The Western Echo November 2025

Advertiser'sDirectory

Lest We Forget - Remembrance Day

Remember to Remember

On 11 November, Remembrance Day is honoured every year nationwide. The day marks the anniversary of the signed Armistice that ended fighting in World War I (WWI), and gives us a chance to honour all armed forces members who passed in the line of duty. On that day in 1918, people rejoiced and celebrated across the world. Despite the late hour, school, fire station, and church bells around Australia rang, waking hundreds of people to share the news; the war was over.

Every year at 11am, on the 11th day of the 11th month, millions silently pause to remember the sacrifices many have made so we can enjoy life today. The impact of the lives lost is still being heavily carried, even by those who didn’t live through it due to the stories and connections we carry forward. This highlights how important it is that we honour those who lost their lives, so their memory lives on through us. As the RSL has effectively put it: remember to remember.

This November 11th, falling on a Tuesday, hundreds of Remembrance Day services will take place at RSL sub-branches across Australia.

Mitchelton: 10:50am - 11:30am

Sid Loder Park, Tel-El-Kebir Street, 4053

Bardon: 10:30am - 11:10am

You can show support by attending a service, reflecting in silence, wearing a poppy, or donating to non-profits like the Poppy Appeal. There are many local services available for any to attend and honour the past and present veterans in our community. Local Remembrance Day Service locations include:

Brisbane City: 10:15am –11:30am (RSL Queensland State Commemorative Ceremony) Anzac Square, 285 Ann Street, 4000

Ashgrove : 10:30am11:05am

Ashgrove Memorial Park, 69 Waterworks Road, 4060

The Gap: 10:40am –11:30am, Walton Bridge Reserve, 941 Waterworks Rd, 4061

Samford: 10:30am11:15am, Samford Avenue Of Honour, Burton Lane, 4520

Bardon Bowls Club, 69 Bowman Parade, 4065

Toowong: 10:30am – 11:30am

Toowong Memorial Park, Sylvan Road, 4065

For further locations and information, visit: www.remembertoremember.com.au

If the day or any related matters are a difficult time, there is always support around you whether it’s through peers like friends and family, or resources such as the Defence Member & Family Support Helpline (1800 624 6080) and Lifeline Australia (13 11 14).

No matter how you spend your Remembrance Day, what’s most important is that we remember. Lest we forget.

Author: Isabel Becker | Photos credit: Colin Bushell Photographyphotos taken at The Gap

From theEditor

Dear Readers,

Welcome to our November edition!

We have a very full edition again –so we have increased to 36 pages again this month!

Our cover article this month is on Remembrance Day – reminding people to ‘remember to remember’.

We thank our local RSL Sub Branches for the wonderful work and support they provide our community, and please consider attending a local Remembrance Day memorial service.

We feature an article about National Skin Cancer Action Week – and importantly to cover up as we head into the hot months of the year.

This month in our regular columns Colin Bushell chats with WWII survivors Catharina and Hendricus Vullers in his ‘Col’s Chat’ column; Sarah Krause offers Christmas gift ideas for book worms in her ‘For the Love of Books’ column; and Leonard Cavallaro debates the Brisbane 2032 Olympics in his ‘It’s Debatable’ column.

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

If you are a local business wanting to reach your local audience and support your local community – we look forward to hearing from you, we have very affordable advertising rates.

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

Happy reading!

Mel & Kym

Ashgrove Bardon RSL Sub Branch

Members And War Widows Luncheon & Christmas Function

The October Members and War Widows luncheon was held at the “Hope & Anchor” in Paddington and was thoroughly enjoyed by all 18 who were able to attend.

With the years end rapidly approaching our Christmas function has been scheduled for Tuesday 2 December. This year’s function will be held at The China Seas restaurant Park Rd, Milton. Members, War Widows and friends interested in attending should RSVP to the SubBranch by email to ian.garfield@ashgrove.rslqld.net.au

Donation To Assist Veterans Games

The Sub-Branch as part of our ongoing support to ex-services community organisations, has approved the contribution of 2,000 to the organisation committee of the Veterans Games.

The Veteran Games is a proactive health initiative designed to address key findings from the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide, and key failings within the existing Veteran support systems.

Remembrance Day: Why We Remember On 11 November

The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month – Remembrance Day – is a time to not only remember those who have given their lives in service, but also to reflect on the historical events that led to this day of international significance.

Originally announced to mark the anniversary of the Armistice that ended fighting with Germany in World War I (WWI), Remembrance Day today gives us all the opportunity to acknowledge the service personnel who died while serving, whether in wars, conflicts or peacekeeping operations.

Services will be held at both the Ashgrove Cenotaph in Memorial Park and the Bardon Bowls Club –with both commencing at 10.30am.

THURSDAY 20 NOVEMBER

Date: Thurs 20 November | Time: 7.00 - 8:30am Venue: Corn Street Café, 498 Waterworks Rd, West Ashgrove

RSVP: 19 November FB event link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1207861961177904

Cost: $20-30 options - pay and order on arrival.

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

Cr Steve Toomey Councillor for The Gap Ward Extremism - A Necessary Discussion

In the past few years, we have seen a rise in extre mism. In its simplest form, extremism refers to the holding of beliefs that are far outside what is normally accepted by society. Often these beliefs are so strong they get to the point where they reject compromise and advocate radical a ctions.

While extremism can exist across political, religio us, or ideological lines, what makes it particularly dangerous is when it turns into violence or intolerance toward others. We as a city are not immune to this growing trend of intolerance unless we stand together. Currently, 30% of Brisbane residents were born overseas and as a truly successful multicultural ci ty, we should continue to protect this.

We all have a role to play when it comes to address ing extremism in our community. We strive to create a welcoming environm ent for all residents regardless of ability, age, or background from the Council level. Political extremism can often be born out of misinformation a nd fear. That’s why we remain committed to provide funding to multicultura l events right across our city. These events serve not only as a celebration of the cultures that make up our community, but to introduce and connect residents to cultures they may be unfamiliar with.

Our support is not simply limited to the over 250 m ulticultural events sponsored across the city. Our local libraries cont inue to help bring communities together such as through our English co nversation groups. The Lord Mayor’s Refugee Welcome Ceremony is an annual event that brings together hundreds of residents, fostering new commu nity connections. It’s here that Brisbane tells those who have faced unimaginab le danger that they are welcome and that they are safe here.

Extremism may seem like a distant problem, but its roots can grow close to home. Together, through awareness, education, and c ompassion, we can counter its influence and protect the values that h old us together.

477 Waterworks Road, Ashgrove

1900 Register for local updates on my

COL’S CHAT

Locals through my Lens

Catharina and Hendricus Vullers

World War Two: A conflict that engulfed over 70 nations and set political and geographical agendas that still resonate today. Eighty years on, and the raft of Hollywood interpretations, documentaries and literary chronicles remain as popular now as they ever were. Sadly, the firsthand experiences that were generated during this turmoil are fading as the years and the storytellers slip by.

So, it was an absolute delight to meet Catharina and Hendricus, two locals with Dutch heritage whose story was in parts thrilling and heartwarming.

Catharina was seven years old when the war broke out in the Netherlands. Hendricus was five. Despite living a few kilometres apart in different villages, they did not know each other or the life they would eventually have together, but their memories of that time are still fresh.

I begin by asking her about her early memories of the War and Catharina immediately recalls a time when she needed to protect her father from being taken for ‘Arbeitseinsatz’, German for labour deployment. “Dad was in the army when the war broke out, so he had to hide from the Germans. He had a hiding place in the cellar. We were playing outside with a ball, and if the Germans came by, we would bounce the ball against the window as a warning for him to go back to his hiding place.”

The risks were real. More than 500,000 Dutchmen between the ages of 18 to 45 were forcibly transported to Germany during the occupation to work in factories and farms to replace the German men who were called up for military service. At eight years of age, Catharina took the arrival of occupying forces in her stride, but threats were all around. Her home town had a large contingent of NSB members (the Dutch Nazi Party), who collaborated with the Germans. That didn’t mean that she wouldn’t do her bit to stall the Nazi war effort. Catharina explained, “We lived across from the railway station. On one occasion, as we were fooling around, we put water in their kerosene cans. Another time, the Germans laid out sticks to identify sites for landmines, but when they had gone, we removed the sticks, so that when the engineers arrived, they had to leave that part of town free from mines.”

The town’s locals were also playing their part. Catharina’s Dad was

summoned to return to the army, but the post office staff decided the best was to avoid that happening by simply failing to deliver the telegrams. What you don’t know, you can’t do.

Although Catharina and Hendricus would not meet until after the war, their stories intertwined when an RAF Lancaster was shot down in their area. Catharina continued, “I took my younger brother and siblings to play in the woods, and we found an Allied airman hiding behind a hedge. We gained his trust and helped him bury his parachute and uniform. We took him to my dad and he was taken into the charge of the resistance, and eventually returned to Britain”.

Meanwhile, only a few kilometres from Hendricus home, the crashed plane was searched by a local farmer and a briefcase of orders and navigation charts was taken into hiding. It wasn’t until the 1980s that this briefcase was revealed, and showed that the airman Catharina has rescued, was a New Zealander called Bill McGee who lived a long life after the war.

A few years younger, there are times when Hendricus’ memories of the war are like a Boy’s Own adventure story, but the realities of life were harsh. Many people in the northern part of the Netherlands suffered extreme food shortage and thousands died of starvation in the last year of the war. Thousands of Jewish people were transported from the Netherlands to Germany before and during the war. Many Dutch people reported the Jewish people to the authorities, whilst others hid them within their homes at a great risk to themselves.

Hendricus clearly remembers the end of the war. “My family were in our cellar under the house, because the British and Americans’ were pushing east, and there was fighting in the streets. My parents, eleven kids and my grandmother were huddled together. News was normally passed from house to house with a note strapped to a stone. Then on one morning, as the Americans came into town, we got a knock on the window from someone shouting, “We’re free!”

As our chat continues, stories of inadvertently picking up landmines, sharing horse meat and building makeshift shelters go to demonstrate just what childhood was like for Catharina and Hendricus. For all of the hardships and challenges, there are moments which seem somewhat surreal now. Catharina explains, “I was running in a school sports day when the Americans were in town. I won the race and got a fountain pen as the prize presented to me by General Eisenhower.” Hendricus then interjects, “I got a gift from Eisenhower as well!”

Catharina and Hendricus’ stories of courage, trust and survival was but a precursor for a life well lived. They married, left Europe, arrived in Australia, and built a hugely successful business and life for themselves, and a wonderful family. Perhaps that’s a story for another time.

It occurs to me however, that this pair should have someone write a book about their wartime adventures. Well, as if by magic, Catharina and Hendricus’ daughter-in-law, Di Taylor has done just that. A local in The Gap, Di has taken their story, along with those of their childhood friend, Matt Theunissen, and turned their amazing war time experiences into a fictionalised book, entitled Anna’s War.

Based on the three children’s life stories, Di’s debut novel has garnered excited reviews and is a scintillating retelling of an oft forgotten time in history. When I ask Catharina if she enjoyed reading the book, she replied simply, “I am Anna.”

Truth is, it seems, stranger than fiction.

Author and photographer: Colin Bushell / Colin Bushell Photography

Jonty’s November update

Celebrating Our Seniors

Last month was Seniors Month, and I was delighted to welcome more than 240 seniors to high teas across The Gap and Bardon Thank you to everyone who came along and enjoyed the hospitality.

Seniors play such an impor tant role in our community. Sharing their wisdom and life experience, as well as providing essential caring and volunteering hours

If you’re over 65 and have any concerns or idea you’d like to share with me please do

Community Battery update

Many locals were excited to hear The Gap had been identified as a site for a new community battery a project designed to store renewable energy locally and reduce household and business energy costs.

Unfor tuna tely, Brisbane City Council (BCC) has blocked the development applica tion for this project, delaying prog ress on wha t will be an impor tant piece of infrastr ucture for our community On 2 July 2025, I lodged a Right to Infor ma tion (RTI) request with BCC to understand why the applica tion was refused, but months la ter, we’re still waiting

Our community deser ves transparency from Council, and I’ll continue to push for accountability and prog ress on this impor tant initia tive for The Gap

good luck for our graduates

As we approach the end of another g rea t year we celebra te and cong ra tula te our g radua ting students of 2025 Whether you are moving into high school, embarking on fur ther study a t TAFE or university, heading into the workforce or setting out to explore the world enjoy! We’re all ver y proud of your achievements this year

Rotary Club Ashgrove The Gap

Rotary Ashgrove The Gap is pleased to announce that Santa will once again be visiting The Gap this year during the week, Saturday 29 November to Friday 5 December. Santa’s visit to The Gap has been a Christmas tradition for over 40 years.

The Rotary Ashgrove The Gap’s Santa Sleigh is not only an opportunity to see Santa but also a major fundraising event for the club. Every year the residents of The Gap give generously to our collectors and we hope you are able to do so again this year, by cash or card. All money collected goes towards a variety of Rotary Programs, such as Rotary Health, polio elimination globally, assistance to victims of natural disasters in Australia, and local community organisations such as Meals on Wheels and domestic violence initiatives.

Sadly, Santa is unable to travel up all streets, there are just too many. Increasing numbers of cars parked have made it increasingly

dangerous to go down some streets. Your safety and the safety of our volunteers comes first.

Sometimes the weather does not allow Santa and his helpers to go out, or he has to finish his run early. As you will understand we cannot have Santa, his helpers or you taking any risks during heavy rain and lightning. Remember, Santa is travelling around The Gap for 7 nights and you may find a suitable spot on another night to catch up with Santa and his helpers.

Don’t forget to have your photo taken with Santa. Santa’s helpers will help you find a suitable place to stand near the sleigh. Santa will still have wrapped lollies and other goodies for all children.

WATCH OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

We will be publishing daily maps on our Facebook page soon. Keep an eye out for these maps and find the closest place for you and your family to see Santa.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ ashgrovethegap

CMG Christmas

A FREE CHRISTMAS EVENT FOR FAMILIES OF LOVED ONES RESTING AT CMG AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.

SOFT SERVE ICE CREAMS

FOOD, DRINKS, COFFEE AND TEA FACE PAINTING FIREWORKS

MAGIC AND CIRCUS SHOW LIVE MUSIC

MAGIC SHOW AND REFRESHMENTS START AT 5 PM BRING PICNIC BLANKETS /CAMPING CHAIRS AND SETTLE IN FOR A WONDERFUL NIGHT FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

353 WACOL STATION ROAD, SUMNER

RSVP NUMBERS ESSENTIAL ... SAT 13 DEC 5PM

SCAN THE QR CODE TO RSVP BY 8 DEC

Brisbane Tramway Museum

YOUR CHANCE TO RIDE IN A

HORSE-DRAWN TRAM!

December 2025 marks the 100th anniversary of Brisbane City Council taking responsibility for running Brisbane’s Tram System. Prior to that time, the system was operated by private companies, trusts etc.

To commemorate this centenary, the museum will run a special program on Sunday 7 December from 2pm to 6pm.

The theme of the day will be: THE EVOLUTION OF BRISBANE PUBLIC TRANSPORT.

Horses will be there – a unique opportunity for passengers to ride in a horse-drawn tram!

PASSENGERS WILL BE ABLE TO ENJOY RIDES ON ALL TYPES OF TRANSPORT EXCEPT METRO.

Tram rides will be available throughout the afternoon and local joy rides will be available on diesel buses and electric buses. Unfortunately, the museum is a little out of range for the Metro. Advance bookings and tickets are available on Eventbrite or on the Museum website. See the ad in this edition. Tickets: www. eventbrite.com.au/e/100-years-of-brisbane-public-transporttickets-1855639410429

For more: www. brisbanetramwaymuseum.org

The Brisbane Tramway Museum is Proudly supported by the Brisbane City Council.

The theme will go from horsedrawn trams to electric trams to diesel buses to electric buses to Metro. The Gap Professional Centre, 6/23 Glenaffric St, The Gap Our Conveyancing

The GapCreative Inc

Wow! What a month we have had!

Music In Colour, our community piano, has officially launched at The Gap Village. A special thanks to local pianists Minnie Rumble and Lucius Reynolds for being our very first players and filling the shopping centre with some magical melodies. We cannot wait to hear more tunes by such talent.

The 4th annual Gap Creative Open Studios Weekend was simply superb and a resounding success for all involved.

A huge thank you to everyone who braved the heat and followed the trail.

Your enthusiasm in our new community initiatives including Paint a Bowl by Melanie and Pearl the woven manta ray by Gill was absolutely wonderful. It is a highlight in our creative calendar, and we will see you again next year, even bigger and brighter!

Our very first community Art Library, located at UCreate Art Studio (underneath The Baptist Church) has now opened thanks to Karen Bessell. Inside you will find an array of art supplies including used canvases, craft materials, papers and fabrics. Donations of unused and no longer wanted art and craft supplies are most welcome.

Join us on Saturday November 22 from 8am-1pm for our Christmas Market. The market will be held at The Gap Village.

You will discover festive treasures from Queen Sheba Ceramics, Marianne Wilson Designs, Hout Creations, Melanie Hardy Ceramics, Sandy & Wood, Lynsay Allen Designs, Jennifer Gray Art, Peni Paints and Amelia North Art.

Free Christmas arts and craft for kids of all ages will be hosted by the effervescent Karen from UCreate Art Studio!

And a creative collaboration between us and the ladies of The Western Echo as we decorate our first community Christmas tree. For a small donation, pick a bauble designed by one of our artists, write your Christmas message and hang on the tree to share in the spirit and joy of the jolly season!

AshgroveRangers

The 50th Anniversary of the Club Handicap at the September Flying Four also served as our 2025 Winter Season breakup. Notable attendees included Toowong Harriers President Ross Anderson and Wayne Adams making a very welcome return.

Well done to Tom Burrows (QE2) who finished 10th in 7.89m in the Shot at the Virtus World Games at QE2. This event is a Paralympic event and Tom was up against a class international field. Well done to John White, 15th in the 40 plus category at the Australian 50k Championships at the GC50 at Coolangatta. Congratulations John on a fabulous effort in warm conditions!

We will once again be holding a Sports Psychology/Nutrition Seminar at The Gap High during our regular training slot of 5.45pm to 7pm on Thursday 6 November with twin brother and sister Josh Morrison and Tiana Solley. Particular focus will be on what extra things we can be doing in these areas leading into a big meet. Regular $2 training fee will apply and feel free to bring your friends along to what should be an informative evening.

Every Saturday our 8.30am UQ Circuit Session will go ahead at the 200m mark of the track.

Training is held at The Gap High School Oval every Monday and Thursday Evening 5.457pm, and every Tuesday Evening at the UQ hill opposite UQ track from 5pm.

Brisbane North Cake Decorators

Our year at Brisbane North Cake Decorators is fast coming to an end. It has certainly been busy, and we finish up for the year at our November meeting on 15 November. We meet at the Arana Hills Community Hall on Dawson Parade, commencing at 1pm.

This meeting is our Christmas Party and Cake Competition. Members are asked to bring along a decorated cake with a Christmas theme. The most popular will be chosen by popular vote and the winner will receive a gift voucher from our local cake shop, Studio Cakes. Thinking caps on everyone and let’s create an amazing display.

Don’t forget to make and decorate cupcakes for the local organisations that we support.

There is no meeting in December, but we commence again in January, with another fun-filled, creative year.

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

ShowDance Congratulations!! The GapRepairCafe

Show Dance has officially been named Brisbane’s Local Performing Arts School of the Year!

We are beyond proud to share some exciting news with our community. Show Dance has officially WON the Local Business Award for Performing Arts!

This award is such a special honour for our team. It recognises the passion, creativity, and dedication that goes into every class, rehearsal, and performance at our studio. We’re so thankful to our incredible students, families, and teachers who make Show Dance the supportive, joy-filled space it is.

And the excitement doesn’t stop there — we’re also thrilled to announce that Show Dance has been named a Finalist in the 2025 Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards in the Performing Arts category!

To be recognised both locally and nationally is a true reflection of the love and effort poured into our studio every single day. Thank you to everyone who continues to believe in our vision — this is for our entire Tribe!

Here’s to celebrating this milestone together - and to all the magic still to come!!

Repair Café The Gap –Calling Confused Apple Owners!

Toss it? No way! Repair Café The Gap is on a mission to fix as much of your stuff as we can! As well as our regular repair categories (bikes, electrical, electronics, furniture, glueand-fabric patching, sewing, sharpening, small motors, watch batteries and miscellaneous), we have really ramped up the IT angle over the last few months, thanks to Microsoft’s withdrawal of support for Windows 10. Our IT team has expanded to deal with the demand but would love some extra techs to help us out! If you (or your kids/ grandkids) are Linux gurus who love to share their knowledge, we’d love to hear from you! Please email us at the address below.

But, we can’t let the PC crowd have all the fun! This month, we’re introducing another IT category, this time for the Apple fans! New volunteer, Peter, worked at the Chermside Apple Store for over 13 years. He recently reached out to the community, offering his skills and we were quick to offer him a job! You will be able to book a 20-minute slot to speak with Peter, take some notes, and agree on some follow-up action. No questions are too small, too trivial, too large or too philosophical for Peter. He just asks that they come from your experience and issues, your interests and challenges. He’ll be happy to meet you on those grounds for a productive conversation! Welcome aboard, Peter!

Our 16th November workshop is the last one for the year. Repair Café The Gap pops up on the third Saturday of each month (except December), 10am – 2pm, at The Gap Rivercity Church, 59 Settlement Rd, The Gap. Bookings open 2 weeks prior to each event.

Mitchelton & Districts GardenClub

Succulent Secrets

At the October meeting, Mitchelton Garden Club members were treated to a captivating presentation by Ruth Higgins of the Queensland Cacti and Succulent Society. Ruth shared her passion for succulents and stories from her fascinating Madagascarinspired garden.

Ruth’s talk highlighted the remarkable diversity of succulents and their ability to thrive in challenging conditions, making them ideal plants for Brisbane’s subtropical climate. She

BrisWestCentreNews

Many people don’t realise that the community-run BrisWest Centre at 132 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington is available for regular, occasional and one-off event hire, and at very reasonable rates. Spaces include the Main Hall, the Kitchen/Café, and a Meeting Room, with hire available from one hour to all day.

The Main Hall is a large, light-filled, 150 m² space with sprung timber floors, a stage, piano, AV equipment, data projector, screen, wi-fi, chairs, tables and a couch. Perfect for dancing and other physical activities, gatherings, parties, presentations, film screenings, plays and performances. Open the louvre and casement windows to catch natural breezes and views, with ceiling fans and air-conditioning also available. Recently refurbished with dark green curtains, it’s a pleasant, uplifting space with ample toilet facilities.

The spacious Kitchen/Café features stainless steel working benches, tea and coffee facilities, fridges, dishwasher, gas stove, oven, cutlery, crockery, saucepans and serving ware.

The meeting room features a large table seating up to eight, a whiteboard and a large screen TV.

The Main Hall with Kitchen/ Café can be hired from $28 for an hour; the meeting room from $35 for four hours. AV use is included, whilst use of the data projector/screen (in the main hall) or flat screen TV (meeting room) – are charged at an additional $21 per session. A 30% discount is offered to Not for Profit Organisations. All hirers are required to hold $10 million public liability insurance, proof of which is required prior to confirmation of your booking. For bookings and detailed rates please contact Michelle via email (preferred): briswestcentre132@gmail.com or mobile: 0475 304 798 or via the form on our website www.briswestcentre.com.au.

explained how their unique water-storing leaves and stems allow them to survive periods of drought with minimal care - a quality many gardeners appreciate during dry spells.

Members were particularly intrigued by Ruth’s photographs of unusual succulent species native to Africa and the Americas. She described how a rich variety of succulents can be grown to reflect the rugged beauty of such regions, creating a dramatic yet low-maintenance landscape. Ruth also offered practical tips on propagation, pest management and soil preparation, encouraging gardeners to experiment with hardy, sculptural plants that add year-round interest. Her enthusiasm and depth of knowledge inspired members to see succulents not just as survivors, but as living art.

If presentations on plant species or other gardening topics are of interest to you, please join us on the first Thursday of the month from February to November throughout the year. Our club meets at The Enoggera Memorial Hall (via Trundle St) from 9:30 am. Entry is $5.00 and a welcoming morning tea is always served with a smile!

Image:RuthHigginswithclubTreasurer,GavinShanks,attheOctober meeting.

ChordialityChoir

Cordiality’s American Anthology

You are invited to the next concert of the Chordiality Choir on Sunday 16 November 2025 at Christ Church, Saint Lucia, at the corner of Central Avenue and 9th Avenue.

The American-themed music to delight you includes:

Sondheim! A Choral Celebration. Music and Lyrics from Stephen Sondheim’s unforgettable musicals arranged for choirs by Mac Huff. From Into the Woods, through Send In the Clowns to Company, your feet will be tapping and you will smile at his breathtaking virtuosity.

Frostiana, seven lyrical country songs by the poet Robert Frost, set to music by Randall Thompson is by way of contrast an evocation of the seasons and life in rural New England.

For tickets and further information: https://events. humanitix.com/american-anthology.

Tickets: Adult $30, Student $10, Family (2 adults and 2 students) $60. Primary school children free.

Please join the choir for light refreshments after the concert in the church hall.

Embroiderers' Guild Queensland

The Embroiderers’ Guild Queensland Inc will be holding its Christmas Craft Market from 9am to 1pm on Sunday 23 November 2025 at its heritage building at 149 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley. Entry is free. There will be a variety of handcrafted gifts for sale, a de-stash table, vintage linens and a raffle.

For more information: www.embroiderersguildqld.org.au or find us on Facebook.

SPLASH INTO SPRING!

NOVEMBER 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 1 November at Simpson Falls, Mount Cootha. Book via Trybooking.

Monday Craft and Chat Group. Monday 10 November and 24

November from 7-9pm at The Baptist Church, Waterworks Road (next to 7/11).

Wednesday Knit, Crochet, Sew or other craft group. Venue: Scout Den, 9.30-noon.

Book Club. Tuesday 18 November at 6:30pm, The Blind Tiger. Book for discussion is The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah.

Classics Book Club with Andrea. Meet at Topology, 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap on Wednesday 26 November from 5.30-8pm. Book for discussion is Middlemarch by George Eliot.

She Shed Diners - Thursday 6 November 6.30pm. Check FB chat page for venue.

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

500 cards - Tuesday 11 and 25 November from 12:30pm. Meet at The Gap Tavern.

Line Dancing. Night class: Tuesday nights 5.45-6.45pm at The Den. Mosaics – Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 November from 9am–2pm. See Facebook chat for details and updates.

Shed Talk: Monday 10 November – Queensland Government Cyber Security Unit. Venue: RSL

Meditation: Sunday 9 and 23 November, 4-5.30pm Venue addresses: The Scout Den, 76 Riaweena Street, The Gap. RSL Nullagundi Centre, 34 School Road, The Gap.

Website: www.thegapsheshed.wixsite.com/home

Email: hello@thegapsheshed.au

Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/ thegapsheshed

Photo taken at Cobb & Co Museum and flowers from Toowoomba Carnival of

Creeks Connect Communities

Creeks are the ecological arteries of our catchments. Water erodes the mountains and flows down hillslopes and over the valley floors, leaving behind rich alluvial soils and replenishing the groundwater. Along the way, these waterways carry nutrients and energy and become corridors for flora and fauna. For example, Enoggera Creek is a natural highway for native animals and plants which travel upstream and downstream, seasonally or over generations, linking the forests of D’Aguilar Range to the estuarine ecosystems of Moreton Bay (the ‘Mountains to Mangroves’ connection).

Urban creeks are also part of our daily lives - they weave through neighbourhoods, shaping the character of our suburbs. Waterways give us green open spaces for sport and play, shady parks to relax in, and walking and cycling trails that link our homes to the surrounding forested hills. When we live or play close to a creek, it feels like the bush comes to meet us - we can see and hear the birds, frogs, water dragons, possums and other native fauna which use these creek ‘highways’.

Yet these narrow threads are fragile and under pressure. The stormwater flows which are the lifeblood of creeks also erode the banks and carry sediment and litter downstream, and the fertile moist soil encourages weed invasion. Urban development has increased runoff velocities, and many city creeks have been reduced to weedinfested drains. Our suburban streams and creek banks now need community support to continue their valuable ecosystem services and their important contribution to neighbourhood amenity. If you can help, contact SOWN to find your local habitat restoration group.

For more: www.sown.com.au

All AbilitiesCricket

Inclusive Cricket Program Swings Into Another Season –Registrations Now Open!

The Valleys District Cricket Club is thrilled to announce that registrations are now open for our FREE All Abilities Cricket Programs – designed to give children, teens, and young adults with disabilities the chance to experience the joy of cricket in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

Now entering another exciting season, our Friday night All Abilities Cricket Program focuses on fun, friendships, and building skills through games and activities suited to every ability level. Participants

BalaangalaCommunity Group

BALAANGALA ART EXHIBITION

Balaangala Community Group will hold its third annual Art Show on 8-9 November.

We are very pleased to partner with the St Mark’s Anglican Church community to hold the event in their hall. Around 20 First Nations and non-Indigenous artists (all connected to Balaangala) will display works over the two-day event. We are very fortunate to have so many creative people in the Group.

The show will feature a wide variety of media including ceramics, collage, paintings, photography, sculpture, video art and woodwork. The show will raise funds for Balaangala’s Restoration (Pay the Rent) Fund. The fund recognises that non-First Nations people are living on stolen land and as a community it can and should make amends through the process of “paying the rent”. Last year we raised over $10,000 from art sales.

Dr Jackie Huggins OAM will officially open the show at 11am on Saturday. If you would like to come to the opening, please RSVP ptrbalaangala2019@gmail.com. Entry is free, and the show runs from 10 to 4 on Saturday and 10 to 3 on Sunday.

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

enjoy the thrill of playing alongside their peers, learning teamwork, and being part of a welcoming community; complete with the famous post-session BBQ!

For those ready for the next step, our Pathway Program runs on Wednesday evenings and helps participants aged 14 and above, develop more structured cricket skills.

Valleys’ All Abilities Cricket has been recognised with several awards, including the Lord Mayor’s Australia Day Award and the 7 News Community Achievement Award finalist.

Whether your child has played before or is picking up a bat for the first time, everyone is welcome.

For more detailed information check out our website at www.valleycricket.org.au/allabilities or email Kaz (our founder) at allabilities@valleycricket.org.au

Come and be part of something truly special — where cricket is for everyone.

YOUR AWARD WINNING LOCAL RESTAURANT

At Paddington Curry House, we are proud to be recognised as the Best Indian Restaurant in Queensland by the Restaurant and Catering Association of Australia

This award means so much to us because it reflects the love and trust of our local community.

We’ve built our restaurant around a very simple idea: keep the menu small, so that every dish we serve is fresh, consistent, and full of quality Every smile on our customers’ faces brings a smile to ours, and that’s the real reward for us

Behind the kitchen, you’ll find Mahesh and Geeta, a husband-and-wife team with a strong background in cooking that spans from India to Australia Mahesh has always had a deep passion for food, while Geeta loves welcoming people and making them feel at home Together, they believe in more than just making customers happy, they want to delight every guest who walks through the door

Our food philosophy is simple: use fresh ingredients, fresh ginger, and fresh garlic to give every dish authentic flavour and depth. Some of our standout dishes include the Eggplant Pasanda and Chicken Nilgiri, which have become local favourites. We’ve also recently introduced Bombay Crunch Indian Chaat, and it’s quickly winning hearts with its unique taste and texture

To keep things exciting, we offer weekly specials, bringing different flavours to the table so you can enjoy a new experience each time you visit Our meal deals have also become very popular with families and locals who love value as much as flavour.

From the success of Paddington Curry House, our journey has grown. We proudly opened New Farm Curry House, a national award-winning restaurant loved by loca ls, and most recently, The Kari Indian Restaurant at Camp Hill Each restaurant carries the same spirit - fresh food, genuine service, and a passion for sharing the flavours of India with Brisbane

We are grateful to be part of such a vibrant and supportive community, and we love contributing backwhether it’s through local events, sharing our culture, or simply bringing people together around the table. For us, food is not just business, it’s our passion, our family, and our way of connecting with people

So whether you’re joining us for a cosy dinner, a family celebration, or a quick takeaway, we’d love to welcome you and share our award-winning food with you.

'It's Debatable'

Next Gen, Now Gen

Olympic Games 2032: Is BrisVegas Ready?

The clock is ticking on Brisbane 2032. But whether we're sprinting toward triumph or stumbling into disaster depends entirely on whose corner you're standing in.

For seventeen-year-old Gap resident Haiden Boyd, things couldn't be more exciting. The young track and field athlete considers Brisbane 2032 the perfect chance to "put our city on the map" and is feeling the impact already. Beyond his preferred 100m, 200m and 400m races, he's a nationally competitive archer - a sport he's thrilled to report is "getting more funding than ever before" with "more people joining" because of the Games.

That story holds right across Queensland. The Australian Sports Commission's 2024 report estimated 645,000 Queensland athletes under 24, with numbers climbing. For them, hosting the Games means watching heroes compete on home turf and believing their turn might come. The Olympics doesn't just showcase sporting culture but actively inspires it by making kids think they could be next.

However, inspiration doesn't pay the bills. That was Robbie Katter MP's message as he questioned how Queensland can "keep the lights on and the engines running whilst simultaneously putting on this massive event". He speaks for rural Queenslanders who fear they'll see little benefit while South-East developments absorb the funding.

Victoria Park has become the flashpoint, rallying unlikely allies against

ShedforHappens Men Ashgrove-The Gap

LAST CHANCE - Our much anticipated and already well booked Community Night is happening next week on Friday 14th November.

This is Shed Happen's annual Christmas breakup, an opportunity to bring our partners and friends to a fabulous fun filled evening, at 6pm Hilder Rd State School auditorium. RSVP's please before next Friday 7 Nov - we can stretch that date perhaps just a little but please for catering, do book.

Plenty of street parking, no on-site parking.

Regular readers will know that each month we interview two local legends about their varied lives and achievements, and our Community Night is no different.

YES, we are non-political and non-sectarian, but our Community Night features fascinating interviews with two politicians about their life journeys!

the proposed stadium. Community advocacy group Save Victoria Park leads the charge, but they bristle at being labelled "anti-Olympics". Their fight, they insist, is about protecting a historical inner-city green space woven into community life.

Supporters counter that the stadium fits within the $7.1 billion already earmarked for infrastructure and ensures a lasting impact. Sports Minister Tim Mander argues it'll be "the pride of Brisbane Town and Lions fans" - a legacy venue hosting AFL, Big Bash and the Ashes.

Debating the details matters and community voices deserve hearing at every stage. But we can't let that overshadow what the Olympics represents - excellence, yes, but also mateship. As Haiden puts it, even if he doesn't make the team, he knows friends who will and he "would just love to see them compete on our home turf". That's what thriving sports culture looks like.

As debate rages, let's remember the goal. Brisbane 2032 should be a gift to young athletes like Haiden and a legacy everyday Queenslanders can use. Manage that, and we'll have an Olympic Games worth celebrating.

More information:

7 Years to Go: Queensland celebrates 2032 milestone (Government Press Release): https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/103154

Save Victoria Park: www.savevictoriapark.com/

Learn more about programs for young Queensland athletes through the tailored search tool YouFor2032: www.qasport.qld. gov.au/youfor2032

Author: Leonard Cavallaro

This year's Community Night's interviews are with: Hon Jonty Bush, State Parliamentary representative for our seat of Cooper and Hon Denver Beanland, retired Brisbane City Deputy Mayor, State Attorney General and Deputy Premier.

How do we do it? A sit-down dinner and fun evening celebrating the community and what it means to live in our beautiful suburb for just $25.00 a head! [actually many of us say our suburb is Brisbane's best kept secret!].

Bring your neighbours, make up a table - alcohol available for sale.

To book: simply visit The Gap village and / or direct debit to the Shed Happens account at the Bank of Queensland.

BSB 124006, Account 23299501 or online at Try Booking: www. trybooking.com/CVHTU.

Whichever way you book, follow up by emailing our Treasurer: gapshednight@gmail.com with your names and where you paid or phoning :0417 786 542 or you can pay with cash on the night at the door!

Our 2026 Shed Happens meetings will commence next February. Diary note the third Wednesday of each month, from Feb-Oct starting at 6pm with our two monthly interviews. Details ph 0417 786 542.

Every Best Wish for the Festive Season and our sincere thanks to the Western Echo team for their free advertising of our good works!

Can you find Zontian orange near you?

Enjoy browsing in your local shopping centres?

During the “16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women Campaign”, mid-November to mid-December, Zonta Club of Brisbane Sunrise will stage a purposeful display at Stafford City Shopping Centre. This will feature our iconic, large “orange lady” silhouettes to attract your eye! Information on the work of Zonta International and local Zonta Clubs will be available, including contacts for critical services for women and children in our local community.

Venture into The Gibson Sports Club?

On Melbourne Cup Day Sunrise Zontians will launch their “orange lady advocacy” and targeted raffles at the Gibson Sports Club, a place to connect with family and friends. The Gibson is a new partnership forged on a strong sense of purpose for Zontian causes, local and beyond! Raffle proceeds will critically go to local services who support women and children who experience domestic violence to support social, emotional and physical needs.

Connect with our passionate young people?

Sunrise has initiated the mentoring of the new “Year 10 Dream Student Leadership Team” at Mitchelton State High. Student leaders will project manage the fund-raising, collation and presentation of Personal Care Packs for the Sexual Assault Unit at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital – an initiative driven by student leadership. This action is also in recognition of the “International Day of the Girl Child”.

As you engage in these locales near you, drawn by our bright orange silhouettes, please disseminate the critical messages by educating men, women, boys and girls through your own familial interactions – adding your voice and building a better world for women and girls!

Newmarket Probus Club

A DAY AT THE CARNIVAL OF FLOWERS

Everyone loves a bus trip which is why Newmarket Probus organised a day trip to the Carnival of Flowers at Toowoomba last month. We couldn’t have picked a better day, sunny and warm, perfect weather for showing off the flowers to perfection. Some members brought along friends so it was a great chance to make new acquaintances and to show how friendly and welcoming our club is.

After a stop for coffee and biscuits at Marburg , we climbed the range and started visiting the gardens. We visited the prize-winning garden which was magnificent, followed by Queens Park with its beds of mixed flowers, which looked just as good at a distance as close up. One of our members, Barbara, was busy showing how you could identify flowers using your iPhone. Just take a photo then use the “look up” feature to find out its name.

After a stop for lunch we visited one more park as well as the Japanese Garden. It was then time to make our way home. Everyone agreed that it had been a great day and were looking forward to next month’s activity.

If you like the sound of activities like this, why not visit Newmarket Probus and find out more about us. We meet at 10 am on the 2nd Wednesday of the month at the Red Hill Bowls and Community Club. We’d love to see you!

To find out more about our club contact Judith on 0438 335 314, We also have a comprehensive website. Just Google “Newmarket Probus”.

Reservoir Frogs Theatre Company

Murder and Mayhem to hit the stage in November

A large of 12 cast have been working hard on what is Reservoir Frogs most challenging project to date: a production of Agatha Christie’s Spiders Web.

Clarissa, the young wife of a diplomat, is adept at spinning tales of adventure but when a murder takes place in her drawing room she finds live drama much harder

For the Love Of Books

It’s that time of year again and we all have someone who’s particularly tricky to buy for – so I’m here to help you out with some bookish recs sure to get you points as being thoughtful, or at least thoughtprovoking…

For that grumpy uncle: The new Dan Brown “Secret of Secrets” has been years in the making and is the next instalment of the Robert Langdon series.

The person who has everything: A Book People book voucher that can be spent at over 200 independent book stores across Australia.

For the too cool teen: “Best in Travel 2026” Lonely Planets latest list of the 50 best travel destinations in the world. Sure to spark curiosity and hopefully ignite the travel bug!

For your Mother-In-Law: Time of the Child by Niall Williams. Williams beautiful prose and characters all set in the Irish countryside are always a winning combination. Or perhaps the latest in the Thursday Murder Club series “The Impossible Fortune”. It’s hard not to fall in love with the characters of these books.

For your book-loving Mum: She’s read it all so go for an accessory instead. Book Besties Darwin stock some very cute hats – my favourites are “Will yap about books” or “I would rather be reading”. For other recs check out Better Readings Best 100 books of 2025, or the ABC’s list of the Top 100 books of the 21st Century voted by over 280,000 Australians. Sure to have something for everyone. Happy Reading! | @sarahsbookchat |

Author: Sarah Krause

to cope with. Desperate to dispose of the body before her husband arrives with an important politician, she enlists the help of her guests. Hilarity ensues when they are interrupted by the arrival of wry detective, Inspector Lord. A conscious parody of the detective thriller, the script delivers a unique blend of suspense and humour.

National Skin Cancer Action Week

This month, National Skin Cancer Action Week 2025 is taking place from 16-22 November. The week is sponsored by the Cancer Council and The Australasian College of Dermatologists, with the aim of encouraging people to protect their skin from UV exposure and reduce the risk of developing skin cancer.

Being Australia’s so called ‘national cancer’, it’s very prevalent and impacts thousands across our country.

• Two in three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer during their lifetime, which is the highest rate of skin cancer worldwide.

• Over-exposure to UV radiation causes up to 95% of melanomas.

• The more incidental episodes of sun exposure you have, the more likely build-up of UV damage to your cells will cause a skin cancer in the future

While many of us know about these dangers, thousands don’t take proficient measures to protect themselves enough from UV rays, which is why spreading more awareness is important – as skin cancer is often easily preventable. With this summer bringing extreme heat and the frequently overbearing sun, remembering sun protection for these next few months is even more vital. Forms of protection can include wearing well-covered clothing, like long sleeves, hats, and sunglasses. And of course: sunscreen. Apply generous amounts of SPF50+ sunscreen to clean, dry skin at least 20 minutes before heading outside. This allows for time to bind to your skin which ensures it does its job effectively. Remember to reapply every two hours for best results!

Note: a June 2025 investigation by the consumer group Choice found that many popular sunscreens failed to meet their SPF claims. The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has identified over 20 sunscreens that are either recalled, paused from sale, or under review for failing to meet their stated SPF claims. So do your homework to ensure you select a good one. Resource: www.tga.gov.au/products/ medicines/sunscreens

While any effort to promote remaining sun-safe may feel repetitive, in the long run it’s an extremely good way of looking out for your health.

For more cancer information and support, call Cancer Council on 13 11 20 or visit their website at www.cancer.org.au

Information ref: www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/ causes-and-prevention/sun-safety/campaigns-and-events/ national-skin-cancer-action-week

Author: Isabel Becker

GroundcoverLobelias

Groundcover plants are important in all environments. They provide a living mulch. By preventing sunlight penetrating beneath their leaves they supress weeds, lower soil temperature and so reduce soil water evaporation. The roots of these low-growing, dense plants bind the soil, protecting it from erosion. This is important if the yard is sloping or if the soil is poor and thin and nutrients are rapidly lost by rain. Groundcovers are useful for bare areas of the garden that are difficult to maintain, such as banks. They are excellent for filling in spaces between taller shrubs and trees and enhance that aesthetic value of gardens. As groundcover plants grow and die, they add organic matter to the soil. This is broken down by soil microorganisms in the process of nutrient cycling. Since these plants provide habitats and food sources for a variety of fauna, such as beneficial insects and birds, they improve biodiversity in urban environments. This creates a healthy balance between predator and prey species which in turn helps to control pest species.

The Gap Pioneer & History Group Inc

KOOKABURRAS AND WILDLIFE CARERS

This kookaburra story commenced when the RSPCA received an injured kookaburra which did not survive. The vets retrieved an egg and passed it on to my registered wildlife-caring daughter knowing she had an incubator. The next two months were most interesting for me as my daughter was fully occupied so I volunteered as the daily carer.

On 20 November 2024 I saw the egg shake a little and sure enough later that day, Jeff Jr. was born and named, and he looked like an alien from outer space.

The incubator is an interesting piece of equipment. The egg sits in a shallow groove on a geared disc in controlled temperature and humidity, and every 45 minutes the geared mechanism slowly rotates and rolls the position of the egg in the groove.

Lobelia is a very diverse and widespread genus with 415 species found in different areas of the world. There are 39 Australian native species (more are still being described) seven of which are found in S.E. Queensland. They vary in habits, shapes, sizes, flower structure and colours and fruit although typically the flowers are bilaterally symmetrical with fused anthers. Three native Lobelia species that are groundcovers are L. trigonocaulis, l. pedu nculata and L. anceps. The forest lobelia (L. trigonocaulis) is a creeping herb found in moist forest areas of New South Wales and Queensland. It has heart-shaped leaves and pretty, small mauve-blue flowers throughout summer and autumn. Each flower is composed of 3 larger and 2 smaller lobes. The anthers are fused together to form a cup around the female parts. The matted pratia (Lobelia pedunculata, synonym Pratia pedunculata) grows on damp ground, margins of rivers and lakes and in wet sclerophyll forests in filtered sunlight. This vigorous evergreen perennial forms a mat of tiny, saw-toothed oblong to roundish leaves to 2 cm tall. The delicate star-like flowers, with 5 lobes connected to a short tube and stalk, are produced in summer. They are either white or blue-mauve in colour and are unisexual. The angled lobelia (Lobelia anceps – formerly Lobelia alata) is a prostrate plant growing to 30 cm high with narrowly elliptical leaves that are angled at the base. Small light blue- flowers, with the two upper petals smaller than three lower ones, are mainly produced in summer and autumn. Unlike the forest lobelia and matted pratia, this species will grow in dense shade. As it is a frog habitat plant, the angled lobelia would be ideal to grow beside shaded ponds.

All three lobelias grow in moist but not waterlogged soil and filtered sunlight. They prefer a slightly acidic soil, but will adapt to most kinds of sandy or loam soils and they will tolerate light frosts. Grown as borders or between shrubs, they make an attractive as well as functional addition to the garden. Due to their trailing growth, they create a cascading effect in hanging baskets and window boxes, or surrounding a centrepiece in a patio container.

Image 1. Forest lobelia, Image 2. Matted pratia

Another arrival from RSPCA just days after Jeff Jr’s. birth was ‘Tiffany’, one of three baby kookaburras only days old that lost their termite nest home in a storm. Sadly, Tiffany was the only survivor and was taken to RSPCA who passed her on to us as a buddy for Jeff Jr.

They certainly became instant buddies as they cuddled into one another in the ICU (Intensive Care Unit) and both also liked to cuddle into the toy teddy bear for company.

The feeding program was very demanding and their main meal to start with was small chopped up chicken heart sprinkled with various vitamins. They graduated to chicken heart and pinkies (baby mice, no hair) and finally chicken heart, pinkies and baby rats.

On Boxing Day 2024 Jeff Jr. and Tiffany were passed to the next carer and it was sad to see them go, but knowing that they were going to a specialised kookaburra carer in The Gap whom I know softened my disappointment.

Lends a Helping Hand!

Recently, BBTGS held its annual round of Community Grants. Profits raised from the sale of our creations are offered to support projects by other community groups. Applicants must demonstrate that their project will benefit their community, generating environmental benefits; developmental outcomes for school students; and/or mental wellbeing through meaningful engagement and connectivity.

We are pleased to announce the successful applicants:

• Walton Bridge The Gap Girl Guides will install energy-efficient lighting

• Recycling Hills District to facilitate recycling of 300kg of textile waste

• Next Step Connect will run group activities to alleviate loneliness and depression in our community

• Banks Street C&K kindy will establish a garden to teach children about the life cycle and joy of gardening

• St Columba’s primary school will install a Street Library and Native Beehive to encourage reading and teach the importance of pollinators

Brisbane CitySounds Boomerang Bags The Gap & Surrounds

• St William’s primary school will run a ‘Knit and Natter club’ to teach life skills and encourage student engagement and connection. We are thrilled to assist these groups and look forward to seeing their plans come to fruition! We couldn’t do it without the amazing support we receive from you all! When you buy from us, you are not just reducing plastic and textile waste – you are helping create a better and kinder world!

Our upcycled creations make colourful, unique and sustainable gifts. With our “Sustainably Made in The Gap and Surrounds” label, they are perfect to post to far-away friends. Please visit us at our upcoming stalls:

• Sunday 23 November, 9am – 12pm, The Bakeologist Café, 23A Glen Affric St, The Gap

• Saturday 29 November, 1pm – 4pm, Circular Christmas Market, Kakowan Community Centre, 2 Pine Hills Drive, Bunya

• Sunday 14 December, Christmas Family Fun Day, 2pm – 6pm, Heiner Park, Blaker Road, Keperra www.facebook.com/boomerangbagsthegapandsurrounds

Wild InThe Gap

Thank you to amateur photographer Jodette Gibson for her gorgeous local wildlife photos – blue-tongue lizard, king parrot, galah, and water dragon - all in her backyard.

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: © Jodette Gibson

Please send your photo/s to Melanie: editor@westernecho.com.au

Newmarket Bocce Club News

Dino Marrone, president of the Queensland Bocce Federation is extremely proud of the Federation Cup played on 13-14 October at the bocce courts of host club Newmarket. It was a great weekend of camaraderie, great sportsmanship and competitive playing. Teams of 4 men and 4 women from Bundaberg, Newmarket, Redlands and QBF played for the prestigious cups. They played 4 games on Saturday and 2 on Sunday.

Mario from Newmarket and Kerrie from Redlands were the referees, however the players made their jobs easy. Lunch on Saturday prepared by Gina Rotili and Rebecca Zaini was superb. Presentation lunch was at ANFE Italian club at Stafford. What can I say but fantastic.

Dino, Tony Di Sipio, and Lou Masotti did the presentations. As I always say, it comes down to the last game. For the men it could have gone any way.

So, in the men’s, Bundaberg came first and Newmarket second. For the women, Redlands came first and QBF second.

Congratulations to all players!

Please contact:

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

The GapProbus Club

Our speaker this month was Melissa, a volunteer from Orange Sky. Started by two 20-year-old lads to provide a mobile laundry service to homeless people, it has grown to provide showers and most importantly social contact for people experiencing homelessness. Probus is not a charitable or fundraising organisation, it is a social club, but members are very happy to support the work of Orange Sky.

As part of the social agenda, we took a bus trip to Eumundi Markets and had lunch at the

Visitors are encouraged and very welcome to attend the Ashgrove Historical Society meetings held at the Ashgrove Library on the first Saturday of the month from 10am to noon. The topic on 6 December 2025 is The Hemmant Aquarium presented by member, Russell Turner.

The Hemmant Aquarium was founded in 1889 by Charles Anderson and business partners including Robert Philp and James Campbell. (James Campbell later owned the SS Koopa which took passengers to Redcliffe and Bribie Island).

The Aquarium was a zoo and functions centre with animals, shows, a flying machine, merry-go-round and sporting facilities. Cricket competitions were regularly held in the grounds. Three steamships, the Natone, Woolwich and Alice, took people to the site from the Brisbane city centre. The 1893 flood caused major damage, with the loss of many animals. However, the Aquarium survived, albeit in a reduced capacity, until 1900. One of the last official functions held there was the welcome home for the Boer War soldiers in 1901.

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

AHS membership and publications make great Christmas gifts for residents past and present and others interested in Ashgrove’s history. Membership costs $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. Alternatively, you can join at a meeting. Funds raised from memberships, raffles and the sale of our publications supports the research, preservation and recording of Ashgrove’s history.

For more: www. ashgrovehistoricalsociety.org

Imperial Hotel, Eumundi. Members came back with various souvenirs, from leather belts to onyx fountain pens.

October was Probus Month across Australia, so we mounted a stall at the seniors’ “trade show” hosted at the Broncos club. Unsurprisingly, there was still a festive atmosphere at the club!

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.

The GapSustainability Initiative

The Gap Sustainability Initiative is thrilled to announce that our partnership with Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN) to monitor and assess the health of The Gap’s creeks and evaluate their biodiversity is increasing in focus and scope. In October we conducted our second joint eDNA survey. You can find some the results of our first eDNA survey explained on our website in the news section. We found evidence of lungfish, jelly fish and freshwater stonefish just to name a few of the findings. We did not find any platypus DNA, which is something we want to change in our mission to reintroduce the platypus to The Gap. Using our newly purchased equipment and with support by knowledgeable SOWN members, we will continue to conduct monthly community creek monitoring assessing the water quality and macroinvertebrate surveys. If you want to join us, please send an email.

On 18 November, we are very excited to have Kimberly Sword as our seminar speaker. Kimberly was involved in Australia’s signature to the Paris agreement and is an expert in policy design and implementation. As good policy underpins all aspects of our lives we are very keen to hear from Kimberly on how we can work on relevant policy frameworks that will allow The Gap residents to lead a sustainable lifestyle. The community battery which we are still trying to get to The Gap is one example of this. So please come along at 7pm at The Gap State High School Library to hear Kimberly speak.

Our street tree TLC program is restarting, after we have been able to secure mulch again in collaboration with SOWN. Visit our website to see a map of all the streets we have already done and nominate your street if it needs care so we can look after it next. There is also a video by Sue Moller explaining on how to care for the trees if you want to start a street tree care troupe yourself.

Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club

Great celebrations at Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club

October was all about celebrating older people. It was both Global Probus month and National Seniors month. A special welcoming event at Red Hill-Probus Club saw quite a few visitors enjoying the camaraderie of the Probus theme of Friendship, Fellowship and Fun. The event certainly achieved the objective of showing how Probus offers opportunities to meet new friends, increase social interaction and participate in a range of engaging activities. At least some of the many visitors are likely to become ongoing members of the club.

An interesting and entertaining guest speaker from RACQ was rated highly, as was the High Tea that followed and enjoyed by all. Later in the month the regular outing was a CityCat trip down the river for lunch then the next week another lunch at The Gap Tavern.

Guest Speaker Denis Wayper has become a regular in November and returns with another of his musical reminiscences, this time The Three Tenors.

We are very keen readers with a well patronised book exchange table. Monthly cards afternoons continue at the Ashgrove Library. Our regular monthly coffee and chat mornings at a café in The Gap provide further social interaction.

New members are most welcome. Just search for Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club for ongoing information on our upcoming activities on our web site. We meet at 9.30am on the 2 Thursday each month except December and January at the Red Hill Bowls, Sports and Community Club in Fulcher Road, Red Hill. Come and give us a try at a monthly meeting or come along as a guest on any of our outings.

Please phone either of our Club

Our next seminar is on 18 November, 7.30pm at The Gap State High School Library. We will hold our AGM on 29 November at 10am at the Lions Shelter in Walton Bridge Park. Please visit our event calendar for details about all these events www.thegapustainability.org

Membership Officers Sue Vivian on 0413 544 202 or Caroline Graham on 0411 459 687 so that we can make you welcome.

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

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

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The Gap Baptist Church

LOVE is ……

Love is patient; love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.

This description is found in the Bible (1Corinthians 13) and it is a powerful reminder of what love should be like. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if this were what we meant whenever we told someone that we love them? I am here for you. I am on your side. I am not against you. I am not saying this so that you will give me something or do something for me.

Read and reflect on the passage again. If we love someone, then we don’t put them down; we don’t do it for our gain; we don’t compete with them; we don’t snap at them; we don’t nag them; and we don’t keep bringing up things from the past.

Love is a scarce commodity in the world, and we need to truly LOVE those who are precious to us.

Tiny Thomsen, The Gap Baptist Church

Trek2Health

Walking Together for Awareness and Action

Last Month on a Sunday morning, I had the privilege of joining more than two thousand people under the Story Bridge for the Mental Awareness Foundation’s Walk for Awareness. Now in its 15th year, this event has become one of Queensland’s most powerful community movements for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

Standing there in the early morning light, I couldn’t help but think about how it all began - with two young men, Wes and Tudor, who decided to do something about mental health in their community. Fifteen years later, their vision and determination have created a legacy that continues to grow stronger each year. They didn’t do it for recognition or reward; they did it to start conversations, break stigma, and help people find hope again.

AranaViewClub

The Arana View Club is a valued supporter of the Smith Family, sponsoring Learning for Life Program. Sam Miches - a recycling guru was our guest speaker for October 2025.

On Friday 10 October 2025 our Club had fun interacting with the public at a BBQ at Bunnings Keperra.

The Annual Fashion Parade was held in October at the Grove Sports Club opposite the Ferny Grove Police Station at a cost of $20 which includes not only the beautiful Fashions from Portofino Fashions at 10am but also morning tea and coffee and homemade food plus raffles. It is going to be an enjoyable event by all the attendees.

Melbourne Cup on 4 November is being celebrated at the Arana Leagues Club and lunch and entertainment is $75.

Please book at the Leagues Club Reception.

Wednesday 5 November 2025 is time for our cent auction and the next monthly meeting. Our guest speaker will be Carolyn Campbell who is an expert on downsizing all those items we just can’t seem to give up but don’t really need.

So if you want to help our next generation in providing them with educational support and having fun and comradeship whilst doing this valuable community service, please contact our President Hilary on 0421 047 451.

At Trek2Health, we owe so much to these two remarkable individuals. Their support has helped us deliver programs that build mental and physical resilience for frontline personnel, veterans, and members of our community doing it tough. Our mission - to connect mind, body, and environment through purposeful movement - has been strengthened time and time again by the generosity and spirit of the Mental Awareness Foundation.

Without Wes and Tudor, Trek2Health simply wouldn’t be where we are today. They represent the true spirit of community, people helping people.

As the crowd began to walk along the Brisbane river, united in remembrance and purpose, I was reminded of why we do what we do. When we walk together, no one walks alone.

Thank you, Wes and Tudor - your journey continues to inspire ours.

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,

Our survey results are in!

We are happy to share the results from The Western Echo’s recent survey.

The survey shows that The Western Echo enjoys strong readership loyalty, with the majority of respondents reading every edition and expressing high satisfaction with content. Readers particularly value community-focused stories - such as local characters, events, and environment articles. And show strong interest in wanting more editorial, human-interest, and local business coverage. Most copies are picked up at The Gap Village, at other local stands, and 14.3% read it online. Feedback emphasized appreciation for the printed format, suggestions for expanded distribution (especially Bardon and Milton), and more focus on local wildlife, arts, and youth engagement.

Congratulations

to

Jemima E who won the Gourmet Hamper prize for taking part in the survey!

Note: the Survey is still open and we’d love more feedback – so please feel free to still complete the survey.

WE WANT YOUR FEEDBACK!

Please complete our anonymous feedback Survey. We would love your ideas and feedback to help improve our publication.

To thank you for participating, please enter our ‘Survey Competition’ – please just add your details at the end if you wish to. The prize is a Gourmet Hamper from us to say Thanks!

KEY RESULTS

1. Reading Frequency

• 65.7% read every edition

• 25.7% read sometimes

• Only 5.7% were first-time or rare readers

2. Most Enjoyed Content

Top categories:

• 85.7% – Community events

• 77.1% – Local nature, wildlife & environment

• 71.4% – Updates from community groups

• 65.7% – Human interest stories

• 60% – Local characters (Col’s Chat)

Additional mentions as enjoyed content: local history, Indigenous heritage

3. Satisfaction with Content

• 47% very satisfied

• 38% satisfied

• 15% neutral

• No dissatisfaction recorded

4. Topics Readers Want More Of

• 61.8% – Community events

• 61.8% – Local environment

• 55.9% – Local human-interest stories

• 41.2% – Local business news

Others: travel, food, family activities, editorials, arts/creativity

5. Distribution

• 68.6% pick up from stands in local areas

• 14.3% read online version

• Main pickup point: The Gap Village

6. General Feedback Highlights

Praise for The Western Echo’s community focus and printed format Requests for:

• More wildlife/nature features

• Expanded distribution (Bardon, Milton)

• Youth engagement (school columns, cadet journalist)

• Special offers section for local businesses

• More promotion via The Gap Grapevine Facebook group

HOME SAFETY AUDIT

Ways to make your home and family more secure: Get to know your neighbours! Report suspicious people or vehicles to police. Ensure doors and windows are secured, even when at home. Secure your home when you leave by locking all doors and windows. Ask for credentials from all persons who request entry to your home. Make it appear you’re at home (when away) by leaving lights on and music or the TV playing; timers are useful. Keep cash, keys and valuables out of sight and out of reach. Don’t leave notes on the door, or say you’ll be away on social media. Don’t leave a house key in obvious places. Mark valuable property using the Property Identification System.

Doors:

The external doors of your home should be of solid-core construction and fitted with key-operated double-cylinder deadlock. Install a door viewer that allows you to see the person before you open the door. When going away for extended periods of time disconnect the electricity to the electronic garage doors. If you need to leave a door open for ventilation, consider installing a security screen door.

Windows:

No matter what type of window you have, key operated locks should be fitted and used. Always lock ground-floor windows and windows that are not visible from the street or are within an easy reach from a drainpipe, roof or wheelie bin as these are more easily accessed. Consider installing security screens.

Keys:

Avoid giving keys to trades persons or people that you don’t know well - copies of keys are quickly and easily made. If you lose your keys, consider changing the locks. Do not mark your keys with your name and address.

Yards and lighting:

A house which allows neighbours and people passing by a clear and uninterrupted view makes it less likely to be broken into. Make sure your home is not shielded by trees, so that intruders or people acting suspiciously can be easily observed. Always lock tools, ladders and garden equipment away so they can’t be used to gain entry to your home. Keep all of your gates locked and in good repair. Consider installing sensor lights. Keep up to date with your 4061 community and the latest Crime Stats and more Tips to Keep Safe: www.fb.com/neighbourhoodwatchthegap

Source: www.police.qld.gov.au

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

Hilder Road State School

In early October, Hilder Road State School held a Strategic Planning Day which was an opportunity for staff to pause, reflect, and reimagine the school’s next chapter under the goal of building a community that thrives, flourishes, and grows.

The day brought together teachers, support staff, and leaders to explore ideas across the school’s three strategic pillars: Wellbeing, Community and Curriculum. Together, they set the tone for the next 12 months helping strengthen learning, culture and connection.

Term 4 is shaping up to be a vibrant one, with plenty of events that bring our community together, including the muchloved Halloween Disco later this month. These gatherings continue to reflect the strong sense of spirit and togetherness that defines Hilder Road State School.

We also welcomed local schools for the Year 4 Gala Day, where hundreds of students came together for sport, friendship, and fun, a true celebration of teamwork and community across The Gap community.

Warm regards

Damien Greig, Principa

l

Payne Road State School

I am pleased to join the Payne Road community as principal for Term 4.

Payne Road State School is known for its outstanding teaching and learning, environmental program, and the strong connections between everyone in the community. I have enjoyed a

very warm welcome and I’ve had a busy and productive start. Our early phase students have enjoyed swimming lessons, our year 4s went off to camp and our year 5 and 6 students participated in gala sports days.

What is very clear about Payne Road is that the staff are well respected by the school community, and I have had many conversations throughout the week with parents wanting me to know how special the school is, the strong relationships between teachers and students and the strong sense of community felt by all.

I am looking forward to finishing the year celebrating many successes and achievements.

Joanne Nicholls, Principal

The Gap State School

Learning, Belonging and Community

Spirit

It’s been a busy and fun-filled month at The Gap State School, with students, staff and families embracing every opportunity to learn, connect and celebrate together.

A huge highlight was our Sip n Thrift evening, our community fundraising event of the year! Parents and friends came together to enjoy an evening of sustainable shopping, music, and great conversation, raising valuable funds to support student learning initiatives. The sense of fun and connection was unmistakable: a perfect example of what makes our school community so special.

Our Year 5 students recently returned from their camp at Mapleton, where they tackled

challenges, developed resilience, and strengthened teamwork. This is a wonderful step in their journey towards becoming our 2026 senior leaders. Meanwhile, our Year 3 cohort enjoyed their Character Builders Day, learning the power of courage, collaboration, and kindness as they prepare for the transition into the senior school.

With warmer weather, students are back in the pool for swimming lessons, and we’re also excited to soon welcome our 2026 Prep families for their VIP Days - an important milestone as they begin their learning journey with us.

We are currently taking enrolments for 2026 in Prep, Year 4, Year 5 and Year 6. To learn more about how your child can thrive at The Gap State School, please contact the school to book a tour with me.

For Learning Katie Stubbings, Principal

The Gap State High School

Term 4 is always a special time at The Gap State High School, filled with celebration, pride, and reflection. For our Class of 2025 (Year 12 students), it marks the final chapter of their school journey, a moment to honour years of effort, friendships, and growth before stepping confidently into the next stage of their lives.

Our school community is looking forward to one of the most anticipated events of the year, the Year 12 Graduation Ceremony on Thursday, 20 November. This occasion brings together families, staff, and peers to celebrate the hard work, perseverance, and achievements of our graduating students. It’s a heartfelt reminder of the impact of dedication, resilience, and the strong support networks that help our learners flourish.

The celebrations continue the following week with the Junior Awards Ceremony on Thursday, 27 November, recognising the incredible efforts of students from Years 7 to 9. These awards highlight the determination, creativity, and enthusiasm that thrive throughout our classrooms every day.

At The Gap State High School, we are proud to nurture confident, capable, and compassionate learners who make a difference both within and beyond our school community. Our programs, teachers, and culture encourage every student to dream big and achieve their goals whether in academics, arts, sports, or leadership.

As we close the year, we celebrate not just success, but the spirit of learning, community, and excellence that makes our school a place where every student belongs and thrives.

Anne McLauchlan, Executive Principal