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Bribie Respite

CAREGIVING IS A DEMANDING JOB AND NO ONE IS EQUIPPED TO DO IT ALONE.

BRIBIE RESPITE AND SUPPORT SERVICES ARE PROUD TO ANNOUNCE THE OPENING OF THEIR COMMUNITY LIVING SERVICES RESPITE HOUSE, LOCATED AT BANKSIA BEACH.

Caregiving is a demanding job and no one is equipped to do it alone. Bribie respite and support services are proud to announce the opening of their community living services respite house, located at banksia beach. Caregiving is a demanding job and no one is equipped to do it alone.

Bribie Respite and Support Services are proud to announce the opening of their Community Living Services Respite House, located at Banksia Beach.

Providing 24-hour short term accommodation, the newly furnished home is a 4-bedroom modern residence available to NDIS funded clients, which enables families and other unpaid carers of people with disabilities and/or mental health issues the opportunity to take a well-earned break.

Designed to feel like home and planned for short breaks the spacious house comprises indoor and outdoor spaces, available for guests to enjoy, either in the company of others or as a retreat providing solitude. Each guest is offered a room of their choice, which contains a queen size bed with individually controlled air-conditioning.

Separate rooms provide privacy for each guest and space to make their own throughout their stay.

Experienced and qualified Bribie Respite and Support Services staff greet and support each guest ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. On each occasion, a carefully planned respectful visit is facilitated enabling guests, choice and control in choosing meals, activities, level of participation in daily household routines, as well as facilitating social and leisure opportunities in the Bribie Island community.

Promoting the upcoming opening of a respite house internally to existing Bribie Respite and Support Service clients and carers has already generated significant interest. The excitement has been shared amongst the disability community. Bribie Respite and Support Service is now receiving enquires from all over Queensland.

Community Living Services, another service provided by Bribie Respite and Support Services assist NDIS clients to access the community for activities of their choice. This enables clients to live inclusively within our local community. Our NDIS clients access local clubs and pubs for bingo, music trivia, live entertainment, karaoke and casual dining. Bribie Respite and Support Services support clients to attend events such as sports, concerts, fishing, 4WD, hiking, camping, weekends away and extended travel. We’ll do all the work, arranging each occasion for our clients and assist with affordability, finding others wanting the same events, making it cheaper for everyone.

Bribie Respite and Support Services take enormous pride in supporting clients in their local community and are determined to be the Bribie Island NDIS service of choice. As a not-forprofit business, all monies generated are reinvested into our Bribie based business for the benefit of the Bribie Island disability community. We create jobs, supporting local businesses and local community groups. Our philosophy is supporting local clients in their community with local carers. Locals supporting locals.

For all enquiries regarding Community Living Service or to make a booking at Bribie Respite and Support Services Respite House call Andrew on 34082112

Is Politics the “Game” For You?

O I have the job for you! But you will need shoulders as broad as an elephant’s, a hide as thick as a rhino’s, the stamina and heart of a lion, the honesty and integrity of a saint – and the purity(of heart and soul) of a child! If you reckon you have all of these attributes, then you’d be a smash “hit” in politics – because that is what is expected of you.

Oh, and then there are the little matters of being available (to your constituents) 24/7, 365 days a year – and accepting intense public scrutiny of both your public and private lives…..and those of your family members and your staff, as well.

And all this for (in most cases) about half what you could expect to receive, in salary or wages(and other benefits), if you applied the same attributes, qualifications and credentials to holding down a decent job (requiring similar commitments) in the private sector! In your private life outside of politics, you (or your neighbour) may well get away with being a womaniser, a wife-beater, a Dole-bludger, a welfare hypochondriac, a joy-riding car thief, a habitual liar, a thieving fraudster…. or a serious felon, like a sex offender or even a professional “hitman” – without your neighbours (or friends) getting too much “overheated” by it all.

But that won’t “wash” once you become an elected MP….no sir… and nor should it of course. What this highlights, however, is the absolute hypocrisy that applies to our demands and expectations of our so-called “elected elite” compared with those us out here in “Civvy Street who we are, seemingly, prepared to make allowances and excuses for(as regularly as necessary)when it comes to our own personal sins, shortcomings, and other transgressions.

I’m not suggesting that our elected elite shouldn’t be subjected to strict scrutiny concerning their integrity, and their ethical and moral standards – and in most cases, the “shonks” aspiring to become our MPs are sorted out (and sifted out) by party endorsement and pre-selection processes.

However, the trait of human fallibility kicks in at times, and some doubtful characters “slip through the cracks”. This can become more of a risk where “Independent” candidates are concerned of course, but generally, the selection processes work to our (public) benefit.

Apart from the public v. private income differences which can apply, the biggest drawback to us (the public) getting the MPs we deserve (not just those on offer) is the level of very invasive public scrutiny of their private and public lives that our “elected elite” (and their individual family members and staffers) are subjected to, every day they hold office……and sometimes, even long after they have flown the political coop!.

In a working life of almost 40 years (cut short by health issues) I was involved in politics at various levels of public office for almost 20 of those years, and I can attest to the impact this level of invasion of (personal) privacy has on everyone involved.

I and my wife and family had to endure the indignity of being named in Parliament on a couple of occasions for alleged “dodgy” activities we had absolutely nothing to do with. The impact on family and friends can be very hurtful – and very divisive….and you never forget these things! So spare a thought for the aspiring MPs who will seek your vote on October 31 – and spare them your barbs, too, until their bona fides (or otherwise) are established.

Aaroulee Retreat Tamborine Mountain

Aaronlee Retreat at Tamborine Mountain in the Gold Coast Hinterland is the perfect place to stay for a short mid-week getaway. Located 2 and a half hours drive from Bribie, guests will feel like they are in another world. Temperatures on the mountain are generally 5 – 10 degrees cooler than Brisbane and Aaronlee’s country rural charm will delight all who visit.

From its perch at the very top and edge of the mountain, Aaronlee Retreat offers a variety of accommodation, yet reasonably priced and regularly offering discounted Senior Special packages. The Federation homestead is a 10-minute drive from town and is set amongst acres of lawns and pretty flowering garden beds. All rooms have fireplaces, ceiling fans, kitchenette, outdoor seating and are fully self-contained, (some with spa baths).

Guests enjoy the selection of board games, books and magazines on offer. The Retreat has BBQ facilities, a swimming pool and there are so many places to sit and relax whilst breathing in the pure mountain air. The views from the lawns are uninterrupted and simply breathtaking.

During a stay at Aaronlee, guests enjoy the very popular Half or Full Day Wineries (and local sites) Tours which depart from Aaronlee at 9.45 am. The Full-Day Wineries Tour includes a delicious sit-down restaurant luncheon at a local winery.

Tamborine Mountain offers beautiful bush walks, lookouts and waterfalls. Visit the rainforests, swim in rock pools, shop the famous Gallery Walk, indulge in a high tea, be pampered with an Aaronlee in house massage and spa treatment, take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens, play a game of golf or lawn bowls, visit the orchid farm, galleries, nurseries, cheese factory, take a short day trip to the Gold Coast or explore the Scenic Rim region. There are many interesting and fun attractions. Details and maps are provided by your host when you check-in.

Aaronlee is home to Bonnie and Honey, two Shetland ponies, an abundance of birdlife including the endangered Albert’s Lyrebirds and a flock of Tawny Frogmouth birds. This peaceful and relaxing Retreat is available for Group bookings too including friend getaways, milestone birthday celebrations, elopements, anniversaries, weddings and family reunions.

The Storries Amongst Us – Cultivating Change

Originating in Cronulla, NSW where his grandfather was the first beach inspector, Dennis Chiron has forged a life built on positively cultivating the livelihoods of others.

With an arsenal of education to his name, this selfconfessed extrovert has little time for small talk, only time for “real talk”. He is a big softie at heart who loves to help people in need and is driven to make a difference.

So who is this man? A natural athlete, playing rugby league and rugby union from seven to 47 years of age.

As a youngster Dennis joined the merchant navy to see the world, while simultaneously studying Psychology and Business by distance learning through Deakin University. His first role as a civilian was in introduction of and subsequent building of the business and brand PixiFoto throughout Australia. His success in creating a well-known brand led him to being headhunted for a CEO role with The Lorna Hodgkinson Sunshine Home in Sydney (now known as Unisson Disability), an organization built to support intellectually disabled to lead meaningful lives. Following this engagement he became the Regional Manager for House with No Steps, assisting children and adults with various disabilities to have access to employment, better living arrangements and recreational activities.

Without realizing it, it seemed his need to help people also led to a talent for building businesses. In 1985 Dennis started the first comprehensive Business Enterprise Centre (BEC) in Australia, followed by the first Small Business Incubator (SBI) in 1986. Leading the pathway for 150 BEC’s and 70 SBI’s throughout Australia and New Zealand.

He consulted to the Federal Government in Local Employment and Economic Development Initiatives prior to taking the helm for 22 years at Caboolture Business Enterprise Centre. Following his resignation he went onto assisting organisations to establish Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s) and most recently, the Owner and CEO of Brisbane Career College until he sold it in 2014. Being fortunate to meet some outstanding people throughout his life, Dennis would have to say the standout was Bob Hawke.

He had an incredibly strong presence, a charisma that very few people possess, an astounding depth of knowledge and an indisputable love of Australia.

The most awesome, exhilarating, and frightening adventure thus far in his life, Dennis mentions jumping out of a plane & skydiving for his 60th birthday. All was well until the plane reached 10,000 ft when the hatch opened and he was met with the roar of the wind and looking down at a very small Bribie Island below him, he freaked and asked if he could change his mind! Nonetheless, he followed through with it and has since done another jump following the euphoria and landing safely.

This man is many things including a genuine life saver, having saved the life of the next door neighbors’ 14 month old daughter who had stopped breathing and had turned blue. Her parents were overcome with panic and unable to administer any assistance until they ran next door and called for Dennis to help. He successfully revived their daughter and to this day Dennis says this is one of his proudest moments.

Bribie Island has played a large part in Dennis and his wife’s life for many years with a small intermission when they returned to his roots and built a property on their dream block of land in Woolgoolga NSW. Unfortunately, despite the incredible views, age got in the way of the stairs in their 3 storey home.

Finally, if he could change anything in this world it would be advocating for zero population growth (ZPG) to give the world, Mother Nature and the environment a chance to recover

The Art of Hugging

When COVID19 is just a bad memory, what will we remember? Will there be a legacy? I’m thinking here of constant hand washing, sneezing into our elbows and maintaining a ‘cassowary’ distance from our fellow humans.

One thing I won’t be sorry to see return is the random, inappropriate, too-long hug. This form of social contact can be problematical even in the absence of a virulent and deadly virus.

Firstly there’s the crucial decision: Do I shake hands with this person or go in for the hug? Okay. It’s a hug. So once you’ve decided they’re worthy of the hug, what then?

We all know those people who like nothing more than perpetrating a chest-crushing vice-like hug upon their unsuspecting victims. I’m reminded of a large predatory python squeezing the life out of an innocent mongoose.

A hug is a greeting. Nothing more, nothing less. Sure, it’s meant to be warm and comforting. But it’s definitely not the same as a cuddle. A cuddle can last for hours, and it can sometimes have unanticipated, and supremely satisfactory consequences. Ah … that’s a whole other story. But a hug is different. It’s a fleeting thing. Some people have no concept of how long your average hug is meant to be, let alone the force with which it is to be executed. When you are in the clutches of a standard hugger, there comes a time to release each other and get on with watching the tele, eating that corn cob, checking your phone or resuming your cribbage game. But some of these inappropriate huggers simply don’t know when to stop. Is there anything more embarrassing and awkward than the hug that won’t let go?

Let me set the scene. You’ve done your bit when approached by an inveterate hugger, and responded with a like-minded if comparatively lukewarm hug. Being a normal person you understand that during a hug, both parties should employ the same amount of pressure and the average hug should last around, oh, three seconds. So you release and attempt to step away. But the hugger won’t let go. They continue the debilitating squeeze seemingly unaware that their prey has gone blue in the face and limp through lack of air.

One of my aunts was such a hugger. Small children ran crying from the room. Babies crawled for cover when she hoved into view, arms wide open and ready for the assault. Adults suddenly discovered they had urgent business at the other end of the property. But she was like a heat seeking missile. And once in her grip, no matter how rigid you became, or how much you struggled, her steel-like arms suddenly developed Herculean strength. She was gonna hug you whether you liked it or not.

Look. I appreciate a hug as well as the next person. It’s a sweet way to say you care without words. But please, once we’ve said farewell to the dreaded dance that is COVID distancing, let’s be a bit sensitive. Not everyone is up for the overwhelming hug. Just use the three second rule. Gentle embrace, count to three, let go, move on. Is that too much to ask?

The Bribie Islander Gloss Magazine October 9, 2020 Issue 124

Issue 124 OUT NOW. Get all your community news and information. Bribie Islands only community gloss magazine NOW EVERY TWO WEEKS! – Articles on boating, camping, fishing, life, drama, travel destinations, sports and what to see and do on Bribie Island. Covering charities, organisations, places, children’s activities, arts and crafts, tourist destinations, heritage parks, technology, science, music, gardening, and much more.

Download latest digital edition here. Or use the ebook below to view.

Saving Money Has No Age Limit

Money is difficult to manage, save and earn. It’s important to teach children to save money in their early years so they learn to value it. This life is full of uncertainties. Therefore, it is crucial to save money for unexpected emergencies, loan payments or unforeseeable circumstances. Being able to save money has no age limit! Give your children the head start to learn about money, how to save it and help them be successful with handling money from their younger years to adulthood. Here are ways to teach your children to save money.

Lead by Example
As a parent, you are the person your children look up to for everything. They observe how you talk to people, how you treat people and they even notice how you handle money. It’s your responsibility to teach your children the value of money and more importantly how to take care of it. Sometimes, it’s easy to forget they are watching what you’re doing. For example, if you’re at the grocery store and you’re comparing prices of products – they see that. They begin to interpret what you’re trying to do. Take the time to pause in that moment and share what you’re trying to do. Teach them in the moment so they can see how “saving money” can be applied in real life.

Create a list of goals
Sit down with your child and find out what kind of goals they have. Write a list and see what they want most. Teach them how to prioritise certain things. For example, if they buy a new toy now, then they won’t have the money to buy the shoes they’ve always wanted. Help them weigh the costs, the advantages/disadvantages and make calculated decisions. Teach them to write down that goal and help them see how saving money can help them achieve it.

You can place the list on their wall or beside their bed, so they know they are working towards a goal.

Fill a Savings Jar
The good old piggy bank. The most famous way children save money. Every time they get money, teach them to put a portion away and place it in the savings jar. If you get a clear jar, it’s easier for your children to see the money build up which can also help motivate them to keep saving.

Open a Bank Account
Once the savings jar is full, accompany your child to the bank. You can open an account for them based on their age bracket. There are several bank accounts you can open specifically for children.

 

Out and about in Pumicestone with Ross Konowalenko

LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK TO THE ‘PRE COVID19’ DAYS? THEN BY SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES IN OUR PUMICESTONE & QUEENSLAND, WE CAN THEN GET US ALL ON THE ROAD TO NORMALITY AND PROSPERITY.

Make no mistake, our local small businesses are the ‘engine room’ for our economy. Last week I had a ‘Zoom’ meeting with Ms Amanda Rohan who is the PA to the CEO of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ) which is the peak organisation for each local chamber of commerce group in Queensland of which there is a local chamber here on Bribie Island. Our meeting centred on what state government can do to support businesses to adopt sustainable practices for business growth and diversification, with the aim to then achieve a more eco-efficient, resilient and productive economy. Why? Because there are 445,830 small businesses in Queensland which as a whole contribute 113billion into the economy and employ 44% of the private sector workforce. If there is one glaring lesson that we here in Australia have learned from the COVID19 epidemic, is that as a nation, we need to be less reliant on products manufactured overseas and get our manufacturing and other processing industries up and running again.

It has been very evident while out and about talking to people, that they are now reading labels and supporting industries by buying products and produce that has been made or grown in Australia and Australian owned. Yes, some items may cost a little bit more, but consumers are now more reassured that what they are eating is safe having been grown and processed locally, that jobs are being kept and profits are staying here for future expansion and reinvestment. I shop on my own at the supermarket as I am a ‘label reader’ and have also researched on the internet which companies are Australian owned and select items for the trolley accordingly. During my campaign, I have also utilised local businesses for the majority of my requirements. On Monday 28 September I attended the Bribie Business Breakfast meeting held at the Bribie Island RSL and was very impressed with the number and variety of businesses represented. It allowed me to further extend my network within the local business community and can highly recommend the breakfast served by the RSL club staff – it was excellent as was the service. Another highlight of the breakfast was the presentation on business sales profiling presented by Charmaine Campbell. It was evident that the expertise Charmaine brought to the meeting gained over many years from her experience in developing high profile businesses both in Australia and overseas was well received by the audience who were also well represented by a wealth of local and international business experience. It is this depth of highly qualified and energetic expertise that is going to drive business development within our Pumicestone, to get our local economy powering along.

To make this happen, our state government needs to restructure the bonds between government and business to facilitate a business-friendly operating environment, by unlocking regulation and reform, investment incentives, and local procurement opportunities. A review of stamp duties, payroll taxes and land taxes will also help a business to rebuild post COVID19. Further savings can be made by having cheap and reliable energy available for business and households and the One Nation policy of building the Collinsville Power Station to power our state will achieve this objective. With sound infrastructure, reliable and cheap energy and incentives to attract businesses, Pumicestone will be open for business. Open to attract innovative and environmentally friendly businesses that can compete on both the national and international market place. As your representative in parliament, I along with fellow One Nation members will work with government agencies at all levels to ensure that the innovations currently being developed by the CSIRO, various university and other research centres, are funded and developed by Australian owned companies supported by local financial entities, to be produced locally to then provide local jobs and prosperity for our future generations.

Small business is in fact from the figures above, ‘big business’ and by supporting our local businesses, we are providing them with the incentive they need to thrive and expand, thereby creating more opportunities and optimism for us all. To each local business owner, you have my support and admiration for the hard work that you do to provide the services and products that we all need and for that, on behalf of our Pumicestone, I thank you. Which is why when Senator Malcolm Roberts visited Pumicestone recently, he stopped for lunch on the opening day of a local chicken takeaway, to provide his support to our newest local business which will, in turn, be providing employment opportunities for to up to 10 locals. One Nation supports small business.

October 10th

World Mental Health Day Is October 10th, And The Focus Is To Challenge The Negative Perceptions Around Mental Illness And Encouraging People To Take A More Positive View Of Mental Illness

Mental illnesses are among the most common health issue around the world. Each year 1 in 5 Australians will experience a mental illness. In Australia that is around 5 million people. And roughly 60% of these people will not seek help.

The Mental Health Stigma

The stigma attached to mental health causes a damaging, albeit ill-informed, attitude, making it more difficult for those affected to pursue help. The best way to deal with this stigma is through facts and a better understanding of mental health problems. From identifying the causes, pinpointing solutions, and ultimately recognising that we are really dealing with medical issues.

  • People experiencing mental illness stigma may feel isolated which can lead to loss of hope and a relapse, or worsening, of their condition.
  • Importantly, it can stop people from seeking help and support, because they fear the reactions of people, they are seeking support from.
  • Stigma makes many people feel ashamed or embarrassed of their mental illness.
  • Part of the reason for negative attitudes and behaviour towards people with mental illness is a lack of knowledge and a fear of the unknown.

How Can We Help?

Helping others relies on good communication. When you meet someone, who wants to talk about their mental illness or symptoms it is important to:

  • be there, listen and be nonjudgemental o choose the right time and place to approach the issue
  • acknowledge what the person is sharing — do not brush it off
  • give the person any information you have on available resources or support.

Be Respectful

Remember that having a mental health problem is just one part of the person. People do not want to be defined by this alone.

Think about the words you use

Words like nutter, crazy and psycho can be offensive and hurtful.

Be Empathic

Helping others relies on open communication, it is important to:

  • be compassionate
  • use body language that shows you are there for them
  • be relaxed and open

Help them seek support

Listen and make them feel they are not alone and that their issue is important. Encourage them to seek help, such as:

  • General practitioner
  • A professional (e.g. psychologist, social worker, psychiatrist)

Give a sense of hope and future

Most people with mental illness lead lives like anyone else, working and participating with family and friends.

The most disabling aspect of mental illness for many is the way they are treated and excluded from those things the rest of the community take for granted.

Even the most serious mental health conditions can be treated.

Our mental wellbeing is the unique way that we handle our emotions, respond to stress and our general outlook on life. Having a healthy sense of mental wellbeing requires many things to be going well for us. It does not matter who you are, where you live or how rich or well educated you are – mental health can and will impact upon YOU! Mental health is everybody’s business.

“WHAT MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS IS MORE SUNLIGHT, MORE CANDOUR, AND MORE UNASHAMED CONVERSATION.”

Words of Wisdom from Bribie Cove

At Bribie Cove, our residents have taken the opportunity to reflect on past experiences and think about what advice they could give the younger generations. Our Lifestyle Team thought they would capture that wisdom, so grabbing a whiteboard and marker they went around and asked residents to share these messages. Betty and Clare tell us to “always tell the truth & respect your parents” and “always be kind to (your) parents”. Bob has some wise financial advice “never take money out of your superannuation” and Judith reminds us to “remain positive at all times & keep smiling”, something very important to remember, especially during these challenging times. These very wise words from our residents were then posted across our Facebook pages so our residents could share them with our McKenzie community.

Follow Bribie Cove Aged Care on Facebook to keep up with what happening around our home or to enquire about our Respite and Permanent Care options, call us on 1300 899 222 or visit www. mckenzieacg.com for more information.

The New YOU!

Ever feel like your look is predictable or lacks excitement? While it is nice when our morning beauty routine can be done in under 30 minutes, especially when we’re guilty of hitting the snooze button once or twice (okay, four or five times) when our alarm starts blaring in the morning. After a while, the predictability can leave us feeling bored with our look.

Maybe your current hair situation is a little lacklustre, or you’re tired of wearing the same makeup look every day. Maybe you aren’t sure what style of clothing will look the best on you. There are so many different trends out there and everyone has their own ideas about which ones to follow, so sometimes we just need a little inspiration to give us new ideas to incorporate into our routine.

So, put down that eye shadow palette you’ve used every day for the last six months (don’t worry, we aren’t judging you!), grab a glass of wine and take some notes!

CHANGING YOUR HAIR IS ONE OF THE EASIEST AND MOST EFFECTIVE WAYS TO GIVE YOURSELF A MAKEOVER

One of the easiest and best ways to start an extreme makeover is to begin with your hair. The cut, colour and the way we style it has the ability to speak volumes about who we are as a person. Changing even one little detail can have an impact on our overall look. The ways to revive your hair and give it some wow factor seem to be endless. Experimenting with a new haircut can be exciting and fun! The purpose is to do something different, so don’t be afraid to try something new. If you have long hair and have been pinning cute medium or short length cuts to your Pinterest board, consider taking the plunge! Likewise, if you have had short hair forever but growing it out feels like a hassle or you want results now, extensions might be the way to go. Ask your stylist what they think will give you a flattering, fresh look.

CHANGE UP YOUR HAIR COLOUR

Changing up your hair colour can make you feel like a whole new woman. Always wanted to test out the age old adage, “blondes have more fun?” Well now is the perfect opportunity! Too much, too soon? Try lightening your hair in the summer and darkening it in the fall. There are so many different techniques out there that you wouldn’t have to go too crazy. Adding highlights or lowlights will give you great results without too much commitment. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, you could try pastel hair or oil slick hair to bring out your inner mermaid.

Complete your hair makeover with a new style or accessories Now that you have a new cut and colour, it’s time to think about how to style your hair to complete your hair makeover. An easy thing to try is switching the side you normally part your hair on. This has the ability to really change up your overall look, and you don’t have to commit to it long term. Normally wear your hair straight? Try curing it more often. Usually wear it down? Try an updo! If you normally wear your hair up around the office, try styling it in loose waves. You’re guaranteed to shock your co-workers when you saunter into the office in the morning. Go the extra mile with accessorise with cute headbands, bows or hair clips for an unexpected finished touch.

Happy Birthday Les

Les Bax has celebrated his 88th birthday on the 29th of September.

We would all like to wish Les a very happy birthday with many more to come. Les is an outstanding member of our community. Last week he was on his way home on his mobility scooter and came across a young girl who was being harassed by an older man on a bicycle. Les stood up to the man and told him to leave the young girl alone and was then abused with a tirade of nasty words and threats that Les stood up too for the safety of the young girl. After a while the man then left and Les escorted the young girl safely home. When I asked Les “what if he had of attacked you?” Les replied “well he would have to make sure when he hit me, I didn’t get back up or he would be in trouble, you just do what you have to do to ensure the safety of our community.”

Les also has some wonderful stories about growing up on the Island and starting his family here. He has seen a lot over the years and I am endeavouring to get his stories down on paper to share with you all. From the “underground Hospital” to meeting Ian Fairweather, he is a wealth of knowledge about the Island, I am sure you will all find it a very interesting read.

I take my hat off to Les, you are one in a million!!!

Happy 100th Birthday

THE STAFF AT BRIBIE COVE CELEBRATED A DAY OF SIGNIFICANCE WITH RESIDENT FLORENCE MILLS WHO TURNED 100

Florence spent her very special day with her fellow residents who she describes as her great friends who she feels lucky to have, sharing a glass of wine while being showered with gifts and well wishes. There is a huge amount of love and respect from the staff at Bribie Cove for Florence, they are feeling very privileged to be a part of this very special occasion and had a wonderful time sharing this momentous occasion with Florence. Florence was also very excited to see her letters from the Queen, the Prime Minister, the Governor-General and the Qld Premier. Congratulations Florence from all of us at the Bribie Islander magazine on turning 100 years young!