Talk of the Town by Echo News

In this special season finale of Talk of the Town, we sit down with Katie McLean, editor and owner of Echo News, to reflect on an incredible year for the podcast and the community. Katie shares highlights from season one, discusses the impact of Talk of the Town on the local area, and gives us an exclusive sneak peek at her exciting new venture—a running magazine aimed at Moreton Bay’s active community.We also look ahead to 2025 with plans for Echo News, season two of the podcast, and how we’ll continue to celebrate and connect with our amazing community.Join us for a heartfelt wrap-up to the year and a glimpse into what’s next!Season Two coming 2025 - stay up to date via the Echo News socials.Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

In this episode of Talk of the Town, we sit down with Geoff Russell, the President of the Trail Running Association of Queensland (TRAQ), to delve into the vibrant world of trail running in Brisbane and Beyond. With decades of growth behind it, TRAQ has become a vital organisation for fostering a safe, inclusive, and thriving trail running community across the state.Geoff takes us through the mission and impact of TRAQ, highlighting how the organization has evolved since its formation in 2006 to support runners of all skill levels and bring them together for unique, off-road challenges. We explore the incredible variety of events TRAQ hosts throughout the year and hear about their ambitious plans for the future, including discussions around Queensland’s 2032 Olympic bid and how trail running could be showcased on the world stage.Throughout our conversation, Geoff shares his personal journey into trail running, what inspired him to take on a leadership role at TRAQ, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He also offers valuable advice for newcomers looking to dip their toes into the sport, touching on beginner-friendly trails, essential tips for safety and enjoyment, and how to build confidence as a trail runner.

Craft. Community. Karma. 🌟 Get Ready for Part Two with Shaun Reeves of Hip Hops Brewers! 🎙️In last week's episode (EP 34) of Talk of the Town, Von sat down with Shaun Reeves, Founder and Director of Hip Hops Brewers in Brendale. Shaun shared his inspiring journey from business advisor to brewery owner, offering insight into his transition into the world of craft beer and the challenges and success he faced along the way. We also divef into an important conversation about men’s mental health, as Shaun discusses his own personal struggles and the motivation behind his vision for the brewery playing a role in fostering these tough but vital conversations. The brewery aims to be a place to hold events like the upcoming, The Great Mate Check-In - a community initiative aimed at encouraging men to open up about their mental health.In this week’s episode, we dive into part two of our inspiring conversation with Shaun Reeves. Shaun shares his vision for Hip Hops Brewers and how he's turning it into a vibrant, creative, and community-centered space. We talk about:Creating a Unique Brewery Experience: How Shaun’s making Hip Hops Brewers a place for connection, creativity, and funSustainable Brewing Practices: From eco-friendly brewing methods to the brewery's design, sustainability is at the heart of his workCollaborations with Local Producers: Bringing the best of Moreton Bay’s producers to Hip Hops for a truly local experienceFuture Growth & Expansion Plans: A peek at what’s next for Hip Hops as it continues to grow in the regionTune in to hear how Shaun’s vision is shaping Hip Hops Brewers into so much more than a brewery – it’s becoming a place where community and innovation meet. 🌏🌱In case you missed it, Shaun Reeves and Hip Hops Brewers achieved remarkable success at the recent Moreton Bay Business and Innovation Awards, taking home five awards, including the prestigious City of Moreton Bay Business of the Year. Hip Hops Brewers was also recognized with the Ausbuild Award for New Business Excellence, Mitsubishi Motors Australia Award for Customer Service Excellence, Award for Food and Agribusiness Excellence, and Splice Marketing Agency Award for Entrepreneur of the Year. These accolades highlight Shaun’s innovative leadership, commitment to excellence, and the positive community impact of Hip Hops Brewers.

Craft. Community. Karma. In this episode of Talk of the Town, Von sits down with Shaun Reeves, Founder and Director of Hip Hops Brewers in Brendale. Shaun shares his inspiring journey from business advisor to brewery owner, offering insight into his transition into the world of craft beer and the challenges and success he faced along the way. We also dive into an important conversation about men’s mental health, as Shaun discusses his own personal struggles and the motivation behind his vision for the brewery playing a role in fostering these tough but vital conversations. The brewery aims to be a place to hold events like the upcoming, The Great Mate Check-In - a community initiative aimed at encouraging men to open up about their mental health.Join us as we explore the intersection of business, brewing, and mental well-being, and learn how Hip Hops Brewers has become more than just a place for great beer, but a space for meaningful conversations and community connection. In case you missed it, Shaun Reeves and Hip Hops Brewers achieved remarkable success at the recent Moreton Bay Business and Innovation Awards, taking home five awards, including the prestigious City of Moreton Bay Business of the Year. Hip Hops Brewers was also recognized with the Ausbuild Award for New Business Excellence, Mitsubishi Motors Australia Award for Customer Service Excellence, Award for Food and Agribusiness Excellence, and Splice Marketing Agency Award for Entrepreneur of the Year. These accolades highlight Shaun’s innovative leadership, commitment to excellence, and the positive community impact of Hip Hops Brewers.

In this special episode of Talk of the Town, we’re stepping away from our usual local news and community stories to dive into a topic that’s crucial for how we stay informed: the future of local news itself. We’re joined by Claire Stuchbery, Executive Director of the Local and Independent News Association (LINA), to explore how independent and hyperlocal news publishers are stepping up to fill the gaps left by traditional media in communities across Australia.Claire shares her wealth of experience in media policy and community broadcasting, and explains how LINA is helping small, digital news outlets thrive by providing resources, support, and networking opportunities. We discuss the challenges facing local journalism, the impact of the digital news shift, and why independent journalism is so vital for community connection.This episode is a bit different from our usual content, but it’s an important conversation about the news sources that keep us connected to our local communities. Tune in to hear how the future of local news is being shaped, and what you can do to support independent journalism where you live, like Echo News!

In this special Spring Refresh episode, we’re joined by Amber Petterson, a FITME Stylist with INTIMO, who shares expert advice on finding the perfect bra fit and refreshing your lingerie wardrobe for the new season. With October marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Amber also highlights the importance of proper bra fitting for breast health and offers practical tips for maintaining confidence and comfort. Tune in for valuable insights on style, self-care, and how you can support breast cancer awareness.Also in this week's episode:New niche publication, SEQ Runner (out December)Business Buzz - Steve profiles Eatons Hill cafe, Whisk and GrindVon takes us to the Kevin Groves Village Markets for Destination SpotlightSteve throws us back to the Hornibrook BridgePlus upcoming events including the Extravaganza 2024 at Albany Creek VillageRemember to like and share if you love our content. Have the best week!

In this heartfelt episode, Von sits down with Hannah, the courageous mother of Ruby, a vibrant six-year-old whose life was tragically cut short by 'diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma' (DIPG). DIPG is a rare and devastating form of cancer, primarily diagnosed in kids, there are no treatments, no cure, and median survival is less than 1 year. Hannah shares the deeply personal story of Ruby’s diagnosis, her battle with the disease, and the incredible strength, joy and kindness Ruby displayed throughout her journey. We also explore Hannah’s ongoing mission to honor Ruby’s legacy through Rainbow for Ruby, raising awareness and funding research to fight DIPG. Join us for an emotional conversation about love, loss, and the urgent need for hope in the face of childhood cancer.Episode links:Rainbow for RubyRUN DIPGAlso in this episode:Copper Theft Investigations by Echo NewsDawson Pde Level Crossing UpdateBusiness Buzz: Big Red Adventure HireDestination Spotlight: McGavin View, North Pine DamThrowback: Allan & Stark Chermside Drive-In! (Old Chermside Shopping Centre)Plus what's coming up in the local communitiesThanks for tuning in, like and share if you love the content.See you next week!Cheers,Steve and Von

In this episode of Talk of the Town, Steve and Von sit down with Tristan Kolio, a dedicated State Emergency Service (SES) volunteer and talented filmmaker from Arana Hills. Tristan shares his experiences responding to major floods, what motivates him to give back to the community, and his passion for helping others during tough times. He also dives into his creative journey in filmmaking, leading Kolio Productions, and his upcoming series Ace & Al. Listen in as we explore Tristan’s dual roles as a community hero and storyteller, and his inspiring message for young people wanting to make a difference.Interview with Tristan begins at 4:40.Also in this episode:What locals think of the City of Moreton Bay new garden organics (GO) service  *NEW BUSINESS SEGMENT* Business Buzz: Local Gems - Steve profiles Jetts Albany CreekVon takes us out to Chermside Hills ReservesSteve throws us back to the old PGH Brickworks large manufacturing plant in Kremzow RoadCity of Moreton Bay Active Holidays Spring ProgramBrisbane City Council School Holiday Events