The social media cookie phenomenon, renowned for its chunky, decadent creations, is expanding beyond its flagship Fortitude Valley location. Owner Brooke Bellamy teased the unveiling of the new store on Instagram, revealing its location at the Domestic Terminal, adjacent to Gate 25.
The announcement has sparked excitement among fans across Australia and internationally, who have eagerly followed the brand’s expansion plans. Bellamy explained that Brisbane Airport was the “obvious choice” due to its potential to reach local and interstate customers.
She highlighted the frequent requests from customers wanting to share the “little piece of Brisbane” with friends and family across the country. The airport location will make this possible, allowing travellers to conveniently purchase the iconic cookies whether they’re visiting or departing Brisbane.
While the exact opening date still needs to be confirmed due to the complexities of operating on Crown Land, Bellamy assured customers that the store will be operational before the school holidays.
This timing is strategic, as many travellers pass through the airport during the peak period to visit popular destinations like Noosa and the Gold Coast.
Bellamy also reassured fans outside Brisbane, hinting at exciting plans in the pipeline. This expansion comes during a busy period for the entrepreneur, who is also eagerly awaiting the arrival of her baby girl and the release of her cookbook.
The Norths Devils have secured their place in the Hostplus Cup grand final, defeating the PNG Hunters 46-30 at Bishop Park. This Devils vs Hunters preliminary final victory marks the Norths’ eighth consecutive finals win, further extending their cup record.
Despite the final scoreline, the preliminary final was a closely contested affair. The Devils started strong, racing to a 16-0 lead within the first 17 minutes. The Hunters quickly responded, narrowing the gap to 16-12 with two tries, but Tesi Niu’s powerful score before halftime pushed the Devils’ lead to 22-12.
Julian Christian’s try early in the second half kept the Devils in control, and from that point on, the result was never in doubt. Christian’s try ensured that the Hunters struggled to regain momentum, and the Devils maintained their advantage throughout the remainder of the game.
With their impressive victory, the Devils now turn their attention to the grand final.
Towards the grand final
The team appears to be in top form as the Devils prepare for their third grand final in four years, with all players from the preliminary final are expected to be available for the season decider.
Norths head coach Dave Elliott is optimistic about the week ahead, highlighting the mix of experienced and first-time grand final players. “We have some players who have been through grand final weeks before and others getting ready for their first grand final so it will be a special week,” he said.
Fans can expect a high-stakes grand final as the Devils aim to cement their dominance over long-time rivals, the Redcliffe Dolphins, whom they beat in a grand final two years earlier. The stage is set for another thrilling chapter in the Norths Devils’ storied history.
Published 16-September-2024
This pre-match article was published on 09-September-2024.
Devils vs Hunters: Norths Aim for Third Grand Final in Four Years
The Norths Devils are set for a do-or-die Hostplus Cup preliminary final against the PNG Hunters this Sunday, 15 September, with a dominant record of three grand finals in four seasons on the cards for Nundah. Devils vs Hunters kick off 2:10 p.m. at Bishop Park.
Coming off a commanding 46-18 victory over Redcliffe a week ago, where eight different players crossed the try-line, the Devils showcased the depth that could prove vital in Sunday’s matchup.
This dominant early finals performance earned them a bye, putting them in prime position for what promises to be a close, physical encounter.
Devils talisman Jack Ahearn played a pivotal role in the win over Redcliffe and is expected to rise to the occasion once more in the upcoming high-stakes clash. Hooker Kierran Moseley will be key in orchestrating the team’s attack, while Sam Elliott will be all over the field, breaking up plays and creating opportunities of his own.
Devils vs Hunters
The Devils have proven themselves under pressure, boasting an impressive seven consecutive finals wins (that is, after missing the finals altogether last year).
However, the Hunters enter this match riding a wave of confidence after their gritty 24-10 semi-final victory over the Sunshine Coast Falcons.
Notably, the Hunters also handed the Devils one of their rare home losses earlier this season, securing a narrow 20-18 win at Bishop Park in Round 17, thanks to a last-minute try from Brandon Nima and a conversion from Jamie Mavoko.
Devils coach Dave Elliott remains focused on their well-established game plan. “We’ve got belief and trust in each other, and we need to stick to our game plan and play the footy we know we can play,” Elliott said.
His words reflect the team’s focus on consistency and execution, knowing that sticking to their processes has carried them through high-pressure moments in the past.
As the Devils chase their third grand final appearance in four years, the support of the home crowd at Bishop Park is a deciding factor. Finals football brings an unmatched intensity, and the Devils are calling on their fans to create a fortress-like atmosphere—every voice at Bishop Park counts.
Queensland Rail has announced a significant upgrade to Banyo station as part of its Station Accessibility Upgrade Program. The project aims to improve accessibility for all community members, including those with prams, luggage, wheelchairs, or injuries.
Banyo Station aerial view (Photo credit: queenslandrail.com.au)
The comprehensive upgrade includes a new footbridge with lift access and improved accessible parking. Passengers will benefit from full-length high-level platforms, upgraded hearing augmentation loops, and tactile ground surface indicators.
Security will be enhanced with new cameras and lighting, while improved wayfinding and platform signage will help travellers navigate the station more easily.
Photo credit: queenslandrail.com.au
The renovation also encompasses accessible toilets, disability-compliant ticket windows, and an upgraded bicycle storage facility. Commuters will enjoy improved seating and extended platform shelters, along with an upgraded station office and facilities.
Station Closure and Alternative Transport
To expedite construction and ensure safety, Banyo station is now closed until the second half of 2024. During this period, trains will run express through the station. A dedicated shuttle bus service (Route 316) will operate between Northgate and Banyo stations, including stops at the Australian Catholic University and Earnshaw College.
The existing bus route 306 remains available from Tufnell Road, near Banyo station. All route 316 services are designed to be accessible. The station car park will be closed for upgrade works from August 29 until late October 2024.
Nearby Alternatives
Site – August 2024 (Photo credit: queenslandrail.com.au)
Bindha and Nudgee stations, the nearest to Banyo, will remain open during the upgrade works. To assist commuters, the footpath from Royal Parade to Bindha station has been opened.
Passengers are advised to plan their travel by downloading the MyTranslink app, visiting translink.com.au, or calling 13 12 30 for the latest information and assistance.
This upgrade is part of Queensland Rail’s commitment to improving accessibility across its network, ensuring that public transportation is convenient and accessible for all community members.
Just 10 minutes from the airport, a Nundah resident targeted parked cars of airport travellers with angry notes. This comes after their frustration against drivers who park their vehicles on residential streets before catching an Uber to Brisbane Airport, presumably to avoid expensive airport parking fees.
The situation came to light on September 13, 2024, when multiple cars were found with strongly-worded notes plastered across all their windows. These notes accused the vehicle owners of selfishness and disregard for local residents’ parking needs.
The messages on the notes were explicit, stating: “I’m a selfish f**k. I park my car in front of other people’s houses and then catch an Uber to the airport. I don’t give a toss that these people, who live here, now have to park further from their homes. I saved a few bucks on parking and I don’t care about other people.”
This incident has sparked debate on social media, with mixed reactions from commenters. Some expressed support for the note-writer, citing similar experiences in their own neighbourhoods. Others criticised the approach as overly aggressive and argued that public streets are open for anyone to park on.
The Nundah situation reflects a broader issue seen in other Australian cities. In Leichhardt, Sydney, for instance, a resident was recently accused of using traffic cones to illegally reserve street parking spaces.
Urban planning expert Dr. David Mepham commented on the issue, noting that parking scarcity often leads to territorial behaviour. He stated that it’s up to local councils to prevent the misuse of residential streets for long-term parking.
The revamped reserve boasts many new sporting and recreation facilities designed to cater to the growing population in Brisbane’s northern suburbs.
The project has transformed the reserve into a multi-functional hub featuring shared-use sporting fields equipped with lighting for improved nighttime visibility. A new 223-space car park and pathway connections to Nudgee Train Station and Railway Street provide easy access for visitors.
The upgrade also caters to various recreational activities, with a dog off-leash area, BMX track, playground, picnic settings with shelters and barbeque facilities, and a walking/running/cycling path. The recently opened clubhouse offers change rooms, meeting rooms, storage, and public toilets, further enhancing the reserve’s amenities.
Adding a touch of sporting inspiration, the iconic CommBank Matildas mural has found a new permanent home at the Nudgee Recreation Reserve. Initially a temporary installation at Howard Smith Wharves, the mural by Sid Tapia celebrates the Matildas’ historic match in Brisbane during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
The revitalised reserve, now the northern base of Football Queensland, provides a fitting backdrop for this tribute to women’s football and inspires aspiring young players.
Completing the Nudgee Recreation Reserve improvement project significantly invests in the community’s well-being. It will provide a modern and inclusive space for residents to enjoy various sporting and recreational activities.
The Norths Devils are set for a high-stakes Hostplus Cup preliminary final against rivals Redcliffe Dolphins this Sunday, 1 September. Devils vs Dolphins kick off 2:10 p.m. at Bishop Park.
The intense rivalry between the two clubs remains as fierce as ever. The 2024 season saw each team secure a victory in their regular-season meetings, making Sunday’s match not just about finals progression but also a decisive tiebreaker in this season’s head-to-head battles.
Both teams finished the regular season with identical 13-7 records. The Devils pipped second place over the Dolphins due to a +17 edge in points differential, granting Norths the advantage of playing at home in this crucial encounter.
This upcoming rivalry game is also a rematch of the 2022 grand final, where the Devils secured a 16-10 victory to claim their third Queensland Cup.
Nroths Devils team list vs the Redcliffe Dolphins. Photo Credit: Norths Devils RLFC
Veteran player Jacob Gagan is set to make his 50th appearance for the Devils. Known for his tactical acumen and leadership on the field, Gagan’s experience is expected to be a key factor as Norths navigate the pressures of finals football.
Bouncing back
Despite a setback in their final regular-season match against the Sunshine Coast Falcons, coach Dave Elliott remains confident. He views the finals as a fresh start, focusing on the team’s resilience and readiness to perform under pressure.
Resilience has been a hallmark of the Devils. In 2021, after a surprise loss in their final regular-season game, they bounced back with a strong performance in the finals—securing their second-ever premiership.
Devils supporters can expect an intense and physical encounter at Bishop Park. The energy of the home crowd is anticipated to play a significant role in what promises to be a closely contested match.
The proposal, designed by CPO Architects, seeks to construct four adjoining three-story buildings that would provide a total of 32 individual residential units.
Aerial view of subject site (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council)
The development would include a mix of 14 three-bedroom suites and 18 four-bedroom suites, spread across the four buildings. In total, the proposal would create 1,104.7 square metres of gross floor area, with a rear communal BBQ space and 11 car parking spaces (including one disabled space).
Site plan (Photo credit: CPO Architects)
According to the planning documents, the ground and first floors of the development are intended to operate similar to a traditional five-bedroom rooming house found throughout Queensland.
“The rooms above the first two floors are considered ‘not in a suite’ and whilst having direct access to the communal facilities, they will operate more independently and utilise the shared facilities when needed,” planners stated.
“This arrangement of rooms, suites, and buildings allows for the development to ultimately suite the growing demand for affordable housing options for both developers, and renters alike.”
The site was previously slated as a future park in the Banyo-Northgate neighbourhood, but the council has since confirmed it is no longer needed for that purpose.
Resident Concerns Over Parking
Photo credit: Google Street View
The proposal for the rooming accommodation has received a few submissions from local residents, with many expressing concerns about the potential parking impacts.
As one neighbour wrote to the council, “I believe the number of people this building will accommodate is too many compared to the number of parking spaces available on site.”
Another resident noted that “St Achs street is already being used extensively for parking for train station overflow as well as the Nudgee recreation reserve. The little eagle townhouse development will only add to this impact.”
The council is currently reviewing the proposal and will weigh the benefits of providing more diverse housing options against the potential impacts raised by the community.
Nundah State School is abuzz with excitement as the 2024 edition of the nationwide Spelling Bee competition is well underway. The school, recognised for its comprehensive academic programs and proactive approach to student development, participates in this educational event for the fourth consecutive year.
The school community, including teachers and parents, supports the event enthusiastically, recognising its benefits in enhancing student literacy and engagement.
Principal Rachel Korst expressed great enthusiasm about the school’s continued involvement in the Spelling Bee.
“Our school has a strong tradition of fostering academic excellence and personal growth. The Spelling Bee is a perfect match for our educational goals, providing both a challenging and enjoyable environment for our students to thrive in literacy,” Ms. Korst explained.
“We believe in equipping our students with the skills they need to succeed not just in school, but in life. The Spelling Bee serves as an exciting platform for students to showcase their spelling skills and compete in a friendly yet competitive atmosphere,” Ms Korst added.
Assistant Principal James Herbert, who coordinates the Spelling Bee preparations, shared insights into the training process.
“We start by encouraging a love of reading. From there, we explore the nuances of the English language through various activities that involve puzzle-solving and word-building exercises. It’s about developing a comprehensive literacy foundation,” Mr Herbert said.
The school also emphasises the development of “the knowing gift,” one of 10 educational gifts that the curriculum incorporates. This specific gift focuses on empowering students with knowledge and critical thinking skills, which are vital in academic and everyday contexts.
“Integrating these gifts helps our students become well-rounded individuals. The Spelling Bee is another opportunity for them to apply their learning in a practical, rewarding way,” Mr Herbert explained.
With a record number of participants and the support of the entire school community, Nundah State School looks forward to another successful year at the Spelling Bee.
The school is known for its explicit teaching methods, tailored to diverse student needs. This approach has been integral in helping students reach and exceed grade-level expectations in reading, writing, and spelling.
Nundah State School has incorporated spelling and vocabulary activities into its daily curriculum, engaging students with interactive spelling games and word-origin studies. These activities are designed to make learning fun and to instill a deeper understanding of language.
The Banyo level crossing is one of several identified for improvement under the new SEQ Level Crossing Programme 2024. The programme aims to tackle congestion and safety issues at high-risk crossings across South East Queensland.
Ten million dollars have been allocated for planning studies on priority level crossings, with Banyo among those earmarked for detailed investigation. Options for the Banyo crossing include road and rail overpasses, traffic light installations, and road widening.
The programme also presents an opportunity to boost housing development and improve pedestrian and cycling infrastructure around the upgraded crossing, enhancing road safety and reducing travel times. Motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists have expressed frustration at the current level crossing and this is a significant step towards addressing these issues.
While specific details for the Banyo level crossing are still under development, the Queensland Government has pledged to work closely with the local community to ensure the project meets their needs.
The historic Corpus Christi Church in Nundah is set to undergo some much-needed repairs, thanks to a $50,000 Community Sustainability Action Grant under the Community Heritage program.
The grant, awarded to The Corporation of the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane, will fund waterproofing and roof repairs to ensure the continued use of the church by both the parish and the wider community.
Corpus Christi Church, a heritage-listed Roman Catholic church designed by Hennessey, Hennessey, Keesing and Co and built between 1925 and 1926 by Stanley Samuel Carrick, was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 1995. This grant will help preserve its historical significance and architectural integrity.
Photo credit: Vlady Peters/Google Maps
The church is one of 26 projects benefiting from the latest round of CSA grants, which total $849,373. Other funded projects across Queensland include repairs to the Federal Hotel in Childers, accessibility improvements at the Blackall Woolscour, conservation of stained-glass windows at St Luke’s Anglican Church in Toowoomba, and roof replacement for Redcliffe’s heritage-listed former fire station.
Photo credit: Jean Seah/Google Maps
Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Leanne Linard, emphasised the importance of these grants in preserving Queensland’s heritage. “The owners and custodians of our heritage-listed places play an important role in preserving our state’s history,” she said. “These grants will ensure these historically significant sites will continue to be protected and enjoyed for many years to come.”
The CSA grant program offers up to $50,000 for projects that preserve and promote places on the Queensland Heritage Register. Minister Linard added that the government will continue to work closely with community groups, local councils, and place owners to conserve heritage-listed places and identify potential new additions to the register.
This funding for Corpus Christi Church not only ensures the preservation of a significant historical landmark but also supports the ongoing spiritual and community activities that have been central to Nundah for nearly a century.
