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BUSY FINGERS – Second hand and used goods charity – April 2019

David Sweedman
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BUSY FINGERS – Second hand and used goods charity – April 2019

Tags: Bribie Island. Sandstone Point. Caboolture. Woorim. Bellara. Bongaree. Banksia Beach. Second hand store.

We hope you all had a very enjoyable Easter Break with family and friends and for those that had vacationed with the kids on school holidays, we hope you managed to keep them fully occupied whilst enjoying your own downtime. Leading up to Easter it was a very busy time for us and as such we could not satisfy all requests for Pick up, please be assured that we did as many as we could and hope to be back up to date as soon as possible.

We usually do pick up jobs in the morning and purchase deliveries in the afternoon. We endeavour to meet all our customer time frames but it is not always possible. So please give us as much notice as possible to meet your needs. Call 3408 1014 for assistance. PUBLIC HOLIDAY Please note we will be closed on Monday 6th May 2019 Labour Day Public Holiday.

BARGAINS AVAILABLE

This month we have a number of specials in the shop. This includes half-priced furniture, dinner sets, and pictures. All clothes are $5 per basket and this includes both summer and winter clothing. The books marked with a dot on the 2nd’s table are currently $2 a basket. For the complete list of specials please check the blackboard as you enter the shop, a lot of customers admit they don’t read the board and have missed out on some excellent bargains.

ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY

On a serious note, all shoppers must realise that our staff and many volunteers are there to help you, they are not there to be abused or harassed. Our hardworking volunteers are doing an excellent job and do it to support their community and its residents, and we expect all shoppers to show respect and act appropriately. Our shop has a zero tolerance policy and it will be enforced in all situations, even though we do not like to go down this path. However, we will not allow our staff and volunteers to be upset by rude and impatient customers.

If customers act inappropriately they will be asked to leave immediately, if they continue to cause disruption the police will be called. So we ask all customers to treat our staff as they would like to be treated at all times.

SHOE POLICY REMINDER

Please remember our policy of NO SHOES NO ENTRY. This is a safety and insurance issue and a very serious one. Things can get broken, and even though they are swept up immediately, there is the chance of a piece of glass or china being missed. It is quite painful having glass embedded in your foot and for children, it is quite a stressful event. So please ensure that not only you have shoes on but also your children as you will be refused entry without them.

REQUEST FOR PRESENTATIONS AND DONATIONS

If you are a member of an island club or association and require assistance please let us know. We try to assist all not for profit associations and sporting clubs, we also assist the Police, SES, VMR, and the BI Hospice. Our President Karen is quite happy to come along to your club and present our aims and goals and how your club can apply for assistance. Please call 3410 1920 or email [email protected] if you wish to have a presentation or if you wish to apply for a grant of assistance.

When applying for assistance please include a contact name and phone number and also a current equipment quote, tell us a bit about your association/club and membership and why you need the equipment you are requesting. Please be aware we only deal with island associations and groups, not individuals.

SUPPORT

This community should be very proud of how we all support our island community in many different ways, including through the many donations you give to Busy Fingers which enable us to use the money raised to the community’s benefit. We also wish to thank the many business people who support us, this month I would like to mention our dear friend Ian of The Ink Shop 34086421 who continually looks after all our ink needs and offers much-needed advice when required. We also wish to thank the Team of the Bribie Islander for their continued support throughout the year.

Hope to see you in the shop soon. Sandra

ROLL UP, ROLL UP THE GREATEST SHOWMAN IS IN TOWN

David Sweedman
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ROLL UP, ROLL UP THE GREATEST SHOWMAN IS IN TOWN

It’s the one-off opportunity to spend a night under the stars with Hollywood superstars Hugh Jackman and Michelle Williams. The Greatest Showman is coming to Bribie Island Saturday, 25 May (rescheduled from 4th May) and Councillor for Division 1 Brooke Savige promises Brennan Park will be transformed into a starlight cinema.

“Simply bring along a blanket, chair or take advantage of the deck chairs and bean bags available and enjoy the film,” she said. “There will be plenty of movies treats available from 5 pm including popcorn, fairy floss, coffee, and doughnuts before the movie starts at 5.45pm. “The award-winning movie was a hit at the box office and can now be seen for free on our iconic waterfront.”

Rated PG, the film celebrates the birth of show business and tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation. To check out what else is coming up in your community visit the Moreton Bay Regional Council website or follow Council’s events page on Facebook.

Bongaree Movie in the Park is presented by Moreton Bay Regional Council and supported by Division 1 Councillor Brooke Savige. Brennan Park is located at 1 S Esplanade, Bongaree.

LEST WE FORGET – Anzac Day

David Sweedman
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LEST WE FORGET – Anzac Day

Tags: RSL Bribie Island. Anzac day.

WEARING THEIR NAMES WITH PRIDE

Rotary and RSL Community Link Project

It was 104 years ago (1915) that the first Anzacs landed at Gallipoli. The name ANZAC means Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. The Gallipoli campaign was not a successful one. Nearly 9,000 Australians lost their lives, with 2,000 dying on the first day of the 8-month campaign. Gallipoli had a deep impact on Australians at home, and 25 April soon became the day on which Australians remembered the sacrifice of those who died in the war.

Featured image(above): The Bribie Island contingent at the 2017 National Anzac Day March in Canberra

The first Anzac Day commemorations were held 25 April 1916 and today we remember those who died in all wars since “the War to end all Wars.” On a lighter note – it is also the only day “two-up” can legally be played in public. Thanks to the dedication and commitment of new Bribie Rotarian, Robyn Harper, and George Franklin of Bribie Island RSL, the Rotary Club of Bribie Island is proud to be the first local group to join the Bribie Island RSL’s Community Link Project.

The project is dedicated to keeping alive the names, memories, and deeds of departed Australian or Allied service veterans, no matter when or where they served or when they died. It does this by enabling people of all ages to attend remembrance services as the personal representative of the departed veteran. Bribie Rotary has paid for 37 local WWI and WWII veterans to be researched by Year 6 students at Bribie Island State School and Banksia Beach State School.

Students are presented with a Representatives Link Card and Memorial Plaque which shows the basic service details of the departed veteran, including a coloured ribbon bar indicating the medals to which the veteran was entitled. These can be worn at Anzac and Remembrance Day Services. On 19 March 2019, Mrs. Allison Lutton from Bribie Island State School was presented with a kit containing the plaques and cards for the 15 Bribie Island WWI and WWII veterans.

RSL Bribie Island. Anzac day.

The memorial plaque showing the Service Details for George Henry Boothe

Mrs. Sue Mackay from Banksia Beach State School was then presented with the kit containing the 22 plaques and cards for WWI and WWII veterans from surrounding districts. As well as the plaques and Community Link cards the kit contained a laminated list of the veterans each school would research and a research guide. The Year 6 students wore their plaques and Community Link cards at their school’s Anzac Day services held on 24 April 2019. Robyn Harper represented Rotary at Banksia Beach State School Anzac Service, our President John Oxenford attended the Bribie Island State School Service and our Youth Director, June Sturges attended the High School.

Rotary has been involved with the three schools and their very special Anzac Day services for many years. Every second year, since 1997, the Bribie Island RSL Sub-branch has taken a group of students from the local schools to Canberra to attend the Dawn Service and march in the National Parade. I usually represent my grandfather who died at Gallipoli and my father who won the Military Cross in the Buna Sanananda campaign in WWII, at the Canberra service. I always make a point of going over to see the Bribie contingent who lead the parade. These students wear the RSL Community Link cards and the plaques of their own family members whom they have researched.

My fellow Rotarian and local historian, Barry Clark wrote a marvelous article about “Those Who Answered the Call” for Issue 51 of the Bribie Islander. In this article, Barry told about the WWI and WWII men and women from Bribie Island, Toorbul and Donnybrook who served in our defence forces. These veterans have their names engraved on the Recognition plaques in Bongaree and are featured in the book “They Answered the Call” written by members of the Bribie Island Historical Society.

RSL Bribie Island. Anzac day.

Allison Lutton BISS, George Franklin (RSL Community Link) and Rotarian Robyn Harper

To help me better understand the research the students would need to do, I selected one plaque from the RSL Community Link kits, which were so professionally prepared by George Franklin. Following my research in the Australian War Memorial and the Australian National Archives websites, I found that George Henry Boothe served in both WWI and WWII. His WWI Service number was 3616 and his occupation was stockman. His rank was Private. George enlisted 20 October 1916 and his address at this time was Coonamble, NSW. His date of Embarkation for England was 24 January 1917.

He was a driver with the 4th Pioneer Battalion. He returned to Australia on 5 July 1919. On 27 May 1940, aged 56, George again enlisted and his Service Number was Q187425. His address at enlistment was Toorbul, Queensland. George served in Brisbane and Gaythorne and was discharged on 4 November 1944. His daughter Kathleen Violet Boothe Q267346 also served in the Australian Army Medical Women’s Service in General Hospitals in Brisbane.

RSL Bribie Island. Anzac day.

Robyn Harper with Sue Mackay from BBSS

Kathleen was only 18 years old at the time of her enlistment. So our Bribie students will help perpetuate the “Anzac legend” which is an important part of the identity of both nations. But it wasn’t just the bravery of our soldiers that became legendary, it was also their unique brand of humour which kept them going while in the trenches. The dark humour and “shit-stirring” was a defensive way of coping with horrors of war. An example of this humour from a book compiled in the Gallipoli trenches:

Sentry: Halt. Who goes there?
Voice: Demak Patel, 614, Corporal, Ceylon Rifles
Sentry: Pass friend.
Sentry: Halt. Who goes there?
Voice: Johnson, Otago Mounted Rifles, New Zealand Expeditionary Force.
Sentry: Pass friend.
Sentry: Halt. Who goes there?
Voice: What the F*** has it got to do with you?
Sentry: Pass, Australian.

This is such an incredible project and Bribie Rotary are very proud to be a part of an enduring program. More information about the project is available from Robyn Harper, [email protected] or myself, [email protected]. Or RSL Community Link’s George Franklin, on 0438 216 039.

LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION

David Sweedman
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LOOKING FOR INSPIRATION

Our cover photo…
You may not recognise his face yet you possibly have seen him many times on Bribie Island in a very conspicuous place. Read Timothy Gould’s story and be inspired.
Photo Credit: Deb Neil Photography 0402 048 275

Why is it that people who outwardly appear to be less fortunate than ourselves can often end up being a total source of inspiration and admiration? Catching up with Timothy Gould, who is a Special Olympics gold medalist and the subject of our cover story, is a typical example of what I mean.

On the face of it, you would think that someone born with Down Syndrome or indeed any other so-called disability would fill you with a sense of pity. This could not be further from the truth. When I first caught up with Timothy, I felt nothing but admiration and warmth for having had the pleasure of meeting this fine young man who has made more of his life than I dare say many of the people you and I collectively know.

No doubt you have met people who let’s face it have had more than their fair share of adversity. Many born with it and some due to accident or sickness. Yet somehow they manage to almost if not completely put us to shame when we view the way they look at life compared to ourselves.

That is not to say that those individuals don’t feel pain or get depressed with their situation as we all do on occasions, but somehow they manage to find that inner strength that allows them to push through and deal with what’s in front of them. So if you are having a bad day through circumstances or poor health and need the inspiration and motivation to push through here’s a thought.

Find yourself a quiet place, take a mirror, stare deeply into it and you might just discover that all the inspiration and motivation you need to push on is staring right back at you. It always was.

BEACH REPORT – April 2019

David Sweedman
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BEACH REPORT – April 2019

Tags: Bribie Island beach report. Bongaree. White Patch. Banksia Beach. Bellara. Woorim

The recent soaking rains have brought a new lease of life to the flora and fauna in our National Park and have firmed up the inland track considerably. The storm birds (shortbilled Curlew) and Ibis are out in force at Poverty Creek. The Westaway Creek catchment wetlands are now reinvigorated with approximately half a metre of water, the water lilies are now an absolute spectacle. Whatever you do don’t forget to bring your insect repellent as the mosquitoes are out and about.

We continue our session on the use of snatch straps, a piece of equipment that most 4WD enthusiasts already have. To start with let’s look at the recovery points on your vehicle. Don’t trust bullbars, towbars or recovery points without checking the mounting bolts these can be rusted making them lethal projectiles. If there is any uncertainty, attach around the chassis rail of the vehicle.

With respect to towbars, if you are sure the bolts are sound, these make a reasonable recovery point however don’t use the tongue or ball, these can fail. We recently did a recovery wrapping around the shank of a solid steel Toyota tow hitch, these are rated at eight tonnes and can be used, alternatively purchase a towbar recovery hitch. Remember, keep everyone well clear whilst effecting a recovery as the kinetic energy in that snatch strap is lethal.

Bribie Island beach report. Bongaree. White Patch. Banksia Beach. Bellara. Woorim

Fort Bribie fallen mine control hut fell two weeks ago

If you need to use more than one strap or as points to attach to the vehicles we recommend Dimenia rope shackles (pictured). These are not expensive but if something goes wrong it’s not a metal object flying through the air. We recommend the use of dampeners and if you don’t have one drop a wet towel or jacket over the snatch strap. Most people have 8 or 9-tonne snatch straps and we recommend 15-tonne snatch straps, discard straps immediately if damaged.

Pick the direction which you are going to effect the recovery. Look for the hard surface to end the recovery. Reverse your recovery vehicle to 1.5 metres away from the bogged vehicle and drive forward towards the hard area or at least 30 metres. Driving back and forward several times over this area to pack the sand down for better traction. Ensure that there are no passengers in either vehicle, ensure everyone is at a safe distance, lay the strap out, attach to your recovery points, if possible passenger side to passenger side, should anything go wrong the strap will recoil to the passenger side of the vehicle and not to the driver’s side.

Next, drive off as you were heading off down the highway (no wheel spin) the strap will stretch and kinetic energy will cause the bogged vehicle to pop up on top of the sand, keep driving to clear the soft section. Remember to check everyone’s tyres are at 18 to 20 PSI, if towing a trailer ensure it has the same track width as the tow vehicle. Holidays mean kids on the beach and campsites, remember 30km speed limits.

As winter approaches sand disappears from the beach making it like riding a rollercoaster, simply slow down there is no other answer. When parking on the beach at high tide consider other vehicles who want to pass, they don’t want to have to drive in the salt water. Fishing in the gutters will deliver whiting, dart 30cm, queenfish 50cm, mackerel 60cm. яндекс

This Week’s Reader Question

How did our lagoons get named?

Answer in next issues Bribie Beach report.

Bribie Island – Fishing report, tide times – April 2019

David Sweedman
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Bribie Island – Fishing report, tide times – April 2019

Tags: Fishing report Bribie Island. Tide Times. Moreton Bay. Caboolture. Beachmere. Sandstone Point

Well, the school holidays have begun let’s hope the weather, brings us some beautiful days, so we can get out amongst the fish in the Pumicestone passage and on the Surfside. We have seen a few Mud crabs about Ningi Creek, Donnybrook, Toorbul and in the Banksia Beach Canals, as well as Sand crabs at Bongaree with plenty being caught at Lime Pocket, so grab your pots and some Mullet Heads and you will be sure to get a good feed for Easter.

There has been a few Snapper about with some good size being caught at Cape Moreton, The Ripples, Sandstone Point and Bellara you will need some Pilchards to hook on and always remember let the bait float, don’t sink it, they like to remain on the surface when looking for a feed. One of our regular anglers tried the Ningi Creek yesterday snaring himself five Bream and a good size flathead and also a cod, he was using mullet fillets to catch the Bream, Cod, and Flathead.

You can also get a few Bream about at Banksia Beach, Gallaghers, Poverty Creek, Donnybrook, Turners Camp, Bellara, Bongaree, and Red Beach biting on the usual Prawns, Live Blood Worms, and Yabbies. We have seen some Flathead about Avon Wrecks, Turners Camp, Gallaghers, IGA Bongaree and Bellara with some biting on Mullet fillets and Squid. Whiting is still on the bite, Turners Camp, Red Beach, Bongaree and Bellara grab some Live Blood worms or Preserved Beach Worms to catch a few.

I have been talking to some anglers and the Surfside is proving a good place to catch some good size Whiting and Dart at 1st, 2nd, 3rd lagoon in front of the Campsites, you will need Pippies for the Dart and Preserved beach worms for the Whiting. If you head out to The Bird Cage or even on the surfside at 2nd Lagoon and 3rd Lagoon the Mackerel are on the bite, pick up some Pilchards for a good feed.

You will get a lot a squid near the Bribie bridge at night, great to use for live bait. We have also seen that some anglers have caught Dew off the Bribie Bridge with squid being the best bait. Before we take the kids out on the boat for the holidays please check all your safety gear and make sure all your flares are in date.

Tide Times

Click here to see Bribie Island Tide Times

FISH KILL AT BEACHMERE

The recent algae bloom in Beachmere Lake is believed to be the cause of yet another fish kill. This latest kill has seen the demise of over an estimated 30,000 fish of various species. OzFish Unlimited volunteers alongside local recreational fisho’s worked hard to save the last survivors. They include Mangrove Jack up to 70cm, Estuary Cod to 80cm, Milkfish to a metre, Tarpon to 60cm and Bream to 40cm as well as dozens of Mullet up to 3kg. Local OzFish Project Manager Ben Diggles said, “It’s so sad to see some many fish gone, however, it’s been fantastic to see local residents and fisho’s rallying together.”

The local council is working to identify and rectify the problem in the short term and re-establish water flow into the lake. Long-term OzFish Unlimited hope to be able to work with council engineers to develop a more permanent solution to repair and restore this vital and highly productive fish nursery in the Moreton Bay area.

THE MATRON

David Sweedman
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THE MATRON

Dear Editor, My name is Michelle Roberts, I am a 51-year-old lady who lives in the little seaside town of Bowen, in far north Queensland. In December of last year, I sadly had to go into the local hospital as I was dehydrated, it’s hard getting used to the climate, I had only moved from Melbourne in September and not prepared for the extreme heat. Whilst I was there I put pen to paper and wrote a story that I would like to share, it’s called The Matron, please enjoy….. It’s four am and it sounds like a steam train is coming past me, but no it’s the man in the bed next to me in this little coastal hospital. In many ways, it reminds me of the old eighties series “A Country Practice”.

Not much has changed here thirty years later, with the stout abrupt Matron, with her hair pulled back tightly into a bun at the base of her head. A very scary lady indeed. On my first morning, this very stout lady showers me, well she holds the shower rose ready to rinse me off after giving me a chux cloth to wash myself with, the water hits me with a sting as my body gets used to the heat and pressure of the water, but I daren’t say a word. Oh no, this is serious business, just like hosing down a car.

The water goes cold, yes it actually goes cold. The Matron gives me one towel to dry myself with, whilst she dries my legs with another, I try to make a joke, but oh no, no jokes to be had here this is serious business. Once I’m dried and put my bed clothes on all with the assistance of The Matron, I have a tube connected to my arm feeding me, and this makes it difficult to get dressed, but Matron in her no-nonsense ways deals with this very efficiently, of course.

Once dressed, teeth cleaned and hair brushed in a loose bun at the top of my head, which is fashionable these days, unlike The Matron’s tight bun at the base of her head. Righto time to get back into bed, after The Matron does a stellar job of putting nice starched white sheets on my bed, hospital corners to perfection plumps up the pillows all nice and ready for me to get back into. This is a trial as I still have the tube feeding me one drip at a time, I don’t think it’s working too well as I’m ravenous, and would kill for a coke, but oh no, no soft drinks here , nil by mouth young lady, and who am I to argue with The Matron? No no no no no no, I’m not brave enough to even speak.

I’m back in bed now and The Matron asked if I was comfortable, and I nod in agreeance as I lay on the rock hard mattress with the crisp cold white sheets and a hospital blanket, why do they use those blankets with holes in them they do not keep you warm, I’m sure thirty years ago when I had my first son they were using the same blankets back then. But I snuggle down and look at my mobile phone which looks so totally out of place here in this hospital room of a little seaside practice.

Oh dear the lights have gone out, and I am in complete darkness, I’m not liking this at all, why have the lights gone out? To save on electricity or Matron’s orders for the night staff! Back to the mobile phone, I touch it and it lights up my area of my four person room, oh good I can write again, the man in the bed in the other corner starts snoring whilst the man next to me is still chugging away, is this some competition or what? I suppose if I had of accepted that sleeping tablet last night when it was offered I too would be snoring away too. I love this little hospital with all the props and staff to take me back thirty years when I watched my favourite program on the telly.

This makes me good, warm and fuzzy inside. Matron and all of the other characters, thank you for making me better and giving me this wonderful experience back to when life seemed so much simpler. I put my mobile phone away in the drawer snuggle down and think all is as it should be, sleep time.

SEX, DRUGS AND ROCK AND ROLL

David Sweedman
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SEX, DRUGS AND ROCK AND ROLL

Something for everyone

Bribie Island University of the Third Age is a remarkable volunteer organisation that offers 150 different classes on a wide range of topics each week. There are over 1900 Senior students and the whole thing is run by Volunteers. They might be classified as “Senior” but most of them certainly don’t behave that way, as it is all about Learning for Fun, with new friends and new interests. Most of them may be retired, but their brains certainly have not.

Featured image(above): New Committee 2019 -2020

Lifelong Learning is recognised as a key factor in the third stage of life, so if you have not yet discovered the delights of U3A, you should consider it. There is something for every interest including Art, Craft, Language, Health, Dance, Music, Computer, Sport, History, Culture, Games, Literature, Theatre …..and many more. Enrolment for new members in Term 2 will be held at U3A Centre in First Avenue on Monday 15th April between 9 am and 11 am. Many classes are already full, but there are several ongoing and new classes on offer that may be of interest.

You can find the Timetable at the Bribie Library, Visitor Information, and Neighbourhood Centres. Bribie U3A is closed for holidays from April 5th until Tuesday, April 23rd after the Easter holidays.

New Committee members

At the Annual General Meeting last week President Greg Sibthorpe was elected for another localyear, as were several existing Committee members together with four new ones. President Greg reviewed the many achievements of the past year and recognised and thanked the great contribution made by all Volunteer Tutors, Receptionists and Committee members.

With so many different classes and venues being used, plus Theatre, Functions and Insight presentations, the specific role of the 14 Committee members continues to challenge. Margaret Spooner will continue as one of two Vice President and will be joined by Juri Linins who replaces the long-serving Ann Brooks. Maree Mosslar will be the new Secretary and replaces Joan Hammersley, while Ian Corin continues as Treasurer with Assistant Shona Shergold.

The demanding role of Program Coordination will continue under Chris Clark and Robyn Connolly, and they will be joined by Rose Barnes who replaces Amanda Bronn. Reception Coordination continues under Ailsa Gaffy, and Barrie Boodle remains as Facilities Coordinator. Angela Boodle steps down as Functions Coordinator and will be replaced by Judi Irvine, while Roger Platt will continue as Technology Coordinator. Barry Clark continues as Public Relations and Publicity.

Growing Network of U3A’s

Annual Membership remains at just $10 and the introduction of EFTPOS and prepayment for all classes has significantly improved aspects of administration and management. The new Bribie U3A website has been launched and further improvements in communication and member services are being planned. www.u3abribie.org.au.

Bribie Island U3A welcomes four new members to the hardworking Committee and looks forward to another great year of rewarding work and satisfaction. New volunteers for Reception duties, or Tutoring in any new subject of your choice, are always welcome. There are so many newcomers to Bribie who have had interesting careers and interests, so if you would like to share that experience with others please let us know. You don’t need previous experience as a teacher, few of our Tutors have, it’s just about sharing your knowledge and interest with others.

We have also set up a couple of special groups of volunteer member as “Roadies” to help with special functions and “Adminkids” who can help out with the general running of our organisation and paperwork. Please let us know if you would like to be one of these special volunteer members.

The network of U3A’s throughout Queensland continues to grow, with Caboolture continuing to expand and the new Beachmere campus progressing to independence soon. Bribie U3A will be represented at the annual U3A Network Queensland Conference to be held this year in Bundaberg in May, with delegates from the other 35 U3A’s.

COMMUNITY DAY AT DONNYBROOK HUGE SUCCESS

David Sweedman
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COMMUNITY DAY AT DONNYBROOK HUGE SUCCESS

The recent Community Day held at Donnybrook on Saturday 23 March has proven to be a great success for the three local communities of Donnybrook Meldale and Toorbul. The inaugural event was instigated by the Moreton Bay Regional Council and it brought together many community organisations from the three Coastal Villages.

Our local councillor, Brooke Savige was in attendance and thanked everyone for their participation. The Fire Brigade was very prominent – especially in their bright yellow uniforms – even on such a hot day. Their members had their trucks on display, they manned a free sausage sizzle provided by the MBRC – and they put on a diorama display of what happens in a real fire. It was a very informative display.

The MBRC Mobile Library was in attendance and many local people made use of the facility, especially as the trailer is airconditioned! Our own Radio Station FM101.5 was in attendance, and they did a great job all day, informing us of what was going on. The SES, Disaster Management, Neighbourhood Watch Groups from Donnybrook and Toorbul, Donnybrook Progress Association, Toorbul & District Community Association, Toorbul & Donnybrook Pensioners’ Club, NDIS information, and the Pumicestone Garden Club were all represented with tables of information and goods to sell.

There was an exceptional display by a young man, Lachlan of his Lego models – firetrucks, helicopters and such wonderful items which he designs. A highlight was a scarecrow competition with community members voting for their choice. Simone Wilson donated a prize for the most popular which was won by Betty, whose scarecrow was doing his job from a wheelchair! As a first time event for our communities, it was very well attended, and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves

SCHOOL CAPTAINS UPHOLD TRADITION

David Sweedman
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SCHOOL CAPTAINS UPHOLD TRADITION

The class of 2019 Senior Investiture ceremony was held on the 15th February this year. Year 12 students took an oath that pledged they would uphold the values of the school in front of fellow students, staff, and parents. Mrs. Sonia Effting was chosen to be the guest speaker at the Investiture as she had been the first school captain at Bribie High in its inaugural year – 1989.

Featured image(above): Photo (L to R) Madi Dryden, Eliza Jones, Kieffer Titmus, and Alexis Thomas

The establishment of Bribie High came about because Sonia and a group of students had a dream that the Island should have its very own high school. “Lunch breaks became meetings of plan -do -review, resulting in knocking on every door, collecting thousands of signatures and sharing our vision with the community.

We quickly gained unwavering support from our local service groups, who then arranged meetings with representatives of state parliament. Within 2 short years we were discussing the design and colours of the uniform right down to the school motto of achieving our future,” Sonia said. “I can hardly describe the feeling of achievement the day we found out this school was going ahead, the pride to walk through the gates as a foundation student of Bribie island state high school created a legacy for future generations to enjoy.”

The school captains Alexis Thomas, Kieffer Titmus, Madi Dryden, and Eliza Jones chaired the Investiture and led the students in the taking of the oath.

BACK TO BACK WIN FOR BRIBIE BOWLS CLUB

David Sweedman
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BACK TO BACK WIN FOR BRIBIE BOWLS CLUB

The Bribie Island Bowls Club has won for the second year in a row the coveted award for “Best Bowls Club (large)” at the 2019 Clubs Queensland Awards for Excellence. The community club, whose motto is ‘where friends meet’ has continued to go from strength to strength. “In my 10 years as CEO of Clubs Queensland, one of my greatest joys is seeing how our community clubs continue to evolve, “said Doug Flockhart, CEO Clubs Queensland.

Featured Image(above): Presenting the Award for the Best Bowls Club Large is Curt Schatz from sponsor Mullins (l) to Bribie Island Bowls Club chairman Peter Patrikeos (r).

“Bribie Island Bowls club is a wonderful example of a community club that has kept its roots firmly entrenched in supporting bowls and at the same time evolved as a magnificent venue for the Bribie Island community.” “Winning this award is another major achievement for the club and they should be extremely proud, “said Mr. Flockhart. “Turning the tide on a declining membership is not an easy task and Bribie Island Bowls has managed to hold steady, and in fact grow its membership because they are continually searching for ways to find new members and offer new and innovative services.”

Bribie Island Bowls Club is the backbone of bowls in the district, running an operationally professional venue that provides the funding to support a very competitive bowls programme, right through to monthly barefoot bowls, and programmes such as the MBRC Older and Bolder programme and the MBRC Healthy and Active programme which are designed to keep seniors in the community active.

The club also believes it is important to help out the local community and charities however they can through cash donations, prizes, vouchers, or the free use of a room to hold a committee meeting. “The club takes a very holistic approach to nurturing their membership and the community. The awards judges were particularly impressed with the way the club engages with its community and has created an intergenerational meeting place for the community, in particular, the diverse range of bowls programmes for all ages,” said Mr. Flockhart.

“This type of relationship with members is what makes community clubs so valuable.” “To continue to provide for our communities, the club sector is always striving to be the best it can be, and these Awards are a way we recognise the incredibly hard work of our clubs and our dedicated club managers and volunteer boards and committees,” said Mr. Flockhart.

RAISING AWARENESS ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ELDER ABUSE

David Sweedman
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RAISING AWARENESS ABOUT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ELDER ABUSE

On Friday 5th April the Sunshine Coast Region of the Order of Australia Association hosted a Morning Tea at the beautiful Serenity Restaurant on Bribie Island. The sun was shining on Pumicetone Passage as the thirty-seven members and guests were greeted by the Region Convenor, Marjorie Voss OAM and her husband Royce Voss OAM. After a time of fellowship, relaxing on the verandah of the Restaurant, the members were invited to partake of a delicious morning tea.

Featured image(above): Guests (some from Gympie) listening to Sonia

There was much talking and laughter, as Order of Australia members and their guests renewed friendships and made new ones. Following the morning tea our guest speaker, Sonia Colvin the founder of “Hairdressers with Hearts” spoke of her vision for helping those suffering from Domestic Violence and Elder Abuse and how it has grown from its roots on Bribie Island. Sonia gave frightening statistics of the number of deaths and cases resulting from these. She also spoke of the wonderful work which is now being carried out to assist the people finding themselves in this situation.

In all, it was a very enlightening and at the same time heartening address. Sonia was thanked by Paula Penfold AM for her presentation and was also presented with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Sunshine Coast Region of the Order of Australia Assn. by the State Chairman of the Association, Prof. John Harden AM. Members from as far away as Gympie and areas in between attended the Morning Tea.

Not only were they keen to hear the Guest Speaker, but also wanted to spend the day on our beautiful Bribie Island. They were not disappointed and were full of praise for the venue and the scenery and for the morning as a whole. The Order of Australia Association comprises those people who have been recognized by receiving an award in the Order of Australia.

The Sunshine Coast Region stretches from Mango Hill to Gympie and comprises approximately 130 members. Functions are held in various areas in the Region.

Artist – THE IRREPRESSIBLE HELEN MACDONALD

David Sweedman
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Artist – THE IRREPRESSIBLE HELEN MACDONALD

Tags: Artwork. Artist. Bribie Island

Nineteen is a significant number for Helen Macdonald. She moved to Bribie 19 years ago. And 19 years ago Helen became a member of the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre where this April she is Artist of the Month. Her good friend and fellow member, Lola Watts, introduced Helen to art shortly after her arrival on the island.

Featured image(above): Pelicans

Helen’s first Working Together Group with Lola was the Thursday Painters, a group which continues to this day in Studio Two. In her 19 years of membership, the irrepressible Helen Macdonald has been Artist of the Month four times, previously exhibiting with Leslie Swallow, Stephanie Domegala, and the Inspiration through Art Jewellery Group which she was running at the time. In addition to being Artist of the Month, Helen has been in a Matthew Flinders Gallery exhibition for every one for those 19 years.

Artwork. Artist. Bribie Island

Helen’s Studio 2 mural

In fact, sometimes she was in two exhibitions per year, the most recent Little and Large with Stephanie White. This accomplished artist enjoys “the challenge,” she says, “of being hung on the wall!” It is rather appropriate therefore that while her work hangs on the Artist of the Month wall, her art hangs concurrently in the Matthew Flinders Gallery Kaleidoscope Exhibition, which she also organized.

Despite a couple of major personal setbacks, making her amazing abilities all the more impressive, Helen managed to curate Kaleidoscope in the last year. Half the exhibited work is by whom she calls ‘My special people’— friends and artists—chosen by her, and the other half are coloured pencil artists also known to her, and no less special. She would have liked an all coloured pencil exhibition, but there simply aren’t enough of them. Which brings us to the reason Helen mounted the Kaleidoscope Exhibition.

Colourful parrots

Ask her which art form is her favourite and she will tell you, “Whatever I’m doing at the time – coloured pencils at the moment!” Who would have guessed? The Kaleidoscope artists, so proclaim their Arts Centre flyer, ‘Are pleased to present a plethora of goods handmade with love,’ which includes sewing, wax coloured pencil works, cards, acrylics and watercolours, sculptures, glass art, collages, pottery, and jewelry.

Artwork. Artist. Bribie Island

Helen’s budgies

Helen Macdonald has another more permanent claim to artistic fame: the brilliant and animated tropical mural covering the three walls in the courtyard behind Studio Two. It was a shared work also organized by her. It is obvious Helen loves to paint Bribie scenes and use many media. Her colourful paintings attest to this.

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