Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 16 of 39

Nundah Resident Celebrates 107th Birthday

Mavis Radcliffe isn’t sure of the exact date but one thing’s for sure, she celebrated her 107th birthday this year! Known for her sense of humour and inner strength, Mavis is an inspiration to many at Zion Aged Care in Nundah.

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

Mrs Radcliffe, whose maiden name was Wolfgramm, was born in 1917 in Brisbane. Whilst her birth certificate lists May 18 as her birthday, she grew up believing it was May 16 and has celebrated on that date her entire life. Born during the tumult of World War I, Mrs Radcliffe’s childhood was shaped by the hardships of the Great Depression era.

Her daughter Beverley O’Malley recounts how Mrs Radcliffe faced poverty and lack of luxuries like many others during that time period. As one of seven children, the family resided in the inner-city Petrie Terrace neighbourhood and kept a horse in their backyard.

Mavis Radcliffe during her birthday in 2021 with daughter Beverley (Photo credit: Lutheran Services/Facebook)

Mrs Radcliffe formed close friendships with peers at Petrie Terrace School and through her local Lutheran church. Though an excellent student, the need to financially support her widowed mother and siblings forced her to leave school at age 14 in the midst of the Depression, according to Mrs O’Malley.

Whilst employed at a fish shop in Brisbane’s CBD, Mrs Radcliffe met the man who would become her husband, a plumber named Walter Radcliffe. The couple wed in 1941 and purchased a home in Fairfield, where they raised their two daughters Beverley and Gloria.

A significant portion of her life revolved around her unpaid duties as the receptionist for the family’s plumbing company, which was operated out of their residence.

Read: How Project SEARCH Helped Young Man from Nundah Gain Valuable Work Experience

In her 50s, Mrs Radcliffe gained a newfound sense of independence after obtaining her driver’s licence, a freedom she maintained well into her 90s, continuing to drive herself during that stage of life. She attributes her longevity to her robust German ancestry, noting that one of her uncles lived to be 102 years old whilst her elder sister reached the age of 97.

Mrs Radcliffe remained independent well into her 90s, only moving to Zion Aged Care after a fall on her 97th birthday. Though over a century old, staff remark she maintains a keen sense of humour and has formed many friendships among residents.

Published 17-May-2024

Man Falls onto Tracks at Toombul Station Causing Major Delays

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A man in his 30s fell from his wheelchair onto the railway tracks at Toombul Station around 4 pm today, May 1, 2024.

The Queensland Ambulance Service has confirmed the man suffered a head injury as well as injuries to his shoulder and elbow in the fall. He has been transported to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital for treatment.

The incident resulted in all train services being initially suspended in the area while emergency responders attended to the scene. While trains are now running again, severe delays are being experienced across Brisbane’s rail network.

According to Queensland Rail, delays of up to 30 minutes should be expected on northern lines in both directions due to congestion caused by the incident. Other lines throughout the city network are also experiencing residual delays as the ripple effects move through the CBD loop.

UPDATE: Caboolture, Sunshine Coast, Redcliffe Peninsula, Airport, Doomben and Ferny Grove line trains are delayed up to 30 minutes due to an incident requiring emergency services. https://t.co/7UeiHnbAcj #TLALert #TLTrainAlert pic.twitter.com/BtGXrqevc1
— Translink (@Translink_QLD) May 1, 2024

Commuters are advised to factor in extra travel time this evening or seek alternative transport where possible as crews work to get services back on schedule.

Queensland Rail and emergency services are investigating the circumstances around how the man came to fall from his wheelchair onto the live tracks at the busy suburban station.

Published 1-May-2024

Pinkenba Quarantine Facility Repurposed as AFP Training Hub

The Pinkenba quarantine facility is set to be converted into an Australian Federal Police (AFP) training centre, sidelining a $10 million state commitment to transforming the site into crisis accommodation.

Initially established for Covid quarantine measures, the facility will now serve as a dedicated training hub for the AFP, as confirmed by Australian Finance Minister Senator Katy Gallagher and Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus.

Senator Gallagher underscored the strategic decision to enhance AFP capabilities by adapting the Pinkenba site, formally named the Centre of National Resilience Brisbane. She noted that the decision followed thorough discussions with multiple government levels, ensuring the site’s optimal use aligns with national interests.

Despite previously announced plans by Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon to convert it into a 500-bed emergency housing unit, the federal directive aligns with the AFP’s operational expansion needs. This move has sparked considerable backlash from local and state officials who argue that the facility could better serve the acute housing shortage affecting thousands across Queensland.

Pinkenba Quarantine Facility — *Photo Credit: AdrianSchrinner/Facebook*

Mix Reactions from Officials, Advocates and Community

Premier Steven Miles expressed frustration over the decision, highlighting the federal ownership of the site as a determining factor in its utilisation, and criticised its initial use as a quarantine centre.

Meanwhile, Housing Minister Scanlon, who had heralded the state’s financial commitment last June, voiced disappointment over the federal pivot, which effectively dismisses efforts to address the housing crisis at a time when the state faces significant accommodation shortages.

The reaction from community leaders and housing advocacy groups has been sharply critical. Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner and Queensland Opposition Leader David Crisafulli described the decision as a missed opportunity to mitigate homelessness. Advocacy groups like Q Shelter and the Queensland Council of Social Service, along with the Salvation Army, have all lamented the federal government’s prioritisation of police training over urgent housing needs, criticizing the lengthy deliberation period that led to this outcome.

Housing advocates have consistently pointed out that the facility, whilst not ideal for long-term living due to its layout and lack of essential amenities like kitchens and laundries, could still have provided temporary relief for the homeless, especially during extreme weather conditions or other crises.

Karyn Walsh, CEO of Micah Projects, a social advocacy group, argued that while the facility was not a perfect solution, the urgent need for housing should have overridden concerns about its suitability for long-term residence.

Financial Implications and Resource Allocation

The decision to repurpose the facility involves significant financial outlays, with the federal government committing additional funds to modify the site for AFP training.

This has led to criticism about the allocation of resources, particularly in light of the existing commitments from state and local governments intended for housing relief. Critics argue that this reflects a misalignment of priorities at a time when public funds could be directed towards more pressing social needs.

Published 29-April-2024

Devils vs Clydesdales: Norths Seek Redemption from 2023

The Norths Devils are gearing up for a crucial clash against the Western Clydesdales in round 7 of the Hostplus Cup this Saturday, April 26. After a challenging game on the road, the Devils are eager to capitalise on their return to familiar territory and reclaim their winning form. Devils vs Clydesdales kickoff at 5:00 p.m. at Bishop Park.

Read: Nudgee State School: A Long and Proud History and an Enduring Legacy

Lessons from Cairns

Devils vs Pride 2024 — Photo Credit: Facebook / Norths Devils Rugby League Football Club

Last week’s performance against Northern Pride in Cairns highlighted areas for improvement for the Devils. Despite moments of excellence, defensive lapses and errors plagued their gameplay, resulting in a 38-12 loss.

With a 3-3 win-loss record built on fluctuating results, the Devils recognize the need to develop consistency as a squad with fifteen new players.

Devils vs Clydesdales, redemption on the agenda

The Norths Devils lost their only matchup 42-34 so far against Clydesdale, who returned to the QRL just last season. This sole defeat came at the most crucial time, denying the Devils a chance to compete in the 2023 finals round. A win this Saturday would help redeem last season’s woes and assert the Devils among the league’s top teams this season.

Read: Discover a Haven of Relaxation and Recovery at Merse Wellness Spa in Virginia

Looking forward, the Devils will have a bye before returning to Bishop Park on May 12 to face the Brisbane Tigers. With a challenging start to the season against a tough schedule, the Devils are determined to find their stride and secure a strong foothold in the league standings.

Published 26-April-2024

Nundah Shopping Centre Incident Sparks Increased Police Patrols Across North Brisbane

Nundah and other areas in North Brisbane will see heightened police presence under a new initiative dubbed Operation Whiskey Dolma.

This heightened police presence comes after a concerning incident at a Nundah shopping centre on Monday, 15th of April 2024.

*Photo Credit: Youtube/ Queensland Police Service*

Just after 10:30 a.m., reports emerged of a young male allegedly wielding a knife and threatening another individual. The police swiftly responded to the situation, apprehended the suspect, and recovered the weapon without further incident.

A 16-year-old from Zillmere now faces charges of going armed to cause fear and possessing dangerous drugs after his appearance on the 19th of April at the Brisbane Children’s Court.

“Operation Whiskey Dolma reflects our commitment to maintaining community safety and public confidence,” declared a spokesperson for the Queensland Police Service. “Highly visible patrols will be deployed across shopping centres, with a focus on deterring criminal activity and ensuring a sense of security for residents.”

The initiative will encompass increased police presence at major transportation hubs in Chermside, Stafford, Nundah, and Northgate. This includes proactive “wanding operations” authorised under Jack’s Law, which empowers officers to conduct weapon searches on public transport and designated areas.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Emergency situations require dialing 000, while non-urgent concerns can be reported through the Queensland Police Service website or by calling Policelink at 131 444.

Anonymous reports can be made to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or visiting their website.

Published Date 21-April-2024

Nudgee State School: A Long and Proud History and an Enduring Legacy

Established in 1874, Nudgee State School was a cornerstone of the community for more than 125 years, providing education to generations of local families and playing a crucial role in the development of the area. Now a community centre, the old building is a constant reminder of how important the school was to the North Brisbane community.

Nudgee State School started as a temporary school on Nudgee Road in a simple slab hut. In 1875, it quickly became a state school with its own house and a place for the teachers to live. The school had its ups and downs, and over the years, the number of students changed.

When the school moved to a more central spot on Earnshaw Road in 1928, it was a big change. This new building had modern features to meet the needs of the growing number of students.

*Photo Credit: Website/ Brisbane Local Heritage Places*

Even though it had a long history, things changed in 2000. The Queensland government wanted to combine this school with the nearby Banyo High School to make a P-12 school. The city supported the idea, and money from the sale of Nudgee State School went towards paying for the new structure.

A Timeline of Events

1874

Nudgee State School (initially named Nudgee Provisional School) opened on April 6, located on Nudgee Road. The first teacher, Arthur Percival Hancock, started teaching in a slab hut with a shingle roof. The school was built on a two-acre block donated near Toombul and Nudgee Roads.

1875

Due to dissatisfaction with the initial structure, a new building with a school room and a two-bedroom teacher’s residence were completed on June 28.

1882

Nudgee Railway Station and Goods Shed opened on May 11, boosting local transport and services.

1922

A local deputation requested a new school from the Minister for Public Administration on March 29 due to population growth and cramped conditions.

1924

The teacher’s residence at the original site was sold and moved in March.

1928

New school building (now ‘A’ Block) erected on Earnshaw Road, opened in June at a cost of ₤1,785, coinciding with the school’s 50th Jubilee celebrations. The new location was near Banyo and Nudgee townships, chosen for its proximity to local railway stations.

1954

School commenced at Banyo State High School in January with 320 students.

2000

Nudgee School featured in the Banyo Nudgee Heritage Trail book as a site of local heritage significance.

2003

Nudgee School closed in June. The school, including its preschool and primary sections, was amalgamated into the new “super school” of Earnshaw State College (formerly Banyo High School).

The story of Nudgee State School shows how education needs to change over time and how important it is for communities to be involved. The school is no longer there, but its dedication to learning and love for its children lives on in the hearts of people today and tomorrow.

Published Date 13-April-2024

Discover a Haven of Relaxation and Recovery at Merse Wellness Spa in Virginia

Virginia just scored a new oasis of relaxation with the opening of Merse Wellness Spa. Nestled on Sandgate Road, this luxurious spa offers a sanctuary for those seeking to prioritise self-care.

Read: Then and Now: Waldheim, the Stephen Family’s Homestead in Annerley

Founded by Nathan James, Grace Donnelly, and TJ Groot – the visionaries behind Fitness Cartel Health Clubs – Merse Wellness Spa is rooted in a commitment to helping individuals embrace life to the fullest.

Recognising that the demands of modern life often leave people in need of relaxation, recovery, and rejuvenation, the founders have created a holistic sanctuary in Virginia.

Step inside the tranquil, indoor space and you will be greeted by a serene array of heated spa pools and cold plunge pools, set amidst lush greenery and comfortable seating areas. The stunning interiors alone are enough to melt away the stresses of the day.

merse wellness spa — Photo credit: Merse Virginia/Facebook

But the wellness offerings at Merse go far beyond just soaking. Visitors can indulge in contrast therapy sessions, moving between the heated pools and invigorating cold plunges. Traditional and infrared saunas, magnesium float pools, and compression therapy rooms provide a multi-sensory experience tailored to individual needs.

For those looking to complement their relaxation, Merse also offers massage services, spray tanning, and body contouring treatments.

Their facilities, including saunas, cold plunge pools, compression therapy rooms, massage treatments, and more, offer guests a range of wellness options to choose from.The holistic approach to wellbeing ensures that guests leave feeling rejuvenated in both body and mind.

Read: Prefabricated Concrete Pools by Pinkenba Manufacturer Making Waves Globally

Whether you’re seeking a moment of zen, a revitalising hydrotherapy session, or a comprehensive self-care experience, Merse Wellness Spa in Virginia has something to offer everyone in search of a little time for themselves. Visit their website to learn more about their services.

Published 9-April-2024

Suminoe Oysters Pest Alert: Invasive Species Detected in Pinkenba & Surrounding SEQ Waterways

Photo Credit: DAF Queensland

Biosecurity Queensland has discovered Suminoe oysters (Magallana ariakensis) in Moreton Bay and several Brisbane waterways, including Pinkenba and Kedron Brook. This marks the first known presence of the species in Australia.

The Suminoe oysters were first spotted in 2023, with its presence confirmed at locales such as Bribie Island, Boggy Creek, Kedron Brook and Pinkenba, near the Brisbane River’s mouth.

Impact and Characteristics

According to Michael Reid, Queensland’s acting chief biosecurity officer, the Suminoe oyster poses a significant threat to local ecosystems and industries. As a highly invasive species, it not only competes with indigenous oyster populations but can also displace native oysters, severely impacting commercial oyster culture.

This large rock oyster species is fast-growing and can be found in both submerged and floating structures, such as pylons and boats. It typically thrives in disturbed habitats, including shallow subtidal sites and the muddy creeks of warm estuaries, by fouling these structures.

The Queensland Oyster Growers Association, in collaboration with Biosecurity Queensland, is taking steps to mitigate potential impacts on both the environment and the oyster industry.

Although invasive species are present, the quality and supply of commercial oysters in Moreton Bay have not been affected. Oyster production in Queensland is considered safe for consumption.

However, invasive species can foul infrastructure and adapt to disturbed habitats, which highlights the importance of detecting and reporting them early to protect Queensland’s natural environment.

Community Call to Action

Mr Reid is urging the Queensland community, especially those who are involved in fishing, boating, and recreational water activities, to remain vigilant and report any suspected sightings of the Suminoe oyster to Biosecurity Queensland.

Watercraft owners are encouraged to thoroughly inspect, clean, and dry their equipment to prevent the spread of this species. The community’s compliance with these guidelines plays a vital role in protecting Queensland’s biosecurity and ensuring the safeguarding of its waterways and marine life.

Published 5-April-2024

Pioneering Wood Therapist Brings Ancient Art of Healing to Nundah

Abby Mortimer, a trailblazer in holistic wellness, introduces Nundah to the ancient art of Wood Therapy through her latest venture, NuVue Body Sculpting.

Initially starting NuVue in Coopers Plains in 2022, Abby brings her therapeutic technique to North Brisbane to help deliver a holistic approach to health and well-being.

Wood Therapy Nundah — Photo Credit: NuVue Body Sculpting/Facebook

Drawing inspiration from the ancient healing practices of South America, Wood Therapy encompasses a lymphatic drainage massage that detoxifies and sculpts the body.

This non-invasive technique uses meticulously crafted wooden tools to break down adipose tissue and stimulate the lymphatic system, promoting detoxification, reducing inflammation, and enhancing overall well-being. Unlike conventional massage therapies, Wood Therapy offers a unique blend of detoxification and sculpting, targeting specific areas of concern with precision and care.

Abby’s passion for Wood Therapy stems from a deeply personal experience with cellulite that began at the tender age of 12. She witnessed firsthand its myriad benefits, from diminished cellulite to improved energy levels and hormonal balance.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by NuVue Body Sculpting – WOOD THERAPY BRISBANE (@nuvuebody)

She also showed resilience in the face of adversity, having been diagnosed with lipoedema in 2023. This genetic condition, affecting 11 per cent of Australian women, propelled Abby to deepen her understanding of holistic health and wellness.

Motivated by her journey, Abby was driven to share the therapeutic potential of Wood Therapy with others, particularly those battling conditions like endometriosis. As Abby delved deeper into this practice, she recognised its potential to address many health concerns beyond cellulite reduction. Through extensive training in Melbourne and overseas, Abby honed her skills as a Wood Therapist, culminating in establishing NuVue Body Sculpting.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by NuVue Body Sculpting – WOOD THERAPY BRISBANE (@nuvuebody)

Through her services, Abby seeks to offer solace and support to individuals grappling with lipoedema and other chronic conditions.

NuVue Body Sculpting in Nundah opens on 4 March 2024. Boasting a central location with ample parking, the new studio, located at Fifth Avenue Lifestyle along Ryans Rd, promises to be a haven for those seeking respite from the stresses of modern life.

Follow NuVue Body Sculpting on Instagram to learn more about healing from chronic pain through Wood Therapy. Enquiries about Abby’s services may also be made through the page.

Book A SESSION

Published 28-February-2024

Virginia Centre Seeks Additional Blood Donations to Make Extra Day Count for Leap Year

The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, with a mobile donor centre in Virginia, is urging an extra 5,500 people for blood donations to help meet Leap Day demand.

Whilst Australians enjoy an extra 24 hours this month, the bonus leap year day, 29 February 2024, means an extra day of need for hospital patients.

With time frequently listed as one of the greatest barriers to donating blood, Lifeblood hopes people will turn their extra time this month into a lifetime for someone in need by donating blood or plasma.

Lifeblood Executive Director of Donor Experience, Cath Stone, said there was no better way to spend this leap day than becoming a blood or plasma donor and saving up to three lives.

“Around 33,000 blood donations are needed every week to help a range of seriously ill Australians,” she said. “This year, we have an extra day of that need, requiring more than 5,500 extra blood and plasma donations. We are urging people to make an appointment to donate blood or plasma so they can use their extra day – either now or later – to save lives. Cancer patients, pregnant women, road trauma victims, premature babies, and people with blood disorders need blood every single day, including leap days.”

Ms Stone said people living with cancer would be the biggest users of donated blood in Australia this leap day.

“Around 2,000 of the donations made on February 29 will be used for cancer treatments. With 1 in 2 Australians expected to be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, the chances are you’ll be helping someone you know to tackle cancer.”

Blood donations — Photo Credit: Unsplash

As part of Lifeblood’s partnership with the Cancer Council for World Cancer Day this month, everyone who donates blood or plasma throughout February will receive a limited-edition Beci Orpin-designed daffodil bandage.

How to Donate

To book a donation visit lifeblood.com.au, download the free donate blood app or call 13 14 95.

Donation Location

Please call or check the app first to confirm opening dates:

Virginia	Virginia Mobile Donor Centre Powerlink, 33 Harold St, Virginia Queensland 4014 Check Details
Pinkeba	Qantas Engineering, Hangar 3, 550 Main Myrtletown Rd, Pinkenba Queensland 4008 Check Details

Published 27-February-2024