Division_4_March_2024

MAR/APRIL 2024 Est. 1989 Win... Gift Card! Book Giveaway! P: (07) 5527 0314 M: 0411 134 507 info@localnewsletters.com | read online: www.localnewsletters.com Runaway Bay, Paradise Point, Biggera Waters, Coombabah, Hollywell and surrounding suburbs (Div 4) Your Local Newsletter OPEN 24/7 365 DAYS www.bwlaundromat.com.au 1300 528 628 METRO MARKET 33 Hollywell Rd, BIGGERA WATERS FREE Parking Outside Entry Air-conditioned FREE WI-FI 11 Washers 9kg to 27kg Hot Water Wash 8 X Large Dryers Pay by Coins-Cards-Phones Superwash Now Available BIGGERA WATERS see editorial P5 “Lot 1” Benobble Heights Build your dream home here! Over 16 acres to spread out in a great location on the edge of Canungra. Land is title registered. More smaller block available too, from $500,000 Call Joe for stocklist on 0422 400 680 48 Luscombe Cr, Wolffdene Call Joe Farr 0422 400 680 55 007 007 farrgc.com.au Over 17 acres with a fully renovated 6 bedroom house, a massive 180m² workshop, 4 bathrooms, pool, 3 phase power & so much more. Call Joe Farr for info. 0422 400 680 Brand new luxurious waterfront 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom house with 4 car parking, private heated pool & 13m marina berth set in the popular Lyra complex. Call for more details Joe Farr. 0422 400 680 / 55 007 007 One Lyra Ave, Hope Island 65/1 Lyra Ave, Hope Island Selling Soon? Call Your Local! Joe Farr lives & breathes the North Gold Coast. Having worked the Broadwater area for over 20 years, Joe is your first choice for a premium price sale in the 4216 area. JUST LISTED. Townhouse with MORE! 3 bedrooms, media room, alfresco entertaining, side & back parking for boat, van, etc. Private pool + complex facilities. Call Joe 0422 400 680 Townhouse with 10m Jetty! Dual Living + Huge Shed Brand New, Bridge-free Jetty Big Block, Ready To Build

2 The Power of Kerb Appeal: Enhancing Your Home's Exterior to Boost its Market Value In the world of real estate, first impressions matter. Potential buyers often form opinions about a property within seconds of arriving, and the exterior appearance of a home plays a crucial role in shaping these initial perceptions. Joe Farr, your local 4216 agent from Farr Real Estate knows all about the art of enhancing a home's exterior to make it more attractive to potential buyers and, ultimately, boost its market value. Kerb appeal encompasses a wide range of elements, from the condition of the landscaping to the appearance of the front door. Experts agree that investing time and resources into improving kerb appeal can pay off handsomely when it comes time to sell a property. “One of the most fundamental aspects of kerb appeal is landscaping. A well-maintained lawn, neatly trimmed hedges, and colourful flower beds can instantly elevate the appearance of a home's exterior,” says Joe. “Homeowners should ensure that their landscaping is tidy and wellgroomed, as unkempt greenery can give the impression of neglect.” In addition to landscaping, attention should be paid to the condition of the home's exterior surfaces. Investing in a fresh coat of paint, a pressure wash, or making necessary repairs can go a long way toward improving the exterior appearance of a home and increasing its market value. Joe points out that the front entryway is another focal point of kerb appeal. An inviting entrance can create a positive first impression and set the tone for the rest of the home. Simple enhancements such as updating the front door, adding decorative lighting fixtures, and a nice “welcome” mat can make a significant difference in the overall aesthetic appeal of a property. In today's digital age, kerb appeal extends beyond physical appearances to include online presentation as well. With the majority of homebuyers beginning their search for properties online, it's essential for sellers to showcase their home's exterior in its best light through high-quality photographs and virtual tours. Professional photography and a stunning front yard can capture the attention of potential buyers and generate more interest in the property. Simple improvements such as adding fresh mulch to flower beds, updating outdoor lighting fixtures, or installing a new mailbox can make a big impact without breaking the bank. The power of kerb appeal should not be underestimated when it comes to selling a home. By enhancing the exterior appearance of a property, homeowners can attract more buyers, command higher sale prices, and ultimately achieve greater success in the real estate market. If you’re getting ready to sell, your local expert agent Joe Farr can pop around to give you personalised advice on preparing your home for sale. You can reach Joe at Farr Real Estate on 55 007 007 or 0422 400 680. see advert front page Your parcel comes with meats selected / approx.. 10 to 15kgs of fruit & vegetables / 2 extra choices such as sink liquid, juice, pantry and cleaning products /choice of breads / 20 to 25 groceries / chiller pack. If you pick up usually you have pallets of extra fruit and vegetables to choose from. $67 fills the boot of a small car about 100kgs of food. We support some 27 other organisations on the Coast. Come, view or call us or (come and volunteer - no age limit), helping us to help others struggling and in need. Products can be seconds or best before dates, close or past. Part of New Life Community Care D.G.R. Charity Feed a Family of 4 up to a Week ONLY $67 We supply food for 1000’s of meals weekly Volunteer Positions Available - NO Age Limit 12-16 Dunkirk Close, (off Allied Dr) Arundel (2 streets south of Harbour Town Shops) Order Online www.newlifefoodbarn.org or PH: 0410 565 781 3.30 to 4.30pm Tues & Wed for following day BRIC-A-BRAC & SHOP OPEN WED & THURS 10am - 12pm & FOR PRE-ORDERED PARCELS FOODBARN SHOP NOW OPEN SATURDAY 9-11.30am “DISCOUNTED FOOD” TIMES ARE HARD $67 FAMILY PARCEL Fruit & Veg/Meats/Bread Grocery Items/ Chiller pack Plus more on Pick-ups Order online Home deliveries available “Why Struggle or Go Without?” www.newlifefoodbarn.org Phone 0410 565 781 3.30pm to 4.30pm Tues & Wed for following day LOOK!

3 Our Team of Doctors offer all aspects of General Practice Available appointments EVERY DAY on short notice. If your family member is unwell, you can book a face-to-face review with a GP at 188 Medical. 188 MEDICAL Your Family Medical Centre Dr Vanessa Wong Specialising in Family Planning | Women’s Health | Children’s Health Chronic Disease Management | Mental Health Care Book your appointment today Call 5661 9188 or online 188medical.com | 188 Brisbane Rd, Arundel Our Team of Doctors Dr Karen Provan Dr Kelly Young Dr Clare Graham Dr Joel Carmody Dr Jasmina Bajramovic Dr Ericka Schipanski After last year’s sell-out event drew a staggering crowd of close to 250,000, generating an estimated economic impact of $25 million, this year promises to be even more spectacular, with plans to expand the event along the iconic beachfront. “As we gear up for our second year, the anticipation and excitement are higher than ever. Given we sold out tickets for last year’s event, I strongly suggest you secure your space on Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is back! the sand very early,” said Pacific Airshow Gold Coast Director Kevin Elliott. “We’re building on last year’s smashing success, aiming to make Pacific Airshow Gold Coast an even more breath-taking experience. And there’s nothing like being there, on the beach with your family and friends. Whether it’s through our exclusive hospitality packages or the incredible line-up of performers, we’re 16 to 18 August 2024 committed to creating unforgettable memories for our attendees.” Prepare for three days of world-class aerobatics and jets, showcasing thunderous power and speed. The event promises a mix of heartpounding excitement and familyfriendly entertainment, stretching around 1.5 kilometres of the Surfers Paradise Esplanade. Tourism Minister Michael Healy said the inaugural Pacific Airshow had proven it was an event not to miss. “We saw hundreds of thousands of spectators hit the beach to witness what was a spectacular inaugural Pacific Airshow display and I have no doubt tickets will be hot property again this year. “The event was also a soaring success for the Gold Coast’s visitor economy, with visitors staying 110,000 visitor nights over the weekend – a welcome boost for local accommodation, restaurants and attractions. “We’re looking forward to seeing another world-class edition of the Pacific Airshow on the Gold Coast this year.” www.pacificairshowaus.com Building on the phenomenal success of its debut, Pacific Airshow Gold Coast is set to return to Surfers Paradise from 16 to 18 August 2024.

4 Queenslanders can now choose to have a Digital Licence stored in their phone Queenslanders have been assured their personal information will be kept secure if they switch to the new Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) digital licence. TMR Deputy Director General, Customer Services, Safety and Regulation Geoff Magoffin said Queenslanders could now carry their driver licence, marine licence or photo identification on a mobile device. “This will provide convenience for the thousands of Queenslanders who already have everything else in their phone, including their loyalty cards, bank and credit cards,” Mr Magoffin said “Queenslanders can leave their wallet at home and enjoy the benefits of carrying their digital licence on their phone, safe in the knowledge their personal information is secure and private.” He said the Queensland digital licence met international standards for verifying, authenticating and keeping personal information safe, secure and private. “You can choose how much information you share and with whom you share it,” Mr Magoffin said. “This means your private data remains safe and secure while sharing only the necessary information to meet specific requirements. Additionally, the app incorporates robust security protocols which have been rigorously tested. These security measures safeguard your private information from identity theft and fraud.” The digital licence is optional and all Queenslanders will still receive their physical cards in the mail, even if they choose to go digital. “TMR recognises people have different preferences and not everyone may be ready to embrace the digital licence,” Mr Magoffin said, “so physical driver licences and other photo cards will continue to be issued.” The digital licence is free and accessible by downloading the Queensland Digital Licence app from your app store. “You don’t need to wait for your physical licence to expire before getting the digital licence,” Mr Magoffin said. “One of the big advantages of the digital licence is that information updates instantly. So, if you change your address or upgrade your licence class, you will see that information straight away.” • BANK OF QUEENSLAND • SCAMS We all like to believe we're invincible and impervious to a scam. Unfortunately, people all across the country are still getting scammed out of their hard-earned money every day. In fact, in 2023 alone, Australians lost more than $400 million to scams. Here are two common scams to watch out for this year - Investment Scams and Romance Scams. Investment Scams work by scammers using marketing and technology to make their investment sound like a low risk/ high reward opportunity you don't want to pass up. They may also use pressure tactics or language that makes you want to act fast. Romance Scams work by the scammer first creating a fake identity online and leveraging this fake profile to try and enter a relationship with you to get your money. Scammers and other con artists are constantly coming up with new malicious ways to deceive us. So, it's crucial to understand how these scams work. If you can recognise the signs of a scam, you'll be in a much better position to avoid it and protect your assets and identity! To report a fraud or scam, you can also let us know by emailing financialcrimes@boq.com.au or by visiting our team at BOQ Biggera Waters or call us immediately on 1300 55 72 72 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). See advert front cover Lions Easter Raffle to support Variety Queensland Runaway Bay Lions Club are holding an Easter Raffle at Runaway Bay Centre March 25th to 28th & Sat 30th March 2024 - 10am to 3pm. Tickets will be available at Runaway Bay Centre near the Customer Service Desk. Raffle drawn at 3pm Easter Saturday. All proceeds (every single cent, plus a bit more from our club) will be donated to Variety Queensland the children’s charity. Their mission is to empower Queensland kids who are sick, disadvantaged or living with a disability, to live, laugh and learn. Their vision is for all Aussie kids to attain their full potential regardless of ability or background. Thanks to Runaway Bay Centre Management, Specsavers Runaway Bay, Laser Clinics Australia, QBD Books, Coles Runaway Bay, Australia Post, Steak Kings, The Outlet Homewares, Zarraffa’s Coffee Runaway Bay and Bunning’s Arundel, for your generous prize donations. If you are interested in joining Runaway Bay Lions Club, contact can be made by email to runawaybaylions@hotmail. com or phone 0403 049 535. HAPPY EASTER FROM RUNAWAY BAY LIONS CLUB 100 % of Donations to “Variety Qld” Tickets 3 for $5 Drawn - 3pm Easter Saturday 30th March 2024 Runaway Bay Centre March 25th to 28th & Sat 30th 2024 10am to 3pm

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6 Introducing the 2024 Junior Mayors The Gold Coast’s 2024 Junior Council Executive Committee have been sworn in to their new roles as future leaders as part of the City of Gold Coast’s Junior Council. Nevindu Dammannagoda from AB Paterson College was announced as the 32nd Junior Mayor and Rihanna Patel from Queensland Academies Health Sciences Campus as the Deputy Junior Mayor. Mayor Tom Tate congratulated the students on their appointments on the Gold Coast’s Junior Council Executive Committee. “The Junior Council program provides young Gold Coasters the platform to have a voice,” Mayor Tate said. “The program provides an opportunity for students to learn about the role of local government, develop skills in public speaking, networking and most importantly leadership.” The Junior Council comprises of 140, Year 10 and 11 students from 37 Gold Coast high schools. The Junior Council is led by the Junior Mayor, Deputy Junior Mayor and the Junior Council Executive Committee. Junior Mayor Nevindu Dammannagoda said: “It is an honour to have been named the 2024 Junior Mayor. “I am very passionate about youth involvement and service. I look forward to working with the Junior Council this year.” The 2024 Junior Council Executive Committee comprises: • Yanyan Zhang – Queensland Academies Health Sciences Campus • Thomas Pentland – St Michael’s College • Madison McGregor – Varsity College • Henrietta Stahelin-Hall – Rivermount College • Abigail Brinkworth – Somerset College The City is pleased to welcome Kings Christian College and Men of Business Academy to the program in 2024. April is National Heartworm Awareness Month FIVE FACTS ABOUT HEARTWORM DISEASE THAT WILL SHOCK YOU ... It’s everywhere! Heartworm disease has been diagnosed in Australian states. They look like spaghetti. Mature heartworms look like long strands of spaghetti. Dogs are more susceptible. Dogs can have hundreds of heartworms in their bodies. We need to act fast. In most cases, the treatment often comes too late to cure the animal fully. Decreased appetite might be a sign. If your cat or dog is not eating well, it might indicate heartworm disease. Heartworm disease, a perilous condition affecting both cats and dogs, is caused by a parasitic worm dwelling in the heart, lungs, and associated blood vessels. Its insidious presence can lead to severe lung disease, heart failure, and damage to vital organs in these beloved pets. Dogs are a host of heartworms, meaning they can grow and reproduce in the animal, while cats are a dead-end host, meaning the worms cannot reproduce in the animal. Most cats are infected with only a few worms and may not be fully mature, though the disease can be just as deadly for cats as it is for dogs. Transmission of heartworms occurs through mosquitoes, which acquire larvae from the bloodstream of infected dogs during feeding and subsequently transfer them to other animals. Once transmitted, these larvae develop into adult worms, perpetuating the cycle of infection. Preventative measures are paramount, including monthly oral medications that target immature worms. Strict adherence to preventive schedules is crucial, as heartworm larvae can mature rapidly, rendering prevention ineffective within as little as 51 days. Detecting heartworm disease early is pivotal for successful treatment. While dogs may exhibit symptoms such as coughing, fatigue, decreased appetite, and weight loss, many remain asymptomatic initially. Regular blood tests are indispensable for diagnosis, preferably during routine veterinary visits. However, detecting heartworms in cats proves challenging due to the low worm burden and absence of definitive symptoms. Antigen and antibody tests, supplemented by imaging techniques like x-rays and ultrasounds, aid in diagnosis. Treatment for heartworm disease in dogs necessitates a multifaceted approach. Upon confirmation of diagnosis, strict activity restriction is imperative to mitigate further damage to the heart and lungs. Stabilizing the dog’s condition may be requisite, particularly in cases with underlying health issues. Treatment protocols typically involve several steps, followed by post-treatment testing to ensure complete elimination of parasites. Unfortunately, effective treatment options for heartworm-infected cats are lacking, underscoring the critical significance of preventive measures. In conclusion, heartworm disease poses a grave threat to the wellbeing of companion animals, emphasizing the need for proactive prevention, early detection, and appropriate treatment. Consultation with a veterinarian is indispensable to tailor preventive strategies and ensure timely intervention in cases of infection, safeguarding the health and longevity of cherished pets.

7 Cnr Musgrave Ave & Kumbari Ave, SOUTHPORT Phone 5532 1277 • info@musgravebowls.com • www.clubmusgrave.com ENTERTAINMENT MAJOR RAFFLES WEDNESDAY Meat & Cash Prizes drawn @ 7.30pm FRIDAY Meat & Cash Prizes drawn from 7.00pm SUNDAY 2pm-4pm Free Raffle Tickets – Meat Trays & Cash Prizes drawn @ 4pm BINGO Monday afternoon @ 2pm Mon, Tues, Thurs & Sunday nights @ 7pm Cash jackpots from $1000 to $5000 “PETS” Available BISTRO 4215 OPEN 7 DAYS FOR LUNCH 11.30am - 2pm OPEN 7 DAYS FOR DINNER 5pm - 8pm A-la-carte Menu & Specials NOW OPEN Kitchen/Dining/Courtyard refurbishment COME & TRY OUR ALL NEW MENU! APL POKER Wed 6.30pm & Fri 1pm FREE TRIVIA Wed 7.30pm SOCIAL DARTS Sun 2pm BAREFOOT BOWLS just $5pp 100 POKER MACHINES - REGULAR PROMOS - TAB & KENO - Live Entertainment Saturday nights from 6pm – 10pm & Friday nights SOUTHPORT | GOLDCOAST Courtesy Bus runs from 4pm Mon-Fri & from 11am Sat & Sun -To book call 5532 1277 WINNING THE GAME OF HEARTS IN FAMILY LAW Family Law is an area of the law dealing with domestic relations and family matters which include: property settlements, parenting arrangements, binding financial agreements, parenting plans, representation at mediation, pre-nuptial agreements, divorce, surrogacy, and adoption and child abduction. ACCREDITED FAMILY LAW SPECIALIST Our Highly Acclaimed Family Law, Mediation and Divorce Expert Ian Field is a highly experienced Accredited Family Law Specialist and Independent Childrens Lawyer. CHILDREN AND PARENTING ISSUES Ensuring that the arrangements for parenting your children after separation are in place is one of the most important Family Law issues that need to be addressed. Whether arrangements are agreed and need to be formally recorded, or whether the arrangements are not agreed and need to be negotiated or the issues need to be taken to the Court, obtaining the right legal advice is vital. PROPERTY SETTLEMENTS For both married and de facto couples, it is vital to make sure that when a relationship ends, issues to do with property settlement are properly handled. We will offer you sensitive and practical advice that’s tailored to your particular requirements and circumstances to make sure property settlement is amicably handled if possible, or if necessary your case is put properly to the Court. KEEPING YOU AHEAD OF THE GAME mail@aylwardgame.com.au Ph. 1800 217 217 2/20 Grice Ave, Paradise Point Q 4216

8 WE HAVE 2 X $50 GIFT CARDS TO GIVE AWAY! WIN A $50 GIFT CARD (Coles Supermarkets, Coles Central, Coles Express, Myer, including Myer.com.au, Target, Kmart, Officeworks, Liquorland, Vintage Cellars and First Choice Liquor.) Simply complete the Crossword and/or the Sudoku puzzle and post to MARCH CROSSWORD COMPETITION or MARCH SUDOKU COMPETITION PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town City Q. 4220 Write your name and address on the back of an envelope. First correct crossword and first correct sudoku entry drawn will win. Entries close 10.04.2024 Winner notified by post. SU DO KU Instructions: The numbers 1 to 9 must appear in each row, column and 3 x 3 box. Numbers can not be duplicated. No. 180 1 7 2 1 5 9 3 2 8 9 3 8 3 6 4 6 4 7 7 9 6 1 5 Answer next month k c o c a n k k b WordWheel 50 The goal of a word wheel puzzle is to create as many words possible with the letters in the word wheel. You can only use each letter once and every word must have the letter in the centre of the wheel. Answers P 11 1. Turn Me On My Side And I Am Everything. Cut Me In Half And I Am Nothing. What Am I? 2. I Am Heavy And Hard To Pick Up, But Backwards I Am Not. What Am I? 3. How can you throw a ball as hard as you can and have it come back to you, even if it doesn’t bounce off anything? There is nothing attached to it, and no one else catches or throws it back to you. 4. What word looks the same upside down and backward? 5. What is unusual about the following words: revive, banana, grammar, voodoo, assess, potato, dresser, uneven? 6. I have keys, but no locks. I have space, but no room. You can enter, but you can’t go outside. What am I? 7. First, I threw away the outside and cooked the inside. Then I ate the outside and threw away the inside. What did I eat? Answers page 11 BRAIN RIDDLES CROSSWORD 180 by Mona Elliott ACROSS 1. LIGHT 8. ALP 9. AVERAGE 10. WRAPPER 11. WHOLE 12. LEG BONE 13. PROPAGATE 16. PORTENTS 19. EXUDE 21. REVISE 22. LEARN 23. SEXUALLY ATTRACTIVE 24. LOITERED 25. CEDES DOWN 2. MORE NAIVE 3. APE 4. ANTS 5. HELL 6. VERY ORNATE 7. ATISHOOS 13. THORN 14. TEST 15. EDICTS 17. PORTABLE 18. ANNOYED 20. MODISH ANSWER NEXT ISSUE. 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 20 21 23 1 8 10 14 19 22 24 25

9 SOCIOPATH A Memoir By Patric Gagne ‘Your friends would probably describe me as nice. But guess what? I can’t stand your friends. I’m a liar. I’m a thief. I’m highly manipulative. I don’t care what other people think. I’m capable of almost anything.’ Sociopath: A Memoir is at once a mesmerizing tale of a life lived on the edge of the law, a redemptive love story and a moving account of one woman’s battle to create a place for herself and the 5% of the population who are also - like her - sociopaths. Ever since she was a small child, Patric Gagne knew she was different. Although she felt intense love for her family and her best friend, David, these connections were never enough to make her be ‘good’, or to reduce her feelings of apathy and frustration. As she grew older, her behaviour escalated from petty theft through to breaking and entering, stalking, and worse. As an adult, Patric realized that she was a sociopath. Although she instantly connected with the official descriptions of sociopathy, she also knew they didn’t tell the full story: she had a plan for her life, had nurtured close relationships and was doing her best (most of the time) to avoid harming others. As her darker impulses warred against her attempts to live a settled, loving life with her partner, Patric began to wonder - was there a way for sociopaths to integrate happily into society? And could she find it before her own behaviour went a step too far? ISBN: 9781529094909 | Format: Trade Paperback | Pub Date: 09/04/2024 Category: Memoirs, Autobiography: General, BIOGRAPHY & AUTOBIOGRAPHY / Personal Memoirs | Imprint: Bluebird | Price: $36.99 JAMES by Percival Everett From the Booker Prize-shortlisted author of The Trees, comes an enthralling and ferociously funny novel that leaves an indelible mark, forcing us to see Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn in a wholly new and transformative light. The Mississippi River, 1861. When the enslaved Jim overhears that he is about to be sold to a new owner in New Orleans and separated from his wife and daughter forever, he decides to hide on nearby Jackson’s Island until he can formulate a plan. Meanwhile, Huck Finn has faked his own death to escape his violent father who recently returned to town. Thus begins a dangerous and transcendent journey by raft along the Mississippi River, toward the elusive promise of free states and beyond. As James and Huck begin to navigate the treacherous waters, each bend in the river holds the promise of both salvation and demise. With rumours of a brewing war, James must face the burden he carries: the family he is desperate to protect and the constant lie he must live. And together, the unlikely pair must face the most dangerous odyssey of them all . . . From the shadows of Huck Finn’s mischievous spirit, Jim emerges to reclaim his voice, defying the conventions that have consigned him to the margins. ISBN: 9781035031245 | Pub Date: 26/03/2024 Imprint: Mantle | Price: $34.99 BOOK GIVEAWAY TO ENTER write your name, address & phone on the back of an envelope and post to: 1: SOCIOPATH or 2: JAMES PO Box 3302, Burleigh Town 4220 • Entries close 10.04.2024. Winners book prize will be couriered so please provide a phone number. You may put phone number inside envelope if you are worried about scams... thankyou! Enter To Win Congratulations January Winners! $50 GIFT CARD SUDOKU: B. Naimo, Coomera CROSSWORD: J. Gagliardi, Upper Coomera DARKNESS RUNS DEEP BOOK COMPETITION W. Paulson, Oxenford | S. Jameson, Gaven J. Brown, Coombabah | K. Jenson, Coombabah L. Kentish, Coomera A LIFE OF HER OWN BOOK COMPETITION B. Bechaz, Ormeau | G. Potter, Pimpama Y. Shepherd, Pimpama | L. Robertson, Highland Park W. Cutters, Nerang Congratulations to our winners! We receive hundreds of entries for our competitions each month so keep on entering, you might be the next lucky winner! • 50g butter • 2 leeks, trimmed, thinly sliced • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped • 1/4 cup plain flour • 3 cups milk • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 800g chicken thigh fillets, trimmed, cut into 2cm pieces • 200g cup mushrooms, sliced • 8 flour tortillas • 60g baby spinach • 1 3/4 cups tasty cheese, grated • Fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves,to serve Preheat oven 200C/180C fan-forced. Grease a 5cm-deep, 20cm x 30cm ovenproof dish. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add leek, garlic and thyme. Cook, stirring, for 8 to 10 minutes or until leek has softened. Add flour. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until combined. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly, until combined. Bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low. Simmer for 5 minutes or until mixture has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper. Meanwhile, heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes or until just cooked through. Add mushroom. Cook for 5 minutes or until mushroom has softened. Add 1 cup leek mixture. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until well combined. Place 1 tortilla on a flat surface. Top with 1/2 cup chicken mixture. Roll up to enclose filling. Place, seam-side down, in prepared dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and chicken mixture. Add spinach and 1 cup cheese to the remaining leek mixture. Stir to combine. Spoon over tortillas in dish, spreading to cover evenly. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden. Serve sprinkled with parsley. CHICKEN, MUSHROOM & THYME ENCHILADAS 20m prep | 45m cook | 6 servings

10 Italian Renaissance Alive | Grande Experiences Sat 30 Mar - Sun 4 Aug Experience the beauty and brilliance of the Italian masters in Italian Renaissance Alive, an immersive journey celebrating Europe's cultural rebirth. From the creators of Van Gogh Alive, this mesmerising experience covers the 14th to 17th centuries, showcasing masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, Caravaggio and more. You'll be immersed in the era's explosion of art, culture, architecture, sculpture and literature. Witness iconic works like the Sistine Chapel, Mona Lisa, and Birth of Venus in a stunning digital multi-sensory gallery, accompanied by a powerful operatic musical score. Don't miss the chance to be transported through history's most influential artistic period. For further information and bookings www.hota.com.au 135 Bundall Rd, Surfers Paradise Community Notices FREE FOR NOT-FOR-PROFIT, SPORTING & COMMUNITY GROUPS email your notice to info@localnewsletters.com • Deadline 3 April for next issue A FREE COMMUNITY SINGING GROUP has commenced at Paradise Point Uniting Church building Paradise Point every second Wednesday 9.30am.. Next Sing will be Wednesday 10th April, (every second Wednesday).If you love singing in a group then join us singing many pop songs in aircon comfort. Singing is great for your mind, body and soul. No fees, No auditions, just relax with song. Enquiries 0408 771 201. ACTIVE MINDS FOR OVER 50s - come and join our small group for laughter, fun and friendship and stimulate your mind. Thursdays 10am to 12 noon weekly (except school holidays). Gold Coast Game Fish Clubhouse, 2 Marina Cres, Hollywell. Contact Pam 0428 260 340, Marilyn 0481480 274, Yvonne 0408 771 201. LABRADOR SENIORS TENNIS CLUB - Social Tennis on Thursday 8am for experienced Tennis Players! Also Saturday and Sunday 2pm! Come along and get fit and enjoy a good game of tennis! Good social club lot’s of fun! If you’ve played lots of tennis over the years and want to get back into it, come and say hi. Lionel Avenue, Chirn Park behind Southport State High School. PH Robyn 0418191664 or Adrian 0431 033273 LABRADOR SENIOR CITIZENS CENTRE offer a wide range of activities for the over 50’s community. Activities include an Art group, Canasta, 500 and Hand & Foot card games, Drawing, Knitting & Crochet, Yoga, Tai Chi, Indoor Bowls, Table Tennis, Ukulele and a weekly concert on Friday mornings. PH 5537 1433. PARADISE POINT LADIES ASSOCIATION New Members and old members are welcome to come along and take part in the following activities. Cards/Bolivia/Hand/Foot/ Hand/Knee and Foot and Majong. Tuition available. Cost $5 Joining Fee and $5 weekly. Call Sue on 0434788142. THE ELDERS GOLD COAST. Looking for friendship? Welcome all. The Elders meet for lunches on a Wednesday and 10am every Friday for morning tea at Runaway Bay Shopping Centre (long table in the food hall). Our age group covers from 50 plus. Theatre, arts & crafts. Email: theeldersgoldcoast@gmail.com or PH Bob 55633623, 0407 793 739. U3A NORTH GOLD COAST - The Labrador Community Hub at 57 Billington Street. Membership for 2024 is now open. Many new courses will be available as well as current favourites. Designed for the Over 50’s age group, classes include Languages, Tap Dancing, Arts and Crafts and a variety of social activities. Volunteer Tutors are always welcome to share their passion for a subject that would be of interest to U3A Members. Please remember, that formal qualifications are not necessary. For more information, please contact the Course Co-ordinator courses.u3anorthgc@gmail.com or visit the website www.u3anorthgoldcoast.com RUNAWAY BAY VIEW CLUB meets for lunch with guest speakers at the Parkwood Tavern, Cnr Olsen & Wintergreen Ave Parkwood, every second Tuesday of the month at 11.30am for 12.00 noon. We also hold regular social functions visiting different venues and events. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education for Women. New members are always welcome. If you are interested in meeting other women whilst helping to raise money for The Smith Family. Phone Lyn, President 0403486432. RUNAWAY BAY 50 + SENIORS INDOOR BOWLS CLUB Tuesdays & Sundays, Community Hall Lae Dr, Runaway Bay. Doors open 12 noon games start 12.30, cost $3 incl. afternoon tea. New members welcome and tutoring provided if required. Also bus trips throughout the year. Come along and make new friends. PH: Ishan Uzel 0416450367 CHRISTIAN GOSPEL SERVICES are being held at the Marj Shipman Community Centre, 91 Hansford Road COOMBABAH, Wednesdays @ 7:45 - 8:30 pm All Welcome. No Collection. Ph. Winnie Melville 0429 602 627 or Allison May 0480 389 359 SIP N SUP CLUB – GOLD COAST Meets every three weeks at a great restaurant around the Gold Coast. All men welcome for beer, wine and food. We critique restaurants, have guest speakers but most of all we have a lot of fun. Generally Thursday afternoons, however, some evening events, 16 meetings per year. Facebook and search for @sipnsupgc and/or phone Michel on 0412 757 535 or e: michel_44@bigpond.com ATTENTION MEN! Guys need an outlet to get together ‘shoot the breeze’, talk a bit of BS, and make new mates? Whether you’re 40 or 80 this group is for you. It’s a small friendly informal group that catches up weekly to give men an opportunity to get out of the house. This is not a business networking group. There is no business or church behind it. It’s about social engagement. Wednesday catch up - Paradise Point Bowls club @ 9:30 am. Friday catch up - Boutique Cafe @ 9:30am. Salacia Waters cafe precinct Paradise Point. Anthony 0413 806 179. PARADISE POINT & NORTHERN DISTRICTS ASSOCIATION is reaching out to residents of Division 4 to come along to our meetings. We discuss all local issues that you may have concerns about. If you have any issues please let us know so we can help. We meet at the small Community hall on Community Lane, Paradise Point on the second Tuesday of each month at 7pm. You can join our group with membership of $5 per year. Our local councillor Shelley Curtis will be attending each of meetings (time permitting). President Diane Woods on 0418 654 388 or our Secretary Roger Gordon on 0450 403 807 NORTH GOLD COAST PROBUS CLUB is a friendly mixed club for retired and semi-retired men and women. We meet at 10am at the Seagulls Leagues Club Morala Ave Runaway Bay on the first Monday of each month. Variety of guest speakers, morning tea coffee, door prizes and many stay for at lunch at the club bistro following the meeting. is all about FUN, FRIENDSHIP AND FELLOWSHIP for seniors. Club activities are arranged each month and may include: Outings, Bus trips, Walking Group, Book Club, Dining, Theatre and Movies, Picnics and BBQ. Contact Paul 0424 243005 or Wendy 55806224 for more info. PROBUS CLUB HOPE ISLAND meets every third Wednesday of the month at 9.30am at Club Helensvale, Discovery Drive, Helensvale for fun and fellowship in retirement. We are a friendly, mixed club and welcome visitors to join us for the range of activities we provide. Contact Barbara on barbara@idlebowl.net. YOGA AT COOMBABAH - Gentle relaxing yoga for 50s and over, join our friendly yoga and meditation group on Tuesday mornings at 9am to 10.15am. 91 Hansford Rd, Coombabah. Joanne 0418 782 257. PARADISE POINT SENIORS Community Centres, Community Lane, Paradise Point. 50 and over? Come and join our friendly members in our activities. Carpet bowls and cards on Monday, Thursday, Saturday 12-00 to 3-00pm. Afternoon tea provided. Monthly bus trips on Fridays, visiting very interesting places. Wednesday in small hall next door there is a painting class plus cards from 11.30 to 3.00pm. We will teach you in a very friendly manner. All welcome. Club President Ross Kimberley 0417925855, Noreen 0410875763, Noeline 0415134126, Painting contact Steph 0415171798. RUNAWAY BAY AND DISTRICT SENIOR CITIZENS ASSOCIATION INC Over 50’s come along and join us every Tuesday from 9-11am. Great way to meet new friends and socialise. Activities of our Club include Tai Chi classes $3 per session and $3 entrance fee. Craft sessions $3 entrance fee. Bus trips depending on support. Yearly financial membership fee $5 paid annually. First visit free. Morning Tea provided. Everyone works to their own ability. Email runawaybayseniorcitizens@gmail.com 50 AND OVER? Join our friendly club at Runaway Bay Community Hall for indoor bowls & cards. $3 entrance fee. $3 yearly fee. Wed & Fri, 12 - 3 pm. Don’t know how to play? No worries, we’ll teach you. If you play 500 or Canasta please join us. Ample parking next to library. Ring Gordon for bowls 0428751292, Doreen for cards 0450301377. HARBOUR TOWN J.P. SERVICE – Harbour Town Shopping Centre. Monday to Saturday – 9:30am to 1pm. METRO MARKETS, BIGGERA WATERS J.P. SERVICE Monday and Thursday – 10am to 1pm.

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12 3 Bulk Billed Eye Tests 3 Most Health Funds Accepted 3 External Prescriptions Welcome *Excludes Maui Jim, Zeal and Oakley Sun RX $150 OFF COMPLETE PAIR Book your appointment today! PARIS MIKI OPTICAL Shop 18, 12 Sir John Overall Drive, Helensvale Plaza Phone 5580 5010 | www.paris-miki.com.au As you age, it's common for your eyesight to undergo changes, necessitating proactive measures to preserve your vision. Here are six recommendations for maintaining optimum eye health: Opt for a Nutrient-Rich Diet Maintaining a well-balanced diet supports both a healthy weight and optimal vision. Conditions such as obesity, a leading cause of adult vision impairment, can be mitigated through nutritious eating habits. Incorporating the following nutrients into your diet has shown promise in preventing vision loss: Zinc: Found in meat, fish, poultry, whole grains, and dairy products. Lutein: Present in corn, spinach, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. Vitamin A: Available in dairy products, carrots, kale, spinach, and egg yolks. Vitamin E: Found in eggs, whole grains, vegetable oils, and sunflower seeds. Vitamin C: Present in broccoli, green peppers, potatoes, citrus fruits, and juices. Fatty Acids: Sourced from coldwater fish like rainbow trout, mackerel, and salmon, as well as sunflower and corn oil. Kick the Smoking Habit Smoking is a major contributor to various health issues, including vision loss. It's been linked to conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy. Prioritise Physical Activity Engaging in at least 20 minutes of exercise per day benefits both your overall health and eye health. Improved blood circulation resulting from exercise aids in the removal of potentially harmful particles from the tiny blood vessels in your eyes. Rigorous activity isn't necessary; a brisk daily walk is usually sufficient. Shield Your Eyes Wearing UV-blocking sunglasses shields your eyes from harmful UV rays, slowing the progression of cataracts caused by direct sunlight. Sunglasses also safeguard your retina from injury and reduce the risk of skin cancer around the eyes. Additionally, protective eyewear should be worn when engaging in activities such as sports or working with materials like wood or metal to prevent eye injuries from debris or projectiles. Practice Eye Rest Extended screen time without frequent blinking can lead to eye strain and dryness. Adhering to the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus on something 20 feet away—can alleviate eye strain and fatigue. Schedule Regular Eye Exams Routine eye exams are crucial for detecting potential eye conditions before they manifest symptoms and cause irreversible vision loss or blindness. Paris Miki Optical’s Store Manager Michael has over 30 year’s experience as a qualified Optical technician and has been working in the area for over 23 years. There is an onsite workshop for quicker spectacle making, so you don’t have to be without your own frames for weeks if we are using your own frame for new lenses; repairs can be done onsite and same day service is available on in store stock lenses. Safeguard Your Eyesight

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