AS we head into the second week of the school term, parents are breathing a sigh of relief, while many teachers have already marked the Easter holidays on their calendar.
We have some amazing schools in our city, that over the years have produced high achievers in all aspects of society, and who knows what the future holds for our current crop.
All the best to those starting their journey, those on their way, and those in their final year, and remember to chase your dream.

With a dream, anything is possible and Steve ‘Dodger’ Rogers is living his, having just umpired the Men’s Hockey World Cup Final.
The Norths hockey legend has shown that you can achieve on the biggest stage.
When I was growing up, Hockeyroo Barry Dancer was our neighbour, when he hung up his boots, he went on to coach the National team.
With so much sporting royalty from our city, I’d love to see a Sports Museum to honour our elite athletes and stars.
I think it’s a shame that we have so many champions that have competed at the highest level from our city with nothing but a name on a board at North Ipswich.
A museum honouring the exploits of Ash Barty, Ali Brigganshaw, Alfie Langer, Craig McDermott, Shane Watson, Leah Neale and Mollie O’Callaghan would be amazing.
While most have heard of this current crop, what about Alec Gibbs the first captain of the Socceroos and there are many others.
We have a sporting history that is arguably the best in Australia for a small city, and I’d love to see it on display and celebrated.

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS
Congratulations to Kholo resident Jill Costello on being recognised with an OAM for her work with “ManUp – For Prostate Cancer”, which she started with her late husband Brian. As a prostate cancer survivor, I appreciate her cause and applaud her work.
Local QAS Officer Mark Nugent was also honoured on Australia Day with an Ambulance Service Medal.
CORNER STORES
Back in the day convenience stores were dotted throughout suburbia.
Sadly, they are an icon of times past, but I love how many have been repurposed.
‘Wobble Head Curries’ have set up an Indian Restaurant in the old butchers at Challinor Street Sadler’s Crossing, and they are looking at hosting regular ‘street parties’.
My grandma had a store at Holmes Street North Ipswich which now is home to ‘Kick Hair’ and ‘True Grit Coffee’.
If we want these little niche businesses to survive, we need to support them.
I was disappointed to hear that ‘Fenton’s Fired Up’ has served his last meals after 22 years in business.
Fenton has served me many meals over the years, and I’d like to say thank you for the fine food culture you helped establish, and I wish my mate and his wife Lisa all the best in their future endeavours.
With a hot and humid week ahead of us, stay hydrated, have a good one , and remember to support ‘local’ whenever you can.