A symbolic handover ritual and a rite of blessing led by Bishop of Queensland’s Lutheran Church, Dr Mark Vainikka, was held at Rosewood’s Cabanda Care recently. The ceremony recognised the founding and growth of the aged care facility under the community’s care and the opening of its next chapter as part of Lutheran Services Queensland. Pictured are founding committee member, Joyce Rieck (centre) with Member for Ipswich Wendy Bourne and Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann.
A symbolic handover ritual and a rite of blessing led by Bishop of Queensland’s Lutheran Church, Dr Mark Vainikka, was held at Rosewood’s Cabanda Care, recently.
The ceremony recognised the founding and growth of the aged care facility under the community’s care and the opening of its next chapter as part of Lutheran Services Queensland.
“The blessing represented more than a ceremonial occasion,” said Lutheran Services CEO Nick Ryan.
“Cabanda has always been much more than an aged care community.
“It is the expression of a community coming together with a shared vision to ensure older people could continue living close to family, friends and the place they call home.
“It is not only a trusted place of residential aged care but one of the area’s largest employers, making a significant contribution to the social and economic fabric of Rosewood.”
Mr Ryan said the long-standing aged care provider was honoured to continue that legacy and success.
“This blessing is about acknowledging the hard work that made the vision of Cabanda a reality while looking forward, ensuring the community continues to thrive for generations to come through high-quality care, strong local connections and shared values.”
Among the invitees who attended the ceremony were Member for Blair Shayne Neu-
mann, Member for Ipswich West Wendy Bourne and Ipswich City Councillor Madden.
And there was one Cabanda resident who was especially proud to be part of the blessing and handover.
The need for a local aged care facility gained community support from the time it was first discussed in the late 1970s,
Years of community fundraising, volunteering and determination followed, and Cabanda Care opened as the Rosewood Aged Person’s Home in 1987.
Now a Cabanda Retirement Living resident, Joyce Rieck, was a member of the founding committee.
“When we formed the committee all those years ago, we didn’t know exactly what we were going to do,” Mrs Rieck said.
“We just knew we wanted to create a place where local people could grow old without having to leave the community they loved.
“None of us could have imagined what Cabanda Care would become.
“Having helped start Cabanda and now living here myself, it has been very special to see how it’s grown over the years.
“I’m proud of what we’ve built and look forward to seeing that legacy continue under Lutheran Services.”
• Lutheran Services acquired Cabanda on April 1, this year, which included the 71 bed residential aged care service, 52-unit retirement village, day respite facilities and community programs.
I’VE been connected to the Rosewood community long enough to know just how important Cabanda Care is.
I’ve worked as a journalist for three decades and it’s not often I come across a community as dedicated to the people who live with in it, as I have here.
In the late 1970s, Rosewood residents decided their loved ones needed a good place to live after retirement.
Rather than put a hand out, they fundraised until they had enough to build what was then Rosewood Aged Person’s Home in 1987.
The home has entered a new era and you can read more about that inside.
The Marburg Garden and Outdoor Expo is back, make sure to mark it in your diary if that’s your thing.
This week my Ramblings column is about the things we notice once they’re no longer there.
If you’ve ever wondered what The Rock and Hugh Jackman would look like without eyebrows, now’s your chance.
Keep warm, it’s cold out.
- Lara Hart
CEO of Lutheran Services Queensland Nick Ryan.
The foundation stone of the Rosewood Aged People’s Home became the dais from which the Bishop of Queensland’s Lutheran Church, Dr Mark Vainikka, acknowledged the community’s achievements during the first chapter of Cabanda Care and blessed the opening of the next chapter under the aegis of Lutheran Services.
Plans for industry-enviro blend
By WENDY CREIGHTON
A 45-hectare, open forest property at Karrabin lies within the Environmental Management Zone under the new Ipswich City planning scheme.
But in the former planning scheme it was zoned ‘Regional Business and Industry –Medium Impact’ and it is that zoning under which a developer’s plans for an industrial precinct will be judged by the Ipswich City planners.
On 5 June, the developer, Rosewood Project Pty Ltd, sought council approval for the plans to be assessed under the superseded planning scheme.
It was a request that had to be considered as it was lodged within 12 months of the new scheme’s adoption by council.
On 17 July, council approved the request but added the rider that … “it should be noted that any future development application will need to give careful consideration to the environmental values and natural hazards associated with the land, including mapped biodiversity and habitat values.”
Around two weeks later, the developer’s project planners submitted an application which proposed to divide the property into two precincts – placing just over two thirds of the land area into an environmental management precinct and the remainder into an eight lot industrial precinct including a stormwater drainage reserve and an infrastructure reserve.
The 45ha property at 336 Karrabin Rosewood Road is currently held in five freehold titles.
The three western-most titles and a small portion of the fourth title are proposed to lie within the environmental management zone.
The remaining two are proposed to be subdivided into an industrial estate to … “facilitate future development of a mix of business and industry activities including manufacturing and difficult to locate activities”.
The property also has frontages to J Hanson’s Road on its eastern boundary and an unformed road reserve on its southern boundary.
As the proposal involves the development
of new allotments, the project’s planners have applied for a subdivision permit where all the environmental management land is held under one title (and an added environmental covenant) and the necessary new titles for the industrial precinct.
And as the 45ha falls within the Regional Business and Industry Zone in the superseded planning scheme and the developer is proposing an amalgam of industrial land and environmental land for the property, the developer is also applying for preliminary approval for a variation of the planning scheme.
Council p[lanners are currently reviewing the application.
MONDAY - PUB CLASSICS $20 – 200g Rump, Chicken Schnitty or Grilled Barra, all served with chips and salad (Dinner only)
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A drone photograph of the property used by Raine and Horne when the property sold last November for $1.1 million. The yellow boundary lines encompass the five land titles in the holding.
The proposed subdivision of the 45ha property showing the two precincts, the building exclusion zone (yellow shading), the bushfire access track (grey shading) and the access points onto the proposed internal roads.
PM threat court case adjourned
By BYRON PESZKO
AN 53 year-old Ipswich man who has been charged with allegedly posting threatening messages online in relation to a federal parliamentarian, has had his next hearing adjourned to later this month.
Defendant Scott Anthony Sheavils faced Ipswich Magistrates Court on 1 June, with the next hearing, initially scheduled for last Monday, 27 July, before it was adjourned to a later date.
Mr Sheavils, who remains on bail, was charged with three counts of using a telecommunications service to menace, harass or cause offence, contrary to section 474.17(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
Moreton Border News understands the parliamentarian in question is Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The AFP’s National Security Investigations team began an investigation after receiving a notification on 18 May, 2026, of an online threat to kill a parliamentarian.
Police executed a search warrant at a North Ipswich property on Sunday 25 May, seizing an electronic device.
AFP Detective acting Inspector Chris Crawford said the AFP took online threats towards elected officials very seriously.
“Public officials have the same right as everyone else in Australia to do their jobs with-
Mr Sheavils was charged with three counts of using a telecommunications service to menace, harass or cause offence, contrary to section 474.17(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth).
out being threatened,“ Det a/Insp Crawford said.
“Individuals are not anonymous nor out
of reach of the AFP when posting threats online.
“The AFP has the capability to identify offenders and bring them before the courts.” The case has been adjourned to Monday 24 August.
COMMUNITY
and yellow road markings have been painted in Goodna and Wulkuraka to stop over-height vehicles
569483)
Road markings for horror bridge
QUEENSLAND Rail has worked with Ipswich City Council to paint bright red and yellow road markings in Goodna and Wulkuraka to stop over-height vehicles in their tracks, following more than 53 bridge strikes in the Ipswich region in 2025 alone.
The highly visible “low bridge“ road markings, similar to school-zone style warnings, have been installed on the approaches to rail bridges at Layard Street, Goodna and Dixon Street, Wulkuraka.
The markings are designed to encourage drivers to slow down, check the height of their vehicle and load, and make informed decisions before proceeding under low-clearance bridges.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said bridge strikes can cause significant disruption to the transport network, impacting road users, freight operators and rail services.
“This trial of pavement messaging is a simple but innovative way to provide drivers with an additional reminder of bridge clearances before they reach critical locations,” Mayor Harding said.
“Council is pleased to work with Queensland Rail on this trial and hopes it will show positive results.”
Last month, QR began trialling a trailermounted height detection warning system in Ipswich as part of ongoing efforts to prevent bridge strikes.
Using sensors, QR says the new warning system identifies vehicles exceeding safe height limits and provides real-time warnings to drivers via a Variable Message Sign, delivering an immediate warning message and helping prevent collisions before they occur.
QR Head of SEQ Neil Backer said bridge strikes were a serious safety concern.
“In 2025, there were 427 bridge and beam strikes in SEQ. As of the end of May this year, there have already been 157,” Mr Backer said.
In 2025, Dixon St Wulkuraka received 47 strikes and Layard St Goodna totalled six.
Mr Backer “Dixon and Layard Street bridges are in the top 20 most frequently struck bridges on the Queensland Rail network,” he said.
Motorists face fines of $1,381 and four demerit points for damaging rail infrastructure.
If the matter goes to court, the maximum penalty for causing damage to rail infrastructure is $13,816.
QR actively pursues individuals to recover costs.
Red
in their tracks. (QR:
On 16 March 2023, a campervan was damaged after scraping the Dixon Street protection beam.
Wulkuraka’s Dixon Street is one of the top 20 most frequently struck bridges on the QR network. (Byron Peszko: 402638)
Last month, QR announced it was trialling a trailer-mounted height detection warning system in Ipswich. (QR: 564085)
Amberley RAAF Base giving support
By JESSE HAMILTON
A Royal Australian Air Force KC-30A refuelled 14 fighter aircraft from partner nations during a five-hour mission over the Northern Territory on Wednesday, 29 July, as part of Exercise Pitch Black 2026.
The aircraft, operating from RAAF Base Amberley, supported multinational air combat operations by providing air-to-air refuelling capability within the Northern Territory’s military training area.
Exercise Pitch Black is the Royal Australian Air Force’s premier international air combat exercise, with 19 nations and more than 100 aircraft taking part this year.
The exercise’s night operations are designed to test participating nations’ ability to operate in complex environments after sunset, with fighter aircraft, coordination teams and support aircraft working together during large-scale operations.
RAAF Task Commander Mick Rowan said the exercise provided an important opportunity for Australia and its international partners to train together.
“Exercise Pitch Black is the Royal Australian Air Force’s premier international air combat exercise,” he said.
“It’s held every two years. This year we’ve got 19 different nations participating and more than 100 aircraft.
“We have Spanish, UK, US, Australian and other European allies helping in that refuelling role.
“The KC-30A’s ability to refuel aircraft in flight allows fighter jets to remain airborne for longer, increasing their operational range and effectiveness.
“It’s very crucial. Australia is a small country in terms of numbers, and we have a limited
A Royal Australian Air Force KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport conducts air-to-air refuelling with a fighter aircraft during Exercise Pitch Black 2026 over the Northern Territory.
to Operation Pitch Black
number of combat aircraft,” Mr Rowan said.
“The exercise also provides international partners with access to Australia’s vast airspace,
which differs significantly from the environments many European nations operate in.
“It’s a lot flatter, it’s a lot drier, but Australia
gives us the advantage of unique open spaces. It’s something some of our partnering nations don’t get to see, particularly our European partners, as they have very limited airspace. Australia affords a wonderful opportunity.“
A spokesperson for the Multinational MRTT Fleet, which includes nine European nations, said Exercise Pitch Black provided an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between air forces.
“It provides different perspectives, different partners to work with. Just to see and learn
from each other,” he said.
“The combined area of our nations is roughly the same size as Queensland.
“But while in Queensland there are only 5.7 million inhabitants, our European nations contain 150 million.
“Which makes the airspace very crowded, with a lot of noise restrictions and areas to be avoided.
“And therefore we are very grateful to be here and to use the airspace here and to work with our partners here.“
RAAF KC-30A aircraft pilots prepare for a mission supporting Exercise Pitch Black 2026.
The KC-30A refuelling operation allows participating fighter aircraft to remain airborne for longer, supporting complex multinational training missions across the Northern Territory.
Two KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transports operated by Australia and international partners take part in Exercise Pitch Black 2026, strengthening cooperation between allied air forces.
It is Marburg expo time again
By LARA HART
IT’S August and that means it’s time for the Marburg Garden and Outdoor Expo.
The event is a ’must do’ for everyone that wants to add colour and flair to their outdoor areas.
Marburg Show Society vice-president Barb Frohloff said the expo was a good place to grab a bargain and likened it to ’heaven for gardeners’.
She said exhibitors liked Marburg’s garden expo because the site and accommodation costs were affordable, unlike many other garden shows.
“When the cost of exhibiting is high, exhibitors have to bump up their prices to cover their expenses,” she explained.
“Because our fees are reasonable, they don’t need to do that and the public benefit from lower prices.”
The Marburg Garden and Outdoor Expo gets bigger every year as people return to level up their outdoor lifestyle game.
There are also guest speakers who share their tips on how to get the most out of your outdoor space.
There is plenty to see and do, and you won’t go hungry either.
There will be hamburgers, barista-made coffee, sandwiches, tea, coffee and cakes on sale too.
If you’d like to up your green garden game, you’ll be spoilt for choice with 160 stall holders.
The expo is on Saturday, 22 August at the Marburg Showground from 8am.
Suzie Holmes
s
The Marburg Garden and Outdoor Expo always attracts a large crowd. (Lyle Radford)
Every answer matters
If you know where you’ll be on Census night, Tuesday 11 August, you can complete the form for your household as soon as you get your instructions. Complete online, on paper or with help from us.
census.abs.gov.au
Brigades seeking new volunteers
By MORGANNE KOPITTKE
WITH Queensland heading into what is expected to be a dangerous fire season, rural fire brigades across the Lockyer Valley are calling for new volunteers.
The Rural Fire Service Queensland (RFSQ) has 1400 brigades supported by around 28,000 volunteers, with Lockyer Valley brigades hoping to recruit more members for their ranks ahead of the busy season.
The Lockyer Valley Group is made up of 15 rural fire brigades, stretching across the region from Blenheim and Gatton to Murphys Creek, Withcott and Woodlea.
Lockyer Valley Group Officer and Fordsdale First Officer Wayne Scholl said they are always looking for new volunteers.
“The Rural Fire Service QLD is an emer-
gency response organisation that needs volunteers who are available to assist our communities 365 days a year 24 hours a day,” he said.
“Rural Fire Brigades are built around the community. Brigade members, firefighters, have work and family obligations like everyone else but they make the time out of their busy lives to train and respond to calls.”
Mr Scholl said it is important that each brigade has a strong and diverse team to support each other and attend to the emergency calls.
The RFSQ needs all types of people with a wide range of skills to keep brigades running and communities safe. It offers volunteering opportunities in both operational and support roles, guided by the Rural Fire Development Framework.
To be a member of a rural brigade you need to be at least 16 years of age and those who are
interested in volunteering can contact their local brigade through their local area office for more information.
Mr Scholl said volunteers are the lifeblood of the organisation.
“The brigade doesn’t run unless there’s volunteers able to attend the incidents, undertake training and maintenance of equipment and assist in supporting and educating the community,” he said.
“Being a volunteer is a balance between your family and work life and then making time to participate in brigade activities such as meetings, the ever-important training and responding to emergency calls. Being a volunteer is about what you can offer the organisation which is different for everybody.”
Mr Scholl said Queensland is coming into what is expected to be a dangerous fire season,
so they are asking everyone in the community to be prepared. Understand the risk, be prepared and have a bushfire plan.
The complete list of rural fire bridges in the Lockyer Valley are Blenheim District Rural Fire Brigade, Fordsdale Rural Fire Brigade, Gatton Springdale Rural Fire Brigade, Grantham Rural Fire Brigade, Hattonvale Summerholm Rural Fire Brigade and Iredale Flagstone Rural Fire Brigade.
There is also the Junction View Rural Fire Brigade, Left Hand Branch Rural Fire Brigade, Lockyer Waters Rural Fire Brigade, Mount Campbell Rural Fire Brigade, Mulgowie Rural Fire Brigade, Murphys Creek Rural Fire Brigade, Upper Flagstone Rural Fire Brigade, Withcott Rural Fire Brigade and Woodlea Rural Fire Brigade.
Lockyer Valley rural fire brigades are calling for new volunteers.
Lockyer Valley rural fire brigades are calling for new volunteers.
Rural fire brigades across the Lockyer Valley are calling for new volunteers for 2026 and beyond.
1 QUEEN STREET WALLOON
PHONE 5464 5163
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WEDNESDAY - PARMY PARTY $20 – Your choice of 6 different Parmy’s served with chips and salad. (Dinner only)
THURSDAY – BLACK ANGUS $20 – 250g Black Angus rump served with chips, salad and sauce. (Dinner only)
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Fossil finders uncover ancient life
By LARA HART
A fossil discovery in the Woodhill and Gleneagle area is providing insight into the region’s prehistoric past thanks to amateur archaeologists Sienna Rendace and Izak Schoon.
The couple enjoy exploring areas being developed or excavated.
Because they know what to look for, they seek out rock beds where fossils are likely to be found.
“We want to get people thinking about what is around them because [fossils] can be lost to development,” Sienna said.
“Once they’re collected, they can be studied so that people can understand them better.”
They recently found Eocene-aged fossils uncovered during recent development work.
These included tiny ostracods, commonly known as seed shrimp-and disarticulated fish bones preserved within a distinctive grey shale layer.
While modest in appearance, the fossils are of considerable scientific importance.
“The Eocene period was approximately 15 million years ago and actually quite young in the grand scheme of things,” she said.
“Izak is involved with the Fossil Club of Australia and researches the geology of areas when then go on to explore.
“We look for new deposits and he has a particular interest in the Eocene period.”
Izak recently discovered a new site in Ipswich that had fully articulated fish with scales, insects and wings.
The geology of Cedar Vale, Woodhill and Gleneagle consists largely of Eocene volcanic rocks, including basalt, interbedded with sedimentary rocks such as sandstone and shale.
It is these fine-grained shale deposits that provide ideal conditions for preserving delicate fossils, including microscopic crustaceans and fish remains.
Because these fossil-bearing shale layers can be exposed during construction, earthworks and other development activities, there is strong potential for additional discoveries throughout the district.
Residents in the Woodhill, Gleneagle and surrounding areas who have recently undertaken excavation work—or who have grey shale exposed or stockpiled on their property-are encouraged to get in touch with a fossil club.
Examining these deposits not only has the potential to uncover further fossils but also contributes to a better scientific understanding of the region’s geological history.
Property owners who participate can also learn more about the fascinating geology beneath their feet while helping expand knowledge of one of south east Queensland’s most understudied fossil records.
As exploration continues, even the smallest fossil discoveries may help piece together an ancient ecosystem that existed millions of years before humans arrived.
It looks ordinary but recently excavated rocky areas can have fossil material within them.
Cancer survivor retraces his journey
By JESSE HAMILTON
FOR Marcus Heironymus, a 400km walk from Goondiwindi to Brisbane is more than a physical challenge, it is a journey shaped by his own experience accessing cancer treatment far from home.
The Goondiwindi cancer survivor will pass through the Lockyer Valley during “The Chemo Commute”, stopping at Grantham, Gatton, Forest Hill and Laidley as he makes his way towards Princess Alexandra Hospital, where he first received treatment.
The walk will raise funds for the Sony Foundation’s You Can Stay program, which provides free, uncapped accommodation for regional youth cancer patients aged 15 to 29 and their families.
Around seven million Australians live in rural and remote areas, with many required to travel significant distances to access specialist healthcare.
Marcus was diagnosed with testicular cancer at 16 while living in Goondiwindi, just as he was preparing to finish Year 11.
“When I got the diagnosis, it was kind of just like, ‘Okay, I’m not in charge here anymore. I’ve got to do what I’m told,“ he said.
“You’re just at the end of Year 11 and you’re trying to work out what you’re going to do with your life.”
During treatment, Marcus and his family regularly travelled between Goondiwindi and Brisbane, with some trips taking up to eight hours.
“I had chemo on an accelerated trial, so I’d be hit with it for a week, have a week off, and then we’d head back again.”
Through those trips, Marcus met other regional families facing similar challenges.
“Travelling to Brisbane, we got to know people and a few of them lived double, if not three times, the distance that we lived,“ he said.
“You can just imagine, if you already have that travel that you have to do, finding somewhere to stay that’s safe and comfortable is just another thing you have to worry about when
your body is exhausted from the treatment.“
Now 25 and in remission, Marcus is using his experience to support other young cancer patients and their families.
“I’d heard about the Sony Foundation in the background a few times, and then I learned about their You Can Stay program and just thought, ‘That would have been so good.’
“I know how much of an impact that would
have had for my family and a few other families that I knew, and I thought it would be so good if more families could get use out of this.”
Marcus began his walk from Goondiwindi on 25 July and will arrive at Princess Alexandra Hospital on 17 August.
Through “The Chemo Commute”, he hopes future regional families facing cancer treatment will have greater support during some of their most difficult moments.
Seven-year Cunninghams Gap saga comes to a close
By BYRON PESZKO
RECONSTRUCTION works to restore the 2.3 kilometre stretch of the Cunningham Highway through Cunninghams Gap, where fire and land slips caused significant damage in 2019, has officially been delivered nearly 12 months ahead of schedule.
Restoration works include the installation of CCTV monitoring, rockfall protection, retaining walls, solar lighting, three emergency stopping bays, and future pedestrian crossing for walking tracks.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Brent Mickelberg said the project delivered longterm benefits for Queensland motorists and freight operators.
“This project has restored one of Queensland’s most important transport corridors following the severe impact of bushfires,” Minister Mickelberg said.
“Cunninghams Gap is a critical freight lifeline for Queensland, which is why keeping around 6,000 vehicles moving safely every day throughout construction was our absolute priority.
“These works have stabilised the mountainside, strengthened the highway against future impacts and improved traffic flow for the freight operators and motorists who rely on this route every day,“ he said.
The extensive time taken during work to restore the highway hasn’t been without complaints from residents, transport companies and travellers.
In April 2024, Scenic Rim MP Jon Krause told ITT he didn’t have anyone raise with him the time taken by TMR to bring on these important repair works.
This week, Mr Krause said Cunningham’s Gap was a lifeline for his community.
“The Cunningham Highway through Cunningham’s Gap is a key connector for people and freight travelling in and out of the Scenic
Rim, which makes a more resilient road more important as our state continues to grow,” Mr Krause said.
“This has been extraordinarily complex work, but it has not been without its challenges, which is why we’re thankful to drivers and freight operators for their patience.
“Now, they pay off will be a more resilient road, and better connection into the future for those communities who rely on the Cunningham Highway,“ he said.
Originally expected for completion in mid-2027, TMR attributes a combination of favourable weather conditions, innovative construction methods and proactive project
planning enabled the project to be completed earlier than anticipated.
“TMR is committed to delivering projects as quickly as possible for Queensland communities and road users and, where opportunities exist to safely accelerate delivery, we actively pursue them,” a TMR spokesperson said.
Restoration works included the installation of 20,000m2 of rockfall protection drape mesh, one kilometre of roadside rockfall protection fencing and reduced 50 km/h speed limit along the stretch of road.
Federal Minister for Emergency Management Kristy McBain said the Cunningham Highway is a vital freight and transport link for Queensland and the nation.
“Through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements, the Australian and Queensland Governments worked together to restore bushfire-damaged infrastructure while keeping this critical freight corridor open throughout construction,” Minister McBain said.
“These works will help ensure communities, businesses and freight operators can continue to rely on this important route for years to come.“
While project costs have yet to be finalised, minor finishing works are expected to continue intermittently and for short durations within the project area over the next three months.
Works to restore a 2.3 kilometre stretch of the Cunningham Highway affected by rockfall and bushfire in 2019 has been delivered (TMR: 569287)
Cancer survivor Marcus Heironymus is retracing the journey he once made for treatment, walking 400km from Goondiwindi to Princess Alexandra Hospital to support regional families facing similar challenges. (Supplied)
Things that pass us by
By LARA HART
THERE are many unnoticed essentials of everyday life that go largely unnoticed until they are no longer there.
Take eyebrows for example, some folk look like two fuzzy caterpillars have been slapped on above their eyes while others offer thin, sparse semi-circles that are more teaser than feature.
I’d hazard a guess few men give theirs a second thought and only began plucking their centre panel at the behest of a partner.
Having a decent set of brows has been important to me since I was about 14 and read in a book how they ‘framed the face’.
Eyebrows are a simple facial feature but take them away and the mood changes.
Suddenly you’re Voldermolt and your mouth and eyes are the main character and eyebrows are the understudy.
It is not just facial expressions that are neglected until they’re gone, what of salt?
Salt in cooking is almost invisible … until it’s missing.
Such a small addition to a meal can result in an entirely different eating experience.
Spaces … that small pause between words, remove them and reading becomes exhausting.
Silence in music seldom happens because if sound is eased, it is not music at all.
So much so that some musicians purposefully add a pause for more of a shock effect, like … did the song finish, skip or did the band die halfway through.
Then the doof doof continues and we know all is well.
And oh my word, punctuation!
A journalist’s bug bears because simple punctuation can change the meaning of a sentence substantially.
‘Let’s eat, grandma’ and ‘Let’s eat grandma’, is an example of a lifesaving comma.
There’s also, ‘I like cooking, my family and my dog’ and ‘I like cooking my family and my dog.’
‘What is this thing called love’ sounds like a romantic getting deep into the feels.
While ‘what is this thing for love?’ is an everyday conversation about how to use the new air fryer.
There’s an even funnier example with the sentence ‘I helped my uncle Jack off a horse’.
I’ll leave the grammatical error in that one alone.
‘I love my parents, Lady Gaga and Batman’ or ‘I love my parents Lady Gaga and Batman’.
Now let’s address the enormous contribution musical score adds to a movie.
The background track is as important as an actors performance, words and the team’s CGI skills.
Watching a horror movie isn’t half as scary with the sound turned off.
And you can’t tell me you wouldn’t freak out if someone played the Jaws soundtrack on a loud speaker when you are in the ocean.
Also underrated are naps, you know, those hour long breaks mid day small children are
forced to do against their will.
There’s a company in Japan that has a floor of sleep pods for its employees.
It is an egg shaped hanging chair built with high tech technology.
You climb in and program the pod to shut out the world for a certain amount of time.
Workers are encouraged to use them once a day to keep their minds sharp and focused when performing.
Of all the things that go unnoticed, I think aging is the most important.
We only live for a about eight decades on average but spend a decent chunk of that time obsessing about what other people think of us.
We don’t go swimming at the beach or pool because we think we are fat and we are embarrassed about the shape of our bodies.
It takes a long time for some folk to become comfortable in their own skin that decades are lost worrying what strangers think of us.
I realised most people are so worried about what you think of them, they don’t give you a glance.
In 2009, I became ill with sepsis and my organs began shutting down one after the other.
My parents were called and told to come say their goodbyes.
They lived in the UK and took the next flight to Brisbane.
I was in the ICU for almost a month but
spoiler alert, I didn’t die.
I can say with certainty that when you think your time is running out, you will wish for more of it … not to just live - but to LIVE!
I made a sign I hung by the front door that read, ‘Live while you are alive or you are better off dead’.
I can’t say I live my life exactly that way, but I most certainty understand life can be taken quicker and sooner than you’d think.
It’s a short journey.
But enough philosophising and back to the brows because sometimes the best headlines are the ones above your eyebrows.
Hugh Jackman sans eyebrows. (AI-generated)
Dwayne Johnson sans eyebrows. (AI generated)
Lara Hart, eyebrows intact.
Caravans
Caravans
Family home on a corner block
A well-presented home on a 13sqm corner block in Walloon, recently sold for $920,000.
The Paterson Road home has a 13kW solar system and security screens.
The interior design features a large open plan living, dining and kitchen area, with ducted air conditioning, and four generously proportioned bedrooms.
The master suite has a walk in robe and an attractive ensuite.
The other three bedrooms have built in robes and ceiling fans.
There’s also a separate family or media room.
The kitchen has a Caesar stone island bench, a walk-in pantry and ample storage.
And it has direct access to the undercover outdoor entertainment area.
The yard is fully fenced and has secure side access leading to a dedicated boat or caravan parking area and a separate 3m x 3m shed.
The double remote garage has internal access.
The property last sold in 2024 for $267,000.
Big, bold and built to impress
A Thagoona home that commands attention with 522sqm under roof and a 5,575sqm yard sold recently for $1,500,000.
Located on an elevated block in Adelong Avenue, the home was built seven years ago and was designed to take advantage of the exceptionally large floor space.
There are four bedrooms, three of which have ensuites with double showers, and the fourth has easy access to the main bathroom
The master suite includes a luxuriously appointed ensuite and a large walk in robe best described as a dressing room.
The kitchen has a stone waterfall island bench, a large oven, a premium Zip tap that delivers instant hot, chilled and sparkling water and a butler’s pantry with lots of storage.
There are several living zones including a media room, lounge and a family area.
Ducted air conditioning is installed throughout the home, including the garage.
Outside there a 38-metre-long insulated entertaining area with ceilings fans.
Set on a fully fenced 1.4 acre block, the land has been divided into two sections, offering flexibility for pets, kids or even future plans.
There’s also a powered double bay shed positioned at the front, double gate side access on both sides of the home, and plenty of parking.
Additional features include security screens, ceiling fans, extra high ceilings and epoxy flooring in the garage and alfresco area.
The home is fitted with a 24kW solar system paired with a 40kW battery and there’s a 25kW electric vehicle charger.
And the upgraded circuit board has threephase power.
Thepropertylastsoldin2023for$1,015,000.
Ipswich Jets ‘for the community’
By CLANCY NUGENT
THE Ipswich Jets have been making an incredible impact in the community over the last two months, headlined by their inaugural Jetability program, delivering training sessions across rural Queensland for Country Week, and producing an online athlete tooklit to support local youth footy players.
The Jetability program has grown from five to 12 participants in its first month and a half, offering an avenue for locals with a disability to play an adapted form of rugby league every Tuesday night.
Ipswich Jets Pathways and Programs Manager Blake Mara said Jetability is one of the most rewarding things he has ever done in his career.
“It has been unreal, we obviously have a relationship with the Gold Coast Titans and they have been pioneers in this space for rugby league,“ Mara said.
“All-ability rugby league means that people with different disabilities can take the field with anyone in this form of the game.
“What I’ve found to be the most touching part is that, amongst our group, everyone has some kind of disability and there is a varying degree of inhibitance on each player and their ability to play rugby league, but from that it is amazing to see how they all come together and look after each other.
“Everyone gets in and makes sure that everyone feels welcome and included.
“I think people could learn a real sense of gratitude from our Jetability team because they’re so thankful for every session and the friends they make... We finish at 5:15 but we pretty much have to get them out of there at
5:30 because they’re still hanging around and having a laugh, which is bloody awesome,“ Mara said.
The Jetability team plays league tag and trains every Tuesday evening.
They will get the opportunity on 4 September to take to the field before a Gold Coast Titans match at Cbus Super Stadium and verse the players in the program at the Titans.
Mara encouraged anyone who wishes to be part of the program to get in touch and get involved on a Tuesday night.
The Jets also took training camps to Chinchilla, Surat, and Roma last weekend for Country Week to bring their community impact out to other remote areas.
Their online rugby league toolkit has also been created to give players a reliable source of information on how to train and develop their footy skills, giving the public access to a guide that can help them improve their game.
Mara said that these kinds of community initiatives prove the Ipswich Jets are defined by far more than just the results each weekend.
“You look at your top teams in whatever sporting organisation and their wins and losses are an important part of a club, but really, that is just the surface point,“ Mara said.
“This footy club exists for this community and I feel like our job is to inspire Ipswich.
“When people think of the Ipswich Jets, some automatically think of the Hostplus Cup, but the closer you get to our club, the bigger you realise it is than just that.
“People can become better people through the vehicle of our sport, and we’re providing that opportunity to people,“ he said.
NRL legend Moses Mbye helped out players in rural Queensland for country week. Photo - Ipswich Jets.
Ipswich Jets Pathways and Programs Manager Blake Mara said the club is for the comunity
Law helps break 52 year gold drought
By CLANCY NUGENT
FORMER Ipswich and District Athletics Club member Calab Law helped Australia break a 52-year drought in the team’s 4x100 metre relay win at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games over the weekend.
Law ran the second bend after Lachlan Kennedy, who ran a blistering 9.85-second individual 100m to claim silver earlier in the meet, got his team off to a quick start.
He owned the bend for the Aussie team, as has been his role for the previous three years, before passing the baton off to Josh Azzopardi who ran a strong leg and gave anchor Rohan Browning an opportunity to hold off a flying Andre De Grasse in the final 100m.
De Grasse was the spearhead of a Canadian team who just two years ago took home the gold medal at the Olympic Games.
It was the first time an Australian 4x100m relay team won gold at the Commonwealth Games since 1974 and their first medal since 2002.
Law was praised for his expertise around the bend in his post-race interview with Channel 7, but the humble 22-year-old was all smiles.
“I hope I am good at it right now because I have been doing it for, what, three years?” Law laughed.
“I am really happy with that, running in lane eight you’re completely blind the whole way.
“You don’t know where anyone is, so all it is is just trusting each other and knowing that we are all going to get there and we got there in the end,” he said.
This team had some genuine demons to fight following their painful disqualification at the 2022 Commonwealth Games where team leader Browning lost his footing and saw the Aussies knocked out in the heats.
He said he had struggled with that for the last four years.
“Four years ago I tripped over and got the team DQ’d in the heats when I think we were medal threats and I have had to carry the burden of that for the last four years,” Browning said.
Refurbished swimming blocks are ready to go
POOL users at Bundamba can now dive with confidence thanks to refurbished starting blocks.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the refurbished starting blocks would provide a safer swimming experience for users.
“These starting blocks have been retrofitted with modern, high-grip, adjustable platforms that will allow swimmers under instruction to practice their diving with greater ease, and benefit swim competitions held at this much-loved pool,” Mayor Harding said.
“I’m pleased Woogaroo Swim Club received $15,000 in community grant funding from council to deliver these retrofitted diving blocks.
“Bundamba Swim Centre is one of Ipswich’s most popular pools, with swimmers young and old enjoying its heated 50 metre and 20 metre pools.”
Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle said council was focused on delivering projects that would improve the functionality and safety of community facilities.
“We know that Ipswich residents are keen swimmers all year round, whether in our icy mornings now or the long hot days of summer,” Cr Doyle said.
“These upgrades will allow more residents to enjoy a modern, safe swimming and diving environment at Bundamba Swim Centre.
“The upgrades mean the eight starting blocks will be in place well ahead of the summer swimming season when our pools are in high demand.
“Working with community clubs to ensure our facilities meet the needs of residents is a council priority and I look forward to seeing more swimmers of all ages enjoying this upgrade to Bundamba Swim Centre.”
“This hopefully wipes the slate clean.
“It is probably the most special moment of my career,” he said.
The team did it without another Ipswich star in teen sensation Gout Gout, who chose not to compete at the Commonwealth Games in order to focus on the World Under 20 Championships but has since been injured.
It also did not include former New Zealander Eddie Nketia who made the final in Glasgow.
With two sensational sprinters not even in the team that won gold, it makes for a fascinating battle for positions in the lead-up to the 2028 games.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding, Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle and Woogaroo Swim Club members Cara, 8, and Scarlett, 11 at the new blocks at the Bundamba Pool.
MP launches bid for Leyburn corner
FORMULA One drivers could find themselves speeding around “Leyburn” corner if Federal Member for Maranoa and Shadow Minister for Tourism David Littleproud gets his way.
Littleproud has written to the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Grand Prix Corporation, calling for a corner at Albert Park, Melbourne, where the Australian Grand Prix is now held, to be named “Leyburn“ in recognition of the town’s place in Australian motorsport history.
Leyburn hosted the Australian Grand Prix in 1949 on a circuit laid out along an airstrip. That history is kept alive today through the Historic Leyburn Sprints, held annually to commemorate the event.
Littleproud said the request was a fitting way to honour the full breadth of the nation’s Grand Prix history.
“Melbourne is rightly regarded as the sporting capital of Australia, and Albert Park stands as one of the finest circuits on the Formula One calendar,” he said.
“But this history isn’t just Melbourne’s story it belongs to towns like Leyburn too. Naming one of the circuit’s unnamed corners ’Leyburn’ would be a low-cost, fitting gesture that recognises where it all started.“
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Historic Leyburn Sprints, as well as the 77th anniversary of the 1949 Australian Grand Prix, with celebrations to be held on the weekend of 15 and 16 August 2026. The Historic Leyburn Sprints remains one of Queensland’s most significant motoring events and one of the state’s largest regional gatherings, drawing more than
18,000 visitors each year to the small Southern Darling Downs community.
Historic Leyburn Sprints President Tricia Chant welcomed Mr Littleproud’s advocacy.
“Leyburn is a tiny rural community with a big history, highlighted by the 1949 Australian Grand Prix. We’ll see three surviving cars from 1949 and several later Grand Prix drivers visit
the race site during our 30th anniversary celebrations on 15-16 August,“ Ms Chant said.
“Leyburn has a direct link to Melbourne’s modern-day Formula One grand prix, and it would be wonderful to see this enshrined with a dedicated corner at Albert Park, thanks to this proposal by Mr Littleproud.“
Littleproud said he looked forward to con-
tinuing to work with the Historic Leyburn Sprints organisers to keep this history alive.
“I want to thank Tricia and the whole Historic Leyburn Sprints committee for the work they do to keep this piece of our history front and centre. I’ll keep advocating to make sure Leyburn’s place in Grand Prix history gets the recognition it deserves.”
