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Access Your Super – Hardship or Compassionate Grounds

By
David Sweedman
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0
Money advice. Financial. Councillor. Super. Retirement

Tags: Money advice. Financial. Councillor. Super. Retirement

Your super is your retirement nest egg that may make the difference between having to scrape by on government benefits or enjoying more financial freedom from a super pension so withdrawing money before retirement should be a last resort. If you do fall on hard times and are unable to meet reasonable and immediate family living expenses, you may be able to withdraw some of your super on either severe financial hardship or compassionate grounds.

Most withdrawals will be taxed so before withdrawing money check the ATO website to confirm how much tax you will lose from your payment. To withdraw under severe financial hardship you need to have been receiving eligible government income support payments, for example, unemployment benefits, for at least 26 weeks continuously and you need to satisfy the trustee of your super fund that you can’t meet immediate reasonable family expenses.

Not all super funds allow you to withdraw monies under severe financial hardship so the first step is to check with your fund. If your fund does allow withdrawals the minimum amount that can be withdrawn is $1,000 (unless your super balance is less than $1,000) and the maximum amount is $10,000. You can only make one withdrawal from your super fund because of severe financial hardship in any 12-month period.

If you’ve reached your preservation age (from age 55 to 60, depending on date of birth), you may be able to receive your entire superannuation benefit provided that you’ve been in receipt of government income support for at least 39 weeks and you were not gainfully employed on a full-time or part-time basis at the time of application. You may be allowed to withdraw some of your super on compassionate grounds.

Compassionate grounds include paying for medical treatment for you or a dependant, modifying your home or vehicle for the special needs of you or a dependant because of a severe disability, paying for expenses associated with a death, funeral or burial of a dependant or making a payment on a loan to prevent you from losing your house. If your property is under threat of a forced sale, is your principal place of residence and you are legally responsible for the mortgage repayments you may be able to withdraw up to three months repayments and 12 months interest on the outstanding balance of the loan.

You may also be eligible to apply if you have arrears on council rates and your council is threatening to take possession of or sell your property. Before drawing down your super to try to save your property it is advisable to think about whether you may be better off selling the property and preserving your super. I have assisted many clients who have depleted their super and still lost their properties. Remember that money in super is protected from creditors in the event that you finish up with a shortfall on the sale of your property. As always do your own research.

Check out the ATO and Moneysmart websites. Be aware of scammers offering to get you early access to your super. They will try to convince you to let them take control of your fund and you may lose the lot. Peter Dallimore is a volunteer Financial Counsellor at the Bribie Island Neighbourhood Centre. He can be contacted via email at [email protected] or you can make an appointment to see him by calling 3408 8440. The Financial Counselling service is free.

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MONEY TALK – KNOW YOUR SUPER – INSURANCE

BRIBIE ISLAND STATE SCHOOL EARLYACT PROGRAM RAISES $4,337 FOR OUR FARMERS

By
David Sweedman
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0

EarlyAct is a school-wide service club for primary school students. It is sponsored by a local Rotary club in the township in which the school is located. The mission and operation of EarlyAct are closely linked to the ideals of Rotary. The Rotary Club of Bribie Island established the Earlyact Club at Bribie Island State School in 2013. The club currently has 28 members and the Board consists of Year 4 and 5 students.

Featured Image(above): EarlyAct Teachers and Students with Rotary members selling raffle tickets at the Rotary Markets in Brennan Park

Bribie Island State School and the Rotary Club of Bribie Island are so proud of their EarlyAct members who throughout Term 3 have raised $4,337 for Australia’s Drought-stricken farmers. Under the leadership of teachers Kim Hatfield and Rosi Riek and assisted by our Club’s Youth Director June Sturges and Chaplain Ken Piva the EarlyAct members organised four events.

Wear a “Flannie for a Farmer” was held on Friday 24 August and raised $753.60. The entire school participated in this event and wore a flannel shirt and gave a gold coin donation. $1,644 was raised at school venues such as the disco and tuck shop, the sale of muffins raised $571.50 and the raffle, with prizes generously donated by local businesses, raised $1,367. One of the Club’s ongoing projects is a vegetable garden which they cultivate and harvest and then sell the produce to parents and teachers.

Students who joined in the fun on “Wear a Flannie for a Farmer” Day

At a recent meeting, the “EarlyActers” built a scarecrow, dressed him in a flannel shirt and placed him in the vegetable garden in order to raise awareness of the “Wear a Flannie for a Farmer” Day. These students are an inspiration to us all and with their enthusiasm and commitment, they epitomise the aims of the EarlyAct program. They demonstrated that they are caring and helpful and were able to complete a project that will benefit the Australian farmers.

Through Rotary, 100% of this money will be delivered to the National Farmer’s Federation (NFF). NFF will then supply fodder and water for the livestock and help Farmers with everyday expenses and give them access to health and financial support services. EarlyAct is proud to have contributed to the Drought Appeal but couldn’t have raised so much without the support of our local community and businesses.

Bribie Rotary President John Oxenford, Youth Director June Sturges and EarlyAct Board members drawing the raffle at School Assembly

They would like to thank local businesses who so generously donated raffle prizes and supported the fundraising efforts. In particular BBQ Boats Bribie Island, Bribie Twin Cinemas, Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club, Savige’s Seafood, Allround Angler and Izzy Fizzys.

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Living with a disability – Afternoon tea – 3rd December

The Bribie Celtic Fiddlers – A PROMISE THAT LIVES ON

By
David Sweedman
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0

Remembrance Day in 2018 marks one hundred years since the end of conflict in World War 1 and following the customary observation of one minute’s silence at 11 am and other associated services to commemorate the day, those who come along to @ The Jetty Restaurant in the afternoon will be entertained by the talented musicians who make up The Bribie Celtic Fiddlers.

Featured Image(above): Celtic Fiddlers member John Boland playing a tune on his eight-string banjo

Fiddlers spokesperson John Boland explained to me that, due to the importance of the day, members have made the decision to use the occasion as a way to raise funds for Legacy. Representatives from Legacy will be collecting donations during the afternoon and @ The Jetty management is donating $3.50 from each meal toward the fundraising. ‘the planned meal is braised beef cheeks with vegetables followed by Anzac cookies in brandy sauce,’ said John.

‘The Celtic Fiddlers will be entertaining from 2 pm until 4 pm with a break at 2.50 pm for a pianist and vocalist to perform three Vera Lynn songs, the words of which will be printed on the placemats at each table. While they are performing, I will be moving around the tables with a mobile mike and whichever table does the best job of singing along will win a bottle of wine,’ he told me. John pointed out that, having been a Legacy ward after his father passed away as a result of wounds suffered during World War II, he realises the importance of what the organisation does and the ever-present need for additional funding.

‘Legacy was founded in 1923 because of a promise to “look after the missus and kids” that a digger made to his mate in the trenches of World War 1 and that more or less describes what they have been doing ever since,’ said John. ‘They support thousands of Queensland widows and children whose loved ones have lost their lives or health whilst serving in our country’s defence forces.

There are more than 150 war widows on Bribie Island and many more veterans,’ he added. The Celtic Fiddlers have been regular entertainers in the area for some time after being founded by Ross Lister and John mentioned that, whilst there are usually only about five or six that attend practice, at their gigs there can be up to fifteen who join them on stage. If anyone would like to enquire about booking this great band of talented musicians, they are welcome to give John Boland a call on 0422 770 252.

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MISS WATSON’S ADVENTURE TO BAMAGA

By
David Sweedman
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0

The Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) of Queensland is vibrant with rich, red Aussie soil. The waters there are pure, shine an iridescent teal and are brimming with fish. Amongst the five Indigenous communities that make up the NPA is a Saibai Islander community of approximately 1700 people called Bamaga.

Featured Image(above): Lauren at the most Northern part of the continent!
Just the beginning of the adventure…

It is found on the Western side of the Cape York Peninsula. It is here in Bamaga, that one of our very own local community members Lauren Watson, spent four weeks adventuring, student teaching and learning about the people and land of this special place. Loving, loyal, compassionate and driven are just some of the ways you could describe Bribie local-ite and soon to be teacher Lauren Watson. Watson has lived in the Bribie region with her family since she was four years’ old and has been an active member of the community through school, work and volunteering as a surf live saver.

Lauren and the natural landforms of the NPA

In her downtime, she loves anything active and especially enjoys spending time at the beach with her dog Frankie and her sister, Kate’s, dog Archie – Kate also happens to be living in Bamaga as a teacher. It is easy to withdraw a sense of pride and determination about bringing education to those in remote areas when Lauren speaks. This determination has seen her travel to rural areas of Queensland that are in need of quality educators like Bamaga and she is currently completing her last practicum in Murgon before graduating. Lauren comments on education in general: “There is such a focus is on academics and achieving, great scores and/or representing your school in sports that we forget about the kids who are struggling just to get to school”.

Proud to be a part of Bamaga’s school community

“In Bamaga there is a massive social disadvantage for a lot of the kids… getting them to school is a massive achievement. It was confronting, sometimes I’d get to school and there’d be three students in the class because they don’t see the importance of education or don’t feel supported enough [to attend],” Lauren said. Lauren explained that though a student herself, as a teacher, it’s not always a reflection on your ability but more what the students are coping personally with. “There are a lot more challenges that they face and I have to be able to get past my own challenges [in order to teach].” Apart from the struggles of attendance and participation, there were a lot of positive experiences that Lauren had in her adventure up North.

Sunsets and fishing, Australian bliss

“There were a lot of beautiful moments with the kids. We did a three-day, two-night hike in the bush as a team leadership camp,” Lauren said. The first day was a six-and-a-half-hour hike which saw Lauren and the students enter camp well past dusk. They carried all they needed on their back and camped wherever saw fit. The next day they trekked into Punsand Bay which saw the lot waking up on the beach and catching the sunrise. Over 24km was hiked in general. Here she got to know the students a little better and was impressed by their heart’s pursuits.

“Quite a few students wanted to be engineers, work in the defensive force or represent in sports. Many were exceptional drawers,” Lauren said. “It was worthwhile just to find out what the kids love.” “I suppose the kids taught me a lot of things about myself too. Like family values, which I hold really important and they do too”. “The kids respond really well to their elders, family members and local teachers. A big part of their culture is really community-based so when there is a wedding or funeral the whole community shuts down. If you’re driving past you either have to stop altogether or go slow.” Lauren also was able to attend the 2018 NPA Cultural Festival which joined the five NPA communities together in traditional food, song and dance.

“Everything was right by the ocean so there was so much fresh seafood”, Lauren said. “The dancing was amazing. Both the males and females and the kids. Everyone was just so happy and there was this contagious energy. Some of the elders came and danced with the kids and it just felt really genuine. Everyone just stopped and respected each other,” Lauren explained.

Donning USC’s shirt and being consumed by puppies

All in all, there were some barriers and challenges Miss Watson had to face as she encountered a new community, but she overcame and has made beautiful memories with the students and teachers in Bamaga to show as a result. “I can’t even describe it, it was just a whole different experience,” Lauren said. Lauren is well on her way to graduation and therefore teaching in rural and remote areas and has been offered a job teaching in Bamaga. Well done and keep going, Lauren!

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ADVENTURES IN ENGLAND

Pet Care and advice Oct/Nov 2018

By
David Sweedman
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0
Dogs. Canine. Pet care.

Tags: Pet care and advice. Veterinarian

SENIOR DOGS

As your dog ages, there is a range of symptoms of ageing from changes in their body condition to heart and kidney diseases. Below is a list of changes and how to manage them and will be continued in further issues: Skin – calluses may appear on elbows especially of large dogs and loss of elasticity. Some changes can be a symptom of diseases such as hypothyroidism.

Hair – he may experience loss of hair or it becomes dull and grey. Keep up the grooming to stop hair from matting especially with long hair dogs. Bones and Joints – they may start to become lame and stiff which could indicate arthritis. If dogs are less active or have kidney problems this can weaken the bones. Other signs of ageing in bones and joints are degenerative changes in the spine, getting stiff on their back and having wobbly back legs. Muscle – older dog’s activity levels drop causing muscle wasting and loss of body condition. It is important to keep up the regular walks and swimming is an ideal exercise to help strengthen muscles. Dental – dogs’ eating habits may change as they get older and decrease their chewing which can create dental problems. Giving him softer raw bones such as from the chicken or lamb shanks will help or commercial chew bones are designed to help minimise the build-up of tartar.

Eyes – poor eyesight can occur due to cataracts or degeneration of the retina and cornea. Some conditions can be cured but others can’t and may lead to blindness. It is important to keep their environment safe and so they don’t hurt themselves walking around. Ears – deafness occurs due to degeneration of nerves, diseases or infections of the ear canals.

By Yvonne Bishop

FOR BETTER OR WORSE

Our domestic pets throw their lot in with us, for better or for worse. Their lives might be softer and longer for the protection we offer, but they also suffer parallel lifestyle health complaints to us for the artificial diet, exposure to chemicals, lack of exercise etc. that come with it. Many older dogs suffer from over-active adrenal glands and most older cats have an over-active thyroid gland. These conditions explain why many older dogs have recurrent gastro disturbances, while many older cats lose weight and are up at night pestering their butlers (…owners, that is) for extra food. By our sides, our pets also live long enough to develop dementia!

DR JACKIE

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Pet care and pet advice – 2

Funny Pet photos and images Oct/Nov 2018

By
David Sweedman
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0

Tags: Funny pet pictures and photos.

Share with The Bribie Islander your funny pet photos!
It’s all ‘fun and games ’til someone has to wear a cone! Email photos to
thebribieislander@gmail.

Featured Image(above): This months winner!

ENTERTAINMENT – WHAT DO YOU GET?

By
David Sweedman
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0

QUESTION: If you join a few people who have an extensive musical background with others who have had a professional singing career or have been connected with stage and choir singing in the past then join them with a couple more who enjoy singing but have no previous experience, what do you end up with.

Featured Image(above): Voices in perfect harmony – The Silvertones

ANSWER: The beautiful harmonies such as produced by local entertainers, The Silvertones Entertainment Group. Founded in 2007 after six people who had been members of another choir decided to get together under another name, The Silvertones Entertainment Group are well known throughout the Bribie Island and Caboolture districts for both their professional style and their diverse repertoires. After performing at public venues as well for those in old age facilities for some years, the group now restricts their concerts to the latter. Silvertones spokesperson Lorna Frame told me that all of the members really enjoy what they do and love entertaining.

‘Our ages range from just over sixty to that of our oldest member who is eighty-eight,’ said Lorna. ‘Our objective is to bring pleasure to the community while keeping ourselves young,’ Lorna, who has the role of costume maker and music editor, explained. When I paid a visit to one of the Silvertones’ practice sessions in the Ningi Community Hall, I was fortunate enough to hear them working their way through the songs that will be performed at their Christmas concerts and the annual Remembrance Day concert for the residents of Seasons Retirement Village in Bellara.

This event is one of twelve that is on the 1918 calendar for the nine members of the group. s I listened to the Silvertones rehearsing, I can honestly say that from the adjoining room where I interviewed Lorna, the Christmas songs that I could hear sounded just like that of well known singers which are played in shopping centres in December.

I could have sat there and listened for hours. Lorna pointed out that when performing at concerts that mark a special occasion such as Remembrance Day or Anzac Day, the singers dress in a variety of appropriate military uniforms and, for other occasions, they wear costumes to suit the occasion. As a professional dressmaker, Lorna is kept busy ensuring that all these costumes are in keeping with the group’s excellent reputation. I should point out that Lorna’s husband Tom has the role of music coordinator and, as well as her other duties, Lorna also acts as Secretary/ Treasurer for the group.

The Silvertones Entertainment Group is keen to welcome new members to their fold and Lorna remarked that if anyone would like to enquire about joining them, they are welcome to give her a call on 3408 3199.

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Community Choir – The Sandstone Point Carols

LOCAL STUDENTS SELECTED TO ATTEND NATIONAL YOUTH SCIENCE FORUM (NYSF)

By
David Sweedman
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0

Science is not just a “boy” thing! Many girls excel in this area. The Rotary Club of Bribie Island has two candidates attending the National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) next year – both are female. Alexis Thomas from Bribie Island State High School and Lara Thompson from Caboolture High School. Both were interviewed by an autonomous District Panel and were selected to attend the forum in January 2019. Lara and Alexis have excelled as many candidates, nominated by surrounding Rotary Clubs, were not successful.

Featured Image(above): Alexis Thomas, Lara Thompson and Charlotte Scott

Rotary is a partner of The National Youth Science Forum – a not for profit organisation. NYSF hold 12-day residential programs designed to give students a broader understanding of the diverse study and career options available in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and to encourage continued studies in these fields. The $3,150 cost for the program is shared 50/50 by the Rotary Club of Bribie Island and the student’s family.

Each year only 600 students from around Australia are selected to attend NYSF. Participants take part in sessions on entrepreneurship, critical thinking, how to work together effectively, and more. The focus is not solely on academic achievements, but on developing well-rounded individuals who have the skills and confidence to determine their futures. Last year, the Rotary Club of Bribie Island sent Charlotte Scott from St Columbans College to NYSF in Canberra.

Charlotte was so outstanding she was chosen to represent Australia at the International Youth Science Forum which was held in London from 25 July to 8 August 2018. Recently, these three exceptional young women attended our Club meeting and told our members about their dreams and ambitions. Charlotte gave an informative presentation on her London Forum. Each student thanked our Club for the opportunity provided to them. Bribie Rotary is proud to support these three young women and wish them every success in their future careers.

As our President said, with all the doom and gloom in the news, it was just so refreshing to hear these student talk about a positive future. Applications for NYSF 2020, will open next February and close at the end of May 2019. If you are interested in attending the Forum please contact me on 0409 244 005. C’mon boys! For more information on NYSF see: https://www.nysf.edu.au/

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Living with a disability – Afternoon tea – 3rd December

ON THE WATER – WITH LIZ RADAJEWSKI

By
David Sweedman
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0
boating queensland moreton bay

Tags: Boating. Moreton Bay. Bribie Island. Brisbane. VMR

Originally from the land-locked country of Rhodesia, newly elected VMR Bribie Island Commodore Liz Radajewski admits that her only experience with water-based activities prior to when she and husband Henryk moved to Australia was her time windsurfing during a seven-year period in Capetown and she told me that at that time, she had no real interest in boats.

Featured Image (above): Loaded with hi-tech electronics – the 11.3 metre Bribie 1

boating queensland moreton bay

Having made the move to the land down under in 1987, Liz and Hendryk settled in Brisbane before starting a business which catered to the electroplating industry and supplied customers throughout Queensland and as far away as Darwin. Liz explained that eventually, after having seen the business experience considerable growth, the time came to put it on the market. ‘The process of electroplating is not used to anywhere the extent that it used to be,’ said Liz. ‘A lot of car parts, bumper bars and the like, that used to be chrome were being made out of moulded plastic, so this had resulted in a downturn in the industry and prompted us to sell.

We had already moved to Bribie Island in 2002 so, when the business sold in 2004, we retired and began to enjoy island lifestyle,’ she said. Whilst still living in Brisbane, the couple had ventured into the world of boating and when they moved to the island, they upgraded their tinny to a 560 Haines which was eventually replaced with an 8.54 metre Sports Cruiser. ‘As boat owners, we did the responsible thing and joined VMR in 2003. The next year the new Bribie 1 was being commissioned and we went along to the ceremony,’ Liz recalled.

‘I had the opportunity to sit in the vessel and I marvelled at all the hi-tech electronics, all the while wishing that I could operate something like that. I thought, “well, maybe one day”,’ she said. It was in 2008, after realising that she needed to find something to be involved, that Liz applied to go onto crew with VMR Bribie Island. ‘I thought that this would mean washing boats as well as just helping out in general, look at where I am now,’ exclaimed Liz.

As they say in the movies, this was to be the start of something big and, after participating in courses about navigation, regulations and other necessary requirements, Liz began to advance through the ranks. She described how, when attending an event at the Sandgate VMR, the vessel commander lined everyone up. ‘He was looking at me and I was starting to wonder what I had done wrong when he produced the epaulettes with the two stripes and told me that I was now competent crew. I think that was probably my most memorable moment with the squadron,’ said Liz.

As an indication of how diligently Liz Radajewski applies herself to any challenge that comes her way, it was during 2010 that she attained the status of Coxswain and, in the period between that and when her qualification was upgraded to Commercial Coxswain, she was appointed as Assistant Unit Training Officer. ‘I completed TAE Certificate 4 and have also been appointed by our parent body VMRAQ as a State Assessor,’ Liz told me. ‘In 2016, I took on the role of Vice-Commodore which meant that I had the opportunity to work with a really great committee and that was good fun.

Along with that, my responsibilities also involved making sure that the squadron operated smoothly and efficiently as well as being there to assist the Commodore,’ she said. Volunteer Marine Rescue Bribie Island is well known within the community as an organisation that has proven its capability many times and a contributing factor to this is the up to date equipment that crews are able to use when called upon to perform a rescue or recovery operation.

Naturally, an important part of this equipment is the three vessel in the VMR fleet, the pride of the fleet being the 11.3 metre “Bribie 1” which Liz tells me is loaded with the very latest in hi-tech electronics and powered by three 250hp Yamaha motors. She explained that “Bribie 2” a 7.5 metre vessel is also fitted with the identical range of equipment as “Bribie 1” and this enables it to be used as a training vessel to prepare the crew for a transition to the larger vessel. The third vessel in the fleet is the recently refurbished 5.5 metre “Jonkers Bribie 3” and Liz remarked that, since being refurbished, it is as good as new. Now being named as Commodore, Liz says that she is enjoying the role and points out that she regards being in the position as a way to repay VMR Bribie Island for the wonderful time that she has had since becoming a member. Worthy of note is the fact that she is the first female to be elected to this position at VMRBI.

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Mahalo Outrigger Canoe Club member Barry Ayres

ISLANDER EXTRAORDINAIRE – TINA CLARK

By
David Sweedman
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0

Anyone who is a reasonably keen reader of adventure fiction novels, in particular those with an African theme, will no doubt know of and most probably have read some or all of the works of Wilbur Smith and, whilst there are other authors who have penned novels which are set in that part of the world, they do not base all their story-lines on the area. Interestingly, our Islander Extraordinaire for November could be regarded as an exception to that observation because, unless I am seriously mistaken, local author Tina Clark has used the African continent exclusively as the setting for each of the five adult novels that she has penned to date.

Born in Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) Tina was an avid reader of Mills and Boon romance novels as a young girl and this would serve as an influence at a later time. She told me that her first stories were ones that she recorded for the eldest of her two children to listen to. ‘I never actually wrote anything until my husband Shaun and I went on a weekend trip to Paris during the time that we were living in England.

We were staying in this small hotel that looked onto the rear of the Moulin Rouge and I happened to come across some men’s magazines,’ said Tina. ‘I began to flick through the pages and noticed that they were paying fifty pounds to people who had submitted two hundred word articles, The result was that I ended up writing a saucy article and sent it in, earning fifty pounds for my efforts,’ she said. Tina also mentioned that whilst being paid for these submissions, she sent fifty pounds to her mother.

‘Mum was studying in a theological college in South Africa and had run short of money so I sent some to help her out,’ Tina explained. ‘After she graduated, I told her how I had earned the money that I sent and she just laughed and said, “God works in mysterious ways. One day can you write a book that I can be proud of and brag about?”,’ recalled Tina. After living in England for three years, Tina and Shaun had the urge to seek a warmer climate and moved to Australia in 2000, living in Rockhampton for a brief period before settling on Bribie Island.

Having worked as a quality assurance auditor at the Teddington Laboratory in England, Tina chose to become a stay at home mum following the family’s relocation and this, of course, was the ideal opportunity for her to take up writing in a more serious fashion. She told me that she has written some children’s books and remarked that she finds picture books much harder to write than a 120,000-word novel.

Tina published her first children’s book, “African Orphan,” in 2005. That book was part of an educational series with Macmillan,’ she pointed out. From that time, Tina has written several other great children’s books and these include “Books for Fiji”, “Slowly, Slowly”, Child of Africa” and “The Avoidable Orphan.” As someone who had by then become aware of the pitfalls that are associated with having works published and also knowing the qualities that are necessary for a budding author to be successful, fourteen years ago Tina founded what can best be described as a professional development forum which she named as the CYA (Children and Young Adults) Conference as a way of getting agents, editors and writers together to discuss and learn about the crafts of writing.

This has been an annual event from that time. With a desire to begin writing more than just children’s books, and motivated by having continued to read Mills and Boon novels from the age of fourteen, Tina began submitting work to the Mills & Boon publishers but always with the same disappointing outcome. ‘My stories did not meet their requirements. There were too many characters and too many words,’ Tina commented. ‘My awakening came when I attended a five-day intensive course on romance writing and after another author, Fiona Brand, had read one of my works she told me that what I write is literary fiction, not romance,’ she added.

It would seem that Ms Brand’s observation served to point Tina in the right direction and in 2013, her first adult novel, “My Brother but One,” was published, achieving a number of very positive reviews and being shortlisted for the Queensland Literary Awards in 2014. That, as the saying goes, was the start of something big and from then on, Tina has written one novel each year except 2016 and these are “Shooting Butterflies”, Tears of the Cheetah”, “Child of Africa” and her latest work “Nature of the Lion” which is due to be released in Queensland stores on November 19th.

‘My latest novel, “Nature of the Lion” is set in the year 1986 and tells a story about what comes next after a hunter has killed the top five which are, elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo,’ said Tina ‘Number six on the list is a human and in the book, we follow a family in their attempts to evade a rogue hunter from a secret sect,’ she revealed. Traditionally, following the release of her novels, Tina has always conducted the first of what are many book signings at the Bribie Island Target store and anyone who would like to buy a copy of ‘Nature of the Lion” can do so at this outlet.

When not writing her next novel, Tina spends time enjoying her hobbies which include sewing, gardening, boating and lunching with her author friends. For a further insight into the life and works of the rather extraordinary member of our Bribie Island community, those who wish can log onto her web page, www.tmclark.com.au or check out the Facebook page tmclarkauthor. On a personal note, prior to being afforded the opportunity to interview Tina, I was not aware of her work but, now that I am, “Nature of the Lion” will definitely be on my bookshelf by close of business on the release day.

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ISLANDER EXTRAORDINAIRE – CATHERINE BILSON

Bribie Island Community Arts Centre at Banksia Beach – 30 YEARS OF AWESOME

By
David Sweedman
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0

In what will be a giant community welcome, the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre at Banksia Beach is celebrating its 30th Anniversary by inviting everyone to visit its spaces and studios in the week December 8 – 15 and join or watch wonderful and varied art and craft.

The Centre will feature a spree of FREE painting, printing, pottery, leadlight, glasswork, sewing, quilting, mosaic, drawing, recycling art, macrame, cardmaking and scrapbooking, resin art pouring, writing and publishing experiences for all on Bribie and surrounding region to discover and learn new experiences in creativity. Come along any and every day from 9 am – 4 pm and enjoy the fun and satisfaction of the amazing arts and crafts shared, learnt and enjoyed across the age groups, at the Arts Centre.

Experienced and friendly artists and demonstrators will share their skills and answer any questions about their medium. Naturally, the Centre’s Gift Shop and Galleries will be open for the duration and the cafe will be open daily between 10 am and 2 pm, so make a date to meet with friends for a coffee or lunch on the breezy deck to round off your experience. The celebrations salute the amazing foresight of the Centre’s founders, who opened the Centre at 191 Sunderland Drive, on December 11, 1988.

It remains the largest Centre of its kind in the country and according to its many interstate visitors and admirers throughout the year. Many claim it’s the most impressive in its scope and breadth. Venue Manager, Julie Thomson, said BICAS management wanted the occasion of the Art Centre’s 30th Anniversary to celebrate all that the Centre offers to and enriches the community with – art, creativity, friendship, stimulus, encouragement, learning, fun, and financial return on art created.

She said also that many people living alone on Bribie and nearby found solace and a sense of purpose in attending or volunteering at the Centre The week will kick off with a special Anniversary Make It Bake It Christmas market on Saturday, December 8. Here’s a chance to buy that special gift from any of the wonderful array of stalls selling handmade items, as well as enjoy live music, children’s art activity and breakfast or lunch from the cafe’s delicious menu.

PLANNING…

…for the 30th Anniversary week has taken place over the past months to include a great array of art experiences for BICAS members, friends, and the wider Bribie and region community, such as open studio visits, art and craft demonstrations, an artist-in-residence, Memory Wall, Treasure Hunt, Tree planting, time capsule burying. In the magnificent Matthew Flinders Gallery, there will be a week-long exhibition of BICAS history in art and memorabilia, works from Life Members of BICAS, former winners of the esteemed annual Matthew Flinders Art Prize and dedication of a tribute wall to its founder, the late artist, Margaret Guthrie, holding several of her works donated and lent for the occasion. There will also be a couple of musical events in the Gallery on the programme.

Best-selling Brisbane author Nick Earls will team with Chanel Lucas from Women in Docs to present a special literary/musical event on Sunday evening, December 9, at 6 pm. And popular local singing Quintet Two Plus Three will feature a rollicking concert of musical and light operatics favourites on Sunday, December 16 at 3 pm. (More details on how to book for these on page 34) The 30th Anniversary week will culminate in a gala night on Saturday, December 15. A full programme of events is featured opposite. The Bribie Woodcrafters and Gem & Fossicking Club, who share the precinct with the Centre, will also be open for demonstrations and information during this week

Amazing People

Here are just a few of the amazing people you can see and meet at the Bribie Community Arts Centre during their 30th Anniversary Celebrations Week. The winner of the inaugural Matthew Flinders Art Prize, at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre in 1999, John McVeigh Brown, will be a special guest at the 30th Anniversary week of activities. John will be giving a talk and demonstration in studio on Wednesday, December 12 at 10 am in Studio 2. Dale Marsh will be best know to Bribie Islanders and visitors for his iconic painting of children jumping off the island sandhills, reproduced on the Benabrow Ave Bellara billboard on the right as you leave the bridge.

Dale is an acclaimed Australian impressionist painter and one of the early supporters and founders of the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre. Several of his beautiful paintings are housed there in a room that carries his name. Dale will be giving a floor talk in the Matthew Flinders Gallery on Saturday, December 15 at 10 am. Award-winning indigenous artist Hazel Cowburn holds the Bribie Community Arts Centre in a special place in her heart as it was the venue for her first exhibition.

Hazel has been exhibited in the Gallery several times and also Artist of the Month. Meet her over a floor talk with her art in the Matthew Flinders Gallery during the 30th Anniversary week. Author James Lergessner has Bribie grit in his blood, having spent much of his life from boyhood on the island. He has a passion for history and especially Moreton Bay and Bribie yesteryear and he tells wonderful stories of the places and people who coloured their history. James will be giving a rousing and wonderful talk on the characters of Bribie’s past at the Centre Boardroom on Wednesday, December 12 at 2 pm.

James is also conducting a writing and publishing workshop for those who have a ken for the written word, love writing and wish to learn some navigation skills through the publishing world, on Friday, December 14 at 1 pm. Book for either of these at the Centre on 3408 9288. Renowned Sunshine Coast potter and tutor Jackie Gasson will be giving demonstrations of her amazing talent in the potters studio on Tuesday, December 11 at 1 pm.

Programme

Fund Raiser – ENSURING INCLUSIVENESS AND EQUALITY

By
David Sweedman
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In 1992, the United Nations General Assembly sanctioned December 3rd as International Day of People with a Disability and proclaimed the day as a means of increasing public awareness, understanding and acceptance in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life. Each year, the day has a specific theme and is celebrated throughout the world with a variety of events.

The theme for 2018 is “Empowering People with Disabilities and Ensuring Inclusiveness and Equality” and on Monday 3rd December, that theme will come to life at the Bribie Island Rotary and Spinal Life Afternoon Tea at the Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club when those who attend will be treated to a Fashion Parade for all Abilities. As well as the fashion parade, there will be art and craft auctions and I’m told that the art auction will include a number of unique pieces and feature Paul Constable Calcutt.

Many local businesses have generously donated items for the auction and Spinal Life member Sue Ellen has made and donated some beautiful craft items. Entertainment for the afternoon will be provided by local well-known artist, Shane Kells who in the past has dedicated many hours to community work as an entertainer, raising money for worthy causes.

Shane, aka Kellsy, has recently been touring with Phil Emmanuel and Strangebrew in the “Back to Basics” tour and he reckons if there is one thing that he has learned over his years of performing, it is that you have to be adaptable. He describes his one-man show as being suitable for all ages, including soft songs for older folk as well as blues, rock and roll and even a bit of heavy rock Spinal Life Australia Bribie Island Network Community Connector Bill Peacock told me that all proceeds from the event will go to Rotary’s “World’s Greatest Meal to End Polio Now”.

‘We are hoping that this event will raise much-needed funds,’ said Bill. ‘In light of the polio outbreak in PNG, we have to be extra vigilant as it is only a plane trip away,’ he added. Anyone wishing to attend this special event which commences at 2 pm can purchase tickets ($35.00 each) now by depositing payment into the Rotary Club of Bribie Island account at the Bank of Queensland. BSB 124390 – account number 20314486 and using their name as a reference. Please send an advice of your purchase to [email protected].

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Bribie Vibe Market – November 25th

By
David Sweedman
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A DOUBLE VIBE

Since its inception, the Bribie Vibe Market, held at the Bribie Island Community Arts Centre on the last Sunday of each month, has become a popular way for both locals and visitors to spend a Sunday morning and, as Christmas approaches, marketgoers will have the opportunity to visit the Vibe Markets twice in as many weeks.

Featured Image(above): Division One Councillor Brooke Savige and her family made the most of Santa’s visit to the 2017 Vibe Christmas Markets

As well as the normal event on November 25th, there will be a special Christmas Vibe Market on Saturday, December 8th and organisers have told me that, as well as the usual variety of stalls selling homemade craft and food items, Santa will be in attendance and local photographer Ian Jennings will be on hand to take photos of the family with Santa. Of course, there will be lots of activities for the kids including train rides and gem fossicking at the Gem Club.

Anyone who is feeling a bit peckish will be able to satisfy their hunger at the Vibe Café and there will be entertainment by the Caboolture Community Choir and the Bribie Island Country Music Club. The December market also kicks off the Arts Centre’s thirtieth-anniversary celebrations which will feature a week of great exhibitions and other activities. For more information on the markets or any of the other activities at the Arts centre, call 3408 9288 or visit the centre on Sunderland Drive at Banksia Beach.

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Vibe Markets – Arts and Crafts – Bribie Island

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