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

Brisbane Airport will adjust its flight operations to reduce aircraft noise affecting local residents, aiming to limit disruptions in neighbourhoods under current flight paths.

Starting on 28 November, Brisbane Airport will prioritise the use of Simultaneous Opposite Direction Parallel Runway Operations (SODPROPS) during certain times, particularly on weekends and weeknights after 9 p.m., allowing more aircraft to arrive and depart over Moreton Bay rather than residential areas.

This change, directed by Airservices Australia and the federal Transport Minister, is expected to reduce noise disturbances for 300,000 to 500,000 residents affected by previous flight patterns.

Community Concerns and the Push for Quieter Skies

Community groups and local representatives have raised long-standing concerns about Brisbane Airport’s operations’ noise impact, especially since the opening of the second runway in 2020. Residents in affected areas have been vocal about noise levels and are advocating for stronger measures, including a night-time curfew and a cap on the number of flights.

The Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance also expressed concerns that the proposed increase in SODPROPS usage, from two per cent to five per cent of total flights, may still be insufficient. Representatives from the alliance argue that the SODPROPS mode should be prioritised for more hours each day, not only during limited times when conditions permit.

Airservices Australia and Airport’s Noise Reduction Strategy

Airservices Australia, the authority responsible for air traffic control, stated that increasing SODPROPS usage was a key part of its Noise Action Plan for Brisbane. According to the plan, aircraft using this runway mode will stay over water longer and gain altitude more quickly before crossing into residential airspace, which should reduce the noise impact on the ground.

As part of these measures, aircraft flying over the Redlands area will ascend to 12,000 feet, up from the previous 8,000 feet, to further mitigate noise. Additionally, minor adjustments will be made to arrival flight paths over North Stradbroke Island, including the installation of a noise monitor to ensure transparency and track any impact on local residents.

Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graff has expressed the airport’s commitment to reducing noise, stating that each additional aircraft routed over Moreton Bay lessens the noise impact on neighbouring communities. Brisbane Airport is collaborating with Airservices Australia, airlines, and local stakeholders to balance the airport’s economic role with residents’ quality of life.

Brisbane Airport Flight Path — *Photo Credit: Airservices Australia*

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Economic and Operational Considerations

While noise concerns continue to drive community advocacy, there are also economic considerations. Brisbane Airport Corporation has indicated that curfews and flight caps could have significant economic repercussions, costing the city around $1 billion annually. Instead, the airport has taken steps to work with international airlines, such as Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Cathay Pacific, to route more nighttime flights over the bay when winds are favourable, helping limit noise in populated areas.

Airservices Australia has assured the community that further changes to SODPROPS usage are under consideration, with plans to expand the mode’s application in 2025 if traffic conditions and safety standards allow. Community feedback remains central to the ongoing adjustments, as Airservices continues to work closely with Brisbane residents and other stakeholders to address the impact of aircraft noise.

Published 31-Oct-2024

Banyo Educator First to Graduate from Ground-breaking Accelerated Teaching Programme

Photo Credit: Australian Catholic University/ Facebook

A Banyo-based early childhood educator has become among the first to graduate from a revolutionary accelerated teaching programme at the Australian Catholic University (ACU).

This innovative course, the first of its kind in Queensland, allows diploma-qualified educators to fast-track their studies and obtain a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five Years) in 18 months, compared to the traditional four years.

This programme is a much-needed solution to the ongoing workforce shortage in the early childhood education sector. Launched in March this year, the accelerated degree has already attracted 70 Queensland-based students in its first intake, all eager to upskill and lead preschool classrooms.

ACU lecturer Laurien Beane hailed the programme as a “game changer,” emphasising its importance in “closing the gap” and ensuring adequate staffing to keep childcare services operational. The programme draws students from diverse locations across Queensland, including Cairns, Townsville, Thursday Island, the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Warwick.

Beane stressed the significance of upskilling educators in urban and regional areas to guarantee all families access to quality early childhood education and care.

Chloe Buchtmann, a 39-year-old educator from Banyo with 20 years of experience, is one of the programme’s success stories. She highlighted the programme’s accessibility and the significant time savings it offered.

Previously facing a nine-year path to completing her degree part-time, Buchtmann is now on track to graduate next year. She praised the programme’s affordability, noting the availability of scholarships through providers like Goodstart, which make it a viable option for those with families and financial commitments.

Professor Donna King, ACU National Head of the School of Education, explained that the programme was developed in partnership with key industry players to address the sector’s need for highly qualified early childhood teachers.

The course maintains a rigorous curriculum without compromising quality or disrupting students’ work lives.

It utilises a multi-mode delivery approach, incorporating virtual reality technology and intensive weekend symposiums (both in-person and online) to foster interaction and professional networking among future educators.

Published Date 29-October-2024

Nudgee Cemetery: Shadows of the Past, Whispers of the Departed

Hidden in plain sight lies Nudgee Cemetery, a sprawling testament to Queensland’s past. But it’s more than just rows of headstones – it’s a treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered. Come with us as we delve into the history and mysteries of this fascinating final resting place.

Established in 1867 as the first Catholic burial ground in the region, Nudgee Cemetery quickly became a significant landmark in Queensland’s history. Originally owned and operated by the Catholic Church, it has evolved into the largest cemetery in the Brisbane area, a sprawling tapestry of diverse stories and backgrounds.

Within its grounds lie the remains of prominent figures who shaped the state, alongside everyday individuals who contributed to its vibrant fabric. This mix of the famous and the ordinary, the grand and the humble, is part of what makes Nudgee so compelling.

But beyond the historical significance lies a deeper mystery. Nudgee has garnered a reputation as a haven for restless spirits, their presence whispered amongst those who wander its paths after sunset. These whispers, combined with the sheer age and scale of the cemetery, create an atmosphere ripe for historical exploration and paranormal investigation.

Eerie Encounters and Unexplained Phenomena

Among the most enduring tales is that of a young girl, her spectral form reportedly seen flitting amongst the tombstones. Visitors claim to have caught glimpses of her ghostly figure, moving swiftly through the shadows before vanishing into thin air. Her identity remains a mystery, adding to the intrigue surrounding her presence. Is she a lost soul, forever bound to the grounds, or a figment of overactive imaginations?

Adding to the cemetery’s spectral reputation are the strange orbs of light that have been witnessed floating above the graves. Some claim to have captured these luminous anomalies in photographs, while others describe seeing them with their own eyes. These unexplained lights, dancing in the darkness, fuel speculation about the nature of the afterlife and the possibility of spirits lingering among us.

A Place of Peace and Reflection

While the ghostly tales certainly add a layer of intrigue to Nudgee Cemetery, it’s important to remember that it is, first and foremost, a place of rest and remembrance. It’s a place where families come to honour loved ones and reflect on lives lived. The site’s historical significance, with its connections to Queensland’s past, adds another dimension to its appeal.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a paranormal investigator, or simply seeking a quiet place for contemplation, Nudgee Cemetery offers a unique experience. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, stories are etched in stone and whispered on the wind, and the line between the living and the departed seems to blur.

Published Date 28-October-2024

Virginia Festive Hub: VEND Marketplace to Host Christmas Pop-Up Extravaganza

Photo Credit: VEND/ Instagram

Virginia, get ready to jingle all the way to VEND Marketplace this Christmas! VEND Marketplace in Virginia and Annerley is transforming into a festive wonderland this November and December with not one but two Christmas pop-up markets.

The popular indoor market will be overflowing with festive cheer. It will showcase the wares of over 120 vendors inside and be complemented by local artisans offering unique Christmas gifts in the outdoor area.

Shoppers can expect a complete Christmas experience with a cafe serving delicious dinner meals, a pop-up bar offering festive cocktails for the adults, and free face painting to entertain the little ones.

Highlights of the VEND Christmas Pop-Up Market

Diverse Shopping: Over 120 vendors inside and local artisans outside offering unique gifts.

Festive Feasting: A cafe serving up delicious Christmas dinner options.

Christmas Cheer: A pop-up bar with festive cocktails for the adults.
Family Fun: Free face painting for children and a dedicated kids’ playground.

Pet-Friendly: Furry friends are welcome to join the festivities.

Convenient Parking: Ample on-site and street parking available.

The markets will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Saturday, 30 November, and Saturday, 7 December. VEND Marketplace encourages attendees to embrace Christmas by donning their best festive attire.

With its diverse offerings and family-friendly atmosphere, the VEND Christmas Pop-Up Market promises to highlight the holiday season in Virginia.

Published Date 23-October-2024

Nundah Programs Win Top Awards at Queensland Mental Health Week Achievement Ceremony

Two Nundah-based mental health programs have earned top honours at the 28th Queensland Mental Health Week Achievement Awards, highlighting their critical role in supporting families and mental health in the community.

Awards Ceremony

The awards were presented during a Friday, 11 October 2024 ceremony at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event recognises outstanding contributions to mental health across the state, and both programs from Nundah stood out among a competitive pool of nominees.

Nicki Walsh Wins Jude Bugeja Lived Experience Award

Nicki Walsh, a key figure in Nundah, was recognised with the Jude Bugeja Lived Experience Award for her work as the Statewide Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Consumer Carer Coordinator at the Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health (QCPIMH). This award, sponsored by the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health, honours individuals who use their own experiences to make a significant difference in the lives of others living with mental illness.

Walsh has been lauded for her efforts in connecting with families and ensuring their voices are heard, particularly in perinatal and infant mental health.

“We are proud to recognise Nicki for her authenticity and empathy which she brings to all aspects of her work. She continually challenges stigma and promotes understanding within the community,” Kate Johnson, CEO of Open Minds, remarked.

Queensland Mental Health Week — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Zero to Four Family Support Service Wins Two Major Awards

The Zero to Four Family Support Service also based in Nundah, took home two prestigious awards: the Early Years Award and the overall Earle Duus Award, which recognises the top overall winner of the Queensland Mental Health Week Achievement Awards.

The service focuses on improving the wellbeing and safety of children and families, empowering parents, and preventing children from entering the statutory child protection system. Its volunteer programs aim to reduce social isolation, promote mental health, and build parental confidence.

“We are immensely proud to honour community members who play a crucial role in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of vulnerable young people in Queensland,” Ms Johnson said.

Community Impact

These awards highlight the critical work happening in Nundah and underscore the importance of community-driven mental health initiatives. The Queensland Mental Health Week Achievement Awards provide a platform for recognising local efforts that have a state-wide impact.

Both winners reflect the dedication of local mental health programs to fostering healthier futures for families and children, ensuring the Nundah community remains a supportive and nurturing environment for all.

Published 17-Oct-2024

Stephen K Amos Brings Award-Winning Comedy to Nundah

Fresh from his jungle adventures on “I’m A Celebrity Australia,” British comedy sensation Stephen K Amos is set to tickle funny bones across Brisbane with his latest show, “Oxymoron.”

Read: Karise Eden Returns to Nundah, Her Former Home, for a Special Performance

As part of his Australian tour, Amos will be gracing three local pubs with his presence, including a not-to-be-missed performance at the Royal Hotel Nundah.

Mark your calendars for Thursday, November 7th at 7:30 p.m., when the Royal Quarters at Nundah’s Royal Hotel will transform into a laughter-filled arena. Amos promises an hour of solid jokes and guaranteed belly laughs that will leave audiences in stitches.

From South London to Down Under

Stephen K Amos’s journey to comedy stardom began in the vibrant comedy clubs of South London, where he cut his teeth as a compere at the Big Fish venues. Since then, he’s become a BAFTA-nominated and RTS award-winning powerhouse, excelling as a writer, broadcaster, actor, and comedian.

His talents have graced both stage and screen, with notable performances in West End hits like “My Fair Lady” and “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest.” Most recently, Amos showcased his versatility by taking on the role of The Conductor in Tim Burton’s highly anticipated film “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.”

A Triple Treat for Brisbane

Stephen K Amos — Photo credit: stephenkamos.com

While the Nundah show is set to be a highlight, Brisbane comedy fans are in for a triple treat. Amos will also be performing at the Springlake Hotel and Fitzy’s Loganholme, ensuring that no corner of the city misses out on his comedic brilliance.

“Oxymoron” – A Show Not to Be Missed

With his razor-sharp wit and engaging stage presence, Stephen K Amos has earned a reputation for being “awfully good” at his craft. “Oxymoron” promises to deliver his signature style of comedy, blending observational humour with personal anecdotes that resonate with audiences from all walks of life.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Amos’s comedy, this show offers the perfect opportunity to experience one of the UK’s finest comedic exports in an intimate pub setting. So grab your tickets, gather your friends, and prepare for an evening of non-stop laughter with Stephen K Amos at the Royal Hotel Nundah.

Read: Pioneering Wood Therapist Brings Ancient Art of Healing to Nundah

Don’t miss this chance to see why Stephen K Amos is considered one of the most entertaining performers on the international comedy circuit. After all, laughter is the best medicine, and Amos is ready to prescribe a hefty dose to Brisbane!

Published 16-October-2024

New Retirement Village Planned for Nundah

Photo Credit: DA A006618875

Developers have submitted a significant application to build a new retirement village on Buckland Road in Nundah. This is the first stage of a larger project that will eventually turn the vacant site into a modern retirement facility.

This initial stage, designed by O’Neill Architecture, will see seventy-six independent living units constructed across two four-storey buildings. Each unit will offer two or three bedrooms, catering to various needs and preferences. The design prioritises comfortable, low-to-medium density living, with a mix of detached and attached dwellings.

Residents will enjoy various communal facilities, including a swimming pool, sun lounge area, and a pavilion with lawn space. These amenities are designed to foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for social interaction. The development also includes dedicated car parking for residents and visitors, ensuring convenient access.

Accessibility has been carefully considered, with ramps and accessible pathways incorporated throughout the site.

The development will also incorporate the existing chapel on the site, which will undergo significant renovations. These upgrades include restumping, a new roof, and improved accessibility with the addition of a ramp. The chapel will also benefit from a new driveway, gates, and a dedicated pedestrian path, ensuring easy access for residents and visitors.

Planners at Mecone emphasised the importance of the development of housing options that allow residents to age in place within their community. They highlighted that the retirement village will help maintain social connections and cater to the diverse needs of Nundah’s ageing population.

The proposed development covers approximately 27% of the 18,894 square metre site, leaving ample space for future stages of the project. Access to the site will be from Dalziel Street, ensuring minimal disruption to traffic on Buckland Road.

Published Date 10-October-2024

2024 Brisbane Airport Lost Property Auction: Forgotten Items Find New Purpose

The 2024 Brisbane Airport Lost Property Auction is in full swing, offering bargain hunters and curiosity seekers a chance to bid on an eclectic array of items left behind by forgetful travellers. With over 500 unclaimed possessions up for grabs, this year’s event promises to be as intriguing as it is charitable.

Read: Brisbane Airport Welcomes Brooki Bakehouse’s Second Store

In the past year alone, a staggering 22.6 million passengers passed through Brisbane Airport’s bustling terminals. Despite diligent efforts to reunite owners with their misplaced belongings, many items have remained unclaimed beyond the standard holding period, setting the stage for this unique annual event.

Lost Property Auction — Photo credit: bne.com.au

The auction’s catalogue reads like a treasure trove of modern conveniences and luxury goods. Bidders can vie for everything from cutting-edge electronics – including computers, tablets, and gaming consoles – to designer handbags, jewellery, and even CPAP machines. For the more practically minded, bicycles, scooters, and a refrigerator are also on offer.

Peter Doherty, Brisbane Airport’s Media & Corporate Affairs Manager, expressed amazement at the variety of items left behind. “It is simply bizarre some of the items left behind by the 60,000 passengers passing through Brisbane Airport each day,” he remarked.

However, this isn’t just about clearing out the lost and found. The auction serves a greater purpose, with all proceeds benefiting young Queenslanders in need. Last year’s event raised an impressive $80,000, supporting TrekShed’s youth program in partnership with PCYC and Little Wings, an organisation that flies sick children from regional areas to the city for medical treatment.

To sweeten the deal, Brisbane Airport has added some unique items to the lineup. Aviation enthusiasts can bid on a behind-the-scenes airside tour, runway signs, and even core samples from Brisbane’s legacy runway. For sports fans, a VIP Brisbane Lions experience package is up for grabs, complete with signed memorabilia and exclusive game-day perks.

While the auction aims to find new homes for lost items, two particularly sentimental pieces are not included in the bidding. The airport is seeking the public’s help in locating the owner of a set of medals belonging to a decorated Australian Defence Force member who served in the Vietnam War and during recent natural disasters.

“These are extremely precious items, and we’re confident that with the media attention the lost property auction receives, someone will be able to connect us with the family of this veteran with a very distinguished service record,” Mr Doherty explained.

Another mystery item is a race plate from a horse named Isotope, which won at Doomben in 2020. How this memento of a million-dollar racehorse ended up lost in the airport terminal in 2024 remains an enigma.

The online auction, managed by Lloyds Auctioneers and Valuers, will conclude on Sunday, October 27, with lots closing progressively throughout the day. With no reserves set, every item must go, offering participants the chance to snag incredible deals while supporting a worthy cause.

As Mr Doherty puts it, “This auction is hugely popular because it offers people a chance to snag a bargain while knowing their money is supporting young Queenslanders in need.”

Read: Historic Royal Hotel in Nundah Receives Major Makeover, Opens New Entertainment Venue

For those interested in participating or simply curious about the peculiar items people forget at airports, the Brisbane Airport Lost Property Auction provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of travel mishaps and unclaimed treasures.

Published 10-October-2024

Devils vs Jets: Keeley, Local Heroes Propel Norths to Historic Victory

Photo Credit: Norths Devils RLFC/Instagram

The Norths Devils have ended Queensland’s nine-year State Championship drought with a thrilling 20-18 victory over the Newtown Jets at Accor Stadium. Rising star Oryn Keeley emerged as the hero, scoring two crucial second-half tries to secure the historic win.

Read: Cameron Smith to Compete in Queensland PGA at Nudgee Golf Club

Local heroes secure the cup

While Newtown fielded a team of full-time players, the Devils’ winning formula combined local working professionals—“teachers, electricians, a firefighter, and a physiotherapist,” according to the team website—with four Dolphins representatives to achieve the unexpected.

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“This win means a lot to plenty of people and we’re just grateful that we had the chance to do this together,” Devils captain Kierran Moseley says, capturing the emotion of the historic moment.

Keeley leads Devils’ comeback

Trailing by eight points after halftime, the Devils mounted a remarkable comeback led by Dolphins-contracted second-rower Keeley. The 21-year-old’s dynamic performance included two tries and a crucial assist, earning him Man of the Match honours in front of 12,358 spectators.

The match-winning moment came with just six minutes remaining when Keeley carved through the Jets’ defence to score the decisive try. This victory marks Queensland’s first State Championship success since Ipswich’s triumph over Newcastle in 2015.

Keeley’s outstanding performance has caught the attention of incoming Dolphins coach Kristian Woolf. After making six NRL appearances this season, the former Newcastle junior is poised for a breakout year in 2025.

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“I wanted to leave Newcastle to get out of my comfort zone and learn and grow. I feel like I’ve done that,” Keeley says. “I’m just going to hopefully keep putting my head down and working hard.”

Devils coach Dave Elliott shares high hopes for his second-rower’s future. “He’s going to do some great things in the game at NRL level.”

Read: Brisbane Airport Welcomes Brooki Bakehouse’s Second Store

Both teams crossed the line for four tries each, but goal-kicking proved decisive. Jets’ playmaker Niwhai Puru struggled in the windy conditions, converting just one of four attempts, which allowed the Devils to edge them out.

Published 09-October-2024

Match preview published on 04-October-2024.

Devils vs Jets: Norths Set for NRL State Championship Clash Against Newtown

Fresh off their Hostplus Cup triumph, the Norths Devils are gearing up for a high-stakes clash against the Newtown Jets in the 2024 NRL State Championship this Sunday, 6 October. Devils vs Jets kick off 12:20 p.m. AEST at Accor Stadium in Sydney.

Read: Nundah Pub to Host Top International Comedian Stephen K Amos

Devils vs Jets

The Norths Devils, crowned Hostplus Cup premiers three times in the past four years, now look to make their mark on the national stage. Following a commanding 34-20 victory over the Redcliffe Dolphins in the Hostplus Cup final, they are set to face the Newtown Jets, the reigning NSW Knock-On Effect Cup champions.

This championship appearance offers a shot at redemption for the Devils, who narrowly missed out on the 2022 State Championship title after falling short against the Penrith Panthers. Now, they have their sights set on bringing the trophy back to Queensland—a feat not accomplished since the Ipswich Jets’ 2015 victory over the Newcastle Knights.

Celebrating successful season

As the Devils prepare for their Sydney trip, they celebrate individual achievements from their successful season. Oryn Keeley claimed the Player of the Year award, ending Jack Ahearn’s historic five-year reign.

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Keeley’s outstanding performance throughout the season earned him the accolade, all while making six appearances for the Dolphins NRL team.

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Other notable award recipients include Jeremiah Simbiken, who won the Players’ Player of the Year and the Higgins Services Heavy Mover awards; Mason Teague, who was named the Norths Old Boys’ Player of the Year; and Manase Kaho, who received the Bob Bax Award for Most Promising Player.

Read: New Townhomes Under $750k Launch in Nudgee for First-Home Buyers

With this talent-laden squad in tow, the Norths Devils now carry the hopes of their fans and the entire Hostplus Cup as they aim to secure Queensland’s first NRL State Championship in almost a decade.

Nundah Pub to Host Top International Comedian Stephen K Amos

Nundah is gearing up for a night of laughter as the renowned Royal Hotel prepares to welcome internationally acclaimed comedian Stephen K Amos this November.

Amos, a multitalented performer known for his BAFTA-nominated work, RTS award-winning writing, and recent appearance on “I’m A Celebrity Australia,” will showcase his new show, “Oxymoron,” at the hotel’s Royal Quarters venue.

Amos, a regular on the international comedy circuit, has charmed audiences worldwide with his natural delivery, honest material, and knack for audience interaction.

His unique comedic voice and impressive acting skills have garnered critical acclaim, solidifying his position as one of Britain’s most beloved comedians.

This comedy highlight is part of a broader trend of Queensland pubs becoming hotspots for top-tier comedy this spring. Alongside Amos’s Brisbane shows, Australian comedy favourites Dilruk Jayasinha and Lizzy Hoo will bring their split-bill act to two pubs in North Queensland.

The Royal Hotel’s Royal Quarters, a newly renovated space with a dedicated bar, is expected to provide the perfect intimate setting for Amos’s performance. The pub’s transformation last year has made it a go-to destination for live entertainment in the community.

Comedy fans across Queensland are spoilt for choice this spring, with a diverse range of comedic talent set to grace the stages of local pubs.

Whether it’s the internationally renowned humour of Stephen K Amos or the homegrown hilarity of Dilruk Jayasinha and Lizzy Hoo, there’s something to tickle everyone’s funny bone.

Published Date 26-September-2024