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New Kangaroo Bus Lines Depot Set to Open in Banyo

Did you know that Kangaroo Bus Lines is set to open a new satellite depot in Banyo to support the growth of its charter and tour operations?

Background and Company Context

Family-owned Kangaroo Bus Lines (KBL), operating in Queensland for 47 years under the Webster family, will open a second satellite depot in April 2025. The new location in Banyo supports the company’s strategic growth in the tour and charter sector, following continued expansion in recent years. KBL was named the 2024 BIC National Operator of the Year.

Depot Features and Purpose

The new Banyo depot will accommodate up to 40 vehicles at full capacity. The facility includes onsite refuelling, washing, and basic servicing, as well as an office and full driver amenities. According to KBL CEO Darren Webster, the depot will enhance operational efficiency by eliminating the need for coaches to travel from the company’s Burpengary head office through congested roads.

Improving Efficiency and Reach in Banyo

The decision to establish the depot in Banyo is intended to better service clients based in Brisbane, including work regularly carried out at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal. A dedicated team will manage the Banyo site, which complements KBL’s existing operations in Burpengary and the Sunshine Coast.

Strategic Advantage over Alternatives

Mr Webster noted that finding a suitable location in the northern part of Brisbane was essential for strengthening the company’s charter business. By reducing reliance on travel to and from Burpengary, the Banyo depot is expected to deliver measurable efficiencies for both clients and operations.

photo of Kangaroo Bus Lines — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Charter Manager Dan via Kangaroo Bus Lines*

Community Sentiment and Public Reaction

KBL’s announcement has drawn wide praise across social media, with Facebook users congratulating the team and celebrating the company’s growth.

Comments included, “Congratulations on this huge milestone!” and “Well done KBL, that’s a game changer.” Others described the expansion as a “fabulous achievement” and a “fantastic strategic move.” One commenter added, “I’d apply to drive, but I can’t get a DA. So, I’ll just say well done on the expansion.”

Looking Ahead

With operations stretching from Brisbane City to the Sunshine Coast, Kangaroo Bus Lines aims to use the Banyo depot to expand its logistical capabilities. The site is part of KBL’s long-term strategy to enhance its transport services across southeast Queensland.

Published 28-Mar-2025

Brisbane Airport Expands Digital Declarations for International Arrivals

Brisbane Airport is expanding its digital Incoming Passenger Card system, replacing traditional paper forms for international arrivals.

Read: Net-Zero Achieved: Brisbane Airport Reaches New Heights with Emissions-Free Operations

From 19 March 2025, all eligible passengers on Qantas international flights arriving at Brisbane Airport will be able to complete the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD) digitally.

international arrivals — Photo credit: Australian Border Force

The initiative, led by the Australian Border Force (ABF) in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and Qantas, aims to streamline the arrival process. The ATD pilot program first launched in October 2024 for passengers flying from New Zealand.

After a successful five-month trial, the system was expanded last week to include Qantas flights from Los Angeles and is now being rolled out to all Qantas international arrivals at Brisbane Airport.

Passengers can complete the digital declaration up to 72 hours before departure via the Qantas app, receiving a QR code instead of a paper card. This code is presented to border officials upon arrival, eliminating the need for manual paperwork. Since the trial began, nearly 12,000 passengers have used the ATD, with many praising its convenience and efficiency.

ABF Commissioner Gavan Reynolds stated that moving away from paper Incoming Passenger Cards is a key step toward creating a fully digital and streamlined border system.

“The expansion of the Australian Travel Declaration pilot program marks a significant advancement in our mission to modernise border processes and enhance the traveller experience,” Commissioner Reynolds said.

“The positive feedback so far has demonstrated a clear demand for a more efficient and user-friendly approach. As we prepare for global events like the 2032 Olympics, the ABF is committed to using technology to create a seamless travel experience while maintaining our high standards of security and compliance.”

Read: Brisbane Airport to Adjust Flight Paths to Reduce Noise for Local Residents

The transition is expected to phase out paper forms entirely over time, preventing the use of millions of paper copies each year. Officials also note that the digital system speeds up the airport process, reducing delays at border control. The Brisbane pilot is providing valuable insights for potential expansion to other airports and airlines, marking a step towards a fully digital border system in Australia.

Published 26-March-2025

Nundah Man Crushed Under Car in Critical Condition

Photo Credit: Queensland Ambulance Services

A man in his 50s is fighting for his life after a stationary car suddenly rolled back and trapped him underneath in a quiet Nundah street.

The incident happened just before 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, 20 March, on Imbros Street. Emergency services were called to the scene after reports that a man had become stuck under a vehicle while attending to what appeared to be a mechanical issue.

Authorities believe the car was stationary at first but unexpectedly rolled backward, pinning the man beneath it. Three fire crews responded quickly and worked to free the man before he was taken to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in a critical condition.

Imbros St, Nundah — *Photo Credit: Imbros St*

Queensland Police said early investigations suggest the man had been trying to fix the car when the tragic accident occurred.

The exact circumstances are still under review, and anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage from the area has been asked to contact police.

Local authorities are reminding residents to take extra caution around vehicles, particularly when inspecting mechanical faults or navigating areas where pedestrian activity is high.

Published 21-March-2025

Disaster Relief Grants Activated for Queenslanders Affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, Including Nundah

To help communities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025, Queensland has launched the Personal Hardship Financial Assistance program. This initiative aims to help individuals and families struggling with the effects of flooding, storm damage, and disruptions to essential services.

Read: Toombul Creek Clears, Traffic Resumes After Brisbane Floods Recede

Nundah is among the Brisbane suburbs eligible for this financial aid. While the flooding was not as severe as in 2022, some areas still felt the impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Nundah has a history of flooding, particularly in areas near Nundah Creek, and once again, water levels rose in the vicinity of the demolished Toombul Shopping Centre, which suffered severe damage in the 2022 floods.

However, this time, the water cleared more quickly. The suburb also faced power outages, and non-functioning traffic lights at key intersections created additional challenges for residents trying to travel safely.

About the Personal Hardship Financial Assistance

Grants are available to cover urgent needs such as food, clothing, medication, temporary accommodation, and the replacement of essential household items. The Emergency Hardship Assistance grant, one of the available grants, offers up to $900 for families of five or more.

Additional assistance is provided for those who have lost access to power, water, gas, or sewage for an extended period, as well as for safety inspections, structural repairs, and the reconnection of essential services.

Photo credit: Community Recovery QLD/Facebook

Community Recovery Hubs are also open to provide further support. Besides assisting with grant applications, these hubs offer emotional and wellbeing support, as well as referrals to community organisations and other recovery services.

Read: What’s Next for Toombul Shopping Centre? Mirvac Announces Redevelopment Plans

Due to high demand across Queensland, authorities are working through a large volume of applications. Residents are encouraged to remain patient as support teams process requests as quickly as possible. More details on eligibility and how to apply can be found through Queensland Government’s website.

Published 13-March-2025

Toombul Creek Clears, Traffic Resumes After Brisbane Floods Recede

Photo Credit: QLD Traffic

Following days of intense rainfall and widespread flooding, Toombul Creek has now cleared, allowing vehicles to once again pass through the area. This is a sign of improving conditions across Brisbane’s suburban tributaries.

Floodwaters Recede, Roads Reopen

After a prolonged period of heavy rainfall associated with the tail end of the Alfred system, water levels in Toombul Creek have significantly subsided. This improvement has enabled the reopening of roads in the vicinity, which were previously impassable due to flooding. Residents report that while the initial deluge caused substantial disruption, the rapid clearing of the creek has brought much-needed relief.

The area surrounding the demolished Toombul shopping centre, which suffered severe damage in the 2022 floods, was submerged again. The rapid clearing of the water is a welcome change. The constant rainfall over two days led to widespread flooding, with numerous roads closed and fallen trees obstructing travel. The challenges included power outages and intersections without working traffic lights, making essential travel difficult. However, the clearance of Toombul Creek indicates a positive shift in the overall situation.

Community Relief and Recovery

The reopening of roads around Toombul Creek has been met with relief from the local community. Residents who had been experiencing disruptions to their daily routines are now able to resume normal activities. The ability for cars to pass through the area again is a significant step towards recovery, reflecting the community’s resilience in the face of adverse weather conditions.

While the initial flooding caused displacement and inconvenience, the swift receding of the waters has allowed a return to normalcy. One resident noted that while they were concerned that this flood would be as bad as the 2022 floods, the water had cleared much faster than expected. The speed of the water receding has allowed access to many people’s homes again.

Remaining Vigilant

Despite the improved conditions, residents are reminded to remain vigilant and stay informed about potential weather changes. The recent flooding serves as a reminder of Brisbane’s suburban areas’ vulnerability to heavy rainfall and the importance of preparedness. While Toombul Creek has cleared, ongoing monitoring of weather patterns and water levels is crucial to ensure the continued safety and well-being of the community.

Published Date 11-March-2025

Be Ready, Nundah: How to Protect Your Home and Family from Cyclone Alfred

As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches Brisbane, residents, especially those in flood-prone suburbs like Nundah, must take immediate action to safeguard their homes and families.

Read: What’s Next for Toombul Shopping Centre? Mirvac Announces Redevelopment Plans

Alfred, currently a Category 2 system, is expected to hit Queensland around Thursday or early Friday, bringing damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding.

Preparation Steps for Cyclone Alfred

Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare a ‘grab and go’ kit with essential supplies to last five to seven days. This should include non-perishable food, water, medications, important documents, cash, and supplies for pets. Given the potential for power outages, include a battery-operated radio, torch, spare batteries, and power banks for charging mobile devices.
Secure Your Property: Remove or secure any loose items around your property that could become projectiles in strong winds. Clean gutters and check drainage systems to ensure they are clear of debris, reducing the risk of water accumulation and potential flooding.
Utilise Sandbags: Sandbags can help reduce the impact of flooding on your property. While they won’t stop water entirely, they can minimise water entry. Sandbags are available at several Brisbane locations, Darra, Lota, Morningside, Newmarket, and Zillmere. The nearest one to Nundah is the one at Newmarket, located at the SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road.

Ensure you check your vehicle’s weight restrictions before loading sandbags, as each weighs approximately 18–20 kilograms.

Protect Vehicles: Avoid parking cars on the street, especially in areas prone to flooding or under trees and power lines. If possible, move vehicles to higher ground or secure garages to prevent damage from rising waters or debris. Brisbane officials have warned of higher-than-predicted high tides in foreshore and riverside areas from Saturday, 1 March, to Wednesday, 5 March 2025.
Stay Informed: Keep updated with the latest weather forecasts and warnings through official channels such as the Bureau of Meteorology or Council’s emergency dashboard. A battery-operated radio can be invaluable during power outages. Follow advice from local authorities and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

Nundah’s Flood Risk

Nundah has a documented history of flooding, particularly due to its proximity to Nundah Creek. Back in February 2022, the Toombul Shopping Centre suffered extensive flood damage, leading to a decision not to reopen. Business owners were notified in a letter stating that restoring the centre to its previous condition was neither practical nor desirable.

As of February 2025, the shopping centre has been fully demolished, with Mirvac announcing plans to redevelop it into a mixed-use precinct. However, since the area is prone to flooding, any new plans must include strong flood resilience measures to avoid a repeat of the past.

Council has conducted detailed flood studies for the Nundah Creek area to manage and mitigate flood risks. Residents can access the Flood Awareness Map to understand their property’s flood likelihood and prepare accordingly.

Impact on Brisbane Airport

Photo credit: Brisbane Airport/Google Maps

Brisbane Airport has not yet announced flight cancellations, but there is a possibility of disruptions if conditions worsen.

Passengers with upcoming flights should monitor airline updates and Brisbane Airport’s official channels for real-time information. As always, safety is a priority—if roads leading to the airport become flooded, it is advised not to attempt to travel. “If it’s flooded, forget it.”

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A post shared by Brisbane City Council (@brisbanecitycouncil)

Community Resources and Support

Brisbane offers resources to assist residents in preparing for severe weather events. Free green waste drop-off is available at all four resource recovery centres (RRCs) until further notice, with extended opening hours from 6:30 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. to aid in preparation efforts.

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A post shared by Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner (@brisbane.lordmayor)

However, kerbside collection has been suspended due to the significant risk posed by Cyclone Alfred. Residents are advised to secure any items placed on the kerb as soon as possible to prevent hazards during the cyclone.

Read: Net-Zero Achieved: Brisbane Airport Reaches New Heights with Emissions-Free Operations

Final Considerations

Preparation is crucial in mitigating the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. By taking proactive steps, residents of Nundah and the greater Brisbane area can enhance their safety and resilience against the impending severe weather. Remember, if it’s flooded, forget it—never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters.

Published 3-March-2025

How Brisbane Airport’s Parking Rates Compare Internationally

Brisbane Airport’s long-term car parking rates have soared to among the most expensive in the world, drawing comparisons to major international airports. Brisbane’s long term parking fees now rival those of global transport hubs such as London Heathrow, San Francisco, and Doha’s Hamad International Airport.

Read: Net-Zero Achieved: Brisbane Airport Reaches New Heights with Emissions-Free Operations

According to Brisbane Airport Corporation’s (BAC) official website, the cost for parking in its ParkLong facility, its most popular car parking option, is now at $69 for a stay of between 4 and 24 hours, while a full week of parking will set travellers back $205. These prices place Brisbane among the top-tier of costly airport parking worldwide.

For context, the world’s most expensive airport for long-term parking is Hamad International Airport in Doha, where a week of parking costs an astonishing $538. London’s Heathrow Airport follows at $324 per week, while San Francisco International Airport rounds out the top three at $245 per week.

Despite Brisbane’s high ranking, BNE maintains that its pricing is competitive and designed to cater to a wide range of needs. A spokesperson defended the fees, stating that they were fair and catered to various budgets and requirements.

They also pointed out that the increasing demand for parking services, ranging from budget-friendly options like Airpark to premium Valet services, reflects the suitability of their pricing strategy.

For travellers seeking lower-cost options, Brisbane Airport offers AIRPARK and AIRPARK 2, budget-friendly open-air car parks located on airport grounds. These facilities operate 24/7 with surveillance, while a free shuttle service runs from early morning until midnight. Parking in these areas costs $7 for 1-2 hours.

While some travellers may balk at the rising costs, the airport asserts that it offers a variety of parking choices to suit different budgets. However, for many frequent flyers and holidaymakers, Brisbane’s rising fees may further encourage alternative transport options, such as rideshare services or off-site parking facilities.

Read: Brisbane Airport to Adjust Flight Paths to Reduce Noise for Local Residents

As air travel continues to rebound post-pandemic, the cost of airport services—including parking—remains a hot topic for discussion among travellers looking for value and convenience.

Published 25-February-2025

Work Set to Begin on Danby Lane Development in Nundah Village

Construction on the Danby Lane development in Nundah Village is scheduled to begin in the coming weeks, with completion expected by early 2027.

Read: New Retirement Village Planned for Nundah

The 12-storey mixed-use project, led by Gardner Vaughan Group (GVG), aims to integrate modern living with the suburb’s historical character. A key architectural feature is its two-level Art Deco-inspired facade, designed to complement the surrounding area.

GVG chief executive Simon Betteridge noted that the project is intended to foster a sense of community rather than simply providing residential spaces. He added that, having been based in Nundah for over a decade, the company aimed for the development to reflect the area’s historical and contemporary elements while strengthening local connections.

Development Features

Danby Lane will include 84 apartments with configurations ranging from one to four bedrooms, as well as four penthouses. The development will also incorporate ground-floor retail spaces, commercial areas, and several resident amenities.

All one-bedroom apartments have been sold. Prices for the remaining units start at $909,000 for two-bedroom apartments, $1.279 million for three-bedroom apartments, and $2.149 million for four-bedroom apartments. The penthouses, featuring larger layouts and high-end finishes, are priced up to $3.199 million.

Each apartment is designed with open-plan living spaces, spacious balconies, and modern finishes. The main bedrooms include walk-in wardrobes and ensuites.

Amenities and Location

Residents will have access to a podium-level outdoor pool, a gymnasium, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views and outdoor dining areas. The development’s location provides easy access to public transport, major road networks, and Brisbane Airport.

Read: Nundah Intersection Undergoes Safety Overhaul

Nearby cycling and walking paths offer additional lifestyle benefits. The GVG head office will also move to Danby Lane, reinforcing the company’s ongoing presence in the area.

Betteridge stated that the project represents an investment in Nundah’s future, with the goal of supporting its continued development as a well-connected and evolving community.

Published 24-February-2025

What’s Next for Toombul Shopping Centre? Mirvac Announces Redevelopment Plans

With the Toombul Shopping Centre now completely demolished, the once-bustling retail hub has been reduced to an empty space, leaving locals eager to know what will rise in its place. Amid the uncertainty, Mirvac has provided a glimpse of what’s to come, announcing plans of seeking financial and development partners to bring new life to the flood-prone location.

Read: Building Height Limits to Increase in Toombul, Other Shopping Precincts as Part of Growth Strategy

A New Vision for Toombul

Mirvac, which purchased the flood-prone property in 2016 for $233 million and invested another $35 million in upgrades, is now looking at a fresh approach to the site. The company has received support from BCC to transform the former shopping centre into a transit-oriented mixed-use precinct. This development could include residential apartments, retail outlets, and improved public transport connections, aiming to make the most of Toombul’s strategic location.

While there has been speculation that the site could be used for the 2032 Olympic Games, Mirvac has instead focused on a long-term solution that considers its flood history. The company has been in discussions with authorities to outline key development parameters, including traffic management, the design of a new bus interchange, open spaces, and—most critically—a flood mitigation strategy.

A Site with a Troubled Past

Toombul Shopping Centre was a key retail destination for decades, housing hundreds of stores and serving as a central hub for the local community. However, after the 2022 disaster forced the termination of hundreds of leases, the site was ultimately demolished in 2023 following BCC approval, marking the end of an era for many shoppers and businesses.

The absence of the once-thriving retail hub has already caused significant disruptions for nearby shopping precincts, leading to increased parking congestion and a gap in retail services for local residents.

Flooding remains the biggest challenge for any future development at Toombul. The site has been inundated multiple times, including during the 2011 and 2015 floods. Any new plans must incorporate robust flood resilience measures to prevent history from repeating itself.

Mirvac acknowledges this concern and has stated that addressing flood risk is “the most important part of the puzzle.” The company will need to develop a strategy that balances commercial viability with climate resilience, ensuring that any new structures are designed to withstand extreme weather events.

Next Steps: Finding the Right Partners

With BCC’s backing, Mirvac is now focused on finding financial backers and construction partners to bring its vision to life. Given the scale of the redevelopment and the current challenges in the construction industry, Mirvac is taking a collaborative approach. The company has begun engaging with a targeted group of potential investors and builders who can help turn the site into a modern urban centre.

Mirvac noted that with council support confirming permissible developments for the site, they have started discussions with selected potential partners, including investors and construction firms, to move forward with the redevelopment. Mirvac stated.

Read: Discussions Ongoing Regarding Possible Toombul Shopping Centre Redevelopment

A New Era for Toombul

The redevelopment of Toombul Shopping Centre presents a unique opportunity to reshape the area. If executed well, the project could provide much-needed housing, reinvigorate retail activity, and improve public transport connectivity. However, success will depend on how effectively Mirvac and its partners navigate the site’s flood risks and ensure that the new Toombul is built to withstand future challenges.

For now, residents and businesses in the area are waiting to see how this transformation unfolds—and whether it can finally fill the void left by Toombul’s demolition.

Published 19-February-2025

Holy Spirit Seminary Hosts Fr Zollner’s Call for a Safeguarding-Focused Church

German Jesuit priest and globally recognised safeguarding expert Fr Hans Zollner delivered a powerful address at Holy Spirit Seminary in Banyo, urging the Church to embed safeguarding as an integral part of its mission.

Read: Banyo Named Among Queensland’s Top Suburbs to Watch in 2025

Speaking to clergy, religious leaders, safeguarding officers, parishioners, and church workers, Fr Zollner acknowledged the progress made in tackling sexual abuse within the Church while emphasising the need for continuous efforts.

During his talk, Fr Zollner, a founding member of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, reflected on how the landscape had shifted since his last visit to Brisbane in 2017. At the time, the Australian Church was grappling with the findings of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

Fr Hans Zollner (Photo credit: Joe Higgins/ The Catholic Leader)

Now, while significant steps have been taken—particularly in Australia, which he described as being at the forefront of global safeguarding efforts—he stressed that more must be done to address past failures and prevent future harm.

At the heart of his message was the need to shift perspectives on safeguarding. Rather than viewing it as merely a legal or administrative obligation, he urged the Church to embrace it as a proactive and hopeful mission.

He likened this shift to the Church’s response to ecological issues under Pope Francis, who championed environmental responsibility in his encyclical Laudato Si’. Just as environmental awareness has become deeply embedded in Catholic life, Fr Zollner believes safeguarding should become a natural and fundamental aspect of Church culture.

He rejected simplistic explanations for the abuse crisis, such as blaming celibacy or homosexuality, and instead called for a deeper understanding of the structural and cultural factors that enabled abuse. “Listening to survivors is crucial,” he said, in shaping effective safeguarding measures.

His message resonated strongly with those in attendance. Anne-Marie Williams, a Brisbane Catholic working in pastoral care with Mercy Community, described his speech as refreshing but also a sobering reminder of the work that still lies ahead.

Photo credit: Holy Spirit Seminary Queensland/Facebook

“It is devastating to know firsthand that these stories are not rare – and that a lot of the abuse crisis stems from repeated patterns and failure to respond appropriately and quickly,” she said. Williams emphasised that safeguarding should not be a “box-ticking habit” but a lived reality in every aspect of Church work.

Brisbane Archdiocese’s Safeguarding Office director, Mark Eustance, echoed Fr Zollner’s call for safeguarding to be fully integrated into the Church’s mission. He acknowledged that while great strides had been made, including the results of a recent external parish safeguarding audit, there is still a need for continued commitment, especially with the upcoming Queensland Child Safe Standards and Reportable Conduct Scheme set to take effect in late 2024.

Ipswich community priest Fr Minje Kim was also moved by Fr Zollner’s insights, particularly on the challenge of fostering a sense of togetherness while ensuring appropriate boundaries for victims and survivors. He recognised that many survivors may never feel comfortable returning to Church spaces, making it essential for the Church to find meaningful ways to accompany them on their healing journey.

Fr Zollner’s visit to Banyo was part of a broader speaking tour across Australia, with upcoming engagements in Sydney and Melbourne. His call for safeguarding to be seen as a source of hope, rather than just a means of avoiding harm, continues to inspire reflection and action within the Church.

Read: From Lively Community to Distant Memory: The Story of Cribb Island

His final message was clear: safeguarding is not just a responsibility but a moral commitment that must be woven into the fabric of the Church’s identity. By fostering safe spaces, building trust, and prioritising the dignity of every individual, the Church can work towards lasting change.

Published 12-February-2025