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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.

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

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

Kmart Initiates $10 Million Lawsuit Against Mirvac, Alleging Breach Over Toombul Flood Closure

Retail giant Kmart Australia Limited (Kmart), a subsidiary of Wesfarmers, has filed a lawsuit against Mirvac Retail Sub SPV Pty Ltd and Mirvac Capital Pty Ltd, part of the ASX-listed Mirvac group, over the closure of Toombul Shopping Centre due to flood damage.

The lawsuit, which seeks $10 million in compensation, alleges that Mirvac breached their lease agreement by closing the shopping centre. This lawsuit unfolds 18 months after Toombul Shopping Centre’s closure was initially announced due to extensive flood damage.

The Lease Dispute: Kmart vs. Mirvac

Kmart contends that it had a valid lease agreement with Mirvac until February 2027. In the claim filed in the Supreme Court in Brisbane on Friday, 15 Dec 2023, Kmart asserts that Mirvac should compensate them for the loss of profit that the discount department store would have earned during the lease period.

They argue that this compensation should be based on the anticipated trading if the store had reopened after flood damage occurred on 25 and 27 Feb 2022.

Kmart further alleges that Mirvac’s estimate of the loss of profit during this time amounts to $13.4 million, reduced to $10.1 million in net present value.

According to Kmart, had the lease been in effect in April 2023, when Mirvac settled its insurance claim for flood damage, Mirvac would have breached the lease by not using the insurance payout to repair and rebuild the shopping centre.

Insurance and Repudiation: The Key Claims

Kmart’s lawsuit claims that Mirvac’s insurer had agreed to indemnify Mirvac concerning the flood damage. However, in April 2023, Mirvac informed Kmart that it had settled its insurance claim with insurer FM Insurance but could not disclose the dollar value due to confidentiality.

Kmart had already accepted Mirvac’s repudiation of the Toombul lease on 8 Sept 2022 but maintained that Mirvac’s decision to permanently close the shopping centre constituted a significant loss due to repudiatory conduct.

Mirvac’s Decision and Future Plans

Mirvac, a prominent player in Australian real estate with a portfolio exceeding $11.9 billion, announced the permanent closure of Toombul Shopping Centre on 9 June 2022.

CEO Susan Lloyd-Hurwitz cited extensive damage to crucial infrastructure such as electricity, fire, and escalators, along with the risk of future flooding, as reasons behind the decision.

Kmart asserts that Mirvac’s decision to close Toombul Shopping Centre represented an unequivocal intention not to fulfil its lease obligations, including using insurance funds to rebuild the centre. To date, no defence has been filed against Kmart’s claims, and a hearing date has not been scheduled.

Future Developments: Toombul’s Transformation

Mirvac’s acquisition of the 9.9-hectare Toombul Centre in 2016 marked a significant investment. On 18 July 2023, Brisbane City Council approved Mirvac’s application to demolish the former shopping centre, including buildings, car parks, and shade sails.

Post-demolition, Mirvac plans to create a temporary park in the southeast corner of the site and will fence it off until approvals for the new development, still in the design phase, are obtained. The approved plans include retaining the Toombul bus interchange and associated roads.

Kmart’s Financial Performance

Despite the legal battle surrounding Toombul Shopping Centre, Kmart performs well. In the 2022-2023 financial year, Kmart posted $8.3 billion in sales, representing a remarkable 22 per cent increase, while earnings at the Kmart Group, including Target, surged by 53 per cent.

Furthermore, in August, Wesfarmers reported that Kmart’s sales growth remained strong at the beginning of the 2024 financial year.

Published 24-Dec-2023

Temporary Mobile Phone Base Station at Toombul Shopping Centre

Photo Credit: Pixabay / Life-of-Pix

Telstra, Vodafone, and Optus have jointly established a Temporary Mobile Phone Base Station within Toombul Shopping Centre’s car park. The telecommunication tower, situated near the former Coles click-and-collect area, aims to address the need to ensure effective mobile network coverage in the area.

The temporary station stands tall at 30 meters, equipped with antennas, ancillary tools, and cabinets on an elevated platform. Telstra, Vodafone, and Optus have indicated that this provisional infrastructure will operate until August 2024.

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / Development i A006248810

Mirvac, overseeing the site’s transformation, submitted plans for the shopping centre’s demolition in April 2023. The move follows the impact of the Brisbane floods in February 2022, which mandated the relocation of existing telecommunication facilities before demolition could commence.

According to SAQ Consulting, the installation of this temporary base station adheres to the Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code C564:2020. It ensures continuous mobile phone coverage and network capacity for Nundah and its surrounding areas following the decommissioning of existing rooftop facilities.

Mirvac is committed to shaping the future of the site. Plans for the area’s redevelopment, including retail spaces, are in progress. However, specifics regarding the return of major retailers or the exact size of the shopping area remain undisclosed.

Updates on the demolition plans will be provided as they progress. Advance notice of work commencement and ongoing updates will be communicated as needed. For direct email updates on the demolition program, register online at toombulrenewal.com/register.

Published 14-December-2023

Fun for All Ages at Nudgee Recreation and Sports Facility Grand Opening Day

After much anticipation, Nudgee Recreation and Sports Facility will finally open to the public this December, offering heaps of fun for all ages.

Read: Nudgee Recreation Reserve to Become a District Sports and Recreation Park

This Saturday, December 9, marks a momentous occasion for Nudgee as the grand opening of the sporting facility takes place from 8:45 a.m. to 12 noon.

Kicking off the opening are two free BMX workshops for kids aged 6-17 years, run by expert BMX riders from RampFest. Spots are limited so registration is essential. Following the workshops will be a jaw-dropping BMX demo and a free bike giveaway.

Artist’s impression of Nudgee Recreation Reserve improvements (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr)

Other opening day activities include activities by Football Queensland, free access to the playground, picnic areas and dog off-leash zone, as well as fitness stations for adults.

The Rotary Club of Nundah will be firing up the barbie for a classic Aussie sausage sizzle and breakfast burgers. Cool down afterwards with ice creams and snow cones from the ice cream van.

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr

The centrepiece of the new facility is the BMX track for keen riders to test their skills. For those preferring to stay on foot, there are picturesque walking, running and cycling paths weaving through the grounds. The recreational area also includes a shared sports field, sheltered barbecue facilities and a new 223-space carpark.

Read: Locals React To Changes To Nudgee Recreation Reserve Improvement Project

Nudgee locals can look forward to having this high quality recreation and sporting hub right on their doorstep. Everyone is encouraged to come down this Saturday and join the community celebration!

Those who are interested in the BMX workshops may go to Eventbrite for session tickets or email RampFest on Chris@rampfest.com.au for more information.

Published 30-November-2023

Nundah Christmas Twilight Market Jam-Packed with Festive Cheer

We’re making a list and checking it twice, finding eats, beats, and treats both naughty and nice at the jam-packed Nundah Christmas Twilight Market!

Read: Second Brisbane Cruise Liner Terminal in Pinkenba Planned as Demand Surges

On Saturday 2 Dec 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., soak up the festive vibes as you wander through over 150 stalls featuring the best gourmet eats from local tastemakers and unique, handmade gifts from bespoke makers and creators.

If you feel like mistle-toasting to the silly season, don’t forget to stop by the North Pole Bar to sip on an icy cold brew from Stone & Wood and Revel Brewing Co. or extra festive Christmas spirits from Milton Rum Distillery.

But it doesn’t stop there! Jingle bell rock the night away with live music by Yellow Bird Trio and The B-Sides, be mesmerised by roving Chrissy performers and majestic stilt walkers, stop by the petting zoo, and grab a selfie with SANTA! No resting grinch faces here!

WIN A $200 BAR TAB TO SPEND!

We’re offering you a chance to WIN a $200 bar tab to spend the night of Nundah Christmas Twilight Market! Cheers to that!

HOW TO ENTER:

Fill OUt The ENTRY FORM

* T&C’s apply. See full details here.

Read: 60-Bed Mental Health Facility Proposed for Nundah

Nundah Christmas Twilight Market
When: Saturday 2 December | 4PM – 10PM
$3 Entry (free for kids under 12) | FREE Parking
Where: Station St, Nundah
Snaps with Santa: 5PM – 8PM

Featuring: Mr Pulled Slow Cooked Meats, Teppanyaki Noodles, Piante Pizza, Churros Bites, Roll It Ice Cream Co., Bucky’s Cookies and Creations, and more!

Follow updates about the event on Facebook.

Published 28-Nov-2023