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Sofie Formica Takes 100-Day Walking Mission onto Kedron Brook Path

Brisbane radio host Sofie Formica has committed to 100 days of walking, and her mission to get Brisbane moving while sparking meaningful conversations is quickly gaining momentum. Her Wednesday jaunts –free, accessible, open to all– will take her to the Kedron Brook Bike Path on October 8, near the Norths Rugby playing fields.

For Sofie, the idea is simple: take a half-hour each day to walk, breathe and reconnect — not in a gym or studio, but out in the open.

The idea behind the challenge

Sofie, known to listeners of 4BC’s Afternoons, is blending her radio work with a personal mission. For 100 days, she will walk for 30 minutes, highlighting local places and conversations along the way. Her walks are being shared with audiences on air and online, where listeners can follow her journey and hear stories of others doing the same.

The challenge comes at a time when rising costs make structured exercise programs harder to afford. Research from the Heart Foundation reinforces the value of brisk walking as one of the most effective and low-cost ways to maintain good health.

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Where the community can join

Each Wednesday at 4:00 p.m., the community is invited to meet Sofie and take part in a group walk. After Kedron, the route will travel across Brisbane — east to Wynnum Esplanade, south to Berrinba Wetlands, and west to Rocks Riverside Promenade. The paths have been chosen for easy access and suitability for walkers of all abilities.

100-Days-of-Walking Sofie Formica — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

No registration is needed. People can simply arrive and join in. The walks are designed to be short enough to fit into a busy afternoon yet long enough to make a difference.

A safe, familiar space for all ages

The Kedron Brook Path provides a familiar and central spot to join the movement, making the project more inclusive and accessible across the city, with easy access and a welcoming environment for people of all ages.

It’s well known to locals as a safe and open space for walking, cycling and gathering. Its flat terrain makes it suitable for different fitness levels, while nearby parking ensures the walks are convenient for families and older residents.

For Sofie, this is about more than individual exercise. It is about walking together — turning simple movement into a shared community experience. Locals can keep track of the weekly locations and updates on 4BC’s website, Facebook and Instagram.

Published 3-Oct-2025

Golf Chipping World Record Attempt Set for Brisbane Airport

Photo Credit: Mick's Golf Challenge/Instagram

Brisbane golf enthusiast Mick McLoughlin will attempt a 24-hour golf chipping world record at Brisbane Airport to raise funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Sporting Greats Support World Record Bid

High-profile sports figures including Sam Thaiday, Corey Oates, Josh McGuire, Robbie Dolan and Romy Teitzel have backed Mick McLoughlin by donating golf balls and joining him in practice ahead of his record attempt. The event, known as Chipping for Charity, will take place at Golf Central, Brisbane Airport, from midday Friday, 17 October to midday Saturday, 18 October.

golf chipping world record — *Photo Credit: Mick’s Golf Challenge/Instagram*

Background And Past Achievement

McLoughlin is no stranger to endurance golfing challenges. In 2021, he set a Guinness World Record by playing 2,001 holes in seven days. That effort raised $342,000, surpassing his target of $250,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities. The funds supported families of children receiving medical care, providing accommodation and meals.

The Challenge Ahead

This time, McLoughlin is preparing to break a record that has stood since 2002, which required 10,392 successful chips in 24 hours. His goal is to chip at least 11,000 balls using a 3-wood, with training and preparation underway for more than 12 months. The idea was sparked by his son, who noticed his pace during practice.

Physical Strain And Determination

McLoughlin has spoken about the physical toll, citing tendinitis in both arms, tennis elbow, wrist and knee issues, and foot problems. Despite these challenges, he has committed to the attempt, motivated by the families supported by Ronald McDonald House Charities. He aims to once again raise several hundred thousand dollars through the event.

Mick's Golf Challenge — *Photo Credit: Mick’s Golf Challenge/Instagram*

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Community Involvement And Donations

More than 11,000 golf balls are required for the attempt. Collection bins have been placed at Golf Central at Brisbane Airport, Wynnum Golf Club and Nudgee Golf Club. Members of the public are encouraged to donate old balls, attend the event, volunteer, or make a contribution through the official Chipping for Charity website.

Fundraising Progress

Ahead of the record attempt, fundraising efforts have already reached over $11,000 towards a goal of $250,000. All proceeds will go towards Ronald McDonald Houses across Australia, helping provide accommodation and support for families of sick or injured children.

Next Steps

McLoughlin will begin his 24-hour challenge at Golf Central, Brisbane Airport, at 12 p.m. on Friday, 17 October, with the goal of finishing at 12 p.m. on Saturday, 18 October. The outcome of the record attempt will be determined by the number of successful chips into the target zone.

Published 3-Oct-2025

WWII Medals Returned to Family After 40 Years at Damascus Barracks

Photo Credit: Australian Defence

At Damascus Barracks in Pinkenba, Tom Foster’s family finally received his WWII medals, missing since 1985 and returned after 40 years.

A Historic Handover

The medals, once awarded to Tom Foster for his service with the First Ambulance Brigade in Tobruk and the Middle East, were handed back to his grandson, Grant Tebbutt.

The return took place in September 2025, after decades of uncertainty since the medals went missing in 1985. The handover closed a chapter for the Foster family, who had feared the medals were gone forever.

The Journey of the Medals

The medals turned up at Army Headquarters with no explanation of where they came from. They were handed to Colonel Glyn Llanwarne, who noticed the service numbers and names etched into the metal.

*Photo Credit: Australian Honours and Awards/Facebook*

That small detail gave him a starting point to track their rightful owner. After weeks of research, he traced the medals back to Tom Foster’s family. Llanwarne has spent more than two decades returning lost medals, bringing pieces of history back into families’ hands.

A Family’s Relief

Grant Tebbutt, who works at Joint Logistics Unit South Queensland, received the medals on behalf of his family. He shared how his parents were devastated when they went missing decades ago.

Their return, he said, brought both relief and a sense of closure. His father, Ivan, had carefully kept old photos and records that now sit with the medals. At Damascus Barracks, the handover highlighted that these medals carry the weight of lived service and family memory.

Preserving Local Military History

Both Defence officials and the family acknowledged that interest in Australia’s wartime history is growing. Items like medals hold value not only for families but also for communities that remember the contributions of local service members.

The medals’ return underscored the importance of protecting these artefacts and ensuring they find their way home when lost. Families are encouraged to report found medals to Defence or veterans’ organisations, rather than selling them, so they can be properly researched and restored to their rightful place.

Published 2-October-2025

Virginia and Pinkenba Businesses Named Finalists in 2025 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards

Two businesses from Brisbane’s northside suburbs have been named among the finalists in the 2025 Lord Mayor’s Business Awards, marking a proud moment for Virginia and Pinkenba. The awards, now in their 20th year, celebrate enterprises that are transforming industries, introducing new ideas and contributing to the city’s future prosperity.

Read: Rino Recycling in Pinkenba: Powering Brisbane’s Green Economic Growth

Sharpe Engineering: Virginia’s industrial innovator

Photo credit: Facebook/Sharpe Engineering

From its origins in Roma about 30 years ago, Sharpe Engineering has grown into a family-owned Australian manufacturer with large-scale operations in Queensland. To meet rising demand, the company established a modern production hub in Virginia, which spans 18,730 square metres and is equipped with advanced machinery including CNC lathes, deep hole boring systems and vertical milling technology.

The Virginia facility is located close to major road, rail, air and shipping networks, enabling efficient management of supply chains and distribution to clients across Australia and internationally. It also houses the company’s well-control products and rental equipment.

In 2025, Sharpe Engineering has been named a finalist in two categories: the Australia Pacific LNG Business Transformation Award and the Accenture Australia Product Innovation Award. These listings recognise the company’s presence in both transformation and product innovation categories.

Austep Eco: Pinkenba’s purpose-driven enterprise

In Pinkenba, Austep Eco combines commercial energy-efficiency work with a stated social and environmental mission. Founded in 2015, the company provides services such as LED lighting, hot water systems and HVAC upgrades for commercial properties. These upgrades help reduce energy costs for clients while lowering carbon emissions.

Austep is certified as a B Corporation, part of a global network of businesses committed to balancing profit with purpose. The company donates half of its profits to charity, embedding community impact into its operating model.

Austep has been named a finalist in the Hutchinson Builders Social Enterprise Award, which recognises enterprises that create measurable community benefits while maintaining financial sustainability.

About the Lord Mayor’s Business Awards

The Lord Mayor’s Business Awards celebrate enterprise, innovation and community impact across Brisbane. Now in their 20th year, the awards have become a showcase of the city’s organisations, spanning start-ups, social enterprises and long-standing industry leaders.

The program features categories sponsored by major partners, acknowledging excellence in areas such as transformation, innovation, sustainability and social enterprise.

Read: What’s in a Name? Future of Pinkenba Terminal’s Identity at Risk

The winners of the 2025 awards will be announced on Thursday, 6 November 2025, at a gala ceremony in Brisbane City Hall. For Sharpe Engineering and Austep Eco, being named finalists recognises their contributions to local industry and community.

Published 30-September-2025

Brisbane City Plan Update: Nundah Avoids Height Increase but Faces Housing Review

A review of the Brisbane City Plan 2014 could see suburban skylines rise higher, with new changes set to lift building height limits around key shopping centres.

Read: Work Set to Begin on Danby Lane Development in Nundah Village

In Nundah Village, the current 12-storey height cap will remain, but the rules for mixed-use developments are set to be reviewed, particularly the proportion of residential homes required.

Areas near Indooroopilly Shopping Centre, already capped at 20 storeys, and Carindale Shopping Centre, currently limited to 10 storeys, are both being considered for even taller apartment towers and mixed-use projects.

The move is part of a broader effort to manage Brisbane’s population boom by concentrating housing close to transport, shops and jobs, rather than expanding into outer suburbs and bushland.

Cr Adrian Schrinner said more than 600 people move to Brisbane every week, making it vital to create homes in locations where services and infrastructure already exist.

“By unlocking the areas close to Indooroopilly, Carindale and Nundah new residents can have access to great transport and shops nearby,” said Cr Schrinner.

“We want to put more homes where the jobs are, where the transport is and where the services are.

For Nundah, that means the emphasis is not on building higher, but on ensuring that future projects provide enough homes alongside retail and services. With its established train station and growing reputation as a lively suburban hub, Nundah is seen as well placed to support more residents without changing its skyline.

Read: Italian Restaurant Rustichella Pasta Bar Opens In Nundah Village

Draft planning amendments are now being prepared, with public consultation expected in mid-2026. Locals in Nundah and the other centres will have the opportunity to share their views on how the changes in the Brisbane City Plan should take shape.

Published 22-September-2025

What’s in a Name? Future of Pinkenba Terminal’s Identity at Risk

The very identity of Brisbane’s $158 million international cruise terminal at Pinkenba has been thrown into question for the next century, after its private operator failed to receive exclusive rights to the facility’s name.

A Name Without Protection

The core of the issue surfaced last week when IP Australia, the national body for intellectual property rights, rejected the Port of Brisbane’s application to trademark its brand. An assessor for the agency noted there was not enough evidence to prove that the average Australian was familiar with the brand. This decision came despite the terminal’s prominent branding being in use since it began operating in June 2022. The Port of Brisbane had initially applied to protect two logo variations the following year.

The 99-Year Question

While the trademark refusal has no immediate effect on the terminal’s day-to-day operations, experts suggest it has uncovered a much larger problem tied to the facility’s long-term future. The Port of Brisbane operates the terminal on a 99-year lease from the state government, which is not set to expire until 2109.

According to University of Queensland trademark expert Professor John Swinson, this creates a tricky situation. He explained that without a registered trademark owned by the state, a new operator in 2109 might not be able to use the name “Brisbane International Cruise Terminal.” The outgoing operator, Port of Brisbane Pty Ltd, could potentially own the brand identity, forcing any future operator to buy the name or create a new one from scratch.

Business as Usual, For Now

Professor Swinson, who also serves as an arbitrator for the World Intellectual Property Organisation, clarified that not having a registered trademark does not stop a business from trading. The immediate consequence is that it becomes more difficult for the Port of Brisbane to legally stop other entities from using a similar name or logo. For the thousands of passengers who use the terminal, there will be no change to services.

Port Confident in Resolution

A spokesman for the Port of Brisbane stated that constructive discussions with IP Australia are ongoing. He said the port does not expect any changes to the terminal’s branding and looks forward to registering the trademarks soon. In response to the long-term ownership concerns, the spokesman confirmed that the trademarks would revert to the state at the conclusion of the lease. The original lease agreement, which places the port in private hands until 2109, was announced by the state government in November 2010.

Published Date 21-September-2025

Ollie’s Espresso Bar Brings Specialty Coffee to Nundah’s Heart

Photo Credit: ollies_espresso_bar/instagram

Ollie’s Espresso Bar is drawing attention in Nundah with its reputation for some of the area’s best coffee and a growing community of locals who call it their daily stop.

Early Starts and Local Convenience

Just steps from Nundah Station, the small cafe is winning praise for its smooth house blend, rotating filter coffee, and warm service. The espresso bar opens from 5:30 am on weekdays and 6:30 am on weekends, making it a go-to spot for commuters catching an early train.

*Photo Credit: ollies_espresso_bar/instagram*

The location on Station Street provides easy access with nearby street parking, while outdoor seating makes it a popular choice for dog owners taking a morning walk.

Coffee and Food Offerings

Customers consistently highlight the quality of the drinks, with the house blend prepared for milk-based coffee and rotating beans from guest roasters featured for filter brews.

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A range of light food is available, including pastries, toasties, and the standout Milkman’s cookie served warm. Many visitors recommend the Mont Blanc and ham and cheese toastie as favourites.

Atmosphere and Service

The cafe’s design combines crisp white tiles, timber finishes, and a floral mural, giving the space a clean and modern feel. Seating inside and out provides options for a quick stop or a longer visit.

Reviews regularly mention the staff’s friendliness and ability to remember regulars’ names and orders, which adds to its community appeal. Customers describe the vibe as calm, cosy, and ideal for both relaxation and casual catch-ups.

A Community Hub

Local reviews often emphasise the welcoming environment as much as the coffee itself. Regular customers say Ollie’s has become part of their routine, offering both high-quality drinks and a familiar space where staff and patrons interact easily.

Its central position in Nundah Village has helped the cafe build a steady following from residents and workers who value both the product and the personal connection.

Published 11-September-2025

Farmers Market Expansion Set For October In Nundah

The Nundah Farmers Markets will expand in Nundah with new stalls, entertainment and family activities as part of its regular Sunday market.

Market Day Expansion In Nundah

The Nundah Farmers Markets have scheduled their expansion for Sunday, 12 October, from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Station Street. The expanded event will feature additional stalls, live music, roving performers, children’s activities and face painting. Entry remains free for all visitors.

Fresh Faces Joining Familiar Favourites

The expansion will introduce businesses such as Sippin Moreton Bay, My Jerky Hut and Ace of Blades Knife Sharpening. These will join established names including Sophie’s So Fresh Fruit and Veg, Walloon Gold Honey and A Day Toastie. Organisers say the new section will broaden the mix available to shoppers while continuing to showcase South-East Queensland growers, farmers, bakers and makers.

Markets Rooted In Community

The Nundah Farmers Markets are held every Sunday at the Nundah Train Station car park, located below Nundah Village. The expansion was rescheduled from its original date to avoid clashing with the Nundah Festival.

The markets are coordinated by Goodwill Projects, which has managed farmers markets across South-East Queensland since 2006. The company currently operates 12 markets and focuses on providing opportunities for small businesses while creating spaces for community connection.

Nundah Market Expansion — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Sundays With Local Flavour

The Nundah Farmers Markets have become a regular destination for locals, offering fresh produce, baked goods and artisan food alongside ready-to-eat options. The expanded section is expected to add variety while maintaining the community-focused atmosphere that has attracted thousands of visitors each week.

Looking Ahead To October

From 12 October onwards, the new section will be incorporated into the weekly Sunday market in Nundah. Organisers expect the additional stalls and activities to strengthen the appeal of the markets as a regular part of community life on Station Street.

Published 11-Sep-2025

Flight Path Proposals at Brisbane Airport Draw 1,300 Responses

Photo Credit: Pexels

More than 1,300 community submissions have been received on proposed new flight paths at Brisbane Airport, reflecting widespread concern over aircraft noise.

Background and Context

Brisbane Airport’s $1.1 billion second runway opened in July 2020, significantly altering aircraft movements across the city. Since then, noise complaints have increased, particularly from suburbs newly affected by low-flying aircraft.

Airservices Australia developed the Noise Action Plan for Brisbane in response to these concerns, aiming to reduce the impact of aircraft operations by redistributing flight paths. Consultation on Package 3 of the plan ran until 17 August 2025, later extended to 24 August 2025.

The airport currently manages about 615 aircraft movements a day, with forecasts estimating this will rise to 1,046 per day by 2046, excluding freight traffic, which is not expected to grow significantly.

Brisbane flight paths — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Proposed Flight Path Changes

The proposals include adjustments to both arrivals and departures, with the aim of shifting some routes offshore over Moreton Bay and spreading noise across a wider area.

According to Airservices, suburbs including Redland, Bribie Island and Samford could see reduced traffic, while some new routes could affect areas such as Kenmore.

Separately, consultation materials show potential changes in the north-west and south of the city. These would reduce traffic over Samford Valley, Cedar Creek and Logan, while increasing overflights for suburbs including Everton Park, Brisbane CBD, Bulimba, Balmoral and West End.

Alternatives and Noise-Sharing Approach

To reduce concentrated impacts, Airservices has promoted a “noise-sharing” strategy, meaning more communities will experience aircraft noise but less frequently. This includes maximising use of Simultaneous Opposite Direction Parallel Runway Operations (SODPROPS) over Moreton Bay when conditions permit.

Preliminary Environmental Impact Assessments were released for Package 3 proposals, covering departures and arrivals over land and water. Heat maps and usage statistics based on 2019 and 2024 flight data were also provided to help communities assess potential changes.

Brisbane Airport — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Community Sentiment

Public submissions exceeded 1,300 on the flight path changes, while just 42 submissions had been received on the airport’s long-term masterplan as of late August.

Residents reported disrupted sleep, with some counting more than a dozen aircraft overhead within half an hour. Community groups argue that shifting noise does not solve the problem and have called for measures such as night curfews and flight caps, similar to restrictions at Sydney, Adelaide and the Gold Coast airports.

Concerns have also been raised about expected growth in flights in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Community Wellbeing Support

In recognition of the stress linked to aircraft operations, Airservices has extended an independent counselling service through Converge International. The program is available free of charge to any community member and covers support for sleep issues, personal stress, mental health and other concerns.

Next Steps

Airservices Australia will review all feedback and determine which options can be implemented. The consultation is part of the broader Noise Action Plan for Brisbane, with outcomes expected to guide long-term planning for the airport. Expansion plans also include a third terminal by 2031 and land reserved for potential future runway extensions.

Published 3-Sep-2025

New Road Safety Cameras Planned in Nudgee

Photo Credit: Pexels

Nudgee will be part of Queensland’s new road safety enforcement measures, with point-to-point speed cameras planned for the Gateway Motorway North upgrade.

Rising Road Toll

Queensland has recorded 189 road deaths so far this year, two more than the same period last year. In 2023, 302 lives were lost, the highest toll since 2009. Speeding was a factor in almost one-quarter of those fatalities.

Safety Measures at Nudgee

As part of the Gateway Motorway North upgrade, point-to-point speed cameras will be installed in the Nudgee corridor. These cameras track average speeds over longer distances, targeting persistent speeding behaviour. They will undergo testing before enforcement begins in mid to late 2026.

Nudgee road safety — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Statewide Road Investment

The installation forms part of a wider safety program. Over the next four years, $25.5 billion has been allocated to road projects, including $9 billion for the Bruce Highway program. Another $100 million has been set aside for the Country Roads Connect scheme, which aims to improve safety on rural and remote corridors.

Effectiveness of Point-to-Point Cameras

Research shows point-to-point cameras can reduce fatal and serious crashes by up to 85 per cent. Authorities describe them as preventative tools that deter speeding and support safer driving.

Gateway Motorway — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Calls for Stronger Enforcement

RACQ has backed the rollout of new cameras, noting that speeding remains the leading cause of road trauma, with three-quarters of motorists admitting to the behaviour. Road safety advocates have also urged greater use of enforcement, including roadside drug and alcohol testing, stronger penalties, and more police presence on high-risk roads.

Cost of Road Trauma

Between 2019 and 2023, there were 31,742 crashes causing death or serious injury in Queensland, at a social cost estimated at $35.7 billion. This figure includes medical expenses, vehicle damage, lost productivity, and the broader social impact on families and communities.

Next Steps

With enforcement scheduled to start from late next year, drivers travelling through Nudgee on the Gateway Motorway will face stricter monitoring. Advocates say reducing speeding and changing driving behaviour remain central to lowering Queensland’s road toll.

Published 3-Sep-2025