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Nudgee Recreation Reserve Transformation Gains Momentum as Football QLD Confirms Lease

As the Nudgee Recreation Reserve Improvement Project approaches its final stages, a remarkable display of community empowerment is taking centre stage following the confirmation that Football Queensland will lease the site.

Utilising state-of-the-art sports amenities and community spaces, the unique collaboration between Brisbane City Council and Football Queensland is seen as an exceptional avenue for grassroots engagement.

Initiated by BCC in late April 2022, the Nudgee Recreation Reserve Improvement Project spans an impressive 12.5 hectares. This initiative represented a collaborative effort to repurpose a former landfill into a thriving recreational hub.

“Football Queensland are looking forward to working with our community clubs and schools, creating more places for the local community to play football and deliver more programs to improve the football experience for participants of all ages, abilities and backgrounds, ” Cr Adam Allan said in an announcement made with LM Adrian Schrinner and Football Queensland CEO Robert Cavallucci.

The comprehensive scope of the transformation of the Nudgee Recreation Reserve includes:

shared use sporting fields that will cater to multiple sports including touch football, cricket and soccer
sports field lighting to improve night-time visibility and safety for park users
a new 223-space car park and pathway connections to Nudgee Train Station and Railway Street for easy access
a new clubhouse with change rooms, canteen, storage, meeting rooms and public toilets.
a dog off leash area
BMX track
playground, picnic settings with shelters and barbeque facility
walking/running/cycling path

Targetting completion by December 2023, the project’s timeline remains contingent on weather conditions and on-site progress.

“A huge thank you to the community for your patience while works have been undertaken during the course of the upgrade project. I look forward to keeping the community updated as the works progress towards completion,” Cr Adams said, adding that the steadfast support of the community has been a driving force throughout the transformation of the Nudgee Recreation Reserve.

Published 14-Aug-2023

Mental Health Hospital to Replace Planned Childcare and Office in Last-Minute Change to Nundah Development

Did you know that there will soon be a new, 60-bed private mental health hospital in Nundah, after plans for a mixed-use development were changed at the last minute?

Read: Indoor Sport and Recreation, Medical Centre, and Child Care Centre at Nellie Street in Nundah Proposed

The 8,523 sqm site at 20 Nellie Street in Nundah has now been earmarked for a five-storey building. The original plans included 5,000 sqm of office space and a 954 sqm childcare centre that have now been removed from amended plans submitted to Council.

If approved, the mental health hospital will serve as a sister facility to Belmont Private Hospital, operating in Carina Heights.

Original render (Photo credit: Z Architects)

The proposed hospital is expected to facilitate treatment for low-acute, voluntary in- and out-patients, with high prevalence disorders such as anxiety, depression and addiction.

Existing approval (Photo credit: Z Architects)

“The proposed 60 bed hospital and associated consulting suites forms part of a joint venture between Aurora Healthcare and Medibank, known as IMH, to deliver an innovative integrated private mental health facility that will provide additional health care offerings to aid in meeting the increasing demand for voluntary mental health services across Brisbane,” planners at Urbis stated on behalf of the applicant.

Mental Health Hospital — Amended plans (Photo credit: Z Architects)

“The proposed development has had consideration of the previously approved scheme under construction, and seeks to provide a revitalised outcome for the site based on tenant interest and surrounding operations,” planners added.

As part of the original approved plans by Z Architects, existing industrial sheds were to be refurbished and woven into the development, which also included building two new buildings.

The original Development Approval for a child care centre, indoor sport and recreation facility, office space, and retail shop was granted by the Council on 23 April 2020. The approved design included 185 parking spaces located at ground level and in a single basement level.

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

The developers noted that the proposed changes to the approved uses will not impact the already constructed built form on site, including the approved car parking, access, and servicing.

Published 4-August-2023

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

Anthony, a young man from Nundah, has struggled to find work in the past due to a vision impairment; now he has hope, thanks to a recently completed an internship at Wesley Hospital called Project SEARCH.

Read: Nundah Teen Kate Kindleysides Gets Top Prize at Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Class Clowns

Twenty-three-year-old Anthony is friendly, bright and bubbly. He has faced challenges finding work before. Past opportunities fell through, leaving Anthony discouraged.

After hearing about Project SEARCH, he felt hopeful that the program could provide him with the workplace skills and confidence needed to finally enter the workforce.

“I had different opportunities in the past but they have all seemed to fall through, I heard about Project SEARCH and I thought this would give me the skills and confidence I need to enter the workforce,” Anthony said.

Project SEARCH partners with local businesses to offer internships to young adults with disabilities. The goal is to develop critical workplace skills and secure pathways to secure competitive, stable, and rewarding employment.

“Project SEARCH graduates benefit from being linked with other service providers that can assist them to retain employment at the completion of the program, such as Disability Employment Services providers.”
UnitingCare

“For the first part of the internship we did classroom learning, where we studied workplace health and safety policies, hospital procedures and how to identify risks and hazards,” Anthony said.

Annelise Oosthuizen, manager of the Day Treatment Unit at Wesley Hospital, has high praise for Anthony’s work as an intern. She expressed that Anthony had become a valued member of her team and that his departure was bittersweet.

“He has been a wonderful addition to our team, we have loved having him here so much, he has learned so quickly and he is always so happy and helpful,” Annelise said.

“The impact he has had on our patients is invaluable, some people can be in here for hours and he brightens their day, we will miss him terribly.”

Anthony has a wide range of interests and skills that he hopes will lead to a customer service role, his dream job. His passion for helping people and interacting with the public would make him a natural fit for customer-facing work.

In addition to his enthusiasm for assisting customers, Anthony is a talented musician and singer. He lends his voice to the Voices of Birralee Choir. He is also trained in Braille reading and he has a love for personal training and fitness.

For Anthony, the Wesley Hospital internship through Project SEARCH has been a game-changer. He has thrived in the hospital environment and made excellent progress in developing practical job skills.

Based on his own positive experience, Anthony enthusiastically recommends Project SEARCH to others seeking internships. He describes the program as a “wonderful opportunity” that he would urge others to pursue.

Read: New ‘Real World Kids’ Book Series Launches First Story on Thomas from Australia

Visit www.unitingcareqld.com.au to learn more about Project SEARCH.

Published 21-July-2023

Toombul Shopping Centre Demolition Approved, Mirvac Commits to Future Retail in Redevelopment Plan

The flood-ravaged Toombul Shopping Centre has been given the green light for demolition, signalling the beginning of a new chapter for the shopping centre in Brisbane’s north.

The demolition process is expected to be a meticulous one, as the derelict structure will be taken down piece by piece rather than through a single blow. The decision comes after the site was left uninhabitable due to extensive flooding in February 2022, leaving lower levels submerged in water, causing severe damage and mould growth.

Mirvac’s development application to demolish all structures on the site was submitted in April 2023, and the Council’s approval on 19th July 2023 now paves the way for the commencement of demolition later this year. The company has not yet disclosed the exact start and completion dates for the demolition.

“We expect demolition to commence later in the year once the considerations noted above have been resolved. We will advise the community when we have a start date. The demolition program is estimated to take approximately 12 months to complete depending on progress and weather conditions,” the company said in a statement.

Before the demolition begins, Mirvac must address several considerations, including the relocation of existing telecommunications towers and coordination with service providers like AirTrain to ensure the safety and efficiency of the demolition work near their infrastructure.

The task presents various complexities and environmental concerns due to the proximity of the creek corridor and residential areas. Mirvac assures the community that they will implement extensive measures to mitigate potential noise, dust, vibration, and traffic impacts.

Toombul’s community will be kept informed throughout the process, with a commitment from Mirvac to minimize impacts on residents and maintain access to nearby roads, bikeways, footpaths, the Kedron Brook bikeway, and the Toombul bus interchange.

What North Brisbane Locals Want

In January 2023, the company had previously sought input from thousands of locals about their preferences for the site’s redevelopment.

“We’re pleased to let you know we received almost 10,000 pieces of incredible feedback that have been carefully considered and will help inform our continued planning for the future of Toombul, along with planning outcomes and commercial considerations,” Mirvac stated.

The company has taken note of three important points from the community:

Shoppers are missing convenient local retail and services.
They want to see retail return to the site as a priority.
The community expects the site to have improved resilience to local flooding.

Respondents also indicated a desire for retail spaces, public green areas, and essential services, such as healthcare. Mirvac has confirmed that these elements will be included in the redesign, along with improved flood mitigation measures.

Mirvac’s vision for the site includes a focus on retail in any future plans. However, specific details, such as the inclusion of a supermarket, theatre, or major retailer, have not been ironed out. Concept plans and a master plan are expected to be made available for community review by the end of 2023.

As the demolition planning progresses, Mirvac pledges to keep the community informed with ongoing updates and provides an option for residents to receive direct email updates about the future demolition program by registering online.

The redevelopment of Toombul Shopping Centre holds the promise of revitalizing the area and providing much-needed retail amenities for the local community. With cautious and diligent planning, Mirvac aims to turn the flood-ravaged site into a vibrant and thriving hub once again.

Follow updates about the redevelopment via the Toombul Renewal official site.

Published 20-July-2023

Flying Gets More Paw-sitive: Therapy Dogs take Over Brisbane Airport

Therapy dogs have been introduced to the terminals at Brisbane Airport to help soothe stressed travellers’ pre-flight jitters.

Read: Teens Attempting to Steal Vehicle From Banyo Residence Tracked by Dog Squad

For two days on July 11 and 12, certified therapy dogs Cooper, Kevin, and their canine cohorts were stationed in the airport’s domestic terminal to provide calming, furry comfort to passengers.

The tail-wagging therapy team came courtesy of Therapy & Support Animals Australia, an organisation that trains and handles dogs for animal-assisted interventions.

Photo credit: Therapy & Support Animals Australia/Facebook

Handler Nikki Bignell accompanied Cooper, a friendly Labradoodle, Kevin the cuddly Sheepadoodle, and the organisation’s “Stay & Train” puppy recruits as they made their rounds at the airport. The therapy puppies are completing training that may lead to future careers as service, assistance, or ongoing therapy animals.

*Nikki Bignell (Photo credit: Therapy & Support Animals Australia/Facebook*)

Kevin the Sheepadoodle underwent Intensive Obedience Course at the Therapy & Support Animals Australia only last January whilst Cooper completed the Therapy Certificate Course in 2021.

For many people, air travel induces anxiety and apprehension. However, research shows that focusing on a therapy animal can significantly reduce fear and anxiety.

Petting an animal for even just one minute stimulates oxytocin production, the hormone associated with bonding, trust, and positive emotions. Interacting with therapy dogs also releases endorphins, diminishing feelings of pain, depression, and loneliness.

Therapy dogs — Photo credit: Brisbane Airport/Facebook

The floppy-eared therapists seemed to work their magic at the Brisbane Airport. Many travellers broke into wide smiles and stopped to lavish attention on the dogs, giving them hearty pats and cuddles.

Read: Nundah Family Reunites With Stowaway Pet Galah

Judging by the crowds drawn to Cooper, Kevin, and crew this week, it seems clear that therapy dogs have a bright future in airport customer service. Their ability to lift spirits and lower stress before flights is a welcome service for travellers. Future airport visits to train other therapy dogs may be scheduled soon.

Published 15-July-2023

Forty Years of Loretta Ryan: Broadcaster Reflects on Illustrious Radio Career

Speaking about a remarkable radio career spanning forty years, Loretta Ryan opens up about the choices she has made along the way. As she celebrates four decades on the air, Ryan reflects on the impact of those choices throughout her career.

Brisbane Radio’s Constant Companion: Forty Years of Loretta Ryan

A familiar name in Brisbane radio, Loretta Ryan has been a constant presence on the city’s airwaves for 40 years. From her early days at Radio 10 to her current role as co-host of the ABC Breakfast Show, she has witnessed the growth of both her career and the city she calls home. Ryan’s love of the medium shines through as she shares people’s stories with her listeners.

Born and raised in Brisbane, Ryan is proud of her deep connection to the city and its people. Her extensive knowledge of the city has been a huge asset in her radio career — allowing her to connect with listeners on a personal level. While some might have encouraged her to explore opportunities elsewhere, she is proud to have made her mark in her hometown.

A Twist of Fate and a Fresh Start

The sudden termination of Ryan’s role at 4BC in 2015 left her devastated. Uncertain about her future in radio, she found support from friends who helped her transition into a role at ABC. Starting anew, she began as a producer before landing the breakfast show alongside Craig Zonca. Ryan recognises that the unexpected turn of events has led her to where she is today.

Ryan’s Legacy and the Future of Radio

Ryan’s personal life has been a journey of its own. Single and without children of her own, she cherishes her role as an aunt to six nieces and nephews. While reflecting on the absence of her own family, Ryan finds purpose in caring for her ageing mother. She acknowledges that women face societal expectations regarding marriage and motherhood, but asserts that everyone’s path is unique.

As the world rapidly evolves in the digital age, Ryan remains confident in radio’s enduring presence in the community. Reflecting on the changes she has seen — from vinyl records to digital streaming — she believes that radio will always have a place in people’s lives.

With her love of storytelling, Loretta Ryan has certainly left an indelible mark on Brisbane’s airwaves.

Published 14 July 2023

Future of $1-B Site Unclear After Brisbane Auto Mall Cancellation

The $1 billion Brisbane Auto Mall project has been cancelled after years in development, Brisbane Airport Corporation and automotive retailer AP Eagers announced this week.

Read: BNE Auto Mall Needs Track and Event Operator

The ambitious project was first announced in 2015, with plans for a massive automotive precinct featuring a 2.4km test track designed by racing legend Mark Skaife.

A conference space, multi-use centres, dining spaces, commercial offices, dealership facilities leased by AP Eagers, and a viewing deck were also part of the plans for the 400-hectare site, located just right next to the airport.

Brisbane Auto Mall — Artist’s visualisation of the now-cancelled Auto Mall project (Photo credit: Brisbane Airport/YouTube screengrab)

Back in 2021, BAC even sought operators for the Auto Mall, dubbed as the largest non-aviation project of the corporation. They have also released a fly-through video, which is now no longer displayed on the company’s YouTube account.

In a joint statement, the developers cited “a number of factors, including the tricky economics of operating a track” as reasons for pulling the plug on the project. The total amount spent on planning and early construction of the Auto Mall over the past seven years was not disclosed.

“A mutual decision has been made to not proceed with the Auto Mall project at Brisbane Airport,” the statement read.

Whilst the test track portion faced funding issues, Brisbane Airport Corporation said it remains committed to developing the large site near the airport into a multi-purpose commercial and entertainment precinct.

“This site is three times larger than South Bank Parklands, so it is important for us to take the time to plan this area right,” said Martin Ryan, executive general manager of Brisbane Airport Corporation.

Read: Brisbane Airport Unveils Plans for New $1 Billion Terminal

The cancellation marks a major setback for the ambitious Auto Mall project after years of planning and investment, leaving the future of the site unclear. Both Brisbane Airport and AP Eagers say they remain open to re-exploring opportunities for the 400-hectare site.

Published 14-July-2023

Uniting Early Learning Toombul Invites Families to Explore their Open Day

Uniting Early Learning Toombul is hosting an Open Day, where families can take advantage of the opportunity to visit the centre, meet dedicated educators, and participate in a range of fun activities.

The Open Day, held on Saturday, 15 July 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., aims to showcase the exceptional facilities and nurturing environment provided by Uniting Early Learning Toombul.

Families can explore indoor and outdoor learning environments, which have been designed to inspire and engage young minds. The centre boasts extensive outdoor spaces with leafy trees, real grass, and natural landscapes.

Additionally, children can immerse themselves in the organic garden, mud kitchen, and bush tucker area, allowing them to connect with nature and learn through hands-on experiences.

As a small community-centred service, Uniting Early Learning Toombul, which originally opened in 1996, prioritises individual attention, supporting a maximum of 56 children. The facility is proud to offer a play-based learning program that encourages children’s natural curiosity and fosters their development in a caring and inclusive environment.

The childcare and kindergarten service is fully accredited and has achieved an “Exceeding” rating from the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA).

One of the standout features of Uniting Early Learning Toombul is the range of activities available to the children. The centre places great importance on sustainability, offering programs that promote gardening and composting.

The site has implemented an intergenerational play initiative called “Grandfriends,” which allows the children to interact and learn from all ages. The centre also provides additional extracurricular activities such as Grasshopper Soccer and Dance Quest, enriching the learning experience for the children.

“Uniting Early Learning is a lovely centre with supportive and caring staff. Lorna, the kindy teacher, has 16 years of teaching experience and this is clearly evident in the way she nurtures natural curiosity and develops her program around each individual students’ interests and needs,” a satisfied parent stated.

“The centres on site cook, Riki, is also a bonus as my son has special dietary requirements and Riki creates delicious and nutritious meals that my son loves. We are really happy here and I couldn’t recommend this centre more.

Families interested in attending the Uniting Early Learning Toombul Open Day can register by visiting the centre’s website, which has comprehensive information about its history, values, and programs.

For additional updates and to connect with the community, families are encouraged to visit Uniting Early Learning Toombul’s Facebook page.

Liam Horne: From Borrowed Boots to 50th Hostplus Cup Appearance

He’s a 26-year-old sparky who’s played five-eighth, hooker and lock for the Norths Devils and his versatility has been a big reason for a remarkable rise that has led to an international call-up for PNG and just last week, his 50th 1st grade game for the Devils.

Born in Port Moresby but raised in Australia, Liam Horne made his first grade debut in 2019 against the Tweed Seagulls; was part of the 2021 Intrust Super Cup Premiership Winners; and last year, ran out in the Pacific Test against Fiji.

It all started when he began playing for the Norths Devils Juniors at the age of 10, collecting trophies with the Colts and the Under 18s on the way to making first grade.

From Borrowed Boots to First Grade

Devils Junior Liam Horne Celebrates Milestone 50th Hostplus Cup Match

Reflecting on his debut against Tweed four years ago, Horne remembers that day as one that took an unexpected turn. Expecting to watch from the bench, Horne lent his boots to former junior teammate David Fauid.

After an injury to Michael Sio during the warm-up, he found himself thrust into action. Borrowing boots from a Colts player, he battled through the relentless rain despite Tweed dominating the game.

Known for his tenacity and powerful running style, Horne gained a reputation as one of the toughest runners in the competition, despite his modest 90-kg frame.

His tireless efforts have resulted in eight tries this season, catching the eye of Papua New Guinea selectors and earning him a crack at the international scene.

Horne also played a pivotal role in the Devils’ 2022 title repeat. Playing a standout game in the Grand Final against Redcliffe, he was a vital part of one of the team’s three tries during their 16-10 victory.

Horne admits that he has also had to cultivate self-belief to establish himself as a regular first-grader. He now aspires to secure a full-time role within an NRL squad, training with the Brisbane Broncos during the previous offseason.

As Devils junior Liam Horne celebrates his half-century, his journey from borrowed boots to a key player on the team is a testament to his determination and passion for his sport.

Expressing gratitude to everyone who has contributed to his development as a player, Horne acknowledged the club’s support and guidance throughout his career.

Published 6 July 2023

Hydrogen Flight Alliance Launches at Brisbane Airport, Propelling Australia’s Green Aviation Industry

In a major step towards a sustainable aviation future, key players in the Australian aviation and green hydrogen industries have officially launched the Hydrogen Flight Alliance (HFA) at Brisbane Airport.

The alliance aims to position Australia as a leading player in the aviation industry’s transition towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Their primary objective is to enable Australia’s first commercial emission-free hydrogen-powered flight between Brisbane Airport and Gladstone Airport by 2026.

Skytrans Airlines, in collaboration with Stralis Aircraft, will operate this route using a 15-seat Stralis B1900D-HE aircraft specifically designed and built in Brisbane. The groundbreaking aircraft will emit only water vapour, marking a significant milestone in sustainable air travel.

Stralis Aircraft also plans to initiate flight testing of its hydrogen-electric-powered 6-seat Beechcraft Bonanza demonstrator aircraft in early 2024. These flights, which will take place in South East Queensland, will provide valuable real-world experience in operating and refuelling hydrogen aircraft for the alliance.

The Hydrogen Flight Alliance brings together leading Australian organizations dedicated to developing the necessary hydrogen flight ecosystem to support the operation of domestically manufactured, emission-free aircraft. Its formation sets out to establish a clean technology innovation hub in Queensland, creating world-class jobs, training programs, and emission-free aircraft manufacturing opportunities.

As Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games to be a climate-positive event, the HFA aims to realize the vision of transporting athletes across Queensland during the games using locally built, emission-free aircraft.

Green hydrogen holds immense potential for decarbonising air travel. However, challenges related to fuel availability at scale, future cost, and airport supply infrastructure must be overcome.

Hydrogen Flight Alliance — Photo Credit: Supplied

Commercial hydrogen-electric aircraft will undergo design, testing, and certification by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) to ensure safety standards equivalent to conventional aircraft. To remain competitive in the global race to decarbonise, Australia requires strong government incentives comparable to initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act in the United States, which have helped other countries build robust emission reduction technology industries.

“Queensland’s green hydrogen industry is the next frontier in a world hungry for renewables and is our greatest climate, jobs, and economic opportunity in a generation,” Queensland Minister for Energy, Renewables, and Hydrogen, the Honourable Mick de Brenni MP, said.

“Green hydrogen will be a game-changer in decarbonizing heavy haulage, shipping, manufacturing, and aviation while also slashing emissions and helping tackle climate change.”

“Brisbane is the perfect testing ground for zero-emissions aircraft,” Raechel Paris, Executive General Manager, Governance & Sustainability at Brisbane Airport Corporation, said.

About the Hydrogen Flight Alliance Members

Stralis Aircraft specializes in designing and manufacturing emission-free hydrogen-electric aircraft in Brisbane, Australia.
Skytrans Airlines, part-owned by Former Queensland and Cowboys star Johnathan Thurston, is an Australian-owned and operated airline that provides RPT and charter services from Cairns, Horn Island, and Brisbane.
Brisbane Airport Corporation is committed to creating a sustainable, world-leading airport and collaborating with partners across the aviation industry to protect the planet.
Gladstone Airport Corporation delivers a world-class regional airport experience and fosters aviation growth for the benefit of the Gladstone Region.
Aviation Australia is a world-class registered training organization and the only Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR) and European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approved training organization in Australia.
BOC covers the entire hydrogen value chain, from generation and liquefaction to transportation, storage solutions, and hydrogen-powered vehicle refuelling.
H2 Energy Company (h2ec) is dedicated to improving the future climate and delivering a cleaner future through comprehensive green hydrogen supply solutions.
Griffith University, through its multidisciplinary Climate Ready Initiative, brings teaching, research, and policy expertise to the alliance, with a focus on climate change research and preparedness.
Central Queensland University offers the Aviation for the Future program online, at Cairns Airport, and through flight school partners across Australia.

Published 4-July-2023