The Western Echo March 2025

BUILDING, TRADES & SERVICES

Trails & Hikes

The Best Running and Hiking Trails in North West Brisbane

North West Brisbane offers a diverse range of running and hiking trails from challenging climbs to scenic loops - perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, a quick workout or a relaxing nature walk.

Keperra Saddle: A Local Trail with Stunning Views

For walkers and runners seeking a short but challenging loop, Keperra Saddle offers a 3.4km trail featuring a mix of bitumen and loose gravel paths. Starting near the dog off-leash area on Mungarie Street in Keperra, the trail begins with a steep incline, making it a great workout close to home.

At the summit, enjoy panoramic views stretching from Mt Coot-tha to the Glasshouse Mountains, Moreton Bay, and beyond. The descent can be tricky, as loose gravel can make footing unstable—so take care on the way down. While there are no amenities along the track, this lightly trafficked, dog-friendly loop is perfect for those seeking a quick but rewarding outdoor escape.

St John’s Wood Walk: Lush Eucalypt & Bamboo Clusters

This pleasant walk or ride follows Enoggera Creek through lush eucalypt groves and golden bamboo clusters, winding its way through St John’s Wood and Ashgrove, before reaching Dorrington Park. Along the path, metal plates at intervals offer historical insights into the area. The route is about 6-7km return, mostly flat and paved, with a brief on-road section on quiet Acacia Drive.

The journey begins near the Banneton Bakery. Cross over into St Johns Wood and continue along a gum-lined path that runs alongside Enoggera Creek, passing Marist Brothers school grounds before picking up the dedicated walk/cycle path along the sports grounds and creek. Finally, cross Mirrabooka Rd to reach Dorrington Park, where you can walk or cycle through the park to Stewart Rd, before retracing your steps to the start.

Gold Creek Reservoir Track: A Scenic Loop for Walkers & Runners

Nestled in Upper Brookfield, the 4.8km Gold Creek Reservoir track is a moderately trafficked loop that offers a mix of narrow gravel paths and stunning natural scenery. Rated Grade 3, this trail is best

suited for those with some hiking experience.

Starting and ending at a picnic area with toilets, the track winds around a picturesque lake, making it a peaceful escape. It's also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with a diverse range of native birds to spot along the way.

Maiala Rainforest Circuit: A Tranquil Escape in Nature

Located at Maiala Picnic Grounds on Mount Glorious Road, this 2km circuit winds through lush subtropical rainforest, offering a peaceful retreat for walkers of all ages, including young children. The Grade 2-3 track consists of dirt paths with wooden walkways, making it an accessible yet slightly challenging stroll.

The trail showcases the majestic Sydney blue gum, a rare survivor of the once-dominant eucalypt forest, alongside plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife. With toilets, picnic tables, wood barbecues, and water available at the start and finish, it’s the perfect spot for a day out in nature.

For those looking to explore further, two additional tracks offer a mix of shorter and more challenging hikes. Wheelchair-accessible facilities are also available at the picnic grounds.

Ashgrove ParkRun: A Community Run Through Nature

Every Saturday morning at 7:00 AM, runners, walkers, and joggers of all abilities gather at Ashgrove Sports Ground for the Ashgrove ParkRun—a free, timed 5km event that welcomes everyone, from seasoned athletes to casual walkers.

The scenic course winds through Enoggera Creek Reserve, offering a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines, surrounded by lush greenery and local wildlife. The friendly atmosphere and volunteer support make it a fantastic way to stay active, meet new people, and enjoy Brisbane’s great outdoors.

Ashgrove Sports Ground, Yoku Road, Ashgrove, QLD, Australia, Queensland ashgrove@parkrun.com www.parkrun.com.au/ashgrove

Mt Coot-tha Summit Circuit:

Rewarding Loop for Walkers & Runners

For those looking for a challenging yet rewarding trail, the Mt Coot-tha Summit Circuit offers a beautiful 5km loop with breathtaking views over Brisbane. Starting at JC Slaughter Falls picnic area, this wellmaintained track combines sealed paths, gravel trails, and bushland tracks, making it popular with walkers, hikers, and runners alike.

The climb to the Mt Coot-tha Summit Lookout is a steady incline, but the panoramic views of the city skyline, Moreton Bay, and the Glasshouse Mountains make the effort worthwhile. There are water stations, toilets, and picnic area along the way.

SEQ Runner: Your Ultimate Guide to Running in South East Queensland

SEQ Runner is South East Queensland’s first community running magazine, dedicated to covering the latest in local running culturewhether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a casual jogger. The magazine includes expert training tips, race reports, gear reviews, and inspiring stories from across the region.

Independently owned and locally operated, the magazine is available for free in both print and digital formats. Stay connected with the SEQ running community at www. seqrunner.com.au. Or read the latest issue here https:// seqrunner.com.au/the-magazine/ Author:KatieMaclean.Imagecredits:KatieMaclean,SEQRunner,and Joep Buijs Photography.

Cover image: Reesha Lewis at Enoggera Reservoir. Photo credit: Joep Buijs Photography

COL’S CHAT

Steve Williams

You may not have heard of Steve Williams, but you most certainly have been touched at some point by his dedication, commitment and enthusiasm. Steve’s day job is in game development and the creation of tech to test other games. It’s a singular pursuit, but when Steve leaves his office, his driving passion is live music.

“I came to live music late in life,” Steve said. “I was a parent at The Gap State School, and loved the Gap Soiree which, at the time had school bands and some guests.” By the late 2000s, the Gap Soiree had started to garner a little less interest, but Steve wasn’t happy to let it fade. “I had this vision for what it could be. Mainly, I saw it becoming a wider community event, rather than just a school one.”

It became a labour of love for Steve. He brought his own connections and resources to the project. In 2023, Steve expanded the Soiree to include art works and demonstrations from The Gap Creative. He looks at the music line ups each year with a sense of balance, but he’s always looking for at least one act that will get the crowd to its feet. “In 2024 we had the amazing Obisun, but it started with Amaidi, an Irish dance band who literally had people dancing in the aisles.”

So, with a family, full time work, the organisation of a major local event, and popping up at many other community events to help with audio/visual tech, that surely leaves no time in Steve’s life for much else?

“I had been visiting the National Folk Festival in Canberra for many years and in 2019 the opportunity came up to assist a local business working on the Woodford Folk Festival. I spent the whole week up there and got bitten by the bug.”

The bug obviously bit hard. “After Covid, Woodford came back as a smaller event, and I offered to be one of the stage managers there. This became a regular thing and then in 2024 I ran all the stage managers for each show, looking after 100 staff.”

With 2025 now firmly underway, Steve’s attention once again turns to the Soiree. It will be back, bigger and better than ever on Saturday 23 August with even more music and creative arts.

Finally, I can’t help but ask Steve who would be on his dream bucket list at the Soiree. “Jimmy Barnes, The Veronicas and the East Pointers (from Canada) would make a nice triple headline show!”

You never know what the future might hold, but in the meantime lock in 23 August, and for ongoing information, check out https://gapsoiree.com

Author and photographer: Colin Bushell / Colin Bushell Photography

From theEditor

Dear Readers,

Welcome to our March 2025 edition!

We have a pretty packed edition this month – with our regular articles and columns, and plenty of updates and news from our local community groups and businesses.

Don’t miss our special feature article this month from Maurice Serico – ‘Fishing With Nana’ – thank you again Maurice for your beautiful story.

Our cover story showcases local running and hiking trails – brought to you by our friend Katie from Echo News, who has also just launched SEQ Runner magazine.

Enjoy our regular columns ‘Col’s Chat’ from Colin Bushell, and ‘For the Love of Books’ from Sarah Krause. And our ‘Out & About’ column features Home Store Ashgrove.

Join us in the fun of guessing where Colin Bushell (photographer) has been with his camera this month. Email us with your answer or comment on our social media posts.

If you are a local business wanting to reach your local audience –please consider advertising. Your advertising cost contributes directly to supporting our community by keeping this publication alive for everyone to enjoy. All advertising details and costs are on our website. A reminder please, if you miss getting your hands on a hard copy, remember you can easily read it online and download a copy from our website.

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

Happy reading! Mel & Kym

Melanie: 0409 440 501 | editor@westernecho.com.au or melanie@planetmarketing.com.au

0402 450 568 | spotart@spotart.com.au

March update State Government Update

Clean Up Australia Day events

This year our office is again supporting Save Our Waterways Now to clean up sections of waterway during Clean Up Australia Day on March 2nd If you would like to get involved in a practical way to help our local biodiversity we’d love to hear from you Just pop into my office, or email or call our office for details

Update on McDonald’s Ashgrove

Many residents in Ashgrove are in contact with my office over the McDonald’s application for 270 Waterworks Road. Thank you for your advocacy and for working with me to apply pressure and send a message to decision makers about this project McDonald’s has now submitted a new application to pursue the same changes that Brisbane City Council has denied So while we’ve had a win, the fight isn’t over If you’d like to know more or get involved please contact my office

Supporting our Sporting Clubs

I recently had the opportunity to speak with representatives from the Department of Sport and Recreation, in a public parliamentary hearing about some of the challenges our community face; namely, that many of our sporting fields are landlocked and now facing capacity issues The Department acknowledged this is an incredible challenge the inner city suburbs particularly are facing, and that they’re working across all levels of government to find a solution recognising the additional pressures of the 2032 Olympics I will continue to enquire into what tangible steps are being taken, and if you’d like to know more, or read the transcripts from this hearing please let me know

Paddington Neighbourhood Watch

Many locals have expressed their disappointment in the Adult Crime Adult Time Bill, and the promise our Premier made that crime would be down by Christmas as a result of this Bill Clearly that’s not been the case and I’m now working with a number of Paddington locals to establish a Neighbourhood Watch Group in the Paddington area We have a great little team and some momentum behind us, but many hands make light work and we’d welcome a few more to our next meeting this month

Waterworks Road Transport Study

With the change in government our office is seeking an update on the progress of the Waterworks Road Transport Study, and I hope to have that information for you next month I was proud to secure over $360,000 for this study, conducted together by DTMR and Brisbane City Council If you have a particular interest in this please reach out to my office

Coffee’s on me

My monthly mobile office and “Coffee’s On Me” mornings resumed again in February, thank you for those who came to see me In March I will be out and about on Thursday 6th March at Ashgrove and Newmarket, and Saturday 22nd in The Gap and in Paddington These are great opportunities to swing by, grab a free coffee and support small business and throw some ideas or issues at me on your way! Please contact my office for details.

The GapRepairCafe

RostrumQld Club 3

Rostrum Qld Club 3 - Everton Park Library

Repair Café The Gap Celebrates 3rd anniversary and 1000 visitors!

Can you believe it’s been three years since Repair Café The Gap began its monthly workshops to help locals fix their broken things instead of tossing and replacing them?

In that time, over 1000 visitors have brought in around 1100 broken items, of which nearly 700 have been saved from landfill! That saves the owners money, while reducing CO2 emissions by almost 23 tonnes – that’s the equivalent of driving a petrol car 152,552.7km, or nearly four times the circumference of the Earth!

We’d love you to come and celebrate this milestone with us at our March workshop! As well as our regular repairs, we will be launching our Kids’ Tinker Table, where kids over 3 years can learn about repairing whilst having fun! Our volunteer supervisors will help kids take apart and reassemble some common household items to see what’s inside and how they work. Let’s encourage the next generation of fixers and menders!

And what’s a celebration without cake and prizes? Local Councillor and regular volunteer Cr Steven Toomey will bring cake for everyone to share, and you might win a Lucky Door Prize!

If you have an item that’s broken or doesn’t work, why not resurrect it at Repair Café The Gap? Our skilled repairers can help fix many household items - appliances and tools, electronic items, toys, furniture, bikes, mowers, clocks, sharpening, textiles and clothing, etc. If you can carry it in, we can help you fix it, for free!

Bookings are preferred via the QR code below. They open two weeks prior, on the first Saturday of the month at 7am.

Saturday, 15 March, 10am-1pm, Rivercity Family Church, 59 Settlement Rd, The Gap. Follow

Do you:

• Appear shy and nervous when talking to strangers?

• Show a lack of confidence when addressing customers and clients?

• Become frustrated when unable to express a point of view clearly?

• Seem uncertain or ill-prepared when presenting an important report?

• Become confused or unsure of meeting protocol when chairing business meetings?

• Love the challenge of a good debate but don’t know where to find one?

• Lack mental stimulation from your friends and colleagues?

• Look for friendship, social interaction and a sense of belonging with like-minded people?

If one or more of these applies to you, or if you simply want to improve your speaking skills, then becoming a Rostrum member could be a life-changing experience! Rostrum provides friendly and effective training in public speaking and meeting skills. You may be a young person, student, job seeker, employee, business person, homemaker, retiree, or be learning English – our members come from all age groups but share a common desire to become better speakers.

Skillful speakers are sought-after employees and better leaders and are more confident in themselves. The value and impact of face-toface interaction is as important today as it has ever been. Rostrum offers a structured development program called ‘Frontiers’ allowing individuals to progress a variety of speaking skills through scheduled exercises. Club meetings provide a supportive learning environment for members to improve their skills. Experienced Rostrum coaches provide constructive feedback to participants at the end of each meeting.

Joining Rostrum is easy. First of all, you are welcome to visit your local club for a couple of free meetings to see what it is like. For more information and to find your nearest club, visit our website: www.rostrum.com.au

Rostrum Club 3 Everton Park meets 7:00pm-8:30pm Thursdays at

BardonBowls Club The GapShe Shed

March At The Bardon Bowlo!

Our bowling green has just had a major rejuvenation and is open! Barefoot bowling is fun and social and you don't need any experience! $10 per person for two hours; or $90 for a group. Lanes for groups can be booked on our website and don't forget to book a table as well!

Thursdays - Noah's Trivia: free entry and excellent prizes! Register at 6pm and fun starts at 6.30pm. Doors open at 4pm, food truck for dinner and snacks.

Friday Afternoon Knock Offs: every Friday, Club Pool comp. Free to enter and great prize pack for winner. Register at 6pm and games begin at 6.30pm.

March 19 - Li Cunxin - Mao's Last Dancer: Join Li Cunxin on stage for a Q & A with Anthony Lamond, for one night only on the 19th of March, 2025. Only a few tickets remaining: https://www.trybooking.com/events/ landing/1330908

March 21 - Open Mic Night: Board opens at 5.30pm and first performance is 6.30pm. Great professional set up by Dan Whittam (LIVE MUSIC BRISBANE).

March 21 - NEW - Music Trivia: New Music Trivia the last Friday of the month as well! Free to play. Games begin at 6.30pm.

Every Saturday & Sunday: Meat at Billy's Meat tray raffles. Drawn at 5pm. Doors open at 12 noon.

Every Saturday: Jumping castle for all club kids. Fully supervised and unlimited fun 2-5pm every Saturday with $10 wristband from the bar. Ages 2-10 years of age.

Every Sunday: Super Chill Sunday Session every week! Doors open at 12 noon. Food truck and ice cream truck every week. Live music from 2pm.

Barefoot Bowling: for schools and corporate events. We love to host local schools and businesses. We can tailor a package to suit!

Function Room for Hire: The club function room is fully air conditioned, with high bars and stools, dining tables and chairs, a large stage, pull down projector, private bar area and bathrooms. Email now for details: bookings@bardonbowls.com

The Gap She ShedCreating Community through Connection. See photo from our February Shed talk from our corporate sponsor, Vibrant Women Travel. It was an interesting and fun night.

Happy International Women’s Day for the 8th March 2025 The Gap She Shed Activities for March

• Monday and Friday walking group. Meet in Riaweena Street opposite number 25 at 8am.

• Women Wanderers. See She Shed Facebook page for details. Next walk 1st March. Book via Trybooking.

• Wednesday Knit, crochet, sew or anything else group. Meet at the Scout Den, 76 Riaweena Street, The Gap. 9.30-1200 am.

• Craft and Chat - Monday 10th March from 7pm-email hello@ thegapsheshed.au for address.

• Book Club with Lucy. March book is “17 Years Later”. Meet at The Blind Tiger 6:30 pm.

• Classics Book Club with Andrea. March book is “My Brother Jack.” Meet at Topology, 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap on 26th March at 6:30pm.

• She Shed Diners - 7th March from 6:30pm at The Gap Tavern.

• Mahjong day lessons - Starting 4th February for 10 weeks 1-4 pm. Held at the RSL, 34 School Road, Nullagundi.

• Mahjong evening, beginners - Starting 12th February for 10 weeks from 6-9pm. Venue: RSL

• Mahjong Social. Monday nights from 6-9pm and Friday afternoons from 1-4pm. Venue: RSL.

• Kayaking. See She Shed Facebook Kayaking chat group for details. Walkabout Creek.

• Mosaics - Check She Shed Facebook chat group or event tab for details.

• 500 cards - Tuesday 11th March and 25th March from 12:30 pm. Meet at the Gap Tavern.

• Theatre Group. “Pride and Prejudice.” QPAC. 7th March at 7.30pm.

• Tai Chi. 6th & 13th March from 1-2pm. Venue: RSL Nullagundi, 34 School Road, The Gap.

• Yoga. 5th, 12th,19th,26th from 9-10 am. Venue: RSL Nullagundi, 34 School Road, The Gap.

• Line Dancing. 19th March at 10.15 am. Venue: RSL Nullagundi, 34 School Road, The Gap.

Other activities include a Harmony Day luncheon on 21 March at the Blind Tiger, a defense course, meditation, and a watercolour painting course (see Facebook page for details). So many things to choose from.

The club is open Thursday 4-10pm, Friday 2-10pm, Saturday and Sunday 12 noon - 10pm (other times available upon request). All bookings can be made on our website and new booking system. Welcoming, community club. Come and check us out! www.bardonbowls.com

Website: https://thegapsheshed.wixsite. com/home

Email: hello@thegapsheshed.au

Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/ thegapsheshed

Maggie FORREST

LNP FOR RYAN

A MESSAGE FROM MAGGIE FORREST

Now we are in the third month of the year, I hope 2025 is treating you well.

Last month I talked about community sport and raised the issue of our local facilities that need upgrading.

In response to my article last month, many of you contacted me and let me know that you are really keen to see: a new synthetic pitch at The Gap Football Club, which would mean that teams could play all year round including the “Female Fives”; stage 2 of the GPS Rugby Club redevelopment progress to relieve parking pressures for locals on game days and create an extra field; and a new indoor training facility at Valley District Cricket Club, which would mean players could train rain, hail or shine.

I’m fighting to make these projects a reality. If you’re keen to help keep our community active and ensure our players have a safe, high-quality place to play the sport they love, please sign my petitions below:

The Gap Football Clubhttps://online.lnp.org.au/gapfcsyntheticpi tchdeveloment

GPS Rugbyhttps://online.lnp.org.au/upgradegpsrugb yclub

Valley District Cricket Clubhttps://online.lnp.org.au/upgradevalleycri cketclub

-Maggie

M: 0482 059 763

E: ryan@lnp.org.au

W: maggieforrest.com.au

F: @Maggie4Ryan

I: @maggieforrestlnp

Meeting with GPS Rugby Club President, Stephen Jewell and 2nd Grade Men’s coach, Brett Frostick to discuss the Club’s infrastructure needs.

With The Gap Football Club President, Chris Murdoch and Treasurer, Clair Gahan talking about the Club’s needs.

Authorised By B. Riley, LNP, 281 Sandgate Road, Albion QLD 4010

For the Love Of Books Ashgrove Bardon RSL Sub Branch

In early November 2024, a group of lovely people gathered at Café Tara, The Gap to celebrate the launch of local Author Penny de Jong’s debut “Flying with Fred”. It was lovely to see Penny’s friends and family supporting her as she spoke about the inspiration for the book while travelling in Ireland, and to hear a reading from the book by one of her daughter’s.

The book is a non-fiction about the life of Penny’s father Pilot Fred Bright, who survived flying 1,015 hours during World War II. A Toowoomba boy with a lifelong obsession with planes, he trained in Australia, Britain and Canada, and flew in aircraft which included Gypsy Moths, Fleets, Wellingtons, Halifaxes, Fairchilds, Ansons, Douglases, Liberators, Defiants and Dakotas. Penny got to know her father better through her research and her writing and you can hear the pride and love in her voice when she speaks of the whole experience. Copies of the book are available through various online stores such as Booktopia and Amazon.

Author:

Sarah Krause

Another home-grown author launched a new book late last year. Ashgrove local CT Mitchell launched the third in his Jack Creed New York series, “The Vice President Is Missing”. In this gripping financial thriller, the Vice President of NT Finance, suddenly disappears without a trace during a routine public appearance. As the city of New York plunges into chaos and conspiracy theories abound, seasoned Australian Detective Jack Creed on loan to the NYPD, is called in to lead the investigation. Creed, known for his relentless pursuit of justice and his uncanny ability to solve the most complex cases, faces the most daunting challenge of his career. To purchase copies of the book head to www.CTMitchellBooks.com

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

The Sub-Branch was pleased to award life Membership to one of the long-serving SubBranch members Mr Milton (Greg) West. Pictured below is Greg with his wife Joeanne and Sub-Branch President Paul Prince. Friends, Sub-Branch members, and a number of Greg’s family attended the presentation and partook of some light refreshments at the Red Hill Community Sports Club after the presentation.

“Declining Patriotism Putting Australia’s Defence At Risk”

A key veteran national defence and security committee has said that the declining sense of patriotism in Australia is putting the defence of the nation at risk.

In a paper prepared by the Returned & Services League of Australia’s (RSL) Defence and National Security Committee contends that this reduction in national pride has impacted on Australian Defence Force (ADF) recruitment and service retention in our armed forces.

Committee Chair and former Chief of the Australian Army, Lt General

Peter Leahy (Retd) says within the current ADF strength of around 58,000 there are significant personnel shortages across all elements of the force and at most levels of rank, seniority and skill, apart from generals and equivalents.

“To resolve the situation, the Australian Government has approved an ambitious workforce plan to increase the Defence workforce by 18,500 to more than 101,000 by 2040. That means recruitment needs to lift from approximately 5,500 annually to 9,000 a year and permanent ADF service retention increased from around seven years to around 12 years.

“Australia’s defence is already at risk due to delays in acquiring the capabilities needed to meet the clear and present danger. Now a failure to meet new recruiting and retention targets for the ADF may further jeopardise our security.”

Peter Leahy says there is something else at play here, describing the biggest issue about who will fight for Australia is a decline in national pride and a dilution of an Australian identity and culture.

“Surveys such as the Scanlon 2023 Social Cohesion Report identified a declining sense of pride and belonging in Australia. It also reported a declining trust in government and an increasing concern for equality.”

“The decline in national pride is not surprising as some seek to denigrate the ADF and the notion of service to the nation, perhaps evidenced by the active debate about the legitimacy of Australia Day.”

Peter Leahy says Australia’s future security will depend on our ability to have the right equipment and the right people at the right time. At present both are at risk.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Annual General Meeting of the Sub-Branch will be held at Bardon Bowls Club on Sunday 9 March 2025 starting at 11:00 am. Refreshments will be provided after the meeting. Nominations for Committee and all executive positions will be accepted from the floor.

I’m Rebecca Hack and I am Labor’s Candidate for the seat of RYAN

I believe an elected Representative’s first responsibility is to the Community they serve. I’ve been a School Principal, community volunteer and small business owner. I’ve door knocked on thousands of doors to hear what matters to you and Labor is listening.

It takes more than three years to clear up ten years of Liberal mess - a decade of Liberal neglect left our healthcare and housing in crisis, inflation rising and wages at record lows. They left us vulnerable to global inflation, pushing prices up and making it harder for people to get ahead.

At the next election Australia faces a choice about whether we are a country for everyone or for the select few.

• Strengthening Medicare by expanding bulk billing and opening Medicare urgent care clinics across Australia.

• Starting the largest house build in Australian history, building 1.2 million homes in five years.

• Cutting HECS debt by 20% making sure student debt never grows faster than wages.

• Making free TAFE permanent to boost Australia’s workforce; training more nurses, healthcare workers, tradies and construction workers.

This election will be close.

If Peter Dutton wins, our country will move backwards. He will turn us into a climate pariah, slash funding for health and education, and cut support for public and affordable housing.

The only way to stop Peter Dutton is to vote 1 Labor.

Outdoor Cinema Outdoor Cinema

Upper Kedron Rec Reserve | Sat 5 April

AshgroveHistorical Society

Visitors are encouraged and very welcome to attend the Ashgrove Historical Society meetings held at the Ashgrove Library on the first Saturday of the month from 10am-noon. Topics and guest speakers can be found on the Society’s website under What’s On ‘Meetings’. The topic on 5 April 2025 is 'Sorell': a house history. Stories of life, love and loss at 21 Jubilee Terrace, Ashgrove which will be presented by AHS member, Kylie Green.

Kylie is excited to share the story of 'Sorell,' her childhood home at the corner of Jubilee Terrace and Devonshire Street, Ashgrove. With tramlines for house stumps and stair treads, this unique residence’s first owner was James Thomas Byron, foreman of the Brisbane Tramways workshops. For more than a century, 'Sorell' has borne silent witness to the many celebrations and tragedies of the families who called her 'home'.

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

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

For more: www.ashgrovehistoricalsociety.org

Photo of 21 Jubilee Tce taken in 1977 byCynthiaO’Gorman. Photocredit:QueenslandUniversity ofTechnology(QUT).

Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club

Residents of Ashgrove, The Gap and surrounding district are blessed to live in a supportive and vibrant community. It is not just the green natural environment with which the area is blessed and the multitude of parks, playgrounds and walking tracks. It is the people who make the difference.

Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club strives to make a difference and improve the lives of others, whether it is through donation of funds or through volunteering our time and energy. Lions members don’t do this in isolation, it is through partnerships with other local organisations and individuals that we make the greatest difference.

“Shout out” to Kaz Willis from All Abilities Valleys Cricket, who was recognised with an Australia Day Award. Kaz goes that extra distance to improve the lives of children and young adults with disability. Ashgrove The Gap Lions support All Abilities Cricket.

For the second year in a row, Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club is partnering with eWaste Connection to provide a convenient local opportunity to dispose of any eWaste you have lying around the home (see ad for details). Drop it off at The Gap State School, 29 March, 8:00am-1:00pm.

A fundraising dinner, 15 March, Ashgrove Golf Club, is being organised by Lions for Cystic Fibrosis QLD. Support our local community and those individuals and families afflicted by this debilitating disease. Book online at: https://events.humantix. com/lions-and-roses-charity-dinner. Further information contact Jennie Jackson: 0413 308 320.

For more: www.ashgrovethegaplions.org.au

Photo 1: Ben, Nick and Monique from eWaste Connection

Photo 2: President Bill, Monique, CEO eWaste Connection, and employees, Kate and Joshua

SATURDAY, 29 MARCH

Drop off your unwanted or unused electrical items (working or broken)

This includes anything which plugs into a powerpoint, uses a charger or is powered by a battery. You will be supporting a social enterprise for the community which provides opportunities to recycle, volunteer, train and empower people of all abilities. Enquiries: call 0488 069 089. More information at www.ewasteconnection.com

When: Saturday, 29 March, 8:00am - 1:00pm

Where: The Gap State School, staff car park. Enter from Waterworks Rd.

This project is a partnership between EWaste Connection and the Lions Club of Ashgrove/The Gap

The Western Echo is thrilled to present a short series of articles featuring local First Nations stories, history, and culture. This has been made possible through a grant received from the Local & Independent News Association (LINA). The following story is the third in the series –written by local resident Maurice Serico.

FishingWith Nana

By Maurice Serico

My Nana loved fishing. When we lived in a house that backed on to Enoggera Creek she would always take us fishing in the creek behind our place. She always arrived not with luggage for her visits but baskets. Up to half a dozen baskets, each covered over with a tea towel. From one of those baskets she would produce her “fishing line”.

When I say fishing line I actually mean a small glass Coca Cola bottle with a length of fishing line and one sinker and one hook on it. That was all she ever used when fishing in “our creek” as we called it. And, despite our father’s discussions about his fishing gear and what should and should not work, Nana always caught something.

The two most remarkable catches were an eel, enormously long and too difficult to prepare for a family meal, and a catfish. The catfish, likewise, appeared enormous, like Dr Seuss’ fish out of water, but manageable. I recall it being transferred from a half-filled bucket into the kitchen sink, thrashing madly with its whiskers and spiky fins and long, eel like tail flailing. And my mother gaping at the behemoth, wondering how to prepare it and cook it, seeing as she had never seen a catfish before. I don’t recall the meal. We saw plenty of other life in the creek. Turtles (or tortoises, I never know) would betray their presence by a short trail of one or two close, small bubbles on the creek’s surface and then maybe two beady eyes breaking the surface. Sometimes you could even hear them go plop! as they jumped off a fallen log, where they had been resting and into the water to escape the approaching humans.

In the cleaner areas with gravelly beds you would see black mussels protruding from the rocks. They would be in clusters along the walls. Swimming freely in these parts of the creek were what we called “water scorpions” or “darning needles”, large, black aquatic beetles with massive pincers and menacing long spines at the back that terrified us. Oh, and yabbies.

These were some of the water creatures that have lived in Enoggera Creek for thousands of years, except the water scorpions, I wouldn’t want to eat one of them. They fed the First Nations people passing

through the area on their way to or from points north, such as the Glasshouse Mountains or the Bunya Festivals. As Enoggera Creek was the main thoroughfare, meals along its banks were chosen, so as not to disrupt the journey, so fish was often the meal of choice. It’s much like a roadside fast food shop now, if a little less polluting. Our Nana had been the person who taught us how to look out for these animals and she shared the tricks for spotting them. She told us that she had been doing this since she was a little girl, only then it wasn’t just for enjoyment, but dinner for her family. She never explained more.

Many years later, after Nana’s visits with her Mary Poppins like baskets we found out what she meant. Nana had been born in the first decade of the twentieth century on the banks of the Mary River, inland from Gympie near a little place called Tuchekoi. Her mother was a member of the Gubbi Gubbi (Kabi Kabi) tribe and she and my Nana and my Nana’s little brother, Uncle Cliff, all spoke Gubbi Gubbi at home in their little shed by the river. They did not have much money but the lush temperate rainforest around them, as it was then, provided them with all the fruit and vegetables they needed. They would fish for their dinner from the Mary River, being careful not to take the lungfish, a sacred and important fish to the Gubbi Gubbi.

Aggressive state government policies in the 1910s saw the establishment of the Aboriginal reserve system throughout Queensland. This affected even my Nana’s family at Tuchecoi. They and others in the area were either marched or driven in horse drawn carts to Barambah Mission, now called Cherbourg. This was a very different place, dry with no rainforest and severe restrictions on the residents’ movements were in place. This meant people could not go freely to gather bush tucker or fish or hunt but were made to work on farms and in other industries. Food was rationed out from a building at Cherbourg called the Ration Shed. The rations were extremely limited, even though it wasn’t war time, the only time that rations were applied to the entire Australian population. Any supplement to the meagre rations was welcome. Fishing by the children after or before school thus became valuable and needed.

Years later my Nana was able to live freely again on a creek. This time it was Philpot Creek near Munduberra. She returned to fishing and often spoke about the dewfish (eel tailed catfish), perch and other fish she caught.

Fishing for First Nations people was and still is important. Although fish traps are found in the Brisbane area, including North Pine River, there do not appear to have been any in Enoggera Creek in The Gap. I think this may have been because it was an area for passing through and fish traps are demanding in time and labour to create, and also the regular flooding of the creek.

Next time you look at the Enoggera Creek if you see a trail of small bubbles, say hello to a turtle. They are still surviving here and will probably outlast our little suburb.

Author: Maurice Serico

Author background:

Maurice Serico has a BA in philosophy and English literature from University of Queensland, completed in 1979. He is an Aboriginal man with Gubbi Gubbi, Jiman and UK Australian heritage. Maurice has worked in a variety of positions across Aboriginal health, TAFE, education, and human resources; and in Aboriginal Affairs including in the office of the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. Maurice is currently the Chair of Balaangala Community Group in The Gap. Maurice has a chronic kidney condition and participates in supporting the kidney health community.

Thanks to LINA for the

Images

by Maurice Serico, Colin Bushell Photography, and Melanie Grevis-James

Enoggera & Districts Historical Society

Centenary

One hundred years on [from 1925] the Enoggera Hall committee and the Enoggera Historical Society are working hand-in-hand to present two outstanding events to mark and celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the Enoggera School of Arts and Memorial Hall in Trundle St.

The first event on Sunday 20 July [2 to 4 pm] will mark the setting of the foundations with a “Stump Capping” celebration. This type of event was a favoured method of raising the finance for a community project along with a good party. The second event to be held in November event will mark the dedication of the memorial Hall.

Full details of the varied July programme and booking directions will appear next month.

The Historical Society’s Kate Perry Library is open for visitors every Thursday from 9.30am to 1pm, and on the first Saturday of each month from 12noon to 3pm.

The Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap is truly local, and does lots of local stuff: Santa Sleigh, Carols (when not rained out!), local school initiatives and much more. But it’s important to remember that the local club is part of a world-wide network of service clubs, and it contributes to the doing of good things across the world.

Rotary also loves acronyms, so it’s no surprise that one of its wonderful operations that your local club supports is called ROMAC – which stands for Rotary Oceania Medical Aid for Children. In the South Pacific there are many small territories that cannot support advanced surgical facilities; there are also children who desperately need surgery to correct life-limiting conditions.

These are not necessarily life-threatening, but try to imagine being a young girl with a facial tumour that weighs as much as your head. Your life prospects are very dim. ROMAC will fly the girl to Australia and find family accommodation, surgeons will donate time and expertise, and suddenly the next 60 years doesn’t look so grim.

This is not the kind of job that lends itself to before-and-after photos for publication; the ones this writer has seen were troubling, to say the least. This is just one of the areas your money goes to when you are kind enough to buy a Bunnings sausage from us, or buy a raffle ticket, or make a donation. And NONE of your donation goes to club expenses – we pay to belong to Rotary, which covers our admin costs.

To get in touch with us visit https://rotaryashgrovethegap.org.au/

You can direct any enquiries about Rotary to Tim Boyd at tim@boyd.org, or text at 0411 141 304.

Embroiderers' Guild Queensland

Autumn Craft Market

The Embroiderers’ Guild Queensland Inc will be holding its Autumn Craft Market on 2-3 April 2025 at the Richard Randall Art Studio, Brisbane Botanical Gardens, Mt Coot-tha. The Market will be open each day from 10am to 3pm.

There will be handcrafted items for sale and a de-stash table with a variety of embroidery supplies and vintage linen. Guild members will be demonstrating various embroidery techniques throughout both days. Free entry.

www.embroiderersguildqld.org.au

www.facebook.com/embroiderersguildqld

Email:

info@embroiderersguildqld.org.au

Phone: 3252 8629

Newmarket Bocce Club News

On the 2nd February the club had its AGM. 36 members were in attendance and the meeting went well. The 2025 committee members are as follows from the right: President Tony D, Vice President Silvio, Treasurer Bill, Secretary Mario and committee members Carmelo C, Leo, Carmelo B, Tony S and Philippe.

Congratulations and let’s hope 2025 will be a fantastic year for the club.

Please contact:

Mario 0403 257 325; Tony 0418 731 423; or Bill 0431 458 481.

Mitchelton & Districts GardenClub

Club Expands Guest Speaker Program

The Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club is taking an exciting step towards enriching the experience of its members by diversifying its guest speaker program. While gardening remains the heart of the club, the committee recognises the value of lifelong learning and the benefits of covering a broader range of topics.

Traditionally, the club has hosted expert gardeners and horticulturalists to share insights on plant care, seasonal gardening tips and sustainable practices. While these sessions remain a staple, the club will be inviting speakers on topics such as health and well-being, and government support schemes for seniors. This new program of talks will begin with a presentation from the Stroke Foundation in April.

Club President, Ros Morton explains the motivation behind the change: “Our members have a deep love for gardening, but they also have a wide range of interests. By expanding our speaker list, we’re creating more opportunities for social engagement, personal growth and practical learning.”

By diversifying its guest speaker program, the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club is not only strengthening its community but also fostering a spirit of curiosity and lifelong learning among its members.

New members and visitors are always welcome to take part in this evolving and engaging program. For updates on our guest speakers or any further information, please email mitcheltongc@gmail.com

Our meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month, at the Enoggera Memorial Hall (entrance via Trundle St). Doors open at 9:15am and morning tea is available before a 10:00am start. Entry is $5.00. We hope you can join us!

Globally we have been witnessing horrific bullying behaviour from world leaders. We have also seen business tactics replace diplomacy and decency in relationships between nations. The win at all costs and selfishness on display is being lauded as greatness rather than a moral failure and a dangerous trend. A trend unfortunately that is also sadly occurring in Australia. In our local communities it has emboldened those who operate on the principles of self-interest. For people concerned about others and community this is a very worrying time, and it can be hard to know what can be done.

One thing we can all do is to name and try to resist these trends developing with our friends and family. We can also try to build and support local community organisations that are focused on sharing rather than self-interest. Our work contexts are often more difficult as our market economy has been built on principles of self-interest.

One small attempt to resist the self-interest and bullying ethos in the business context is The Gap Local Organic Co-operative. The Gap LOCO is a worker co-op, and its 9 workers use consensus (rather than bullying) to make decisions. The co-ops assets are owned by the community. Workers do not have a financial share in the co-op, any profits and growth in assets remain in the co-op. The focus is on sharing and building community wealth (rather than self-interest).

In summary, one way to resist the worrying global shift to greed and selfishness is to support your local groups that are seeking to do things to build community like the many groups talked about in this newspaper. A further way is to shift who you support financially by purchasing your food from a community owned co-op like the Gap LOCO rather than Coles and Woolworths. Home delivery orders available.

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

For a current price list and details about ordering – email thegaploco@gmail.com or visit thegaploco.com

We are a community owned, local, worker run, registered worker co-operative.

DELIVERIES ARE ON MONDAYS and we also run a pop up shop between 10am and 3pm on Mondays at 15 High St, Ashgrove (down the easement to Oakleigh Scouts car park)

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The GapCreative Inc

This was our month of mural magic, a culmination of many hours of hard work by an outstanding team of volunteers.

Led by the vision of Peta Harvey, in our first collaboration with The Gap Football Club, this mural will honour and celebrate the club’s 70th birthday. Featuring a historical timeline with a little bit of ‘wow’ factor, the blank canvas near the back of The Bakeologists has truly been transformed.

We cannot thank our painting team enough - Natarscha Schneider, Gill Duncan, Kim Price, Karen Bessell, Amelia North, Helena Pygott, Kathy Sullivan, Kym Bierenbroodspot, and Ian Fainges.

February saw us say farewell to one of our key members, Di Briscoe, who is spending a year in The Marshall Islands with her husband volunteering. She will be bringing back new ideas, historic techniques and cultural creativity to share with us all. Wishing you a wonderful and safe time abroad Di!

We have already hit the ground running for 2025, with so much more to come. Keeping art alive and thriving in our tight knit community is close to our hearts and we welcome your helping hands. Would you like to financially sponsor, physically support, offer your services, or volunteer your time at one of our key events?

Please contact Brodie, our Creative Coordinator, at creativethegap@gmail.com.

See you at Art & Eats, Thursday March 13, from 5pm.

For more details read our Article here: https://westernecho.com.au/2025/02/05/artsampeatscommunity-event-coming-march-13/ Facebook: Art & Eats The Gap

Brisbane North Cake Decorators

Our next meeting is on Saturday 15 March commencing at 1.00pm. We meet at the Arana Hills Community Centre on Dawson Parade This meeting will have a short business meeting, followed by a mini workshop getting some items completed for our Cake show in early July. We are being super organised this year!

Our January meeting was a relaxed occasion with lots of catching up since we last met. Heather then showed us some of her favourite tools and equipment gathered over many years of decorating. Perhaps the most interesting was a child’s wooden rolling pin out of a Play Doh set.

Exercise and Mental Health

Feeling down? You might just need a prescription for walking.

Imagine your doctor could give you a prescription to boost your mood for free. Instead of a prescription, think of sneakers and a walk around your neighbourhood. It doesn’t need to be long or fast, but after your walk, you’ll likely feel much better. This is the magic of walking.

Walking offers a physical, emotional, and social boost.

Regular walking can lower your risk of heart disease, help manage your weight and improve bone health too . It’s also great for mental, emotional and social wellbeing – whether with friends, neighbours or a walking group.

“Physical activity has been shown to improve mental health symptoms both in those with and without mental illness,” says Dr Oscar Lederman, a senior accredited exercise physiologist and a researcher in the University of Technology Sydney’s School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation.

“Symptoms like depression, anxiety and low self-esteem, as well as cognitive symptoms like memory and retention, can improve with even small increases in activity.”

Small increases in physical activity can have big benefits.

“Walking, even at a low-intensity level, can significantly benefit mental health. Studies show that small increases in physical activity can have both immediate and long-term benefits,” says Dr Lederman.

If you’re ready to get walking, the Heart Foundation offers a free walking program right across Australia with over 700 walking groups, and Personal Walking Plans for individual walking. You can start building a regular walking habit today, no matter your fitness level. Find out more here: www.walking.heartfoundation.org.au

Who needs lots of upmarket equipment when this works?

The February meeting was a lively fun affair with all of us attempting to create birds using a prepared base and fondant icing. Robyn guided us in this venture as otherwise we would all be still looking at the frameworks she prepared. We are determined to present a colourful display at our cake show.

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The Brisbane Tramway Museum

WE’RE UP AND RUNNING AGAIN!!

After a downtime which extended for some 15 months, the museum is finally operational once again. THE TRAMS ARE RUNNING!!!

After such a long time idle, all trams will have to be thoroughly checked before re-entering service and the same applies to drivers!

The museum is back to normal Sunday operations, open from 12.30 pm to 4.00pm, with last admissions at 3.30pm.

All 7 trams will be in service, with another due to come online any day.

The first major event for the year will be the annual Commemoration of The Last Tram Trip in Brisbane on Sunday 13 April. Hopefully, we will have horses drawing our horse tram – something special!

For more: www.brisbanetramwaymuseum.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/ brisbanetramwaymuseum

The GapProbus Club

Our guest speaker last month was Richard Kinnon, the well-known Longreach tourism operator. Despite claims to be an uneducated country boy, Richard is clearly as smart as a whip, and has created a tourism empire out of the dry dust of the Outback.

He told us that it started with a long drought on the family farm, meaning that alternative income had to be generated, and he found it in the form of a re-created Cobb and Co coach company in and around Longreach. Cobb and Co was created by Americans in the nineteenth century gold rush days, and set a number of world records: it was probably the world’s first “franchise” operation, with several companies licensed to use the name, and it covered more miles than any other operation.

Richard enthralled the club with tales of the past – and he's clearly an enthusiastic promoter of Outback tourism of all types.

The Gap has a wonderful asset on its doorstep in the form of the Walkabout Creek café, and club members make full use of it for coffee, chat and cards at least once a month.

Our next expedition will not be to the Outback, but upwards to the Star Skydeck. This troubled Brisbane asset is well worth a look, and it might be well to get there soon!

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

Just call (or, better, text)

Tim on 0411 141 304.

SerenataSingers

Serenata Singers has great pride in awarding one of our number, a LIFE MEMBERSHIP. Barbara Anderson has been with us since February 1974, now surpassing the 50-year mark.

The group started in 1970 as “The Gap and District Musical Society”, this year celebrating its 55th year.

Barbara has been an important stable influence and in recent years, has also been active with other members to perform trios at our concerts. We thank her for her dedication, enthusiasm and friendship spanning such an extended period – a truly amazing achievement, and we hope to see her for many more years to come.

Congratulations and thank you, Barbara!! For more: www.serenatasingers.org.au

Brisbane CitySounds

Open Night: Thursday 6 March!

Ladies, if you can sing in tune and are interested in making cool harmonies, with a group of welcoming, fun loving women, this may be for you! Why not come along and see – this Thursday 6 March.

Brisbane City Sounds womens’ harmony chorus invites visitors along every 1st Thursday of the month. We would like to continue to grow our sound, so perhaps, Ladies, you can help!

We are a four part a cappella chorus, begun in 2002, with a current membership of 20. We are affiliated with Sweet Adelines Australia and International, giving us many learning resources, coaching opportunities and associations with 32 other womens’ harmony choruses in Australia.

We rehearse every Thursday night, 7pm to 9.30pm at the Lavalla Centre, 58 Fernberg Rd, Paddington. We sing a wide range of popular songs for a variety of occasions.

Our February Open Night was quite successful with now 3 new prospective members. Membership does entail an audition and monthly fees. If 6 March doesn’t suit, you will be very welcome on Thursday 3 April, when we will once again gear the night especially to visitors’ participation.

Enquiries: phone Helen on 0418 155 110 or email hjeays@bigpond.net.au

The Gap Pioneer & History Group Inc

Serving the local community prior to 1925

Enoggera Shire Council –Ithaca Divisional Board 1880 - 1925

The Centenary of the establishment of Greater Brisbane is to be celebrated in 2025. Research by members of The Gap Pioneer and History Group in the period prior to 1925 has revealed the names of eleven (11) men who served on the Divisional Board for Ithaca and the Enoggera Shire Council. These men can be categorised as persons living in The Gap, mostly with business interests, or having pioneering family or business connections to The Gap.

The following information was obtained from the published research of the Late Melva A Welch O.A.M.

ASHTON William Harwood served in Subdivision 2 Enoggera 18881890 and 1898-1913.

HILDER Henry served on the Enoggera Shire Council, Subdivision 2 Enoggera 1913-1925.

MARSHALL Thomas Snr., served in Subdivision 1 Enoggera 1888-1889 and 1895-1902.

MARSHALL Thomas Jnr. served in Subdivision 3 1917.

MULLIN John Scott served in Subdivision 2 Ithaca during 1887 and 1888-1892 in Subdivision 2 Enoggera.

NELSON George served in Subdivision 2 Enoggera 1900-1902.

OZANNE Charles Henry served in Subdivision 2 Enoggera 1912-1919.

PATEN Jesse served in Subdivision 3 Ithaca 1880-1883 and 1885-1888 in Subdivision 1 Enoggera. Also 1891-1900 in Subdivision 2 Enoggera.

PICKERING Alfred served in Subdivision 1 Enoggera 1904-1924.

STANLEY William ‘Bill’ James served in Subdivision 2 Enoggera 1912-1919.

WILLIAMS William Griffith served in Subdivision 2 Enoggera Divisional Board 1890-1891.

Enquiries: jeffhilder@outlook.com

Volunteering in our creek catchments

Would you like to volunteer with your local creek and bushcare group in 2025? Or help raise native plants in our nursery? SOWN has enthusiastic groups meeting regularly in all suburbs within our catchment, and an active hands-on group working at the SOWN Nursery. It’s a great way to help the environment, learn about local native plants and habitat, and make friends.

The Enoggera/Breakfast Creek catchment, one of the largest in Brisbane, covers more than 89 km2 from Jollys Lookout in the west through The Gap, Ashgrove and Bardon to Newmarket, Windsor, Herston and Newstead, with Enoggera Reservoir in the middle. It includes Enoggera, Ithaca and Fish Creeks, and becomes Breakfast Creek at Bowen Hills. These waterways have patches of valuable ecosystems which need connecting, weed control and replanting, in order to re-establish these important wildlife corridors. Visit the SOWN website (https://sown.com.au/), go to the section “Join Your Local Bushcare Group” and click on one of the sites on the map, to be taken to the name of the group, its location, contact details and regular meeting or working bee dates. The map is also on Brisbane City Council's site (https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/clean-and-green/ natural-environment-and-water/biodiversity-in-brisbane/habitatbrisbane-community-bushcare/western-suburbs). Alternatively (or as well as), come along on Wednesday or Saturday mornings to volunteer at our SOWN Nursery in Paten Park, 57 Paten Road, The Gap.

We hope to welcome you (with dirty hands) down at the creek, at the nursery or

as a new member of SOWN.

Photo: Mark Crocker. Seils Park bushcare group in Ashgrove.

AshgroveRangers

The summer Athletics season is well and truly off and running and Ashgrove Rangers athletes have been performing well so far this season.

In the National primary school championships at Homebush in Sydney, Dylan Reid was 6th in the 12 years 800 and brother Patrick was also 6th in the 10 years 800m final. Sam Shaw won silver in the 14 years 200m. Hugo Lockhart was 4th in the 12 years boys high jump and Kaley Croot was 4th in both the 12 years girls 200m and long jump.

In the secondary school national championships at QE2 we saw some outstanding performances from Rangers athletes. Tate Van Camp won gold in the under 15 boys 800m in 1.55.01 (championship record). Isaiah Burgess won silver in the boys under 18 shot put in 16.22 and Genesis S’AU won Bronze in the girls under 16 discus 37.98. Cooper Lofts performed very well in the under 16 Javelin. Other great performances came from Connor Campbell and Cooper lofts. Apologies to anyone missed.

We also had a number of athletes from our sister club, The Ernies Run

The GapSustainability Initiative

We recently held a fundraising barbecue to collect vital funds for our three major projects, and many people were very curious about our organisation, and wanted to know more. Our vision is to collectively preserve and enhance the beautiful surroundings of The Gap, where nature, people, and wildlife thrive together for generations to come. We currently progress three main projects, here is a brief description:

1. Sustainability Together: Promote the many wonderful local sustainability initiatives and empower individuals to lead more sustainable lifestyles. Every second and fourth Saturday of the month, 7.30am-9am, we conduct a street tree care program, and many of us volunteer in Habitat or Wildlife support groups.

2. The Platypus Project: Bring the community together and facilitate a series of actions to rehabilitate and protect our creeks ecosystems and bring the platypus back to The Gap. We conduct water quality measurement and eDNA analysis of Enoggera Creek’s biodiversity in collaboration with Save our Waterways Now (SOWN). On Fridays the team meets for a Platypus sowing bee, with the created toys sold to fund the group’s activities.

3. Community Energy: Generate and secure access to environmentally safe and affordable energy for all residents through promoting knowledge development and service accessibility. We learn from and work with others such as Rewiring Australia and strive to become a pilot suburb for innovative energy saving and production initiatives in the future.

The Gap Sustainability Initiative will hold its next working group meeting on 18 March, 7pm at The Gap State High School. Our April seminar on 15 April will be about how to attract small, colourful songbirds and butterflies to your back yard.

Anyone can join our activities and events, just check our events calendar on our website www.thegapsustainability.org; or follow us on Facebook.

Club, compete recently in the Gold Coast 50km event. Training is on at The Gap High School Oval Monday and Thursday evenings from 5.45pm and the UQ hill near the athletics track on Tuesday evenings at 5pm.

Long-time coach and Head Coach with Ashgrove Rangers, John Purcell, is the recipient of a Lord Mayor’s Australia Day Achievement Award. John joined the club in 1981 and was Club Captain at the age of 17. John’s philosophy as coach is that running fast is not the prime target, it is running well. That way, injuries and burnout are minimised. The club has a focus on working within the local community as exemplified in John not only marshalling at the monthly Flying 4 run by Ashgrove Rangers but also for both Parkrun (open to both adults and juniors) and Junior Parkrun (4 to 14 years-old). John recently passed 400 times volunteering at Ashgrove Parkrun. He also helps out with The Gap Little Athletics.

The photo shows John running for Russell's Bushies in the 500km relay, 2013. Photo by Alastair Wallace.

AranaViewClub

The Arana View Club opened its 28th year of service with the AGM at the Arana Leagues Club where a new committee was elected - President Hilary, Vice President Bonnie, Delegate Helen, Secretary Karen, Treasurer Kath, Assistant Treasurer Carol and Program Officers Loris, June and Robyn.

Our Guest Speaker Amanda Harvey gave us an interesting showcase of some Queensland Iconic Rail Journeys.

Arana View Club, a valued part of the Smith Family and sponsor of the Learing for Life Program, meet the first Wednesday of every month at 10.30am for 11.00 am for a Lunch Meeting and guest speaker.

Arana View Club’s Official 28th Birthday Celebration is on 2 April where we will all wear something blue.

Not only do we support the community but we have fun doing it and many interesting outings are organised.

Brisbane is hosting the National View Convention from 5-7 September 2025 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre where View Members catch up with everyone and are informed and entertained.

If you wish to know more about the Arana View Club, please contact our President Hilary on 0421 047 451.

Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club

Numbers down, enthusiasm up at Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club

Even though our numbers have been slowly declining over recent years, we remain a vibrant group and have stabilised with ins and outs now just about balancing. Member’s interest talks, interesting guest speakers and tasty morning teas are features of our main monthly meetings. Plus the ever popular book exchange table.

Monthly cards afternoons continue at the Ashgrove Library. In April Dr Jack Ford will entertain us with “The Yanks did What?” - the arrival in Brisbane of the US military in WW ll. Last minute stand-in club member Geoff Crane took us on a tour of interesting bridges around the world in February. Quite a few have sad background stories. Remember “The Bridge” on SBS a few years ago? Or that rather harrowing movie “The Bridge on the River Kwai?” Or some collapses – Melbourne’s Westgate Bridge, Hobart’s Tasman Bridge, or going back a while – the Forth Rail Bridge in Scotland?

Social interaction continues at the now regular monthly coffee and chat mornings at a café in The Gap. Just another opportunity to make new friends at Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club, following the themes of Probus – Friendship, Fellowship and Fun.

New members are most welcome. Just search for Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club for ongoing information on our upcoming activities on our web site.

We meet at 9.30am on the 2nd Thursday each month except December and January at the Red Hill Bowls, Sports and Community Club in Fulcher Road, Red Hill.

Come and give us a try at a monthly meeting or come along as a guest on any of our outings. Please phone either of our Club Membership Officers Sue Vivian on 0413 544 202 or Caroline Graham on 0411 459 687 so that we can make you welcome.

Art inBark

Do you want to do something different this year?? If you have time on your hands, come and join us, learn how to do a bark picture, from the bark of the Melaleuca tree (paper bark).

Art in Bark Association, Brisbane hold classes at City Hall on the Adelaide Street side, in the basement. Classes are on Mondays, from 9 am to 12pm. Lesson cost is $10; Kits costs $10. We supply board, bark and glue etc.

We also have Saturday classes at the Apostolic Church Hall, 43 Robinson Road, Nundah. The Saturday workshops commence at 9.30am. Please phone first to book your class.

For more info please call: Barbara 3271 2130; Dipti 0468 548 600; or Hazel 0408 157 117. Please give us a call to make a booking.

Out &About

Home Store

Ashgrove

When I need to buy a gift, this is usually where I head first… Home Store Ashgrove always has the most gorgeous gift items in store, and I never leave without finding something suitable and special! Usually something for myself too, that I just couldn’t resist.

Located next to Home Café Ashgrove in Stewart Road, the lifestyle store stocks homewares, fashion, accessories and jewellery, stationery, body and beauty items, kids and baby items, and men’s gifts. The store focuses on sourcing items from local artists, and from Australian made, designed, and owned companies.

Steph Walker has owned the store for two years, but the store has been operating for 10 years prior to that. Steph’s husband Eddie was raised in Ashgrove and attended Marist College Ashgrove. Steph is originally from Tenterfield. Together they also own and operate Rufus King Seafood and Red Rooster West Ashgrove, and have three schoolaged children.

Pop in next time you’re looking for a last-minute gift – there is easy street parking out the front, or in the street behind the store. Steph and her team will always make you feel welcome, and help you find the perfect gift.

Home Store Ashgrove is open 7 days a week. Mon-Fri from 9am to 5pm; Sat from 9am to 4pm; and Sun from 9am to 1pm. Or you can buy from their extensive online shop.

Home Store Ashgrove Shop 3/20 Stewart Rd, Ashgrove Tel: 07 3366 8262 www.homestoreashgrove.com.au

Author & photographer: Melanie Grevis-James 3300 6304

BalaangalaCommunity Group

Balaangala Community Group hosted another thought-provoking event at Yoorala St on January 26.

A large crowd gathered early this year to acknowledge the deep impact of colonisation on First Nations peoples and communities and to come together to listen, learn, and reflect on Australia's shared history.

The event included talks by Mayrah and Jason Dreise, and their daughter Rahnia, who are Gamilaraay and Yuwaalaraay people from Southwest Queensland and Northwest New South Wales and founding members of Balaangala back in 2008. Each shared their unique perspectives on the significance of the day.

Jason posed the question: "Is reconciliation dead?" reflecting on the journey so far.

Mayrah followed speaking on: "Post Aboriginal Voice Referendum 2024 - Where to from here?" addressing the continued need for advocacy, truth-telling, and allyship.

Rahnia Dreise shared a powerful original poem, Guurrama-li (Goora-mah-li) – Resist, Stand Strong. Her words captured the strength, resilience, and determination of First Nations peoples, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.

The event was received well, with people staying afterward to continue discussions over a cup of tea and the usual impressive spread shared by Balaangala members.

As always, Balaangala provided a welcoming and inclusive space for meaningful conversations between First Nations and non-First Nations people.

Balaangala Community Group continues to hold events that foster understanding and solidarity.

If your garden has a moist area that is shaded or in filtered sunlight then it is worthwhile contemplating growing a bandicoot berry (Leea indica). This multi-stemmed shrub has a similar spread

To find out more about other events and projects explore their website: www.balaangala.org.au, become a member and email: balaangalathegap@gmail.com, and stay connected on Facebook: balaangala community group

and height of 2-3m. It has bright green leaves, ovate-lanceolate in shape, that are intricately veined with slightly serrated margins, up to 60cm long. The small, whitish flowers are followed by pretty, brownish berries which attract birds and bees. Bandicoot berry is the host plant for the white-brow hawk moth. The tender shoots and berries are edible.

This shrub grows as an understory plant in rainforests of India, Malaysia, Nepal, Indonesia, New Guinea, Australia and south-western Pacific islands. It is an important re-coloniser in secondary forests.

Trek2Health

Outliving Aging: How Trek2Health Empowers Clients to Defy Time

In a world where longevity is increasingly linked to proactive health measures, Trek2Health stands at the forefront of empowering individuals to combat the natural decline of the body. Drawing inspiration from Dr. Peter Attia’s groundbreaking book Outlive, the organisation integrates key longevity principles into its evidence-based programs, ensuring participants not only extend their lifespan but enhance their quality of life.

Research highlights that human physical capability peaks around 25 years of age, followed by an annual decline of 0.5% to 1.0% in overall body composition, strength, and endurance. Left unchecked, this deterioration accelerates the onset of chronic disease, cognitive decline, and loss of mobility. However, Trek2Health’s programs offer a proactive solution, focusing on structured outdoor resilience training, strength-building exercises, and mental well-being—critical pillars in slowing biological aging.

Through guided treks, high-intensity endurance challenges, and holistic fitness regimens, participants engage in strength and aerobic conditioning, preserving muscle mass and cardiovascular function. Nutrition workshops underline whole-food diets tailored to sustain energy and cellular health, while structured mindfulness sessions foster stress resilience - an essential aspect of longevity. Moreover, the strong sense of camaraderie within Trek2Health reinforces social connection, a vital but often overlooked factor in extending lifespan.

By embracing the principles outlined in Outlive, Trek2Health equips clients with the tools to slow aging and redefine what’s possible at any age. With every trek, every challenge, and every mindful step forward, they are not just moving through the wilderness—they are outliving the limitations of time.

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

It is highly probable that the plants growing in our region are a separate species, Leea nova-guineensis.

With the ease of going to a chemist to obtain medication one tends to forget that all of these treatments originated in the natural world, predominantly from plants. Although the chemicals of most modern medicines are synthetically produced, the active ingredients were identified from organisms used in folk medicine. The bandicoot berry is extensively used throughout its growing region and different parts of the plant are used to treat a number of ailments

Walton Bridge The GapGirl Guides

Invitation to Walton Bridge The Gap Girl Guide Campfire for ‘Leena’ (Donna Milgate)

Our wonderful Leader ‘Leena’, Donna Milgate, is retiring as a leader of over 45 years with Walton Bridge The Gap Girl Guides. She will continue with Guiding through the Trefoil Guild, who support charities, actively contribute to Girl Guides’ learning and continue to connect with Guide activities. Leena has also been actively involved with Scouts in the Ashgrove area. Her contribution to countless young people cannot be overstated.

We will be recognising her significant commitment to helping others by hosting a campfire sing-along and sausage sizzle on Tuesday 11 March, 5.30pm-7.30pm at the Girl Guide hut on Paten Road, The Gap.

If you have benefited from Leena’s leadership or would like to help us recognise her service, please join us. We would be very grateful if you can RSVP to help us cater for this important event. If you have any photographs relevant to Leena’s Guiding that you can share, we would also love to hear from you. Please contact Juliana Crombie, District Manager at waltonbridgethegapDM@guidesqld.org.

Our Unit Leaders are all volunteers. We come from all walks of life with different backgrounds in family, work, hobbies, talents. Our common goal is a desire to allow our youth to challenge themselves and develop as the leaders of tomorrow, and the non-formal educational program is girl-led.

As leaders, like Leena, retire we need new leaders to jump in. We would love to hear from you if you can help us. There are opportunities for casual volunteers for particular events, ongoing volunteer roles with training and support, or through a Support Group that does not involve direct contact with the Guides (such as using your skills in administration or social media, or facilities maintenance).

If you would like to find out more, with no obligations, please contact me Juliana Crombie, District Manager at waltonbridgethegapDM@guidesqld.org.

such as diarrhea, dysentery, diabetes, bone fracture, body ache, fever and wounds. It is not surprising, therefore, that this species has been scientifically analysed and chemicals have been found that include antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic, hepatoprotective pharmacological activities, justifying their traditional uses.

Principal'sPoints... Principal'sPoints...

Hilder Road State School

A Great Start to the Year at Hilder Road State School

The 2025 year has begun with excitement and energy at Hilder Road State School. We recently hosted our classroom Meet and Greet, bringing families together to strengthen connections, building a sense of belonging. We also recently celebrated the induction of our new Student Leaders at our Investiture Ceremony - acknowledging students stepping into leadership roles. Meanwhile, our Year 5 students have headed off to camp, participating in activities designed to build teamwork, confidence, and leadership skills. Our students are eager to dive into the many programs available this year. The Arts Program is already generating enthusiasm, with a newly formed Dance Program being offered this year, and our much-anticipated School Musical is returning providing unique opportunities for creative expression. Our extracurricular Sports Program is about to begin, giving students the chance to develop skills and teamwork, while our Swimming Program is already making a splash, ensuring students build water confidence and safety awareness.

With so many exciting opportunities ahead, 2025 promises to be an incredible year at Hilder Road State School— where every student is given an opportunity to be a Hilder Hero!

Payne Road State School

Wonderful

start to the school year

At Payne Road State School, 2025 is shaping up to be another great year! We have many new staff, students, prep students and new families that we have welcomed to our wonderful school. Our generous and hardworking P & C started off the year with “Welcome on the Green”on Day

1 and then our annual welcome BBQ in Week 2. Staff busily cook and welcome families who come for a picnic dinner on the oval. Wet play and a connection of friends and family in our beautiful weather is a wonderful way to start the year.

Our class teachers opened their doors and held parent information evenings sharing with parents the most up to date information of our school and informed parents how they manage their learning environments to create a warm and welcoming space for student learning.

Chappy Kristen held her pancake breakfast on Friday, which as always was very well attended, the line- up was very long, but worth the wait!! Chappy K will also be supporting students at PRSS this year with Craft and Games clubs at lunchtimes and supporting staff and student wellbeing through various programs she will offer.

Our new student leaders were presented with their badges at our annual Leaders Investiture on Friday. We had special guest – The honourable Jonty Bush MP, Member for Cooper help present Captains - Vivian and Tom and Vice Captains – Elsa and Wilde with their new badges. A very proud moment for their parents who helped pin on their new badges. Well done to all our newly elected captains and Year 6 student leaders for 2025. Our school Captains will attend the NWD/MSS Leaders Camp with all other school leaders from our neighbouring schools, learning

and honing their leadership skills needed to fulfill this very important role.

Last week, we had several swimmers attend the North West District Swimming carnival, representing PRSS. They made us proud with many PB’s on the day. Congratulations to Lily LP who will move on to the Met North Carnival coming first in breaststroke.

Yours in Education at PRSS Danielle Freeman, Principal

St Peter Chanel

As we kick off another exciting school year, I’m filled with anticipation for all the learning, growth, and community building that lies ahead. The beginning of the school year always brings a fresh sense of excitement and possibility, and this year has been no different.

Our Welcome Back BBQ, held last Friday, was an absolute hit. It was wonderful to see so many students (past and present), parents, and staff come together to celebrate the start of the year in such a positive, festive atmosphere. The smell of BBQ sausages filled the air as families gathered, shared stories, and reconnected after the summer holidays. It was the perfect opportunity to meet new faces and strengthen the sense of community that makes St Peter Chanel so special.

I am thrilled to announce a new initiative we are offering from Term 2: the Ready Set Prep program. This exciting, FREE program is designed for children who are beginning Prep in the next two years. It offers a wonderful opportunity for early learners to get ready for the classroom in a fun, engaging way. Whether you are thinking about enrolling your child or simply curious to see what the program offers, there is no obligation to enrol—it’s a great way to give your child a head start.

Registrations are now open, and I encourage all interested families to sign up and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity.

Here's to a fantastic year filled with achievement, growth, joy and plenty of memories.

Go well

Bec O’Connor, Principal

The Gap State School

We have had an incredible start to the 2025 school year at The Gap State School! In January, we welcomed 566 students back to school, including 68 new Prep students and 15 new students in Years 1-6.

In the first weeks of Term 1, teachers opened their doors at our class information afternoons for parents. The information sessions provided valuable opportunity for staff to connect, share insights, and build the strong partnerships that make our school community so special. It was wonderful to meet with so many families at these sessions. Our P&C committee were also ready to welcome families at the annual Welcome Bush Dance held in February. Volunteers are the heart of school fundraising, and the P&C executive are the engine room behind it all. Thank you to the P&C executive team and the many volunteers who come together to make events like this so successful. The bush dance was a lot of fun for everyone!

Congratulations to the 14 students from Years 5 and 6 who were selected to represent The Gap State School at the recent North West District Swimming Trials - Toby, Zara, Clio, Noah, Alara, Amelia, Tekla, Akos, Clancy, Mollie, Oliver, Leela, Ethan and Connor. We look forward to hearing the results of the trials.

For Learning at

The Gap State School

Katie Stubbings, Principal

Principal'sPoints... Principal's

The Gap State High School

The Gap State High School is making strides in 2025 with three significant initiatives aimed at enhancing educational quality and global awareness for local students.

School-Led Review

This year, The Gap SHS will conduct a school-led review to evaluate current practices and gather feedback from staff, parents, and the wider community. The Department’s School and Region Reviews (SRR) team will validate the school’s findings in July 2025. Key insights from the review will inform future planning and be shared publicly on the school’s website.

Principal’s Statement

“The Gap SHS is committed to continuous improvement, fostering a strong scientific community, and expanding cultural horizons,” – Executive Principal Anne McLauchlan

“We encourage families and community members to participate in our review, support our budding science ambassadors, and explore the exciting opportunities of our new German Immersion Program.”

German Immersion Program (GIP)

Launching in 2025 for Year 7, the GIP combines core subjects such as science and humanities with German language instruction.

Dr Inga Mertens-Walker will coordinate the program, with

Mrs Harris teaching GIP Maths and Mrs Low overseeing Germanspecific classes. Students will gain bilingual skills, global perspectives, and enriched academic experiences.

Celebrate Empowerment

This International Women's Day At The Gap State High School!

Join us at The Gap State High School P&C’s annual International Women’s Day Breakfast—

a special event designed to honour the achievements of women in our community. Enjoy dynamic speakers, engaging conversations, and an inspiring atmosphere of empowerment. Secure your ticket today and join us in celebrating the power and progress of women. For more details and to purchase tickets, visit: https://events.humanitix. com/iwd2025