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Seventeen Mile Rocks Garden Wins Award for Zero-Waste Efforts

Photo Credit: Rocks Community Garden/ Facebook

A community garden in Seventeen Mile Rocks Garden has won a major award for its commitment to sustainability and zero-waste practices.

The City Council recently awarded the Rocks Community Garden (RCG) the WasteSMART Outstanding Award for its impressive efforts in reducing waste and promoting environmentally friendly gardening. The garden, located within Rocks Riverside Park, is run by 70 volunteers and is dedicated to organic gardening and composting all their green waste.

A Model of Sustainability

Rocks Garden — *Photo Credit:* *Rocks Community Garden/ Facebook*

Before implementing their zero-waste policy, the garden’s green waste filled an entire skip bin every week. Now, the members maintain five worm farms, ten compost bins, and five large composting bays to recycle all their organic materials. Some members even collect food scraps and coffee grounds from a nearby cafe to prevent them from ending up in landfill.

More Than Just Gardening

The RCG is more than just a place to grow vegetables. It’s a community hub where people come together to share their love of gardening, build friendships, and support each other. Members rescue plastic buckets from a local industrial estate to use for plant cuttings, which they then give away to visitors along with free seeds to encourage others to grow their gardens.

The garden also collects many recyclable materials, including glass, paper, and plastic, and removes unwanted household items like furniture, toys, and gardening supplies.

Core Values

The RCG is committed to a set of core values that guide their work. These values include sustainability, collaboration, inclusivity, education, health and well-being, friendship, and creativity.

They believe in working together and sharing knowledge to create a thriving garden space that benefits people and the environment. The garden is a welcoming space for people of all backgrounds and abilities, and they strive to create a sense of community and belonging for all members.

Visit the Garden

The Rocks Community Garden welcomes visitors interested in learning more about sustainable gardening practices or simply wanting to enjoy their labour’s fruits. Members regularly meet at the garden on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between 8:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Published Date 31-December-2024

QPS Welcomes Final Wave of Record-Breaking Police Recruits in 2024

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has concluded a year of unprecedented recruitment with a final graduation ceremony at its Oxley Academy in Wacol, welcoming 122 new first-year constables.

This latest intake brings the number of new officers inducted in 2024 to over 940, marking a significant milestone for the organisation.

This final graduation ceremony at Wacol caps off a year of exceptional growth for the QPS academies. Earlier this year, the academies experienced their largest intake of recruits in 26 years and recently recorded the highest number of recruits in training across both Brisbane and Townsville. With over 2,200 applicants still in the pipeline – a 53 per cent increase compared to November 2023 – the QPS anticipates another strong year of recruitment in 2025.

Commissioner of Police Steve Gollschewski expressed his enthusiasm for the year’s achievements and highlighted the organisation’s dedication to attracting and training new officers. He emphasised that the recruits’ diverse backgrounds reflect the QPS’s commitment to building a police force that truly understands and serves the diverse communities of Queensland.

Adding to this diversity are graduates of the Multicultural Recruit Preparation Pathway (MRPP), a specialised program designed to assist individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in preparing for police training. This six-week course provides tailored support to help participants succeed in the standard 36-week Recruit Training Program.

One such graduate, First Year Constable Emmanuel Andruga, who emigrated from Uganda in 2010, shared his experience with the MRPP. He explained how the program helped him smoothly transition into mainstream training and highlighted the value of building strong peer networks and gaining a deeper understanding of policing in Queensland within a supportive environment.

These newly minted constables will be deployed across Queensland, bolstering police presence in various stations from metropolitan areas like Brisbane and the Gold Coast to regional centres such as Cairns, Townsville, and Toowoomba.

The QPS continues to promote the diverse opportunities a policing career offers, emphasising the dynamic nature of the work and encouraging those interested in a challenging and rewarding career to consider joining the force.

Published Date 23-December-2024

Sinnamon Park Resident Recalls Surviving 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami, Advocates for Water Safety

A Sinnamon Park resident who survived the deadly 2004 Boxing Day tsunami while diving in the Maldives has dedicated the ensuing decades to water safety and community service, teaching thousands to swim and overcome their fears.

A Day of Catastrophe and Survival

Twenty years ago, on 26 December 2004, Greg Stegman and his wife, Deidre, were diving off the coast of the Maldives when the Boxing Day tsunami—triggered by a 9.2-magnitude earthquake off Sumatra—unleashed chaos across the Indian Ocean. Mr Stegman described the underwater experience as terrifying, with currents surging unpredictably and dive equipment failing to register the unusual conditions.

“At 8:45 a.m., our dive boat left the Club Med resort, unaware of the catastrophic damage occurring in Asia. Around 9 a.m., our group reached the dive site to commence the standard drift five, which is common in the Maldives. The gentle current of one knot changed during our sixty-foot dive as the unexpected tsunami waves reached the Maldives,” he recounted.

When they returned to their resort, the destruction became clear. Waves had swept over their low-lying island, leaving debris scattered and essentials like electricity unavailable. Survivors relied on canned food and bottled water for days until the Male airport reopened, enabling them to leave the devastated region.

“Only a handful of divers have survived being underwater during a tsunami. The underwater currents are severe and constantly change direction with each deadly wave overhead. The pressure of a tsunami wave plays havoc with dive computers, and there’s a downwelling pressure force that is particularly worrying when the diver is unaware of the tragedy unfolding on the surface.”

Asian Tsunami — *Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons*

Mr Stegman noted the staggering loss of life across Asia, where over 227,000 people perished, and the overwhelming impact on communities from Indonesia to East Africa.

“In returning to our resort, we were shocked to see the devastation caused by three tsunami waves that swept over our low-lying sand island. With no electricity or luxury resort accessories we all survived eating canned food and fortunately bottled water was plentiful. Several days passed by before the Male airport was reopened, and we returned home, unlike millions of Asian families who lost families, home and businesses.”

Decades of Commitment to Water Safety

Long before the tsunami, Mr Stegman and his wife made a name for themselves by pioneering learn-to-swim programs at their Acacia Ridge facility, Stegman’s Swim World. The centre introduced Queensland’s first heated pools for infants and offered aqua aerobics long before these practices were widespread.

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A post shared by Gregory Stegman (@gregory.stegman)

After retiring in 2014, Mr Stegman shifted focus to adult swimming lessons, addressing a critical need among migrants from non-swimming cultures. Many of his students wanted to join their children in the water but feared drowning due to past traumas or lack of experience.

Greg Stegman Tsunami — *Photo Credit: Greg Stegman/Instagram*

Community Service Beyond Swimming

Mr Stegman’s contributions extend beyond the pool. In 2023, he received an Australia Day Achievement Award for teaching water safety, supporting refugees, and fundraising for charities. From helping Afghan and Ukrainian migrants assimilate into the Sinnamon Park community to organising a 30-kilometre charity walk for the Kokoda anniversary, Mr Stegman has consistently sought ways to give back.

His commitment to education, especially for vulnerable groups, has impacted the local community. Parents he once taught now bring their children to his classes, a proof of the generational influence of his work.

Reflections on Tragedy and Resilience

Reflecting on the tsunami, Mr Stegman emphasises the fragility of life and the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters. While his survival story is extraordinary, he downplays his experience, focusing instead on what he can do for others in Sinnamon Park and beyond.

Published 9-Dec-2024

Darra Park Deemed Safe for Kids, But Off-Limits to Digging Dogs

A local park built on a former rubbish tip has sparked controversy after being declared safe for children but unsuitable for dogs.

The park on Monier Park Road in Darra has raised concerns among residents who question the safety standards.

Once a landfill site, the outdoor space was transformed into a park featuring a BMX facility and opened to the public in 2019. Resident Kerrie Bolte and other community members recently approached the local council with a proposal to designate a park section as an off-leash area for dogs. They argued that the area needed more utilised and located a significant distance from the BMX track. This request came in response to increased enforcement of leash laws and fines for dog owners.

However, Councillor Sarah Hutton of the Jamboree Ward rejected the proposal, citing the park’s designation as a District General Outdoor Sports area according to the City Plan 2014. Crucially, Cr Hutton’s response revealed that the former landfill site has minimal capping over the historic waste – as little as 5cm in some areas. Due to safety concerns, council standards require a minimum depth of 30cm for off-leash dog areas.

Ms Bolte expressed her shock at the councillor’s response, questioning the logic of deeming the park safe for children to play sports on while considering it unsafe for dogs. She highlighted the inconsistency and raised concerns about the potential hazards of the thin covering layer over the former landfill.

Cr Hutton maintained that Monier Road Park is a safe and enjoyable space for children to play in but unsuitable for dogs that may dig deep holes. She emphasised the numerous dog parks within walking distance as alternative options for dog owners.

This situation has raised questions about the adequacy of the site assessment and the potential risks associated with its former use. Residents are now seeking clarification on the safety standards for parks built on reclaimed land.

Published Date 04-December-2024

RSPCA in Wacol Urges Ban on Glue Traps Due to Wildlife Injuries

RSPCA Queensland in Wacol is urgently calling for a national ban on glue traps after a growing number of native animals, including a kookaburra and a blue-tongue lizard, were found suffering on these adhesive traps intended for pests.

RSPCA’s Concerns Over Wildlife Harm

At RSPCA Queensland’s Wacol facility, staff continue to witness cases of local wildlife being injured or killed by glue traps, sparking renewed advocacy for a total ban on their sale and use across Australia.

The RSPCA reported that adhesive traps, often used to catch rodents, also ensnare non-target animals like birds, reptiles, and small mammals. These animals experience extreme stress and pain, unable to escape from the adhesive surface without significant injury.

According to RSPCA Queensland spokesperson Emma Lagoon, animals often suffer from broken bones, skin tears, and severe dehydration or starvation if not removed quickly. The Wacol-based RSPCA Wildlife Hospital regularly treats animals caught in these traps.

Staff reported treating a kookaburra, which was found with multiple small skinks on a glue trap and a blue-tongue lizard, requiring careful adhesive removal and medical care. The traps have become a growing hazard for native species across Queensland as more reports of trapped wildlife occur each year.

Retailer and Legislative Actions

Major Australian retailers, such as Bunnings, have taken partial steps to reduce wildlife harm by phasing out “naked” glue traps—those without protective barriers. Instead, Bunnings now only stocks versions of the product contained within cages designed to limit wildlife access, following guidelines from regulatory authorities.

However, the RSPCA argues that these measures fall short, noting that animals can still become ensnared in modified traps, and glue traps remain widely available online through retailers like Amazon, Kogan, and Dick Smith.

The current legal landscape for glue traps varies significantly across Australia. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has an outright ban, while Victoria and Tasmania restrict their sale to commercial pest control operators.

There are currently no specific regulations in Queensland and several other states, meaning the traps are readily available to the public. RSPCA Queensland advocates for a nationwide approach, pushing for consistent rules to prevent the continued harm of wildlife.

The Case for a Nationwide Ban

RSPCA Queensland emphasises that glue traps, even those contained within cages, are inhumane and unnecessary, given the availability of more humane pest control options. Glue traps not only harm non-target species but also lead to prolonged suffering. Ms Lagoon noted that animals often get their feet stuck first, then inadvertently stick more body parts as they struggle to free themselves, leading to distress and further injuries. She stated that some animals are so desperate to escape that they chew their limbs.

The RSPCA said there needs to be consistent legislation prohibiting glue traps. They argue that a uniform ban across Australia would prevent accidental wildlife harm, as each state currently has its rules on glue trap use. The organisation believes that with stricter laws, Australia can minimise unnecessary animal suffering and encourage humane pest control practices.

Published 14-Nov-2024

Wacol Animal Rescue Hotline Faces Potential Cuts

Animal welfare advocates have raised concerns about a potential change to the RSPCA Queensland’s 24/7 emergency hotline, 1300 ANIMAL.

The organisation is considering a transition to reduced hours, limiting after-hours availability.

While the RSPCA acknowledges that most calls are received during daylight hours, critics argue that the proposed change could compromise timely assistance for distressed animals, particularly during night-time emergencies. The organisation maintains that it will continue to offer an out-of-hours service, albeit with potential referral to third-party providers.

The Department of Environment, Science and Innovation has highlighted the importance of the 24/7 hotline, noting that it receives approximately 27,500 calls annually for sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife. Experts emphasise the critical nature of immediate intervention, especially for wildlife with potential internal injuries.

The proposed changes come amidst a transition period for RSPCA Queensland, with outgoing CEO Darren Maier stepping down in December. The organisation has faced recent financial constraints and internal staff concerns. However, the RSPCA insists that the proposed hotline changes are unrelated to staffing reductions or financial difficulties.

Animal welfare advocates closely monitor the situation, urging the RSPCA to reconsider the potential impact of reduced after-hours services on animal welfare.

Published Date 08-November-2024

Your Walking Guide to Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks

Are you looking to achieve 10,000 steps per day? Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks offers a peaceful way to add approximately 1,000 steps to your daily count through its scenic 800-metre riverside path.

Read: Free or Budget-friendly Activities at the Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks

While this gentle walk contributes just a portion of your daily goal, its tranquil setting and excellent facilities make it an ideal location for multiple laps or as part of your daily walking routine.

Quick Facts

Photo credit: Srdjan Serge Komadina/Google Maps

Distance: 800 metres (one way)
Steps: Approximately 1,000
Difficulty: Easy
Surface: Paved shared walkway
Best For: Families, casual walkers, step-goal achievers
Facilities: Water play area, BBQs, toilets, picnic areas, playgrounds

The promenade follows the peaceful Brisbane River shoreline at Rocks Riverside Park. Those looking to extend their walk can continue along the riverside path until they reach Amazons Place Park in Jindalee. This flat, paved pathway offers a peaceful riverside experience with plenty of opportunities to observe local riverine flora and fauna.

Amazons Place Park (Photo credit: Ross Cronin/Google Maps)

For those seeking extra steps, the Zig Zag trail offers an additional challenge. This unpaved but well-formed track through eucalypt forest winds through the bushland ridge to the south-east of the park, adding approximately 30 minutes to your walk.

The trail rewards your effort with excellent views of the surrounding area and, while suitable for wheels, provides a more challenging option for step-counters.

Making It Part of Your 10,000 Steps Journey

While the basic promenade walk contributes 1,000 steps, you can easily extend this by combining multiple laps, including the Zig Zag trail, or exploring all park pathways. This location works perfectly as part of your active breaks throughout the day, especially if you’re gradually building up to a 10,000-step goal.

Health Benefits and Tips

This gentle riverside walk contributes to your daily fitness goals by improving cardiovascular health, strengthening muscles, and enhancing mood through nature exposure.

Remember to bring water, wear sun protection, and consider walking shoes if taking on the Zig Zag trail. The park’s facilities make it perfect for all ages, so consider bringing the family along for a morning or late afternoon visit.

Read: Seventeen Mile Rocks House Undergoes Transformation After Nearly Five Decades

Whether you’re starting your 10,000-step journey or looking for a peaceful addition to your existing routine, Rocks Riverside Park Promenade provides a serene setting for walking goals. Its combination of natural beauty, excellent facilities, and easy terrain makes it a valuable destination in Brisbane’s network of walking locations.

Published 31-October-2024

New Mobile Cameras Target Heavy Vehicles on Centenary Motorway

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator has identified the Centenary Motorway as one of the main southeast Queensland targets for enforcement of new mobile cameras.

The regulator has invested in 40 mobile cameras equipped with automatic number plate recognition technology, with eight units currently allocated to Queensland. The number is expected to increase to 10 cameras operating on Queensland roads by mid-2025.

**Mobile ANPR Drone Camera**
Photo Credit: NHVR

The cameras have been positioned on major trucking routes from the Gold Coast to Cairns, and west to Chinchilla and Emerald. Key enforcement locations include the Centenary Motorway, Logan Motorway, Pacific Motorway, Bruce Highway, and Mount Lindesay Highway.

**Mobile ANPR Camera on a vehicle**
Photo Credit: NHVR

Breaches detected through the camera system can result in fines ranging from several hundred dollars to over $700 for serious offences under the Heavy Vehicle National Law. Regulator officers monitor the cameras and can intercept vehicles for safety checks and issue on-spot fines.

**Mobile ANPR Trailer Camera**
Photo Credit: NHVR

The technology allows officers to identify potentially unregistered or defective vehicles, as well as monitor driver fatigue compliance. The system will also collect data about heavy vehicle movements to help authorities allocate safety resources effectively.

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator Chief Operations Officer Michelle Tayler confirmed that detection by a camera does not automatically result in fines. “These high-tech monitoring cameras help the regulator obtain information on Australia’s heavy vehicle fleet, and encourage safer driving practices on heavy vehicle routes and freight networks,” she said.

According to Tayler, the cameras are mobile and can be relocated to different sites along busy freight routes. All footage is stored securely in accordance with the regulator’s privacy policy.

Published 23-October-2024

Amazons Fresh Market Opens Full-Line Butchery in Jindalee

Amazons Family Fresh Market has opened a full-line butchery at DFO Jindalee, offering a wide range of fresh meat products to local shoppers.

New Addition to Jindalee’s Shopping Hub

Located near the northern entrance of DFO Jindalee, the new butchery is set to provide customers with fresh beef, pork, lamb, chicken, and smallgoods, expanding the selection at Amazons Family Fresh Market.

The Pham Family, owners of Amazons Family Fresh Market, have brought their expertise from running Mallans Meats at Fairfield to their new butchery.

“We love helping our customers save time with our unique mix of fresh products,” they said, emphasising the convenience of combining meat, fresh produce, and grocery items all in one place.

The butchery offers meats served directly from the counter or carved on-site according to customer preferences. The market’s new addition is expected to meet the growing demand for fresh food in the rapidly developing Jindalee area.

Amazon's Family Fresh Markets Jindalee — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Support from DFO Jindalee

DFO Jindalee’s Marketing Director, Donna O’Neill, is pleased with the centre’s expanding services.

“Amazons Family Fresh Markets is extremely popular with our customers. The addition of their new butchery and its location so close to free parking makes shopping at DFO Jindalee even more convenient for customers,” she stated.

This development adds to the shopping centre’s mix of retail stores, cinemas, and alfresco dining, making it a comprehensive destination for the community.

Opening Specials and Holiday Orders

Several special offers will be available for the first five days, beginning 21 Oct 2024, to celebrate the butchery’s grand opening, including whole long eye fillet for $24.99/kg and chicken breast fillet for $8.99/kg. The butchery is also taking orders for wood-smoked hams ahead of Christmas, giving local families the opportunity to prepare for the holiday season early.

The new butchery will operate from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily, while the Amazons Family Fresh Market remains open until 6:00 p.m.

Published 21-Oct-2024

‘Disco Chips’ to Transform Jindalee Golf Club into Dancefloor

Photo Credit: Disco Chips/ Facebook

Jindalee Golf Club is set for a unique transformation this October. It will trade its usual tranquil atmosphere for a vibrant dancefloor as it hosts “Disco Chips.”

This event is scheduled for Saturday, 26 October, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and promises an afternoon of sunshine, feel-good vibes, and top-tier house music.

“Disco Chips” is more than a one-time occurrence; it’s a brand dedicated to turning everyday locations into lively party spaces. Their approach involves a mix of funky, deep, and jazz house music, catering to a wide range of musical tastes and creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone can enjoy themselves.

Highlights of the “Disco Chips” Experience

Expert DJs: “Disco Chips” features a lineup of skilled DJs passionate about house music. Guests can enjoy a blend of classic house anthems and the latest sounds.

Interactive Entertainment: In addition to the music, “Disco Chips” will offer lawn games and other activities to keep attendees engaged and entertained throughout the afternoon. These activities will be customised to suit the venue and its audience.

State-of-the-Art Setup: A professional audio-visual setup, complete with high-quality DJ decks, sound systems, and lighting, will enhance the ambience and ensure a first-rate experience for everyone.

Immersive Decor: Branded decorations will transform the Jindalee Golf Club, creating a cohesive and welcoming environment that reflects the event’s theme.

This event at Jindalee Golf Club offers a unique chance to experience the new venue. With its emphasis on community enjoyment and quality music, “Disco Chips” guarantees a memorable day for all who attend.

Published Date 16-October-2024