The Western Echo March 2026

Advertiser'sDirectory

Grass Roots Community Connection

Art&Eats

community event is back for 2026!

On 14 March, Art&Eats returns with its biggest festival ever! Now taking place on a Saturday evening, it promises to be a celebration of grass roots community connection. Something that is more important than ever in this day and age.

Also, for the first year, the event is calling on creatives from across the north-western suburbs - encouraging anyone who wishes to see their art displayed to submit via a new, dedicated website. In addition, there is the inaugural photographic competition focused on Australian Native Wildlife, with two categories, including Under 16s where the winner will receive a camera kit worth over $900.

Event founders and organisers, Katherine Kemp and Colin Bushell said, “It seems that everyone wants to be part of this year’s event. It’s events like this that truly reflect the passion that our local area of Brisbane has in supporting local creativity and we would encourage everyone to come along and join in the fun”.

The event will include six live performances: the gloriously enigmatic, Aliya Grace; rootsy bluesman, Turner Rhys; the energising youthfulness of Vegas Saint Vendetta; Topology’s musical melting pot, You Can

Make Some Noise; recording sensation, Amanda Thomas (NSW); and good times headliners, The Kitcheneers. Show Dance will have 100 dancers promising to steal the show, and local legend, Karen Bessell will be creating some live art with a silent auction.

The featured artist this year is The Gap Creative President, Leona Reif. The art on display will be the largest and most diverse exhibition of art yet for the popular event.

There will be two bars, and the food will be supplied by four food trucks: Calamari Brothers, Turkish Tucker, It’s a Wing Thing, and Ben & Jerry’s.

It’s free for everyone, with a stunning array of raffle prizes. All proceeds from the event will go to support the vital work of Trek2Health – a local not-for-profit organisation that provides support for the health and well-being of the Emergency Services and Veteran communities in recognition of the extraordinary contribution they make to our community.

The event will take place from 4-9pm on Saturday, 14 March, on the corner of Kullaroo and Romea Streets, The Gap.

All the details, including how to submit art and enter the photo competition can be found at: www.artandeats.com.au

SATURDAY 14 MARCH 4.00-9.00PM

Cnrs. Kullaroo and Romea Streets The Gap

RUBY RED JEWELLERY, ST MARK’S, AND COLIN BUSHELL PHOTOGRAPHY PRESENT

ARTWORK BY LEONA REIF

From theEditor

Dear Readers,

Welcome to our March edition!

We can’t believe we’re already 1/6th of the way through the year. Time is flying!

Again, if you have any story ideas or local character suggestions to interview – please let us know. We are always keen to receive story ideas and feedback.

Our cover article this month features the Art&Eats free local community event, occurring on Saturday, 14 March – join in to support

COL’S CHAT

Locals through my Lens

Rebecca Karlen

I suspect that if we were to list Rebecca’s family tree, we would find a full orchestra in there. Such is the understatement of her opening line, “I come from a musical family”.

Rebecca was born in Sweden and even at an early age it seemed that her path was lined with musical endeavour. “My father was a jazz guitarist, my grandmother was a classical singer, my great grandfather, Hilding Rosenberg, was actually Sweden’s first modernist composer.”

Rebecca was given a violin for her fourth birthday and learned to play via the Suzuki Method; which teaches music like a native language, emphasizing listening, imitation and repetition. “This allowed me to learn very quickly, but my violin playing stopped for a while when we moved to Australia and Tamborine Mountain, where there was no violin teacher.”

Aged 15, Rebecca rediscovered the violin and didn’t look back. “I preferred the violin because it was a more social instrument; I enjoyed playing with others, whereas the piano was a little solitary.”

In her teens, Rebecca was missing her extended family in Europe, so returned to live with her grandparents in Switzerland for six months. “I learned French and practiced violin daily; I was totally immersed in music.”

At 17, she returned to Australia to study music at UQ and then the Conservatorium. She spent some years finding her own voice. “I stopped to look at what I could bring to music and what I could draw from my own experience. I was able to find something that was uniquely me and make me more versatile and flexible in my musical choices.”

Rebecca is very passionate about young musicians not being tied to one musical discipline. “Don’t be tied to one style. It is vital that you

Trek2Health, and enjoy a fabulous evening of art and food.

This month in our regular columns Colin Bushell chats with local musician Rebecca Karlen in his ‘Col’s Chat’ column; Sarah Krause shares book suggestions from local women for International Women’s Day in her ‘For the Love of Books’ column; and Leonard Cavallaro debates about the decline of learning languages at school in his ‘It’s Debatable’ youth column.

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

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

look to broaden your scope. Be curious, listen and be receptive to extend yourself as a musician.”

So how does the future of live music look for young people, considering the decline in smaller live music venues in Brisbane? “Ultimately people want - need - to connect and live music builds a connection between not only friends, but also the musicians themselves. It’s going to be difficult to convince people to leave the comfort of their homes and invest in live music. The continued rise of music festivals is a good indication of people’s enthusiasm for live music, but it’s difficult. We have to convince people to look at where they choose to spend their money, and offer a sense of engagement and excitement from going out.”

As if to prove the point, Rebecca has recently taken on a role as coordinator of the Topology Creative Hub in The Gap. “I have always wanted to help provide a space for creatives to find a home at a grass roots level. It brings meaning to my life when I can share music with people.”

The Hub has quickly become part of the bourgeoning creative community here in Brisbane western suburbs, and Rebecca’s enthusiasm overflows. “We need more music and creativity in our lives, especially in the world we live in today. We need to encourage creative thinking, and I am passionate about a space that inspires, and fosters creativity and connection.”

To find out more about Rebecca and her band: www.estampamusic.com

To learn more about the Topology Creative Hub: www.topologymusic.com/creative-hub

Author and photographer: Colin Bushell

/ Colin Bushell Photography

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

Cr Steve Toomey

Councillor for

The Gap Ward

ANZAC Day March – Veterans Invited

Local veterans are invited to take part in this yea r’s ANZAC Day marches. If you would like to participate or require further inform ation regarding times and locations, please contact the my office on the deta ils at the bottom of the page.

Don’t Miss Out on These!

It’s A Wrap is nearly over and will close on 13 March. All ages and all Gap Ward residents can enter with a $250 voucher to a local business up for grabs! The theme is public transport and I hope to see your creations before the time runs out.

The Gap Repair Cafe is celebrating 4 years of mending, fixing, and restoring fantastic items that our community chose not to throw away. It’s always fun to get my sparky hat back on and join in too. Book your broken item in for repair on the 21 March and maybe grab a slice of cake to enjoy!

Art & Eats returns on Saturday 14 March and it’s one of my favourite local events. From 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm, enjoy live music, local art and great food across St Mark’s and the Ruby Red Jewellery precinct. It’s a relaxed, free night out in The Gap and a great way to support Trek2Health.

Valley’s All Abilities Program

We love cricket! Now, with new bucket hats, All Abilities can spend a little more time lovin' the game this summer. It was an absolute pleasure to sponsor their new gear!

Register for local updates on my e-newslettermonthly

The GapShe Shed

MARCH ACTIVITIES

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

Monday and Friday walking group. Meet in Riaweena Street near the *Scout Den at 8am.

Women Wanderers. Saturday - (First Saturday of every month). Book via Trybooking.

Monday Craft and Chat Group. Monday 2nd, 16th and 30th March from 7-9 pm at Topology, 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap.

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

Cards 500: Tuesdays weekly in March from 12.30-2.30 pm at The Gap Tavern.

Book Club Thursday 19th March from 6.30- 8.30pm. Venue: The Gap Tavern. Book for discussion: “Chai time at Cinnamon Gardens” by Shankari Chandran.

Classics Book Club: Meet at Topology, 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap on Wednesday 25th March from 6-8.30pm. Book for discussion “Still Life@ by Sarah Winman.

She Shed Diners – Sunday 8th March 9:30am-12:30pm. Check FB chat page for venue.

Mahjong- Social. Monday nights from 6-9pm, Wednesday mornings 9 am-midday, Friday afternoons from 1-4pm. Venue: *RSL.

Mahjong Tournament Practice/Social – 1-4pm Saturdays at the *RSL

Mahjong Lessons: Tuesdays from 1-4pm and Wednesday evenings from 6-9pm at the RSL.

Line Dancing. Night class: Monday nights from 6-7 pm at the *Den. Theatre: Sunday 8th March – “The Great Gatsby”, at the Playhouse; Saturday 21st March from 2-4pm – “ART”. Venue: The Playhouse; Saturday 28th March from 2-4.30pm “Torch the Place” by Benjamin Law at the Billie Brown Theatre.

Foreign Film Club: 14th March at 1pm. Film- “Colours of Time” at the Barracks Cinema.

Writers Club: Monday 9th March from 1.30-3pm at Café Tara Day trip to Mount Tambourine 27th March (check events tab in Facebook page for details).

**Venue addresses: The Scout Den, 76 Riaweena Street, The Gap. RSL Nullagundi Centre, 34 School Road, The Gap. Topology, 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap.

Website:

SAVE THE DATE! The Gap She Shed is hosting a Biggest Morning Tea on Wednesday 29 April from 10am to midday at 76 Riaweena Street, The Gap. All are welcome!

https://thegapsheshed.wixsite.com/home Email: hello@thegapsheshed.au

Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/ thegapsheshed

Who is Lillian Cooper Jonty’s march update

I’m incredibly proud tha t our electora te of Cooper is the namesake of Dr Lillian Cooper, an extraordinar y woman I’d like to talk about this Inter na tional Women’s Day.

Dr Cooper was the first registered female medical doctor in Queensland and only the second in Australia She came to Brisbane in 1891 with her lifelong companion Mar y Josephine Bedford

Lillian was trailblazer, becoming the first female doctor in Queensland, championing healthcare for women and children She made headlines as the sta te's first female motorist, her passion leading her to become one of the founding members of the Automobile Club of Queensland, now known as the RACQ

Lilian la ter became a Founda tion Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and a founding force behind the Queensland Medical Women’s Society

Her courage, her deter mina tion to break bar riers, and her lifelong ser vice to women, children and the broader community continue to guide my work Her legacy reminds us why it is so impor tant to suppor t women’s leadership and ensure oppor tunities are open to all

nominate for Neighbour day

Neighbour Day is coming up on Sunday 29 March This year, we’re of fering to host a street BBQ with music and a few games thrown in for good measure If you think your street is g rea t and would like to get to know your neighbours more, scan the QR code to nomina te

join me on the epic walk for dv

On Sunday 22 March, the Epic Walk for DV brings our community together to raise awareness and vital funds for domestic and family violence prevention through Women’s Legal Ser vice Queensland Join me for the 5km walk and be par t of a powerful show of suppor t for a safer future Registra tion is manda tor y, so ga ther your friends and take a stand, one step a t a time Check out www epicwalkfordv com au for more infor ma tion

my upcoming mobile offices

Come and join me at one of my upcoming mobile offices: Friday 13 March - 8:30am-9:30am at Merlo Coffee Paddington Friday 13 March -10:00am-11:00am at Highpoint Cafe Ashgrove Saturday 28 March - 10:00am-11:00am at Broncos Leagues Club

Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club

Why do individuals, groups, organisations and even nations, undertake acts of service? The answer is not too complicated: to make the world a better place.

A place which is kinder, more respectful and promotes care and understanding of others.

The international motto of Lions is “We Serve”. Ashgrove/The Gap Lions enact this motto in the local community.

Fundraising is a key priority. In the last 7 years, the Club has raised and distributed over $217, 000, with the majority going to the local community.

Just as important as fundraising is community service. One organisation supported is Valley Cricket All Abilities. Lions turn up on a Friday afternoon to support the children and young adults, who pull on the team shirt and pop on the All Abilities bucket hat and feel part of a team. This program is making a difference.

Finally, members undertake acts of service by participating in Club activities, promoting a positive Club culture, inspiring others to volunteer and ensuring that the Club is organised, well run and looks to the future.

If you are interested in making a difference through acts of service, check out Ashgrove/The Gap Lions website and follow us on socials.

Photos: 1. Funds from the Lions Plant Sale donated to Hummingbird House

2. Lions members support All Abilities

3. Lions, partners and Friends of Lions enjoyed a back stage tour of QPAC in January.

Thanks to Colin Bushell Photography

SATURDAY, 18 APRIL

Creative Samford

Put your feet up on some art!

Creative Samford’s ‘Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail 2026’ is happening across four weekends this June where you will find Stella Danalis, just one of over 70 artists exhibiting their work in studios and pop ups from Cashmere to Samford.

Stella has been a participant in this Trail since 2018 – while also

being the designer and producer of the well-loved Studio Guide. With an award winning four decades in the industry behind her she creates fun and pleasing patterns with the Bauhaus ideology being a key component of everyday life. Stella’s design transforms homewares to artforms.

For Creative Samford’s 12th Trail there are lots of new artists to meet and engage with this year. Watercolours, acrylics, sculpture, jewellery, photography, designers, wood textile, resin and ceramics will all be part of the Trail’s Art-smorgasbord.

“It’s lovely seeing everyone’s artwork as I go through all the participants’ images to produce the Studio Program Guide”. Stella said recently. “My highlight is always sharing my art and design practice with our visitors”.

Visitors will get to see behind the curtains of creative spaces –witnessing firsthand artists’ inspirations and techniques. Some artists are working as you wander, some have pens or techniques for you to try - and all enjoy having a chat with you. Are you an artist yourself? How many times have you explored the Trail? What is your favourite type of art? Would you like to see something special? As an artist participant myself, this author knows to make sure there is a donkey (‘not pulling a cart!’) in my exhibition this year.

Arts engagement - making art and looking at art - has the same effects on the brain as eating chocolate. They both release endorphins and dopamine. Engaging with art can evoke feelings of appreciation, nostalgia, and happiness, which helps calm the mind and reduce stress. Now, munching on a bar of choccie and wandering the Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail sounds like a great way to spend a few hours. Team up with a friend or family member, add in coffee and lunch breaks in the winter sunshine and that looks like bliss. Such a lovely season for a country drive.

To enjoy that fabulous footstool visit Stella Danalis at Printroom Editions Studio in Samford Valley this June. The Trail map and full artists details will be in the Studio Guide, released closer to the event and available at City of Moreton Bay Information Centres, local cafes and restaurants, or online via our website.

Proudly supported by City of Moreton Bay

Saturday and Sunday 10am-3pm, across the four weekends of June: 6–7, 13–15, 20–21, 27–28 June.

For all updates visit Creative Samford’s website, and social media accounts: www.creativesamford.com www.facebook.com/CreativeSamford www.instagram.com/creativesamford

Photo Credit: Stella Danalis

Our primitive epiphytes

Terrestrial epiphytes are plants that grow entirely on other plants, disconnected from the soil. They derive their nutrients and water from rain or mist, and organic matter collected in tree forks or specialised basket leaves, as with Staghorn and Elkhorn ferns Platycerium spp. Many small mosses, lichens and fungi are epiphytes, but vascular plants with larger leaves are more easily seen if you look up into the forest canopy. They are not parasitic, do not harm their host plants, most are shade tolerant and many are equally at home on trees, rocks (lithophytic) or as hardy indoor and pot plants. Not surprisingly, many are found in rainforests and add to the multilayered foliage character of subtropical forests and gardens.

Some may be temporary epiphytes, such as Strangler Figs which may grow on a host tree for many years before their roots eventually reach the ground. Relatively few true epiphytes are flowering plants – examples include bromeliads and orchids. Epiphytic orchids native to our catchment include the Pencil Orchid and Bridal Veil Orchid Dendrillia spp.

However, most of our local native epiphytes are ferns with wind-blown spores which can easily germinate in moist crevices high in the canopy. Ferns are considered primitive, having evolved millions of years before flowering plants. A wide range of epiphytic ferns can be found on older trees in the moist shaded forests along local creeks, including Birds Nest Fern Asplenium, Basket Fern Drynaria, Kangaroo Fern Microsorum, Ribbon Fern Ophioglossum, and Hares Foot Fern Davallia. Perhaps the most unusual is the fern-like Skeleton Fork Fern Psilotum nudum, recently photographed beside one of our local creeks. This is one of the world’s most primitive vascular plants, without true roots, similar to fossils 400 million years old. For more about Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN): www.sown.com.au

Cellar Singers

Do you like to sing but don’t read music? Enjoy a good laugh and cuppa with friends? The Bardon Cellar Singers might well be for you!

Rotary Club Ashgrove The Gap

Rotary Ashgrove The Gap has been supporting local (and global) good causes for many years, sometimes hands-on and sometimes financially. Recent Board decisions include substantial donations to St John Rovers, Care Kits for Kids, PolioPlus and the Emmanuel City Mission project of the Mt St Michael Interact Club.

Where do these funds come from? Partly from the members themselves, but largely from you via our public fundraising. And the most famous bit of fundraising is the iconic Bunnings Sausage Sizzle. We’ll be sizzling away at Keperra Bunnings on Saturday, 14 March, and we’d like to ask for your help. If you can spare a couple of hours between 7:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to cook, to serve out or to take the money, we’d love to hear from you.

That way you too will have supported the anti-family-violence, the disease prevention, the environmental, and the other causes that Rotary engages in.

A hands-on Rotary event locally is our annual Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony in which this year 70 new citizens, many of them local to Ashgrove or The Gap, made the pledge and received their certificates. As usual, thanks to local politicians Councillor Steven Toomey (Presiding Officer) and Jonty Bush MP who spoke at the ceremony. Also many thanks to The Gap State High School for use of the hall, and the Paten Park Native Plant Nursery for the loan of decorative plants to liven the place up.

To get in touch with us visit our website: www.rotaryashgrovethegap.org.au You can direct any enquiries to Tim Boyd at agrclub@gmail.com or text at 0411 141 304.

We sing a wide range of popular songs from Sweet Caroline to You’re the Voice, from The Beatles and The Seekers to Robbie Williams and Ella Fitzgerald – and so many more.

We are an informal singing group with guitar accompaniment, and we sing for the fun of it. We meet every second Monday from 10 to 11:30 am at the premises of the Pilgrim Congregational Church on Simpsons Road, Bardon. Only $5 per session! Come join the fun!

Enquiries: Terry Holmes 0408 270 140 or terry.holmes@bigpond.com

WHERE AM I?

colinbushell@icloud.com www.colinbushellphotography.au | @colbushell

taken?

All photos are taken within our Western Suburbs of Ashgrove, The Gap, Bardon, Paddington, Rosalie, Red Hill, Newmarket & sometimes slightly further afield!

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

BY 31 MARCH PLEASE!

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

SponsoredbyColinBushellPhotography

February quiz answer: St Brigid's Church, Red Hill Winners: 3 answered first at the same time: Stephen W, Susie G, and Sue D.

When: Wednesday, 18 March 2026 th Time: 9:15am-10:45am Where: Payne Road State School MAIN HALL 171 Payne Road The Gap, QLD 4061

At Payne Road State School we combine

full

Newmarket Bocce Club News

What is Bocce?

Bocce, the European version of bowls, was introduced to Australia by immigrants from Europe, especially Italians, in the early 1900’s. For many years it was played as a social recreation in backyards, streets and suburban parks. In the 1960’s, following the post-war inflow of immigrants, it became an organised sport and part of ethnic Australia social culture. When Italian immigrants established large social clubs, bocce courts were incorporated in them. However, today recreational bocce is still played in back yards and parks.

How it developed

There is one registered Bocce club left in Brisbane, being the Newmarket Bocce Club, which has 4 playing courts - situated at 23 Foster Street, Newmarket (behind the “City Church”). This club was established in 1972 and the first Brisbane Cup was played in 1976 between Newmarket Bocce Club (formally Italo-Australian Bocce club) and Australian Italo Club (Tavernetta) at Carseldine.

Tournaments

The club has social games on Wednesdays from 6.30pm; Tuesdays and Fridays from 8.30am. The club also has Sunday social competitions throughout the year including sponsored competitions with other clubs i.e. Redlands Sporting Bocce Club. When possible, we also enjoy playing with Bundaberg Bocce Club. The Redlands Bocce Club is situated in the Redlands Shire Council and has 8 playing courts. These three clubs are members of the Queensland Bocce Federation, whom is a member of the Bocce Federation of Australia, whom is a member of the Federation Internationale De Boules. The international Federation is a member of the Confederation Mondiale des Sports de Boules, recognised by the I.O.C. (International Olympic Committee).

The Game

A game can be conducted between two players, or two teams of two, three or four. A match is started by a randomly chosen side being given the opportunity to throw a smaller ball, the jack (called a pallino, or a

The GapProbus Club

The Probus year began with an informal drop-in-drop-out lunch at The Gibson on Australia Day. That commitment didn’t stop our President Harpur Michell taking his place as one of the invited VIP guests at the Rotary-hosted Citizenship Ceremony that morning. Probus was started by ex-Rotarians back in the day when retiring from work retired you from Rotary - but not from life, our founders decided.

boccino in some areas), from one end of the court into a zone about 5metres in length, ending 2metres from the far end of the court (a court is about 27 meters long) The side that first played the jack is given the opportunity to bowl first. Once the first bowl has taken place, the other side has the opportunity to bowl. From then on, the side which does not have the ball closest to the jack must bowl until that side makes the point (is closer), then the opposing team plays. At that point, the other side bowls its remaining bocce balls. The team with the closest bocce ball to the jack is the only team that can score points in any end. The scoring team receives one point for each of their balls that is closer to the jack than the closest ball of the other team. The length of a game varies by region but is typically based on a time limit or reaching 13 points.

Players are permitted to throw the ball in the air using an underarm action. This is generally used to knock either the jack or another ball away to attain a more favorable position. Tactics can get quite complex when players have sufficient control over the bocce ball to throw or roll it accurately.

Development

The Bocce Federation of Australia (based in Melbourne, Victoria) is the governing body and has met the needs of the technical aspects by accrediting Coaches and Referees, initially using international expertise. They are members of the Australian Sporting Commission. The development of bocce games e.g. Raffa and specialised games are entering the wider community, facilitated by the National Development Director has enhanced the opportunities for the sport in the future. Newmarket Bocce Club (NB), Redlands Bocce Club, and Bundaberg Bocce have had many champions over the years. Members have represented in the National and International arenas.

The Future

As mentioned previously the Newmarket Bocce Club is the only Bocce club left in Brisbane and the community should embrace this sport and not let it die. The club welcomes all cultures to play Bocce, young and old.

Your commitment to the game of bocce would be appreciated, so bocce can be around for many years to come.

You will find many articles on Bocce on the internet, including pictures and videos. U Tube offers many videos of champion players in action. You will find a few interesting articles on Bocce Australia’s website: www.bocceaustralia.com.au

We also accommodate corporate events, work parties and special events.

Contact Tony Di Sipio on 0418 731 423 or Mario De Marco on 0403 257 325 for further details.

Our speaker at the first general meeting of the club was an old favourite, the tourism operator, and raconteur Richard Kinnon of Longreach, who under the cloak of being a “real old bushie” is clearly a shrewd businessman with a deep love of his outback country. His tales vary from the amazing to the outrageous, and he is always welcome.

The casual card-coffee-and-chat sessions at Walkabout Creek make for a very pleasant morning, despite the weather, and are continuing.

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

AshgroveRangers

Great work by the Ashgrove Rangers Mixed A Team to be first over the line in the Mixed Teams Category and second team overall at the Mt Tamborine Mountain Relays on the 25 January.

The 7km course over road, trail and grass was run in reverse direction to previous years which meant steep hills early but overall probably a bit easier in the middle.

Well done to the winning team of Hamish Cox, Cameron Cox, Liam Tiralongo, Mark Lepper, Daisy Carter, and Sonny Taylforth.

The Mixed B team finished fourteenth overall and 4th in the Mixed 6 person Category with the Mixed C team finishing in just over 5.5 hours for 10th in the Mixed 6 person Category finishing behind Ildiko Keogh’s Runners with Altitude team.

Thanks everyone for what was a fun and very successful morning and particular thanks to Race Director Steve Jackson who was most helpful to us.

Lots of club members are out doing Parkruns and it seems that the New Year’s Resolutions are lasting longer this year with great numbers still rolling up each week.

At Ashgrove the Jacksons got into the placings with father Paul 2nd in 19:45 and daughter Summer 2nd in the Females in 21:19.

At Bunyaville the Kingsnorth siblings were to the fore with Jack 4th in 22:14 and Amelia 2nd in 25:59 in the Females.

Well done everyone.

Training is Monday and Thursday evening at The Gap State High School oval from 5.45-7.00pm; Tuesday from 5pm at the University of QLD hill opposite the running track; and Saturday morning Pilates at the UQ running track 200m mark from 9am.

If you are interested in training or competing in any of our teams please contact John Purcell on 0417 075 292 or Dick Dunstan on 3300 5719.

Australian Foundation for Children with AIDS (AFCA)

AFCA is a fully registered Australian charity committed to helping children and their carers who are infected or affected by AIDS. The countries we support are Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Democratic Republic of Congo.

Our support is primarily aimed at building sustainable projects that provide on-going income/food to these groups. Many of the carers are older people, often grandparents, who can no longer do hard physical work. In all three countries there are projects for carers. In all cases the projects aim to become sustaining. Projects include hairdressing, community gardening, rice growing, chicken and egg production, and sewing.

We support orphanages in Miwani (near Kisumu) in Kenya and two orphanages in Bulawayo in Zimbabwe. In Miwani the orphanage gets food from community gardens, and project income to cover school fees. In Bulawayo we provide each orphanage with six greenhouses. These greenhouses provide tonnes of produce which feeds the children and carers. The rest is then sold in the local markets, forming an income for the orphanage to pay bills, carers etc. One of these orphanages is for abused girls – imagine losing your parents to AIDS, being taken in by a carer and then being abused. Many of these very young girls come in pregnant.

Each year AFCA has a focus area for fundraising. In 2025 it was creating the Sewing Centre in Miwani. We refurbished the building with a new roof, new paint, new doors and windows; bought 10 sewing machines; built a dual drop toilet and built an eating area where food could be cooked. In 2026 we aim to buy 34 gardening packs to allow 34 families to begin their own garden for food and income.

Each year we travel to Africa to ensure all moneys have been used as promised and that all is going well.

Our Fundraising comes from donations from individuals, from Rotary Clubs, and from our weekly stall at various shopping centres where we sell craft items. To know where we are each weekend, please follow us on:

Brisbane Tramway Museum The GapCreative Inc

It is already March and we are filling our creative calendars for the months ahead!

Save the date for our 2026 signature events coming up this year.

Tula Gallery Exhibition: The Gap State High School, Friday 19 JuneSunday 21 June.

The 5th Annual Open Studios Weekend: Saturday 29 August & Sunday 30 August.

Art & Eats: join in the community celebration of local art, music, dance, food and more on Saturday 14 March from 4pm. Many of our members will be exhibiting and in attendance on the evening. Leona Reif, our president, will be this year’s feature artist, showcasing a range of her latest paintings and ceramic creations.

We were delighted to recently attend the soft opening of a very special space in The Gap. The Topology Creative Hub will be a safe, inclusive, and ever evolving place where artists, creatives, healers, makers and more get to gather, collaborate and share their work with the world around them.

We have introduced our own Community Art Library as well, located within the Topology Creative Hub - borrow or exchange inspiring books on art, music, creative practices and more!

Interested in becoming a member of The Gap Creative - as we bring even more joy, creativity and art to our suburb in 2026?

Head to www.thegapcreative.com.au for all of our details.

Rotary Club Of Paddington

The Rotary Club of Paddington have the following events and activities planned.

Spoke to a Bloke Walk for Mental Health

The event is on Saturday, 21 March. A city-wide event for men and allies to walk, talk, and raise funds for men’s mental health support. Volunteers are needed to help with registrations, route marshalling, water stations, and encouragement along the route. All welcome - whether you’ve walked before or want to learn how to support others. How to get involved: sign up today and join a caring community. Contact us to register.

Braking the Cycle: Driver Mentoring

Mentoring to improve road safety and help young people obtain a

Picnic With A Difference - A Great Gatsby

Picnic!!

Sunday, 12 April is the date to mark on your calendar right now!

The Tramway Museum invites readers to come along and enjoy a Picnic with a Difference – a Great Gatsby Picnic.

Bring your own Great Gatsby picnic lunch and enjoy our spacious grounds with great entertainment and prizes and, of course, lots of tram rides on 1920’s style trams (and others!). Vintage bus rides will also be available.

A prize will be awarded for the best dressed Lady and best dressed Gentleman in 1920’s fashion!

Live entertainment will be provided by Electro Swiggety – a Jazz Duet (and possibly others).

A coffee van, ice cream van and a donut stall will be on site and cold drinks will be on sale.

Admission Prices are $20.00 for Adults, $15.00 for Concession Holders, $10.00 for Children (under 14) and a Family ticket (2 adults & 2 children) for $50.00.

Gates open at 11.00 am and the picnic will conclude at 3.00 pm.

Our address is 50 Tramway Street, Ferny Grove.

Online bookings are available at Eventbrite:

www.eventbrite.com.au/e/a-greatgatsby-picnic-tickets-1982741657672

TheBrisbaneTramwayMuseumisproudly Supported by The Brisbane City Council.

driver’s licence, which boosts employment opportunities. PCYC provides training for new mentors; automatic cars are available at Suncorp and the Valley centres. Time commitment is flexible; driving sessions typically last about an hour. To volunteer, contact David Frost at the Rotary Club or text 0433 152 063.

Club Update: Youngcare Talk

At our recent meeting, Clare Stewart, CEO of Youngcare, spoke about their national work to help young people with high care needs live in the community with dignity and accessibility.

Rotary Art Show: Proceeds to Youngcare

The Rotary Club of Paddington will donate proceeds from the Brisbane Rotary Art Show to Youngcare. Dates are Sunday, 19 July to Friday, 31 July 2026. Venue is at Central Plaza One. We invite everyone to participate in this major fundraising effort. Together, we are making a difference - one thoughtful action at a time.

Alcoholics AnonymousPaddington

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Paddington

Alcoholics Anonymous hosts a weekly in-person meeting in Paddington, providing a structured and supportive environment for those interested in learning more about the program or engaging in recovery. My name is Nick, and I am a grateful alcoholic.

This year marks 20 years of sobriety - something I once believed was impossible. Before finding Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), I could barely stay away from a drink for 20 days, and even then it was through gritted teeth. I wasn’t always a daily drinker, but when I drank, I drank. “Just one more” was my favourite line. I would head to the pub intending to have one or two, but once I started, stopping felt impossible.

Over time, I began letting people down - my wife, my friends, my work and myself. I made countless promises to quit, only to break them with a trivial excuse that triggered the same destructive cycle. My health, relationships, finances and self-esteem all suffered. I felt ashamed of how I was living.

Eventually, after years of struggle, I walked into an AA meeting. It was nothing like the movies. Instead, I found a room full of genuine, supportive people with no hidden agenda. The warmth and positivity surprised me. As I began to understand alcoholism as AA defines it, I committed to the program and worked the steps. In doing so, I discovered things about myself I had never faced - and I changed. Today, at 48, I am healthier than I was at 28. I have a happy marriage, three wonderful children, a fulfilling career and, most importantly, peace of mind.

If you relate to this story, or struggling with alcoholism, you are welcome at any AA meeting.

If anyone would like to speak with someone locally, they may reach out to Nick on 0416 084 718.

Brisbane North Cake Decorators

Our next meeting is on Saturday, 21 March commencing at 1.00pm. We meet at the Arana Hills Community Centre on Dawson Parade. This meeting will follow our normal procedure of a short business meeting, followed by afternoon tea then the fun enjoyable part, which is a demonstration by member Robyn. Robyn will take us

BalaangalaCommunity Group

Invasion/Survival Day

Despite the hot weather, about 50 people gathered at the Balaangala Garden to acknowledge and reflect on Invasion/ Survival Day. Aunty Melinda Serico led the Acknowledgement of Country and reflections.

First Nations people present contributed their thoughts and experiences about what the 26th January means to them. These included: sadness, and the strength to move forward; the importance of the work of Elders which has enabled people and their culture to survive; and memories of racism, violence, Stolen Generations, Mission life, and being forced to deny language, culture and contact with family. The importance of family and community for First Nations Peoples was also discussed.

Michelle Peile, a Balaangala member read from “Living on Stolen Land” by Ambelin Kwaymullina. Non-First Nations people present were then asked to reflect on what they could do to: build respectful relationships with First Nations People; learn about our shared history and the ongoing impact of colonisation; and acknowledge the privilege and benefits of being a settler living on stolen land.

Discussion included the importance of observing and listening, sitting in silence, chatting over a cuppa, reading books by First Nations authors, listening to music by First Nations musicians, and attending art shows of First Nations artists. Balaangala’s Restoration Fund was identified as a practical way to contribute to First Nations organisations and businesses. An Action Guide with a range of relevant suggestions for actions and resources was available to attendees.

To close, Rahnia Dreise spoke about her experiences and read a poem she had written about Invasion and Survival from a younger person’s perspective.

Lots of discussions continued while attendees enjoyed a cuppa and snacks.

For more about Balaangala Community Group: www.balaangala.org.au

through the steps to create her life-like butterflies.

Our February meeting was full of laughter as we all attempted to create pigs. We had all shapes and sizes and in various poses. This workshop was a practice run for our display at the Annual Cake show this year.

We welcome new members and invite those interested to visit for three meetings to see if we are the right fit before joining. We can be contacted via our Facebook page, Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA or via email brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail.com

Trek2Health

Why Purpose Slips Before Mental Health Does

In conversations about mental health, we often focus on symptoms once they are visible - anxiety, low mood, exhaustion, withdrawal. But emerging research and lived experience suggest something quieter happens first: purpose begins to erode.

Purpose is not a lofty or abstract concept. It is the felt sense that what we do matters, that we belong somewhere, and that our actions connect to something beyond ourselves. When purpose is present, people tolerate stress remarkably well. When it slips, even small pressures can feel overwhelming. This pattern is especially visible among high-functioning individuals and frontline workers. Many continue to perform, lead, and care for others long after their internal sense of meaning has thinned. Outwardly they cope. Inwardly, motivation fades, joy narrows, and connection weakens. Mental health does not collapse suddenly - it follows the loss of purpose.

From a preventative perspective, this matters. If we wait until distress is acute, we are responding late in the process. A more effective approach is to ask earlier questions: Do people feel connected? Do they feel useful? Do they feel seen?

Evidence increasingly points to simple, human interventions as protective factors - regular movement, time in natural environments, shared challenge, and safe social connection. These experiences restore agency and meaning, not through insight alone, but through action.

Purpose, importantly, is not “found” through motivation or positive thinking. It is rebuilt through doing meaningful things with others, repeatedly, over time.

At Trek2Health, these understanding shapes our work. By focusing on connection, movement, and shared experience, we aim to support mental health before it deteriorates - not as a crisis response, but as ongoing care.

When purpose is protected, mental health is far more resilient. And when we notice purpose slipping, we are being given an early, valuable signal - one we should not ignore.

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,

'It's Debatable' A Youth Perspective

Multicultural Australia Remaining Monolingual at School

Sharper minds, greater employability and the joys of stronger connection.

We all appreciate the benefits of learning a language, but more often than not it’s something we just don’t make time for. While it’s never too late to learn a language, the neural plasticity we have as children makes it much easier.

And yet Australian students are increasingly abandoning foreign languages at school. In the 1960s, 40% of students chose a language. That’s dropped to just 8.6% of Year 12 students post-COVID. Keeping in mind that 22.3% of Australians speak another language at home, it seems strange only 8.6% study a foreign language at school. And we have a multitude of Indigenous languages in Australia too.

The number of students studying Indonesian has declined at the same time the population and importance of our closest neighbour has been on the rise. In a global workforce, Australian graduates are competing against those fluent in multiple languages and reaping all the cognitive, social and economic benefits.

Mitchelton & Districts GardenClub

Adenium: The Desert Rose Full of Surprises

The Desert Rose (Adenium obesum) has become a favourite in many South East Queensland gardens, thanks to its sculptural trunk, glossy leaves, and vibrant blooms that thrive in our warm subtropical climate. But every now and then, this already-striking plant offers an extra delight - the appearance of seed pods, often affectionately described by gardeners as a sign of “pregnancy.”

These slender pods form in pairs and slowly swell over several weeks.

For 2025 graduate Amos Williams, the choice to learn a language was an easy one. “As a kid you could say I was totally sold on the Italian dream…I loved everything Italian so learning the language just seemed logical.” Still, the only way Amos could learn Italian was through Cairns School of Distance Education, and distance education is not without technical and quality difficulties. His recent trip to Italy highlighted how strong language learning is in schools there, largely due to the close ties with other European cultures and languages. Victoria requires state schools to teach a language right up until Year 10 and why the International Baccalaureate requires all students to study a foreign language. But language learning is only as good as what you put in. Compulsory subjects risk sidelining language learning as something to be pushed upon students, not as something worth pursuing themselves. Does forcing students into these language classes risk ruining it for those who genuinely want to be there?

Our schools can’t afford to be monolingual in a multicultural country, let alone in an increasingly interconnected competitive world. Let’s design a schooling system where language learning is treated as the asset it is.

Should we or shouldn’t we be pushing for more language learning at school? And what are the benefits for students and society as a whole?

Learn more about the state of language learning in Australia: www.sbs.com.au/news/article/australian-students-seemto-be-losing-interest-in-languages-should-we-all-beworried/o5arcr12r

www.educationdaily.au/indigenous/australia-speaks400-languages-yet-teaches-almost-none

Author: Leonard Cavallaro. Images: Unsplash.

NOTE - please visit The Western Echo website for a longer version of this article: www.westernecho.com.au

When mature, they split open to release silky, feather-light seeds designed to drift effortlessly on the breeze. It’s a magical moment to witness, but it also means the seeds can vanish before you’ve had a chance to collect them. Gardeners have a simple, time-honoured trick: slip a stocking or fine mesh bag over the pods as they develop. This gently catches the seeds the moment the pods open, ensuring none are lost to the wind.

Adeniums flourish in well-drained soil, plenty of sunshine, and careful watering - generous in summer, sparing in winter. With patience and the right conditions, they reward gardeners not only with year-round beauty but occasionally with the joy of watching a new generation begin.

Desert Roses were on sale at our February meeting - one of which was indeed “pregnant”. If you are interested in very affordable plants, please come along to the Enoggera Memorial Hall (Trundle St) on the first Thursday of the month at 9:30 am for a 10:00 am start. Entry is $5.00, which includes morning tea. Parking is restricted at present, due to the construction of the Norman Hotel on Samford Rd. If your mobility is limited, we recommend being dropped off and picked up, if possible.

Please feel free to contact us at

for any further information. See you soon!

SmartOffice

Keeping Professional Conversations Local

There’s something powerful about not needing to leave your suburb to have a professional meeting.

No CBD traffic.

No expensive parking.

No rushing through city crowds.

Just a professional environment close to home.

Hosting the recent Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club strategy workshop is a reminder of what’s possible when local infrastructure supports local business and the local community.

Facilities provided include:

• 4 private offices

• 6 hot desks

• A 12-seat professional boardroom

• Balcony access for informal discussions

• Kitchenette and tea/coffee facilities

• Free parking at The Gap Village Smart Office exists to make The Gap stronger - one meeting at a time. For more details: www.smartofficespaces.com.au

Why deal with the travel and parking hassle in the city when the professional space you need is right

Suburban professionals or business owners can now enjoy the focus of a private office, the flexibility of a hot desk, and sophisticated boardrooms that elevate every client meeting in the GAP.

The Gap Baptist Church

Change

We shouldn’t be surprised or angry when things change. Nothing lasts forever, but things are always changing.

There are cycles where patterns of change happen. Think of seasons, tides, moon phases, and the passing of comets. There are changes that gradually happen over a period of time. Think of our bodies changing from birth to death. There are changes that occur abruptly.

Just as change happens to individuals, so change must happen to relationships. It isn’t possible for relationships to remain the same. Many things challenge the status quo. Consider health, wealth, knowledge, technology, and world events, such as wars and natural disasters.

AranaViewClub

The Arana View Club started another year of its Learning for Life Program with the Annual General Meeting and a new committee.

The Guest Speaker was Dr Helena Popovic who spoke on How to Boost Your Brain and Defy Dementia.

Come and join our happy Club and go on outings such as a little taste of Italy at Torrisi’s Delights and The Blended Collective Club plus visits to other View Clubs.

View stands for Voice Interests and Education of Women.

We meet on the first Wednesday of each month at the Arana Leagues Club, 247 Dawson Parade, Keperra.

For more than 65 years, VIEW has supported The Smith Family, enabling disadvantaged children to access education and create better futures.

April is our 29th Birthday Year of Service. So come along.

Phone our president Hilary on 0421 047 451 and help support children and their families in need to thrive.

In all of this change - God does not change. His nature and his qualities are a constant. Particularly His love for you. His love for you doesn’t change whether you are a beautiful infant, a pimply youth, a person with a disability, someone who is sinning, or an old person whom the world doesn’t seem to have a use for anymore. God loves you unconditionally.

In our world of change, maybe you need to change your view of God. I can show you Bible readings that explain who God is and how much He loves you. The Gap Baptist Church offers 3 sessions of The Game Changer. Not all things stay the same - Jesus is The Game Changer.

To book a session, call me 0498 199 217 or email the Church: thegapbc@gmail.com.

If you see me at The Gap Shopping Village, please say Hello!

Tiny Thomsen, The Gap Baptist Church

The GapSustainability Initiative

We started the new year with an amazing February seminar featuring Fanny and Andrew (pictured), who presented on behalf of the Platypus group and SOWN. They reported data from our second eDNA survey –providing crucial insights into the biodiversity in The Gap’s creeks. Results and recording of the seminar will soon be placed in the news section of our website. Going forward, we will offer seminars every second month, with the Sustainability Together, Community energy and Platypus groups each selecting at least one topic.

The aims of our three groups are:

1. Sustainability Together: Promote the many wonderful local sustainability initiatives and empower individuals to lead more sustainable lifestyles.

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.

3. Community Energy: Generate and secure access to environmentally safe and affordable energy for all residents through promoting knowledge development and service accessibility.

Every other month we plan for a workshop, starting on March 17, 7pm at The Gap State High School library. This first workshop will be a facilitated planning event, where we will reflect on our projects and plan ahead for the future. You are welcome to attend and provide your input, so that we can accurately reflect the needs of the community.

To join our activities and events, just check our events calendar on our website www.thegapustainability.org; or follow us on Facebook.

For the Love Of Books

International Women's Day is this month, so I’m highlighting some amazing women and the incredible female authors they've been reading lately...

Mel Philp, Wholesale Accounts Manager for Sole Distribution and mum of 2, recently finished "Nobody's Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice" by the late Virginia Roberts Giuffre. "If like me, you've heard all sorts of opinions and hearsay, and feel you only know bits of Virginia’s story – read Nobody’s Girl!” suggests Mel. “It opened my eyes to incomprehensible suffering and abuse. Against the odds, these women went on to seek justice and prevent more abuse of others. An incredible story. Confronting and challenging.” An important and timely read.

Co-owner of Brookies Rural Traders, and mum of 3, Breanna Effeney has been reading the Australian best-seller “Mad Mabel” by Sally Hepworth. “I couldn’t put it down”, Breanna states. “Sally Hepworth delivers a brilliantly original story. Twisty, compelling, and impossible to predict, it’s a true page-turner and an absolute must read!”

Lastly, Dr Kellie Olsen, Research Scientist at QIMR Berghofer and mother of 3, recently finished “Weyward” by Emilia Hart. Kellie really enjoyed the book and feels it is “very appropriate for International Women’s Day”, as it “tells the story of three interconnected women across three time periods, and whilst it delves into the different ways women have been oppressed across the ages, it is ultimately an empowering story of overcoming adversity and finding one’s own strength”.

Here’s to all the strong women in our lives!

Happy Reading! @sarahsbookchat

Author: Sarah Krause

PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY

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Jack Dangerfield 0422 564 007

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Stephen Dangerfield 0412 145 802

Walton Bridge The GapGirl Guides

Girl Guides Queensland is the largest youth organisation for girls and young women in Queensland with almost 4000 youth Members and 1000 volunteer Leaders and adult Members.

We provide a non-formal educational program designed to create leaders of tomorrow by building on strengths and personal skills development. This program is flexible and can be designed to suit each individual youth Member and adult Members goals. We are an organisation that welcomes and actively seeks members from all racial, ethnic, religious and socioeconomic groups.

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

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

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

Meeting Times: Tuesday Gumnut Guides (5 and 6 years) from 5-6pm. Tuesday Gumtree Guides (7 to 11 years) from 5-7pm; Wednesday Guides (10 to 14 years) from 6-8pm; Thursday Gumtree Guides (7 to 10 years) from 4.30-6.30pm; Friday Guides (10 to 14 years) from 6-8pm; and Friday Ranger Guides (14 years +) from 6-8pm.

Guiding provides an all-female, non-competitive learning environment where girls and women can challenge themselves, find their voice, and meet new friends. We welcome members from the age of 5 years up to 100+ years to join our Guiding Community.

For information about the Girl Guides in your local area please contact our District Manager.

Juliana on email: waltonbridgethegapdm@guidesqld.org

Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club

A bright start to 2026 at Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club

We began the new year welcoming a new member, with another to come. A letter from the Governor General to all Probus Clubs recognising 50 years of Probus in Australia was read to the meeting. Then a Valentine’s Day themed morning tea preceded a very interesting talk from our guest speaker who took us to Antarctica to relate his time spent on an arduous field trip to the interior with the Russians from Mirny. Later in the month the dine-out saw us gather for lunch in the familiar surrounds of The Gap Tavern.

Members eagerly milled around the book exchange table to replenish their reading material after the summer break. With the Ashgrove library closed for a while our cards afternoons are being held at a member’s home for February and March. Our regular monthly coffee and chat mornings at a café in The Gap provide further social interaction.

Outings planned for later in the year include a ferry ride around the Southern Moreton Bay Islands followed by lunch on McLeay Island, a bus trip to Maleny, a Brisbane River cruise, and a visit to Parliament House.

New members are always most welcome. Just search online for the ‘Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club’ for ongoing information on our upcoming activities on our website.

Our news magazines are very popular – so we’re needing a few more locations please to ‘host’ a stand for us or have The Western Echo available for people to pickup / read. We deliver our magazines to all locations each month.

Do you have a business, shop, or reception area where we could place our magazines? In particular we are seeking businesses and shop locations in Paddington and Bardon.

Or do you have a suggestion for a good location?

Please contact Melanie on 0409 440 501; or email editor@westernecho.com.au

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 other social events. 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.

St Mark's Anglican Church

View from the Pew

Despite the significance, growth, and influence of the materialistic secular culture in the Western World, there is often a felt vacuuma god-shaped vacuum. This is not new. St Augustine in the fourth century declared, “Our hearts are restless till they find their rest in God.” It is so often a truism in our complex contemporary society. But who is this God, and how do our religious understandings and practices help us? We must ask the questions: Is religion a hobby, a pastime, an escape from reality, the opiate of the masses, or what?

All the five major religions: Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu and Christian, may provide us with some insights into the nature and

LTC PressureCleaning

The importance of a clean home

Many homeowners don’t realise that regular exterior cleaning is one of the simplest ways to protect, and increase, the value of their property. Blocked gutters, dirty solar panels, and built-up grime on the house can lead to costly repairs, reduced energy efficiency, and long-term structural damage if left unattended.

Routine maintenance helps prevent water overflow during heavy rain, improves solar performance, and extends the life of paint and exterior surfaces. A professional clean not only enhances street appeal but also ensures the job is done safely with the right equipment.

A clean and well-presented home can also increase the sales price when it comes time to sell the house.

As one happy client shared: “Great to have Lachlan cleaning our property. Breath of fresh air to find a genuine young fellow who turns up on time and does a thoroughly professional, safe and price-competitive job. Gutter, solar panels and thorough house clean and tidy up. Would highly recommend Lachlan to anyone who needs this type of work done.”

Whether preparing for storm season or simply wanting your home looking its best, proactive care makes all the difference.

Don’t wait for a problem to reveal itself, and get your property assessed and cleaned today.

For more: www.ltcpressurecleaning.com

Or call Lachlan on 0435 716 467.

Images: before and after photos showing a well-cleaned house.

being of God. I can only speak on behalf of the Christian faith and from that ‘ancient book’, the Bible, where it declares that ‘God is Love’. The nice little phrase provides a large umbrella that speaks of God’s passion for a beautiful world - a world of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and a constellation of many more attributes; so, so much more, and all directed at us, whoever we are, wherever we are. This is not a philosophical abstract concept but demonstrated by the sending of Jesus to show us love in its fullness. As he says of himself in the ancient text, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full,” – a life filled with meaning and love. Where do find this life? Perhaps we should take time to be still, and be reminded that,

“In God we live and move and have our being,” indicating that God is not far from each of us. Benson, St Mark’s Anglican Church, The Gap

The Gap Pioneer & History Group Inc

Moses Arrives In The Gap 168 Years Ago

When Moses arrived by sailing ship in Moreton Bay with his two brothers and a sister-in-law in 1851, he was twenty-three years of age and looking for an improved lifestyle and associated opportunities.

Moses was familiar with working the land and pursued that course by acquiring land in Brisbane. He also found a wife to share his optimism for the future. Moses reignited a friendship with a girl he had met on the long ocean voyage and they married in 1855.

Cooktown orchid

Three years later in 1858 Moses commenced acquiring land in The Gap and just over a decade later as family folklore suggests, Moses was riding on his property when darkness overtook him. Making a pillow of his saddle, he went to sleep. In the morning when birds woke him, he thought this would be a suitable place to build a church.

The Primitive Methodist Church accepted an offer of land to establish a church and in November 1872, a ceremony to mark the breaking of the ground was held. Moses aged just 45 years was present in a wheelchair and dying of cancer. He indicated the spot where he wished to be buried and he died on the 8th of February 1873.

From an historical viewpoint, the grave of Moses and the burial ground beside the church can be recognised as the second oldest remaining historical monument (1873) in The Gap, the Enoggera Dam (1866) being the oldest.

The vision of Moses over 150 years ago to establish a place of worship on his property has served our community well. In 2026 The Gap Primitive Methodist/Methodist/Uniting Church can be proud of the fact that overall, it is the oldest, continuous community organisation in The Gap (1873 – 2026).

Moses Adsett and Susannah Jude are relatives of the author.

The Cooktown orchid (Dendrobium bigibbum –pronounced bi – gibbum) is spectacular with flowers that are variable in size, shape and colour. It is no wonder that it is the floral emblem of Queensland. Currently it is considered that there are three distinct population of Cooktown orchids in Australia, all in north Queensland. In the wild, each has specific environmental requirements and attributes, although cultivated specimens are hard to distinguish.

Dendrobium bigibbum var bigibbum is restricted to the coastal areas of the tip of Cape York, growing on trees or rocks. This is an area of high temperature and humidity except during the dry winter and spring. The flowers are 25-35mm across and have reflexed petals. Usually there is a white spot in the centre of the bottom petal (labellum) which is

not found in the other varieties. Dendrobium bigibbum var compactum is found in the coastal ranges between Daintree and Cairns. The climate is milder with more regular rainfall but with a distinct long dry season. It is found on rocks and exposed cliff faces. Dendrobium bigibbum var superbum occurs between Cooktown and Mt. Malloy growing on trees on coastal plains and foothills. The climate is similar to that of D. bigibbum var compactum but with less rainfall. The flowers of this variation are the largest, reaching up to 70mm across.

Cultivated Cooktown orchids are quite hardy plants adapting easily to different growing conditions. This is not surprising since they are found naturally in a variety of environments, wet and dry rainforest as well as monsoonal vine or scrub forest (hot wet to hot dry conditions). They can be taken out of the pot growing medium and attached to a number of native trees such as Melaleuca and Syzygium species that have slow-growing bark rates to which the root structure of the orchid adjusts its grip throughout the life of the plant. This species of orchid stays alive in the wild until the host perishes which can be a long time and as a shade-house specimen almost indefinitely.

From September to January the orchid needs regular watering. If this is excessive, it may cause root rot. Fertilize by pellet form (chemical or organic based) or foliage spray. The first sign of flower spikes occurs during January and February, and within a few weeks most blooms are fully opened. During this period regular watering around the roots is recommended, to avoid damaging the flowers. The cool period (May to Mid-September is the rest period for the orchid meaning no fertilizer and a weekly light watering.

A selection of Cooktown orchids are currently available at the nursery.

Author: Roman Buzianczuk

Roman grows the orchids supplied to Paten Park Native Nursery. He is a member of the West Brisbane Orchid Society which meets on the fourth Wednesday of every month at 6pm at The Gap Baptist Church Hall. Guests are welcome. Roman will happily provide more information on request and can be contacted at a Society meeting or through the nursery.

For more: www.ppnn.org.au

Mitchelton Pre-Schooling Centre

Possum Spotting at Mitchelton Pre-Schooling Centre: Learning From Our NightTime Neighbours

Recently at Mitchelton Pre-Schooling Centre (MPC), our children have become keen wildlife observers, turning their attention to some very special residents who share our space – possums. Over the past weeks, the children have been noticing brushtailed possums living in the possum boxes around the Kindy grounds. Careful observations have sparked lots of excitement and thoughtful discussion. Some of the possums are babies, which we know because they are still learning the important possum skill of sleeping during the day! Small clues, like furry tails or tufts of fur peeking out from the boxes, have helped the children piece together what is happening inside.

The children at MPC have been experimenting with the best places to stand and the quietest ways to watch, hoping to catch a glimpse of fur without disturbing the possums. These moments have encouraged patience, problem-solving, and respect for living creatures.

On warmer days, our excitement grew when we noticed that some possums had ventured out to enjoy a juicy strawberry, reminding us that animals, like people, seek shade, rest, and refreshing treats when the weather is hot.

Alongside the brush-tailed possums, the children have also been learning about another local species – the ringtail possum. Unlike their box-dwelling neighbours, ringtail possums build nests called dreys, made from sticks, leaves, and bark, usually tucked high in trees. Comparing the two types of possums has sparked rich conversations about habitats, differences, and how animals adapt to their environments.

These shared observations have become a meaningful part of our days at Mitchelton Pre-Schooling Centre. Through watching, wondering, and caring, the children are developing a deeper connection to the natural world– and learning that sometimes the best learning space is the one alive with fur, leaves, and quiet moments of discovery.

OPEN DAY

Mitchelton Pre-Schooling Centre Inc.

Ashgrove Bardon RSL Sub Branch

Annual General Meeting

Members and friends are invited to the annual general meeting of the Sub-Branch scheduled to

take place at the Bardon Bowls Club on Sunday 22 March. The ordinary meeting will commence at 10:30 am to be followed by the AGM at 11:30 am. Refreshments will be provided after the meeting.

The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Many will be aware that the Tattoo was staged at Suncorp Stadium between 13-20 Feb this year. If you would like to revive old skills with

Boomerang Bags

The Gap & Surrounds

Celebrates Nine Years of Sustainability and Community!

Since March 2017, BBTGS has been striving to reduce our community’s reliance on plastic bags whilst also tackling textile waste. From humble beginnings in a friend’s dining room, sewing basic bags from any donated fabric we could get our hands on, we have grown to host weekly sewing sessions, making a wide range of bags and other items. We haven’t kept a tally of things we’ve made, but the total would be in the thousands!

Just as important as sustainability is building “community”. This includes our regular members who come each week to chat, laugh, connect, enjoy morning tea, and cut, iron or sew; those who generously donate their unwanted textiles; and of course, everyone

Pipes or Drums or learn from basics the Great Highland Bagpipes or Drums, there is an opportunity to do so with a local band.

The Pipes & Drums National Servicemen's Memorial Band is a civilian band based at Gallipoli Barracks Enoggera.

The contact for the Band is Noel on 0413 731 105.

Victoria Barracks, Sydney – A brief history

Victoria Barracks in Sydney is one of the best-known examples of military architecture in Australia. The Regency-style Victoria Barracks were designed by Lieutenant-Colonel George Barney, who also built Fort Denison and reconstructed Circular Quay. Most of the barracks were constructed using locally quarried sandstone between 1841 and 1849. The barracks were occupied by British troops up until 1870 and then taken over by the New South Wales colonial forces. After the Federation in 1901, Victoria Barracks housed the various headquarters responsible for administering and co-ordinating the military. Between 1931 and 1936 the barracks was home to the Royal Military College of Australia and from July 1938 to July 1940 it also housed the Command and Staff School. Today, Victoria Barracks is home to the Headquarters of Forces Command.

The Barracks are widely considered to be one of the best examples of a military barracks in the world.

who purchases our items!

Our community also includes the organisations who have received our annual Community Grants to help them achieve environmental, educational, or well-being goals. BBTGS has granted over $21,000 (raised from selling our items) to 32 recipients, including schools, playgroups, churches, sports clubs, Scouts and Girl Guides, and many others.

If you would like to join our happy group, we’d love to meet you! No sewing experience is required – we have jobs for everyone. We meet 9.30am – 12.00pm on Fridays during school terms at The Gap Baptist Church Hall, 1125 Waterworks Road, The Gap.

Regarding fabric donations: we have been overwhelmed by the generosity of our amazing community and have had to pause accepting donations for now as we work through what we have on hand. We’ll let you know when we’re getting low!

If you would like to purchase our creations, we have a stall at The Bakeologist Café, 23A Glen Affric St, The Gap on the 4th Saturday of the month, or please email to make other arrangements.

Email: bbtgs4061@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/ BoomerangBagsTheGap andSurrounds

www.instagram.com/ boomerang_bags_the_gap

The GapRepairCafe

Repair Café The Gap Celebrates 4th anniversary and 1400 visitors!

Can you believe it’s been four years since Repair Café

The Gap had its first workshop in March 2022 to help locals fix their broken things instead of discarding and replacing them?

In that time, around 1400 visitors have brought in over 1600 broken items, of which over 1000 have been saved from landfill! That saves the owners money, while contributing to the circular economy and reducing CO2 emissions by over 32 tonnes – that’s the equivalent of driving 215,692km, or nearly 5.5 times around the Earth! We’d love you to come and celebrate with us at our 21 March workshop! Local Councillor and regular volunteer Cr Steven Toomey will bring a cake for everyone to share, and you might win a Lucky Door Prize, courtesy of State MP Jonty Bush and Federal MP Elizabeth WatsonBrown. We are very grateful for the ongoing support we receive from our local representatives!

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, tools, electronic items, toys, furniture, bikes, mowers, clocks, sharpening, textiles and clothing. Our IT team can assist with your computer, tablet and phone problems, and our new volunteer, Danielle from stringofbeads.com.au, can repair your favourite costume jewellery! If you can carry it in, we can help you fix it, for free! (Donations are appreciated to pay for rent and insurance!) We operate on the third Saturday of each month. Bookings are preferred, via the website or QR code below. Bookings open on the first Saturday of the month at 7am.

10am – 1pm, Rivercity Church, 59 Settlement Rd, The Gap.

Follow us on our socials to stay up to date:

Thank you again to local wildlife photographer Karen

for her beautiful photo of an Eastern Water Dragon – taken in her garden.

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: © Karen Palmer You can

follow the local ‘Wild in The Gap’ Facebook group:

Palmer

Online Safety

We wanted to share some information on Safety. This could be street smart safety or online safety. It is important to keep having these discussions with children of all ages.

There are two resource videos on the Daniel Morcombe Website you can watch with your children, the first video features lessons for online safety, aimed at older children or any child with a mobile phone or access to the internet.

The second video is aimed at children aged 4-7 years old. The Queensland Police Service (QPS) are encouraging community

The Gap RSL Sub Branch

Honouring Service, Strengthening Community

The Gap RSL Sub-Branch continues to play an active and meaningful role in supporting veterans and contributing to our local community. At its core, the RSL exists to honour the service and sacrifice of Australian Defence Force members, past and present. Through commemorative services such as ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day, the Sub-Branch ensures that the stories of service are remembered and shared with future generations. These occasions remain powerful reminders of the cost of conflict and the importance of community connection. Beyond commemoration, The Gap RSL provides practical support for veterans and their families. Whether

Newmarket Probus Club

members to familiarise themselves with Australia’s Biggest Child Safety Lesson (ABCSL).

www.danielmorcombe.com.au/keeping-kids-safe/keeping-kids-safe/ australias-biggest-child-safety-lesson/

Resources:

The Daniel Morcombe Foundation: www.danielmorcombe.com.au/

Parentline 1800 30 1300 provides free telephone counselling and advice to parents and carers. Resources include a wide range of issues related to raising children and young people at: www.parentline.com. au

Ensure you like/follow our Facebook page for specific information in your area.

www.fb.com/neighbourhoodwatchthegap

To contact us: neighbourhoodwatchthegap@yahoo.com.au

Your Suburb, Your Home, Your Family, Your Community 4061.

offering welfare support, or simply providing a place of camaraderie, the Sub-Branch stands ready to help those who have served.

The Sub-Branch is also proud of its strong local ties. Members regularly collaborate with community groups, schools and local organisations, fostering respect for service while strengthening community bonds. New members are always welcome - including veterans, current serving personnel, and members of the public who wish to support the RSL’s mission. As we approach our upcoming Annual General Meeting, we encourage members to renew their memberships and consider becoming more involved. Community organisations thrive when members step forward, and the RSL is no exception.

The Gap has a proud history of service. Through continued involvement, remembrance and support, the RSL Sub-Branch remains committed to ensuring that legacy endures.

For more information about membership or upcoming events, contact The Gap RSL Sub-Branch.

Newmarket Probus is off to Landsborough

Newmarket Probus has started the year well with it’s very successful Trivia Day at the club. Members and visitors enjoyed an hour of Trivia, collated by our Quiz Master Nancy, followed by a delicious lunch of chicken, salad and dessert. For our next activity, on Wednesday 25 March, we’re making the

Website: www.rslqld.org – search online for The Gap Email: info@thegap.rslqld.net.au

0499 560 957

most of the 50 cents fares and are going to Landsborough by train. Landsborough is a small country town in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. It is home to a historic pub and one of the best country museums in Southeast Queensland. We plan to leave Roma St on the 9:29 am train. After arriving at Landsborough we will visit the museum then head to the pub for lunch followed by a visit to the crystal shop before catching the train home.

Newmarket Probus is a very friendly club that meets at 10am on the second Wednesday of each month at Red Hill Bowls Club. On the fourth Wednesday we have various interesting activities. Visitors are always welcome at meetings and activities.

If you would like to check out our club, Google for ‘Newmarket Probus’ to get to our website. There you will find our email address if you want to contact us to find out more about our club.

Alternatively you can ring Judith on 0438 335 314.

West Brisbane Orchid Society

1965 to 2026 and Growing!

The Society continued its 2026 program on 24 February. The meeting included information on repotting Phalaenopsis orchids (postponed from January). March and April will feature a presentation on shadehouse construction and a visit to one member’s new shadehouse. The Society’s new website, westbrisbaneorchidsociety. com.au, is now up and running. Check it out!

The big news this month is the Society’s Annual Autumn Show, which will be held at the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens on 28 and 29 March. The Society anticipates a magnificent display of autumn-flowering orchids, at least as good as last year’s. There will be lots of orchid plants for sale, as well as potting and growing supplies, advice on cultivation, and light refreshments.

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.

AshgroveHistorical Society

Visitors are very welcome to attend the Ashgrove Historical Society meetings held on the first Saturday of the month from 10am-noon. The topic on 7 March 2026 is Emily Coungeau: businesswoman, writer, musician and philanthropist presented by Lynne Hooper. A shared morning tea will follow the presentation.

Due to Ashgrove Library’s temporary closure, the March meeting will be held in a classroom at Mt St Michael’s College. Look for the AHS banners and signage. Also visit our website for directions.

There will be no meeting in April due to Easter. Meetings should commence back at the Ashgrove Library in May.

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.

For more: www.ashgrovehistoricalsociety.org

Enoggera & Districts Historical Society

NostalgiaA day on the Bay Steam Ship Koopa, berthed at Customs House wharf c1930.

S.S. Koopa [meaning Flying Fish] was launched in Leith, Scotland in 1910 and set out in October 1911 under her own steam for Brisbane expecting to take 58 days at a speed of 15½ knots. Her commander on this voyage was Captain R.D. Taylor. The vessel was most modern with two decks the top being a promenade deck and having a carrying capacity of 2,000 souls in the river and 1,000 in the Bay.

The vessel ran a regular service from the city to Bribie Island and thousands of people enjoyed individual and organized excursions by way of Redcliffe to Bribie Island over the years.

Owned initially by the Brisbane Tug Company the vessel was operated by the Australian Navy from August 1942 to June 1946, carrying stores and supplies to New Guinea. Unfortunately, the ship had to be towed [as a barge] as there was no coal fuel provided. The Navy paid the Company £10 per day during that period.

The vessel was a very familiar sight steaming across the bay with smoke pouring from her two funnels. In March 1919 during a rather violent storm the ship’s funnel was struck by lightning, and in March 1940 the vessel undertook the rescue of three men and one woman who had been clinging to their upturned boat for several hours.

In the early 1950s operating costs were of deep concern and on 8 May 1953 the Koopa made her last voyage.

Access to Bribie Island for residents and visitors for the following few years was by way of an ex-Army barge running from Toorbul Point, and operated by one “Snow” Drennan [former Head Master of the Mitchelton State School].

The Enoggera & District Historical Society, Memorial Hall, Trundle St, Enoggera.

New Directory ads available from just $66 per month.

$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

BrisWestCentreNews

The BrisWest Centre (132 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington) has had a website refresh - www.briswestcentre.com.au - oh my gosh, come and have a look!

You’ll find photo galleries of Brisbane West Senior Citizens Centre Incorporated (BWSCC Inc) members (past and present), our Charter and Strategic Direction for 2025-2028, a bit about the building and how we run it, details about hiring our hall, all the different organisations that hold regular events in BrisWest Centre’s hall, and a highly functional What’s On calendar so you can more easily find out about and join in some of the exceptional workshops and classes that are held here.

Behind that cream brick veneer wall, there are a diversity of activities scheduled in already for 2026, including:

Communify’s Paddington Day Respite Centre (ground floor, down the ramp); Baby Sensory (birth to 13 months); Grace Dance Company (dancing (various), singing, piano); Zumba with Helen Kollias; Swing Dancing Lessons with Empire Swing and Swing Shack Dance Parties; Nia with Sophie Marsh; Biodanza Workshops; Shake it in the Shadows with Expressive Freedom; PhysioYoga Immersive Workshops; Yoga with Kate Collins (As you are Yoga); Brisbane Playback Theatre (practices and Performances); Play on Stage Community Performances; Paddington Then and Now Library Group; BrisWest Centre’s Sunday Brunch; What's On Your Mind; Australia Becoming….Conversations with Mary Graham; Wisdom Medicine with Pee Tek Chan; Shenpen: Introduction to Meditation and Dzogchen Study & Practice.

We’ve gone digital with our membership - its only $5 to become a member of BWSCC Inc and gain the various benefits that membership brings. You can sign-up to receive our e-newsletter, and our volunteering page provides an easy way for you to meet new friends and offer your skills to help the BrisWest Centre thrive as a community-run local neighbourhood space.

We’re always keen for people to volunteer their skills to support our organisational governance, communications, entertainment, events and building maintenance. Are you a social media wizz, we’d particularly love to hear from you!

So, please, check out BrisWest Centre’s new website and do come and join the fun and creative communities that converge at BrisWest Centre - a thriving community in the heart of Paddington.

www.briswestcentre.com.au

AshgroveCommunity Care

Community Workshops

Ashgrove Community Care (7 Firhill street, Ashgrove) is bringing two important community conversations to Ashgrove this season - supporting our older and younger community members, and their families with practical, evidence based guidance.

First, the Navigating Aged Care with Confidence series returns with two livestreamed sessions led by a seasoned aged care professional. These two workshops taking place in Ashgrove on 20 February and 20 March will unpack the realities of residential care, explain funding and assessment pathways, and offer clear, compassionate guidance for families supporting loved ones living with dementia. It’s a rare chance to hear directly from an expert and ask the questions that matter most when navigating a complex system.

ACC is also hosting Digital Tweens, a timely seminar with digital parenting specialist Mark Yeowell (www.digitaltweens.com.au/aboutdigital-tweens).

This session (on 28 March 2026) explores the pivotal 9–12 years age window - a stage that has come to be described as “digital puberty”, when many children receive their first smartphone and begin exploring online spaces with growing independence.

Mark helps parents understand the opportunities and risks of this transition, offering practical strategies to build healthy digital habits and support confident, safe online behaviour.

Together, these events speak to two of life’s most significant transitions: guiding children as they step into the digital world and supporting ageing loved ones with dignity and clarity. Whether you’re raising a tween or caring for a senior, ACC’s upcoming sessions offer grounded, accessible support for families across generations.

SavingVictoria Park

Save Victoria Park Barrambin Community Invitation

By 31 May this year, the bistro, driving range and putt putt at Victoria Park are due to close. It’s a significant moment for this 64-hectare innercity parkland, however, the federal legal fight to protect Victoria Park Barrambin is alive and well.

Now is the time to reconnect with this muchloved green space. As you look across the ridgelines of this State Heritage listed park, we are reminded this is where First Nations camps were based for thousands of years - where up to 1,000 people gathered at a time. As you sit beneath the shade of one of the park’s 4,000 trees, know that some are more than 200 years old, predating European settlement.

Victoria Park is not vacant land. It is layered history, living culture and Brisbane’s largest inner-city greenspace. To learn more, visit: www.savevictoriapark.com/petition

Patches of Hope: Coming Together for Barrambin

Victoria Park or Barrambin is Brisbane’s largest inner-city parkland.

It is a place of gathering and memory, shaped by nature and humans alike. Today, this shared space is under threat of complete destruction from a large-scale development tied to visions of an Olympic precinct for Brisbane, visions that risk erasing a heritage listed parkland and a significant Aboriginal site. Patches of Hope emerged as a community response to the planned destruction of the park. The project invites people to make 2 x 2m handmade textile ‘patches’ that express their love for Barrambin. Individually, each patch carries a personal story or gesture of concern. Together, they create a large collective installation laid out on various occasions on the grassy hills of the park itself.

The project is open-ended as the fate of the parkland is yet to be decided, meaning new patches are always welcome. For more: www.instagram.com/patches.of.hope or www.facebook.com/ patchesofhope.project

Games Watch Dog 2032

Games Watch Dog 2032 is campaigning for a Smarter, Greener, and Fairer Olympics.

We are a non-political alliance of well-informed citizens from diverse backgrounds, established to uncover the real delivery plan of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and to critically follow its progress. We are committed to securing a better deal for Queenslanders and are dedicated to reporting well-researched facts as accurately and transparently as possible.

Societies thrive when governments are transparent and accountable. Review our work, provide useful information, or comment via our website: www.gameswatchdog2032.au. or via email at info@gameswatchdog2032.au

Principal'sPoints...

Hilder Road State School

A Confident Start to the Year

Hilder Road State School continues to shine as the number one choice school in The Gap community, with 2026 off to a warm and positive start for students and families.

It has been a joy to see how well our three Prep classes have settled into school life. Our youngest learners are building friendships, learning classroom routines and growing in confidence each day. They are proudly becoming Hilder learners who are curious and eager to learn, and they are thoroughly enjoying their start to school.

Across the school, the first weeks of term have been busy and exciting. Rising Stars Football Excellence trials have been completed, with very strong interest across year levels, while Expressions of Interest are now open for the Rising Stars Dance Excellence program. Our Instrumental Music Program is progressing well, with learners preparing to fully engage, and performing arts workshops are already underway in preparation for upcoming musical production for entire Gap community. Interschool sport selections are also in progress.

We have also loved welcoming back many of our former students who have recently transitioned to secondary school. Seeing them return in the early weeks of the year to share positive news and celebrate their successes is a powerful reminder of the strong sense of community at Hilder Road and the lasting connections our learners carry with them. Alongside these programs, we are pleased to share work will being on the refurbishment of our basketball court and surrounding access areas, improving

accessibility and community use. With a genuine buzz across the school, we look forward to another outstanding year of learning, growth and connection at Hilder Road State School for all our Hilder Heroes.

Payne Road State School

Happy New Year and a warm welcome back to another school year from everyone in our school community.

Payne Road State School has enjoyed an outstanding start to the school year. Staff returned from holidays refreshed and with renewed excitement for the year ahead. Staff participated in four Student Free Days, and we enjoyed a high level of engagement, collaboration and learning throughout this time.

I am incredibly proud of the calm and focused start to 2026 with all children settled and engaged in learning from day one. It was also wonderful to welcome back our much-loved parents and families.

Our P&C group have also been very busy, creating opportunities for friendship and connection which has included a craft club each Wednesday morning. Participants meet in our Outside School Hours Care building and there is wonderful fellowship while the group enjoy the crocheting and other craft activities.

We also celebrated our strong community connections with our “Welcome on the Green” BBQ in week 2. Staff busily cooked the sausages and welcomed families who came for a picnic dinner on our school oval.

Our classroom teachers opened their doors for our annual parent information sessions, sharing with parents the most up to date information about our school and important messages

Principal'sPoints...

about classroom routines and expectations.

As we settle into the rhythms of the new school year, we are looking forward to launching our Environmental Club, Student Council and a range of other cocurricula opportunities for our students.

Joanne Nicholls Principal

St Peter Chanel

The start of a new school year is always filled with excitement, and 2026 has begun with a wonderful sense of energy and connection at our school.

We have warmly welcomed 26 beautiful Prep students who have begun their schooling journey with curiosity, enthusiasm and plenty of smiles. Alongside them, nine new students have joined us across the school, quickly becoming part of our learning community. It has been a joy to see friendships forming and classrooms coming to life once again.

Our Welcome BBQ was a highlight of the opening weeks, bringing families, staff and students together to celebrate the year ahead. The evening was filled with conversation, laughter and a lively disco for the children, creating a relaxed and joyful way to begin our year as a community.

We are also pleased to share that upgrades to our junior playground are currently underway, providing enhanced play spaces for our youngest learners. Further improvements to classrooms will continue throughout the year, supporting engaging and contemporary learning environments for all students.

Fortnightly Principal Tours have also commenced, offering prospective families the

opportunity to visit our school, meet our staff and experience the welcoming culture that makes our community so special.

As we move into the year ahead, we look forward to the learning, growth and shared moments that make school such a special place to be.

Blessings, Bec, Principal

The Gap State School

The Gap State School has commenced 2026 with an exceptional start, showcasing exactly why our school is such a sought-after choice for local families.

From the first day, our school has reflected a calm, confident and purposeful tone. Students have settled quickly into clear routines, reconnected with friends and embraced their learning with enthusiasm. There is a strong sense of belonging across classrooms and playgroundssomething visitors often comment on when they walk through our gates.

Our guiding focus for the year captures what makes The Gap State School unique: reading improves when consistent and clear engagement routines support learners to feel safe, connected and confident. This commitment is not simply words on a page, it is visible in every classroom, in the way teachers collaborate, and in how students support one another.

Families are active partners in school life. Our Meet and Greet sessions, open communication through the Gazette, and strong Class Parent networks demonstrate the genuine connection between home and school. It is this partnership that helps every child thrive.

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

Teaching and learning at The Gap State School is grounded in evidence-based practice, with reading as our explicit improvement priority and engagement and belonging recognised as essential conditions for success. Staff work together through professional learning conversations and data analysis to ensure every student is supported and challenged.

A recent highlight was welcoming Lion Roy and the premiership cup from the Brisbane Lions, a moment of excitement that reinforced our strong community connections and local pride.

For families considering their schooling options, The Gap State School offers high expectations, strong relationships and a vibrant, connected community.

Engaged, connected learners.

Katie Stubbings, Principal

The Gap State High School

Celebrating Our Students, Celebrating Our Community

One of the greatest joys of leading The Gap State High School is seeing the incredible things our young people achieve, not only for themselves, but as representatives of the community that supports them.

Our students don’t succeed in isolation. Their achievements reflect families who encourage them, teachers who guide them, friends who cheer them on, and a wider Inner West community that values young people striving for their best. Recently, we’ve had some wonderful news stories that truly capture this spirit.

We are thrilled to congratulate

Year 7 student Alex Cummins, who has been selected to represent Australia at the International Futsal Championships in Barcelona. Alex will travel to Spain in April to compete with the National team for several weeks.

To be chosen to compete internationally at such a young age is an extraordinary achievement. It takes dedication, resilience and courage to step onto the world stage, and we could not be prouder. We wish Alex every success and an unforgettable experience overseas.

We also celebrate Year 12 student Seb Topping, who recently raced at the Queensland State Track Cycling Championships at the Anna Meares Velodrome. Competing in the Junior 19 Men’s Individual Sprint, Seb claimed the State Champion title, an outstanding accomplishment at this level of competition. This result is a fantastic confidence boost as Seb prepares to compete at the Oceania Track Championships in New Zealand.

Seb’s achievement reflects years of dedication and discipline. He is a wonderful example of perseverance and focus for our younger students. Congratulations, Seb, and best of luck in New Zealand, we’re right behind you.

Another remarkable story comes from Year 10 student Ava Cunningham, who has been invited to join the Queensland Government Ministerial Student Advisory Council for the Department of Education. Ava is one of just 18 students across the state selected for this prestigious role.

Over the next two years, Ava will help advise on important issues including the future of education, mental health and wellbeing, safe and respectful school communities, senior

pathways, new technologies in schools, and even the legacy of the 2032 Olympic Games.

Ava’s voice, insight and leadership will help shape conversations that matter to young people. We are so proud to see one of our students contributing at a state level. Well done, Ava, this is an extraordinary opportunity and thoroughly deserved.

Stories like these remind us that schools thrive when communities and young people grow together. Success in sport, leadership and learning is nurtured not just in classrooms, but through connection, encouragement and shared pride.

We love bringing our community together beyond the school day, and there are some wonderful opportunities coming up and we invite you to join us. Our Industry, Alumni and Community Breakfast Forum on 26 February

will connect past and present students with local professionals, building pathways and mentoring relationships. Soon after, our whole-of-community International Women’s Day Breakfast event on Thursday 5 March will unite students, families and local residents to celebrate equity, respect and opportunity. For more information, please visit our website.

These events, just like the achievements of Alex, Seb and Ava, show what’s possible when a community stands alongside its young people.

At The Gap State High School, we are grateful for our families and deeply connected to the Inner West community that helps our young people become Learners who Flourish.

Anne McLauchlan, Executive Principal

NETWORKING BREAKFASTInvitation

THURSDAY 12 MARCH

For local Western suburbs business owners: Please join us for our next Westside Business Heart networking breakfast.

Event Details:

Date: Thurs 12 March | Time: 7.00 - 8:30am

Venue: Birdies Coffee (overlooking Ashgrove Golf Course), 811 Waterworks Rd, The Gap

RSVP: 11 March - Facebook event link: www.facebook.com/events/1575634233674661/

Cost: free to attend for local business owners (must RSVP please)

Note: if you are coming please RSVP so I can manage appropriate numbers with the cafe. Thanks!

Email: melanie@planetmarketing.com.au or 0409 440 501