Microlight aircraft club – Caboolture Airfield.

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May 22, 2018

Microlight aircraft club – Caboolture Airfield.

Tags: Microlight aircraft. Powered hang glider. Aircraft. Planes. Club. Group. Bribie Island. Brisbane.

In the Air with MARK GENTRY

Mark Gentry

Show me an established airfield and I’ll show you a place with a wide range of aircraft, a variety of commercial organisations and an incredibly diverse throng of aviation enthusiasts, each with their own story to tell. With this in mind, Caboolture Airfield certainly fits into all of those categories and so each month in The Mini Bribie Islander, I endeavour to tell the story of one the passionate aviators who can be found there.

This month, we take a look at that slightly different sector of the aviation world, the Microlight Community. Microlight aircraft, or trikes as they are most commonly known as, are classed as weight shift controlled aircraft and are much more than just a powered hang-glider, as they are sometimes called.

At Caboolture Airfield, there are a number of dedicated microlight enthusiasts and one of them is Caboolture Microlights Chief Flying Instructor, Mark Gentry. Having grown up in New Zealand with a dad who was a keen builder of light aircraft, Mark’s passion for all things aviation developed at an early age and has led to Mark developing his skills as a pilot over many years and across a variety of aircraft including hang-gliders. ‘My father was more enthusiastic about building planes than flying them,’ said Mark. ‘For me, flying them is what is more enjoyable than the construction,’ he explained.

Obviously, a pilot can only gain the reputation of being experienced and that experience must include flying in a variety of conditions, some planned, some definitely not. One of Mark Gentry’s planned flights in unusual conditions was when he and a friend drove for four days to reach the Southern part of the Gulf of Carpentaria which is well known as an area where the Morning Glory cloud formation can be found.

This rare meteorological phenomenon is a low-level solo cloud formation which has been known to stretch for up to 1,000 kilometres and the Burketown area is the only location where it can be predicted on a more or less regular basis. Glider pilots from across the country are attracted to the area for the opportunity to fly the Morning Glory and this was the reason for Mark’s trek to the far north.

‘It was a great experience and, as luck would have it, when we arrived we met a guy who had flown the Glory before,’ Mark told me. ‘ He gave us some very good information as to what we should expect up there,’ he said. I remember the very old television advertisement in which Victor Kiam famously told us that he liked his Remington electric shaver so much that he bought the company.

The Morning Glory cloud formation

Well, the events leading to Mark owning Caboolture are somewhat similar. After having spent some years flying hang gliders, Mark gained his Recreational Pilot’s Certificate at Caboolture Microlights and, to cut a long story short, went on to become the owner and Chief Flying Instructor of the popular airfield business. Mark explained to me that microlights are two-seaters but single-seat models are available.

He said that trikes come in a variety of designs and, whilst there are trikes that are ideal for property inspection and fly as slow as forty knots (nautical miles per hour), there are others which are capable of speeds as high as ninety knots. ‘These are ideal for long cross-country flights and have an endurance of six hours or more,’ said Mark. ‘There have been occasions when other microlight pilots and I have flown to as far away as Inglewood,’ he said. Whilst there, pilots who take on the challenge of building their own trike, Mark pointed out that the ones at Caboolture Microlights are professionally built in a factory at Newcastle and, despite some people’s beliefs, not just pieces of rag and string.

To learn how to fly a microlight and gain a Recreational Pilot’s Certificate involves firstly becoming a registered member of the governing body, Recreational Aviation Australia (RA-AUS) and placing your training in the hands of a qualified instructor such as Mark.

A part of the attraction of aviation-related activities is the camaraderie between pilots and this is definitely alive and well at Caboolture. The Caboolture Microlight Club has been in existence for over sixteen years and describes itself as not being an official organisation. They state that their aims are to share knowledge and experience amongst recreational pilots, encourage safe and responsible trike flying and to promote trikes to new participants while always having as much fun as is possible.

Anyone who thinks that they might like to give microlight flying a try should give Mark Gentry a call on 0481 309 222.

Mathew Flinders Art Prize – Local Event

Community Events

David Sweedman

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May 22, 2018

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Tags: Art Gallery. Bribie Island. Brisbane. Art event. Artists.

HOW MANY WALLS

How many walls are there in one room? Well I reckon that the logical answer to that question is four but, when we refer to the large room that is the Mathew Flinders Art Gallery and then consider that as well as the four perimeter walls, there are a number of mobile walls which are needed to provide extra hanging space, the correct answer becomes, “as many as is needed.”

Featured Image(above): Construction of the new mobile walls is well underway

With the date for the prestigious Mathew Flinders Art Prize fast approaching, organisers are increasing the number of mobile walls in order to cope with the number of entries that are expected. Following the awarding of a grant by Museums and Galleries Queensland which will help to cover the costs and for which the Bribie Island Community Arts Society are very grateful, the Bribie and District Woodcrafters Association (The Woodies) has been commissioned to construct the four extra mobile walls and Art Prize organising committee Chairman Stephanie White said that the additions were essential in order to keep the artwork contained within the gallery.

‘Last year the Mathew Flinders Art Prize attracted an incredible 253 entries and we had to display some of the works in other areas of the centre,’ explained Stephanie. ‘Having another fifty square metres of hanging space will make a huge difference to the exhibition this year and we will be able to display the many artists’ works to their optimum advantage,’ she added.

Stephanie White and Arthur Horsfall getting the measurements correct

The consultation and measuring process is somewhat simplified due to the Woodies being situated within the same precinct as the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre and the job is already well underway. Woodie’s project team leader Arthur Horsfall is working on the challenge of making the walls on wheels so that they match the existing ones which were built when the gallery opened in 1998.

Arthur expects that his carpentry team will have the hollow laminate walls completed and the wheels fitted with time to spare before the MFAP event begins. As the signature event for the Arts Centre, the Mathew Flinders Art Prize offers a $5,000 first prize and $2,000 for second along with two $500 Highly Commended awards and a $500 prize for the People’s Choice.

The Gala opening night and prize presentation will be from 6 pm on July 27th and the exhibition will remain on display until August 17th. Entry forms for the Mathew Flinders Art Prize are available at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre which is on Sunderland Drive at Banksia and is open from Tuesday through until Sunday.

They are also available on the website www.bribieartscentre.com.au or by sending an email to [email protected] and anyone who would like more information about the Art Prize or the other activities at the centre can call 3408 9288 for details.

Health – Lymphatics and well being.

Health

David Sweedman

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May 22, 2018

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Tags: Health and well being. Lymphatics. Tonsillitis

With Juliet George Body Care

When I was a child I always seemed to feel unwell with a sore throat. Sometimes it would lay me up in bed for weeks at a time. The unwell feeling was deliberating, and the penicillin antibiotic tablets prescribed by my doctor never seemed to cure the infections completely. This was my first encounter with the human lymphatic defence system.

‘Tonsillitis’ as it is commonly referred to as an infection of lymphoid tissues in the throat. Later in life, my tonsils were surgically removed, and the infection cleared up never to return. Every person alive has a lymphatic system. It is the body’s defence system protecting you against infection by managing fluid levels in the body; reacting to bacteria; dealing with cancer cells and other cell products that would otherwise result in disease or disorders.

Additionally, it absorbs some dietary intestinal fats that are essential in the body. My first professional encounter as a remedial massage therapist with the lymphatic system started with a client suffering swelling after cancer therapy. She had swollen arms, legs and abdomen that would not reduce in size.

The condition was diagnosed as lymphoedema and was not going away. To assist this lady required me to complete post-graduate training in the Principals and Practice of Complex (Physical) Lymphatic Therapy in the Treatment of Lymphoedema with Dr Judith Casley Smith in Adelaide. That was twenty years ago, the lady in question responded well to therapy and her condition became controlled.

I remain fascinated how looking after your lymphatic system has such a major impact on good health and how well you feel. When you’re feeling tired, lethargic, fatigued, irritable, out of sorts or bloated, then Lymphatic Drainage can be the therapy to help you stimulate and rejuvenate your system. Complex Lymphatic Drainage Therapy is also used with your Doctors approval after surgery to control the swelling of lymphoedema and stimulate healing.

My primary focus in professional practice has been the treatment of lymphoedema and lymphatic drainage to improve wellbeing. I have lectured, taught health care professionals, written books on the subject and feel pleased to have helped people control the persistent swelling associated with lymphatic dysfunction.

Now, I am semi-retired on Bribie Island and available to help residents with:

Lymphoedema Management to reduce and control oedema using Complex Lymphatic Therapy;
Lymphatic drainage massage to assist when you’re feeling tired, lethargic, fatigued, irritable, out of sorts or bloated;
A Compression Garment Service with the latest innovations in wearability;
and, Laser Therapy to assist swelling reduction and decrease pain.

Give me a call on 0478 770 448, I look forward to hearing from you. Juliet George

Mathew Flinders Art Gallery – Exhibition and Auction

Community Events

David Sweedman

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May 22, 2018

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Mathew Flinders Art Gallery – Exhibition and Auction

Tags: Mathew Flinders Art Gallery. Bribie Island. Art Exhibition. Events

THE MINI’S ARE HERE

In 2016, 2017 and again this year, the Mathew Flinders Art Gallery has been host to the Mini Masterpieces exhibition which has become well known as an opportunity for artists of all ages to demonstrate their talent within a small area.

The Mini’s are created in a space that is only fifteen centimetres square or cubed and exhibition curator Kate Goulding has described it as a wonderful opportunity for artists to try their hand at smaller scale work. She also said that it has been pleasing to see the increase in the number of children and younger artists who have entered their works.

Featured Image(above): Artist and volunteer Debra Mieth taking a well-earned rest from her decorating work

The 2018 Mini Masterpieces exhibition will be on display in the gallery from May 28th until June 9th and when all exhibits will be auctioned with all proceeds going towards gallery improvements. This has been a very popular way for art lovers to grab a bargain (or two) in previous years and I can honestly say that there are some really outstanding works of art among the painting and drawings along with the textile and glass art so this is going to be an auction that should not be missed.

What’s that? You can’t get there but you really want the chance to bid. Well, it just so happens that you can have that chance by placing a silent bid at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre any day after the exhibition opens. Whilst we all know that an art centre and the gallery is a place where a large variety of colours and works of art can be found within when you pay a visit to this art centre, you will find that the array of colours extend outdoors.

A great display of talent in a small area

This job of giving the outdoor furniture a really colourful appearance has been undertaken by local artist, centre volunteer and Artist of the Month facilitator Debra Mieth who has spent many hours brightening up all the tables and chairs that are in the deck and outdoor area.

A bright new look for the outdoor area

The Bribie Island Community Arts Centre can be found on Sunderland Drive at Banksia Beach and is open each day except Monday from 10 am.

Auctioneer Greg Spence will put all of the 93 Mini Masterpieces under the hammer on June 9th

For information about the exhibitions at the Mathew Flinders Art Gallery or about any of the other activities that take place at the centre, either drop in during opening hours or give them a call on 3408 9288.

Parenting – How to be a successful parent.

David Sweedman

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May 22, 2018

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Parenting – How to be a successful parent.

Tags: Parenting. Bribie Island Neighbourhood center.

PARENTING – THERE’S NO INSTRUCTION MANUAL

How often do we try to put together or try to operate a device without looking at the instruction manual and then realise that perhaps it might have been a wise idea to read the “how to do it” first? Well, for me the answer is, every single time. Yes, whenever a set of instructions are supplied, they are meant to be used but what about when there is no guide issued, how do we cope?

I reckon with that in mind, one of the most important issues that are constantly faced throughout the world is how to be a successful parent, as children definitely don’t come with a set of instructions. That’s right, how do we do things the best way when it comes to the job of parenting?

Whilst there are many schools of thought on that subject, sometimes the opportunity arises when parents are given the opportunity to be involved in a series of group sessions, conducted by a qualified counsellor, which is made up of other parents and discusses the various ways to handle what can arguably be described as the most important task in the world. It so happens that, due to the success of a course such as this which was conducted in 2017, Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood.

Counsellor Lindy McAndrew will be running a parenting course during the month of June. She has told me that, whilst there are guidelines as to the subjects that will be covered, there is an amount of flexibility which will enable the course to be tailored to suit those who attend. Lindy said that the parenting course is about being able to help parents build a positive family environment. ‘The aim of the course is to help parents explore why we parent as we do, what we would like our families to be and how we can move towards this,’ Lindy explained.

‘We invite parents to join us as explore the ups and downs that are associated with being a parent,’ she told me. The course subjects are many and varied and include topics such as “Why do we parent as we do?”, “What do we want for our children?” and behavioural approaches to child management.

Lindy pointed out that whilst there will be no creche facilities available to course participants, this should not become a deterrent to anyone who would like to attend but has no other childminding arrangements in place. ‘I would ask that they call us to discuss arrangements,’ Lindy said. The parenting course, which will commence on June 6th, is completely free, morning tea will be provided and places are limited.

Anyone who would like to attend should contact the Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Centre either by calling 3408 8440 or by visiting the centre at 9 Verdoni Street in Bellara. The doors are open each weekday except Friday from 9 am to 3 pm.

The Vibe markets – Ukulele players Group

David Sweedman

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May 22, 2018

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The Vibe markets – Ukulele players Group

Tags: Ukulele players. Group. Club. Bribie Island. markets.

Not The Bugs This Time IT’S THE PUG’S

As a very special feature at The Vibe Markets recently, the Brisbane bases “Bad Little Buggers” (Bugs) VW Club made a welcome visit and I’m sure that all those who had the chance to inspect the various Volkswagen models would love the opportunity to see them at the markets again. Well, at the next Vibe Markets which is on Sunday 27th May, marketgoers will NOT have the chance to see the Bugs, this time, the special appearance will be by The PUG’s.

Featured Image(above): The PUG’s will be there to entertain

Comprising of several very keen (and very good) Ukulele players, the Pumicestone Ukulele Group or Pug’s as they are commonly called, will be appearing at the Woodcrafters section of the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre compound from 11 am and will be playing a selection of tunes that I’m sure will get everyone smiling.

The Pug’s have been an island favourite for some time now and, on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month, they can be heard jamming at the Bribie Island Recreation hall on First Avenue. Other entertainment at the May Vibe Market will be by the Celtic Fiddlers and of course, there will be all the regular features that have the venue so popular.

As well as the stalls selling craft items, fresh produce and other goods, the café will be serving tasty food, the Gemcrafters will be there with their displays and the Woodies will be open. That great children’s favourite, the Animal Petting Farm will also be there. The Vibe Market is held on the last Sunday of each month at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre on Sunderland Drive in Banksia Beach and commences at 8.30 am.

From its inception, this market has become known as a great way to spend a Sunday morning and is a regular venue for locals and visitors alike. Anyone who would like more information about the market should call the market coordinator, Kelly Vass on 0417 741 979 for details.

Local artist paints for veterans cause

Local news and articles

David Sweedman

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May 22, 2018

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Tags: Veterans. Post-traumatic stress disorder. Bribie Island

I DON’T DO PUSH-UPS

When well known local artist Hazel Cowburn was made aware of the many issues which are faced by the brave men and women of the Australian Defence Forces when they return to civilian life , she felt that she needed to use her talent to not only play a role in providing assisting them but to also help with creating awareness of this shocking situation.

Hazel explained to me that her cousin, who served as a forward scout in Vietnam, had told her about how veterans have problems adjusting to life as a civilian. ‘They are trained to fight but receive no advice on how to cope after they come home,’ she said. Hazel pointed out that as well as the terrible statistics regarding so many veterans being homeless, there are also many who are unable to deal with their situation and take their own life. ‘I first became aware of the amount who commit suicide when I heard that twenty-two veteran commit suicide in America each day,’ said Hazel.

Featured Image(above): Hazel Cowburn with her creation, Tears of Rembrances. Photo Credit: Deb Neill Photography

‘This was of course what the “Twenty Two Push-ups in Twenty Two Days” awareness campaign was all about and, because there was no way I was going to be able to do Push-ups, I decided to create my painting “Tears of Remembrances” to get the message out there and to raise money which will be given to Bravery Trust, an organisation who plays an important role in providing financial support to veterans and their families,’ she added. “Tears of Remembrances” is themed around the red poppy fields of France which are seen as representing the blood that was spilt during what has been described as a bloody war.

Hazel has incorporated tears falling from the red poppies and also a number of white feathers which represent peace. This very significant piece of art has attracted attention by the Bribie RSL Sub-Branch and has resulted in the organisation making a donation of five hundred dollars to assist Hazel in her fundraising efforts and also purchasing one of the 250 prints that are available for sale at the very low cost of $150.

RSL Sub-Branch Honorary Secretary Ed Wright said that there is an incredible number of veterans who return from combat with conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder and just can’t cope with day to day life. “They turn to either alcohol or drugs as a way of getting through,’ Ed told me. ‘As an indication of just how bad the situation is, during Operation Slipper in Afghanistan there were forty-one casualties and the suicide rate here is forty-two and climbing,’ he said.

Hazel Cowburn (C) explaining the significance of her painting to her daughter Samantha and RSL Sub-Branch Secretary Ed Wright

This beautifully created work of art is described by the artist as, “representing the sacrifices made by all Australian service personnel who have laid down their lives during all conflicts.” As the poppies are crying with tears of blood, the tears pool on the ground for all of us to remember the sacrifices that have been made,” Hazel says of her work.

A print of “Tears of Remembrances” can be purchased by contacting Hazel Cowburn at her email address which is [email protected] and Hazel is aiming to have all of this limited edition sold by Christmas. Personally, after seeing the painting myself, I think that they will all be sold well before then.

Fundraiser – RSL – Hair Cut and Shave

Local news and articles

David Sweedman

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May 22, 2018

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Tags: Shave for fundraising. Bribie Island RSL. Neighbourhood center. Rotary Club.

THE HAIR FELL DOWN

In the April/May edition of The Mini Bribie Islander, I told about how Bellara resident Doug Philp would be having both his hair and beard removed as a means of raising funds that can be put toward helping those who are homeless and when the cut/shave happened at the Bribie RSL recently, the hair fell down as the value of the donations went up.

Featured Image(above): Trust me Doug, I know how to do this – Michael Mathews
doing his best to look like a professional

The event was held in the RSL Sports Bar and, as Doug sat calmly on his chair, his locks fell victim to the scissors and clippers operated by several keen Rotarians and a couple of friends. Once those who were involved had all demonstrated their prowess (or lack thereof) as an amateur barber, the very capable Brittany from Blondies Hair Salon gave her time to make sure that Doug’s head was completely sans hair.

Having been aware that Rotary is an organisation which ensures that all funds raised go to the intended recipient, Doug had enlisted the assistance of the Rotary Club of Bribie Island for the event and while his hair was being removed, Rotarians moved through the various parts of the RSL, collecting donations in their red buckets.

After the cutting/shaving had come to an end, Doug paid tribute to all who had helped him with his fundraising efforts and said that whilst the amateurs did a reasonable job, he was a bit thankful for Brittany’s professional input at the end. Donations to the event totalled an impressive $666 at the end of the count and, as a wonderful addition, the Rotary Club of Bribie Island contributed a further $500, making the total amount raised a very welcome $1,166.

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As the Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Centre is so committed to providing assistance to those who find themselves in a situation of homelessness, Doug and the members of Rotary had made the decision to give the funds raised to the centre and, during a small ceremony later in the week which was attended by a group of local Rotarians as well as Doug Philp and centre representatives, Neighbourhood Centre Counsellor Lindy McAndrew was presented with a cheque for $1,166 by Rotary President Jeff Eustace.

After expressing her appreciation of the efforts by both Doug and the Rotarians, Lindy explained that as the end of the financial year was approaching, the centre’s funds were beginning to dwindle and the added funds would make the provision of necessary services just that much easier.

Anyone who is facing difficulties should make contact with the Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Centre by calling them on 3408 8440 or paying a visit to them at 9 Verdoni Street in Bellara. The centre is open each weekday except Friday from 9 am to 3 pm.

Dragons Abreast Bribie Island – Breast Cancer Group

David Sweedman

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May 22, 2018

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Dragons Abreast Bribie Island – Breast Cancer Group

Tags: Breast cancer awareness group. Bribie Island. Queensland. Brisbane.

A SEA OF PINK

Statistics reveal that breast cancer is the most common form of cancer that is diagnosed and it is estimated that one in every eight women will be affected. Bearing that in mind, Australia has one of the highest recorded breast cancer survival rates in the world and on a recent Saturday at Sylvan Beach, women who have survived this terrible disease gathered to celebrate the tenth birthday of Dragons Abreast Bribie Island.

Featured Image(above): Are we all going to fit

Founded by a small group of women including Cathie Goldsborough and Dawn Worley, the local branch of this national organisation has continued to grow in numbers and Team Manager Janet Brooks told me that there are now fifty members. ‘As well as the women from Bribie Island Dragons Abreast, there are about fifty from Brisbane and some from Redcliffe, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast,’ said Janet.

‘They have all come along here today to join in the celebrations which include going on a paddle which will take the same form as a car rally. From Sylvan beach, we will paddle to Air Force Park and then to the jetty and Spinnaker Sound before returning to the start,’ she added.

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As the time for the paddle grew near, the park just North of the VMR took on the appearance of a large sea of bright pink and, after a coffee or a snack from the Vietnam Veterans food stall and hearing a briefing from Brad Stephenson, the paddlers all lined up to board the sleek dragon boats. On the night prior to what the club called their Birthday Splash Bash, club members and friends attended an evening of Cocktails and Canapes where they also enjoyed a piece of the beautiful birthday cake which had been made by Treasurer Ros Adams.

Anyone who would like to find out more information about Dragons Abreast Bribie Island can send an email to [email protected] or phone Leonie on 0418 782 332.

The Mini Bribie Islander Glossy Magazine – May/June Issue 17

2018

David Sweedman

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May 22, 2018

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The Mini Bribie Islander Glossy Magazine – May/June Issue 17

Tags: Bribie Island Local Newspaper. Blog. Queensland Tourist Destination.

Get all your local news from your local newspaper – The Bribie Islander. Articles on sports, boating, camping, fishing, life, drama, travel destinations, what to see on Bribie Island and what to do, charities, organisations, places, children’s activities, arts and crafts, tourist destinations, heritage parks, technology, science, music, gardening and much more.

Bribie Island, one of Queensland most desired travel destinations.

Letters to the Editor – May – 2018

Letters To The Editor

David Sweedman

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May 17, 2018

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Dear Editor, I recall the Finance Minister saying it was a waste of time pursuing the Banks; now he has changed his tune, what a surprise. Yet another sign of this Governments lack of interest in those they are paid to represent. I would like to see a major enquiry in to Energy charges and why Electricity is so expensive. Why are pensioners slugged and not given a regular cost of living increase to offset these massive price hikes. Fuel prices , why have they jumped by up to 20 cents per litre?

I will tell you why, because they can; this Government is just sitting back, Turnbull get back here instead of grandstanding in the UK. Start doing what you were meant to do and keep a check on rorting by those in Power. I would like journalists to be seen being pro-active with keeping Turnbull and other MP’s, active in representing those who put them in power. Petrol Prices, The Banking Enquiry – What if anything is the Finance Minister doing. Hospital waiting times for surgery etc..

Kind Regards, Farley, Bribie Island

Dear Editor, The opening and closing ceremonies at the recent Games left many of us wondering what the essence of it all was supposed to be. About Queensland? About Australia? Or should it have been about the athletes, the 71 nations coming together in harmony to live out their dreams and aspirations. In the end their achievements were remarkable, yet not so the closing ceremony.

For a mere $1 million dollars some of us could have shone a light brightly on these wonderful athletes, woven a theme around them, highlighting the love, camaraderie and cohesion that these countries, large and small, had brought to our beautiful state. And …. with the other $46 million dollars Bribie Island could have won a second bridge, linking us to the mainland and securing safe travel for at least 5 decades to come! What a missed opportunity!

Kind Regards, Susan, Bribie Island

Dear Editor, I thoroughly enjoy reading your post when it arrives, great local stories, news and adds for the Island and surround. Went for a coffee down at the precinct the other day, spotted this and couldn’t resist sending it in. I hope it gets published. Looks like someone was in a hurry or possibly needs to go to Specsavers! Have a great weekend,

Debbie , Bribie Island.

Dear Editor, I wish to express my shock and disappointment at the action taken by the Bribie Island RSL in issuing instructions to SES and police to not allow my decorated yellow and black vintage Austin 7 from entering the Parade on ANZAC Day 2018.

I had booked a position in the Parade with the Bribie Island R.S.L. Sub Branch Honorary Secretary (Ed Wright CSM) days earlier and I was told I would follow the cabs in the Parade. In 2015 and 2017 I drove an Australian Aboriginal Elder and Aboriginal children in the Parade. In those Parades, the decorated car was well received by the community who cheered as we passed in recognition of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander efforts in the Australian military.

The car was decorated this year with the Australian National Flag, Aboriginal Flag, and the Torres Strait Islander Flag similar to previous years.

Another decorated vintage car with Aboriginal passengers was stopped from entering and was told if he took the Aboriginal Flags off the car he could enter.

He refused to take the flags off. This RSL action without any consultation has devastated the Aboriginal community. My small effort in Closing the Gap was sabotaged. The flags were supplied by Susan Lamb MP, our local Federal Politician. I felt for the Aboriginal Elder and the Aboriginal children seated in the car when the police interviewed us. How can we ever Close the Gap when an organisation like the RSL treat the descendants of indigenous Australian service men and women who fought in wars to protect this country with such contempt.

In other ANZAC Day Ceremonies and Parades across this country, indigenous contributions to military service was honoured, but not here on Bribie Island by our local RSL. (At Elephant Rock, there was an Indigenous serviceman mounted on a horse, holding a large Aboriginal Flag as part of the Dawn Service. (See 24/4/2018 Brisbane Channel 7, 6 o’clock news.)

Justin McCarthy, Banksia Beach Former CMF member, RSL member

Queensland travel destinations – Forrest Beach

The Long Way Round To Bribie

David Sweedman

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May 17, 2018

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Queensland travel destinations – Forrest Beach

Tags: Travel Destinations. Tourism. Australia. Queensland. Forrest Beach

FORREST BEACH EPISODE 6

By Sabine Von Graz

Our next stopover destination on our way up North was Forrest Beach, which is situated between Townsville and Cairns and just south of Mission Beach. There we got a great, easy parking spot, with views over the water revealing an amazing sunrise in the morning. Right from the start we knew, Forrest Beach just had the vibe, between the rugged location and the lost wildlife, with me rescuing a bat stranded on the grass and Ginger helping a few lost lizards within the caravan.

The wildness also carried over to the amenities with no camp kitchen but therefore a pub on the beach advertising Thursday night special of $ 10 Schnitzels! Being from Austria, ‘the Vienna Schnitzel’ is hard to beat, however have you ever seen the Schnitzel menu of the Bribie RSL? You can have your Schnitzel as traditional, Parmagiana, Calabrese, Aussie BBQ, Meat lovers, Double it up or replace it with eggplant all topped with options of mushrooms, Napoli, BBQ , peppercorn sauce etc.

I worked out that there were around eleven versions of Schnitzel! At that stage however we were of course not at the amazing Bribie RSL Schnitzel venue but at Forrest Beach, and being Thursday, our arrival day – we just had to try it out! We sat on the wooden benches and tables out on the lawn, watching one ute after another coming in for the Schnitzel night!

Mainly young lads, but all well behaved still sharing their 2 seater ute with their best mate… I observed for the last few years that in Australia a good indication that a Sheila has won a Blokes heart is…. when the best mate gets the boot from the 2 seater ute! It is getting serious between ‘Sheila’ and the ‘Bloke’ when the 2 door ute is turning into a 4 door ute.

This was all new to me when I met Richard, who at that stage just bought a new black Ford ute, his pride and joy! On one of our first dates he offered me a lift in the new shiny car, when I saw the interior I was so surprised I had to ask …why he could not afford the back of the car? Needless to say in our situation the 2 door ute was soon exchanged for a second hand 4 door station wagon…yes our station wagon now showing 545,000km!

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Forrest Beach was the hottest stay yet on our trip, with 39 degrees, the water was calling us and for first time Ginger and I experienced a swim within a safety net! The water was soooo warm, warmer than body temperature and wild waves to go with it delivered total bliss! By coincidence, one of Richard’s clients also stayed at the Forrest Beach caravan park!! While Richard was busy talking business, Linda, a friend of his client’s showed me a shell she found on the beach with amazing patterns.

We were lucky to find a few ourselves and being so unique I decided to use them as part of my logo inspiration in combination with the swimming net I photographed earlier. We started to plan the trip for when my Dad would arrive a few days later in Cairns, and one of the places Richard mentioned we could visit was the ‘tip’. This reminded me of the conversation I had with one of my Mapleton gym couples, very patient retirees, who excitedly told me they were heading off that weekend to the tip.

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The tip I asked? For what?….well needless to say it was not the Mapleton tip … We only stayed a couple of nights and although we were told that Cairns would be hotter we were pleasantly surprised when we found out that actually it was around 8 degrees cooler and had a nice sea breeze for most of the day. Cairns, here we come in the next edition of ‘The Bribie Islander’!!!!

MAY COMMUNITY EVENTS CALENDAR

Community Events

David Sweedman

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May 16, 2018

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Tags: Bribie Island Community events calendar

If you would like your events listed on this calendar, please submit via
email to: [email protected] – on or before the Last Friday of the month.

EVERY MONDAY

for 6 weeks from 5th February to 12th March from 1pm to 3 pm Loss and Grief Support … Suffering from a loss and the grief that that brings? Learn about coping in a “Seasons” Loss and Grief Support Group. Enquirers to Margaret on 5497 6978.

EVERY MONDAY

– I.D. Recovery – 7.30pm – Church of Christ hall, Corner of Fifth ave and Foley st Bongaree.

EVERY MONDAY TO FRIDAY

– Bribie Butterfly Volunteers Inc.:9am-1pm, Every Mon to Fri. Volunteer your time to help with the running of BribieButterfly House community project. PH: Ray 0409 491 419

EVERY MONDAY JANUARY. BEACHMERE INDOOR BOWLS CLUB.

Community Hall, Progress Avenue. 1.15pm-4pm. Cost $4 includes 3 games of bowls & afternoon tea. Ph 0414088358

MONDAY, THURSDAY & FRIDAY

– Alcoholics Anonymous meets on Bribie Island three times per week. Monday – I.D. – 7.30pm – Church of Christ hall. Corner of Fifth ave and Foley st Bongaree. Thursday – 12 steps and 12 traditions – 7.30pm – Church of Christ hall. Corner of Fifth ave and Foley st Bongaree. Friday – I.D. – 7.30pm – Banksia Lodge. Corner of Sunderland drv and Solander esp Banksia Beach. Contacts: Jaime 0438 622 545 Steve 0409 560 561

MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY

– Bribie Island Bicycle User Group (Bribie BUG) offers easy rides 8am Mondays, 6.30am Wednesdays and 8am Saturdays. Rides leave Information Centre, Benabrow Avenue, Bellara. Contact Robert on 0407 258 569.

EVERY MONDAY

– Multicultural English. Every Monday 9am-12pm. 9 Verdoni Street, Bellara. Ph. 3408 8440

EVERY MONDAY – Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Centre: Mondays 5 pm. Smart Recovery (from addiction/s) Group Mondays 1.15pm. ‘Feel great, Get things done: Me time for Women’

EVERY 4TH MONDAY

– Bribie Island National Seniors meets at the Bribie Island RSL Function room 9 a.m. for 9.30 am start. Phone Coral 3408 6152

EVERY 4TH MONDAY

– Bribie Island Bush Poets meet on the 4th Monday of each month at 6.30 at the Blue Pacific Hotel, Woorim. Everyone is welcome to come along and present poetry or just listen. Enquiries: Cay 34083219.

FIRST TUESDAY OF EVERY MONTH

– The Probus Club of Bribie Island Inc meets in the RSL’s Anzac Room at 9:15 a.m. May’s guest speaker, Michael Burgess, will give a talk entitled “Arctic and Antarctic” and the next outing is a breakfast presentation on 15 May at the Bribie Island VMR. Visitors welcome. Details – Mark Sunter (3408-4145) or Ursula Maffey (3410-0792).

EVERY TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

– Girl Guides: Meet every Tuesday. For more information contact Yvette 0413 043 659.

EVERY TUESDAY

– Bribie Island Healthy Slimmers Fellowship support group meets Tuesday @ 7:30am at TOCH, 36 Banya St, Bongaree. All welcome. Phone Dorothy 5497 5552 or Sandra 0427 829 008.

EVERY TUESDAY

– Meditation at Bribie Arts Centre Labyrinth Sunderland Drive, 7 am. Contact Joyce 0439 329 334.

EVERY 1ST & 3RD TUESDAY

– Bribie Toastmasters meet on the first and third Tuesday nights at 7.00 in the Bribie RSL club with a warm welcome to anyone who comes to visit.

EVERY 2ND & 4TH TUESDAY

– Seniors Social Coffee: Meet at Coffee Club 10am, Coffee & Chat. Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday of month.

EVERY TUESDAY & SATURDAY

– Pam’s Free Tai Chi And Meditation Group – Meet Solander Esp. Banksia Beach @ 10a.m. Beginners Welcome.

FIRST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH

– Banksia Garden Club meetings, 9.15am – Noon at the Bribie Community Arts Centre, Sunderland Drive. All welcome. Phone Desley 3408 8470.

FIRST WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH

– The Bribie Island Vietnam Veterans Association Meets at The Bribie Island Drop In Centre at the Recreation Hall, 156 First Ave, Bongaree, 9.00am. Phone 3408 0405 Office. Pensions/Welfare 3408 1280.

EVERY 2ND & 4TH WEDNESDAY

– Craft Group, 1.30pm at Beachmere Uniting Church, Cnr Moreton Tce & Second Ave. Bring your craft. Gold coin donation. 0417 067 992.

EVERY 2ND & 4TH FRIDAY

– Pumicestone Ukulele: 4pm – 5.30pm. 2nd & 4th Friday each month. (14th & 28th January) Recreation Hall (U3A building). 156 First Avenue

EVERY 4TH WEDNESDAY

– Bribie Island Garden Club meetings at the RSL Auditorium 9am for 9.30 start. Enquires Lee 3408 6058

EVERY 4TH WEDNESDAY

– Bribie Is Over 50’s Travel Club meets 10am 4th Wed of the month at Bribie Is Bowls Club. All welcome. Call John 34086365.

EVERY WEDNESDAY

– Baby Rhyme Time: Every Wednesday, 10am @ Bribie Library.

EVERY THURSDAY

– 12 by 12, Living Sober meeting – 7.30pm – Church of Christ hall, Corner of Fifth ave and Foley st Bongaree. Meeting room is behind church. Contact Glenn 0410 435 867

EVERY THURSDAY

– Bribie Island Handcraft Club, 8am – 11am Bribie Indoor Bowls Hall, First Ave. All welcome. BYO handcraft. For information phone Stacey 0438 001 297.

EVERY 2ND & 4TH FRIDAY

– Pumicestone Ukulele: 4pm – 5.30pm. 2nd & 4th Friday each month. (14th & 28th January) Recreation Hall (U3A building). 156 First Avenue

EVERY 2ND & 4TH FRIDAY

– Market Stall.: 9am – 11am. Church of Christ hall.Fifth & Foley Street. Pumicestone Ukulele Group. 5pm – 7pm. At Uniting Church every 2nd & 4th Friday.

FIRST SATURDAY OF EVERY MONTH

– Lion’s Club of Sandstone Point Car Boot Market: 6-11am. Car park Sandstone Point Oval (next to IGA). Cost $10.00 a stall. Bookings: 0435 017 752.

EVERY SATURDAY

– Bribie Open I.D. – 7.00pm – Bribie Island Baptist Church, 7 to 9 Cotterill ave, Bongaree. Contact Jaime 0438 622 545.

EVERY 2ND SUNDAY

– Country Links hold their monthly concert on the second Sunday of each month commencing 12 noon at the Bribie Activity Centre (formally Golden Age) 96-108 Arcadia Ave., Woorim. For further information contact Janice 0403-481-943.

EVERY 3RD SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH

– Train Rides. Melsa Park, Toorbul Street, Bongaree. 10am – 2.30pm. Community Markets. Brennan Park, Bongaree.

EVERY LAST SUNDAY

– Bribie Celtic Fiddlers, 10am to Noon “Vibe Markets” @ Community Arts Centre. Regular rehearsals, keen musicians welcome. Ross 0490 015 353.

SUNDAY

– Woorim Promises – 7:30am – Rotary Park, Woorim Beach Access Area no.3 North st, Woorim – BYO chair.

EVERY SUNDAY, MONDAY, THURSDAY & SATURDAY

– Alcoholics Anonymous meets on Bribie four times a week. See Community Notices for details.

DONATE A BOOK APPEAL: Help make a difference to a child with the gift of a book. Place a new book or gold coin donation in the collection box at any Library.

TUESDAY, 15 MAY 2018

– The Probus Club of Bribie Island Inc next outing is a breakfast presentation at the Bribie Island VMR. Visitors welcome. Details – Mark Sunter 3408 4145 or Ursula Maffey 3410 0792.

MONDAY 22 MAY 2018

– Bribie Island National Seniors meets at the Bribie Island RSL Function room 9 a.m. for 9.30 am start. Phone Coral 3408 6152.

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