In this episode of "Talk of the Town," we sit down with Andy Almond, a key committee member of the Moreton Bay Road Runners and the volunteer coordinator for the Jetty 2 Jetty Half Marathon & Fun Run. Andy shares his journey with the running club, the vital role he plays in organizing one of Queensland's most beloved running events, and the incredible community spirit that drives it. We dive into the history and impact of the Jetty 2 Jetty event, the behind-the-scenes efforts that make it a success, and exciting plans for the future. Whether you're a runner, a community enthusiast, or just love a good story, this episode offers a fascinating look at the heart of Moreton Bay's running scene.

The Moreton Bay Road Runners is a running club based in the Moreton Bay region, dedicated to helping members of all ages and fitness levels enjoy running and walking and achieve their personal goals. They offer comprehensive support for becoming more active and training for events, from 5km races to marathons. The club provides personalized training plans, coached strength and speed sessions, and nutritional advice, all facilitated by Queensland Athletics certified running coaches.

Meeting Schedule:

• Weekdays: Tuesdays and Thursdays at various locations around the Redcliffe Peninsula, North Lakes, and Sandgate.
• Weekends: Weekend runs start at the Redcliffe Jetty.

The club also has an active social calendar, fostering community and camaraderie among members and their families.

The Jetty 2 Jetty Half Marathon & Fun Run, started in 1986, is a premier event in Queensland's running calendar, renowned as the state’s longest-running and most scenic fun run. Organized by Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism (MBRIT) in partnership with the Moreton Bay Road Runners, the event attracts over 5,000 participants annually.

The 2024 event takes place on Sunday 21 July. You can find out more and register here.

Event Features:

• IAAF AIMS Certification: The course meets international standards for distance and quality, appealing to serious runners seeking qualifying times and personal bests.
• Categories:
• 21km (Half Marathon): The main event, offering a challenging and beautiful coastal route.
• 10km: Ideal for intermediate runners.
• 10km Wheelchair: Ensuring inclusivity for all athletes.
• 5km: Suitable for beginners or those preferring a shorter distance.
• 3km: Perfect for families and younger participants, encouraging community involvement and fitness.
• 
  

The event is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, community spirit, and the stunning natural beauty of Redcliffe. It has become a beloved tradition, promoting fitness, community engagement, and the Moreton Bay region as a premier destination for sports and tourism. Participants of all ages and abilities come together for a day of athletic achievement, camaraderie, and fun.

We hope you enjoy this week’s episode - let’s chat the Talk of the Town.

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In this week’s episode, Von and Steve sit down with Mindy Robinson, the dynamic and passionate organizer behind the Eatons Hill Bike Bus, a community initiative that helps children safely ride their bikes to school. Operating on two mornings a week, the Eatons Hill Bike Bus follows a set route with three designated stops and includes fun music along the way to keep the kids engaged. 

Mindy, a mother of three boys and a university student studying Honours in Dietetics, launched this project to promote physical activity, road safety awareness, and community engagement among local school children. With a Blue Card and first aid training, Mindy ensures the safety and well-being of all participants. The Bike Bus has received positive feedback from the community, reducing traffic congestion around the school and providing a fun, active start to the children's day.

Tune in to hear about:

• The origins of the Bike Bus and Mindy's motivation
• The challenges and triumphs along the way
• The amazing impact this initiative has had on the community
• Mindy's future plans and advice for others

Also in this week’s podcast…

• Community composting station in Arana Hills
• Tax time!
• Brisbane City Council Cultural Heritage Public Art Trail
• Running Creek Camping
• Thrift Shopping 🛍️ 
• Dayboro Show
• Eatons Hill Hotel BEER FEST

We hope you enjoy this week’s episode - let’s chat the Talk of the Town. 

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In this week’s episode, we sit down with Nick Steiner, the visionary Founder and CEO of the Mini Farm Project. Nick shares the inspiring story behind the creation of the Mini Farm Project and its mission to combat food insecurity by building a network of charity farms across Queensland and Australia.

We dive deep into the operations of the Samford Farm Precinct, the flagship farm nestled in Brisbane's north-west, which serves as a food resilience hub and community centre. Nick shares how the Samford Farm Precinct showcases innovative food production techniques and hosts the weekly Farm Gate event every Saturday, offering fresh, spray-free produce to the local community. Nick discusses the importance of sustainable agriculture, community engagement, and collaboration with partners like Meals on Wheels. He highlights the role of the Farm Gate in not only providing affordable produce but also supporting the Mini Farm Project’s broader mission to feed Aussies in need, educate young people, and build community through social programs.

Nick provides valuable insights into how listeners can get involved and support their efforts to create a more food-secure Australia. Join us for this enlightening conversation and learn how the Mini Farm Project is sowing the seeds of change, one farm at a time.

Also in this week’s podcast…a special edition for all things School Holiday Fun! Things to see and do for all ages in the north-western suburbs and beyond.

As the winter school holidays are upon us, we're here to help you plan an exciting and memorable break for the whole family. From outdoor adventures and educational outings to creative workshops and special performances, we've curated a list of the best activities for all ages. Whether you're looking to explore the natural beauty of D’Aguilar National Park, get creative at Pine Rivers Art Gallery, enjoy indoor fun at Chipmunks Playland & Café, or visit one of the local farms in the area - there's something for everyone. Tune in and discover the top things to see and do in the north-western suburbs of Brisbane and beyond!

We hope you enjoy this week’s episode - let’s chat the Talk of the Town.

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In this episode, we sit down with Mel Redsell, the inspiring founder of A Brave Life, a North Brisbane-based charity dedicated to supporting vulnerable mothers and their newborns. Mel shares her deeply personal journey from being a teenage mother in Townsville to becoming a registered nurse and midwife. She talks about the challenges she faced, including overcoming domestic violence and societal stigma, and how these experiences fueled her determination to create a support network for others in similar situations.

We delve into the founding of A Brave Life, exploring how Mel started the organisation in her spare bedroom and grew it into a vital resource for thousands of families across Queensland. Mel explains the core programs of A Brave Life, including the Baby Bundle program which provides essential items and ongoing support to mothers in need, particularly in rural and remote areas.

Throughout the conversation, Mel highlights the importance of community support, partnerships, and the dedicated team that drives the organization forward. She shares heartwarming success stories and discusses the systemic changes needed to better support vulnerable families in Australia.

Mel also offers valuable advice for young mothers facing similar challenges. She emphasizes the power of resilience, determination, and the impact one can make through compassionate action.

Tune in to hear Mel's inspiring story and learn how A Brave Life is making a significant difference in the lives of mothers and their babies. Discover ways you can get involved and support this incredible organization.

Also in this week’s podcast:

• Our monthly real estate segment, PROPERTY PULSE, brought to you by our sponsor, The Whitehead & Crump Team from Harcourts Solutions. In Property Pulse, we dive deep into the latest trends, insights, and tips in the ever-evolving world of real estate - with a focus on local north-west suburbs.
• Ferny Grove markets have moved to Brookside Shopping Centre from the Sunday 7th July 2024 
• Rental and housing crisis in QLD and a report by the Queensland Council for Social Services 
• Destination Spotlight - I take you for a tour through our local wine regions
• Steve throws us back to the history of Cash’s Crossing.
• Plus a bunch of upcoming events including those in the school holidays.

We hope you enjoy this week’s episode - let’s chat the Talk of the Town. 

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Dads. Kids. Coffee. And maybe a playground. It sounds simple, because it is simple.

Dads Groups are a gathering of new fathers meeting together weekly with their kids. The peer-to-peer approach of Dads Groups create an evidenced based and effective framework for support — something that is often missing from the existing fatherhood experience in Australia.

Dads Group is run by an incredible team who make it all happen. And this week on the podcast we sit down with Dads Group Business Development Manager, the Dads Group Podcast Creative Producer and local Mitchelton Dad, Adam Burns. 

We dive into the inspiring story behind Dads Group and its mission, how Dads Group is transforming the lives of new fathers through community and connection and why supporting fathers builds stronger families. 👨‍👧‍👦❤️

Don't miss this insightful conversation about the importance of fatherhood, mental health, and community. 🌟

To get connected with local Dads Groups:

Dads of Ashgrove - https://www.facebook.com/groups/dadsofashgrove

Dads of the Hills District - https://www.facebook.com/groups/941949234601922/

Also in this week’s podcast:

• City of Moreton Bay Drive-in Movie in the Park
• Guide Dogs Queensland PAWgust Fundraising Challenge
• Kidspace Playground in Chermside
• The defibrillator program in Moreton Bay parks
• Best Local Bakery Results  
• Qld Public Transport Trial - 50 cent flat-rate rides
• Flashback - Ferny Grove Tile Factory

And so much more!!! We hope you enjoy this week’s episode - let’s chat the Talk of the Town. 

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In this week’s episode we chat with Lieutenant Holly Boubouras, our very own local girl turned navy meteorologist. Lieutenant Boubouras grew up in McDowall and attended St Rita’s College. She is now a meteorologist from the Maritime Geospatial Warfare Unit and was deployed to Casey Station in Antarctica over the past summer. We chat about her pathway to the Navy, survival training for living in freezing temperatures, daily life in Antarctica as the on-site meteorologist, what happens when you get the weather forecast wrong and where to from here in her Navy career. 

At the young age of 27, Lieutenant Boubouras is an incredibly talented young woman that has already achieved so much in her career. An inspiring and eye opening conversation.

Also in this week’s podcast:

• Our News, Your Voice Campaign
• Insurance Provider Health check
• Eatons Hill Bike Bus
• Samford Farm Precinct Farm Gate
• Qld Kids Fishing Classic hosted by 2 Bent Rods
• Lotus Rising Yoga Therapy at Picabeen Community Centre 
• Hydrotherapy at Ferny Hills Aquatic Centre 
• Kumbartcho Sanctuary 
• Dayboro Show
• The Fox Australian Supercross Championship

And so much more! We hope you enjoy this week’s episode - let’s chat the Talk of the Town. 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode we’re excited to feature local Samford resident and business owner, world-renowned chef, television personality and local produce ambassador, Alastair McLeod.

Alastair is celebrated not only for his unbridled enthusiasm for all things food, his quick wit, and his gift of the gab but also for his dedication to using local and sustainable ingredients and for his deep connection to our community. 

You would have seen him on Channel Seven’s lifestyle program Weekender, Network 10’s Ready Steady Cook or down at the local Samford farmer’s market. 

In this episode, we'll explore Alastair's journey from his early days to becoming a culinary star all over the world. We'll discuss how his local roots influence his cooking and his dedication to showcasing the best of our region's produce. We chat about some of Alastair's favourite local dishes, what he cooks with his family and the challenges and triumphs he's experienced as a chef and business owner of Al’FreshCo - a boutique catering company.

So, whether you're a seasoned foodie or just love a good yarn, sit back and enjoy this fascinating conversation with our very own local culinary hero, Chef Alastair McLeod. 

Also in this week’s podcast:

We chat with Kylie Harries, Coordinator of the 2024 Samford and Surrounds Arts Trail and Open Studios. The 10th annual events takes place over the first four weekends in June. Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm. This year, 46 talented artists across 23 studios and art spaces are excited to welcome you locals from far and wide. You can find out more about the month long event and download a Studio Guide here

We discus school holiday events at Moreton Bay Libraries, the Dayboro Show, Ellendale Community Grants, Australian Supercross Championship and the International Fairy Day at the Kumbartcho Sanctuary

And so much more!!! We hope you enjoy this week’s episode - let’s chat the Talk of the Town. 

Local businesses and organisations Alastair mentions in this episode, with links:

OzHarvest Brisbane

Al’FreshCo

Samford Harvest

Manorina Farm

Blue Dog Farm

REKO Australia 

Little Tree Bake and Brew House

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In this week’s episode, we chat with Lee Martin, founder of 'Style Your Way', a sustainable pre-loved fashion boutique located in Ferny Hills.

"Styling you, supporting our community" is her mantra and over the past seven years Lee has created a community around pre-loved fashion and giving back, donating a percentage of its profit to Hummingbird House - Queensland’s only children’s hospice that provides specialised paediatric palliative care services. 

Lee’s background is in fashion and her passion is working with women to discover their individual style, what suits their body shape, and the right hues for their complexion.

We chat sustainable, slow fashion, finding your personal style, decluttering and simplifying your wardrobe, what it takes to follow your passion and build a business and the impact of giving back to the local community and supporting charities in need. 

You can visit Style Your Way boutique at Shop 1, 18-20 Ferny Way, Ferny Hills. You can also follow Style Your Way on their socials - https://www.facebook.com/leestyleyourway.

Also in this week’s episode:

• Bunnings D.I.Y Workshops 
• Walkabout Creek Discovery centre
• Albany Creek Scouts Group
• Keperra Lions PCYC Hills District - Braking the Cycle Program
• Cost of living 
• Bradbury Park - Architecture Awards
• Murphy’s Dairy Residence.
• Major events this coming weekend, Hills Carnivale and Dayboro Day Festival

And so much more!!! We hope you enjoy this week’s episode - let’s chat the Talk of the Town.

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It’s the month of May which means the Hills (District) comes alive with sounds of The Hills Festival! Spanning the entire month of May, the City of Moreton Bay’s Hills Festival brings exciting and fun, family events to the leafy suburbs. This week we chat with Councillor Matt Constance (Division 10, City of Moreton Bay) about what's happening, how to get involved plus what he loves about being a local Councillor. 

Matt talks about his favourite part of the festival, the Hills Carnivale, which brings to a close the four weeks of incredible events. The annual Hills Carnivale on Saturday 25th May at George Willmore Park is a free entry event with a whole host of activities for little kids and big kids alike.

Kids will have lots to keep them busy with amusement rides, workshops and games, and roving entertainers to enjoy. Mum and Dad can wander through the dozens of lifestyle markets and multicultural food stalls while enjoying the talents of our local musical acts.

See you at the 2024 Hills Carnivale!

Date: Saturday 25th May

Time: 12pm - 7pm

Location: George Willmore Park, Ferny Hills

This week we launch…PROPERTY PULSE, our monthly real estate segment brought to you by our sponsor, The Whitehead & Crump Team from Harcourts Solutions. In Property Pulse, we'll dive deep into the latest trends, insights, and tips in the ever-evolving world of real estate. 

Also in this week’s episode:

• Dawson Parade Community Library and Pantry
• Dodgy Tradies
• The best local places to get fresh fruit and veg: Lawnton Country Markets,
• Carseldine Markets, Redcliffe Markets, Windsor Markets, Sandgate Farmer’s Markets, T-Bones Fresh Food Market, Spray-Free Farmacy, local farms.
• All Abilities Playground, Arana Hills (special scoop about a Stage 2 expansion!)
• Keperra Drive In Theatre
• Dayboro Day
• Twilight Years expo
• Anywhere Festival

And so much more. 🎧 Listen now on your favourite podcast platform and join the conversation. 

ABOUT OUR GUEST: Cr Matthew Constance was elected as Councillor for City of Moreton Bay at the 2016 local government elections. He is the Councillor for Division 10 which encompasses Arana Hills, Bunya, Draper, Everton Hills, Ferny Hills and parts of Albany Creek. 

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May is Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month. This annual initiative aims to raise awareness of domestic and family violence and coercive control, highlight the support services available, and send a clear message that violence in our communities will not be tolerated. The theme for 2024 is It’s in our control to end coercive control.

There are many events happening around Brisbane and Queensland to raise awareness about this issue and one of those is happening in our own backyard. The Moreton Bay Red Ride and Family Fun Day is taking place on Saturday 18th May at the Caboolture Showgrounds. It exists solely to campaign for this very message - to STAND UP against domestic violence. Find out more about the event here - https://redride.org/

In this week’s podcast we chat with dedicated motorcylist, community advocate, and Red Ride committee member Randall Macey. We chat event details, why Randall rides, the importance of raising awareness of domestic and family violence and being a welcome and safe space to start the hard conversations. After riding in the 2022 event and already living within the local area, Randall decided to join the committee and be a part of organising the next ride. He shares his own personal stories and what fires his drive to be part of making this event happen.

This episode is not just about raising awareness; it's about fostering understanding, empathy, and action.

I want to offer a heads-up that our discussion might be triggering for some listeners. We'll be addressing sensitive and potentially distressing content. If you or someone you know may be affected by this discussion, please take care of yourself and consider listening at a time or in a space where you feel safe and supported.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or family violence there is support available. 

1. DVConnect: DVConnect is a statewide telephone service offering free crisis counselling, support, and information for people affected by domestic and family violence. They provide support 24/7.Phone: 1800 811 811 (24 hours, 7 days a week)Website: DVConnect
2. 1800RESPECT: This national sexual assault, domestic, and family violence counselling service provides confidential support for anyone impacted by these issues. They offer online chat support in addition to phone counselling.Phone: 1800 737 732 (24/7)Website: 1800RESPECT
3. Women's Legal Service Queensland: This service provides free legal advice, information, and referrals to women in Queensland who are experiencing domestic violence.Phone: 1800 957 957 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 3 pm)Website: Women's Legal Service Queensland
4. Men's Referral Service: This service provides anonymous and confidential telephone counselling, information, and referrals to men to help them take action to stop using violent and controlling behavior.Phone: 1300 766 491 (Monday to Friday, 9 am to 9 pm)Website: Men's Referral Service

Lifeline Queensland: While Lifeline offers general crisis support, they are also available for individuals experiencing domestic violence who may need someone to talk to immediately.Phone: 13 11 14 (24/7)Website: Lifeline

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