April 2026 — what an incredible weekend!

When Toc H Queensland purchased this wonderful home from the Anglican Church in 1967 it marked the start of a massive effort to develop the facility we have today. By 1974, the house was raised to create the hall underneath, and the dormitory and amenities building was constructed. This was only possible thanks to the dedication of Toc H Queensland members from Brisbane and Bribie branches.

History was repeated on the weekend of 11 and 12 of April when a working bee involving Toc H members from Brisbane, General and Bribie Branches, along with some local volunteers and the members of the Scenic Rim Community Cadets took over the facility. The various work gangs’ tasks did not mirror the complex building projects of the 70s but did mirror the energy, enthusiasm and teamwork approach of our predecessors. Toc H in action.

With trimming, cutting back, weeding, replanting, various minor carpentry repairs, as well as the re-arrangement of various storage sheds, the facility was a hive of activity with numerous teams working to achieve their allocated project.

More than what was achieved, these couple of days proved to be a wonderful opportunity to strengthen the relationship between the various branch members.

Toc H has welcomed Tim Bujeya, the newly appointed caretaker of Coungeau House. Tim and his young son Joshua have moved into the cottage and settled in well. Tim has quickly come to terms with the demands of the hall hire and accommodation requests.

Extensive use of Coungeau House by a variety of not-for-profit organisations has resulted in an income that has enabled the Management Committee to approve some much needed facility upgrades to be implemented:

• The carpet has been replaced throughout the house.
• New blinds have been installed on the verandah.
• An upgrade of all house, hall and dormitory locks has enabled the introduction of a master key system.
• New ovens and dishwasher have been installed in the hall.
• The repairs on the ramp were completed thanks to the efforts of Toc H volunteer Joe Rickman and caretaker Tim.

Tim, with members of The Coungeau House Management Committee, inspected the recent improvements following their recent August meeting. Coungeau House continues to fulfil its purpose to support the local community not-for-profit organisations and provide a comforting, comfortable and safe accommodation for those in need.