday 8 January 2018. On behalf of The Gap Ward team I wish you all a safe and peaceful Christmas and a very happy 2018. The Council Contact Centre is open 24/7 365 Days a year on 3403 8888.

Making sure the play equipment will surpass expectations

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Merry Christmas

KATE JONES website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 5

Ashgrove Forum Club

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Three new members of Ashgrove Forum at their Induction: L-R: Elaine Aniceto, Samantha Sparksman, (Secretary Dr Pat Pepper in the background) and Helenah Smith

Rotary Carols by Candlelight and Fireworks Finale â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Dorrington Park Mirrabooka Road

â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

Free Community Event Rocus Big Band 27 Piece Westside Orchestra 19 Ignite Choir Choristers National Servicemenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Memorial Pipes and Drums

Ashgrove Saturday 09 December 2017 4.30pm to 7.45pm Funding from the

Come down early and have a picnic in the park with your family.

Brisbane City Council

Santa will visit early in the evening.

Festival Fund and

Food and drinks available from Northâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hockey Clubhouse

Lord Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Suburban Initiative Program through the Enoggera Ward Office and Rotary Club of

Further information visit www.rotaryashgrovethegap.org.au Or call John Giles on the Hotline 0412 740 360

Ashgrove/The Gap

Dedicated to a better Brisbane

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 6

The 923rd General Meeting of the Ashgrove Forum Communicators held in November 2017 was the last formal meeting for the year. The Speaking Topic was â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Most Amazing Productionâ&#x20AC;? and all members spoke to the topic for six minutes.

As usual members covered a wide variety of Productions in their engaging and informative speeches.

Ashgrove Forum have invited members of their sister club, Bayside Forum, to join them for their Annual Christmas Lunch on 2nd December for fun and fellowship. A Secret Santa will be held and members from both clubs will provide the entertainment by telling Christmas Yarns. It will be a most enjoyable way to end what has been an exciting and busy year for Ashgrove Forum.

Apart from regular monthly meetings where members have been encouraged to deliver short prepared speeches on diverse topics; there have been visits to other clubs to commemorate special milestones; a â&#x20AC;&#x153;mockâ&#x20AC;? Antiques Roadshow was held to assist with interviewing techniques; impromptu speaking sessions were conducted to encourage members to think on their feet when â&#x20AC;&#x153;put on the spotâ&#x20AC;?, the Annual Debate with Bremer Forum to hone debating skills such as organization and clarity, how to persuade and how to listen, was fought and won; members attended an enjoyable, educational and inspirational State Conference in the beautiful Bunya Mountains; a workshop titled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Modern Meetings - Stepping Higherâ&#x20AC;? to assist the attendees to get the most out of meetings was held in association with the National Council of Women, Qld; a lunch to launch a book detailing the history of Forum â&#x20AC;&#x153;Never Be Silentâ&#x20AC;Ś the story of 76 years of speaking upâ&#x20AC;? by Maureen Whitehead was enjoyed; the inaugural Forum Communicatorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bursary was presented, and several new members were inducted into the Club.

Ashgrove Forum meetings will resume at 6.45pm on Wednesday 17 January 2018 in the Ashgrove Library meeting room. Visitors and prospective members are always welcome to attend. For information call Pat (0458 696 267). website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Hon. Jane Prentice MP Federal Member for Ryan

Federal Update Wishing Ryan a Happy, Healthy and Safe Holiday Season

As we wind down the year I would like to wish everyone in the Ryan electorate a happy, healthy and safe holiday season. May you enjoy the festive season with loved ones, and give thought to our soldiers serving away from their families during this time.

Heading into the warmer months, please remember to be safe around pools and waterways. Always watch out for your children, wear a life jacket and refresh your life-saving skills.

It is also important to prepare for bushfire and storm season. Keep up to date at http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/community/community-safety/ disasters-emergencies/be-prepared.

If you are going away these holidays, it is important to make sure you are informed and prepared for any situation. Remember to not only take out travel insurance, but choose sufficient cover for your circumstances. Before you go away, register your trip on the Smart Traveller website at www.smartraveller. gov.au where you can find all of the information you need to be prepared.

I would also like to wish those students who have recently graduated Year 12 all the best for their future endeavours, whether it be in employment, university or travel.

Commemorating Remembrance Day at Gaythorne RSL

Christmas Card Competition

Each year I host a Christmas Card Competition with the local primary schools in Ryan, where students are invited to submit their designs. As usual, the entries have been very artistic and I thank all students for participating in the Competition this year. The community judging panel had a difficult task of choosing just a few winners from so many wonderful entries â&#x20AC;&#x201C; keep an eye out for your Christmas card in the mail for the winning designs!

Day of Disability

So many wonderful Christmas cards to admire in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Competition

As the Assistant Minister for Social Services and Disability Services, last month I travelled from Brisbane to Mackay, Townsville, Ingham and Melbourne to discuss all things NDIS. This is the 25th year of International Day of People with Disability, which is celebrated with the release of a commemorative 20 cent coin.

There are many wonderful organisations and programs in the Ryan electorate such as The McIntyre Centre Riding for Disabled, The Glenleighden School, HELP Enterprises and The Brisbane Paralympic Football Program, which support people with disability to become integrated in sporting activities, work and life.

... Real Action for Ryan Jane Prentice MP Federal Member for Ryan | 636 Moggill Road, Chapel Hill Qld 4069 | Ph: (07) 3378 1599 | E: jane.prentice.mp.aph.gov.au

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 7

Boomerang Bags Finalists in BCC’s 2017 Cleaner Suburbs Awards

The Boomerang Bags The Gap and Surrounds (BBTGS) team was recently selected as finalists in the Brisbane City Council’s 2017 Cleaner Suburbs Award Scheme. The annual Cleaner Suburbs Award recognises community groups which are found to be ‘going above and beyond for our local environments’, says the Brisbane City Council.

BBTGS were declared finalists in two categories Resource Recovery Award (Group) and Innovation in Litter Prevention Award c a t e g o r i e s . Ta n g a l o o m a EcoMarines were the winner of the Innovation in Litter Prevention Award, while Reverse Garbage won the Resource Recovery Award (Group).

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 8

“The Boomerang Bags The Gap and Surrounds are honoured”, said its President Ms Marlene Fegan, “to be in the company of these two winners, groups that have been operating for many years.”

“The two different awards received by BBTGS reflect its multiple goals and its wide ranging impacts on the environment and the local

community”, said BBTGS’ Secretary, Dr Padma Lal. BBTGS makes re-usable shopping bags from donated recycled fabric and voluntary labour; fabrics that could have ended up in local landfills.

Weekly sewing sessions are run on Wednesdays at The Gap Uniting Church, while monthly sewing bees are held at the Nullangundi Community Hall on the second Thursday of each month. Over 25 committed volunteers have sewn around 700 bags. These are sold without any mark-ups through the Gap LOCO and newsXpress in The Gap and The Produce in Ashgrove.

Funds raised through the sale of the boomerang bags will be used to support environmental initiatives in our local schools and communities.

The BBTGS team is certain that the confidence shown by the Brisbane City Council in us ‘going above and beyond for our local environments’ will be further demonstrated in 2018 and beyond.

The ban on the use of plastic shopping bags from 1st July 2018, BBTGS is looking forward to continuing working with our local communities to make available reusable boomerang bags as a substitute for plastic shopping bags.

We are also looking forward to engaging with additional volunteers to work with us in whatever capacity, even if they do not know how to sew. There are many non-sewing tasks that people can help out with, and spending whatever amount of time they can spare.

Contact BBTGS - Facebook: boomerangbagsthegap4061 or email: bbtgs4061@gmail.com

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Gap Garden Club Est. 1963 Our final events for the year have been held - a very enjoyable field trip to the Redcliffe district on a lovely Spring day and our annual Christmas lunch and awards day for our final meeting in November.

The club is now in recess until February next year - our first meeting will be on Tuesday 27th at River City Church in Settlement Road at 9.30am.

An informal morning tea and ‘get together’ is being organised for Tuesday 6th February at the new hall at St Marks Church details will be available closer to the date.

We hope members enjoy spending time in their gardens over the Christmas break and the weather is kind to us, and everyone returns in the New Year ready for an informative and enjoyable year ahead.

For more information, please visit our website: www.the gapgardenclub.org.au

Carmen Briggs

Principal Justice of the Peace

M 0418 742 511 P 07 3511 0666 3/996 Waterworks Road, The Gap innerwest@harcourts.com.au

George’s Barber Shop 3rd Big Year No Appointment Necessary

In the garden of our President, Karolyn and the rose is ‘Honey Perfume’

OPEN Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm Saturday 8:30am to 12 noon Beverly Chilcott “Thank my valued customers for their support over the last year” - Beverly

Are your GUTTERS ready for the storm season?

Don’t risk your safety by climbing on your roof!

Call Maurie on 0407

737 400

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Pensioners Mens Seniors High School Children Ladies from

$18 $25 $20 $20 $15 $25

10 Stewart Road Ashgrove (On the corner of Ajax Lane)

3366 7435

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 9

ASHGROVE

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED

We urgently need more volunteer drivers.

It can be for as little as a few hours each month. We deliver each morning, Monday to Friday, from around 9.30am until noon.

Can you help us?

If you are interested, please phone Carolyn at our office on 3366 4299 between the hours of 8.00am and noon.

Ashgrove Meals on Wheels 524 Waterworks Road

Ph 3366 4299

Queensland Family History Society The Queensland Family History Society is constantly seeking ways to provide services for its members. Our latest initiative is to provide free access for members to MyHeritage, a subscription website. QFHS members now have access MyHeritage Library Edition and are able to login to the database from their home computers.

MyHeritage Library Edition features a focus on people-based records, which contain information about both everyday people and prominent individuals across societies and periods of time.

This emphasis, plus the strength of the index, enables users to access information both about specialised topics (regions, time periods) as well as social, cultural, and political trends.

MyHeritage has more than five billion historical records from all over the world. The particular strength of this service is the European records it contains.

The database also has features which include ‘Smart Matching™’ (finding matching profiles in family trees), ‘Record Matching’ (finding automatic matches between people and historical records), ‘Instant Discoveries™’ (a unique technology that allows adding a whole new branch to the family tree in one click), ‘SuperSearch™’ (a search engine for exploring billions of historical records) and ‘Global Name Translation™’ (a function that translates names found in historical records and family trees from one language into another). There are additional features as well.

QFHS members can access MyHeritage from the Members’ Area of the QFHS website; www.qfhs.org.au/members-area.

You can find information about QFHS at www.qfhs.org.au. For enquiries, contact the Secretary (email: secretary@qfhs.org.au).

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Thealderley@cartridgeworld.com.au Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 10

BP THE GAP Mechanical - Tyres - Batteries - Car Wash 24hr Convenience Store

Y Book AN service in in o g p o d h n s a k r y wo nuar a J r o r e Decemb to the draw

WIN

PRIZE 1 A Sparkling Clean Car in 2018 An Ultimate Combi Wash every single month for an entire year (valued at $300) PRIZE 2 The Ultimate Road Trip pack Includes a portable pizza oven, bluetooth speaker, cooler bags, aerial UV400 sunglasses & backpack (valued at $150) PRIZE 3 A Family Chicken Feast 5 BBQ Chickens, 5 Large Chips & 5 x 1.25L Soft Drinks (valued at $100)

Phone 3300 2077 to book a service PLUS 24HR CONVENIENCE STORE throughout the festive season!

CHRISTMAS GIF VOUCHERS AVA T ILABLE Spoil a loved one to a little TLC for their car

BP The Gap Auto Service Centre PH: 3300 2077 850 Waterworks Rd, The Gap sales@bpthegap.com.au www.bpthegap.com.au website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 11

Community Shed ...it matters where you go Night - Shed Happens for Men The Gap/ Ashgrove

BECAUSE YOUR FAMILY’S HEALTH IS VITAL

FAMILY PRACTICE & SKIN CANCER CLINIC

Our team of doctors and health professionals provide you with ongoing and comprehensive medical care.

Childhood Immunisation now available • Same day appointment guaranteed • Open 7 days • Online bookings on our website • Bulk billing for children & concession card holders

Cnr Settlement & Samford Roads,

Keperra Phone: 3351 0323

www.keperrafamilypractice.com.au

Men’s Studio BARBERS

OPEN Sundays 10am - 3pm PH 3351 2655 No appointment needed The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 12

Another interesting and thought-provoking evening at the Community Shed Night at the Ashgrove Bowls Club on Friday, 17th November.

Our first interview, was a combination of the Manager of Public Relations and Marketing at the Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) and Dr Catherine Olsen, Senior Researcher, Cancer Control Dr Catherine Olsen Group at QIMR. It was interesting to hear the background information relating to the history of Research Centre and also about the past and ongoing struggle to maintain funding for this vital research.

Dr Olsen captivated the attention of the those present with the results of various studies into a range of skin cancers including Melanomas, the ever present Basal Cell Carcinomas and Squamous Cell Carcinomas with Queensland having the dubious distinction of being on top in the world in this area.

Our second interviewee, Sue-Belinda Meehan, teacher, linguist and business owner, gave us a fascinating view of her life growing up in The Gap as well as an insight into her career as a teacher, syllabus curriculum writer within Education Queensland and as a lecturer in teacher education at Griffith University.

She also touched on her time on ABC talk-back radio and her passion for the English language and the use of everyday words.

Many thanks to both Dr Catherine Olsen and Sue-Belinda Meehan for the thought provoking and interesting interviews and the knowledge you imparted to an appreciative audience.

There will be no Shed Night in December or January 2017.

The next Shed night will be held on the 21st February 2018 in the usual place, the Scout Den in Paten Rd, The Gap. For further information please call – Craig 0417 736 897 or Lionel 0417 786 542 or visit our website – www. shedhappensformen.com.au or Facebook Page – gapshednight@ gmail.com

The Western Echo extends our best wishes to your and your family over the Christmas season and wish you a prosperous, healthy and exciting new year.

We look forward to your continued readership in 2018 - first edition February.

Philippa Wightman - Publisher/Editor website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Gap Sub Branch RSL

Christmas Packages for Deployed Service Members

The Gap RSL Citizen’s Auxiliary has packed twenty-three Christmas parcels to service personnel deployed overseas this year, many thanks to those who assisted in our fund raising and in packing the boxes. Those interested in finding out more information about opportunities with our Citizen’s Auxiliary, please call Kerry Parry on 0427 659 646 or Barbara Clendinen on 0428 222 038.

Widows Morning Tea We have held two morning tea functions for Widows of servicemen resident of The Gap since October and four widows have joined us for a morning teas at The Gap Football Club, These special high teas of homemade goodies have been enjoyed by those either renewing past acquaintances or joining us for the first time.

Monthly Morning Teas are scheduled for Wednesday 13th December 2017 and Wednesday 17th January 2018, please pass the word on to any friends or relatives who may like to come along. Contact Barbara Clendinen on 0428 222 038 if you wish to come along or require further information.

ANZAC Day Commemoration 25 April 2018 ANZAC Day 2018 is fast approaching, 2018 is the 100th year since the signing of the Armistice on 11th November 1918.

The Gap Sub Branch is out to have the commemoration of ANZAC day next year be a real reflection of the sacrifice made all those years ago.

What this looks like and what The Gap Sub Branch is out to cause, is the largest ANZAC day march down to the memorial at Walton Bridge that The Gap has seen in living memory.

Remembrance Day 11 November 2017

The Memorial Service at Walton Bridge Memorial Park on Saturday 11th November held in wet conditions was attended by over 150 members of the community including Hon Kate Jones, Mr Steven Toomey, Veterans, staff & students of the local schools joined us in remembering those who died or suffered in all wars or armed conflicts.

The Service was led by our VicePresident Mr David Esler, with Scouts from the Gap Scout Group providing the Catafalque Party and Flag Orderly. We were privileged to have Mr Ron Ward provide our traditional Honour Guard, Mr Gary Forno accompanying the Service on Bagpipes and Sergeant Mark Nettle performing the bugle calls for The Last Post and Rouse.

Following the Service around 80 people adjourned to The Gap Football Club for light refreshments and morning tea prepared and served by members of our Citizen’s Auxiliary and Sub-branch.

We thank The Gap Football Club for providing the venue for our function. website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

To give some perspective of the sacrifice all those years ago, an average of 38 Australian men per day were killed over the 1560 days of the Great War.

Contacting Us Members of the Community may contact the Sub-branch by phone on: 3300 9439, email at: gap_rsl@bigpond.com or by writing to The Gap RSL, PO Box 122, THE GAP QLD 4061. Our office (downstairs at The Gap Football Club, Glen Affric St) is open from 10am until 1pm each Tuesday, please call in advance to make an appointment.

(Conditions Apply)

ALL NEW DENTURES SAME DAY RELINE (NEW FIT SERVICES) DENTURE REPAIRS (IN 1 HOUR) ALL HEALTH FUNDS ACCEPTED

VETERAN’S AFFAIRS BULK BILLING QUEENSLAND HEALTH VOUCHERS MOBILE DENTURE SERVICES OPEN SATURDAYS

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 13

The Gap Historical Society Inc.

Dr. Susan Phillips B.V.Sc. Dr. Stephen Pollock B.V.Sc. and Associates www.fernyhillsvet.com.au Consultation by Appointment

Ferny Hills Vet Surgery 9 Mawarra Crescent, Ferny Hills 4055

Ph: 3351 2122

Established 2000

The October General Meeting saw the position of Secretary filled by Don Willsher who joined the Society and who also has links to the Brisbane Tramway Museum.

November started off with our Melbourne Cup Luncheon.

Attendance could have been larger, but the 20 members and guests enjoyed a great meal amid our usual camaraderie and fun.

Best Hat Competitions were won by Beryl Hogan for the Ladies, with Runner-up Julie Rowe and President Jack Proctor was runner up to Nurdon Serico in the Men’s section. Secretary Don represented the society at the six monthly General Meeting of History Queenland, held at Bankfoot House in Glass House Mountains. Due to his ‘newness’, he gave no report on The Gap activities.

Our next General Meeting will be held on 25 November and this will be followed by our Christmas Luncheon at Arana Hills Leagues Club on 2nd December.

And don’t forget, we have a good facility available for rental at reasonable rates. Enquiries should be directed to Jack Proctor on 3300 3996 or Bev McMullin at bevmc185@gmail.com.

We wish all readers the Compliments of the Season.

SEASONS GREETINGS

Present this voucher to receive $5* off your next purchase *Offer expires 31.01.2018

Hollingworth & Spencer B D L usiness evelopment awyers The Gap Professional Centre, 6/23 Glenaffric Street, The Gap

Our Commercial team has expertise in:

• Advice on business structuring • Partnership and shareholders agreements • Commercial & Retail Shop Leases • Setting up companies and trusts • Sale and purchase of businesses and commercial premises • SMSF Borrowing • Franchising Contact Adam Robinson or Georgina Vlahos

Phone: (07) 3123 5700 www.hslawyers.com.au

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 14

FREE ROTARY CAROLS CONCERT Great free family enjoyment at Dorrington Park, Mirrabooka Road, Ashgrove, Saturday, 09 December, 2017, with Pipe Band and Jazz entertainment from 4.30pm until Santa pays a visit around 6.00pm.

Come early and have a picnic in the park. Plenty of food and drink for sale including from North’s Hockey Clubhouse.

After Santa’s visit, Jenny Woodward, the ABC TV and radio presenter, will introduce a night of your favourite Carols with backing from the Westside Orchestra and the Ignite Choir until around 7.45pm.

Then the big finish, with Ace Fireworks presenting their usual dazzling fireworks display.

Are any of the concerns below stopping you from being the person you want to be?

• Depression • Anxiety • Grief • Self Esteem • Relationships • Personal Issues Let me assist you in taking a step forward....

Mr. Lindsay Trims - Psychologist B.Beh.Sc., Grad Dip Psych., M.A.P.S. 0411 036 297

Shop 3, 288 Dawson Parade, Arana Hills 4054.

Appointments are available 6 days a week (including evenings).

Visit me at www.proactivecoaching.net

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Pet Emergency?

Anyone who has ever pulled out a credit card at the emergency clinic for something that wasn’t as dire as it seemed comes away wishing for a better knowledge of what constitutes an urgent situation -- and what doesn’t.

But as big an “ouch” as a non-emergency can be to the budget, it’s a lot better than the opposite situation: an emergency that goes untreated until it’s too late for your pet.

But how can you tell? The signs of a healthy pet are pretty apparent to an observant pet owner: bright, clear eyes with no sign of discharge; clean ears, free of build up or smell; a mouth not overpowering by its odour, with pink gums free of infection; a nose that appears moist, with no discharge; a shiny coat, with unblemished skin below that snaps back easily when pulled away from the shoulders. A healthy attitude, with normal appetite and thirst are part of the package, too, without signs of intestinal upset. No lameness, no swelling. No lumps, no bumps. No heavy panting.

Anything to the contrary is reason to have a pet checked. But is it a “go to the vet this very minute” emergency?

The “see the vet now” indicators include seizure, fainting or collapse, as well as any bloating or suspected poisoning (including rodent poison, snail bait or human medication). Snake or tick bites, too, demand immediate attention. Cats in particular can be fatally sensitive to insecticides (such as flea-control medications that are safe for dogs), petroleum-based products and common human medications.

Sometimes situations that might not seem urgent really are, such as eye injuries or allergic reactions -- swelling around the face or hives. A single incident of vomiting or diarrhoea is probably nothing, but anything more than two or three times within an hour or so could indicate a serious problem. Other signs of possible serious conditions are breathing problems, chronic coughing or difficulties urinating or defecating, the latter especially in cats.

Animals can sometimes seem fine after accidents, such as being hit by a car, exposed to extreme heat, or bitten. Even if your pet looks OK, you need to take him to a veterinarian to check for internal injuries that can kill if left untreated.

There are also situations that may not be life-threatening but are certainly painful enough to warrant immediate veterinary attention. Some of the signs of an animal in pain include panting, laboured breathing, lethargy or restlessness, loss of appetite, aggression, hiding, or crying out. While it may be possible to wait until your regular veterinarian is available, put yourself in your pet’s place. Don’t let your pet suffer!

When in doubt, call your veterinarian. It’s better to make a trip you needn’t have made than to miss the one you should have made.

Christmas Hours - The Gap Vet Surgery will be closed 24th, 25th, and 26th December and 31st December and 1st January.

Wishing all our clients a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year !

Scott and Chris

Services we offer :-

•Veterinary treatments, surgery and hospitalisation • Small animal Dentistry • Veterinary diagnostic pathology and radiology • Sales of Pet products, food and accessories • PennHIP scheme accreditation • Cat Boarding • Loads of friendly advice!

www.thegapvet.com.au

www.facebook.com/thegapvet

VETERINARY SURGERY 1104 Waterworks Road The Gap 4061 website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 15

It’s beginning to look a lot like

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✮ SOUTH FAMILY JEWELLERS: Sterling Silver, Blue or Pink Swarovski Crystal Drop Earrings $159 Pair

✮ LOOT: Christmas Aroma Stone available in Three Scents $9.95

✮ NEWSXPRESS: Sunny Life Gifts for everyone, from only $7.95

✮ FANCY THAT: Erstwilder Brooches $39.95 more designs in store

✮ BARGAIN CITY: Inflatable Unicorn $35.00

✮ BLACK TIE WHITE LACE: Men’s Brooksfield and Gloweave shirts $45.00 each Were $85.00 each

✮ STAR DISCOUNT PHARMACY: Dreamfarm Spadle $21.99

✮ THINK AESTHETICS: Eye Lash Growth Serum $70 (RRP $110), for longer, fuller lashes

✮ HUMMINGBIRD: Clutches From $49.95

✮ SPORTSFIRST: Phlat Ball V3 $19.99, Was $24.95

Keep an eye out in your mailbox for The Gap Village Christmas Catalogue. Full of beautiful gift ideas and offers galore!

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 16 TGV Magazine Advert_FINAL.indd 1

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au 16/11/2017 8:44 PM

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Christmas at THE GAP VILLAGE! et Gourm Food

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Santa Phot os Saturday

02/12/1 Located near 7 9:30am-2:30pm Vinnies Coffe e Bar One free prof es si onal photo pe Photos will be r child.

NewsXpress available for collection fr Gap Village prior to Chris om tmas.

Meet Santa

Our to y gift ou!

Friday 22/12/ 17 Saturday 23/1 10.00am – 2.00pm 2/17 10.00am – Sunday 24/1 2/17 10.00am 2.00pm – 2.00pm Meet Santa on located near the above dates, Vinnies Coffe e Bar.

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KIDS L O C S HODAY I L HO AT FUN AP T H E GG E !

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COMING IN JANUARY !

Beautiful Gift Ideas

Thank you for supporting the local businesses at The Gap Village.

SHOP

The Gap Village | 1000 Waterworks Road | The Gap Qld 4061 | Centre Management: 07 3300 3377 | gapvillage.com.au Products and offers are subject to availability. Prices correct at time of printing and valid until 31/12/17. Details subject to change.

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au TGV Magazine Advert_FINAL.indd 2

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 17 16/11/2017 8:44 PM

Ashgrove / The Gap Lions Club It is hard to believe that the end of another year is fast approaching and Christmas is only about 25 sleeps away! It’s a busy time for everyone. There are presents to buy; food to prepare and decorations to put up. If you are finding yourself short of time, why not purchase one of the Lions deliciously wholesome Christmas cakes and/or puddings? This would take one chore off your list and allow you more time to concentrate on other things.

They also make wonderful presents for those friends and family members who are hard to buy for. This year marks the beginning of the gradual introduction of new packaging for both the Lions Christmas Cake and Pudding, so look out for it. For a list of where the cakes and puddings can be purchased please refer to last month’s edition of The Western Echo or contact Lion Dennis Wogan: 0427 194 306.

Despite Christmas and the end of the year rushing

towards us, member of the Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club are still keeping busy in and around the community. In November we, with other local Lions clubs, provided breakfast to those who had taken part in the Cure 4 Brain Cancer walk in New Farm Park. We were also to be found cooking delicious sausages for shoppers at Bunnings and, in November and December, we could be seen selling the Lions Christmas Cakes and Puddings at the Wesley and Princess Alexandra Hospitals, with the proceeds going back to the hospital or into medical research.

Another recent activity for our club was the selling of Lions Melbourne Cup Trifecta tickets. A lucky resident in Ashgrove collected the $1000 prize. Well done! Thank you to all those people who had brought tickets allowing us to raise over $2000, which will go towards helping us to

THE GAP

support the local community in the year ahead.

Already there are plenty of exciting events planned for Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club for next year and we never know what is ‘round the corner’. If your New Year’s Resolution is to help others and/or you wish to become more involved within your local community then why not consider joining us? Should you like more information about Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club and what we do, please give our Lions Membership

Chairperson, Peter Cooper, a call: 3856 2390. He will be more than happy to tell you all about us. If you are a younger person who would like to get involved the President of our Leos Club, Emily Conn, would also love to hear from you via email ashgrove/thegapleos@ gmail.com or you can find them on Facebook: atgleos.

New members to both clubs are always warmly welcomed.

Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year

TAKING YOUR CHRISTMAS ORDERS NOW!

Pick up an order form in store then simply return it to the store, phone, email or FB message your orders to ensure your order is ready for your Christmas feast!

Our trading hours for Christmas Week will be as per normal but we will be closing at 4pm on Christmas Eve. Please note we will be closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, and will be closing at 4pm 31st Jan and closed New Year’s Day. Don’t leave it too long to get your orders in! best wishes, Julie & Gary Read and the team at MU@H

Name & Date Ham Required Phone Number

Turkey

Pork

Other Poultry

Other Roasts

Pudding

Special Requests

(plus address if Home Delivery)

TOTALS

The Gap Village Shopping Centre, 1000 Waterworks Road, The Gap The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 18

Ph: 3161 5021 website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Minimise the Optional Death Tax on your Pension

By Mark Taylor CFP

Many retirees in Australia have an account-based pension. These used to be known as allocated pensions, and are a wonderful vehicle for funding retirement income. One reason is the generous tax treatment. Once you are over age 60 and retired, the earnings in the pension fund are tax free. Also, pension payments are tax exempt, meaning that no tax is payable. It’s easy to forget, when all your income is tax free, that you do have a taxable component in your pension account. This does not matter when one half of a couple dies, as the surviving partner can still receive pension payments tax free. However, it is when both members of a couple have died that this starts to matter. Typically, money is paid to adult children then, and tax is payable at the rate of 17% (this includes Medicare levy). We find that this can often amount to hundred of thousands of dollars. The odd thing is that this is an optional tax: if you take the money out whilst you are alive, you do not have to pay it. The question becomes - what to do with the money?

We intend to run regular seminars at Taylor Financial Advice and Solutions, and will be covering this topic in more depth. If you are interested either in attending one of these seminars, or in having a private, obligation-free, individual meeting to consider your options, please contact us by email or phone, or drop into our new premises at The Gap Shopping Village today.

2018 Calendars & Diaries AVAILABLE NOW! Proudly servicing The Gap for over 19 years

Let us take the hassle out of ‘Back to School’ - we can supply your School Book Packs

NewsXpress The Gap stock a wide variety of 2018 diaries and calendars to suit every taste and budget

1000 Waterworks Road, The Gap Tel 3300 6890 By supporting your local independent business you are supporting your local community. website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 19

dhs

hair studio

• Styling Equipment

• Gift Vouchers

Wishing all our valued clients a very Merry Christmas and a happy 2018.

Thank you for your support in 2017.

Christmas Gift Packs

We have lots of stocking fillers and gift packs available starting from 974 Waterworks Road,The Gap (opposite The Professionals)

$11.95

3300 4200

21 years in Professional practice www.ntpages.com.au/bernardevens

Amnesty International Local Groups Meet in Ashgrove and The Gap There are two Amnesty groups in this area, one in The Gap

and one in Ashgrove. See contact details below.

Both groups do regular letter-writing to advocate for the rights of prisoners, which is a core, long-running Amnesty International activity. Between November and the end of January, Amnesty International also runs an intensive letter-writing project and petitioning project called Write for Rights. We can provide all the information you need to participate in this worldwide effort to release human rights activists and others who are illegally detained. Phone or message Sally on 0476006990 and we will email you the materials.

In addition to this letter-writing work, members of the Amnesty group in Ashgrove will be holding an information stall at The Gap market at Hilder Road in December. Phone or message Sally on 0476006990 for details.

The Ashgrove Amnesty group meets in the evening on the first and third Thursdays of every month. The Gap group meets on the 2nd Monday of each month at 9am.

More information about all these things can be found on the Amnesty Facebook page or website or by phoning one of us: For info on The Gap group, phone Di on 3300 1861.

For info on the Ashgrove group, phone Sally on 3366 2046 or 0476 006 990.

Intune

Beauty Therapy Beauty Salon & Day Spa

3300 9710

27 Cobble Street, The Gap 1 December — 31 January

• Christmas Gift Voucher • Algologie Revitalising Specific Facial plus Lash Tint & Brow Wax $99

Specific Treatment Facials Spa Manicure • Spa Pedicure ‘Relax & Unwind Package’ Massage • Reiki Specific ‘Algologie’ Facial Treatment, Spa Pedicure with Algae Masque for feet & all full Bio Sculpture Gel Nails pedicure features, plus Full Body Massage with organic coconut oil and Aromatherapy oils to suit you $220 Waxing • Tinting ‘Pretty Feet’ Body Treatments Bio Sculpture non-acrylic non-chip Colour Gel Bridal & Formal Make-Up Toenail overlays plus a Pedicure that lasts six weeks $69

Gift Vouchers Available The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 20

http://intunebeautytherapy.ntpages.com.au website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Physiologix Corner Got Shoulder Pain?

R e s e a r c h clearly shows that orthopaedic tests, the set of tests a surgeon and your physio will run through, don’t tell us much.

Scans don’t tell us exactly where your pain is coming from either. These tests and scans are what we are all taught as basic undergrad physios to do and it is not enough. So what do we do as experienced physios to help you.

Key is for you to show us a movement that hurts you. Your physio will then spend time moving lots of things around to see if we can change your pain, from your shoulder blade, to the shoulder joint, to the spine…..any one of these things might help or not help….. everyone is different!

What works to improve your pain is where we start. Using massage and joint manipulation/mobilisation so that your body can maintain this position helps. Exercises that then hold everything in this new position are key. Teaching you how to change the postures of your body so you can help yourself is essential. Rehab has to progress you to where you can maintain these corrections through all ranges of movement and activity you want to do in life ... this is what will help ensure your injury doesn’t come back!

What is I have been told I have a rotator cuff tear in my shoulder?

You can be totally pain free with a total rotator cuff tear Exercise is as effective at surgery at 1,2,4 and 5 year follow ups ... at a fraction of the cost! It is way cheaper than surgery as well as all the rehab you have to do post surgery, and it is lots less risky.

75percent of people with a partial or a full thickness rotator cuff tear did as well as surgery 1-2 years later If you do need a corticosteroid injection and it doesn’t work, multiple injections have been shown to be no better than just a single injection……and potentially damage can be caused to the tendon long term from the steroid, accelerating, not helping the tendon degeneration.

Don’t look for the “quick fix” – if you really want to make a difference, help yourself.

Education is key. Research has shown that just very good education can make the world of difference. Your physio needs to be abreast the latest and greatest to make sure this is accurate to the best of our ability. Sometimes, as we discussed above, exact diagnosis is difficult and is not the most relevant thing.

However knowing the answers to the following questions are key to your shoulder pain recovery: Do you understand why you injury happened What must you stop doing that makes it worse?

What must you keep doing to make it better? website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

PILATES at The PHYSIOLOGIX studio space has expanded!

Our bigger and well equipped pilates studio offers custom programs for individuals or small group classes, with all sessions run by a highly qualified physiotherapist. See you there!

We offer a variety of classes including:

Pilates equipment classes Group classes Individual sessions

Pregnancy classes Sports specific programs Custom Physi-app home program

Workcover/Insurance/DVA/EPC accepted Hicaps on site for immediate rebate

(07) 3511 1112 admin@physiologix.com.au www.physiologix.com.au

At The Gap Health & Racquet Club 200 Settlement Rd, The Gap

Belinda Wicks

Winning With Food EAT NOURISH EXERCISE BELIEVE EVOLVE

Find A More Healthy You! Commit to Being Fit Today!

PERSONAL TRAINING & WEIGHT MANAGEMENT FITNESS FOR YOU START TODAY DON’T WAIT

CALL BELINDA 0403 085 640 Call Today and Receive Your First 2 Personal Training Sessions FREE! Exercise (that means you doing them) is key. Are you doing them and regularly?

Don’t stop! Do you know what daily activities you can keep doing safely which will help to keep you from losing too much general strength and fitness?

At Physiologix we will guide you through this education giving you the best possible chance of you helping yourself which only adds to the great work the physios will also do with you.

Our highly qualified physios are here to help you along each step of the way.

You can contact us at Physiologix, upstairs at The Gap Health and Racquet Club on (07) 3511 1112, email us for our website, Physiologix.com.au or find us on facebook @physiologixts.

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 21

Plumbers We Are P L

Ashgrove Historical Society Inc.

ty td

LICENSED PLUMBERS & DRAINERS

• All Residential Maintenance • Hot Water Systems • Blocked Drains • Water Filters & Coolers Call us on 3351 0016 email plumbersweare@bigpond.com QBCC Act Licence No: 1207816 ‘Your Local Plumber’

WARDROBE SPECIALIST Sliding Doors: Repair, Re panel, Replace.

All styles incl Mirror, Vinyl, MDF, Coloured Glass.

Shelving Systems: Repairs, Upgrades, Replace.

Ventilated and Melamine.

Built in robes: Construction.

Linen and Garage Storage and small handyman jobs.

Specialized Handyman Services Keperra

Phone Bruce: 0419 437 470 *Jobs up to $3300 only

QBCC1152709 • NO Call out fee • Free Quotes & Advice • Drainage - New & Repairs • Roofing & Guttering • Bathroom & Kitchen Renovations • Rainwater Tank Maintenance, Suppy & Installation • Blocked Drain Specialist • Dishwasher & Fridge Installation • Water Filters • Pumps • Garbage Disposals • Burst Pipes • CCTV Drain Camera Inspections • Jet Roding • Electric Drain Cleaning • Whirly Birds • Roof Vents • Skylights And much more just give us a call ...

Phone: 3300 3934 Mobile: 0488 782 650

www.pandanus.net.au

admin@pandanus.net.au

Proudly Supporting our Local Community

GOOD DEAL MOWING • Free Quotes • Fully insured • Pensioner Discount

Phone Andy 0439 734 142 email: Gooddealmowing@hotmail.com

Lawn mowing - Ride on mowing Hedge Trimming - Tree & Shrub Pruning Tree Removal - Regular Garden Maintenance Rubbish Removal - Weeding & Mulching and Garden clean ups.

As the year draws to a close, members of the Ashgrove Historical Society extend to all our very best wishes for the Christmas Season and the New Year.

Our last stall and raffle for the year will be held on the 15th of December outside Woolworths Ashgrove. Our publications will be on sale and make excellent gifts for family and friends.

In particular, 50 extra copies of Lost Ashgrove, which sold out earlier this year, have been printed and will be available at the stall. Copies may also be purchased at the monthly meeting of the Society or by contacting the Secretary, Julie Moorhouse on 3366 4621.

At our first meeting for 2018 on February 3, Libby Black will present details of her father, Allan Stanley. The title of her talk is: Allan Stanley: an Ashgrove local and pioneer in the plastics industry. This promises to be a fascinating account not only of a local resident but also of a particular industry. All are welcome to the meeting which is held in the Ashgrove Library meeting room from 10am to 12 noon. Morning tea follows.

Next May the Society celebrates its 15th anniversary. It is thanks to the tireless work of many volunteers that the Society has continued and grown in numbers and strength.

We look forward to some special celebration.

The web page is:ashgrovehistoricalsociety.org

Enoggera & Districts Historical Society Inc.

by Dave Livett

Excuse the cliché but where on earth has this year gone!

Never mind; if you missed out on joining or visiting us in 2017 you will be just as welcome in 2018.

Our final Thursday morning opening for this year is 14 December; the library will re-open on January 11 and barring unforeseen calamity will open each Thursday throughout the year between 9.30 and 1pm or at other times by arrangement.

As usual we will hold our Anzac Day afternoon service and our open day in July (14). We will continue to commemorate the centenary of World War I, but as you will see when you visit, our historical archive goes well beyond matters military.

Our wheelchair friendly research centre known as Kate Perry Library, is located in Enoggera Memorial Hall on the corner of Wardell and Trundle Streets, Enoggera (refidex 139 A10). By car the hall is approached from Glenalva Terrace or Pratt Street; limited parking is available adjacent to Trundle Street entrance.

Buses 350, 390, 598 and 599 pass the door; Enoggera station on Ferny Grove line is a few minutes walk towards Samford Road/ Wardell St intersection. For more information phone Dave on 3366 3191 or email edhs.secretary@gmail.com New members are always welcome and our publications are readily available. Look out for our 2018 calendar that will be published shortly at a cost of $10.

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 22

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

TAYLOR RANGE

WATER - There is no life without it!

COUNTRY CLUB LTD.

Do you know what is in your drinking water? Water is absolutely essential to the healthy function of our bodies and has a long list of tasks it performs, from general cooling to transporting energy and nutrients. The best water contains vital minerals and nutrients, without introducing your body to unwanted chemicals.

Ranald Auld distributes Mountain Dew Natural Spring water to homes and businesses in the North Brisbane area. As a potential customer, you can purchase 15 litres of bottled water for your home or business on a scheduled fortnightly or monthly basis for the price of just $10 per bottle delivered right to your door!That is less than 67 cents per litre for pure, fresh, clean, best tasting water that you will ever drink. There are no lock in contracts - you can stop and start at any time to suit your needs.

Mountain Dew Natural Spring water is sourced from springs which are located deep in the heart of the Gold Coast Hinterland in the McPherson Ranges which are part of the Great Divide and is Queensland owned and operated.

As a Gap resident, Ranald is well aware that many westside residents prefer to drink, cook or use bottled water. The benefits of Mountain Dew Natural Spring Water also includes NOT having to cart heavy slabs or bottles of water home each week when you do the family shop. Ranald delivers to your door taking one back-breaking task away from your shopping trips!

From an environmental point of view, using the 15 litre bottles - which are recycled - reduces the growing problem of plastics in landfill sites which benefits everyone.

For more information or to arrange delivery call Ranald Auld on 0416 692 837 or email ranaldauld@gmail.com and have plenty of fresh, pure water readily available this summer.

— Communify — Seniors Activities

MEMBERSHIPS NOW AVAILABLE

- Jump in before it’s too late!

Due to the Ta y l o r R a n g e Country Club (TRCC) having recently reached the end of its financial y e a r, s e v e r a l memberships have now been made available.

Make a splash in the 25-metre pool

Communify’s activities for seniors offer intellectual stimulation and activities in a social setting for the young at heart.

Whether it’s learning how to make pasta from scratch, sushi basics, scrapbooking & craft, over 50s fitness, gentle exercise classes or transport to shopping centres, there’s something for everyone.

Transport may be available to activities for eligible people.

For enquiries and bookings phone us on 3510 2700.

“This is a great opportunity for some local families to join the club where previously a waiting list has been in operation” explained club manager Michael Wilson.

“These memberships will not last long before we reach our capacity once more”, added Ideal for birthday parties and BBQs Michael.

TRCC facilities include 3 swimming pools, 2 tennis courts, 4 glass-backed squash courts, function hall, halfbasketball court and numerous gas BBQ areas for club members and their guests to enjoy.

With summer fast approaching this is the ideal time to join a club that offers you and your family healthy outdoor leisure opportunities, in a safe relaxed environment. Don’t miss out — contact the club today!

This is THE best water - guaranteed!

• • • •

Free delivery to your door Join the war on plastic waste $10 for 15 Litres - less than 70 cents per litre Pure fresh water full of natures minerals - no chemicals • 100% certified Organic for reliable, scheduled delivery call:

Ranald Auld

0416 692 837

Encourages a healthy family lifestyle

Opportunities for social and competitive squash

Membership is strictly limited by Club Articles.

Contact Club Manager Michael Wilson for details today.

Telephone: 3366 1560

www.taylorrangecountryclub.com.au A.C.N 009 818 277

28 Greenlanes Road, Ashgrove Email: trcclub@bigpond.net.au Fax: 3366 7430

ranaldauld@gmail.com

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 23

.....Principal's Points.......Principal's Points......

Hilder Road State School Congratulations to recent winners of special awards – Hilder Heroes: Ava L, Sophie S, Eadie M, Cormac B, Emma B, Lachlan H, Eva L and Mia T; Acts of Kindness: Molly W, Ava L, Tadhg R, Byron S, Ted A, Tara R, Michael K, Tayla F, Adele C, Rowan H, Dinel P, Eszter P, Eden H, Zaki M, Orlando W and Ariel V; Mathletics Gold Certificates: Carmen O, Mason T, Lincoln W, William S, Amelia N, Sam G and Jasper D; Australasian Mathematics Olympiad (top 25%): Arabella B, Mason Y, Thomas M, Ciaran L, Katie A and Carmen O; Leadership Pins: Lillian L, Abi C, Alexandra M and Sarah X. Also well done to: Public Speaking Competition winners – Attila P, Alexander H, Ava L, Harriet G, Hudson W and Brodie D. O u r Ta n g a l o o m a EcoMarine Ambassadors (Thomas C, Rebecca G and Oscar S) on winning the recent Telstra, Spread the Word challenge with their entry ‘on a mission to save the bay’.

Their attention grabbing video was played at The Wave event at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre in late October.

Olivia D who gained third place in the 9 years girls division at the Australian Irish Dancing Championships.

‘Day for Daniel’ in late October was well supported across the school community with red clothing and accessories worn by many students and staff. Thank you to the entire school community for supporting this child safety initiative. Tuckshop Day was celebrated on Friday, 3 November to acknowledge the wonderful work done by Mrs H, our Tuckshop Convenor, and her helpers. Students, parents and staff greatly appreciate the contributions

made by tuckshop volunteers, every week.

The recent Gala Sports Day was enjoyed by all Years 5 and 6 students in activities such diamond cricket, touch football, newcombe ball and T ball. Thank you Mr D for organising Hilder Road’s participation in this special day.

Also, many thanks to Acting Principal, Mr H, and a number of Year 5 leaders who represented the school at Remembrance Day commemorations at the Walton Bridge cenotaph on 11 November.

A fond farewell to all students in Year 6 as they prepare to move onto high school in 2018. I thank them for the many positive contributions they have made during their time at Hilder Road and wish them all the best for the future.

At the end of another school year, I’d like to pay tribute to staff, students and parents for the community spirit and unwavering commitment they have shown throughout 2017. We look forward to celebrating the end of another outstanding school year at our Carols’ Evening on Friday, 1 December.

Merry Christmas and best wishes to all for a happy and prosperous 2018.

Best wishes, John Collins - Principal

Marist Brothers Ashgrove Congratulations to Marist C o l l e g e A s h g r o v e Ye a r 12 students Bede Prince, Sebastian Ward, Jake Booth and Liam Alder who have all recently been accepted via a highly competitive auditioning process into the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University. The Conservatorium is among the top 50 performing arts

institutions in the world and has recently been identified as the best creative arts school in Australia. Also, congratulations to Andrew Spies, another talented Marist Year 12 musician who was last month accepted into a Bachelor of Music at JMC College. The boys will join a lineage of old boys who have progressed to the Conservatorium including 2017 Conservatorium Alumnus of the year Ryan Walsh and senior lecturer in composition Dr Stephen Cronin.

The Gap State High School This is the last column for 2017. We have recently celebrated the academic successes of our senior students at our annual Senior Awards Ceremony which was held on Wednesday 25 October. The major winners foradmin@thegapshs.eq.edu. au the night were: Structured Workplace Learning Student – Lucy Hodgen-Rover School-based Traineeship Award – Jayben Bertrand Excellence in Fitness and Wellness Award (Ritual HQ) – Rory Carter P & C Fellowship Award Year 10 –Grace Ferrentino Year 11 – Jamie Fulloon Year 12 – Liam Burke Highest Cultural Award (Sponsored by the State Member, Ashgrove) – Connor Perkins Highest Citizenship Award (Sponsored by the State Member, Ashgrove) – Piper Fleming ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Awards Year 10 – Laura Edwards Year 12 –Anton McQueen Exceptional Leader ’s Award (Federal member for

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 24

Ryan) – Lily Caperon The Caltex All Rounder Award – Kate Watson Outstanding Academic Excellence 2013 – 2017 – Emily Brynes, Nicole Carr, Hannah Davies, Cameron Edwards, Jasper Holland, Kate Watson Outstanding Academic Achievement Award (Federal member for Ryan) – Jordyn Sutherland University of Queensland Create Change Achievement Award – Lilli Corrias-Smith Leon Bell Memorial All Rounder Award – Sophie Kenway Janine McMasterKirkwood Memorial Scholarship Award – Eleanor Kruger School Dux – Kate Watson Our school commemorated Remembrance Day on assembly on Friday 10 November and as has become our tradition, the incoming Captains and Vice-Captains for 2018 (Captains: Lilli CorriasSmith and Lachlan Varley and Vice Captains Ailsa Lei and Robbie Porter) were invited by The Gap Sub-Branch RSL Inc in conjunction with The Gap community to commemorate Remembrance Day at the Wa l t o n B r i d g e R e s e r v e Memorial on Waterworks Road.

We f a r e w e l l e d o u r Year 12 students on Friday 17 November at a special Graduation and Valedictory Ceremony attended by family, friends and staff, for many there was both a sense of excitement and sadness. The class of 2013 - 2017 has distinguished itself through their leadership, involvement and achievements over the last five years. Our senior leaders made farewell speeches and the school was able to officially thank them and wish them every success in their future careers and endeavours.

(Continued on page 25)

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Principal's Points......

The Gap State High School (Contd.)

(Continued from page 24)

In a school setting, this time of the year is a time for both planning for the year ahead and reflecting back over the year that has been.

Students have been involved in a number of final performances for the year; an orientation day for prospective 2018 Year 7 students was held; plus an information evening for their parents as well as final preparation for the allimportant end of year exams.

Wishing you all a very safe and happy Christmas break.

Anne McLauchlan - Principal

The Gap State School Farewell Year 6s Graduation Ceremony for the graduating class of 2017 will be Tuesday, 5th December.

On this special night we will honour the contribution that all our senior students have made to the school and wish them success in the next phase of their education.

As we finish the 2017 school year I would like to congratulate all students at The Gap State School for their achievements. We give a fond farewell to all our graduating year 6 students and wish them well as they head off to high school. They are a wonderful group of students who rose to the challenge of leading the student body in 2017. Their achievements included outstanding academic, sporting, music and other co-curricular results, as well as ably supporting school events and programs.

Most importantly, they often provided admirable examples of The Gap State School’s values in action. They have shown excellent commitment to their work and have gained invaluable skills as life-long

learners. It has been a pleasure to see students achieve their personal goals and continue to strive to improve in all areas.

Recognition and appreciation must go to the teachers and staff at The Gap State School for their professionalism and commitment, not only to our students’ academics, but to instilling our five core values.

I wish to thank them for encouraging all of our students to be the best that they can be; today, tomorrow and into the future.

Chaplaincy Fundraiser Success!

After months of meticulous planning our school recnetly held a very successful Ladies Night.

The Ladies Night event committee members were Jacqui Edgar, Susan Pullar, L i z z i e We b b , R o w e n a Petterson, Andrea Nichols, Jo Smith, Carrie Maule, Janice Chapman and Jocelyn Hayes.

All eight ladies deserve a medal for the generous giving of their time and energy to ensure this event raised funds for our worthy Chaplaincy program. And raise money it did! Congratulations to Jacqui and team for raising approximately $8300.

I appreciated two aspects about this event. Firstly it was all about community involvement. Many local businesses sponsored the event

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Individual piano tuition Mariella Farrugia MTAQ (prof) LLCM, ALCM, 30 years teaching experience

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Rob’s Guitar School Professional - Experienced All Ages - Blue Card Rock - Folk - Jazz - Blues

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generously giving prizes for the raffles. Local business Ritual HQ provided MC’s and the staff in the kitchen and with the support of Councilor Steve Toomey, waited on the ladies tables with style.

Thank you to our sponsors Kathleen Luck from Harcourts Inner West, Allsport Physio The Gap, YMCA at The Gap State School, Spicers Balfour Hotel in New Farm for our major raffle prizes and Simplicité Australian Natural Skin Care

for supplying our goodie bags.

I extend a very grateful thank you to all members of our school community for the contribution they have made this year. Our school is all the better for the unrelenting support and commitment of parents, extended family members and The Gap community. Finally, a very happy Christmas, prosperous New Year and a safe holiday to all in The Gap community.

Joanne Nicholls - Principal

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 25

Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club After 7th December, the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club will be in recess until its first meeting in 2018 on 1st February at the Enoggera Memorial Hall.

A club member, Ann Barton, will be the guest speaker and her topic will be “What’s In My Garden”.

Ann is a keen gardener who is always on the look-out for unusual plants. She has a great collection of these in her garden and as well as sharing interesting information about them, she’ll have specimens of what is available at the time. She could even have some photos of plants which

came into bloom at another time of the year.

Our plant world produces an amazing variety of shapes, colour, and growing habits, not to mention the benefits given to humankind as well, and this talk will help us appreciate the wonders of Nature.

Be sure to make provision to protect your indoor plants when you go away on holidays, and remember to water your garden with Seasol to help the plants cope with the stress of hot weather.

This club meets on the first Thursday of the calendar month. Meetings commence after morning tea which is served at 9.45 am. Visitors

Bat Plant flower

Cat’s Whisker flower - an Australian native

and new members are most welcome. The hall is situated at the junction of Trundle and Wardell Streets, Enoggera, and is close to public transport.

Wishes are extended to all for a joyous Christmas followed by a peaceful, happy New Year.

For more information please phone the president, Pat, on 3356 1256.

Cow’s Udder fruit

3300 6304

www.patenparknativenursery.org.au

With Christmas just weeks away, the staff at the Nursery have been preparing some special treats that will make lovely gifts for your family and friends. Select from a range of plants potted into attractive containers for patio or indoor use; native orchids on logs; bush food jams and condiments and delicious home-made Christmas cakes.

Test your puzzle skills and knowledge and win a free tube-stock plant of your choice in time for Christmas.

The list of plant names given below can be found in the puzzle except for one.

The names can be read from left to right or downwards.

When you have discovered the

surplus plant name, write it on the entry form and answer the questions about this plant along with your details. Drop your entry into the box at the Nursery. The first correct entry drawn on the 20th December will receive the plant. The winner will be notified both directly and in the February issue of the Western Echo.

Alyxia Aotis Babingtonia Bertya Blyxa Cissus Comesperma Dianella Diuris Drosera

Ficus Fonainea Gahnia Gylcine Plumbago Poa Vigna Vitex Wahlenbergia Wandering Jew

PATEN PARK NATIVE NURSERY NATIVE PLANT PUZZLE 2 NAME (Block letters) ……………………………………………………………...................................................................…….

CONTACT PHONE NUMBER ………………………………………………....................................................................………

Surplus plant name …………………………………………………………................…....................................................………

Is this a ground cover, shrub or small tree? ……………………………………....................................................................……...

What colour is the flower? ……………………………………………………….....................................................................……

In what type of environment would you find these plants? ……………….................…………......................................................

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 26

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

2018 Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony The Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap will host its 24th Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony on Friday 26 January, 2018, at The Gap State High School, commencing at 8:00am. Applicants from many different countries will adopt Australian citizenship during the morning under the guidance of presiding officer Councillor Steven Toomey.

Early this year 87 new citizens were enrolled, and while final numbers are not yet in, next year could see the largest number that the Rotary Club has ever catered for at their annual communityfocused Citizenship Ceremony.

A flag ceremony will be held, with representatives from local schools making up the flag party. Then candidates pledge allegiance, and afterwards as new citizens they are enrolled on the electoral roll so that they can vote in future elections, exercising the democracy to which they have

just committed themselves.

The Department of Immigration and Border Control will be issuing invitations very shortly, and soon we will find out the mix of candidates. Countries represented in past years have included China, France, Germany, India, Lithuania, Malaysia, New Zealand, Peru, The Philippines, The Russian Federation, South Africa, Sudan, United Kingdom, United States and Vietnam.

There will be representatives from all three levels of government in Australia: Federal, State and Local.

The Royal Bounty Bush Band have again been invited to provide Australian entertainment for the citizenship ceremony. There will be a morning tea for candidates, officials, helpers and friends.

The Rotary Club of

Ashgrove/The Gap was the first Rotary club in Australia to host an Australia Day Citizenship ceremony, back in 1995. For several years the ever-growing event has taken place at the J.A. Robertson Hall at The Gap State High School, which affords shelter and shade in the event of

inclement or blisteringly hot weather.

Visitors are welcome.

For further information please contact the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap Australia Day Coordinator: Tim Boyd 3300 1071 or 0411 141 304.

2018 AUSTRALIA DAY CITIZENSHIP CEREMONY The Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap invites you to:

v Welcome new citizens

v Reaffirm your Australian citizenship

v Enjoy: • Music of the Royal Bounty Bush Band

• Morning tea

8am Friday 26 JANUARY, 2018 J A Robertson Hall The Gap State High School

1020 Waterworks Rd., The Gap For further information please contact: Tim Boyd – 3300 1071 or 0411 141 304 website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 27

Christmas jewels along bush tracks

CHESS T'MINIT with The Gap Chess Club A field of 34 contested the Marcus Porter Memorial Tournament over two weekends in October. Jacob Edwards winning with 6 ½ points from 8 games played, ½ point in front of Tom SlaterJones and Marc Balague. Eight players are competing in the 2017 Allegro tournament at the Gap Chess Club, where players have only 10 minutes to play all of their moves, with 10 seconds added each move.

Tony Morris is leading with 10 ½ points from 12 games played, with Andrew Robinson one point behind. With the conclusion of this tournament, social and inter-club games will be played at the Club, until its close from 8 December to the end of January.

The Gap Chess Club (affiliated with the Chess Association of Queensland) meets at 8.00pm on Friday nights at Room B6, The Gap State High School. New members are welcome. All standards are catered for, whether you wish to play socially, or in our tournament play. For further details contact Andrew Robinson on 3862-8178 or visit the

club’s website at: http://www. thegapchessclub.org.au/ The position for this month’s problem was found on the internet (author unknown).

Black has their full complement of pieces, and white has only a king and pawn, but amazingly with the right moves can win. The first 2 moves are crucial. For a solution for this months and many previous chess puzzles, visit http:// www.thegapchessclub.org.au/ chess_problems/puzzle_index. htm . Solution to last month’s puzzle: 1 Rh8 and the threat of checkmate leads to a rook and king versus king ending.

Other moves lead to a winning but more complicated queen and king versus rook and king position.

If you are enjoying a walk in our local bushland around Christmas time, you might be lucky enough to see the Australian Christmas Jewel Spider Austracantha minax.

You’ll have to look carefully as these glittering jewels of the bush are quite small with a body length of 8mm. And that’s the females, the males are even smaller at 4mm in length.

They often construct their webs across bush tracks with several spiders on one web.

Christmas Jewel Spiders are quite common especially on the Mount Coot-tha tracks.

Author of A Field Guide to Spiders of Australia Robert Whyte said the Christmas Jewel Spider was one of Australia’s most popular spiders.

“The Christmas Jewel Spider is one of Australia’s most photographed spiders.

“It’s found in all States and Territories in shrubby coastal and inland woodlands, mostly in summer.

“Often you can see them in large semi-social groups of dozens of webs, some of them reduced to a few supporting strands,” Rob said.

The Christmas Jewel Spider has black spines around the abdomen and distinctive yellow, white and black markings making it easy to identify. The smaller male lacks the prominent spines and is very rarely photographed.

A Very Merry Christmas From POWERtalk Brisbane Central Wow! Where did the year go?

We at POWERtalk Brisbane Central have had a huge and exciting year.

It has been a year of celebration for us with our 50th Anniversary; and a year of change with Organisational reshuffling that has opened our doors to lower membership fees and huge opportunities for growth.

Our final meeting for the year is 5th December at Grange Library Meeting Room 645 for 7pm start, concluding at 915pm.

We will recess through until February 13th when we will start the new year with renewed vigour.

If you new year’s resolution is self-improvement, or beating the fear of speaking to a group, then come along to our meetings and discover how much growth is available to you with us – we’d love to have you grow with us. Enquiries Mary 0438 624 667.

Australian Christmas Jewel Spider Austracantha minax PHOTO: Robert Whyte

SOWN Nursery Christmas opening hours

The Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN) nursery at 57 Paten Road The Gap will be open as usual all through December including 9-11am on Saturday 23 December.

The nursery will be closed from 24 December until reopening on Wednesday 3 January 2018. The regular opening hours are Saturday 9-11am and Wednesday 9.00am-12.30pm.

At the nursery, financial SOWN members can obtain free plants, native to the Enoggera catchment, for planting in their revegetation sites or bush gardens. You will need to show your membership card to take plants.

For more information or to join SOWN go to www. saveourwaterwaysnow.com.au.

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 28

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Gap Anglican Church Invites you to join us for our Christmas Celebrations

Service of Readings and Carols Sun 17th Dec 7.00pm Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Christmas Eve Service - 5:30pm Christmas Eve Service - 7.30pm Christmas Day Service - 8:30am

The Gap Anglican Church Corner of Waterworks Road and Kullaroo Street Parish Office: 07 3300 1502 website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 29

As the year Reflections... draws to a close

by Richard Speechley

In the Reflections columns of October and November I wrote on items of a personal nature and memories of long ago when one had the enjoyment of cracker night in November.

This month I again write on a personal level, as this year, on 6th December, I reach the 20th year since my kidney transplant, which took place on 1997 at the Princess Alexandra Hospital, Annerley. My story in this regard is well covered in my Reflections III book, which I dedicated to my donor, Paul Jeffrey Stewart, a commercial pilot who lost his fight for life 12 days after injury in an horrific motor vehicle accident near Boulia, Queensland, a long way from his home in Perth.

Paul was 25 at the time and I, at 65, had been retired from working for three months. I now say, with the 20th anniversary, I’m working on Paul’s age and am now reaching 45 instead of.... work it out!

Born into a family which saw, on my mother’s side, inherent poly-cystic syndrome, I enjoyed good health until around 55 where I was well looked after by a physician on the Terrace who had rooms at Ashgrove. I eventually joined the public health system at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, commencing daily dialysing at the then operating dialysis unit at Keperra each Monday, Wednesday and Friday, during the morning for a period of four hours, then lunch and off to work.

After about five months I was approached if I would like to have all the tests in order to be placed on a transplant list.

I readily agreed to these tests and was found suitable for a kidney transplant. A fistula – a surgically created vein used to remove and return blood during dialysis – was prepared

in my left arm and I was given a beeper which I carried all the time and placed beside me each night on retiring. One morning, around 6am, the beeper went off and I hurried to call the two phone numbers provided. Both numbers I called knew nothing about what I was talking about, so off I went to work leaving my wife waiting, should another call come. It turned out the beepers can suddenly activate!

Retiring from work in September, three months later, on Saturday 6 December 1997 at 12.45pm a Dr Burke from the Princess Alexandra hospital rang. Calling a taxi, my wife and I were soon on the way and at 5.10pm I was in theatre for my life-changing operation.

I pay tribute to the doctors and staff who have looked after my health and renal condition through the past 20 years, realising that to be able to watch my sons mature and grandchildren reach adulthood as my wife and I grow old together was indeed an enormous gift.

Readers should consider becoming an organ donor.

Those who do give the gift of life will be forever remembered. To become a donor refer to the links at the end of this article.

School day break-ups were usually held on the second Friday in December, with a general muck around day.

Cleaning up, rinsing out the ink bottles, scrubbing the desk tops and the long benches we sat on, sharing watermelon at lunch, then out around 2pm for early home time, to prepare for the break-up fun and dance in the Old Gap Hall – a highlight of the year where one wore one’s best and the rare occasion you actually wore shoes and socks!

One particular year I remember very well. On

25 December 1997 - 20 years ago, following my kidney transplant, a life-giving gift from my donor Paul Jeffrey Stewart

arrival home I went about my usual afternoon chores which was to cut some sorghum down in the cultivation which was on the town side of the creek, fronting School Road.

The cut sorghum was placed on a sled to a chaff cutter at the dairy and sliced up into buckets to feed the cows at milking time. To this day I never know how I swung the reaping hook into the inside of my right foot just below the ankle. With a finger pushing on the stab hole, the bleeding stopped and back at the dairy I washed away any evidence of a wound. A good night at the break-up ended abruptly after a couple of dances when the wound opened up filling my shoe with blood and sighted with great concern by my mother who soon had me outside for a clean up and no further dancing.

We did wear shoes and socks to Sunday School – held at 2pm at The Gap Methodist Church (now The Gap Uniting Church) and of course when our birthday trip to town occurred once a year. A little older, my female cousins

The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 30

who worked as waitresses with Uncle Harry at Rowes Restaurant in Edward Street, and who lived in a flat in Red Hill, would meet me off the bus and take me to town.

This was an opportunity for me to buy Christmas presents for the family – things such as 6d (5c) pipe cleaners for Dad, nice soap for Mum and some cheap sweets for my siblings.

Lunch was always at “Rowes” a leg ham combination green salad with trimmings and a huge glass of what I referred to as “jungle juice”. I recall it was juice, cordial, finely chopped fruit, ice and served with a long spoon and straw! A great day out!

December was always good and then Santa came.

Good health and Merry Christmas to all readers.

For information on becoming an organ donor, or to donate to Donate Life, visit www.donatelife.gov.au or call 3176 2350 or email donatelife@health.qld.gov.au

13 14 95 website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Probus Club of The Gap The big cultural event in early November is of course the Melbourne Cup, with all the associated lunch parties and sweeps.

Club members, determined not to miss out, gathered at The Gap Tavern to watch the races, comment on the fashions and enjoy good company. No fortunes were won or lost (we don’t play for sheep stations at the club) but all enjoyed a day of great entertainment.

Probus is primarily a social club, and not a service club like our parent Rotary, but we like to do our bit, so this year we have adopted “3rd Space” a charity for the homeless, formerly known as “139 Club” as our Christmas charity. We’ll be making donations in kind, of new clothes, toiletries and little luxuries.

With the Christmas lunch not that far away, plus a cruise on Pumicestone Passage, Queensland Pops and Mama Mia excursions it’s going to be a busy couple of months ahead.

The Gap Probus is keen to hear from you if you would like to get out, make new friends and do interesting things. There are also concessional prices for Probus members on anything from travel to insurance.

If you are interested in joining us, or just coming along for a visit, we would welcome your enquiry. Call our secretary Jan on 3366 2998 or 0448 965 459. We meet at 2pm on the first Thursday of every month, at The Gap Baptist Church, by the traffic lights at the junction of Waterworks and Settlement Roads.

Places are available – no waiting list – and we’d love to meet you.

National Servicemen’s Association of Australia (Queensland) Inc

by Dave Livett

The Association exists for the benefit of Australian nashos called up for either of the two schemes operating between 1951 and 1973 and the wives/widows thereof. Conscripts who served countries other than Australia are invited to join as associate members.

To find out the benefits of membership, to apply for the two medals to which Australian nashos are entitled or to locate a branch near you, call 3324 1277 or scroll website www.nashoqld. org.au. For further details about Brisbane North West branch call Dave on 3366 3191.

Thank you to patrons of Coles and Woolworths at Everton Park who supported our fundraising during the week leading up to Remembrance Day; thanks also to the management of Coles and Woolworths for once again allowing us to be there.

Brisbane North West Branch will not have a December meeting; our next gathering will be on 21 January and thereafter on the third Sunday of each month up to and including November at 10.15am at Gaythorne RSL. After each meeting enjoy Sunday lunch in the comfortable RSL bistro. website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

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For more information contact Philippa Wightman on Ph: 3300 1846 or 0408 496 737 or mail: PO Box 270, The Gap Q 4061 The Deadline for the FEBRUARY 2018 Edition Wednesday 24 January 2018

Phone: 3300 1846

email: editor@westernecho.com.au

Looking for an Ideal Present?

If you have enjoyed Richard Speechley’s “Reflections” column over the past eight years, you can now buy the books!

“Reflections 1,2 & 3 Memories of The Gap” are..

AVAILABLE

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To secure your copy/copies, call Richard on

3300 1425 The Western Echo December 2017/January 2018 Page 31

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