ISSUE 112 | AUTUMN 2025
ORCHESTRAL LEGACY
Bringing harmony to the city
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Contents Orchestral legacy for Logan: Local musicians are 4 joining together in harmony to create symphonic history.
OUR LOGAN ISSUE 112 | AUTUMN 2025
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Neighbour Day connections: Sharing time with neighbours can quickly enhance everyday life.
‘The best of’ Logan: Meet the local young guns with initiative who are building great futures.
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Out and About calendar: What's on, from the ImagiNation Children's Festival to concerts and shows.
Striking sisters: Crestmead siblings living with disability hope to bowl them over at the 'nationals'.
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Councillor Lisa Bradley Priestdale, Springwood, Rochedale South, part of Daisy Hill
Councillor Teresa Lane Kingston, Logan
Councillor Mindy Russell Slacks Creek, Daisy Hill, part of Shailer Park, Underwood
Councillor Nathan St Ledger Bannockburn, Belivah, Buccan, Cedar Creek, Kairabah, Waterford, Windaroo, Wolffdene, Yarrabilba, Tamborine, part of Bethania, Logan Village
Councillor Paul Jackson
Councillor Tony Hall Bahrs Scrub, Edens Landing,
Berrinba, Marsden, Waterford West, part of Crestmead
Central, Woodridge, part of Underwood
Holmview, Loganlea, Meadowbrook, part of Bethania
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Councillor Tim Frazer Boronia Heights, Browns Plains, Forestdale, Hillcrest, part of Park Ridge, Regents Park
Councillor Jacob Heremaia Heritage Park, Logan Reserve, part of Chambers Flat, Crestmead, Park Ridge, Park Ridge South, Regents Park
Deputy Mayor Scott Bannan Cedar Grove, Cedar Vale, Logan Village, Jimboomba, Mundoolun, Riverbend, Stockleigh, Veresdale, Veresdale Scrub, Woodhill, North Maclean, Munruben, South Maclean, part of Chambers Flat, Tamborine, Glenlogan
Councillor Miriam Stemp Carbrook, Cornubia, Loganholme, Tanah Merah, part of Shailer Park
Councillor Natalie Willcocks Flagstone, Flinders Lakes, Greenbank, Kagaru, Lyons, North Maclean, Monarch Glen, Silverbark Ridge, Undullah, part of Munruben, Park Ridge South, South Maclean, New Beith
Councillor Karen Murphy Beenleigh, Eagleby, Mt Warren Park
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CALLING FOR COMMUNITY IDEAS Message from the Mayor B y the time you read this, I will have served for a year as your Mayor of Logan. it’s just a choice between big rate increases or cutting services. I want to put everything on the table: from new accounting methods to better funding from other levels of government.
Should we slow down to save money or lean in and push hard to provide the infrastructure people want, to improve how you move around our city? As the fastest growing city in Queensland, we face enormous demand for roads and water infrastructure. Over the next few months, your Councillors and I are holding regular meetings about our budget. We want to do everything we can to protect the services you love while looking for savings and efficiencies that can keep rate increases as low as possible. Everything is on the table. I’m not just looking for ratepayers to help with this, I’ll also talk to other levels of government to see how they can help. Remember, Council is not a business – we don’t make profit. Every dollar we collect goes straight back into the city. We exist to serve the community and improve your quality of life by making our city the best it can be. If you would like to share your ideas, please send them through to me at mayor@logan.qld.gov.au – Mayor Jon Raven
Every day on my way to the office I am reminded of how grateful I am to be working for you. The people of Logan are amazing and I love living here. To me, there’s no question why we’re the fastest-growing city in Queensland. There are so many wonderful opportunities here. Your Councillors and I are working to lift our city, attract investment and solve challenges. We have achieved so much in these first 12 months such as delivering on more CCTV to keep our city safe, rates reform expanding the early payment discount to more households, and encouraging investment and innovation from more businesses in our city. These are great outcomes for the community, but there is still an issue that I want to keep an eye on as we set about delivering the next financial year’s budget. Costs for Council continue to increase well ahead of the cost of living. We aren’t the only ones with these challenges. When I speak to other mayors from South East Queensland they are all feeling the same pressures. Councils across the country are dealing with the soaring cost of managing the infrastructure and assets that cities need. They are incredibly expensive. But in a region growing so quickly, adequate roads, water and sewerage services are vital. I want to be clear: I don’t believe
I’d like to take this opportunity to ask you as an Our Logan reader to let me know your ideas, because this is the start of an important conversation.
We exist to serve the community and improve your quality of life
When I ran for election as Mayor, I promised I would consult with the community before decisions are made. It takes more work, but I believe that we make much better decisions with your feedback. Understanding your priorities means I can make more informed decisions because I understand what matters to you. Are you happy with the services we provide? Do you think some of them need improvement? Are there ones you think aren’t a good use of ratepayer funds? Or do you want more information about the services we provide so that you can think about it more? Infrastructure costs for roads, drainage, water and sewerage (which includes maintaining and renewing our old infrastructure as well as building new improvements) makes up 70 per cent of the cost of our budget.
Wraparound cover photo Pictured front: Dr Lewes Peddell Location: Butterbox Theatre at Kingston Butter Factory, Kingston Photographer: Josh Woning, of J & A Photography
Logan City Council acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land, pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging and extends that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the City of Logan. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are advised that images of people who may now be deceased may appear in this magazine. Our Logan magazine reflects the Australian Government Style Manual stylemanual.gov.au
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Local musicians thrilled to join the new Logan City Orchestra are, from left, Helen Brereton, of Slacks Creek; Lucia Hughes, of Edens Landing; Cornel Palade, of Slacks Creek; Maria Brereton, of Slacks Creek; Ella O'Neill, of Cornubia; with conductor Dr Lewes Peddell, of Waterford. Photo: Josh Woning.
Orchestrating a local legacy
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A new cultural legacy will be music to the ears of classical fans, with an esteemed maestro leading the launch of a City of Logan orchestra. Waterford conductor Dr Lewes Peddell is heading the new initiative as President and Music Director of Logan City Orchestras (LCO), and has already planned for a debut concert in July. With a career in music spanning decades in Australia and the US, Lewes hopes to bring the Logan community the same joy he has experienced when conducting with the likes of the Brisbane
This work is second nature for Lewes, who has devoted his life to musical excellence and creating impact beyond the classroom and orchestral podium. ‘With Logan growing exponentially, we want what we’re building here to thrive for generations to come – 50, 60, or even 100 years from now,’ Lewes says. ‘This isn’t just about youth musicians – it’s about building a community and creating opportunities for musicians of all ages, including professionals, to bring exceptional musical experiences to Logan. ‘At its heart, the LCO will be a group
Philharmonic Orchestra and Queensland Wind Orchestra, through to celebrated ensembles in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York. His aim is to create a community space in Logan to encourage a flourishing local arts scene focusing on music performance – an idea
of ensembles – some focused on developing talent and others showcasing it. 'This includes exceptional local musicians who may go on to build national or international careers, but can return to Logan and reconnect with the LCO.’ Lewes says the LCO
We want what we’re building here to thrive for generations to come
inspired by his ‘pivotal years’ in the US. Specifically, it was during his stint as the Director of Bands and Orchestral Activities at Pennsylvania’s Gettysburg College when Lewes realised the importance of building a community through music. ‘After working with both university and community ensembles, I saw how orchestras can serve as hubs for collaboration and inclusion, and that’s a vision I’ve carried forward,’ Lewes says. ‘When I returned to Logan to teach at Canterbury College, I saw so much untapped talent here – but the opportunities for young musicians to extend their skills were limited. ‘Many had to travel out of Logan to showcase their talents, which wasn’t practical. That gap stayed with me.’ Earnest, diligent and meticulous, Lewes has quietly worked behind the scenes for the past 5 years to turn his passion project into the foundation of, what he hopes, will become a cultural legacy. Ultimately, the LCO will have several orchestral ensembles, train musicians of varying levels, provide mentorship, hold concerts and build a talent pipeline.
will feature a world-class community orchestra of about 50 to 60 players including woodwind, brass, percussion and orchestral string players. With the support of Logan City Council and funding from the Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) and the Australian Early Learning Centre, Lewes has a debut concert planned at Kingston Butter Factory in July. Although rehearsals begin in March, musicians still have time to join. ‘I cannot wait to build an orchestra that truly resonates with Logan audiences,' Lewes says. He is encouraging musicians of all ages and experience levels, from high school students to professional musicians, to consider joining the LCO – including those more acquainted with popular music and country tunes than the likes of Tchaikovsky, Mozart and Wagner. The RADF supports the development of arts, culture and heritage in Logan. It is a partnership between the Queensland Government and Logan City Council. For information on the LCO visit www.logancityorchestras.org.au
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It's smiles all around at Diner 94, a retro-style cafe bringing 1960s' charm to Hillcrest at Skate Paradise.
Roller rink dream realised S kate Paradise in Hillcrest is now the largest indoor roller skate rink in Australia that’s fully accessible, and it’s a dream come true for owner Sharon McLean. Sharon took the plunge a few years proud of her new cafe called Diner 94. The 1960s-style cafe is a tribute to Logan’s arterial State Route 94, and a nod to the famous Route 66 in the United States.
and in October, Skate Paradise hosted the Australian Inline Hockey Championships for the second year. These days Sharon, of Park Ridge, says regular skaters are attending less, with the spike in the cost of living affecting people’s abilities to afford family outings. But she keeps her prices as low as possible to make Skate Paradise an affordable and family-friendly day out. Sharon has also introduced sensory skate sessions on Tuesdays during the school term. The music and lights are turned down from 11 am to 12.30 pm and everyone is welcome.
‘One of my daughters, Jamie, does all the marketing. The other, Renae, an artistic skater herself, does most of the mid-week coaching. Courtney, who is like one of my daughters, is also my pro shop lady,’ Sharon proudly says. ‘My sister is my finance expert, and my cousin is the accounts guru.’ Now a grandmother, Sharon skated with Paul in their teens, but the family’s passion for skating blossomed after Renae attended a birthday party at Digi Skate as a child. She fell in love with it and that was the start of her artistic roller-skating career. Later, sister Jamie joined her on the rink. Back then, Sharon and her daughters spent up to 4 nights a week at Digi Skate, and the owners often asked them to lock up at night. They eventually sold the business to Sharon in early 2000. Over the years, the rink grew in popularity and became a Logan icon, with skaters coming from Ipswich, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast. In late 2024, the rink co-hosted an international seminar with well-known artistic coaches from Italy and Bolivia,
ago to expand and upgrade the business she has worked in for 25 years, 7 days a week, formerly known as Digi Skate. The 60-year-old says she and her late husband Paul always dreamt of building an accessible skate rink that people of all abilities could enjoy, that included a purpose-built elevator. When a block of land opposite Digi Skate came up for sale 12 years ago, the couple snapped it up. But it wasn’t until after Paul’s sudden death 6 years ago, and the COVID-19 pandemic, that Sharon decided to build the dream venue. With her family working tirelessly in the business alongside her, Sharon made it a reality. 'I imported an Olympic-sized hockey rink from Canada – the only one like it in Australia – for all the hockey teams that visit, but also to make Skate Paradise the best facility it can be,’ Sharon says. The venue has a skate shop, upstairs bar, areas for parties and gatherings and plenty of seating. Sharon’s most
There's plenty of room for everyone at Australia's largest indoor roller skate rink.
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When daily lives connect
S amantha Pretorius is one of The fitness coach is among many throughout the City of Logan making a difference to others in their everyday lives, with an ideal story to share for Neighbour Day on 30 March – an annual day of action about building community connections to help everyone feel like they belong. those special people you'd love to have as your neighbour. Samantha's neighbourly contribution this year of leading fitness sessions 3 times a week for her community members is not only encouraging the well-being of others, but enhancing Samantha's enjoyment of calling Greenbank's Covella estate her home. 'The sense of community here is truly special – neighbours are friendly and welcoming, and there's a real connection among residents,' Samantha says. 'When I drive into our entrance after being out or away, I get the feeling of coming home – there is just a very real sense of community for me. 'We look out for each other and that is what makes me the happiest.' Samantha draws on her expert skills as a personal trainer to lead the fitness program for her neighbours in the estate's park around the corner from her street, which features an open-air gym. She even had a recent end-of-year celebration session with acai bowls, ice baths and yoga. 'Running the Covella fitness sessions has been an incredible journey for me
Residents are being encouraged to connect with their neighbours to make every day living happier and healthier, such as participating in fitness sessions held at Greenbank's Covella.
as a personal trainer,' Samantha says. 'I feel so grateful to be part of something that brings people together. 'It's not just about the fitness – it's about the sense of community we've built together. I've made so many friends along the way.'
in the Neighbour Day section, from a get-together with the Kingston East Neighbourhood Group (KENG) in Meakin Park at Slacks Creek on 17 March to learn how to reduce daily living costs, to a Community Games Morning at Loganlea Community Centre on 3 April, and Fireside Stories and Dinner at Jimboomba Community Garden on 5 April. Recognised as a 'Very Neighbourly Organisation', Logan City Council also has website information about the benefits of knowing your neighbours, and many tips to help neighbours get to know each other better. For Neighbour Day events visit: lccqld.com/NeighbourDay
I feel so grateful to be part of something that brings people together
Neighbour Day is part of Relationships Australia’s Neighbours Every Day campaign to encourage people to increase social connections in their local area – not just on the appointed day of 30 March, but all year round. Many Neighbour Day events across the City of Logan are organised, including at Samantha's estate. Covella will be celebrating Neighbour Day this year with its fourth annual Long Table Dinner, hosted in Heartland Central Park, with an aim to bring neighbours together to foster new friendships and enjoy an evening of catered food and live entertainment. There is a list of other community events on Logan City Council's Neighbours of Logan website page
Fitness coach Samantha Pretorius is a great contributor to her neighbourhood.
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Building their futures ... The best of LOGAN S hailer Park schoolboy Patrick has turned his love of Lego into an act of kindness that is bringing Logan Police are praising Patrick as a young leader who is helping to unite the Logan community.
smiles to countless children. After hearing about a family who lost everything in a house fire just before Christmas in 2022, the 9-year-old built and donated 50 Lego vehicles to the Logan House Fire Support Network. In 2024, Patrick donated 100 of his Lego creations to an emergency services toy run and sick children in Logan Hospital at Christmas. Now in 2025, he already has the ambitious goal to build and donate 200 vehicles.
‘His acts of kindness have not only brought joy to children in need but also inspired others to give back,' Logan Police Acting Sergeant Lou Rossi says. 'He’s a shining example of the good we can achieve together. ‘He has shown us all the power of compassion and how even the smallest actions can make a big difference. We are so proud to have him in our community.'
Patrick builds Lego vehicles for other children.
A Yarrabilba teenager is making a name for himself for all the right reasons by running his own lawn mowing business. Ethan Thew, 15, set up Mowing Legend a few years ago with the support of his parents. ‘I was very busy over the school holidays, mowing about 4 lawns a day. But now school is back I can only do after school or during the weekends,' Ethan says. 'I’ve got a diary that I take bookings in and now have business cards to hand out.’ Ethan began the work at age 13, and saved his money to buy a whipper snipper, lawnmower, cart and lawn edger. Now he's saving up for an electric bike conversion kit to help tow his equipment. Mum Michaela says he first collected bottles and cans. ‘Ethan’s on the spectrum, and after he struggled to get a job, he decided to start his own business,’ Michaela says. ‘He has about 10 regular customers, but also looks for properties with long grass and knocks on their door.' A recent Facebook post shared by a client went viral, with Ethan getting calls from Cairns to the UK. ‘They phoned to ask if I could mow their lawn, but I told them I was not in their area,’ Ethan says.
W hen Mikayla Sheppard’s not carving a bowl on a skateboard, the Kingston teen is teaching other Logan kids how to skate. Through her small business, Mikayla’s Skateboard Coaching, the 14-year-old is sharing her knowledge and passion of the sport with people of all ages. ‘I had some amazing coaches when I was learning to skate, and after I helped one of my friends to learn, I realised how much I loved coaching and wanted to inspire others,’ Mikayla says. She has already built up her business to offer lessons in Logan Village, Tudor Park, Shailer Pioneer Park, Browns Plains, Crestmead, Woodridge and Beenleigh. In the short-term, Mikayla wants
to expand and sign up more coaches, but her dream is to build and own an indoor skatepark in Logan. ‘When I'm skating I feel really happy, especially when I land a trick I've been working hard on. I get scared sometimes doing new tricks, but that just makes me extra happy when I land it,’ she says. For more information, visit Facebook: MikaylasSkateboardCoaching.
Mikayla Sheppard is growing her business.
Ethan Thew is a go-getter.
'Paradise' for wildlife
T ucked away in the quiet suburb of South Maclean is Bill and Maureen Allam’s slice of paradise, a 4.49ha pocket of land they have lovingly owned since the 1980s. Back then, petrol stations and schools were far and few in between, cooking was on a combustion stove, and KFC in Mt Gravatt was an annual treat. The Allams churned their own butter thanks to their own cow, and power strikes meant no water, so gravity-fed showers outside were common. Over the years, the couple juggled raising 5 children, breeding blue cattle dogs, running a piggery and growing cash crops such as pumpkins. When Maureen moved to South Maclean, the peace of rural living took some time to get used to, after growing up in inner-city Balmoral. She now can’t imagine living anywhere else. ‘I appreciate it every time I walk out the door and see greenery,’ Maureen says. About 30 years ago, Maureen started a subtropical garden in her undercover alfresco area, something she had always dreamed of. It is now thriving, and has even been the spot for a family wedding.
These days the duo are throwing their energy into caring for their native bushland. Maureen's dream is to create a haven on her land for koalas, more likely now the couple have joined the Land for Wildlife program – a free, voluntary initiative delivered by Council to encourage and help landholders to manage wildlife habitat on their land. ‘When we were told in September last year that we were the 500th landowners in Logan to sign up for the program, we felt pretty special,’ Bill says. Members of Land for Wildlife receive expert advice from Council officers about native plants, animals and ecosystems, managing weeds and pests, restoring land, wildlife corridors,
improving water quality, and reducing bushfire risks. Members receive an annual incentive package, including land management items, free native plants, and nest boxes if available. Since the couple’s bushland has been left largely untouched, it has naturally regenerated with native species to become quite a healthy ecosystem. ‘People used to make us feel guilty. But we now have a sense of relief because we know that by not mowing and trimming trees, we’re doing the right thing by our land,’ Bill says. ‘Having an unkept bushland area is not a bad thing in terms of encouraging wildlife.’ Bill says to ensure the safety of his and neighbouring properties, his property boundaries are managed to reduce the chance of bushfires. This year the couple celebrate 52 years of marriage, and they don’t have plans to move anytime soon. The Allams always shut the gate when leaving, because Bill loves the ritual of opening the gate upon their return. ‘After being away, the second we drive into our property all our stress just goes away,’ Bill says. For more information about Land for Wildlife visit logan.qld.gov.au/ecp
Loving landowners Maureen and Bill Allam.
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Creativity, candles and connection
M aua Boutique isn't your ordinary gift shop — this Logan store is putting the love into its local community with goods handmade from the heart. The new online store, which began trading in February, sells handmade candles, artisan gifts and floral arrangements, but with a twist. Maua Boutique is a jobs-focused social enterprise set up by Logan non-profit Ethni to create meaningful work for women from refugee and migrant backgrounds. Co-founder and manager of Maua Boutique, Nasteho Mukhtar, was born in Somalia, and is currently studying a Bachelor of Business and Accounting at Queensland University of Technology. Nasteho says for every 10 bouquets or gifts sold, a spot in a creative workshop is funded to help women connect and flourish with their community. Also, a bouquet will be delivered to a woman in the community in need of a little extra love. In addition to providing a space where young women can get hands-on training and employment through floral arranging, candle creation or perfume making, Maua
Boutique also creates opportunities for women of all ages to connect. ‘Our boutique is a florist and gift shop on a mission to tackle social isolation and loneliness. There are many programs for young people, so we wanted to do something that would also connect our elders and allow us to give back,' Nasteho says.
entrepreneurial and creative skills while earning an income.’ Inspired by the Swahili word for ‘flower’, Maua Boutique is dedicated to cultivating growth, resilience, and artistry. The thoughtfully curated collection of items for sale are crafted with care in workshops by young women enrolled in Ethni’s training and development program. Nasteho says the scents and themes of the gifts are inspired by all the 4 corners of the world that the team and their communities represent. ‘The boutique’s collection reflects the passion of its creators, with each piece telling a unique story of culture, empowerment and possibility,’ she says. Every item purchased from the online store supports women in building the skills and confidence to secure long-term employment. Nasteho's favourite scent is the Sahara fragrance, a rich blend of amber, patchouli and vanilla notes. ‘It just reminds me of home and as someone who has moved so far away, it is so comforting to have a piece of my homeland in my new home,' she says. For more information visit www.mauaboutique.com.au
Young women can develop their entrepreneurial and creative skills while earning an income
‘Our young women, rich in talent and diverse in background, possess incredible vision and skills. Yet, they often face systemic barriers that limit their opportunities for meaningful employment. ‘The boutique challenges these barriers by providing a real-world learning experience where young women can develop their
Audrey Mazimpaka (left) and Nasteho Mukhtar, Ethni team members who have brought Maua Boutique to life.
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City of Logan's 2024 Masters Athlete of the Year Marion Hermitage continues to inspire with her journey as a triathlete.
Triathlon ‘Master’ of endurance
A fter running, swimming and cycling around the world, from the rolling hills of Finland to Vietnam’s coastal villages, it’s safe to say Marion Hermitage is a master at triathlons. Having represented Australia 15 times at the Triathlon World Championships, the Daisy Hill triathlon enthusiast was a clear winner in City of Logan’s 2024 Sports Awards in November. Marion, 61, says being named Masters Athlete of the Year is an ‘honour’. The triathlon is a gruelling test of an athlete's physical endurance and mental fortitude. Each event consists of a single race that can include up to 226 kilometres of swimming, cycling and running. ‘It’s quite the privilege to be recognised for your hard work and achievements in your sport,’ Marion says. Humble, softly-spoken and disciplined, Marion is still working to improve her speed with a rigorous training schedule.
Her weekly training is not for the faint-hearted: 12 workouts ranging from 40 minutes to 3 hours each, complemented by additional Pilates and weight training sessions. ‘It doesn’t feel like a chore because it’s part of our lifestyle – keeps you healthy, fit and out of the medical system,’ Marion says. She can often be found running at Daisy Hill State Forest or making laps at a local public pool. This rigorous program has allowed her to push through particularly challenging triathlons – at the 2023 Ironman World Championship in Lahti, Finland, she cycled, ran and swam in freezing weather. Although Marion ended up with laryngitis the next day, she was pleased to have finished 8th in her age group and is always looking forward to breaking more personal records in future events. ‘You have to be mentally prepared and fit as well because you can’t just wing these events,’ Marion says. ‘I just train, try to achieve my best and
see what the outcome is at the end,' she says. This year, Marion hopes to qualify for the world championships in Wollongong this October. Being a ‘Master’ in her sport, Marion has this advice for aspiring triathletes: ‘Just make a plan, be realistic in your goals – don’t make them too hard to start with, just start small.’
Marion at the world champs last year in Townsville.
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Out and about in LOGAN
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Messy Wednesdays 📅 2 Apr, 10 am LOCATION-DOT The Family Place, Woodridge A messy play zone for ooey gooey fun exploring, creating and experimenting. Get On Up youth dance program Workshop in breaking foundations and self-expression. Led by Elements Collective dance company. Silver Series: The Great Women of Country 📅 11 Apr, 11 am 📅 8 Apr, multiple sessions LOCATION-DOT Kingston Butter Factory LOCATION-DOT Logan Entertainment Centre Melinda Schneider honours songs and singers who have shaped her. Building Backyard Habitats 📅 27 Apr, 10 am LOCATION-DOT Pebble Creek Parklands, South Maclean Learn about Australia’s native frogs and frog-friendly garden habitats. Roald Dahl’s The Twits 📅 30 Apr, multiple sessions LOCATION-DOT Kingston Butter Factory A national sell-out show full of trickery, funny pranks and respectful messages.
ImagiNation Children’s Festival 📅 22 Mar, 9 am to 3 pm LOCATION-DOT Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct Free event with activities and entertainment for children aged 0-12, with 6 magical worlds to explore, gourmet food trucks and more. Charmaine Wilson: LOCATION-DOT Logan Entertainment Centre World-renowned medium who is dedicated to giving accurate information about the spirit world. Comedy @ The Butter Factory 📅 29 Mar, 7:30 pm LOCATION-DOT Kingston Butter Factory Lineup includes LA Comedy Awards Comedian of the Year Al Del Bene. The Australian Medium 📅 22 Mar, 2 pm to 4 pm
Tim Freedman’s Moonlit Deck 📅 2 May, 7:30 pm LOCATION-DOT Kingston Butter Factory After a sold-out 2024 tour, Tim Freedman returns to perform on the Logan stage with an intimate cabaret show of songs and stories about showbiz.
Taxiride ft TTSAR 📅 30 May, 7:30 pm LOCATION-DOT Kingston Butter Factory
Taxiride ft TTSAR brings a new live show to Logan audiences featuring faithful renditions of a selection of their biggest hits.
FOR MORE EVENTS VISIT 🌐 ourlogan.com.au/ category/whats-on/
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Sisters Britney and Emily Gardner-Hudson are ready to bowl them over at the upcoming National Disability Championships
Strike sisters aiming for gold
A pair of sporty sisters are ready to roll, and bowl, over the competition at the National Disability Championships in Perth on 4 June. Emily and Britney Gardner-Hudson will represent the City of Logan as part of the Queensland team in disability tenpin bowling. The Crestmead sisters are new additions to the slate of top-tier bowlers at Logan Central’s Logan City Tenpin, which seems to be a breeding ground for national and state youth champions. According to Britney, 19, who has been diagnosed with conditions including cerebral palsy and spina bifida, the lanes at Logan City Tenpin are refreshingly ‘friendly, welcoming and inclusive’. ‘Sometimes I feel left out because of my disability – I need to be prompted every day by my mum or carer on what to do next because I lose focus on tasks,’ Britney says. ‘Living with a disability is all I know, but bowling makes me feel included and not discriminated against. We are all equal, no matter our ability.’ Britney is training weekly in preparation for the championships, where she’ll defend her 2024 title of
Restricted Masters Champion. She is most looking forward to representing Queensland and travelling with her sister for the first time. Emily, 21, shares the same sentiment and says making the state team is a ‘dream come true’. ‘I could not be any prouder of myself for working hard towards something I never knew I could actually achieve,’ Emily says. ‘My diagnoses have come with their challenges because I sometimes get overwhelmed and can’t do everyday tasks, but bowling has definitely helped me.’ After being diagnosed with multiple intellectual disabilities such as bipolar disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Emily wears noise-cancelling headphones and uses sensory toys to stay focused on the lanes. Although she has previously struggled with accepting her disability in the past, she has learned to embrace life with the help of her ‘bowling family’ and friends. ‘I love the friendly staff and all the friends I have made at Logan City Tenpin. It’s a warm and happy place to be,’ she says. ‘I love the laughter you get from doing your sport with friends alongside you. I have learned it’s OK to feel different, it’s OK to have a disability, and life can still go on.’
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T he Logan Hospital Fund has kicked off its 2025 fundraising campaign to support patients and their families to have a better experience in Logan Hospital. From garden renovations to MRI machines, the Fund raises money to boost health outcomes in many ways. The charity has supported Logan Hospital since 2015, originally through the Princess Alexandra (PA) Foundation and then from 2022, when it relaunched as the Logan Hospital Fund. Since then, the Fund has continued to improve health outcomes for Logan Hospital patients by funding medical research, equipment and clinical trials, as well as waiting room refurbishments, staff education and pilot programs. A recent addition to the hospital, also made possible by the Fund, is a fun-sized MRI machine called a kitten scanner. It helps prepare children for procedures in a playful way to reduce anxiety. Logan Hospital Fund Chief Executive Officer Damian Topp says projects funded recently include a wellbeing library in the hospital’s psychology department, and rehabilitation equipment for the cardiac investigations team. Funding better ways for patients
Damian says generous donations have also funded a new recreation program with Sporting Wheelies for patients undergoing rehabilitation. ‘It provides sports and active recreation activities to patients over the weekend and provides meaningful engagement with nursing staff after hours and weekends, while improving patient outcomes,’ Damian says. He says another significant donation will go towards purchasing maternity ward equipment to help families. ‘We know the staff at the hospital give the very best care to every patient and there are many families who want to express their gratitude for that care through raising funds or donating to help others,’ he says. ‘Our role is to be the facilitator of that gratitude so that the residents of Logan can benefit from improved health outcomes for generations to come.’ To support Logan Hospital with donations or fundraising, visit: loganhospitalfund.org.au Patient Eleni Griffith holds a kitten scanner, with her mum Rebecca and Logan Hospital Senior MRI Radiographer Des Hardman.
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DIVISION 1 UPDATE
Tri stars score new clubhouse T he Logan Triathlon Club has a new home base at Underwood Park in Priestdale. Division 1 Councillor Lisa Bradley says the ‘Logan Tri Club’ has taken up a sub-lease with Rochedale Tigers Rugby League Football Club for use of the grounds and a clubhouse. ‘I am delighted that our local triathletes can call Underwood Park home,’ Cr Bradley says. ‘Triathlon is an OIympic and Paralympic sport and who knows what dreams for the 2032 Games might be launched right here.’ Logan Tri Club President Darren Ryan says getting a place to call home is a ‘huge’ milestone for the club that began in the 1990s and today has more than 60 members of all ages. ‘We have never had a home base but now we can tell the public we are here, this is our base, come and join the fun,’ Darren says. Although the summer triathlon season (swimming, cycling, running) is drawing to a close, the winter months will feature a focus on run training in preparation for the new season. Anyone interested in getting involved should go to: logantriathlonclub.com.au
Cr Lisa Bradley and Abess Man Wang at the new bus stop at the end of Underwood Road, Priestdale.
Bus turnaround boost for locals and visitors and creating a new entrance to the Daisy Hill Conservation Park.
V isiting one of the city’s most popular cultural and sporting precincts is now a lot safer and more convenient thanks to a new passenger set down area and the arrival of a Translink bus service at the end of Underwood Road at Priestdale. A recently constructed sealed cul-de-sac provides a new bus turnaround which is a huge boost for people wishing to visit the Fo Guang Shan Chung Tian Temple, one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. It includes Translink’s new Temple Stop, now serviced by Route 578. The new bus service will also be handy for those who use the many sporting and recreation facilities in adjacent Underwood Park and Daisy Hill Conservation Park. The works also include road resurfacing, extended footpaths
The project was funded by Logan City Council with support from the Australian Government’s Investing in Our Communities Program. Division 1 Councillor Lisa Bradley says the upgrade will encourage more visitors to the temple, Daisy Hill Conservation Park and Underwood Park, with the popular FUNderwood Hollow playground. ‘I wanted to ensure visiting this fabulous precinct was safe and enjoyable and that’s why a lot of work was put in over a number of years to deliver this much-needed bus turnaround,’ Cr Bradley says. ‘I look forward to seeing more people use public transport or private bus services to come into the area, which will help reduce traffic congestion and the demand for parking on busy days.’
Cr Bradley with Logan Tri Club President Darren Ryan at Underwood Park.
Councillor Lisa Bradley DIVISION 1
📞 07 3412 5501 @ LisaBradley@logan.qld.gov.au
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DIVISION 2 UPDATE
Our students are great volunteers T he new year has kicked off with plenty of helping hands from schools in Division 2. This includes Kingston State College’s (KSC) Food Dudes Program, Woodridge State High School’s arts and community program and the YMCA School signing up students to volunteering certificate courses. Division 2 Councillor Teresa Lane says the young volunteers are developing wonderful life skills while helping those in our community who need a hand. ‘And special thanks go to the teachers and older volunteers who provide opportunities and support for our generous students,’ Cr Lane says.
Cr Teresa Lane at the opening of the Wilbur St Youth Centre with Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers.
New Wilbur St centre for kids being kids
T he Wilbur St Youth Centre in Logan Central is more than just a building – it's a place where those aged between 12 and 18 can participate in free activities on school holidays and after school. The Youth Centre includes a basketball and multi-use court, gaming zone, recording studio, podcast space, computer room, dance studio, arts and crafts space, a barber corner, a pool table and a table tennis area. The facility, next door to Logan Central Library, is being managed by Rekon with volunteers from all backgrounds offering their skills in teaching snooker/pool, creating
artworks and hosting game sessions. Most importantly, they also listen to and work with teens on challenges they face in the community each day. Division 2 Councillor Teresa Lane calls the Youth Centre a ‘dream project’. ‘I am so proud of it,’ Cr Lane says. ‘(Federal Treasurer) Jim Chalmers, (State Member) Cameron Dick and our Council believed in this project and helped fund a huge initiative for our local area. ‘This is a space for our young people to grow, to learn, and to lead. 'We all believe in their potential, and we are here to support them every step of the way,’ she says.
Kingston State College volunteers help out as part of their Food Dudes Program.
Collective spirit for arts and crafts I t’s been a long and winding road for the Butter Factory Arts and Craft Collective. Collective, which gives locals an outlet to sell their handmade arts and crafts.
Councillor Teresa Lane DIVISION 2
📞 07 3412 5502 MOBILE-IPHONE 0499 995 411 @ TeresaLane@logan.qld.gov.au
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‘I always find something beautiful, quirky, cool or just flat out funny,’ Cr Lane says. ‘Even though the location has changed, the Collective still has the same creative spirit and I adore the ladies who run it.’
The arts and craft group was originally located at the Kingston Butter Factory in Division 2, but now has a new home base located at 151 Barbaralla Drive in Springwood. Division 2 Councillor Teresa Lane says she loves visiting the Arts and Craft
16 | OUR LOGAN
DIVISION 3 UPDATE
Community determined to deter crime
A Neighbourhood Watch (NHW) group in Daisy Hill has been looking out for the local community for 25 years. The group’s founder, Area Coordinator John Devaus, says Daisy Hill NHW started with residents from 300 local homes and now includes more than 1,000 houses – from John Paul Dr to Paradise Rd, crossing Chatswood Rd, from Achilles Dr to Deloraine St and streets around St Edwards Catholic Primary School. He says NHW volunteers work closely with local police to manage any crime spikes and inform residents on how to protect their property. A monthly newsletter provides updates on crime prevention tips, such as installing special screws on car number plates which make it harder for thieves to steal them. ‘A lot of the time, crime prevention is common sense and avoiding simple mistakes like leaving a door or window open or unlocked,’ John says. ‘Our NHW has a strong focus on staging events such as community morning teas, barbecues and a Halloween event that brings community members together with police representatives to raise community awareness of strategies to improve personal safety and home security.’
Cr Mindy Russell (right) with Daisy Hill Neighbourhood Watch volunteers Jill and John Devaus.
‘I commend everyone involved for their efforts over that time and urge other residents in other neighbourhoods across Division 3 to get involved with, or form, their own Neighbourhood Watch groups.’ A celebration of the anniversary is planned for later this year. More information on Neighbourhood Watch is available at: www.nhwq.org
Division 3 Councillor Mindy Russell says the Daisy Hill Neighbourhood Watch group is a shining example of what can be achieved by working together. ‘To be looking out for each other and helping to deter local crime for 25 years is amazing,’ Cr Russell says. Daisy Hill fairy lights are a pretty bright idea
A sparkle has been added to the night-time serenity at Brough Place in Daisy Hill. Approximately 1,500 metres of LED light strings now adorn 3 trees in the small park adjacent to the Daisy Hill shopping centre on the corner of Daisy Hill Road and Cupania Street. The lights, wrapped around the trunks and branches, are switched on around sunset and stay on to about 10 pm, after the shops have closed. Division 3 Councillor Mindy Russell says the lights do more than just make the area look pretty.
make those trips safer and easier,’ Cr Russell says. ‘It also makes the picnic tables in Brough Place more inviting to enjoy local takeaway with family, friends and neighbours.’ The lights were funded from the Division 3 Local Infrastructure Program. The works also include upgrading and replacing lighting in the trees on Chatswood
Cr Russell inspects the new fairy lights in trees at Brough Place in Daisy Hill.
‘Growing up in the area, I know a lot of local residents like to walk to the shops and the extra lights will
Road, outside the Chatswood Central Shopping Centre.
Councillor Mindy Russell DIVISION 3
📞 07 3412 5503 @ MindyRussell@logan.qld.gov.au
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18 | OUR LOGAN
DIVISION 4 UPDATE
Better links for Logan Village A new footpath on Anzac Avenue at Logan Village has bridged a gap in the local community. The path links the Geoff Philp Bridge to the existing network leading into the township. Division 4 Councillor Nathan St Ledger says students at Logan Village State School and Kings Christian College can now walk to and from school more safely. ‘I’m stoked to see this project come to life,’ Cr St Ledger says. ‘Many local residents contacted me about this missing link and I wanted to make it a priority.’ The project was funded by the Division 4 Local Infrastructure Program.
Cr Nathan St Ledger (right at back) visits the YBA Yowies mini-ballers and coaches.
Yarrabilba basketball kids love being active and healthy Yowies
L ogan City Council’s Active & Healthy program has helped give a group of Division 4 youngsters a flying start to their basketball dreams. The Active & Healthy program covered some costs so that players, aged 5 to 7, could participate in the mini-ballers competition run late last year by Yarrabilba Basketball Association (YBA). ‘Our goal is to keep basketball affordable for kids in Yarrabilba and the Active & Healthy program helped cover the cost of registration, coaching and playing,’ says Yarrabilba Basketball Association President Tom Daly. ‘Registrations among our younger
groups ranging up to Under 19s. The Yowies are based at Yarrabilba State Secondary College. They play games at the college courts on Monday and Tuesday and train on Wednesdays, all from 5 pm to 7 pm. Division 4 Councillor Nathan St Ledger presented certificates of participation to the group of mini- ballers last season. ‘Getting involved in sports at a young age is great for our young ones, helping them develop strong social skills and friendships that can last a lifetime,’ Cr St Ledger says. ‘The environment the Yowies create for the mini-ballers is just awesome.' To get involved in Yarrabilba basketball, email operations@yba.org.au , or go to the Yarrabilba Basketball Facebook page.
Cr St Ledger on the new Anzac Avenue path with locals Knox, Koda and Kaze Howe.
Councillor Nathan St Ledger DIVISION 4 📞 07 3412 5504 MOBILE 0476 027 785 @ division4@logan.qld.gov.au
age groups are booming.’ The Yarrabilba Basketball
Association has 129 registered junior players who play under the name Yarrabilba Yowies in age
DIVISION 5 UPDATE
Feedback shapes path C ommunity feedback has shaped improvements to connectivity across Division 5. Residents went online to indicate where new footpaths were needed and Councillor Paul Jackson has been travelling around the division regularly to investigate further. ‘There are now more than 100 locations identified by residents and myself. I am working through the list to assess those sites where new footpaths are urgently required to improve pedestrian safety and access,’ Cr Jackson says. ‘Meetings and further consultation will be undertaken so people know when works start in their area.’ Priority new footpaths planned to commence in April/May (weather and construction conditions permitting) are at: Third Ave, Marsden; Aspect Way, Berrinba; Dodds Court, Crestmead; Tennessee Way, Berrinba; Bushtucker Road, Berrinba.
Cr Paul Jackson with the Super Sonics rope jumpers, who are heading to compete in Japan.
Skipping stars jumping to Japan world titles
T hey're Super Sonics by name and by nature. A group of Crestmead girls has had a meteoric introduction to the sport of jumping rope, and these young stars are still rising. The pre-teens from Crestmead State School began skipping through the Heart Foundation’s annual ‘Jump Rope for Heart’ fundraising program and only trained seriously from early 2024. They first competed in rope-jumping in June 2024, as Crestmead Super Sonics. Then 23 girls competed in the state championships, and 16 won medals and qualified for the nationals. Now, 8 Super Sonics have qualified to be part of the ‘Ropearoos’ Australian team that will contest the world junior championships in Japan in July. They are: Gabrielle Kanoyangwa, 12; Alexis Duffy, 12; Mikayla Cooper, 12; Willow Aliphon, 11; Isley Tinoa’I, 11; Peyton Rowley, 11; and twins Sophia and Grace Thao, 11.
Division 5 Councillor Paul Jackson has supported the fledging club by providing funding for new skipping ropes and attending training sessions to admire the determination and talent of the young rope jumpers. ‘This really is an intensive sport that requires skill, fitness and agility,’ Cr Jackson says. ‘These young girls have worked so hard to get to world standard so quickly and I wish them all the best when they compete in Japan.’ The Super Sonics are coached by Crestmead SS teachers Deb Lewandowski and John Tucker. ‘They all work hard together and support each other to not give up when things get tough,’ Deb says. 'These girls are showing they are high-achievers who are ready to compete against the world’s best.’ Fundraising is now underway to help cover the cost of competing in Japan.
Cr Jackson inspects plans to extend the footpath in Third Avenue at Marsden.
Community forum 📅 Friday, 2 May, 2025 CLOCK-SEVEN 5 pm to 9 pm LOCATION-DOT Crestmead PCYC, Gimlet St
(Main room downstairs)
Councillor Paul Jackson DIVISION 5
For more details, scan the QR code.
@ division5@logan.qld.gov.au FACEBOOK-F PaulJacksonDivision5 INSTAGRAM pauljackson4division5
📞 07 3412 5505 MOBILE-IPHONE 0456 316 954
20 | OUR LOGAN
DIVISION 6 UPDATE
Baskets ensure refunds not wasted
R ecycling and returning refunds to the community is a whole lot easier now thanks to a new initiative in 3 parks across Division 6. Baskets have been installed on rubbish bins at Riverdale Park in Meadowbrook, Noffke Park in Bethania and at Evergreen Park in Loganlea. Park users who aren’t interested in taking refundable drink containers to a Containers for Change depot can now leave them in a tidy and safe way in the baskets for others to collect and claim the 10c refund. Division 6 Councillor Tony Hall says the recycling initiative is a real boost for local community groups as well as the environment. ‘Many community groups located in Division 6 rely heavily on income they can generate from the Containers for Change program,’ Cr Hall says. ‘I expect they will be among those monitoring the new baskets closely.
Cr Tony Hall tries out one of the new container recycling baskets in Division 6.
‘The initiative will also help keep recyclable materials out of landfill which is great for the environment.’ In the 2024 financial year, there were 196 million containers returned across the City of Logan, which generated nearly $20 million in refunds for local Loganlea senior students' legacy gift keeps giving
residents, charities and a variety of community groups. To find out more information on container recycling go to: containerexchange.com.au
S tudents at Loganlea State High School will benefit for years to come thanks to a collaboration between Division 6 Councillor Tony Hall and the school’s 2024 Year 12 cohort. Each year, outgoing senior students identify a 'legacy gift project' for their successors to use and enjoy. For 2024, the Year 12s decided to fund construction of 2 sheltered table and seat settings in the 'forest' area of the school's grounds. Cr Hall made a contribution from the Division 6 Community Benefit Fund to boost fundraising for the project,
which also benefitted from discounts on construction materials from Logan-based businesses. Cr Hall has previously been a strong supporter of the high school’s highly successful Mini-Farm and beekeeping projects. ‘Providing long-lasting facilities that other students can use for years to come for learning and relaxation was another terrific idea from Loganlea State High School,’ Cr Hall says. ‘I was delighted to support the fund-raising efforts of the 2024 Seniors to ensure the first shelter was delivered before they left school.
‘We are a caring community in the City of Logan and we are always ready to help and support those in need.'
Councillor Tony Hall DIVISION 6 📞 07 3412 5506 @ TonyHall@logan.qld.gov.au
Cr Hall with (from left) Loganlea SHS 2024 co-captains Sheikinah and Gabrielle Kibaja and teachers Katherine Blake and Ross Davis at one of the new ‘legacy gift’ outdoor seating shelters.
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OUR LOGAN | 21
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