The Western Echo July 2026

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TheWesternEcho

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JULY 2026

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2026 COOPER SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS STORY PAGE 3

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The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 1

Advertiser'sDirectory Directory BUILDING | TRADES | SERVICES

Agilis Media.....................................................................................31 Aqua7 Bathrooms | P: 0403 175 154................................................. 33 Garage Door Conversions | P: 0458 225 287...................................... 33 PB Premium Lawns | P: 0451 409 166............................................... 33 Shutters Direct | P: 3369 1183.......................................................... 33 Stocks Designer Appliances & Bathrooms | P: 3366 4041.................... 17

LEGAL | FINANCIAL

Hollingworth & Spencer | P: 3123 5700...............................................4 Mortgage Choice Ashgrove | P: 3366 8604......................................... 19

MECHANICS | AUTOMOTIVE

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

MEDICAL | HEALTH | WELL-BEING

Ashgrove Counselling Services | P: 3366 9699.................................... 23 Jullie Ball - Adult Speech Pathology................................................... 27 Keperra Family Practice | P: 07 3351 0323......................................... 31 The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy | P: 3300 1555................................. 36

POLITICAL | GOVERNMENT

Cr. Steven Toomey | P: 3407 1900..................................................... 5 Jonty Bush MP | P: 3554 9100.........................................................6/7 Elizabeth Watson-Brown MP | P: 3378 1599.........................................9

REAL ESTATE

Harcourts Property Centre - Carmen Briggs | P: 0418 742 511............ 21 Ray White - Jack & Stephen Dangerfield | P: 0422 564 007................. 23

RESTAURANTS | CAFES | FOOD

atelier mimi Patisserie....................................................................... 21 Birdie Coffee....................................................................................29 The Gap LOCO | www.thegaploco.com........................................ 25

SCHOOLS | EDUCATION | COMMUNITY | FAMILY

ABC Friends Queensland...................................................................25 Arana Touch Football........................................................................23 Brisbane West Eco Fest.....................................................................17 Hilder Road State School..................................................................21 In Your Eyes - Service, Strength, Healing........................................... 29 Improve Your Reading & Writing....................................................... 25

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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

Mitchelton Pre-Schooling Centre........................................................ 23 NAIDOC Week..................................................................................22 Soiree - The Gap State School........................................................... 15 St Peter Chanel - Community Movie Night.......................................... 27 St John’s Wood The Gap Parish......................................................... 11 Taylor Range Club............................................................................13 The Gap Creative - Open Studios................................................. 25 The Gap State School.......................................................................15

JulyEcho Echo

2026 Cooper Small Business Awards..............................................3 Arana View Club ........................................................................33 Art in Bark ................................................................................27 Ashgrove Bardon RSL Sub Branch................................................. 8 Ashgrove Historical Society.........................................................18 Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club......................................................10 Balaangala Community Group ....................................................27 Birdie Coffee Celebrates 1 Year! .................................................29 Boomerang Bags The Gap & Surrounds ......................................12 Bris West Centre....................................................................... 26 Brisbane North Cake Decorators .................................................14 Brisbane Tramway Museum ........................................................20 Brisbane West Eco Fest ..............................................................16 Carinity ....................................................................................18 Col's Chat - Locals through my Lens .............................................4 Cr. Steven Toomey - The Gap Ward News .....................................5 Enoggera & Districts Historical Society ........................................16 For the Love Of Books................................................................. 8 From the Editor ...........................................................................4 'It's Debatable' A Youth Perspective ............................................12 Jonty Bush - State Government Update ..................................... 6/7 Libby's Latest ..............................................................................9 Local Directory Listings ..............................................................33 Local Family honours late Inspector Ronald Strike........................ 28 Mitchelton & Districts Garden Club ..............................................14 Neighbourhood Watch The Gap.................................................. 20 Newmarket Bocce Club News .....................................................18 Newmarket Probus Club............................................................. 28 Newmarket View Club................................................................ 24 Norths Hockey Club................................................................... 28 Paten Park Native Nursery .........................................................32 Principal's Points ..................................................................34/35 Rotary Club Ashgrove The Gap................................................... 13 Rotary Club Of Paddington......................................................... 14 Local Athlete aims for World Championships ................................22 Shed Happens for Men Ashgrove-The Gap..................................... 8 SOWN ......................................................................................22 St Mark's Anglican Church ..........................................................32 The Gap Baptist Church .............................................................20 The Gap Creative Inc .................................................................24 The Gap Laughter Club ..............................................................26 The Gap Pioneer & History Group Inc .........................................20 The Gap Probus Club .................................................................26 The Gap Repair Cafe .................................................................31 The Gap She Shed ....................................................................30 Trek2Health.............................................................................. 10 Walton Bridge The Gap Girl Guides .............................................30 West Brisbane Orchid Society .....................................................33 Where am I?............................................................................. 19 Wild In Mitchelton .....................................................................13 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.

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.

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2026 Cooper

Small Business Awards Every May is Small Business Month in Queensland. Last month we had the opportunity to recognise many of our own local small businesses in the Cooper Small Business Awards hosted by Jonty Bush MP. From family-run cafes and restaurants to professional services, retailers, tradies and community enterprises, these small businesses help create the unique character and vibrancy of our neighbourhoods.

Imagine what it would be like if your favourite coffee spot was no longer on your walking route, The Friendly Grocer wasn’t open on public holidays or you had to get in your car and travel much further to go to the gym, see a lawyer, accountant or physiotherapist. These are the everyday services and conveniences that small businesses provide, often becoming an integral part of our daily lives and local identity. They also strengthen community connections by sponsoring local sporting clubs, supporting school fundraisers and contributing to community events.

Their economic contribution is equally significant; providing local job opportunities, keeping investment circling through our local communities and supporting our shopping precincts.

The Cooper Small Business awards recognised the entrepreneurs, business owners and staff whose efforts help our suburbs thrive.

Whether established for decades or newly opened, these businesses demonstrate the resilience, innovation and community spirit that make our part of the world one of Brisbane’s most vibrant and connected.

We celebrated their contributions with an awards night hosted by Jonty Bush MP on Thursday 21 May at Warehouse 25 in Milton. The perfect location for the lively 2026 Cooper Small Business Awards. With approximately 100 of our local small business owners in attendance, the atmosphere was electric, with business owners sharing stories, building connections and celebrating each other’s achievements.

Congratulations to the winners and runners up in the following categories:

Category

Winner and Runners Up

Health and Allied Health

Kirsty Eng Acupuncture, Paddington

Embody Pelvic Health Physiotherapy, Paddington

Ashgrove Counselling Services, Ashgrove

Retail and Sales

Gap Games, The Gap

Labels Loved, Paddington

Friendly Grocer, The Gap

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Professional Services Carmen Briggs Harcourts Property Centre, The Gap

SC Lennon & Associates, Ashgrove

Craig Ray & Associates, The Gap

Social Enterprise

Alexandra Street Op Shop, Paddington

The Western Echo, The Gap

Paddington Then and Now, Paddington

Wellbeing and Fitness

Studio Pilates The Gap

U&I Pilates, Bardon Studio Pilates Ashgrove Beauty and Hairdressing

Savvy Hair, Ashgrove

The Brow Bar, Paddington

Gals and Guys Hairdresser, Paddington

Bars and Breweries

Freya Café and Wine Bar, Milton

Blind Tiger, The Gap

Franks Social, Paddington Trade and Services

Bernard Building, The Gap

Chandlers Corner Auto Centre, Ashgrove

Paddington Hardware, Paddington Creative Arts

U Create Art, The Gap

Francesca Flowers, The Gap

Field Trip Gallery, Paddington

Café and Restaurant

Birdie Coffee, The Gap

Corn Street Café, Ashgrove

Vecino Café, The Gap

Café Tara, The Gap

New Business

ALIA Gelato, Milton

Images: courtesy of Jonty Bush MP, Kym Bierenbroodspot, and Melanie Grevis-James.

Cover image: Gap Games team (winner of the Retail & Sales category), with Jonty Bush MP

See pages 6-7 for more details from Jonty Bush MP. For more: www.jontybush.com

Thanks for your support!

The Western Echo sincerely thanks our community for your support. We are very proud of our runner-up award in the Social Enterprise category, and grateful for everyone’s kind comments we have received.

Thank you Jonty Bush MP and Team for recognising and acknowledging the importance and tremendous contribution of small businesses in our community.

Congratulations to all the winners! You provide amazing and valuable services for our community and are all well-deserved winners! Mel + Kym The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 3

From theEditor Editor Dear Readers, Welcome to our July edition!

And don’t miss our monthly fun Photo Quiz, guessing where Colin Bushell (photographer) has been this month with his camera.

Please visit our website: www.westernecho.com.au

This month’s cover article covers the recent 2026 Cooper Small Business Awards – held by Jonty Bush MP. Congratulations to all the winners, runners-up (see the full list in this edition), and all the businesses that were nominated. It was a wonderful awards night networking with fellow local small business owners, and we are thrilled that The Western Echo won a runner-up award.

This month in our regular columns Colin Bushell chats with local author and creative Christine Rosher in his ‘Col’s Chat’ column; Sarah Krause writes about First Nations books in her ‘For the Love of Books’

COL’S CHAT

Locals through my Lens Christine Rosher

The manufacturing sector contributes more than $20 billion to the Queensland economy and employs more than 170,000 people, yet women account for less than 30 per cent of this number.

For many women considering a career in manufacturing, the decision can be accompanied by both excitement and apprehension. Entering industries that have traditionally been dominated by men often means navigating environments where they may face unconscious bias, outdated stereotypes, unequal opportunities, or even overt sexism.

A new book, You Can Make It is making inroads among our primary school students, and local art director and creative Christine Rosher has been the driving force behind it. “We were approached by Manufacturing Skills Queensland to help address the balance from a younger age than traditional career education. Attracting young people to manufacturing – boys and girls – is difficult, not least because there is a misconception that manufacturing means factory work. The concept of the book was to showcase Queensland women ‘making it’ in manufacturing and show our kids age 7-12 how they can too.

A sole trader fashion designer is as much a manufacturer as a big company. “Manufacturing is about turning ideas into products - it’s not determined by scale.”

“We were lucky enough to meet and interview fifteen amazing female ’makers’. One rode motorcycles but couldn’t find protective gear to fit, so she created her own successful range. One has turned circuit board kits into art. One is an engineer building a plane that will launch satellites into space. To me, it doesn’t get much more inspiring than that!”

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column; and Leonard Cavallaro debates about ‘flying the coop’ and the affordability of housing for young people in his ‘It’s Debatable’ youth column.

Happy reading! Mel & Kym

Melanie: 0409 440 501 | editor@westernecho.com.au or melanie@planetmarketing.com.au Kym: 0402 450 568 | spotart@spotart.com.au

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Christine led an all-female team to develop ideas and concepts. They needed to reach and engage every Year 3-6 student in Queensland.

“It was important to me to really spark kids’ curiosity, so I suggested we open the book with a graphic novel – something that the readers could relate to. So I wrote a story about group of kids that find that (shock, horror!) the internet has gone down. What can they possibly do to pass the time? The final book introduces different kinds of makers through kids’ eyes. The creator, helper, persuader, doer, thinker and organiser all work together to create something amazing.

The book is packed with fun facts and hands-on activities for students, and we even created accompanying teaching resources, all designed to inspire the next generation of innovators.”

With technological advances moving at a rapid speed, employment opportunities for our kids will look very different in ten years time. You Can Make It is a vital tool not only in opening doors for future careers but also inspiring young minds before gender stereotypes take hold.

“Sadly, young women must still find resilience while older generations’ attitudes catch up. As women, we not only have to succeed at our role, but often show we can do better. I am proud to see You Can Make It playing its part in closing the gender gap and making discrimination and inequality in manufacturing a thing of the past.”

Get your copy here: www.msq.org.au/you-can-make-it-career-book Author: Colin Bushell / image supplied by Christine Rosher

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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Cr Steve Toomey

Councillor for The Gap Ward

Illegal Dumping

We're taking a zero-tolerance approach to illegal dumping across Brisbane suburbs, and offenders are being caught.

With more cameras, stronger enforcement and quicker response times, Council has already issued 853 fines and warnings this year. Illegal dumping costs Brisbane more than $500,000 annually to clean up, resources I’d rather see put into our suburbs. If you see any illegal dumping, report it to Council 24/7 on 3403 8888. Together, we can keep Brisbane clean and rubbish-free.

Check Your Pits!

Our roadside gutters are carrying a bit more water this winter and as a result our stormwater pits have to be clear for this stormwater to flow efficiently. If your pit is looking a little damp and not flowing freely, don’t reach for your deodorant! Reach for your phone and call Council 24/7 on 3403 8888 or call my office. Let’s do what we can to keep our pits dry.

477 Waterworks Road, Ashgrove @TheGapWard TheGap.Ward@bcc.qld.gov.au 3407 1900

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Jonty’s July update

2026 cooper Small business awards Recently, I hosted my Cooper Small Business Awards. It was a wonderful evening celebrating the incredible businesses that make our community special. The night was complimented by great food and even better conversation, as local business owners and operators came together to connect, network, and recognise one another's achievements.

Events like this remind us just how vibrant and resilient our small business community is. A huge thank you to Warehouse 25 in Milton for being such generous and welcoming hosts. The venue made for a perfect backdrop to a memorable night.

Scan the QR code for a full list of winners, relive the highlights, and if you weren't able to join us this year, we hope to see you next time.

naidoc week - 50 Years of Deadly Each year, NAIDOC Week gives us the opportunity to celebrate the world's oldest continuous cultures, honour the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and deepen our own understanding as a community.

Its roots run deep: its origins date back to the 1920s, when Aboriginal groups sought to raise awareness in the wider community of the status and treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.

Right here in our community, Balaangala Community Group, based in The Gap, offers a genuinely meaningful way to connect. Balaangala brings together First Nations and non-Indigenous people to learn with and from one another, grounded in mutual respect, community building and friendship.

Whether through their community garden, events, or simply showing up and listening, there are many ways to get involved. I warmly encourage you to visit balaangala.org.au to learn more and find out how you can participate this NAIDOC Week and beyond.

‘juleye’ - eye health awareness month Did you know that 75% of vision loss is preventable or treatable if detected early enough, yet every 65 minutes an Australian loses part or all of their vision?

For those in our community living with low vision, I’d love you to join me for a relaxed catch up on Wednesday 16 July, 11am–1pm, at the Brisbane West Centre in Paddington.

It's a chance to meet others who understand what you're going through, share experiences, and connect with information and support in a warm, welcoming setting, with light refreshments provided.

To find out more or to register your interest, please contact my office.

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

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2026 Cooper Small business award winners Creative Arts

Café & Restaurant

U Create Art

Birdie Coffee

The Gap 0435 765 607

The Gap 0462 560 627

karen@ucreateart.com.au

birdiecoffeeshop@gmail.com

Health/Allied Health

Retail & Sales

Kirsty Eng Accupuncture

Gap Games

The Gap

Paddington 3852 3384 info@kirstyeng.com.au

3300 6890 contact@gapgames.com.au

Professional Services

Beauty and Hairdressing

Carmen Briggs Harcourts

The Gap 0418 742 511 carmen.briggs@harcourts.com.au

Savvy Hair

Ashgrove 3366 3385 savvyhairartistryashgrove@gmail.com

Wellbeing & Fitness

Trades & Services

Studio Pilates The Gap

Bernard Building

The Gap 0438 263 745 thegap@studiopilates.com

The Gap 0430 705 916 ben@bernardbuilding.com.au

Bars & Breweries

Social Enterprise

Freya Café & Bar Milton

Alexandra Street Op Shop

Milton 0407 905 109 tom@freyacafe.com.au

Paddington 0407 632 030

New Business Alia Gelato

Milton 0494 005 212 ciao@aliagelato.com

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

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Ashgrove Bardon RSL Sub Branch

FOR THE LOVE

of Books

Due Respect

NAIDOC Week Reads

We are seeing a lot of media debate on matters impacting our service and ex-service personnel. It is impacting not only our ex-service community, but also the recruitment figures into service.

NAIDOC Week runs from the 5th to the 12th of July. This year’s theme is “50 Years of Deadly”. To celebrate here are four of my favourite First Nations books.

The following is an extract from a recent paper by Lt Gen Peter Leahy (Retd).

“Terra Nullius” by Claire G Coleman had a huge impact on me and I’m still recommending it years later. It’s important to go in blind, but it starts with a young man living in a children’s home after being removed from his family. There is a twist, which hopefully brings a shift in perspective for the reader. Compulsory reading for all Australians.

“We often blame senior officers for tactical and operational failures.

Through history many of them have been culpable. But at the strategic level they can only do as they are directed and fight with what they are given. They give advice but the decisions are not theirs”.

“Many politicians make the point that the direct alignment of Parliament House across Lake Burley Griffin and up Anzac Parade to the Australian War Memorial reminds them of their responsibilities to veterans past and those yet to come”.

Given the current pursuit of ex-service personnel for their conduct at war, often by media, politicians and judiciary with no experience of combat, one has to question whether that basic tenant of our justice system “trial by one’s peers” has any relevance at all.

Social Activity The Sub-Branch hosted a luncheon for members and war widows at the Normanby Hotel on Friday 5 June which was well attended and enjoyed by all. We extend our thanks to the staff and management of The Normanby.

Next Sub-Branch Meeting Members are reminded that the next Sub-Branch Committee meeting will be held at the Bardon Bowls Club at 11.00 am on Sunday 12 July.

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.

Shed Happens for Men Ashgrove-The Gap You are assured of a warm welcome as a one-off attendee or regular at our third Wednesday, 15 July meeting!

This month, our meeting guest interviews will be with: Bruce Scott OAM, Founder and National Chairman of The Australian Koala Foundation, Boy Scout, Jaycee, Lions Club Brisbane Vice President, RAAF Pilot, Registered Tax Agent, Author, concert pianist... but wait there's more, you guessed it: an all-round high achiever!

Our second interview is with Peter Starkey: a retired Queensland National Parks Officer and Conservationist. Peter has had a lifelong interest in plants and in retirement is a Member of three Horticultural

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Tony Birch has many brilliant books, this one “Dark as Last Night” is a short story collection. Each one extremely well written and succinct. A skill to make people care about a character in such a short span of time. I don’t think there was one I would skip!

“The Yield” by Tara June Winch is told in three separate narratives. One in the present where August is returning to her Country amidst family tragedy and news that a mining company is taking the land. A second set in the days of colonisation as the Reverend sets up the Prosperous Aboriginal Mission. And a third where Aboriginal Elder Albert shares stories from his life as he create a dictionary to preserve his traditional language.

Lastly, my favourite, “Song of the Crocodile” by Nardi Simpson.

These characters have stayed with me long after putting it down.

The story weaves in the dreamtime and demonstrates the impact of intergenerational trauma and colonisation.

Happy reading! @sarahsbookchat Author: Sarah Krause organisations including the Qld Camellia Society.

Wow what a lineup, great camaraderie is assured.

We meet at 6pm on 15 July at the Paten Park Scout Den, off Paten Rd, the Gap for a delicious Scout prepared barbecue dinner followed by our two guest interviews commencing at 6.30pm till approx 8.30pm.

Between each interview we break for coffee, tea and Tim Tams! Total cost is only $15.00 with eftpos available.

Our Shed Happens is a non-political, non-sectarian group of blokes, part of an international organisation of over 1,200 Clubs, who meet on the third Wednesday of each month to advance our intellectual and cultural interests. Local blokes meeting local blokes for a yarn.

For catering purposes and to register your interest in attending please phone: 0417 786 542.

Be there or be square.

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Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club

Trek2Health It Takes a Village Last month, Surf Shed, the social enterprise arm of Trek2Health, had the privilege of hosting several young people from the Redcliffe region through the Queensland Police Service’s Project Booyah program.

Have you heard of Suriname?

Do you know where it is?

Lions members and guests now have a much better understanding of this fascinating South American country after the May dinner presentation by Friend of Lions member and owner of local business Planet Marketing, Melanie Grevis-James.

Let’s hear from Mel… “Undertaking a large work project recently in Suriname has been a highlight of my career – a dream job for me, doing what I love – travelling to an exotic location, and assisting a country create a sustainable future with a tourism marketing strategy.” - Melanie Grevis-James.

“Most people have never heard of Suriname, let alone know where it is and what it offers visitors. I was infatuated with the country as soon as I arrived (after 2.5 days of flying to get there) – the tropical landscape, vegetation and smells; the mix of languages and ethnic groups; unique Amazon wildlife (saw a sloth in the wild, a massive tarantula, colourful toucans, lots of monkeys, and a baby anaconda amongst other wildlife as well!), super friendly people; and a very interesting history. Getting into the interior of the country and into the Amazon rainforest is only accessible by small wooden boats – this was a highlight of the trip. Seeing how locals live, eating local food, and learning about the Dutch, Maroon (descendants of escaped African slaves), Indigenous, Javanese and other ethnic groups that call Suriname home today. An unforgettable adventure.”

May is the month of Queensland Youth Music Awards (QYMA), presented by Voices of Birralee. QYMA celebrates the participation of over 4,000 young people in the music making process. Voices of Birralee is a Corporate Friend of Lions and Ashgrove/The Gap Lions were honoured to support QYMA by providing volunteer helpers.

Lions helped put a bit of sizzle in Mater Dei Primary School bush dance by providing a BBQ for children and parents.

The Club’s newest Friend of Lions, Margaret Rayner, was presented with her membership badge and certificate recently.

Until next month… https://ashgrovethegaplions.org.au/

For those unfamiliar with Project Booyah, it is a remarkable Queensland Police-led mentoring initiative that combines adventure-based learning, leadership development, resilience training and positive role modelling to help young people make better life choices. The program works with young people who may have become disconnected from school, family, or community and helps them rediscover their potential.

Having worked alongside these young people during previous surfboard-building projects, I continue to be amazed by the goodness, creativity and potential that exists within every one of them. Behind many challenging behaviours are often challenging environments.

Many of these young people have grown up without consistent positive role models, stability, or opportunities that others may take for granted.

What stands out most is that when they are given encouragement, responsibility and belief, they rise to the occasion.

The Queensland Police Service deserves enormous credit for the outstanding work being undertaken through Project Booyah. It is easy for society to focus on a young person’s mistakes, but far more powerful to invest in their future. Programs such as Booyah remind us that early intervention, mentoring and genuine care can change the trajectory of a life.

As a community, we must continue to become the village these young people need. Every positive conversation, every opportunity, and every role model matters.

I would also like to sincerely thank the Port of Brisbane’s Community Grants Program, whose generous support made it possible for three surfboards to be built by these young people. Their investment is not simply funding timber and tools – it is helping build confidence, purpose and hope for the future.

Sometimes all a young person needs is someone who believes in them.

At Trek2Health, we’ll walk with you – every step of the way.

Thank you for reading this. Stay tuned for more tips and insights. Until then, take a moment to step outside, ride a wave, ride a horse, breathe in the fresh air, and embrace the beauty of nature.

Warm regards, Bruce Barker CEO & Founder, Trek2Health & Surf Shed

Reminder for Advertisers / Contributors please: Deadline for August 2026 Edition: All due by 12 July

Please send to: editor@westernecho.com.au | Any questions? Call Melanie on: 0409 440 501 The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 10

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'IT'S DEBATABLE' A Youth Perspective Flying The Coop: A Reality Check from Young Australians Flying the coop. Spreading your wings. Leaving the nest.

These classic bird sayings are a way to capture the transformational significance of leaving the family home. It’s a turning point in the lives of so many young people, representing independence, autonomy, responsibility and all the big heavy words we associate with growing up and getting on with life in the real world.

Unfortunately, this rite of passage is being delayed and distorted for far too many young people. Their wings feel clipped, the family nest is the only one available, and there’s a fierce financial gale going against them.

The 2026 Australian Census in August will reveal a lot more about the dramatic rise in young people still living at home. But some of our best indications, including the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey are hugely insightful. In 2021, 46.7% of young women aged 18 to 29 were still living with their parents. That number climbed to 54.3% for young men.

Since then, inflation and cost of living pressure have only intensified.

Boomerang Bags The Gap & Surrounds Changing Habits in Plastic Free July!

Plastic-Free July is here again, when we refocus our efforts to remove plastic (especially singleuse plastic) from our lives.

But when it comes to shopping bags, plastic isn’t the only problem. Paper bags may be recyclable and biodegradable, but they’re certainly not a benign solution!

Manufacturing them uses four times more water than plastic bags. They’re heavier, so their transportation emits seven times more CO2 (Woolworths and Aldi bags are manufactured in Vietnam!). If they go to landfill, they release harmful methane as they degrade.

Source text: www.carbonpositiveaustralia.org.au/ blog/paper-bags-vsplastic-bags/

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Young people, for better or worse, are stuck in the family home for longer and longer periods of time. Speaking with a group of young people finishing school helped me better understand their own plans to move out.

Both young men in the group, Malek and Jude, saw themselves leaving home sometime around or before age 25. A couple years after uni, once they’ve found their feet with careers and are starting to earn proper money.

Zara is going to move out right after finishing school. While she knows it’s going to be a pain to fund, she thinks it’s essential.

“Rooming with friends, renting, student housing, I’ll figure it out” Zara Isla wants to get out soon as she can but admits it’s more realistic that she’ll end up leaving around age 21 or 22.

“It’s just expensive to have a place, to pay for the utility side of things, to still have fun as a student” – Isla For the guys in the group, the love and warmth at home was a big factor. They’ve got a nice home, nice parents, a lot to stay for.

“There’s safety in home, there’s love in home, there’s food in home.

Home is home.” – Malek Still, even he admitted that given the financial freedom, he would still choose to have his own place sooner rather than later. We enjoy a good bird metaphor for leaving home but, unfortunately, far too many young people lack the financial wind beneath their wings to ever truly make it out.

Author: Leonard Cavallaro Images: Leonard Cavallaro and Unsplash Reusable Boomerang Bags are part of the circular-economy solution!

Made from post-consumer materials, the only carbon emissions involved in their production come from the small amount of electricity used by sewing machines, lights and the kettle! They’re made here in The Gap, so their transport miles are negligible. They can be reused hundreds of times and are easily repaired. They’re beautiful, strong and sustainable, lovingly made by our talented volunteers!

When you buy our bags, you not only help the environment, but you also help improve social connectivity and support your local community.

Since 2017, BBTGS has returned over $21,000 for environmental, educational and well-being initiatives to thirty-six local schools, clubs, Girl Guides and other community groups via our Community Grants program.

If you would like to purchase some bags or other useful items, we’re holding a stall on Saturday, 5th July, at the Ashgrove Marketplace Shopping Centre (outside Woolworths), 9am – 3pm, selling our full range.

Our volunteers not only love helping the environment but also enjoy making friends and learning new skills! We meet Friday mornings, 9.30am – 12.00pm, during school terms at The Gap Baptist Church, 1125 Waterworks Rd, The Gap. New members are welcome – no experience required!

Facebook: BoomerangBagsTheGapandSurrounds Instagram: boomerang_bags_ the_gap Email: bbtgs4061@gmail.com

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Rotary Club Ashgrove The Gap Rotary has always had a dual focus: local and global.

These are the same words which opened last month’s Rotary article.

That was about Rotary’s Polio eradication program; this is about Rotary’s environment actions.

When Rotary was founded in 1905 no-one had heard of the environment as an issue. Sixty years later there were stirrings with the first popular ecology books and movement. Rotary clubs and international groups started tree planting, water monitoring and other local projects here and there.

Fast forward another sixty years to today and environmental care has become mainstream in Rotary. That is why, locally and recently, we have become a Gold Sponsor of the Brisbane West EcoFest, along with this publication and SOWN. SOWN (Save our Waterways Now) provided our guest speaker in June.

Ed was most informative (and entertaining as well) as he showed us what the group does and how it is organised. Some facts, such as a shortage of aquatic plants downstream of the dam, came as a surprise. And of course no plants means less oxygen which means less life.

Rotary has from the beginning been about community; this has to include looking after the place where the community lives – the suburb, the whole creek, the planet.

Winter Special

SAVE 25% Thinking about joining the Taylor Range Club?

Now is the perfect time!

New members who join this winter will receive 25% OFF their subscription through to 30 September 2026 — that’s a saving of almost $80 for families joining at the start of July!

Enjoy a year-round leisure retreat for the whole family, including: Heated Swimming Pools

2 Floodlit Tennis Courts

4 Glass-backed Squash Courts

Gas BBQs & Leisure Areas

To learn more about the club you can visit https://rotaryashgrovethegap.org.au/

If the idea of volunteering for specific events appeals to you, or just finding out more about Rotary, you can contact Tim Boyd at agrclub@gmail.com, or text at 0411 141 304.

Wild InMitchelton Mitchelton This month’s ‘wild’ photo was taken

by Anne Johnstone – a beautiful cockatoo enjoying Anne’s backyard at Mitchelton.

We welcome anyone who has a great wildlife photo taken in the Western suburbs to send us your photo/s. We would love to feature wildlife images in The Western Echo on a regular basis.

Photo credit: © Anne Johnstone

Please send your photo/s to Melanie: editor@westernecho.com.au WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

Bring your family, stay active, and make the most of everything the Club has to offer.

MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE CONTACT THE CLUB TODAY

07 3366 1560

28 Greenlanes Rd, Ashgrove | office@taylorrangeclub.com.au

www.taylorrangeclub.com.au

The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 13

Rotary Club Of Paddington Where Will You Sleep Tonight?

For many of us, the answer to that question is simple. We know where we will lay our heads tonight.

For thousands of people across South East Queensland, however, the answer is far less certain. Every night, people experiencing homelessness sleep in parks, on streets, in shelters, or in temporary accommodation. They face the cold, wet conditions of winter without the comfort, security, or certainty that many of us take for granted.

As temperatures drop and winter settles in, the Rotary Club of Paddington is helping to provide warmth, protection, and dignity through the "Where Will You Sleep Tonight?" campaign.

Driven by the passion and commitment of Rotary member Wayne, Rotary Paddington, together with Rotary clubs across South East Queensland, is supporting the distribution of Shelterbags to people sleeping rough. So far this year, 500 Shelterbags have been provided to homelessness support organisations, with a further shipment of 500 expected this July.

The Rotary Shelterbag program delivers practical, immediate assistance to those in need. Each Shelterbag is a lightweight, waterproof, durable sleeping swag that includes a padded mattress, built-in hood, and ventilation for comfort and protection. While not a long-term solution to homelessness, Shelterbags provide essential relief during cold and wet nights, helping people stay safer and more comfortable. Each Shelterbag costs $110.

The need in our community is real, and every contribution can make a difference. By supporting the Shelterbag program, you can help provide warmth, safety, and dignity to someone facing homelessness this winter.

To learn more or to support the campaign, contact Wayne via email wrushton131@gmail.com or directly at the Rotary Club of Paddington.

Together, we can make a meaningful difference for those who need it most.

Brisbane North Cake Decorators Our July meeting will be held on Saturday 18th July at the Arana Hills Community Centre on Dawson Parade, commencing at 1.00pm. This meeting is our AGM and we are hoping that some members volunteer for the committee positions. The present committee is standing down after doing the job for several years.

Our guest chair person will be Brenden Clem from Peninsula Branch of the Cake Decorators. After the formalities and afternoon tea Brenden

The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 14

Mitchelton & Districts GardenClub Managing mealybug in Subtropical Gardens Brisbane's warm, humid climate is paradise for gardeners — and unfortunately, for mealybugs too. These soft, waxy insects thrive in our subtropical conditions, clustering on new growth, leaf axils, and roots of ornamentals, citrus, frangipani, and succulents.

Infestations typically peak in warmer months from October to March, when rapid plant growth gives colonies fresh feeding sites. However, as our club members have experienced, mealybugs may be present during the cooler months too. Signs include fluffy white residue, sticky honeydew, and sooty mould on leaves.

For light infestations, wipe colonies off with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or blast plants with a firm jet of water. Neem oil spray — applied in the cooler part of the day — is effective and safe around beneficial insects when used correctly. Repeat every seven to ten days to break the lifecycle.

For persistent problems, a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap spray provides good knockdown. Avoid broad-spectrum pesticides where possible — they kill predatory wasps and ladybirds that naturally suppress mealybug populations.

Prevention is key: avoid overfeeding plants with high-nitrogen fertiliser (lush soft growth invites colonies), improve air circulation through pruning, and inspect new plants before introducing them to the garden. With regular monitoring, mealybug is very manageable in Brisbane gardens.

If you’d like to share any gardening concerns and learn methods of dealing with them, join us on the first Thursday of the month at the Enoggera Memorial Hall (Trundle St) where our friendly members will be only too happy to help.

Doors open at 9:30 am when a complimentary morning tea is served and items are on sale. Entry is $5.00.

We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Image: A mealybug infestation on a club member’s magnolia tree in Bardon. will demonstrate some of the many uses of Royal Icing. Brenden is an award-winning decorator with many years of experience and we always look forward to his demonstrations.

Our Cake Show will be finished by our July meeting and we will be displaying our creation at the Arana Hills Library for the month of August.

We welcome new members and we can be contacted via our Facebook page, Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA or via email brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail.com

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Soirée

In collaboration with

A night of fabulous music

The Highgate Hillbillies Topology & Tenzin Kat Augustakis inkind

Tickets at gapsoiree.com /gapsoiree

Sat 22 Aug The Gap State School Supported by The Lord Mayor's Community Fund

Steven Toomey

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY

COUNCILLOR FOR THE GAP WARD

ENROL PREP NOW 2027

Visit our website to submit an Application for Enrolment www.thegapss.eq.edu.au

Starting Strong

TERM 3 PRE-PREP SESSIONS

Friday 31 July 2026 8.00AM - 8.30AM @ the MPB

SUCCEEDING WITH READING WITH THE GAP STAR Research shows that strong oral language skills support reading and writing success. Join us for an informative session on how to help your child succeed in reading.

Friday 21 August 2026 8.00AM - 8.30AM @ the MPB

SPEAKING IN GERMAN WITH THE GAP STAR Join us for a fun German session! Play games, learn words, sing songs, and discover the joy of language together!

Friday 11 September 2026 7.45AM - 8.30AM @ the MPB

SWIMMING WITH THE GAP STAR Join us for a fun swimming session that gives families an insight into a typical Prep swimming lesson. Students will be supported in the water by teacher aides and swimming instructors.

We look forward to welcoming you at The Gap State School.

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The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 15

Enoggera & Districts Historical Society Nostalgia Brisbane Peace Parade The Peace Parade of July 1919 was scheduled to coincide with the signing of the Treaty at Versailles.

The Parade was to form up in Adelaide Street (opposite the Theatre Royal) facing George Street and was to step off at 9.45 am.

The route was by way of Queens Street, Petrie Bight, Wickham, Brunswick and Ann Streets and over the Victoria Bridge where it was to disband at the South Brisbane Town Hall. The salute was to be taken by the Governor, Sir Herbert Chermside at the General Post Office.

Members of the serving military force, returned service-men and Cadets were joined by a multitude of colourful floats. Hundreds of delighted citizens lined the route to cheer the cavalcade on its way.

Prominent in this photograph is the statue of the first Queensland born Premier Thomas Joseph Byrnes (11/11/1860- 27/9/1898).

Born at Spring Hill to Irish immigrant parents Thomas, he won the Lilley Medal (1875/77) and became a barrister and parliamentarian.

He represented Cairns and Warwick, and was Attorney General and Premier (for just 5 months).

In July 1898 he contracted measles in Sydney and succumbed to pneumonia at a very young age, and unmarried.

In Warwick and Brisbane he is honoured by a statue. In Brisbane the 9 foot 6 inch statue executed by the Victorian sculptor Bertram Mackennal stands on a plinth of granite quarried at Enoggera. The unveiling was attended by the Lord Mayor L.G. Corrie and Governor Sir John Gould-Adams in the presence of family members on 23 August 1902.

The statue has been moved from its original site into the Centenary Gardens, Fortitude Valley.

St Mary’s Peace celebrations.

In September 1945 St Mary’s, Enoggera congregation celebrated the coming of peace in the grounds of the church. The day was spent with sports and a basket picnic. The evening programme staged singing, talking pictures and dancing in the church hall. A Queen of Peace competition was an additional event.

Photo - Byrnes statue Henry Hacker.

WesternEcho THE

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Reminder for Advertisers / Contributors please:

Deadline for August 2026 Edition: All due by 12 July 2026 Please send to: editor@westernecho.com.au Any questions? Call Melanie on: 0409 440 501 The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 16

Brisbane West EcoFest Calling all young artists!

Entries are now open for the EcoArt26 Student Art Competition, inviting local primary and secondary students to explore this year’s theme, Our Local Environment, through art. Cash prizes are on offer, and winning artworks will be featured in Western Echo.

Information on how to participate here: https://drive. google.com/file/ d/1pUj5Lj2CXmcu EsHcmbZJQdyNIdTDQZ7/view

A Celebration of Community, Sustainable Living and Action Join us on Sunday 16 August, 10 am to 3pm, for the second edition of the Brisbane West Eco Fest, at The Gap State High School. The Eco Fest is a vibrant community event bringing together local residents, environmental organisations, businesses, schools, community groups, and changemakers for a day of inspiration, learning, and fun.

The Eco Fest is designed to showcase practical solutions for living more sustainably while celebrating the incredible environmental initiatives already taking place across Brisbane's western suburbs. Whether you're just beginning your sustainability journey or are already deeply involved in environmental action, there is something for everyone.

Visitors can explore over 30 stalls featuring local community organisations, conservation projects, eco-friendly products, and sustainability initiatives. Throughout the day, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on workshops, listen to inspiring speakers, discover practical ways to reduce their environmental footprint, and connect with like-minded people who care about creating a healthier future for our communities and planet.

Families are especially welcome, with activities designed to engage children and adults alike. From nature-based experiences, wildlife show, nature face painting to creative workshops and interactive demonstrations, the Eco Fest aims to make sustainability accessible, enjoyable, and empowering for all ages.

More than just a festival, Brisbane West Eco Fest is a celebration of community action. It highlights the important role that individuals, households, schools, businesses, and community groups can play in protecting biodiversity, reducing waste, tackling climate change, and building more resilient communities.

For more information contact: briswest.ecofest@gmail.com WWW.WESTERNE CHO.COM.AU

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The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 17

Carinity Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy Travis struggled with a gambling addiction which spanned 33 years of his life. He’d given up trying to give up, even when it cost him everything: his long-term girlfriend, his job, and his freedom.

Travis resorted to white collar fraud to fund his addiction. It led to four stints in prison, spanning 11 years. That’s where Travis experienced the kindness of volunteer prison chaplains from Gaythorne-based Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy.

“Chaplains play a big role in emotional and relational healing for many prisoners, because they offer a safe, non-judging presence. They listen without condemning,” Travis said.

“They assist with processing grief and trauma: chaplains are often there when an inmate gets bad news from home, loses a loved one, or is overwhelmed by regret and fear.

Ashgrove Historical Society Visitors are very welcome to attend the Ashgrove Historical Society meetings held on the first Saturday of the month from 10amnoon at Ashgrove Library.

Come along on 1 August 2026 to hear about Writers and Artists of Mt Coot-tha presented by Janet Spillman. A shared morning tea will follow the presentation.

Janet Spillman has explored Mt Coot-tha for twenty years, as a walker and a member of a Habitat Brisbane bush care group. Wandering Weeders meets every week on the Chapel Hill side of the mountain to weed and to plant the native species that support its wildlife. She has published a book and papers exploring the history of the muchloved forest park, and will share a collection of photographs, paintings, sketches, poetry and nature writing that show how people responded to the forest on their doorstep.

“They also offer hope and identity. This can slowly rebuild an inmate’s shattered self-confidence, self-respect and self-love.”

AHS membership makes a great gift for anyone interested in Ashgrove’s history. Fees are $10 single per annum (1 July - 30 June), or $15 couple/family. Please contact the secretary, Julie, (ahs.secretary@ bigpond.com) and she will let you know the EFT details or you can join at a meeting.

All his life, Travis had been searching for the answer to stop gambling.

The answer was clear: ‘Let go and let God.’

Photo credit: courtesy of the State Library of Queensland.

Travis’ last bet was 16 November 2023. For 33 years, he didn’t go one day without an urge or desire to have a bet. But since that date three years ago, he hasn’t had a single urge or desire to place a bet.

For more: www.ashgrovehistoricalsociety. org/index.php

Today, Travis is living a life free from gambling addiction – and full of hope.

Travis gives special ‘thanks’ to one particular prison chaplain who he first met in a correctional centre in 2015.

“Words can’t express the impact he’s had on my life. The blessing of this chaplain is truly amazing.”

Donations to the Carinity Chaplains Appeal will help Inside Out Prison Chaplaincy’s dedicated volunteer chaplains to positively impact more people in Queensland correctional centres.

Donate online at www.carinity. org.au/donate or phone 3550 3737.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS! New Directory ads available from just $66 per month.

SPECIAL OFFER: $195 per month for 4 x publications

(The Hills Echo, The Everton Echo, The Eatons Echo and The Western Echo) – combined 45,700 copies monthly.

Book now with Mel: 0409 440 501 The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 18

Newmarket Bocce Club News Vic and Luciana Alberti Cup Sunday 17 May, 24 players took to the bocce courts for the cup in its 6th year.

Camaraderie was at its highest level among players. We played 3 games before lunch and the final afterwards. It was nail biting up to the last game. At the end the winners were Tony, Lewis and Andy.

Vic and Luciana made their famous prawn sauce and marinated chicken followed by home made tiramisu.

Gina and Rebecca did all the days prep work and serving. Great speech by our president Tony and sponsor Vic Vic and Luciana did the on-court presentation - It was a great day for all!

To find out more about Newmarket Bocce Club, please contact: Mario 0403 257 325; Tony 0418 731 423; or Bill 0431 458 481.

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STUCK ON FINANCE? Real Advice. Real Solutions. Real Support.

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3366 8604 | caroline.jean-baptiste@mortgagechoice.com.au | mortgagechoice.com.au/c.jean-baptiste

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, and sometimes slightly further afield (hint)!

Please submit your answer on our website: www.westernecho.com.au/photo-quiz Or email to: editor@westernecho.com.au or scan the aove QR code.

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.

RESPONSES BY 31 JULY PLEASE!

Answer and winner (first name only) will be shared via social media. Sponsored by Colin Bushell Photography

June location: Chapel of the Holy Spirit at St Francis College, Milton Winner: Jennifer P WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

0409 107 079 colinbushell@icloud.com www.colinbushellphotography.au | @colbushell

The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 19

The Gap Pioneer & History Group Inc A Trip To The Markets continued

by Roy MacArthur It was mandatory for the conductor on the inbound tram to insert a key into a “bundy” time clock that was housed in a small timber frame standing kerbside in Musgrave Rd, Red Hill.

We alighted from the tram in George St, opposite the McDonnell and East store and made our way into Turbot St to a banana merchant located at the corner of Roma and Turbot Streets. Here we selected a bunch of bananas, and the employee cut off hands and carefully

The Gap Baptist Church Hiding Adam and Eve were embarrassed and afraid by what they did. And so they tried to hide.

They tried to cover things up (literally).

How strange to think that they could hide from God. God is Spirit. He is outside the physical but also part of it. How could we possibly hide from God? Read Psalm 139 1. You have searched me, Lord, and you know me.

2. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.

3. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.

4. Before a word is on my tongue you, Lord, know it completely.

5. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me.

6. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to understand.

7. Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?

8. If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

9. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, If I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.

Even though He knows all our good and all our bad God still loves us.

We know this without any doubt because Jesus died for us. If you want to know this Jesus then come to the Gap Baptist Church or contact me to do a quick Game Changer Course.

Tiny Thomsen 0498 199 217.

The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 20

packed them into our oblong port. We then moved on to the main market building.

There was an entrance in Turbot St between Roma and Albert Sts with stalls on both sides There were stalls selling every type of fruit and vegetable. An exciting atmosphere prevailed, with the vendors loudly proclaiming the bargains they had available. There were humorous comments and retorts between rival and adjacent sellers which added to the enjoyment. If you arrived early enough you could witness some of the late deliveries of locally grown produce. Our purchase would mostly consist of one bushel and half bushel cases that we put in the hessian bags we had brought along. There was not a lot of time to dilly-dally, we had to be at the bus stop before 9.00 am.

We managed (sometimes we struggled) to get our purchases to the Walton Bridge bus stop, which was also the city terminus. This was located in Roma St, behind the Roma St Police Station, in the shade of some large leafy trees. The driver of the bus was always very helpful and assisted us to stow our purchases near him at the front of the bus.

Enquiries: jeffhilder@outlook.com

Brisbane Tramway Museum INTRODUCING OUR FLEET Tram 341 Tram 341 was built in 1936 – one of the last of this class, a Drop Centre tram. It was one of a total of 191 trams in this class – the largest class operated by the Brisbane City Council. It is 13.9 metres long, weighs 15 tonnes and can carry up to 110 passengers – 64 seated. As originally built, tram had only handbrakes and rheostatic brakes but air brakes were fitted in 1947. Tram 341 has been with the museum since March 1969 and in 1994, re-entered service after being restored to the original silver and blue colour scheme.

Meanwhile, DON’T MISS THE SPECIAL SCHOOL HOLIDAY OPENING – WEDNESDAY 8 JULY FROM 10.00AM TO 2.00PM Check the Museum website for details: www.brisbanetramwaymuseum.org The Brisbane Tramway Museum is Proudly Supported by The Brisbane City Council.

LOCK IT OR LOSE IT

Ensure you lock up your home even if you are AT HOME. If you have key locks on windows and doors use these especially if you are away.

Take keys to cars left at home with you or HIDE and SECURE them well - 1 out of 2 cars are stolen with their own keys.

Email neighbourhoodwatchthegap@yahoo.com.au Website: www.nhwq4061.com

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The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 21

Ryan Edgar: aims for World Championships Local athlete, Ryan Edgar, recently achieved an extraordinary milestone.

Bringing nature back to the city There are more than 38 creeks which meander a total of 600km through our suburbs to join the Brisbane River. Despite urban development, most remain in their original position, including the 40km long stretch of Enoggera and Breakfast Creeks.

Ryan won Gold at the Asian U18 Beach Volleyball Championships, and as a result, he has been selected to represent Australia at the U18 Beach Volleyball World Championships in the Netherlands.

After decades of clearing and farming, followed by more disturbance by roads, bridges and services, these waterways had lost much of their habitat.

This is an incredible opportunity for a young athlete from our community to compete on the world stage. However, the costs associated with international travel, accommodation, and competition fees are significant, and Ryan is seeking community support to make this opportunity possible.

Tackling urban streams is a proven way to enhance biodiversity and link people to nature in our cities, while at the same time improving amenity and social connection through community volunteer projects.

Ryan is a hardworking, dedicated young athlete who has already made our community proud.

We appreciate any support and donations that our community may be able to assist with.

Donations can be made here: www.asf.org.au/campaigns/ryan-edgar

The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 22

SOWN

Starting in the 1980s, residents began forming community groups to remove weeds, replant native vegetation and protect riparian habitat.

These are now coordinated through 11 catchment groups (such as SOWN) and the Brisbane Catchments Network (BCN), and supported

by Brisbane City Council’s Habitat Brisbane and Creek Catchments programs.

Nationwide investment in waterways, through the Commonwealth Urban Rivers and Catchment Program, also aims to repair and regenerate nature in cities. BCN and SOWN have received sizeable grants under this Commonwealth program to coordinate creek habitat restoration, involving contractors as well as scores of volunteers. One of the largest of these grant-funded SOWN projects is at Wattle Creek in The Gap. The next time you walk or cycle through this attractive creek network, enjoying patches of riparian forest and wetlands bordering the waterways, please thank the thousands of volunteers who have worked over the past 30 to 40 years to bring nature back into the city.

Photo credit: Volunteers planting native species at Wattle Creek (Colin Bushell Photography/SOWN photo)

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PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

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

Jack Dangerfield 0422 564 007

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ARANA TOUCH FOOTBALL 2026 SEASON 2 Competition

Nominations close 5th August

12th August to 18 November DIVISIONS Boys and Girls 8, 10, 12, 14 and Over 15-18

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WESTS MITCHELTON Rugby League Fields Cnr Samford Road & Prospect Street, Mitchellton

Contact Us: AranaTouch@outlook.com

www.AranaTouch.com facebook.com/AranaTouch

The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 23

Newmarket ViewClub Looking to connect with other local women and support children in need?

Newmarket View (Voice, Interests and Education of Women) Club is a leading women’s organisation with over 14,000 members in three hundred communities across Australia, all dedicated to supporting children in need with their education through the Smith Family. Our club provides a friendly and safe meeting place for women (all ages welcome) to connect with other women in the community and make lasting friendships.

Our club is currently sponsoring eighteen wonderful kids. Happy birthday to Paige who turned 14 yrs in June.

Our May guest speaker, Lee Hammond, Branch Manager, Arana Hills Commonwealth Bank, gave our group a practical session on how to stay safe online – whether you are shopping, banking, or connecting socially online. Lee discussed the difference between scams and frauds and gave us some simple and effective tips as well on how to protect our personal information online.

As a follow on to Lee’s presentation, our August guest speaker will be Shona Henderson from ID Care, Shona will talk with our group on how individuals can get critical support if they are confronted with identify theft and cyber security concerns. If this topic interests you and you would like to come along, please contact Margaret (our President) either on her mobile or the club’s email address (details at end of article).

The GapCreative Creative Inc Living our most creative lives, right here in The Gap. We are fortunate enough to have such a diverse membership of artists and creatives, and we are honoured to celebrate them all and welcome the community along for the ride!

It is hard to believe how far we have come as a group since forming in 2020, and yet here we are getting ready to host our 5th annual Open Studio’s weekend on August 29-30. This is sure to be an insightful and inspiring experience, as the doors to home studios and creative spaces are open to the public for one weekend only!

Each individual in our volunteer collective has a story to tell, and it is through their art, that we have the opportunity to get to know each other and connect on a deeper level, as well as supporting each other throughout our artistic pursuits.

From miniatures to large scale pieces and murals, we have visual artists specialising in oils, charcoal, pencils, acrylics and watercolours.

Mixed media artists creating with collage, unique paper techniques alongside textiles, fibre arts, sculpture, felting and innovative ideas using recycled materials.

Congratulations to our club as we are now officially of age – 18 yrs. We had a wonderful party to celebrate this amazing milestone. Ashgrove Golf Club was a sea of yellow. We had yellow themed tables, games, and activities. It was a wonderful day, however by the afternoon I needed to go home for a SLEEP – too much fun.

We have makers of all kinds! Ceramics, enamels, jewellery, wood turning, resin, bespoke carpentry, the list is endless.

Upcoming events for July, August and September are:

You may just discover some hidden gems amongst our suburb if you experience the open studio art trail. We look forward to welcoming you all.

14 July: Our July social outing is to be held at the Mt Coot-tha Gardens.

We will have morning tea first, then for those of us who feel energetic, a walk around the gardens may beckon or just more coffee.

28 July: Monthly meeting. Ashgrove Golf Club, 863 Waterworks Rd, The Gap. 10.00 for 10.15. Our guest speaker will be Lindy Sugars from the Ashgrove Historical Society 11 August: Social outing is to the Whitehorse Ranch Café at Albany Creek for brunch at 10.30am 25 August: Monthly meeting. Ashgrove Golf Club, 863 Waterworks Rd, The Gap. 10.00 for 10.15 8 September: Meet at Roma Street Parkland at 10.00am for coffee and a walk through the beautiful parklands. Should be stunning with the Spring flowers out.

22 September: Monthly meeting. Ashgrove Golf Club, 863 Waterworks Rd, The Gap. 10.00 for 10.15. Our guest speaker is Amanda O’Callaghan, published author who will talk about the “Joy of Writing.”

If you are interested in attending a monthly meeting or one of our regular social events or to find out more about our cub, please ring our President, Margaret on 0408 988 672 or email newmarket view@gmail.com The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 24

Photographers, writers, musicians and storytellers with a wide range of styles, from nature to portraits, to urban landscapes and local haunts.

If you are interested in joining us, head to https://thegapcreative.com.au for more information.

Keep up to date with events & local stories SIGN UP TO OUR MONTHLY NEWSLETTER WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU

Open Studio Event SAVE THE DATE 29 & 30 August 2026

Discover some hidden gems amongst our suburb as the doors to home studios and creative spaces are open to the public for one weekend only!

FREE ENTRY

10AM - 3PM | REAL-TIME DEMOS | ART FOR SALE

www.thegapcreative.com.au

SUPPLYING GREAT TASTING, fresh, Certified Organic Produce to The Gap & Neighbouring Suburbs for 12 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 5pm on Mondays at 15 High St, Ashgrove

(down the easement to Oakleigh Scouts car park) * Advertisement proudly sponsored by COOEEE (COOEEE.com.au)

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The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 25

Probus Club The GapLaughter Laughter Club The GapProbus On 4 July, The Gap Laughter Club will celebrate ten years of bringing community members together to have fun, improve their wellbeing, and build social

The June speaker at the general meeting was local author James Legessner on “Snippets from a Boomer's Diary”. Those of us from an earlier era were interested to hear what the young man had to say.

Laughter yoga combines playful laughter exercises with deep yogic breathing. It has nothing to do with jokes or comedy and everything to do with wellness. It provides many proven physical and mental health benefits, including lowering stress, boosting the immune system and reducing depression.

James explained the labelling of past generations that we all hear about and sometimes wonder about. The club members are typically Boomers (born between 1945 and 1964, so now 61 to 82 years old) or from the generation before. The “before” generation has had many labels, mostly complimentary: The Silent Generation, the Frugals, the Builders.

Celebrating Ten Years of Laughter and Fun

connections through laughter yoga.

The club is a community-based, volunteer-led social group which welcomes community members of all ages and abilities. No membership fee or RSVP is required – just turn up and you’ll be made very welcome! Our sessions are led by trained laughter yoga leaders.

A $2 donation from each participant is appreciated with these funds going to support local charities such as Foodbank and Nourish Street.

Our laughter yoga sessions are currently held at Walton Bridge Reserve, Waterworks Road on Saturdays from 9.30 – 10.10am. Look for our yellow sign and flag. Please check our Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/TheGapLaughterClub to confirm session times and venues or contact club coordinator June Lennie on 0459 250 060.

You are invited to join our special celebration on 4 July at The Gap Scout Den, Paten Park, Paten Road from 9.30 till 11.15am.

After our laughter yoga session a morning tea will be held with tea, coffee and cake provided. Please bring some food to share. All welcome!

BrisWestCentre Centre A new community singing group, Paddington Songbirds, is providing a welcoming space for people to come together and enjoy the benefits of singing. Founded by local resident and volunteer Grace Lam, Paddington Songbirds was created particularly for older adults, with the aim of helping participants discover the many social, emotional, and health benefits that come from sharing music with others.

Research has shown that singing and music groups encourage social connections and stimulate memory, making them valuable tools for healthy ageing and dementia support. Beyond the health benefits, the group offers an opportunity for friendship, community engagement, and enjoyment in a relaxed and inclusive environment.

That’s us, folks!

James illustrated his talk with, as he says, “Snippets” of local history – of which the most resonant was the story of Cloudland, so fondly remembered by those who were young when it was in its prime. Many could recall some frisky times there! His books were popular.

We were happy to welcome two new members to the club in June, Cecily and Lilian, inducted with a brief ceremony by President Harpur.

Every new member brings with them a lifetime of experience and interests and are soon made to feel very much at home in the club.

The outings, lunches, card games, coffee mornings, walks, and cocktail hours do their work of lubricating new friendships.

If you are interested in finding out more (without any commitment) we would be delighted to talk with you, and we invite you to our meetings (first Thursday of every month, 2pm, at the Baptist Church, corner of Waterworks and Settlement Roads). Call (or better text) Tim on 0411 141 304, or just rock up.

The group will meet weekly on Thursdays starting July 23rd from 11.30 am to 12.45 pm at BrisWest Centre, 132 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington.

Whether you are an experienced singer or simply enjoy music, Paddington Songbirds welcomes everyone to join in and be part of this growing community initiative. No auditions required!

For more information or to register your interest, visit the Paddington Songbirds website via https://sites.google.com/view/paddingtonsongbirds/home or contact the BrisWest Centre team directly via: https://www.briswestcentre. com.au/

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The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 26

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Balaangala Community Group Restoration Day 2026 Balaangala Community Group recently celebrated its 7th annual Restoration Day. It was an afternoon filled with sharing, listening, laughing and connecting.

The Balaangala Restoration Fund is a pay the rent fund. It’s a way non-First Nations people acknowledge they live on stolen land and make financial contributions directly to First Nations people. People contribute an amount of their choosing into an account overseen by Balaangala. Each year, a panel of First Nations people distribute the accumulated funds to groups and small businesses owned and/or run by First Nations people.

This year's recipients shared the $45,000 that had been contributed into the fund in the past 12 months. Since its inception the Fund has distributed $168,000 to First Nations people.

Restoration day is a chance for contributors, recipient groups, and Panel members to come together and hear of the fantastic work that is being done by First Nations people.

This year’s recipients were Biral Tours, 2 Spirits, Deadly Design Printers, Black Wattle Professional Services and First Creatives performing arts group.

It was wonderful to also have representatives from past recipient groups join us - Uncle Denis from Minjeerabah Moorgumpin Elders in Council and Goma Conlon from LKG Cleaning Services. Goma's business has gone from strength to strength and now employs over 40 people.

If you missed this year's Restoration Day, we encourage you to come along next year. These groups and small businesses work hard to create opportunities for their communities. You won't read about them in mainstream media, but it's lovely being able to acknowledge and celebrate with them.

Art inBark Bark Want something new to do?

Come and join us, at Art in Bark Association at City Hall Brisbane. We hold classes Mondays only at the 50 Plus Centre – enter via Adelaide St, in the basement. Come and learn how to do a bark picture, a unique gift for your special event, birthday, anniversary, or Christmas.

Mondays at 9.30am -12pm. Lessons cost $10, kits cost $15. Kit includes board, bark, glue and tools to do your first picture.

If you can’t come on Mondays, come on Saturdays at the Apostolic Church Hall, 43 Robinson Rd, Nundah. Please phone first to book your class.

For more info: Dipti 0468 548 600 or Ros 0419 674 498.

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The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 27

NorthsHockeyClub HockeyClub Queensland pride for local hockey players A number of Northern Suburbs Hockey Club members have represented Queensland this year – and another batch of players will soon get their chance to do the same.

Five juniors from the Ashgrovebased club – Charlotte Laherty, Puk Pasman, Luke Keir, Anthony Buenaobra and Archer Hanly – will represent Queensland at the Australian Schools Hockey Championships in July.

It follows Charlotte, Amélie Roberts, Tilda Armstrong and Mya Grealy winning the Queensland Schoolgirls Championship with the Metropolitan North team.

Daniel Thirgood and Thomas Quine will represent the Queensland Under 18 men’s team this month, with Paul Carey, Adam Day, Jack West and Ken Wigmore in Queensland teams for the Australian Masters Championships.

Norths has already shared in Australian championships success this year, with Laura Thirgood and her Queensland team winning the Under 16 girls national title.

Grace Petersen, Brielle Parker, Luke Keir, Jayden Buenaobra, Kai Graham and Alistair Schweitzer also competed at the Australian Under 16 Championships.

Oliver Harding (Queensland), Max Mackley and Nick Keir (Northern Territory) competed in the Australia Under 21 competition, while Mitch Ivory, Josh Carter and Riley Nimmo represented Queensland at the Australian Defence Force hockey titles.

More Norths players will likely be selected in Queensland teams following the completion of the state titles for Masters women and Under 14 girls and boys.

Local Family honours late Inspector Ronald Strike's distinguished police service A special presentation was held at The Gap on Sunday 21 June to honour the late Inspector Ronald Edmond Strike, whose Queensland Police Service career spanned more than three decades.

Ronald's widow, Grace Strike, 99, was presented with the National Police Service Medal and Queensland Police Medal with 30-Year Clasp on behalf of the family. For the Strike family, the presentation was a meaningful opportunity to formally recognise Ronald's service to Queensland and his contribution to policing over more than three decades.

The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 28

Newmarket Probus Club Newmarket Probus Helps Keep Members Minds Active And Engaged We all know that keeping our minds active is important for healthy ageing. Probus recognises this and involves members in activities that help them to learn new things. At every meeting we have a guest speaker to talk on a variety of subjects. Last month we had a talk on cardiac arrest and emergency treatment by David Sell, a retired paramedic. The question-and-answer session at the end of the talk was interesting and showed that members were thinking about the information he just gave us.

At times, Probus organises visits to organisations where we can learn about what is happening in our community. Last month we visited QIMR Berghofer at Brisbane’s Herston Health Precinct. After an interesting talk about the Institute and what it does we went on a tour of one of the labs to see how the scientists work. Currently, QIMR is conducting research into infection and inflammation, cancer, population health and brain and mental health. We read about the work done by our scientists but rarely do we have a chance to see how they do it.

Newmarket Probus meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 10am at the Red Hill Bowls Club. Visitors are always welcome to attend one of our friendly meetings. To find out more about us check out or very informative website. Just Google “Newmarket Probus” to connect to the website.

The National Police Service Medal recognises ethical and diligent service by members of Australian police services, while the Queensland Police Medal with 30-Year Clasp recognises long and dedicated service to the Queensland Police Service.

Ronald Strike joined the Queensland Police Service as a Probationary Constable on 5 July 1948 and served throughout Queensland before retiring as an Inspector Grade One on 18 August 1981.

During his 33-year career he served at Roma Street, Redbank, Rockhampton, Mt Isa, Townsville CIB, Brisbane CIB, Blackwater, Cloncurry and Ashgrove, together with a number of district and

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Birdie Coffee Celebrates 1 Year!

This July edition is especially meaningful to all of us at Birdie Coffee, as we celebrate the first anniversary of our beloved space.

Over the past year, we have shared so many special moments together. We have created a welcoming place where our community can connect, share, and care for one another.

To celebrate our first anniversary, we are hosting a special event on 26 July.

We'll have live music, plenty of activities for kids in our children's area (including our brand-new fenced and covered play area!), and, of course, lots of fun and coffee. We can't wait to welcome all of our regular customers, as well as those visiting us for the first time.

Our team will never have enough words to express how grateful we are for all the support we've received over the past year. You are the reason the Birdie family is so special.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Bruce & Natasha www.instagram.com/ birdiecoffee_thegap Great location overlooking Ashgrove Golf Club, 811 Waterworks Rd, The Gap Drive-thru coffee service available

IN YOUR EYES SERVICE. STRENGTH. HEALING. A portrait and reflection project for Queensland veterans who have served overseas

headquarters appointments.

Between 1973 and 1975 he served as Officer-in-Charge of Ashgrove Police Station.

His service was recognised with a number of commendations, including two Queen's Commendations for Brave Conduct awarded in 1960 and 1961.

The family expressed their appreciation to Patrol Inspector Matt Groom, Senior Sergeant Tony Poli, Officer-in-Charge of The Gap Police Station, the Queensland Police Service Honours and Awards Unit, and retired Senior Sergeant Dennis Peters for their assistance in making the presentation possible.

Trek2Health and Colin Bushell Photography are inviting expressions of interest for ‘In Your Eyes’, a photography and storytelling project that will honour the service, sacrifice, resilience and lived experience of Queensland veterans.

The project will result in a curated exhibition and a high-quality photo book, with launch events planned for Remembrance Day 2026 and Anzac Day 2027.

Who can take part?

To be eligible, participants must have served overseas as part of the Australian Defence Force and be permanently residing in Queensland as of 1 January 2026.

Scan the QR code for more information and how to take part.

This project is proudly supported by the Queensland Government

Photos: Grace Strike receiving the medals - Left to Right - Patrol Inspector Matt Groom, Grace Strike, Senior Sergeant Tony Poli, Officer-in-Charge of The Gap Police Station. Historical photograph of Inspector Ronald Strike during his policing career.

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The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 29

The GapShe She Shed July Activities Ths is what our members are doing this month!

Walton Bridge The GapGirl Guides WBTG Guides have enjoyed a wide range of activities over the past weeks.

Monday and Friday walking group. Meet in Riaweena Street near the *Scout Den at 8.30am.

Out youngest Guides, the Gumnuts, made flowers for the Anzac Day wreath, created gifts and cards for Mother’s Day, joined older Guides for a campfire, maintained their fairy garden at our hut, plus crafts, games, music and dance.

Women Wanderers. Saturday 4th July. Book via Trybooking.

City Striders Walking group: Saturday 18th July 8.30-11,00am.

Monday Craft and Chat Group. Monday nights from 7-9pm at The Gap Baptist Church.

Wednesday Knit, Crochet, Sew or other craft group. Venue: *Scout Den, 9.30-12.00pm every Wednesday.

Cards 500: Tuesdays 7th& 21st July 12.30-2.30pm at The Gap Tavern.

Book Club: Thursday 16th July from 6.30-8.30pm. Venue: The Gap Tavern. Book for discussion: “The Marriage Portrait” by Maggie O’Farrell.

Classics Book Club: Meet at Topology, 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap on Wednesday 29th July from 6-8.30pm. Book for discussion “A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens.

She Shed Diners – Thursday 2nd July from 6.00pm. Venue- Newmarket Hotel.

Mahjong Lessons: Tuesdays 1-4pm and Wednesday evenings from 6-9pm at the RSL. Mahjong- Social. Monday nights from 6-9pm, Wednesday mornings 9 am-midday, Friday afternoons from 1-4pm. Sundays 4-7pm Venue: *RSL. Mahjong Tournament Practice/Social – 1-4pm Saturdays at the *RSL. Theatre Lovers – “Strong is the New Pretty” at the Playhouse – Saturday September 19th. Book now via Trybooking. Bookings close mid July.

Writers Club: Monday 13th July from 1.30-3pm at The Blind Tiger, The Gap. Introduction to Ballet/barre - 8-week lessons from Thursday 23rd July from 1.30-2.30pm. Venue: Studio Tribe, 10-14 Payne Road, The Gap. Stitched Books – Monday 6th July 9am – 12pm.

Line Dancing - 5.30-6.30 pm St. Marks Anglican Church. Book via Trybooking. Starts again on 27th July! *Venue addresses: The Scout Den, 76 Riaweena Street, The Gap; RSL Nullagundi Centre, 34 School Road, The Gap; Topology – 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap.

Picture: One of The She Shed’s many Mahjong groups.

Website:https://thegapsheshed.wixsite.com/home Email: hello@thegapsheshed.au See all updates for groups and events on our live calendar on our website. All queries can be made through Facebook or email us at hello@thegapsheshed.au The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 30

Gumtrees Guides also made wreaths for Anzac Day, and held a motherand-daughter campfire. They collected food parcels for the Coffee Brigade Brisbane, celebrated National Italian Day, and enjoyed Queensland Day games and lamington making. A highlight has been a wildlife themed indoor camp at Landsborough, including a day at Australia Zoo. Guides (10-14 years) made Anzac biscuits, did outdoor cooking, held a campfire and a Mother’s Day High Tea, made S.W.A.P.S (Special Whatchamacallits Affectionately Pinned Somewhere), had a pyjama night, and joined the Gumtrees for the wildlife camp at Landsborough.

Rangers (14-18 years) took part in the Dawn Service for Anac Day and enjoyed a weekend at Ranger Rabble Camp at BP Park, Samford.

The District was honoured to take part in The Gap community march and service for Anzac Day, and helped with refreshments afterwards.

In the coming school holidays 35 members of wider John Oxley Region (of which WBTG Guides is a part) are off to Jindabyne and Perisher, NSW for our seven-day Snow Trek.

Girl Guides offers a non-formal educational program that helps build each girl’s confidence, strengths, and personal skills. The program is girl-led and can fit the goals of each member. We are an inclusive organisation that welcomes members from all racial, ethnic, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds.

Our weekly meetings are held in the Walton Bridge The Gap (WBTG) Guide Hut, on Paten Road, The Gap. Meeting Times Tuesday Gumnuts (5/6 years) 5pm to 6pm Tuesday Gumtree Guides (7 to 11 years) 5pm to 7pm Thursday Gumtree Guides (7 to 10 years) 4.30 to 6.30pm Wednesday Guides: (10 to 14 years) 6pm to 8pm Friday Guides (10 to 14 years) 6pm to 8pm Friday Ranger Guides: (13 years +) 7pm to 9pm

For information about the Girl Guides in your local area please contact our District Manager at: waltonbridgethegapDM@guidesqld.org

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The GapRepairCafe RepairCafe The End (of Ten) is Nigh again!

Microsoft withdraws support for Windows 10. If your computer uses Windows 10, you’ll know that Microsoft had planned to stop supporting it in October last year.

After global public outcry, they extended that support for another year until 13 October 2026. From this date, they will no longer provide updates for Windows 10, turning an estimated 200 to 400 million older computers worldwide into security risks and heavily polluting e-waste, and forcing their owners to buy new replacements.

But what if you could make your current computer fast and secure again, so you can keep using it?

There is an alternative to Windows - Linux is free, receives regular updates and works on nearly all devices, including supercomputers that predict the weather and robots on Mars!

If you'd like to explore this option and others, please book a spot at our next workshop with our IT team, under "Computers and Laptops".

There will be a Linux demonstration and Q&A at 10.15am, as well as assistance with upgrades and general IT issues. Bring your computer or laptop with you, and the team will be very happy to check it over to see what options are available to you.

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Our other skilled repairers will also be there to help fix many household items – appliances, tools, electronic items, phones, toys, furniture, bikes, mowers, clocks, sharpening, costume jewellery, textiles and clothing. This is a free service! (Donations are appreciated to help pay our rent!)

Repair Café The Gap operates on the third Saturday of each month, 10am – 1pm, Rivercity Church, 59 Settlement Rd, The Gap. Bookings are preferred, and open two weeks prior to each workshop, on the first Saturday of the month, at 7am. Please book via this website or QR code.

www.trybooking.com/eventlist/ repaircafethegap/ https://www.facebook.com/ RepairCafeTheGap/ https://www.instagram.com/ repaircafethegap/

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IS YOUR MARKETING LEAKING LEAKING MONEY?

Suite 1 1000 Waterworks Road, The Gap Village Shopping Centre

The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 31

3300 6304 | www.ppnn.org.au

NATIONAL TREE DAY! July 26th, between 10 am and 1.00pm, at SOWN and Paten Park Native Nurseries This year marks 30 years since Planet Ark instigated National Tree Day. It celebrates thousands of community groups who dedicate their time to restoring habitats. Three organisations in The Gap - Men of The Trees (MOTT), Paten Park Native Nursery and Save our Waterways Now (SOWN) - contribute to the improvement of biodiversity necessary for our continued existence.

Join us for a variety of activities as we celebrate the importance and beauty of trees. This year our theme is CREEKS. Creeks provide different microhabitats which support both aquatic and terrestrial species – different types of plants, fish, amphibians, invertebrate animals as well as reptiles, birds and mammals depend on waterways for feeding, breeding or shelter. Meanwhile the trees and other plants stabilise their banks. Creeks are a conduit between mountainous regions and the ocean which is important in allowing migration of species, gene flow, transport of nutrients and water quality regulation.

We are privileged to welcome renowned, local children’s author Steve

St Mark's Anglican Church View from the Pew A few editions ago we stared to examine the notion of God. We continue that theme this month. Blaise Pascal, the seventeenth century philosopher said, “There is an infinite abyss within each person that can only be filled by an infinite and immutable, which is God himself.” I like the short version, “We have a hole in our lives for God.” But how do we find that God? Or, is it more correct to say, ‘How does God find us!”

However, we may find ourselves saturated with evidence of the handiwork and presence of God in every corner of life. These are not restricted to the household of the Christian faithful but are free invitational gifts to the whole of humanity. These can be understood

Braines for his presentation on Australian freshwater fish species and how we can protect them. He will run two workshops (11am and 1pm), which although directed at children will be enjoyed by adults.

Steve’s books will be available for purchase on the day. Bookings for these free events are essential, with links below.

https://events.humanitix.com/national-tree-day-the-gapsteven-bains-info-session-1 https://events.humanitix.com/national-tree-day-the-gapsteven-bains-info-session-2 Sown will have a weed display in front of their nursery, which will be open for inspection, and at midday will conduct a short, guided walk to demonstrate non-herbicide weed removal techniques. ‘Ecoinsects’ will compliment this with a display of beneficial insects involved in biological weed control.

Sown volunteers will be available to answer questions about the important work they are involved in. The carpark area between the two nurseries will also host displays from Bat Conservation and Rescue Qld and The Gap Sustainability Group, as well as a coffee van. This will also be the meeting place at 10 am and 12 pm for those wanting to go on a guided walk to look at trees along our creek.

Within PPNN there will be a sausage sizzle and sampling table of bushfoods (jams and preserves will be available for sale). A craft workshop will be available for younger children whilst older ones can test their skills on a Plant Quiz (those with all answers correct will win a tube-stock plant). There will also be a display of plants suitable for creek planting as well as one showcasing MOTT’s contribution to a more sustainable environment.

The carpark between the two nurseries will not be available for general parking (although drop-off and pick-up of those with disabilities or for picking up orders will be possible). Parking is available in spots along the entrance drive and on Payne Road. through at least four portals.

Firstly, through the wonders, mysteries of creation and symbiotic ecological relationships of all life forms, from amoebas to aardvarks.

Secondly, through the implanted consciousness given to humanity we are seekers of truth, justice and meaning. Thirdly, to the written revelation of the Holy Scriptures handed down faithfully over some 3000 years which informs us of the nature of God and our relationships with Him/Her. Fourthly, and most importantly, through Jesus the Son of God coming as one of us - to teach us and demonstrate the fullness of God. He came and lived amongst us, describing his own mission as, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

What must we do to live in that abundance? Rest and relax, as God has done all the hard yards. Just believe and consider joining a prayerful faith community to assist you on your journey.

Benson St Mark’s Anglican Church, The Gap

Reminder for Advertisers / Contributors please: Deadline for August 2026 - Edition: All due by 12 July 2026

Please send to: editor@westernecho.com.au | Any questions? Call Melanie on: 0409 440 501 The Western Echo July 2026 | Page 32

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West Brisbane Orchid Society

AranaViewClub ViewClub The Arana View Club (Voice, Interests, Education of Women) who come together on the first Wednesday of the month at Arana Leagues Club had the great pleasure of giving Lorraine Duke her badge for 30 years of service to her club and the community. WOW!!! Well done.

The West Brisbane Orchid Society: 1965 To 2026 And Growing!

The weather for the past two months certainly has proved to be a challenge for orchid growers! The Society’s June meeting was held on 24 June at The Gap Baptist Church. Anticipating drier times and warmer weather, the following meetings will focus on choices of fertilisers and how these are absorbed and used by orchid plants. A visit to a commercial nursery, and a bushwalk to a site where there are wild orchids, are also planned. Photographs from the May meeting show the Judges’ Choice for the night, an interesting and unusual Gongora grossa grown by Ian G, and a showy Vanda Robert’s Delight grown by Ian K. In September, the Society will join with The Australian Paphiopedilum Society to present its Spring Charity Show.

Why don’t you come along to one of the Society’s meetings to learn more about orchids? The West Brisbane Orchid Society meets at The Gap Baptist Church on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm.

Visitors and New Members are always welcome.

For further information please phone Ian (0418 873 725) or Bob (0428 717 321).

Website: www.westbrisbaneorchidsociety.com.au

The Guest Speaker last month was our very own Judy D who informed us all about the Learning for Life Students. Very Informative.

Wednesday 17th June was another lunch and chat with members and friends at the Mitch and Antler Café in Mitchelton.

July’s guest speaker is Barbara B who is going to tell us all about Life in the Police Force.

If you would like to help give children the best start to life through a quality education and mentoring programmes and meet wonderful interesting women, pick up the phone and call our president Hilary on 0421 047 451.

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.

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Hilder Road State School 2027 and Beyond – Enrolments Now Open at Hilder Road State School

Interest (EOI) through the school website to receive updates regarding enrolments, trials and academy pathways.

to perform. Thank you to our teachers Mrs Seygeyeva, Mrs Elliott, Mrs Dinnis and Mrs Hicks for having students prepared for the night.

Hilder Road State School is proud to be the number one choice for families in The Gap community.

Our highly regarded Prep program provides children with the very best start to their schooling journey through quality teaching, strong wellbeing support, outstanding facilities and a welcoming community where every learner is known, valued and supported to succeed.

Families considering Prep in 2027 and beyond are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) as early as possible as we are seeing extremely high interest.

As students progress through Hilder Road State School, they have access to a wide range of opportunities that extend beyond the classroom. Our growing Excellence Programs and Academy pathways provide students with opportunities to develop their talents, confidence, leadership and teamwork while learning alongside experienced coaches and instructors.

These include the Rising Stars Football Excellence Program, Rising Stars Dance Excellence Program, the Hilder Road State School Netball Academy, as well as our outstanding Instrumental Music and Performing Arts.

Trials for the Rising Stars Football Excellence Program and Rising Stars Dance Excellence program will be held in Term 4, with our Hilder Road State School Netball Academy trials being conducted early next year.

Families interested in any of these opportunities are encouraged to complete an Expression of

Coming up to finish the school term we will host both our senior athletics carnival and a junior carnival to enable our sports stars to shine and win a place in the next phase – District athletics to be held in Term 3.

Danielle Freeman, Principal _____________________ From our exceptional Prep program through to our Excellence Programs, Academy pathways and diverse learning opportunities, Hilder Road State School continues to provide students with the support, opportunities and experiences they need to grow, achieve and succeed. We look forward to welcoming the next generation of Hilder Road State School learners into our thriving school community.

Warm regards Damien Greig, Principal _____________________

Payne Rad State School It has been a very busy and productive few weeks at Payne Road SS, we have hosted our Prep Open morning allowing families and perspective students to come and see what our classroom and play areas offer.

Sharing our beautiful leafy school environment, wonderful play spaces, including mud kitchen and our large multifunctional prep classrooms.

We were finally able to host our Under 8’s Day on Tuesday 2nd June after it being postponed due to rain on 19 May. Thank you must go to our Head of Curriculum - Lindy Du Plooy for her coordination and organisation of this event along with all P-2 teachers, teacher aides, admin staff and Mr Cunnington for set up. It was great to see many parents, community members,

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St Peter Chanel

Local Kindy’s and Surf Life Saving Qld, Fire Brigade and our AdoptA-Cop – Megan Brunton, be involved in this incredible fairlike event filled with hands on activities such as crown making, sensory walk, dinosaur dig and parachute play. Children also had the opportunity to make fairy bread and be amazed by super bubbles and have their face painted. It was a super fun morning for our under 8-year-old students.

Our mid-year arts performance - Musical Mayhem - is another great aspect of our holistic school whereby a wonderful display of The ARTS was performed for our community last Wednesday night by students who sang, played and created drama. It was amazing to see students so excited to be performing for their families, whether they had been learning for 6 months or for 3 years they turned up with big smiles and butterflies and eager to show their hard work. I am always in awe of our students and the level of commitment they show in their learning and willingness

St Peter Chanel Catholic Primary School in The Gap is buzzing with activity, uniting students, families and the parish through meaningful milestones, exciting opportunities and significant developments.

A highlight on the calendar is the Community Movie Night on Friday, 25 July. Hosted by Steven Toomey in partnership with the school, this free event promises a relaxed and enjoyable evening for all ages with food trucks, BBQ, face painting, market stalls and more.

To celebrate Christmas in July, we will be showing Home Alone 2 Lost in New York.

Across the school, a major $1 million upgrade is underway, enhancing learning environments for current and future students.

This includes refurbishment of

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and place their trust in us - these are the moments that remind me that great schools are built on relationships.

Students continue to celebrate important milestones in faith and learning. Recently, Year 4 students received their First Eucharist, a significant moment shared with families, staff and parishioners in a reverent and joyful celebration.

At The Gap State School, we are fortunate to be part of a community that genuinely cares for one another. Our students are known, valued and supported to be successful learners, while also developing as kind, respectful and connected members of our community.

In sport, the school’s Rugby 7s teams are preparing for their upcoming carnival after a successful training session at Our Lady of the Angels. St Peter Chanel will proudly field both boys’ and girls’ teams.

Students are also engaging in social justice initiatives, with Years 4 and 5 participating in a St Vinnies Sleepout, raising awareness of homelessness and encouraging compassion within the community.

This sense of belonging begins long before a child starts school.

Our Starting Strong with The Gap Star program continues to connect future students and families with our school, with upcoming sessions focused on reading and German. We are also excited that our school pool refurbishment is underway and will be ready for our September session.

We look forward to seeing families come together at our Community Movie Night on 25 July.

Blessings, Bec, Principal _____________________

The Gap State School The Little Things That Matter Most

One of the privileges of being a principal is that no two days are ever the same. This term, I have had the opportunity to watch students showcase their creativity at our STEM Expo, perform with confidence at Fanfare, challenge themselves at Year 6 Camp, participate in sporting events and engage deeply in learning across our classrooms. While these highlights are certainly memorable, it is often the smaller moments that stay with me.

The Year 6 student encouraging a nervous friend, the Prep student proudly reading a book for the first time, the teacher quietly checking in on a child who needs support, and the families who generously volunteer their time

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As we move into the second half of the year, I remain grateful for the students, staff and families who make our school such a special place. Together, we continue to create a community where everyone belongs.

Engaged, connected learners Katie Stubbings, Principal _____________________

The Gap State High School Artificial Intelligence in Education: Preparing Students for the Future Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming part of everyday life for all of us. It is

changing the way we learn, work, and communicate.

As educators, it is important that we help our students understand this technology, use it responsibly, and develop the skills they need to thrive in a future where AI will play an increasingly significant role.

At The Gap State High School, we are committed to providing future focused learning opportunities that prepare students for success in an ever changing and connected world. This aligns closely with the Queensland Department of Education's Brighter Futures strategy, which aims to equip every student with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed to flourish in their educational journey and beyond.

While this technology offers exciting possibilities, they also present challenges. This is why schools across Australia are focusing on teaching students how to use AI safely, ethically, and responsibly.

In Queensland state schools, AI is viewed as a tool that can enhance teaching and learning when used appropriately. It can support personalised learning, improve accessibility, encourage creativity, generate ideas, provide feedback, and help students check their understanding of concepts.

Importantly, AI does not replace teachers. The expertise, guidance, and relationships that teachers provide remain central to every student's learning journey. Instead, AI is another tool that can help teachers and students work more effectively.

Queensland state schools are progressively gaining access to Corella, the Department of Education's purpose-built generative AI platform.

Unlike many publicly available AI tools, Corella has been specifically designed for educational use and operates

within the Department's secure digital environment. Student and teacher data remains protected and stored within Australia, providing a safe space for learning and exploration.

Corella can assist students with brainstorming ideas, research and revision, checking understanding, paraphrasing information and exploring digital technologies and coding concepts.

For teachers, Corella can support lesson preparation, resource development, feedback, differentiation, and administrative efficiencies.

Additionally, Pedagogical Technology Coach, Mr Harel Urken, supports teachers at The Gap State High School to explore innovative ways of working with students using these emerging technologies.

Through professional learning, collaboration and classroom support, staff are building confidence and capability in using AI and digital tools to enhance student learning experiences.

By June 2026, Corella will be available to all Queensland state school leaders and teachers.

Students in Years 7 to Year 10 may access the platform with principal approval and parental consent.

One of the most important aspects of introducing AI into schools is ensuring students develop the critical thinking skills needed to use it wisely.

At The Gap State High School, we are teaching students that AI should support learning, not replace it. Just as calculators did not replace the need to understand mathematics, AI should not replace the thinking, problem-solving and creativity that underpin genuine learning.

Anne McLauchlan, Executive Principal

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