By Member for Waterford Shannon Fentiman
Tragedy in our community
Like many across our community, I was deeply saddened by the death of 27-year-old Djuarn Baker-Adams following an alleged domestic and family violence incident at Slacks Creek.
My thoughts are with Djuarn’s family, friends and loved ones, and with all those in our Logan community who have been impacted by this tragedy.
Her death comes amid the devastating loss of four women in just 45 days. Each of these women had a life, a family and a future, and their deaths reinforce the urgent need to address domestic and family violence in our community.
I will continue advocating for proper funding for domestic and family violence prevention and support services, particularly after $40 million in funding cuts were revealed during state budget estimates.
If you are in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).
For support, go to 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732 1800) or respect.org.au; DVConnect Womensline 1800 811 811, dvconnect.org/womensline/; DVConnect Mensline 1800 600 636, dvconnect.org/mensline/, Men’s Referral Service – national helpline for men who use violence 1300 766 491; ntv.org.au/, Be There App – domestic violence bystander support app Search “Be There” on the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Logan’s housing forum
Housing is one of the biggest challenges facing Queenslanders right now and, here in Logan, we are seeing the pressure firsthand.
I recently had the privilege of joining my Labor colleagues at a housing forum here in Logan, where we heard firsthand from locals about the challenges they’re facing in the housing market.
Stressed, hopeless and frustrated – those were some of the feelings we heard from people struggling with rising rents, housing insecurity, homelessness and the increasing cost of keeping a roof over their heads.
These stories matter because good policy starts with listening to the people experiencing these challenges firsthand.
You can complete our Housing Affordability for Queenslanders survey through the link in my social media bio.
Lighthouse Care
I’m always glad to spend time with the wonderful team at Lighthouse Care, and their Good Food Festival was another great opportunity to lend a hand and support local families.
Lighthouse has come a long way since founder Debbie Hill and her family first started delivering bread to people doing it tough. Today, they provide affordable groceries and vital food relief to thousands of families in our community.
It was great to get involved again by helping pack grocery boxes and donating ten $25 trolleys to give local families a little extra support with their groceries.
Well done to Debbie and the whole Lighthouse Care team on a terrific festival and, more importantly, on the difference you make in our community every day.
Regal Waters visit
One of my favourite things to do is host morning teas at our local retirement villages. It’s a great opportunity to sit down over a cuppa, catch up with residents and hear firsthand about the issues that are important to them.
I recently joined Member for Forde Rowan Holzberg at Regal Waters at Bethania, where we had a lovely morning with residents.
I’d been looking forward to a scone with jam and cream, but we were well and truly spoiled with sandwiches and homemade quiches as well.
A big thank you to everyone who joined us.
Logan steps up
Team Waterford recently took on 41 flights of stairs to raise money for Firefighters Cancer Foundation Australia and support firefighters battling cancer.
Firefighters put themselves in harm’s way to protect our communities, and unfortunately their work can also expose them to carcinogens that put them at greater risk of developing certain cancers.
I’m incredibly proud of everyone who joined Team Waterford, donated or supported the climb.
A special shoutout to Louie from my office for getting Team Waterford involved. Louie does so much for our local community, and this was another great initiative for an important cause.
Mabel Park on stage
A big shoutout to Daisha from Mabel Park State High School, who did our Logan community incredibly proud when she took to the stage on The Voice Australia.
I’d also had the privilege of hearing Daisha sing at a local community event, so it was wonderful to see her talent recognised on the national stage.
What a fantastic achievement for this talented young Logan local. Congratulations, Daisha.
As always, if you need assistance or support with any State Government issue, please do not hesitate to contact my electorate office. My team and I are always here to help.
Shoot us an email at waterford@parliament.qld.gov.au or give us a call on (07) 3445 3100
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