STATE MEMBER FOR LYTTON
DONATIONS FOR CHRISTMAS HAMPERS
Christmas is a time for giving. Many Bayside families are struggling. You can do your bit to ensure one family has a special day. St Pete’s Pantry has created a food hamper donation list which includes Christmas cake, Christmas pudding, minced pies, tinned ham, biscuits, nibbles and sweets. Please consider purchasing food items to donate to St Pete’s Pantry this Christmas. My office at 100 Edith St, Wynnum, is a food collection point during weekdays (8am to 4pm). Donations are required no later than 15 December.
BUSINESSES CAN NOW APPLY DIRECTLY FOR GRANT
Small and family businesses across the Bayside are now eligible to apply directly for the Secure Communities Partnership Program, which supports the installation of security infrastructure to deter crime and strengthen commercial precincts. Businesses with fewer than 20 employees and turnover under $10 million that have experienced crime in the past three years can apply for grants between $5,000 and $20,000 (excluding GST), with at least a 50% co-contribution required. Applications close on 27 February 2026. To apply, go to www.business.qld.gov.au/running-business/support-services/financial/grants/secure-communities.
BAYSIDE SUNSAFE AWARENESS CAMPAIGN
People living in the Bayside have significantly higher rates of melanoma than the national average. In Wynnum, melanoma rates are 57% higher than the national average. In Lota, it’s a shocking 93% higher. In fact, our area has the third-highest melanoma diagnosis rate in Australia. With Queensland’s strong sun, skin can burn in as little as 10 minutes when UV levels are high. That’s why it’s so important to be SunSmart: slip on protective clothing, slop on SPF50+ sunscreen, slap on a hat, seek shade, and slide on sunglasses. Early detection saves lives, so please check your skin regularly and speak to your doctor about professional skin checks.
OUR EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR
Congratulations to Nicole Waller, Deputy Principal at Guardian Angels’ Wynnum, for winning the Best Educator Award at this year’s Bayside Community Fund Awards night. It’s an award I proudly sponsor every year. We have brilliant schools on the Bayside and it’s hardworking educators like Nicole Waller that make it so. Thanks to everyone who voted for these 2025 BCF Awards. Having co-founded the Bayside Community Fund many years ago, it’s wonderful to see it go from strength to strength every year. The BCF is a perpetual benefit fund, with every dollar donated invested and proceeds directed back to the community and non-profit organisations in the Lytton electorate.
DARLING POINT SPECIAL SCHOOL KIDS SHINE
Every year, I personally handwrite hundreds of Christmas cards for our wonderful Bayside community groups – and each card is proudly designed and produced by the talented students at Darling Point Special School. The students recently delivered their 2025 cards – and they look absolutely fantastic!
Thanks to the students and staff for their creativity and care. I’m so proud to support Darling Point Special School, which is currently undergoing a massive capital works program that delivers new facilities and even greater learning opportunities for local students.
BAYSIDE CHRISTMAS CAROLS
Bayside families are invited to come together for the much-loved Bayside Carols at George Clayton Park, Manly, on Saturday 20 December. This free community celebration features a fantastic Pre-Carols Show from 2pm–6:30pm, followed by the Carols Concert from 6:45pm–8:15pm and a stunning fireworks finale at 8:15pm. With live music, food trucks, and plenty of festive fun, it’s the perfect way to join the community in celebrating the spirit of Christmas in our beautiful Bayside.
PO Box 719, Wynnum QLD 4178
(07) 3915 1100
[email protected]
www.joanpease.com
