Bayside in spring:Saturdays bring their beauty, joy

Image: Glorious Moreton Bay, courtesy of www.louisedenisenko.com/

A FRIEND who is losing his sight has gained comfort from a simple writing project that he says has lifted his spirits as the darkness descends. While still able to peck at his computer keyboard, he has described the 10 visions he will keep in his mind – images that the cruel condition cannot erase. The list touched my heart. It's a journey through his life, from the stunning beauty of a frosty winter morning in the Queensland inland, where he grew up, to the experiences and loved ones that enriched and shaped his life. Even his faithful old pooch gets a spot. My mate recommends such a 'top 10' project not only as a form of therapy for someone in crisis but also as a technique that anyone can use to honour their special memories.

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THE beauty of Moreton Bay as the sun rises on a Saturday in spring would be near the top of my list. That takes some beating. It's just so inspiring, especially after a tough week, with the building anticipation of finding a bargain at a garage sale. Many thousands of Redlanders share this sentiment, and at The Redland Times we are proud to contribute to those special Saturdays with the 'definitive guide' to the Redland bargain hunt. Tomorrow, not far from the bay, a hum of happy chatter will surround the Link Road, Victoria Point, office of a community group that has been busy preparing for its garage sale. Meals on Wheels Victoria Point and Redland Bay is also about to celebrate its 40th anniversary; the service started in March 1974.

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PRESIDENT Louise Denisenko says clients include pensioners, people recovering from accidents, surgery and illness or those with a disability. Although the meals are delivered on weekdays, frozen meals are available for weekends. "The cost is just $8 to receive a cooked nutritious meal, made fresh that morning, consisting of a soup, hot meal, dessert and juice delivered to the door with a friendly smile," she says. "Currently approximately 400 meals per week are delivered by volunteer drivers to Victoria Point, Redland Bay, Thornlands and the bay islands," she says.

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LOUISE says clients need neither paperwork nor medical referral. "It’s just simply a phone call to the office on 3207 7126 weekdays." The "energised and focused committee" includes vice-president Ros Stowers, secretary Jan Riggs and treasurer Judy Hull. "It’s inspirational to see the commitment of local volunteers, some of whom have been assisting here for many years," she says. The team will be 'on deck' tomorrow. The bureau forecasts a fine spring Saturday.

This column appeared in The Redland Times in September.