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Articles by Jesse Hamilton
Nicola Miners: our regional showgirl
By Jesse Hamilton For Nicola Miners, the Gatton Show has been part of her life since childhood. Now, the Gatton Show Society Showgirl has been crowned the 2026 West Moreton and Brisbane Valley Sub-Chamber Showgirl and will represent the Gatton Show and the wider sub-chamber, which comprises 10 show societies, at next year’s state finals.
Shoppers’ bus to Ippy under threat
By Jesse Hamilton A vital bus service connecting Somerset towns to Ipswich is at risk of being lost, with just seven passengers using the service over the past fortnight. The Linville to Ipswich Shoppers’ Bus travels through Toogoolawah, Esk, Coominya, Lowood and Fernvale, providing an important transport option for residents who may not have access to a car or other public transport.
Crime scene confirmed after pub fire
By Jesse Hamilton Smoke could be seen from kilometres away along the Warrego Highway on the morning of 3 September, as Falvey’s Sundowner Saloon at Haigslea sustained major fire damage. A Queensland Fire Department spokesperson said crews were called to the commercial structure fire shortly before 8.30am. The fire was brought under control about 9.30am, with nine crews remaining at the scene afterwards.
Lowood’s crew promotes life-saving
By Jesse Hamilton The Lowood Ambulance Day brought the community together on Saturday, 5 September, with a focus on snake awareness, CPR and other vital lifesaving skills. Held at the Lowood Ambulance Station, the family-friendly event aimed to connect residents with local paramedics while celebrating Ambulance Week, with QPS and QFD also attending with information stalls.
Garden Fair has more blooming fun
By Jesse Hamilton Garden lovers will have plenty to explore when the Laidley Garden Club presents its annual Spring Gardening Fair as part of the Laidley Spring Festival. The fair will run on Friday and Saturday, September 11 and 12, at the Laidley Recreational Reserve Garden Precinct, with more stallholders, garden art and activities planned for this year.
Dog Shooting - Moreton Border News
By Byron Peszko and Jesse Hamilton Locals and their paw friends have been on high alert, following the discovery of dogs injured by gunshot pellets along the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail between Wulkuraka and Brassall. Police have begun an investigation and the Ipswich City Council says it has reports of land owners defending livestock from dog attacks. On the evening of Friday 20 February, two dogs from a Wulkaraka property escaped their yard.
Julia launches Fernvale histories
By Jesse Hamilton Local historian Julia Caunce launched her book, Fernvale Histories, on 14 March at Lion’s Hall in Fernvale, marking ten years of research into the development of Fernvale. The project was supported by a grant from the Lowood Fernvale Community Bank to the Fernvale Community Association. Julia, who moved to Fernvale from New South Wales in 2009, said her background as a trained historian fueled her curiosity about the area.
A petition to save the sale
A group of community members have banded together to create a petition to help save the Laidley Saleyards from its […]
Rosewood Show shines
By Jesse Hamilton The Rosewood Show returned on 28-29 July with two glorious days of entertainment. The school holiday friendly show kicked off with the dog showing competition and young paraders and judges Elizabeth Boughen Memorial Challenge on Friday, before the bull ride got underway on Friday night. There were sideshow alley rides and animal farms on both days with musical entertainment going until late on Saturday.
Australian Navy Cadets arrive in the Lockyer
By Jesse Hamilton The Laidley RSL sub-branch is proud to announce the establishment of the first-ever Navy cadet unit in the Lockyer Valley, offering local youths a unique opportunity to develop self-discipline and a spirit of adventure through a range of leadership and team-building skills.
A sense of community
By Jesse Hamilton Members of the Bangladeshi refugee community have picked up a shovel and generously donated their time to the Friends of Lake Apex (FOLA) working bee initiative over the past several months. Lake Apex Parklands volunteer crew efforts since February have involved weeding the dry rainforest arboretum and mulching a large section of the bird-hide peninsular, which in 2023 had 40 native trees planted.
Pickle padders, come play
By Jesse Hamilton Rosewood residents are invited to pick up a paddle and have a shot at pickleball with a come-and-try day at the Rosewood Showgrounds Exhibition Hall on Saturday, 6 July. Pickleball, a low-impact sport suitable for all ages combining elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the nation over the past seven years.
All-inclusive playground fundraiser
By Jesse Hamilton A Wichcott community group is seeking support to realise its vision of establishing an all-inclusive access playground for Lockyer Valley kids. Withcott & District Progress Association had launched a fundraiser to raise $25,000 for installations at Jean Biggs Park in Withcott. The fundraiser had already garnered $15,000 from community donations for the inclusive equipment, which will go towards chair access to its cableway play equipment.
Gatton Race Day action and glamour
By Jesse Hamilton Saddle up for the highlight of Gatton’s horse racing calendar as The Lockyer Valley Race Day returns on 29 June, promising a day full of thrilling races, fashion, and music at the Lockyer Valley Turf Club. The day’s highlighted races will feature the Ladbrokes 2000m Gatton Cup and the Redmond’s Pet and Livestock Supplies 1100m Lockyer Lightning race, with further races on the day, including the Three-Year-Old Maiden Plate.
Ambulance committee hearts of gold
By Jesse Hamilton The Lowood Local Ambulance Committee held a breakfast handover on 22 June to transfer vital equipment in support of the Lowood ambulance station. Lowood Local Ambulance Committee treasurer Kay Paul said the handover was an opportunity to showcase life support equipment demonstrations and hand over essential lifting equipment donated to the station.
Next to represent Gatton
By Grace Crichton and Jesse Hamilton Forest Hill’s Caffe Sorella was home to The Gatton Show’s Showgirl and Rural Ambassador competition on 22 June as entrants geared up to vie for the opportunity to represent their region for the upcoming show season.
Lockyer Valley Netball thrilling finals
By Jesse Hamilton The Lockyer Valley Netball Association has been bustling with activity recently, hosting its season 1 senior grand final on 19 April and welcoming the community to an entertaining trivia night on 14 June. In the senior grand finals, the Goal Diggers withheld Def Wish us Luck in a tight contest in the mixed final, winning 23-21. The Buckets dominated the Ladies Division 1 final handing the Def Wildcats a 40 to 13 defeat.
AM Series Skateboarding rides into Gatton
By Jesse Hamilton Gatton was home to an epic battle as the Rumble AM Series skateboarding competition coasted into the region on Saturday, 22 June. The event brought together skilled skaters from the local area and across Queensland, competing in categories from the nine and under mixed heat to the opens division. Council’s Sport and Recreation Portfolio councillor Anthony Wilson said it was an opportunity to support the best local skateboarders as they battled it out.
National nominations galore for Move & Groove
By Jesse Hamilton Move & Groove Dance School in Gatton was recognised as a finalist across six award categories, including Rural Studio Of The Year, at the Ready Set Dance Awards conference in Sydney on the weekend of 15 June. The Ready Set Dance conference recognises the best dance studios nationwide, offering preschool dance programs and lessons in jazz, tap, ballet, and hip hop.
SEQ Drought Node launched
By Jesse Hamilton Healthy Land and Water (HLW) hosted the Building Grazing Resilience Forum 2024 in Gatton on Wednesday, 12 June, followed by the launch of a new Drought Node for southeast Queensland. The new Drought Node based in Kilcoy is one of eight hubs around Australia and is part of the broader Southern Queensland and Northern New Wales (SQNNSW) Innovation Hub.
Somerset Dam upgrades set to begin
By Jesse Hamilton The first stages of the Somerset Dam Improvement Project are underway, with Queensland Water Minister Glenn Butcher visiting the dam to inspect the development works expected to commence on-site in 2025. The dam’s improvement project aims to meet modern engineering and design standards to provide ongoing safety and water security for years to come. The 2024-25 Queensland Budget included $13 million for planning work for the Somerset Dam Improvement Project.
Laidley hosts touch finals
By Jesse Hamilton Laidley Touch held an entertaining and highly competitive conclusion to its winter touch campaign on the night of Monday, 17 June. Held over fifteen rounds, a combination of new and returning teams entered the championship round this season, with Uncos crowned the A Grade Mixed winner in a topsy-turvy match with the Layabouts to open the night. The Waterboys were winners in the A grade finals against team Gammin, while the Golden Oldies took out the B grade mixed comp.
Breaking the stigma
By Jesse Hamilton The Rosewood Men’s Health & Wellbeing Expo was held during Men’s Health Week on Friday 14 June at the Rosewood Uniting Church. The mental health expo was filled with information and resources for men in the aim of breaking down myths and barriers that men face in accessing the support they need to live happier and healthier lives.
Improving modern wellness through ancient wisdom
By Jesse Hamilton As the International Day of Yoga approaches on June 21, it’s clear that numerous misconceptions still persist regarding the ancient discipline and its unique benefits to mind, body and soul. Originating over 5,000 years ago in northern India, yoga is now embraced worldwide, with many pursuing the discipline to improve their stress management, mental health, and mindfulness.
Growers on display
By Jesse Hamilton The Lockyer Valley Growers Expo provided an excellent chance for locals to measure their product against industry leaders on 14-15 June. Hosted by Lockyer Valley Growers Inc., the expo featured 11 seed companies displaying their newest and greatest technology, with growers travelling from across Australia and the globe to attend the Gatton expo. Exhibitors included chemical companies, machinery dealers, banks, insurance and supply-chain experts.
Gatton Smart Farm wins big in horticulture awards
By Jesse Hamilton The Gatton Smart Farm Ag Tech Showcase joined a group of ten award winners honoured across the Australian horticulture industry at the Horticulture Awards for Excellence held in Melbourne on 5 June. Presented in front of a crowd of more than 1,500, the 2023 Gatton Smart Farm Ag Tech Showcase was awarded the Visy Impact Industry Award for being a showcase that invested in creating and implementing a system of technology or business practice outside of the industry norm.
Fair play grants boost to support juniors
By Jesse Hamilton Sport and Recreation’s popular FairPlay program will open to all Queensland children aged from 5 to 17 years from 1 July 2024, with the voucher value increasing per child to $200 to offset the rising cost of junior sport for families.
Gatton rugby union star on the rise
By Jesse Hamilton Gatton Black Pigs A Grade player Niu James Polai has earned a spot in the South Queensland Open Men’s team that will compete in the Queensland Country Championships in Rockhampton on 29 June. Polai’s selection comes after a a standout performance while representing Darling Downs at the Southern Queensland championships in late May.
Councils talk water security
By Jesse Hamilton Lockyer Valley and Somerset Regional Councils met with staff from the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water to discuss the current status and next steps for the Lockyer Valley and Somerset Water Security Scheme (LVSWSS) on 7 June. The project aims to transport water into the Lockyer Valley to make more water available for irrigation to increase agricultural production in the region.
A Lockyer treasure uncovered
By Jesse Hamilton In a recent cleanup effort at their village, members of the Gatton and District Historical Society stumbled upon valuable and uncommon war memorabilia belonging to a Grantham born First World War soldier. Historical members were amazed to come across a mounting board containing ribbons and badges belonging to 25th Infantry Battalion Private James Martin Andrews.
Peter’s impressive historical collection
By Jesse Hamilton Prenzlau resident Peter Bartley has assembled a remarkable historical motorcycle collection that offers an expedition through models spanning the 1950s to the 1970s. A member of the Historical Motorcycle Club of Queensland, Peter’s collection features five Honda TL’s, two 50’s Triumphs, a 58 Piaggio and a 1970’s Yamaha 175 TY.
Your guide to the 2024 Lowood Show
By Jacob Hayden and Jesse Hamilton The 2024 Lowood Show promises brilliant displays across all sections of the show. Find out what’s in store: — HORSES – GIDDY UP FOR LOWOOD SHOW The Lowood Show will welcome a chief steward with a wealth of experience for its horse section in 2024. Chief steward Sally Rodger will be taking the place of longstanding Ringmaster and show society life member Bruce Vayro for this year’s program.
The Valley's artistic essence
By Jesse Hamilton Kensington Grove Park played host to the first-ever Art in the Valley event from June 7 to 9, welcoming creatives to immerse themselves in a whirlwind of creativity. The creative showcase welcomed 14 experienced art and craft tutors from Lockyer Valley and the surrounds to instruct in 20 unique workshops from polymer clay, acrylic paintings, and pottery across the three days.
Sisters in Arms
By Jesse Hamilton Cherished Lockyer Valley sisters Myrtle Dawn Logan, known to all as Dawn, and Estelle Mary Murry, affectionately know as Stella, shared an unbreakable and cherished bond, lovingly described as ‘stickers’, from their first day at school.
Rosewood ball glitz and glamour
By Jesse Hamilton Rosewood’s show season is in full momentum after announcing its winners at the 2024 Rosewood Show Ball on Saturday, 8 June. Rosewood Show Society secretary and Show Ball coordinator Kate Hillan said there were plenty of great winners despite no entrants for Rural Ambassador or Showgirl. “There were no entrants for Showgirl or Rural Ambassador, but plenty of interest in the other categories,” she said.
Laidley hosts national Light Horse cup
By Jesse Hamilton The Laidley Showgrounds became a bustling arena of equestrian obstacles and spirited competition on 8 June, as the Australian Light Horse Association Cup trotted off in the Lockyer Valley. Hosted by the 2nd Light Horse Plainland Troop, the Light Horse Cup highlights speed and practical skill sets developed from the First World War. 2nd Light Horse Plainland Troop president Jo Moore said classes ranged from tent pegging, Skill at Arms and the rescue race challenge.
Toogoolawah show time
By Jesse Hamilton The Toogoolawah Show showcased the region’s talents in various event sections over two glorious days of entertainment on Friday, 7 June, and Saturday, 8 June. Friday kicked off with the local horse event, followed by the show dogs, pavilion judging, and the main cattle judging and auction. Chainsaw and woodchop races drew a large crowd on Saturday, with plenty of exhibitors across the stud, led steer and dairy cattle sections as judging took place.
A spectacle of tradition
By Jesse Hamilton The Lowood Annual Show will open its gates for the 117th time this 14-15 June, as it once again welcomes locals and visitors to experience a showcase of entertainment and section displays that define the region’s uniqueness. Lowood Show Society president Lynell Jendra said this year’s lineup offers an exciting lineup of entertainment, while showcasing the region’s talents through an array of great sections.
Automotive passion meets spectacular displays
By Jesse Hamilton Get ready to rev your engines and unite for a day of vintage charm and entertainment as the Withcott Hotel hosts its annual Classic Car Show on Sunday, 16 June. The second classic car show hosted by the Withcott Hotel, the event will feature more than 20 unique car and motorbike award categories. The car event promises to be a fun time out for the whole family, with live music, jumping castles, face paintings and a giant slot car track display happening throughout the day.
Score a bargain at Lockyer machinery auction
By Jesse Hamilton Bartholomew & Company will conduct a two-day machinery auction in Gatton on 15 June and Glenore Grove on 16 June, selling a range of Simon Farms machinery. The sale is an excellent chance to acquire top-notch local farming equipment in a quick manner and will feature utes, tractors, harvesting and processing equipment and more.
Day for Emily a pinktastic affair
By Jesse Hamilton The town of Laidley transformed into a sea of pink to mark Saint Mary’s Catholic Primary School student Emily Surman’s Day for Batten Awareness on 6 June. Businesses down Patrick Street and school students across the Lockyer Valley all painted themselves in pink, celebrating with balloons and streamers in honour of Emily’s favourite colour.
Hector’s WW2 memorabilia returns home
By Jesse Hamilton Discovered 77 years after the end of World War II, the watch and plaque of Australian Imperial Force (AIF) Private Hector McDonald Hill found its way back to his hometown at the Tenterfield, NSW, RSL sub-branch on 24 May. Private Hill’s watch was initially discovered in a Lowood second-hand store by Patriots Military Motorcycle Club member John Wasilewski, who contacted the Canberra War Museum, identifying the watch as belonging to Private Hill.
Support those who save lives
By Jesse Hamilton The Gatton Local Ambulance Committee (GLAC) is urgently searching for fresh faces and the next wave of members to contribute to the group’s vital operations in supporting hardworking ambulance staff. Since 1992, the committee has played an integral role in supporting the Queensland Ambulance Service in Gatton through fundraisers, providing life-saving equipment, and higher education ambulance workers.
Have a swing with free golf in Laidley
By Jesse Hamilton The Laidley Golf Club is inviting all to have a swing as they host four free sessions from June to September to inspire beginners to the sport. Funded through the Active Women and Girls Program, the sessions will be taught by PGA Professional Golfer Lee Harrington from the Gold Coast Golf School. Laidley Golf Club womens captain Judy Logan said it is all about promoting interest among junior players and seniors who have yet to pick up a club.
Represent Gatton in style
By Jesse Hamilton The Gatton Show Society is on the lookout for enthusiastic individuals to take on the roles of Rural Ambassador and Showgirl for their upcoming show season. The positions offer a fantastic networking opportunity and stepping stone for young people looking to develop their agriculture knowledge and leadership skills and learn the ins and outs of their local show.
Lights shine at Fernvale once more
By Jesse Hamilton The light towers at the Brisbane Valley Rattlers AFC home fields in Fernvale are shining bright once more following the completion of repairs on 21 May. The repairs come after a 23 April act of vandalism threatened to derail the club’s 2024 campaign, where vandals cut through electrical cables on several light towers at the ground. The act of vandalism prohibited night-time access for the club’s home games and training.
Salvos 60th Red Shield Lockyer launch
By Jesse Hamilton With the demand for their services and support greater than ever, The Salvation Army launched its 60th Red Shield Appeal in the Lockyer Valley on 30 May at a fundraising breakfast function held at Porters Plainland Hotel. The fundraiser launch fostered community engagement by highlighting volunteering opportunities and encouraging donations while also spotlighting the vital role Salvation Army services have played in the Lockyer Valley.
Entertainment galore for Esk 120th
By Jesse Hamilton The Esk Show celebrated its 120th anniversary in grand fashion from 24 to 25 May, offering two days of endless entertainment that delighted both residents and visitors. The show’s Friday program featured the new Stockman’s Challenge competition for junior and open rides as well as camp drafting, which boasted 84 competitors.
Lockyer High Reconciliation Week carnival
By Jesse Hamilton Ten schools from across the Lockyer Valley and Darling Downs regions united for the inaugural Reconciliation Week Inter-schools Touch Carnival on 29 May. The first of its kind in Queensland, the touch tournament aimed to close the gap and remind students of the urgency of teaming together to promote reconciliation between cultures.
Kilcoy Auxiliary celebrates its annual fete
By Jesse Hamilton Kilcoy Hospital Auxiliary volunteers and local community members united for the hospital’s annual fundraising fete on 25 May. The annual fundraising event raised funds for Kilcoy Hospital patients, staff and family members through a prize raffle and market stall sales. Kilcoy Hospital Auxiliary vice president Denise Modistach said it was amazing to witness the incredible number of local stallholders raising their hand to support the hospital.
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