A new grassroots group called Voices for Bendigo has been established to give residents of Greater Bendigo and surrounding areas another way to be heard. Co-convenor Claire Flanagan-Smith said people feel frustrated with party politics and that the group is not backing any candidate at the coming Victorian election. The group is running a community survey, with findings to be announced later. A community launch event, Voices in the Park, will be held on Saturday 24 October in the Library Gardens from 11am to 2pm.
Handbells in Peel is opening its doors to new members with a free introductory course in English handbell ringing. The beginners Christmas carol class starts on Thursday, October 22, at Arcadia Waters Lifestyle Village. Participants will learn ringing techniques and music reading, and all instruments and equipment are provided. Musical director Carol Davis, who has played for more than 20 years, says the group suits anyone who loves music. The group began in 2010 and has 17 members who perform at villages, aged-care centres and community groups.
The Tamborine Mountain Bushwalkers recently completed a 15km coastal walk from Currumbin to Point Danger. Walkers saw whales and visited sculptures at the SWELL Sculpture Festival, with some stopping early to explore the artworks. The group says hiking can mean walking slowly and enjoying the surroundings and companions. Its next walk, on October 10, is a 10km return trip to Upper Ballanjui Falls from Binna Burra in Lamington National Park. The group meets on the second Saturday of each month.
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The Stanwell Park CWA celebrated its 80th birthday at its branch this year. The branch held its CWA International Day with Fiji as the country of study. Year 2 pupils from Stanwell Park Public School performed a story about the arrival of the first people to the Fijian islands. A local Crime Prevention Squad presentation covered emergency contacts and scam and fraud warnings. Members were given a safety guide for older adults. The branch meets at its hall on the first Tuesday of each month at 10am.
The Beechmountain CWA held a Queen of Hearts High Tea to celebrate strawberries, its product of the year. Members and friends gathered for the event, which had a Wonderland theme and hand-crafted decorations. International Officer Emily dressed as the Queen, while President Kim acted as her foot soldier. Food included home-made strawberry jam, strawberry and pear relish and marmalade. The branch said members enjoyed catching up with old and new friends.
