#fire engineer brisbane

[buildingservicesengineers]

Professional Fire Engineer in Brisbane

If you need a fire engineer for your building needs then BSE is the perfect place for you where you can get professional Fire Engineer Brisbane. Our experts make your building fireproof and help protect it from fire.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

New SpaceTime out Friday

SpaceTime 20240830 Series 27 Episode 105

Discovery of the heaviest antimatter hyper-nucleus ever created

Physicists from the STAR Collaboration have for the first time observed a new antimatter hyper-nucleus called anti-hyperhydrogen-4.

Rocket engine explodes during UK spaceport test A rocket engine exploded spectacularly during a hot fire first stage test at Britain's new SaxaVord spaceport in northern Scotland.

Why food tastes bad in space

A new study may help explain why astronauts are constantly reporting that their meals taste bland in space.

The Science Report

Five percent of people are consuming products that are potentially toxic to their livers.

The robotic glove that will help people who need hand rehabilitation.

Your social position – income and job – could be linked to your food preferences.

Skeptics guide to the accuracy of ghost hunts

SpaceTime covers the latest news in astronomy & space sciences.

The show is available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through Apple Podcasts (itunes), Stitcher, Google Podcast, Pocketcasts, SoundCloud, Bitez.com, YouTube, your favourite podcast download provider, and from www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com

SpaceTime is also broadcast through the National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio and on both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

SpaceTime daily news blog: http://spacetimewithstuartgary.tumblr.com/

SpaceTime facebook: www.facebook.com/spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime Instagram @spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime twitter feed @stuartgary

SpaceTime YouTube: @SpaceTimewithStuartGary

SpaceTime -- A brief history

SpaceTime is Australia’s most popular and respected astronomy and space science news program – averaging over two million downloads every year. We’re also number five in the United States.  The show reports on the latest stories and discoveries making news in astronomy, space flight, and science.  SpaceTime features weekly interviews with leading Australian scientists about their research.  The show began life in 1995 as ‘StarStuff’ on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) NewsRadio network.  Award winning investigative reporter Stuart Gary created the program during more than fifteen years as NewsRadio’s evening anchor and Science Editor.  Gary’s always loved science. He studied astronomy at university and was invited to undertake a PHD in astrophysics, but instead focused on his career in journalism and radio broadcasting. Gary’s radio career stretches back some 34 years including 26 at the ABC. He worked as an announcer and music DJ in commercial radio, before becoming a journalist and eventually joining ABC News and Current Affairs. He was part of the team that set up ABC NewsRadio and became one of its first on air presenters. When asked to put his science background to use, Gary developed StarStuff which he wrote, produced and hosted, consistently achieving 9 per cent of the national Australian radio audience based on the ABC’s Nielsen ratings survey figures for the five major Australian metro markets: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.  The StarStuff podcast was published on line by ABC Science -- achieving over 1.3 million downloads annually.  However, after some 20 years, the show finally wrapped up in December 2015 following ABC funding cuts, and a redirection of available finances to increase sports and horse racing coverage.  Rather than continue with the ABC, Gary resigned so that he could keep the show going independently.  StarStuff was rebranded as “SpaceTime”, with the first episode being broadcast in February 2016.  Over the years, SpaceTime has grown, more than doubling its former ABC audience numbers and expanding to include new segments such as the Science Report -- which provides a wrap of general science news, weekly skeptical science features, special reports looking at the latest computer and technology news, and Skywatch – which provides a monthly guide to the night skies. The show is published three times weekly (every Monday, Wednesday and Friday) and available from the United States National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio, and through both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 5.28 (after 1960)

1961 – Peter Benenson's article The Forgotten Prisoners is published in several internationally read newspapers. This will later be thought of as the founding of the human rights organization Amnesty International. 1964 – The Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) is founded, with Yasser Arafat elected as its first leader. 1968 – Garuda Indonesian Airways Flight 892 crashes near Nala Sopara in India, killing 30. 1974 – Northern Ireland's power-sharing Sunningdale Agreement collapses following a general strike by loyalists. 1975 – Fifteen West African countries sign the Treaty of Lagos, creating the Economic Community of West African States. 1977 – In Southgate, Kentucky, the Beverly Hills Supper Club is engulfed in fire, killing 165 people inside. 1979 – Konstantinos Karamanlis signs the full treaty of the accession of Greece with the European Economic Community. 1987 – An 18-year-old West German pilot, Mathias Rust, evades Soviet Union air defences and lands a private plane in Red Square in Moscow, Russia. 1991 – The capital city of Addis Ababa falls to the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front, ending both the Derg regime in Ethiopia and the Ethiopian Civil War. 1995 – The 7.0 Mw  Neftegorsk earthquake shakes the former Russian settlement of Neftegorsk with a maximum Mercalli intensity of IX (Violent). Total damage was $64.1–300 million, with 1,989 deaths and 750 injured. The settlement was not rebuilt. 1996 – U.S. President Bill Clinton's former business partners in the Whitewater land deal, Jim McDougal and Susan McDougal, and the Governor of Arkansas, Jim Guy Tucker, are convicted of fraud. 1998 – Nuclear testing: Pakistan responds to a series of nuclear tests by India with five of its own codenamed Chagai-I, prompting the United States, Japan, and other nations to impose economic sanctions. Pakistan celebrates Youm-e-Takbir annually. 1999 – In Milan, Italy, after 22 years of restoration work, Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece The Last Supper is put back on display. 2002 – The last steel girder is removed from the original World Trade Center site. Cleanup duties officially end with closing ceremonies at Ground Zero in Manhattan, New York City. 2003 – Peter Hollingworth resigns as Governor-General of Australia following criticism of his handling of child sexual abuse allegations during his tenure as Anglican Archbishop of Brisbane. 2004 – The Iraqi Governing Council chooses Ayad Allawi, a longtime anti-Saddam Hussein exile, as prime minister of Iraq's interim government. 2008 – The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly of Nepal formally declares Nepal a republic, ending the 240-year reign of the Shah dynasty. 2010 – In West Bengal, India, the Jnaneswari Express train derailment and subsequent collision kills 148 passengers. 2011 – Malta votes on the introduction of divorce; the proposal was approved by 53% of voters, resulting in a law allowing divorce under certain conditions being enacted later in the year. 2016 – Harambe, a gorilla, is shot to death after grabbing a three-year-old boy in his enclosure at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, resulting in widespread criticism and sparking various internet memes. 2017 – Former Formula One driver Takuma Sato wins his first Indianapolis 500, the first Japanese and Asian driver to do so. Double world champion Fernando Alonso retires from an engine issue in his first entry of the event.

[charlesandmartine]

Wednesday 1 March 2023

The start of autumn today and two weeks before we have to start our journey home.

Longreach was only to be seen as an overnight stop to break an otherwise too long a journey. However it has been really interesting and sitting at the bar overlooking the main street on our high stools drinking Aussie beer we people watched, albeit a fairly quiet evening, all signs of life on the thoroughfare. Further up Eagle Street the cops were working a pincer movement on unsuspecting traffic, breathalyzing anything that moved. In cities folk predominantly drive town cars, saloons. In rural towns the SUVs take over. Out here in the outback the heavier trucks are almost universally used; bull horns to protect from kangaroo strikes, large 2 way radio antenna on front bumper, true off-road capability and of course 4WD. Still, our little tin SUV is fine on sealed roads pretty much but even these in the intense heat are buckling somewhat.

The motel was very different from most. It was called the Staging Post but the rooms were across the road in a stables layout but no parking allowed. Instead, where cars might have parked, old carts and vintage trucks are positioned in a casual nonchalant sort of way amidst seating areas. Very atmospheric. Longreach was on the Cobb& Co stagecoach route, and one such coach was on display across the road. This boneshaker would have carried 14 fare paying people from Longreach to Winton. Scary thought.

Longreach has some interesting stuff on offer. For us at this time of year it's very quiet, however in April the hordes shall appear. It seems Longreach is more on a tourist route than perhaps we thought. We were alone in the tourist information centre, but the nice lady said that come April she will be talking to 400 people a day! We asked for things to do in an hour and a half. Top is the Qantas Founder Museum. This was their first flight Operation Centre although it was founded in 1920 at Winton. Longreach today has a DC-3, a Super Constellation, Boeing 707 and more lately a 747. There's a runway next to the museum which provided the means of delivery for this huge 747, Spirit of Australia aircraft, however due to the lack of runway length, all seats were removed, only 2 very brave, optimistic or certifiable pilots aboard, sufficient fuel to take them to Townsville as a plan B and only used 2 engines on landing. In this manner they got it down and parked it under the canopy. It will never get out again. We had a look at the extremely quaint little railway station which runs trains twice a week from Longreach to Brisbane along narrow gauge track. We have never actually seen a train on this line but they assure us they do run.

Winton is our next stop for 3 nights and is also our furthest north west destination. It was 40 degrees in the shade on the 180km journey here. We sat on the Matilda Highway all the way, hardly saw another car and didn't pass through any towns, villages or even hamlet. Australian opinion about us visiting Winton varies from where's that, there's nothing there why go there, to great place. We have checked into the North Gregory Hotel which has had a slightly unfortunate history. To date it has burned down 3 times. We are being very careful to extinguish all fires we might light. To us Winton is a comly place. It came about when Englishman Robert Allen, a policeman from Aramac in Queensland resigned his post and decided to set up camp here in 1875. His camp was in a place called Pelican Waterhole (pelicans came to a waterhole there) and for a time he served as an unofficial postmaster and he soon tired of writing pelican waterhole so renamed it Winton, because it used less pencil and also after the town of his birth. He built a hotel and a business and lived happily ever after. Winton however is certainly a town of surprises. No other than Banjo Paterson who famously in 1895 wrote Waltzing Matilda. So in his honour there now stands in this fair town a Waltzing Matilda Museum and a commemorative statue to Banjo and also for all the swagmen who lie in unmarked graves. And so to the big one...

In 1999 David and Judy Elliott were mustering sheep when they came upon part of a femur of a Cretaceous Sauropod, as you do. More fossils were to follow. Then in 2005 again whilst mustering sheep again, this time nearby in Belmont, a whole load more were unearthed. We are going tomorrow on a half day red dirt tour bouncing along unsealed tracks to see these sites most importantly where actual dinosaur footprints have been discovered from 95 million years ago. You'd have thought someone would have swept up at sometime since then!

We have concluded the day with a jolly nice meal at the hillbilly pub across the road. Nice food, nice beer and fantastic flies.

ps The water here smells of a school chemistry lab. Very sulphuric but harmless they say.......

[mosh20na1]

Best Insulation

People need different ways to improve their living standards. During the hot summer days, our homes can get very hot, and air conditioning is expensive when the electric bills come each month. We want to promote a new solution that reduces the heat and saves money. Insulating a roof with effective roof insulation solutions can significantly reduce heat loss from the top of your house, enhancing energy efficiency. Proper roof insulation solutions can keep your loft warm, making it useful for storage or even suitable for conversion into a living space. There are numerous types of insulation materials available for traditional pitched roofs, as well as for curved or dormer roofs. This means you can save energy regardless of the type of roof your house has - roof insulation installers brisbane.

Heat insulation and heatproofing are essential techniques for managing heat transfer, each serving distinct purposes and employing different approaches. Roof heat insulation involves utilizing materials or methods to minimize the transmission of heat between surfaces. It aims to impede the flow of heat, whether to retain warmth within a building in colder climates or to prevent excessive heat from infiltrating a space, such as refrigerators or air-conditioned rooms - home insulation brisbane.

Insulation materials like fiberglass, foam, or reflective barriers are deployed to trap air or establish barriers that hinder heat transfer. Conversely, roof thermal insulation, also referred to as heatproofing or heat resistance, focuses on safeguarding surfaces from high temperatures without sustaining damage. It’s commonly applied to surfaces exposed to intense heat sources like engines, industrial equipment, or areas near fires. Thermal insulation materials are designed to efficiently dissipate heat or provide a protective shield that preserves the underlying structure from the adverse effects of elevated temperatures, including heat-resistant coatings, refractory materials, or ceramic tiles. For more information, please visit our site https://roofsuckers.com.au/.

[theyardbrisbane]

The Ultimate Guide to Yacht Maintenance: Keeping Your Vessel in Top Shape

The Ultimate Guide to Yacht Maintenance: Keeping Your Vessel in Top Shape

Owning a yacht is a dream come true for many maritime enthusiasts. It represents luxury, freedom, and the thrill of the open sea. However, maintaining a yacht to ensure it remains in pristine condition requires dedicated effort and expertise. At The Yard Brisbane, we understand the intricacies of yacht maintenance and are committed to providing top-notch services to keep your vessel in excellent condition. Here’s everything you need to know about yacht maintenance and why it’s crucial for the longevity and performance of your yacht.

Why Yacht Maintenance is Essential

Yacht maintenance is not just about keeping your vessel looking good; it’s about ensuring safety, performance, and longevity. Regular maintenance helps:

Prevent Major Repairs: Routine checks and maintenance can identify and fix small issues before they become significant problems.

Ensure Safety: A well-maintained yacht is safer for you and your guests, reducing the risk of accidents or mechanical failures at sea.

Maintain Performance: Regular upkeep ensures your yacht runs smoothly and efficiently, providing the best possible performance.

Preserve Value: A well-maintained yacht retains its value better, making it a sound investment.

Compliance with Regulations: Adhering to maintenance schedules ensures compliance with maritime regulations and standards.

Key Areas of Yacht Maintenance

Hull and Exterior: The hull is the most exposed part of the yacht, constantly in contact with water. Regular cleaning, painting, and anti-fouling treatments are essential to prevent corrosion and marine growth.

Engine and Mechanical Systems: The heart of your yacht, the engine, requires regular servicing, including oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections of belts, hoses, and cooling systems.

Electrical Systems: Ensure all electrical systems, including navigation lights, communication devices, and battery systems, are functioning correctly and safely.

Plumbing and Water Systems: Regular checks on the plumbing, including the freshwater and sewage systems, ensure there are no leaks or blockages.

Interiors: The interiors should be cleaned and checked for any signs of mold, mildew, or wear and tear. Upholstery, flooring, and fixtures should be inspected and maintained.

Safety Equipment: Life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and other safety equipment should be inspected and replaced as needed to ensure they are in working order.

Routine Maintenance Checklist

To keep your yacht in top shape, follow this routine maintenance checklist:

Weekly:

Check and clean the exterior, including decks and hull.

Inspect bilges for water accumulation and ensure bilge pumps are working.

Test navigation and communication equipment.

Monthly:

Inspect and clean the engine room.

Check oil levels and top up as necessary.

Test all electrical systems and lights.

Inspect and clean the plumbing systems.

Quarterly:

Perform a thorough engine inspection and service.

Check and replace filters (oil, fuel, air).

Inspect and service the battery system.

Inspect the hull for any signs of damage or corrosion.

Annually:

Haul out the yacht for a comprehensive hull inspection and anti-fouling treatment.

Perform a full engine and mechanical systems service.

Inspect and service the safety equipment.

Conduct a detailed interior cleaning and inspection.

Professional Yacht Maintenance Services at The Yard Brisbane

While regular maintenance can be handled by yacht owners, certain tasks require professional expertise. At The Yard Brisbane, we offer comprehensive yacht maintenance services, including:

Hull Cleaning and Anti-Fouling: Protect your hull from marine growth and corrosion with our expert cleaning and anti-fouling services.

Engine and Mechanical Services: Our experienced technicians provide thorough engine and mechanical systems inspections, repairs, and servicing.

Electrical and Electronics: Ensure all your electrical systems and navigation equipment are in top working condition with our specialized services.

Interior and Exterior Detailing: Keep your yacht looking immaculate with our detailed cleaning and maintenance services for both interiors and exteriors.

Safety Equipment Inspection: We inspect and replace safety equipment to ensure compliance with maritime safety regulations.

Custom Maintenance Plans: We offer tailored maintenance plans to suit your yacht’s specific needs, ensuring it remains in optimal condition year-round.

Tips for DIY Yacht Maintenance

For yacht owners who prefer to handle some maintenance tasks themselves, here are a few tips:

Stay Organized: Keep a maintenance log to track tasks, inspections, and services performed.

Use Quality Products: Invest in high-quality cleaning and maintenance products to ensure the best results.

Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Adhere to the maintenance schedules and guidelines provided by your yacht’s manufacturer.

Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about your yacht’s systems and how to perform basic maintenance tasks.

Conclusion

Yacht maintenance is a critical aspect of yacht ownership, ensuring safety, performance, and longevity. At The Yard Brisbane, we are dedicated to providing top-tier yacht maintenance services to keep your vessel in pristine condition. Whether you need routine maintenance, specialized services, or a custom maintenance plan, our team of experts is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in maintaining your yacht.

For more information, visit The Yard Brisbane. Keep your yacht sailing smoothly and safely with professional maintenance from The Yard Brisbane.

[qldcarbuyers]

Are Electric Cars More Prone To Causing Damage In Accidents?

When you are looking to sell your car in Brisbane or upgrade to a newer model, you might consider switching to an electric vehicle (EV). Electric cars are known for their efficiency and environmental benefits. However, some potential buyers worry about their safety in accidents.  Are electric cars more prone to causing damage in accidents compared to traditional gasoline cars? In this blog Cash for cars Brisbane, we will explore whether electric cars are more prone to causing damage in accidents and provide you with some clear insights.

Understanding Electric Cars

Electric cars operate using electric motors powered by rechargeable batteries. This makes them different from traditional vehicles that use internal combustion engines. This fundamental difference can affect various aspects of the car, including its design, weight distribution, and how it reacts in a crash.

Safety Features Of Electric Cars

Electric vehicles are designed with safety in mind. They often include:

Advanced Structural Integrity: Many electric cars use reinforced frames that can provide better protection in a crash. Electric vehicles often benefit from platforms specifically designed for electric propulsion. This allows for optimal placement of components and added structural protection around the battery pack, which is crucial during collisions.

Low Center of Gravity: The battery placement in electric cars usually results in a lower center of gravity. It can reduce the risk of rollovers, a common concern in traditional SUVs and trucks. This leads to improved handling and stability, reducing the likelihood of rollover accidents, particularly in emergency driving operations.

Automatic Safety Systems: Electric vehicles often come equipped with advanced safety features. These features include automatic braking, collision detection, and stability control systems. These systems work together to minimize driver fatigue and enhance road safety.

Impact On Accident Severity

Regarding the severity of accidents, the evidence does not show that electric cars are more prone to causing more damage. Several factors affect this, including:

Weight: Electric cars are often heavier than similar-sized gasoline cars because of their batteries. This can affect braking distances and impact forces in a collision.

Battery Safety Concerns: One concern is the risk of battery fires, which can be more challenging to extinguish than gasoline fires. However, such incidents are rare, and manufacturers are improving safety standards to mitigate these risks.

Comparative Studies And Data

Studies comparing the accident outcomes of electric and gasoline vehicles show mixed results. For instance, some studies suggest that the weight and structure of electric vehicles might result in less damage to the vehicle's occupants but more to other parties involved in the accident. However, comprehensive data is still being gathered as electric vehicles become more common on roads.

Economic Impacts On Accidents

If you are considering selling your car in Brisbane and buying an electric one, you might also think about the economic impacts following an accident:

Repair Costs: Repairing electric vehicles can be more expensive due to specialized parts and the need for certified technicians to handle high-voltage components. Electric vehicles require handling by technicians trained to deal with high-voltage systems and complex electronics. 

Insurance Costs: Insurance premiums for electric vehicles can be higher, reflecting the potential higher repair costs. Owners of electric vehicles might need to consider additional insurance coverage options, such as coverage for battery replacement, which can further increase insurance costs. 

Environmental Considerations

Despite potential concerns, electric vehicles offer significant environmental benefits:

Energy Efficiency: Electric cars are generally more efficient than their gasoline counterparts. Most EVs convert over 60% of the electrical energy from the grid to power at the wheels, compared to gasoline cars, which convert about 20% of the energy stored in gasoline. This improved efficiency means less energy waste and more effective use of power.

Lower Lifetime Carbon Emissions: Although electric vehicles require more energy and resources to manufacture, particularly the battery, their overall lifecycle emissions are typically lower. This is increasingly true as more electricity is generated from renewable energy sources. Studies indicate that EVs tend to have a smaller carbon footprint over their lifetime compared to internal combustion engine vehicles.

Conclusion

While there are concerns about the safety of electric vehicles in accidents, they are generally as safe as or safer than traditional vehicles due to their advanced safety features and robust construction. The potential for battery-related issues exists, but improvements in technology and safety standards continue to reduce these risks.

Reference URL - https://www.sell8.com.au/blog/electric-cars-more-prone-to-causing-damage-in-accidents/

[versatilestructur]

Creating the Perfect Commercial Shade Sails for Your Outdoor Entertainment Space

If your business has an outdoor entertainment space, you want to make sure all guests or customers are comfortable throughout the day — even when the sun is blazing. Commercial shade sails provide an affordable and reliable all-weather solution that can even offer protection against light rain. These shade structures are customizable to fit your specific outdoor area. They are also quick and easy to install and require low maintenance, often needing only rainwater to clean any dirt or debris.

A few considerations

If you are interested incommercial shade sails, make sure to order them from a seasoned provider and installer. With their expertise, you can tailor the perfect shading solution for your outdoor areas. These professionals also provide a wide range of options in colours, fabrics, and styles to complement and enhance your entertainment areas.

Aside from working with a reputable commercial shade installer, here are other considerations to help you create the best commercial shade sails for your business:

Examine your outdoor space

Observe the sun’s angle, path, and location, especially during peak hours when the space has more guests. This will ensure ample coverage and help you decide on the number of shade sails. Additionally, discuss mounting options with the installer and where to erect the posts to create a visually appealing setup.

Pick an appropriate fabric

PVC fabric is water-resistant and protects from light rain. However, installers also offer more heavy-duty options that are leak-proof and completely waterproof, even during torrential downpours. In any case, make sure the commercial shade sails offer reliable UV protection.

Be sure to choose fabric options from trusted names, such as Monotec 370, Polyflex, Extrablock, Solarblock HDPE, Rainbow Shade Z16, and Rainbow Shade Extreme 22. HVG Fabrics and Gale Pacific also offer high-quality shade sail fabrics.

Functionality

Commercial shade sails can be retractable or fixed. The latter is ideal for covering large areas like grandstands and swimming pools, as it can span great distances without support structures. If your outdoor space is exposed to flame, smoke, or extreme heat, make sure the shades are tested to AS1530 Parts 2 and 3 to ensure fire resistance.

Check with the experts

Look no further than Versatile Structures when creating the perfect commercial shade sails for your outdoor entertainment areas. Their custom-engineered and designed shades are covered by a 10 to 15-year warranty. Leave a message at VersatileStructures.com.au or call 0405 401 500 or 07 3271 4519.

About the author:

Versatile Structures is a provider of high-quality shade structures in Queensland for commercial, government, council, and domestic clients. They provide an extensive selection of shade solutions, encompassing shade structures, shade sails, commercial shade options, membrane sails, aluminium screens, gates, billboard structures, and specific residential applications. Their main service region encompasses Brisbane, Greater Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba, Ipswich, and all South East Queensland, with the potential to extend to a broader area based on the project's requirements.

[bbqbills2]

BBQ Bill's is a construction contractor in Las Vegas that can build your dream custom outdoor kitchen, BBQ island kitchen and outdoor fire features that will turn your garage into summertime fun! An indoor-outdoor kitchen is a wonderful option to expand your entertaining space while also creating an eye-catching design aesthetic. For those who love to entertain, this is a great design feature for summertime enjoyment. It helps to expand your kitchen space while hosting guests while also providing a convenient way to pass food and beverages outside.

You can entertain more easily by connecting your indoor kitchen to your outdoor deck or patio with a pass-through or bi-fold window or outdoor kitchen pavilion. This space-saving design will serve as a key access point from indoors to outdoors. These multi-functional windows will take up less space than a door while offering plenty of convenience, fresh air, and natural light.

There are various ways to open your kitchen to the great outdoors, whether it be through disappearing walls or folding windows. Have a look below for some inspiring ideas to help get you started!

1. Indoor Outdoor Kitchen. A new kitchen was added to a century-old home with an indoor-outdoor connection. A pergola comes out over an accordion door, sourced from Northwest Door & Sash Company.. The deck flooring sustainably harvested ipe, while the kitchen floor is Engineered white oak. The dining table is from Room & Board. (via Jetton Construction, Inc.)

2. Major Kitchen Envy. This stunning indoor/outdoor kitchen in Brisbane, Australia features a sleek design aesthetic, an extension of the indoor kitchen. The kitchen units can withstand sunlight and are 100% waterproof. The exterior cladding is Matrix from James Hardie. (via Sublime Luxury Kitchens and Bathrooms)

3. Indoor-Outdoor Kitchen with Glass Garage Door. An amazing indoor kitchen has two pass-through windows leading out to an indoor-outdoor kitchen that features a glass garage door that opens up to panoramic views of Bend, Oregon. (via Bend Custom Homes)

4. Outdoor Bar Passthrough. An accordion window closes off the indoor/outdoor seating of this fabulous kitchen that faces the Severn River, Maryland. (via Lang and Company)

5. Integrated Outdoor Kitchen. Accordion doors blend an indoor kitchen with an outdoor kitchen and dining deck. The outdoor room features a dramatic high awning roof that gives one the feeling of being outside under the sky, yet sheltered from the elements. The awning roof is freestanding to allow summer air to flow through and to simplify construction. (via Danny Broe Architect)

6. Indoor-Outdoor Bar. This indoor/outdoor kitchen can be completely opened up courtesy of the 9500 Series Bi-Fold Doors & Windows from the Western Window Systems. The doors open the kitchen as a convenient pass-through to a long bar outside for enjoying the summer weather. (via Western Window Systems)

7. Passthrough Window to Deck. The kitchen is a great place for entertaining family and friends. With the large open window and bar, this space is a great way for anyone in the kitchen to interact with those who are relaxing outside at the window bar. (via Melton Design Build)

8. Bifold Window With A Bar. A deep roof overhang provides shelter to this outdoor bar that connects to an indoor kitchen via custom bi-folding windows. Orange stools provide a playful, beach-chic vibe to this outdoor living space. (via Synthesis Design Inc.)

9. Outdoor Bar Area. A California beach house features a casement window in the kitchen that opens to an outdoor bar. The honed Calacatte marble countertop in the kitchen extends to the outdoor bar for a simple pass-through. The Tolix bar stools were sourced from Design Within Reach. (via House Beautiful)

10. The Back Porch. A dreamy beach house features this indoor-outdoor kitchen connected via bi-fold windows. The Marvin Signature Series window folds open to provide breezy access to an outdoor serving area and grilling station. (via Laurey W. Glenn / Southern Living)

11. Alfresco Kitchen With A Pass Through Window. A Rhode Island beach house blurs indoor/outdoor boundaries between the indoor kitchen and outdoor deck with the installation of a NanaWall folding window. The wood bar is just an extension of the kitchen countertop. Guests can chill on the custom fabricated stools and converse with the chef in the kitchen. (via Eck MacNeely Architects)

12. Inside/Outside Pass-Through. A folding glass window in Coronado, California home creates a pass-through from the kitchen to an alfresco bar. A copper roof overhang provides shelter to the outdoor hangout space while also protecting the marble countertop. A swimming pool nearby makes this bar area ideal for the kids (or adults) to grab a snack between dips in the pool. (via RailiCA Design)

13. Rustic Alfresco Kitchen. A lake house in upstate New York features this indoor-outdoor kitchen that uses a brilliant pulley system to raise and lower the paned windows, creating a paradise for outdoor entertaining. (via Pearson Design Group)

14. Kitchen Bar Window. This poolside patio features a gas strut window – a single piece of glass for an unobstructed view. The gas struts allow the window to open up and out 90 degrees to turn the kitchen into an extension of the outdoors. (via Hannah Blackmore / Three Birds Renovations)

15. Indoor-Outdoor Kitchen. A stunning contemporary coastal home in Australia features this indoor/outdoor casual bar counter, an extension of the kitchen. The spacious patio also features an outdoor kitchen, dining, and living area. (via Acre)

16. Mediterranean Style Alfresco Kitchen. The outdoor bar countertop is cast concrete by Flying Turtle. The custom gas strut window was fabricated by Sierra Woods, Nevada City. See the rest of this amazing home here: Breathtaking modern ranch house overlooking Sonoma wine country. (via Ken Linsteadt Architects)

17. Indoor-Outdoor Kitchen. An Edwardian home in Melbourne, Australia takes its inspiration from the magic of the Hamptons. Bi-fold windows open the kitchen to the outdoor entertaining deck, where the countertop extends from the kitchen. The blue counter stools add a pop of color. (Adore Home Magazine)

6 Tips for Turning Your Garage Into an Outdoor Kitchen

There are many reasons to convert your garage into a kitchen. Especially if it’s attached to a garage you rarely use. It can become just another place to put your crap. So why not convert that space into something that can be used to cook outdoors year round??

You’ll be able to create more square footage in your home and maybe even have a dining room. If your original kitchen was too small, you’ll be able to expand your work area and create the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of having. Once you’ve decided you want to turn your garage into a kitchen there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind as you go about your project. Here are a few tips.

Understand the Basics of Your Conversion

Make a list of all the things you currently keep in your garage. You’ll want to find homes for all that stuff. If you are storing stuff that could easily be stored in a shed and you have one, then it’s just a matter of moving that to the shed.

If you don’t have a shed, you might consider renting a storage unit or building a shed on your property. There are many big box stores that sell storage shed kits that will suit your project nicely. You’ll also want to understand the total cost of your conversion. You’ll want to research how to finance home improvement because you’ll most likely be getting a loan to complete this project.

You’ll also want to research any building codes or permits you may need to obtain through the city, county, or HOA you belong to. There may be restrictions you aren’t aware of and could cause you heartache and more expense if you don’t follow the rules.

Look at Your Load Bearing Walls

If your garage and kitchen share a wall and you are considering knocking out the wall between them, you’ll want to review your building plans to make sure you aren’t removing or damaging a load bearing wall.

A load bearing wall is one that is critical to holding the whole structure up and in place. If you happen to remove the wrong parts, you could risk part of your home collapsing. Most homes have plans that have been submitted to the city or county offices and can be reviewed.

If you had your home built, you’ll probably already have a set of plans that were used to build it. You’ll want to review it with a contractor to ensure you’re removing or changing the right parts to a load bearing wall.

Don’t Forget About Insulation

Most newer homes have well insulated garages, but there are still a few homes around that don’t. You’ll want to be sure to get the right R-rating insulation to keep your new kitchen insulated from the cold outdoors. Depending on where you live, you’ll need to research what R-value insulation is appropriate.

Getting the wrong insulation means a colder room and higher heating bills. Not to mention the possibility of water pipes breaking. Your kitchen will have plumbing fixtures that will need to be protected.

Check the Windows

If your garage has windows, you’ll want to consider upgrading them to good solid double pane windows. If you’re going to be installing windows, you’ll want to review where your electrical wires run so you don’t end up having to reroute or cut lines. You don’t always have to buy new windows to get what you need. Many construction outlets will have returns and craigslist is a great place to search for the right window at the right price.

Decide on Kitchen Appliances

Are you going to replace all your kitchen appliances? Perhaps you just bought that new dishwasher a year ago and it still runs like a dream. Consider smaller appliances like a sink disposal and trash compactor when you’re planning your layout.

All of these types of appliances will need to be situated to best utilize the existing structure. Perhaps your kitchen drains are easily accessible once you tear down the wall between the garage and the kitchen. If this is the case, then you’ll want to situate your sink where you are able to plug directly into the existing drains.

This saves a bunch of time and money from having to route new drains to the exterior. Your water faucets will probably be the same, too.

Don’t Forget the Time Factor

When you’re planning this conversion, consider that at some point, your kitchen won’t be available to use. It could take a few weeks to get everything in place to work again. If you don’t have a plan for this time, you might be in hot water with your family, let alone uncomfortable yourself.

This doesn’t have to happen. You can consider working in stages, so that each stage has a short period of time that the kitchen isn’t used and then it’s usable again. Repeat this until you’ve finished the project. Or you may consider putting your family up in a rental while you finish the job. If you’re able to afford that, it’s a viable option. Whatever the outcome, don’t forget that at some point, both your garage and your kitchen won’t be usable.

If you aren’t using your garage for its intended purpose and you’ve decided to make use of that space to extend your home and build a kitchen, you’ll need to remember these tips to help you create the best experience for your project and for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a garage typically included in the square footage of a house?In most cases, the square footage of your home includes only livable spaces. So, a garage would only count toward the square footage of a home if it is finished (with flooring, walls, heat, and electricity) and has been legally converted into a living space.

Can I convert my garage without a permit?The answer depends on where you live and the scope of your project, so check with your local zoning department before making any changes. If you are making structural or electrical changes, moving or adding plumbing, or installing HVAC, you will likely need a permit.

Will converting my garage add value to my home?Again, the answer depends on where you live and what type of space you are building. If your garage conversion is properly permitted and performed professionally, it can add interest and valuable square footage to your property. If, however, your neighborhood has limited street parking or your home has limited storage, a converted space might negatively impact the value of your home.

How much does it cost to convert a garage?On average, it will cost between $5,000 and $26,000 to convert an unfinished garage into a livable space. If you are installing new floors, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing, that cost could climb to $50,000 or more depending on the project and the size of the space.

BBQ BILL'S STORY

Outdoor Living Store in Las Vegas

For more than 30 years, outdoor barbecues and kitchen solutions have been the name of the game at BBQ Bill’s. We are your premier barbecue store in Las Vegas, NV, that can help you create the ideal outdoor cooking and living space based on your style and budget.

We design and install custom outdoor kitchens, BBQ island kitchen, fire features, fire bars, fireplaces, fire pits, fire grills, fire rings, pizza ovens, BBQ grills, griddles, smokers, cookers, rotisserie, refrigerators, heaters, sinks, patio covers, outdoor accessories and build as construction contractors.

Our experienced barbecue experts will create a masterpiece that perfectly matches your vision for function and beauty. We have access to thousands of quality items and install only superior-quality products from some of the best names in the business, including Alfa, Alfresco, Amore, Aspire, Blaze, Bonfire, Coyote, DCS, Delta Heat, Fontana Forni, Gozney, Green Mountain, Hestan, Lynx, Memphis, Pit Boss, Summerset, Twin Eagle, Viking, Wolf.  

We service Las Vegas, Henderson, Mesquite, North Las Vegas, Blue Diamond, Enterprise, Goodsprings, Moapa Valley, Mount Charleston, Nelson, Paradise, Spring Valley, Summerlin South, Sunrise Manor, Whitney, Winchester, Arden, Jean, Logandale, Overton, Primm, Sloan, Vegas Creek, Boulder City, and Pahrump. Contact us today to let us help you build the outdoor barbecue and kitchen space of your dreams.

[steel-supplies]

The Versatility Toughness Strength in Corrosion Resistance

Steel is renowned for its exceptional durability making it a preferred material across various industries and applications it is incredibly strong with high tensile strength that allows it to withstand heavy loads and resist deformation under stress. This strength contributes significantly to its durability making it suitable for demanding applications such as construction, automotive manufacturing and infrastructure projects. Many types of steel are engineered to be corrosion-resistant meaning they can withstand exposure to moisture, chemicals and environmental elements without deteriorating. This property is vital for structures and equipment used in outdoor or corrosive environments enhancing their longevity and durability as steel exhibits exceptional toughness. It can absorb energy and withstand impact without fracturing or breaking easily as toughness is crucial in applications where steel supplies Brisbane are subjected to dynamic loads or potential impacts. In building construction, bridges and machinery as steel's versatility allows it to be tailored to specific requirements through various fabrication processes including rolling, forging, welding and casting.

This adaptability enables the production of a wide range of steel supplies with varying properties to meet diverse needs from thin sheets used in consumer goods to heavy beams used in structural applications. Steel structures and components have a long service life often lasting for decades or even centuries with proper maintenance as longevity reduces the need for frequent replacement or repairs. Making steel a cost-effective and sustainable choice in the long term inherently fire-resistant with high melting points that prevent it from igniting or contributing to the spread of flames. This property enhances the safety and durability of steel structures in fire-prone environments such as commercial buildings and industrial facilities which is highly recyclable. Meaning it can be reused and repurposed indefinitely without losing its quality or properties as recyclability reduces the environmental impact of steel supplies and consumption while conserving natural resources. The exceptional durability of steel makes it an indispensable material in numerous industries, providing strength, reliability and longevity to a wide range of applications. Steel is a fundamental material in the construction of infrastructure such as buildings, bridges, roads and railways.

Without adequate steel supplies, infrastructure development would be significantly hindered impacting economic growth and societal well-being which is a primary material in manufacturing processes. It is widely used across various industries including automotive, aerospace, machinery and appliances and as a reliable supply of steel is essential for the production of goods and equipment, supporting industrial output and economic activity. The steel industry generates employment opportunities across the entire supply chain, from mining and production to fabrication and distribution of a robust steel supply chain contributes to job creation and economic stability in regions with steel-related activities. Steel is one of the most traded commodities globally with consistent supply of steel supports international trade and commerce facilitating the exchange of goods and services between countries and regions. Steel is a critical component in defense and security applications including the construction of military vehicles, ships and infrastructure ensuring a reliable domestic supply of steel. It is essential for maintaining national security and defense readiness as stable steel supplies fosters research and development efforts aimed at improving steel properties and expanding its range of applications.

[firereadyaustralia]

Fire Safety Course in Brisbane - Fireready Australia

Is fire safety a good career?

A career in fire safety can be both rewarding and challenging. Fire safety professionals play a critical role in ensuring the safety of individuals, properties, and communities. They are responsible for implementing and enforcing fire safety regulations, conducting inspections, developing emergency response plans, and educating the public about fire safety practices.

Here are some factors to consider when evaluating if a career in fire safety is a good fit for you:

Impactful Work: Fire safety professionals contribute significantly to public safety. Being able to prevent and mitigate fire-related incidents can save lives and property.

Variety of Roles: The field of fire safety offers a variety of career paths, including fire inspector, fire investigator, fire protection engineer, safety consultant, and fire department personnel.

Steady Demand: Fire safety professionals are in demand across various sectors, including government agencies, private companies, construction, healthcare, and education. The need for skilled individuals in this field is likely to continue.

Continuous Learning: Fire safety regulations and technologies evolve, requiring professionals to stay updated with the latest developments. If you enjoy continuous learning and staying abreast of new information, this field can be fulfilling.

Job Challenges: Fire safety professionals often face challenging situations, including emergencies and safety violations. If you thrive under pressure and enjoy problem-solving, this career can be fulfilling.

Physical and Emotional Demands: Some roles in fire safety, especially those within fire departments, can be physically demanding and emotionally taxing. It's essential to consider if you are prepared for the demands of the job.

Education and Certification: Depending on the specific role, obtaining relevant education, certifications, and training is crucial. This might require an initial investment of time and money.

Before pursuing a career in fire safety, it's a good idea to talk to professionals already working in the field, gain some practical experience if possible (through internships or volunteering), and assess if the challenges and rewards align with your interests and strengths. Remember that passion for ensuring the safety of others is often a driving factor for individuals in this field.

[buildingservicesengineers]

Where Can I Find Fire Engineers in Brisbane?

If you want to find top-class Fire Engineers in Brisbane the BSE is the best place for you where you can get top-notch quality Fire engineers. Our engineers are capable of controlling any type of fire. They have high-level training in fire safety to help protect your building in any situation.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 7.6 (after 1900)

1917 – World War I: Arabian troops led by T. E. Lawrence ("Lawrence of Arabia") and Auda ibu Tayi capture Aqaba from the Ottoman Empire during the Arab Revolt. 1918 – The Left SR uprising in Russia starts with the assassination of German ambassador Wilhelm von Mirbach by Cheka members. 1919 – The British dirigible R34 lands in New York, completing the first crossing of the Atlantic Ocean by an airship. 1933 – The first Major League Baseball All-Star Game is played in Chicago's Comiskey Park. The American League defeated the National League 4–2. 1936 – A major breach of the Manchester Bolton & Bury Canal in England sends millions of gallons of water cascading 200 feet (61 m) into the River Irwell. 1937 – Spanish Civil War: Battle of Brunete: The battle begins with Spanish Republican troops going on the offensive against the Nationalists to relieve pressure on Madrid. 1939 – Anti-Jewish legislation in prewar Nazi Germany closes the last remaining Jewish enterprises. 1940 – Story Bridge, a major landmark in Brisbane, as well as Australia's longest cantilever bridge is formally opened. 1941 – World War II: The German army launches its offensive to encircle several Soviet armies near Smolensk. 1942 – Anne Frank and her family go into hiding in the "Secret Annexe" above her father's office in an Amsterdam warehouse. 1944 – Jackie Robinson refuses to move to the back of a bus, leading to a court-martial. 1944 – The Hartford circus fire, one of America's worst fire disasters, kills approximately 168 people and injures over 700 in Hartford, Connecticut. 1947 – Referendum held in Sylhet to decide its fate in the Partition of India. 1947 – The AK-47 goes into production in the Soviet Union. 1957 – Althea Gibson wins the Wimbledon championships, becoming the first black athlete to do so. 1957 – John Lennon and Paul McCartney meet for the first time, as teenagers at Woolton Fete, three years before forming the Beatles. 1962 – As a part of Operation Plowshare, the Sedan nuclear test takes place. 1962 – The Late Late Show, the world's longest-running chat show by the same broadcaster, airs on RTÉ One for the first time. 1964 – Malawi declares its independence from the United Kingdom. 1966 – Malawi becomes a republic, with Hastings Banda as its first President. 1967 – Nigerian Civil War: Nigerian forces invade Biafra, beginning the war. 1975 – The Comoros declares independence from France. 1982 – While attempting to return to Sheremetyevo International Airport, Aeroflot Flight 411, an Ilyushin Il-62, crashes near Mendeleyevo, Moscow Oblast, killing all 90 people on board. 1988 – The Piper Alpha drilling platform in the North Sea is destroyed by explosions and fires. One hundred sixty-seven oil workers are killed, making it the world's worst offshore oil disaster in terms of direct loss of life. 1989 – The Tel Aviv–Jerusalem bus 405 suicide attack: Sixteen bus passengers are killed when a member of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad took control of the bus and drove it over a cliff. 1995 – In the Bosnian War, under the command of General Ratko Mladić, Serbia begins its attack on the Bosnian town of Srebrenica. 1996 – A McDonnell Douglas MD-88 operating as Delta Air Lines Flight 1288 experiences a turbine engine failure during takeoff from Pensacola International Airport, killing two and injuring five of the 147 people on board. 1997 – The Troubles: In response to the Drumcree dispute, five days of mass protests, riots and gun battles begin in Irish nationalist districts of Northern Ireland. 1998 – Hong Kong International Airport opens in Chek Lap Kok, Hong Kong, replacing Kai Tak Airport as the city's international airport. 2006 – The Nathu La pass between India and China, sealed during the Sino-Indian War, re-opens for trade after 44 years. 2013 – At least 42 people are killed in a shooting at a school in Yobe State, Nigeria. 2022 – The Georgia Guidestones, a monument in the United States, are heavily damaged in a bombing, and are dismantled later the same day.

[charlesandmartine]

Wednesday 22nd February 2023

Drizzle! What a wake up call! Well we were travelling so that's okay. First up as soon as we had started the 176km journey was to pop into the Pit Stop café in Woodenbong for breakfast.

The girl there assured us that it would be possible to do proper sunny side up eggs with the English style bacon and toast. Assurances given we chose a nice table in the courtyard before it chucked it down again. Whilst we waited, a local called Tim felt we would benefit from his life history and family genealogy dating back to Viking times! As you can imagine, a timeline of this longevity can take a little while and we were well into the toast section before we could persuade him we didn't know anyone called Dennis in England and for peace to descend on our repast and for the second day running the Aboriginal waitresses forgot our coffee.

We have really unexpectedly enjoyed Woodenbong and were sad to leave it. But Woodenbong in the rain would not have been a great prospect so off we went in the Nissan through the stunning countryside set amongst the mountain range of the Tooloom National Park.. The first town on route was Legume. Well I'm sure it was but there was nothing there and we missed it. Soon after this somewhat anonymous encounter, we suddenly left NSW behind us and we found ourselves in Queensland, The Sunshine State. Not only lost NSW but also an hour, it was 12.10 again! The second town on our trip today was Killarney; a charming little place that we felt deserved a look. It was named by a land surveyor and homesteader John Sydney O'Brien in 1840 because it reminded him of Killarney in Southern Ireland, so he poured a pint of Irish in the lake and named it Killarney. To start with it had a little antique shop with a very chatty Aussie lady in it. Top marks so far then. The heritage centre was shut of course but it did have a box of tourist maps outside. We trailed around the township with one looking at the heritage buildings and were entirely satisfied with Killarney. Then the rain started again and we rejoined our route; next stop Warwick. No not that one. With no castle to look at we wondered what it would yield. Tourist information ladies were extremely helpful in providing a town map with its heritage route clearly highlighted for us. Basically, fundamentally, you just walk around the block to see the Town Hall, Masonic Centre, Church, Police Station and Law Courts, but even so it was very enjoyable and the map was also able to direct us to the station where there's an embryo of a heritage railway, the Southern Downs Steam Railway. We were shown around the fascinating little museum and engine shed by an extremely enthusiastic volunteer who explained the hopes and plans for this enterprise. Interest in heritage railway is steadily growing in Australia and I'm sure it will have a great future. It's just about 30years behind the UK in capability.

With one more stop for a brew, we headed on to our new digs for the next couple of nights in Cranley, a rural suburb of Toowoomba, which is probably roughly 130km due west and inland from Brisbane. It's a lovely spacious apartment, probably the largest we've had, in the grounds of our landlords house and shared by two goats, chickens and a duck. I think we shall be happy here. We can now say that combining both this and our last trip in 2019, we have now travelled all the way from Victoria across NSW and into Queensland.

Other parts of Australia are suffering at the moment. Southern Australia is experiencing a heat wave, north of Melbourne there's a large bush fire, Sydney had flash flooding yesterday and NZ North Island is really struggling with the after effects of Cyclone Gabrielle leaving billions of dollars worth of damage especially in the Hastings and Napier region of Hawkes Bay.

ps. It might be The Sunshine State, but Thursday morning finds us in cloud and 19 degrees. Weather promises to improve.

[testormblog]

The Train That Disappeared

Railway employees kept an unwritten code of silence.  They didn’t report incidents or confess to anything untoward.  Everybody protected each other’s back and hoped somebody’s lips would remain sealed for their mistakes one day.  They all desperately needed to keep their poorly paid jobs to feed their families.  Engine drivers regularly drove their engines through the points that controlled trains’ right of way on the lines.  Their engines then travelled off the rails.  Men were called out to set the engines back on their lines.  Officers rostered for duty swapped their shifts with others because they were intoxicated.  This even happened at Bethania Station.  Nobody said anything about these episodes nor claimed any overtime for them.

Sometimes though, something occurred where the circumstances couldn’t be quietly ‘swept up’ because of the ramifications.  Then somebody made the problematic decision to escalate the issue to Central Control.  Unfortunately, Central Control usually exacerbated the situation.  Consequently, the fallout fell on seemingly everybody; even those who were innocent participants.

I liked to quietly eavesdrop on my father’s conversations with other men.  These were generally about the Railway and spurious goings-on, so of great interest to me.  I listened to numerous discussions about the train that disappeared between Beenleigh and Bethania.  Whilst I wouldn’t attest to this tale’s facts, I surmised from the snippets, I overheard, that the following happened.

Just south of Beenleigh, a small branch line connected the Beenleigh Rum Distillery to the main line.  Goods trains detoured via the distillery at night to leave behind empty wagons and to collect loaded ones before proceeding to Brisbane with its freight from various sources.  One night, the engine driver and the fireman may have enjoyed an extended break at the distillery and also may have sampled its product whilst the night’s consignment was loaded.

Afterwards, the engine driver and the fireman drove the train towards Bethania but stopped it midway on the long bridge at Holmview, the same one I had been caught on.  Their manoeuvre isolated the guard at the train’s rear from themselves.  With the train parked on the track, the guard couldn’t hop down from his carriage nor walk along the sleepers to the steam engine at the front.  Neither was it safe in the darkness for him to hike the few kilometres back to the prior station to obtain assistance.  He could do nothing, except perhaps have a snooze in his chilly carriage whilst the others kept warm with the engine’s embers and their booze.

When the train had departed Beenleigh, its station master had notified his counterpart at Bethania by a code ring of two bells on the dedicated telegram line between the stations.  This advised the train had departed and could be expected to arrive in the specified time for the distance.  Alas, this train didn’t arrive at Bethania on time but much later.  Once the engine driver and the fireman had finished the quantum of rum, they had souvenired from the distillery, they refired the steam engine and continued the train’s journey to Bethania.

On its arrival, the Station Master, in consultation with the guard, assessed the engine driver’s and the fireman’s condition, and wouldn’t permit them to proceed with the train.  He walked up the road to the first Railway employee’s house, that being ours.  Like most people, we didn’t have a telephone.  He knocked on our front door to awaken my father.  He wanted Dad to take charge of the train and the two miscreants.  This meant Dad was to oversee the train’s journey into Brisbane.  After assessing the situation, Dad agreed the driver and fireman weren’t in a fit state to operate the engine.  However, he disagreed with the plan.  He wasn’t fit to drive or fire the engine either.  He didn’t have the necessary tickets.  This was a serious situation given the gravity of a loaded train being significantly delayed.

To cover their backsides, the Station Master called a doctor from Beenleigh to drive out to examine the men.  Time was ticking by.  The doctor arrived and checked the men over but failed to make any diagnosis for either of them, never mind one supporting the general observation of their drunkenness.  He and the engine driver belonged to one religious flock whereas Dad and the Station Master were of another.

This left the Station Master and the guard with a difficult predicament.  If the train didn’t leave, the early morning trains on the Brisbane Beenleigh line couldn’t run through Bethania.  Eventually, they found another engine driver and fireman to take control of the train.

Subsequently, an official enquiry was held into the events that transpired.  Even though Dad was an innocent bystander to the shenanigans and acted honestly and responsibly in terms of his abilities, he scored a hefty fine.  Despite him being an unskilled labourer, the Railway contended he should have taken control of the train and the miscreants to enable it and them to continue the journey to Brisbane unhindered.  Without an accurate diagnosis and blood test from the doctor, he didn’t have a defence.  Neither could he afford to pay for one.  I didn’t hear what consequences the other men suffered though the engine driver continued to drive engines.

I suspected Dad was set up as the scapegoat.  Whatever action he chose that night, he was boiled in the stew.  Unfortunately, the others didn’t stump up his fine.  The Railway docked this from his wages until it was paid.  At least, it didn’t dismiss him.  Railway men, they foolishly stuck together like glue.