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OCTOBER 2026
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CELEBRATING OUR SENIORS QUEENSLAND SENIORS MONTH 2026 STORY PAGE 3
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 1
Advertiser'sDirectory Directory BUILDING | TRADES | PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Agilis Accountants............................................................................25 Aqua7 Bathrooms | P: 0403 175 154................................................. 33 Garage Door Conversions | P: 0458 225 287...................................... 33 North Brisbane Trees | P: 3289 3610................................................. 16 PB Premium Lawns | P: 0451 409 166............................................... 33 Shutters Direct | P: 3369 1183.......................................................... 33 Spot Art | Our Planet Marketing......................................................... 25
LEGAL | FINANCIAL
Hollingworth & Spencer | P: 3123 5700............................................. 14 Kate Redman & Associates | P: 0480 844 490......................................8 Mortgage Choice Ashgrove | P: 3366 8604......................................... 17
MECHANICS | AUTOMOTIVE
Wyatt Automotive | P: 3300 2077........................................................1
MEDICAL | HEALTH | WELL-BEING
Ashgrove Counselling Services | P: 3366 9699.................................... 27 Keperra Family Practice | P: 07 3351 0323......................................... 29 Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club...................................................... 23 The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy | P: 3300 1555................................. 36 Trek2Health.....................................................................................11
POLITICAL | GOVERNMENT
Cr. Steven Toomey | P: 3407 1900......................................................5 Jonty Bush MP | P: 3554 9100............................................................7 Elizabeth Watson-Brown MP | P: 3378 1599.........................................9
REAL ESTATE
Harcourts Property Centre - Carmen Briggs | P: 0418 742 511............ 23 Ray White - Jack & Stephen Dangerfield | P: 0422 564 007................. 27
RESTAURANTS | CAFES | FOOD
Birdie Coffee....................................................................................29 The Gap Loco..................................................................................31
SCHOOLS | EDUCATION | COMMUNITY | FAMILY
ABC Friends Qld...............................................................................21 Brisbane City Council........................................................................17 Hilder Road State School..................................................................19 Mitchelton Pre-Schooling Centre........................................................ 31 RSPCA Queensland | P: 1800 777 223............................................... 15 St Mark's The Gap............................................................................25
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Published by: Meglara Pty Ltd PO Box 669, the Gap Q 4061 | 0409 440 501 www.westernecho.com.au | editor@westernecho.com.au facebook.com/TheWesternEcho instagram.com/thewesternecho Editor: Melanie Grevis-James | Designer: Kym Bierenbroodspot Printed by: Printcraft | Distribution: IVE Distribution
Taylor Range Club............................................................................13 The Gap State School.......................................................................15 Woodturners Society Queensland...................................................... 21
OctoberEcho Echo
African Violet Society of Qld ................................................. 26 All Abilities Cricket ............................................................... 28 Arana View Club .................................................................. 24 Art in Bark ............................................................................ 8 Ashgrove Bardon RSL Sub Branch ........................................ 24 Ashgrove Historical Society .................................................. 12 Ashgrove Rangers ................................................................. 8 Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club ............................................... 23 Aussie Bird Count 2026 ........................................................ 20 Balaangala Community Group .............................................. 13 Boomerang Bags The Gap & Surrounds ................................ 14 Brisbane North Cake Decorators ............................................. 6 Carinity .............................................................................. 20 Celebrating Seniors and Queensland Seniors Month 2026 ......... 3 Chordiality Choir .................................................................... 8 Col's Chat ............................................................................. 4 Cr Steve Toomey................................................................... 5 Enoggera & Districts Historical Society .................................. 32 For the Love of Books .......................................................... 16 From the Editor ..................................................................... 6 'It's Debatable' .................................................................... 18 Jonty Bush - State Government Update ................................... 7 Libby's Latest ........................................................................ 9 Local Directory Listings ........................................................ 33 Mitchelton & Districts Garden Club ........................................ 26 Newmarket Bocce Club News ............................................... 33 Newmarket View Club .......................................................... 22 On Court with the Australian Crocs ....................................... 10 Paddington Then and Now................................................... 12 Paten Park Native Nursery ................................................... 32 Photo of the Month ............................................................. 19 Picabeen ............................................................................ 10 Principal's Points ............................................................ 34/35 Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club .................................................. 24 Reservoir Frogs Theatre Company ........................................ 31 Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap ......................................... 14 Rotary Club Of Paddington ................................................... 16 Serenata Singers................................................................. 30 Shed Happens for Men Ashgrove-The Gap ............................. 30 SOWN ................................................................................ 29 St Mark's Anglican Church .................................................... 24 The Gap Baptist Church ....................................................... 35 The Gap Creative Inc ........................................................... 33 The Gap Little Athletics ........................................................ 12 The Gap Neighbourhood Watch ............................................ 10 The Gap Pioneer & History Group Inc................................... 28 The Gap Probus Club ........................................................... 28 The Gap Repair Cafe ............................................................. 6 The Gap Scout Group .......................................................... 30 The Gap She Shed .............................................................. 27 The Gap Sustainability Initiative ........................................... 18 Trek2Health ........................................................................ 11 West Brisbane Orchid Society ............................................... 26 Wild In The Gap .................................................................. 14 Woodturners Society of Qld .................................................. 20 Yoorala St Community Garden ............................................. 22 Zonta Club of Brisbane........................................................ 31 COPYRIGHT: All advertisements appearing in The Western Echo are subject to copyright and may not be reproduced except with the written consent of the owner of the copyright. No guarantee is given to the positioning of the advertisements and the publisher takes no responsibility for errors or omissions or the accuracy of articles published. The Western Echo is delivered, by private letterbox distribution, to homes in: Ashgrove, Ashgrove West, St. Johns Wood, Dorrington, The Gap, and selected areas of Bardon, Red Hill, Enoggera, Keperra and Mitchelton.
You can read The Western Echo online at: www.westernecho.com.au Enjoy the read! Links included online – for more information about our advertisers and editorial contributors. The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 2
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Celebrating Seniors and Queensland Seniors
Month 2026
October celebrates older Queenslanders and the many valuable ways they contribute to our communities as workers, volunteers, carers, grandparents, leaders, advocates, and far more. With Queensland Seniors Month from 1-31 October, many community groups and organisations across Queensland are hosting activities that bring people together and create opportunities for older people to connect and enjoy their local community. It’s also a great opportunity for people of all ages to get involved, spend time with older people and help create welcoming spaces where everyone feels included. For all details: www. qldseniorsmonth.org.au/
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Offer to help with transport or errands like grocery shopping or medical appointments
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Invitations to the library, park, community centre, or local event
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Phone an elderly friend or relative regularly for a chat
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Send a personal card, letter, or postcard
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Help with technology, such as phones, video calls or online appointments
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Ask what help a senior person would actually find useful rather than assuming what they need
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Encourage participation in local groups, hobbies, exercise classes, or social activities
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Consider volunteering as a regular visitor or companion to an older person
Senior Focused Community Groups Many of our local community groups encourage seniors to participate (and seniors make up the majority of members) – to create friendships, attend events and outings, create art & crafts, volunteer and fundraising, and learn new skills. This includes all the local Rotary, Lions, Probus, and View groups and clubs, theatre groups, historical societies, men’s shed and women’s shed groups.
Growing Need, Growing Support Seniors are an important and growing part of our communities. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that around 4.2 million Australians aged 65+ lived in Australia in 2020, representing about 16% of the population. Australians are also living longer, with the latest Australian Bureau of Statistics figures showing a life expectancy of 81.1 years for males and 85.1 years for females. As of June 2025, around 204,000 people lived in permanent or respite residential aged care homes in Australia. As Australia's population continues to age, there is a growing need for accessible and affordable aged-care and community services. This includes more agedcare places, trained staff, home-based support, transport, support for families and unpaid carers, and services that help older people remain independent.
Staying Connected and Involved Growing older does not mean someone cannot live independently. Many older Australians continue to contribute to their families and communities. However, having social connections, practical support, transport and opportunities to participate in community life can make a real difference to wellbeing. There are many simple ways we can support older people in our community: •
Pop in and check on an elderly neighbour
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Invite an older person out for a coffee or morning tea
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Both the BrisWest Centre in Paddington and the Mitchelton & District Senior Citizens Centre offer opportunities specifically for older residents - to meet others and participate in community activities. Brisbane City Council 50 Plus Centre offers free membership and lowcost activities for seniors and pensioners over 50, including social and recreational activities; located in Brisbane City Hall.
More Resources My Aged Care: the Australian Government's main starting point for finding and accessing aged-care services, including support at home and residential aged care. www.myagedcare.gov.au Communify Qld: provides aged-care and community support across Brisbane, including social support, transport and assistance accessing services. www.communify.org.au COTA Queensland (Council on the Ageing Queensland): advocates for the rights, interests and wellbeing of older Queenslanders and provides information, programs and opportunities for older people to have their voices heard. www.cotaqld.org.au Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN): provides free, independent advocacy and support for older people using aged-care services. www. opan.org.au Dementia Australia: provides information, support and resources for people living with dementia, their families and carers. www.dementia. org.au
Images credit: courtesy of Carinity Cover image: Paul and Ian at a Carinity aged care home
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 3
Grove Urban Village – only had a scattering of houses. Hilltop opened in 1923. “It was just bush when I was a kid. On a weekend the park was full of people playing sport. We used the council tennis court and there was also basketball and a velodrome,” Jim said. Two of Jim’s sisters volunteered at Hilltop, and his wife and two sistersin-law lived there in their later years. Jim also tuned the pianos at Hilltop for decades, so he “knew the place and the people fairly well before moving here”. Jim recalls attending an “eventful” Christmas concert at Hilltop in the early-1980s, featuring a traditional performance by a Cook Islands man.
Jim’s happy History in Aged Care Home When Jim Spiers moved into Carinity Hilltop last year, it was a place he was very familiar with. The 93-year-old had visited the aged care home on many occasions, both to visit family members and to tune the facility’s pianos. Jim was born in Kelvin Grove and has lived there his entire life. He has seen many changes in the suburb since the 1930s, when one could “walk down the street and not see a car go by”. When Jim was young the area next to Carinity Hilltop – now the Kelvin
COL’S CHAT
Locals through my Lens
“He was a flame juggler and fire-eater, and he set off all the alarms. They had to ring the fire station saying, ‘Don’t come, don’t come!’” Jim knew about Carinity Hilltop as his wife had been a resident there, which helped with his decision to move there. It was necessary for Jim’s health as he could no longer care for himself at home. Jim says he makes the best of being at Carinity Hilltop. He is happy and attends most of the activities on offer each day. “It is a pleasure to talk with and get along well with staff and residents alike. I like to have a good conversation with people,” Jim said.
For more about Carinity aged care: www.carinity.org.au/our-services/residential-aged-care that works with local community groups and businesses in Australia to build solar lights to gift to children in places like Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Timor Leste, and Ethiopia.” TGSHS Interact Club member Isaac said, “It’s wonderful giving people who live in different countries and aren’t so fortunate as us, the opportunity to study after dark when they have no lights.” Solar buddy lights are small enough to be carried by a child, charged during the day and give 6-8 hours of light. It can easily be used by a child to read or do homework at night and families to use for other purposes.
Solar Buddy Project, The Gap SHS There are a lot of things we take for granted in our everyday lives: provisions, healthcare, power and food. But what if one or more of those basic needs was removed from our way of life? Imagine coming home from work or school to a home with no electricity; no light. This is a truism for many people around the world. The Solomon Islands is one of our closest neighbours, and in the remote Kwainaa’isi community, on the island of Malaita, this way of life is a daily reality. The children of the village are prevented from reading, writing or doing their homework at night. This month I caught up with Dr Padma Narsey Lal and the students at The Gap State High School’s Interact Club to hear about their solution. Padma explained, “To help these children access light for their education, Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap partnered with local Interact Clubs, at The Gap State High Scholl (TGSHS), to build solar light kits for disadvantaged children in our neighbouring countries. Kits were purchased from an Australian registered charity, Solar Buddy,
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High school students Ben, Bethan and Aiden gave a clear insight into the passion for the project, and the importance of their involvement. “The components are supplied locally, and we assemble the lights ready for them to be shipped overseas.” “It makes you feel empowered and, by building it in our school [the community], it helps raise awareness of the problems that affect others. It’s great being hands on and we enjoy taking ownership of the solution.” “It really makes me want to find more charities to help in the future, to help other people live better lives.” The students, not only have fun working together, but they also learn about compassion, empathy and the joy of community service, and making a difference. One of the villagers from the Kwainaaísi village, Solomon Islands said, “We never thought that the words we heard about the lights will one day become a reality. Today is like a dream come true. We thank you and we love you all from the bottom of our hearts. We know that this is hard for us to repay…. what you have done for us. The lights will be of great benefit to us for our study and use at home.” As I was leaving, I was approached by James. His view on the project was that it was, “Pretty lit!”. Can’t argue with that. If you’d like to know more about how our local schools are helping children without light, or get involved, contact the Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap. Author: Colin Bushell
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Cr Steve Toomey
Councillor for The Gap Ward Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner
LORD MAYOR’S WOMEN IN BUSINESS GRANT - NOW OPEN!
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner's Women in Business Grant is open for 2027! In its sixth year, this program is designed to give women in business both practical, financial support and access to a dynamic community of other founders and experienced mentors. We have some fantastic female owned businesses in our ward who have won grants in previous years including: Live Love Nourish, RubyRed Jewellery, Bask & Co., Come and Cook Brisbane Cooking School, U Create Art Studio, Paradiso Strings, Ocean Road Swimwear, Happy Healthy Clinic, and Email By Design. A total of $250,000 is up for grabs to eligible businesses. You can apply for up to $5,000 to invest in areas where it can make the biggest difference to your business. Contact my office for more information.
UPPER KEDRON PARKRUN Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner is providing funding as part of Move Well Brisbane to have a Park Run in Upper Kedron at Honeyeater Park. All we need are volunteers! As Park Run Australia say “The key to starting any parkrun is to find the right person to lead that event as a local volunteer, to champion its benefits to their community and to slowly but surely build a strong volunteer team to deliver the event going forwards.” that is who we are looking for, someone who will take this opportunity and run with it literally! I would love to see the 5km Parkrun on Saturday mornings, but I am also hoping to see Parkrun Junior on Sunday mornings for kids to join in the fun. If you are interested in volunteering, or know someone that may be, please contact my office. I’d love to hear from you.
KERBSIDE COLLECTION IN THE GAP WARD THE GAP, ENOGGERA RESERVOIR
WEEK STARTING 7 DECEMBER 2026
KEPERRA, UPPER KEDRON, FERNY GROVE
WEEK STARTING 18 JANUARY 2027
ASHGROVE
WEEK STARTING 25 JANUARY 2027
477 Waterworks Road, Ashgrove @TheGapWard TheGap.Ward@bcc.qld.gov.au 3407 1900 WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU
e for my r e h r e t Regis wsletter e-ne The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 5
From theEditor Editor
The GapRepairCafe RepairCafe Repair brings us together!
Dear Readers, Welcome to our October edition! Our cover article this month is all about celebrating and supporting the senior members of our community – in support of Queensland Seniors Month taking place 1-31 October. Many of the local groups featured here in The Western Echo support seniors and encourage their involvement.
Each October, Repair Café The Gap’s monthly workshop coincides with International Repair Day. On this special day, we celebrate the power of repair to bring our communities together, reduce our impact on the planet, learn new skills and so much more.
This month in our regular columns, Colin meets with local Dr Padma Narsey Lal and the Solar Buddy team at The Gap State High School in his ‘Col’s Chat’ column; Leonard Cavallaro debates “The Arts: Should I Stay or Should I Go?” in his ‘It’s Debatable’ youth perspective column; and Sarah Krause introduces us to the ‘Sisters in Crime’ literary group in her ‘For the Love of Books’ column. 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
Brisbane North Cake Decorators Brisbane North Cake Decorators – October Meeting Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, 17 October 2026, at the Arana Hills Community Centre, Dawson Parade, Arana Hills.
2026 is the tenth anniversary of International Repair Day, and you’re invited to celebrate with us! As well as our regular repairs of your broken household items, we have some special activities planned. Our dynamic due, Ben and Sheryl, will teach you how to sharpen your blades using simple sharpening tools. Bring your knife along to learn how to keep your items in top condition. Danielle “The Bead Lady”, our amazing jewellery mender, will have you upcycling broken necklaces and bracelets into beautiful bling for your garden or window with her Beaded Suncatcher workshop. Our supportive State MP, Jonty Bush, will teach you how to celebrate the beauty of imperfection in her Kintsugi workshop. Kintsugi is a Japanese method of ceramic repair that highlights the cracks and makes them a beautiful feature. Bring along your broken item - take home a perfectly imperfect treasure! There will be a small fee to attend the Suncatcher and Kintsugi workshops, to cover the cost of materials. Places will be limited and bookings will be essential!
Demonstration: our President, Sandra, will be demonstrating the use of Patchwork Cutters and sharing her tips and techniques for creating beautiful sugar-art designs.
Looking Ahead to November November will be a busy and rewarding month for our members as we come together to bake Christmas fruitcake cupcakes for Caring Cuisine, an organisation we proudly support in bringing Christmas goodies to the community.
Interested in Cake Decorating? Whether you’re passionate about cakes, cookies, sugar art or simply love creating beautiful things, we’d love to welcome you to our friendly and social group. We meet on the 3rd Saturday of each month from January to November. Meeting dates may occasionally change if they coincide with a public holiday or other event. Any changes will be posted on our Facebook page.
For further information, please contact our Secretary at brisbanenorthcakedecorato@gmail.com. Come along, meet fellow cake enthusiasts, learn something new and enjoy the wonderful world of cake decorating!
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 6
We hope you’ll join us on 17 October to mark International Repair Day! Bookings for both regular repairs and the special activities open on 3 October, via the QR code.
www.facebook.com/repaircafethegap www.instagram.com/repaircafethegap thegaprepaircafe@gmail.com
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Deadline for November Edition: All due by 12 October Please send to: editor@westernecho.com.au Any questions? Call Melanie on: 0409 440 501 WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU
Jonty’s October update
Seniors month
October marks Queensland Seniors Month, a chance to recognise the invaluable contribution older Queenslanders make to our families, workplaces and communities. Almost one in five Queenslanders are aged 65 and over, and here in our electorate we are lucky to have a strong network of local groups supporting and connecting our seniors. Groups like the Lions, Rotary, VIEW Club, Probus, She Shed, Men's Shed, Meals on Wheels and Communify bring people together, provide vital support and create lasting connections. Seniors Month gives us an opportunity each year to increase the focus on our Seniors and think about how we can raise the feeling of social connectedness and support and empower our Cooper Seniors to connect, contribute and thrive. This Seniors Month, let’s celebrate our seniors, thank them for all they do and recognise the invaluable place they hold in our community. If you know a senior in our community who could benefit from getting involved, please reach out to my office and we can help point them in the right direction.
community conversation
Last month I held a Community Conversation on an emerging policy area: the intersection of road safety, licensing, and medicinal cannabis. It’s been a decade since medicinal cannabis was decriminalised. Since then, many Queenslanders experiencing chronic pain have turned to this medication to manage their symptoms. Queensland patients account for 51% of national medicinal cannabis approvals. But a decade on, our drug-driving laws haven’t changed to accommodate this, resulting in patients being unable to drive legally even when they are not impaired. Thank you to everyone who joined us for the evening. It was a great opportunity to consider Queensland’s most recent drug driving reforms, hear from the panellists, and raise questions about how we might prioritise road safety and restore independence to patients. If you have any questions about these reforms or would like to share your experience, please get in touch.
Jonty’s seniors events
To mark Seniors Month, I will be hosting two morning teas in October. These are always very popular and a chance for our seniors to come together, share a laugh, and be recognised for all that they bring to our community. Invitations will be posted, so please keep an eye on your letterbox.
(07) 3554 9100 Cooper@parliament.qld.gov.au Www.Jontybush.com Shop 2, 230 Waterworks road, ASHGROVE qld 4060
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 7
ChordialityChoir Choir
AshgroveRangers Rangers Some recent results from Ashgrove Ranger's athletes included results from the Sydney Marathon: Andrew Bray 4:55.44; Gina de la Cruz 3:30.34; Katherine Jackman 4:21.57; and John White 3:44.51. Anthony Wallace has finished in 7th place in the World Masters Athletics Championships 55 Plus 5k in Daegu, South Korea in 17:22.41.
Chordiality Concert on 25 October Night Music makes for good health When Indooroopilly - based Chordiality choir presents its concert on 25 October, ‘A Little Night Music,’ it boasts some serious longevity. Proof that singing keeps you young are two ‘young things’ Jack Wade and Jill Laing. Jill just celebrated her 90th birthday and Jack is warming up the candles for his 90th soon. Jill joined the choir in its first year, in 2008, and has been singing strong ever since. She has sung in choirs for most of her adult life and feels very at home in Chordiality. Chordiality is a 50-person non-auditioned choir, based in Indooroopilly, Brisbane, conducted by Brett Sturdy and accompanied by Simon Carl. Carl has worked with the choir since its inception in 2008. The choir pursues choral excellence and ensures they have fun singing together at the same time. The concert, ‘A Little Night Music’, features hummable tunes and beautiful arrangements from Schubert to Leonard Cohen and everyone in between. Commissioned especially for this concert, a work by Australian composer, Dan Walker, ‘We Sing into the Night’ also premieres. The concert is at Christ Church St Lucia at 2.30pm at a cost of $30 for adults. Concessions are available.
For more info about Chordiality: www.chordiality.org
Results for the National Cross Country Championships in Ballarat - 22nd/23rd August, 2026 are as follows. Silver: Cam Cox - U17 Boys 6k State Teams; Aria Nixon (also Toowong Harriers) - U13 Girls 3k State Teams; Dick Dunstan - 75 Plus Masters Men’s 4k. Bronze: Anthony Wallace - 55 Plus Masters Men 6k; Aria Nixon (also Toowong Harriers) - U13 Girls 3k. The club would like to congratulate Athletics Australia on an epic event which provided a pathway for Australia’s next generation of aspiring distance running talent. Training is Monday and Thursday evening at The Gap High school oval from 5.45-7.00pm, Tuesday from 5pm at the University of Queensland hill opposite the running track, and Saturday morning Pilates at the UQ running track 200m mark from 9am. If interested in training or competing in any of our teams you can contact John Purcell on 0417 075 292 or Dick Dunstan on 3300 5719.
For more: www.ashgroverangers.org
Art inBark Bark Dear Readers, are you bored? Looking for something new to do? Come and join us, and learn to do a paper bark picture from the bark of the Melaleuca tree a unique gift for your special event, birthday, Anniversary, or Christmas. Our workshops take place on Mondays at City Hall in the basement, enter via the Adelaide Street side. It’s a calming and relaxing experience in a friendly atmosphere. Mondays at 9.30am -12pm. Lessons are $10, kits are $15. Kit includes board, bark, glue and tools to do your first picture.
If you can’t come on Mondays, come on Saturdays fortnightly at the Apostolic church hall, at 43 Robinson Rd, Nundah. Please phone first to book your class. For more info call Dipti on 0468 548 600, or Ros on 0419 674 498. The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 8
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Hi Neighbour, You’re invited to the Fenwick Park Halloween Festival on Saturday 31 October! Bring the whole family, neighbours and friends, and enjoy some free and spooky family fun as the spirit world and the real world meet on a warm October evening. The kids will have a ball with face painting, a jumping castle, a costume parade, live music, market stalls and food trucks! There’ll be trick or treating on nearby streets, and we’re so excited to see how the neighbours transform their homes into fabulous Haunted Houses. Mitchelton has a reputation for spookiness – with the fantastic Blackwood St Halloween Festival having been a mainstay of the community for years. With that festival sadly no longer able to continue, my office has decided to work with a variety of local community groups, artists and small businesses to keep the spirit alive (or… undead, perhaps!). Here are the details: What: Fenwick Park Halloween Festival When: 4-7pm Saturday 31 October Where: Fenwick Park, Mitchelton Cost: Free Raising a family is hard work. And in this time when the cost of living is biting, screen addiction is a constant challenge, and people are worried about the future, it’s more and more important that we go back to that old saying that ‘it takes a village’ to raise a kid. That’s why I’m so excited to see more and more communities self-organising to put on their own Halloween activities. This festival hopes to add to that effort of bringing the community together, and just having a carefree afternoon with other locals. The more we know our neighbours, the better placed we’ll all be when the zombie apocalypse arrives (or just simply if you need to borrow a tool, organise a play date, deal with a local issue like speeding). So whether you’re a zombie, a werewolf, a ghost, or just a regular member of the community – I hope I’ll see you at our Fenwick Park Halloween Festival on 31 October!
ELIZABETH WATSON-BROWN FEDERAL GREENS MP FOR RYAN
Comments or concerns? My team and I are here to help!
(07) 3378 1599 elizabeth.watson-brown.mp@aph.gov.au @elizabethwatsonbrown
ELIZABETHWATSONBROWN.COM
I always love seeing everyone show their creativity and silly side for Halloween. It’s a fabulous way to build community!
Join us for one of our regular community dinners
Every Wednesday 5pm Alfred & Lucina Best Park, The Gap elizabethwatsonbrown.com/events
Authorised by E.Watson-Brown, 188 Moggill Rd, Taringa, 4068
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 9
On court with the Australian Crocs From The Gap to Jakarta: Bastian’s Rapid Rise in Padel A little over a year ago, 15-year-old Gap local Bastian Bierenbroodspot picked up a padel racquet for the first time. This November, he will be putting on an Australian uniform and representing his country in Jakarta, Indonesia in the FIP Asian Cup. Bastian had spent years playing tennis before discovering padel when Brisbane’s first padel centre opened at The Gap Health and Racquet Club. He thought he would give it a try,
Picabeen Community Lunch Volunteers We are looking for volunteers to help with our Community BBQ Lunch on Tuesdays. The BBQ is held each week and provides a space for local community members to meet, enjoy some social connections and have a free, freshly cooked lunch. Jobs include helping set up, preparation and serving of food, cleaning and pack down afterwards.
Suicide Bereavement Support Group The Brisbane North Suicide Bereavement Support Group offers a safe, welcoming, and non-clinical space for adults who have been impacted by suicide. The group meets twice monthly, on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, from 6:00–8:00pm at Picabeen Community Centre. If
A safer ride starts with you Factors that may contribute to a motorbike crash include crossing over to the wrong side of the road, riders over-estimating their capabilities, speed, and inexperienced riders who are unfamiliar with the road. Some things you can do to maximise your safety on the road include: • Ensure you are riding to the prevailing conditions • Wear adequate protection • Ride safely – don’t push yourself • Be familiar with your bike and ride according to your skill level • Ensure your bike is roadworthy and well maintained • Avoid the Fatal Five factors such as speed, drink and drug driving, fatigue and distractions which can also contribute to the severity of crashes • Ride so you and your motorcycle can be seen by other road users.
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and quickly discovered that his tennis skills transferred remarkably well to the smaller court and fast-paced game. But it was the fun of padel that really hooked him. “There is a vibe around padel that is hard to put your finger on, but once you experience it, you keep coming back.” What started as something new to try soon became an obsession. Bastian began training and competing regularly, developing the quick reactions, tactical awareness and teamwork that padel demands. His rapid progress has also been helped by the people around him, particularly local padel coaches Adam Hameed and Marti Sala, as well as his long-term tennis coach Jamie Wharem. In just over a year, Bastian’s journey has taken him from the courts at The Gap to selection in the Australian Junior Crocs team. He will now compete against talented junior players from around the world in Jakarta. For Bastian, it is an exciting opportunity to represent his country, but also a remarkable reminder of what can happen when you discover a sport you love. From The Gap to Jakarta in just over a year, it has been quite a journey. you feel this group is right for you, contact the centre to find out more.
Picabeen Youth Team Term 3 is well underway at Picabeen, and the Youth Team has been enjoying another busy stretch of groups, activities and conversations with young people. Safe Space, Social Connections and our Dungeons & Dragons group continue to offer relaxed, welcoming places to meet others, get involved, try something new and simply have a space where young people can feel comfortable and connected. With the Christmas school holidays coming up, there will also be more opportunities to join in. Keep an eye on the Picabeen Community Centre Facebook page for upcoming youth activities and school holiday events.
For more about Picabeen: www.picabeen.org.au Listed below is the correct method of reporting police related matters to Police: Call Triple Zero (000) Emergency • If a crime is happening now, • When a life is threatened; or • When the event is time critical Call Police Link (131 444) Non-Urgent Assistance • For all non-urgent police assistance; or • Report a non-urgent Police Matter Online Reporting (police.qld.gov.au) Non-Urgent Assistance • If you have the internet, you can submit an online report for: • Non-urgent police assistance; or • Non-urgent police matter
Email: neighbourhoodwatchthegap@yahoo.com.au Website: www.nhwq4061.com Ensure you like/follow our Facebook page for specific information in your area: www.facebook.com/neighbourhoodwatchthegap Your Suburb, Your Home, Your Family, Your Community 4061. WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU
Trek2Health
TOGETHER WE SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT US.
I’ve Got Your Back – More Than A T-Shirt For years through Trek2Health, we’ve had the privilege of walking alongside police, I.C.U, paramedics, E.D, firefighters, SES, veterans and other frontline personnel. These are people who spend their working lives supporting us, often on our worst days. Our new I’VE GOT YOUR BACK movement is about giving everyday Queenslanders a simple opportunity to return that support. Yes, it starts with a T-shirt – but the shirt is just the beginning. You can purchase an I’VE GOT YOUR BACK shirt for yourself or we will send one to somebody you care about with your own personal message. If you’re not sure what to write, simply tell us what you want to say, and we can help turn your thoughts into a letter and send it on your behalf.
Australia's frontline workers have always had our back. Now it's our turn to have theirs. Every day, thousands of military personnel, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, ambulance officers and other frontline workers protect our communities. Many carry the lasting effects of stress, trauma and operational service long after the uniform comes off. The I'VE GOT YOUR BACK campaign gives every Australian a simple way to show their appreciation and help make a real difference.
But there is another part of this idea that I believe is powerful. After you buy a T-Shirt, you can write an anonymous message to a frontline worker you have never met. Tell them thank you. Tell them their service matters. Tell them somebody in the community sees what they do. Or simply tell them, “I’ve got your back.” We will print those messages and personally hand them to frontline personnel and veterans as they begin their Trek2Health journey. Think about that connection. A stranger somewhere in Queensland takes a few minutes to write a message of support. Another person, perhaps struggling after years of looking after everybody else, receives those words on their first day with us. That is the full circle we want to create.
HOW YOU CAN HELP?
I’VE GOT YOUR BACK isn't just something we want Queenslanders to wear. It is something we want Queenslanders to mean. They’ve always had our back. Now it’s our turn to have theirs. At Trek2Health, we’ll walk with you – every step of the way. Thank you for reading this. Stay tuned for more tips and insights. Until then, take a moment to step outside, ride a wave, ride a horse, breathe in the fresh air, and embrace the beauty of nature.
Warm regards, Bruce Barker CEO & Founder, Trek2Health & Surf Shed For more: www.trek2health.org.au
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 11
Ashgrove Historical Society Visitors are very welcome to attend the Ashgrove Historical Society meetings held on the first Saturday of the month from 10amnoon at Ashgrove Library. Come along on 7 November 2026 to hear about War memorials in Australia and overseas presented by Geoff Crane. A shared morning tea will follow the presentation. In keeping with Remembrance Day on 11 November, Geoff's presentation will be about war memorials in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Gallipoli, Villers Bretonneux and other places. Ashgrove Historical Society 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.
Paddington Then and Now Uncovering Ithaca Creek's Time Capsules Paddington Then and Now has been lending a hand to Ithaca Creek State School's P&C on a wonderful project: digitising and cataloguing decades of school history, including the contents of time capsules buried in 1985 and 2000. Those capsules will be opened on Sunday 25 October at 10am, as part of Our Shared Stories - a community celebration for past students, teachers and local residents, with historical photos and memorabilia on display, plus a sausage sizzle and refreshments. If you or someone you know has a connection to Ithaca Creek State School, even from decades back, please pass this on. Many former students and teachers won't hear about the day unless someone forwards it to them. If you have old photos, uniforms, newsletters or other memorabilia from the school's history, or can help identify faces and places in the time capsule photos, the project would love to hear from you.
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.
The Gap Little Athletics Favourite daughter rises to Little As challenge Giving back to the club that sparked her love for track and field was Laura Bray’s motivation for tackling The Gap Little Athletics’ Tiny Tots coordinator role. The club announced Laura, still an active Little As competitor, will guide the three and four-yearolds each Friday night throughout the 2026/27 season. Already a valued role model and mentor to many of The Gap’s younger athletes, Laura was naturally
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 12
RSVP is essential for catering.
Email: sharedstories@icsspandc.com for the link and details. It's a project Paddington Then and Now is proud to be part of. suited to the job. She has represented Queensland age group teams in middle distance events. And she is now nationally ranked in the under-17 heptathlon after switching her focus to the gruelling multi-discipline event. The Bray family has provided countless hours of service to the club, with parents Andy and Bec, and all four children often volunteering in the canteen or wielding barbeque tools. “I pretty much grew up here,” the Mt St Michael's College student said. “When I heard they needed a Tots coordinator, I jumped straight in.” The 2026/27 Little Athletics season was launched in August but new members are always welcome. Emphasis is always on fun and participation, with competition held every Friday night during summer from 6pm at The Gap State High School.
For more information visit: www.thegaplittleathletics.org.au. Photo: The Gap Little Athletics Tiny Tots coordinator Laura Bray (left) and one of her protégés, Kitty Stannard.
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Balaangala Community Group Miyami – Soap Tree Balaangala members understand that the Yuggera language name for the Soap Tree is Miyami. Other names include Red Ash and Alphitonia excelsa. Miyami leaves have a glossy green uppersurface and silvery under-surface. The clusters of cream flowers are pleasantly fragrant. Miyami is found growing in eucalypt forests and rainforests of eastern and northern Australia. It grows naturally along Enoggera Creek. Native bird species are attracted to the blue-black fruits and the Miyami is the host-plant of several butterflies. So, leaf-chewing damage is really just an indication of rich bio-diversity. Cultural and Traditional uses of Miyami First Nations Peoples used the crushed leaves to create a cleansing soapy lather when rubbed in water. First Nations Peoples also used the leaves, bark or roots for a number of medicinal purposes, including pain management. Crushed leaves and berries were used in fish trapping. The “soap” breaks down the surface tension of the water, leading to low oxygen levels which stuns the fish allowing some to be caught for food, while the rest recover without harm. Balaangala members like to share the soapy experience of handwashing using Miyami leaves with visiting children.
Spring is Here! New Members who join before 15 October will receive
100 DISCOUNT off their annual $
subscription.
Enjoy a year-round leisure retreat for the whole family, including: Heated Swimming Pools
2 Floodlit Tennis Courts
4 Glass-backed Squash Courts
Gas BBQs & Leisure Areas
Event at St Mark’s Church Balaangala members are looking forward to sharing information about our small volunteer-led group at St Mark's, The Gap, on Sunday, 18 October. It's wonderful to see local churches reaching out to the wider community, bringing people together over a shared meal. We appreciate opportunities to connect with local people and thanks to the generosity of St. Mark's, the event will also be a chance to raise much needed funds for Balaangala activities. If you would like to find out more about the Balaangala group which has been active for over 18 years, please come along on 18 October. For bookings, please see St Mark's article in this edition of the Western Echo.
www.balaangala.org.au www.facebook.com/balaangala
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Or do you have a suggestion for a good location? Please contact Melanie on 0409 440 501; or email editor@westernecho.com.au
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Bring your family, stay active, and make the most of everything the Club has to offer.
MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE CONTACT THE CLUB TODAY
07 3366 1560
28 Greenlanes Rd, Ashgrove | office@taylorrangeclub.com.au
www.taylorrangeclub.com.au
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 13
Rotary Club Boomerang Bags The Gap & Surrounds Ashgrove The Gap Why Buying Local Can Be About More Than Shopping When you buy something locally made, you're often buying much more than the product itself. You're supporting the people, skills and ideas that help make our local community a vibrant place to live. At Boomerang Bags The Gap and Surrounds, every bag has a story. Because each bag is handmade from donated fabrics, no two are quite the same. There is something special about knowing that the bag you carry has been thoughtfully made by local volunteers rather than mass-produced. But the story doesn't end when the sewing machine stops. When you purchase a Boomerang Bag, you're supporting a community project that brings people together through creativity, practical skills and a shared commitment to reusing resources. Funds raised through the sale of our bags are paid forward to local community groups, so your purchase can also help make a difference beyond your own household. It's a simple example of how our everyday choices can have a wider impact. Choosing repurposed, locally made products helps keep materials in use, supports community makers and contributes to causes that matter. So next time you're looking for a useful bag, consider choosing one with a story — one that's been made locally, repurposed with purpose and created to give back. Keep an eye out for our next mini market stall at Bakeologist Café. Come and say hello, browse our latest collection and find a bag that's as unique as you are!
Email: bbtgs4061@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/boomerangbagsthegap andsurrounds Instagram: www.instagram.com/ boomerang_bags_the_gap
Hollingworth & Spencer Fixed Fee Conveyancing
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Contact Liz Fox on (07) 3123 5700 Visit our website for an obligation free quote
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 14
All will be aware of the disaster in Nepal. To give an idea of the scale, it is the biggest loss of Australians (on the pessimistic assumption that the missing are not now going to be found alive) for decades - possibly since the Bali bombings. Then reflect that those Australians represent less than one percent of the probable final toll of human life. Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS) immediately set up a relief fund, and the club has contributed $2000. There are world rankings of charities and not-for-profit service organisations, and Rotary consistently emerges with top scores for lowest admin costs and greatest effectiveness in the application of funds. We can be confident that the money, raised here an Ashgrove and The Gap, from you at public events, will achieve maximum relief once applied in Nepal. Club admin costs are all paid for by members’ fees, never by funds raised. It may seem a bit early to mention it, but nonetheless Christmas is coming, and with it the Rotary Santa Sleigh and the Rotary Carols by Candlelight. We are busy getting ready for these major endeavours, and we would very much welcome any help from volunteers, even a few hours.
To learn more about the club you can visit: https://rotaryashgrovethegap.org.au/ If the idea of volunteering for specific events appeals to you, or just finding out more about Rotary, you can contact Tim Boyd at agrclub@gmail.com, or text at 0411 141 304.
Wild InThe The Gap Local wildlife photographer Karen Palmer has again captured some stunning wildlife photos in her garden in The Gap – this time gorgeous butterflies. A Common Crow butterfly and a Common Albatross butterfly. 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 credits: © Karen Palmer
You can also follow the local ‘Wild in The Gap’ Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/1801218243514396 Please send your photo/s to Melanie: editor@westernecho.com.au WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU
better life. You can leave them a better world. Animals give you a
Let your love for animals live on with a gift in your Will to
Find out more at rspcainyourwill.org.au or call 1800 777 223.
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 15
Rotary Club Of Paddington
FOR THE LOVE
of Books
Sisters in Crime
Creating Hope and Shelter through Service
An enticing crime wave is sweeping through inner Brisbane suburbs with a series of killer conversations and literary events hosted by the Queensland chapter of Sisters in Crime.
As President of the Rotary Club of Paddington, I am particularly proud to also be an Ambassador and volunteer for ShelterBox Australia, an organisation providing emergency shelter and essential supplies to families who have lost their homes through disaster or conflict.
Sisters in Crime is an international organisation celebrating women's crime writing. The organisation is big in Melbourne, and now Brisbane is giving them a run for their money. We have an abundance of talented women crime writers in Brisbane - in The Western Echo catchment alone this includes Joanna Jenkins, January Gilchrist, Cass Moriarty, Julie Fison, Carla Salmon, Harrie Blake, Shailee Thompson, Kylie Kaden, Poppy Gee, and more.
This year, I was honoured to receive the ShelterBox Australia’s Fundraiser of the Year 2026 award, following more than $21,000 raised to support its work around the world. This recognition is not really about me though, it is about the incredible generosity of the people, Rotary Clubs and community groups who have supported my fundraising along the way. ShelterBox has a special connection to Rotary, having been founded by a Rotary Club in the UK. Today, Rotary members and clubs continue to support ShelterBox around the world by raising funds, spreading awareness and helping communities respond to disasters and displacement. Having travelled extensively and lived in different countries, I have seen firsthand how fortunate we are in Australia despite our challenges. For families who suddenly lose everything, something as basic as a safe place to sleep can mean so much. I believe shelter should be a human right. Through Rotary and ShelterBox Australia, we can each play a small part in bringing hope, dignity and a little comfort to people facing unimaginable circumstances like our current appeal after the devastating flash floods in Nepal.
Visit www.shelterboxaustralia.org.au or contact the Rotary Club of Paddington. Together, we can create lasting impact. Mademoiselle President Valerie
Each year the group holds several crime fiction literary dinners in Paddington and thriller writer January Gilchrist has recently started a monthly offshoot called Wines and Spines on Thursday evenings at Frank's Social. The next exciting event, a free afternoon tea on Saturday 17 October, is the Sisters in Crime Queensland 2026 Crime Writing Showcase at the Brisbane Square Library. The public is warmly invited to what will be a fun afternoon with 11 superstar authors from across Queensland. Guests can mingle with the authors, meet other crime readers, and listen to an entertaining conversation. Bookings are essential through Brisbane City Council Eventbrite website www.eventbrite.com.au Crime fiction offers readers a bouquet of thrills, excitement and escapism, quality writing, and an engaging lens through which to examine real life injustices, human morality, collective guilt and individual complicity, and the myriad of ways that danger presses upon our lives. Sisters in Crime Queensland is run by co-convenors Poppy Gee and Harrie Blake and they welcome all readers and writers. If you'd like more information contact poppygee@gmail.com or check out her instagram @poppygeenovelist
Poppy very kindly wrote this month’s column. Happy reading! @sarahsbookchat Author: Sarah Krause
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 16
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 17
The Gap Sustainability Initiative
'IT'S DEBATABLE' A Youth Perspective The Arts: Should I Stay or Should I Go? A young musician describes two very different futures to me. On the one hand, she can have family and safety and a psychology degree here in Brisbane. On the other hand, she can risk it all (like many before) and go to the music capital of the world, Vienna, managing endless night gigs and fighting for a place in one of the great European orchestras. She knows what she wants but the risk is just so high.
We are very proud as community to have saved 14,302 plastic containers from landfill or plastic waste. This activity is genuinely good for the environment and also helps us with our activities by providing a small but important contribution to our running costs. Thank you to everyone who collected bottles and provided them to Containers for Change with our collection number (C10826699). We are now a registered charity and can accept tax-deductible donations. At the end of the year at our AGM we will provide an overview of activities and what the money was used for.
Similarly, the most talented young dancer I know lives in fear. For all the glitz and glamour of her dreams, she knows there’s a good shot she’ll simply end up a middle-age dance teacher. And while there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s not her dream and it’s certainly not a lot of money. A law degree is a far safer bet… And a young actor tells me about the joy of finding himself on a stage. But he admits there’s not much joy slinking back to his casual job every few months when the auditions dry up. And so, the same thought hovers over all these young creatives: should I just get out now? Every day, countless young Australian poets/writers/actors/dancers/ singers/painters give up on their dreams.
Our vision is to collectively preserve and enhance the beautiful surroundings of The Gap, where nature, people, and wildlife thrive together for generations to come. This year, we co-organised The Brisbane West Eco Fest together with SOWN, Boomerang Bags The Gap and Surrounds, and Repair Café The Gap, which was very much enjoyed by the community, with a rating of 4.85 out of 5.
It’s sad but oftentimes it’s the right choice. The stress and uncertainty of a creative life is not right for everyone.
As part of our Sustainability Together project we will spend the rest of the year focusing on verge gardens. We aim to plant at last one example verge garden in a location easily accessible to many, so that the community can help plant, care and see it grow. Verge gardens can make an important contribution to biodiversity as they increase the availability of food and shelter for native animals and cool the suburb by providing shade and retaining moisture.
And yet, if it’s such a privilege to even have the chance to follow your dream… then perhaps those who can should be grateful enough to seize that same chance with both hands.
We will also continue our street tree care program, every second and fourth Saturday of the month, 7.30-9am. The Platypus Project plans to conduct two more macroinvertebrate surveys this year, as well as water quality measurement and eDNA analysis of Enoggera Creek’s biodiversity in collaboration with Save our Waterways Now (SOWN). On Fridays, the team meets for a Platypus sowing bee, with the created toys sold to fund the group’s activities. The Electric Community group continues to follow-up on the Community Battery and provides information and support for people who wish to electrify their homes.
Anyone can join our activities and events, just check our events calendar on our website www.thegapustainability.org; or follow us on Facebook/thegapsustainability or send us an email to: info@thegapsustainability.org
Similarly, the notion of ‘following your dream’ comes from a place of privilege. If you’re buried under rent or obligations, ‘the monotonous wheel of corporate drudgery’ is a paycheque necessity rather than a burden to bemoan in your university art class.
As every young artist agrees, it’s never going to be easy. Your friends will ask when you’re going to get a real job. Your guidance officer will gently remind you that creatives are among some of the poorest professions. Even your dad will share his two cents worth on how AI is going to do all that art stuff in a few years anyway! And they’re all fair points really. A creative life requires young people to bet on themselves time and time again. But there’s something special about seeing the genuine grit and spark in those rare truly determined young artists, because that sort of selfbelief takes real courage. Certainly, both kindness and cynicism have their place. Still, when young artists dare to dream, I hope you take the time to really appreciate their passion. They’ll get plenty of reality checks in their life, but you might have the special privilege of being the first person to ever tell them, “Sounds like a lot of work but I’m rooting for you, mate. Go you good thing!”
Author: Leonard Cavallaro
Reminder for Advertisers / Contributors please:
Deadline for November Edition: All due by 12 October 2026 | Please send to: editor@westernecho.com.au | Any questions? Call Melanie on: 0409 440 501
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 18
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PHOTO OF THE MONTH PHOTO TIPS presented by
Colin Bushell Photography “Storm season is upon us and I often get asked about capturing lightning. You’ll need three things: a tripod, a long exposure and patience. Get in touch if you’d like to know more.” – Colin.
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 19
Carinity From the bush to the city, Lorna celebrates 100 years
Woodturners Society of Qld Discover the joy of woodcraft with the Woodturners Society of Queensland Inc!
A former part-time jockey who cattle stations in Discoverworked the joy ofon woodcraft with theremote Woodturners Society is now a Queensland of Queensland Inc! centenarian.
Whether you’re a hobbyist, novice, or seasoned woodworker, our welcoming Lorna Wing, who lives at the community offers a safe space to master Carinity Hilltop woodturning and other crafts. aged care home
Whether you’re a hobbyist, novice, or seasoned woodworker, our welcoming community offers a safe space to master woodturning and other crafts.
We’re dedicated to nurturing yourcelebrated skills in Kelvin Grove, her and inspiring creativity, helping you turn 100th birthday on September 13. wood into stunning, functional, or unique pieces. Join us for hands-on workshops in She was born in Townsville in 1926 woodturning, toy-making, pyrography, and box-making using on a variety of tools and grew up large beef cattle and equipment. stations in the gulf country of northElevate your craft with us today! west Queensland.
Visit us at wsqld.org.au or
As a young she worked as 19 Pine woman Street, Greenslopes, QLD secretary@wsq.org.au a bookkeeper on Lorraine Station, a farming property located around 400km north of Mount Isa and Cloncurry. There were times when Lorna was cooking for 40 men alongside teaching three of her children distance education. Lorna’s favourite memories of her youth are enjoying bush life, including horse riding. She rode as a jockey at country race meets as far away as Western Australia in her late-teens and 20s. During World War II, Lorna was a plane spotter looking for enemy aircraft flying around – and she would report on them. Lorna met Bob Wing, who was working as head stockman on Lorraine Station. The couple married in 1954 and later welcomed four children. The Wing family has since expanded to include 13 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. Lorna and Bob retired to Brisbane in 1986, where Lorna enjoyed gardening, knitting, crocheting, drawing, crosswords and Sudoku. Family from as far away as Scotland, Darwin, Melbourne, Blackall, Emerald and Clermont helped Lorna celebrate her milestone 100th birthday at Carinity Hilltop, where she has lived for three years.
For more about Carinity Hilltop: www.carinity.org.au/our-services/ residential-aged-care
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Book now with Mel: 0409 440 501 The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 20
Save the date for OUR NEXT EVENT
May 2027
Belmont Shooters Complex, Belmont
We’re dedicated to nurturing your skills and inspiring creativity, helping you turn wood into stunning, functional, or unique pieces. Join us for hands-on workshops in woodturning, toymaking, pyrography,
and box-making using a variety of tools and equipment. Elevate your craft with us today!
Visit us at wsqld.org.au or 19 Pine Street, Greenslopes, QLD secretary@wsq.org.au
Aussie Bird Count 2026
Discover the joy of woodcraft with the Woodturners Society of Queensland Inc!
Whether you’re a hobbyist, novice, or to Count Birds! seasoned woodworker, It’s ourtime welcoming 19-25 space October: to taking part is easy community offers a safe master and fun – just spend 20 minutes woodturning and other crafts. in your garden counting birds, and then submit yours results (online or
We’re dedicated to nurturing app). You can your count asskills many times as youhelping want. Every helps. and inspiring creativity, youcount turn There is also a “Bird Finder” tool to wood into stunning,help functional, identify birds. or unique pieces. Join us for hands-on workshops Why counting matters in woodturning, toy-making, The Aussiepyrography, Bird Count is a fun, easy way for all of us tooftake a national and box-making using a variety tools snapshot of the birds around us as and equipment. we connect with nature. With just 20 minutes, you can help build a picture
Elevate your craft with usour today! of how feathered friends are
faring and contribute to something thatwsqld.org.au really counts. Visit us at or Right now, one in six birds facesGreenslopes, the threat of extinction, 19Australian Pine Street, QLD making it more important than ever to pay attention.
secretary@wsq.org.au
For all details and resources: www.aussiebirdcount.org.au Photos credit: Karen Palmer
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Exhibition&Sales
original handcrafted woodwork by members of the
WOODTURNERS SOCIETY QUEENSLAND
Free Event
MT COOT-THA AUDITORIUM
OCTOBER 2026 AL SPECI
MAS T S I R CH ENT A
EV
FRI 23RD 12PM-4PM SAT 24TH 9AM-4PM SUN 25TH 9AM-3PM
sales • exhibit • turning demos • food & drinks • raffle • free parking • wheelchair access
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 21
Newmarket ViewClub At our August meeting a surprise waited on each table. The surprise was a student profile for each child our club sponsors through the Smith Family organisation. These profiles, all anonymous, were completed by the students, allowing us a small glimpse into their lives. Some of the questions answered by the students were: What are you most excited about this year? - Finishing primary school and my Aunty’s wedding. My hobbies are? - Art and Reading. I am learning to play the drums. After school and on the weekends, I like to… - Sleep and listen to music What is your favourite school subject and why? - Drama as I like acting I felt proud recently when… - I got an Arts award at assembly This year I want to…- Make new friends and get good grades Parents or carers was also asked to share something with their sponsor. The main request from parents were to do with their child’s ability to
Yoorala St Community Garden Free Open Day on Sunday, 18 October Please join us on 18 October for our free Open Day – held at Yoorala St Community Garden, The Gap, from 9-11am. The Free Open Day will feature activities for everyone. Enjoy a complimentary coffee – present your used coffee cup to be filled with soil and receive a plant to take home. Jams, chutneys and more will be available to buy, all made from the fruits of the large onsite orchard. To complement your coffee, baked goodies will be available for sale, featuring our famous scones & cream. This year a bonanza raffle includes a hamper supplied by Jonty Bush,
go on more excursions with the school. Hopefully in 2026 this wish may be achieved for most children. Upcoming events for October are: 13 October: Behind the Scenes at QPAC. Cost is $20.00 and you are most welcome to bring a friend. 27 October: Monthly meeting. Ashgrove Golf Club, 863 Waterworks Rd, The Gap. 10.00am for 10.15am start. Guest speaker is Tiffany Campbell talking about Neuro Audio. This inspiring and practical session helps people understand the powerful connection between hearing, communication and brain health. If you are interested in attending one of our regular social events or a monthly meeting which are held on the 4th Tuesday of each month, we would love to welcome you.
Please call Margaret our President who will be very happy to have a chat on 0408 988 672 or by emailing newmarketview@gmail.com. Our website is www.view.org.au if you would like to find out more about View Clubs and their association with the Smith Family. MLA for Cooper, and one from Elizabeth Watson-Brown, MP for Ryan, and vouchers from Bunnings and Coles. In addition to providing a coffee cart with the first 100 coffees free, Cr. Steve Toomey and his team have organised the ever-popular Interactive Wildlife Show featuring animal handler, Martin Fingland of Geckoes Wildlife who will do a special presentation at 10am, guaranteed to delight children and adults alike. Tour the various plots and see what the many options are for developing individual garden beds. Learn more about composting in community plots, and at home. Read more on the website (see details below) where you’ll see that ‘The garden is a space for people to come together and participate in the principles of organic gardening, in the spirit of community and sustainability.’
For more: www.yooralastreetcommunitygarden.com.au Email: yscgsecretary@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/ yooralastreetcommunitygarden Street address: 98 Yoorala Street, The Gap 4061
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! The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 22
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Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club Too often we prioritise physical health over mental health but both are equally important for our overall well-being. Mental health is a global cause of Lions International and to support this cause and as part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Ashgrove/ The Gap Lions will be at The Gap Village, Friday, 9 October, 10:00am3:00pm, promoting the resources to support mental health, available at the Australian Lions Wellbeing Foundation website. Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club is a silver sponsor of the program offered through the Foundation, encouraging all Lions Clubs across Australia to organise an event, promoting Mental Health Awareness. Organisations in our local community supporting mental health will also be represented. It was with great sadness that we farewelled recently, one of the Club’s Life members, Lindsay Wilkin. His funeral at The Gap Uniting Church, was a celebration of a life well lived: a life dedicated to love of family, community service and cricket! President Neil Phillips spoke at the funeral on behalf of Lions: “Lindsay…always a true gentleman, well liked, a humble, caring compassionate man, warm hearted and with a generous spirit, who loved his family and his fellow man.” Well-known local photographer
Here to Help With an Office Right Here in The Gap! Visit me today 996 Waterworks Road, The Gap QLD 4061
and Friend of Lions, Colin Bushell, spoke about his trip to Africa and Sri Lanka at the last Partners and Friends Dinner. Eyeballing a wild animal in its own environment is a once in a lifetime experience. Colin had a goal: capture a photo of a cheetah . He saw only one; it lurked, he waited; it momentarily popped its head above the Serengeti grassland. Colin was ready. The 4 hours wait was worth it! You can see more of Colin’s amazing wildlife photography at an upcoming exhibition, coming to a local venue near you!
Until next month…
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AGENT OF THE YEAR
QLD 2025
Ca r m e n Briggs
Real Estate Agent & Justice of the Peace
0418 742 511 The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 23
Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club Hoorah for Probus! We are celebrating 50 years of Probus in Australia in 2026. this year. October is Probus month and exciting things are happening all around Australia. In Brisbane, landmarks will light up in the famous Probus colours of Blue and Yellow. On 1 October, the Landmark lightning will be on Breakfast Creek bridge, Redcliffe place sculptures, Story Bridge, the Tropical Dome, Victoria Bridge, Wickham Terrace car park, and more. So, when you see the yellow and blue you will know that we are celebrating our wonderful organisation. Originally Probus grew out of Rotary - and now has 160 clubs in Queensland, and is enjoyed by more than 9000 Queenslanders. The name Probus is the combination of the words profession and business, and reflects the focus of our club. Our aim is to stimulate and enrich the lives of retirees in our community. For our 10 October meeting we are celebrating with a High-Tea and a wonderful speaker sharing his adventures while “Trekking the Mountain Tops”. Probus is exclusively for semi - retired and retirees who want fun, fellowship and friendship. Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club has activities every week. Our main get-together is the second Thursday of the month at Red Hill Sports and Community Centre, 22 Fulcher Rd Red Hill. 9.30am. We are a friendly and welcoming club. Our monthly meeting begins with a small amount of formal discussion about upcoming events and member’s welfare. Usually, we enjoy a short talk on a topic of personal interest by one of our members. Then we have time to chat over morning tea, followed by an interesting quest speaker. We are a keen bunch of readers, and our book exchange is
Ashgrove Bardon RSL Sub Branch Iraq & Afghanistan Combat Veterans In the last edition of The Western Echo, the Sub-Branch mentioned that we had acquired a copy of “After The Blast” by Garth Callender, recommending the book as a “good read”. Given the current media and political commentary on the conduct of our soldiers during that campaign, the Epilogue paints a picture of a combat that would be only too familiar to Vietnam War veterans, but unfortunately largely unknown to most Australians. The Sub-Branch offers to all those veterans a willing listener and the kind of support that isn’t always forthcoming after your transition to civilian life. If you have a story you want to tell, or the need for a sympathetic ear the RSL has the capacity to offer just that, and perhaps to point you in the direction of more substantive support. You
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 24
always well supported. Our wide range of activities include card days, BBQs, club lunches, and some bus trips. We also have coffee and chat mornings. We welcome new members and guests so come along to a meeting and relax, enjoy time with like-minded friends.
For more information check-out our website at Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Inc for activities past and upcoming events.
AranaViewClub ViewClub On 10 September 2026 the Arana View Club and multiple guests came together at The Ferny Grove Sports Club to see the designs from Portofino Fashions. Light refreshments, lucky door prizes and raffles helped in making this a cheerful event. We have two new members who joined us last month - to help Arana View Club (Voice, Interests, Education of Women). Arana View Club come together on the first Wednesday of the month at Arana Leagues Club. Together with The Smith Family we make a tremendous change by giving children the best start to life through a quality education and mentoring programs.
If you would like to help give children the best start to life through a quality education and mentoring programs, and meet wonderful and interesting women - some with over 30 years of service like Lorraine D, just pick up the phone and call our president Hilary on 0421 047 451. would be most welcome to join us for “refreshments” at 1.00pm after any Sub-Branch meeting. We would particularly like to hear from veterans who served multiple tours of duty.
Sub-Branch Sponsorships The Sub-Branch materially supports a number of organisations and activities annually. We are currently reviewing our list of recipients and ask that community organisations, particularly those with association to ADF or ex-service personnel and service families consider applying to us in writing stating their case for sponsorship. Correspondence may be directed to the Sub-Branch Secretary at: ian. garfield@ashgrove.rslqld.net.au
Next Sub-Branch Meeting Members are reminded that the next Sub-Branch Committee meeting will be held at the Red Hill Bowls Sports and Community Club, 22 Fulcher Rd Red Hill at 11.00am on Sunday 11 October.
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St Mark's Anglican Church A Conversation with Balaangala You may know Balaangala Community Group through their annual Art Show, native garden in Yoorala Street, or other activities around The Gap. They are a local community group that ‘aim to creatively bring First Nations and non-First Nations people together through relationships, creativity, caring for Country and learning from one another’.
ST MARK’S THE GAP INVITES YOU TO
A Conversation with
Balaangala 5.30-7.30pm
You may have heard about the Balaangala Community Group.
18 Oct 2026 Sunday
But do you know the story of how they ‘creatively bring people together’?
We are deeply interested in the grassroots approach Balaangala has developed to Reconciliation right here in The Gap – and thought you might be too! Our next ‘Courageous Conversation’ will be an opportunity to hear about the Balaangala journey, their motivations, different perspectives within the group, and what it’s been like to work together.
Join us for a shared meal and listen to perspectives from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and nonIndigenous members of Balaangala.
‘A Conversation with Balaangala’ on Sunday 18 October at 5.30pm is for the whole community. We’d love you to join us for a shared meal on arrival, followed by the discussion, with plenty of time to chat over dessert, tea and coffee.
St Mark’s Hall, Kullaroo St, The Gap
Free event with donation towards Balaangala’s work encouraged.
Please RSVP to assist with catering. Enquiries: Sue Hamlet 0427 619 381
It is a free event, but we encourage a $10 contribution, which goes directly to Balaangala's Restoration Fund. Please RSVP via Eventbrite to assist with catering. See the event advertisement for details. We look forward to sharing this special evening with you.
Rev Ann Edwards, St Mark’s The Gap
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Mitchelton & Districts GardenClub Curating a Cottage Garden Bouquets of colourful blooms were on display at the September meeting, as guest speaker Carol Kerkin shared her expertise on the timeless charm of cottage garden plants. Known for her passion and practical know-how, Carol delighted the audience with tips on creating a garden that is both beautiful and easy to maintain. Carol's talk covered a wide range of plant types that form the backbone of a classic cottage garden. She spoke enthusiastically about salvias, praising their long flowering season and resilience, and offered advice on choosing varieties suited to different climates. Daisies were another highlight, with Carol explaining how their cheerful, informal look adds to the relaxed cottage aesthetic. She also guided members through the roles of annuals and perennials in garden planning, encouraging a mix of both for continuous colour throughout the year. No cottage garden talk would be complete without bulbs, and Carol shared her favourite varieties for seasonal displays. Following her talk, members were able to purchase plants from Carol to implement the new ideas she inspired. The club extends its thanks to Carol Kerkin for such an engaging and valuable presentation.
For information on upcoming talks at the club, please feel free to email our Secretary at: mitcheltongc@gmail.com. You are most welcome to join us on the first Thursday of the month at the Enoggera Memorial Hall (Trundle St), at 9:30am for a 10:00am meeting start. Entry is $5.00 which includes morning tea - the club operates with cash only. Until we cross garden paths again, grow on gardeners!
Image: Cottage gardener, Carol Kerkin with club member, Karyn Glen.
African Violet Society of Qld The 2026 African Violet Society of Qld Show/ Sales day is on Saturday 17 October 9am-3pm at the Auditorium of the Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens. We will have plants and leaves for sale, potting supplies and crafts to buy. Our members will be on hand
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 26
West Brisbane Orchid Society 1965 to 2026 And Growing! The combined West Brisbane Orchid Society and The Australian Paphiopedilum Society Spring Charity Show, held at the Brisbane Botanic Gardens, Mount Coot-tha, on 12 and 13 September was an outstanding success. More than one hundred and sixty flowering plants were benched, from a wide range of Australian native and exotic genera. The plant sales were busy all day, catering was excellent, and a range of presentations on orchid culture was offered throughout the day. Thank you, Exhibitors; thank you, Sponsors; and especially, thank you to Members and Committee of The West Brisbane Orchid Society and The Australian Paphiopedilum Society. The Society’s program for the remainder of the year includes a presentation on Cattleyas and Orchid Labelling in October, and an early Christmas Party in November. Visitors and New Members are always welcome at the Society’s meetings. Why don’t you come along and learn more about these fascinating plants? The Society meets at The Gap Baptist Church on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7:00pm.
For further information please phone Ian (0418 873 725) or Bob (0428 717 321). For more see our website: www.westbrisbaneorchidsociety.com.au to answer your questions and we will have regular demonstrations throughout the day. Entry is $4 and a complimentary tea or coffee comes with admission. We will have 2 raffle prizes to win and will accept either card or cash for all sales. We also meet on the second Monday of each month Jan-Nov at the Red Hill Community Sports/Bowls club from 9.30am with visitors always welcome.
For any enquiries please contact the Secretary at africanvioletsocietyqld@gmail.com
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The GapShe She Shed October Activities Monday and Friday walking group: meet in Riaweena Street near the Scout Den at 8.30am. Women Wanderers walking group: first Saturday of the month- Book via Trybooking. City Striders Walking group: third Saturday of the month from 8.30-1100 am. Wednesday Knit, Crochet, Sew or other craft group: venue: Scout Den, 9.30am-12.00pm every Wednesday. Cards 500: Tuesdays 13 & 27 October 12.30-2.30pm at The Gap Tavern. Book Club: third Thursday of the month from 6.30-8.30pm. Venue: The Gap Tavern. Classics Book Club: last Wednesday of the month. Meet at Topology, 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap from 6 - 8.30pm. She Shed Diners: first Thursday of the month from 6.00pm. Venue- see Facebook or chat group for details. Mahjong Lessons: Tuesdays 1-4pm and Wednesday evenings from 6-9pm at the RSL. Mahjong- Social: Monday nights from 6-9pm, Wednesday mornings 9am-midday, Friday afternoons from 1-4pm. Saturdays 1-4pm. Sundays 4-7pm Venue: RSL. Theatre Lovers: Sunday 4 October 2-4pm at Twelfth Night Theatre“Menopause the Musical”. Palace Cinema foreign films: Saturday 10 October at 13:10-15:10pm Italian Film Festival – The Greater Good (II Bene Comune).
PROUDLY SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY
Writers Club: second Monday of the month from 1.30-3pm at The Blind Tiger, The Gap. Introduction to Ballet/barre - Thursdays 1pm. Venue: Studio Tribe, 10-14 Payne Road, The Gap. Line Dancing: Mondays 5.30-6.30pm St. Marks Anglican Church. Book via Trybooking. Travel Buddies: last Saturday of the month. Meet at 11.30am at The Bardon Shed. Patchwork classes: Christmas Table Runner starting Wednesday 28 October - check events tab on our Facebook page for booking link and info. 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: https://thegapsheshed.wixsite.com/home Email: hello@thegapsheshed.au See all updates for groups and events on our live calendar on our website. All queries can be made through Facebook or email us at hello@thegapsheshed.au WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU
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The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 27
The Gap Pioneer All AbilitiesCricket & History Group Inc
Registrations Now Open
Bennett’s Mountain – Live Army Shells By Bev Adams (nee Levitt) June 2012 Article's editor (Jeff Hilder) comment: ‘Bennett’s Mountain’ has not been known by this name previously in general local history discussions and it is interesting when new information from past generations does come to hand, it triggers memories of the past such as Bev’s excursion there more than forty years ago. It is published memories such as these that give an interesting insight into our past heritage here in The Gap. Bev’s article from 2012 follows. Reading an article about Bennett’s Mountain about a decade ago reminded me of the day that caused me a lot of worry after climbing up there many years ago. It was in the late 1960’s when I was a Cub Leader of the Saturday morning pack attached to The Gap Scout Group. We decided to take the cubs on a ramble up Bennett’s Road to the top ridge and practice some outdoor skills such as fire lighting and cooking. Unknown to the leaders, the cubs had been fossicking in the bush and found some unusual and interesting objects which they put in their pockets and took them home. We spent a very enjoyable day on the mountain and then we walked back home. However, that evening a very worried father rang and informed me that the objects the boys had collected were in fact, live, unexploded army shells. We picnicked in an area within the Enoggera Army Reserve used for rifle practice. Once all of the shells had been retrieved, one of the fathers who was a fisherman, took the shells out in the ocean and dropped them overboard. It was certainly a lesson well learned and it increased our observations and awareness on future outings.
Enquiries: jeffhilder@outlook.com
The GapProbus Probus Club Probus Day was celebrated on 30 September, 2026. This year marks a significant milestone as it commemorates 50 years of Probus in Australia. The Brisbane City Council (BCC) and local Probus clubs organised various activities to celebrate this occasion, including a free lunchtime concert at the Brisbane City Hall. This shows how much BCC recognises Probus as a vital thread in the tapestry of community life. Probus clubs across Brisbane also hosted their own events; at The Gap we marked the occasion modestly with a Probus-themed trivia quiz.
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 28
Registrations are now open for the Valleys All Abilities Cricket Program, welcoming children, young people and adults of all abilities to enjoy cricket in a fun, supportive and inclusive environment. Based at Valley District Cricket Club in Ashgrove, the program is designed for people who may not otherwise have the opportunity or confidence to participate in mainstream community sport. No cricket experience is needed, and activities are adapted so everyone can participate at their own level. What started with five participants in 2021 has grown into a wonderful community, with players of different ages and abilities coming together each week to develop skills, make friends and, most importantly, feel part of a team. The program is supported by volunteers from across the cricket club and local community, and participation is free of charge.
Whether someone wants to try cricket for the first time, build their skills or simply enjoy being active and part of a welcoming community, we’d love to see them at Valleys. Registrations are now open for the upcoming season.
Scan the QR code to find out more and register, or visit the Valleys All Abilities Cricket website: www.valleycricket.org. au/cricket-programs/ allabilities Our speaker in September was Graham Blackman of Angel Flight, one of the prized volunteers who provide air transport from country districts to major towns for medical appointments. If you live way outback and need regular dialysis or chemotherapy these “angels” are lifesavers. We enjoyed a “3F” lunch this month: Friendship, Fellowship and Food. Hosted at a member’s house, guests contributed to the meal to provide a get-together that all could enjoy. If you are interested in finding out more (without any commitment) we would be delighted to talk with you, and we invite you to our meetings (first Thursday of every month, 2pm, at the Baptist Church, corner of Waterworks and Settlement Roads).
Call (or better text) Tim on 0411 141 304, or just rock up. WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU
SOWN What lives in our creeks? Despite disturbance to Enoggera, Ithaca and Fish Creeks over the past 160 years, our waterways remain more-or-less in their original location and base level. While Enoggera Dam has altered flows, and siltation has filled in the deep waterholes, native fish still live in our creek system, including the following. Australian Lungfish Neoceradotus forsteri – a large ancient fish with a lung as well as gills, it comes to the surface to gulp in air. One of the world’s oldest vertebrates, it prefers deep slow-moving pools with logs and shaded banks, and can be seen in Enoggera Reservoir and downstream to Walton Bridge. Australian Bass Percalates novemaculeatus – mainly a freshwater sportfish, stocked in Enoggera Reservoir for anglers, and regularly caught in upper Enoggera Creek. Eel-tailed catfish Tandanus tandanus – this is a seasonal visitor around December, following rain. A large long-lived fish, it builds circular nests on the creek bed. Eels – the two species in our creeks are Short-finned Anguilla australis (mainly calm waters) and Long-finned A. reinhardtii (which prefers flowing water). Purple-Spotted Gudgeon Mogurnda adspersa – up to 90mm long, also found in calm creek waters. It is now extinct or endangered in southern states. Crimson-spotted Rainbowfish Melanotaenia duloulayi – these can be spotted just below the water surface in schools of up to 30, in still ponds with muddy bottoms or sunny sections near thick vegetation. In association with SOWN, The Gap Sustainability Initiative monitors creek water quality and aquatic insects which are the food source for many fish.
For more: www.sown.com.au and www.thegapsustainability.org
LOCK IT OR LOSE IT
Ensure you lock up your home even if you are AT HOME. If you have key locks on windows and doors use these especially if you are away. Take keys to cars left at home with you or HIDE and SECURE them well - 1 out of 2 cars are stolen with their own keys.
Email: neighbourhoodwatchthegap@yahoo.com.au Website: www.nhwq4061.com WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU
Keperra
family practice
& SKIN CANCER CLINIC
PHONE: 07 3351 0323 We are a friendly, well-established practice in Keperra providing quality medical care for your entire family.
Proudly serving our community for 25 years!
OUR SERVICES • Doctors available 7 Days! • Thoughtful whole-of-person care • Chronic Disease Management • Preventive Health Focus • Babies and Children
• Women’s Health • Weight Loss • Skin Cancer Checks • Vaccinations • Travel Medicine • Health Assessments
FIND US AT:
Great Western Super Centre, 577 Settlement Rd, Keperra
OPENING HOURS: Monday - Friday 7.30am - 6pm Saturday 8.00am - 11.30am Sunday 8.30am - 11.30am
BOOK ONLINE
www.keperrafamilypractice.com.au The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 29
The GapScout Scout Group The Gap Scout Group has a proud history of supporting our Gap Community since 1950. Our Members have demonstrated care for our environment by: planting trees and clearing vegetation alongside SOWN & MOTT; cleaning up our creeks and parks at Clean Up Australia Day each year, occasionally finding something unusual; and supporting new initiatives start up, including the Repair Café for the great work they do preventing many broken items ending up in land fill by fixing them. The Gap Scout Group makes our community a better place by: providing the venue and BBQ for Shed Happens for Men to meet each month; attending our ANZAC Day commemoration and providing behind the scenes support; providing a venue for the Laughter Club to
SerenataSingers Singers
use to continue their great work when it's raining; and stepping in to help celebrate local events including The Gap Uniting Church’s 150th year celebration, providing an obstacle course and rope bridge. And this year we will open up our Den’s Haunted House to the community again on 31 October, between 5pm and 8pm for Halloween – come along if you dare! Have you ever wondered what it's like to volunteer at Scouts? Did you know that volunteering at Scouts doesn't have to mean a huge commitment? The Gap Scout Group is always looking for enthusiastic people to become involved, whether that's supporting our youth program, helping with maintenance, fundraising, administration, or simply sharing a skill or hobby with our young people. If you have either an hour a month to spare, or 1 to 2 hours a week available, there is almost certainly a role that would suit you. You don't need previous Scouting experience; we welcome parents, grandparents, former Scouts, community members, and anyone looking to contribute to something positive in our local community.
If you are keen to learn more or are ready to join our amazing team of volunteers, please contact our Group Leader, Peter Vaissiere, via email gl.thegap@scoutsqld.au as Peter Allen's “I Still Call Australia Home" and “Tenterfield Saddler”, Woodley and Dobe’s "I Am Australian", as well as music from around the world, including jazz favourites and African spirituals. Some fantastic guest artists will also be performing. The annual concert is organised in conjunction with the Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club and supports the Lions Medical Research Foundation. Tickets (including afternoon tea and door prizes) are $30 per adult and $10 per school-aged child/student, and tickets are available at the door.
From Home and Afar You can expect to hear some classic Aussie favourites when The Gap’s own community choir, Serenata Singers, presents its annual Gala Concert “From Home and Afar” on Saturday, 7 November at The Gap Uniting Church, 1050 Waterworks Road, The Gap, commencing at 2.30pm. Directed by accomplished conductor Guillaume Lemay-Yates, and accompanied by Shaun Purcell, the program will feature such classics
Shed Happens for Men Ashgrove The Gap October meeting: Wednesday 21 Oct Dear Friends and those who would like to give us a go...you are very welcome, do join us for another evening (6-8.30pm) of fun and camaraderie, commencing with a delicious, Scout prepared barbecue, followed by two excellent guest speakers: Mr Tony Cozard a well-known Environmentalist and our President Mr
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 30
Serenata singers is a friendly, non-auditioned SATB (Soprano/Alto/ Tenor/Bass) community choir which has been operating for more than 50 years. We have a current membership of over 40 singers and new members are always welcome.
The choir rehearses on Monday nights at the Gap Uniting Church from 7.00pm to 9.00pm. For more details, contact serenatasingersthegap@gmail.com, or visit: www.serenatasingers.org.au Craig Ray [our local Solicitor!] speaking on his recent hiking experiences in Europe. He may even yodel for us! Between each speaker we break for coffee, tea, and Tim Tams! Shed Happens is a non-denominational, non-political group of blokes who enjoy each other's company while advancing our intellectual and cultural interests. Where: Paten Park Scout Den, Paten Rd, The Gap. Cost: for everything is still only $15.00 [how do they do it?!]
Details and to register your attendance for catering purposes please phone: 0417 786 542. WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU
Zonta Club of Brisbane
On 26 November, over 60 Zontians from Brisbane Clubs and surrounds will walk around Brisbane City wearing orange “Zonta Says No” to Violence Against Women T-shirts to raise awareness and to view various infrastructures lit up in orange.
Cr
4
Activities include ‘orange’ wooden silhouettes of women in prominent locations, ‘safety cards’ with emergency contacts for those experiencing domestic violence, lighting of landmarks and City Hall, a social media campaign and large banners in prominent locations. Clubs stage displays in Council libraries, hospitals, parks and stalls in shopping centres. Many have breakfasts and lunches with guest speakers addressing the topic and services and actions taken to assist victims of violence.
emories d M9 •
Zonta Clubs of Brisbane and surrounds will be “painting the region orange” during the 16 Days of Activism from 25 November (United Nations Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to 10 December 2026. This is part of the worldwide campaign by Zonta Clubs to raise awareness of the issues and effects!
Ch ting ildho ea • SINCE 19 o
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Details can be found at: https://zontadistrict22.org/what-we-do/zonta-says-no-to-violenceagainst-women-campaign/
Join us on: 26 November for our “Walk to End Violence Against Women” 6pm start, King George Square, Brisbane City
Reservoir Frogs Theatre Company The Gap’s own community theatre company is planning a radio play for November 2026. The theme is War of the Worlds comedy, tragedy, Sci Fi, or all three! This is a great opportunity for beginners or those who love to act but have trouble remembering lines. Come and be part of it. All ages and stage welcome. The first “audition” will be on Sunday 4 October but we can make any other time if that does not suit. Time is flexible but 2-4pm is preferred. We would expect to rehearse most Sundays until the performance and possibly on some evenings if needed.
Email us at: gapcommunitytheatregroup@gmail.com if you are interested or Phone: 0403 397 684. WWW.WESTERNECHO.COM.AU
SUPPLYING GREAT TASTING, fresh, Certified Organic Produce to The Gap & Neighbouring Suburbs for 12 years.
For a current price list and details about ordering – email thegaploco@gmail.com or visit thegaploco.com We are a community owned, local, worker run, registered worker co-operative. DELIVERIES ARE ON MONDAYS and we also run a pop up shop between 10am and 5pm on Mondays at 15 High St, Ashgrove
(down the easement to Oakleigh Scouts car park) * Advertisement proudly sponsored by COOEEE (COOEEE.com.au)
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 31
for the final meal on board the Endeavour after leaving Botany Bay. Banks took seeds back to Kew Gardens in 1771 – Warrigal greens became the first Australian food plant to be cultivated overseas.
3300 6304 | www.ppnn.org.au
Warrigalgreens greens
There has been an increased interest in edible Australian plants in recent years. These plants sustained indigenous Australians for thousands of years before European colonisation and the introduction of exotic food sources. Knowledge of these plants was of great significance in the early days of colonisation, before the settlers were able to establish their crops. Although not featuring strongly in Aboriginal cooking (but important in Maori cuisine) Warrigal greens (Tetragonia tetragonoides) were widely used by the early settlers as a spinach substitute to prevent scurvy resulting from Vitamin C deficiency. This was served with skate
Enoggera & Districts Historical Society
This leafy green herb is easy to grow in a variety of situations. It is tolerant of wind, salt exposure and various soil types in full sun or shady positions but produces better results in moist, rich, well drained soils. Reaching up to 20cm in height, it sprawls over the ground for about 200cm. The soft, bright green stems and leaves form a living mulch by helping to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. The plant grows well in pots and hanging baskets (great for apartment dwellers). The fleshy, triangular leaves can grow to 15cm long. Small yellow flowers appear at the base of the leaves in spring and summer each of which, when fertilised, becomes a green, four-sided pod with horn-like growths. This seed-containing pod turns brown on maturity. Over winter the plant may die back but it generally revives in spring except in very cold conditions. Warrigal greens are rich in vitamins K, C and B6 as well as manganese. They are high in fibre and healthy antioxidants. However, due to high levels of oxalic acid, the leaves need pre-treatment before consumption to prevent formation of kidney stones. Young leaves from the tips of the stems can be used in salads after being soaked in cold water for half an hour. Oxalic acid in older leaves can be removed by blanching in boiling water for a minute. The leaves can then be used in a variety of dishes – stir-fried with garlic, in quiche, soups, stews and gnocchi, a pizza topping and as a steamed vegetable. Regular harvesting of leaves encourages growth. The first race was with a whaleboat and five oarsmen. The second was between Flying Fish manned by The Squatters and Pirate – for which a crew could not be found until natives took up the oars. The many rowing clubs - Commercial, Brisbane Ladies Brisbane Rowing Club and others established boat houses and facilities which became extremely popular and became well-known social hubs. Probably the best known being the O’Connor Boat House; named after Dennis O’Connor who became a member in 1879, President in 1890, and first Patron in 1914. In 1922 he left Brisbane for a trip to England, and the 120 members present at a function witnessed the presentation of a Gold scarf pin. The Boat House was well known for the dances which were held regularly and very well patronised. The club house was severely damaged in the 1974 flood and not rebuilt.
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Boat Houses along the River Since the earliest days of settlement along the Brisbane River [sometimes referred to as the Brown Snake] sailing and rowing have been a past time and sport. The first Regatta was held in January 1848 with rowing being the format of the day.
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The company was established in 1885 and supplied light and heat to the south side from a plant built beside the river on land formerly known as Hockings Paddock. The unique Stripping Tower was manufactured in England and assembled on site in 1912 before being decommissioned in 1949. The works received minor damage during the 1890 flood but were more severely affected in 1893. The works were retired in 1969 and demolition began in 1971. The remnants were very severely damaged in 1974. The site was Heritage Registered in 2000. The Stripping Tower was relocated for preservation.
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The GapCreative Creative Inc Newmarket Bocce Club News Our 5th Annual Open Studios Weekend held recently was hugely successful for us as a creative collective and we would like to thank everyone for their support. Many of the studios had over a hundred visitors across the weekend, with our opening Friday night event, hosted by UCreate Studio, a popular new addition to the calendar. It has already been a huge year of creativity for us in The Gap, and there is still more to come as we round out 2026! We have members travelling the world gaining fresh inspiration and opening their artistic practice to new ideas, new techniques and new experiences. And then we are lucky enough here at home to be surrounded by the new life of spring - in our gardens, by our creek, walking the trails of the reservoir and immersing ourselves in all that our local environment has to offer. We have welcomed more members recently and look forward to connecting further through our monthly coffee catch ups - a casual get-together where we chat all things art and creativity. The final few months of the year will also see another mural addition to the suburb, artist talks and planning discussions for an ever bigger 2027!
Bell Property Cup Don’t you just love the game of Bocce. Four years in the running and we thank our sponsor Simon Penrose for the sponsorship. Sunday 23 August, 24 players ventured out on the bocce courts to battle it out. We played triples, 3 games before lunch and the finals after lunch. As usual it comes down to the last game and only a matter of a couple of points the result could have been different. The club gave our resident cook a day off and we catered, lasagna, scallopini and desert, add a little cheer coffee and cake - need I say more. Gina and her team, Rebecca and Imperia did the prep work. The camaraderie was evident but so was the competitiveness. Thank you Simon for the pens showcasing the club and sponsor. First place: Bruno, Eva and Rina. Second place: Mario, Scott and Nadia. Third place: Tony S, Orlando and Philippe.
If you love all things art and creativity and live locally, come join in the fun. Simply head to our website for all of the details: www.thegapcreative.com.au
To find out more about Newmarket Bocce Club, please contact: Mario 0403 257 325; Tony 0418 731 423; or Bill 0431 458 481. TRADES | SERVICES | CLASSIFIEDS
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Principal'sPoints... Points... Principal'sPoints... Points... Hilder Road State School Building The Gap’s School Community There is a real sense of momentum at Hilder Road State School. Across our classrooms, sporting fields, performance spaces and wider community, our Hilder Heroes continue to demonstrate what makes our school such a special place to learn, grow and belong. Recently, we welcomed over 70 families to our Prep 2027 Information Morning. It was wonderful to see so many future families exploring our school, meeting our teachers and specialists, visiting our learning spaces and discovering the opportunities available to children from their very first year at Hilder Road. And the interest continues to grow. We are already welcoming enquiries and enrolments for Prep 2028, with many families already registering their interest. For us, being a great local school is about much more than what happens inside the classroom. Our learners have access to an extraordinary range of opportunities including our Rising Stars Football Excellence Program, Rising Stars Dance Excellence Program, Hilder Road State School and Gap Netball Academy, Instrumental Music, Performing Arts, choirs and enrichment opportunities. Our young musicians have also continued to shine, with 13 Hilder Road students recently selected to participate in the Mt Coottha Advanced Music Workshop alongside talented musicians from across our local schools. Two of our students have also been selected for the prestigious State Honours Ensemble Program – Primary, bringing together talented young musicians from across Queensland. These opportunities sit alongside the most important work we do every day, providing high-quality
teaching and learning, supporting every child to experience success and creating a school where children and families feel genuinely known, connected and valued. Our strong P&C, wonderful families, committed staff and growing partnerships across The Gap are an important part of that success. Most recently, our P&C hosted our annual Hilder Road Bush Dance, bringing together close to 1,000 students, families and community members for a wonderful evening. Events like this demonstrate the strength of our community and the important role our school plays in bringing people together across The Gap. We are ambitious about the future of our school and proud to continue building Hilder Road’s reputation as the number one school in The Gap community. Enrolments are open for Prep to Year 6 for 2027, 2028 and beyond. Whether you live within our catchment or are exploring schooling options for the future, we encourage you to connect with us, tour our school and discover what it means to become a Hilder Hero. Where you Learn. Grow. Belong.
problems and apply the design thinking process to create solutions that can make a positive difference in the lives of others. At Mater Dei, we are committed to nurturing curiosity, innovation and future-focused learning. Through STEM MAD, students develop critical skills in communication, teamwork, adaptability and creative problem-solving while drawing on science, technology, engineering and mathematics to bring their ideas to life. One project, Shark Savers, addressed beach safety by proposing the use of drone technology to monitor shark activity and send real-time alerts to smart watches and mobile phones. This innovative solution demonstrated students' ability to combine technology, engineering and community need in purposeful ways. A highlight of the day was hearing from representatives of the UQ Space Team, who shared how science, engineering, technology and mathematics are applied in their work. Their insights inspired students to see how innovation, perseverance and collaboration can help shape a better future.
Warm regards Damien Greig, Principal _____________________
Mater Dei Catholic Primary School Empowering Tomorrow's Innovators Through STEM MAD This term, Mater Dei proudly hosted a STEM MAD (Make A Difference) Showcase, welcoming students and staff from local BCE schools for a day of innovation, creativity and collaboration. STEM MAD, an initiative of Brisbane Catholic education, challenges students to identify real-world
The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 34
Donna Jones, Principal _____________________
Payne Road State School Community Connections at Payne Road State School It has been wonderful to see our Payne Road State School community come together in so many ways as we head towards the end of Term 3. Earlier this month, we welcomed our 2027 Prep families to our Prep Information Night. Starting
school is an exciting milestone for children and their families, and the evening provided an opportunity to meet our team, learn more about the Prep day and ask those all-important questions about starting school. We loved welcoming both familiar and new faces and beginning to build those connections before our newest students walk through the gates next year.
Our community spirit was also on full display at our recent P&C Colour Run. It was a fantastic afternoon of colour, fun and plenty of enthusiasm, with an incredible $20,000 raised to support our school. We were also joined by our wonderful Adopt-a-Cop, Meg Burton, who was a great sport and took on the Colour Run course herself, giving our students the chance to cover her in plenty of colour and water along the way! A huge thank you goes to our P&C and volunteers, with a special acknowledgement to P&C Treasurer Mari Ring, whose enormous effort behind the scenes was instrumental in bringing the event together. We are also excited to welcome elite athlete Charli Nikola to Payne Road on 15 September through the Olympics Unleashed program. Our Year 3–6 students will hear firsthand about Charli’s sporting journey and the importance of perseverance, goal-setting and responding to challenges. It is another wonderful opportunity for our students to learn beyond the classroom and be inspired by people and experiences within the broader community. Cheers, Lindy Du Plooy, Acting Principal _____________________
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Principal'sPoints... Points... Principal'sPoints... Points... The Gap State School Over the past month, The Gap State School has been alive with activity, energy and opportunity at every turn.
School on Friday 11 September to celebrate the launch of the school’s first-ever official Alumni Community.
A key part of the Alumni Community will also be helping former students reconnect with their classmates and return to The Gap State High School to hold milestone class and yearlevel reunions. Alumni will be able to celebrate significant milestones together in the school where their journey began.
Our students have been debating, performing, competing, creating, heading out on excursions, taking part in ICAS, celebrating Book Week and contributing through leadership and our Year 6 Legacy Project. We have also welcomed families for parent– teacher interviews and enjoyed the wonderful community spirit of The Gap Soirée.
It was a wonderful opportunity to bring the school’s past and future together.
What I love about this time of year is seeing how many different ways children can find their place at school. For one student, it might be standing up in a debate. For another, performing music, competing on the track, designing something with their hands or dressing as a much-loved book character. These experiences sit alongside the important learning happening in classrooms every day. Together, they help build confidence, curiosity, connection and a sense of belonging. They also remind us that schools are very much community places. Our staff create and support these opportunities, while families contribute in countless ways - volunteering, transporting, encouraging, attending and simply being there. That partnership is what gives school life so much richness. It has been a wonderfully full month at The Gap, and a lovely reminder that some of the most memorable learning happens when a whole community gets behind its children. Engaged, connected learners. Katie Stubbings, Principal _____________________
The Gap State High School Former students and staff returned to The Gap State High
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mentoring, volunteering, career and industry connections, fundraising and opportunities to support future generations.
The return of Andrew Stockdale was a highlight of the evening, with many alumni surprised and delighted to see the international musician back at his former school. The launch has marked the beginning of a new chapter for The Gap State High School, connecting generations of alumni and creating opportunities for former students to come home, reconnect and leave their mark on the future of the school. Anne McLauchlan, Executive Principal
The Gap Baptist Church Colour my World
The special evening brought together generations of Gap alumni, teachers and staff, including three former principals, to reconnect, share memories and celebrate the school’s history since it opened in 1960. Among the highlights was a surprise performance by former student and Wolfmother frontman Andrew Stockdale, who returned to his old school and joined current students from the school’s Excellence: Accelerated Music Program (AMPed) for a memorable musical moment. The surprise performance was a powerful intergenerational connection, with a former Gap student who went on to achieve international musical success performing alongside the next generation of young musicians. The Alumni Community is about more than nostalgia. It has been established to create an ongoing connection between former students and staff and today’s school community through
It is with deep sadness that I tell you that I did not win the Dream Home Art Union. I still have Heaven to look forward – my eternal home not just my temporary home! And I have all the things a generous God has given to me for free right now. Colours are one of those amazing gifts from God that I am always taking for granted. He could have made us monochromatic – just shades of grey or different levels of brightness. Dogs, cats and most mammals are dichromatic – seeing only two shades of colours (blue and yellow). Humans are trichromatic so we can see mixtures of blue, yellow and red. The world looks absolutely amazing and beyond beautiful because of the millions of colours that we can see. Chooks and most birds are tetra-chrome so they can see all our colours and also into the ultraviolet (UV) light range. This UV sensitivity reveals patterns and colours in feathers, skin, and fruit that are invisible to the human eye. Birds that appear identical to us are visually distinct to their own kind. I am very, very thankful to God that we can see colours in flowers and sunsets and birds and snakes. I am so thankful for colours in our clothing and artworks and buildings as clever people take what has been given us and present them to us in an erotic array of colour, brightness, patterns and shapes. Praise God The Creator.
Come and have a chat with me at The Gap Village Shopping Centre or the Gap Baptist Church - Tiny Thomsen. The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 35
The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy For all your pharmaceutical needs OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Our friendly Team are here to help you 7 days a week! Call us or book online for vaccinations: www.thegappharmacy.com.au Open: daily from 8.30am to 8pm 974 WATERWORKS ROAD, THE GAP
Ph 3300 1555 + thegap@thegappharmacy.com.au + thegappharmacy.com.au The Western Echo October 2026 | Page 36
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