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A FANTASTIC YEAR

David Sweedman
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A FANTASTIC YEAR

Following what TS Koopa Training Officer AJ Hughes has described as a really fantastic year for the cadets and staff of the Australian Navy Cadets local unit, parents and supporters attended the end of year Ceremonial Division and Awards at the Sandstone Point facility recently. Under skies which at times threatened to dampen the occasion, cadets were presented with a range of awards for their achievements and some received promotions.

Featured Image(above): Ready for inspection

The morning began with the unit assembling for the official welcome by Petty Officer Hughes and the Colours and then the parade falling in for inspection by Commanding Officer Lieutenant Garth Schmith and Executive Officer Sub- Lieutenant David Withers. As MC for the morning, PO Hughes summarised the events of 2018 and told those present that the year’s activities had included attending the YMCA training camp as well as a march through the City of Brisbane.

He also pointed out that the unit had attended several local events including Anzac Day, Remembrance Day, Vietnam Veterans Day the recent Bribie VMR Emergency Services Expo where they attracted a number of new recruits. Petty Officer Hughes said that in the new year, fifteen cadets from TS Koopa will travel to Sydney where they will participate in tours of various military bases and museums and that 2019 will also be a year in which the unit will get back into sailing.

Petty Officer AJ Hughes was the MC

Before commencing the awards ceremony, he made mention of the important role that the Unit Support Committee plays in funding the cadets’ activities. At this point, the announcement of the award recipients began with representatives of community organisations being asked to make the presentation of each award. Award recipients were, Jonah Stokes (Robin Houston’s Highest Achievement Cadet of the Year), Ella Adams (The Commanding Officer’s Cadet of the Year), Marissa Simpson (Best Senior Cadet), Zeke Parry (Best Junior Cadet), Yasmin Campbell and Isaac Dean (Best DressedCadets), Lachlan Smith (Most Improved Cadet), Joseph Fitzgerald (Jacob Miles Encouragement Award), Piper Campbell (Recruiter of the Year), Angus Bell (Recruit of the Year).

The award for the person who has excelled at showing the ANC values went to Pat Withers of the Unit Support Committee. A number of cadets were promoted from Cadet Seaman to Cadet Able Seaman and Recruit Cadet Angus Bell was promoted to Cadet Seaman. Before the Commanding Officer made his speech, a special presentation was made to Sub-Lieutenant David Withers and wife Pat in recognition of their continued dedication to the upkeep of the unit and the facility.

On beginning his address to all present, Lieutenant Schmith said that the unit would not be half of what it is without the great effort of the staff which includes Sub-Lieutenant Withers, Petty Officer AJ Hughes, Petty Officer Danielle Holingsworth and soon to return Petty Officer Christine Howitt. He thanked the cadets for their commitment to doing their best and said that he is extremely proud of them all. Prior to the morning’s ceremony drawing to a close, Chaplain Rev. Colin Baxter RAN (Ret) described how he considers his role as an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of young people and is extremely grateful for that.

He told the cadets that they will never forget the value of the discipline that they learn and remarked that the integrity and endeavour will remain with them for life. In closing the event, Petty Officer Hughes expressed thanks to the Unit Support Committee for their work, including the provision of the lunch that was to follow. This was enjoyed by many who attended by way of a gold coin donation.

MEET the Volunteers – BRIBIE ISLAND COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE

David Sweedman
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MEET the Volunteers – BRIBIE ISLAND COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE

DEBRA MIETH

Anyone who has visited the café at the rear of the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre or perhaps spent a Sunday morning at the Vibe Markets will no doubt have seen the brightly decorated tables and benches that adorn the area and it so happens that they are all the work of highly creative Arts Centre volunteer, Debra Mieth. Having grown up in Caboolture as a member of the well known Hausmann family (parks in Caboolture bear the name of both Debra’s grandfather and uncle), Debra has a long association with our beautiful island due to regular visits here from a young age.

Featured Image(above): Debra painted all of these bright colours

After a time spent travelling the world, working as a nurse and raising children, she became a volunteer at the centre over four years ago and has become involved with several areas of operation since that time. ‘I started at the reception but have helped with tasks like hanging the pieces of art in the gallery, as well as taking on the role of co-ordinator for the “Artist of the Month” display and talk,’ said Debra.

‘I did go to art college but I really am keen to learn as much as I can about art and the various techniques involved,’ she added. Debra told me that as a volunteer, she enjoys being associated with a place where everyone is so respectful and encourages each other. As a person with a naturally creative nature, Debra operates a business which she has named “Colour Me Joy Upcycled” and sells the results of her creativity at markets throughout the region. She also operates the clothing line “Mona Dearlove”, named after her grandmother.

Creative volunteer – Debra Mieth

Anyone who would like Debra to paint up some furniture or even a mural is welcome to call her on 0402 720 598. The Bribie Island Community Arts Centre is situated on Sunderland Drive at Banksia Beach and relies on the dedicated efforts of the many volunteers there for its continued operation. Anyone who would like more information about what the centre has to offer or perhaps is interested in becoming a volunteer should visit the centre during opening hours which are from 10 am each day except Monday. To enquire by phone, 3408 9288 is the number to call.

the Bribie Island Croquet Club holds their annual Community Club Challenge

David Sweedman
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the Bribie Island Croquet Club holds their annual Community Club Challenge

During November, the Bribie Island Croquet Club held their annual Community Club Challenge, a day on which organisations and businesses from across the district are invited to participate in the not too serious social events and field a team to play in the afternoon competition. Croquet Club committee member Jan Rees told me that this year, there were a total of eighteen teams competing with Bribie Island Rotary Club being declared the winner at the end of play.

Featured Image(above): Jan Rees (L) of the Bribie Island Croquet Club presented a $2,000 cheque to Neighbourhood Centre Manager Cecelia Taylor

Those who attended the event had the opportunity to pick up a bargain from the “Make It, Bake It, Sew It, Grow It” stall and try their luck with a few tickets in the raffles as well as satisfy their hunger with a snack from the sausage sizzle. The club had made the decision to donate all money that was raised from the day’s proceedings to the Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Centre and this has resulted in Neighbourhood Centre Manager Cecelia Taylor being presented with a cheque for $2,000 recently.

On receiving the cheque from Jan Rees, Cecelia pointed out that the extra funds could not have come at a better time. ‘We are running very low on the funding that we rely on to provide emergency relief to people who are at risk,’ Cecelia said. The Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Centre is arguably one of the most pro-active organisations which provide assistance to those who are doing it tough within the area. The diverse range of services provided at the centre include personal and family counselling, food packages, debt relief counselling and various courses during the year.

They also offer access to Centrelink and a legal service. The volunteers at the centre take pride in what they do and go out of their way to ensure that all who walk through the doors are made to feel welcome. Situated at 9 Verdoni Street in Bellara, the Bribie Island and District Neighbourhood Centre is open each weekday other than Friday from 9 am until 3 pm. Anyone who wishes to enquire about what is available at the centre or about becoming a volunteer is welcome to either call in for a chat or phone them on 3408 8440.

The Rotary “World’s Greatest Meal to End Polio

David Sweedman
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The Rotary “World’s Greatest Meal to End Polio

Each year, people across the globe hold events to mark the United Nations sanctioned “International Day of People with a Disability” and, as they have done in the past, the Rotary Club of Bribie Island celebrated the day by holding an afternoon tea and fashion parade at the Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club. Special guests at the well-attended event included Member for Pumicestone Simone Wilson, Tyson Johnston who represented Federal Member for Longman Susan Lamb, Jeanette Kretschmann from Spinal Life Australia, Gold Coast Benji and visiting Rotarian Karin Kalenko.

Featured Image(above): Kay Bush and Jean Prime wearing styles from Anna’s Boutique

Following a welcome to country and introduction by Bill Peacock OAM, the afternoon’s proceedings were opened by Simone Wilson who spoke about the importance of empowering people with a disability, and Rotary’s ongoing commitment to end polio. She also praised the work of Spinal Life Australia before handing the mike back to Bill. During his talk, Bill explained the importance of the day and of raising awareness. He pointed out that society can strive for inclusivity through the removal of physical, technological and attitudinal barriers for people with disabilities.

Bill is the Community Connector for Spinal Life Australia and he told those present that, as a leader in specialist services, Spinal Life Australia is committed to supporting people with spinal cord damage to living an accessible, equitable and empowered life. Before handing over to Diane Wells of Anna’s Boutique for the commencement of the fashion parade, Bill also explained that the event was being held under the banner of Rotary’s “World’s Greatest Meal to End Polio” and all funds raised would go towards that important cause. He recalled his rehabilitation after having contracted polio just before his fifth birthday and described how, over the last forty years, he has been an advocate for people with a disability and the late effects of polio.

As the “Parade for All Abilities” got underway, a succession of ladies paraded a variety of both day wear and evening wear garments, most of which were from Anna’s Boutique in Kangaroo Parade in Bongaree and a few were supplied by Target Bribie Island. After the ladies showcased their range of clothing, Bill again took to the mike to introduce the men as they strutted up and down the floor wearing some very well chosen gear which was once again supplied by Target.

Models for the ladies’ parade were Rae Guyder, Tara Quirke, Carol Dueter, Kay Bush along with Jean Prime, Maudi Bennett and Chloe Blinco. Wearing the men’s apparel were Barry Anderson, Rick Thornton, Jeff Eustace, Tom Dutton, George Grant and John Oxenford. Entertainment on the day was provided by the very popular Shane Kells who is known as “One Voice.” Also present during the afternoon were Nadine King and Jada Woodward. Nadine is the operator of Fifth Avenue Collection, a direct sales company which sells high quality, fine fashion jewellery.

Nadine operates her business from her Bribie Island home and donated ten per cent of the afternoon’s sales toward “End Polio.” Jada was there to provide information about “Aimbig”, an employment service which has specialist services to assist people with disabilities. With the fashion parade, then everyone enjoyed a sumptuous afternoon tea and a number of lucky people won prizes in the raffles. Judging by the reaction of all who attended, I have no doubt that the event will be even bigger and better next year.

The Rotary “World’s Greatest Meal to End Polio” is aided greatly by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation which donates double the amount raised by events. When all the funds raised at the Parade for All Abilities were tallied, the total was $2,726 and this means that, after the contribution from the Gates Foundation, the amount which will go towards ending polio is an incredible $8,226.

ENTERTAINERS OF THE Island – RICK DALTON

David Sweedman
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ENTERTAINERS OF THE Island – RICK DALTON

From when I began this series in 2017, I have been surprised at just how many former members of well-known bands from the ‘60s and ‘70s now live and still entertain in the local area and for this issue, our “Entertainer of the Island” is former Pink Finks and Running, Jumping, Standing Still guitarist and now local resident, Rick Dalton. Currently the bass guitarist in a band which is known by the name “Dave Deano Rick & Steve,” Rick Dalton made the decision to become a professional musician at the age of twelve when, while on holidays with his mother, he saw a group of guys setting up a band and reckoned it looked like a good idea.

Featured Image(above): Bossmen xpress members Rick, Charlie and BJ pictured without their fourth member Hadyn

‘At first, I asked for a banjo and my Aunty bought me a tin banjo with strings that were virtually unable to be tuned,’ Rick told me. ‘Because that resulted in me not being able to produce a good sound, I became a bit discouraged with it all. It wasn’t until I was about fifteen that my mum took me to a music shop where we purchased a nylon string guitar,’ he said. Following a while spent playing surfing and Shadows music alongside a couple of others including Ross Hannaford, a harmonica and trumpet player by the name of Ross Wilson happened along and joined in.

Rick pointed out that he was always the one who found places for the band to play at, and one of those venues was a downbeat jazz club which they turned into a blues club. ‘I’m not sure whether we were very popular with the jazz fans but they seemed to like us,’ Rick remarked. Before long, an advertisement for a band to play at a venue in Rosebud prompted the band members to come up with a better name than what they had and this r6esulted in the birth of “The Pink Finks.” ‘At the time, we were all still at school and I made the decision to leave, moving into a garage in Brighton,’ said Rick.

‘Unfortunately, the other guys’ parents became concerned that I might drag them away from school as well and this resulted in me being basically made to leave,’ he said regretfully. Quickly recovering from this disappointment, Rick joined a band by the name of “The Polka Dots” as lead guitarist and recalled the time when they were desperately in need of transport to a gig. ‘The mother of one guy owned a VW and we packed it up with the drum kit, two amplifiers, three guitars and all of the band,’ Rick told me. ‘One of us was working the pedals while another changed gears and someone else was steering,’ he added.

The next chapter in Rick’s career was when he, Ian Robinson, Andy James and Doug Ford joined up to become “Running, Jumping, Standing Still” and became quite popular within the local music scene, appearing at a variety of venues and doing a segment on the Channel Ten “Go Show.” There were, as is the situation with most musos at one time or another when they struggled for money and Rick mentioned the times when they would pull into a service station and put seventy cents worth of fuel in the old blue bus that they ended up with after a tour.

Running, Jumping, Standing Still

‘We went on a tour in this bus and when we returned, we never got paid by the promoter so we kept the bus and lived in it,’ said Rick. ‘I went around to ask for our money but got met with a knife. I think that he was trying to scare me and it certainly worked,’ he said. A trip to his parents’ motel in the country was the start of a series of events that would see Rick become a family man and, as many do when life gets in the way, put his music career on hold.

He told me that a downturn in the business world prompted his move from Victoria to the Sunshine Coast where he commenced a successful TV antenna business which he operated for about fifteen years before moving to our part of the world. During his time at the Sunny Coast Rick played in a band which entertained under the name of “Bossmen Xpress” and folded after the singer moved away.

As seems to be the case with most musicians who move to the area, Rick went along to check out the “Locals Only” afternoon at the Blue Pacific Hotel and from that visit, he became the bass guitarist there for a number of years. His current band, “Dave, Deano, Rick & Steve” play at The Beachmere Tavern on alternate Sundays and are also available for bookings. Anyone who would like to enquire about having the guys play at an event is welcome to call Rick on 0448 976 900.

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ENTERTAINERS OF THE Island – BITS N PIECES

 

BRIBIE SIMPLY HEALTHY – Dec 2019

David Sweedman
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BRIBIE SIMPLY HEALTHY – Dec 2019

Protecting Your Iodine Receptor Site from Toxins.

Iodine is a chemical element, which supports different glands in our body. Our body needs iodine but cannot produce it so the iodine must come from our diet. Due to environmental issues many of us are lacking in Iodine. Deficiency in iodine is linked to many health problems.

If you are iodine deficient you will have thyroid problems, blood sugar, metabolism problems, low energy level, heart disease, cancer, polycystic ovaries, fibrocystic breast disease, brain fog and infertility. Iodine repairs the adrenal gland and thyroid gland. It’s been said that you cannot become type-2 diabetic unless you are iodine deficient. Iodine keeps your kidneys and liver from being infected, as it is a disinfectant. The biggest cause of low IQ and mental retardation is iodine deficiency.

It is known that 20mg a day will increase urinary excretion of lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, fluoride, bromide and chlorine. Iodine is only known adaptogen that will monitor and regulate the PH levels automatically in our body. The reason most of us suffer from lack of iodine is due to the industrial revolution, that the iodine receptors are blocked by fluoride, chloride and bromide. Even when we use a good water filtering system for our drinking water to cut out these harmful chemical intakes, we still absorb by having a shower or bath.

Our skin is the largest organ in our body, it only takes about 15 seconds for our skin to absorb chlorine and fluoride. Bromine is a preservative, commonly used in baking. If you are missing iodine in the receptor site, fluoride, chloride and bromide settle into that receptor site. Fluoride toxicity causes bone and teeth to dissolve. The bones become soft and brittle. Fluoride has been linked to osteosarcoma (bone cancer). It weakens bone, teeth and jaw.

Due to toxicity, bones become harder and less flexible, as we get older. Consequently, hip replacement surgery has become a common practice lately. It’s because been heavily fluorinated for about 70 years and osteoporosis is rampant. If you suffer from low energy levels, or any glands issues such as adrenal glands, thyroid glands, pituitary gland, pineal gland (if your pineal gland is blocked you may suffer from insomnia as it releases melatonin, which regulates the sleep pattern).

If you want to find out more information please check ‘The Quest for Cures’ by Dr. Daniel Nuzum. Vitamin C Shower will help eliminate harmful chemicals during showers and is available from Bribie Simply Healthy. EFT/Emotion Code therapy. My name is Heenam Kim, and I’m an EFT therapist. I believe people are ill and in pain due to emotional blockage. I locate people’s trapped emotions causing the symptoms and neutralizing the emotion people are suffering from will reduce the symptoms dramatically.

A few weeks ago a late 40ish woman came to the shop wearing a mask, out of curiosity I asked what was wrong with her and she said she was allergic to every smell you can imagine, including natural fragrance which leads to light-headedness and causes a terrible headache. As a result, she couldn’t go out freely and the headache was so bad she had to stop working.

Migraines and headaches are relevantly easy to fix with EFT. The result was excellent, for the last 14 years she couldn’t go out and never went to any weddings because of her reaction to the perfume that people would wear. She is extremely happy now; she even went to a wedding for her niece and all her relatives couldn’t believe the change.

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BRIBIE SIMPLY HEALTHY – Gumbi Gold Aboriginal Native Medicine.

Music Review – Erin May

David Sweedman
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Music Review – Erin May

Earlier this year, local band Erin May featured as “Entertainers of the Island” in this magazine and I remember thinking at the time when I wrote the article that this was a band that had the ability to go places within the music industry. Well, if releasing their debut EP “Turn It Up” can be regarded as an indication of my thoughts being correct, I guess they are on their way.

I had the chance to chat with Erin May founder Kirk Jeffs recently and he told me about the four all original tracks on the EP and also about the new members of the band. ‘We had the official release of the EP at the Blue Pacific Hotel a couple of weeks ago to an audience of one hundred and it was such a great night. The four tracks are “Bailey”, “Home”, “Spider” and “Moonshine,” said Kirk.

‘The band now has a couple of new members with my sister Lana Jeffs on bass guitar and AJ Kena on drums joining with Derek Pakuza and myself,’ he explained. Although having already heard both “Spider” and “Moonshine” previously, I spent time listening to all four of the tracks following my talk with Kirk and, whilst I could never be regarded as an expert on music, I will now take this opportunity to include my thoughts in this article. One common feature about all of the Erin May songs is that, in their own; sometimes obscure way, they do tell a story.

Let’s begin with “Spider.” With an accompanying video on YouTube, this track is probably my least favourite of the four. It has a quite unusual theme and will only be popular with those who enjoy something out of the ordinary or dedicated Erin May fans. I do however like the video which was filmed around Bribie. “Bailey” could be regarded as another slightly unusual track but with a much easier to understand theme accompanied with an upbeat, almost rock tempo, it seems to have Rolling Stones sound at times. (No Kirk, I didn’t say that you sounded like Mick Jagger.)

One that I have actually listened to a number of times is “Moonshine” and I am especially fond of the accompanying video. This song has a rather amusing theme and the video is well produced with some well thought out moments. With eyes shut, could be mistaken for Mumford and Sons. Now. Let’s talk about my favourite. “Home” was written by Kirk’s dad Warwick and will certainly hit at the heartstrings of anyone who has returned home after an extended period of absence.

With another very well thought out accompanying video (filmed locally by Kirk), I regard this track as being a true representation of the Erin May sound. All the Erin May tracks can be found on YouTube as well as Triple J “Unearthed” and I would urge all music lovers to support this up and coming local band. Along with the release of their EP, Erin May are now keen to take bookings to appear at venues from the Sunshine Coast to the Gold Coast. Anyone who would like to enquire about booking the band is welcome to call Kirk on 0403 558 719.

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BRIBIE 30 YEARS FROM NOW

David Sweedman
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BRIBIE 30 YEARS FROM NOW

SUCH A DIFFERENT LIFESTYLE…

As we reach the end of another Year it is appropriate to be reminded that History is not always about looking back. Every reader of this article has lived such a different life, and experienced many significant aspects of what is now “History”. History is also what is happening NOW…. and what will happen in all our Tomorrow’s. Depending on how old you are, reflect for a moment on your first experience of such new “Inventions” as the TV, Walkman, Microwave, Computer or Smart Phone, and consider how much these things have changed the way we live our lives. Not always for the better ….or necessarily making life measurably “Happier”.

It is an interesting question to ask your friends and family over the holidays; “If you could relive any one year of your life over again …..what year would you choose?” Where were you when man first landed on the Moon, when President Kennedy was shot, the Twin Towers were destroyed ……or even when you had your first kiss? All of these events have shaped our world and our lives and are now part of History. Imagine how the simple life of those living on Bribie Island years ago would have changed when a Telephone line was laid to the island in 1922 or the impact of mains Electricity connection in 1953, and being linked to Australia with a Bridge in 1963.

Since those days the population has increased over 20 fold, cars are everywhere, local Councils have been combined, and people are living much longer. However, the rate of change is about to get even faster than ever before, and some will struggle to keep up, and others will be left behind completely.

30 years’ on life will have changed beyond recognition.

On Bribie Island, we currently enjoy a more peaceful life away from the crowds and hype of the city sprawl, but by 2050 it will be very different. Bribie Island seems to have the highest percentage population over the age of 65 than any other postcode in Australia. We also have three Schools reflecting a younger population, but the limited local work opportunities distort the middle age distribution. Australia’s overall population is ageing, and Bribie Island attracts an increasing number of over 50’s residents, Retirement Villages and Aged Care facilities. Let me paint a possible picture of Bribie Island 30 years from now. By then you will be “Old” or have even gone somewhere else. All of this will be as unremarkable as Traffic Lights, Microwave Ovens and Tap and Go payments are today. Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Networked devices

“Early one morning in 2050 a lady is automatically woken from her induced sleep by a white clinical Robot entering the room to download blood and heart rate readings from monitors under her pillow, before serving her personal nutritionally balance breakfast from its built-in food processor. After breakfast, with controlled media entertainment, the Robot returns to gently lift her from the bed, pass her through a cleansing and dressing unit and place her gently into a driverless vehicle. She is then transported to scheduled destinations to see family, medical services or government agencies as required. This is not just about old people….this is for everyone. Robots will carry out delicate routine surgery and complex medical procedures, diseases will be automatically diagnosed, body functions will be checked and monitored, and the cost of each interaction will be automatically debited from nominated accounts.”

will totally transform our future society in the same way that Steam Power did all those years ago. The difference is that in the years ahead all these changes will happen much more quickly. By 2050 the world’s population may have almost doubled, and 300 billion network-connected devices will respond to remote and speech commands, and the very nature of work and recreation will be totally different.

Worldwide food sourcing, production and security will be completely transformed, and computerisation of all aspects of life will radically change things. Where we live, how we live, and what we live in will completely transform social interactions. Perhaps our future lifestyle will lead us to all to have less “Stuff”, rather than the current drive to always having more of whatever is available.

What is clear is that the rapid development of Robots and domestic technology will be able to constantly monitor personal health and well-being, and enable the prevention and treatment of a wide range of common issues. Imagine a mirror that when looked into will read and diagnose all aspects of your body and mind, and detect viruses and medical risks. When you go to the Toilet it will automatically analyse your urine, prescribe high protein and nutritious insect or seaweed based farmed foods, which may have replaced traditional fish and animal products.

Autonomous driverless vehicles will be the safest form of transport, they will communicate with each other, and may even fly. Are you kidding me …..is this going to happen in 30 years? Most of what I have outlined here already exists and is just waiting for world economics to enable effective roll-out. How will you cope with all this? You only have to watch a Toddler for a while to appreciate how quickly humans adapt to and adopt new technology. I have recently visited remote parts of China and other Asian countries and have been amazed at how all ages embrace new technology. Australia is already far behind what we had previously considered to the Developing World. History has already overtaken us. Was life better in the past?

Only you can answer that question for yourself, but many people who have been around for quite a while often say “Yes”. Individuals and communities certainly had far more control and involvement in their own goals and objectives, and far less reliance on “Them” to do things for us. Today we are limited and constrained by “Them” rather than enabled. Just look at Bribie Island 50 years ago when the population was less than 2000 people. We had 2 elected Councillors representing the interests and requirements of those few Bribie Islanders.

Councillors represented the aspirations of the people to the Council, rather than a Councillor representing the Council to the people. They encouraged, supported and assisted the community of Bribie to achieve the things they wanted, rather than stand in their way. So, what about all this futuristic stuff I have written here , and what will Bribie really be like in 2050.

The population of Bribie will probably be double or even treble what it is now, medium high rise buildings seem inevitable, and Bribie may become just like every other seaside location along the Sunshine Coast and beyond. What a shame that would be. Bribie still has many unique features that differentiate it from the other places. We have the rich History and Heritage of Bribie as the “Cradle Site of Queensland” since Matthew Flinders first landed on what is now Queensland in 1799.

Bribie still has many unique and original buildings and structures from the earliest times, and we may still have the chance to retain our pristine Environment, Wildlife, Flora and Fauna from the ravages of developers and mass tourism. When you visit other parts of the world your “Tourist” experience is to see the unique History, Heritage, Buildings and life style that has been preserved and retained for its significant value. When the era of Tourist visitors to Bribie was booming 100 years ago it was known as “A Zoo without a Fence’. Many other communities would fight very hard to have such a unique and valuable difference.

Bribie still has a chance to remain a very special place to live and visit, even though the future is going to be very different. Nothing will prevent the technology changes that I have outlined here happening to all our lives going forward, but we do have a chance to retain the unique environment and lifestyle factors that are so special to those who live and visit this island. Maybe it is time for the residents of Bribie to agree and stand up for a shared “Vision” for the future of Bribie, so that the big and small decisions made by “Them” will ensure we head in the right direction, in both the short and long term. Contact me at… bribiehistoricalsociety@ gmail.com

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In the Air – with The Caboolture Warplane Museum and “OLD FRED”

David Sweedman
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In the Air – with The Caboolture Warplane Museum and “OLD FRED”

Tags: History. Military. War. Planes. Aircraft. Museum. Queensland. Caboolture. Brisbane. WWII

During World War II, aircraft played a major role in both in the ultimate victory by Allied forces and, regarded as the flagship of Bomber Command, the four-engine Avro Lancaster bomber was arguably one of the most active in that role. A total of 7,377 of the type were built over the years of production and of these, 3,636 were lost during the conflict and only seventeen remain in complete form, two of which are still airworthy.

Featured Image(above): Bill Elliott’s pencil drawing of Old Fred (lead aircraft)

Interestingly, most “high ops” Lancaster bombers were operated by squadrons belonging to the RAAF, flying consistent missions to bomb German targets and, as has been well documented, this type was used in the famous Dambuster raid in May of 1943. All aircraft are referred to by alphabetic call-signs and one of the Lancasters flown by RAAF pilots was DV 372, call-sign F for Fred, affectionately known as “Old Fred.”

This particular bomber (the cockpit section of which is now on display at the Imperial War Museum in London) is on record as having flown over forty missions with RAAF 467 Squadron and one of the brave men who flew F for Fred was known to have been a resident of Bribie Island prior to passing away. English artist Bill Elliott often does commissioned work for ex-aircrew, drawing images of the aircraft which they have flown and it so happened that the Lancaster pilot from Bribie requested through a friend for Bill to depict “Old Fred” in one of his drawings.

History. Military. War. Planes. Aircraft. Museum. Queensland. Caboolture. Brisbane. WWII

Bill Elliott

Upon completing the very realistic pencil drawing, and being aware of the gentleman’s passing, Bill has sent the work to his brother Dave who is a local resident and made the request that his drawing be displayed in a place where it can be seen by all as a reminder of the valiant effort by our airmen. With this in mind, Dave and his wife Liz presented Bill’s work, along with a copy of the aircraft’s operations log, to the Caboolture Warplane Museum recently and museum Curator Graham Cowan is in the process of preparing a special place where the drawing will be noticed by all who visit the facility.

History. Military. War. Planes. Aircraft. Museum. Queensland. Caboolture. Brisbane. WWII

The cockpit section of Old Fred is on display at the Imperial War Museum in London

The Caboolture Warplane Museum in Hangar 101 on Mcnaught Road in Caboolture has undergone some very welcome refurbishments recently and visitors are able to not only have the opportunity to view the engines, equipment and artefacts on display and get close to the rare still flying warbirds but can also gain greater understanding of the stories about them and a range of DVDs are on hand should visitors wish to sit, learn and be entertained.

The museum has now welcomed back the 1944 P51D Mustang following it having undergone a complete rebuild and paint job. Since its return, the aircraft has been kept busy with aerial displays and adventure flights. A new display in the premises tells the story of local pilot Garry Coopers aviation career including his time as a forward air control pilot during the Vietnam War.

History. Military. War. Planes. Aircraft. Museum. Queensland. Caboolture. Brisbane. WWII

Dave Elliott (L) presented the drawing to museum president Carlos Fernandes (C)
and curator Graham Cowan

Anyone who would like to experience an enjoyable and educational few hours should definitely consider a visit to the Caboolture Museum. To find out more about what the museum has to offer, call 5499 1144.

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SEA MINE AT NINGI

David Sweedman
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SEA MINE AT NINGI

Tags: Tourist destinations. Bribie Island. Queensland. Brisbane

Gateway Discovery Tours has secured an exciting piece of WW2 memorabilia that will be on permanent display outside its headquarters at 1383 Bribie Island Rd Ningi. Rick Williams, the owner of the company, said that for decades this “Sea Mine” was touted to be German in origin but recent sandblasting revealed an amazing history.

The inscriptions on the mine were MINE MARK XIV A & B NO 8144 A N 7/43 F. This information was forwarded to the Australian Navy Commanding Officer A. J. Walsh LCDR, RAN AUSCDT One, who responded and provided the company with the following information: The Mine is a MarK14 Sea mine manufactured and laid as part of the Australian War Cabinet decision to deploy defensive minefields around Australia and New Zealand, this mine was built in Australia by the Ford Motor Company in Geelong and filled with TNT manufactured in Singapore, this sea mine was stored at the RAN Mine Depot Swan Island.

The markings indicate that it is mine No. 8144 manufactured in July 1943 only 18 months after Pearl Harbour, the Australian war cabinet approved the Naval Mining Policy in the expectation that the Japanese would soon invade the south, hence the Brisbane Line. These mines were deployed throughout Australian Waters which includes Moreton Bay and at Fort Bribie.

It was reported that two sea mines broke free at Fort Bribie only one was recovered. “Our mine is the same as those deployed at Fort Bribie (RAN2) gun emplacements,” said Rick. “Drop in for a photo with our sea mine 1383 Bribie Island Rd Ningi, we do inexpensive 4 ½ hour guided tours into the National Park and visit the WW2 gun emplacements and mine control hut. We have lots of history to share, Japanese Sub deployed mines off the Sunshine Coast and the Port of Brisbane, torpedoed the hospital ship Centaur, torpedos missing the Charles C.Jones merchant ship under escort of HMAS Gympie,” he said.

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Gloss Magazine Bribie Islander 1st Edition Jan 04 2019 Issue 78

SLUMBERING SANTA WINS COVER COMP

David Sweedman
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SLUMBERING SANTA WINS COVER COMP

The Bribie Islander’s inaugural Christmas Cover Art Competition was won by local artist Anca (Shelly) Nedelcu with her digital art painting depicting Santa relaxing on Bribie Island. General manager and editor of The Bribie Islander, David Sweedman, said that inviting local artists to provide the artwork for the Christmas edition was a way to embrace the fun of the season.

Featured Image(above): Winner of the inaugural Bribie Islander Christmas Cover art competition Anca (Shelly) Nedelcu with editor David Sweedman

He said that he was very grateful for the support lent by The Bribie Island Community Arts Society Inc. to ensure support from local artists. “We congratulate Shelly on winning the competition with her depiction of Santa in a slumbering repose with Pumicestone Passage and The Glasshouse mountains as the backdrop.

This followed the brief of ‘A very Bribie Christmas’. We also thank all those artists who took the trouble to enter this year and trust that they will put forward an artwork in 2019 when we run a similar art competition for the Christmas cover,” he said.

IN THE DOGHOUSE NOW

David Sweedman
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IN THE DOGHOUSE NOW

Tags: Dog grooming service. Bribie Island
When a man is punished by his wife or partner for doing something stupid, annoying or, just wrong in so many ways, it is often said that he is in the doghouse and this description may very well be the most accurate way to sum up the permanent living arrangements of Woorim resident, Brett Ironmonger.

Brett is the husband of Glamour Petz owner Robyn Ironmonger and, as one would expect, both Robyn and Brett are dedicated animal lovers, even to the extent of having eight large dog statues fixed to the railing of the front deck and roof of the carport. ‘It all began when Brett bought two of the statues from a place called Nature World at Brendale as a birthday present for me,’ Robyn explained. ‘With the dog statues all the way across the front of the house, it seems to have become a bit of an attraction for passersby.

We even have buses pull up for the passengers to take a few happy snaps,’ she said. Robyn also told me that they eventually intend to get even more of the lifelike statues. Prior to commencing her “Glamour Petz” business thirteen years ago, Robyn worked at Australia Zoo so I guess the founding of an animal related business was the obvious choice for her when leaving the zoo.

As I spoke to Robyn about the “Doghouse” and her business which she tells me now has three hundred customers, it became clear that this was someone who is dedicated to the welfare of animals and ensures that she provides the best possible service to pet owners. ‘My assistants and I normally start at around 7 am, and finish at 6 pm. At the moment we are so busy and are fully booked until Christmas,’ said Robyn. ‘Everyone wants their dog to be clean at Christmas,’ she added.

The Ironmonger’s “Doghouse” is on Arcadia Avenue in Woorim and I would not be surprised if it soon earns the reputation of being another Bribie Island icon in the near future. Although the popular dog grooming business is booked out at the moment, anyone who would like to get their dog pampered in the New Year should give Robyn a call on 0401 382 491.

Gloss Magazine Bribie Islander 1st Edition Jan 04 2019 Issue 78

The Editor Cherrie Wilson
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Gloss Magazine Bribie Islander 1st Edition Jan 04 2019 Issue 78

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

Bribie Island, one of Queensland most desired travel destinations.

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The MINI Bribie Islander Dec 2018 / Jan 2019 Issue 24

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