Is a free publication produced by the Rollingstone & District Community Association Incorporated with news and information for residents and visitors to Rollingstone, Balgal Beach, Mystic Sands, Crystal Creek, Paluma, Mutarnee, Bluewater, Toomulla and surrounding suburbs in North Queensland, Australia.
EDITOR: M O’Kane
EMAIL: rollyrag@rollingstonenc.org.au
TEL: 4770 7855
DIGITAL ARCHIVE (-2023): https://issuu.com/rollingstonerag/docs
For permission to reprint any part of this publication, contact the Publisher. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Rollingstone & District Community. Association Incorporated.
The Rollingstone & District Community Association Inc. acknowledges the Wulgurukaba of Gurambilbarra and Yunbenun, Bindal, Gugu Badhun and Nywaigi as the Traditional Owners of this land. We pay our respects to their cultures, their ancestors and their elders, past and present - and all future generations.
ROLLY RAG DISCLAIMER
The ‘Rolly Rag’ is produced by a team of volunteers any comments, criticisms or complaints should be addressed to the Secretary, RaDCA Inc, Rollingstone, 4816. All text and layout remains the copyright of the Rollingstone and District Community Association Inc (RaDCA Inc) (the Publisher).
The Rolly Rag (the Rag) can not accept responsibility for any unsolicited material or transparencies. The Rag is fully independent and its views are not necessarily those of any company, organisation, club or person mentioned herein. All copyrights and trademarks are recognised and all images are used for the purpose of the dissemination of information only. No part of this publication can be reproduced without the written permission of the Publisher. Letters to the editor are encouraged by ‘the Rag’, as is the right to free speech. Any letters to the editor received and/or printed do not necessarily represent the views of the Publisher.
Weather Report for Mar 2026
Rollingstone/ Balgal Beach
Rainfall @ 23/3/26
Year to Date 1928.5 mm
No. Wet Days 20 days
Max Temp:
Min Temp:
Max Humidity: n/a
Min Humidity: n/a
The Publisher accepts no responsibility for views expressed by contributors through freedom of speech, however, only letters supplied with a name and address will be published. Letters will be published with name only. We try to print articles as they are presented, but we do reserve the right to edit. ‘The Rag’ will endeavour to publish all articles submitted pending time limitations. Acceptance of an article by ‘the Rag’ is not a guarantee that the article will be published.
The Trade Practices Act of 1st October 1974, relating to consumer protection, places a heavy burden on advertisers and publishers of such advertisements and articles. Section 62 of this Act imposes a general duty on everyone not to engage in trade or commerce, or in a conduct that is misleading and deceptive.
In view of the obvious impossibility of ensuring that all advertising submitted for our newspaper complies with this Act, advertisers will appreciate the absolute need themselves to ensure that the Act is adhered to.
Utilise the link below to access daily weather stats in the Townsviille Rollingstone/ Balgal district.
http://www.bom.gov.au/qld/ townsville/
ROLLINGSTONE RAG ADVERTISING RATES
The Rag is a great place to advertise and is very cost effective. Please provide your ready-made file either as a pdf or jpeg. For more information or to discuss your Ad, please call 4770 7855 between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email: rollyrag@rollingstonenc.org.au, or admin@rollingstonenc.org.au
An invoice will be emailed to you. Please make payment at the RNC during business hours or via electronic transfer.
*extra costs for supplying the photocopying, if required.
Should you require your advertisement to be inserted as a flyer, the cost is $120 as noted below
ROLLINGSTONE NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE
ROLLINGSTONE
Internet Access
$2/hour (or part of)
FREE for Students doing school projects and FREE for Job Seekers.
Printing & Photocopying (Black & White)
A4 Single Sided............................... .10¢ / page
Room Hire 1/2 Day .................. $22 incl. GST) Evening $22 (incl. GST)
(incl. GST)
(incl. GST)
Important document scanning to USB $5.00
Private consulting space
Per Session (4 hrs) / Full Day (8 hrs)
RaDCA Member: $5 / $15
Community Groups & Not-For-Profit: $10 / $25
Corporate / Private: $20 / $45
All rooms are airconditioned and include free tea & coffee & Wi-Fi.
EQUIPMENT HIRE
Table hire - $5.50 each
Chair hire - $0.55 each
Portable PA/Microphone - $20
Portable Projector Screen - $25
Note: Pick up of hire tables and chairs is between 9am and 3pm Monday to Friday only unless by prior arrangement with staff. Phone: 47 70 7855.
March was a wonderful month at the Rollingstone Neighbourhood Centre, with the highlight being our International Women’s Day celebration. It was a relaxed and joyful morning that brought local women together to connect, share stories, and celebrate the achievements of women in our community. We were also proud to showcase and support several local women-run businesses, whose generosity and talent helped make the day truly special.
A standout feature of the event was the beautiful food provided by Mystic Sands Sports and Wellness, along with refreshing bubble tea from Bubbles and Froth. And of course, our fabulous donut wall generously donated by Donut Worry Beach Happy was a crowd favourite. We’re excited to share that the Donut Worry Beach Happy coffee van will now be operating from the RNC car park every Thursday, so be sure to drop by for a coffee and say hello.
An exiting update - our Op Shop will be closed for two weeks in April while we give it a fresh new look and feel. Don’t worry it’s not a permanent closure. We’ll be reopening towards the end of April, and to celebrate, we’re inviting the community to help name the new look Op Shop. The winning name will be announced at our grand re-opening, so keep an eye on our social media for details on how to enter.
In May, we’ll be celebrating Neighbourhood Centres Week, and we’re marking the occasion with our Rollingstone Community Expo and Open Day. This will be a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the work of our Neighbourhood Centre and to meet other local community groups. If you’re looking to get involved in a community organisation or explore volunteering opportunities, this will be the perfect place to start.
As we head into the long weekend, we’d like to wish everyone a very happy Easter. Whether you’re travelling, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a quiet break, please take care on the roads and stay safe over the Easter period.
Amy Bridson Centre Manager
Preparing for Disasters
We hope everyone is safe and dry after the wild weather we have been having. Please pop in and see us if you need some information or resources to prepare for the possibility of more weather events. We've had some queries about the use of the hall as an Evacuation Centre. The decision to prepare and open buildings as a Place of Refuge, Public Cyclone Shelter and Evacuation Centre is made by the Local Disaster Management Group and will be broadcast to the community via local media.
Follow Council’s Emergency Management and Disaster Dashboard (disaster.townsville.qld.gov.au), listen to radio or contact Council for the location of buildings designated for use during an event. If our hall is activated in any capacity, we'll share clear updates about what it is being used for and what support is available. Staying informed helps keep our whole community safe and prepared.
New Hireable Rooms
Some of our hireable spaces at the RNC: The Mystic Room - small comfortable space or small meetings or consultations
Balgal Room - large multipurpose meeting space with video conferencing facilities, fold-up tables, cold filtered water and tea and coffee facilities
Rollingstone Rag update
March was the final issue of The Rag delivered directly to your letterbox.
This decision follows extensive consultation and conversations with community members across various times and venues. Our questionnaire, published in the November and December 2025 editions, received 21 responses from 850 printed copies (2.47%).
Most respondents expressed a preference to keep The Rag in printed form. Some suggested ceasing publication altogether, others recommended moving fully online, and a few proposed combining with publications from Ingham.
After careful consideration, we have decided on the following:
1. Reduced Print Run
We will print half the usual number of copies. We will work with local businesses to make copies available for collection when you are visiting their premises.
2. Online Publication
Each monthly edition will be published on our website so it can be accessed at any time. A link will also be shared on our Facebook page.
3. Email Distribution
If you would like to receive a link by email each month, please send your email address to rollyrag@rollingstonenc.org.au requesting to be added to the mailing list.
Rollingstone General Store 6.30am to 5pm every weekday
21 Rollingstone Street, North Queensland 4816
Thank you
Collection Points
• Rollingstone Neighbourhood Centre Office
• Fishermans Landing Fish and Chip Shop
• Balgal Beach Pharmacy
• Rollingstone General Store (Rosco’s)
• Toomulla – at your usual collection spot
• Mutarnee – when collecting your mail at Claire’s
• Paluma – (details to be confirmed)
Thank you very much to these businesses for allowing us to distribute our free magazine to anyone that wants one from their premises.
You are welcome to take a copy for yourself and one or more for neighbours. Collection numbers will be monitored and adjusted as needed.
This change has come about due to a shortage of volunteers available for deliveries and the rising costs of printing and consumables required to produce the magazine. We are very sad that the era of free home delivery is coming to an end. However, in 2026 we recognise that many people are comfortable accessing information online. We also acknowledge that some of us prefer a hard copy we can highlight, write on and refer back to if and when required.
Our advertisers help us to keep this publication going. Please continue to support them as they are mostly local people too! Thank you for your understanding and continued support of The Rag..
Please remember that The Rag is produced entirely by volunteers, on behalf of the Committee of Management. It is totally separate from the Neighbourhood Centre’s activities and staff have no control over when the Rag is published. If you have been wondering why you have not seen a Rag for a while, that is because we always have a break for two months every year (January and February) to recharge our batteries and give our wonderful contributors a rest too!
Barbara
Drew,
Co-Ordinator Rollingstone Rag
The paper on which the Rollingstone Rag is printed, is generously provided by the Townsville City Council via their Community Grants process.
The Association’s Management Committee and Members graciously thank the Townsville Council for the opportunity to apply for the grant and its subsequent approval. This allows the Association to continue to provide ten editions of the Rollingstone Rag to our community each year.
Fishing Report
Fisherman’s Landing Fishing & Social Club Inc.
The last month adverse weather conditions have played havoc with some of our activities. Result is not quite so much to report this month.
We don’t have any update on trophies as the last few planned monthly meetings have been washed out. No update since then with our last couple of social Friday night meetings being washed out.
With the weather being the way it has, not too many of us out fishing – I haven’t been able to drive up to the back yard to get my boat out for a while.
Gary, who is down in NSW weighed in a few Tuna, Bonito and Kingfish so far this month.
Nothing else has been weighed in this month.
Children's Fishing Classic
It’s a little way off yet, but this will be held early July. We will be advising more details via promotions etc over the next few months.
Monthly BBQ
Next Monthly BBQ is scheduled for Sunday 27th April – lets hope the weather Gods are smiling that day! But, we will select a venue as Plan B if it does rain.
Markets
Markets are currently closed for a few months, and a decision was made not to hold one in April as it is due over Easter weekend, so next market will be 2nd May –not that far away now.
Raffles
The new owners of the Mystic Sands Sports and Wellness, Steve and Mary, have instituted a roster system for local community groups to hold a raffle at the venue.
The Fishing Club hold a Seafood Tray Raffle the 4th Friday of every month – this month it will be 24th April. Come on down for a great night at the club and win a lovely seafood tray.
Shed Progress
Some disappointing news on this front, with our application for grant funding for a block of land being declined. We will continue to work towards an outcome for somewhere alternative.
Membership
New members are always welcome, so please contact the club on details below, if you’re in for a bit of fishing and a fun time. Doesn’t matter if you don’t have a boat, there’s always someone to hitch a ride with. We are a Fishing and Social club.
For any updates and news from the club, please have a look at our Facebook pageFisherman’s Landing Fishing & Social Club Balgal Beach inc or use the QR code to access our Facebook page
Also, suggestions and enquiries always welcome – please do not hesitate to contact us on email address fishermanslandingfishingclub@gmail.com Until next month, tight lines Spike.
Rollingstone and District Leo Club
Hello again, and what a great morning we had on Saturday 28 March with our hospital visit to distribute Easter Eggs (chocolate) and soft knitted Easter Eggs (thank you to our community knitters) to the Childrens’ Oncology and Med 5 Wards at the Townsville University Hospital. Thank you also to our coach captain, Dave for driving us there.
Leos are looking forward to the first school break for 2026 – why? Because there are great things happening for our club during this period as follows:Some of our members are attending the District Leo Camp 7 – 9 Apr at the Bluewater Scout Complex. When we arrive back at the Lions Den after the camp finishes at approx. 11.00AM on Thursday 9th, we will be celebrating our club’s 15th birthday. This will include
replanting of the Leo garden first started 15 years ago, putting down a time capsule, and of course a yummy birthday cake and other goodies provided by the Lions club. All Leos, parents and families as well as Lions most welcome to attend.
We will be planning further activities for the rest of the year – stay tuned for our further events!
Why not join our bright and vibrant Leo club and enjoy fun activities here in Rollingstone?
Please call our Leo Advisor Shirley on 0458 156 646 or Lion John on 0407 114687.
LEOS – THE NUMBER 1 YOUTH GROUP
Neighbourhood Events
Office hours at the RNC are: 9am– 4pm, Monday to Friday.
Please be mindful of these times when pursuing business at the centre.
THE BOOK STATION
MONTHLY REMINDERS
9.00am Mondays - Line Dancing @ Hall 5.30pm Mondays Yoga @ Hall 9am Tuesdays Chair Yoga @ Hall
10am - Tuesday Little Cup Morning Tea
1.30pm 2nd Tuesday Sewing Group Balgal Rm
7.30am every second Wednesday Keep Balgal Beautiful Club
9.00am Wednesdays - Indoor Bowls
9.00am Fridays - Weight Circuit
No ACTIVITIES held on PUBLIC HOLIDAYS or during the Annual Closure period. You don’t need to be a member of a Group to join in activities at the Neighbourhood Centre. Just come along if there’s something happening and you’d like to be part of it. It usually costs $2 to participate. For more information, call 4770 7855. Rollingstone Neighbourhood Centre (RNC) Hours
VISITING VET IN BALGAL BEACH & ROLLINGSTONE
Margaret is exclusively doing home visits. Usually the 3rd Thursday of each month. Next Visit: Thursday 16th April to your door!
1st, 15th & 29th April
CENTRELINK ACCESS POINT AT THE
Centrelink provides phone, fax, copier and computer access for individuals wanting to access Centrelink services.
To make a claim or an enquiry, please make use of the equipment and services available through the Access Point. Limited Medicare services also available.
@Rollingstone Hall Doors Open 12.30pm Eyes Down 1pm
2nd Saturday of Every Month! 11th April 2026
VISITING HAIRDRESSER
Will be at the Centre on the following date:
Next visit:
Monday April 29
Please book directly through Carmerita on 0448 294 992
INDOOR CARPET BOWLS
At the Community Centre Wednesday Mornings 9-11.30am only $2.50
This is a FUN activity and is guaranteed to be a winner!! All skill levels & all age groups. Just turn up and see how much fun you will have! Come and join us for a great time! For further info contact 47707855
BALGAL BEACH MARKET
Next Market in 2026
Saturday May 2nd 8am–1pm The Esplanade, Balgal Beach
PARCEL COLLECTION SERVICE
Can’t get to Townsville to pick up a parcel? The Community Bus can pick up your parcel and deliver to your gate.
Call the Neighbourhood Centre on 47707 855 to make arrangements.
Collections are available weekly on Thursdays only. Book early! COST is only $5!!
Rollingstone & District Lions Club Inc.
G’day Rollingstone and great to see some sunshine as we head towards Easter!
During this last month our club has enjoyed some very special moments including:-
• an enjoyable Sunday lunch outing to the Bohle Barn, where we also welcomed Maz as a new member of our club.
• held an informative display at Bunnings of what our club contributes to the community.
• provided healthy breakfasts to both the Mutarnee and Rollingstone schools. It was wonderful to see the Rollingstone school Junior Leos serving breakfast to the younger students and faculty.
• welcomed new members Jane Hargans, Roslyn Britton and Belinda Black (have you tried Belinda’s coffee from her new coffee van – delicious!).
• held our regular monthly members coffee catchup as part of our ongoing Lions wellbeing commitment to our members.
• conducted another successful Bunnings BBQ.
• catered for the RSL morning tea as part of their AGM.
• continued our environmental recycling program including collecting contributions from other community members, with those donations also going to support the Rollingstone School Camp.
• conducted our monthly Meat Tray Raffles at Mystic Sands Sports and Wellness.
The highlight though was celebrating our club’s 19th
birthday at our dinner meeting on Tuesday 24th March, where we enjoyed a great meal prepared by our catering committee under the direction of chairperson Michelle and a delicious cake made by new member Lisa! As we look back and reflect on 19 years of service to our local community, we are also conscious of the ongoing need to continue providing timely and needed support, projects and activities that make our community the great place it is!
Thank you to all those who have served with us as Lions in the past, and to our current and future Lions who will continue our Legacy of Service for years to come!
Want to have some input into new or additional projects or infrastructure to improve our community? Please take a moment to complete and return the attached “Community Needs Assessment” to have your say!
Keep an eye out for your Rolly Lions in the community as we continue our normal activities through April, as well as supporting and participating in our local RSL ANZAC day commemorations.
If you would like a wonderful and rewarding fun-filled time with like minded people making a “Real Difference” in your community, we would love to have you join our local Lions club. Please give me a call, or come on down to the Lions Den for our monthly members and friends coffee catchup @ 9.00 am on the 3rd Monday monthly – next due Monday 20th April!
“It’s great to be a LION, we change people’s lives”!
President Delwyn Hutchinson (0427 340252)
COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT
What are our community’s specific needs, and what opportunities and resources will enhance local residents’ living conditions and experience?
Is it major infrastructure or building upgrades, or perhaps additional activities or services?
Lions, through our Major Pillars of Service, include the following:
Diabetes Awareness
Vision and Preventable Blindness
The Environment, Hunger Relief, Childhood Cancer Research
The Environment, Youth, Disaster Recovery
Mental Health and Wellbeing
Also, the Humanitarian projects we do in our local community, are already doing much to improve our way of life, but what else is needed?
We would like to hear from YOU for your input and suggestions too! What projects, new or upgraded facilities would you like to see here to improve our local area?
Lions are not just great “Doers”, we are also great “Advocates” and through our extensive connections are prepared and more than happy to tackle the big issues affecting us all.
I am sure one of our newest members, Mayor Nick Dametto, who clearly has “love of community” in his DNA and has been a strong supporter of our Lions club and community for many years, will welcome and support any suggestions we put forward.
We will also be liaising with the local Rollingstone Neighbourhood Centre and community association as well as other community groups and businesses, to ensure all have input!!
Some of the items already on our “Bucket List” include:-
more bus shelters for our school children
24 hour access toilet block at Pace Park
better drainage and flood mitigation
environmental native tree plantings
more/better sporting facilities and activities for youth
improved communications
Additional Suggestions:
Please complete and forward to Secretary John Muller:-
Email: jsrellum@yahoo.com.au
Address: 29 Borton Street, Mystic Sands Postal: P O Box 15, Rollingstone Qld 4816
“We value your feedback”
Rollingstone and District Men’s Shed Inc.
Welcome to this month’s edition of the Rolly Rag.
Community Activity
Over the last few weeks, the Men’s Shed has been fairly occupied refurbishing the restaurant tables and chairs for Mystic Sands Sports and Wellness.
Sanding back, painting (some white, some black), with paint washed tops.
I must say they have come out magnificently – maybe come down to the club for a drink and a meal to check them out.
Thanks John G and Macka for making your sheds at your places available to do the work.
Raffles
Mystic Sands Sports and Wellness has commenced with different groups within the community running a raffle of a Friday night on a roster – commencing about 5.30pm.
Men’s Shed will be holding their raffle on the 3rd Friday of every month, next one 17th April.
Generally Meat Trays, but not just restricted to that.
Bunnings Sausage Sizzle
The Shed ran a Bunnings sausage sizzle on Saturday 14th March – started off a bit quiet but by the end of the day a good day, quite busy and a lot of satisfied Bunnings customers!
The next Bunnings has been scheduled for Saturday 11th April, back into our schedule of second Saturday of the month.
These fundraisers are important for the Men’s Shed to help raise funds for shed construction and purchase of tools.
Shed Construction:
Not too much to report since last month’s Rolly Rag. We have had our block of land cleared and levelled. Still required to have it filled so that it will be at the height required.
We are working on funding applications for grants to enable shed to be built.
Membership
A couple of new members have joined the Shed, and we welcome Dave and Pierre to the group.
We are as yet still a small group, and until we actually have a shed up and running, it has been difficult to attract new members, but any new and prospective members are always more than welcome.
If anyone is interested in joining the Men’s Shed and require any further information, please do not hesitate to ring us on our Shed phone 0455 405 208, or email us on rollymensshed@outlook.com
Initial Membership is $60, with subsequent Memberships being $40 pa.
We have a weekly catch up for a chat, coffee, brekky if you wish, at Mystic Sands Sports and Wellness Friday mornings at 9am, just to meet and socialise, talk about anything coming up, anything at all.
Welcome new members.
Slim
Rollingstone SES
Training Together, Staying Ready
Our local State Emergency Service (SES) teams continue to build their skills and strengthen connections, ensuring they’re always ready to support the community when it matters most.
Recently, members from Rollingstone, Halifax, Ingham, and Bluewater came together for a joint forensic search training exercise. It was a fantastic opportunity to enhance search capabilities, share knowledge, and work side by side in a supportive, hands-on environment.
It was a great evening for all involved, with strong teamwork on display and valuable connections strengthened across our neighbouring communities. As our community continues to navigate a long and demanding wet season, it’s reassuring to know that both our SES volunteers and residents remain
prepared. Together, we are building a community that looks out for one another and stays ready.
Toomulla Beach News
March has been a busy month at Toomulla Beach. The Toomulla Beach Community Association held its first community breakfast for the year, the new Community Library has now replaced the old fridges and the Coast Care Group was in full force to eradicate weeds along the beach path from the Esplanade.
The Community Breakfast hosted local councillor Paul Jacob, Wayde Chiesa MP and many of our wonderful Toomulla Beach residents. This particular breakfast embraced a special cause with all Gold Coin donations from the breakfast going towards Gynaecological Cancer Research. A total of $500 was raised with a special thanks to Wayde Chiesa MP for his generous donation of $250.
Topics of discussion included the following:
Councillor Paul Jacob
• More seating around Toomulla Beach
• A walking track to the highway
• Reduced speed limit to 80 km/hr on Toomulla Beach Road
• Wild animal signs that have now been erected on the main road into Toomulla Beach – unfortunately this has not resulted in zero deaths to wildlife. For date collection purposes, council has asked that residents communicate to Council when dead wildlife is found on our local roads.
• Campgrounds and long term stays by campers –who is monitoring this?
Wayde Chiesa
• The turning lane into Toomulla when heading south continues to be a safety issue.
• Telstra issue – loss of connection since the 19th of March with residents notified that the problem will not be remedied until November.
This month, members of the Committee removed the old fridges and installed our new Little Library. The Defibrillator is on the side. The old fridges have been taken to the dump and the library has now been filled with an extensive range of books sure to provide reading pleasure for many avid readers. There is also a selection of jigsaw puzzles and board games. The library can be found on Herald Street across from the entrance to Lady Elliot Court. New signage coming soon so watch this space.
The Toomulla Beach Coastcare Group met for the first time this year on Saturday the 21st of March. Despite somewhat drizzly weather, the Coastcare Working Bee saw a fantastic turnout and, most importantly, incredible results thanks to our dedicated volunteers. The work consisted of eradicating environmental weeds along the southern beach tracks from The Esplanade. Thank you to all our amazing volunteers; and to Phensi and Helen for the beautiful Morning Tea prepared after the work was completed.
For more information about Coastcare or anyone
wishing to get involved, please visit the following link: https://dosomethingnearyou.com.au/cause/toomullacoastcare/
As rising petrol prices continue to dominate the news (and our conversations), there has never been a better time to find ways to save money at the fuel bowser. Apps such as ‘Fuel Map’ can show where the most competitive prices are while the ‘My 7-Eleven’ app allows users to find the lowest 7-Eleven price in the area and lock in the price for up to seven days. Carpooling with a neighbour (if you are both travelling into town for groceries only), can also save you both money and boost community spirit.
A Little Wisdom to Share:
"The mindset: Confident enough to start. Humble enough to keep learning.
• The trap: Too humble to start. Or too confident to keep learning.”
"Unexpected forms of generosity:
• Being early can be a form of generosity. You wait, so they don't have to.
• Leaving something unsaid can be a form of generosity. You don't always need the last word.
• Delivering your work on time can be a form of generosity. You make life easier for everyone downstream.
• Not taking things personally can be a form of generosity. You give people the space to say things imperfectly."
Rollingstone State School
Students at Rollingstone State School have been busy bringing our garden back to life, cleaning up beds and preparing the soil for new growth.
Pak choi, lettuce, kale, zucchini, eggplant and beans are already underway, with seedlings nearly ready to be transplanted outside. Inside, our hydroponic unit is up and running, giving students a hands on look at modern food production. We have also been generously donated an air garden, with the next step being to design and build a protective frame to keep pesky pests away from our greens. Our older students will take this on, working through costings, planning a solution and then constructing it.
With more seeds going in this week, the garden is quickly taking shape and will be ready for some delicious cooking next term.
As Easter approaches, we are finishing this wet term with a skip off after raising funds for the Heart Foundation, and celebrating Harmony Day with a range of activities and some yummy cooking. We are certainly looking forward to a drier term after Easter, where outdoor learning and activities can take centre stage.
Here is an adaptive piece, from the story Storm Boy, Colin Thiele, written by MJ from Year 4. We wish everyone a safe and happy Easter.
The Mysterious Creek.
Fingerbone Bill and his family planed to go swimming at the Mysterious Creek. It was a long walk as they had to dodge through all of the tussocks and sedges and it was very tiring. They called it the Mysterious Creek because there was someone who went there previously and they went missing. It was thought to be bull sharks but nobody had spotted one in that part of the creek.
At the creek, they had a great time swimming and exploring the creek beds. Fingerbone Bill yelled out to his little brother.
“Oi! “Come, we’re going home now!”
Suddenly a fresh water bull shark snatched Fingerbone Bill’s brother and whirled him into the water. The sudden snap caused him to scream in shock and pain. He started kicking with all his might but the shark continued to thrash and splash. Fingerbone Bill and his family looked back in horror.
Fingerbone Bill ran to the water and swam as fast as he could. He used all his strength to grab him out of the bull shark’s grip. Thankfully it was only a small bull shark and it let go and took off.
Fingerbone Bill quickly rescued him to shore. The family brought the med kit over and quickly wrapped bandages around the puncture wounds on his leg. They carried him back through the sedges and tussocks as quick as possible. The two stroke roared to life and they sped up stream towards town and the hospital.
“When did this happen?” Said the nurse urgently.
“An hour ago” stuttered Fingerbone Bill, who was still frightened from the attack.
The doctors stitched the wounds and gave him some medicine.
“What does it look like?” said Fingerbone Bill’s little brother. “You will have some scars, but it looks alright. You are very lucky but I guess we now know the mystery around the creek” said Fingerbone Bill.
Written by MJ.
LEST WE FORGET
Hi from your Division 1 Councillor. Council Officers in Community Development are meeting and working with the Rollingstone Pineapple Festival Committee, looking at all options for the festival to be held this year. A full suite of short to medium and long-term options are being reviewed. A post was put on the Rollingstone Festival Facebook site and it has generated a highly constructive and supportive community response. It had more than 40,000 views within a few days, with a noticeable increase in followers and overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Local media coverage, including the Townsville Bulletin and the local ABC Radio, has significantly boosted community awareness.
I will be attending the Anzac Day service at 5.40am, on the 25th of April and the mid-morning community service at 10am, at the cenotaph and Fisherman’s Landing location.
Hopefully the wet season is now coming to an end and we will be able to have cooler nights and clearer days.
First and foremost, the Pineapple Festival - I know how much this means to the community and the passion of the committee. I've been speaking with Suzi about this year’s event and the challenges in relation to parking. At this time, I am not sure on the solution but committed to working with organisers to explore any practical options that may assist. If you’re in a position to help, please reach out to my office.
The last few weeks was a great reminder of what makes our community so special people coming together to support one another, celebrating achievements, and building a stronger future for our region.
I was proud to attend Senator Susan McDonald’s International Women’s Day Flood Fundraiser, supporting our western neighbours as they continue to recover and rebuild. Chairing the panel provided a valuable opportunity to hear firsthand about the challenges these communities faced, and how they came together during incredibly difficult times. It reinforces what can be achieved when governments listen and work closely with local councils.
I then visited the Cardwell and Tully communities, catching up with residents and local businesses about the issues. While in Cardwell, I also attended the Marine Rescue Queensland (MRQ) information session. MRQ is Queensland’s first state-wide volunteer marine rescue service and plays a vital role in keeping our community safe. I thank the many locals who have dedicated years and in some cases decades to supporting and rescuing those in need on or near the water.
Over the past month, important legislation has been passed to make electronic bail monitoring permanent in Queensland an important step in holding youth offenders accountable and strengthening community safety. In addition, the third tranche of laws expanding Adult Crime, Adult Time has been introduced to
Parliament, ensuring tougher penalties for serious offences including aggravated assault occasioning bodily harm, conspiring to murder, stalking, and the abuse of people with disability. While we have seen a decline, there is still more to be done.
We have also passed Australia’s toughest Antisemitism and hate speech laws, along with strengthened gun laws to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals and terrorists, while protecting the rights of law-abiding primary producers and sporting shooters.
It was also a pleasure to host Minister Amanda Camm in the electorate in her capacity as Minister for Families, Seniors and Disability Services, and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence. During her visit to the Hinchinbrook Community Support Hub, Rollingstone Neighbourhood Centre and North Townsville Community Hub - we saw firsthand the vital services being delivered to connect people with housing, support, and assistance during times of need. I commend the staff and volunteers for their outstanding work.
Latest grants:
The Age-friendly Seniors Month Grant Program is now available, offering grants of $5,000 to $15,000 to support initiatives that bring generations together, build inclusive spaces, and deliver activities tailored to local needs. More information is available at www.qldseniorsmonth.org.au/grants
Helping women return to work, by offering financial assistance up to $5,000 to cover costs such as childcare, workwear, training, relocation expenses. More information can be found hereWomen's Career Grants | Office for Women
Please keep me informed of any upcoming events or get togethers.
Balgal Beach Pharmacy
HEALTH TOPIC OF THE MONTH
ARE YOU:
• TAKING MULTIPLE MEDICATIONS?
• HAVING TROUBLE REMEMBERING?
• CONFUSED ABOUT WHAT TO TAKE?
• CARING FOR SOMEONE TAKING MULTIPLE MEDICATION?
• CONCERNED ABOUT A NEIGHBOUR/FRIEND TAKING MULTIPLE MEDICATION?
Our blister packing system caters for everyone that are taking multiple medication at different times of the day.
We can also cater for those taking only a couple of medications but want to make sure the doses are not missed each day for peace and mind.
Please come into our pharmacy and discuss your needs and concerns with one of our team members. If it is difficult to come in, please contact us on 07 47707400.
The team at your local Community Pharmacy.
Open Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm Saturday 8.30am to 1pm Tel: 07 4778 6444 OR you can book ONLINE via our website www.bluewatermedical.com
General Practitioners and Allied Health Services
DVConnect Mensline 1800 600 636
DVConnect Mensline is a statewide telephone service offering free confidential counselling, referral and support to men affected by domestic or family violence.
(9am to 12 midnight, 7 days a week)
DVConnect Womensline
1800 811 811
DVConnect Womensline is a statewide telephone service offering free professional and nonjudgemental telephone support to women who are experiencing domestic or family violence. They can help women to obtain safe refuge accommodation, confidential counselling and referral to other services.
120 Mystic Avenue Balgal Beach
Tel: 47707 244 Fax: 47707 100
Email: manager@balgalmedical.com.au
OPEN Monday to Friday 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. CLOSED Saturday, Sunday, and all Public Holidays. Appointments are required.
The General Practitioners: Dr Olga Hasa
Dr Vladimir Hasa
Dr Diana Hopkins
Dr Clyton Banya
Dr Suma Bhaskar
Physiotherapy Free Movement Physio (Fortnightly)
Pathology collection Wednesday 8.00am-2:00pm
Balgal Beach’s Local Sparkies
Need an electrician you can actually count on?
MCT Electrical is proud to service the Balgal Beach community with free quotes and reliable, top-quality work – every time.
We’re a locally owned business bringing honest pricing, tidy work, and no-stress service right to your door.
FreeQuotes–NoSurprises
Fans,Lights,PowerPoints&Repairs
Switchboard&SafetyUpgrades
NewBuilds,Renovations&Maintenance
Friendly,ProfessionalService
Balgal Beach is our backyard, so when you call, you get a neighbour, not a stranger. Proudly Servicing Balgal Beach & Surround
0408 201 208
Domestic Waste and Recyclables Only GREEN WASTE/ WHITEGOODS/ METALS/ ELECTRONIC WASTE AND FLUORESCENT TUBES ARE FREE No Bulky Items No Furniture or Rubber Tyres TOOMULLA
Saturday Only 7.30am - 4.30pm BLUEWATER
Saturday & Sunday 7.30am - 4.30pm
For Hire
Mini Excavator for hire Comes with:
2 x Augers (1 x 300 mm and 1 x 600mm)
1 hook and grab on trailer 5 tonne tipper also available Ph: 0412 210 650
All Emergency Calls (including Police, Fire, Ambulance and for reporting fallen powerlines)
Ambulance Service (Non life-threatening calls)
Townsville City Council (includes Emergency After Hours, Flood information, Dengue outbreaks, Sun safety information)
Ergon Energy Loss of Supply and Emergencies
Origin Energy Natural Gas and LPG Gas Emergencies - leaks only
LPG Gas Emergencies 4774 5111
FIRE AWARE and BE PREPARED
Stay up to date with current fire restrictions: https://www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au or https:// www.qfes.qld.gov.au
Rural Fire Brigade Rollingstone/Hencamp: Raymond Pace: 4770 7285 / 0427 116 604
Fire Warden: Rob Pratt: 0407 634 361
“The Bureau of Meteorology gives no warranty of any kind whether express, implied, statutory or otherwise in respect to the availability, accuracy, currency, completeness, quality or reliability of the information or that the information will be fit for any particular purpose or will not infringe any third party Intellectual Property rights.
The Bureau's liability for any loss, damage, cost or expense resulting from use of, or reliance on, the information is entirely excluded.”
Rollingstone & District Community Assoc Inc.
44 Community Cres, Rollingstone 4816
MANAGEMENT Committee:
Chairperson Robyn Neilson…………… 0427 845 731
Vice Chairperson: John Holliday…………….. 0414 808 483
Treasurer: Mary Anne O’Donnell…… 0439 513 426
Committee Members:
Barbara Drew…………….. 0490 138 107
Wendy Croker……….. …. .0437 098 391
Michelle Ambia…………… 0490 338 668
Ben Pearson……………….0419 740 694
All Correspondence to:
The Secretary
44 Community Crescent, Rollingstone Qld 4816 committee@rollingstonenc.org.au
Neighbourhood Centre Manager:
Centre Manager Amy Bridson
Admin Assistants
Jody Langham & Sue Brown
NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE…Monday - Friday 9am-4pm
Phone: 4770 7855
E-mail: enquiries@rollingstonenc.org.au
Community Hall Phone
(M-F 9am-4pm) @ kitchen 4770 7153
Rolly Rag Rag office…………………………… 4770 7855
E-mail: rollyrag@rollingstonenc.org.au
Police
13 14 44
EMERGENCY ………………………………………………...000
Police Link…………………………………………………..131444
CRIMESTOPPERS ……………………………….1800 333 000
Rural Fire Brigade
Rollingstone Raymond Pace 0427 116 604
Fire Permit Rob Pratt 0407 634 361
S.E.S.
Emergency: Flood or Storm ………………………..13 25 00
Duty Phone 0460 692 749
Rollingstone State School
Principal: Andrew Stallman……………………….. 4770 7313
Rollingstone state school P & C Assoc.
President: Annie O’Brien 0418 252 450
Email: Rollysspandc@gmail.com
Mutarnee State School
Principal: Carol Pommer …………………………….4770 8131
Alcoholics Anonymous
For More Information ………………………………. 4771 5411
Ambulance
C/O Northern Beaches Station 4778 6033
Fisherman’s Landing Fishing & Social Club Inc
Email: fishermanslandingfishingclub@gmail.com
President: Steve Heald ………...............0400 442 441
Secretary: Sally Foley…………………. 0407 511 947
Mystic Sands Sports & wellness….. 4770 7355
Playgroup
North Townsville Community Hub ...4751 6511
Paluma & District Community Association
President: Ross Murray 0438 015 342
Email:. rossmurray23@gmail.com
1st VPresident: Anneshka Brown 0472 768 227
Email: anneshka@protonmail.com
Secretary: Helen Gode 0497 327 644
Email:. ................… hdgode@hotmail.com
Treasurer: Wilfred Karnoll 0447 822 626
Email: wilfred.suzanne@bigpond.com
Committee Member (Hall Bookings) Anneshka Brown ……..472 768 227
Ranger Dan Hands on Wildlife Nth Beaches….0437 056 157
Margaret Preston (Vet)……………………TXT 0403 262 212
Livestock on Highway REPORT TO……………..…13 19 40
Justice Of The Peace:
please phone 4770 7855 for up to date list of names of jp’s
7.30am Mass at Hall
APRIL 2026
7.30am Keep Balgal Beautiful club
9am Indoor Bowls@ Hall 10am Community Cook up @ the Hall Kitchen 11.30am Mobile Library
7pm Book Club, Balgal Room See Pg 23 8am-3pm Community Bus Shopping
9.30am NoTCH
Playgroup @ Hall & Second Bite Food Stall
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
MONDAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY 9am Chair Yoga @ Hall 10am Little Cup Morning Tea @ RNC 9am Indoor Bowls@ Hall 10am Community Cook up @ the Hall Kitchen 8am-3pm Community Bus Shopping 9am Men’s Shed Group @ Mystic Sands Sports & Wellness
7.30am Mass at Hall 9am Line Dancing @ Hall 5..00pm Yoga @ Rollingstone Community Hall 9am Chair Yoga @ Hall 10am Little Cup Morning Tea @ RNC 1.30 Sewing Group Balgal Room 6pm Lions Meeting
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
7.30am Keep Balgal Beautiful club
9am Indoor Bowls@ Hall 10am Community Cook up @ the Hall Kitchen 11.30am Mobile Library 7pm Book Club, Balgal Room 8am-3pm Community Bus Shopping VET TO YOUR HOME TXT 0403 262212
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
9am Men’s Shed
Group @ Mystic Sands Sports & Wellness
5.15pm Community Raffles @ Mystic Sands Sports & Wellness
7.30am Mass at Hall 9am Line Dancing @ Hall 9am Hairdresser @ the Centre
5.00pm Yoga @ Rollingstone Community Hall 9am Chair Yoga @ Hall 10am Little Cup Morning Tea @ RNC 9am Indoor Bowls@ Hall 10am Community Cook up @ the Hall Kitchen 8am-3pm Community Bus Shopping 9.30am NoTCH Playgroup @ Hall & Second Bite Food Stall 9am Entire Wellbeing Weight Circuit Class @ Community Hall 9am Men’s Shed Group @ Mystic Sands Sports & Wellness
5.15pm Community Raffles @ Mystic Sands Sports & Wellness ANZAC DAY 26 27 28 29 30
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
7.30am Mass at Hall
4pm Fishermans Landing Fishing and Social Club BBQ 9am Line D0ncing @ Hall
5.30pm Yoga @ Rollingstone Community Hall
9am Chair Yoga @ Hall 10am Little Cup Morning Tea @ RNC 6pm Lions Meeting
7.30am Keep Balgal Beautiful club
9am Indoor Bowls@ Hall 10am Community Cook up @ the Hall Kitchen 11.30am Mobile Library
7pm Book Club, Balgal Room 8am-3pm Community Bus Shopping 9.30am NoTCH Playgroup @ Hall & Second Bite Food Stall
BALGAL BEACH MARKETS SATURDAY 2nd MAY
The Men’s Shed have been busy refurbishing tables and chairs for Mystic Sands Sports and Wellness. How fantastic do they look?
SES members from around the region at a recent search training exercise
Rollingstone State School students prepping garden beds
Toomulla Coastcare cleaning up environmental weeds
