Arts and Crafts Club

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April 7, 2018

Tags: Arts and Crafts Club. Queensland Sculpture.

IT’S A BIT MUDDY – Bribie Island Crafts Club

When I was a kid, I loved nothing more than being able to go outside after a period of wet weather and play about in the mud, usually to the absolute frustration of my mother, and I very much doubt if there many children who do not get the same enjoyment from being covered in mud that I did.

With this in mind, I find it easy to understand why there a number of adults who take great pleasure in getting their hands muddy as they mold their items of pottery into shape. As one of the groups that are a part of the Crafty Shed at Ningi, the “Sueramics” pottery group has been producing their works of art for over a year at this location which is at the rear of the Ningi Community Hall on the corner of Rita Street and group founder Sue Harrison told me that the enthusiastic potters meet there from 9 am until 12 noon on Thursday of each week.

‘Playing in the mud is very addictive and can be a wonderful way to relieve stress,’ said Sue. ‘The group is only small so new members are more than welcome. Whenever we are able to build up our funds, we use them to do something special like courses,’ she said.

Sueramics members playing with mud

Sue, who has over thirty years experience as a potter, explained that she has clay for sale there and where the pieces are fired depends on their size.

She said that anyone who is interested in joining the “Sueramics” pottery group should either call into the Crafty Shed on Thursday mornings or give her a call on 0407 158784 to find out all the details. Apparently, the desire to play in the mud does not stop when adulthood begins.

Featured Image: Some of the pieces created by keen potter Allan Maguire

Life and times of John William Ward

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Tags: Biography. History. Bribie Island Local news. Volunteer Groups Queensland. Not for profit. Charity. Conservation

A SAD LOSS TO OUR COMMUNITY

JOHN WILLIAM WARD 23/7/1940 – 13/3/2018

“Never before was so much owed by so many to so few” were the words that Winston Churchill used to describe the valiant efforts of the service personnel who defended England during the Battle of Britain and, when talking about John Ward who sadly lost his short battle with an aggressive disease during March, I believe that it is appropriate to use these very similar words.

“Never before was so much owed by those who care for the environment than there is to one man who, through his dedication to the flora of our region and the community he lived in, helped to improve the lives of so many.”

Born in Norwich, England, John’s love of all things horticultural, a characteristic which he inherited from his father, was developed at a young age and, as those who knew him will readily tell you, never wavered throughout his life. Following his school years, John entered an apprenticeship as a compositor, a trade which resulted in him being employed by different companies and working on a variety of publications including books for The Reader’s Digest.

As many of us knew well, John was a man who believed in getting things done without too much delay and there is no more relevant example of this part of his nature than when, after meeting a girl by the name of Ann at a friend’s wedding, he proposed within a very short period of time and they were married in 1962.

Ann explained that they lived in Sheringham where they had a guest house and then John went to work for The Eastern Daily Mail, the local newspaper in Norwich which was about twenty-five miles from where they lived. ‘Dad always worked the night shift at the paper,’ John’s daughter Sue told me. ‘He did that as a way to avoid having to drive in the traffic. It wasn’t all that busy then but he just hated waiting in traffic,’ she added.

Ann and John were blessed with two children, Sue and Neil and whilst Sue has made many visits to Australia, Neil lost his life in 2000. John continued to work for The Eastern Daily Mail for fifteen years, but, after a trip to Australia on a visit to relatives in 1988 and then a period when the Australian Government was not accepting English emigrants, Ann and John finally made the move to the land down under in 1990 and at first, went to stay at the migrant centre in the Brisbane suburb of Kangaroo Point where they paid to stay in a room which Ann told me was about two metres by three metres in size.

‘In his diary, John described the room as being like something at Colditz, (the German POW camp). The room only had the most basic furniture and one power point which was really high up so, after we bought a jug, we had to place it up on a box so the cord would reach,’ Ann pointed out. ‘Before then, I had never seen a Hills hoist and when I went to hang out some washing, I couldn’t reach the line and I didn’t know that it wound down.

I had John out there holding the line down so I could reach and the people in the kitchen were all lined up at the windows laughing,’ she said. In a rather ironic twist of fate, John had arranged for a job at the “Sun” newspaper but the publication folded before he ever worked there. He then worked at whatever was available and one of these jobs entailed supervising young people that were doing community service.

Ann recalled that there were times when these youngsters tried hard to get the better of their supervisor and would threaten to do things such as stab him with the shears and there was even an incident in which they pinned him against a fence with a chair. Apparently, the person who had been doing the job prior to John was lazy and never really made them do much work but John made sure that they did what they were supposed and he won their respect, earning the nickname “Fossil.”

Presenting 5 wheelchairs to be used at the Caboolture Hospital

‘On one occasion, they had to move a large pile of mulch and John told them that they could go home once that was done,’ said Ann. ‘He reckoned that he had never seen anyone work so hard and the job was done before he knew it. It would never have been done if he didn’t give them that incentive,’ she said. When the Wards first settled in Australia, they lived in Burpengary but, due to a burglary in that house, they moved to their home in Sandstone Point and John began his relationship with what was then known as the Bribie Island Community Nursery, going there one day each week in 1991 and then after he retired, every day.

At that time, the nursery was completely dependent on the council for operating funds and, as a way of giving the organisation the opportunity to apply for funding grants as an incorporated body, the then president Bob Moulang formed the Wallum Action Group in December 1994.

By this time, both Ann and John had become very keen volunteers at the nursery and when talking about John’s motivation with regard to preserving the local flora, Ann told me that she believes a walk with Ian Macrae was probably what started it off. She showed me a book that Macrae had written which was entitled “Wildflowers of Bribie” and she explained that this book was John’s bible. ‘He has worn out three copies’ said Ann, who has held the position of treasurer since 1996.

Totally committed to preserving the local environment and to the Wallum Action Group, John collected seeds of native plants and cultivated them in the nursery. As an indication of just how much his knowledge of the flora was respected, John was tasked by the Pacific Harbour developers in 2006 to carry out the flora survey on the land prior to the development commencing.

The partnership between Pacific Harbour and the Wallum Action Group won the Prime Minister’s Award for a community partnership in Queensland. In 2013, John was the recipient of the Queensland Champion of Conservation Award. Over the years, John also assisted the Bribie Island Environmental Association from time to time, identifying various plants and advising them on issues such as dune re-generation although he was never a member of that organisation.

From 2008 onwards, the Wallum Action Group began to use profits from plant sales at the Community Nursery to assist people within the community and local organisations that support those who are in need of help and one of these has been the Diabetes Support Group. Co-ordinator of this group, Jan Donaldson told me that John and the Wallum Action Group have funded the purchase of a vital piece of equipment called a diabetes pump many times over the past nine years and she estimated that this would amount to over $50,000 in donations.

John was tasked by the Pacific Harbour developers in 2006 to carry out the flora survey on the land prior to the development commencing.

The Wallum Action Group funded a device that gave accident victim Daryl MsPherson the
ability to communicate.

‘Being able to provide these pumps to people, especially children, who have been diagnosed with type one diabetes can dramatically improve their quality of life,’ Jan explained. ‘John had a wonderful way of knowing how to provide support and it is accurate to say that he did it from the ground up, using his love of plants and growing them to help the community.

I am also the coordinator of the Dementia Support Group and John has provided that group with much-needed funding as well,’ she pointed out. John became President of the Wallum Action Group in 2012 and, as was announced at the last AGM, the total amount of money that has been donated through profits from plant sales is well in excess of $250,000. Donations by the group have included funding to assist in the installation of air conditioning in two high school classrooms, the donation of defibrillators to various community organisations, the purchase of wheelchairs for use at the Caboolture Hospital and the laying of turf in the area around the Scout Hut as well as the purchase of the diabetes pumps and assistance to VMR, the Neighbourhood Centre and the Surf Club. Whilst John was always careful about where the money donated by the group was used, he would always listen to anyone who suggested a worthy cause to him and was keen to keep helping wherever possible.

Division One Councillor Brooke Savige gave me a very good example of just how keen he was. ‘Several times, John called my office wanting to know if we were aware of anyone who the Wallum Action Group could help,’ said Councillor Savige. ‘He was a man who just wanted to do good for people,’ she added.

The Wallum Action Group’s Community Nursery is operated totally by dedicated volunteers who give of their time to help the community. I have been told that a part of the reason that these volunteers have enjoyed working at the nursery is that John’s cheeky grin and sometimes devilish banter around the morning tea table made for a great atmosphere. Group secretary Julie Rigg mentioned that they had given John the nickname of Steptoe.

‘Not only was he a hunter and gatherer of seeds and cuttings,’ said Julie. ‘He also collected pavers, pool fences, trellises and anything else that had been discarded,’ she explained. On a personal note, I would have to say that John was a man who had what is best described as an incredibly infectious personality and I believe that it was this, along with his dedication to preserving the environment that he was so passionate about and being able to help those who needed it that will perpetuate his name in the memory of not only those who knew him but also those whose lives he has touched in some way.

John was a Champion of Conservation

I will miss the unexpected but very welcome phone calls telling me about another instance of someone having their life improved by a donation from WAG and I will also miss our talks about the various issues within the community. Calling into the nursery for a chat with John was always one of the highlights of my day.

Bribie Island, the surrounding area and the community at large have benefitted immensely because of the determined efforts of John Ward and I know that his passing has left a very large gap in the lives of many. A large gathering of family and friends that included John’s sister Joan and his daughter farewelled John at a service in the Bribie Island Church of Christ on March 19th.

John’s involvement in his community resulted in people from many sectors attending the service and this included politicians, council staff and representatives from other community organisations. Members of the Wallum Action are determined to carry on the outstanding work of John William Ward and are only able to do this with the continued support of the community.

Their Community Nursery at 208 First Avenue, right next to the Orchid House is open each weekday from 8 am until 11 am and the selection of plants that are available for sale is amazing.

Anyone who would like to inquire about becoming a volunteer at the nursery or about making a donation to help with their good work can call 0407 699953 for all the necessary information or drop into the nursery during trading hours.

Writing this tribute to someone who I knew has not been an easy task as I know that I can never accurately describe just how much John did for this community and I know that there will be important details that I have omitted, due either to a restriction of either space or time.

However, I feel privileged to have had the permission of John’s family to tell the story of such a great man. R.I.P. John Ward.

Featured image: Explaining the defibrillators that Wag was donating to community organisations.

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Bribie Island Sailing Club and Outrigger club

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Bribie Island Sailing Club and Outrigger club

Tags: Sailing Club. Bribie Island sailing. Boating. Club. Outrigger.

ON THE WATER WITH PAUL BIRD AND ROSEMARY ANDREWS

Boating is an activity that can encompass many types of watercraft and can be enjoyed either alone or in the company of one’s partner, friends or as a part of a club and for the April “On the Water” article, we meet Paul Bird and his partner Rosemary (Rose) Andrews, a couple who participate much more than one form of boating.

There is little doubt that if someone’s parents introduce them to water activities when they are just an infant, they will most likely grow up with a desire to spend their leisure time on the water and this was very much the case with Paul. ‘My mum and dad used to bring me to Bribie when I was a baby.

They went there all their lives,’ said Paul. ‘We used to go across on the barge before there was a bridge. My uncle used to sail and dad always had a boat but because there were very few people with outboard motors in those days, we had to row out into the passage to go fishing,’ he said.

Paul told me that he spent some years in the Navy Cadets and it was during that time that he learned to sail. As is often the case, work and family commitments took precedence over leisure for Paul over the next part of his life and he explained that, after completing an apprenticeship as a mechanic, he joined the RAAF and spent twenty three years as an engine fitter, working mainly on Hercules transport aircraft and helicopters.

He was deployed to Malaysia for three years and also went to Sinai with the Peacekeeping Force. He resigned from the air force when he saw the need to remain in one place for the sake of his children’s schooling.

Returning to Queensland in 1994 and building the house that he lives in to this day, Paul began to rediscover his passion for the water and after six months work in his shed, he had built a sixteen foot open lug rigged Scruffie. Keen to go a bit bigger as most boaties are, Paul followed this up with the construction of an eighteen-foot weekender which took him eighteen months to complete.

Champion dragon boat paddlers Paul and Rose with their medals

This resulted in what Paul describes as five years of happy sailing which included competing in numerous classic regattas and wooden boat regattas. ‘It was about this time that the Bribie Island Sailing Club was founded and, along with Barry Colson and Doug Wilson, I was an inaugural member.

I began competing in the club races but, due to the overall weight and design of my yawl, I spent a year at the tail end of the field,’ Paul explained. ‘One day, while enjoying a beer with Barry Colson who by the way is a well known designer of racing yachts, I asked him if he could design me a yacht that had the classic appearance above the water but good lines beneath the surface.

To cut a long story short, Barry came up with a design that suited my requirements and this resulted in the building of a 6.5 metre vessel which I still own today and have called the very appropriate name of “Therapy,”’ he added. Paul went on to tell me that after launching “Therapy” in time for the 2007 Bribie Island Classic Regatta, he demonstrated just how good she was by winning the 2008 club championship.

At that time, Paul was competing as the only person on board but more recently, Rose has become a valuable apprentice sailor and together, they were the winners of the 2017 Pumicestone Series. I pointed out earlier that Rose and Paul are more than just sailors and as well as being members of both the Bribie Island Sailing and the Bribie Island Mahalo Outrigger Canoe Club, they are medal-winning dragon boat paddlers, both in state and national titles.

Rose said that she became keen on the sport after hearing about it when visiting her late husband in the oncology ward and has been paddling for eight years. Paul told me that he has been paddling for three years. The couple are regular paddlers with a dragon boat club at Redlands and they made mention that paddling in the outrigger canoes is good training for dragon boat racing.

Just when I thought that I had heard about everything that Rose and Paul do on the water, Rose informed me that they both have a kayak which they take out quite often. Both Rose and Paul are valuable members of the Bribie Island clubs with Paul being Vice-Commodore of the Sailing Club and Rose the Vice-President of the Mahalo Outrigger Club. These clubs operate under the banner of the Bribie Island Boat Club.

I have been told that both the sailing club and the outrigger club are constantly attracting new members, due mainly to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere that can be experienced.

If anyone would like to inquire about joining either (or both) of these clubs, a call to 0490 471 930 will provide all the relevant information.

Featured Image: The beautiful 6.5-metre Therapy that Paul built in his shed

Australian Navy Cadets annual inspection

Local news and articles

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Australian Navy Cadets annual inspection

Tags: Australian Navy. Navy Cadets. Australian Armed Services.

MEETING APPROVAL

In weather that was completely the reverse to what it was for the event last year, the Australian Navy Cadets and staff from TS Koopa were praised at their annual inspection by Flotilla Commander, Lieutenant Commander Joyce Kennedy recently.

In addressing the cadets and supporters, Lieutenant Commander Kennedy congratulated the unit and pointed out that these young people are our future. She also made mention of how good their presentation during the parade was and noted that a number of the cadets had only recently joined.

Ready for inspection

As well as the many parents and other supporters who attended the inspection, guests included State Member Simone Wilson, members of the Lions Club, Rotary Club Secretary Anne Mathews and Pine Rivers Naval Association Sub-Branch representative, Pat Ringold.

Following the inspection, and address by the Lieutenant Commander, Pat Ringold from the Pine Rivers Naval Association Sub-Branch presented a cheque for $200 to the new Commanding Officer of the TS Koopa, Lieutenant Garth Schmith and State Member for Pumicestone Simone Wilson announced that the TS Koopa had been successful in an application for funding by the gambling fund and would be receiving $32, 563 to assist with the ongoing costs associated with their operation.

After the official part of the event concluded, guests were invited to make a gold coin donation and take advantage of the BBQ that had been prepared by the TS Koopa committee.

Whilst the TS Koopa does receive some funding from the Australian Navy, more funds are always helpful in order to provide more activities for the cadets and as a way of boosting their operating capital, supporters of the unit hold regular sausage sizzles at Brown’s Mitre Ten. The Australian Naval Cadets is a great organisation for young people of both genders to be involved with and is regarded as the first step for anyone with a desire to join the navy.

These young people are our future – Lieutenant Commander Joyce Kennedy told those present

The TS Koopa is based on Kal-Ma-Kuta Drive at Sandstone point and cadets meet there on the Friday evening of each week. Anyone who is thirteen years or older in the year of entry is eligible to become a Naval Cadet providing they have not turned seventeen. Cadets must agree to abide by the Australian Navy Cadets’ code of conduct and be available to participate in the majority of activities.

They are taught many life skills and get to enjoy learning to sail and other water-based activities.

For further information about the TS Koopa, Training Officer AJ Hughes can be contacted on 0400 884662 or by email at [email protected] for all the relevant details.

Featured image: ANC Lieutenant Commander Joyce Kennedy, Rotary Club Secretary Anne
Mathews and TS Koopa Commanding Officer Lieutenant Garth Schmith

Butterfly House presents award

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Tags: Butterfly Club Queensland. Butterflies. Insects. Bribie Island Club.

A WELCOME CONTRIBUTION

As I have written many times in these pages, our community has so many organisations which are dedicated to providing assistance to those who need it and a recent example of co-operation between two of those organisations will help to ensure that this much-needed assistance will continue to be available.

I a small presentation ceremony that took place at the Bribie Island Butterfly House during March, Delphine Archer of the Butterfly House presented BIDCA founder with a cheque for $2,000 as a contribution towards BIDCA’s Community Assistance Fund.

In thanking Delphine, Sharon said that the donation was a very much appreciated to the organisation’s capital. ‘We have not yet decided exactly what the money will be used for but it will certainly be put to good use,’ Sharon said. ‘There is so much need out there,’ she added. The Bribie Island Butterfly House is located on First Avenue in Bongaree directly behind the Orchid House and is designed in a way that allows visitors to view beautiful butterflies in a natural environment.

Getting together – Volunteers from BIDCA and the Bribie Island Butterfly House

It was founded by Ray and Delphine Archer and has become known as one of the must-see tourist attractions on Bribie Island. It is completely operated by a band of selfless volunteers who devote their time to raising funds to assist the needy. BIDCA (Bribie Island and District Community Association) was founded by Sharon and Gary Parsons and all funds raised by the organisation are used to help people within the local community.

The main source of funds for BIDCA is the markets at Brennan Park which they host on the third Sunday of each month and Sharon tells me that anyone who would like to inquire about becoming a stall holder at the market is welcome to call her on 0409 583928 for all the necessary information.

Featured Image: Delphine Archer (Right) of the Butterfly House presented Sharon Parsons with a cheque for $2,000 as a contribution towards BIDCA’s Community Assistance Fund

Local Musician sings at Local Hotel

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Tags: Musician. Singer. Queensland Pubs. Bribie Island Pubs. Shave for a mate. Hotel.

ANOTHER WILD AND WOOLLY DAY IN THE BLUEYS BEER GARDEN LAST SUNDAY AT LOCALS ONLY

The show got off to a great start with the WhamBam ThankYou Band and a stand-in drummer, Paul Humphries sitting in for the day.The two teenagers from Bribie High, Bella Hughes and crowd favourite, Paige Montgomery, showing the crowd what a little determination, some confidence and, a great deal of rehearsal can do. Both young ladies ‘wowed’ the crowd with their respective sets.

Another artist, Wally the Bush poet, entertained us all with his original and very humorous bush poems. As the rain began to come down, Malcolm Smith grabbed his guitar and sang acoustically on the verandah to the delight of patrons. Eventually ending his set back on stage with the PA going again.

Thanks, Malcolm, for keeping the mob entertained while the electrical stuff was being covered up. An old mate of Locals Only, TJ Mack, who very rarely gets a Sunday off, came to play..and play he did.

He’s a really great performer and Blueys is hoping to get him for one of the Friday night gigs in the next month or so….then the rain came down…so the Shave 4 A Mate was then organised. Once again, the Blueys audience dug deep, not only for the Shave but the Glenn McGrath breast cancer appeal.

5 beards were shaved and another just trimmed by the ladies, Kelly and Maria from the Straight Edge Cutting Bar in Bongaree amid chaotic circumstances. The Shave managed to raise around $800 which was a great help to the recipients.

Photos were taken by Deb Neill and can be seen either on her website or the Bribie Locals Only website.

We would also like to acknowledge the valuable assistance from Flying Fingers Typing Services and our friends at Victory Press who did a wonderful job with the Posters. Next Locals show will be on 29th April from 1-5pm.

See you there. Keep it Local.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Another month of top quality entertainment at Blueys.
Friday, 6th April ………..Dreadlock Cowboy. 5pm-9pm. Truly Excellent duo.
Friday, 13th April ……….Fabio Tolli. 5pm-9pm. Come see this very talented performer. Crowd favourite.
Friday, 20th April ………Jack James. 5pm- 9pm. voted best new artist at the recent Locals Only awards.
Come see why.
Wed, 25th, April ………..Anzac Day. to be confirmed. 1pm- 5pm.
Friday, 27th April ………5pm- 9pm. Dave Lynch Jr. The human jukebox is back. This bloke is the hardest
working entertainer and very much the crowd favourite.
Sunday, 29th April. ……The Locals Only Show. 1pm- 5pm. The most awaited show in the month.
Featuring emerging singers and musicians, plus a few of the regulars for a
diverse and entertaining afternoon. Held in the beer garden in a kid-friendly environment.

Thanks to those of you who come on the Friday nights, and especially the locals who turn out regularly to the Locals Show.

Featured Image: Alby Lincoln – Local musician

Local Mural Artist Paints Water Tower

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Tags: Artwork. Artist. Art. Murals. Things to see on Bribie Island

A TOWERING WORK OF ART

Artists Scott Nagys and Mike Shangster spent over a week creating a beautiful piece of artwork on a local icon recently, the water tower at Woorim, whilst known to most, was not what could be called an attractive sight.

Scott and Mike were here as the result of a collaboration between Unity Water and Street Art Murals Australia, a company which acts as a link between artists and any organisation that wishes to commission any form of street art.

In the past, the company has been commissioned by various councils, Westmead Children’s Hospital, Sydney Trains and many others to arrange over three hundred works of street art and a spokesperson has stated that not one of these has been subjected to vandalism within the first five years, obviously eliminating the need for funds to be spent on cleaning off graffiti.

Scott and Mike teamed up to paint the water tower after successfully submitting Scott’s idea for the artwork to Street Art Murals Australia and Scott told me that being able to do this job has enabled him to fulfill one of his ambitions. ‘As a mural artist, I have always wanted to paint something this large,’ said Scott.

‘I have to admit that I was a bit scared about the height at first but once I started, I was more concerned about making sure that I got it right,’ he added. As the artist who designed the work, Scott was tasked with the application of his design to the surface of the tower and Mike acted as ground support, keeping a close eye on the special machine that the two had hired to take Scott to the desired height.

Because of the ground around the tower being mainly sand, it was necessary to source a machine that was propelled by tracks, therefore minimising the chance of it sinking into the sand. This project is the first of the two artist’s jobs on Bribie Island with the Bongaree water tower due to be painted sometime around the middle of the year and this time with Mike’s design.

‘Whilst Scott is a professional mural artist, I am also a graphic artist and around half of my time is spent on studio work,’ Mike explained. ‘My style will mean that the Bongaree tower will feature a more contrasting design,’ he said.

Lions Club Animal Petting Farm

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Tags: Lions Club. Animal Petting Farm. Queensland Zoo. Travel destination Queensland. What to do on Bribie Island.

THE ANIMALS ARE COMING

There is no doubt that children (and adults) really get a thrill from being able to get up close and personal with animals and, as a way of making the outing more enjoyable for children, the Lions Club of Sandstone Point has added an Animal Petting Farm and pony rides to the list of attractions at their monthly Car Boot Market in the car park in front of the Sandstone Point oval on Bestmann Road East.

The Animal Petting Farm offers interaction with a variety of animals including an alpaca, chickens, and ducks as well as lambs and goats and has already been a favourite with the kids as have the pony rides.

The Car Boot Market is based on a “Trash and Treasure – Garage Sale” style and is a great way for people to dispose of their no longer needed items and pick up a bit of extra cash. It is held on the first Saturday of each month from 6 am and there is always room for more vendors so if anyone would like to find out more or book a stall, they can call 0435 017752.

To ensure that no one goes hungry during their visit, the members of the Sandstone Point Lions Club operates a sausage sizzle at which bacon and egg sandwiches and cold drinks are also available.

Members had a lot of fun on Clean Up Australia Day

Obviously, this event is held subject to favourable weather conditions and, if it has to be canceled, the advice of the cancellation will be posted on both the Sandstone Point and Bribie Island Facebook community pages early on the Saturday morning.

As part of their commitment to the local community, on “Clean Up Australia Day, despite extremely humid conditions, club members worked tirelessly to collect an incredible twenty-seven bags of rubbish and I believe that during the day, much fun and laughter by all involved made the day enjoyable.

A spokesperson for the club explained that the Lions Club of Sandstone Point has always Worked in cooperation with the Moreton Bay Regional Council and Division One Councillor Brooke Savige to ensure that the areas utilised by the community are left spotless.

Featured Image: A great variety of animals at the Petting Farm

Painting from local artist draws attention

Local news and articles

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Painting from local artist draws attention

Tags: Painting. Artwork. Canvas. Bribie Island Community Arts Centre. Artist.

EXPLORING A UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT

It is a well-known fact that artists become motivated by a wide variety of events, people and places and, through an exhibition entitled “Girt By Sea,” this has been thoroughly demonstrated by ten artists from the U3A “Printmaking and Mixed Media” class.

Cheryl Mortimer found many ways to depict a soldier crab(left) and Cheryl Mortimer’s Gert by Sea(right)

Tutor Cheryl Mortimer told me that the exhibition which features a diverse range of works that include monoprints, collagraphs, lino printing, and screen printing is the artists’ way of exploring the unique environment of an island. ‘We have been working toward this exhibition since the beginning of 2017,’ said Cheryl.

‘For some of us, it is the first exhibition,’ she added. “Girt By Sea” is on display in the Mathew Flinders Gallery at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre until April 8th and from when the exhibition began on March 20th, there has been great interest by visitors with a number of the works being sold.

Another interesting exhibition which is due to commence on May 1st at the Mathew Flinders Gallery is “Scratch the Surface” which is by four artists from the Contemporary Art Practices Group.

Dawn Farrell’s Octotangle(left) and In Emu Heaven by Lorna Groves Fitzpatrick(right)

As well as the exhibitions that are hosted by the Mathew Flinders Art Gallery, the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre is the venue for a variety of courses each month and during April, the courses include Cardmaking with Deb Ford on April 11th, (bookings on 0428 524201), Mixed Media Art with Noelene Johnstone on April 11th, (bookings on 0421 283582), Life Drawing classes with Geoff Ginn on April 11th and18th, (book on 0421 724441), and Scrapbooking with Deb Ford on April 18th, (bookings on 0428 524201).

The Bribie Island Community Arts Centre is on Sunderland Drive at Banksia Beach and is open each day other than Monday. For further information about what the centre has to offer, you can call them on 3408 9288.

Featured image: Table Mountain by Karen Quinn

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Aged care and retirement Bribie Island

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Tags: Aged care. Retirement. Retirement Homes. Bribie Island

A FRESH APPROACH TO AGED CARE

Bribie Island residents looking for an alternative to traditional residential aged care may be surprised to know that we have a unique aged care community here on the island. Seasons Aged Care Bribie Island, located on Melrose Avenue, Bellara, is an aged care community that offers independence, choice, lifestyle, and care under the one roof.

Home to 72 one-bedroom independent living apartments, Seasons Bribie Island offers its residents independent aged care living with 24-hour care. This personalised care is delivered in each resident’s private apartment from low to high care right through to palliative care. This approach allows couples to stay together, regardless of their different care needs and means that small pets are more than welcome.

Seasons Bribie Island’s community consultant Christine Wagstaff says that the community has a lot to offer those who may need care but still want their independence. “All our one-bedroom apartments are self-contained, complete with fridge, cooktop, and microwave, a roomy bathroom including a laundry with a washing machine.

All apartments are wheelchair accessible and equipped with 24-hour emergency call buttons,” Ms. Wagstaff says. “Most apartments feature a private courtyard or balcony off the living area, overlooking the landscaped gardens and tranquil seaside surrounds. “Many of our residents require increased care, and it might be as simple as helping with the washing, to the increased needs of our residents with dementia. The service provision is there to improve the quality of your life so that you can enjoy time with your family, quiet time at the beach, or simply sharing a yarn over an afternoon drink.”

Care at Seasons Bribie Island is provided by Envigor, Seasons’ care partner. As the Envigor team is based on site, residents receive personalised care delivered just how they like it. Every resident has an individual care plan, designed in conjunction with them, their family and our care services manager.

As well as care, Seasons Bribie Island also has an active social and lifestyle program to keep residents happy and active. From bus trips to themed morning teas, craft mornings, board games and movie afternoons, there is plenty to keep all residents entertained. For those who prefer more leisurely or solitary pursuits, there are many quiet corners in the outside area, where you can enjoy the song of the birds and the bloom of the flowers or read a book.

Seasons Bribie Island also offers three meals a day to all residents, prepared onsite by experienced kitchen staff. Meals can be customised to suit a resident’s personal dietary requirements. Lunch is the biggest meal and social event of the day and also allows staff to check in with our residents to see if everyone is okay from a health and medical perspective.

Nestled within a suburban background, the community is just a stone’s throw from the beach and its coastal pathways and long boardwalks, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of coastal living, share in activities that keep you active and be a part of a community that cares.

If you’re interested in finding out more about Seasons Bribie Island, the best way is to come in and see the Seasons difference for yourself.

To book a tour or have a chat about how Seasons Bribie Island could suit you or a family member, call 1300 732 766 or visit https://seasonsagedcare.com.au/.

Neighbourhood Watch Award

Local news and articles

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Tags: Neighbourhood Watch. Queensland police.

HIGHEST AWARD

There is little doubt that when residents within a community make a point of being constantly vigilant towards any suspicious behaviour, it becomes a great deal more difficult for anyone with criminal intentions to be successful in their efforts and, in the Bellara area, those who form the local Neighbourhood Watch group should be proud of their efforts and also be recognised for their commitment to preventing crime.

With this in mind, it is also important that the members of this organisation should be appropriately rewarded for their dedication and in a small ceremony at the Bribie Island Hotel last month which was attended by Bribie Island Police Station OIC, Senior Sergeant David Crawford Raby, District Superintendent Inspector Jeffries, Division One Councillor Brooke Savige and members of Neighbourhood Watch, Bellara Neighbourhood Watch member Eddie Ryan was presented with the Gold Award, the highest possible recognition within Neighbourhood Watch.

A member since 2001 when founding member Leo Barraclough encouraged him to join, Eddie has in the past served on the committee and held the role of Area Co-ordinator. Current Area Co-ordinator Stacey Olson told me that although Eddie is no longer on the committee, he remains a valued member of the organisation and constantly promotes the profile of Neighbourhood Watch through his ongoing commitment to Bellara.

‘To qualify for the Gold Award, a member has to be nominated and has to have previously been awarded both the Bronze and the Silver Awards,’ Stacey explained.

‘Eddie has achieved all of those and he truly deserves this honour,’ she added. Without dedicated citizens such as Eddie Ryan, our community would not be the wonderful environment that we know it to be. Congratulations Eddie.

Featured image: Eddie Ryan (C) with Senior Sergeant David Crawford Raby and Bellara Neighbourhood founding member, Leo Barraclough

Womens Boxing Girl Goes For Gold

Local news and articles

David Sweedman

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April 7, 2018

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Tags: Womens boxing. Boxing. Sports. Commonwealth Games.

A GAME OF CHESS

When Taylah Robertson’s grandmother encouraged her to take up boxing at the age of twelve, none of those close to her or for that matter, Taylah herself, could have ever imagined what was to happen in the following seven years.

Taylah began taking boxing lessons at a Bribie Island gym and at first regarded it as nothing more than an enjoyable sport that would keep her fit but, as she began to show a natural ability, she began sparing with the boys and then had the opportunity to partake in a fight. ‘When she was just going there to take boxing lessons and train, her mother Cassandra and I were not really concerned,’ Taylah’s dad Cameron told me.

‘Then one day she came home and told us that she was going to fight and we both just felt sick. As it turned out, after a few fights where she held her own and started to do well, we felt a bit better about her being a boxer and now, although we still get a bit worried, we are just incredibly proud of what she has achieved,’ he said.

Cameron explained that once Taylah had progressed as far as was possible with the local gym, she placed herself under the guidance of Cooroy coach, Mark Evans who is also the Queensland coach. Obviously, this meant a demanding amount of travel for Taylah’s parents until she finally got her driver’s licence and as the frequency of her training increased along with her success in the ring, Cassandra and Cameron made the decision to relocate to the Sunshine Coast in order to lessen Taylah’s travel time.

It seems that there has been absolutely no stopping this young lady as far as her determination to be successful is concerned and, since she began to compete, her successes in the ring to date are an indication of her determination and commitment to the sport. As well as winning several Queensland titles, Taylah has won the Celtic Cup in Ireland and her success in Poland earned her the Black Diamond Cup.

womens boxing — Taylah is selling these shirts as a way of
raising funds

More recently, Taylah set her sights on being included in the Australian team at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and, after taking out the 51kg Australian Women’s Championship late in 2017, she has qualified to represent Australia at the Games. An obviously proud Cameron told me about how much time his nineteen-year-old daughter spends training to be a successful competitor. ‘Taylah trains three times each day, six days of the week,’ said Cameron. ‘Her skill as a boxer has been honed by training at the Australian Institute of Sport and recently in The Philippines.

Taylah treats boxing like a game of chess and plans her strategies very carefully. She is confident that she will win gold at the games and of course, we have bought tickets for every fight,’ he added. He also said that Taylah has her first fight on April 11th. One very important issue that is faced by every athlete who embarks on the journey to turn their favourite sport into a career is being able to source adequate funds and this quite often relies on the generosity of sponsors.

Cameron pointed out that there have been many businesses that have assisted Taylah in her journey and the local sponsors include Sunshine Fencing, Sell Exclusive and Richardson & Wrench as well as Knobel and Davis and Dallas Arthur at Tycrete. In her own efforts to fund her career, Taylah has had “Team Taylah” shirts (see photo) printed and has been selling them to her supporters.

He explained that anyone who would like to purchase one of these shirts should email Cassandra. [email protected] to arrange the purchase.

Following the Commonwealth Games, Taylah’s next goal is to be successful at the World Titles and, as the ultimate ambition, she is determined to win gold at the next Olympic Games. On behalf of the community in which she grew up, we at The Bribie Islander would like to congratulate Taylah on her achievements so far and wish her every success at the Commonwealth Games.

Bribie Island Ambulance – Expressions of interest

Locals Only

David Sweedman

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April 4, 2018

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Bribie Island Ambulance – Expressions of interest

Tags: Local Ambulance Committee. Bribie Island Ambulance

THE BRIBIE/NINGI LOCAL AMBULANCE COMMITTEE EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

The Bribie/Ningi Local Ambulance Committee is asking for expressions of interest from anyone who would like to join our Committee.

We support the QAS in a variety of ways namely teaching CPR Awareness to the community, Basic First Aid for school children, keeping the community aware of any changes/events in QAS and also supporting our Paramedics in both stations.

Last year we taught almost 150 people CPR and provided several school children first aid classes. Our meetings are bi-monthly held at the Bribie Island Ambulance Station.

The level of involvement can vary according to member’s own availability. If you would like to know more please contact Rae 0416023818 or Desley 0400013698.

We would love to hear from you.

RECOVERY I.D. MEETINGS BRIBIE ISLAND RECOVERY GROUP Monday – I.D. – 7.30pm Church of Christ hall Corner of Fifth Ave and Foley St Bongaree. The meeting room is behind the church.

BANKSIA BEACH OPEN I.D. Friday – I.D. – 7.30pm – Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Centre 9 Verdoni st Bellara Up the stairs, RH side of the building.

Book study meeting BRIBIE ISLAND RECOVERY GROUP Thursday – 12×12 – 7.30pm Church of Christ hall Corner of Fifth Ave and Foley st Bongaree. The meeting room is behind the church.

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