Water park a canvas for local artist - Council responds to coronavirus Volume 87 April 2020
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Our Logan
Volume 87
April 2020
Water park
a canvas for
local artist
Council
responds to
coronavirus
C O N T E NTS
OUR LOGAN, OUR
CITY MAGAZINE
Editorial enquiries:
9 10 11
3412 5284 or
media@logan.qld.gov.au Online library Accessing
First look at
Managing Editor: KBF theatre open all hours Council services
Rebecca Smith
News Editor:
Martin King
Writers:
Zoe Krieg
17 24 26
Martin King
Julie Brumfield-Jones Sisterhood doing Our home grown Thai Orchid
Sam Burgess
Samantha Stiller
it for themselves flower market wins another award
Geoff Stead
Jason Oxenbridge
Graphic design:
Dina Wirawan
Welcome to this edition of Our Logan
Electoral content
authorised by Silvio
Trinca, Logan City
Council, 150 Wembley
Rd, Logan Central
Our Business Continuity Committee is meeting
Printed by
Ovato, Geebung frequently and is working closely with Queensland
Health, which is keeping us informed of the
Front cover image:
Jessica Skeen-McKinnon.
situation as it evolves.
Photo Julie Brumfield-
We activated our business continuity plan early to
Jones
guide us in how we deliver our core services.
None of the material in
this publication may be
reproduced without the
As a Council, our first priority is the safety of our
permission of the Chief community and staff.
Executive Officer, Logan
City Council.
As an organisation we are adaptable and will
All content accurate as of respond to changing circumstances as they arise.
19 March 2020.
We will prioritise and maintain services, based
logan.qld.gov.au on community need and our capacity—while
visitlogan.com.au positioning Council to meet the emerging needs of
our residents.
Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander peoples The situation requires all of us to be understanding
are advised that images
of people who may and follow the directions of health authorities.
now be deceased may
appear in this magazine.
We need to support each other, provide assistance
to those who need it—and to look out for each
other—whether it be checking on the welfare of a
vulnerable neighbour to maintaining our support of
This magazine is wrapped Silvio Trinca, Acting Chief Executive Officer local businesses.
in biodegradable material,
meeting Australia Post At times like this our faith in humanity is restored
packaging requirements This month’s magazine reflects the quickly when you see the heartfelt generosity of the
in an environmentally
sensitive way.
changing situation faced by our community. community banding together in solidarity.
At the time of writing the Australian Government has This is the time for all of us to step up—and do
directed the closure of a significant number of non- what we can to help each other.
Printed by Ovato, essential services and venues. There is an expectation
that additional measures to slow the spread of the Although we are not the lead agency, we will
an ISO 14001 certified firm
COVID-19 virus may be put in place in the coming continue to provide updates on our website.
weeks and months.
Council is closely monitoring the situation and will be Silvio Trinca, Acting Chief Executive Officer
providing the community with immediate updates via Logan City Council
our Internet site at logan.qld.gov.au and Facebook page
(facebook.com/logancitycouncil/).
2 Our Logan is produced and delivered to households and businesses in the City of Logan at a cost of 74 cents.
Artist out of the Our water play
parks inspire
shadows with a splash others
The success of Logan’s two new
A public art installation commission has “I’m excited now about what the future water play parks has made a splash
encouraged one Logan artist to come will bring.” well beyond the city’s boundaries.
out of her painting shed. The spectacular new facilities were
Her latest work is the eye-catching and
Kingston-based artist and Kuku-Yalanji contemporary Indigenous art designs opened during the summer and
and Biri woman Jessica Skeen- adorning the new water play area at became instant hits among Logan
McKinnon, has been passionate about Logan Gardens in Logan Central. residents and visitors.
art since she was seven. Now other Councils are looking
Jessica painted three designs, titled
She was born and raised in Logan and Logan – A place of resilience and to emulate the Logan community-
is the youngest of 14 children in a family harmonious growth, on canvas using boosting initiatives and build similar
with strong links to the Indigenous art acrylic paint. They have been used new water play parks in their local
world. on the area’s water table, shade sails government areas.
and wet ground area in her first public The Flagstone water play area
Her parents operate an Aboriginal arts
artwork. includes a 10-metre high treehouse-
and crafts business and many of her
siblings are also artists or involved in She says she was thrilled to have her style structure with waterfalls, jets,
artistic pursuits. work featured in such a vibrant space. bubblers and blasters.
Since leaving school in 1999, Jessica “I have incorporated what I feel about The facility was named as a finalist
has been quietly producing art in her Logan such as the multi-culturalism, the in the category of Infrastructure
studio but has not been involved in opportunities and the acceptance.” Project of the year at the Australian
public exhibitions. Construction Awards 2020.
Jessica believes Logan Gardens will
It was her first exhibition at the Logan create a positive effect rippling out into The Logan Gardens water play
Art Gallery last year which has now the community. area includes a pop jet plaza with
given her the confidence to take her 12 fountains that light up at night,
“It adds a beautiful element and will a dumping bucket, 10 totem poles
passion for art to another level.
create conversations,” she says. and a water table.
“I’ve always loved doing art but there
“It is different cultures coming together In line with Council’s sustainability
is no more hiding in the shed painting
in the space. I have enjoyed seeing it policy, water use at both facilities is
now,” she says.
come to life.” minimised by recycling, filtering and
sanitising.
Admission to Flagstone and Logan
Gardens water play areas is free.
Standard operating times for Water
play parks are 7.30am to 7.30pm
from 1 Oct to 1 Apr and 8.30am to
6.30pm from 2 Apr to 30 Sep.
Tweed Chamber of Commerce and
Industry president Warren Polglase,
who is also a local councillor, says
he has been inspired by Logan’s
new facilities.
“The family water park in Logan City
has proved to be so popular that
they have actually built a second
one,” he told his local newspaper.
Logan City Council’s Parks
Department has also been
approached by representatives from
Kingston artist Jessica
another South-East Queensland
Skeen-McKinnon
designed the Indigenous Council keen to learn more about
themes used at the new family-friendly water play areas.
Logan Gardens water
play area
3
What you need to know about Novel
coronavirus (COVID-19)
Logan City Council is continuing ways that makes it hard for our immune a door handle) that you touch, getting
to prepare for potential impacts systems to recognise them. That’s how the droplets on your hands and then
of COVID-19 (coronavirus) as well we end up with new versions of viruses, transferring them to your mouth, nose or
as ensuring that essential services like this new version of coronavirus. eyes when you touch your face or eat.
continue to be delivered to our
residents and businesses. What are the symptoms of How can I stop myself
novel coronavirus? from getting it?
Our top priority is the health and safety
When you have a virus, it’s not actually Washing your hands often and properly
of our community, customers and staff.
the virus that makes you sick, but your means that you can prevent viruses
Council’s Business Continuity immune system’s efforts to get rid of it. from entering your body. That means
Committee is meeting regularly to For example, your immune system can washing your hands when you’ve been
ensure the advice from relevant raise your body temperature and give out and about and before you eat (and
authorities, including Queensland you a fever, to make it hot enough to kill after you go to the toilet!).
Health, is factored into all of our a virus. All the hard work your immune
Try to stay at least 1.5 metres away
decisions and planning. system is doing can also use up energy
from people who are coughing or
and make you feel tired.
Council continues to take a calm and sneezing. Even if they don’t have novel
rational approach to the COVID-19 Everyone’s body is different, and coronavirus (COVID-19), they might
pandemic. because symptoms are caused by have germs you don’t want anyway!
your immune system and not the virus
The following information is provided by Is there anything else I
itself, different people can have slightly
Queensland Health.
different symptoms when they have can do to make myself
What is novel coronavirus the same virus, and some people’s less likely to catch novel
(COVID-19)? symptoms will be worse than others. coronavirus (COVID-19)?
SARS-CoV-2 is a new strain of virus in Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is a You might have heard that things
the coronavirus family that has not been respiratory illness, which means it like eating lots of garlic, taking extra
previously identified. Coronaviruses affects the parts of your body you use vitamins, doing certain exercises, or
are a large family of viruses that cause to breathe: your nose, throat and lungs. burning heaps of essential oils can stop
illness ranging from the common cold If you’re sick with novel coronavirus you from catching novel coronavirus
to more severe diseases. (COVID-19), your symptoms might (COVID-19). This isn’t true.
include: Looking after yourself by eating a
How is it possible to have healthy, balanced diet, getting regular
a new virus that no one • fever
physical activity, sleeping well and
has had before? • a cough reducing stress is important all the time,
Viruses are microscopic organisms • sore throat not just when you’re trying to avoid
that can enter a living host (like you) getting sick, so we recommend you keep
to live and multiply. Think of them like • fatigue these healthy habits in mind every day.
an unwanted guest that shows up • shortness of breath.
unannounced, moves into your house, Should I be wearing a
eats out of your fridge and begins to How does novel facemask to protect
reproduce. coronavirus (COVID-19) myself?
When a new virus makes its way into spread and how can I You might have seen people in public
your body, your immune system realises catch it? wearing facemasks lately and wondered
that it’s not part of your normal bodily Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) spreads if you should too. There isn’t any
system, attacks it and tries to kill it. between people, usually when a sick evidence that wearing a facemask will
After that, it remembers the virus, so it person coughs or sneezes. stop you from catching a virus like novel
can get rid of it straight away if it ever coronavirus (COVID-19), so if you’re well,
You might catch novel coronavirus you don’t need to wear a facemask.
comes knocking again.
(COVID-19) if someone with the virus
Just like any living creature, viruses sneezes or coughs onto you. You If you’re sick with symptoms of novel
change themselves to survive in their could also catch the virus if they have coronavirus (COVID-19) and you have
environment. Over time, they change in coughed or sneezed onto a surface (like a facemask, you should wear this when
you go to medical appointments. This is
4
to protect others from contracting novel have been overseas in the past 14 keeping ourselves and others well. The
coronavirus (COVID-19) from you. days, where they might have come into more everyone follows the advice to
contact with someone with the virus, wash their hands often and properly
Why isn’t there a vaccine or people who know they’ve come into and stay home when they’re sick, the
yet? contact with a person who has novel fewer people will catch this virus.
For some viruses, we use vaccines to coronavirus (COVID-19).
teach your immune system what the I’m pregnant—am I or
If you haven’t done either of these is my baby at extra risk
virus looks like. As novel coronavirus
things but you’re feeling unwell, of novel coronavirus
(COVID-19) is so new, we don’t have
you might have novel coronavirus
a vaccine for it yet. It’s being worked (COVID-19)?
(COVID-19), but right now it’s more
on by teams all over the world, but it There haven’t been comprehensive
likely you’ll have a different illness, like
takes quite a long time to make a safe studies that show the effect of novel
a cold or influenza. If you think you
vaccine that works well. coronavirus on pregnant women and
need to see a doctor because you feel
unwell, you should go to the doctor as their babies – it’s simply too early to
In the meantime, you can protect
normal or call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) have this information.
yourself from catching novel coronavirus
(COVID-19) by washing your hands for health advice.
Can I still go to
properly, covering your mouth and
Who is at most risk of the hospital for my
nose every time you cough or sneeze,
catching novel coronavirus appointment or if I’m sick?
throwing used tissues in the bin, staying
at least 1.5 metres away from anyone Because it’s a new virus, everyone is at You should still attend hospital and
who is sick and protecting others by risk of catching coronavirus because doctor appointments as normal during
staying home if you are sick. our immune systems don’t recognise this time, and you should always go to
it yet. This is why everyone around the your closest emergency department or
I think I have novel world is trying so hard to make sure call Triple Zero (000) for an ambulance
coronavirus but I haven’t that people with the virus don’t pass it in an emergency.
been overseas and on to others. At hospitals and clinics, we’re very
I haven’t been near good at keeping people with infectious
This doesn’t mean that everyone is
someone who has it diseases away from everyone else and
going to get coronavirus), but it does
The people most at risk of having novel mean we all have a role to play in are taking a lot of precautions with
coronavirus (COVID-19) are those who anyone who might have coronavirus.
5
How to look after your mental wellbeing
In a pandemic, the endless stream of checking for updates on the current • Point out the people working to fix
news headlines can sometimes feel event, try to read a good news story as the situation
overwhelming. It’s on TV, social media, well. Positive news doesn’t diminish a
• Reassure them that they are safe.
newspapers and magazines, and it’s situation, but it can help give us a sense
often talked about in our social circles of balance and support our mental Your own behaviour plays an important
too. News is now 24/7, and we’re more wellbeing. role in helping children deal with the
connected to it than ever before. current situation. It’s ok to share your
Keep perspective own feelings but show your child that
While there are benefits to staying up-
Everyone has a role to play in achieving you are managing them. This can help
to-date with the news, too much can
the best possible outcomes. Consider them to build important life skills like
take a toll on our mental wellbeing. Here
what is within your control and focus resilience. If you are feeling distressed,
are a few ways to find balance while
on what you can do to contribute in a discuss it with other adults rather than
staying informed during a crisis.
positive way to those around you. your children.
Read trustworthy news When to get support
sources Helping children cope
Heightened media coverage and Most people will feel some distress—
Anyone can publish information online,
ongoing conversations can be this is normal, and usually resolves
but that doesn’t make it true. Consider
distressing for children. They may need naturally within a matter of days or
where you’re getting your news updates
help to understand what’s going on in a weeks.
from—is it a reputable source? Who is
way that’s appropriate for their age and
best placed to provide accurate and If you’ve taken steps to support better
development.
up-to-date information on the issue? mental wellbeing but are still feeling
How to help children cope: stressed, overwhelmed, worried, or just
Set news limits not like your normal self, it’s important
• Limit the amount of media coverage
News is available everywhere, which to tell someone. This might be someone
children see, hear and read
means it can be hard to switch off. If close to you like a family member, friend
you feel that you’re preoccupied by • If they do watch the news, be there or colleague. You can also talk to your
the news, consider setting yourself to explain it to them GP or a mental health professional, in
reasonable limits. You could: Queensland.
• Let them know they can ask you
• Start your day by reading a book questions anytime If you’ve noticed your child’s behaviour
or going for a walk, rather than has changed or have concerns about
• Be honest and stick to the facts but
checking the news or your social their level of distress, seek help from
don’t provide too much detail
media feed your GP or other health professional.
• Be aware of what you say when
• Avoid checking the news before (Information provided by Queensland Health)
children are around
going to bed, especially on your
phone or TV • Monitor their reactions, and listen to
how they feel and what they think
• Set a limit on how many times you
check the news and social media
each day, and how long you spend
reading about the issue.
It’s understandable that conversations
often revolve around current events but
remember it’s ok to not want to talk
about it all the time. Just make sure
you’re not bottling up your feelings or
concerns and seek support when you
need it.
Remember to have a break from the
news and do other activities that
support your mental wellbeing.
Read good news stories
too
Alarming headlines are often front and
centre but remember there’s still a lot of
good happening all around us. If you’re
6
WOMEN IN C O U N C I L
Sports stars shine on world
stage Janine Jungfels (left) and Sarah Buchanan outside the
Council Administration Building in Logan Central
When the working day is over, two
Logan City Council officers switch
gears and dedicate themselves to their
sporting pursuits.
Janine Jungfels, 31, is one of Council’s
Environmental Projects Officers.
Sarah Buchanan, 25, is one of Council’s
First 5 Forever Officers with Logan City
Council Libraries and delivers early
literacy programs across the city.
Janine is a trials rider while Sarah is
a triathlete. Both are world-class and
competing regularly on the international
stage.
Their world away from Council revolves
around keeping their bodies in peak
physical condition through training
and nutrition so they can remain highly
competitive.
When she competes Janine has to
keep her balance and her feet off the
ground as she goes over obstacles.
She is penalised every time her foot
touches the ground.
She has two minutes to pass through
six gates.
“It’s a balance oriented sport, which
makes it really challenging,” she says.
Her interest in the sport was sparked in
2005 by some family friends who she Sarah was forced to look for a new She trains twice a day every week day
still trains with. sport in 2015 after a broken leg ended and spends a further four hours on both
her career as a champion hurdler. Saturday and Sunday.
“I train most days after work,” she says.
She came into triathlons at the end of Sarah says she has put a lot of
Her training locations are generally 2017 and started to win national age emphasis on her nutrition this year.
Underwood Park, Castle Hill in Ipswich championships after only a year in the
or The Spit at Southport. She took part early last month in the
sport.
2020 qualifier for the world titles—the
Last year Janine took part in the She competed in her first World Geelong 70.3 Ironman.
Australian titles in Bright, Victoria. championships last year—the highly
Sarah, who trains at Tweed Coast
Between 2011 and 2017 she went competitive Ironman 70.3 World
Multisport, completed a 1.9km ocean
overseas to compete and in 2015 Championships in France.
swim, 90km bike ride and 21.1km run.
was the world title holder in the open This event attracts competitors from
women division. She came second in the 25 to 29 age
more than 100 countries, regions and
group with 40 competitors and was the
Janine is looking forward to attending territories and Sarah came 57th in her
first Australian.
the Women Who Shred event in age group.
Arkansas in the United States in August. She now has her sights set on securing
Each week Sarah spends 15 hours
a top three position at the world titles in
She will be attending some workshops swimming, bike riding and running.
her age group in Taupo in New Zealand
as well as showing off her skills in a from November 28 to 29.
demonstration event.
7
WO M EN I N C OU NCIL
Burn out to
bushfires—a
remarkable journey
to job satisfaction
Ariane Allen was in her mid-30s and working as a nurse in a
veterinary surgery when she realised a change was needed.
“After 15 years, I‘d gone as far as I could go in that job and
there didn’t appear to be any more challenges,” Ariane recalls.
Six years on, Ariane’s life could hardly be more different.
In addition to working as a Natural Areas Project Officer for
Council’s Parks Branch, she is studying for a Bachelor of
Science with Honours to go with the Bachelor of Environmental
Science she already has attained.
And by the way, Ariane is also a trained volunteer firefighter
who joined Council and Rural Fire Service teams to fight local
bushfires in the recent horrendous season.
“I am passionate about conserving our natural environment
and the wildlife that lives there,” she says.
“Once I started learning about how the different elements of
the environment work together, how it relates to real life and
how important it is to conserve, I was hooked.”
Ariane says the secret to cramming so much into every day
is managing stress. She also exercises regularly and enjoys
hugging her dogs.
“I meditate for about 10 minutes every morning,” she says.
“I use that time to work out what is important for that day and
what I want to achieve.”
Ariane’s recent studies have been supported by Council under
its Study Assistance Program. It’s available to all permanent
full-time and part-time employees. Ariane Allen with one of her listening devices
she is using to track how animals respond to
“That support from Council and from my team members has different fire regimes in South-East Queensland
been incredibly valuable, I couldn’t do what I do without that.”
Ariane says. Council to have a better understanding of what changes
Ariane’s Honours research project involves investigating how occur to habitat and wildlife when using prescribed burning
different fire regimes affect fauna populations. as an ecological tool.
Her research includes setting up AudioMoths which are placed While she admits a busy lifestyle or a mid-career change is
in bushland areas which have been burnt under different time not suited to everyone, Ariane urges others to chase their
frames. dreams.
The ‘AudioMoths’ record sounds in the bush. The species “Follow your passion and give it your best shot,” she says.
captured most by the recordings at this stage of research have “Everyone is capable of learning and applying what they learn,
been birds. especially if it is something you are passionate about.
She plans to place up to 12 ‘moths’ in habitats across South- “Don’t be afraid to work hard in male-dominated fields as you
East Queensland where prescribed burns have occurred. will learn some great skills and meet some great people.
“Each device will make up to 20,000 recordings. That’s a lot of “Get out of your comfort zone—you will be surprised at what
birds to listen to,” she says. you can accomplish.”
Ariane hopes her research will assist organisations such as
8
First look at new Kingston Butter
Factory theatre
The City of Logan's newest performing arts space is taking Community groups interested in using or hiring space within
shape. the precinct will be able to do so. Bookings will open in July
2020 for events happening outdoors from late February 2021
The Kingston Butter Factory (KBF) Cultural Precinct will feature
onwards, and performances indoors from April 2021.
a new black-box-style theatre in the historic KBF building, and
an early artist impression is now available. You can keep track of KBF Cultural Precinct news at
kbfprecinct.com.au and on Facebook @kbfprecinct.
The theatre is part of the KBF Cultural Precinct redevelopment,
which will take shape in Kingston over the coming months.
Artist's impression of the outdoor stage
While preliminary site works were completed late last year,
construction will begin in earnest in the precinct next month.
This includes creating the city's largest permanent outdoor
events space, a multi-purpose outdoor plaza and a new
precinct entry from Jacaranda Avenue, and re-imagining the
historic KBF building.
As well as the new black-box-style theatre, the KBF building
will feature a new rehearsal space, and a living museum to
celebrate the stories of our people, including our Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Council is now seeking commercial proposals that will help the
KBF Cultural Precinct become a popular destination for locals
and visitors.
These proposals are expected to include: ticketed festivals,
concerts and major markets that will help the KBF Cultural
Precinct become a popular destination for locals and visitors,
seven days a week.
The outdoor space will have capacity for an audience of up
to 5,000 people and be able to host major performances,
festivals, markets and large-scale community events.
The stage is not included in the artist
impression shared here, as the design
was still being finalised at the time the
image was created. Artist's impression of the new KBF black-box theatre
9
L O G A N L I B R A R I ES
Open all hours and free from your lounge room –
eBooks, music, movies and more!
Bored? Not sure what to do when stuck Logan libraries offer a wide
at home with the kids or by yourself? range of free online content
Logan City Council Libraries has the answer.
Our eLibrary has an endless supply of free online
books, games, magazines, music, videos and
educational content available online.
We also provide personalised assistance, through our
Loan Rangers service, to help you find exactly what
you are after.
Perfect for all age groups and for those unable to
visit the library in person, our Loan Rangers can
recommend a range of electronic reading material,
including: eBooks, eAudiobooks, TV shows, games
and learning for kids, eNewspapers and Magazines
and much more.
Available always from the comfort of your home!
To use this free service go to loganlibraries.org/
loanrangers or call your local library.
eResources are all free to borrow, with your library
membership number and PIN (4 digits of your day
and month of your birthday e.g. 4 March is 0403).
If you’d prefer to do your own browsing online for
your next great read, our Loan Rangers recommend: Visit: loglib.org/
eLibrary and click
• BorrowBox and Overdrive are both very popular on ‘eBooks and
eBook and eAudiobook platforms, with really eAudiobooks’.
good, easy to use apps. There is a large range
of book titles available in all genres on both these
apps with titles from the latest bestsellers and top
authors.
• RBdigital Magazines—enjoy all the most popular
magazines in digital and full colour. There are more
than 300 magazines, with current issues and back
issues available. There is no loan limit—magazines
are yours to keep. RBdigital app available.
• Newsbank—here you will find complete full-text
articles from thousands of local, Australian and
international newspapers. Read today’s paper—all
issues are updated each morning and there are
back issues available spanning decades.
If you don’t have a library membership, you can
organise an online membership.
Sign up for a limited membership online and visit up
to a month later to upgrade to full membership, which
provides access to our online services and eBooks.
Apply for membership here: loganlibraries.org/join Visit: loglib.org/eLibrary for details.
or phone 3412 5420.
10Accessing
Council services
As the measures being taken to slow the spread of coronavirus
continue to unfold, Logan City Council will continue to provide
information about services, venues and activities on our website
at logan.qld.gov.au and on our Facebook page at facebook.com/
logancitycouncil
Following the advice from the Federal Government and Queensland
Health we're taking the appropriate measures to ensure the health
and wellbeing of our community, customers and employees.
Our Council will ensure that essential services continue to be
provided, as we contribute to efforts to mitigate the spread of the
virus.
Customer service centres
We're encouraging customers to avoid visiting our customer service
centres and instead make use of our online services which are listed on
the back cover.
Some centres may close, so if you have to visit in person, please phone
3412 3412 or check our website for availability.
For all health information, please visit health.qld.gov.au or for non-
urgent advice call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84).
Events
Due to recommendations from health authorities, planned events and
scheduled activities have been cancelled or postponed.
These include Eats and Beats in April, the LEAF Festival, Beenleigh
Town Square Movie Nights, Logan Entertainment Centre Events,
Logan Recycling Market and The Tour de Brisbane.
Logan City Council Libraries and Art Gallery
All Logan City Council Libraries and the Logan Art Gallery are closed
until further notice. See page 10 for information about how to borrow
library resources online.
Essential services
Waste collection
Please continue to ensure your bins are placed out the night before
your usual collection day.
Water and sewerage service
These services will remain unchanged however, only toilet paper
should be flushed as alternatives cause blockages.
See page 21 to see why.
NBN status availability
You can now access information on network outages directly from nbn™, with the launch of the first phase of a new ‘network
status’ webpage, which provides location specific information on planned and unplanned nbn network outages. Go to: nbnco.
com.au/support/network-status
11Ancestral ties fascinate home-
grown family history researcher
A chance family meeting has proved to “This is the brick wall that all After surgery in 2008, Martin gave up
be the catalyst to a lifelong passion for researchers hit at some time and I visiting the Karawatha centre as it was
Underwood resident Martin Hawkins. am hoping that DNA tests will reveal too difficult to get there.
something in time,” he says.
It is an interest he is now Martin began providing genealogy
enthusiastically sharing with the Martin is the eldest of 13 children and assistance to the community one
community. his 100-year-old mum is still alive and day each week from the Logan North
living in Sydney, which has allowed him Library through family history training
Martin first became involved in
to capture a detailed family record. sessions. Instead, he formed a
genealogy and family history research
connection with Logan City Council’s
more than 30 years ago.
Martin says he was Library Service.
It was on a trip back to his native United
Kingdom when his then 93-year-old
lucky to be provided This has now grown to three days per
cousin Mabel mentioned that no-one with wonderful family week.
had recorded the family’s history.
photos of his great He and fellow volunteer researcher
Michelle Jackson are so busy that there
Fast-forward to today and Martin can
relate many interesting details about
grandparents from is usually up to a five-week wait to book
his family and its history which he has 1877. in for a session.
traced back to 1470 and includes up to His interest piqued, he discovered The family history research sessions are
14 generations. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- available as a one-on-one booking for
day Saints worldwide kept extensive 90 minutes in Logan North Library.
He also has supporting records in the
form of wills (the first one dated 1530) genealogy records and resources. He plans to continue providing family
and baptism, marriage and burial He then spent 10 years visiting and history support to the community as
records dating from 1570. volunteering at the organisation’s long as his health allows.
On his father’s side of the family he has Underwood and Karawatha centres. To help prevent the spread of the
been unable to go back any further “I started using microfilm and microfiche COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and protect
than 1812, which represents about five and discovered I had an aptitude for it the health and safety of our community,
generations. (family history research),” Martin says. staff and volunteers, Logan City Council
Libraries have reviewed the events
held at libraries and have temporarily
suspended the family history research
sessions at Logan North Library and
other LCC libraries.
For more information call 3412 4140
or visit: loganlibraries.org
Underwood resident Martin Hawkins is a family
history researcher who provides assistance to others
interested in researching their family histories through
weekly sessions at Logan North Library
12Hope sewn
for newcomers at Logan City Council and Queensland Corrective
Mantua studio
Services officers accepting the Silver Australian
Violence and Crime Prevention Award
Mady Taue is emotional when speaking Sewing Studio—an initiative designed
Award-winning
about her upbringing in Kingston.
Her memories are coloured by the
to both fill a niche in the local fashion
industry and put refugee and migrant team delivers a
safer city
women on paths to employment.
struggles her family faced but they are
also a source of pride. The group provides designer
manufacturing services to clothing
Mady’s family travelled to Logan from It’s been another successful and
labels, while training already skilled
the Cook Islands, via New Zealand, award-winning year for the team
sewers in Australian fashion standards.
when she was about eight. charged with helping to keep the
While the studio is still in its infancy, Kim City of Logan safe.
Her parents spoke limited English and
says the response to the idea has been Council's Community Safety
had no employment at the time.
overwhelming. Program, more commonly known
“I just grew up seeing the struggle,” as Safe City Logan, works with
White Box Enterprises helped them
Mady says. external agencies including the
find a space of their own at TAFE
“My dad learned English through a Queensland in Mount Gravatt, while Queensland Police Service (QPS) to
TAFE course so he could get a job and Outland Denim at Mount Tamborine deliver crime prevention programs
my mum had to stay home and raise donated two shipping containers worth including the Logan Safety Camera
us, so there was a bit of social isolation of sewing machines and materials. Program and the annual Safe City
there.” Logan Community Survey.
“You talk to a lot of young Australians
Her parents’ stoicism in building a life and they say ‘I don’t want to become Their Building Social Capital Hubs,
and home in Logan inspired Mady’s a sewer’, but for other ladies who’ve a partnership with Queensland
passion for helping others find their arrived here from other countries it’s Corrective Services, won the Silver
feet. a highly valued skill and respected Award at the 2019 Australian Violence
profession,” she says. and Crime Prevention Awards.
She, along with fellow Logan woman
Kim Rollason-Nokes, Mady The studio is currently making “a bit The Hubs give clients of
co-founded the Mantua of everything”, from silk robes and Community Corrections access to
meditation cushions to children’s available support services and is
clothing and women’s wear. aimed at reducing the likelihood of
re-offending.
The women involved in the program
say it is a welcome extension to their They have recently been renamed
regular sewing social group, held on to Services at the Square
Wednesdays in the Gould Adams Park (Beenleigh) and Services on Station
Community Centre in Kingston. (Logan Central) and are available
for all community members to
“What keeps us going is knowing how attend. For more information on
much these ladies love it,” Kim says. these events visit logan.qld.gov.au/
“It’s our vision that these ladies are the safety
trainers and the mentors for the next Another successful collaboration
(group). of note, is the Drink Smarter, Not
“There’s so many areas this industry Harder campaign developed in
can go to but we know there’s a consultation with the Logan Liquor
need for machining now, so that’s Industry Action Group and QPS.
where we begin.” Safe City Logan is developing
a new City of Logan Safe City
Strategy and Action Plan, which
will cover the next five years.
Mantua co-founders Mady Taue and Kim Rollason-Nokes (back) and participants Jeyagowry
Uthayaseelan of Woodridge and Jeyarani Pragalathan of Kingston, in a dress she made 13A month that reflects our
cultural diversity
Two of the world’s largest religions mark their holiest events this month. Easter Friday on 10 April
ends the Christian fast of Lent while Muslims will begin their month of fasting for Ramadan on
Thursday 23 April.
For Logan’s faithful it is a time of solemn
remembrance. According to Census data, 54 per cent of Logan's
Dr Nora Amath says the discipline 326,000 residents identify as Christian. Islam
required to fast allows believers to get
closer to God and reminds them there accounts for 2.8 percent and Buddhists account
are those who are always hungry. for 1.7 per cent of our population.
“For Muslims, fasting is all about God
consciousness, it’s to remember the
creator,” Nora says.
“But it’s also about building self-
discipline and compassion and
empathy.
“I will have food at five o’clock but I
know that millions of people around the
world won’t.
“Charity actually increases around
the world, we see a sharp increase in
donations from the Muslim world during
Ramadan because we know what it’s
like to fast.”
The month of Ramadan ends with the
Eid Al Fitr feast.
Participants will wear one’s best clothes
after attending morning prayers before
spending time with family and friends
and exchanging presents.
Pacific LMS Follower Josephine Aufai,
from Slacks Creek, says Easter is also a
time for reflection for Christians. Muslim Dr Nora Amath (left) and Christian Josephine Aufai say April holds special religious significance for both of them
“It’s a time where we come together
as a family in peace and harmony,” By observing the 40 days of Lent, While some families head to the beach
Josephine says. Christians replicate Jesus Christ's for the Easter long weekend (April 10 to
“It’s about focusing on your spirituality sacrifice and withdrawal into the desert 13), the Aufai family intends to use the
and your relationship with God.” for 40 days. time to catch up with family and attend
church.
Like many practising Christians, “It’s about giving up whatever it is that
Josephine is observing Lent, a time you think might be holding you back, Another of the world’s great faiths,
where Christians, not unlike Muslims, from living a full life of love and service Buddhism, will celebrate the birth of
deny themselves worldly pleasures for a to God and others,” Josephine says. Buddha at the end of this month.
higher purpose. “For young people it may be giving up
Lent is the period of 40 days before social media, for older people it might
Easter that begins on Ash Wednesday. be something like alcohol.”
14Springwood kitchen delivers
hope for job seekers
The Logan East Community wanting to upskill or reskill and get back
Neighbourhood Association into the workforce,” she says.
(LECNA) has farewelled its first
“They spend half the time in the kitchen
cohort of graduates from the Skilling
instead of sitting in the classroom.
Queenslanders for Work program.
“It’s also about getting to know them
Ten students received a Certificate II in
and identify their soft skills, how they
Food Preparation from a course that
communicate and so on. Class is in at the Logan East Community Neighbourhood
was run out of LECNA’s own kitchen.
Association kitchen
“That's so when we go and talk
The Springwood-based LECNA, now
to employers, we can be a strong
in its 30th year, provides community The program runs over four days a
advocate for them.”
programs. But this is the first time it has week for 12 weeks.
run a job-training program. Skilling Queenslanders for Work
Graduates receive a Responsible
provides assistance to those who need
Manager Gillian Marshall-Pierce says Service of Alcohol licence, barista
support to gain the qualifications and
the training was combined with a life certification and the option to find long-
skills needed to enter and stay in the
skills course to ensure the students term sustainable employment.
workforce.
were job ready.
For information on Skilling
LECNA is currently training its second
“It’s for people who have been Queenslanders for Work contact
batch of Skilling Queenslanders for
unemployed for some time and are LECNA on 3808 4529 or
Work participants.
email lecna@lecna.org.au
Alliance awakens artistic flair
In the shadow of the Wineglass Reservoir at Hillcrest, a room full of
aspiring artists is discovering how to work with clay.
While it’s a new experience for work at their own speed and level of
participants, for volunteer tutors Sherry ability,” she says.
Austin, Rob Tindale and Marnie Linger
“There’s plenty of choice too. We teach
the novelty is watching how their new
how to throw a pot, sculpt in clay,
students interact and approach the task
paint—or work with mediums such as
of creating something from scratch.
fused glass.” Leanne Cox (left) and Brenda Russell try their hands
at shaping clay at Logan West Community ArtShare
“This is a first time experience for many
As a community-based organisation Alliance, Hillcrest
in this class,” says Sherry.
the alliance relies on donations and
“Some may have modelled clay when volunteers to keep costs down. Non-sponsored programs at Logan
in school, but for most this is an West Community ArtShare Alliance
“We’ve been fortunate to have our site
opportunity to explore their creative side are generally kept low and range from
and studio provided by Council and
for the first time.” social groups at just $5 up to $25/$30
we’ve secured sponsorships and a
Sherry says every class is different, with grant from Greenbank RSL Community for tutored classes.
participants ranging from pre-schoolers Benefit Fund to run this seniors Several classes are conducted every
‘freestyling’ shapes during their weekly workshop. day for different artistic media and age
art class, to seniors in their 80s creating groups.
“We’ve also received a grant from St
extraordinarily detailed glazed ceramic
George Foundation to enable us to visit Enquiries can be made through the
figurines.
the Boronia Heights Special School website at lwcasa.org or by phoning
“We like to keep our classes casual. to conduct classes for children with Steven on 0420 985 527.
There is no pressure so everyone can special needs.”
15Authors on write path to
publishing literary dreams
When you think of famous literary General Manager Nevada Matthews “Where we differ from say Penguin is
scenes Bloomsbury, Paris, Greenwich says despite the popularity of Kindles they have to have a certain substantial
Village and maybe even Melbourne and iPads there’s still a demand for the number that they have to sell to make it
come to mind. tactile experience that ink and paper worthwhile.
provides.
Not Logan so much. “Whereas with us, if an author was
“If anything the internet has helped us to sell 500 copies they would have
But what the city’s literary scene lacks
along,” he says. covered all their costs and made a
in notoriety it makes up for in vibrancy
profit.”
with a recent surge in home-grown
authors publishing their work. ‘There’s more Popular recent publications include
InHouse Publishing Print and Design at independent authors My Dad Does FIFO, authored by Blaiz
Rahley and illustrated by local artist
Underwood has been at the forefront of
this uptick in interest. and more accessibility Aaron Pocock, Cattlemen in Pearls,
commissioned by Ian and Anne
Since entering the world of publishing for people to do Galloway, and Being Unstoppable, by
six years ago things have never read Logan businesswoman Janeen Vosper.
better. smaller projects for
Janeen is a keynote speaker, sales
target markets.’ trainer and professional speaking coach
who specialises in helping women in
business.
She decided to get her books published
with InHouse after hearing positive
feedback from business contacts.
“It was handled so personally, you get
to meet the family and see how they do
business,” Janeen says.
“They are also very good at connecting
local authors through various trade
shows and the like.
“Hearing local authors talk about their
books and their stories has been quite
fascinating.”
The family-run business at Underwood
was previously a long-standing
printing business which continues its
operations.
And with many authors lining up the
next chapter in this successful venture
is sure to be a real page turner.
Nevada Matthews, of Underwood business InHouse
Publishing Print and Design, is helping Logan authors
16Tee Pupuke Taylor (left) and Jenna Ritai help organise
the Sisterhood Empowerment program in Logan
Sisterhood doing it for themselves
Her big smile and bubbly personality defies some of the Jenna Ritai, also a mum-of-five, oversees part of the Logan
challenges faced by Loganholme mother-of-five and area for Sisterhood Empowerment.
grandmother-of-one, Tee Pupuke Taylor.
She says the free 15-week support program has spiritual ties
By her own admission, Tee comes from a family of and aims to be lifestyle-changing.
‘generational dysfunctionality’.
Faith is a key component that sets us apart from other
Her story is heart-wrenching and she knew it would take ‘a women’s programs currently out there, Jenna says.
miracle’ to get out of a downward spiral of dire consequences.
“We don’t judge and accept women from all walks of life no
Her lifeline came in the form of the Sisterhood Empowerment matter what their situations or where they come from. We say
program and now a revitalised Tee is determined to help others ‘Come as you are’.”
get their lives back on track.
While numbers vary, Sisterhood Empowerment in Logan has
had up to 100 women involved at times, with ages ranging
‘We are here to help heal the broken- from 18 through to mid-70s.
hearted, help heal broken families “Our doors are never closed,” Jenna says.
and to help those who might think, The Logan-based groups meet at various times, day and night,
at locations including local coffee shops and fast food outlets.
like I did at one stage, that there is They do their own fund-raising to cover costs and often dip
nowhere to turn.’ into their own pockets.
“It’s not about money or material possessions,” Tee says.
“My miracle was to come the full circle with Sisterhood and get
my life back,” Tee says. “Everyone who turns up to our programs is here for the
healing. And it is a beautiful thing when we help them heal.”
Sisterhood Empowerment has its roots in the New Zealand-
based Sisterhood Legacy group. To find out more go to the Sisterhood Empowerment page
on Facebook. A similar partnering program for males called
It has been in Australia for about four years and now has 12
Man Up also operates in Logan and can also be found on
groups operating across Logan with plans to expand further.
Facebook.
17SAFECITYLOGAN
Community Aware
If you are out, even for a short time, your unoccupied
home may become a target for opportunistic thieves.
Here are 10 simple ways to deter uninvited guests from
entering your property:
• Ensure that your home, shed and/or • If you have a faulty
garage are properly secured. It seems alarm that frequently
simple, but most theft is opportunistic goes off, get it fixed
with the offender entering through an immediately and inform
unlocked door or window. your neighbours that it has
been repaired. People are
• Ensure that all valuables are secure
less likely to investigate
and stored out of public view. For
an alarm that goes off
example, so they can’t be seen
regularly.
through a window or the front door of
your house. • When you go out, consider leaving a • Ensure your house/unit number is
light on in the home or a radio going to clearly visible from the street. This will
• If you are going away for a long period
create the perception that your home help with locating your house quickly
of time, ask a trusted family member,
is occupied. in an emergency and will also reduce
neighbour or friend to collect your mail,
the likelihood of someone mistaking
bring your wheelie bins in and out and • Don’t leave a spare house key under
your house for a neighbour’s.
maybe even mow your front lawn. This the doormat or a pot plant, in the
helps to make it less obvious that your letterbox or in other obvious places. • Consider engraving your property.
home is unoccupied. If you feel the need to have access to Marking your property makes
a spare key, consider leaving it with ownership clearer, deters theft as it
• Get to know your neighbours.
a trusted family member, friend or is more difficult to off-load engraved
Exchange telephone numbers and
neighbour. items and can also help police to
keep your eyes and ears out for
identify and return stolen property.
anything suspicious. If you do see or • Ensure trees and bushes are trimmed
hear something that doesn’t seem to allow clear vision into the property. We encourage your feedback so together
right, be an active bystander and This reduces places for an offender to we can keep Logan a safer city for all of
contact the police. hide and increases the likelihood that our community. Contact council@logan.
they will be seen from the road or by qld.gov.au
neighbours.
For more crime prevention tips visit: logan.qld.gov.au/communitysafety
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
18D ISASTER M AN AGE M E N T
Is orange your
colour?
Are you committed to helping your community following disaster
events?
Are you active, adventurous, enthusiastic and willing to give back
Time to check
to your community and aged 16 or older?
If so, have you considered joining the Queensland State
your smoke
Emergency Service (SES)?
It’s an opportunity to make a life-changing commitment through alarms
actively contributing during disasters and emergencies locally,
April is the month to replace your smoke alarm
state-wide and nationally.
batteries and check that they are working.
You will be required to attend regular training and volunteer your
To check your alarms, press the ‘test’ button. If they
time during activations.
don’t work replace the battery and re-test. (Lithium
batteries have a 10-year lifespan, alkaline batteries
should be replaced every year.)
If your alarm has a small radiation sticker either on the
back or inside the unit, replace it as soon as possible.
New alarms respond faster and are not as prone to
nuisance alarms from cooking.
The good news is they are available for less than $30,
with a long-life battery.
Although alkaline battery-powered models are half the
price, they need a replacement battery yearly making
them more expensive in the long run.
You can buy smoke alarms from hardware stores and
electrical retailers.
The best systems are linked, 240V mains-powered
models installed by a qualified electrician.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services has smoke
alarm information on its website at:
qfes.qld.gov.au/community-safety/
smokealarms/Pages/default.aspx
Put your home • Remove all rubbish, leaf litter, wood
and any other type of fuel from
• Prepare a Bushfire Survival Plan and
have a Bushfire Survival Kit
in the clear
around your house and detached
• Find out if there is a nearby
buildings
Neighbourhood Safer Place.
If you live close to bushland, or have • Clear roofs and gutters of leaves,
Suggestions about how to make a
significant bushland on your property, twigs, bark and other debris
Bushfire Survival Plan and where to
there are some basic steps you can
• Keep grass short by mowing it find your nearest Neighbourhood Safer
take during the cooler months to
regularly Place, which is a place of last resort,
prepare your property to withstand
can be found at: logan.qld.gov.au/
bushfires later in the year. • If practical, establish a firebreak
disasters-and-emergencies/prepare-
around your home
• Make sure your property has clear home
access for fire trucks, if required • Fill in any gaps around windows,
door frames and roof eaves with
• Trim low-lying branches and native
sealant
shrubs growing within 15 metres of
your house
19Bright times ahead for Youth hubz
Browns Plains High pop up in
Six years at high school can sometimes seem like eternity.
But staff and students at Browns Plains State High School have used their time wisely
Crestmead
and have raised the school’s academic results to new heights in that period.
Last year was special for the growing school with various milestones achieved in
NAPLAN performances and interschool competitions.
And students are excelling under accelerated learning programs.
Student Yao-Hsien Huang has skipped Year 10 and is now in Year 11 after achieving
consistently high results in subjects including mathematics.
Yao-Hsien, along with fellow Year 9 students Brianna Harris and Zhona Ban, achieved
perfect scores across NAPLAN’s numeracy, writing and spelling categories last year.
Overall, 99.8 per cent of the Year 9 cohort achieved numeracy scores above the
national minimum standard.
A new trial project targeting the specific
The school also triumphed in the local Yugumbir Math Challenge—achieving first and needs of young people in Logan is
second place. They also had two Year 9 teams win the Engineering and Technology being trialled in Crestmead.
and Science categories in a Griffith University STEAM (Sciene Technology Engineering
The Youth Street Hubz project is a
Arts and Maths) competition.
partnership between Council, the
School principal Blair Hanna said the senior class of 2020 had started its high school Department of Youth Justice and the
journey at a transformative time. Logan and Crestmead PCYC.
“There’s been a great deal of strategies developed, implemented and reviewed over It acts as a one-stop-shop to connect
time which has resulted in our school now being able to celebrate the growth in our Logan youth with essential support
students, in many parts above the Queensland state norm,” he says. services.
School Mathematics Head of Department Tomasz Dolecki says renewed efforts The first pop-up Hubz in February at
in vocabulary, weekly learning focusses and attitudes to learning had led to Crestmead Park attracted more than
improvements across the board. 100 locals.
“Five years ago, we had a very small number of students in a high level of Youth Justice Program Coordinator
mathematics, nowadays we have probably one of the highest I have seen,” he says. Sualauvi Albert Ah Kuoi says the Hubz
bring together youth support networks
The school is also being led this year by a motivated student leadership team,
and pro-social activities in a relaxed
including school captains Paris Pilling and Cooper Doyle.
environment.
The captains said their focus for the year ahead was to motivate and encourage
“The purpose of the project is to help
the school’s younger students to greater participation in sport and arts, as well as
break down the barriers in terms of
academics.
access to youth services,” Albert says.
(From left) Browns Plains State High School student captain Cooper Doyle, Year 11 student Yao-Hsien Huang, academic
vice-captain Liam Duncan, English Head of Department Leticia Dwyer, Mathematics Head of Department Tomasz Dolecki “It is about breaking the stigma of
and school captain Paris Pilling seeking out these services and helping
to create opportunities for referral
pathways.”
The Hubz are open to all Logan
residents but services and activities are
aimed at youth living in Logan.
The service providers offer free
assistance in areas including: health
and wellbeing, housing, financial
support, employment and training.
Please check the website below for
information and the scheduling of future
activities.
logan.qld.gov.au/youth-street-hubz
20You can also read
