The Western Echo February 2024

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FEBRUARY 2024

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WELCOME TO OUR NEW CITIZENS! CELEBRATING CITIZENSHIP ON AUSTRALIA DAY…

STORY PAGE 3

Serving the community since 1988 E:

P: 3300 2077 sales@wyattauto.com.au

Located at BP The Gap, 850 Waterworks Road, The Gap 4061

*All Mechanical Repairs *Log Book Servicing *Safety Certificates *Brake & Clutch Repairs *Air Conditioning *Starter Motors *Alternators *Batteries *Wheel Alignments *Tyres

Buy 3 Kumho Tyres & get 4th for FREE

Quoted price includes fi fittting, balancing & Wheel Alignment

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The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 1

Advertiser'sDirectory BUILDING, TRADES & SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

A&C Property Detailing | P: 0401 210 038........................... 11

Harcourts Solutions - Carmen Briggs | P: 0418 742 511....... 10

Inness Green | P: 0414 564 520......................................... 29

OIKOS | P: 0414 686 010.................................................. 12

Lone Star Hire | P: 0418 238 005....................................... 25

Ray White - Jack & Stephen Dangerfield............................. 14

Taylor Range Club | P: 3366 1560...................................... 16

Arana Touch Football | P: 0413 660 216.............................. 12

The Gap LOCO | www.thegaploco.com............................... 19

Fish n Flips Swim School.................................................... 21

TriCare Ashgrove | Ph: 1300 874 2273................................ 18

FebruaryEcho

COMMUNITY

FOOD, DRINK & ENTERTAINMENT Arts & Eats - Showcasing Local Artists................................ 12 La Belle Vie Bistro & Bar | P: 3180 8851............................. 31

LAWYERS

Hollingworth & Spencer | P: 3123 5700.............................. 29

MECHANICS & AUTOMOTIVE

Wyatt Automotive | P: 3300 2077......................................... 1

MEDICAL, HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Alive Remedial Massage | P: 0439 887 678......................... 17 Body Wellness Place | P: 0403 085 640............................... 19 Physiologix | P: 3511 1112................................................. 25 The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy | P: 3300 1555.................. 32 Wenatex | Ph: 07 3667 7800.............................................. 14 Zen Acupuncture | P: 0478 694 310................................... 20

POLITICAL/GOVERNMENT Cr. Steven Toomey | P: 3407 1900....................................... 5 Jonty Bush MP | P: 3554 9100............................................. 7 Elizabeth Watson-Brown MP | P: 3378 1599.......................... 9

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Published by: Meglara Pty Ltd PO Box 669, the Gap Q 4061 | 0409 440 501 www.westernecho.com.au | editor@westernecho.com.au facebook.com/TheWesternEcho instagram.com/thewesternecho Editor: Melanie Grevis-James | Designer: Kym Bierenbroodspot Printed by: Printcraft | Distribution: IVE Distribution

SCHOOLS, EDUCATION & FAMILY

Welcome to our New Citizens!.....................................3 Competition - Ruby Red Jewellery...............................4 News from The Gap Ward...........................................5 Col's Chat..................................................................6 From The Editor.........................................................6 State Government Update...........................................7 Rotary Carols by Candleight Concert 2023....................8 Libby's Latest.............................................................9 Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club....................................10 The Gap Probus Club................................................11 Ashgrove Forum.......................................................11 Ashgrove Rangers....................................................13 Paten Park Native Nursery........................................13 Brisbane Art in Bark.................................................14 Brisbane Inner West Chamber of Commerce.............. 15 The Gap She Shed...................................................15 Brisbane North Cake Decorators.................................16 Westside Business Heart...........................................16 Walton Bridge The Gap Girl Guides............................ 17 The Gap LOCO.........................................................19 Enoggera & Districts Historical Society....................... 20 The Gap Laughter Club.............................................21 Ashgrove Historical Society.......................................22 The Gap Repair Cafe................................................22 Mitchelton & Districts Garden Club............................. 23 Newmarket View Club...............................................23 Where am I Photo Quiz?...........................................24 The Gap Creative.....................................................24 Paddington Then and Now........................................25 Ashgrove The Gap Men's Shed.................................. 25 The Gap Pioneer & History Group Inc........................ 27 Norths Hockey Club..................................................27 Ithaca Probus Club...................................................28 For the love Of Books...............................................28 Balaangala Community Group................................... 29 Recycling Tips..........................................................30

You can read The Western Echo online at: www.westernecho.com.au Enjoy the read! Links included online – for more information about our advertisers and editorial contributors.

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 2

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Welcome to our

New Citizens!

Proudly hosted by the Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap

We had true Brisbane summer weather as 79 “conferees” from no fewer than 29 countries and every continent except Antarctica became new Australian citizens at The Gap State High School on Australia Day, in a ceremony hosted by the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap. Not only had they travelled far from overseas, they travelled far on the day, from every corner of our large and sprawling city.

After registration they were invited to a light, Australian-themed, morning tea, with a chance to meet others, ask questions, and get accustomed to the place. Traditional Aussie music was provided by the Band O’ Koots to ensure a cheerful, informal and above all Australian ambience. This was their first year with us, replacing the faithful Royal Bounty Bush Band, and they did a brilliant job.

Australia one family at a time, rather than as a mass as done at other ceremonies.

Cr Toomey duly called up the families, we all heard the pledges, and on descending from the stage each family got souvenir Rotary certificates, and a native plant each courtesy of Brisbane City Council.

After the singing (“We Are Australian” and the National Anthem) there was a group photo and a swap session for anyone who preferred a bigger or smaller plant. Not everyone has a garden.

The Rotary club prides itself on being the pioneer of club-hosted ceremonies in Australia; this was their 31st ceremony and it fully lived up to expectations.

For more about the Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap: www.rotaryashgrove thegap.org.au Images credits: Tim Boyd, Jonty Bush MP, and The Western Echo

Official guests, besides the Presiding Officer Councillor Steven Toomey, included the Member for Cooper, Ms. Jonty Bush MLA, the member for Ryan, and the publishers of this Western Echo.

Rotarian Tim Boyd then briefed the conferees, explaining how the morning would work and how to look after citizenship certificates etc.

MC Rotarian Ritchie Callaghan then called the meeting to order, and the formalities began. After a flag ceremony conducted by six former Rotary Club Presidents, and a welcome by current President Dianne O’Malley, Councillor Toomey opened the formal proceedings by reading the message from the Federal Minister Andrew Giles, as required by the Act. He then gave a short speech in which he welcomed the new “conferees”: those on whom new citizenship was to be “conferred”.

Jonty Bush welcomed the conferees and emphasized the importance of community – a community which, as new citizens, they would be joining.

One thing that makes this Rotary ceremony different is that conferees are called up to say their pledges of allegiance to

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au WWW.WESTERNECHO.C OM.AU

EDITOR’S NOTE: We sincerely thank the Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap for inviting us to the Citizenship Ceremony – it was a very impressive and heartfelt ceremony and we are thrilled to have been part of this special event.

Thanks from Mel + Kym. The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 3

Jewellery

Competition About Ruby Red Jewellery At Ruby Red Jewellery, our mission is to design and create bespoke fine jewellery that reflects our customer’s individuality. We are based locally in The Gap.

WIN A TAHITIAN PEARL NECKLACE PRIZE! Prize total value $882!

Sponsored by Ruby Red Jewellery

ENTER ONLINE TO WIN: www.westernecho.com.au

We provide accurate jewellery valuations, leveraging our continued professional development to educate and inform our customers. Ruby Red Jewellery is committed to local manufacturing and sustainable practices through repurposing natural resources and are committed to our community and charitable giving, fostering a more compassionate and brighter world.

Katherine Kemp is a jewellery designer with qualifications in gemmology, diamond grading, jewellery valuation, pearls, and synthetic diamonds.

Contact Kath for all your jewellery needs: Phone: 0410 501 481 Email: kath@rubyredjewellery.com.au Address: 107 Romea Street, The Gap 4061 Instagram: RubyRed (@rubyredjewellery) Facebook: www.facebook.com/RubyRedJewellery

COMPETITION TIME! Win a Tahitian pearl pendant and chain

valued at $882*.

Enter our competition to win a Tahitian pearl slider pendant with a 9.6mm round natural Tahitian (black) pearl with a peacock green high lustre on a sterling silver chain, valued at $750 with a valuation valued at $132. Total prize value is $882.

To enter go to: www.westernecho.com.au Entries close at midnight on 15 March 2024. *All Terms and Conditions on the website.

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Enjoy the read! Links included online – for more information about our advertisers and editorial contributors.

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 4

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Cr Steven Toomey

Councillor for The Gap Ward

Celebrating our unsung heroes at Lord Mayor’s Australia Day Awards The Lord Mayor’s Australia Day Awards celebrate everyday people who have done extraordinary things. John, who received Citizen of the Year Award, and Don Willsher, who received the Achievement Award, are both locals who were recognised at this year’s ceremony on Thursday 18 January at City Hall.

On behalf of the wider community, I wish to thank you for your years of quiet dedication to our area.

Let’s welcome Australia’s newest citizens!

On Friday 26 January, as part of my role as Chair of Council, I was MC at the Lord Mayor’s citizenship ceremony in Brisbane City Hall. I then had the honour of being the presiding officer at two ceremonies, one hosted by Ashgrove/The Gap Rotary Club and the other by Golden Valley Keperra Lions Club. Thank you to these community groups for their tireless effort in organising these events. Across the three ceremonies I saw over 700 people become Australia’s newest citizens. Welcome to the Brisbane family! Below is a snippet from my speech on the day: “Over 30% of Brisbane residents were born overseas, this is unique amongst world cities and it is the foundation that our prosperity and lifestyle is built on.

I may be biased but Brisbane is the best city in the country, and I am proud and honoured that you are here. We attract the best of the best, and from that we all prosper and advance. Always remember, we are a strong community, grounded by the ethos of a fair go for all and a fearless regard to help others. This is what makes this area, our community, our country great.”

The next mountain biking challenge is at our doorstep!

Want to know more about the projects being delivered in your local area?

The newest off-road cycling challenge is on our doorstep!

Off-road cycling will soon be allowed on the existing firebreaks in Keperra Bushland Reserve!

The tracks will be rated medium or high difficulty due to the terrain. Through the BCC Off-Road Cycling Strategy, we aim to promote sustainable use of green spaces, letting everyone enjoy the great outdoors while safeguarding the unique natural environment.

70 Levitt Rd, Keperra

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The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 5

COL’S CHAT

Locals through my Lens

carton of beer instead’?”

Lisa – now back in her native western Brisbane hosts a podcast, Tales from a Luxury Yacht Chef that is a top ten title globally.

She has written a cookbook, is a regular on the public speaking circuit, appears on radio and TV and is looking at new ventures, including luxury retreats that are modelled on her yacht experiences, but this time on terra firma.

It has been a truly amazing life so far. To see where the journey leads from here, you can follow the adventures at www. lisamead.com

Author and photographer: Colin Bushell / Colin Bushell Photography

From theEditor Dear Readers,

Lisa Mead

If you enjoy a little extra swash to go with your buckling, then Lisa Mead’s stories of piracy, shark attacks and sinkings make Robert Louis Stevenson’s novels seem a little wishy-washy.

For the past 27 years, Lisa has been chef to the world’s most recognisable people; cruising through the Caribbean and Mediterranean on some of the world’s most luxurious super yachts. It’s a tough job, but someone has got to do it. You’d assume that this is a born adventurer but, despite a Gypsy spirit, and being the child of an Air Force family, it wasn’t wanderlust, but the pursuit of love that kick started her journey.

“I’d done my apprenticeship and worked as a chef here in Australia, before following my boyfriend overseas and into the world of super yachts. Initially, I didn’t even know what the aft and stern were. But there are times when you are required to assist with the operations of the boat, so you must quickly learn to multi-skill, especially when it’s a case of ‘all hands on deck’.”

Based around the British Virgin Islands, Lisa soon found her skill as a chef and her warm personality was a magnet for clients looking for the very best. “Clients ranged from the world of business, music and film and I was fortunate enough to meet some amazing people. This included media tutoring from TV personality, Carol Vorderman, and singalongs with Olivia Newton-John and Pete Townsend.”

Happy New Year and welcome to our February edition – our first edition for 2024!

We hope you enjoy the mix of articles in this month’s edition.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enter our Competition (page 4) to win a fabulous Tahitian pearl pendant and chain necklace donated by Ruby Red Jewellery, with a total value of $882! Please enter the competition via our website. Entries close midnight on 15 March.

Fun Quiz: join us in the fun of guessing where Colin Bushell (photographer) has been with his camera – see page 24 to try and spot where the local location of the photo is. Email us (editor@westernecho.com.au) with your answer or comment on our social media posts.

If you are a local business wanting to reach your local audience – please consider advertising. Your advertising cost contributes directly to supporting our community by keeping this publication alive for everyone to enjoy. All advertising details and costs are on our website.

A reminder please, if you miss getting your hands on a hard copy, remember you can easily read it online and download a copy from our website.

www.westernecho.com.au

The experience, for all its glamour was not without its more hairraising moments. “I experienced five category five hurricanes; two partial sinkings (in a very Titanic moment, one passenger asked if she could have a plate of nibbles as they were being evacuated); got ‘chewed on’ by a five and a half foot nursing shark; and was attacked by pirates.”

All the best, Mel & Kym Facebook.com/TheWesternEcho Instagram.com/thewesternecho Melanie: 0409 440 501 | editor@westernecho.com.au or melanie@planetmarketing.com.au Kym: 0402 450 568 | spotart@spotart.com.au

The pirate experience – whilst no doubt frightening – was resolved in the most Aussie way possible. “Pirates approached the ship wielding machetes and demanding to be allowed to board. Fortunately, we had a very calm captain, who reminded them that we had guns and said, ‘how about we give you a

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 homes in: Ashgrove, Ashgrove West, St. Johns Wood, Dorrington, The Gap, and selected areas of Bardon, Red Hill, Enoggera, Keperra and Mitchelton.

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 6

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state government update What's happening this month locally and within State Parliament

Welcome to 2024, I trust everyone had a good Christmas and enjoyed a little bit of time off!

Super Round Grant Available The Gambling Community Benefit Fund (GCBF) is Queensland’s largest one-off community grant program and distributes approximately $60 million each year to not-for-profit community groups.

The GCBF super round is now open, offering grants up to $100,000 for community groups and projects. We’ve had a number of groups, sporting clubs and P&C’s benefit from this grant, and I really do urge you to apply.

Applications close on 28 February, if I can help in any way (brainstorming, lodging the application or being a referee) please reach out.

you're invited

Back to school reminders Kid’s are now back to school, and there are a few key changes to note. Firstly, Term One introduces the Phones Away policy.

Many schools in our area had already implemented policies on this, allowing students to get through their day distraction free. This is now a statewide policy, and a good opportunity to talk to our children about finding a healthy digital balance. The second reminder is that school zone’s are back with reduced speed of 40km between 7-9am and 2-4pm.

Waterworks Road outside The Gap State High School is now newly designated as a school zone between those hours, so please do keep an eye out for those signs and flashing signals.

Cost of living support Everyone is feeling cost of living challenges, and it’s worthwhile knowing which supports you may be eligible for. Conveniently, there’s a webpage listing a number of concessions and rebates. From electricity rebates, to free reading glasses - you can read more here: https://www.qld.gov.au/community/cost-of-living-support Our office has reopened for the year, we’re always available to help with things like printing and donating hampers for local fundraisers. We also have marquee’s that schools and groups can borrow from us for their events so please do reach out.

Jonty bush MP

Working hard for us

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(07) 3554 9100 Cooper@parliament.qld.gov.au Shop 2, 230 Waterworks road, ASHGROVE qld 4060 Www.Jontybush.com

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 7

Rotary Carols by Candleight

Concert 2023

Engineering Creative Media Institute.

This event could not proceed without the funding assistance from Brisbane City Council. Our thanks to the Lord Mayor and local Councillors Andrew Wines and Steve Toomey.

But the icing on the Carols by Candlelight Concert cake was the assistance from the Army and SES. Gallipoli Barracks Army Engineers voluntary involvement under Lieutenant Colonel Jon Pollard were superbly effective – including assisting in the “emu parade” on Sunday morning. The SES assisted on the night with crowd control and carparking. Our sincere thanks to our Army and SES friends.

The spectacular results speak for themselves, and we look forward to bringing the Carols Concert to the community again in 2024.

What a cracker of a night provided by the Rotary Carols by Candlelight Concert 2023.

MC Jenny Woodward brought the superb weather with her and the Northern Suburbs Hockey Club presented the venue in wonderful condition. Approximately 4,500 people attended, of all ages. Thank you to all the wonderful people in our community who did attend.

The audience was full of superlatives for the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap and we received a number of gratifying emails thanking our Club.

Our sincere thanks to The Western Echo for their continuous great job of bringing the news and events of The Gap and Ashgrove to our doorstep.

To everybody from the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap, HAVE A GREAT NEW YEAR.

For more about the Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap: www.rotaryashgrovethegap.org.au

The Lord Mayor and his family paid us a visit and was very gracious in his comments. The fireworks finale was the best ACE Fireworks has done - set off by the Lord Mayor and his children with a mock “dynamite charger”.

Our support artists of National Serviceman’s Memorial Pipe Band and Rocus Big Band were great.

The Carols presentation by the Queensland Wind Orchestra, the new Hillbrook Chorale, and the support artists certainly lived up to the reputation our Rotary Club has assembled with these wonderful artists over fifteen years.

We also had the Tessitura Acapella Singers back. As well as delivering their single items, Tessitura bolstered the Hillbrook Chorale with the Carols.

The Police display with squad cars and mounted police was appreciated by young and old alike.

Amazing range of thanks go to so many involved - including the video work of David Pawsey of Queensland Live Streaming and the sound system by Adrian Carroll of SAE, the Sound and

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 8

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Reminder for Advertisers / Contributors please: Deadline for March 2024 Edition: All due by Thursday 15 February 2024 Please send to: editor@westernecho.com.au Any questions? Call Melanie on: 0409 440 501

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The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 9

Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club On behalf of Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club we hope you had a wonderful Christmas and New Year and we wish our community all the very best for 2024.

We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all the outlets in our region for supporting our Christmas Cake and Pudding project by selling Christmas Cakes on our behalf and also to all the members in the community for buying the Cakes & Puddings which supports local projects in our community. If you still feel the need for a Cake or Pudding please contact us via our website or Facebook page, or message 0400 210 357.

From 24 January - 6 March the Valleys Cricket Club will be conducting their All Abilities Cricket Program in Yoku Road Ashgrove from 5.30pm-7pm each Wednesday, as well from 9 February to 1 March each Friday from 5pm-6pm which is proudly sponsored and supported by Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club. Please come along and support this wonderful program.

fields of employment or higher education and provides students with incentive to pay greater attention to general qualities like contribution to the community and school, public speaking, academic skills, sporting and cultural involvement, which aims to bring forth the next generation of outstanding Young Australians.

27 March: Lions Awareness Day BBQ at Bunning’s in Keperra.

If you would like to find out more about Lions and the involvement we have in our community or if you would consider joining Lions or become a Friend of Lions, please email Allan Turner at lionatg19@gmail.com or call 0400 210 357. www.ashgrovethegaplions.org.au | www.facebook.com/AshgroveTheGapLionsClub/

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And please share the link with family or friends who may be interested too. Thanks!

Discover what your home is worth in today’s market with Carmen Briggs

In early February, our club will continue to conduct a number of BBQ’s for Trek2Health as part of their program to assist First Responders and Veterans.

Save The Date 17 February: BBQ at Bunning’s in Keperra.

27 February: Youth of the Year Club Final at Ashgrove Golf Club.

Our Youth of the Year program is designed to encourage, foster and develop leadership in conjunction with other citizenship qualities in our youth, at a time when they are about to enter the

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 10

Carmen Briggs

Real Estate Agent & Justice of the Peace

0418 742 511

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AshgroveForum The Gap Probus Club News Last year (and how long ago that seems!) finished with a bang for this Probus club. We held a soirée, free to all members, on the back deck of the Ashgrove Golf Club, with its lovely green view of the course and the hills – more than complemented by food from Zegatos restaurant. The soirées were instituted to welcome new members, but have been so popular that they have been extended to all.

A few members (perhaps those without outstanding warrants?) visited the police museum and learned some of the history of the State Police service – always interesting and sometimes pretty grim. The museum was founded in 1864 for the purposes of recording the history of the police and crime scene investigations and artifacts for the education of new recruits to the Service, but is now open to the public as well.

Our Christmas party was held at the Arana Leagues Club, a venue that has always looked after us well. Probus is not a fundraising organisation, but at Christmas, in the spirit of the season, we do adopt one charity and invite members to contribute an envelope.

This year the charity was Bravery Box, which rewards children undergoing unpleasant treatments, such as chemotherapy, for enduring the pain and discomfort. Bravery Box gives them toys as a distraction and a reward for bravery. We raised over $700 in voluntary contributions.

The lunch itself was fun, with a not-too-serious trivia quiz running through it, and some high jinks at the end.

The Probus club doesn’t officially meet during January, but you can’t keep a good Probian down so there was an informal gathering at the Broncos’ for lunch on Australia Day. This drop-in drop-out event is always a popular way to kick off the year in a relaxed way, as befits a Queensland summer.

The first planned meeting was at our usual Baptist Church venue, on the first Thursday of February – the first day of the month, as it happens. We caught up with members’ news, listened to an interesting guest speaker, got some of the year’s admin out of the way and enjoyed an afternoon tea.

If you are interested finding out more without commitment, we would be delighted to talk with you, and invite you to our meetings - first Thursday of every month, 2pm, at the Baptist Church, corner of Waterworks and Settlement Roads.

Just call Rhoda on 0409 484 219.

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Ashgrove Forum Club held its first meeting for 2024 (the 990th) on Wednesday 17th January 2024 at 6.30pm in the Ashgrove Library.

The speaking topic for all members who wished to speak was "An historic event in Australian history that had an impact”. Speakers were required to speak for a minimum of 5 minutes and a maximum of 6 minutes. As usual speeches covered a wide range of fascinating subjects which held the interest of those present.

All speeches were assessed, and the speakers congratulated on what they did well in their speeches but also provided with constructive feedback on what they could have done to improve them further.

Ronda Nix delivered a tutorial on the structure of a good speech, with particular reference to the purpose and importance of the Introduction and Conclusion of the speech. She advised that the introduction and the conclusion are the brackets that frame the main body of the speech; the introduction should grab the audience's attention, introduce the topic, and preview the contents of the body of the speech; and the conclusion should indicate that the speech is coming to an end, restate the main points in the body of the speech, and end with something strong and memorable.

At the next meeting being held on 21 February, all members are to make a short 5-6minute speech, the sole purpose of which is to entertain the audience.

Ashgrove Forum Club meets in the Ashgrove Library Meeting Room at 6.30pm, on the 3rd Wednesday of each month except December. Visitors are always welcome to attend and observe without obligation to speak, though they may do so if they wish.

For more information, contact Secretary Pat on 0458 696 267.

For information on Forum Communicators public speaking association, please visit the website www.beconfident.org.au

A&C Property Detailing OFFERING A WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES INCLUDING: House washing/cleaning | Soft-washing High pressure surface cleaning Mould, mildew & lichen removal | Internal mould removal Pre-sale detailing | Handyman & repairs Plaster repairs including expansion joins

CONTACT ANTHONY ON

0401 210 038 aandcpropertydetailing.com.au

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 11

Saturday wet weather days if needed ___

art&eats ARTWORK BY PETA HARVEY

RUBY RED JEWELLERY, ST MARK’S AND THE GAP CREATIVE PRESENT

showcasing local artists Complimentary bar thanks to our friends at Loyle, food truck, dessert table, music, cool vibes, and an amazing art raffle in support of Trek2Health.

THURSDAY 21 MARCH 2024 FROM 5PM Cnrs. Kullaroo and Romea Streets The Gap

ARANA TOUCH

ARANA TOUCH FOOTBALL

U8 to U18 Boys & Girls Individual & Team Nominations ___ Administrator or Registrations: 0413 660 216 ___ Email: harpo08@bigpond.com ___ Webpage: www.aranatouch.com

2024 SEASON 1 Competition

SIGN ON @ aranatouch.com

___

WEST Facebook: MITCHELTON https://facebook.com/ Rugby AranaTouch League Fields Cnr Samford Road & Prospect Street, Mitchelton

7th February to Contact Us: 20th March 0413 660 216 Under 8, 10, 12, 14

AranaTouch@outlook.com

& 15-20 Boys & Girls

www.AranaTouch.com

• Wednesday from 4.15pm

ARANA TOUCH - A5 LEAFLET 2024 - SEASON 1.indd 1

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23/10/2023 4:51 pm

Nunzio Lo Castro 0414 686 010

Harrison Mastrapostolos 0452 070 020

“Looking after you, your family and your home.”

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 12

What’s your home worth?

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AshgroveRangers Did you make New Year’s resolutions? Did you promise yourself that you’d lead a healthier lifestyle and get more exercise? How is that going?

Many of us start the year with a bang, only to slip up as the usual pressures of life click back into place. Maybe it’s going back to work. Maybe it’s getting the children ready for the school year to resume.

If you’re one of those people, then Ashgrove Rangers are here to help. We offer a range of activities that can boost your enthusiasm and commitment to fulfilling your resolutions. Best of all, they are family-friendly so, bring the whole tribe along.

You can find details at www.ashgroverangers.org but here is a sample to whet your appetite. Once a month, we hold the Flying 4. The main race is over four kilometres, but there are a one-kilometre and a two-kilometre race for the young ones.

The course is over a mixture of grass, concrete, and bikepath.

The races start across from Ashgrove Bowls Club on Yoku Road.

Check our website for details of dates and start times as we might be moving to a 7am start in summer with an 8 am start in winter.

We also run training sessions at The Gap High School oval on Mondays and Thursdays from 6pm to 7pm. All ages and fitness levels are welcome. The emphasis is not on how fast you can run but on having good technique through flexibility and a good range of motion.

For all this and more, see our website or check out our Facebook page. www.ashgroverangers.org

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Reminder for Advertisers / Contributors please: Deadline for March 2024 Edition: All due by Thursday 15 February 2024 Please send to: editor@westernecho.com.au Any questions? Call Melanie on: 0409 440 501

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3300 6304 | www.ppnn.org.au

Indian oak

Barringtonia acutangula is a small tree with a very large natural distribution – from Afghanistan through India, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, New Guinea and Northern Australia (Western Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland).

Each of these countries has its own common names for this tree. In English it is generally referred to as mango pine, freshwater mangrove or Indian oak. The Kuninku people of Northern Australia call it man-karlnganjl, a name derived from the hairy caterpillars that feed on the leaves and that cause severe skin irritation. In its natural environment, the Indian oak is found along the banks of freshwater creeks, rivers and lagoons and on seasonally flooded black soil plains.

Indian oak grows to about 10 metres tall in ideal conditions but tends to be smaller in cultivation. It has a lovely rounded canopy.

The light green, shiny leaves which are grouped towards the end of the branches, are arranged alternately and tend to be narrow elliptical with finely serrated margins. Periodically throughout the year, long, pendulous racemes, up to 50 cm long and each bearing up to 75 mildly fragrant flowers, create a spectacular display. Each flower is red with numerous long stamen and 4 – 5 petals. These are followed by angular fruit up to 4 cm long which are cream-green when ripe.

Indian oak is well worth growing as a specimen tree. Several planted along a western fence would be a useful wind break.

It is also used in Bonsai. This tree will grow well in subtropical areas that are frost-free. It prefers a permanently moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Bees are attracted to the flowers which produce a good honey. In, e.g. Vietnam, the young leaves are used as a vegetable in stir fry dishes. In fishing villages throughout the tree’s range, the leaves and branches are used to deoxygenate the water and thus make capture of fish easy. Perhaps the greatest use for the plant has been due to its medicinal properties. Called Hijjala in India, most parts of the tree are used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a large number of pathologies including diarrhoea, pneumonia and poulticing wounds. These medicinal properties are being researched to include in Western treatments. The wood, light and easy to work, is used for furniture, boats, tools and various handicrafts, as well as fuel.

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 13

PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

Brisbane Art In Bark Assoc.

Are you bored? Looking for something new to do? Come and join us, and learn to do a paper bark picture from the bark of the Melaleuca tree at an ART IN BARK ASSOC. Workshop. Workshops take place at Brisbane City Hall in the basement, on Adelaide Street side. Re-opening on Mondays from 29th January; weekly 9am - 12pm. Lesson cost $10; Kits $10. We supply board, bark, glue etc.

We also have a class on Saturdays at the Apostolic Church Hall, 43 Robinson Road, Nundah.

With over 55 years of combined real estate experience, for an honest, confidential and obligation free appraisal, please contact us today.

We are celebrating Art in Bark's 50 years of barking from 12th25th February 2024 at Griffith University, South Bank. Bark pictures and exhibition will be on display in their Project Gallery.

For more info: call Barbara 3271 2130, Dipti 0468 548 600, or Hazel 0408 157 117.

Please call us to make a booking.

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The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 14

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Why engage with

Your Local Chamber?

One of the questions local business owners often ask about coming to Chamber events or joining the Chamber of Commerce is – what’s in it for me?

It’s a great question and the best answer is we are a support network for all local businesses.

We can take issues raised by members up with all levels of government and their agencies and department officials. We also meet regularly with industry bodies and other business groups.

When we find common issues or solutions, they are quite often implemented, because we can bring a group view to the discussion. This is called advocacy and we are very involved in the process across Queensland.

The Brisbane Inner West Chamber currently has the chair of the Business Chamber Qld (BCQ which was formerly named CCIQ) Policy Committee for Brisbane, so we are across all local initiatives. One of the initiatives being rolled out now is the Mental Health and Wellness support program for small business being funded by the State Government and delivered in conjunction with the Chambers.

There are wellness coaches and financial support available, so we are very keen to make sure business owners know this is available and make use of it for themselves and for their team.

The other key thing about the chamber is we are not a business referral group. We are not like other business groups that operate on a referral basis. However, many people do conduct business together, once they get to know each other, and can see a benefit in working together. We offer a supportive networking environment.

We run at least one event per month, and this includes a social aspect as well as guest speakers and information about small business. You can come along without being a member and experience the benefits yourself.

Get involved and come along to one of meetings or participate in one of our regular surveys to see what is happening. We are sure you will get more than $10 value per month (that is the price of membership) and it will help us to have a stronger voice for small business in our local area.

Visit our website to find out about our next events and membership.

Please contact us: Brisbane Inner West Chamber of Commerce Phone: 1300 638 420 | Email: info@biwcc.com.au Web: www.biwcc.com.au WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

The Gap She Shed always welcomes new members. We are a community group for women to gather in friendship, to support one another, learn and share.

To join, visit our website: www.thegapsheshed.wixsite.com/ home/membership The Gap She Shed has planned a bumper 2024 with events and activities.

• Walking groups • 500 cards • Shanghai cards • Mahjong • Ukulele • Book Club • Supper Club • Movies • Knitting and Crochet • Sewing • Power Tools Demo • Thermomix Demo • Train your Brain Trivia • Mosaics • Collage

Email us for more information or go to the website.

Website: www.thegapsheshed.wixsite.com/home Email: hello@thegapsheshed.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/thegapsheshed

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Looking for a local graphic designer or marketing agency?

We’re here to help you with all your marketing and design needs… brand and logo development, brochures, ads, stationery, marketing strategy, content and copywriting, digital marketing, social media management, + a lot more.

Please Contact Us: Kym Bierenbroodspot | SpotArt | www.spotart.com.au | 0402 450 568 Melanie Grevis-James | Planet Marketing | www.planetmarketing.com.au | 0409 440 501

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 15

Brisbane North Cake Decorators MEMBERSHIP AVAILABLE!

Quality Family Recreation in a Safe, Relaxed Environment 3 Swimming Pools

2 Floodlit Tennis Courts

Brisbane North Cake Decorators members are looking forward to a busy year that is full of friendship and sharing of new ideas.

Brisbane North Cake Decorators is a branch of the Queensland Cake Decorators Association Inc., and we meet monthly on the third Saturday of the month (except December) at the Arana Hills Community Centre, 291 Dawson Parade, Arana Hills at 1.00pm.

Our aim is to encourage the love of cake decorating in all its aspects and we love to share our knowledge with everyone.

Our February meeting is on Saturday 17th February. This is one of our workshop dates and one of our members, Vikki will be showing us how to do brush embroidery on biscuits and then assisting us to complete our own creations.

We have a busy year ahead of us with the Annual Cake Show now in June and at a new venue. So, plans are well underway for it.

4 Glass-backed Squash Courts

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DON'T MISS OUT CONTACT THE CLUB TODAY

07 33661560

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We look Forward to hearing from you!

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 16

We love to see new members at our meetings and we can be contacted via our Facebook page, Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA or via email: brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail.com

Westside Business Heart is a local business networking group in Ashgrove/The Gap. Our monthly breakfast meetings are a great opportunity to get to know other local businesses and find out what’s happening in our community, build business relationships and referral business, and share business tips and news. We also work closely to support our local community and NFP groups.

All local businesses are welcome to come along to our networking breakfast events, usually held at a local café on the 2nd (or sometimes 3rd) Thursday of each month from 7-8.30am. There are no membership fees – just the cost of your breakfast.

To keep updated please follow our Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/WestsideBusinessHeart WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

Units have opportunities to participate in many activities outside Unit meetings, for example: community events, service projects, camping, adventurous activities, social outings with other Units, fundraising and even learn how to save a life.

Walton Bridge The Gap Girl Guides

Our weekly meetings are held in the Walton Bridge The Gap (WBTG) Guide Hut, which is situated in Paten Park on Paten Road, The Gap. •

Meeting Times Tuesday Guides (6-11 years).... 5pm to 7pm

•

Thursday Guides (6-10 years)....................4.30 to 6.30pm

•

Wednesday Guides: (10-14 years).................. 6pm to 8pm

•

Friday Guides (10-14 years)........................... 6pm to 8pm

•

Friday Ranger Guides: (13+ years)........ 7.30pm to 9.30pm

Guiding provides an all-female, non-competitive learning environment where girls and women can challenge themselves, find their voice, and meet new friends. We welcome members from the age of 6 up to 100+ to join our Guiding Community.

For information about the Girl Guides in your local area please contact our District Manager, Elizabeth Wheeley: mobile 0410 449 282.

Email: waltonbridgethegapdm@guidesqld.org Girl Guides Queensland is the largest youth organisation for girls and young women in Queensland with almost 4000 youth Members and 1000 volunteer Leaders and adult Members.

We provide a non-formal educational program designed to create leaders of tomorrow by building on strengths and personal skills development.

This program is flexible and can be designed to suit each individual youth Member and adult Members goals. We are an organisation that welcomes and actively seeks members from all racial, ethnic, religious and socio-economic groups.

Girl Guides Queensland is a Member of Girl Guides Australia and of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS). Girl Guiding is facilitated by trained volunteers across all states in Australia. With a program that is girl-led and designed to encourage girls and young women to be the change in their world. Unit meetings usually take place once a week during the Queensland school term for 2 hours within a local hut or community space.

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The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 17

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 18

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The Gap Loco The Gap LOCO is a very different type of business.

It is run by the workers but is owned by the community and it is a social enterprise committed to the environment.

The Gap LOCO is one of very few registered worker co-operatives in Queensland.

Its 10 workers make decisions by consensus without a boss, CEO or executive board. It often takes a while for new workers to get used to this very different way of making decisions and to properly recognize their own autonomy and responsibilities as part of the co-operative, but those who have worked in very controlling hierarchical systems greatly appreciate the new approach.

The Gap LOCO while trying to make a profit has the rules of a not-for-profit association. Workers pay $10 to become a worker and when they leave they are entitled to that $10 back. Workers do not actually own the co-op’s capital. If the Gap LOCO decides to stop operating all of its accumulated wealth must be given to a similar community group. So in effect The LOCO is owned by the community. The LOCO workers would like to see other businesses in our area adopt a similar model so profits made benefit everyone.

The Gap LOCO is short for The Gap Local Organic Co-operative Ltd. It sells certified organic fruit, vegetables, dairy and other grocery lines. Their reason for promoting organics is to reduce harmful chemicals in our environment but also to take direct steps to reduce climate change. Organic farming keeps carbon in the soil and is less reliant on fossil fuels. It is more labour intensive and so the produce is generally more expensive.

However as Frida a worker in the co-op explained, “if you factor in the all the costs of conventional farming to the environment in terms of chemical run off, erosion and fossil fuel dependency, organics will save costs in the long run.”

If you want to support this very different communitybased and environmentally enhancing business you can visit their pop up shop at 15 High St, Ashgrove, on Mondays between 10am to 5pm or organise a home delivery via email: thegaploco@gmail.com WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

SUPPLYING GREAT TASTING, fresh, Certified Organic Produce to The Gap & Neighbouring Suburbs for 10 years.

For a current price list and details about ordering – email thegaploco@gmail.com or visit thegaploco.com We are a community owned, local, worker run, registered worker co-operative.

DELIVERIES ARE ON MONDAYS and we also run a pop up shop between 10am and 3pm on Mondays at 15 High St, Ashgrove

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1798 under the name Xenophon, renamed Investigator and sold in 1810.

Enoggera & Districts Historical Society 2024 is a very special year for the State of Queensland. 200 years ago the first settlement was created on the Redcliffe Peninsula. Hardships forced the relocation to a more hospitable site on the beautiful river, oft referred to as the Brown Snake. A number of outstanding men were responsible for exploration and settlement. Each month one of these will be featured.

Matthew Flinders [1774/1814] was born in Donnington, and joined His Majesty’s Navy as a midshipman [navigator/cartographer] in 1789. He served under William Bligh, also an outstanding navigator aboard HMS Resolution before sailing to New South Wales. Flinders undertook several nautical expeditions with his associate George Bass aboard the Tom Thumb and proved in 1799 that Tasmania was an island. In 1802, Flinders and his crew, including Trim [the cat] sailed aboard a former collier renamed Investigator.

This ship launched in 1795 as the Fram was sold to the navy in

After expeditions to chart the south-west and south-east coast of Australia in 1801 and 1802 the ship sailed north and was the first to enter Moreton Bay. The many islands in the bay were explored; however the existence of a large river was missed. The Investigator became unseaworthy and Flinders returned to Port Jackson, intending to sail to England to obtain a more seaworthy vessel. In 1803 aboard the Porpoise the company was wrecked on a reef and survivors returned to Sydney in the ship’s cutter.

Setting sail again in the schooner Cumberland he was forced into port on the Isle de France [ Mauritius] then a territory of France. Flinders’ papers [passport] named the Investigator not the Cumberland and so the Governor of Mauritius, General De Caen adhering to the letter of the law, imprisoned Flinders as a spy. In 1806 Napoleon signed Flinders’ release but De Caen only permitted “house arrest”. Flinders eventually departed Mauritius in October 1809. During these long years of detention Flinders wrote his “Voyages to Terra Australis” and Trim, suspiciously went AWOL. Flinders aged 40, died the day his journal was delivered from the printer. Who knows what else this outstanding young man may have achieved.

His ship Investigator has a modern vessel undertaking similar exploration. The Research Vessel RV Investigator has been prominent in the news recently. Busily surveying and mapping the sea bed, quite a task. A task as large and important as that undertaken by HM Investigator [1801/1803] the mapping of the coastline of Terra Australis. Matthew Flinders’ maps were of such high quality and accuracy that they are still in use today.

The Enoggera and District Historical Society is located at the Hall of Memory, Trundle St, Enoggera. Contact / President is Kym Hyson: kym.hyson61@gmail.com

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The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 20

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www.westernecho.com.au

Reminder for Advertisers / Contributors please: Deadline for March 2024 Edition: All due by Thursday 15 February Please send to: editor@westernecho.com.au Any questions?

Call Melanie on: 0409 440 501 WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

The Gap Laughter Club With loneliness, anxiety and depression on the increase, The Gap Laughter Club seeks to help people in our community improve their wellbeing, have fun, and make new friends. The club welcomes community members of all ages and abilities.

The Gap Laughter Club is a not-for-profit community-based volunteer-led social group practising Laughter Yoga. The club formed in 2016 as a community giveback to support health, wellbeing, connection, and friendship.

Part of the international Laughter Yoga movement, Laughter Yoga blends playful laughter exercises with the deep breathing of yoga. It has nothing to do with jokes or comedy and everything to do with wellness. It's been scientifically proven that hearty laughter sustained over 20 minutes provides genuine physiological and psychological benefits. Like the saying goes: “laughter is the best medicine”.

The Gap Laughter Club has sought to be a hub of joyfulness

delivering weekly laughter yoga sessions in the park. No membership fee or RSVP is required – just turn up and you will be made very welcome! Our sessions are COVID-safe and led by certified laughter leaders.

Participants pay a $2 donation and kids are free. These gold coin donations are used for community givebacks such as donations to community pantries. Last year we were delighted to give $400 to Foodbank Queensland and $200 to Communify’s ‘Holiday of Hope’ campaign.

Our Laughter Yoga sessions are held at Walton Bridge Reserve, Waterworks Road on Saturdays from 9-9.40am. Look for our yellow sign and flag.

Please check our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TheGapLaughterClub to confirm session times or contact club coordinator Leanne Langley on 0438 696 325. All welcome!

T o d o li st WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 21

lived in total harmony with the environment in the Brisbane area for tens of thousands of years.

Ashgrove Historical Society Visitors are encouraged and very welcome to attend the Ashgrove Historical Society meetings held at the Ashgrove Library on the first Saturday of the month (except January) from 10am-noon. Topics and guest speakers can be found on the Society’s website under ‘Meetings’. The topic on 2 March 2024 will be The Last Gundir presented by Nayef Din. Nayef was born in Kuwait but grew up in London. He studied a Masters in Civil Engineering and moved to Brisbane in 2008. Nayef is a lover of history and was keen to learn more about Brisbane and how it came to be established. At a Lifeline Bookfest he came across a copy of the 2nd edition of Reminiscences of Early Queensland (C.C. Petrie, 1932). It furnished details of the idyllic extraordinary society that

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 22

Nayef was inspired to write a story set in that world to invite the reader to learn more about this highly evolved, intelligent civilisation that thrived on spiritual rather than material values.

At the same time, he wanted to tell the story of 18th century British exploration. His novel, The Last Gundir, is meticulously researched historical fiction. The story takes readers on a fascinating journey of knowledge and discovery of Australia's 18th century black and white worlds.

Nayef was presented with an award from the Turrbal people in 2017 for his role in raising awareness of Aboriginal culture in Brisbane. Nayef’s books, The Last Gundir (2020) and Wrong Side (2022) will be available for purchase at the meeting for $30 per copy.

A shared morning tea will follow the presentation which will provide the opportunity to chat with the guest speaker and other people interested in local history.

If you would like to become an AHS member or purchase membership as a gift for someone, fees are $10 single per annum (1 July - 30 June), or $15 couple/ family. Membership includes the quarterly newsletter and discount on our publications. Please contact the secretary, Julie, (ahs.secretary@bigpond.com) and she will let you know the EFT details or join at a meeting.

Funds raised from memberships, raffles and sale of our publications supports the research, preservation and recording of Ashgrove’s history

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Mitchelton & Districts Garden Club Embrace Life in 2024: Join a Garden Club Are you seeking new ways to gain more joy and improved health this year?

Did you know there is one simple step you can take that will nurture your wellbeing while connecting you with nature and a community of like-minded individuals? It’s easy: join a garden club! This gem of an activity promises a multitude of benefits: 1. Health and Well-being.

Gardening is known to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. Engaging in outdoor activities like planting, weeding and harvesting can be an excellent way to stay active, reduce stress and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

2. Knowledge and Skill Development.

Joining a garden club gives you access to a wealth of knowledge and experience from seasoned gardeners. Whether you are a novice or a natural, whether your garden is large or consists of potted plants alone, the club environment fosters a culture of learning and sharing.

3. Community and Social Connections.

In a garden club, you'll find a community of individuals who share a passion for plants. Sharing tips and swapping seeds create a sense of camaraderie and belonging that goes beyond the garden.

4. Seasonal Rhythms and Mindfulness.

Gardening forces us to reconnect with the natural rhythm of the seasons. It encourages mindfulness and inspires awe as you observe the growth cycles of plants and immerse yourself in the present moment.

In 2024, our garden club will celebrate 60 years of welcoming visitors and new members to a world where greenery, knowledge, and friendships flourish. Why not get involved? Your green thumb will thank you and your health will benefit - what’s not to love?!

Our first meeting for 2024 will be held at The Enoggera Memorial Hall (entrance via Trundle St) on Thursday 1 February at 9:30am for a 10:00am start. Entry is $3.00 and morning tea is provided. Contact us via email at mitcheltongc@gmail.com or find us on Facebook @ mitcheltongardenclub.

Newmarket View Club New Year, new you, join VIEW! Connect with other local women and support children in need Newmarket VIEW Club (NVC) is always happy to welcome new members who want to give back to their community and make new connections with women in the area. “We always look forward to welcoming new faces at our monthly meetings”, club President Shirley said.

VIEW, stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women, is a network of close to 300 clubs and over 14,000 women throughout Australia. It provides a place for women to connect in the community, enjoy social activities, and develop lasting friendships – all while supporting the work of children’s education charity, The Smith Family.

Shirley went on to say, “This year will be particularly exciting as the National Convention will be held at the Entertainment Centre in Brisbane. Members look forward to the National Conventions as they offer the perfect opportunity to meet members from all over Australia. The 2023 National Convention was held in Hobart.

“National Conventions feature fabulous dinners and speakers, and are a great way to hear about how we help children and young people through The Smith Family.”

VIEW is the largest community sponsor of the charity’s Learning for Life program, which provides students with financial, educational and personal support. Shirley says this is crucial, particularly in the current economic climate.

NVC supports the education of 7 students through the Learning for Life program, ensuring they have what they need for the school year. “At our meetings we enjoy an enjoyable, affordable lunch, interesting guest speakers and our Bring and Buy days offer a wide variety of handcrafts, jams, pickles, plants, cakes and biscuits and are held at 4 of our meetings during the year”, said Shirley

Anyone interested can call Roslyn on 0417 569 547 or visit www.view.org.au for further information.

Newmarket VIEW Club meets monthly on the 4th Tuesday at the Alderley Arms Hotel at 10.45am.

Photo: Club member Ellen de Chastel (left) shows fellow member, Chris Anderson (and Charlie), around her garden.

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The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 23

WHERE AM I? PHOTO QUIZ! Join in our fun monthly quiz – where was this photo taken?

All photos are taken within our Western Suburbs of Ashgrove, The Gap, Bardon, Paddington, Rosalie, Red Hill, Newmarket.

Send your answer to: editor@westernecho.com.au Or comment on our post on Facebook or Instagram @thewesternecho

RESPONSES BY 29 FEB PLEASE!

Answer and winner (first name only) will be shared via social media.

Sponsored by Colin Bushell Photography Colin Bushell is a local award-winning certified professional photographer based in The Gap. Available for commercial and personal photography, photo story-telling projects, and photography workshops.

0409 107 079 info@biggerboat.com.au www.biggerboat.com.au | @colbushell

The GapCreative Have you heard about The Gap Creative?

We’re a community group, run by volunteers, to foster, support, and share creativity in The Gap with the wider community.

Given The Gap’s environs of tree-lined hills and winding creeks, we’re fortunate to have a diverse group of painters, printers, glassworkers, photographers, ceramicists, and mixed media artists, who are inspired by these surroundings, and are eager to share their unique creations with you. Whether you’re an art collector seeking new talent, or someone looking for a unique personalised gift experience, it is the place to go look and discover.

get your mind and hands working, as well as held various festive market stalls. To say that we’re enthusiastic and dedicated is an understatement to have achieved so much in such a short time, and we strive to support our members and provide information to our wider community to the best of our ability.

If you’re someone who creates and would like to spend time with interesting people, we welcome anyone who would like to engage, contribute, collaborate and/or innovate with ideas on how we can bring our local artisans’ work front and centre.

Just head to The Gap Creative website: www.thegapcreative.com.au.

We look forward to meeting you.

At The Gap Creative, you can meet our committee volunteers, our artist members, visit our online shop, and browse events where you can meet the artists and see their work in person.

If you would like a more personal experience, you can contact them individually for a consultation.

Since its inception in 2020, The Gap Creative has organised an Open Studio Art Trail, held three gallery exhibitions, three themed pop-up exhibitions, numerous workshops for all ages, to

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 24

Members of The Gap Creative at various events.

Photos by Colin Bushell.

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The Physiologix Corner

Top Tips to Avoiding Injury as You get Fit this Year It’s the New Year – many of you are keen to get fit. But this is also a time, as physios at Physiologix, that we see a spike in injuries.

Looking to get into the gym in the New Year? Here are a top few tips to help you stay injury-free.

1.

1. Do a good warm up: get your heart rate up and do movements that move your body through the ranges of motion you will need for the exercises you are going to do

2.

2. Get a good base: don’t go too hard too soon, but focus on staying committed to coming regularly and getting a good base before you start pushing for heavier weights or more reps

3.

3. Ensure you know your technique is right: so many injuries we see are related purely to poor technique

4.

4. Got an injury/history of an injury: make sure you have some basic preventative exercises that help to support the injured area and help prevent re-injuring yourself

5.

5. Check with one of our physios: if you are not sure what to do check with us - we will find some simple ways to modify your program rather than to avoid things. It’s all about using it and not losing it.....but not injuring yourself either!

And if you are injured? Get in and see the physio for the injury early on – nipping things in the bud quickly goes a long way, for a faster recovery and keeping you doing what you want to be doing. From all of us at Physiologix, have a wonderful 2024 and hoping you stay healthy, happy, and injury-free.

Check out more at Physiologix.com.au WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 25

Paddington Then and Now Do you have a World War One veteran from Ithaca in your family’s history?

Kieran McCarthy, a local war historian, has dedicated over a decade to researching Ithaca's fallen soldiers. His deep dive into the stories behind the names on the local war memorial is a heartfelt tribute to these families, and the Inner-West community.

Since 1922, the Ithaca War Memorial has been a prominent Paddington landmark. In 2022, to mark its 100th anniversary, McCarthy collaborated with Paddington Then and Now in honouring the soldiers commemorated on the memorial.

McCarthy's work doesn't stop there. He tirelessly connects the dots between the names of these soldiers, their relatives, overseas resting places, and their personal histories. This ongoing effort offers a richer, more personal understanding of the brave men who fought and fell in the First World War. “I’m turning a database I've developed into a local history narrative of the men whose names appear on the Ithaca War Memorial,” McCarthy says.

A narrative, he hopes, will be completed with assistance from the community.

“Having accessed all possible online resources, I’m now needing any personal reminiscences, photos, diaries, and letters from family collections to make a more complete picture”.

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 26

Kieran a lawyer himself, previously worked on a similar project for the Supreme Court of Queensland, a book entitled “In Freedoms Cause: the Great War and the Legal Profession of Queensland.”

He also regularly leads personalised tours to France and Belgium to visit WWI sites and memorials.

On a recent trip to the Western Front, he photographed half of the graves and memorial sites at which Ithaca men are remembered.

In April 2025, he will return, leading a bespoke tour and visiting the remainder.

Anyone keen for more information about Kieran’s tour, or with family information and photos from their veteran family member, should get in touch with Paddington Then and Now on paddingtonthenandnow@gmail.com

Ashgrove The Gap Men's Shed Toys for the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal The Ashgrove The Gap Men’s Shed workshop group have been busy creating toys for the Salvation Army Christmas Appeal.

Making toys for Christmas is a regular activity in the workshop with members working throughout the year on individual toys and then a group running a production line nearer to Christmas in order to boost the number of toys we are able to donate.

Much of this work is coordinated by John A ably supported by a group of other members. Russell from the Salvation Army was able to collect the toys just before the Shed closed for the Christmas break.

This year he was able to take away with him six trains each with an engine and two carriages, six push-along ducks with ‘flappy’ feet, six rather noisy hammer and peg toys (won’t parents love those?), two hopping kangaroos, two wooden bull-dozers, two graders, and a wooden mix-master. All involved in this project are hopeful that these toys will bring joy to the children who receive them.

This is a great activity we intend to continue into the future. We were also able to donate a number of adult gifts from items that were excess to the needs of the workshop.

Website: www.ashgrovethegapshed.com WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

The Gap Pioneer & History Group Inc

NorthsHockeyClub Play hockey – an Olympic sport – at Ashgrove Looking for a sport that all members of the family can play? A game through which to make friends for life and keep fit? Then hockey is the sport for you!

THE GAP 165 The Gap 165 is a term used to describe the 165th Anniversary of the first Freehold Land and Land Selections offered in 1858/1859 by the N.S.W Colonial Government to interested buyers and Selectors of property in ‘Enoggera’, known soon after as ‘The Gap’.

The first sale of freehold lands occurred on the 14th September 1858 and the second sale was held on the 5th April 1859. Further acquisitions occurred up until the 18th July 1859.

Soon after, on the 10th December 1859 Queensland became a separate Colony and historically, the first men to acquire these lands are referred to as ‘Pre-Separation Buyers or Selectors’.

My first official sighting of a document quoting the name of our suburb as ‘The Gap’ occurred with the Death Certificate of my Great, Great Grandmother Harriet Paten who passed away at home in The Gap on the 24th February 1861.

In The Gap it is well documented that the first nine (9) European men to purchase Freehold Land or acquire Land Selections from the N.S.W. Colonial Government prior to Separation are, Moses Adsett, Lewis Brockhurst, Robert Cribb, Joseph Gridley, John Hilder, John Frederick McDougall, John Paten and son Philip John Paten and Henry Howard Payne. These pioneers who created a sustainable living environment basically from scratch became the ‘Founding Families’ of The Gap.

Norths Hockey Club is a social, inclusive, and family-oriented community club where everyone can play this exciting sport in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Based at Dorrington Park in Ashgrove, the Norths Eagles have teams for boys, girls, men and women of all ages, experience, and skill levels.

Hockey is an Olympic sport – but anyone can play. Norths players range from 5 to 73 years of age including beginners, those returning to the sport, and elite-level athletes.

“It’s great that everyone can play hockey at all ages to keep fit, engaged in the community and have fun,” says Norths player Tanya Swan.

Norths is the only hockey club in Brisbane with its own grass fields, artificial turf practice pitch, and clubhouse with bar and canteen facilities for social functions.

Whether you are interested in a social sporting experience or the competition of high-level hockey, there is a Norths Eagles team for you, your family, and your friends.

Norths will hold its sign-on day for the 2024 season at Dorrington Park, Mirrabooka Road, Ashgrove on Saturday February 3 from 10am to 2pm.

For more information phone 0419 145 307, visit www.facebook.com/NorthsHockeyBrisbane or register online at www.northshockey.org.au.

The six (6) men featured above in bold type, are either my ancestors or related by marriage and as such I consider my current knowledge as a local historian to be an invaluable source of archival information.

WesternEcho

Today (2024), my family are represented as 6th generation Patens and Gridleys and 5th generation Hilders living in The Gap.

Reminder for Advertisers / Contributors please:

PHOTO: John and Emma Elizabeth (nee Gridley) Hilder, courtesy of the Hilder Collection.

Enquiries: jeffhilder@outlook.com WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

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Deadline for March 2024 Edition: All due by Thursday 15 February 2024

Please send to: editor@westernecho.com.au Any questions? Call Melanie on: 0409 440 501

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 27

Ithaca Probus Club News An exciting year ahead at Ithaca Probus Club Following the traditional quiet time for Probus clubs over the summer holiday period, we are all looking forward to resuming our regular socially engaging activities again in 2024. We thoroughly enjoyed Christmas lunch at the Paddo Tavern in December, where we have been looked after very well for the past several years. And then another tradition – the Aussie Day BBQ. It was a great way to get back together again, with some songs, a trivia quiz, and of course our delicious BBQ with salads and dessert.

New members are always most welcome at Ithaca Probus Club, particularly retirees across the inner NW suburbs – Ashgrove, The Gap, Bardon, Red Hill, Paddington and Rainworth. We have upgraded our website to provide more information about us – where we are and what we do. Just type Ithaca Probus Club into your browser to see what we have to offer. Our various activities groups – cards, poetry, and walking, continue bringing us together to keep our minds and bodies active. And our book exchange table keeps all the avid readers busy. Future activities and an entertaining program of guest speakers are all listed, starting with a return of lawyer Loan Chow to explain what has to be done when somebody dies. All of our activities follow the themes of Probus – Friendship, Fellowship and Fun.

We meet at 9.30am on the 2nd Thursday each month except December and January at the Red Hill Bowls and Community Club in Fulcher Road, Red Hill, or come on any of our outings. If you would like to give us a try, please phone either of our Club Membership Officers Sue Vivian on 0413 544 202 or Janelle Rhodes on 0412 628 646.

YOU CAN READ THE WESTERN ECHO ONLINE AT:

www.westernecho.com.au And please share the link with family or friends who may be interested too. Thanks!

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 28

For the love Of Books I constantly get asked how I have time to read so many books with 5 kids and a fulltime job. I promise I still have a social life! So apart from neglecting housework and not exercising enough, here are my three biggest tips: 1. Only read what you enjoy. I know what I like and I follow lots of bookstagrammers whose recommendations I trust, so I usually pick books I’ll like or love. Also, if I’m not liking it I put it down – sometimes forever, or sometimes until I’m in the right mood.

2. Designate set time for reading. My time is after about 8.30pm each night I’m home.

3. Lastly – add Audiobooks! Some people think audiobooks are cheating (like reading is a competition) but that’s ridiculous.

Think of people with vision or certain physical impairments, or when you read a book aloud to your child – you’ve both still read the book! I tend to only listen when I’m alone in my car and it certainly makes the work commute more enjoyable!

Some of my favourite audiobooks have been celebrity memoirs where the author narrates it themselves – Spare by Prince Harry, Tell Me Again by Amy Thunig (brilliant), Surrender

by Bono (he sings in parts). I’ve also loved many fiction audio’s – Project Hail Mary, The Drover’s Wife, Troy or Mythos, In Memoriam. I could go on all day!

There’s lots of options to listen to Audiobooks – through no cost apps like BorrowBox and Libby (linking to your Brisbane City Council Library account), or paid subscriptions like Audible (by Amazon), Rakuten Kobo, or my favourite (because proceeds go back to local booksellers) Libro.fm.

If you’d like more information on any of these, please message me on Instagram @sarahsbookchat Happy Reading!

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Balaangala in 2024. Everyone is welcome so please come and join us when you can.

Balaangala Community Group

Thanks to local member Jonty Bush for her attendance on such a hot and steamy day and ongoing support for Balaangala, to everyone else who came along on the day, and to those who couldn’t make it but continue to contribute so much, including our chairperson Maurice Serico, Aunty Jackie Huggins, Aunty Flo Watson, and DJ Sandy and family.

For more please visit our website or Facebook page: www.balaangala.org.au www.facebook.com/balaangala

Inness Green

QBCC: 744405 ABN: 71084866376

Bricklaying and Landscaping 0414 564 520 v Bricklaying N Balaangala Community Group met on the afternoon of January 26 at Yoorala Street in The Gap. Guests on the day included: Uncle James Sandy, Aunty Denise Proud, Aunty Melinda Serico, Mayrah and Jason Dreise, and Steve Mam. Following the disappointment of the referendum result last year, it was important to acknowledge the weight of that decision and the hard work of local elders and community.

The event began with a history of this national day and its various reiterations and names: National Day of Mourning; Invasion Day; Survival Day; Sovereignty Day. While reflecting on these perspectives, we acknowledge that all of us carried a deep grief and loss and the continuing effect of colonisation for First Nations people.

We held a group discussion that reflected on each person's cultural heritage and connections to country, and how that fits into the broader context. All present were encouraged to share what we do know and what we don’t know about the local area.

These discussions celebrate local First Nations contributions, knowledges, experiences, and expertise in our local area. Coming together to learn from each other is the only way forward.

In line with the recently announced 2024 NAIDOC theme we will continue to Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud at

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

v Blocklaying O JO TOO B v Paving SMAL L! v Rock Walls v Concreting v Sleeper retaining walls v Mulching & turfing v Repair work

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Hollingworth & Spencer Fixed Fee Conveyancing

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The Gap Professional Centre, 6/23 Glenaffric St, The Gap

Our Conveyancing Team has expertise in:

• Residential sales and purchase • Residential property development • SMSF purchases

Contact Liz Fox on (07) 3123 5700 Visit our website for an obligation free quote

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Principal's Points...

Princiapl's Points will be back in March keeping everyone up to date from our schools in the Western Suburbs.

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 29

Recycling Tips With kerbside collection having just occurred in our area, it is timely to remember that all the kerbside waste will go to landfill without any recycling and often ruined by rain (unless salvaged from your pile by someone first).

There are other options for some of your waste which are much kinder to our planet. So, if you have items to throw away – please consider the following options.

Useful, working items: please giveaway to friends, family, neighbours or on “Buy Nothing” pages on social media; or give to charity (lots of bins are full but “Yesterdays Thift Shop” in Blackwood St, Mitchelton always accepts drop offs out the back carpark). Some of your working items might be handy for charities that help those in new, the homeless, or those escaping DV. Example – Givit Org: www.givit.org.au Broken items: might still have a second life on “Buy Nothing” pages - one person’s trash could be exactly what someone else is looking for! Also check your local Men’s Shed groups – they often take useable items and fix them. Also check out the local Repair Café who have volunteers who fix items for free (or gladly via donation): www.facebook.com/RepairCafeTheGap

If you have no luck rehoming your items - the following recycling options apply: Toys: take broken toys to the green toy recycling bin at Big W Electrical: e-waste and small electrical items such as mobile phones, computers, monitors, printers, keyboards/mice, other peripheral electronics, small household appliances can be recycled at the Ferny Grove Resource Recovery Centre (fancy word for ‘tip’) - where dropping off recycling is free unless it’s a massive amount.

Plastic plant pots: large recycling collection point outside Bunnings Garden Centre doors; or Paten Park Native Nursery – but please wash all pots first to avoid accidentally spreading any disease to other plants.

Council’s Resource Recovery Centres: will accept and recycle a huge amount of other items such as polystyrene, cardboard boxes, metals (steel, stainless steel, cast iron, aluminium, copper, tin), batteries, gas bottles, fluro tubes…..

Fabric and linens: Boomerang Bags (www.boomerangbags. org) would love to create with your excess materials. And old linens and towels are always needed by vets, wildlife rescues and AWLQ. Hard to recycle items: can now find a new life via the Facebook group: Recycling Hills District/Brisbane North. They recycle many odd items (the list is endless) including but not limited to: air freshener aerosol cans, any pieces of plastic with a 2, 4 or 5 symbol, asthma puffers, beer can clips (number 2 plastic), CD’s, Brita water filters, disposable gloves, glad wrap, razors, stationery, stockings/tights, styrofoam, textiles, toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes (empty not dripping), and much more.

Soft Plastics: you can do this via a company called RecycleSmart – but it’s a little complicated and you have to ‘subscribe’ (pay) for the service. The service operates in the Brisbane City Council area. See: www.recyclesmart.com . It is a great option though and also for other hard to recycle items.

Also join the Facebook group: Recycling Hills District/Brisbane North. They are organising local community opportunities to share in collecting soft plastics via this company. www.facebook. com/groups/413516637631755 Batteries: Big W, Aldi, and Woolies all have bins Corks: Dan Murphy’s Print cartridges: all Officeworks stores and participating Cartridge World stores – there is a local store in Ashgrove Officeworks recycle many items: computers & laptops, monitors, keyboards & mice, printers & scanners, cables, chargers & power supplies, motherboards, ink and toner cartridges, pens, correction tape, liquid paper, fountain pens and ink cartridges, USBs, hard drives, CDs or DVDs and their cases, batteries.

Mobile Phone: recycle at your local Optus, Telstra, Vodafone, Woolworths, and Officeworks store. See Mobile Muster for options: www.mobilemuster.com.au

Underwear for Humanity: recycle your underwear items.

See: www.underwearforhumanity.com.au/pages/recycling

White goods: accepted for recycling at Ferny Grove Resource Recovery Centre

Recycling Near You: https://recyclingnearyou.com.au/

Clothes beyond use: recycle at H&M stores and receive a thank you voucher!

Shoes beyond use: recycling bins at Rebel, Athletes Foot, Platypus, Hype and Drummond Golf. They accept Athletic Lifestyle Shoes: any sports branded shoes, thongs and slides, football boots, sneakers, trainers, runners, and golf shoes.

Broken pool inflatables, air mattresses, rubber boats or broken umbrellas: accepted for recycling by PLOYS, where they give the material new life as bags etc. See: www.ploys. com.au

The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 30

Other Resources to Help You: Brisbane City Council: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/clean-and-green/rubbish-tips-andbins/waste-and-recycling-facilities Brisbane City Council guide for recycling at Home: www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/clean-and-green/rubbish-tips-andbins/reducing-waste-at-home/recycling-at-home Planet Ark: www.planetark.org

Authors: Tahne Allen and Melanie Grevis-James

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The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 31

The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy For all your pharmaceutical needs OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Shop Local!

Our friendly Team are available to help you daily from 8.30am to 8.00pm.

Book boosters and vaccines online: www.thegappharmacy.com.au 974 WATERWORKS ROAD, THE GAP

Ph 3300 1555 + thegap@thegappharmacy.com.au + thegappharmacy.com.au The Western Echo February 2024 | Page 32

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