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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

Surprise Announcement: Special Police Activity at Toombul Shopping Centre

Mirvac recently confirmed the impending demolition of flood-ravaged Toombul Shopping Centre, at the same time ruling out any explosive demolition due to mould issues within the structure. However, in an unexpected turn of events, an announcement was made that special operations police will be making their presence known in the area.

The Special Emergency Response Team, bomb squad, dog squad, and Public Safety Response Team of the Queensland Police Services are set to carry out a four-day training exercise this February 2024 at the Toombul Shopping Centre.

These specialised units often conduct scenario-based training in vacant or derelict buildings, and this time, Toombul will serve as their training ground.

Live ammunition or explosives will NOT be used during these exercises.

Residents Notified of Police Activity

Residents were recently informed through letterbox notifications of the police activity scheduled to take place between 17 to 21 February 2024, from 9 am to 4 pm daily. The notifications indicated that there might be loud noises during this period, and residents may notice an increased police presence in the local area.

In addition to the police activity, three telecommunications companies, Waveconn, Telstra, and TPG, are in the final stages of preliminary work at the Sandgate Rd site to ensure uninterrupted mobile phone coverage. The demolition process will commence with minor tasks such as disconnecting services within the site and removing some interior fittings and fixtures.

Demolition Plans and Future Development

Mirvac has selected Rosenlund Contractors Pty Ltd to handle the demolition works, which will occur six days a week from 6.30 am to 6.30 pm. Approved plans indicate that the Toombul bus interchange and associated roads will be retained.

Although no development application has been submitted yet, it is expected that Mirvac will seek approval for a mixed-use project to replace the 56-year-old shopping centre. This project may include public green space, residential areas, and a smaller retail component.

Published 6-Feb-2024

Push Grows for Housing for the Needy on Toombul Site

Efforts to revamp the site of the damaged Toombul Shopping Centre, which was severely affected during the February 2022 flood event, are gaining momentum with support from various quarters.

The proposed transformation aims to create a vibrant precinct featuring social and affordable housing solutions, with significant implications for the Toombul community and Queensland. This initiative comes as a response to the growing need for affordable housing in the region.

Reflecting on his personal history, Premier Steven Miles mentioned his early employment at a café situated within the Toombul Shopping Centre and expressed his sentiment regarding its loss. Despite this, he underlined the potential of the site, particularly given its expansive size and proximity to a train station.

“It is a large piece of land with a train station – and that is exactly the kind of land that we want to see developed, and developed with affordability in mind and with a share of those properties to be social and public housing,” Mr Miles said.

Mirvac to Reveal Toombul Shopping Centre Redevelopment Plans Soon — Photo Credit: Mirvac

Private Ownership and Governmental Collaboration

Notably, the land in question is privately owned by the developer Mirvac. Mr Miles welcomed Housing and Planning Minister Meaghan Scanlon’s commitment to collaborate with Mirvac.

Minister Scanlon expressed her intent to utilise her planning powers and social housing budget to assist in this venture. The Premier emphasised the significance of granting the Housing Minister planning powers, which could provide her with the necessary flexibility to expedite development approval.

While Brisbane City Council approved the demolition of the Toombul Shopping Centre in 2023, the precise future of the site remains uncertain. Minister Scanlon has not yet met with Mirvac to finalise the transformation of the location into residential accommodation featuring social and affordable housing.

However, she enthusiastically declared her readiness to present the proposal to the developer, citing the urgent need to address Queensland’s housing shortage. She also extended her willingness to engage with other developers interested in contributing to the cause.

Awaiting Mirvac’s Decision

A spokesperson for Mirvac stated that the company has not yet determined the future use of the once-iconic shopping centre.

The fate of the Toombul site now hinges on the collaborative efforts of the state government, private developers, and local authorities as they seek to create a more inclusive and affordable housing landscape for Queensland residents.

Published 29-Jan-2024

Banyo’s ‘Grandma’s Christmas’ Celebrates 20 Years

Photo Credit: Facebook / Ashleigh Wendorf

‘Grandma’s Christmas’, a cherished tradition illuminating 4 Huron Street, Banyo, celebrates 20 years!

Jeanette Meyer began this enchanting journey when her daughter, Jodie Wendorf, brought home the joy of Christmas lights after marrying an American. With Kendall Meyer by their side, three generations came together, transforming their home into ‘Grandma’s Christmas.’

What started with a few lights has blossomed into an awe-inspiring display, drawing the community together each festive season. The house has become a beacon, welcoming families to an interactive wonderland that pays homage to Alice in Wonderland, blending classic Christmas elements with whimsy.

Jeanette Meyer’s creativity shines through homemade decorations crafted from wood, paper mache, and thousands of lights. The display has evolved from a humble sleigh and reindeer ears to an intricate exhibit that captures the imagination.

However, amidst the lights and admiration, the display holds a heartfelt memorial garden. It’s a place of remembrance for the community, honouring those who’ve passed, including premature babies like Jodie’s son.

The appeal of ‘Grandma’s Christmas’ is undeniable. Hundreds flock to witness the spectacle each night, transforming the street into a scene reminiscent of ‘The Walking Dead.’ The display’s acclaim even reached the heights of winning best northside residence and best overall at the 4KQ Christmas lights competition in 2019.

Despite the global attention, Jeanette Meyer remains grounded. Her favourite part? The cherished moments spent together as a family, a sentiment echoed by her daughter. For Ashley Wendorf, growing up amidst this luminous tradition has been nothing short of incredible.

In Banyo, ‘Grandma’s Christmas’ isn’t just lights; it’s a testament to familial bonds, creativity, and the communal spirit of the festive season. For 20 years, this radiant spectacle has illuminated the hearts of locals and will continue to do so for generations to come.

Published 4-January-2024

Nudgee Recreation Reserve: Brisbane’s Newest Sporting Gem Beckons

The Nudgee Recreation Reserve, now Brisbane’s newest multi-sports park and recreation reserve, made its debut for the summer holidays, heralding a new era of recreational development in the region.

Once an idle piece of land, the site has undergone a remarkable transformation into a sporting haven. Nudgee Recreation Reserve is set to become the flagship location for Football Queensland’s latest northern Brisbane facilities.

Football Queensland has been granted the lease for this $35 million recreational marvel. The facility encompasses six state-of-the-art playing fields, a clubhouse, and community spaces, forming a pivotal part of the Metro North hub for football. This development aims to address the growing demands in Brisbane, where the sport has over 100,000 club-based and social participants.

Meeting the Soaring Demand for Football Facilities

Remarkably, the six football fields at Nudgee Recreation Reserve are already reserved at full capacity from Monday to Friday, well ahead of its official opening. This underscores the pressing need for sports facilities in the region and the strong demand for such amenities.

Football Queensland has thoughtfully reserved certain slots on weekends for community use, ensuring that residents can also enjoy this remarkable facility. Various community programs, including Girls United, Walking Football, Multicultural Settlement Program, and MiniRoos Kick-Off, will find their home at the Nudgee Recreation Reserve. Football Queensland plans to offer additional programs such as the FQ Academy, FQ Referee Academy, coach education, and Queensland state team sessions at this venue. Local community clubs will also benefit from valuable field space, further enriching the overall sporting experience in the area.

Leo Sancini, Vice President of the Brisbane City Football Club, expressed his enthusiasm for the Nudgee Recreation Reserve, particularly highlighting its potential for growth in both women’s and men’s football. As the city anticipates the upcoming Olympics, the facility’s presence will undoubtedly open doors for many aspiring football players, providing countless opportunities for the community to embrace this beloved sport.

A Multi-Sport Facility for the Community

However, its appeal extends far beyond just the football enthusiasts. This recreational gem boasts an array of amenities, including a playground, BMX pump track, and even a dedicated dog park, promising a wide range of activities to cater to the diverse interests of the local community.

Nudgee Recreation Reserve FI — Photo Credit: CrAdamAllan/Facebook

The Nudgee Recreation Reserve’s versatile sporting fields are designed to accommodate a variety of sports, including touch football, cricket, and soccer. In addition, a new 223-space car park and pathway connections to Nudgee Train Station and Railway Street have been established to ensure easy accessibility for all.

Further work on the clubhouse interior, including sports field lighting, change rooms, meeting rooms, storage, and public toilets, is expected to be completed in early 2024.

Published 4-Jan-2024