Queensland is on alert for its first cyclone of the season, named Jasper, after experiencing large hailstones in the Gympie region. The Bureau of Meteorology has tracked the tropical low from the Solomon Sea, which has developed into a category 1 cyclone and may intensify to a category 4. Gympie residents reported hail up to 10cm in diameter, causing them to seek shelter for their vehicles during the storm. Meteorologist Alison Osborne noted the unusual timing of the cyclone in an El Nino year.

Multiple fire crews have been battling a grassfire near Tarong National Park since 3pm Saturday. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) has issued a 'prepare to leave' warning for properties in the area. Residents are advised to follow their bushfire survival plans, prepare to leave quickly, and stay informed through QFES updates. The fire poses risks to properties, may impact the community later today, and could affect power, water, and mobile phone services. Roads may also be closed or impacted.

Multiple fire crews have been battling a grassfire near Tarong National Park since 3pm Saturday. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) have issued a 'prepare to leave' warning for properties near Kingaroy Cooyar Rd and Upper Yarraman Maidenwell Rd. Residents are advised to follow their bushfire survival plans, prepare to leave quickly, and stay informed through QFES updates. The fire poses risks to properties, and smoke may impact visibility and breathing. Roads and services may be affected as the fire progresses.

Fire crews contained a large, dangerous fire in Wongi State Forest, which threatened campgrounds and nearby properties. The blaze was brought under control by Saturday evening, and fire management was handed over to Queensland Parks and Wildlife for monitoring. An emergency warning was issued for the impacted area, prompting evacuations with the assistance of Queensland Police. The article provides detailed instructions for residents on how to stay safe and prepare for potential impacts.

In early 2020, protests erupted around a Kangaroo Point hotel turned-detention centre with around 120 refugees and asylum seekers locked inside by the Australian government. 'Let Them Hug' is a short film by Jemma that follows a Somalian family fighting to be reunited after 7 years in immigration detention. The film highlights the emotional and social impact of Australia's refugee policies, emphasizing the need for compassion and community support. The filmmaker, Jemma, is an emerging talent from West End, Brisbane, who uses her work to advocate for social change. The story of Saif, a detainee separated from his family, serves as a poignant example of the human cost of these policies. The film has garnered significant attention and support, reflecting a broader community desire for more humane treatment of refugees.

A driver in Queensland became bogged at a popular beach after failing to consider the tides. The incident, which occurred near Rainbow Beach, involved a Holden four-wheel-drive that was caught in the waves while trying to navigate the sand. Drone footage captured by local identity Rob 'The Ice Man' showed the vehicle being tossed around. Darren Daniels from Rainbow Beach Towing later extracted the car, noting the challenging conditions due to recent landslides and the incoming tide. With school holidays starting, Daniels anticipates more such incidents and advises drivers to check conditions and tides.

Queensland Fire and Emergency Services have issued an emergency warning for residents in specific areas of Kinkuna and Coonbarr to evacuate immediately due to a bushfire. The fire is expected to impact Palm Beach Road and conditions could worsen rapidly. Nine fire crews and aircraft are responding, while police assist with doorknocking. Residents are advised to follow their bushfire survival plan, avoid certain roads, wear protective clothing, and stay informed through QFES and local media. Power and services may be disrupted, and the area could become isolated.

Multiple fire crews have been responding to a grassfire near Tarong National Park since 3pm Saturday. With 12 crews on the ground, the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) has issued a 'prepare to leave' warning for the area, advising residents to remain alert and ready to act. Residents are urged to follow their bushfire survival plans, prepare for evacuation, and stay informed through QFES's website and social media. Properties are at risk, and the fire is expected to impact the community, with potential road closures, power, water, and mobile service disruptions. Safety measures include avoiding Upper Yarraman Maidenwell Rd, charging mobile devices, preparing medications, and moving flammable items away from homes.

Michael Denahy, a 56-year-old man from North Burnett, has been missing for five days since last being seen in Eidsvold. He was driving a blue Ford Falcon with the registration 565ZUV, believed to be heading to Victoria. Concerns are raised due to his condition which requires medication. Police are seeking assistance to locate him.

Police are seeking public assistance to locate Michael Denahy, a 56-year-old man from North Burnett, who has been missing for five days. Last seen driving away from Moreton St in Eidsvold on August 8, Denahy is believed to be heading to Victoria in a blue Ford Falcon. His family and friends are concerned for his well-being as he requires medication. Authorities urge anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact them.

Celebrates the achievements of former high school duxes from the Gympie region, highlighting their academic successes and subsequent career advancements. Encourages the community to nominate former duxes who have gone on to achieve their dreams and make significant contributions to their fields or communities.

Folk Electronica Duo Zemzemeh provided live musical scores to four classic short films as part of GOMA’s City Symphony series. The event showcased the interaction between city structures and residents through films from New York, Stockholm, and Tokyo, accompanied by Zemzemeh's blend of technology and tradition. The series, curated by Rosie Hays, challenges local musicians to recompose scores for city-centric films, encouraging audiences to reflect on how cities shape individual experiences.

A measles case identified in the community prompted the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service to issue a health alert for Gympie, the Mary Valley, and Noosa. Locations of concern include a childcare centre in Noosaville and venues in Imbil. People who visited these areas during specified times are advised to monitor their health. Measles is highly infectious, and symptoms include fever, lethargy, and a blotchy red rash. Individuals born before 1966 or vaccinated are generally considered immune. The measles vaccine is free for people born during or since 1966, and infants from six months can be vaccinated if traveling.

A measles case in the community prompted the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service to issue a health alert for Gympie, the Mary Valley, and Noosa. Locations of concern include a childcare centre in Noosaville and venues in Imbil. People who visited these areas are advised to monitor their health. Measles is highly infectious, with symptoms appearing around 10 days post-infection. Individuals born before 1966 or vaccinated are generally immune. The measles vaccine is free for those born during or since 1966, and infants from six months can be vaccinated if traveling. Further information is available on the Queensland Health website.

A measles case in the community prompted the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service to issue a health alert for Gympie, the Mary Valley, and Noosa. Locations of concern include a childcare centre in Noosaville and venues in Imbil. People who visited these areas during specified times are advised to monitor their health. Measles is highly infectious, and symptoms include fever, lethargy, and a blotchy red rash. Individuals born before 1966 or vaccinated are generally considered immune. The measles vaccine is free for those born during or since 1966, and infants from six months can be vaccinated if traveling.

The article discusses the resurgence of hanfu, traditional Chinese clothing, in modern China, particularly in Chengdu. Zhang Qinglin and Chen Lijun are among the individuals who have embraced hanfu as a way to connect with their heritage. The movement, which has grown significantly over the past 15 years, is driven by a desire to rediscover ancient Chinese culture and traditions. While some scholars like Kevin Carrico view the trend as nationalistic, others, including Philip Jun Fang, believe it's an oversimplification and that the reasons for wearing hanfu vary. The hanfu community has expanded, with organizations like Sichuan Hanfu promoting it as both an academic subject and mainstream fashion. The article also touches on the commercial aspect, noting the success of hanfu sales on platforms like Taobao. The piece includes insights from various hanfu enthusiasts who find a sense of identity, community, and expression through the garments.

The article celebrates the first year of school for prep students in the Gympie region, highlighting the importance of this milestone in early childhood. It lists all the participating schools and mentions that subscribers will have access to an exclusive online photo gallery capturing these moments.

The article celebrates the first year of school for prep students in the Gympie region, highlighting the importance of this milestone in early childhood. It lists all the participating schools and mentions that subscribers will have access to an exclusive online photo gallery capturing these moments.

News Corp is celebrating the first steps of children entering school in 2023 with special galleries of the Gympie region classes. The feature includes a photo gallery of Gympie region 2022 Prep school students and highlights the importance of prep in developing independence, confidence, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Subscribers will have exclusive access to an online prep photo gallery to be published on March 15. A list of participating schools from the Gympie region is provided.

The restaurant industry is grappling with a severe labor shortage, rising costs, and heightened consumer expectations. The quit rate in the industry has surged, leading to increased job openings. Concurrently, inflation, energy costs, and supply chain issues are exacerbating the situation. Restaurants must adopt advanced hygiene technologies, such as air purifiers and sensors, to ensure cleanliness and food safety, which can also improve employee health and reduce foodborne illnesses. Investing in these technologies can prevent significant financial losses and reputation damage from foodborne illness outbreaks.

Chinese students in Australia share their experiences of being caught between China's strict COVID-19 policies and Australia's approach to the pandemic. They discuss the impact on their education, personal lives, and future plans, with many expressing homesickness and uncertainty. The students' stories highlight the cultural and educational differences between China and Australia, as well as instances of discrimination faced abroad.

Change Makers: The Documentary, a collaborative project between Woodridge State High School students and the University of Queensland's journalism school, tells stories of hope and inspiration. Navin Sam Regi, a multimedia journalist, played a significant role in the project, which aimed to counter negative media portrayals of the Woodridge community. The documentary received positive attention, including from Federal Member Jim Chalmers. Regi emphasizes the importance of collaborative storytelling, a principle that continues to shape his work, including his latest project, My Little Sunshine, which explores grief through mixed media.

Terri Butler MP did not attend a community forum in West End but responded to questions from community organizations and voters via video. The topics addressed included housing affordability, social housing, refugees, the religious discrimination bill, cost of living, small business, and climate and disaster preparedness. The video responses were provided without captions due to time constraints.

Max Chandler-Mather addresses community questions on various topics including housing affordability, social housing, refugees, the religious discrimination bill, cost of living, small business, and climate and disaster preparedness. The forum was organized by the West End Community Association and the Westender after other candidates chose not to attend. Christine Schindler, a visual journalist and educator, authored the article.

Instant Cafe, No Boundaries on Boundary is an anti-gentrification short film reflecting West End's social history. Created by CONNECT Youth Action and Street Arts, the film critiques the impact of gentrification marked by the arrival of a franchise cafe and mobile phone usage in the 1990s. Ann McLean and Kim S, key contributors, describe the community's response through creative protest and cultural activities. The narrative underscores the area's alternative lifestyle, community spirit, and the ongoing influence of collective energy in West End.

Javvé Sévvom (The Third Space) by Devina Saberi is a documentary film that pays homage to her Iranian grandparents who migrated to Australia via India. The film delves into the concept of the 'third space,' showcasing how her grandparents have blended their diverse cultural backgrounds into their life in Goonellabah, New South Wales. Devina Saberi, an emerging filmmaker from Brisbane, created this film to explore immigrant realities and cultural integration. The film received accolades at the Nimbin Youth Film Festival, highlighting the importance of cultural diversity and personal storytelling in documentary filmmaking. Devina continues to work on projects that make information accessible and resonate with diverse audiences.

‘Meet the Wallers’ is a documentary directed by Jim Stevens, chronicling the life of painter Mark Waller and his wife Nicole over 20 years in Lennox Heads. The film captures Mark's initial international aspirations, subsequent local successes, and personal challenges, including a brain tumor diagnosis. Nicole's candid reflections provide a poignant narrative on the struggles and triumphs of family life and artistic pursuit in Australia. The documentary delves into themes of economic stability in art and the meaning of success, resonating with artists and audiences alike.

Mark Doyle, a local filmmaker based in West End, Australia, created 'Climate Witness', a series of seven video stories, to support the 2020 Climate Emergency Summit. The videos were made in response to the devastating bushfires in Queensland and New South Wales, and the perceived inaction of the Federal Parliament. Doyle's work is informed by his background in mental health and his involvement with 350.org. He emphasizes the importance of reflective practice in storytelling and advises filmmakers to be familiar with their equipment and consider part-time work for financial stability. The article also mentions other filmmakers who inspire Doyle, such as Laura Poitras and Ken Burns.

Westender Docs is a new monthly column dedicated to celebrating and highlighting documentary films from the local community. Each month, a short documentary will be featured along with a profile of the filmmaker. Submissions are open to filmmakers at any stage of their career, with a preference for stories from the 4101 area. The column aims to provide a platform for local stories, emphasizing the importance of local media in fostering a diverse and inclusive community narrative.