16.01.2013 Views

Valley - The Valley Weekender

Valley - The Valley Weekender

Valley - The Valley Weekender

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

<strong>The</strong><br />

<strong>Valley</strong><br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

FREE<br />

ISSN 1838-840X<br />

LAIDLEY PLAINLAND FOREST HILL BRIGHTVIEW MULGOWIE GLENORE GROVE HATTON VALE SUMMERHOLME GATTON<br />

LAIDLEY'S INDEPENDENTLY OWNED NEWSPAPER • PUBLISHED FORTNIGHTLY • Vol: 2; No. 22 Friday, November 16, 2012<br />

Bent but not broken!<br />

<strong>The</strong> crew of car 666<br />

gathered around Friday<br />

night after scrutineering<br />

to show off their crowdpleaser,<br />

"<strong>The</strong> Little Blue<br />

Devil".<br />

By Sunday it looked<br />

like this! However it<br />

fi nished and also took<br />

out fi rst in its class and<br />

tenth overall. Pictured<br />

are Shawnee Fawcett<br />

(awesome BBQ person)<br />

navigator of car 666, Chris Taylor, driver of car 666, Wayne Murphy and brothers Michael and Darren Smith who also drive for Snake Racing in<br />

a similar vehicle (no. 688). <strong>The</strong>se cars are half the size of some of their fellow racers. Story and results continue on page 2.<br />

“We Care<br />

and It<br />

Shows”<br />

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS<br />

If you are looking for...<br />

• Quality Property Managers • Professional and courteous services<br />

• Experienced & Licensed Agents • Low Management Fees<br />

<strong>The</strong>n look no further...<br />

Phone our qualifi ed Property Managers 5465 4937<br />

Leanne Viv<br />

38 Victoria Street<br />

Mobile<br />

0438 590 339<br />

REAL<br />

ESTATE<br />

1<br />

Forest Hill<br />

Email: offi ce@lockyervalleyrealestate.com.au<br />

www.lockyervalleyrealestate.com.au


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Event goes on despite rain - number 7 car is now number 1!<br />

Australian champions! Matt Hanson and Leigh Wells proudly<br />

display their trophies after winning the Australian Off Road title<br />

in their beautifully presented car number 7 which will wear the<br />

number one plate in 2013. (Photo: A Kirby)<br />

ON Friday night at Plainland there was almost a festive atmosphere<br />

and many excited people who were looking forward to racing in the<br />

fi nal round of the Mitsubishi Electric Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> 300 Australian<br />

and Queensland Off Road Championships.<br />

Many had competed throughout the year at either Sea Lake,<br />

Victoria; Goodiwindi (Queensland) or Millicent in South Australia<br />

and this was the decider as to who would have the number one on<br />

their car for 2013.<br />

Many were also looking forward to driving on a wet track, however<br />

they under-estimated how wet and on Saturday, much to everyone's<br />

disappointment the racing was called off.<br />

<strong>The</strong> decision was made to move the pit area to harder ground and change the track<br />

to accommodate the wet conditions. This was achieved by a team of hard working<br />

local Mulgowie residents who basically picked up the pits and re-located them to a<br />

more convenient spot overnight.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Brisbane Sporting Car Club was supported by locals Robbie Bachmann, Chris<br />

Rae, Paul Emmerson, Graham Squires, Paul Hardy, Brendan Steinhardt and Simon<br />

Emmerson who all brought their own machinery and equipment to achieve the job.<br />

To re-confi gure the track Kevin and Neville Pitman and Tim Kelly gave their consent<br />

to allow the team to tear up their paddocks. This gave them access to a shortened,<br />

but useable track.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Snake Racing Team, who had driven up from Sydney said, "It was incredible<br />

what they achieved and really, really great that they decided to do that. We got to<br />

race and it was such fun."<br />

"Our little car made it home, despite getting a bit bent hitting a gate post, but we took<br />

out fi rst in our class and eleventh overall. It can be pretty scary when those big boys<br />

come up behind you, but we put up a good fi ght."<br />

Many of the drivers expressed their gratitude to the hard working locals and the<br />

Brisbane Sporting Car Club during presentations, with one saying that he actually<br />

thought he would have been half way back to Victoria by Sunday night. All the<br />

drivers were grateful for the effort everyone put it to turn the problem of the rain into<br />

something they could work with.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re were drivers from as far away as South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales<br />

and Far North Queensland.<br />

One very popular team with fellow drivers was the boys from 'over the ditch', Kiwis,<br />

Raana Horan and Michael Connor who nearly never made it because their tow truck<br />

was sitting broken down near Toowoomba waiting to get towed itself.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y were thrilled after all their dramas to take out fi rst place in the Australian Off<br />

Road Championship awards in the Extreme 4WD class.<br />

Overall winners of the Australian Championship for 2012 were Matt Hanson and<br />

Leigh Wells. <strong>The</strong>y gained enough points to claim their fi rst outright Australian Off<br />

Road Championship crown and the right to wear the number one plate for 2013.<br />

Matt Hanson spoke at length of his team's commitment and from comments around<br />

the room, there was no doubt they and their vehicle (number 7) were very popular<br />

with many of the spectators. (Story and Photos, Ann Kirby)<br />

2


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Laidley remembers<br />

DESPITE the blustery conditions, a large gathering<br />

attended Laidley’s Remembrance Day service at<br />

the town’s cenotaph on Sunday November 11.<br />

Local RSL sub-branch president Mike Nowlan said<br />

the ceremony was intended to remember all those<br />

killed in all wars, and especially those who have<br />

recently paid the supreme sacrifi ce in Afghanistan.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Reverend Paul Andrianatos led the gathering in<br />

prayer, saying that when things are going well, it is<br />

easy to forget those who have gone before us.<br />

“We remember all who were prepared to make<br />

the supreme sacrifi ce, and we remember that<br />

Australia was not alone. We also remember the<br />

New Zealanders and other allies who were at our<br />

side,” he said.<br />

Federal member Scott Buchholz spoke of his recent<br />

Faith Lutheran College students lay their wreath<br />

parliamentary visit to the Middle East, and of the enthusiasm and professionalism of our men and<br />

women currently serving there.<br />

As part of the service, the Faith Lutheran College choir sang In Flanders Field. Bugler John<br />

Radke played the Last Post.<br />

Newly appointed RSL ambassadors, winners of the sub-branch’s high schools’ scholarships, also<br />

assisted with the organisation of the event and were introduced to the gathering.<br />

At the conclusion of the service, a sausage sizzle picnic in the park was provided by the RSL<br />

sub-branch. Photos & Story: Jim Nicholls.<br />

ON a recent trip to Europe my cousin was able to bring some closure to our<br />

family by visiting the grave of our uncle who never returned from a sortie over<br />

Germany. He was our fathers' brother and he is buried in the Durnbach War<br />

Cemetery with two other Australians who were in the plane with him.<br />

"...Lancaster LL789 took off from RAF Waddington at 1913 hours on the night of 12/13th September<br />

1944 to bomb Stuttgard, Germany. Bomb load 1 x 4000lb and 14 x 4lb clusters. Nothing was heard<br />

from the aircraft after take off and it did not return to base. Twenty aircraft from the Squadron took<br />

part in the raid and two of these failed to return.<br />

Aboard were: Flight Offi cer A.L. Bright (Pilot); Flt Sgt R.G. Symonds (Navigator); Canadian,<br />

Sgt E.K. Bulloch (Bomb Aimer); Scotsman, Sgt T Ballantyne (Flight Engineer); Flt Sgt P Callow<br />

(Wireless Operator); Flt Sgt G.T. Kirby (Air Gunner) and FO V.C. Manchester (Air Gunner).<br />

Post war it was established that the aircraft crashed at 2230 hours at Pfahlbronn about 2kms wsw<br />

of Aldorf. Five of the crew were killed and FO Bright and FO Manchester were POWs." (compiled<br />

by Alan Storr 2006) Australian War Memorial website.<br />

My cousin's father (Gilbert's brother) also fought in World War II but survived<br />

and is buried in the Leyburn Cemetery. She took an Anzac poppy from his grave<br />

and placed it on Gilberts. Both our fathers suffered terribly from 'survivor guilt'<br />

throughout the years. Despite never knowing Gilbert, my cousin said the visit<br />

to the cemetery was extremely emotional and touched her deeply. She said from<br />

now on she will never pass a war cemetery without calling in and paying her<br />

respects to those that gave their lives in order to keep Australia free.<br />

WINNER 113 Patrick Street, Laidley Q 4341<br />

Small Business of the Year 2011<br />

Ph: (07) 5465 3344 • Fax: (07) 5465 3388<br />

www.laidleyjewellers.com.au<br />

3<br />

<strong>The</strong> Reverend Paul Andrianatos leads the gathering in prayer<br />

New Handmade Murano Glass Jewellery<br />

Starting<br />

from<br />

$64<br />

Exclusive to Laidley Jewellers


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

From the Editor<br />

SEVERAL people have approached me about the constant amount of<br />

rubbish on the edges of our roads.<br />

A work colleague travels between Laidley and Fernvale each day and<br />

said he has noticed the constant fouling of our roads' verges and how it<br />

is getting worse.<br />

I was approached by another resident of Forest Hill who echoed my<br />

work colleague's sentiments exactly and asked would I bring it to<br />

people's attention.<br />

At the risk of sounding biased, I totally agree with them and others and<br />

also observe that it is take away paper packets, drink containers and<br />

burger wrappers that seem to be the culprits in most cases.<br />

Last week some 'kind' individual dumped their empty carton of beer<br />

bottles at some poor resident's gate, and someone left a black plastic bag<br />

of rubbish on the connection road between Laidley and Forest Hill. Last<br />

time I looked they were still there.<br />

Do you people realise what you are doing? <strong>The</strong> tractor and slasher come<br />

along and just chop it all up and then it goes even further to making the<br />

area look untidy.<br />

Please don't rubbish, last time I looked it was still illegal, but it doesn't<br />

seem to be deterring anyone.<br />

<strong>The</strong> streets in Laidley get swept regularly but there is always rubbish in<br />

the gutters. Shame on you litterbugs and good on the people of Withcott.<br />

Maybe we need to start our own litter patrol here between Laidley -<br />

Forest Hill - Glenore Grove right to the edge of the shire.<br />

It has been so busy these past few weeks and I guess it's just going to<br />

stay that way until Christmas.<br />

Mulgowie showed what a remarkable, tight knit and innovative<br />

community they were last weekend while hosting the Mitsubishi<br />

Electric Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> 300 Australian Off Road Championship. <strong>The</strong><br />

weather would have had a lot of people beaten, but as one very happy<br />

participant in the comp said - <strong>The</strong>y turned what looked to be so negative<br />

in to such a positive - we all had a great time and hope we can come<br />

back next year.<br />

By moving the pits and changing the track, the event was able to go on.<br />

Congratulations to everyone that was involved in all the hard work.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Laidley Art Society held a successful art show and we really do<br />

have some very talented artists in our region.<br />

This Friday night students from Laidley High School will parade<br />

through the main street around 5pm. Why not get out and support these<br />

young adults? <strong>The</strong>y have just completed all those years at school and<br />

that part of their lives is over - it's time to think ahead and plan their<br />

futures. Last year I enjoyed being with everyone photographing them as<br />

they got out of their escort vehicles and hope to be there again this year.<br />

To all our graduands throughout the Lockyer, we all here at <strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong><br />

<strong>Weekender</strong> wish you well.<br />

Don't forget there are markets in the lead up to Christmas and lots to do.<br />

Support your local businesses if you can with Christmas coming and<br />

your local organisations.<br />

Our next issue will be our full colour Summer Issue coming out on<br />

December 1st. Until then - AK<br />

For all your<br />

• Precision Hair Cutti ng • Colour & Foil Experts<br />

Holly's<br />

Specials Gift Vouchers<br />

This Christmas give the gift of<br />

great looking hair and beautiful<br />

skin and receive 20% of the<br />

gift value for yourself.<br />

BEAUTY SPECIAL: Full set of acrylic glitter nail tips $40.<br />

Limited appointments so book in now for Christmas<br />

LIMITED EDITION METALLIC GHD HAIR STRAIGHTENERS $279.00<br />

4<br />

NEWS in Brief<br />

Creative arts enthusiasts’ invitation<br />

AN invitation is extended to attend the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Arts Forum to<br />

be held on Tuesday November 20 between 6pm-8pm at the Forest Hill<br />

School of Arts.<br />

<strong>The</strong> meeting of the arts community is to plan united support for the<br />

development of the arts in the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong>.<br />

Ideas to be discussed include: development of artist and art<br />

organisations public access directory/art guide; arts dinners to support<br />

local networking and professional development; development of arts<br />

studio trails; and professional development for the arts facilitation and<br />

project development<br />

"<strong>The</strong> ARTS have the power to establish trust, build confi dence and<br />

promote local initiative. <strong>The</strong> Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Arts Corps project<br />

aims to make these connections possible by building relationships<br />

between artists and community through innovative engagement and<br />

empowerment methodology".<br />

We hope you are able to attend to share and listen with other like-minded<br />

arts and cultural practitioners and creative industries.<br />

Cassandra Pulver<br />

Laidley.<br />

Laidley bookstore owner and Healthnette<br />

also make fi nals of Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Business,<br />

Training and Apprenticeship Awards<br />

TELL Me A Story Bookshop owner Andrea Kwast is a fi nalist in this<br />

year’s prestigious business awards, to be decided on Saturday night<br />

November 17.<br />

Ms Kwast said she was devastated when the bookshop’s original<br />

premises in Patrick Street were inundated in last year’s January<br />

fl oods.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> fl ood came almost one year to the day after we opened for business<br />

in Laidley,” she said. “Since then, with the help of many wonderful<br />

people, we’ve managed to relocate to a more convenient site north of<br />

the railway line.<br />

“This is the fi rst time I’ve been nominated for these business awards,<br />

and I wish to thank my clients and team members for convincing me to<br />

follow up with the nomination.”<br />

More than just a bookshop, Tell Me A Story’s major enterprises revolve<br />

around tutoring and publishing the works of local authors.<br />

Ms Kwast said she now has 70 students a week attending her tutorial<br />

classes, and will have ten new books by local authors ready for<br />

launching at a gala event in June next year. In addition to that, she has<br />

eight works available as eBooks on the Internet.<br />

“Of course, I want to thank everybody who has maintained their faith<br />

in what I am doing and who have taken me and my dreams to where<br />

they are today."<br />

Another Laidley business to make the fi nals was Jeanette Shipston<br />

who is a Bowen <strong>The</strong>rapist, Registered Nurse, Naturopath and Health<br />

Consultant for her business, HealthNette - Health & Wellness Clinic.<br />

She is pitted against Seatonfi re Pty Ltd (chocolate to die for) and<br />

Thomson Refrigeration and Air Conditioning in the Home-Based<br />

Business Section. Three very different business bases, so it will be very<br />

interesting to see who comes home with the gong.<br />

Another local business Exclusively Equine Veterinary Services is<br />

up against Tell Me A Story Book Shop. Louise and husband Jason,<br />

have worked tirelessly since starting EEVS several years ago. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

have established a breeding centre at Hatton Vale and not so long ago<br />

purchased the Gatton Veterinary Clinic.<br />

Another Plainland business which has not long re-located from Gatton<br />

to make it into the fi nals in the Health Services and Fitness category is<br />

Coast to Country Chiropractic.<br />

<strong>The</strong> ladies at Das Neumann are all smiles also as they are fi nalists in the<br />

People's Choice awards and are looking forward to the announcements<br />

on Saturday night. Remember these ladies are all volunteers, so<br />

wouldn't it be nice if their name did come up. Who says volunteering<br />

isn't rewarding?


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

2012 Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Business, Training and<br />

Apprenticeship Awards<br />

It will be a big night for the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> this Saturday with the<br />

2012 Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Business, Training and Apprenticeship<br />

Awards taking place at the Shire Hall in Gatton.<br />

This is a great opportunity for us to recognise the many<br />

wonderful businesses we have in our region.<br />

<strong>The</strong> judges had an incredibly tough time this year with<br />

outstanding entries received in all categories.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re was a record number of entries this year which was<br />

a great result considering this is the fi rst time the Lockyer<br />

<strong>Valley</strong> has run the awards on its own as the Somerset and<br />

Ipswich West regions were included in past years.<br />

We have some extremely deserving fi nalists and I have no<br />

doubt they will benefi t from being a part of the Awards.<br />

You only have to look at the businesses which were unlucky<br />

enough not to be fi nalists to fully appreciate the quality of<br />

depth in this region.<br />

I encourage any business which did not enter the Awards to<br />

do so next year as the advantages and exposure you receive<br />

from this night is too good of an opportunity to pass on.<br />

Tidy Towns<br />

It was a proud moment for myself this past month with<br />

Council picking up two Tidy<br />

Town awards for 2012.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Keep Australia Beautiful<br />

Queensland Tidy Towns<br />

awards night was held in<br />

Brisbane on 22 October,<br />

with Withcott taking out the<br />

Litter Prevention Award while<br />

Grantham won the Resource<br />

Recovery Award.<br />

In particular I would like to<br />

thank the Withcott Litter<br />

Patrol volunteers who have<br />

been patrolling the streets of<br />

Withcott for about 15 years<br />

now and keeping the streets<br />

in pristine condition.<br />

Members of the community<br />

should be proud of their<br />

hard work and this award is<br />

recognition of all the hard<br />

work that goes on behind<br />

the scenes.Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong><br />

5<br />

Regional Council also picked up an LGM Queensland Risk<br />

Management Excellence Award at the 116th LGAQ annual<br />

conference.<br />

Risk Frontiers Trip<br />

Earlier this month I was invited to speak at a Risk Frontiers<br />

seminar held in Sydney.<br />

Funded by the insurance industry I was asked to talk about<br />

the work which Council did in the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> after the 2011<br />

fl oods.<br />

<strong>The</strong> seminar looked at ways of removing risk from disasters<br />

and used cases from the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> as examples.<br />

<strong>The</strong> insurance companies talked about how insurance<br />

premiums could be better managed with regards to judging<br />

homes individually rather than by a postcode which is more<br />

benefi cial to residents.<br />

If we could adapt these new principles I believe the people of<br />

the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> would fi nd it much easier when dealing with<br />

insurance agencies in the future.<br />

Cr Steve Jones, MAYOR, Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Regional Council


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Gone but not forgott en<br />

Telstra to boost Laidley's broadband<br />

More Laidley households and businesses are set to gain access to fast<br />

fi xed-line broadband, following Telstra’s installation of ADSL2+<br />

infrastructure in the area.<br />

Telstra Country Wide Area General Manager for Southern Queensland,<br />

Nigel Beaman, said Telstra is integrating new technology, referred to as<br />

‘top hats’, into the existing street cabinets that deliver telephone services<br />

to local residents and businesses.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> ‘top hat’ is an innovative way of mounting ADSL2+ equipment on<br />

top of an existing street side cabinet which provides phone services. This<br />

means that we are able to quickly and effi ciently make ADSL2+ services<br />

available to many households and businesses that previously could not<br />

access a fi xed broadband service,” said Mr Beaman<br />

“<strong>The</strong> upgrade will support our customers’ growing interest in connecting<br />

household communication devices to the internet so that they can enjoy<br />

information and entertainment on demand. Being connected to ADSL2+<br />

broadband technology will enable households to stream video, access<br />

their favourite internet sites and work from home.”<br />

Until now these existing cabinets have not been able to support ADSL2+<br />

technology due to physical constraints. Previously, a new cabinet would<br />

have been built alongside an existing one which could take months of<br />

planning and network construction activities.<br />

<strong>The</strong> installation of a ‘top hat’ in Laidley is part of a nationwide<br />

infrastructure investment where a number of ‘top hats’ will be installed in<br />

street side cabinets over the course of 18 months as Telstra continues to<br />

invest in innovative communications solutions across the country to bring<br />

faster broadband speeds and improved technology where possible.<br />

<strong>The</strong> rollout is expected to be completed by mid 2013, and also involves<br />

an upgrade to the transmission backhaul which will help remove potential<br />

bottlenecks in the network.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Southern Queensland Telstra Country Wide team in conjunction with<br />

local Telstra Dealer One Zero Gatton will be visiting Laidley Supa IGA<br />

to meet with customers to discuss their broadband options and hear, fi rst<br />

hand, the issues facing the local community on 28 November 2012 from<br />

10:00am – 2:00pm.<br />

Laidley residents can contact Telstra BigPond on 13 76 63 or visit their<br />

local Telstra Dealer for more information.<br />

LAIDLEY SECOND CHANCE<br />

OPP-SHOP<br />

149 Patrick Street, Laidley (near Civic Video Shop)<br />

Shop phone: (07) 54 65 28 70<br />

Retail outlet for clothing, shoes, books,<br />

furniture, toys, kitchenware, household<br />

items and bric a brac<br />

OPENING HOURS: Mon 9am - 3pm; Tues 9am - 4pm<br />

Wed to Fri 9am - 3pm; Sat 9am - 12 noon<br />

All new Spring stock available<br />

6<br />

THERE isn't much evidence that there was ever a state school at Plainland,<br />

but with the accelerated growth it is having at present, there is probably a<br />

few people saying they should never have closed it down as it would be<br />

full now.<br />

A stone cairn marks the spot where the school once stood. <strong>The</strong> actual<br />

classroom was moved to Lake Clarendon and became the CWA Hall in its<br />

new life, but there appears to be someone living in it now, so it has been put<br />

to yet another use.<br />

<strong>The</strong> school master's house was re-located to Forest Hill and remains there<br />

today.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Plainland State School opened 1 February 1886 and closed December<br />

1966.<br />

A group of past pupils got together and decided to do something about<br />

marking the spot where the school once stood. Because the land was now<br />

owned privately they set about getting their consent and once obtained,<br />

sourced the stone and plaque.<br />

Well known local identity Bob Porter went to the Plainland State School and<br />

remembered his school days fondly.<br />

"<strong>The</strong> school at its peak had about 32 pupils. I remember when we kids<br />

planted a little plot of pine trees which are still standing today. We watered<br />

those trees faithfully with a bucket every day from a small melon hole<br />

nearby That was around 1956.<br />

"Many of the teachers that were sent out were single men and they always<br />

joined the local sporting teams. I remember ringing the school bell constantly<br />

one Monday morning until I woke the teacher up so that he would come to<br />

school and teach us! He must have had a big weekend playing football.<br />

"It was a great little school that serviced the area." he said.<br />

<strong>The</strong> group of pupils responsible for the placing of the plaque got together<br />

recently on the deck at Porters Plainland and the comment was made how<br />

ironic it was that in the paddock beside where their little school once stood<br />

is a large, secondary school which seems to be expanding every year.<br />

Pictured is the commemorative cairn, the old school building<br />

and some of the ex-students gathered on the deck at Porters<br />

Plainland enjoying dinner together. (Photo & Story Ann Kirby)


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Nati onal Tree Day youth<br />

raise funds<br />

National Tree Day Lockyer youth president Stella Echentille (left) and<br />

committee member Sheniise Pariigii have fun at the recent McHappy<br />

Day fundraiser. Photo: Contributed.<br />

NATIONAL Tree Day Lockyer young people have continued their<br />

support for Ronald McDonald House by raising $3500 from a recent<br />

McHappy Day.<br />

<strong>The</strong> youth have been involved with the cause for four years working<br />

together with McDonald’s to create a better future for our kids.<br />

National Tree Day spokesman Peter O’Brien said he was extremely<br />

proud of his youth committee members.<br />

“Half of our young members cleaned up the dux and school awards at<br />

this year’s Lockyer District High School speech night,” he said. “One<br />

was also named as youth of the year for the valley.<br />

“This speaks volumes for the calibre of the students we have on<br />

board."<br />

Stay safe this summer<br />

SUMMER is nearly on us and with it the memories of<br />

how hot it can be and how quickly fi res can start.<br />

One of the biggest threats to your house is having your<br />

gutters full of dried leaves. Fires start in gutters so<br />

easily you can be in trouble before you have time to<br />

realise.<br />

<strong>The</strong> best way to stay safe is to clean your gutters<br />

regularly and thoroughly, even if you have gutter<br />

guard.<br />

Everyone hates this job, but don't put it off. If you<br />

don't have the time or don't like ladders call Ryan<br />

Clarke from Professional Gutter Cleaning. He can do<br />

an inspection for you and give you a free quote. Don't<br />

be complacent, even if you have gutter guard, you still<br />

need to ensure there is no fi re fuel on your roof.<br />

Ryan will travel, is fully insured and also does painting<br />

and roof re-sprays should you be worried about the<br />

state of your roof this Summer. Call 0422 432 604.<br />

7<br />

Money Matt ers<br />

with David Dye<br />

David Dye and <strong>Valley</strong> Financial Pty Ltd are<br />

authorised through Matrix Planning Solutions<br />

Limited, AFSL and ACL 238256.<br />

Did you win the Lott o?<br />

<strong>The</strong> recent Lotto hype had many people asking what<br />

would you do with all that money. So I thought I would<br />

take a minute to look at that vast amount of money and<br />

put it into perspective.<br />

Let’s assume you earn $45,000, and you earn that<br />

amount of income all your working life. Let’s further<br />

assume you earn this income by the age of 25, that you<br />

remain in work until 65, and the amount grows with<br />

infl ation.<br />

You will earn $4M in your lifetime. Think about that.<br />

$4,000,000.<br />

That is like winning lotto. So if you think it is worth<br />

planning what to do with $4M in a Lotto win, why<br />

would we you not plan the best way to use your $4M<br />

you will earn in your lifetime?<br />

Without planning you will give around 17% to the<br />

taxman. If you have an average home loan you will<br />

spend around 9% of your $4M on interest.<br />

If you were able to invest 10% of your annual earnings<br />

(and I don’t trivialise how hard that would be) you<br />

would have more than $800,000* by the time you retire.<br />

This is on top of your super.<br />

So start saving early, start saving regular and seek some<br />

advice if you want to know how to make the most of<br />

your $4,000,000.<br />

*Assumes 5% net return, after tax at the average rate.<br />

<strong>Valley</strong><br />

Financial<br />

Helping you plan your<br />

fi nancial future<br />

At <strong>Valley</strong> Financial we take the time to fi nd out what is<br />

important to you, so we can develop a fi nancial plan<br />

tailored to your personal and fi nancial goals.<br />

Services include: • Superannuati on<br />

• Risk Insurance • Debt Management<br />

• Estate Planning • Account Structuring<br />

• Investment Management<br />

• Cash Flow Monitoring<br />

Contact us today on (07) 5411 4736<br />

to make an appointment at a ti me<br />

that suits you!<br />

Your Adviser: David Dye<br />

"<strong>Valley</strong> Financial Pty Ltd | Corporate Authorised Representati ve of Matrix<br />

Planning Soluti ons Limited | AFSL and ACL No. 238256"


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Successful change of format for Laidley Art Society members<br />

Joan Hodson and Kay McCartney stand in front of the respective<br />

paintings. Both members of LAS they were thoroughly enjoying the<br />

art show and Kay had sold three paintings by the time <strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong><br />

<strong>Weekender</strong> attended the exhibition. (Photo A Kirby)<br />

LAIDLEY Art Society Inc. decided to do things differently this year and instead of<br />

having their annual exhibition they held an art show instead.<br />

Dirk Blokland to feature at Art Gallery<br />

VISITORS to the Art Gallery in the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Cultural Centre will<br />

be in for a treat this month. About 90 paintings of Dirks will be on display.<br />

Entry to the gallery is free.<br />

Deputy Mayor Tanya Milligan said it was great to feature a local artist like<br />

Dirk in the Art Gallery.<br />

“To have someone this talented in our own backyard is really amazing,”<br />

she said.<br />

“Dirk has lived in Gatton as a professional artist for more than 40 years and<br />

always produces work of a high standard.”<br />

His exhibition comprises both recent and retrospective works in different<br />

styles, including watercolour, pen and wash and acrylic.<br />

Geoff Barlow visits Lockyer Libraries<br />

Talented book author Geoff Barlow will have audience members captivated<br />

later this month when he visits libraries in the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong>.<br />

On the back of releasing his latest book, Moonlight Express, Geoff will<br />

speak at the Gatton and Laidley libraries about his recent novel and answer<br />

any questions the public has.<br />

Writing as a mystery author, Geoff is no stranger to the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong><br />

growing up in the school residence at Mt Sylvia.<br />

He has tried his hand at a wide variety of jobs, including bank work, a paper<br />

round, running his own fruit shop in Laidley, and managing a health food<br />

store in Gatton.<br />

A couple of years ago, after researching old railway legends about train<br />

Proprietors: Kelli & Kym Schultz<br />

Traditional raditional Take-Away done with that Country Touch<br />

CHRISTMAS TRADING HOURS<br />

from 9 December 2012 until 27 January 2013<br />

General Trading<br />

Monday-Saturday 8am-6.30pm Sunday 9am-2pm<br />

Christmas / New Year Trading<br />

24 DECEMBER (Xmas Eve) 8am-2pm<br />

25 DECEMBER (Xmas Day) Closed<br />

26 DECEMBER (Boxing Day) 10am-2pm<br />

31 DECEMBER (New Year's Eve) 8am-2pm<br />

1 JANUARY, 2013 (New Year's Day) 10am-2pm<br />

133 Patrick St, Laidley Q 4341<br />

(07) 5465 1282<br />

8<br />

<strong>The</strong> change of format saved members from having to go around and<br />

hassle businesses for donations for prizes in the different sections<br />

and to fi nd judges that wanted to travel to Laidley.<br />

It has proven very successful indeed.<br />

President Terry Merrick said, "Every single painting in the<br />

exhibition is by a local artist and many of them have sold two or<br />

three paintings.<br />

"<strong>The</strong> standard is very high and the quality excellent."<br />

Long time member and exhibitor, Kay McCartney had sold three<br />

paintings by mid afternoon Saturday and said that the display was<br />

fi rst class.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re were works of art from some of the <strong>Valley</strong>'s popular artists<br />

- Jenny Bird, Joan Hodson, Val Merrick, Natasha Hodgson, Jaana<br />

Day and Dianne Ilka<br />

One couple came in the for the second year in a row and bought<br />

each other a painting for Christmas.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re were paintings on display ranging from $45 to over $900.<br />

LAS has exhibited twice so far in the Art Gallery at the Lockyer<br />

<strong>Valley</strong> Cultural Centre in Gatton.<br />

Three of their members, Jaana Day, Diane Ilka and Natasha<br />

Hodgson will be exhibiting there in March 2013 also.<br />

"That will be a very good exhibition to go and have a look at,"<br />

said Kay.<br />

It was all hands on deck by all the members but Pip and Sonia were<br />

given a special mention.<br />

He specialises in paintings of his client’s private homes, favourite buildings<br />

or landscapes.<br />

From studying old photographs, he has produced paintings of historic<br />

buildings which no longer exist.<br />

“Everybody should go and have a look at the work on display,” Cr Milligan<br />

said.<br />

“Don’t let this opportunity pass you by.”<br />

This display will be open to the public from Monday 5 November to Sunday<br />

9 December.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Gallery is open to the public during normal Library opening hours.<br />

For weekend access, see the staff at the Visitor Information Centre.<br />

whistles heard in remote places, and headlights appearing along disused rail<br />

tracks, Geoff began handwriting the fi rst draft of Moonlight Express.<br />

During the nineties, Geoff also wrote a series of authorised novels based on<br />

the classic Avengers television series.<br />

He will be speaking at the Gatton Library on Monday 26 November at 10am<br />

and then later that day during a luncheon at the Laidley Library at 1pm.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Gatton Library’s visit is free however bookings are preferred.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Laidley Library’s luncheon will be $5 and bookings are essential.<br />

For further information on Geoff Barlow’s trip to the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong><br />

contact either the Gatton Library on 5466 3434 or the Laidley Library on<br />

5466 8867.<br />

Laidley Landscaping Supplies<br />

SHOP LOCALLY... WE DELIVER<br />

Soils, Road Base, Sand & Gravel, Pavers, Blocks & Cement,<br />

Mulches, Potti ng Mix & Garden Pots, Weed Matti ng, Black<br />

Plasti c, Sleepers, Koppers Logs & much more...<br />

NEED SUPPLIES OVER CHRISTMAS?<br />

We will be CLOSED<br />

Sun, Mon, Tues, Wed: DECEMBER 23 - 26<br />

OPEN Thu, Fri, Sat: DEC 27 - 29<br />

CLOSED<br />

Sun, Mon, Tues: DEC 30 - 31 & Jan 1<br />

ALL AT THE BIG GREEN FROG!<br />

31 Laidley/Plainland Rd<br />

or phone Chris or Andrea 5465 3327<br />

OPEN 7 DAYS • Mon-Fri 8a-4.30pm Sat 8a-3p Sun 9a- 12N<br />

EXCEPT OVER CHRISTMAS


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Contributi ons<br />

Are we too apathetic?<br />

AM I alone in observing interesting facts relating to “nefarious,”<br />

objectionable decisions being made by our state and federal governments?<br />

Decisions, which have potentially dire consequences for us, the Australian<br />

people, the voters and should be, deep thinkers or watchers of government<br />

actions. Look at the debacle of Cubbie Station. Sold in preference to<br />

Chinese interests. Heading that sold off company, none other than ex-Labor<br />

Minister, DeLacy.<br />

Look up list of directors of companies dealing with pipeline supplies to<br />

gas wells, another ex minister. Look up directors of companies associated<br />

with power station or emission control companies, more of same, ex-<br />

Liberal Minister. <strong>The</strong>se so called Australians are only interested in self at<br />

our expense. Yet, under our Australian Constitution, we, the people, should<br />

be directing them. Where has it all gone wrong? Are we the Australian<br />

people, too apathetic? I believe so. Any major policy changes affecting us<br />

Australians under our Constitutional wording must go to a referendum. We,<br />

the people of Australia must make the decisions.<br />

Subsequently elected party directors are keeping us Australian people<br />

in the dark. Very little changes with a change of party elected. We must<br />

change this. I am holding on to the hope that a new party such as the Katter<br />

Australia Party will inject some honesty into the equations. Something<br />

different, a party to be held to account. Not promises made prior to election<br />

and immediately broken once in power. We are fast running out of options.<br />

We desperately require honest representatives.<br />

Bob Fowke - Ingoldsby Road,<br />

Upper Tenthill.<br />

COMMUNITY VIEWS<br />

As you would all be aware, Our Community Centre has been undergoing<br />

some modifi cations. We have a new look logo, we have recently undergone<br />

some Strategic Planning which is guiding our future activities and<br />

highlighting our values. And our new webpage is almost ready.<br />

Part of the modifi cations includes changes to our membership. Whilst in the<br />

past membership was held by individuals, at the recent AGM membership<br />

now includes several categories. Once of these, the associate membership<br />

is outlined below, in line with our Constitution.<br />

Associate Members shall be any Corporation, Association, Government<br />

Department or local Authority with a similar interest in all or any part of the<br />

objects of the Service and paid the prescribed membership fee, if any.<br />

Associate members of the Organisation may enjoy all of the benefi ts of<br />

membership excluding voting rights.<br />

Associate members can be registered under the following categories:<br />

1) Associate Members shall be all paid staff of the organisation.<br />

2) An associate member organisation, government department or<br />

local authority may appoint a representative from its members to<br />

speak at a general meeting however is excluded from voting.<br />

3) An associate member organisation may nominate a number of<br />

staff from within the organisation, the number being determined by the<br />

Management Committee and set at each AGM, that shall enjoy all of the<br />

benefi ts of membership of the association (excluding voting rights).<br />

Some mutual benefi ts of this membership aim to increase the ‘buy local’<br />

• Centrelink Agency<br />

• Volunteering<br />

Opportunities<br />

SUPPORT GROUPS<br />

Developed in response to<br />

community interest<br />

We’re here to help in times of need!<br />

13 Mary Street, Laidley<br />

Ph: (07) 5465 1889 Fax: 5465 1861<br />

Manager: Kerri Lynch<br />

YOUR LOCAL CHARITY - PRIMARY SERVICES<br />

• Laidley Women’s Group<br />

• Information and Referral<br />

• Internet Cafe<br />

from the Laidley Community Centre - Your Local Charity<br />

Laidley<br />

Community<br />

Centre<br />

9<br />

Tabeel open day<br />

LAIDLEY residents come from all over the place, have interesting stories<br />

to tell and love their home – ask them yourself at Tabeel Retirement<br />

Village open day on Sunday November 18.<br />

Visitors will have the chance to meet Laidley’s legendary green thumb<br />

master gardener Kevin Niethe, who brought the award-winning gardens<br />

to life and created a sea of colour featuring poppies, snap dragons,<br />

petunias, perennials and a memorial rose garden.<br />

Tabeel Lutheran Home manager Roland Weier said visitors can catch<br />

sight of their future home from 10am, with three retirement units<br />

available for purchase on site.<br />

“Take a site tour while your family enjoys a sausage sizzle, face painting<br />

and a jumping castle,” he said. “Find out more about retirement living at<br />

our free information sessions at 11am and 1pm in our display unit.”<br />

Mr Weier said there were many common aspects residents loved about<br />

their homes, describing Tabeel as the perfect “downsize”.<br />

<strong>The</strong> event will be held in Alfred Street, Laidley from 10am.<br />

Community Centre Christmas party<br />

Don't forget the Community Centre's Christmas party this year. It is being<br />

held at Laidley's Pioneer Village on Friday 14th December from 3.30pm<br />

until 6.30pm. You will be able to sing carols, see Santa, even bob for<br />

apples!<br />

It promises to be fun for all the family and only cost $5 per family to<br />

participate. You must pre-buy your tickets so phone 5465 1889 for more<br />

details.<br />

concept by sharing of benefi ts. For example, a member organisation may<br />

offer a benefi t to Our Community Centre members. In return member<br />

organisation staff will benefi t from OCC membership with discounted<br />

courses etc.<br />

Have you considered supporting your community by becoming a member<br />

of Our Community Centre and sharing the benefi ts?<br />

For Blokes<br />

“For Blokes” presented a 3 hour interactive workshop for blokes in our<br />

community aged from 17-70 who wanted to fi nd some ways to think and<br />

behave that served them and their families in a more positive way.<br />

Peter White, previous trauma counsellor with the Queensland Police Service,<br />

drew on his many experiences to guide the discussions and learnings. His<br />

informal style made it relevant and meaningful. “Thankfully it wasn’t too<br />

scientifi c”, said one attendee.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> speaker was humorous – and the topic was appropriate. <strong>The</strong> guys<br />

began to open up and share their issues”, expressed another.<br />

Basically Peter explained that our brain learns a way of responding from a<br />

very early age. Throughout life we draw on that ‘programmed’ way when<br />

we deal with any situation. However, those who want a better life must then<br />

challenge their ‘program’ and be willing to learn another response.<br />

Most of the ‘Blokes’ asked if he was returning for another workshop. If<br />

you are interested please contact Our Community Centre to express your<br />

interest.<br />

Emergency Relief Distribution<br />

No Interest Loans - household goods<br />

Computer Courses<br />

Community Development<br />

VISITING SERVICES<br />

• Lifeline Counselling<br />

• Various Health<br />

• Tax Help<br />

• Playgroup<br />

centre@Lscca.org.au<br />

www.Lscca.org.au<br />

Like & Follow us on Facebook


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Laidley RSL Sub Branch Memorial Scholarships 2012<br />

BROUGHT TO YOU BY PAUL EMMERSON<br />

(Principal)<br />

GJ Buckley & Associates<br />

SOLICITORS<br />

PJ Emmerson<br />

CPA & Registered Tax Agents<br />

Residential Tenancy Agreement<br />

Residential tenancy agreements can sometimes become<br />

a source of disagreement, particularly if any of the parties<br />

do not meet the terms of the tenancy agreement under the<br />

Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act<br />

2008 (the Act). <strong>The</strong> Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA)<br />

encourages tenants, lessors and agents to attempt to<br />

resolve disagreements themselves by talking to each other<br />

and fi nding out about their rights and responsibilities.<br />

If a dispute arises about a bond refund or a breach of a<br />

tenancy agreement, the concerned party should contact<br />

the RTA for information about the Act and the procedures<br />

to follow. <strong>The</strong> RTA’s dispute resolution service provides<br />

conciliation to help the parties resolve disputes if they are<br />

unable to do this themselves.<br />

<strong>The</strong> RTA can assist the parties to enter into a written<br />

agreement in the settlement of disputes. All tenancy related<br />

agreements reached must be consistent with the Act.<br />

<strong>The</strong>se agreements then become a term of the tenancy<br />

agreement.<br />

If the parties are not able to resolve the dispute, the RTA<br />

will issue a Notice of unresolved dispute which will allow the<br />

parties to apply to the Tribunal for a decision. In an urgent<br />

situation (these are specifi ed in the Act) tenants and the<br />

lessor/agent can apply straight to the Tribunal without fi rst<br />

lodging a Dispute resolution request form with the RTA.<br />

99 Patrick Street,<br />

Laidley Q 4341<br />

10<br />

In October, four scholarships each worth $850 were awarded to high school<br />

students in the Laidley area. This is the fourth year that these scholarships<br />

have been awarded, but this year an honorary scholarship was also<br />

awarded.<br />

Applicants for this scholarship must write a 1200 word essay on the topic<br />

“Discuss the importance of the ANZAC legend in Australia”.<br />

"A positive involvement in school and community activities is also<br />

important. <strong>The</strong> successful applicants work with the Laidley RSL Sub Branch<br />

for a twelve month period, helping with fund raising during the ANZAC and<br />

Remembrance periods. During ANZAC week they also give addresses to<br />

primary schools on what ANZAC Day means to them.<br />

“We have aimed these scholarships at the leaders of the future” Sub Branch<br />

President Mike Nowlan said. “<strong>The</strong> standard of applications received is<br />

generally quite high, and there is an obvious interest in the ANZAC history<br />

and what it means to us today."<br />

With the approach of the 100th anniversary of Gallipoli, the Sub Branch<br />

feels that it is imperative that the younger generations are aware of and<br />

involved in the promotion of this historic event.<br />

Pictured are the recipients of the awards RSL ambassadors (back row<br />

from left) Kate Lenz and Kaleb Baker, (front row from left) Monique<br />

Crack, Tiffany Dwey and Alainne Einam. (Photo Jim Nicholls)<br />

Christmas is coming to Mulgowie<br />

<strong>The</strong> Silly Season is upon us again and Mulgowie residents are in for a treat.<br />

<strong>The</strong>ir Christmas Festivities are on Saturday, November 24 at the Hall and it<br />

promises to be as good as last year.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Mulgowie Markets are also having a very Merry Christmas the week<br />

after on Saturday, December 1.<br />

Apart for all our usual wonderful stalls, Christmas goodies will abound<br />

galore and be available for all budgets. Yes Santa will be coming. He is<br />

expected around 8.45am and he will be handing out toys to the boys and<br />

girls.<br />

Photos will be taken in the hall by Deb's Shed Photography starting from<br />

about 9.30am. Cost is still only $10 including postage right to your door.<br />

So not only come for the wonderful gift ideas you can get and all the<br />

amazing fresh produce but also you can get photos for only $10.<br />

Local produce, gifts, home-made jams, breads, and loads more.<br />

Saturday 1st December from 8am - 11am. See you there.<br />

MULGOWIE MARKETS<br />

A Real Farmer's Market<br />

8am to 11am • SATURDAY, DECEMBER 1st, 2012<br />

Join us for breakfast at our Breakfast & Juice Bar<br />

Loads of Fresh Local Produce: craft , Australian garlic, fresh baked breads,<br />

olives, honey, ice cream, cheese, jams, butt er spreads, quality plants,<br />

lavender products and much more... THE BEST OF THE LOCKYER<br />

10kms south of Laidley at the Mulgowie Hall grounds<br />

FIRST SATURDAY of EVERY MONTH<br />

PH: 0448 693 999 www.mulgowiemarkets4341.com<br />

Santa will be arriving at 9am<br />

and professional photos sti ll only $10.<br />

Lots of great Christmas gift ideas


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

11<br />

R<br />

Adverti sement<br />

Harness the sun's energy and save money<br />

INSTALLING a grid connected solar system is a way of reducing your<br />

energy costs and keeping your household running cleaner and greener. With<br />

the push now on by many households to save on ever-rising energy costs<br />

and be kinder to the environment, Dean Mildon from Green energy Connect<br />

wants people to know that he is more than happy to sit down and discuss a<br />

household's individual needs.<br />

With grid-tied systems, excess electricity is sent back to the transmission<br />

grid, with standard grid electricity used to meet household shortfalls. Net<br />

metering programs give household systems a credit for any electricity they<br />

deliver to the grid. A separate meter box is installed by your energy company.<br />

This energy is collected by solar panels on your roof and converted to green<br />

energy via an inverter.<br />

But as Dean points out, there are other ways to help reduce those electricity<br />

bills. Green energy Solar now stock various LED lighting options also.<br />

He is only too happy to point out the advantages of using these to help keep<br />

energy costs down. LED is short for Light Emitting Diode which is a small,<br />

technologically advanced device that generates light by passing current<br />

through layers of a semi-conductor material housed in a chip.<br />

November November Specials<br />

Specials<br />

$4690*<br />

For 3.0kw Complete German System<br />

German Solar panels +<br />

3kw Delta Inverter<br />

$1890*<br />

For 1.5kw Solar<br />

System<br />

Trina Panels +<br />

1.5kw Ever Solar<br />

Inverter<br />

$4290*<br />

For 3.0kw Solar<br />

System<br />

Trina Panels +<br />

3.0kw Ever Solar<br />

Inverter<br />

$7990*<br />

For 5.0kw Solar<br />

System<br />

Trina Panels +<br />

5.0kw Ever Solar<br />

Inverter<br />

Green energy Connect<br />

Please call 07 3103 2747 or 0403 735 569 (Dean)<br />

*conditi ons apply<br />

1048 Beaudesert Rd.<br />

Coopers Plains Qld 4108<br />

Fax: 07 3246 5223<br />

119 Willoughby Rd.<br />

Crows Nest NSW 2065<br />

Fax: 02 9439 2157<br />

It is believed that one day this technology will replace the conventional light<br />

sources we are familiar with today - light bulbs and fl uros.<br />

Unlike conventional light sources, LEDs are solid-state lighting devices<br />

that don't utilize fi laments, gas or mercury to emit light. This eliminates<br />

the traditional lighting challenges for many households and commercial<br />

premises of high electricity use and periodic replacement.<br />

Dean can advise customers on other ways to help make their home greener<br />

and more effi cient to run.<br />

Green energy Connect have two of the best specials this month utilising<br />

some of the most advanced technology available in solar panels. He has two<br />

complete German Systems available in 3 and 5 kilowatt models both with 5<br />

kilowatt Delta inverters.<br />

A slightly cheaper option using University of Queensland tested Trina Solar<br />

Panels coupled with an Ever Solar Inverter are available in 1.5, 3 and 5<br />

kilowatt systems.<br />

Why not call Dean today and make an appointment so that he can assess<br />

what your needs are and work out a complete solution.<br />

After all it is a well know fact that on an average, per square metre solar<br />

radiation availability in Australia, is the highest in the world. Use it!<br />

$8690*<br />

For 5.0kw Complete German System<br />

German Solar panels +<br />

5kw Delta Inverter


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Pictured are Director of Prison Fellowship Qld, David Way and<br />

Sycamore Tree Project Coordinator Jason Wicks . (photo supplied)<br />

In September 2005, Michael Cockram entered a medium security prison<br />

with his friend John White and four survivors of signifi cant crime.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y were facilitators of a pilot course in Western Australia called the<br />

Sycamore Tree Project which has, since 1997, been operating in New<br />

Zealand and the United Kingdom.<br />

Together, they met with six prisoners, including four people convicted<br />

of offence against children and one convicted of murder (the prisoners<br />

were not related in any way to the visitors). <strong>The</strong> course lasted for seven<br />

mornings over three and a half weeks – including a graduation ceremony<br />

(the course now usually runs for eight mornings over two months).<br />

COMING SOON TO THE LOCKYER VALLEY<br />

Has a crime been committed<br />

against you?<br />

Prison Fellowship Queensland<br />

invites you to<br />

THE SYCAMORE TREE PROJECT<br />

FREE INFORMATION NIGHT<br />

7pm Tuesday 27th November 2012<br />

at the Gatton Shire Hall<br />

North Street, Gatton<br />

~FREE REFRESHMENTS~<br />

FOR MORE INFORMATION<br />

Phone Jason 0412 460 471<br />

or email: stp.qld@prisonfellowship.org.au<br />

www.pfqueensland.info/category/sycamore<br />

CARING FOR THOSE AFFECTED BY CRIME<br />

Has a crime been committ ed against you<br />

12<br />

During the course, they each told parts of their personal stories to the<br />

group and to one another, looking at what had happened in our lives,<br />

what issues they were struggling with and examining anew, concepts of<br />

what had happened in their lives.<br />

<strong>The</strong> results on both sides exceeded anything they could have imagined<br />

in terms of response, truth telling, honesty, expressed compassion<br />

and determination for change and could only be described as “life<br />

changing”.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Sycamore Tree Project is a Christian program which does not<br />

involve preaching.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Sycamore Tree Project is a faith-based program which involves<br />

an invitation to all participants to enter into a process of healing and<br />

discovery. <strong>The</strong> bible story ……. This is essentially changing the words<br />

in red and running the 6th and 7th paragraph together “Christian<br />

program which does not involve preaching. It involves an invitation to<br />

all participants (of whatever religious persuasion or world view),<br />

Michael and John have now conducted 15 courses in four prisons<br />

and one measure of the success of the program is to be found in the<br />

testamonials received from the recipients.<br />

David and Jason are doing the same in the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> and inviting<br />

everyone to an information night at 7pm on 27th November which is<br />

being held in the Gatton Shire Hall, North Street, Gatton.<br />

Here you will discover how this ground breaking restorative justice<br />

program helps ease the burden of grief amongst survivors of crime in<br />

over 20 countries and is to commence in the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> in 2013.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y are hoping to have their part of the project up and running in the<br />

Southern Queensland Corrective Centre by February next year. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

have plans to conduct regular programs at least two or three times over<br />

the course of the year. <strong>The</strong>y have been working with the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong><br />

Shire Council and the Salvation Army.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y would like survivors of crime in the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> area to<br />

consider being part of this ground breaking program.<br />

It costs nothing for the survivor of crime to do the program as all costs<br />

are met by the facilitating prison.<br />

This program has also seen remarkable success in other parts of the<br />

world with reoffending rates for participating inmates drop from around<br />

60% to approx 25%. When a reoffending rate like that drops to such<br />

an extent all society benefi ts. It really is a win win program because<br />

crime survivors fi nd a degree of healing and closure and inmates fi nd<br />

restitution and contrition and ultimately we all benefi t from that.<br />

'Lyn' (a survivor of crime from Brisbane) participated in the project and<br />

said, "I wish the Sycamore Tree Project was in every gaol, every day.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re are so many people that have been victims of crime that need to<br />

do this."<br />

An inmate reported the following after his fi rst meeting.... "I thought<br />

about this person’s journey.<br />

It affected me deeply. It makes you want to strive to be a better human<br />

being. For me personally, it was life affi rming stuff. I went to sleep that<br />

night wanting to change my life’s direction. I woke up the next morning<br />

knowing I had started to change my life’s direction.<br />

In the last 15 years, I have spent 13 ½ years within the system. I have<br />

done countless courses – some good, some bad. Without a shadow of<br />

a doubt the Sycamore Tree Project is the best thing that could ever<br />

have happened to me. <strong>The</strong> sheer rawness of emotions it delivers and<br />

the understanding and compassion it releases within people gives you a<br />

sense of hope for the future for everyone involved.<br />

Thank you.<br />

If you would like to attend please don't hesitate to contact Jason you<br />

can phone or email him (details below). Alternatively you may like to<br />

read up on the project and associated testamonials by going to www.<br />

pfqueensland.info/category/sycamore.


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

OUT'n'About<br />

Enjoying an afternoon of fashions by Portofi no were June<br />

Kealy of Forest Hill, one of the models, Trish Green and<br />

Chris Flanagan from Forest Hill.<br />

June and Chris did a lot of the organising for the afternoon<br />

which raised money for the Forest Hill School of Arts Hall<br />

Committee.<br />

<strong>The</strong> afternoon was very well attended with a full hall and the<br />

clothes were very smart indeed.<br />

<strong>The</strong> men weren't left out as they had a "day care centre" set<br />

up over at the cricket club.<br />

Andy Makin and Alisa Morrison (who does a Connie Francis<br />

tribute show) entertained the ladies through the course of the<br />

afternoon. (Photo Ann Kirby)<br />

THE Spring Creek Turf Farm located at 4<br />

Kelly Road, is a long established turf farm<br />

under new ownership and management.<br />

A picturesque farm with 40 acres of turf,<br />

Farm Manager Trevor (above) says it is a<br />

delight to go to work every day.<br />

Owners Ivan and Dawn Reid echo Trevor's sentinments exactly. <strong>The</strong>y<br />

originally bought the farm as a lifestyle block but decided to re-establish the<br />

turf side of things once they started living there.<br />

<strong>The</strong> farm supplies quality turf in three varieties of couch including blue, green<br />

and wintergreen. Green Couch is one of the most salt tolerant lawn varieties<br />

while Winter green is an attractive olive green hybrid with a soft formal<br />

appearance and a fi ne leaf texture. Blue Couch has a lovely soft texture with a<br />

very attractive dark green/blue colour and has a strong resistance to weeds.<br />

Spring Creek Turf Farm can cater for everyone from new home sites,<br />

developers to sports facilities and parks and Trevor will advise what best<br />

suits your area and planting time.<br />

His professional and friendly service is a credit to owners Dawn and Ivan.<br />

Call today for more information on our competitive prices or for a no<br />

obligation quote.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Federal Member for Wright, Scott Buchholz, spent time in Laidley and<br />

Plainland last week talking to residents. Mr. Buchholz travels around the Seat<br />

of Wright as much as possible to gain an insight into the needs and concerns of<br />

people, and even fi nds time to engage in activities where possible, such as his<br />

recent football game at Murphys Creek. Also present were the State LNP Member,<br />

Ian Rickuss and Councillor Kathy Mclean. From left, Scott Buchholz, Kathy<br />

Mclean, Jimmy King of Hatton Vale and Ian Rickuss. (Photo Warwick McLean)<br />

REMEMBER in the interest of our beauti ful valley's safety, always<br />

stay FIRE ANT AWARE. If you suspect fi reants, phone Biosecurity<br />

Queensland on 13 25 23 or seek general informati on regarding fi re<br />

ants and the eradicati on program at www.daff .qld.gov.au/fi reants<br />

13<br />

Ivan and Dawn Reid<br />

4 Kelly Road, Spring Creek<br />

(off the Gatt on-Esk Road)<br />

INSPECTIONS WELCOME<br />

BY APPOINTMENT<br />

Suppliers of Quality Turf:<br />

• Winter Green • Green Couch • Blue Couch


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Vet School receives American accreditati on<br />

UQ GATTON’S School of Veterinary Science has received offi cial<br />

confi rmation of full accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical<br />

Association (AVMA) for the next seven years.<br />

Professor Glen Coleman said the AVMA accreditation was a “tremendous<br />

result” and would have substantial benefi t for current and prospective<br />

students, staff, the university and the profession in general.<br />

“AVMA accreditation is well recognised as the international benchmark for<br />

14<br />

Fishing at Lake Dyer<br />

Many people may think that naturally there would be fi sh in Lake Dyer,<br />

but the only reason Jake was able to catch his fi sh is because of the<br />

efforts of the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Fish Restockers Assoc.<br />

Native Australian fi sh are not able to reproduce in man-made lakes and<br />

dams, and even Australia's natural river system is losing its ability to<br />

provide the conditions necessary for sustainable fi sh spawning.<br />

However, thanks to a large number of volunteers across Australia, fi sh<br />

bred in captivity are used to repopulate our waterways.<br />

In the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Fish Restocking Association<br />

(LVFRA) buys fi ngerlings (baby fi sh) of Yellowbelly, Bass, Silver Perch<br />

and Mary River Cod to put into Lake Dyer and MacIntosh Weir.<br />

Nearly 20,000 fi ngerlings are purchased each year with the money<br />

coming from a number of sources including a portion of the cost of the<br />

Permits required to fi sh in Impoundments (dams), fund raising activities<br />

and donations, and this is why the Laidley group needs your support. This<br />

years allocation is about to arrive, so watch out for a group of dedicated<br />

volunteers rush around the dam with buckets of new fi ngerlings and<br />

remember that you need a permit to fi sh in Lake Dyer.<br />

LVFRA meet the fi rst Thurday at 7-30pm of every month at Our<br />

Community Centre at 13 Mary St Laidley.<br />

For more information, contact the secretary at lvfr.secretary@gmail.com<br />

or see them on Facebook.<br />

A proud 12 y.o Jake Ranse with his recent catch at Lake Dyer<br />

quality in veterinary education,” Professor Coleman said.<br />

“This is a ringing endorsement of the quality of the school’s staff, students<br />

and facilities.”<br />

<strong>The</strong> UQ School of Veterinary Science also has full accreditation for the<br />

maximum seven years with both the Australasian Veterinary Boards Council<br />

and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in the UK.<br />

This enables UQ graduates to also practice in Australia, New Zealand, UK,<br />

Hong Kong and most of Asia.


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

HEALTHY TALK with Octavio Mellado<br />

Ankle sprain treatment<br />

In this edition will continue with the topic of an Ankle sprain.<br />

Sometimes is diffi cult to tell if you have a bone fracture. <strong>The</strong>refore, see<br />

a doctor if you suspect that you have a fracture. <strong>The</strong> following advice<br />

assumes you know that you have a sprained ankle (for example, having<br />

been told by a doctor or a Physiotherapist) and nothing more serious.<br />

A sprain is an injury to a ligament. Ligaments are strong tissues around<br />

joints which attach bones together.<br />

What is the aim of treatment?<br />

Usually, the damaged ligament heals by itself over time. Some scar<br />

tissue may be produced where there has been a tearing of tissues. <strong>The</strong><br />

main aims of treatment are to keep infl ammation, swelling, and pain<br />

to a minimum, and to be able to use the ankle joint normally again as<br />

quickly as possible.<br />

What is the treatment of a sprained ankle?<br />

For the fi rst 48-72 hours think of:<br />

PRICE : Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, and<br />

Do no HARM - No Heat, no Alcohol, no Running, no Massage<br />

PRICE<br />

Protect the injured ankle from further injury. For example, a bandage<br />

and/or ankle support may help with this.<br />

Rest the ankle joint for 48–72 hours following injury. For example,<br />

consider the use of crutches when wanting to be mobile.<br />

Ice should be applied as soon as possible after injury for 10-30 minutes.<br />

Less than 10 minutes has little effect. More than 30 minutes may<br />

damage the skin. Make an ice pack by wrapping ice cubes in a plastic<br />

bag or towel. (Do not put ice directly next to skin as it may cause iceburn.)<br />

A bag of frozen peas is an alternative.<br />

Compression with a bandage will limit swelling, and help to rest a<br />

joint.. Mild pressure that is not uncomfortable or too tight, and does<br />

not stop blood fl ow, is ideal. Remove before going to sleep.<br />

Elevation aims to limit and reduce any swelling. For example, keep the<br />

foot up on a chair to at least hip level when you are sitting<br />

Avoid HARM for 72 hours after injury.<br />

That is, avoid:<br />

Heat, for example, hot baths, saunas, heat packs.<br />

Alcohol drinks, which can increase bleeding and swelling and decrease<br />

healing.<br />

15<br />

Running, which may cause further damage.<br />

Massage, which may increase bleeding and swelling. However as with<br />

heat, after about 72 hours, gentle massage may be soothing.<br />

Other treatments:<br />

Physiotherapy may help for more severe sprains, or if symptoms are not<br />

settling. A physiotherapist can advise on exercises and may give heat,<br />

ultrasound, or other treatments.<br />

Medication:You may not need any medication if the sprain is mild<br />

and you can tolerate the pain. If needed, painkiller options include the<br />

following:<br />

• Paracetamol and codeine<br />

• Anti-infl ammatory painkillers<br />

<strong>The</strong>se drugs are also called nonsteroidal anti-infl ammatory<br />

drugs (NSAIDs). <strong>The</strong>y relieve pain and may also limit<br />

infl ammation and swelling.<br />

• Rub-on (topical) anti-infl ammatory painkillers<br />

You can buy one containing ibuprofen at pharmacies<br />

without a prescription<br />

Octavio Mellado is a Physiotherapist and an Accredited Exercise<br />

Physiologist working in Laidley<br />

Conditions commonly treated at Laidley<br />

Physiotherapy Centre include:-<br />

� Back, shoulders and neck<br />

problems<br />

� Sports injuries<br />

� Join problems<br />

� Muscle, ligament and<br />

tendon injuries<br />

� Osteoarthritis<br />

� Post-operations<br />

� Postural problems<br />

� Work related injuries<br />

� Whiplash and tension<br />

headaches<br />

� Veteran Affairs (DVA)<br />

Falls prevention assessments and falls prevention programs<br />

We Bulk Bill clients on Medicare plans<br />

Deep Tissue Massage available<br />

to relieve chronic pain (neck, shoulders etc)<br />

Physiotherapist:<br />

Octavio Mellado<br />

Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday<br />

Phone 5465 3001


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Dance Tuition<br />

e Laidley Dance<br />

Centre<br />

�<br />

��������������������<br />

�����������������������������������<br />

����������������������<br />

�����������������������������������<br />

Catholic Church Hall<br />

John<br />

��������<br />

St, Laidley<br />

See our website<br />

���������������������������������<br />

www.laidleydancecentre.com<br />

����������������������������������<br />

For information call 0412 068 587<br />

or email laidleydancecentre@hotmail.com<br />

Markets<br />

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES<br />

Hypnotherapist<br />

STOP<br />

SMOKING<br />

2 HOURS*<br />

NO CRAVINGS<br />

NO MOOD SWINGS<br />

HYPNOTHERAPY WORKS<br />

TO REFOCUS YOUR MIND<br />

MAKE POSITIVE CHANGE TODAY!<br />

Phone 0400 617 274<br />

bbshypnotherapy@gmail.com<br />

www.bbshypnotherapy.com<br />

Local Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> business<br />

*most people who want to stop smoking will stop in<br />

a 2 hr session. A very small number of people require a follow up session<br />

Handmade team full steam<br />

ahead<br />

THE mother and daughters<br />

team at Handmade (Miriam,<br />

Micky and Liesa) are<br />

steaming ahead with their<br />

business plans and have<br />

branched out into Kingaroy,<br />

Redlands and Morayfi eld.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y have a busy weekend<br />

ahead of them with their<br />

Ipswich location on<br />

tomorrow and their inaugural<br />

market in Kingaroy the next<br />

day.<br />

Don't forget if you go to Ipswich you can ride this fabulous train. Miriam<br />

says that this dedicated bunch of train enthusiasts get up at 4am so that<br />

they can be prepared for the visitors to their market at Bundamba.<br />

<strong>The</strong>y are holding their pre-Christmas Boutique Market this year again<br />

at Forest Hill on November 24<br />

starting 9am. Don't miss out,<br />

this is your chance to buy heaps<br />

of handmade, handbaked and<br />

handgrown goodies for the festive<br />

season.<br />

If you can't make the market,<br />

Miriam has a lot of the stock in<br />

her delightful little store, Mimmis<br />

of Forest Hill.<br />

However it is a shame not to<br />

attend the Boutique Market day,<br />

as everyone is involved, even the<br />

Forest Hill State School who run<br />

the sausage sizzle.<br />

Mark your calendars and fi t it in<br />

to your Christmas schedule.<br />

SAT. 24th NOV.<br />

<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong> advertising rates<br />

1/8 PAGE<br />

Black & White $65<br />

Colour $110<br />

NOTICES<br />

QUARTER PAGE<br />

Black & White $85<br />

Colour $150<br />

18<br />

Pet Sitting<br />

DEB's DINKY DI<br />

PETSITTING<br />

ABN: 938 250 485 63<br />

Caring for all pets<br />

great & small in your<br />

own home<br />

FULLY INSURED - POLICE CHECKED - BLUE CARD<br />

For Peace of Mind Pet Care<br />

phone Deb on 5465 6858 or<br />

mobile 0400 932 092<br />

Markets<br />

SAT. 17th 15 SEPT NOV.<br />

WEBSITE: www.thehandmadeexpo.com.au<br />

Inspired by<br />

NOBEL PRIZE<br />

WINNING<br />

research<br />

AND EXCLUSIVE TO<br />

AVON<br />

Real Estate<br />

Markets<br />

Special Announcement<br />

Laidley<br />

Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Aged and Handicapped Association Incorporated<br />

������������������ 6am - 12pm<br />

Karen Mitchell (Manager)<br />

Phone 0438 881 281<br />

AS SEEN ON CURRENT AFFAIR youtube.com/AvonAUSNZ<br />

See the look of<br />

wrinkles reduced<br />

in 2 weeks or your<br />

money back.<br />

LIMITED EARLY STOCK AVAIL. IN NEXT 2 WEEKS<br />

BEFORE THE OFFICIAL LAUNCH MID 2013<br />

contact your Avon Sales Representati ve today as stocks are strictly limited.<br />

or Contact Lisa Edge 0447 742 687 Email: lisaavon1@live.com<br />

HALF PAGE<br />

Black & White $150<br />

Colour $250<br />

For all enquiries, phone Ann 5465 2500 or 0409 886 907<br />

FULL PAGE<br />

B & W $220<br />

Colour $350


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Declan raises money for cancer<br />

EVERYONE was in the mood to raise money on the night of MCM's<br />

cancer awareness fundraiser at the Laidley Bowls Club recently. In<br />

particular, young Gatton lad, Declan Smith who set about painting<br />

fi ngernails and toenails 'for a good cause'. He was charging $5 and<br />

had raided his mother's cache of colours. Some of his efforts were<br />

very creative indeed. He even managed to con some of the men into<br />

having their toes made over.<br />

Others played a game of bowls or enjoyed the sausage sizzle.<br />

<strong>The</strong>re was also karaoke during the course of the night.<br />

Organiser, Holly Steinhardt was overwhelmed by local businesses'<br />

generosity and the raffl es were drawn in two stages. <strong>The</strong>re were<br />

many happy recipients of some great prizes. Over 50 people attended<br />

the night and she raised just on $1600.<br />

Above: Organiser, Holly Steinhardt tries her hand at<br />

karaoke on the night and right, Declan Smith paints<br />

Tony Kraut's toenails, as his part of the fund raising<br />

effort. (More photos on Facebook.)<br />

Photos Ann Kirby<br />

UQ celebrates 20 years of agribusiness graduates<br />

AGRIBUSINESS and Rural Management students recently joined<br />

industry partners, government representatives and staff at a black tie<br />

dinner at the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Cultural Centre on Friday November 2to<br />

celebrate the 20-year contribution of the program to the agricultural<br />

industry.<br />

Professor Ray Collins and Associate Professor Tony Dunne, from the<br />

School of Agriculture and Food Sciences were honoured at the event<br />

for introducing the Bachelor of Agribusiness two decades ago.<br />

“We have now completed about 70 overseas research projects for<br />

more than 50 companies, taking Agribusiness students to 16 different<br />

countries,” Professor Collins said.<br />

Take the Brightview/Woolworths exit on the Warrego Hwy<br />

Extensive range • In-store specials<br />

Huge wine selection<br />

4 cartons for<br />

$ 130<br />

Available unti l<br />

Sunday, Nov 30 or<br />

ti ll stocks run<br />

out<br />

xxxx gold stubs, 24pk, 375m<br />

Mega<br />

Texan<br />

Turkey Leg<br />

$ 26.90<br />

GAMING ROOM - LATEST POKIES Wide Screen Plasma TV - Video Juke Box<br />

Pool Tables - Kids Adventure Playground & Arcade Room<br />

19<br />

<strong>The</strong> Honourable John McVeigh, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries<br />

and Forestry was the guest speaker on the night, offering advice to<br />

the students on the important role they will play in the Agricultural<br />

industry.<br />

At the dinner the Queensland Cotton Award for overall dedication,<br />

excellence and commitment to the program was presented to Ms<br />

Hannah Avery, and the B&B Chamala Memorial Prize for academic<br />

excellence was presented to Ms Eryn Wrigley.<br />

Current Agribusiness and Rural Management students will graduate at<br />

UQ Gatton on December 12.<br />

OPEN FOR MEALS EVERY DAY<br />

Full Menu available • Lunch from 11am • Dinner from 5pm<br />

� LUNCH SPECIAL $10 Steak<br />

� WEDNESDAY night $10.90 menu (incl. steak)<br />

� THURSDAY night 2 for 1<br />

(2nd person dine in free same<br />

value or cheaper meal)<br />

Phone 5465 8444


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

TAROTSCOPE • 17th - 30th NOV with Juanita<br />

AQUARIUS – JAN 21 ST – FEB 19 TH :<br />

Have some faith in yourself! Don’t worry about<br />

others and recognise your own strengths and go<br />

for it!<br />

PISCES - FEB 20 TH – MAR 20 TH :<br />

Some challenges are coming your way but<br />

nothing you can’t handle. It’s just an annoyance<br />

and will go away quickly.<br />

ARIES - MAR 21 ST – APR 20 TH :<br />

You will be feeling restless and not sure what<br />

to do next. Just try some new things and be<br />

open to new ideas and suggestions.<br />

TAURUS - APRIL 21 ST – MAY 21 ST :<br />

You are about to be blessed by the romance fairy!<br />

Nurture it and bask in the opportunities it will<br />

present to you!<br />

GEMINI – MAY 22 ND – JUNE 22 ND :<br />

A strong willed person will be coming into your life. Learn from them and use<br />

the information wisely.<br />

CANCER – JUNE 23 RD – JUL 23 RD :<br />

You may be feeling like you don’t know what to do next. Just take your time<br />

to decide things.<br />

Community billboard<br />

Bingo<br />

Tuesday 7.30pm Thurs 9.30am Fri 7.30pm. Shop 5<br />

Laidley Shopping Mall. Phone Paula on 0412 108 045<br />

Book Club<br />

Meets at the Laidley library on the third Friday of<br />

each month at 11.am. Phone Nikki on 5466 8867.<br />

Country Music Jam Session with John<br />

1st Sunday of month at Laidley Hotel from 1pm<br />

Glenore Grove CWA<br />

Meets Mondays at 1pm at CWA Hall, Glenore Grove<br />

for craft activities. Second Monday - meetings.<br />

Home League<br />

Non-denominational ladies’ fellowship every<br />

Thursday 9.30am – 11.am. Salvation Army Hall,<br />

William Street. Phone 5465 3519.<br />

Poets and Acoustic Musician morning<br />

Every second Thursday of each month at Pioneer<br />

Village from 10am to Noon. Everyone is welcome<br />

$3 donation to the Village or become a member of<br />

Historical Society. Phone: 0428 502 262 or 5465 1743<br />

after 7pm<br />

Leukaemia Foundation<br />

Lockyer/Brisbane <strong>Valley</strong>s Branch meets 10.am 3rd<br />

Thursday of each month, alternating between the<br />

Gatton RSL Services Club & Plainland Hotel. Phone<br />

Gayle on 5465 6685.<br />

2 Great<br />

Locations<br />

Quality Musical Instruments<br />

& Equipment (Guitars,<br />

Drum Kits, PA’s)<br />

plus large range of Strings<br />

& accessories<br />

for all instruments<br />

92 Patrick St, Laidley<br />

Ph: 5465 1105<br />

41 Russell St, Toowoomba<br />

Ph: 4639 2939<br />

www.bandland.net.au<br />

Check out our website<br />

Large Range<br />

available<br />

20<br />

LEO – JUL 24 TH – AUG 23 RD :<br />

A diffi cult situation is coming to an end. A new future is well within your<br />

grasp as long as you don’t go making the same mistakes Leo!<br />

VIRGO – AUG 24 TH – SEPT 23 RD :<br />

Enjoy the sense of satisfaction you may feel. It’s time for you to benefi t so<br />

stop worrying!<br />

LIBRA – SEPT 24 TH – OCT 23 RD :<br />

<strong>The</strong> generosity of others will bring out these same qualities in you. Have<br />

some faith in yourself Libra!<br />

SCORPIO – OCT 24 TH – NOV 22 ND :<br />

Time for you to take stock of what you have achieved and just spend some<br />

quiet time refl ecting..<br />

SAGITTARIUS – NOV 23 RD – DEC 21 ST :<br />

New friends are coming up for you Sagi! It’s an opportunity for you to let<br />

down the barriers and enjoy life!<br />

CAPRICORN – DEC 22 ND – JAN 20 TH :<br />

Pat yourself on the back Capricorn, you’ve done well! Get ready for a time<br />

of action coming your way!<br />

Just a thought: When the best we do sti ll doesn’t work. It’s a message to<br />

leave it all alone to take care of itself.<br />

Juanita welcomes questions from people needing advice. Just go to her website<br />

for more details. www.mysticwhispers.net<br />

Laidley Art Society<br />

Meets at Laidley Cultural Centre, every Thursday<br />

9-12.<br />

Laidley Diabetes Support Group<br />

Meets Laidley Hospital Conference Room at<br />

12.30pm 3rd Tuesday Ph 5466 8100 for details.<br />

Laidley Weight Support Group<br />

Meets Wednesdays, 9am, Mary Street Community<br />

Centre. Ph: 5465 6632 or 5465 1520.<br />

Toastmasters International<br />

<strong>The</strong> Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Club meets at Gatton Senior<br />

Citizens, North Street - 2nd and 4th Thursday of<br />

each month. Contact Marie on 0477 299 855 for<br />

more details.<br />

Laidley Community Day Club<br />

Every Tuesday 9.30am-2pm Laidley Cultural<br />

Centre’s function room. Open to everyone. $5.<br />

Contact Barry Slocum on 0416 294 444 for details.<br />

Laidley Lions International<br />

Laidley Lions Club dinner meeting. 2nd and 4th<br />

Thursday of each month at the QN Hotel Laidley.<br />

6.30pm. Contact Jeanette Harvey 5465 1854.<br />

Mainly Music Program for Pre-School Children<br />

Laidley Friday at 9.30am - Hatton Vale Tuesday at<br />

9.30am. Contact: Church Offi ce 54651162 or<br />

Email. luc@lizzy.com.au<br />

Neighbourhood Watch, Forest Hill<br />

Meets quarterly, on the second Tuesday<br />

of that month at 5.30pm at the offi ces of<br />

Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Real Estate. Email: viv@<br />

lockyervalleyrealestate.com.au for more<br />

information<br />

RSL Sub-branch<br />

Laidley Cultural Centre. Service pensions<br />

& welfare. Monthly meetings on the second<br />

Friday of each month. Offi ce open Mondays<br />

9-12, other times by appointment.Phone<br />

5465 1738.<br />

Scouts<br />

Joeys 6-8 yrs. Meet 4.30 to 5.30 every Wed<br />

at Glenore Grove Scout Den. Cubs 6pm -<br />

8pm. Scouts and Venturers - Fridays 7pm to<br />

9pm. Contact Toni 0407 622 514<br />

Vietnam Veteran’s Federation<br />

Brisbane-Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong>s Sub-branch. Sale<br />

yards, Laidley – Rosewood Road. Drop-in<br />

centre, pensions & welfare. From 10.am every<br />

Tuesday & Thursday. Phone 5465 2591.<br />

Laidley Spiritual Church, meets at<br />

LVDCA in the mall 10am - 12 on fortnightly<br />

basis, starting Oct 14<br />

Rhema Family Church, Plainland<br />

meets 10am Sunday; 6pm Wednesday; Youth<br />

program 6pm Fridays. Ph: 0412 380 444.<br />

AAA<br />

• Keys 2 Drive<br />

• Accredited Instructor<br />

• Covering all areas<br />

in the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong><br />

• Competitive Pricing<br />

MANUAL & AUTOMATIC CARS<br />

ASK US ABOUT OUR PACKAGE DEAL<br />

www.aaaschoolofmotoring.com.au


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

“Keeper of the <strong>Valley</strong>” brings Sti ngless Bees to Ma Ma Creek<br />

At the recent Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> National Tree Day Awards, Ma Ma Creek<br />

student Amelia Webster was awarded the “Environmental Keeper of the<br />

<strong>Valley</strong>” award for her positive contributions towards the environment at<br />

her school. Amelia was presented by Russell Zabel with a Stingless Native<br />

Bee Box for the school.<br />

Principal, Mr Craig Pearen, said that the school had been an active<br />

participant on Lockyer Tree Day for a number of years with the benefi ts<br />

obvious in the wonderful presentation of the school grounds.<br />

Last Friday, Russell Zabel from Australian Stingless Native Bees and Peter<br />

O’Brien (Lockyer Tree Day Co-ordinator) visited the school to install the<br />

box for the students. <strong>The</strong> students were given an insight into Australian<br />

Stingless Native Bees by Mr Zabel and are already planning to split the<br />

box in 12 months to increase the number of bees.<br />

Pictured is Amelia Webster with Russell Zabel (Australian Stingless<br />

Native Bees) and Peter O’Brien (Lockyer Tree Day)<br />

New team to help grow Queensland agriculture<br />

Member for Lockyer, Ian Rickuss MP has today welcomed the appointees<br />

of the new Horticulture Industry Development Group (Horticulture IDG) in<br />

its fi rst quarterly meeting.<br />

“This important group will work with the Department of Agriculture,<br />

Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) to progress issues relating to the future<br />

prosperity of the Queensland horticulture sector,” he said.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> Newman Government is committed to the goal of doubling food<br />

production in Queensland by 2040.<br />

“By bringing together industry teams such as the Horticulture IDG we are<br />

laying the groundwork for a more productive future in Queensland.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> Horticulture IDG will also oversee the delivery of the $500,000<br />

Horticulture Workforce Plan election commitment.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> membership includes industry leaders and successful horticulture<br />

business people who understand the issues and challenges for this sector.<br />

“This will ensure a strong business approach to growing the horticulture<br />

industry.<br />

“<strong>The</strong> Horticulture IDG will be led by Mr Selwyn Snell, a highly respected<br />

member of the industry.<br />

LVRC gets graffi ti grant<br />

Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> Regional Council will get a $16,000 grant from the Newman<br />

Government as it steps up efforts to rid local areas of graffi ti or give a facelift<br />

to community facilities.<br />

All of the State’s 73 councils will share in funding for the next four years to<br />

ensure public buildings and amenities are looking their best.<br />

Member for Lockyer, Ian Rickuss MP, said the Council will decide how it<br />

uses the money.<br />

“Some communities are more seriously affected than others, but this<br />

government won’t confi ne grants to postcode 4000,” Mr Rickuss said.<br />

“In line with the Newman Government’s view of empowering local<br />

communities, the Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong> council will decide how best to use the<br />

money.”<br />

Local Government Minister David Crisafulli said graffi ti was costing<br />

councils thousands of dollars each year.<br />

“Whether it’s a pedestrian bridge or a picnic table, locals are proud of<br />

their community assets and they don’t want them to be tagged by graffi ti<br />

vandals,” Mr Crisafulli said.<br />

“Councils may also choose to paint a mural on a wall or give a lick of paint<br />

to a public toilet.<br />

“Either way, we know the local community will get bang for their buck.”<br />

In conjunction with the grants, Crime Stoppers will run a new State-wide<br />

Graffi tiSTOP hotline, website and Facebook page so people can alert<br />

authorities to new graffi ti by phone, text or online.<br />

<strong>The</strong> initiative will also give Council the opportunity to join with the<br />

Department of Community Safety to use community service offenders to<br />

help remove graffi ti where appropriate.<br />

Graffi tiSTOP is now live online and is part of the Newman Government’s<br />

Safer Streets and Crime Action Plan.<br />

Graffi tiSTOP: 1300 472 334 (6am to 6pm Monday to Fridays excluding<br />

Public Holidays)<br />

www.graffi tistop.com.au or Facebook: Graffi tiSTOP<br />

21<br />

“As an independent chair, Mr Snell will be responsible for facilitating<br />

actions and activities that meet key industry needs.”<br />

Mr Rickuss said the members are appointed for a two year term and would<br />

include:<br />

• Independent Chair – Mr Selwyn Snell<br />

• Industry members – Mr John Bunker, Mr Geoff Chivers, MrDavid<br />

De Paoli, Mr Ian Groves, Mr Matthew Hood, Mr Jamie Jurgens, Mr<br />

Alex Livingstone, Mr Doug Phillips, Ms Marie Piccone, Mr Ray Hook,<br />

Mr Gavin Scurr, Ms Ros Smerdon, Mr Andrew Young and Mr Carl<br />

Walker.<br />

• Ex Offi cio Members – Mr John Chapman and Mr Bob Durance<br />

Specifi cally the committee will identify obstacles such as red tape,<br />

opportunities for industry growth, help develop and implement programs<br />

and policies to grow the industry and guide research and development<br />

investment.<br />

For further information on the Horticulture Industry Development Group,<br />

please contact Bob Durance on 07 3224 8780 or via email bob.durance@<br />

daff.qld.gov.au.<br />

<strong>The</strong> Music Man<br />

EACH year for the past seven years the Lockyer Regional Performing Arts has<br />

brought a well loved musical to the valley. 2013 will be no exception when in<br />

April they present <strong>The</strong> Music Man, a bright, funny, toe tapping musical with a cast<br />

aged from 4 to 84.Our fi rst rehearsal/familiarisation/semi formal audition will be<br />

this Sunday 18th November commencing at 1 pm at the Laidley Cultural Centre.<br />

All interested parties are invited to join us. We rehearse each Sunday afternoon<br />

and can promise a warm welcome to youngsters, teenagers and the more mature<br />

members of our community. We have a great choreographer who can make<br />

anybody look good, a musical director who will have you singing like a lark, and a<br />

director and assistant who really know their theatre. So why not check us out?<br />

If the 18th is not a good day for you, please don’t hesitate to call director Liz<br />

Quinn on 0432 469 866 or 5465 2587.<br />

C.W. Hooper & Hooper<br />

Established 1895<br />

We provide professional cost eff ective<br />

Conveyancing • Will Preparation<br />

• Powers of Attorney • Estate Administration<br />

• Family Law matters • Civil matters<br />

• Traffi c Matters<br />

Phone 5465 1399<br />

Fax 5465 1667 • 123 Patrick St Laidley<br />

Email: Reception@cwhooper.com.au


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Litt le A's batt le the weather<br />

Councillors Tanya Milligan and Kathy McLean present Participation Medals to the<br />

U7 & U8 Athletes who competed on the day from across the region aided by Regional<br />

Co-ordinator and Secretary of laidley Little Athletics, Matthew Scully. (photo cont.)<br />

Laidley Golf results<br />

Wednesday 31st October - Ladies Competition - Ambrose x 2 - Pam Millican<br />

and Margaret Brown’s Trophies.<br />

Winners: Sandy Littlejohns and Rae Matthews with 76/63¼ from Cheryl Sternberg<br />

and Sue Lee 73/64. Others: Flo Lee and Laurel Taylor 79/64¼, Chris Scheiwe<br />

and Jan Sippel 80/70¼, Judy Logan and Helen Gray 80/72, Jenny Paroz and<br />

Monie Lerch 89/73¼, Marie Voorma and Petal Davis 86/75¼, Margaret Brown<br />

and Pam Millican 93/77½, Sue McGrath and Audrey Brimblecombe 98/83¼.<br />

Pins: No 9 Cheryl Sternberg and Sue Lee No 11 Cheryl Sternberg and Sue Lee.<br />

Thursday 1st November - Open Competition - Single Stroke. Winner: John<br />

Moore 71 nett from Nev Emmerson 73, Run Down: D Mortison 74, C Weier<br />

74, L Clark 74, J Ward 75, G. Dawson 76, A Parker 76, J Morris 76, Others: R<br />

Hampton 77, J Taylor 77, B Irwin 78, E Hindson 79, K Hauser 79, B Thorpe 80,<br />

G Natalier 86. Putting: G Dawson Pins: (8) D Mortison & N Emmerson (4) J<br />

Morris (9) C Weier<br />

Saturday 3rd November - Monthly Medal & Putting - Single Stroke. Ladies Winner:<br />

Jan Sippel 70 from Melissa Littlejohns 72, Flo Lee 73, Jenny Paroz 74,<br />

Maureen McKinlay 77, Margaret Brown 77, Jan Prosser 79, Barbara Panzram<br />

79, Linda Knopke 79, Sandy Littlejohns 81, Helen Gray 84. Pins: Div. 1 Melissa<br />

Littlejohns Div. 2 Margaret Brown. Putting: Jenny Paroz 29<br />

22<br />

AROUND 310 children participated in the Laidley Little<br />

Athletics (LLA) hosted Downs and South West Regional<br />

Carnival last Saturday. Competitors from Laidley, Ropehill,<br />

Toowoomba Central, Toowoomba South, Mt Tarampa,<br />

Pittsworth and Warwick braved the constant drizzle and<br />

participated in all events except for high jump which was<br />

called off due to safety concerns.<br />

Councillors Tanya Milligan and Kathy McLean attended<br />

the day and presented awards to Under 7s and Under 8s.<br />

Councillor Milligan spoke on behalf of Lockyer <strong>Valley</strong><br />

Regional Council saying she was happy to see some 300<br />

little athletes from across the Downs and South West Region<br />

competing on such a challenging day due to the weather<br />

conditions, acknowledging the commitment parents and<br />

children have to the sport of athletics.<br />

Councillor Milligan went on to say that the atmosphere<br />

around the arena was refreshing with the fun and enthusiasm<br />

shown by the younger generation. She thanked the club<br />

for its invitation and apologised for Mayor Steve Jones<br />

absence.<br />

Regional Co-ordinator and Secretary of Laidley Little<br />

Athletics, Matthew Scully said that the club was extremely<br />

grateful for everything the council did with regards to<br />

lighting for Friday night's practices, top dressing of the<br />

grounds and maintenance.<br />

LLA actively supports the Active Healthy Lockyer scheme<br />

that the LVRC is currently running.<br />

LLA now travels to Brisbane to compete at State Level<br />

for Relays, after Christmas LLA travels to Warwick for<br />

Regional Championships and then hosts a Twilight Carnival<br />

at the end of February.<br />

Laidley Little Athletics practice every Friday night but have<br />

closed their registrations off for the year, however Verna<br />

Smith from Mt Tarampa said that they were still accepting<br />

registrations so if anyone is interested they could contact her<br />

or follow this link www.mtlac.com.au/sign-on/registrationfees.<br />

Pictured after clean up on Saturday were some happy participants<br />

- from back: Brooke Sullivan, Kate Berlin, Wendy Scully, Jordan<br />

Sullivan and Branden Wood.<br />

Middle row: Holly Berlin, Madeline Schultz, Brittany Jackwitz Talia<br />

Smith (with her medal) and Catherine Lee.<br />

Kneeling are Mykala Greenup and Natalie Jackwitz. (more photos<br />

on Facebook)<br />

Mens Winner - Div. 1 M Hyde 67, Runner-up S. King 69 (c/b), Div. 2 R Gray<br />

69, Runner-up R Holmes 71.<br />

Rundown: D Sippel 69, T Madsen 70, S Clem 72, M Acutt 73, C Crack<br />

73, C Mckay 73, P Hooper 73, K Prosser 73, G Rodgers 73, M Smyley<br />

74, S Bundy 74, J Panzram 74 Others: G Dawson 75, c Lee 75, G Wild 75,<br />

D Mortison 76, A Van Ansem 76, T Attenborough 77, N Emmerson 77, R<br />

Hampton 77, S Richardson 78, B Thorpe 78, D Kajewski 79, M Broomfi eld<br />

80, K Goebel 80, A Paroz 80, J Neuendorff 81, J Moseley 83, Pins: (B) S<br />

Clem (C) J Moseley (All In) C Crack (Alco) C McKay (Pro Pin) M Hyde.<br />

Putting: P Hooper 33<br />

Coming Events: Thu 8th Nov Open Event 8.30 Shotgun Start. Sat 10th Nov<br />

Medal of Medals, Rest of Field Single Stroke<br />

Phone: 0434 941 467<br />

sales@laidleycleaningservices.com.au<br />

REGULAR CLEANS<br />

ONLY $25 per hour*<br />

*Conditions Apply: Extra travel fee may apply • Most days available<br />

• Fully insured and police checked staff


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

Melbourne Cup at the QN<br />

MELBOURNE Cup Day luncheon was held at the QN once again<br />

by the Laidley Hospital Auxillary. It was a packed house and seems<br />

to get more popular every year. Cassandra Pulver of Black & White<br />

With Shades of Grey hosted the fashion parade. Kathleen Watts<br />

provided the entertainment and proved how good women are at<br />

multi-tasking by wowing the crowds with a few excellent songs.<br />

Teresa from Karinya Nursing home helped the girls on the day<br />

Ms Pulver, owner of Black & White With Shades of Grey said the<br />

day was a huge success. Photographer, Grace from Grace Ploetz<br />

Photography was there on the day to shoot the lovely ladies as they<br />

showed off some of Cassandra's beautiful vintage fashions. Hair &<br />

Make Up was by Rachel Dent<br />

<strong>The</strong> models (pictured) were: Louisa Everett, Jacq Hackett and<br />

Kathleen Watts. Ms Pulver is in the green dress.<br />

(Photos by Grace Ploetz Photography)<br />

<strong>The</strong> Big O returned IT was another night of<br />

songs from <strong>The</strong> Big O<br />

(alias the very talented<br />

Eddie Daniels) who<br />

sung to a packed house<br />

recently at the QN.<br />

It was the last of the<br />

year's entertainment<br />

- tribute shows which<br />

have proved very<br />

popular with local music<br />

lovers.<br />

This year Liz and the<br />

crew at the QN have<br />

treated patrons to Johnny<br />

Cash, Patsy Cline,<br />

Kenny Rogers, Loretta<br />

Lynne and many<br />

more. It will be<br />

interesting to see<br />

who lines up next<br />

year.<br />

Don't forget Liz<br />

has bought the<br />

Grandchester<br />

Hotel, so why not<br />

pop over and say<br />

gidday.<br />

Grandchester is the<br />

home of steam and<br />

Photos by Ann Kirby<br />

Connie Francis rocks<br />

an interesting place<br />

to visit.<br />

ALISA Morrison<br />

appeared at the Eagle<br />

Rock Cafe not long<br />

ago and put on a<br />

great show doing<br />

a tribute night to<br />

Connie Francis.<br />

She sang all the old<br />

favourites while<br />

everyone enjoyed a<br />

delicious four course<br />

Italian meal cooked<br />

beautifully by Denise<br />

and her team. She<br />

was aided by her two<br />

back up singers and<br />

a dog that wandered<br />

in and made "How<br />

Much is that Doggy<br />

in the Window"<br />

appear just that bit<br />

more realistic.<br />

(Photos by Grace Ploetz Photography)<br />

23<br />

(Photos by Grace Ploetz Photography)<br />

BOOK YOUR<br />

CHRISTMAS PARTY<br />

TODAY<br />

on the deck, in the beer garden, or in the<br />

dining room - the choice is yours<br />

BBQ - Formal - Finger Food - Buff et


<strong>The</strong> <strong>Valley</strong> <strong>Weekender</strong><br />

COOKED<br />

CHICKEN<br />

MEAL DEAL<br />

24<br />

SPECIALS AVAILABLE 19 NOVEMBER to 25th NOVEMBER<br />

BEAUT BREAKFASTS with BACON and EGGS<br />

Both<br />

for<br />

$ 8 49<br />

Litt le Chef 1 KG Bacon • Meggles Farm Eggs 600 gram<br />

Cooked Family size<br />

Chicken<br />

300g Coleslaw or<br />

Potato Salad<br />

1.25L Soft drink of<br />

your choice<br />

� 3 99<br />

each<br />

Bulla Ice Cream<br />

Choc Bars 10 Pack<br />

LAIDLEY<br />

All for<br />

$ 11 99<br />

Streets Paddle Pops 10 pack Asst. Flavours<br />

.73c per 100 ml<br />

MAKING IT EASY<br />

FOR YOU...<br />

� 4 99<br />

each<br />

Kitekat Cat Food 410g<br />

99 c<br />

each<br />

24c per 100g

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!