Neighbours and strangers came together to assist and support each other and lend a hand in whatever capacity they could.  While visiting the community I have heard of so many heartbreaking stories but at the same time I have been overwhelmed by the positive ones of human kindness.  Our volunteers and SES workers along with the emergency services and army personnel have once again gone above and beyond the call of duty in our time of need and I thank them all for their contribution to the community.
Nominations now open for the Dickson Australia Day Awards
The Dickson Australia Day Awards recognises the contribution made by individuals and groups to the local community.  I welcome all nominations and look forward to announcing and presenting the recipients with their award at the ceremony to be held on Australia Day.  For nomination forms visit my website at www.peterdutton.com.au.
2008 Christmas Card Competition Winners
It was no easy task to choose this years winners from over 2000 entries with outstanding artwork from our local students.  In year one first place was Carla Pocock from Fernvale State School, second place Jasmine Duff from Petrie State School and third place Talia Donaldson from Eatons Hill State School.  In year two first place was Kiran Gampe from Mount Samson State School, second place Jessica O’Connor from Holy Spirit School and third place Kimberley Martin-Blakey from Our Lady of the Way.  In year three first place was Cynthia Blackmore from Strathpine West State School, second place Ella McDougall from Kurwongbah State School and third place Shane Canavan from Clarendon State School.  Congratulations to all this years winners and thank you to all the students who participated.
Age Pension Information Guide
An updated Age Pension Information Guide is available from by office on request.  If you would like to receive one please contact the office on 3205 9977.
Pensioner Petition
If you would like to see more assistance given to pensioners and have your say on this to the Rudd government, you can go to my website www.peterdutton.com.au and download the petition supporting older Australians or contact my office on 3205 9977 for a copy.
Royal Children’s Hospital
If you would like have your voice heard on the proposed closure of the Royal Children’s Hospital at Herston go to www.smarthospitals.com.au. 
Pool Safety
With summer fast approaching I would like to remind constituents that Pool Safety cards with a guide to resuscitation are available from my office or by calling 3205  9977.
Stroke Foundation Wallet Cards
FAST is a simple way of remembering the signs of stroke and what to do if you experience them or see the signs in another person.  FAST stands for Facial weakness, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, Time to act FAST – calling 000 immediately could prevent death or severe disability.  To obtain your free wallet cards contact my Strathpine office on 3205 9977.
Business Grants
Re-tooling for Climate Change will offer small and medium sized manufacturers grants ranging from $10,000 to $500,000 to help them reduce the environmental impact of their production processes.  Grants will meet up to one-third of the costs of projects to improve energy or water efficiency of their production processes. For more information go to AusIndustry’s website at www.ausindustry.gov.au or call or email the hotline (13 28 46 / This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it )
As this is my last column for 2008, I would like to take this opportunity to wish readers a safe and happy Christmas.