The Western Echo April 2026

Advertiser'sDirectory

Our Power, Our Planet

Earth Day is this month - on Wednesday 22 April 2026! We’ve gathered information, ideas, and resources to help bring attention to why this day is so important and how you can make a difference! This year’s theme is “Our Power, Our Planet” – highlighting how as individuals we can all take part in protecting our planet for the future – and for our children. Earth Day is celebrated as part of Earth Week – on 18-26 April 2026.

The first Earth Day was held 56 years ago, in 1970 in the United States, with the intention of showing support for environmental conservation. Since then, it’s developed worldwide with thousands of people hosting events and broadening education on everything related to its key premise – helping our environment.

Why is this important?

Plastic Pollution: As of 2023, there were 21,000 pieces of plastic in the ocean for every single person on Earth. Species Decline: Wildlife populations have declined by 73% since 1970, highlighting the urgent need for biodiversity protection. Excessive Demand: At current consumption rates, it would take 1.8 Earths to sustain the global population.

However, it’s not all bleak! People’s efforts have made improvements which is exactly what the day aims to encourage.

The Paris Agreement: a landmark accord to reduce global emissions, was intentionally opened for signature on Earth Day in 2016.

Green Sea Turtles: Reclassified from "endangered" to "least concern" on the IUCN Red List in 2025 due to decades of consistent, global, community-led protection.

National Plastic Bans: Australian states and territories have introduced laws to ban the most harmful single-use plastics, with a goal of an 80% reduction in plastic waste entering the environment by 2030. Not everything has to be large scale though to have a positive impact, you can make a real difference to our environment even while staying at home!

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Perform a "plastic audit" at home, say no to any single-use plastics, and repurpose items like old jars or containers.

Cleanup Initiatives: Join a cleanup of local parks, creeks, or neighbourhoods to remove trash.

Planting & Gardening: Plant trees to absorb carbon dioxide, start a vegetable garden, or create an insect-friendly garden to boost local biodiversity.

Energy Conservation: Switch to LED light bulbs, wash laundry in cold water, and reduce energy consumption to lower carbon footprints.

Data Collection: Use apps like iNaturalist to record local wildlife and plant data, helping scientists track biodiversity and attain data.

Local events celebrating Earth Day:

EWaste Connection Project

The Gap State School, 18 April: Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club and EWaste Connection are partnering to allow anyone to drop off any unwanted electrical items (working or broken) on 18 April, 8am-1pm, at The Gap State School (via staff carpark). See their ad in this edition – for more details.

Climate Fresk Workshop – facilitated by People for Nature

Walkabout Creek, 22 April: play the Climate Fresk Game. Looking for a fun and meaningful way to spend Earth Day? A globally recognised, science-based workshop that raises awareness of the causes and consequences of climate changetaking place at Walkabout Creek in The Gap from 5:30pm - 8:30pm. Buy tickets online: https://events. humanitix.com/climate-freskbrisbane-april-2026

Local Community Groups:

Our region has a wide range of community groups that proactively support the environment and our planet – please consider assisting them via volunteering for their projects and activities, or by donations. Local groups include: The Gap Sustainability Initiative Inc, Boomerang Bags The Gap & Surrounds, The Gap Repair Café, Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN), and Paten Park Native Nursery. They would all love your help!

For more details and local volunteering opportunities:

Data/information source: www.earthday.org/ SOWN: www.sown.com.au/volunteer-at-the-nursery-on-saturday-orwednesday-2/

Paten Park Native Nursery: www.ppnn.org.au/get-involved/ The Gap Sustainability Initiative: www.thegapsustainability.org

Boomerang Bags The Gap & Surrounds: www.facebook.com/ BoomerangBagsTheGapandSurrounds

Repair Café The Gap: www.facebook.com/RepairCafeTheGap People for Nature: www.peoplefornature.org.au

Author: Isabel Becker.

Images: The Gap Sustainability Initiative, Boomerang Bags The Gap, The Gap Repair Café, and Unsplash.

From theEditor

Dear Readers,

Welcome to our April edition!

Our cover article this month features supporting Earth Day on 22 April – highlighting what we can all do to protect our planet for future generations. This month in our regular columns Colin Bushell chats with local high school student Sam Land in his ‘Col’s Chat’ column; Sarah Krause shares her thoughts

COL’S CHAT

Locals through my Lens

Sam Land

A few months ago, I attended my local business networking group, Westside Business Heart. There was a young man sitting there in a The Gap State High School uniform. Maybe he was someone’s son? Maybe he was in the wrong place. But while he was most certainly someone’s son, Sam Land was most definitely not in the wrong place!

“I want to learn everything I can, and connect with people who will help drive my ideas and ambitions forward. At first, I was nervous about attending a business networking group, but everyone was welcoming, and supportive, and that’s what I have come to expect.”

Sam, a year 11 student, is a driven, inspiring entrepreneur who is making his mark both locally and nationally.

“I have always been passionate about maths and science and, from my first week at high school, I was the director of LAUNCH, a studentled STEAM program (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) - hosting various activities and events throughout the year.” During that time, Sam developed his skills in the areas of 3D printing and coding, until stepping down to focus his skills on his own

about book-to-movie adaptations in her ‘For the Love of Books’ column; and Leonard Cavallaro debates about the ATAR system in his ‘It’s Debatable’ youth column.

Competition – closes 10 April: jump online to WIN a Family Pass to Snow White - presented by Allegory Theatre Qld – taking place 15-18 April.

And don’t miss our monthly fun Photo Quiz, guessing where Colin Bushell (photographer) has been this month with his camera. Please visit our website: www.westernecho.com.au

Happy reading! Mel & Kym

Melanie: 0409 440 501 | editor@westernecho.com.au or melanie@planetmarketing.com.au

Kym: 0402 450 568 | spotart@spotart.com.au

business.

“SPL Digital is a business that delivers web design, app development and AI tools. I already have some clients and am working on an AIpowered recommendation engine in Melbourne. It’s all about speaking to business direct and finding out their weaknesses to assist them with new ideas, digital builds, and strategies.”

For most year 11 students, with the big exam year coming along soon, one business would be enough. But not Sam.

“I could see that it was hard for teens to find jobs. I’ve got mates who have been trying for months. So, I created Startzee. It’s a dedicated job app for teenagers. If you like, it’s a kind of Tinder for jobs. It covers ABN verification, provides cyber security, and takes away the need for cold calling - an advantage for both the potential employee and employer. I have discussed my idea with Councillor Steven Toomey, who has been very supportive, and I have already made numerous connections with local businesses.”

So, what is it that drives Sam? “I like the idea of building something for myself. I love learning as I go. I’ve been to fairs, had mentors and spoken with professionals, but with so many resources to find solutions for yourself, self-education is vital. I am also happy to help and influence others where I can. Success is about your own learnings and being a role model to others.”

Sam is keen to state that he is still applying himself 100% at school, but what will the future hold? University or business? “Well, we’ll have to see how it works out. I just want to learn everything I can. The advice I got, is the same advice I’d give anyone in a similar situation; and that’s ‘go for it’.

Check out Startzee at www.startzee.com.au.

It’s free to register until 1 June 2026.

Author and photographer: Colin Bushell / Colin Bushell Photography

Cr Steve Toomey Councillor for

The Gap Ward

Teacher for the Morning at St Finbarr’s

I had the pleasure of visiting the Year 4 students at St Finbarr’s Primary School in Ashgrove to speak to them as part of their HASS Civics and Citizenship unit. They asked some great questions about how local Council makes decisions that help shape and support our community, some of which were really tough! There is definitely a large cohort of future leaders at St Finbarr's Primary School.

Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Community Support Grant NOW OPEN!

The Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Grants, Community Support Category provides up to $10,000 (excluding GST) for projects that respond to local community needs, improve community facilities and build organisational capacity.

Criteria applies, with your project delivering against one or more of the following objectives: community facility maintenance/improvement improve community organisation governance and long-term sustainability provide operational equipment for community organisations enable projects and activities that respond to community needs.

Applications close on Monday 11 May 2026.

2026 Gap Ward ANZAC Day Services

4:28AM - Dawn Service - Steward Place Memorial Rese rve, Bardon Ashgrove-Bardon RSL Sub Branch

5:30AM - Dawn Service - Walton Bridge Memorial, The Gap The Gap RSL Sub Branch

7:20AM - Parade - Betheden Terrace, Ashgrove Ashgrove-Bardon RSL Sub Branch

7:45AM - Morning Service - Ashgrove Memorial Park, Ashgrove Ashgrove-Bardon RSL Sub Branch

8:30AM - March - The Gap State High School, The Gap The Gap RSL Sub Branch

9:30AM - Day Service - Walton Bridge Memorial, The Gap The Gap RSL Sub Branch

Walton Bridge The GapGirl Guides

Girl Guides Queensland is the largest youth organisation for girls and young women in Queensland with almost 4000 youth Members and 1000 volunteer Leaders and adult Members.

We provide a non-formal educational program designed to create leaders of tomorrow by building on strengths and personal skills development. The program is flexible and can be designed to suit each individual youth member and adult members goals. We are an organisation that welcomes and actively seeks members from all racial, ethnic, religious and socio-economic groups.

Girl Guiding is facilitated by trained volunteers across all states in Australia. With a program that is girl-led and designed to encourage girls and young women to be the change in their world. Unit meetings usually take place once a week during the Queensland school term for 2 hours within a local hut or community space.

Units have opportunities to participate in many activities outside Unit meetings, for example: community events, service projects, camping, adventurous activities, social outings with other Units, fundraising and even learn how to save a life.

Our weekly meetings are held in the Walton Bridge The Gap (WBTG) Guide Hut, which is situated in ‘Paten Park’ Paten Road, The Gap. Meeting Times: Tuesday Gumnuts (5/6 years) 5pm to 6pm; Tuesday Gumtree Guides (7 to 11 years) 5pm to 7pm; Thursday Gumtree Guides (7 to 10 years) 4.30pm to 6.30pm; Wednesday Guides: (10 to 14 years) 6pm to 8pm; Friday Guides (10 to 14 years) 6pm to 8pm; Friday Ranger Guides: (13 years +) 7pm to 9pm.

Guiding provides an all-female, non-competitive learning environment where girls and women can challenge themselves, find their voice, and meet new friends. We welcome members from the age of 5 years up to 100+ to join our Guiding Community.

For information about the Girl Guides in your local area please contact our District Manager.Juliana Crombie: Email: waltonbridgethegapdm@ guidesqld.org

Ashgrove Bardon RSL Sub Branch

ANZAC is a Legacy that unites us all

The spirit of ANZAC Day is for all Australians and New Zealanders.

More than a commemoration of service and sacrifice, ANZAC Day is a chance to stand united, to reflect on what truly matters.

Each ANZAC Day we honour not just what was, but what still is: the spirit that shaped us – the spirit that lives with us, and in us, evermore.

In Commemoration of ANZAC Day

ANZAC Day is a day to honour the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of our local servicemen and women. Coming together on ANZAC Day ensures that their contributions are remembered, and reinforces the values of courage, resilience, and community that they fought

to protect. It's a day of remembrance and respect for the freedoms we enjoy, thanks to their sacrifices.

Looking for a way to commemorate ANZAC Day this year? You will find local services occurring in Ashgrove, Bardon, The Gap, Mitchelton, Paddington, Toowong, and in the Brisbane CBD.

The Gap RSL Sub Branch

ANZAC Day: Honouring Service and Community

ANZAC Day, observed each year on 25 April, is one of Australia’s most important national days of remembrance. It marks the anniversary of the landing of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) at Gallipoli in 1915 during the First World War. What began as a campaign that cost so many young lives soon became a defining moment in the history of both nations. The courage, endurance and mateship shown by those soldiers formed the foundations of what we now call the “ANZAC spirit”.

The first ANZAC Day commemorations were held in 1916, just one year after the Gallipoli landing. Since then, the day has grown to honour all Australians and New Zealanders who have served and sacrificed in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. Today, ANZAC Day is not only about remembering those who died, but also about acknowledging the service of veterans, the resilience of families, and the enduring values of duty, sacrifice and community.

Your participation matters. No matter how you commemorate ANZAC Day, it only matters that you do.

Whether you join a Dawn Service, pause at home in quiet reflection, or share stories with family and friends, every action – big or small – honours those who’ve served and shows us that the ANZAC spirit lives here.

To honour what they gave is to appreciate what we have.

ANZAC Day services 25 April 2026

Ashgrove Dawn Service: at Stewart Place Memorial Reserve, at 4:28am

March to Memorial Place Ashgrove: Assemble in Betheden Tce from 7:00am for 7:30am march off, Service at 8:00am

Bardon Service: at Bardon Bowls Club, at 11:10am

Refreshments will be provided after the services by the Sub-Branch, for RSL Members & families, and for medal wearers - at the Red Hill Bowls, Sports and Community Club (Fulcher Pde) and at Bardon Bowls Club.

For more details, see the ads (Jonty Bush MP, and Cr Steven Tommey ad pages) in this edition, or search on the RSL Queensland website: www. rslqld.org/whats-on/anzac-day or: www.anzacspirit.com.au

Explore more related ANZAC Day events on the Brisbane City Council website: www.brisbane. qld.gov.au/whats-on-and-events

Across the country, communities gather at dawn services, marches and memorial ceremonies. These traditions reflect the time of the original landing at Gallipoli and provide a moment for quiet reflection and shared remembrance.

The Gap ANZAC Day Services

In The Gap, the local community will again come together under the leadership of The Gap RSL for this year’s commemorative activities. The Dawn Service will take place at 5:40am at Walton Bridge Memorial Park, featuring a special performance by the Australian Military Wives Choir. Later in the morning, the ANZAC Day parade will commence at 9:15am from The Gap State High School, followed by the main commemorative service at Walton Bridge Memorial Park at 9:30am.

Following the service, everyone is warmly invited to continue the morning together at the community function hosted at The Gap Football Club. Events like these rely on the efforts of many dedicated volunteers and community groups. The organisers extend their sincere thanks to all who contribute their time and support to make the day possible. The community is also pleased to once again welcome Brisbane Brass, whose music will help mark this important occasion with dignity and tradition.

Rotary Club Ashgrove The Gap The Gap Baptist Church

Rotary Club of Ashgrove The Gap is a club with not too many members – indeed we would welcome more. How then do we achieve projects such as Santa Sleigh or the Citizenship Ceremony on Australia Day or the massive Carols by Candlelight? The answer is that we amplify our efforts with the help of volunteers – community-minded people who are willing and able to help with a specific event but for one reason or another have not joined the club as members.

These immensely valuable people deserve the gratitude of the club and of the whole community that they are serving alongside the club. To show our gratitude we held a Volunteers’ Night in March to recognise their massive contribution. People like high school student Sam Land, who with the others worked so hard on setting up and running Carols by Candlelight.

To emphasise their relevance, we also used the night to make financial donations to many local causes – donations made possible in part by the efforts of those volunteers. Donations included $1000 to Mt St Michaels Interact Club project to install a new oven in Emmanuel City Mission, and the teachers were there to receive it.

To learn more you can visit: www.rotaryashgrovethegap.org.au

If the idea of volunteering for specific events appeals to you, you can contact Tim Boyd at agrclub@gmail.com, or text at 0411 141 304.

West Brisbane Orchid Society

1965 to 2026 and Growing!

The Society’s repotting night on 24 February seems to have been successful; no plants were injured during the course of the night. The finished product is shown in the photograph pictured here. The technique used for these orchids, Phalaenopsis or Moth Orchids, uses scoria and sphagnum moss. This is just one of the techniques used on the various genera grown by members of the Society. Repotting is an important part of orchid cultivation. It’s also an opportunity for Society

Forgive

In the Lord’s Prayer we ask God to “…forgive us our sins as we forgive others.”

All of us have hurt someone. We are all guilty! Most of us feel the burden of hurting someone. Most of us feel the relief when someone says, “I forgive you.”

When we forgive someone, it not only takes away the guilty person’s burden, but it also takes away some of our own burden… the burden to see justice is done. The need for revenge.

In the Bible at Romans 12:17 it says:

17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

The ways of Jesus are so different from the world’s ways, aren’t they?

To learn more about Jesus, contact the Gap Baptist Church and we will show you the Game Changer. It is a short 3-session course that introduces you to Jesus. You know that there has to be a better way - Jesus is the Way.

To book a session, call 0498 199 217 or email the Church: thegapbc@gmail.com.

If you see me at The Gap Shopping Village, please say Hello!

Tiny

members to meet, socialise, and exchange ideas on cultivation, as the photograph shows. If you think you would like to learn more about orchids, why don’t you come along to one of the Society’s meetings?

By the time this publication reaches you, the Autumn Show will have been run and won. The next edition will feature a report on the Show and photographs of the winners. The Society will continue its 2026 program on Wednesday, 22 April. The evening will feature a presentation on the unusual and interesting Catasetum family.

The West Brisbane Orchid Society meets at The Gap Baptist Church on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm. Visitors and new members are always welcome.

For further information please phone Ian (0418 873 725) or Bob (0428 717 321), or email: oldkidds@ecn.net.au.

Website: www.westbrisbaneorchidsociety.com.au

The Physiologix Corner

Dementia and Exercise

Dementia is now one of the biggest health challenges facing Australia, with just under half a million people currently affected by the condition. In November 2025, the Australian Bureau of Statistics announced that Dementia was the leading cause of death in 2024, with an increase of 9.4% from the previous year, surpassing ischaemic heart disease.

Why Exercise?

14 modifiable risk factors have been identified which, if addressed, can prevent or delay the onset of dementia. Exercise can help mitigate the risk of physical inactivity and simultaneously decrease other risk factors. Increasing the amount of physical activity that a person undertakes has a positive impact on cardiovascular and metabolic health, thereby reducing those risk factors too. Exercise is proven to enhance blood flow to the brain and stimulate the growth of new neural connections. How can Physiologix help?

Several studies outline best suggested exercise to do through the week. We outline this research, together with much more information on exercise and dementia, in our latest article found on our website: www.physiologix.com.au .

At Physiologix we understand the importance of maintaining physical activity and reaching your goals. Whether you’re new to exercise, returning from an injury, or keen to progress your exercise journey further - our extensive skills and experience, coupled with a multidisciplinary team can help you safely establish a tailored exercise program that fits your abilities and lifestyle. From Clinical Pilates that focuses on breath, control and movement to creating a tailored gym strength and conditioning program, the Physiologix team provides a holistic, proactive approach to keeping your mind sharp and your body strong for years to come.

Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club

What the world needs is young men (and women) who are articulate, have a strong set of values and a commitment to service and making a difference. The young men who participated in Ashgrove The Gap Lions Club Youth of the Year Competition, Tuesday 24 February, demonstrated that our local high schools are producing students who excel in these areas.

Henry Robinson, representing Marist College Ashgrove, was the overall winner. Henry progressed to the next round of the competition held on Sunday 15 March.

Elliott Hockey representing The Gap State High School, was the winner of the public speaking award.

One of Lions International Global Causes is the Environment. A challenge for all Lions Clubs is to host an event in Environment Week, with a focus on recycling ewaste.

eWaste Connection event on Saturday, 18 April

Ashgrove The Gap Lions are responding to this challenge by partnering with local social enterprise, eWaste Connection to offer the local community an opportunity to clean out the cupboards and get rid of old and unused electrical equipment, computers, TV’s, in fact anything with a plug, charger or battery, either working or broken (see our ad for all details).

If you have ewaste to get rid of, load up the boot, drive in to the staff car park at The Gap State School, Waterworks Rd (gate closest to the bus stop), drive up to the upper level of the car park. There will be Lions and staff from eWaste Connection, who will help you unload. Exit from the car park on to Waterworks Rd via the exit gate. Easy as!

Photos: 1. Lions Youth of the Year entrants, ElliottHockeyandHenryRobinson;withjudges, ColinBushell,SueHobbs,MelanieGrevis-James, together with Jonty Bush MP.

2. Lion Bill Martel with Monique Lowndes, Kate and Joshua from eWaste Connection.

SATURDAY, 18 APRIL

(working or

This includes anything which plugs into a powerpoint, uses a charger or is powered by a battery. You will be supporting a social enterprise for the community which provides opportunities to recycle, volunteer, train and empower people of all abilities. Enquiries: call 0488 069 089. More information at www.ewasteconnection.com

When: Saturday, 18 April, 8:00am - 1:00pm

Where: The Gap State School, staff car park. Enter from Waterworks Rd. This project is a partnership between EWaste Connection and the Lions Club of Ashgrove/The Gap

Please submit your answer on our website: www.westernecho.com.au/photo-quiz Or email to: editor@westernecho.com.au or scan the below QR code.

quiz answer: Corner Jubilee Tce and Belleview Parade, Bardon Winner: Kym A

Newmarket Bocce Club News

Charlie Parrella Cup

The Charlie Parrella Cup was held on 22 February and for the 5th year running. Here is the gossip of the day.

Redlands Bocce Club was invited to play, and the team was Quadretta (fours). Gina and Rebecca served up a delicious catered meal for lunch with cake and coffee to top it off.

As usual some games were close and ended up with 2 for Newmarket and 1 for Redlands team - with 3 games each. Therefore, it was then decided on points for and against. The winning team was Newmarket with +20, Redlands on +11, and third was Newmarket on +9. As you can see there was only a couple of points in it.

Congratulations to Newmarket with 1st and 3rd places and Redlands in 2nd place – with the winning team of Silvio, Natale, Bruno and Fausto - well done! The scoreboard above gives you an indication of what transpired.

To find out more about Newmarket Bocce Club, please contact: Mario 0403 257 325; Tony 0418 731 423; or Bill 0431 458 481.

St Mark's Anglican Church

View from the Pew

As the weather cools, and students (and teachers!) look forward to their holidays, Easter approaches. For many, this means a welcome long weekend - a chance to rest, tidy the garden, or enjoy a Netflix mega-binge! For those who are part of the Christian tradition, Easter carries a deeper meaning. It is a moment to pause and reconnect with hope, renewal, and joy in a world that often feels unsettled and uncertain.

At the centre of Easter is the story of Jesus. Jesus was born in a land dominated by the Roman Empire: a time marked by violence, hardship, hopelessness, and injustice. We don’t have to search far to find places in our world like that today.

Jesus experienced firsthand what it is to be put down, to be unfairly targeted, and even experienced the cruelty of violence and death. So many in our community today know what it is like to feel those things.

That was not the end of the story, though. The heart of Easter is the belief that Jesus rose to new life - the resurrection we celebrate on Easter Sunday (our hollow chocolate eggs remind us of that empty

Brisbane Tramway Museum

Introducing Our Fleet – Tram 47

Tram 47 is the oldest electric tram in the museum fleet. Built in 1901 by the Brisbane Tramways Company Limited, it is one of 62 trams in this class. It carries up to 50 passengers (36 seated) and is 8.5 metres long and weighs 9 tonnes. It was known as a “Matchbox” tram (visualise a matchbox with a tray sticking out both ends) and was in general service until 1950. At this time it was converted into an ‘advertising’ car and was eventually taken out of service in 1959 and held for preservation.

When the trams stopped running in Brisbane, it was fully restored by apprentices at the Milton workshops before being handed over to the Brisbane Tramway Museum. It is used on most Sundays when the museum is open from 12.30pm to 4.00pm (weather permitting).

Tram 47 will be featured in our forthcoming Great Gatsby Picnic on Sunday 12 April – see our ad on the opposite page.

To buy tickets: www.eventbrite. com.au/e/a-great-gatsby-picnictickets-1982741657672

The Brisbane Tramway Museum is Proudly supported by the Brisbane City Council.

tomb!). It is this belief that has inspired Christians to work for good and hope for change for 2000 years.

New beginnings are possible, even when life feels heavy.

This Easter, churches across our region welcome everyone who is curious, searching, or simply wanting a moment of peace.

Come, listen, and see whether this story of hope has something to offer you too.

Benson, St Mark’s Anglican Church, The Gap SAVE THE DATE! Sunday, 31 May: Courageous Conversations - Friendship will be held at 5.30pm on Sunday 31 May 2026 at St Mark's Anglican Church, Waterworks Rd, The Gap.

The event explores the role of friendship, belonging, and connection in everyday life, offering an opportunity to discuss loneliness and community in a safe, welcoming space. The event is free and open to all members of the local community. Supper is provided, so RSVP is appreciated.

For more information and to register your interest in attending, contact: Sue Hamlet email: suehamletcreative@gmail.com or call 0427 619 381.

Rotary Club Of Paddington

Brisbane Rotary Art Show

For 44 years, the Brisbane Rotary Art Show has been a cornerstone of our city’s cultural life, raising over $2 million to support those in need. As we prepare for our 2026 event at Central Plaza One foyer, July 19–31, we’re seeking local advocates to help connect us with partners who make this possible. We’re inviting local businesses, philanthropists, and community leaders who want to align their brand with an event that attracts about 15,000 visitors annually. Please contact Dani Conn for the Prospectus.

National Youth Science Forum (NYSF)

The National Youth Science Forum is a prestigious 10-day residential program for Year 11 students transitioning to Year 12 who are passionate about STEM. The program offers university campus experiences, site visits, and social activities to build community and mentorship networks. In Rotary District 9620 (South East Queensland, parts of Northern NSW, and Papua New Guinea), Rotary plays a vital role as founding partner, providing mentorship and financial sponsorship. Rotary offers partial or fully funded places, depending on funding and eligibility. This year, two students attended and shared their experiences. If you know a student who would benefit, please contact us for more information.

Photo:ourmembersenjoyingacoffeemorningmeetinginPaddington.

If you’d like to join us on this exciting journey and be part of our future endeavours, please reach out to us via text message 0433 152 063. We would love to welcome you!

The GapCreative Inc

It’s been a busy start to the year for members of The Gap Creative. In February, we hosted an engaging artist panel discussion exploring the positives and challenges of different platforms for selling artwork. Panel members included Gap Creative artists Peta Harvey, Kim Price and Giovanna Scott, along with special guest artist Sophia Cameron. The discussion covered a wide range of topics including artist websites, selling through Instagram, gallery opportunities, and the pros and cons of online platforms such as Bluethumb. Further panel discussions are

The GapSustainability Initiative

Thank you to everyone who came and helped us plan ahead for the next few years, with special thanks to our expert facilitator Dr Shane Sondergeld. It was very rewarding to hear that our work is valued and making an impact for the people of The Gap. The combined wisdom of our community will allow us to sharpen our vision and strengthen our determination. With Easter and the school holidays just ahead, we are looking forward to integrating the information you shared at the planning meeting into our project plans and website. Please take a look at the news section of our website for new content.

With the recent rain, everything looks wonderful and green, but the rain also brings out some of the notorious weeds around The Gap such as lantana and cats claw creeper. It might be tempting to spray them with herbicide, but we would encourage you to also consider other methods of weeding, such as removing the weed plant with the roots and using other plants to crowd the weed out. If you are unsure if a plant is a weed or not, there are very helpful guides published by Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN), the Brisbane City Council and you can also take a sample of the plant to Paten Park Native Nursery where the knowledgeable volunteers will provide an opinion. Joining a bushcare group is another way to learn about weeds first hand.

The topic of herbicide and pesticide-free home gardening is planned to be the topic of our next seminar, on April 21, 7pm at The Gap State High School library, but please check our website for specifics closer to the date. You are welcome to attend and bring your friends and family. To join activities and events not just by us, but the many wonderful sustainability groups around The Gap, just check our community events calendar on our website www.thegapustainability.org; or follow us on Facebook.

being planned for later in the year.

In March, The Gap Creative took part in the Royal Queensland Art Society (RQAS) Workshop Festival Open Day at their Petrie Terrace Gallery. We were delighted to be involved in this public event, connecting with Brisbane’s broader artistic community and promoting our upcoming initiatives, including the Local Matters Art Exhibition in June and the Open Studios event in August.

A big thank you to The Gap State High School for inviting us to this year’s International Women’s Day Breakfast where our table of fabulous female artists enjoyed connecting with women in our local community as well as the valuable insights of guest speaker, Kendall Gilding.

Planning is now underway for our Local Matters Art Exhibition at the Tula Gallery at The Gap State High School. Be sure to save the date for this exciting exhibition, running from Friday 19 to Sunday 21 June.

Interested in becoming a member of The Gap Creative?

Visit: www.thegapcreative.com.au for more information.

STARTING STRONG

SING WITH THE GAP STAR

Friday 8 May 2026

TECHNOLOGY WITH THE GAP STAR

Friday 29 May 2026

STORY TELLING WITH THE GAP STAR

Friday 19 June 2026

STATE SCHOOL

SUCCEEDING WITH READING WITH THE GAP STAR

Friday 31 July 2026

SPEAKING IN GERMAN WITH THE GAP STAR

Friday 21 August 2026

SWIM WITH THE GAP STAR

Friday 11 September 2026

www.thegapss.eq.edu.au

Mitchelton & Districts GardenClub Boomerang Bags

Christie’s Garden Chemistry

Club member, Rosalind Wilson, surprised us recently, with a fascinating presentation on the poisonous plants lurking in Agatha Christie’s stories - evoking the deadly intrigue of some plants.

Rosalind told us that Christie’s pharmacological background gave her a keen insight into the nature of different poisons. The author’s familiarity with the effects of different drugs allowed her to create murders that felt both plausible and quietly chilling - the sort where a teacup, a tonic bottle, or a handful of garden leaves becomes the key to unravelling the mystery.

Several Miss Marple stories feature botanical poisons. Murder in A Pocket Full of Rye is carried out using taxine, the deadly toxin found in yew berries. In The Herb of Death, dinner party guests fall ill after eating herbs inadvertently contaminated with foxglove, while in The Thumb Mark of St Peter, the poison is pilocarpine, a potent compound derived from the Pilocarpus shrub.

The protagonist Hercule Poirot, though not a gardener, often finds himself drawn into mysteries where plants play a part. In Five Little Pigs, he investigates a long ago murder involving hemlock, which comes from Conium maculatum. In How Does Your Garden Grow, the poison hidden in a cream cheese sandwich is strychnine, derived from the seeds of the Strychnos nux vomica tree.

In her talk, Rosalind explained how Agatha Christie’s own beloved garden at Greenway House provided the inspiration for many such story-lines, reminding us that in Christie’s world, gardens held deadly secrets as well as undeniable beauty.

All things gardening and related topics are explored at our regular meetings on the first Thursday of the month - and you are invited! We meet at the Enoggera Memorial Hall (Trundle St) at 9:30 am for a 10:00 am start. Entry is $5.00 - morning tea is complimentary. With Autumn now upon us, enjoy getting outdoors in your garden - just mind what you imbibe!

Image: Agatha Christie drew inspiration from her own garden at Greenway House. Source: https://br.pinterest.com/carmenferrer/ agatha-christie/

SerenataSingers

Members of Serenata Singers community choir have been busy learning new repertoire in preparation for our series of around 12 concerts to be presented during the year.

Recently, our conductor held a feedback session asking members to describe their thoughts about belonging to the choir, and the results showed that, although we loved making beautiful music together, we

The

Gap & Surrounds

Our Power, Our PlanetEarth Day 2026

Earth Day began in 1970, nominating 22 April as a global call-to-action day - to encourage people everywhere to lift their voices, take action, and show their love for Planet Earth. Since then, over 1 billion people have mobilised for the future of the planet.

This year’s theme is “Our Power, Our Planet”. We all have the power to take individual action to help ensure the future of our planet. One such action could be joining a community group like Boomerang Bags!

Boomerang Bags was founded with the mission to reduce pollution caused by single-use plastic bags whilst also tackling the problem of textile waste, by making reusable shopping bags from unwanted fabric. Microplastics have been found everywhere, even in human brains, where scientists believe they may be linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. The worldwide Boomerang Bags movement has certainly answered the call to action, replacing plastic bags with over 522,000 reusable bags and diverting 182,826kgs of textile waste from landfill.

This Earth Day (and all year!) we invite you to join us and take action! No sewing experience is required – we have jobs for everyone. We meet 9.30am-12.00pm on Fridays during school terms at The Gap Baptist Church Hall, 1125 Waterworks Road, The Gap. We resume after the Easter holidays on 24 April.

Another action you can take is to pledge to always carry a reusable bag. If you would like to purchase our bags, we have a stall at The Bakeologist Café, 23A Glen Affric St, The Gap on the 4th Saturday of the month, or please email to make other arrangements.

Make your pledge here: www.earthday.org/actions/always-carry-areusable-bag

“When we stand [or sew!] together, our planet has a future.”

Email: bbtgs4061@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/ BoomerangBagsTheGap andSurrounds www.instagram.com/ bmerang_bags_the_gap

equally valued the social aspect and friendships we had gained since joining the choir. We have a lot of fun, with the help of our amazing conductor and accompanist, with some saying our rehearsal is the highlight of their week.

If you’re looking for a choir to join, why not try us out, and you too can reap the benefits of singing with such an inclusive group. No auditions are required.

We rehearse Monday nights from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at The Gap Uniting Church, 1050 Waterworks Road, The Gap.

For more information, or for booking enquiries, go to www.serenatasingers. org.au or email us at serenatasingersthegap@gmail.com.

'It's Debatable'

A Youth Perspective

A Real Pain in the (ATAR)

Should you take legal studies to become a lawyer? What about business to study finance? Or even biology to become a doctor?

The answer is a resounding no under the ATAR system. It just doesn’t make sense to choose these subjects when law at UQ will probably require a 98 ATAR and medicine is even higher (let alone those most prestigious scholarships).

Essentially, we’ve got a scoring system where future doctors are dropping biology because engineering is better for their scores. They’re acting with an air of uncertainty too because the ATAR system is a black box, based on complicated scaling systems done behind the scenes.

And look, even if the system is perfect and the most absolute fair way to rank students, it’s just plain confusing.

ATAR cutoff. Guaranteed entry. Prerequisites. Estimated scores. Adjustment factors. Yes, most schools do a good job of explaining these intricacies, but it’s disengaged parents, disadvantaged students and overstretched schools that fall through the gaps.

Maybe perfection is necessarily complex. But that’s still a problem. There’s a lot of uncertainty and it means there there’s plenty of businesses that make a boatload promising to unravel mysteries and game the system.

And people will continue to pay because they feel there’s no choice. Again, it’s hard to emphasis enough just how important your ATAR is: if higher education is your goal, then you live and die by the sword of

Enoggera & Districts Historical Society

Nostalgia: Story Bridge

After several titles were considered, such as the Brisbane River Bridge and the Jubilee Bridge - Story Bridge was the name eventually selected. John Douglas Story was a public servant and one-time Chancellor of the University of Queensland.

The six-lane road across the bridge was named the Bradfield Highway after the designer, John Bradfield.

Construction on the Story Bridge began in May 1935 with a cost expected to be £1.15 million. The contract was given to a consortium of two Queensland companies, Evans Deakin and Hornibrook Constructions, and was completed and officially opened on 6 June

your ATAR score.

It’s the difference between making your course or having to settle for less. It’s the difference between the university you want and the university you must accept. It’s the difference between the scholarships of your dreams and a debt for your future.

It’s also a zero-sum game too which is interesting. Necessarily, there can only be around 40 students in Queensland who receive the top score of 99.95. You are being ranked against everyone else and that’s an intense way to frame your studies.

As my business teacher puts it, “You’re competing against every other student in the state for your spot at the top… so what’s your competitive edge?”

It’s a really interesting mindset to have. Maybe it’s the perfect training ground for a competitive outside world. Or maybe it makes school too cut-throat, where students are preying on the downfall of others across the state.

Ask most students and you’ll get confusion on the details but certainty that this score is the most important we’ll ever receive. And ultimately, the struggles of ATAR are as complex as the system itself. Still, let’s listen to students when we critique the system built to critique us. Because heaven knows it can be a real pain in the ATAR.

Author: Leonard Cavallaro

Images credits: Leonard Cavallaro and Unsplash.

STOP PRESS!

A special message from Leonard:

"I’m very excited to share I’ve been selected as part of the Queensland State Debating Team in 2026! It’s a great opportunity and we’ll spend the next few months preparing hard with the coaches ahead of the national competition held in Brisbane against the other Australian states and territories. Let’s go Queenslanders!"

1940 by the Governor Sir Leslie Orme Wilson. The final costing being a modest £1.6 million. During construction 400 men were employed in what was extremely dangerous work - undertaken some 30 metres above the river. Arthur Warton saved two men from falling to their death but was unable to save himself.

A toll of 6 pence [5 cents] per car was initially charged and it was expected that the cost of construction would take some years to recover. The presence of the American military transporting men and weapons from South Brisbane station to Mayne during the war years saw the target reached shortly after peace was achieved - and the toll and the toll booth were removed by 1947.

Images: Story Bridge under construction and the Main St Kangaroo Point toll booth. Source: Picture Queensland.

AshgroveHistorical Society

Visitors are very welcome to attend the Ashgrove Historical Society meetings held on the first Saturday of the month from 10am-noon at Ashgrove Library. The topic on 2 May 2026 is Queensland's Sugar King: The Zammit Legacy presented by the book’s author, Catherine Smith. A shared morning tea will follow the presentation.

Impoverished Maltese emigrants Paul and Pauline Zammit arrived in Australia pre-WWI to settle at Bartle Frere as pioneers of Queensland’s sugar industry. Against impossible odds, crippling privations and discrimination, they raised ten talented children who performed musical concerts to benefit welfare, migrants, war-time patriotic clubs and the Catholic Church.

Catherine Smith has thoroughly researched this previously untold part of Queensland's migrant history. It is an extraordinary ‘rags to riches’ story.

AHS membership makes a great gift for anyone interested in Ashgrove’s history. Fees are $10 single per annum (1 July-30 June), or $15 couple/family. Please contact the secretary, Julie, (ahs.secretary@ bigpond.com) and she will let you know the EFT details or you can join at a meeting.

For more details: www.ashgrovehistoricalsociety. org/index.php

Brisbane North Cake Decorators

The next meeting of the Brisbane North Cake Decorators will be held on Saturday, 18 April, commencing at 1.00pm. Members will gather at the Arana Hills Community Centre, located on Dawson Parade. This meeting will take the form of a workshop, where members will collaborate on the display being prepared for the Annual Cake Show. All attendees are reminded to bring along their cake icing kits for what promises to be an enjoyable and creative afternoon.

The much-anticipated Cake Show is scheduled for July, followed by a seminar in September. This seminar will be particularly special as the Association celebrates its 45th birthday. Several members from our group are looking forward to participating in both of these significant events. We welcome new members and invite those interested to visit for three meetings to see if we are the right fit before joining.

We can be contacted via our Facebook page, Brisbane North Cake Decorators Association QCDA or via email brisbanenorthcakedecorators@gmail.com

Red Hill-Ithaca Probus Club Newmarket ViewClub

Great start to a new Probus year!

March is AGM month at Probus clubs. We are now well set for another good year. The mix of new and old blood on our management committee was celebrated with the traditional Change-over lunch, this year at the Alderley Arms Hotel.

Our guest speakers each month are chosen to inform and entertain us. In February we were taken to Antarctica. Australian glaciologist Trevor Hamley related his experience while attached to Russian researchers in the 1980s. We were taken from Mirny to the remote interior station at Vostok. In April former detective Jack Roney will tell us about his new career as a criminal fiction author. He draws his inspiration from a 33-year career in law enforcement, giving his novels authenticity and realism. In May club member Geoff Crane will continue the legal theme describing the role meteorology played in some interesting court cases.

At the March meeting our book exchange table was well patronised as usual. Our cards afternoons will return to the Ashgrove Library in April, and our very friendly and sociable coffee and chat mornings continue at a café in The Gap.

New members are always most welcome. Just search for Red HillIthaca Probus Club for ongoing information on our upcoming activities on our web site. We meet at 9.30am on the 2nd Thursday each month except December and January at the Red Hill Bowls, Sports and Community Club in Fulcher Road, Red Hill. Come and give us a try at a monthly meeting or come along as a guest on any of our other social events.

Please phone either of our Club

Newmarket Probus Club

NEWMARKET PROBUS IS GOING TO LEARN ABOUT AI

One of the aims of Probus is to keep its members engaged in learning new things as they get older. One of the ways we do this is by having a monthly speaker. At our April meeting, John Crook will be talking to us about AI, what it is and how it affects us, both now and in the future. The news is full of how increasing use of AI is helping us but there are also concerns about it. Newmarket Probus members are looking forward to finally learning what AI is all about. Whether we

Looking to connect with other local women and support children in need?

Newmarket View Club provides a friendly and safe meeting place for women (all ages welcome) to connect with other women in the community and make lasting friendships.

Over the past 12 months Newmarket View has been looking for a suitable venue for our meetings. Our new home is the Ashgrove Golf Club in The Gap, which meets all our club’s requirements including parking and mobility requirements. The bonus is a light airy meeting venue with views to the Taylor Range, and the ability to choose your own meal delivered to you at lunch.

Our club meets monthly on the 4th Tuesday of each month. The meeting may have a guest speaker/s, fun and varied games that assess our memories or ability to make up things? But most importantly - time to catch up with friends. The guest speaker for April is Solo Connections, a company providing safe Single Travel for all.

During the year we have several Bring and Buy meetings. A book swap and individual homemade cards are available at every meeting for a coin donation.

Our club also holds a monthly social event usually on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. April: visit to the Qld Art Gallery. May: Stories you wear from Magpie Goose, at the Museum of Brisbane (MOB), City Hall. Public transport with either morning tea or lunch options at City Hall. Social activities are voluntary. Transport assistance is available on request.

If you are interested in attending a monthly meeting or one of our regular social events or to find out more about our club, please ring our President, Margaret on 0408 988 672 or email newmarketview@gmail.com

like it or not, AI has infiltrated our lives. It is important that we know how it can help us and how we can avoid being drawn into its more negative aspects.

Of course, social activities are also an important part of Probus. Our train trip to Landsborough, where we visited the museum and lunch at the pub, was a great success with 24 members making the trip. Our April activity is a picnic in the park. This year we are venturing further afield and are going to the Sherwood Arboretum. As always, we are arranging carpooling for members who may have difficulty getting there. We always enjoy sitting surrounded by nature and chatting to friends. We are also organising an optional short walk to check out the trees.

Newmarket Probus is a great club for retired or semi-retired individuals. It meets on the second Wednesday of the month at 10am at the Red Hill Bowls Club. Visitors are always welcome at our meetings and/or activities.

To find out more about us, contact Judith on 0438 335 314 or Google Newmarket Probus and check out our website.

AshgroveRangers

Some recent outstanding performances from Rangers athletes included the National Masters in Canberra. Peter Lamont picked up silver in the 65 plus 800m with a time of 2:39.03, and gold in the 1500m - while Mark Lepper was 5th in the 60 plus 800m with 2:27.95.

Adrian Keen in the 55 Plus events won two gold medals in the Hammer Throw with a throw of 45.78 and Discus with a new Australian Record and second overall (but first Australian) in Shot with 12.39m. Anthony Wallace took gold in the Men’s 55 Plus 10k with 38:21.63.

Great work by 16-year-old Tate Van Camp for a time of 1:49.54 for a narrow PB in 7th place in the open men's race at the Hobart Track Classic.

Great news - the Impi-branded Ashgrove Rangers gear has arrived and it looks fantastic!

Training is Monday and Thursday evenings at The Gap State High School oval from 5.45-7.00pm, Tuesday from 5pm at the University of Queensland (UQ) hill opposite the running track, and Saturday morning pilates at the UQ running track 200m mark from 9am. If interested in training or competing in any of our teams you can contact John Purcell on 0417 075 292 or Dick Dunstan on 3300 5719.

The GapProbus Club

Probus is an assembly of friends, and one thing friends do is swap yarns. Many of our members have led interesting lives, and we get to share the tales both informally in general chat over afternoon tea or morning coffee or a glass at lunch, or by listening to a member’s Personal Profile talk. These are quite voluntary – there is no rule that you must tell all.

This month, for example, we heard from a member who had been a thirty-year palliative-care nurse – and then a station cook in the Northern Territory! Not quite what one might expect from a quiet lady living in a quiet suburb like The Gap. These unexpected revelations are a true delight, and Probus is the place for them.

What’s more, we got through the Annual General Meeting expeditiously, so if you decide to join (you should) there’s no danger of being pressganged onto the committee (we’ve been around the block a few times, and we know how these things can work!).

If you are interested in finding out more without commitment we would be delighted to talk with you and invite you to our meetings (first Thursday of every month, 2pm, at the Baptist Church, corner of Waterworks and Settlement Roads).

Call (or better text) Tim on 0411 141 304, or just rock up.

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Native crepe myrtle

Most gardeners are familiar with crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica), with its stunning white, pink or red flowers, that originated in India and is grown throughout the world. An equally beautiful small tree is the native crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia engleriana, also known as L. archeriana) of North Queensland, the northern Kimberly region and New Guinea. In its natural environment it is found in dry sclerophyll forests, growing in shallow soils over sandstone or basalt, particularly on outcrops and in gorges. Unlike L. indica that is associated with tropical and subtropical zones, this species thrives in

The Gap Pioneer & History Group Inc

Wittonga Park a Valued Community Asset

Wittonga Park was created in the early 1970’s. It is situated on an historic site recognised with a Sesquicentenary Plaque mounted on a plinth beneath the Wittonga Park sign on the Hilder Road frontage, for The Gap’s 150th Anniversary in 2008.

The word “Wittonga” has aboriginal origins meaning ‘a reedy place’. In the 1940’s/50’s it is known that there was a waterhole in Fish Creek upstream from the Hilder Road bridge within the area now defined as

eDNA Detects Rarely-seen Wildlife Using Local Waterways

Over the past two years, The Gap Sustainability Initiative (TGSI) and SOWN have been collecting water samples from Enoggera and Fish Creeks for Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, supported by a Brisbane City Council grant. The 2025 results were shared with the community at a seminar at The Gap High School in February – see: www.sown.com.au/whatsin-our-creeks-2025-survey-results/

the harsh, seasonally dry environments of the monsoon tropics.

Native crepe myrtle is a small, fast-growing, deciduous tree (4 – 7 m high) with an open canopy. It often has several trunks. The thin, smooth bark exfoliates to display a pink or purplish patchwork on a silver background. The green leaves turn shades of orange and red before falling in late winter. At this time the bark is revealed in its full glory. In spring new green leaves emerge that are followed in summer by showy clusters of lilac (ranging from pink through to purple) flowers whose crinkled, ruffled petals are reminiscent of crepe fabric. The flowers are bigger and lighter in colour than those of L. indica. A variety of insects are attracted to the flowers ensuring pollination of their own and other species. The flowering season lasts well into autumn. The resulting brown to blackish seed pods attract sulphur crested cockatoos, whilst the tree provides habitat for various small birds such as robins, flycatchers and wrens as well as lizards.

Native crepe myrtle grows well in cultivation. It thrives in well-drained soils but is adaptable and whilst preferring sunny sites will grow in filtered light. A light pruning in winter helps to maintain shape and encourage growth. Once established, it is relatively drought resistant. With its stunning, long-lasting flowers and attractive bark, this plant is worth having in your garden. Thid is a worthy replacement of the exotic species in a cultivated garden setting.

Wittonga Park where there was always a prolific growth of bullrushes. Close by there was always a source of spring water and an abundant supply of a luncheon delicacy, watercress.

An aerial photo taken in 1946 establishes that the future Wittonga Park was predominantly under cultivation for cow feed.

Wittonga Park has undergone many facility additions and upgrades over the past 50 years and has been host to many community events and activities. Here is a small selection: A FREEPS concert in the 1970’s; Hilder Road State School Carnivals 1979 and 2010; a boxing exhibition took place in Wittonga Park as part of the Bicentennial Celebrations 1988; Brisbane City Council’s ‘Green Choice Gardening Expo’ 2005; Bushfire headquarters and helicopter base 2005; Australia Day Naturalisation ceremony 2007; Brisbane City Council’s “Pictures in The Park” 2019; a scooter track was officially opened by Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Shrinner on 30 September 2022.

Wittonga Park is huge - and a great place to be at 6.30am when the sounds of the birdlife are really intense. Quite often the Kookaburras offer their early morning renditions at ‘full volume’, it’s wonderful!

Enquiries: jeffhilder@outlook.com

Aquatic eDNA biomonitoring has grown significantly over the past two decades as a non-invasive way to identify the plants and animals living in or around waterways - without capturing or disturbing a single creature. The method works by filtering water samples to detect traces of biological material shed by living organisms as they move through their environment. These traces carry genetic ‘fingerprints’ unique to each species, allowing scientists to identify everything from rare and endangered wildlife to weeds, feral animals and pathogens - provided the relevant data exists in the DNA database. The 2025 survey revealed that our local creeks support more than 1,300 different species - a finding that reflects Brisbane’s standing as one of Australia’s most biodiverse cities, and the vital role that creeks

For the Love Of Books

April and Adaptations!

There’s been quite the run on ‘book to screen’ adaptations lately. Some have been received better than others.

“Wuthering Heights” was a big hit for me, and not so much for a lot of others. There were many changes from the novel, scenes cut, and sections left out, but if you’re a lover of the book, I advise going with the expectation of it being totally different - but visually beautiful and hopefully you’ll love it.

The award winner Hamnet is another favourite book of mine, and the adaptation was perfection. Actress Jessie Buckley is incredible and really brings the book and the character to life. Be ready to have your heart broken though.

Project Hail Mary is one of my all-time favourite audiobooks. It’s narrated so well, so I can’t wait to see what Ryan Gosling brings to the movie. Another move adaption I’m dying to see is The Magic Faraway Tree. I grew up with these stories and then read them to my own children. It’s an all-star cast including Jennifer Saunders, Nicola Coughlin and Andrew Garfield. A great one for the Easter school holidays with the kids!

The TV show adaptation of the classic Lord of The Flies series came out quietly back in February and is again visually perfect with its deserted island setting - and they’ve done well to capture the madness and slow descent of the boys. It had me on the edge of my couch and covering my face at times.

Do you have a favourite book to screen adaptation? Happy Reading! @sarahsbookchat

Author: Sarah Krause

play in the ecosystem. Among the highlights were three species of native turtle, five native frog species, several bat species including the Large-footed Myotis (Myotis adversus) - Australia’s only fisheating bat - and rarely-seen mammals such as the Short-eared Brushtail Possum or Bobuck (Trichosurus caninus), and the Rakali, or Australian Water-Rat (Hydromys chrysogasta).

However the samples did not reveal the presence of Platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus), last reported in the Enoggera catchment in the 2000s. For this and other vulnerable species to recover, the focus must remain on restoring native habitat and wildlife corridors, stabilising creek banks, managing dogs and foxes, improving water quality, and protecting creek pools from siltation.

Photo credits: Bobuck Possum (Source: SOWN/Donald Hobern), Rakali (Source: SOWN/Patrick Kavanagh)

For more: www.sown.com.au

- 11:00am

The GapScouts Group

Cub Scouts go green at Paten Park

On 7 March, The Gap Cub Scouts rolled up their sleeves and got their hands dirty, teaming up with local bushcare group Men of the Trees (MOTT) to plant more than 100 native trees and shrubs near the Paten Park Scout Den.

The planting day was supported by Brisbane City Council as part of its ongoing investment in bush regeneration and brought together Scouts, families and community volunteers with a shared goal of caring for the local environment. Guided by experienced MOTT volunteers (including

BalaangalaCommunity Group

Bauple/Macadamia nuts

The story of Bauple nuts highlights the difference between the values of First Nations people compared to that of the invading European people.

The Bauple nut traditionally grows on the lands of the Bundjalung, Yugambeh, Yuggerra, and Gubbi Gubbi people (Northern NSW to Gympie) and was cared for by these people for 10’s of thousands of years. The tree likes to grow on the edge of the rainforest and in amongst other tree species to protect its nuts from pests. When there was a good crop of these high protein nuts, neighbouring tribes would be invited to share in the harvest. No one owned the trees, like the language and the people, all belonged to the Country. It was the responsibility for all people to care for the trees, the people, and the Country. The dominant value was caring and sharing, to only take what was needed and to share surpluses with others including other animals.

Unfortunately, the European invaders did not learn from this sustainable peaceful philosophy and instead the Bauple nut was claimed and renamed the Macadamia and is now grown in big monocultures that rely heavily on toxic pesticides. The newcomers believed they could own and control the land and have sold the nuts for private wealth rather than a more egalitarian sharing.

Unfortunately, the wild species of Bauple/Macadamia are now endangered. The NSW and Gympie species were different but hybridized easily. The advent of Macadamia farms up and down the NSW and Queensland coasts interferes with the reproduction of the wild species and so, despite providing the basis of a multimillion-dollar business, they are now under threat and needing protection.

Next time you eat one of these very taste nutritious Bauple/Macadamia nuts you might like to think of these duelling values.

For more about Balaangala Community Garden: www.balaangala.org.au

The Gap Ward Cr Steve Toomey), the Cub Scouts learned practical skills, including how deep to dig planting holes and how to identify invasive plant species.

For the 8–11-year-olds, highlights included discovering worms in the soil and enthusiastically digging with what they dubbed their “Minecraft picks”. The energy and teamwork on display showed that many hands really do make light work.

MOTT members praised the Cub Scouts’ enthusiasm and the support of their families, which helped complete the planting in record time. The day left a lasting environmental legacy for the neighbourhood while fostering community pride and inspiring the next generation to care for their local environment.

Image: MOTT volunteer, Marion Goward, Cub Scouts Bowie Herlihy and Xavier Haskins and Assistant Cub Scout Leader Jo Church.

Photo credit: Nadine Hulme

Alcoholics AnonymousPaddington

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings in Paddington

Alcoholics Anonymous hosts a weekly in-person meeting in Paddington, providing a structured and supportive environment for those interested in learning more about the program or engaging in recovery.

A personal (anonymous) story:

“Towards the end of my drinking, I had become masterful at maintaining the façade: the well-presented middle-class wife, beautifully-dressed children, pre-school lunches like little works of nutritious art, a handsome successful husband, a nice house, two cars in the garage. But behind closed doors I was living a waking nightmare. My drinking was out of control, and I knew it. Each day I counted down the hours until I could pour my first sauvignon blanc. Such a civilised drink.

I was watching my own life through a TV screen. I wasn't really there. If I could show the world that everything was fine, then I was fine. But deep down, I knew something was very wrong.

One morning, after yet another blackout, something small but powerful shifted within me. I had lost all power of choice over my drinking. I hauled my sorry, hungover self to my first AA meeting and cried and shook for the entire hour. But I didn't want to drink that day. So I went back the next day. I didn't want to drink that day either.

In this way, I have pieced together nearly 13 years of sobriety. My life has meaning and purpose. My children, now nearly grown, have no memory of ever seeing me drink. What AA has given me and the people I love is beyond measure. It saved my life. And then gave me one worth living.”

If you relate to this story, or struggling with alcoholism, you are welcome at any AA meeting.

If anyone would like to speak with someone locally, they may reach out to Nick on 0416 084 718.

If anyone would like to speak with someone locally, they may reach out to Nick on 0416 084 718. For more meeting options and information: www.aa.org.au Call: 1300 222 222

The GapShe Shed

April Activities

The Gap She Shed is hosting a Biggest Morning Tea on Wednesday 29 April 2026 at 76 Riaweena Street, The Gap (The Scout Den) from 10am to 12midday. All Welcome. There will be a craft stall with items suitable for Mother’s Day gifts as well. Come and join us in raising money for The Cancer Council.

Monday and Friday walking group. Meet in Riaweena Street near the *Scout Den at 8am.

Women Wanderers. Saturday 11th April- (a week later due to Easter). Book via Trybooking.

Monday Craft and Chat Group. Monday nights from 7-9 pm at The Gap Baptist Church.

Wednesday Knit, Crochet, Sew or other craft groups. Venue: *Scout Den, 9.30-1.00 pm every Wednesday.

Cards 500: Tuesdays weekly 12.30-2.30 pm at The Gap Tavern.

Book Club Thursday 16th April from 6.30- 8.30pm. Venue: The Gap Tavern. Book for discussion: “Lady Tan’s Circle” by Lisa See.

Classics Book Club: Meet at Topology, 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap on Wednesday 29th April from 6-8.30pm. Book for discussion “The Leopard (II Gattopardo) by Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa (Italy) 1958.

She Shed Diners – Thursday 2nd April from 6.30 pm. Venue- Pimnipa Thai Kitchen, Ashgrove.

Mahjong- Social. Monday nights from 6-9pm, Wednesday mornings 9 am-midday, Friday afternoons from 1-4pm. Venue: *RSL.

Mahjong Tournament Practice/Social – 1-4pm Saturdays at the *RSL

Mahjong Lessons: Tuesdays from 1-4pm and Wednesday evenings from 6-9pm at the RSL.

Writers Club: Monday 13th April from 1.30-3pm at The Blind Tiger, The Gap.

Line Dancing – weekly starting again on 27th April. Monday evenings at St. Mark’s Church Hall, The Gap from 6-7pm.

Acrylic Painting with Kathy Sullivan from 9am to 12 pm- The Gap Artworks

**Venue addresses: The Scout Den, 76 Riaweena Street, The Gap. RSL Nullagundi Centre, 34 School Road, The Gap. Topology – 17 Kullaroo Street, The Gap.

Website: www.thegapsheshed.wixsite.com/home Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/ thegapsheshed

See all updates for groups and events on our live calendar on our website. All queries can be made through Facebook or email us at hello@thegapsheshed.au

Creative Samford

The Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail

Presented by Creative Samford every weekend in June, 10-3pm. This year we have almost 70 artists showcasing their talent.

Artist Pat Hall’s verdant watercolours are legendary. But do you know the pain behind the gain? Watercolour drips down, so to have full control Pat must work with her canvas set horizontally. This means all sorts of contortions for her to get those beautiful, realistic shapes, shadows, colours and feels.

Artist Ian North will be in Samford for the Trails and his cat Milo joins him up front and personal on his working table to make sure every brush stroke is correct. If you see a little paw print on one of Ian’s delicate watercolours – you will know who owns it.

Diverse in mediums and styles, Trails 2026 offers everything from woodcarving, painting, printmaking, ceramics, jewellery and fibre arts as you meander through the beautiful landscapes and rolling hills of the region. A celebration of the region’s vibrant and diverse art scene, visitors have a unique opportunity to meet and talk with artists in their own creative spaces. Take the time to stop and visit studios and arts spaces where you will be welcomed to look behind the scenes of a practicing artist’s life. Ranging from backyard sheds, purpose-built studios, converted barns and houses, gallery studios and garden retreats with views of the hinterland. Getting a privileged glimpse into artists’ inspiration, techniques and stories, you may even find that special piece to take home with you by connecting directly with artists. Or better still, register for one of the many workshops on offer, get messy and take home your very own personally created masterpiece!

We invite you to grab your friends and family to spend the day, recharging and refuelling at one of our wonderful local cafes and restaurants, before hitting the Trails again. To find out more, or book into one of the many workshops on offer throughout Trails, the Studio Guidebook will be available, closer to June, from City of Moreton Bay information centres, local cafes and restaurants, or view an online version on our website.

Dates: all four weekends of June 6–7, 13–14, 20–21, 27–28; from 10am – 3pm www.creativesamford.com www.facebook.com/CreativeSamford www.instagram.com/creativesamford

credits: Pat Hall and Pam Taylor.

BrisWestCentreNews

The BrisWest Centre is committed to hosting events that encourage democratic participation and strengthen community engagement. As part of this commitment, a community-run information session and fundraiser “Victoria Park and the Olympics: What It Means for Our Community” will be held on 17 May - to help residents better understand the impacts of recent decisions affecting public green space in Brisbane’s inner north-west.

Recent decisions convert 64 hectares of green space in the Kelvin Grove / Spring Hill area to freehold, releasing what was held in trust as public parkland for construction of the main Olympic stadium (Kelvin Grove) and swimming stadiums (Spring Hill), associated infrastructure (eg roads and concourses), an entertainment precinct, and potentially high-rise private development along the ridgelines.

Topics to be discussed include: How the Victoria Park Master Plan has been set aside. Limited transparency around Olympic site selection and related decision-making processes. Community concerns about the loss of 64 hectares of public parklands/green space, including around 4,000 trees (some more than 200 years old), the popular Victoria Park function centres and golf driving range, and recognition that the entirety is spiritually ‘living country’ and deserves custodianship as one Brisbane’s most important First Nations cultural sites. The disruption expected for nearby residents and institutions as the area becomes a major construction site.

Information will also be available for those interested in connecting with groups and organisations working to achieve better community outcomes from Brisbane’s Olympic planning and investment.

Community members are warmly invited to join us for afternoon tea and discussion. Sunday 17 May, 2:30–4:00 pm, BrisWest Centre, 132 Latrobe Terrace, Paddington. Tickets via Humanitix (pay what you can) - proceeds will be donated to Save Victoria Park Inc Find out more: www.savevictoriapark.com and www.briswestcentre.com.au

Photo credit: Sabine Carter

We are thrilled and sincerely thank the BrisWest Centre for providing a new stand location and large corflute sign to promote our free community publication! Please pop by to pick up a copy!

AllegoryTheatre

Not your usual Snow White – a fun fresh take on a classic story for the April school holidays!

Allegory Theatre Qld Inc will be presenting SNOW WHITE (The Melodrama) by Michael Wehrli for a limited season from 15-19 April.

Brace yourself for a wildly wacky, anythinggoes comedy melodrama bursting with over-the-top audience participation! This is not the Snow White you remember.

Meet a can-do Snow White with a tool belt, a Prince who can’t stop speaking in Spoonerisms, and a hilariously high-maintenance Queen who constantly demands advice from the audience (and never quite likes the answers). Toss in a mouthy Mystic Mirror who takes great joy in tormenting the Queen, plus a bizarre band of former “dwarfs”

- Bossy, Corny, Ditzy, Hyper, Klutzy, Loquacious, Silent, Trivial, and Whiney - who are no longer dwarfs thanks to an inconvenient alien abduction.

With nonstop slapstick, goofy wordplay, and gleeful chaos around every corner, this show promises big laughs, loud reactions, and audiences laughing so hard they might need a seatbelt.

Directed by Natalie Murtagh and with a wonderful cast of young local performers, this fun family show will take over the St Matthews Hall in Church Road, Mitchelton for 5 performances only.

Tickets are only $15 (Family tickets also available) and are on sale now through TryBooking at: www.trybooking.com/DKKRC

The venue has plenty of parking and disabled access, and there will be a well-stocked canteen including a special *Snow White Snack Pack, daily raffles for some cool items, and complimentary show programmes.

*If you pre-purchase the special snack pack when you book your tickets it comes with a special bonus item!

We encourage children to dress up, and they can meet their favourite performers after the show, so parents - don’t forget your camera!

Questions? Please contact Allegory Theatre Qld Inc at allegorytheatre@gmail.com

WIN a free Family Pass (2 Adults & 2 Children under 15 - worth $50)!

ENTRIES CLOSE: 10 APRIL 2026

Just enter your details on our website to be in the random draw: www.westernecho.com.au/competition

The GapRepairCafe

Be a Rebel for the Planet – Earth Day 2026

Earth Day (22nd April) is a global call-to-action day to encourage people of all backgrounds and generations to lift their voices, take action, and show their love for Planet Earth. This year’s theme is “Our Power, Our Planet”. Every time you choose to repair something rather than replace it, you’re not only saving yourself some money, but you’re also using your purchasing power to save the planet, and rebelling against the capitalist system that wants you to consume, consume, consume!!!

The importance of product durability and repairability in reducing the consumption of limited resources is increasingly being recognised around the world. France is leading the way, making planned obsolescence a criminal offense in 2015, with manufacturers caught deliberately shortening the lifespan of their products facing jail time and/or huge fine; a change brought about by the lobbying of an ordinary citizen.

Our volunteers are passionate about making a difference, and by bringing your belongings to a Repair Café to extend their lives, you’re making a difference, too!

Our skilled repairers can help fix many household items - appliances, tools, electronic items, toys, furniture, bikes, mowers, clocks, sharpening, costume jewellery, textiles and clothing. Our IT team can assist with your computer, tablet and phone problems, including Windows 10 issues. This is a free service! Donations are appreciated to help pay our expenses.

Repair Café The Gap operates on the third Saturday of each month, 10am – 1pm, Rivercity Church, 59 Settlement Rd, The Gap.

Bookings are preferred, and open two weeks prior to each workshop, on the first Saturday of the month, at 7am. Please book via this website or QR code:

www.trybooking.com/eventlist/ repaircafethegap/

Principal'sPoints...

Hilder Road State School

Hilder Road State School continues to invest in improving facilities and learning opportunities for our students and community.

Refurbishment of the basketball courts is now well underway. The upgraded space will include new handball courts, improved walkways and additional seating for students to enjoy during breaks. We look forward to reopening the courts early next term.

Work will also begin soon on a refresh of our school library, including new carpet, paint, lighting and updated learning spaces. When completed, the refreshed library will continue to serve as a vibrant hub for reading, learning and creativity for our learners and families.

Families will soon be able to connect with teachers during Parent–Teacher Interviews in Weeks 9 and 10, an important time to discuss student progress and learning goals for the year ahead.

Our students recently represented the school proudly at the Metro North Futsal competition, with four teams competing and demonstrating excellent teamwork and sportsmanship. A special congratulations to the Junior Boys team, who were crowned division winners.

Hilder Road State School will also host an Open Day later this term, providing prospective families the opportunity to see our school in action. As the school of choice in The Gap community, we invite families considering enrolment to attend and learn more.

Families interested in Prep 2027 enrolments can now submit an Expression of Interest via the school website.

Warm regards

Damien Greig, Principal

Payne Road State School

Thank You to Our P&C Our incredible P&C make generous

financial donations each year and once again they are providing funds to directly improve our school and enhance the learning experiences of all students. The time, energy and commitment that goes into fundraising is significant, and we are deeply grateful for the dedication shown by the P&C Executive, and the wonderful group of parents and community members. We are fortunate to have such a strong and supportive P&C community working in partnership with us and making a difference for our students each and every day.

Student Updates

I would like to congratulate our four Payne Road SS students who participated in the recent Northwest District Swimming Carnival. Our students displayed outstanding sportsmanship, respectful behaviour and comradery throughout the day. Congratulations to Leon K, Sawyer R, Avelene M-G, Lilly L-P. Louis G participated in Northwest District Netball tryouts and four students Ruairidh N, Henry N, Xavier Do, and Leon K went to the try outs for Northwest District AFL. I would like to congratulate Ruairidh and Henry who were successful in joining the district team and will soon head off to the regional competition.

Grow Your Mind Focus

Our school is implementing the Grow Your Mind Program with students engaging in weekly lessons and assembly updates. The focus for most of the lessons this term is around friendship and belonging and recently our Wellbeing Captains shared the following message -

“Friendship is an important part of school life. It’s great to have close friends who we laugh with, learn with, and spend time with. But the truth is, we don’t have to be best friends with everyone - and that’s okay. We are all different, and we all connect with different people. What does matter is that we choose to be friendly to everyone. Being

Principal'sPoints...

friendly means showing kindness, using respectful words, including others, and treating people the way we would like to be treated. Our school is a happier place when everyone feels welcomed and respected. So remember: you don’t have to be friends with everyone, but we can all agree to be friendly to everyone.”

Joanne Nicholls Principal

It has been a busy and exciting month at St Peter Chanel, The Gap with many opportunities for students to learn, connect and get involved in school life. Our lunchtime clubs are in full swing, giving students a variety of ways to spend their break times. From the energy of Running Club to the creativity of Lego Club, and from the calm of Gardening Club to the cultural experience of Japanese Club, there is something for everyone. These clubs provide students with the chance to try new things, build friendships across year levels and enjoy their time at school in different ways. Our community also came together to celebrate Pancake Tuesday with an epic pancake breakfast that was enjoyed by students, staff and families. The following day, students participated in our Ash Wednesday liturgy, marking the beginning of Lent. This special time in the Catholic calendar encourages reflection,

prayer and acts of kindness, and it was wonderful to see our school community gather together. There has also been plenty of action in our Physical Education lessons. Students have been developing their skills and teamwork through activities such as tennis, netball and Auskick, which have all proven to be very popular.

Looking ahead, we are excited to host two important events on Thursday 30 April. Our Ready, Set, Prep program is designed for children starting Prep in 2027 and 2028. The sessions help children become familiar with the school environment, meet new friends and build confidence about starting school, while families can connect with staff and learn more about the transition to school. Go to our website to register.

On Friday 1 May, we will also host our Open Day. Families are warmly invited to visit, tour our school and experience St Peter Chanel in action…and enjoy a free coffee from the Coffee Van. You can register via our website.

Go well,

Bec, Principal

The Gap State School

At The Gap State School, we believe every child deserves to start their learning journey with confidence, curiosity and connection. Our beautiful campus, outstanding facilities and dedicated staff work together to provide a rich and engaging learning environment for every student.

Families often tell us that what sets The Gap apart is the breadth of opportunities available to children. From our strong focus on early literacy and numeracy, to specialist programs in music,

technology, languages and sport, we are proud to nurture well-rounded learners who are engaged, connected and ready to thrive.

For families with children approaching school age, we invite you to discover what makes our school special. Our “Starting Strong @ The Gap” Come and Try sessions provide a wonderful opportunity for pre-Prep children to experience school in a fun and welcoming way while families meet our staff and explore our programs.

Children can enjoy activities such as singing, storytelling, technology, reading, German language, and swimming alongside our much-loved Gap Star mascot, with sessions running from May through September on Friday mornings from 8:00–8:30am at our MultiPurpose Building and in our very own pool.

We also look forward to welcoming the community to our STEM Expo on Thursday 14 May, where students will showcase the innovative learning taking place across science, technology,

engineering and mathematics.

Families considering The Gap State School are encouraged to see the advertisement in this edition for details and how to register for these Starting Strong events. We warmly invite local families to come along, meet our team and play with the Gap Star.

Enrolments for Prep 2027 and Expressions of Interest for 2028 open on Monday 4 May. We look forward to welcoming you to our community.

Engaged, connected learners.

Katie Stubbings, Principal

The Gap State High School

Strengthening Our Community Connections

At The Gap State High School, we have always believed that schools are more than places of learning, they are places where communities come together. As Executive Principal, I feel incredibly proud to be part of a school that sees its role not only in educating students, but also in strengthening the connections that make our community

flourish.

Over the next year, we will be placing a strong focus on deepening our engagement with the wider community. We know that when schools, families, local organisations and businesses work together, everyone benefits. Our goal is for The Gap State High School to be a welcoming hub for local families and residents across the Inner West, a place where people connect, share ideas and support one another.

One of the ways we are building these connections is through whole-of-community events that bring people together around shared interests and opportunities. Events such as the Fuel the Future Business Forum have provided a valuable platform for local businesses, community leaders and educators to come together, exchange ideas and explore how we can collectively support the next generation. Similarly, celebrating International Women’s Day with our community has been a powerful reminder of the importance of recognising leadership, resilience

and the contributions of women in our area.

We are also proud to open our doors to community groups who use our facilities for meetings, programs and events. By sharing our spaces, we create opportunities for collaboration and connection, while supporting the many groups doing important work.

What continues to inspire me most is the network of incredible local people who are willing to step forward, contribute their time and talents, and support one another. These relationships are the foundation of a strong community, and we are proud to play a role in helping them grow.

Open Day – Thursday 23 April 3.30pm to 6.00pm

If you have ever considered volunteering, attending an event, participating in a business forum or contributing to our school, we welcome you to connect with us or attend our Open Day on Thursday 23 April so together we can build a stronger community for our students and neighbourhood.

Anne McLauchlan, Executive Principal