The Western Echo May 2021

The

May 2021 ISSN 1327-676X

Western Echo Western

Published by: Hot Metal Publications Phone: 3300 1846 - Email: hotmetal@aussiebroadband.com.au Over 15,700 Copies delivered each month to homes, businesses and clubs in the Western Suburbs

Community Turns Out in Force for the local 2021 ANZAC Day Services

The local community turned out in huge numbers to commemorate ANZAC Day 2021. Following the cancellation of many poignant events in 2020 due to Covid, it was heartening that so many hundreds chose to attend local ANZAC Day Services. Ray de Vere OAM, The Gap Sub Branch RSL and MC, lays a wreath at Walton Bridge Memorial during the morning Service. Photo by Tim Toomey. Story and more photographs Page 3

Cooper Jackson Property Management SWITCH YOUR MANAGEMENT FOR 6 MTHS FREE

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 1

ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY MASSAGE

ACCOUNTANT R G Goodman Phone: 3289 1700 pg 14

AUTO AIR CONDITIONING Wyatt Automotive Phone: 3300 2077

pg 8

Bernard Evens Remedial & Sports Phone: 3366 9997 pg 19

MEDICAL CENTRE Keperra Family Practice Phone: 3351 0323 pg 16

MORTGAGE ADVISOR

BATHROOMS Steve Froggatt Phone: 0402 730 177 pg 11

Mortgage Choice Ashgrove Phone: 3463 0500 pg 10

MUSIC TUITION

BEAUTY

POLITICAL/GOVERNMENT Jonty Bush Phone: 3554 9100 Julian Simmonds MP Phone: 3378 1599

pg 5 pg 7

PRINTER CARTRIDGES

WEIGHT LOSS

Cartridge World Ashgrove Phone: 3366 5111 pg 14

PRE-SCHOOLS Mitchelton Pre-School Phone: 3355 2535 pg 13

BRICKLAYING PAVING

PHARMACY

Cooper Jackson Property Mgt Phone: 3851 0011 pg 1

Inness Green Phone: 3300 1555 pg 25

The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy Phone: 3300 1555 pg 32

Harcourts Inner West Phone: 3511 0666 pg 11

CHILD CARE

PLUMBER

SCHOOLS - Open Days

CHOIR/CHORAL Queensland Choir Phone: 0491 682 552 pg 20

CLUBS/GROUPS Taylor Range Country Club Phone:3366 1560 pg 9

COMMUNITY SERVICES Communify Phone: 3368 3723

pg 19

EMERGENCY MEDICAL Northside Emergency www.emergencyBNE.com.au pg 12

Ashgrove State School Saturday 8 May pg

The Gap State School Phone: 3511 3333 pg 21

TYRE & MECHANICAL Wyatt Automotive Phone: 3300 2077 pg 8

www.facebook.com/pages/ The-Western-Echo

NOTICE TO READERS

We wish to advise that distribution of the Western Echo can not be legally made to letterboxes displaying ‘Australia Post Only’ ‘Authorised Mail Only’ or ‘No Junk Mail’.

For those residents who wish to collect a free copy, we have newstands located at: • Night Owl Enoggera - Corner Samford Rd & Wardell St • Stewart Road News Ashgrove • Ashgrove Library • Cr. Steven Toomey’s Gap Ward Office

23

HEARING/HEARING AIDS Hear and Say P h o n e : 3 8 5 0 2 111 p g

REAL ESTATE

• Jonty Bush’s State Electorate Office

FETES

17

GARDENING Good Deal Mowing Phone: 0439 734 142 pg 25

GUTTER VACUUM Big Boys Gutter Vacuum Phone: 0407 737 400 pg 11

LAWYERS Hollingworth & Spencer Phone: 3123 5700 pg 14

WALKING FOOTBALL

Cr. Steven Toomey Phone: 3407 1900 pg 4

The Gap Piano Studio Phone: 3166 8353 pg 23

Pandanus Contractors Phone: 3300 3934 pg 25 Plumbers We Are Phone: 3351 0016 pg 25

The Gap Veterinary Clinic Phone: 3300 1533 pg 15 Walking Football Brisbane Phone: 0432 967 829 pg 27

The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy Phone: 3300 1555 pg 32

One Tree Defence Child Care Phone: 1800 270 640 pg 23

VETERINARIAN

Copies are also available at Red Hill APO, West Ashgrove APO, The Gap Village, The Friendly Grocer The Gap, Wyatt's bp The Gap, Ashgrove Golf Club & Great Western Super Centre Management.

VOLUNTEER DRIVERS MAY BE NEEDED SHORTLY We are anticipating a need for more volunteer drivers.

It can be for as little as a few hours each month.

We deliver each morning: Monday to Friday, from around 9.30am until noon.

Can you help us? If you are interested, please phone Carolyn on 3366 4299 between the hours of 8.00am and noon.

Ashgrove Meals on Wheels 524 Waterworks Road

Ph 3366 4299

Winning with Food Phone: 0403 085 640 pg 19

YOUTH CHOIR Voices of Birralee www.birralee.org

pg 18

The Western Echo is produced monthly by

Hot Metal Publications

PO Box 270 The Gap

Ph: 3300 1846

http://www.westernecho.com.au editor@westernecho.com.au

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Advertisers/contributors please note:

Deadline for June 2021 5pm Tuesday 25th May 2021

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 theWestern accuracy ofEcho articlesMay published.

Western to 15,700 homes and businesses in: Ashgrove, The 2021The Page 2 Echo is delivered, by private letterbox distribution, website: http://www.westernecho.com.au Ashgrove West, St. Johns Wood, Dorrington, The Gap, and selected areas of Bardon, Red Hill, Enoggera, Keperra and Mitchelton

ANZAC Day - Back to Normal in 2021 The President and Members of The Gap Sub-Branch take this opportunity to thank the local community for their tremendous support for the events centred on ANZAC Day, firstly in supporting our recent badge and merchandise sales .

The funds raised form the backbone of our Welfare activities and there is no shortage of need in the community.

Many hundreds of locals lined Waterworks Road and filled to capacity the Walton Bridge Reserve at both the Dawn Service and the 9.30am Service.

Local schools and groups participated in the Morning Service, including The Gap Scouts, Walton Bridge/The Gap Guides, The Gap State School, Hilder Road State School, Payne Road State School and St Peter Chanel Primary School, and members of the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap, with the march from The Gap State High School being led by Student Leaders and flag bearers from The Gap State High School.

The salute was taken by Major Ros Glass Army HQ and President of The Gap Sub Branch and MC, David Esler

Inside the May Issue...

Piper Nel Fulloon and Ray de Vere leading the March

Secondly, we record our gratitude for the support of the ANZAC Day ceremonies themselves. Even though it was a long weekend, many locals were away, it was not a normal school day and the cloud of COVID hovered in the background, the enthusiastic support from all age -groups was very encouraging. Special thanks go to those who participated in the Dawn Service and the March to make the occasion more impressive. It was apparent that locals had turned out to commemorate ANZAC Day 2021 at the two ceremonies, which they were unable to participate in in 20210 due to Covid-19.

The reverence and respect, shown in the usual low-key, understated Australian way, once again clearly demonstrated that Australians quietly hold dear the underlying core principles of the ANZAC Spirit.

We Will Remember Them Lest We Forget

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Amnesty International.......................................................10 Arana VIEW Club...........................................................26 Ashgrove Forum..................................................................14 Ashgrove Historical Society...........................................11 Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club...........................................24 Balaangala Community Group................................................28 Brisbane Tramway Museum..................................................31 Chess T’Minit.......................................................................26 Enoggera Historical Society............................................9 Ithaca Probus Club...........................................................30 Men of the Trees.............................................................27 Mitchelton Garden Club................................................28 Newmarket Bocce Club...........................................................30 Newmarket Probus Club.....................................................24 Newmarket VIEW Club..................................................26 Norths "Eagles" Hockey Club.............................................18 Paten Park Native Nursery (PPNN).............................................28 Principal’s Points..............................................................22 - 23 Queensland Choir.................................................................20 Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap..................................8 Ryan Update - Julian Simmonds..............................................7 Seranata Singers .............................................................25 SOWN (Save Our Waterways Now)...........................................29 State Update - Jonty Bush - Member for Cooper.....................5 The Gap Garden Club..............................................................29 The Gap Historical Society...............................................16 The Gap Neighbourhood Watch.............................................6 The Gap Probus Club.............................................................19 The Gap RSL Sub Branch......................................................3 Ward Happenings.........................................................................4 The Western Echo May 2021 Page 3

WARD HAPPENINGS WITH

Cr Steven Toomey

Councillor for The Gap Ward The Lord Mayor’s Covid-19 Direct Assistance

As a result of the impact of COVID-19 Brisbane City Council provided $3 million in direct financial assistance to community, cultural, sporting and recreational groups leasing a Council-owned or managed community facility.

The program assisted the groups to rebuild and re-commence services to residents after the coronavirus pandemic. Groups were able to apply for up to $10,000 towards maintenance and operating costs to enable them to continue operation after the pandemic.

I am pleased that a number of community groups in The Gap Ward accessed this funding and I have listed them below. If you require any assistance in accessing future council grants please do not hesitate to contact me at the ward office.

Brisbane Tramway Museum. Ferny Grove Arana Contract Bridge Club Inc, Ferny Grove Ferny Grove Bowls, Sports and Community Club Inc, Ferny Grove The Gap Football Club, The Gap St Johns Wood Scout Group, Ashgrove Communify QLD LTD, Ashgrove Mitchelton Districts Gem Club Inc., Ashgrove, Westside Football Club, Keperra Guides QLD – Walton Bridge/The Gap District (pictured LtoR: Natasha Montesalvo, Region Manager; Cr Toomey; Elizabeth Wheeley, District Manager )

Green Happenings in The Gap Ward The Lord Mayor’s Environmental Grant Recipients The green grants for environmental and sustainability warriors were announced

by Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and recognise the hard work of 50 community groups across Brisbane, to install solar panels, buy garden tools and restore the natural environment with more than $330,000 awarded. Congratulations to the groups that received funding in The Gap Ward: Mt Nebo and Mt Glorious Environment Protection Association, environmental restoration and weed eradication; Balaangala Community Group for the installation of an education displays; Communify QLD for tools for Green Corner; Arana Contract Bridge Club, LED lighting upgrade; Save Our Waterways Now for nursery propagation and distribution of native plants for waterway rehabilitation (pictured below Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner with SOWN president John Abbott).

Homeless Connect Event

Brisbane Showground, Thursday 20 May, 9am-2pm, a free event for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness to access free support services. Search ‘homeless connect’ on brisbane.qld.gov.au

Community Corners Saturday 29 May 2021

Bring along your current or recent rates notice to receive your voucher for two free trees from Paten Park Native Nursery, 57 Paten Road, The Gap. • 9–10am Harry Street– Outside Coles Shopping Centre, Ashgrove • 10:30–11:30am Waterworks Rd The Gap – Footpath Craig Ray Solicitors, The Gap Village Shopping Centre • 12:30–1:30pm McGinn Road & Archdale Road – Ferny Grove Shopping Centre • 2–3pm Dallas Parade, Keperra

477 Waterworks Rd Ashgrove West, 4060 Phone: 07 3407 1900 Email: thegap.ward@bcc.qld.gov.au Web: StevenToomey.com.au The Western Echo May 2021 Page 4

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

State Update

Jonty Bush MP

Member for Cooper

Queensland Youth Week Youth Week falls annually in April, and it is a great opportunity to celebrate our young people aged 12 to 25 and the positive contributions they make to our community. We are lucky to have such vibrant, diverse and engaged young people in Cooper, and across Queensland.

The week began with the YMCA Queensland Youth Parliament launch, which I was privileged to MC. I caught up with Leo, our Youth Parliamentarian for Cooper, who has already sat down with me to share his ideas. This is such a valuable program which ensures that young Queenslanders from across the state get to represent local communities on behalf of the next generation. I am looking forward to hearing more about the Youth Parliament as they continue their work.

We had a terrific first meeting at Parliament House of the inaugural Cooper Youth Advisory Panel. Some of the key issues raised by the young members of our community include things to do for young people after hours, mental health support, climate change and sustainability, the needs of young people living with a disability and how to improve the political understanding of young people. I am looking forward to working with this engaging group of young people over the next year.

Later in the week, Walkabout Creek was host to one of three Queensland ‘Speak Out’ events.

Together with Minister for Youth Megan Scanlon, we heard from passionate and energetic young people throughout the day. We will champion the ideas raised in these forums right across government, putting them in the hands of policy Leo Barbieri-Yates, makers to help influence change reflecting the needs and interests Youth Parliamentarian for Cooper of young people.

Cooper Youth Advisory Panel

May is Queensland Small Business Month Many if not most of us work, or love someone who works within small business in Queensland – they are the backbone to our state. This year, Queensland Small Business Month will be better than ever. With activities and events across the state, delivering a range of opportunities for small business owners to network, connect and learn new skills that will help them succeed now and into the future.

I will be focussing on small businesses in our local community this month, and I would LOVE to help showcase your small business or a business you love and support.

To nominate your business please email me at cooper@ parliament.qld.gov.au For more information about Queensland Small Business Month please go to: www.business.qld.gov.au/ qsbm

COVID-19 Update I want to thank everyone in the local area and right across Brisbane for your vigilance over the past month as we dealt with restrictions surrounding COVID-19. Thanks to everyone’s hard work, the three-day lockdown prevented any major outbreak in Queensland. It has been so wonderful to see the community working together, masking up and social distancing to keep each other safe. We are lucky to live in such an incredible part of the world – now that restrictions are easing, make sure to get out and support local pubs, cafes, restaurants, and shops!

Clearly, access to timely and accurate information is important in a time of crisis – and to help with this I usually send an electoratewide email out after significant Chief Health Officer updates. I would urge you all to join my email mailing list – again simply email me on cooper@parliament.qld.gov.au or call our office on 3554 9100 to pass on your contact details.

With Harry from Highpoint Espresso Ashgrove, my favourite place of an iced latte

Shop 2/230 Waterworks Road, Ashgrove Q 4060 t 3554 9100 e cooper@parliament.qld.gov.au f www.facebook.com/jontyforcooper

Jonty Bush - working hard for us website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 5

Neighbourhood Watch The Gap 4061 Neighbourhood Watch The Gap would like to remind our community to be ever vigilant for scammers.

If you feel pressured or uneasy, trust your gut feelings or get help from a friend or family member.

Scammers are clever – they follow trends.

Scammers create fake websites that look like genuine online stores, offering products at very low prices and victims will either receive a fake item or nothing at all.”

“They also post fake ads on classified websites, often claiming they are travelling and someone else will deliver the goods, but the item never arrives and the victim can no longer contact the seller.”

Scammers have also been known to use a technique called Romance Baiting.

This technique, involves scammers meeting people on dating apps and then moving the conversation to an encrypted chat site. After a few weeks of developing a relationship, the scammer will begin asking about the victim’s finances and encourage them to participate in an investment opportunity.

“These scams prey on people seeking connection and can leave victims with significant financial losses and emotional distress,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said.

“While traditional dating and romance scams tend to target older Australians, almost half of all losses to romance baiting scams come from people under the age of 35.”

“Don’t take financial advice from someone you met on an app and never give financial or personal details to someone you’ve only met online,” Ms Rickard said.

A type of phishing and

fake website scam, scammers use the name and branding of well-known delivery companies, to send fake ‘missed delivery’ notices to potential victims.

These can even appear in the same message stream as legitimate company messages as scammers can ‘spoof ’ phone numbers.

Always think and check before you click a link.

“Be careful about online links and never download attachments,” Detective Inspector Byrnes said. “ To c h e c k t h a t a parcel delivery message is legitimate, check the tracking number on the delivery company website or call them directly.”

Your Suburb, Your Home, Your Family, Your Community 4061 www.fb.com/neighbourhoodwatchthegap neighbourhoodwatchthegap@yahoo.com.au www.nhwq4061.com

Brookfield Show Society’s Upcoming Events Brookfield Show – booking.safevisit.com.au/ ceizq Brookfield Show is Brisbane’s ‘Biggest Little Country Show’, which celebrates the very best of regional and metro agriculture. This year’s event will be held on 14, 15 and 16 May 2021 and marks Brookfield Show’s 110th anniversary.

Activities begin on the evening of Thursday 13 May, when the winners of competitions in art, photography and sculpture are announced.

Friday is known as ‘District Day’ as the horse events are limited to local riders, horses and owners.

The pavilions; home of wonderful art, sculpture, photography, needlecrafts and patchwork, horticulture, poultry and woodwork

exhibits, open each morning a t 9 a . m . Vi s i t o r s a r e encouraged to peruse the competition entries and enjoy the sideshow entertainment.

Brookfield District Museum is also open throughout the three days. Brookfield Show’s festivities continue on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. with a full program including equestrian ring events, pony rides, community performances, wood chopping demonstrations, miniature pig petting and races, combat archery, working dogs, sheep shearing, light horse and reptile displays, drumming and whip cracking workshops and an animal farm. A highlight for attendees is the judging of guinea pig entries, which runs on Saturday from 1 p.m.

Due to its popularity, Brookfield Show’s Dog Competition will now extend over two days. This is a must for all dog lovers!

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 6

Gill’s Rodeo is scheduled for both Friday and Saturday evening and we expect, like previous years, many local residents flocking to Brookfield Members’ Bar for Happy Hour, bucking bulls and broncs and live music by Route 33 and INEXCESS. This year sees the return of FMX Motorcycle Stunts, on Saturday night, who received exceptional feedback when they last performed in 2018.

The variety of high quality entertainment does not stop with Walter Whip and Flames and Rooftop Express Spectacular entertaining the masses on Sunday evening.

The event officially concludes with fireworks on both Saturday and Sunday.

The 2021 Brookfield Agricultural Show will run in accordance with any COVID-19 requirements applicable at the time.

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Our Economic Recovery Plan is Working There are now more Australians in work than ever before.

Australia has outperformed all major advanced economies worldwide.

The Unemployment rate is down to just 5.6%.

947,100 jobs have been created in the last 10 months.

Our HomeBuilder program is creating jobs and apprenticeships, and helping Australians into their first home.

Julian SIMMONDS MP

Federal Member for Ryan

Phone: 3378 1599 Email: Julian.Simmonds.MP@aph.gov.au Facebook: facebook.com/JulianSimmondsMP Authorised by J. Simmonds, Liberal National Party of Queensland, 188 Moggill Road, Taringa QLD 4068.

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 7

Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap

by Dr Padma Lal, RATG

Rotary in Australia Celebrates its 100th C e n t e n a r y w i t h R AT G Planting the Rotary Peace Pole, carrying the Universal Message of Peace on Earth The Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap (RATG) i s o n e o f 11 0 0 R o t a r y Clubs in Australia, which this year celebrates the 100th anniversary of the establishment of Rotary in Australia.

Consistent with Rotary’s Universal Message of Peace on Earth and Service Above Self as its guiding philosophy, the RATG planted a Rotary Peace Pole at the MSM College’s newly established Peace and Reconciliation Garden.

For lasting Peace on Earth, Peace must exist at all levels, as the Chinese philosopher Laozi noted over 2500 years ago:

If there is to be peace in the world, there must be peace between nations.

If there is to be peace between nations, there must be peace in the cities.

If there is to be peace in the cities, there must be peace between neighbours.

If there is to be peace between neighbours, there must be peace in the home.

If there is to be peace in the home, there must be peace in the heart.

The RATG joined the Rotary Club of Canberra Burley Griffin, ACT and invited some of our local schools to plant one Rotary Peace Pole in their grounds, with a goal of 100 Peace poles planted across Australia. The MSM accepted this invitation and decided to also create the Peace and Reconciliation Garden in which to jointly plant the Rotary Peace Pole.

The Rotary Peace Pole,

as a symbol of Peace, has its beginnings after the Second World War in 1955. It was developed by the World Peace Prayer Society Founder, Masahisa Goi, and the first Peace Pole was established in Japan. Since then, over 200,000 Peace Poles can be found across 200 countries in the world. This year alone, Rotary Clubs in Australia are expected to plant over 153 Peace Poles in partnership with local schools across the country.

The Rotary Peace Pole number 52, donated

by RATG, was officially launched on 23rd April at the MSM College. The College Principal, Ms Sharon Volp noted, “this Peace Pole illustrates our ongoing commitment as a Catholic community to peace and reconciliation in all forms and our commitment to our relationship with Rotary”.

The Rotary Peace Pole will serve as a silent vigil for peace, reminding us to think and act in the spirit of peace at all levels of humanity.

“May this Rotary Peace Pole also help us to remember how we each can contribute to a peaceful world, through selfless service,” said the Immediate Past President, Dr Padma Lal.

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We welcome Drew to our team at Wyatt Automotive. Drew has worked in the industry since 1989, 28 of those years with roadside assist.

You will All RACQ your motoring needs find Drew at the reception, come as say under one roof G’day

Family Owned & Operated in The Gap Since 1988

Located at BP The Gap, 850 Waterworks Road, The Gap 4061

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 8

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Enoggera & Districts Historical Society Inc. Camp Mountain rail tragedy On Labour Day 1947 – Monday, 5 May – a 7-carriage train with service number E91 left Brisbane’s Roma Street Station at approx. 8.50am carrying over 200 people. It was chartered by the social club for staff at the Department of Trade and Customs. They were travelling to a picnic at Closeburn to celebrate the public holiday. At that time, the rail line extended from Ferny Grove out to Dayboro, with stations at Camp Mountain and Samford.

After leaving Ferny Grove station, the train climbed the Samford Range then came down Camp Mountain at approx.

9.50am. It started to pick up speed dramatically, with carriages starting to rock and some passengers screaming out in concern.

It suddenly left the rails on a left hand turn and tipped onto its right side, ploughing into an embankment.

The crash tragically caused the deaths of 16 people, including the driver and fireman, with 38 others injured. It remains the largest loss of life in an incident on the Queensland rail network.

After World War II, and with Samford Road completed over the range, the rail line beyond Ferny Grove was closed in 1955. The line near the accident site was converted to McLean Road South. The accident site was later commemorated with a stone cairn and plaque by the then Pine Rivers shire council in 1988.

For many years afterwards, local legend had it that late on some nights you could hear the haunting sounds of a train travelling over the Samford Range along with muffled cries.

In the 1990s, local Ferny Hills rock band, The Belladonnas, recorded the song ‘Ghost Train’ inspired by this legend.

Does anyone out there remember the Camp Mountain rail tragedy from May 1947? Share your memories with us at the Society by visiting our Facebook page or emailing enoggerahistory@gmail.com Even feel free to drop in to our premises at the Enoggera Memorial Hall any Thursday morning from 9.30am to pass on your recollections to our volunteers.

Ta k e c a r e , everyone.

Andrew McMicking - President website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

YOUR LOCAL BUSHLAND RETREAT Ta y l o r R a n g e i s a family recreational Club which offers leisure and recreation in the western suburbs for 12 months of the year.

As well as a gas-heated swimming pool for use Swimming pools for year-round enjoyment in the cooler months the Club also has numerous gas barbecue areas that you can relax at during these beautiful clear days.

Instead of spending a fortune on a gym membership that you rarely use why not join a Club that encourages a healthy lifestyle for the whole family whilst creating lifelong memories?

Two Day/Night tennis courts Facilities include 3 swimming pools, 2 day/night tennis courts, 4 glass-backed squash courts, function hall, kiosk, half-basketball court and barbecue areas.

Taylor Range also offers squash for all ages. “We have a junior academy run in conjunction with Squash Australia and this gives boys and girls the opportunity to join one of our junior teams”, said Club manager Michael Wilson.

Junior Squash Academy “We have squash players aged from 5 to 75 years of age at the Club, so whatever your standard there are opportunities here to play socially and or competitively,” added Michael.

This is the ideal time Ideal for birthday parties and barbecues to join a Club that offers you and your family healthy outdoor leisure opportunities, in a safe relaxed environment. Don’t miss out - contact the Club today!

Membership is strictly limited

by Club Constitution.

Contact Club Manager Michael Wilson for details today.

Telephone: 3366 1560

www.taylorrangecountryclub.com.au A.C.N 009 818 277

28 Greenlanes Road, Ashgrove Email: trcclub@bigpond.net.au Fax: 3366 7430

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 9

Amnesty International

CARMEN BRIGGS Number 1 Agent in Queensland Awarded the Number 1 Agent for Harcourts Queensland 2011, 2014, 2016 and 2018/2019 CONTACT CARMEN Real Estate Agent | Justice of the Peace M 0418 742 511 P 3505 4444 carmen.briggs@harcourtssolutions.com.au www.carmenbriggs.harcourts.com.au Harcourts Solutions Group The Gap • Inner City • MItchelton • Everton Park

Amnesty International has just released their annual report for 2020/21 on the state of the world’s human rights. One of the main themes of the report, unsurprisingly, is the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) on world events, in particular, human rights. It also details the impact that broad global inequalities, as well as ineffective leadership, have had on the spread of the virus. The virus has exacerbated existing inequalities and abuses, particularly in countries with weak public health systems and infrastructure. The pandemic has also thrown into relief the “world’s inability to co-operate effectively and equitably at the onset of a low-probability, high-impact global event” according to Agnes Callamard, the secretary general of Amnesty International. She argues that to move forward and ensure a sustainable, resilient way forward we must “demand that our freedoms be upheld, defended and protected, not curtailed”. This means empowering civil society, acting against abuses of power, and reforming global governance. This will enable more effective global action against threats such as the coronavirus, but also the larger, ongoing threat posed by the climate crisis.

The Helen Black Amnesty International group meet between 9-11am on the second Monday morning of the month in The Gap and would love to hear from anyone interested in joining the group. Please contact Di on 33001861. The Ashgrove Amnesty International group meets on the first and third evenings of the month and can be contacted by calling Sally on 3366 2046 or 0476 006 990.

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The Western Echo May 2021 Page 10

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Ashgrove Historical Society Dr Thomas Joseph BrookeKelly FRCSI 1878 – 1972 (information provided by AHS member, Morris Moorhouse) Dr Thomas Brooke-Kelly is remembered by the residents of St John’s Wood (and Ashgrove) as the man who, in the 1930s, moved his house across Enoggera Creek, from St John’s Wood to a plot on Waterworks Road. More on this later...

Thomas Joseph Kelly was born in Ireland in 1879. He had several brothers and two sisters. He was educated in Ireland where he matriculated in medicine, completed postgraduate study and became a surgeon. He amended his name to Brooke-Kelly to avoid confusion with his doctor father who had the same name. (Brooke being his mother’s maiden name).

He came to Australia on the TSS Dorset, working his passage as the ship’s surgeon. He arrived in Melbourne in July 1909 when he was 30 years old and was stationed in the Rockhampton District as a medical assessor for a Life Insurance Company as well as running a medical practice there.

In June 1911 he moved to Brisbane and started a new medical practice. For several years he owned a house, Hollyrood, in New Farm. He moved his practice rooms to several different locations.

In January 1922, aged 42, he relocated to Sydney and commenced a practice in Macquarie Street. While there, he met Lavinia Muriel Beverley, who was in her early twenties, and the pair were married at St. Mary’s Cathedral in November 1925. Within a month the couple had moved to Brisbane and Dr Brooke-Kelly opened a practice at Ascot Chambers. In the newspaper there was a report saying “one of the most brilliant surgeons ever to set foot in Queensland” had re-established his practice in Brisbane. At the end of 1926 their son Stanley Noel was born at the Parramatta Hospital in Sydney.

With the opening of the St John’s Wood housing estate Dr Brooke-Kelly was one of the first residents to build his house in the suburb in 1927. Flooding in Enoggera Creek in 1931 created concern for the doctor, for on two occasions he wasn’t able to gain access to his patients. Although he was a very dedicated doctor, he and his wife found time to attend many social events around Brisbane.

In 1934, having the desire to run his own hospital and over the concern of flooding, he had McKenzie Brothers relocate his house across the creek and up the hill to an allotment at 438 Waterworks Road. He made it his residence and a hospital, calling it Brookwell Private Hospital. This was not to last however, for in January 1937 the hospital closed and the building was put up for sale at an auction.

After a short time, the family moved back to Sydney where he established a practice at Cronulla. Perhaps Dr Brooke-Kelly website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

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was so absorbed with his medical practice that he was entirely unaware of his wife’s affair with one of his patients. He was notified by his wife in March 1942 that she “had run away [to Melbourne] with Dudley”. A divorce followed in October of that year but Dr Brooke-Kelly bore his former wife no malice.

However, the divorce made Australia-wide news at the time with such headlines as “Wife’s adultery with patient” (The Daily Telegraph Sydney).

Dr Brooke-Kelly remained in Sydney and, as was usual for him, he moved his practice on numerous occasions. In 1963 it is recorded that he moved back to Brisbane and had a practice at Virginia then Clayfield.

When he was in his early 90s, Dr Brooke-Kelly fell, fracturing his femur. He ultimately died from infection on 11 May 1972 when he was 93 years old. He is buried in Toowong Cemetery.

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 11

RSL Queensland Welcomes Royal Commission into Veteran Suicide and National Commissioner for Defence and Veteran Suicide Prevention RSL Queensland State P r e s i d e n t To n y F e r r i s welcomed today’s Australian Government announcement of a Royal Commission into Veteran Suicide and the appointment of a National Commissioner responsible for implementing its recommendations.

“Australia’s veterans need and deserve immediate government action to address the many factors which lead them to take their own lives,” Mr Ferris said.

“Urgent establishment of the Royal Commission, backed by the appointment of a National Commissioner to ensure its findings are implemented into the future, will be a substantial step towards reconciling the debt our nation owes our brave service personnel.”

Mr Ferris said RSL Queensland looked forward to reviewing the Royal Commission’s draft Terms of Reference and urged the Commissioner to broadly consult veterans, their families and the community groups working to support them. “ R S L Q u e e n s l a n d subsidiary Mates4Mates has invested significantly charity, we provide a broad in scientific research into range of support services veterans’ quality of life to to directly address the root complement our decades of causes of veteran suicide. experience supporting our These include supporting fellow veterans. We look veterans and their families forward to sharing with with access to crisis support, the Royal Commission our a d v o c a c y , w e l l b e i n g insights and programs which p r o g r a m s , r e s i d e n t i a l are already making a positive accommodation, our awarddifference to the lives of many w i n n i n g e m p l o y m e n t veterans and their families. program, skills development, “Via our network of scholarships and mental and more than 230 Sub Branches physical health programs.”

Half pageand – 175mm HW x 120mm across Queensland our h i l e tW he Royal

Commission is being established, Mr Ferris urged existing efforts to address known issues, such as those identified by the 2019 Report, A Better Way to Support Veterans, continue without pause.

“In particular, veterans want to see the Department of Veterans Affairs appropriately resourced with experienced delegates to reduce veterans’ wait times on compensation claims,” he said.

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The Butterfly came to kindy!

The wonder of nature is all around us! One day during morning tea some children noticed a beautiful butterfly near the Lemonade tree. It was laying eggs! It happily flew away and we spotted its eggs. We researched what kind of butterfly it could be and identified it as a Citrus Swallowtail butterfly. Over the next couple of weeks, the children watched the entire lifecycle from tiny caterpillar to chrysalis to an empty chrysalis. Although we missed seeing the butterfly

emerge and stretch its wings, the children were happy it was free to fly. We’re still hoping to see a butterfly emerge from one of the other chrysalises in various stages of growth. What a wonderful opportunity for many children to connect, relate, discover and bond over their shared interest and excitement.

The natural environment is highly treasured at MPC and we have been encouraging children to get to know and experience some of the possibilities and opportunities abounding in our indoor and outdoor spaces. Our philosophy includes a statement which highlights the value and trust we place in children’s capacity to observe, explore, question, investigate, create, wonder and experience.

Children watched, wondered, questioned, discussed and investigated

together, finding out new information about the Citrus Swallowtail butterfly.

The Lemonade tree is looking a little sad after supporting a crop of Swallowtail butterflies, however it will recover after a boost of worm juice from our worm farm. Hopefully it will be ready to support another bunch of caterpillars next summer!

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The Western Echo May 2021 Page 13

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The Forum Communicators Bursary 2021 offered through our affiliation with the National Council of Women of Queensland (NCWQ) is now open for applications.

Would $1,000 help you with your studies?

Are you: A female resident of Queensland enrolled in your first or second year of tertiary studies at university or TAFE? Able to demonstrate a record of achievement in the communication field, either through your studies, public speaking or debating?

Able to demonstrate commitment to leadership within your local community?

An Australian citizen or Permanent Resident of Australia?

If you answered YES to these questions, you may be eligible to apply.

Full details are available on the NCWQ website ncwq. org.au/bursaries. Applications may be made online, or if this is not possible, please contact Kathy, the Bursary Program Manager, on 0407 117 378 or by email at bursaries@ncwq. org.au to request an application form. All applications must be submitted by Monday 2 June 2021, Ashgrove Forum members are looking forward to joining with their Sister Forum, Bayside, to celebrate the Bayside’s 38th year as a club by taking part in a mock Antiques Roadshow on 12th May at the Wynnum Library.

The next meeting of Ashgrove Forum Club will be held at 6.30pm on 19 May 2021, in the Ashgrove Library meeting rooms at 87 Amarina Avenue, Ashgrove. At this meeting all members will be required to speak for 2-3 minutes each in a group conversation expressing their point of view on an unknown topic introduced by the first speaker.

Visitors and prospective members are always welcome to attend Ashgrove Forum meetings without obligation. For enquiries, please ring 0409 615 514.

For more information on Forum Communicators public speaking association, please visit the website www. beconfident.org.au

NOTICE TO READERS

We wish to advise that delivery of the Western Echo can not be legally made to letterboxes displaying Australia Post Only or Authorised Mail Only. For those residents who wish to collect a free copy, we have newstands located at: • Night Owl- Corner Samford Rd & Wardell St • Stewart Road News Ashgrove • Brumby's Bakery, 974 Waterworks Road, The Gap

ACCOUNTANTS - TAX AGENTS on 32 Main St, Samford (next to Farmers Hall)

T 07 3289 1700 F 07 3289 2110 E reception@rgoodman.com.au

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 14

Copies are also available at The Gap Village, The Gap Ward Office, Ashgrove Electorate Office, Ashgrove Library, Red Hill Australia Post, Ashgrove West Australia Post & the Great Western Super Centre Management The Friendly Grocer The Gap and bp The Gap. Distribution is currently being made by Ovato Residential Distribution.

Delivery is made to all domestic letterboxes, providing there is no signage requesting non-delivery of unsolicited mail.

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Canine Boredom Busting Most dog owners know the importance of providing their pets with physical exercise for optimal health. However, it can sometimes be easy to underestimate the importance of mental stimulation for a healthy and happy life. Consider the wild ancestors of today’s companion dogs - many hours of their day would’ve been spent in hunting or scavenging for food. Compare that to the 30 seconds some pets spend in wolfing down their dinner every night, and that’s a lot of hours of mental stimulation going unfulfilled!

Canine enrichment can alleviate boredom, reduce anxiety and problem behaviours, and enhance your bond with your pet. There are many different types of enrichment you can offer.

Try to think of new or creative ways of feeding your pet. Some ideas include puzzle toys, ‘snuffle matts’, scatter feeding in the (faeces free) backyard, or frozen treats on summer days. Dry dog food in a plastic bottle with holes cut in the sides can provide hours of entertainment. Try placing food into the cups of a muffin tin (covered or uncovered) or hiding the food in boxes, cardboard tubes, or rolled up towels.

Non-food related enrichment ideas include playing ‘hide-and-seek’ or trick training. Trained and social dogs can be taken to a dog-friendly café or market. Active dogs may benefit from canine sports such as agility, flyball, herding, or advanced obedience classes. Even just switching up your walking route can provide a smorgasbord of new, exciting scents to sniff out.

For dogs new to enrichment activities, we recommend starting slow and simple before gradually increasing difficulty. Your pet may be confused at the idea of having to work for food at first, but most dogs learn quickly with lots of praise and tasty treats. Always supervise your dog around new games to ensure that they don’t ingest any part of the container the food is served in.

Your pets’ enrichment is limited only by your imagination! Mentally stimulated dogs are happy and fulfilled, more confident, and build stronger bonds with their owners and more confidence.

Why not give it a try today?

Regards, Scott and the GVS Team

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The Western Echo May 2021 Page 15

The Gap Historical Society Inc. Est. 2000 The Development of Public Transport at The Gap The early settlers of The Gap lived somewhat isolated lives, particularly the women. One contributing factor for this was the lack of transport. For the first sixty years after settlement of The Gap, the major means of transport were horse, horse and sulky and drays. This lack of public transport was common to the whole of early Brisbane.

In 1885 the first eighteen horse-drawn trams were imported to Brisbane from America and in June 1897 the horse-drawn trams were replaced by electric trams. These trams were privately run until 1923 when the Brisbane city Council was given responsibility for the tram network. One of the electric tram services opened in 1897 ran to Red Hill.

In his book “Reflections”, our late founding member, Richard Speechley, wrote about the beginning of our bus service at The Gap. He recorded that in 1923, Frenchman Mr Auriac, newly arrived in Brisbane, bought a T Model Ford bus licensed to carry eighteen passengers and set up a bus service from Walton Bridge to Federal St, Red Hill. Here passengers transferred to the Red Hill tram. With only three cars at The

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www.keperrafamilypractice.com.au The Western Echo May 2021 Page 16

The Gap Bus Service - delivering passengers to City Hall, Ashgrove and the Walton Bridge Picnic Grounds

Gap at that time his service was very popular.

In 1924 the tram service was extended from Red Hill to Oleander Drive Ashgrove, so The Gap bus travelled along Waterworks Rd and then via Jubilee Tce to Red Hill.

In 1925 Mr Auriac sold the service to Mr Percy Maxwell, who bought a new “Traffic” brand bus and obtained permission to extend the service to the city, terminating near the old Tivoli Theatre in Albert Street. Mr Maxwell sold to Mr A Saunders and the service was extended to Settlement Rd. The local Progress Association constructed a bus shelter at the corner of Waterworks Rd and Settlement Rd which was a local land mark for many years after.

Dinny Rosenthall was the next person to run the service from 1927 and he extended the service along School Rd and Payne Rd a couple of days a week. He bought a 25-seater “Reo Speed Wagon” and was even known to drive passengers home to their door in severe weather.

In 1935 the Ashgrove tram service was extended to Ashgrove school. Again, The Gap bus route changed and travelled along Waterworks Rd to the tram terminus and then via Coopers Camp Rd. to the city.

After Dinny Rosenthall, The Gap bus service was run by Mr Mullins, Bill Farmer and Cliff Holden, who operated the service until Brisbane City Council took over responsibility for local bus services in 1948 with sixty- seven buses from twenty operators. Gap residents used bus and tram services until the last tram from Ashgrove ran at 2:35am on 5th August 1968. Services have gradually expanded until we now have a service that our early settlers could not even have dreamed of.

HERITAGE FESTIVAL EVENT - CANCELLED In the April Echo, we mentioned the we would hold a photo display coupled with a tour of historic sites in a vintage bus.

Unfortunately, we have had to cancel this event.

Quote of the Day

Experience is the hardest kind of teacher.

It gives you the test first and the lesson afterward.

Oscar Wilde website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

“It's improved my life 100 per cent” For builder Tom Saunders, noisy environments are part and parcel of a typical day on the job.

“It can be pretty loud working in construction,” said Tom. “Amongst all that noise I’d noticed my hearing wasn’t great, but most of my friends also have hearing loss so everyone’s in the same boat. When we’re having a beer together, you’ve got to say something 20 times before all of us get what’s being said.”

Determined to see what options were available for his hearing loss, Tom headed to a nearby audiology clinic and was shocked at the abruptness of the experience.

“I went to a hearing centre in town and they gave me a quick test, and then asked if I would like hearing aids. Not only did I balk at the price, I was also left confused at what type of device I actually needed and why,” said Tom. A chance conversation with a friend who works at Hear and Say in Ashgrove led Tom to book an appointment, and he said he hadn’t turned back since.

“The difference between the two places was incomparable. I’m just so thankful to Hear and Say for the opportunity to fix my hearing, otherwise it wouldn’t have been sorted and I’d still be missing out on so much. It’s improved my life 100 per cent,” said Tom. “I remember what initially got me really keen on getting my hearing sorted was meeting one of my friend’s young daughters. We were driving in the car and she was talking away in the backseat to me – but I couldn’t hear her. I wasn’t responding, so her mum had to say, ‘Oh don’t worry, Tom’s just a little deaf.’

“That made me feel horrible, and it was a real wakeup call to what I’d been missing all these years. Now we can have a great conversation, with no repetitions needed!”

Established almost 30 years ago, Hear and Say now offers services for people of all ages, providing unbiased, individually tailored advice, independent from all hearing device manufacturers.

Their unique model providing for services for adults also supports Hear and Say’s charity work with children.

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The Western Echo May 2021 Page 17

Hockey club honours fallen soldiers Northern Suburbs Hockey Club is honouring fallen Australian Defence Force members – including one of its former players Ashley Birt – with a special commemorative ANZAC Day jersey.

Norths has a proud tradition of Australian Army personnel in its playing ranks, given the Ashgrove club’s close proximity to the Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera.

The club has paid tribute to Australian Defence Force (ADF) members with its new Diggers Appreciation Day jersey worn by Norths teams in games on ANZAC weekend.

Designed by Norths players Jack Tucker and Tim Riggall with assistance from clubmate and Australian Army Captain Aaron Evans, the jersey incorporates iconic ANZAC imagery including poppies, a soldier standing honourably over the fallen, and the eternal quote ‘Lest we forget’.

The special jersey honours Corporal Ashley Birt, a former Norths player who was killed on operations in Afghanistan in 2011. “ We e n d e a v o u r e d to create a jersey that is respectful and honours past and present members of the ADF who have represented our country so that we may live blessed and privileged lives,” Jack said.

Norths Hockey Club players Jack Tucker and Australian Army Craftsman Peter Hamilton, of Gallipoli Barracks at Enoggera, wearing the special Diggers Appreciation Day jerseys for ANZAC Day

“We hope that our small initiative helps commemorate our Defence Force members and anyone who has served our country in some way, shape or form.

“We feel very fortunate to wear this design and will do our utmost to represent their honour with dignity and pride, just as they have nobly done for us and Australia.”

Part of the purpose of the Diggers Appreciation Day commemoration is to raise awareness of people’s mental health.

“I cannot personally begin to grasp the desperation one must feel when experiencing war on a battlefield so far from home, or the turmoil inherited

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 18

from the experience,” Jack said.

“It is vital that everyone looks after each other. We are all mates and the courage it takes to ask someone if they are okay is small in comparison to the courage displayed by all those who have experienced war.”

Norths is raising money for Cor Infinitus, whose purpose is to provide dignity and respect to the families of ADF personnel who have taken their own lives.

The organisation also aims to break down the stigma around mental health for serving and veteran defence force members.

A fundraising event held at Norths’ clubhouse in Ashgrove on April 24 featured guest speaker Kevin Humphreys, who had a 20year military career flying Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters for the Australian Army. “ K e v i n ’s p e r s o n a l mission is to lift humanity by inspiring people to have their own courageous and compassionate conversations,” Northern Suburbs Men’s Hockey Club President Wayne Tucker said.

“We are very fortunate to have Kevin as our guest speaker, to hear his story and to learn how we can all be better mates to each other.”

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Probus Club of The Gap What with the 100th anniversary of the RAAF, and ANZAC day, and the death of Prince Philip, naval officer, the military is much in people’s minds at the moment. That makes it very appropriate that the guest speaker at the forthcoming 6th May meeting should be Dr. Tony Brady, with the intriguing title “The Empire has an Answer” – he has published a book with the same title.

We tend to shy away from the word “Empire”, these days, but in 1943 it was still de rigeur and gave its name to the little-remembered Empire Air Training Scheme, which prepared tens of thousands of Australians for air combat in Europe and elsewhere. This is the subject of Tony’s talk, based on his book.

Quite apart from the interest of his subject, which members look forward to hearing about, Tony has had an interesting life of his own, and an interesting family tree complete with a First Fleeter, a Gallipoli veteran, a Stawell Gift winner, a Melbourne Cup jockey (and horse-thief) and, it seems, everything Australian except a bunyip-hunter. We expect to quiz him on all of the above, and add his name to the roll of interesting speakers that so inform, educate, and entertain us at our meetings.

The club program for the year includes more guest speakers, outings, dine-outs, and small social events. More information at https://www.probussouthpacific.org/microsites/ thegapc/ If you are interested in joining Probus, or just giving it a try, we would welcome your enquiry. Just call our Membership Officer Rhoda on 0409 484 219. Places are available – no waiting list – and we’d love to put you on the mailing list and include you in the clubbishness!

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Quote of the Day

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The Western Echo May 2021 Page 19

Queensland’s premier chorus

PRESENTS

REQUIEM FOR THE LIVING

by DAN FORREST LEANNE KENNEALLY (soprano)

The Sinfonia of St Andrew’s conducted by

KEVIN POWER Friday 14 May 2021 at 7.30pm St Stephen’s Cathedral Elizabeth St Brisbane

BOOK NOW! Tickets available on-line at 4mbs.com.au or call 3847 1717 for assistance

Tickets $50 Concessions $45 Students $15

QFHS DNA Open Day Are you interested in taking your family history further with DNA, but confused about it? Come to the Queensland Family History Society DNA Open Day on 22 May to find out more.

One of my ancestors seemed to have popped up out of nowhere at his wedding. After 14 short years he died suddenly leaving two tiny words as a clue into the mystery of his origin.

He had come from somewhere in England, but for years, those clues led nowhere. Then came a DNA result showing a link to Nottingham. I was on my way. A QFHS connection to records about a Nottingham lad in London brought the pieces together.

A 40 year mystery was solved!

With a variety of advertising claims from DNA companies, QFHS can provide independent advice about what DNA can do for you, whether you have been researching for a long time or just starting out.

DNA can also help adoptees to begin finding family.

For the day we will have someone on hand from Jigsaw to help with advice on how to find available information from Queensland government adoption records.

But a DNA test provides only part of the answers, so there will also be specialists on hand to demonstrate other record resources: maps, family histories, overseas resources and more.

So, come along to QFHS at 58 Bellevue Avenue, Gaythorne on Saturday 22 May between 12 and 4, and ask your questions about how DNA can help find out about your family!

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 20

Qld Choir Presents Modern Masterpiece The Queensland Choir will mark its 2021 return to concert giving in Brisbane on May 14 with a modern masterpiece set to resonate with audiences in post-COVID times.

The Queensland Choir’s musical director Kevin Power says US composer Dan Forrest’s internationally acclaimed Requiem for the Living, which juxtaposes humanity’s struggles with the wonders of the universe, is a timely choice for the choir’s first performance in more than a year since COVID shutdowns.

“After the chaos and suffering around the world during the past 12 months it seemed particularly appropriate to start singing again with this Requiem for the Living since it is not only a requiem (or plea for peace for the dead) but also a plea for rest for the living from the pain and suffering of everyday life, something which we have seen a lot of in the past 12 months,” Mr Power says.

“The work offers three different glimpses of the heavens and Earth, full of God’s glory, inspired by images of space from the Hubble Space Telescope, views of the Earth from the International Space Station, and back down to Earth where cities teem with the energy of humanity.

“The choir thoroughly enjoyed singing Requiem for the Living last time we performed it a few years ago at St John’s Cathedral and the audience gave us a standing ovation, so we are looking forward to this reprise in the heart of Brisbane at St Stephen’s Cathedral at 7.30pm on Friday, May 14,” he says.

“It is also a work of hope, and as the Queensland Choir prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary next year, we remember that we have survived and thrived despite the tumults of history including the 1919 Spanish flu epidemic when practices and concerts were also cancelled.

“The concert will also feature acclaimed Brisbane-based soprano Leanne Kenneally, an award-winning Queensland Conservatorium of Music graduate who has performed with Opera Queensland, Opera Australia and internationally with Germany’s Cologne Opera.

“The program will include Mozart’s Overture to La finta giardiniera and Exultate Jubilate and Gluck’s Dance of the Blessed Spirits as well as Requiem for the Living, all accompanied by the Sinfonia of St Andrew’s.”

THE QUEENSLAND CHOIR presents Requiem for the Living, Friday May 14, 7.30pm, St Stephen’s Cathedral, Brisbane. Tickets: $50 Concessions $45, F/T Students $15.

Book through 4MBS Ticketing online at 4mbs.com.au or call 3847 1717, nine to five, seven days a week for assistance with online bookings.

For more information, see www.qldchoir.com, or phone: 0427 710 382.

Quote of the Day The surest sign that intelligent life exists elsewhere in the universe is that it has never tried to contact us.

- Bill Watterson website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Gap State School 2022 Prep Open Day The Gap State School Prep 2022 Open Day will be held on Wednesday, 19 May from 9am – 10:30am.

To register to attend the Open Day, we ask that you visit the school’s website where Open Day registrations and expressions of interest for enrolment can be submitted online.

Our school community is looking forward to welcoming guests to the Open Day. What is on offer: • small group tours with our senior students • displays from different areas across the school • opportunity to meet speak with staff members • enrolment packs for 2022 enrolment available for collection Expressions of interest for 2022 enrolment are currently accepted for all year levels. Enrolment interviews for eligible children will commence after the Open Day, for children whose primary place of residence is inside the school’s catchment area and for siblings of current students of The Gap State School. Offers of enrolment for children who reside outside of the school’s catchment area will commence after the first round of enrolment interviews.

Please visit the school’s website for full enrolment information. Don’t forget to register online if you would like to join us on our Open Day!

PREP 2022 OPEN DAY 19 May 2021

9am - 10:30am Register online at www.thegapss.eq.edu.au or phone 3511 3333

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 21

.....Principal's Points.......Principal's Points......

Payne Road State School In Term 1 we welcomed G.A.T.E.W.A.Y.S. to Payne Road for the first time to run extension writing programs for students in Years 1 -3 (Wednesday) and Years 4-6 (Thursday). We welcomed students from many other schools across Brisbane to participate in the program at Payne Road on both days.

Students worked with 3 different authors across their day. We were fortunate to welcome back Dimity Powell (Book Week author visit to Payne Road State School 2020), Aleesah Darlisson (Book Week author visit to Payne Road State School 2019). We also met the author, Yvonne Mes for the first time.

We received fantastic feedback from the presenters and organisers on the quality of authorship, high level of enthusiasm and great display of friendship demonstrated by our students.

G.A.T.E.W.A.Y.S will be returning to Payne Road to host a Science program in Term 2 and a Maths program in Term 3.

If you are interested in your child participating in these programs, please contact Payne Road State School of 3511 3111 for details.

Nicky Brazzale – Principal

St Peter Chanel School Term 1 drew to a close with much excitement for us, especially in the sporting arena.

Our school Zone Swimming Squad competed in the annual Zone 4 Swimming Carnival held at the Fortitude Valley Pool.

With sensational weather and equally remarkable students and staff, St Peter

Chanel School won the B Schools division. Our relay teams were formidable and in individual races many personal bests were achieved.

Thank you to our teaching staff and parent body for their support in training and for the squad breakfast. Well done team!

As Term 1 concluded, we hosted our annual Cross Country Carnival, with the new onsite course proving to be very popular. Congratulations to Dunne, as the winning House. Congratulations are also extended to our Age Champions: 5 Years: Boston K and Alice P; 6 Years: Lenny H and Avery H; 7 Years: Leo M and Amelia Mc; 8 Years: Jack Mc and Claudia R; 9 Years: Abe P and Eliza P; 10 Years: Cooper D and Ruby H; 11 Years: Jacob H and Leanne M; and 12 Years: James S and Georja D Our students who will represent the school in the Zone Cross Country Carnival have already commenced before school training, alongside several other students who are interested in keeping up their fitness.

Term 2 commenced with important school events.

We held a special Assembly where our Senior Concert Band performed for the school community for the first time this year. Over 30 students are a part of this ensemble and our community certainly enjoyed the entertainment led by our masterful conductor and band teacher, Mr Neil Wickham.

Each term we formally recognise students who have displayed one or more of the CHANEL virtues of Charity, Hope, Acceptance, Nurture, Excellence and Love to the highest level. Congratulations to the students who were recently honoured: Myra P, Isla J, Bridie R, Tess A,

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 22

Orlando R, Georgia H, Lily B, Abel S, Esther V E, George H, Millie S, Emmy H, Mia F C, James S, Charlie N and Jack S. The early part of the term has also seen us commemorate ANZAC Day with the community.

We have further celebrated the feast day of saint Peter Chanel, honouring the saint after whom our school is named. We acknowledged the significant contribution he made to Christian faith in the 1800s, especially on the island of Futuna in the South Pacific.

Our next Open Day will be held on Wednesday, May 5, with discovery tours departing the school office at 9.00am and 5.00pm.

Interested families are asked to RSVP by phoning 3300 1202, by emailing pthegap@bne.catholic.edu. au, or by visiting our website.

Principal-led tours are also available should these dates and time not suit families.

Enrolment applications for Prep 2022 are now being accepted and interviews have commenced. Children born between July 1, 2016 and June 30, 2017 are eligible to enrol. Interested families are invited to contact our school office should they have any enquiries or are seeking more information about what our school has to offer.

Margo Carwardine – Principal

The Gap State High School Term two started with a very busy week including our school Cross Country and our ANZAC Parade.

Our Cross Country was run on a very warm day in April, lots of enthusiastic students and teachers ran and walked a 4km circuit. This year we have introduced a new house system, we have gone from three houses to eight so

students were excited to dress in their new colours and earn points for their teams.

Year 11 and 12 Film, TV & New Media students attended the Future Filmmakers Seminar at Bond University as part of the Gold Coast Film Festival. Our budding filmmakers heard from a range of respected industry professionals and members of the thriving screen industry in Queensland. They finished the day with a tour of the impressive production and post-production facilities at Bond. These emerging young storytellers are now excited about applying their learning and passion for film to the productions they are making this term ready for the Reelies Film Festival later in the year.

We held our ANZAC Parade on Friday 23 April.

We were honoured to have Mr Rod Adamson from the RSL come and speak to the school.

We had over 1700 students in the school hall and their behaviour was exemplary.

The Gap SHS was proudly represented at the Students’ ANZAC Commemoration Ceremony by our junior leaders. The students attended the ceremony where they heard the Hon Paul De Jersey AC, Governor of Queensland give the Commemorative Address. In addition to the usual ANZAC Ceremony components there were addresses and poems which reminded our students how important it is to honour the sacrifices of our veterans and current serving members of the military.

Our Year 12 cohort were given a presentation from You Choose. This is a non for profit organisation that aims to educate youth about road safety and the importance of making good decisions.

Anne McLauchlan Principal (Continued on page 23)

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Principal's Points......

The Gap State School Year 4 to 6 students participated in our annual cross country event last month. All students are congratulated for their comradery and team spirit displayed on the day. It is my pleasure to announce our age champions: 2009 – Erin and Alex; 2010 – Josie and James; 2011 – Lucy and Isaac; and 2012 – Faye and Charlie.

Congratulations also to Endeavour, the winning house for 2021!

Midi Strings camp took place at the end of March and was unfortunately cut short due with the early closure of schools at the end of term. Year 4 string students: Faye, Elsa, Robyn, Mollie, Mitchell, Sophia, Lucy, Isaac, Mimi, Jessica and Aiden, were however able to enjoy participating for the first day of camp.

Over the coming weeks we have several extension and enrichment opportunities for Year 5 and 6 students.

These opportunities for our highly able students provide opportunities for collaborative team work while demonstrating confidence and persistence.

Trials for selection in the school’s QDU Debating teams is currently taking place and the following students were successful in their application for a place in the Wavell Heights Middle School Problem Solving Challenge: Alex L, Ava, Zuri, Hayden, Samuel, Marcus, Bethan, Ridhima, James, Fletcher, Sebastian, Rachel, Alex T, Charlotte, Reiss and Joshua.

Congratulations and best wishes to all students who are participating in their various events.

Joanne Nicholls - Principal

May 2021 Heralds the Return of the Ashgrove State School's Mother's Day Fete

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One Tree Defence Childcare Unit

Enoggera

Look no further and contact us at the One Tree Defence Childcare Unit.

We provide an inclusive and safe environment where your child can explore and develop.

To book a tour call (07) 3354 4633

Operating Hours: Mon – Fri: 6.30am – 5.30pm.

We are closed on public holidays and two weeks over Christmas.

Address: 10 Taurama Street, Enoggera, QLD, 4051

The Ashgrove State School P&C Fete, one of the oldest and largest fetes in Brisbane, is happening again on Saturday 8 May. website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Phone: (07) 3354 4633

Mobile: 0455 880 344

This year the theme is “celebrating community” in recognition of the tough year we’ve had and to celebrate the amazing community spirit that has been on display. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the food, rides and entertainment on offer and peruse fete favourites such as the cakes stall, the humble jumble and the famous second hand toy stall. There will be a live AND silent auction on the day, a sideshow alley, lots of performances, and food options to suit everyone. It’s also a great opportunity to pick up a hamper or a beautiful bunch of flowers for Mother’s Day the following day. The fete is on from 9:30am – 4pm at Ashgrove State School, 31 Glory St, Ashgrove. https://www.facebook.com/events/2216789058455741 The Western Echo May 2021 Page 23

Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club Lions are committed to giving back to communities and the individuals within them, and are focussed on those areas.

We raise funds for medical

research, community needs and projects which benefit our peoples at home and abroad.

This year COVID has a ff e c t e d L i o n s l o c a l l y, nationally and internationally in many ways, mostly in the

Newmarket Probus Club - in Red Hill The year has got off to a good start.

Our AGM was held in March and was well attended. The Club welcomed Alison Garrison as our new President, and thanked Keith Wakeling for his services as Acting President since late last year.

Entertainment for the morning was provided by Sue Wighton, who provided music, singing and poetry. Sue sang beautifully, and made us laugh.

reduction of our ability to fundraise in order to support our Lions programs. Looking forward and beyond 2021, our hope is to get back into fundraising and having a large community focus.

Future planning with new and inventive fundraising is on the agenda with a joint partnership with Payne Road State School and Trek 4 Health.

As ANZAC Day approached two of our Lions members represented our club at remembrance services in The Gap and Ashgrove. As a club we will commorate ANZAC Day with an address

by Dr Sue Keays who is an expert in the history of the Australian Army Nursing Service, and she will take our thoughts back to 1914 and discuss the incredible hardships women faced during conflict while nursing injured members of the armed forces.

An ANZAC DAY Dawn Service Gunfire Breakfast on Sunday 25th April was organised by Trek4 Health following an overnight trek finishing at Walton Bridge Park before the Dawn Service Memorial Park. Lions are very supportive of the Trek4Health charitable organisation as a

valuable community service provider in assisting members of the forces and service organisations to recover from lingering trauma experienced during their defence service.

We will be participating together with the P&C of The Payne Road State School in a major Fundraising Event – an On- Line Raffle for the School and the Lions Club Lions with a substantial number of fantastic Prizes.

We value your support for this School Fundraiser which will be drawn at the Payne Road Fete on 20th June.

A big thank you to all our communities for your continued support over the last 12 months and keep an eye open for a new list of future projects.

If you would like to know more about Lions please feel free to contact our Membership Chair Liz Baldacchino on 0412071869 we are ready to have a chat any convenient time.

Quote of the Day The outing for March was the River City Cruise. Twenty members enjoyed a delightful Devonshire Tea as we cruised the Brisbane River down as far as Newstead House, then back to the Cultural Centre Pontoon. It was a beautiful clear day to be on the water, and the commentary gave us all sorts of tidbits about some of Brisbane’s most interesting properties.

Our Book Group, Sunday Lunch group and Walking groups are all meeting up again, although I must say the Walking Group is struggling a bit with the weather. Fortunately coffee shops are usually available, and conversation makes for a very satisfactory alternative.

We meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at the RED HILL Community Sports Centre at 10am -12 md.

New members would be most welcome. For any enquiries please contact Judith on 3353 1234 or The Western Echo May 2021 Page 24

The difference between stupidity and genius is that genius has its limits.

- Albert Einstein

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Serenata Singers Celebrate

In 1970, The Gap and District Musical Society was founded. In 2020, it achieved its 50th Anniversary under the name Senenata Singers Inc. Just as ideas to observe the occasion were being planned, COVID-19 arrived in Australia and it became necessary to defer any celebration until a gathering of past and present members became viable. So, here we are in 2021 and planning an actual Anniversary Celebration.

As COVID-19 restrictions still hold some control over group activities, Serenata Singers have decided to organise the occasion around a free afternoon concert. This concert will be held in the Auditorium of The Gap Uniting Church at 1050 Waterworks Road, The Gap and begin at 2:00pm on Saturday, 29 May 2021. Unfortunately, the attendees will need to be limited to 70. At this stage, seating will be socially distanced and refreshments arranged to be served following COVID guidelines.

The choir is rehearsing to present a happy celebratory event with some well-known musical pieces, instrumental guest soloists and some community singing. We are really looking forward to sharing this occasion with former members and friends. However, restricted numbers mean that the event will be invitation only, as we cannot guarantee everyone will be able to be included in the final restricted audience seating.

We are therefore calling for expressions of interest from former choir members, the families and friends of current and former choir members, and anyone who has had a connection with the choir over the years. If you are interested, please contact us on: serenatasingersthegap@gmail.com A chronology/history of the choir and photos/images from past years can be accessed on the choir website: https:// serenatasingers.org.au/about-us/choir-news/

Valley Hockey Club Celebrating 100 Years in 2021 The Valley Hockey Club will be celebrating its 100 years in 2021. To commemorate its centenary the Club will be hosting a number of events throughout the year.

Any past players or supporters, both men and women, who would like to be advised of such events should contact the VHC Secretary at secretary@valleyhockey.com.au or contact Alex Granlund on 0404 463 733

The Deadline for JUNE 2021 Edition Tuesday 25 May

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• Garden Clean-ups • Tree and Shrub Pruning • Hedging • Garden Mulching • Lawn Mowing • Rubbish Removal The Western Echo May 2021 Page 25

CHESS T'MINIT With Covid-19 restrictions now being relaxed, physical tournament and social play at The Gap Chess Club has recommenced with Covidsafe play rules in place. Game night starts 7.30 pm on Friday nights at Room B6, The Gap State High School. The club has a web page, https://www. thegapchessclub.org.au/ with updates on club play, local chess news and puzzles.

The Flood Cup tournament continues, and after 4 of the 7 rounds Harvey Zhu and Matthew Chippendale lead with 3.5 points. At the conclusion of the Flood Cup the Stuart Wilson hour tournament will commence.

Anybody interested in playing should contact the Club through its webpage.

This month’s problem has the world champion Magnus Carlsen with the black pieces as a young player. This time he found a nice move to win instantly.

Solution to last month’s puzzle 1. 1. Qc6!! And the threat of checkmate on a8 is unavoidable.

Newmarket VIEW Club May Meeting ‘Voice, Interests and Education of Women’ Venue - Gaythorne RSL Club

Enjoying lunch after a tour of the ANZAC Square Memorial Galleries, Lyn, Ann, Clare, Anne and Roslyn

A special outing was arranged for up to 20 of our members to visit the Anzac Memorial Galleries to remind

us of the sacrifices of our Defence Forces during the wars engaged since the first ANZACS in World War I.

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 26

Arana VIEW Club May Meeting Arana VIEW Club was delighted to learn that her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley was announced as the VIEW Clubs Australia’s first ever Patron. She is a passionate advocate for children’s education, having been an educator for many years. As the wife of the GovernorGeneral, Mrs Hurley is the perfect fit to represent our organisation as we continue to support students through our Learning for Life Program.

Our next meeting is on Wednesday 2nd June, 10.30am for 11.00am start at the Arana Leagues Club, Dawson Parade, Keperra. The cost is $30.00 for the 2-course lunch and tea and coffee. Our guest speaker is Amanda Harvey from Queensland Rail who will no doubt inspire us to enjoy the benefits of rail travel especially as holidaying in Queensland is a great choice in our present environment. We will have our usual lucky door and raffle prizes to support our Learning for Life students.

Phone Carol on 3355 5349 by 12.00 pm Monday 31st May if you are attending.

We welcome new members so come along and see what happens at our meetings and social activities.

It was a very interesting and informative morning followed by a social lunch.

The Newmarket VIEW Club is part of a network of over 300 clubs and 15,000 women throughout Australia.

Despite the challenges of last year, VIEW members were extremely creative when it came to staying connected – while socially distancing.

T h e y o rg a n i s e d o n l i n e fashion parades, facemask sewing bees, and Zoom social events, to name a few – all to raise money for children experiencing disadvantages.

Our members used raffles

and donations to raise funds to continue to support the six students following The Smith Family’s Learning for Life Program, by sponsoring their school activities. These children were among the hardest hit during school shutdowns, as many didn’t have the right tools they needed to learn from home.

If you wish to know more about the Newmarket VIEW Club, email us on newmarketview@gmail. com or ring our president, Heather, on 0437 343 163 or vice-president, Jean, on 0438 177 176.

Committee member Bonnie performing at our celebration of the Club’s 24th birthday which had a roaring Twenties theme where our ladies performed a Charleston dance routine

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Would You Like to Plant Trees Without Getting Your Hands Dirty?

Contact us Ph: 0432 967 829 walkingfootballbrisbane.com.au info@walkingfootballbrisbane.com.au

MOTT (The Men of the Trees Qld Inc) the small, notfor-pro.t volunteer bushland restoration group open to all, is looking for a Treasurer.

This is not a job that will keep you from your garden your golf, but it will assist our enthusiastic group greatly in its agenda of repairing and building wildlife habitat, and helping to beautify our urban and rural scapes.

Ish one of our Men of The Trees volunteers So, if you have the skills and would like to help, we would be delighted to hear from you.

If you are interested, please contact our Secretary, Lawrence Robertson on 0431 506 282, email: lawrencegrobertson @ icloud.com, or our outgoing Treasurer, Brian Grebert on 0438 535 483, email: bmgrebert@gmail.com, or our President, Councillor Steve Toomey on 3407 1900 thegap.ward@ bccqld.gov.au

Have you visited Yoorala St Community Garden?

MOTT volunteers at the Grenoble Street April planting

But if you (anyone and everyone) would like to get your hands into the earth to “plant trees for our lives”, to restore and build more bush, here is our encapsulated May Calendar.

If you would like to join us on any of these occasions, or be added to our regular mailing list, please contact Marion for more details 0411 838 399 - mariongoward@hotmail.com.

Start 9.00am, Morning Tea to Share at 10.30, Finish 12.30pm -Saturday 8 May - Bunya Old School Reserve, Bunya Road, Bunya - LARGE PLANTING with MBRC Saturday 15 May - Enoggera Army Reserve - PLANTING Saturday 22 May - Paten Park Native Nursery, Paten Road, The Gap - NURSERY WORK Saturday 29 May - Grenoble Street & Paten Park, Paten Rd, The Gap - WEEDING & PLANTING

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

What we love about our garden: Grow your own fresh produce Make new friends An active community group Enjoy family-time outdoors Learn gardening skills & tips No gardening experience required Access-friendly raised garden beds Social events & on-site workshops Private plots available for lease

It's a place we really dig!

Community open times: Please come and see our garden for yourself.

You are welcome to visit us during the following community times: Dec-Mar: Sundays, 4.00-6pm Apr-Nov: Sundays, 8.00-10am Just turn up, bring your hat, water bottle & gloves. One of our members will meet you, show you around, and provide information if you'd like to get involved. And join us for a cuppa afterwards. Hope to see you soon!

Visitors welcome!

98 Yoorala St, The Gap www.yscg.com.au yscgsecretary@gmail.com www.facebook.com/yooralastreetcommunitygarden

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 27

Angular pigface 3300 6304

www.ppnn.org.au

Angular pigface (Carpobrotus glaucescens) is often overlooked as a garden plant due to its common name. Supposedly the flower resembles the face of a pig but it takes a great stretch of the imagination to come to that conclusion. When in flower during Spring, however, these plants provide an abundance of bright, cheerful pink flowers that attract bees and other insect pollinators.

This, prostrate, succulent plant is predominantly associated with the sand dunes where their extensive

root system stabilises the sand. The plant works just as well inland, stabilising slopes, growing around pools, cascading over the edges of hanging baskets and filling in gaps in a rock garden. As a fire-retarding plant, it is useful in providing colour around buildings in bush-fire prone areas. Since they have no spines or prickles, pigfaces are ideal in a child-friendly garden. They have the added bonus that the leaves and fruit are edible and add a delicious salty taste to a garden salad.

The bright red fruit can be made into jam and chutney.

The juice from the leaves, like that of aloe vera, can be used to relieve skin burns and insect bites.

Angular pigface grows in partial to full sun in well

drained soils. It is relatively pest free and can tolerate extended dry periods, humidity, salt and frosts but should not be grow in areas prone to water logging.

Mitchelton & Districts Garden Club The April meeting of the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club had to be cancelled and the guest speaker has kindly agreed to deliver his talk at the garden club meeting on 3rd June at the Enoggera Memorial Hall.

Details which were published in the March edition are repeated herein.

“Craig Duncan, a representative from Rocky Point Mulching is the guest speaker at the Mitchelton and Districts Garden Club April Meeting. His topic is General Gardening. Rocky Point Mulching produces all kinds of potting mixes and soil conditioners as well as a range of mulches. When other representatives from the company have been guest speakers they have had products for those present to buy and this was a great help to garden club members.”

The meeting commences immediately after morning tea which is served at 9.45am.

Visitors and new members are most welcome. The hall is

temperatures. Mother’s Day occurs this month and a flowering plant would be a long lasting gift. If you allow tip cuttings to dry out for

situated at the end of Trundle Street, Enoggera, close to the junction with Wardell Street.

It is wheelchair friendly and close to public transport.

May is the month for planting fruit trees, pruning geraniums, inspecting Azaleas for petal blight fungus which last year would have caused buds to turn brown and drop prematurely.

A fungicide treatment commenced this month should control this problem.

Don’t be alarmed if you see a purple discolouration on the foliage of evergreen plants. This is just an adverse reaction to the cold evening

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 28

several hours before potting, this helps them strike easily.

For more information please phone the President.

Pat, on 3356 1256.

Balaangala Community Group 2021 Sorry Day 3.30pm Sunday 23 May Balaangala Garden The Gap Since 1998, people across Australia have come together to acknowledge and pay respect to members of the Stolen Generations. This day is called Sorry Day. Balaangala Community Group invites you to their Commemoration of Sorry Day to be held on Sunday 23rd May, commencing at 3.30 pm at Balaangala Garden, 98 Yoorala St, the Gap. Everyone is welcome to attend this local event, to remember, reflect and participate in a shared journey of healing There is no cost for this event, however RSVP’s would be appreciated for catering purposes.

For more information on either event, please email balaangalathegap@gmail.com

Quote of the Day

War is God’s way of teaching Americans geography.

- Ambrose Bierce website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Community pitches in to restart bushcare On 9 April 2021 more than 80 community members pitched in to plant hundreds of native species at Yoorala S t r e e t We s t w h e r e t h e bushcare group has recently been restarted.

Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN) roving bushcarer Janet Mangan helped restart the group and organise the community planting event with new joint group leaders Ed Bennett and Renee Hovey.

With the support of volunteers from other Bushcare Groups and Jodi Rees with Brisbane City Council’s Habitat Brisbane crew, the site was prepared.

To enhance community engagement and learning, Habitat Brisbane also o rg a n i s e d a d i s p l a y o f Geckoes Wildlife native animals.

“The idea started quite small but with the support of Habitat Brisbane, it became a holiday event with lots of kids involved,” said Renee.

Ed and Renee took over management of the site in November 2020, following the 2016 retirement of Athol Brown who established the

Community members joined in the April planting at Yoorala Street West PHOTO: Renee Hovey

site 20 years earlier.

Renee said the site had excellent fundamentals with mature trees and good canopy.

“It’s a fairly large site with different areas needing attention.

“The first issue was to control the weedy vines such as Glycine and Balloon Vine,” she said.

The next priority was to weed and plant along the path

which runs through the site.

With Enoggera Dam immediately upstream, the site is subject to flooding so stabilising the bank is also a priority.

Now the next challenge is to recruit more regular volunteers to keep Yoorala Street West in top shape for native wildlife and the community.

Join Yoorala Street West bushcare group for working

bees every fortnight on Friday mornings from 8:30am at Bill Fursman Crossing.

Check for the date of the next working bee on the SOWN events calendar https://sown.com.au/eventscalendar/ or email Renee Hovey and Ed Bennett at yooralastreetwest.bushcare@ gmail.com.

You can find Yoorala Street West Bushcare Group on Facebook.

The Gap Garden Club - Established 1963 The Gap Garden Club’s next General meeting will be held on Tuesday, 27th April commencing at 9.30am at Rivercity Church, 59 Settlement Rd, The Gap. Because COVID -19 restrictions have recently changed, there will be no need for members to register for attendance at this point.

Happily our monthly Garden Clinics are continuing.

This month a number of us visited the beautiful, traditional garden of one of our members. Amongst many features was a wonderful mandarin tree heavily laden

with fruit. Wide beds were filled with magnificent, colourful annuals and perennials creating a most joyful vista.

The April Field Trip

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

was enjoyed by thirty-three members. It went to Samford, Rosevale Homestead, lunch at Redcliffe and finally The Plant Shack at Deception Bay. The next trip will be to Buderim Bromeliads and Manawee Nursery on Tuesday, 11th May. The Trade Table at our last meeting was laden with donated cuttings and pot

plants which members can purchase at a small cost – always a popular part of our club’s activities.

At our next meeting the speaker will be Shirley Dance.

She will give an audio visual presentation on ROSES and have roses for sale.

For further information about our club visit our website www.thegapgardenclub.org. au

“ ... perhaps the chief attraction of a garden is that occupation can always be found there. No idle people are happy, but with mind and fingers busy, cares are soon forgotten.”

-

Alicia Arnherst 1992

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 29

NEWMARKET BOCCE CLUB INC Submitted by Mario De Marco, Secretary of the Newmarket Boce Club

Great to talk to you again! You have heard about bare foot bowls, well we don’t have bare foot bocce but you can hire the courts for your corporate function or birthday or work party etc.

We will BBQ for you. BYO food and drinks and I promise you will have a great time. Our friendly members will be there to look after you.

On the 11 April we invited Redlands Bocce Club for a fun filled bocce competition. Unfortunately we did not have a sponsor but we still had a great day. We had four games, three before lunch including morning tea and one game after lunch followed by a presentation. Newmarket Bocce club achieved first, second and third placings with a close forth by Redlands Club. A group photo was taken, shown at right.

The club would love to have an open day, maybe a Saturday or Sunday afternoon and we will throw in a sausage

sizzle as well.

Would you be interested? Let me or Bill know so the club can get an idea of what to expect.

A great range of activities at Ithaca Probus Club

A short interruption to the club’s program due to the recent lock-down saw the April general meeting cancelled.

Even though numbers were down for the Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens outing, those that went enjoyed the morning walk, then had lunch at the Lakeside Café. Later in April club members enjoyed dinner at Tutto’s Caffé Espresso Bar in Stewart Road, Ashgrove.

A 21st birthday club lunch at the “Paddo Tavern” in June will include all retired foundation members still able to attend. The bus trip to the Lockyer Valley to visit a sheep cheesery, then lunch in Gatton, will be moved on to July, with a day out at the Gold Coast later in the year.

The guest speaker program has been rearranged to provide a varied and entertaining range of talks in months to come. All in all, Ithaca Probus Club has come through the shut-down well.

Everyone is in good spirits and looking forward to a socially engaging year ahead.

Our book exchange table was reintroduced in March. The cards group and the poetry group are each holding

monthly meetings in members’ homes.

Throughout the Covid shutdown the club had been welcoming new members.

Monthly newsletters have been keeping members connected and are again carrying the usual round of club news.

New members are always most welcome at our meetings on the second Thursday of each month at the Red Hill Community Sports Club, Fulcher Road, Red Hill, and on any of our outings.

If you would like to give us a try, please phone either of our Club Membership Officers: Sue Vivian on 0413 544 202 or Janelle Rhodes on 0412 628 646. For more information about our club please see our web site: www. probussouthpacific.org/microsites/ithaca

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 30

If you have any questions about Bocce please give me a call on 0403 257 325 or Bill on 0431 458 481.

Yours in Bocce - Mario

Principal’s Invited to Congratulate Students

For 27 years The Western Echo has been giving local schools the opportunity to applaud and congratulate their students in their academic, sporting, cultural and social endeavours.

All schools in our area are invited to submit Principal’s Points - for more information either email editor@ westernecho.com.au or call 3300 1846 to arrange submitting articles for your school and to congratulate the young students for their academic, cultural, sporting and community service achievements.

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Brisbane Tramway Museum Just the Ticket - Female Trammies!

News and views from a Tramway Muse - David Fryer

With the ongoing focus on women in 2021, it’s interesting to see how attitudes have changed over the years. Take this early commentary on female drivers for example: “To command such a monster demands a woman who has steady nerves. These noisy big fellows make so much bluster as they speed along that timid women would be thrown into a chronic state of prostration.”

This fascinating statement appeared in a best-selling book* in 1909 when cars and electric trams were still something of a novelty for most people. It continues: “The tension of the nerves sends the blood in quicker circulation, thus bringing the red colour to the cheeks and adding radiance to the eyes. It is regretted that this healthy glowing vivacity is hidden by the thick swathes of veils and big owl-eyed goggles which are worn by women drivers to protect their delicate complexion.”

Some readers may find this style of writing amusing today, while others may consider it sexist and inflammatory; but if you assume it was written by an insensitive male you’d be wrong. It was

actually written by a pioneering feminist, author, and successful racing driver.

Dorothy Elizabeth Levitt, born 5th January, 1882, was the first female racing driver in Great Britain. She was also holder of the world’s first water speed record, the women’s world land speed record holder, and successful author.

She was an early pioneer for female independence and female motoring, even teaching Queen Alexandra and the Royal Princesses how to drive.

Of course, attitudes and writing styles change over time. Fast forward to a more contemporary article and attitudes sound surprisingly upbeat: “Women have proved that they can take their places in practically every walk of life. Everywhere we find women occupying important positions in the professional and commercial world.

In many of the motor car speed and reliability tests, women drivers and mechanics are prominent.”

Readers will be forgiven for assuming this statement is recent, but it actually appeared 87 years ago, in 1934**. Women certainly occupy important positions in the professional

Promotional cartoon recruiting Queensland women during WW2.

Women were not allowd to drive trams in Brisbane

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au

Conductress making adjusments

and commercial world today, but female drivers and mechanics are a rare sight at race tracks in the new roaring twenties, so what went wrong? The Brisbane Tramway Museum may provide an insight.

Tram restoration is challenging work. Mechanical parts are invariably big and heavy, badly rusted, disgustingly greasy, or all of the above, so it’s hardly surprising that the workshops are not buzzing with female mechanics; in fact, there are none at all. So, what about female tram drivers? Again, there are none. However, there were a significant number of female conductors when trams plied the busy streets of Brisbane.

Sadly, there are no female trammies at the museum today, but the new Ferny Grove “She Shed” may encourage more women to climb aboard. Will we ever see Queensland’s first female tram driver?

Time will tell, but that’s just the ticket I’d queue for.

David Fryer- maximalist@bigpond.com The Brisbane Tramway Museum is proudly sponsored by the Brisbane City Council. * From - The Woman And The Car, Dorothy Levitt, 1909. ** From - Let’s Drive Better than Men, Mary Arnold (1934 edition).

The Western Echo May 2021 Page 31

The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy for all your pharmaceutical needs

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Ask in store for details.

Open 7 Days 8:30am to 8pm Undercover Parking available under Aldi Glen Affric Street is available if parking spots in our centre are fully occupied Providing all your pharmaceutical needs including :-

• Blood Pressure Checks • NDSS Agent • Ear piercing • Webster Packing

Ph: 3300 1555

Naturopath available — Monday - Tuesday - Wednesday - Thursday

HOME DELIVERY

The Gap Day and Night Pharmacy 974 Waterworks Road, The Gap QLD, 4061 thegap@thegappharmacy.com.au

Fax: 3300 9020

Available Monday to Friday You’ll see us coming in our new delivery vehicle!

The Gap Day & Night Pharmacy

thegapdayandnightpharmacy

www.thegappharmacy.com.au The Western Echo May 2021 Page 32

website: http://www.westernecho.com.au