Our Logan
Volume 88 May 2020
Recycling PCs for Meet Logan’s new online connection Mayor and Councillors CONTENTS
OUR LOGAN, OUR CITY MAGAZINE 6 8 14 Editorial enquiries: 3412 5284 or [email protected] Businesses rise Meet the The Loan Rangers’ Managing Editor: to meet challenges councillors suggestions Rebecca Smith
News Editor: Martin King Writers: 16 20 29 Zoe Krieg Martin King Julie Brumfield-Jones Online book club Turning followers Environmental centre Sam Burgess Samantha Stiller into friends nears completion Geoff Stead
Graphic design: Dina Wirawan Charlene Chang MAYOR — Darren Power DIVISION 2 — Cr Teresa Lane DIVISION 3 — Cr Mindy Russell Front cover image: Ella Misisa. Representing the whole of the City of Logan. Representing Kingston, Logan Central, Representing Slacks Creek and part of Daisy Photo Martin King Woodridge and part of Underwood. Hill, Shailer Park and Underwood.
Photos may not DIVISION 7 — Cr Tim Frazer DIVISION 5 — Cr Jon Raven DIVISION 1 — Cr Lisa Bradley depict social distancing Representing Boronia Heights, Browns Plains, Representing Berrinba, Marsden, Representing Priestdale, Springwood, Please note some Forestdale, Hillcrest, and part of Park Ridge Waterford West and part of Rochedale South and part of Daisy Hill. images appearing in and Regents Park. Crestmead. this edition may have DIVISION 8 — been taken before social DIVISION 11 — Cr Natalie Willcocks DIVISION 10 — Cr Jacob Heremaia distancing requirements o e ale Cr Miriam Stemp Representing Flagstone, ou were implemented. Representing Heritage Park, e ale Flinders Lakes, Greenbank, Div 1 Representing Carbrook, Logan Reserve and part of e oo None of the material in Kagaru, Lyons, Monarch Glen, Cornubia, Loganholme, Chambers Flat, Crestmead, oo this publication may be New Beith, Silverbark Ridge, Tanah Merah and part of reproduced without the Park Ridge, Park Ridge oo e Undulla and part of Munruben, a y Shailer Park. permission of the Chief South and Regents Park. ll Executive Officer, Logan North Maclean, South Maclean, o a la e al ee Div 3 City Council. and Park Ridge South. a le e a Div 2 a All content accurate as of o o o u a 27 April 2020. o e ale ll e la Mea o oo Div 5 Div 10 Div 7 o a lea a a e e Me a a oo logan.qld.gov.au a Ma e Div 6 o o a e a e visitlogan.com.au e a e mea a e o e a a o a olme e a le y Aboriginal and Torres e ee a a e a Div 12 Strait Islander peoples a e o o a olm e ee le are advised that images Div 8 e e e of people who may a e Mou ou a e now be deceased may u a a a Div 11 u appear in this magazine. am e la Mu u e a oo
el a a o u e e o Ma lea yo DIVISION 12 — This magazine o le ol e e l e a o a Cr Karen Murphy is wrapped in e V lla e ou Ma lea biodegradable Div 4 Representing material, meeting Div 9 la o e Beenleigh, Eagleby, Australia Post Mo a a a l a e a and Mt Warren Park. packaging le ee requirements in an l e e e a e environmentally ulla le lo a a a a DIVISION 6 — m oom a sensitive way. a a u Cr Tony Hall
am o e Representing Bahrs Scrub, e a o e Edens Landing, Holmview, Loganlea, Meadowbrook e a and part of Bethania. DIVISION 9 — Cr Scott Bannan Vale oo ll Representing Cedar Grove, Cedar Vale, DIVISION 4 — Cr Laurie Koranski Glenlogan, Jimboomba, Riverbend, Mu oolu Ve e ale Ve e ale Stockleigh, Veresdale, Veresdale Scrub, u Representing Belivah, Buccan, Bannockburn, Woodhill and part of Chambers Flat, Cedar Creek, Kairabah, Waterford, Windaroo, Logan Village, Munruben, North Maclean, Wolffdene, Yarrabilba, and part of Bethania, South Maclean and Tamborine. Logan Village and Tamborine.
2 Our Logan is produced and delivered to households and businesses in the City of Logan at a cost of 74 cents. A new era for our city
With a new Council sworn in, I’m Our businesses are also rising to • Annual lease fees for not-for-profit looking forward to spearheading a fresh the occasion. On-site designer organisations, that lease a Council approach and leading a team which and manufacturer Evolve has community facility, will be waived is diverse and has a vast range of skill secured contracts to make millions for 2020. Lease fees for 180 sets to govern this wonderful city. of facemasks and other personal sport, recreation and community protective equipment for Australian organisations with memberships of I would like to thank the people of health workers (Page 6). more than of 40,000 people will also Logan for their support and for putting be waived. their trust in me to lead this Council on Many other businesses are also their behalf. adapting their operations successfully, Please check out Council’s COVID-19 making the most of online sales, information hub on our website. It I want to thank my colleagues and alternative delivery options or features health advice from Queensland also my family—my four children and broadening their customer base. Health, lists community support my amazing wife for their unwavering contacts and available resources to support. It has been tough at times, Council’s response to the COVID-19 support you and your families. but these experiences make us more has been comprehensive. resilient. I would like to take this opportunity As well as providing support to our to acknowledge former Interim With only a short window until we community partners, our Council is Administrator, Tamara O’Shea finalise the 2020 Budget, the councillors supporting businesses and residents and Council officers for quickly and I have hit the ground running, with a financial relief package. implementing these compassionate engaging with residents and listening As part of the package, some changes measures. to the needs of the community in these were made to the quarterly rates notice. challenging times. With our new Council team, I look • An extended interest free period is in forward to reshaping the future vision The good news is that our community place for current quarter rates and of Logan as a city that meets the is responding with a sense of unity to charges Debt recovery measures expectations of all residents and one the social and economic challenges we have been suspended that we can all be proud of. are facing as a result of COVID-19— reflected in many of the inspiring stories • Fees for rates payment at Australia to be found in this edition of Our Logan. Post outlets have been waived In the pages that follow, you will read • Our terms for interest accruing have about some of the remarkable initiatives been amended being undertaken by people in our • Hardship arrangements for community that have big hearts and residential property owners are great ideas. extended to all ratepayers Our lead story features Council, Logan • Council is also refunding 50 per cent Together and Substation33 who have of operational (licence) fees paid joined forces to rebuild computers from since July last year to nearly 1,300 e-waste components recovered from businesses in hospitality and food our recycling centre. operators, hotels and motels, They are being built by Substation33 manufacturers and a range of and provided free of charge to students other businesses such as Ella Misisa to enable her to • Organisations operating from continue her studies from home. a Council community leased (Page 5). facility (and have none Led by champions such as Cath or less than 15 gaming Bartolo from YFS (page 4) Lighthouse machines), will have Care, food charity OzHarvest, Givit their existing levels of and Share the Dignity are preparing Council water remissions hundreds of food and essentials increased to 100 per packages. cent for the January to March 2020 billing Packaged daily, they are delivered by period (billed in April State Emergency Service volunteers to 2020) people who are isolating or unable to access food and medicine.
Mayor Darren Power City of Logan 3 Charity legend helps unite our resilient city
When Logan hurts, Cath Bartolo “It’s also quite a dramatic thing, a lot of Cath says the most striking aspect inevitably feels the pain. people are just scared and that’s not of the COVID-19 shutdown is seeing something we’ve seen before.” people who had jobs and wouldn’t Cath is a Director and Chief Executive normally need to contact YFS, reaching Officer at not-for-profit organisation YFS Cath believes the key to emerging from out for the first time. that has been helping disadvantaged the current crisis in the best shape and displaced Logan residents get their possible is to remain optimistic and But in a crisis the best shine, and lives back on track since 1983. put all challenges into a bigger picture Logan’s charities and service perspective. organisations have stood up to help. The former Mackay-born nun came to Logan in the 1980s as a teacher. Her “We know this will come to an end and As soon as the effects of the pandemic first role at YFS was as the Disability we will get to the other side,” she says. began to be felt in Logan, they rallied Manager. within days. Cath says she draws some leadership Over the years, there is little she hasn’t inspiration from former Prime Minister YFS, Council, Lighthouse Care, the seen or experienced and has led the John Howard’s role in the gun buyback State Emergency Service, supermarkets way in helping find solutions for our scheme after the Port Arthur massacre and pharmacies pooled their resources city’s most vulnerable. in 1996. to develop and deliver care packs to people who were isolated or financially She acknowledges the COVID-19 “He had a very clear vision, he wasn’t challenged from the pandemic fallout. pandemic is testing our charities like worried about his popularity so to me never before. But, as always, she that was such a strong example. “The way Logan has come together remains resolute about a brighter future. hasn’t been all that surprising but it’s “I’ve (also) seen strong leadership from still been great to see,” Cath says. “The 2017 floods were something that some of the Aboriginal leaders, the really tested us,” Cath says. elders, particularly the women elders in ‘Logan City Council has Logan who’ve been able to have their “But it was a different kind of sight on a long-term vision that’s not been outstanding with its emergency, this one has so many layers going to be just for the next month leadership, they’ve been to it and its effects are likely to stretch or two.” on a lot longer. very proactive and acted quickly to put together a response model.’ “They partnered with YFS and in turn the State Emergency Service for us to lead with an emergency response. “Even in our own organisation we’ve seen our own silos broken down and people from different areas are all working together. “It’s still been particularly challenging for us. Unlike the floods where we could draw on volunteers in their 70s, we can’t do that now.” But the entire city can take comfort knowing that Cath, YFS and the scores of other community groups and volunteers are there to shepherd Logan through the dark crisis and to the light at the other end. For information on the City of Logan’s response to COVID-19 visit Council’s website. If you need emergency assistance, please contact YFS on 3826 1500 or visit: yfs.org.au
Cath Bartolo, Director and Chief Executive of YFS is helping the people of Logan, coordinating community 4 resources to assist the disadvantaged Rebooted computers deliver vital community connections
Just weeks ago, 10-year-old Ella Misisa For families like Chiquita’s, the support “It has become very clear in the last was reliant on her parents’ mobile has been timely and invaluable. few weeks just how critical access to a phones to complete her homework. computer is for connection, but there “It (the pandemic) has impacted our are many families in Logan and across Now, the year 5 student is able to family in many ways,” Chiquita says. Australia who don’t have that access,” connect to her classes with ease. “My husband… worked full time (but) Matthew says. Ella’s Slacks Creek family has received was told there is no longer anymore “Logan Together is very pleased to a refurbished computer this month work (and) was released a month ago. partner with Council and others to help to assist with the transition to online “He has since found work to help provide these computers to families in learning. support us but our adult son and Logan, providing online connections Ella’s mum, Chiquita says the help daughter have lost their full-time jobs. “ now and into the future.” means even more than that. Chiquita says news that her two school- The program has so far provided “It also helps us, the adults, do what we age children would have to learn from devices for families and people most need (to get) done,” she says. home for the first few weeks of the term in need. was nearly the final straw. The family is one of dozens across With all available devices now Logan in dire need of better online “Education for our kids is very distributed, Substation33 is in urgent connections in the face of the important to me and my husband,” she need of donations of computers, COVID-19 pandemic. says. screens, keyboards, mice, power and monitor cables to refurbish into new Logan City Council and Logan Together “Academically they are doing well and computers. have recognised that need and joined we didn’t want them to fall behind. forces to help fund computers for The enterprise is accepting donations “This has been a huge relief for us. eligible local households. during business hours at 31 Mary Street “It’s so heart-warming to know there Kingston, or can be contacted on Donated, rebuilt computers are being are people in Logan prepared to do 07 3826 1533 to make arrangements rolled out by the electronic waste something like this.” for larger collections or pick-ups. recycling team at Substation33, the social enterprise arm of Logan’s YFS Logan Together Director Matthew Eligible participants for refurbished community support services. Cox says the coronavirus pandemic computers will be assessed by YFS and has highlighted the vital need for Logan Together. online connections in more vulnerable communities.
Ella Misisa is now able to study at home, with the assistance of mum Chiquita and her new computer provided by Substation33
5 Our businesses rise to unprecedented new challenges
Resilience and innovation are among the cornerstones • Waiving of fees for any new applications received until of business development and those qualities are now August 31 this year defining some of our city’s best-known brands. • Extending the interest-free period for the current rates and Many Logan businesses have taken head-on the setbacks charges notice to September 30, 2020 created by an unprecedented pandemic and have dug deep • Making hardship arrangements available to non-residential for survival. property owners. Logan City Council has already announced a support package The new Council also has the option to consider additional which included: economic support as a component of the upcoming 2020/21 • A 50 per cent refund for operational (licence) fees paid since Budget considerations. July last year for nearly 1300 businesses
Evolve Group’s newest team members, Brendan Hawes and David Knapp are managing the integration and optimisation of machinery at the company’s Crestmead factory, which will produce millions of IPKISTM face shields
IPKISTM Face Shield
The aptly named Evolve Group is among those Logan “Securing supply of critical products like this by reshoring the businesses that have adapted to the ‘new world’. manufacturing in Australia has to be a priority for all Australians now and into the future. Being Australian-made also ensures the Evolve Group essentially turned its business on its head production of high-quality products.” overnight to produce up to 60,000 of the urgently needed N95 medical masks per day. In April Evolve built new clean rooms Three years ago, the White House of Waterford was closed and will soon start manufacturing the IPKISTM Face Shield, because of the floods following ex-tropical cyclone Debbie. Personal Protective Equipment for Australian medical workers. For owner Rebecca Cobbing, she thought it was possibly the The company’s Managing Director Ty Hermans says Evolve was worst thing that had happened. Now she looks back and it proud to be able to put its hand up to help. doesn’t seem so bad. “We have always prided ourselves on our ability to design “While the last few weeks have certainly been a whirlwind and award-winning products and rapidly solve complex engineering everything has happened so quickly, I look back now and the challenges, but this is certainly our most important project— floods really weren’t that bad,” she says. something we have been training for since we started our “We started to experiment with our menu, adding a takeaway reshoring mission back in 2006,” Ty says. option for those who were in isolation and the more vulnerable “We are proud of our ability to apply our Queensland-based —I’d heard about some carers’ struggling to get to the advanced plastics manufacturing facility and skills to a mission- supermarket in the early morning so we wanted to help those critical project like this, supporting our frontline medical teams people in some way. and others that are sacrificing so much right now.
6 “But when the close-down announcement was made on the Extraction Artisan Coffee has created packs for ‘cook at home breakfasts’ and a new take away menu Sunday night it was a bit sooner than we expected.” Rebecca is positive about the future but predicts there will be a new normal. “It will change the way people operate, change the way we’re doing business,” she says. “You don’t get too many opportunities in business to reset what you’re doing, it’s almost a forced reset and we have been able to pivot really quickly.” UP Markets organiser Kate Neill says the markets, held the first Saturday of every month in Underwood Park, were about supporting local producers in an outdoor environment but that had changed recently. Kate said it was heart-warming to see the support stallholders “We wanted to find a way we could still support our stallholders were giving each other during this challenging time. as much as possible — they’re all small businesses as well,” she “There has been a lot of community support within the markets says. — they’re embracing and supporting each other to get through “We decided that we’d move the markets to an online market and come out the other end.” on a Friday night as it seemed that is when people were at Other Logan businesses doing things differently include: home.”
Business Innovation
St Coco’s Full menu offered through drive-through service
Cafe Edge (Beenleigh) Charity dedicated to working to help the homeless and at risk — now providing free hot warm meals to those doing it tough
Thom and Ann’s (Yarrabilba) • Takeaway menu and home delivery • Selling fruit and vegetable boxes and packaged meat
GASP Café (Springwood) Takeaway only and local delivery
Logan Regional Producers Market Have started a virtual marketplace held weekly from Friday to Monday with a central depot for pick-up of purchases
Extraction Artisan Coffee • Have a dedicated takeaway menu • Have created packs so that people can pick up breakfast ingredients and cook them at home
Devon Pixies High tea takeaway
Hop space Supplying pick-up options and family packs for fridge/freezer
Poppy’s Chocolate Introduced online ‘emergency’ chocolate packs for Easter
For more information on business support go to: logan.qld.gov.au/business-support
7 Introducing your new Logan City Councillors
Cr Lisa Bradley - Representing Division 1
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? valued by the community Since 2004, and continuing once elected in 2008, I have and are very worthy to take fought for truth and justice, not only for Division 1 constituents, visitors to. Such examples but for the greater good of the City of Logan. are (if allowed during COVID-19 restrictions) I intend to continue working towards this goal. Springwood Conservation What motivated you to represent your community as a Park, Underwood Park lagoon, local councillor? Chung Tian Buddhist Temple, and Springwood Park In 2004, certain injustices within the local government came to light. Through a lengthy process of research, Right to What’s something quirky that people wouldn’t know Information requests and submissions to Logan City Council, it about you? became clear to me that the only way to make true and lasting In high school, I wanted to be an actor. changes would be from within Council itself. If you were planning dinner with three people, who Tell us something special about your division. If you had would they be and why? visitors where would you take them? My three children, because I don’t get to see them together Division 1 has a number of natural assets which are highly often.
Cr Teresa Lane - Representing Division 2
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? Centre. Simply Beans and Those who have the least—often give the most—and do so Monkey Tree on Compton Rd freely and generously. That’s the Division 2 I grew up in and are great gathering spaces for raised my own family in. From individuals to sporting groups a cuppa or a beer. and not for profits, there is always someone ready to give a hand, waive a fee or just listen and not judge. Wanting to What’s something quirky represent these struggling but generous people—to get the that people wouldn’t know best results for them, has always been an ambition of mine about you? and I am proud to be their local representative. My commitment to my community was to fight for better basic services, to keep What motivated you to represent your community as a residents informed about events, local groups meeting times local councillor? and work being undertaken on our parks and roads. Division 2 is the heart of Logan City. From the Global Food I will be sending a flyer to every home with upcoming events so Markets at Woodridge to the ladies of Marvellous Mature people can plan their activities and maybe join a local group. Women, Mission Possible Inc, Family and Kids Care at If you see me driving around in the bright pink VW bug, give a Kingston and the youth support programs popping up over the wave or flag me down if you want to raise an issue. area, people of all ages, come from all over, for connections, friendship and support. If you were planning dinner with three people, who would they be and why? Tell us something special about your division. If you had Just three for dinner would never happen—my family visitors where would you take them? and friends would call in and pull up a chair but (Bruce) We have some great local hotspots in and on the fringe Springsteen, James Patterson (author) and my best friend including Karawatha Forest, Civic Park and Booran Park Maree Browne are in my top three.
8 Cr Mindy Russell - Representing Division 3
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? cafes and other foodie spots I consider myself, first and foremost, a community worker. across the division. I’m most passionate about bringing people together to form Whenever someone visits from supportive communities. outside Logan, I love to take Working with families over the past decade, I’ve observed that them to Extraction Artisan genuine and trusting relationships are the magic ingredient in Coffee in Slacks Creek for its building community. ambiance, fun staff and great food and coffee. What motivated you to represent your community as a local councillor? What’s something quirky that people wouldn’t know In my role managing a local community centre, I spent years about you? listening to families about our city’s strengths and ways we I really enjoy movies, books and shows that relate to time travel could do better. and alternate realities. Also, I really love working with, learning about and helping Some of my favourites include 1984, Rick and Morty, and of different types of people. course, the Back to the Future trilogy. I love delving into the thought experiments that they explore. It was because of this that I became interested in making a difference through local council. If you were planning dinner with three people, who I grew up in Daisy Hill and now love living in Slacks Creek with would they be and why? my family, so I feel a strong connection to the Division 3 area. My family is probably missing me lately, so I’d have to say them. Tell us something special about your division. If you had However, I would love to pick the brains of (technology visitors where would you take them? entrepreneur) Elon Musk, (New Zealand Prime Minister) Division 3 has a lot of special hidden gems. Jacinda Ardern and (astrophysicist) Neil Degrasse-Tyson. One of my personal favourites is the growing collection of
Cr Laurie Koranski - Representing Division 4
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? My daughter Angie and I I love living in Logan and being part of our tremendous collaborated on a “We’re community. I have been a resident for over 35 years. Logan” video. I wrote the lyrics. Angie performed the vocals Together, my husband Andrew and I ran a small business and is featured in the video. employing local people for more than two decades. We used local film-makers to Andrew continues to work locally and our children go to school help us put this piece together. in Waterford. We filmed at some of our What motivated you to represent your community as a local Division 4 landmarks. I hope you enjoy watching “We’re local councillor? Logan” as much as we did producing it. Prior to being elected to Logan City Council in 2016, I held Watch it here: bit.ly/2W7TcDN several community leadership roles supporting local charities, schools, social clubs, sporting organisations and businesses. What’s something quirky that people wouldn’t know about you? I ran for local Council as an independent candidate in 2016, My husband and I are parents to 17-year-old fraternal (boy keen to further opportunities for our community. and a girl) twins—Alexander and Angela. They are the light in I was deeply honoured to have been elected and to act as our our lives. community’s voice in Council. If you were planning dinner with three people, who As the Division 4 Councillor, I listened to our residents, drove would they be and why? positive change and stood up when it mattered. In the first instance, I would choose my husband and my kids. I am hugely excited to be part of this dynamic new Council and Alternatively, I’d choose to meet with some great and colourful look forward to working together to lift our community higher. Aussies—Paul Hogan, Jana Wendt, Tim Ferguson and Wendy Tell us something special about your division. If you had Harmer. visitors where would you take them?
9 Cr Jon Raven - Representing Division 5
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? Google Wing, unique cultural I’m a people person who enjoys learning new skills. sites such as the Khmer Buddhist Temple as well as I enjoy talking to people, listening to their stories and trying to great restaurants. help them. I also enjoy hearing interesting ideas and using those ideas to What’s something quirky craft policy with the needs of our community at its core. that people wouldn’t know about you? What motivated you to represent your community as a I enjoy rollerblading with my local councillor? kids for fun and for fitness. I originally ran as a councillor to give back to the city and the If you see me down at Tygum Park skating around the lagoon, people that had nurtured the success of my business and you might be able to get a laugh when I fall over (it happens family. Having represented my community during the difficult two or three times a week!) times we went through last term I am grateful that I can continue provide my leadership and experience as a councillor. If you were planning dinner with three people, who I am looking forward to working with the new Council to unlock would they be and why? our city’s full potential. (Former AFL player and coach) Leigh Matthews because I’m a Brisbane Lions tragic and the three (nearly four, we were Tell us something special about your division. If you had robbed!) premierships were an amazing period for our club. visitors where would you take them? (Former Prime Minister) Paul Keating, because his scathing We have beautiful parks in Division 5 such as Berrinba wit would be great to experience first hand and (author) Bryce Wetlands, Tygum Lagoon and Crestmead Park. Courtney because reading The Power of One as a teenager There are also thriving industrial estates including the home of changed my life.
Cr Tony Hall - Representing Division 6
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? shopping precincts, parks, I believe I am pretty down-to-earth, approachable and easy to education hubs, community talk to. centres and beautiful bushland. I like to help people and it’s a good feeling when you can. Division 6 has an abundance I like things to be done in a fair way and love seeing people of wildlife and I would have a go and be rewarded for their efforts. encourage residents and their What motivated you to represent your community as a visitors to put on their hiking local councillor? boots and enjoy a walk through our beautiful bushland. My father Warren Hall who passed away in 2019 aspired to What’s something quirky that people wouldn’t know become a Councillor in Logan but was unable to attempt this about you? dream due to declining health. He would often speak of what I grew up in a traveling circus and performed as an aerial he wanted to change in the community and what he would like contortionist and trapeze artist. to improve. This was a great way for me to speak to my father about his If you were planning dinner with three people, who interests while he was in palliative care. would they be and why? The first person I would invite would have to be my mum, Egita. My father suggested that I would make a fantastic councillor Your mum is the first person to love you unconditionally, and because of what I had achieved so far in my life and because we need to spend as much time with our mums as possible. he knew I cared about my community. The second person would be myself, so that I could ask myself I proudly took his advice and aim to be the best councillor why I did so many silly things when I was younger! I can be. And the third person is easy. That would be my dad so I could Tell us something special about your division. If you had see my mum and dad together again and tell him all about visitors where would you take them? Council-life and ask for his advice, now that I have fulfilled I love the dynamic range of people and locations within Division his dream. 6. My division is reflective of all of Logan – with our local
10 Cr Tim Frazer - Representing Division 7
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? In the park there is a nice I am a very compassionate person who has a strong sense of water feature and a gazebo justice. where one can relax whilst looking at the water tower. That’s why I chose to be a union delegate for a decade and more recently to work for the State Government in community The tower has lots of lights that services. look amazing at night time.
I am very family-oriented and to ground myself, I spend quality What’s something quirky time with my family by going for a walk once a day. that people wouldn’t know about you? What motivated you to represent your community as a Even though I have not been involved with the Army Reserves local councillor? for many years, I still use the 24-hour time system which really I wanted to make a difference in the community by getting all confuses many people. of the small things fixed that have been hindering the area from reaching its full potential. If you were planning dinner with three people, who would they be and why? Tell us something special about your division. If you had The Queen as she is the Queen, nothing more needs to a visitor, where would you take them? be said! Division 7 has a mix of suburbia, acreage, parks and commercial areas that meld together to make it quite a nice Actor, Adam Sandler, to provide the entertainment and to be area to live in. funny at any moment. If I had a visitor, I would ordinarily take them to a natural And my wife, so I can enjoy the dinner with her and so she can feature, however one man-made feature in my division is also meet my chosen guests. notable. I would take my visitor to Wineglass Park in Hillcrest.
Cr Jacob Heremaia - Representing Division 8
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? Stoneleigh Reserve in Logan I believe that if you have a go, you should get a go. Reserve has a great park that families love. I’m so proud to represent my community on council and I’d like to thank all the of the amazing people who have offered If you do move in, please their support and kind words. join the Stoneleigh Reserve Community Facebook Pages. What motivated you to represent your community as a local councillor? It’s a great way to connect with As the youngest councillor in Queensland, I’m fighting to your neighbours. enable our city’s young people. What’s something quirky that people wouldn’t know It’s great to see our council working with local schools to build about you? up our young people. They are the future of our city and our I love history, so here’s an interesting historical fact. nation. I was born in New Zealand. If you look at history, New Zealand Council offers free activities for kids during the holidays all the and Australia have an interesting relationship. way to traineeships and apprenticeships. Before 1841, New Zealand was a part of the colony of New I’ve seen so many hard-working young people gain valuable South Wales. practical work experience. Section 6 of the Australian Constitution says that New Zealand Traineeships don’t only develop careers, they build self- is able to become an Australian state. confidence and give young people a head start. If you were planning dinner with three people, who Tell us something special about your division. If you had would they be and why? a visitor, where would you take them? My mum, my dad and my pet beagle Lucy. I love taking my pet dog, Lucy, for a walk. Lucy might not be a person but she would be great dinner She’s a beagle, so she has a keen nose and gets into quite a guest. bit of mischief.
11 Cr Scott Bannan - Representing Division 9
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? One answer might be that I’m a down to earth guy, I love a challenge and I like to improve I love a movie. It’s a way of myself by learning off all the people I meet. I love helping switching off for me. people and I never want to die wondering. I can just sit back and for a What motivated you to represent your community as a couple of hours just enter local councillor? the world of the movie I’m I already do a lot with my community through sporting clubs, watching. Our SuperX events, Pink Stumps day, the Rural Fire Brigade Usually action movies, and with community groups - plus it’s my home. probably no surprise there. I felt I could not just support my community but should also If you were planning dinner with three people, who help shape and protect it through listening to those who have would they be and why? earned the right to be heard. (Former NRL player and now TV host) Matty Johns, (Australian I know I will do the job with 100 per cent effort. solider and Victoria Cross recipient) Corporal Mark Donaldson and (the late Channel 9 boss) Kerry Packer. Tell us something special about your division. If you had a visitor, where would you take them? Matty because I love my footy and his knowledge and the way Division 9 is mostly a rural area. he explains it is first-class plus I enjoy a laugh and it’s important to keep a smile on your face. We still have a lot of wildlife and amazing farm land. Mark because I have a huge respect for those who have I’d show visitors the diversity of our area, from the shopping to served and a VC recipient is truly special. I have always been, the farms and how important it is to get the balance right. I suppose facinated with the SASR because I believe they are the tip of the sword and I’d have a million questions for him. What’s something quirky that people wouldn’t know about you? Kerry Packer because he changed the game with everything This is a hard one. I’m a bit of an open book. he did.
Cr Miriam Stemp - Representing Division 10
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? What’s something quirky Hardworking, compassionate and creative. that people wouldn’t know about you? I love spending time with family and friends, travelling and I have been designing, building spending time in nature. and repurposing things since I I also enjoy volunteering in the community and trying to find was a child. solutions to problems which might help improve the lives of I have my own toolshed, a others. set of power tools and I love What motivated you to represent your community as a saving something which would otherwise end up in landfill and local councillor? making it into something practical and beautiful. I wanted to represent my community because I came from this If you were planning dinner with three people, who community and saw an opportunity for positive change. would they be and why? I want to preserve the things that are important to so many (Actor) Hugh Jackman because he is kind, charitable, multi- residents, be a voice for those in need and put forward talented and has worked so hard for his success, but without innovative ideas to make our community better. sacrificing his integrity.
Tell us something special about your division. If you had (Former Women’s Weekly editor and now ABC boss) Ita visitors where would you take them? Buttrose because she is a well-respected business woman I have found that Division 10 is made up of so many amazing who has had an illustrious career and championed many people from all walks of life, who take pride in their community, important causes. who rally together to help those in need and are proactive in (Comedian and writer) Kitty Flanagan because she is an trying to find solutions to problems. hilarious story teller with anecdotes to which we can all relate. I would take visitors to explore the beautiful Cornubia Forest and then for a walk across the historical Red Bridge on the edge of Division 10. 12 Cr Natalie Willcocks - Representing Division 11
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? scooters in the skate bowl. I I am very family and community-orientated. I love where I live also like to take our dog to the and the greater community that I have called home for the past off-leash park there. 15 years. Also worth a visit every second I love watching my daughters when they swim at meets, play Saturday of the month is the netball, or at any sport they are involved in. I am hardworking, Pub Lane markets. If you are honest and commited to getting things done. I’m passionate around on the last Saturday about the area that I live in and I feel honoured and privileged night of the month, pop down to now represent the residents of Division 11. to the car show in Flagstone and have a look at the amazing vehicles on display at Saturdaze at Mondaze. What motivated you to represent your community as a local councilor? What’s something quirky that people wouldn’t know I live and work in the area and I’m involved in different clubs, about you? not just in Division 11 but in all of Logan. Having my own I have an Alaskan Malamute and his name is Nanuk. children who attended GSS and played many different sports I married into an Australian/Sri Lankan family, so I love a good including netball, tennis, dance, Little A’s and swimming, curry—but not too hot! inspired me to represent Division 11 in Council. I wanted to give our community members a voice to be heard and I am I also love watching the AFL and—even though I was born and proud to be their representative. raised in Brisbane—I am a Collingwood supporter.
Tell us something special about your division. If you had If you were planning dinner with three people, who visitors where would you take them? would they be and why? Once the pandemic restrictions are lifted, those who have I would always take my husband Mark and depending on who children could visit one of the many parks that we have in our is available I would choose from the following: division. However, a visit to the Flagstone Regional Rec Park is • Julie Bishop—I admire how she has held herself in federal top of the list as there is so much for our kids to do there. politics and I think is the best dressed female politician in Australia. I would take them to visit Spring Mountain Reserve or go • Pete Murray—one of my favourite Australian singers, whom for a bushwalk in Spring Mountain, starting at the the end I have met and is just a genuine nice person. of Thornbill Drive. I love being able to walk to Teviot Downs • Suzie O’Neill—I’ve met quite a few Australian swimmers: Park, where my kids can play on the equipment or take their however, she is one I am still yet to meet.
Cr Karen Murphy - Representing Division 12
How would you describe yourself, what makes you tick? When we have special guest I am a very passionate, caring person with a great love for visitors, we like to take them people, especially the youth of Logan. to The Beenleigh Artisan Rum Distillery, which sits on the Young people are exciting to work with and keep me young bank of the Albert River. and up-to-date with the ever-changing world that we live in. There they can experience a I have been lucky enough to be recognised for my dedication tour of the distillery and finish to this area with the Award of Volunteer of the Year – up with a sample of our local Worldwide for Quota International in 2017. rum in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. What motivated you to represent your community as a What’s something quirky that people wouldn’t know local councillor? about you? I have been a volunteer for our community for many years, but When I get the chance, I like to paint. I find it very relaxing and now was the time for me to take it to the next level and serve good for the soul. If possible, I try to attend the Archibald Prize the people of Division 12 and the City of Logan. at the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney each year. Tell us something special about your division. If you had If you were planning dinner with three people, who visitors where would you take them? would they be and why? Division 12 has so many wonderful locations to visit. If I had to invite three people for dinner, they would be (author, We are perfectly located between the Albert and Logan Rivers. actor and painter) Anh Do, (TV journalist) Jana Wendt and (priest and community worker) Father Bob Maguire.
13 LOGAN LIBRARIES
Access library e-resources from home There are many FREE eBooks, eAudiobooks, movies, games and learning resouces available from your home computer, iPad or mobile phone for library members.
There are also e-newspapers and e-magazines too. All are free Studiosity: Live online study help for students of all ages, with your library card and PIN. connect with live tutors, available 24/7. Subjects covered: Mathematics, Science, English, Business, study and If you don’t have a library card, sign up for a free digital library writing skills. membership online at: loganlibraries.org/join Road to IELTS: Online preparation for the IELTS test To start using the eLibrary, simply go to loglib.org/elibrary Issues in English:Helps people learning English as a second Kanopy Movies: More than 30,000 films including award language to improve their literacy skills. winning films, indie films, popular films. An app is available and you can also cast to your TV using Chromecast or Apple TV. Freegal music database: Millions of songs available to stream Ten play credits per month per library patron. or download for free. An app is available and users can stream up to five hours a day and download five songs per week. Mango languages: More than 70 foreign language courses and 20 English language courses plus an app available. To borrow eBooks and eAudios use BorrowBox or OverDrive with easy-to-use apps or websites. Literacy Planet: Learning: thousands of fun and educational literacy games designed for Australian children aged 4-15 yrs, • BorrowBox and OverDrive eBook and eAudiobook created by Australian educators. platforms offer a range of book titles available in all genres on both platforms. Go to loglib.org/elibrary and click on Encyclopaedias: Britannica Online Library, National eBooks and eAudiobooks. Geographic Virtual Library, Austlit (a source of information about Australian writing) and Gale Health and Wellness Resource • RBdigital Magazines: enjoy the most popular magazines in Centre (an up-to-the-minute information source on health- digital and full colour, over 300 magazines, current issues and related issues). back issues available. No loan limit—magazines are yours to keep. Online learning courses: Universal Class—over 500 online education courses on topics such as business, web design, • Newsbank: complete text articles from thousands of local, psychology, real estate. Get access to tutors, lessons and Australian and international newspapers. Read today’s exams and a certificate on completion. papers—all issues are free and are updated each morning. Back issues available spanning decades. Lynda.com: Thousands of courses and video tutorials to help with your personal and professional goals. Learn business, You will need your library membership number to access these software, technology and creative skills. FREE e-resources or visit: loganlibraries.org/join to become a member for free.
Ask a Loan Ranger for a personalised suggestion on what to borrow next at: bit.ly/2KyPZHX
14 LOGAN LIBRARIES
The Loan Rangers will help you read again Here are our Loan Rangers’ top picks for electronic reading material and resources, available from the comfort of your home for free. Visit: loglib.org/elibrary. Ages 0-5 Ages 15-18 eAudio—(Bolinda) eBooks (Bolinda) The Creature Choir by David Walliams Aurora Rising by Jay Kristoff (2019) Tyrannosaurus Drip by Julia Donaldson Girls with Sharp Sticks (2019) Video story time Video (Kanopy) (Story Box Library) Fame High (doco) Piranhas Don’t Eat Bananas Adventures in Public School by Aaron Blabey (Story Box Library) eResources The Dress-up Box Studiosity study help by Patrick Guest (Story Box Library) Freegal Music eResources Busythings, Anamalia Ages 19-45 Ages 6-10 eBooks (Bolinda) Vegan Recipes to Enhance eAudio (Bolinda) Your Yoga Life by Sarah Wilkinson Amelia Fang and the (2020) (ANF) Naughty Caticorns Moral Compass by Danielle Steel by Laura Ellen Anderson The Barefoot Surgeon The 91-Storey Treehouse by Ali Gripper (ANF) by Andy Griffiths Video (Kanopy) eBooks (OverDrive) Enemy Jokelopedia by Eva Blank (JNF) Love Thy Nature Origami Activities for Children Kedi by Chiyo Araki (JNF) Beast by David Walliams eMagazines (RB Digital) (eBook – Bolinda) Earth Garden New Scientist Video (Kanopy) Paper Planes eResources Mr Hublot The Computer School Freegal Music eResources Busy Code — National Geographic Kids Ages 45+
Ages 11-15 Audio (Bolinda) Kitty by Deborah Challinor eBooks (Bolinda) Dragon Daughter by Liz Flanagan The Crown by Robert Lacey (Bio) Wink by Rob Harrell The Lying Room by Nicci French) The Complete Cookbook for eBooks (Bolinda) Young Chefs (JNF) Mr Doubler Begins Again by Seni Glaister (eBook – Overdrive) Opal Dragonfly by Julian Leatherdale Video (Kanopy) Me by Elton John (ANF) Nowhere Boys Video (Kanopy) Cool Science Their Finest eResources Strictly Ballroom Britannica Library The Dressmaker Literacy Planet eMagazines (RB Digital) BBC History Magazine Australian Geographic
15 Virtual book club launched Not even a pandemic could come “It was lovely and just took its usual between one avid Logan reader and format,” she says. Lyndsay McMillan has taken her love of her beloved book club. reading into the digital age with an online “We can still contribute to the book club Enthusiastic 76-year-old Lyndsay discussions (about the books) with McMillan decided swift action was each other.” required when social distancing rules Virtual book clubs are trending resulted in the cancellation of her worldwide because of social isolation monthly Logan North Library book due to the COVID-19 pandemic. club meetings. Logan City Council Libraries provides Lyndsay has been involved with free access to thousands of eBooks the Logan North Book Club since it for those wanting to access that book started in April 2009. they’ve always wanted to read or get She decided to overcome her into the latest bestseller. technology deficiencies and move the Logan City Council Libraries has put club online. together some handy tips, including The club, which she calls the highlight how to choose an online platform of her month, now operates as a to host your virtual book club. The virtual book club on an online video advice includes choosing eBooks to chat platform. ensure everyone is reading the same book and how to run a book club Lyndsay successfully trialled the meeting. virtual club first with a couple of friends before reaching out to all Visit: loglib.org/bookclubs to find out club members. more.
Online activities to help save Logan’s platypus Science has confirmed it, eyes have seen it but Logan’s “They’re activities that encourage staying at home but if kids amazing platypus population is still a little camera-shy. go for a walk with their families and see one (platypus), they can still report the sighting to us.” Platypus Watch teams last year confirmed a sighting of a platypus in upper reaches of the Albert River in April last year Rosalinde says platypus numbers unfortunately appear to be but are still yet to get a photo. declining across the country which makes it the ideal time to learn more about the unique Australian creature and help The sighting followed a study that used traces of DNA in the boost their numbers. river to scientifically confirm the presence of platypus in at least three locations. The study was prompted by a platypus “By learning more about them and their habitat it helps us to sighting in the river in 2017. understand how to conserve them into the future,” she says. PlatypusWatch is a community-based program that includes Visit: watergum.org/online-classroom platypus surveys, promoting and recording platypus sightings and assessing platypus habitats. Platypus Watch teams last year confirmed a sighting of a platypus in The program is partially funded by Council and run by the not- upper reaches of the Albert River for-profit organisation Watergum. Watergum Executive Officer Rosalinde Brinkman said current social distancing rules prevented on-ground surveys prompting the organisation to take its playpus search and education online. Logan parents and their children are loving it. “We’ve developed an online classroom where we can facilitate platypus workshops for kids,” Rosalinde says. “There are presentations and activities and kids can even make their own platypus bookmark to use when they’re reading.
16 DISASTER MANAGEMENT
How are you going neighbour?
Looking out for each other is now more important than Being a good neighbour has many benefits because good ever. Restrictions on movement and social distancing relationships with others can transform communities. mean we all need to look closer to home for a sense of Social connection also makes all of us feel better as it community and support. helps prevent loneliness, isolation and depression. That’s why we’re encouraging our residents to check in The good news is it’s easy to break the ice—and there’s with those closest to them—the neighbours! plenty to talk about of mutual interest. While it might just be a casual chat over the fence to From picking up groceries to having a friendly chat, you, for someone living alone or quarantining themselves let’s all help each other as a way of looking after our it may be the only discussion or contact they have with community. For more ideas go to Council’s Facebook other people. page.
How to be warned And stay informed You don’t need to rely on the media when you have your own A quick visit to Council's Disaster Dashboard will also provide free Early Warning Service. you with the most reliable and current information available about road hazards, power outages, emergency situations, The Logan Early Warning smartphone App provides alerts weather warnings and much more. for potential dangers and provides alerts based on your GPS location, as well as your registered residential address. Twitter feeds from the Queensland Police Service, Energex, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, the Department You can download the Logan Early Warning smartphone App of Transport and Main Roads and other agencies are also from the Apple App Store or Google Play by searching 'Logan published on the Disaster Dashboard, along with regular Early Warning'. You can also register online to receive email, updates from the Bureau of Meteorology. SMS or text-to-voice for landlines at: logan.qld.gov.au/ earlywarning The Disaster Dashboard can be used from any computer or mobile phone and can be accessed via Logan City Council's Facebook page or at: disaster.logan.qld.gov.au
17 Natural beauty showcased in Underwood Park lagoon upgrade
Picnic settings, sun lounges and Council is also partnering with the State New netball courts and a clubhouse will wildlife viewing platforms are part of a Government on an $11 million major be built along with additional facilities $450,000 upgrade of the Underwood redevelopment of the park’s sporting for BMX and mountain biking clubs. and recreational precinct. Park lagoon at Priestdale. Council will also install automated entry The platforms will be built over the water, Works, now underway, include a gates to the park, CCTV cameras to one on each side of the lagoon, to multi-use community facility which improve safety, new public toilets, provide improved viewing opportunities will accommodate Rochedale Rovers additional pedestrian platforms and a more of the water birds and other wildlife that Football Club and Meals on Wheels. accessible entry to FUNderwood Hollow. inhabit and visit the area. Two new shelters will be constructed on the northern side of the lagoon, each with a picnic table and benches. Permanently fixed sun lounges will be placed on a new grassed area which will be lined by 110 metres of sandstone terracing, which will provide further shaded seating opportunities. Native grasses will be planted along the lagoon banks along with native trees and shrubs in adjacent areas. Works began last month and will take up to three months to complete, weather permitting. The latest upgrade continues Council’s ongoing development of Underwood Park as a popular family-friendly destination. Last year an innovative Nature Play area was added to FUNderwood Hollow An artist’s concept of how the Underwood Park lagoon in Priestdale will look after upgrade. Works are now underway playground. Fitness boost for Park Ridge park
A popular neighbourhood park in Park Ridge has received One of the new pieces of exercise equipment and the freshly painted basketball court in Park a makeover, which will be appreciated when social Ridge’s upgraded East Beaumont Park distancing restrictions lift. East Beaumont Park is bounded by East Beaumont Rd, Mount Archer Rd and Mount Mee St. The upgrade included the installation of three pieces of fitness equipment linked to an existing shelter by a new concrete path. The existing playground was extended to provide a multi-play unit and a sand table. The surface of the basketball court was cleaned and repainted to match the park’s colour theme. A shade sail has also been installed.
18 Donating blood is a valid reason to leave the house
Rochedale South’s Brad Mulcahy has a simple message to those considering blood donation. “Do it, and don’t think twice,” he says. “It feels great to be able to help people.” It is a message that Lifeblood, the blood donation arm of the Red Cross, hopes will cut through in Logan as it battles through the effects of the pandemic. The service says blood donation remains vital locally, with considerable blood and plasma donation shortfalls at the Springwood donor centre alone. Social distancing measures are in place at all Lifeblood centres and no non-donors are currently allowed inside the facilities. Thankfully, not even the strict new rules could keep serial donor Serial blood donor, Brad Mulcahy of Rochedale Brad away. South, at the Springwood Lifeblood donor centre Brad has now donated blood 147 times and visits the Springwood Donor Centre every fortnight. “Because my blood type is AB+, my plasma is always in demand,” he says proudly. “It’s something I like doing to help others who are less fortunate than I am.” All blood types are still needed every day across Australia. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, an average of 900 people per day have cancelled blood donation appointments. TAFE Queensland offers up to 510 hours of free English Lifeblood Chief Executive Shelly Park says such cancellations lessons at Browns Plains, Loganlea and Woodridge were not something local communities could afford. campuses in the Logan area for eligible new migrants.
“Coronavirus does not stop the need for blood and plasma,” • learn day-to-day practical English she says. • receive free childcare while you are in class* “There are patients involved in road accidents who need large • learn more about Australian way of life and culture volumes of blood for transfusions, cancer patients who will still • make new friends and connect with the local community need support to survive their treatment, and there will still be • access pathway opportunities for employment or women who experience complications while giving birth, as further study well as many others who rely on this precious resource. “Unlike toilet paper, we can’t stockpile blood. “Platelets, one component of blood used in cancer treatment, only last five days, (while) red blood cells last just 42 days.” *conditions apply The Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) is funded by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs. In Queensland, the AMEP is delivered through TAFE Queensland. As an essential community service, blood donation remains a valid reason to leave your home during the coronavirus SCAN QR CODE WITH YOUR SMART PHONE CAMERA pandemic. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR WEBSITE For more information or to book visit: lifeblood.com.au, call 13 14 95 or download the Donate Blood app.
19 Facebook identity Rowena Rowena Beyonce (left) and (right, top to bottom) Heidi Taylor, Paul Jackson and Kath de Lyon are keeping Logan connected online
Our Facebook champions turning followers into friends
What was previously a pastime for Other posts are just beautiful photos of probably think she just sits around at a number of Logan-based social Logan wildlife and scenery. home on Facebook all day. media champions has now become Rowena Rowena Beyonce (her “You have to be thick-skinned,” she an important lifeline for many in our Facebook handle, real name withheld says. community. on request) started the Cornubia Life “And also have the ability to access, These vital connections are being Facebook page about three years ago and neutralise if necessary, some of the facilitated by those who administer after moving into the leafy suburb. anger from a few keyboard warriors. the dozens of neighbourhood and “I wanted to find out more about community-based Facebook pages “But it also comes with rewards such as my area—the haunts, the cafes, the across the city. getting to know locals and helping give bushwalks,” Rowena says. a profile to some our local businesses Their commitment and community What started with a handful of followers who really need all the support they can spirit is keeping people connected quickly grew to more than 6,500 get right now.” and in touch with the latest news members today. and sharing key information during Paul Jackson has lived in Logan’s these unprecedented times of social “For many people, right now, it is a western suburbs for more than 40 years. distancing and self-isolation. window to the outside world,” Rowena In 2018, he started a monthly magazine says. Every day hundreds, if not thousands, called Park Ridge News to celebrate the of posts and comments from followers “It allows people to air issues of people, places and events that make are made from almost every suburb in concern and to understand what others Logan West a special place to live. the city. are doing and whether they might need The Park Ridge News Facebook page some help.” was a natural follow-on for his local Topics range from opinions on local community. It has 3,200 followers. tradies, reuniting lost dogs with their Rowena is a lawyer and does all her owners, fun at-home activities and the posting and administrating in her spare Paul says Park Ridge News and its latest information from Council. time. She chuckles that some people partner community service group, Park
20 Ridge Connect, were set up to help Gotta Love Logan is another positive Stay connected people in Logan West build connection. local platform where the people of Logan City can come together to share Here are just a few of the dozens “That need has now been amplified by positive stories. It now has 22,000 of Logan-based Facebook pages the COVID-19 situation,” he says. members and it is one of the biggest you might like to follow: “We believe that if people are community Facebook pages in the city. • Gotta Love Logan connected in community they are more Administrator Kath de Leon started the resilient, they are healthier, happier and • Park Ridge News page to counter negative media aimed wealthier.” at Logan City. “I was concerned about • I Love Daisy Hill Paul says keeping people oriented the impact the negativity was having on • Cornubia Life towards practical solutions rather our community,” she says. than just circling the problems can • Shailer Park and Cornubia Life She says the current challenges include be a challenge for a neighbourhood • I love Jimboomba making sure information that is shared Facebook administrator. is relevant, necessary and essential. • Beenleigh Community Page “I’ve been pleasantly surprised by “We love helping people in our • Bahrs Scrub, Windaroo and how well people have engaged with community. It is painful knowing that Beenleigh initiatives and opportunities to make people are suffering at the moment, their world a better place,” he says. • Yarrabilba, Tamborine, given our current environment,” Kath Logan Village, Cedar Creek “And one of the rewards has been says. Community Group seeing people who care about the “If through Gotta Love Logan, we can same things find each other and work • Eagleby Community share a link to a job, information about together on creating a solution that Noticeboard a local business, or how people can others can join in on. receive support, or share a story that • Enriching Communities “Community collaboration and makes people smile, then that is where Greenbank volunteerism is a beautiful thing.” our rewards are. • The Amazing People of Edens Heidi Taylor manages the I love “Merely knowing we have helped Landing Jimboomba Facebook page which has someone in our community is our • Flagstone Community been supporting the local community motivation.” for nearly 10 years. • Logan Region Community And advice for anyone thinking of discussion “We felt that the local community starting their own neighbourhood • Logan Community Page would benefit from a platform to stay Facebook page? Kath echoes the informed of the latest events, news and sentiments of Rowena, Paul and Heidi. • Logan Village & Surrounding information for our local area,” Heidi Communities “Just go for it,” she says. says. • Greenbank, Park Ridge and “You can participate as much or as little “Over the years the page has continued Surrounding Areas as you like. to evolve and the community needs • Our Shailer Park change. “It is gratifying knowing that you are supporting the community you live in, • Waterford Community Group “And the rewards are definitely knowing and knowing that you are making a we are helping the community and • Windaroo & surrounding areas difference in the lives of many.” keeping them up to date.” • Yarrabilba Community
For more tips and tricks, Go Duckling!
Boredom busting advice has taken on “It is very important at this time to “In particular, we have compiled a new importance for young families in assist parents and carers with the collection of services offering free these challenging times. task of keeping children active and and interactive online children's engaged through play and learning,” entertainment. Go Duckling is another online Kerenza says. resource for local families. And it’s “Children can attend online dance Logan-based. “Go Duckling is regularly posting parties, music and movement classes suggestions and sharing links of ideas or skill development sessions.” Kerenza Korostovetz has operated and resources by local community the site for several years, using it For more information, visit: groups and businesses. to provide local information and an goduckling.com.au events directory. 21 Mum’s page keeping
families connected Waterford mum Kimberley Chase shared this photo It really does take a village to raise a “My son popped on last night and did a of her son Imajae playing outside on child. Facebook live and read a bedtime story the Mums n’ Bubs to members’ children... anything to take Facebook page And while many families might feel their people’s minds off what is currently village is shrinking right now, support happening.” and friendship are still just a click away. Mums n’ Bubs Logan has more than Mums n’ Bubs Logan has been an 22,450 members and is continuing important hub for local families since to grow. the community Facebook page was established in 2009. Around 85 per cent of page members are from the Logan community, but Page administrator Nat Millar says it is others come from around the world. a privilege to support local people in their parenting journeys, even in times “This group is family to some of struggle. members,” Nat says. She says the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) “Mums helping mums is what we are pandemic has prompted more people all about. to seek community online. “That was the case pre-COVID-19 and “People yes are very worried … those will continue to be (that) way after, when Loganholme brothers Oliver, 2, and Luke, 7, in a home cooking picture with anxiety have it heightened at the things are back to normal.” their mum Sasha shared on the moment just with the unknown,” she Mums n’ Bubs Logan Facebook page says. “Mums n’ Bubs Logan has always been a help and support forum but since this current crisis has hit I have worked non-stop making the group, and the (separate) Whats On group, places they can access information easily.” Interestingly, to help avoid information overload, Nat doesn’t allow COVID-19 talk on the page. Instead, an information thread with links to important information is updated regularly for families to access. “It is filled with information from trusted sites that I update daily, with new press conference footage, (facility) closures, handwashing tips (and) Centrelink updates,” she says. But her primary focus is giving families other things to think about, as well as new ways to fill their time. “I encourage any members to drop their videos in there,” she says. “It could be a cooking demo, how to braid hair, do makeup, (or) chat about your favourite books or Netflix shows.
Waterford mum Kimberley Chase posts photos of her son 22 Thomas learning from home on the Mums n’ Bubs Facebook page Food brings hope in times of need
Local Food Relief Leader Chiquita Misisa, (featured page 5) is no stranger to providing meals for those in need. Hosanna Logan City Church is one of the charities that benefits from OzHarvest Queensland’s Food Rescue. “Every Friday we receive our weekly delivery from OzHarvest and prepare large-scale, sit-down meals for more than 100 families,” Chiquita says. “However since the outbreak of the coronavirus that has changed.” Chiquita and her team rapidly transitioned their service to contactless The Hosanna team is delivering food parcels to the community with the odd bunch of flowers thrown in to bring a smile food hampers. here and there
“Instead of group feeds on a Friday Chiquita says the uncertain times have opening up is creating a whole new night, we are now packaging up food also created positives. rapport with the community,” she says. parcels to go out on a Friday,” she says. Her team is supporting those in need in “It has been really rewarding for our “We’ve seen an increased demand for more ways than supplying food parcels. team to be able to do this for our the food parcels—a lot of families are community.” disappointed that we can’t have the “Food is one thing but being able to group meals.” share stories and just listen to people Tips for making the most of what you’ve got in the fridge While observing physical distancing for OzHarvest to rescue at the end and staying home when you can, now of the day, and could lead to you is a great time to experiment in the wasting food you can’t get around to kitchen. From making a list of what you eating in time. already have in the fridge or pantry, to • Store food in airtight containers purchasing substitute ingredients based to keep crisp, keep fruit and veg on what’s available, we can all play our in the fridge, and use your freezer part in minimising food waste at home. as a “pause button” when food is Chef Sarah’s top tips for making the approaching its use-by date. most of what you already have at home: • Cook with what you have, • Look in your fridge and pantry. experiment with substituting Especially in those back corners and ingredients for what you have on high shelves. You might discover hand. You might surprise yourself hidden treasure! Make a list so you and come up with a delicious and know what you are working with. unexpected flavour combo! And remember to Love Your Leftovers • Buy only what you need. Remember —especially if you are working from that if you buy too much at the home, it’s never been easier to supermarket, this means less food celebrate a delicious leftover lunch. 23 BUSINESS PROFILE That’s the spirit, Beenleigh Rum lends the community a hand
As Australia’s oldest distillery, history After producing it for staff, it was then withstood major floods in both January and Beenleigh Rum go hand in hand. intended to be made for retail and to 1887 and January 1974. be sold through their sister company, But no one could have predicted the More recently, Cyclone Debbie, in Wheel & Barrow. latest chapter in the distillery’s long March 2017, flooded the distillery and enduring relationship with the City “We originally planned a small run of building and halted production for of Logan and the broader Australian only 1,500 cartons,” Steve says. several months. community. “When the Queensland Government Steve says the distillery had also felt Less than two months ago, the approached us we were happy to help the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak Beenleigh Artisan Distillery went from and we began supplying them with having shut down tours and the visitor being known for its rum production to a 20-litre drums of sanitiser.” centre. bulk supplier of hand sanitiser in a time He says producing the hand sanitiser “Fortunately the increased ethanol of need. was a relatively simple and quick production has meant we have been The Logan icon, on the banks of process for the distillery. able to redeploy staff and utilise them in the Albert River, all but stopped other areas,” he says. “When making a hand sanitiser we still the production of rum to focus on make the alcohol from molasses but When asked about whether there may producing high-strength ethanol to we obviously don’t have to age it (unlike be a rum shortage, Steve was firm that ensure a much-needed supply of hand rum, which is a minimum of two years),” supplies were fine. sanitiser during the COVID-19 crisis. Steve says. “Absolutely not, there is no shortage of Steve Magarry, the distillery’s “From when we ferment the molasses rum,” he says. Production Manager, says it was all the way through to the hand another way Beenleigh Rum was “In the coming weeks and months we sanitiser, [it takes] four to five days.” helping Logan and the broader will re-evaluate and look to return to our community in times of crisis. The distillery is no stranger to adversity. normal production.” Since its establishment in 1884 it has He said the latest effort first came about in an effort to ensure the health and safety of staff at the distillery and its parent company—Bickford’s. “Typically we produce two products Ethanol made at the Beeleigh Artisan Distillery is here at the distillery, which are rum now an active ingredient in and high-strength ethanol for food and a popular hand sanitiser beverage purposes,” he says. “At the moment we’ve actually halted rum production to focus on the high- strength ethanol.”
‘With the demand for hand sanitiser, we decided to look into making our own, as ethanol is the key ingredient of sanitiser.’
office of Economic Development 24 Putting names up in lights
Imagine having the power to put your advertisement or message up in lights on electronic billboards from your Milton Rd Brisbane, is the favourite electronic billlboard laptop or smartphone. accessed through CAASie by local advertisers Heurist, a local branding and project agency that started just two years ago, has made it possible — at a bargain-basement price. Taryn Syratt, a director and partner of Heurist, says the online app, which secures last-minute slots on electronic billboards, grew from a hobby project. “We developed CAASie (Contextually-Aware Advertising System) as a platform or app for small business owners and start-ups,” Taryn says. “We knew what they really needed was to get their brand out into the world and to be known, but awareness media, like TV and billboards, were always out of reach, due to cost and bulk- booking requirements. “CAASie on the other hand is so flexible that you could wish your mum ‘happy birthday’ on a billboard on the route she takes to do her shopping.” “In Australia we have a sprinkling of large format billboards in every capital, except for Darwin and Hobart. Taryn says digital billboards are like a slideshow, delivering between six and 10 messages on a cycle with campaign “Internationally we have a partnership with the second largest schedules frequently leaving gaps to fill. provider of digital signage management. This connects us to more than 4000 signs across the world, primarily located in “We realised that these slides could be filled by advertisers Northern America, the Netherlands and Dubai in the UAE.” who didn’t have the budget to commit to, or wanted to test something before buying in bulk,” Taryn says. Pricing is determined by the billboard’s size, their impact and the expected audience numbers. “We contacted billboard owners and suppliers directly to secure their ad-hoc spaces. “The favourite billboard so far has been Milton Road in Brisbane, particularly for peak hour home-bound traffic. It’s “Locally we have almost every bus shelter panel between right above a busy intersection and also close to a busy rail Helensvale and Tweed Heads. line,” Taryn says. “Most of the advertiser feedback is about how good it feels Taryn Syratt (standing) with Joe Jaraved to be up there with the big brands, like the banks and luxury (left) and Jeff Jaraved are providing cars.” small businesses with the opportunity to advertise on digital billboards anywhere Taryn says the company has big plans for the future given its in the world initial success. “We’re only just starting up with CAASie, so there’s a long way to go, but we’re looking to be the booking.com of billboards around the world—but smarter. Not just with the ability to automate ad buying, but the ability to intelligently plan campaigns with data and consumer analytics. “We’re already working towards those intelligent capabilities, but our main focus right now is to connect as many advertising screens and billboards as we can—to make every digital billboard in Australia accessible to anyone with a computer or smartphone.” Website: Caasie.co
Innov8logan.com.au 25 Logan Food Gardeners grow in knowledge
Have you ever watched one of those “Many of us went home and tried this inspiring TV shows where a gardener for ourselves and we have continued to turns a bare patch of dirt into a adapt Roman and Jana’s ideas to suit magnificent garden? our own gardening spaces.” Logan Food Gardeners visits gardens Mary says at each garden visit, and hobby farms just like that every members bring produce, plants or other month around South-East Queensland. garden items for the ‘giveaway table’. Just before social distancing became “Everyone is welcome to take flavour of the season, the group visited something home. We also enjoy Jim Thehu’s property at Forestdale. chatting over refreshments and find there is always some snippet of wisdom Over the past 35 years, Jim has from a fellow gardener to help us on our transformed his 4000 square metres of food growing journey”. land into an exotic fruit tree oasis. He has planted many luscious fruit trees, “Food gardening is fun and can be as herbs and vegetables. His fruit trees simple a small raised vegetable garden include native fruits such as finger limes bed to a whole garden. It’s all about and wampi; and exotics such as dragon growing food together for sustainability, fruit, jaboticaba, tamarind, Chinese vitality and fulfilment.” raisins and natal plums. If you’d like to join, visit the Logan Logan Food Gardens’ member, Mary Food Gardeners website at: Perryn says Jim is eager to share his loganfoodgardeners.org and become extensive expertise about growing a member. It’s free, and best of all, you native and exotic plants in our local will be inspired with real food gardening! climate and how to handle pests and There is also a Facebook Group where diseases. you can join great conversations about “Many of us were grateful for the growing food. chance to see these plants in a garden at their mature size, rather than just as small plants in a nursery. This way we could assess if a tree variety would suit our garden or situation,” she says. “Best of all, we could have a taste of what was growing.” Mary says the attraction of being a Logan Food Gardens member is seeing the diversity of what is being grown and the many different sized gardens they are grown in. “In contrast to Jim’s expansive garden, we visited a small garden in a rental property. The tenants, Roman and Jim Thehu provided Logan Food Gardeners with a guided tour of his Jana, had used some space on the extensive garden, which features common property to develop a food fruit trees, herbs, vegetables and a garden grown in foam boxes that wide variety of plants they’d sourced from their local fruit and vegetable store,” Mary says. “The upcycled foam boxes were modified to provide a water source in the bottom. It was an inexpensive way to establish a portable food garden and Roman kindly demonstrated the ‘how to’ of making these water-well boxes.
26 Boredom stitched up with long-forgotten pastimes
When local fitness instructor Resa Jimboomba resident Diana Coyte has cooking, gardening, managing money, Zekants-Griffin found her work options turned to jigsaw puzzles to keep her keeping healthy and moving your body, limited due to government restrictions mind busy. and just enjoy life.” on gyms and boot camps during the “I wanted something stimulating, but Diana plans to frame her jigsaw as a COVID-19 pandemic, she decided to also a quiet activity away from my reminder of the time when she couldn’t turn to old hobbies to pass the time. phone and computer,” she says. see family and friends. The Waterford mum-to-be has been “I’ve never felt like I had the patience “It’s important to never forget that gardening, knitting and crocheting— before (to complete a puzzle).” things we take for granted daily can be things she says she hasn’t done for a lost in a moment’s notice.” long time. Diana says her husband has been missing watching rugby league on “My mother taught me to crochet and television so he has been watching Gardening is another hobby for Resa Zekants-Griffin knit when I was about 10,” Resa says. movies. “I started with small crochet flowers “It’s so surreal what we are going and made my way up to pillow cases. through,” she says. I knitted quite a few scarves as well.” Logan businesses have also noticed a The tiny garments Resa is now creating renewed interest in hobbies. from yarn have an extra special meaning with her first baby due later Co-owners of Rochedale South’s The this year. Crafty Chain, Alison Bevis and Shelley Mclean, say their customers are “I’m attempting to crochet a beanie and ordering products because they now booties and knit a fluffy little blanket. have time to resume scrapbooking and “Thankfully I didn’t need to buy anything card making. (to get back into it) and I have heaps of “Those are hobbies you can do at home yarn already.” by yourself but still be involved with socially through online craft groups,” Alison says.
Logan mother-to-be Resa Zekants-Griffin is using her “Many of our customers have been downtime to crochet items for her baby’s arrival doing this for a long time and have a lifetime worth of materials, but they’re stocking up on things like glue and Shelley Mclean and Alison Bevis have noticed customers double-sided tape in case they run out. of The Crafty Chain have had more time to enjoy their hobbies during the COVID-19 pandemic “We’ve also established a Facebook group that we didn’t have before to help people stay connected and are offering a ‘drive thru’ service by leaving orders out the front for our customers to collect.” Resa and Diana agree these unique circumstances should not be forgotten. “When our baby girl grows up, I will let her know what happened, but more importantly tell her to not take things for granted,” Resa says. “I will tell her to use her time wisely, not to get caught up in all the hustle and bustle and all the technology, and to enjoy nature, learn the basics such as
27 COMMUNITY AWARE Treat your keys like cash!
Let’s imagine for a moment, that you had $30,000 cash in your home. Would you just leave that money out in the open, such as on the kitchen bench or hanging on a hook near the front door? Would you leave your garage door or back door unlocked? These might seem like silly questions with obvious answers but unfortunately, some of us are not doing simple things that could prevent a loss of thousands of dollars. For many of us, our car is one of our most expensive and treasured possessions, and yet some of us are Last year more than 14,000 vehicles were stolen guilty of not taking the time to change in Queensland with the majority of newer vehicles our habits and to lock our keys away. taken using stolen keys If you wouldn’t leave $30,000 lying around for someone to take, why would aid an opportunistic thief to gain access These include: you leave your car keys out in the open to your home, locate your car keys and • Hiding your car keys and your spare or in an obvious location? steal your car. keys in a non-obvious location, as We tend to be creatures of habit. More than 14,300 vehicles were stolen the majority of modern vehicles are We come home, put our keys on the in Queensland during 2019, an increase stolen with their own keys. kitchen bench, or key rack or toss them of 17 per cent compared to 2018 and • Always locking your vehicle—even in the key bowl and forget about them an increase of more than 50 per cent when it is parked at your home or in until the next time we need them. The since 2015. a locked garage. thing is, offenders know that this is what some of us do with our car keys. These While these figures may be alarming, • Never leaving valuables, house keys habits and basic things like leaving the here are some simple things we can or garage remotes in your vehicle. garage door up or back door unlocked, all do to lessen the chance of being a • Keeping all entry doors locked, even even if you are at home, unfortunately victim of this type of crime. when at home.
For more hints and tips on community safety please visit: logan.qld.gov.au/safety/community-safety-crime-prevention-information
SUPPORTING YOUR NEIGHBOURS AHEAD OF DISASTERS
Getting to know your neighbours is an important part of being prepared for disasters and protecting what’s most important to you.
Whether it’s bushfire, flood or severe storms, we all cope better if we work together. This can be challenging when there is a need for social distancing and in some cases self-isola- tion. But there are other ways we can stay connected and safe: • Leave a note and offer small acts of kindness, especially with those who might need extra help • Help secure outdoor furniture or loose objects in the yard if a storm is on the way • Make a phone call to check in or share information about what’s happening during an event
For other ways to support your neighbours before, during and after a disaster visit:
logan.qld.gov.au/knowyourneighbours 28 Cedar Grove Environmental Centre nears completion
A key piece of Over the past few months, work to connect the treatment plant to the infrastructure essential wastewater network was notable for its to a growing city is taking innovation. shape at Cedar Grove. Around 20km of underground piping and four pumping stations link The commissioning phase of the Greenbank to Cedar Grove. wastewater treatment plant on the banks of the Logan River is now In an Australian first, high-stress underway. crack-resistant polyethylene pipe Solar panels will provide much of the power for the was used. In some sections it was plant’s operations The site is much more than just a laid using a specialised underground wastewater treatment facility. It’s drilling method. This helped to reduce an environmental reserve for the vegetation clearing and enabled the community and a centre for research. pipe to pass 24 metres under the Community and environmental uses Logan River. occupy 95 per cent of the 204-hectare site. When operating, the plant will meet the strictest environmental licence The ‘green heart’ of the site is a large conditions in Queensland. constructed wetland. It includes several cells, lined with clay and topsoil and Council, Economic Development planted out with 80,000 seedlings and Queensland and the Department of 100 million seeds. Environment and Science worked to find sustainable ways to meet licence When the wetlands were filled with conditions. water, plants grew and wildlife moved In an Australian first, high-stress crack-resistant polyethylene pipe was used. In some sections it was laid in. More than 20 species of birds were There were many innovations. For the using a specialised underground drilling method. recently spotted there. first time in Queensland, a two-stage treatment process will treat wastewater Adding to the natural attractions of the to a very high standard. site the local Men’s Shed furnished the site with picnic tables. Created The first stage is a membrane from dead gum trees scattered on bioreactor. the old farmland site, they will line the After treatment, the water is further community walking trail to the river. purified in the constructed wetlands. Native trees are a growing feature. It is here that cells containing shallow Council, the Cedar Grove Landcare running water and wetland plants Group and trainee organisation Belong reduce nitrogen to less than one planted trees and weeded the site. milligram per litre. This completes the transformation from Any remaining nutrients are offset cleared farmland to an environmental through catchment restoration projects. and community reserve. It’s expected that the site will be open The ‘green heart’ of the site is a large constructed wetland planted out with 80,000 seedlings and to the public before the end of the year. 100 million seeds
29 How to stack and store your kerbside waste for collection Annual kerbside collections are continuing and are a great way to dispose of green and household waste without having to leave home. When placing your household waste out for kerbside clean up, only put it out the weekend prior to the scheduled collection date. To help collectors, please stack your pile neatly and make sure it's no bigger than two metres wide, one metre high and one metre deep. Waste piles that exceed this size may not be collected. Green waste must be cut into one metre lengths and tied into bundles. Two people Garden waste, properly stacked and ready for kerbside collection should be able to load your waste onto the truck in no more than five minutes.
Trash or treasure? People often rummage through kerbside waste, creating unwanted traffic and noise at all hours for residents. You can help limit this activity by putting out waste on the weekend before collection and donating usable items to charity. Items dropped off at the Logan Recycling Market are sold and the profits are distributed to charities.
Depositing waste (including household goods) on the footpath long before or
after a scheduled Kerbside Clean Up is illegal dumping and may result in a This pile is more than three times the maximum volume fine of up to $2,611. that will be picked up in kerbside collections
Kerbside clean-up • Southern Rochedale South (south of Underwood Road but not including the southern side of Underwood Road) 4-15 May 2020 • Springwood, Underwood 18-29 May 2020
WASH your HANDS STOP with SOAP and 101fm Supporting Local Business! WATER These are trying times for everyone the spread of and local Businesses are struggling. Logan City's 101fm is your local Community Radio Station GERMS and we would like to offer a significant contribution to promote and support local Business. For all new Business sponsors, and as a financial stimulus, STAY HOME we will give you one month’s advertising COVER at 50% off our standard rate card. your if you’re This will include ALL production costs with NO lock-in contracts and NO small print! COUGH SICK There’s no better way to get your message out than “over the Air Waves”. Whether you provide a service, trade or product Radio CAN make a difference. Call today on 3808 8101 or email: [email protected]
30 my owner updating my I’D BE LOST registration and microchip WITHOUT… details.
If your cat or dog gets lost, we’ll be able to contact you if their registration Did you contact details are up-to-date. To register know ? FACT ? your pet or update your details, visit: 1 logan.qld.gov.au/animalregistration or logan.qld.gov.au/onlineservices and follow the prompts % Keeping your contact details up-to-date BUSTER 40 increases the chance of of impounded your cat or dog being animals* are reunited with you. unidentifiable. * At the Animal Management Centre LOST 2FACT 3FACT
Keeping your microchip details Sadly, some cats and dogs up-to-date increases the chance % escape or get lost. If this happens visit: of your pet being returned to you by 90 logan.qld.gov.au/lostanimals to see if your To check or update your cat or dog microchip pet is in our care. We display a picture and short details, visit: logan.qld.gov.au/microchip description of all impounded animals.
Now you know For more information all the essentials, visit: logan.qld.gov.au/animals your cat or dog will have the best chance of being reunited Phone: 3412 3412 with you. Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer: Council identifies animals via a microchip, registration or name tag. It is a requirement of the Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008 and Local Law No. 4 (Animal Management) 2002 that all cats and dogs be registered with the City of Logan and if born after May 2009, must also be microchipped. You are also required to update your pet’s contact information within 7 days of moving house or changing your phone number or email address.
31 Online Services Did you know you can access most of our Council’s services online? We have services available 24/7:
REPORT IT APPLY FOR IT PAY IT Order wheelie bins, report a Apply for a water meter, Pay your rates, barking dog, parking issues building approval or development applications, or parks maintenance residential driveway licences, fines and more!
You can also use our My Property tool to find out more about your property and the local community.
To access information and services from the comfort of your own home, please visit the online services section of our website. If you can’t find what you are looking for, please call 3412 3412.
If you would like to connect with us you can complete our website feedback form at: logan.qld.gov.au/websitefeedback or email us at: [email protected] logan.qld.gov.au/online-services