WIN ON BACK FLOW VALVES
After a long campaign by local residents and individuals like Tim Saddington, Paul Crowther, Peter and Carmen Mitchell, and Chris Jacob, the Council has finally decided to install backflow valves to address flooding and the first suburb to be fitted with the devicwes will be New Farm.

The devices are expected to be installed in a matter of weeks.The devices, including backflow valves and flap gates, are also expected to be installed in the Milton/Rosalie area as well.
The devices are expected to cost ratepayers up to $300,000.

A preliminary report into the devices, released by Brisbane City Council in October last year, found up to 3000 Brisbane properties could have been spared during January's floods if backflow prevention devices had been fitted.

FACES OF CHINATOWN
China town Committee president Chiu-Hing Chan, David Hinchliffe and Cathay Club President, Ken Cheung celebrate China Town Silver Anniversary with the launch of David's book, Faces Of Chinatown.

CHINESE NEW YEAR
Help celebrate the Year of the Dragon 2012
by visiting Chinatown, the heart of historic Fortitude Valley the weekend of January 20 - 22. Lots of fireworks, dragon dancing and yum cha.

It has been a great honour to represent Chinatown and the local community as City Councillor for the last 24 years. I have enjoyed taking the photographs for a lasting tribute to this wonderful community in a publication called "Faces of Chinatown" to be launched this week.
Pictured above is Tom Tran, owner and host at Green Tea restaurant.

"Father" of Chinatown, Eddie Lui is one of the many faces featured in the publication.

There is a rich Chinese history in Brisbane going back to the mid-1850s. This book is a brief celebration of the many wonderful business people and characters of Chinatown and the Valley.

Big Issue's 2011 Celebrity Selling Campaign
Coinciding with Anti-Poverty Week (October 17-21), the Big Issue ran a campaign to put the spotlight on their vendors and break down stereotypes around homelessness, poverty and disadvantage.

As a local Councillor I believe it's important to keep in touch with residents. That's why I've established this web site. You can find out the latest news from the Brisbane City Council or just learn a little more about Central Ward. There's also information about upcoming events in our area and across Brisbane.But this web site is about more than just information. I want to know what you think. There are lots of opportunities to let me know your views on a range of issues through my regular surveys and polls, or you can just send me an email. I'd also welcome any suggestions you might have for this web site.

Thanks for visiting!

VALLEY TRADERS HURT BY WALKWAY CLOSURE
The walkway in the Valley still remains closed by the owners of the Walton building. Many traders, particularly in McWhirters have shut their doors. This matter needs to be resolved as quickly as possible. Show your support through the attached link. 

CHINA TOWN AT NIGHT

ANNUAL HAND AWARDS
I was delighted to present the awards at the annual HAND awards in Wilston. HAND supports people with intellectual disabilities, promoting opportunities for individuals to develop skills, access the community and become more independent

New "Gonewalking" group begins ..
Brisbane City Council Community Lifestyle Branch has launched a new "Parkland Social Walkers" group at Roma Street Parklands.
Meeting Point - Palm Garden (entry 12) on the third Sunday of every month.
60min slow-medium paced leisure walk through the gardens with optional coffee stop after. All welcome. Small dogs under 10kg also welcome. Contact Walk Organiser Cheri at camcher@smartchat.net.au for more information or to advise of the day you will be attending.
All ages welcome. Those under 18 will need to be accompanied by an adult.
Bring a hat and water. Wear suitable walking shoes and comfortable clothing

New Laws to help neighbours resolve fence and tree disputes
The Neighbourhood Disputes Resolution Act 2011 which came into effect on 1 Nov will assist in resolving conflicts between neighbours over fences and trees. 

Preparing for dangerous weather - Helping kids feel safe.
The Queensland Government has developed important tips for parents and caregivers to help support children during the dangerous weather season. 

NEW YORK ART EXHIBITION RAISES FUNDS FOR QLD FLOOD VICTIMS
I was honoured to be able to hold an exhibit of paintings at the Australian Consulate in New York - all proceeds of which were donated to the Queensland Flood Appeal. 

Careful when driving in Sydney St ! Look out for young mother and her family!

SAVE $$$$ON YOUR POWER BILL
A new offer is now available through the EzyGreen energy-saving program and could save residents up to $75 a year off their power bill. 

Help provide books and school supplies for PNG schools
A New Farm family with links to our nearest neighbour, Papua New Guinea, have embarked on a project to provide books, school supplies and used laptop computers for PNG schools. 

MARQUEE AVAILABLE FOR COMMUNITY GROUPS
Having a function/fete and would like to borrow a marquee? Central Ward Office now has a marquee available for community use. It's 4.5 x 3m - easy to transport and put up. Contact Central Ward office for more details. Ph 3403 0254 ; central.ward@ecn.net.au

News & views
Interested in knowing what's going on in Central Ward? Here's our news section. 

USEFUL PHONE NUMBERS
Brisbane City Council (07) 3403 8888
State Emergency Services (SES) 132 500
Department of Communities (07) 3274 9911
Energex 13 19 62
Optus 13 13 44
Telstra 13 22 03
Insurance Council 1300 728 228.
RACQ 1300 130 595
Emergency Recovery Payment 1800 173 349.
Residential Tenancy Authority 1300 366 311
Building Services Authority 1300 272 272.
Lifeline Telephone Counselling service -available 24 hours a day 13 11 14
Info line for friends, relatives: 1300 993 191
Queensland HEALTH 13 43 25 84