The revamped reserve boasts many new sporting and recreation facilities designed to cater to the growing population in Brisbane’s northern suburbs.
The project has transformed the reserve into a multi-functional hub featuring shared-use sporting fields equipped with lighting for improved nighttime visibility. A new 223-space car park and pathway connections to Nudgee Train Station and Railway Street provide easy access for visitors.
The upgrade also caters to various recreational activities, with a dog off-leash area, BMX track, playground, picnic settings with shelters and barbeque facilities, and a walking/running/cycling path. The recently opened clubhouse offers change rooms, meeting rooms, storage, and public toilets, further enhancing the reserve’s amenities.
Adding a touch of sporting inspiration, the iconic CommBank Matildas mural has found a new permanent home at the Nudgee Recreation Reserve. Initially a temporary installation at Howard Smith Wharves, the mural by Sid Tapia celebrates the Matildas’ historic match in Brisbane during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.
The revitalised reserve, now the northern base of Football Queensland, provides a fitting backdrop for this tribute to women’s football and inspires aspiring young players.
Completing the Nudgee Recreation Reserve improvement project significantly invests in the community’s well-being. It will provide a modern and inclusive space for residents to enjoy various sporting and recreational activities.
The Norths Devils are set for a high-stakes Hostplus Cup preliminary final against rivals Redcliffe Dolphins this Sunday, 1 September. Devils vs Dolphins kick off 2:10 p.m. at Bishop Park.
The intense rivalry between the two clubs remains as fierce as ever. The 2024 season saw each team secure a victory in their regular-season meetings, making Sunday’s match not just about finals progression but also a decisive tiebreaker in this season’s head-to-head battles.
Both teams finished the regular season with identical 13-7 records. The Devils pipped second place over the Dolphins due to a +17 edge in points differential, granting Norths the advantage of playing at home in this crucial encounter.
This upcoming rivalry game is also a rematch of the 2022 grand final, where the Devils secured a 16-10 victory to claim their third Queensland Cup.
Veteran player Jacob Gagan is set to make his 50th appearance for the Devils. Known for his tactical acumen and leadership on the field, Gagan’s experience is expected to be a key factor as Norths navigate the pressures of finals football.
Bouncing back
Despite a setback in their final regular-season match against the Sunshine Coast Falcons, coach Dave Elliott remains confident. He views the finals as a fresh start, focusing on the team’s resilience and readiness to perform under pressure.
Resilience has been a hallmark of the Devils. In 2021, after a surprise loss in their final regular-season game, they bounced back with a strong performance in the finals—securing their second-ever premiership.
Devils supporters can expect an intense and physical encounter at Bishop Park. The energy of the home crowd is anticipated to play a significant role in what promises to be a closely contested match.
The proposal, designed by CPO Architects, seeks to construct four adjoining three-story buildings that would provide a total of 32 individual residential units.
The development would include a mix of 14 three-bedroom suites and 18 four-bedroom suites, spread across the four buildings. In total, the proposal would create 1,104.7 square metres of gross floor area, with a rear communal BBQ space and 11 car parking spaces (including one disabled space).
According to the planning documents, the ground and first floors of the development are intended to operate similar to a traditional five-bedroom rooming house found throughout Queensland.
“The rooms above the first two floors are considered ‘not in a suite’ and whilst having direct access to the communal facilities, they will operate more independently and utilise the shared facilities when needed,” planners stated.
“This arrangement of rooms, suites, and buildings allows for the development to ultimately suite the growing demand for affordable housing options for both developers, and renters alike.”
The site was previously slated as a future park in the Banyo-Northgate neighbourhood, but the council has since confirmed it is no longer needed for that purpose.
Resident Concerns Over Parking
The proposal for the rooming accommodation has received a few submissions from local residents, with many expressing concerns about the potential parking impacts.
As one neighbour wrote to the council, “I believe the number of people this building will accommodate is too many compared to the number of parking spaces available on site.”
Another resident noted that “St Achs street is already being used extensively for parking for train station overflow as well as the Nudgee recreation reserve. The little eagle townhouse development will only add to this impact.”
The council is currently reviewing the proposal and will weigh the benefits of providing more diverse housing options against the potential impacts raised by the community.
Nundah State School is abuzz with excitement as the 2024 edition of the nationwide Spelling Bee competition is well underway. The school, recognised for its comprehensive academic programs and proactive approach to student development, participates in this educational event for the fourth consecutive year.
The school community, including teachers and parents, supports the event enthusiastically, recognising its benefits in enhancing student literacy and engagement.
Principal Rachel Korst expressed great enthusiasm about the school’s continued involvement in the Spelling Bee.
“Our school has a strong tradition of fostering academic excellence and personal growth. The Spelling Bee is a perfect match for our educational goals, providing both a challenging and enjoyable environment for our students to thrive in literacy,” Ms. Korst explained.
“We believe in equipping our students with the skills they need to succeed not just in school, but in life. The Spelling Bee serves as an exciting platform for students to showcase their spelling skills and compete in a friendly yet competitive atmosphere,” Ms Korst added.
Assistant Principal James Herbert, who coordinates the Spelling Bee preparations, shared insights into the training process.
“We start by encouraging a love of reading. From there, we explore the nuances of the English language through various activities that involve puzzle-solving and word-building exercises. It’s about developing a comprehensive literacy foundation,” Mr Herbert said.
The school also emphasises the development of “the knowing gift,” one of 10 educational gifts that the curriculum incorporates. This specific gift focuses on empowering students with knowledge and critical thinking skills, which are vital in academic and everyday contexts.
“Integrating these gifts helps our students become well-rounded individuals. The Spelling Bee is another opportunity for them to apply their learning in a practical, rewarding way,” Mr Herbert explained.
With a record number of participants and the support of the entire school community, Nundah State School looks forward to another successful year at the Spelling Bee.
The school is known for its explicit teaching methods, tailored to diverse student needs. This approach has been integral in helping students reach and exceed grade-level expectations in reading, writing, and spelling.
Nundah State School has incorporated spelling and vocabulary activities into its daily curriculum, engaging students with interactive spelling games and word-origin studies. These activities are designed to make learning fun and to instill a deeper understanding of language.
The Banyo level crossing is one of several identified for improvement under the new SEQ Level Crossing Programme 2024. The programme aims to tackle congestion and safety issues at high-risk crossings across South East Queensland.
Ten million dollars have been allocated for planning studies on priority level crossings, with Banyo among those earmarked for detailed investigation. Options for the Banyo crossing include road and rail overpasses, traffic light installations, and road widening.
The programme also presents an opportunity to boost housing development and improve pedestrian and cycling infrastructure around the upgraded crossing, enhancing road safety and reducing travel times. Motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists have expressed frustration at the current level crossing and this is a significant step towards addressing these issues.
While specific details for the Banyo level crossing are still under development, the Queensland Government has pledged to work closely with the local community to ensure the project meets their needs.
The historic Corpus Christi Church in Nundah is set to undergo some much-needed repairs, thanks to a $50,000 Community Sustainability Action Grant under the Community Heritage program.
The grant, awarded to The Corporation of the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane, will fund waterproofing and roof repairs to ensure the continued use of the church by both the parish and the wider community.
Corpus Christi Church, a heritage-listed Roman Catholic church designed by Hennessey, Hennessey, Keesing and Co and built between 1925 and 1926 by Stanley Samuel Carrick, was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 1995. This grant will help preserve its historical significance and architectural integrity.
The church is one of 26 projects benefiting from the latest round of CSA grants, which total $849,373. Other funded projects across Queensland include repairs to the Federal Hotel in Childers, accessibility improvements at the Blackall Woolscour, conservation of stained-glass windows at St Luke’s Anglican Church in Toowoomba, and roof replacement for Redcliffe’s heritage-listed former fire station.
Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Leanne Linard, emphasised the importance of these grants in preserving Queensland’s heritage. “The owners and custodians of our heritage-listed places play an important role in preserving our state’s history,” she said. “These grants will ensure these historically significant sites will continue to be protected and enjoyed for many years to come.”
The CSA grant program offers up to $50,000 for projects that preserve and promote places on the Queensland Heritage Register. Minister Linard added that the government will continue to work closely with community groups, local councils, and place owners to conserve heritage-listed places and identify potential new additions to the register.
This funding for Corpus Christi Church not only ensures the preservation of a significant historical landmark but also supports the ongoing spiritual and community activities that have been central to Nundah for nearly a century.
Mary MacKillop College in Nundah has experienced a notable rise in the latest rankings of Queensland’s top 150 high schools, released by the independent education website Better Education. The Catholic girls’ secondary school, established in 1964 and named after Australia’s first saint, jumped 26 places, moving from 137th in 2022 to 111th in the 2023 rankings.
This significant improvement reflects the college’s dedication to academic excellence and providing a supportive environment for its students.
With a rich history rooted in the Josephite tradition, Mary MacKillop College fosters a nurturing atmosphere where each individual is known and supported. The college’s values of faith, community, and pastoral care, combined with a strong focus on academic achievement, have contributed to the school’s recent success. Established as Mount St. Joseph’s Students Secondary School, it underwent name changes in 1970 and 2009, eventually becoming Mary MacKillop College in honour of the revered saint.
Based on Year 9 English and Maths test results in 2023, the rankings showcase a range of high-performing schools across the state. While the top four positions remained unchanged, private schools outside Brisbane have shown the most significant advancements. Annandale Christian College in Townsville made a remarkable leap of 74 places, while St Luke’s Anglican School in Bundaberg and Tamborine Mountain State High School also rose notably in the rankings.
Mary MacKillop College’s impressive progress is a testament to the students and staff’s hard work and dedication. The college offers diverse academic and extracurricular programmes, including a renowned music programme and extensive sporting opportunities. This holistic approach to education and a strong sense of community have fostered an environment where students can thrive.
The 2023 rankings also welcomed 19 new entries, including Padua College and Brisbane South Secondary College, which debuted within the top 50. Other newcomers to the list include Samford Valley Steiner School, Gold Coast Christian College, Clayfield College, Charters Towers School of Distance Education, and Unity College on the Sunshine Coast.
Overall, the latest Queensland high school rankings demonstrate a commitment to quality education across the state, with public and private schools striving for excellence. Mary MacKillop College’s significant improvement is a shining example of the positive outcomes that can be achieved through dedication and a focus on student success.
Premier Touch is bringing its social touch football competition to Nudgee, offering residents a new way to stay active and engage with the community. The organisation is now accepting team nominations for its upcoming season, set to kick off on August 5th at the recently constructed Nudgee Recreation Reserve.
This expansion marks Premier Touch’s first full season at the Nudgee venue, following a 7-week mini-competition held earlier this year which saw participation from five teams. The new location aims to fill a gap in social sports offerings in the area, with the next closest option being in Wavell Heights.
The competitions are designed for ages 14 and up, providing an opportunity for locals to keep fit while having fun. The upcoming season will run for 13 weeks, including 11 regular rounds and two rounds of finals. Teams can consist of mixed genders, with competitions held on Monday evenings.
Premier Touch has a long-standing history in Brisbane, having organised social touch football competitions since the 1980s. The organisation currently operates across six venues in the city, including Bardon, Bellbowrie, Fairfield, Mt Gravatt, and West End, in addition to the new Nudgee location. Over 80 teams participate across these venues in a season.
Early bird nominations, which close on July 8th, offer a $100 discount on the full competition fee of $950. Teams registering early will pay $850, which works out to approximately $77 per player for a team of 11.
For teams looking to participate from the start of the season, nominations must be submitted by August 1st to be included in the draw for Round 1. However, Premier City Touch welcomes late nominations throughout the season. Those who miss the initial deadline can still register, and the organisation will assist with late entry arrangements.
For those interested in participating, team nominations can be submitted through the Premier Touch website at premiercitytouch.com.au. The organisation welcomes players of all skill levels and encourages anyone looking for a way to stay active and connect with others in the community to get involved.
Nundah locals’ favourite twilight market is poised to transform Station Street into a bustling European-style bazaar, offering residents a unique blend of international flavours, local crafts, and live entertainment.
The Nundah By Night Twilight Markets will feature over 120 stalls, showcasing a diverse array of offerings.
Market Highlights
The event is scheduled for Saturday, 20th July, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Visitors can expect
– Gourmet food trucks serving international cuisines – Artisanal arts and crafts displays – Pop-up bars, including Stone & Wood – Live music performances on two stages – Roving entertainment and kids’ activities
Culinary Delights
Food enthusiasts can look forward to a variety of tantalising options:
– Kaysers Smoke Train’s Jack Daniels Beef Brisket – Authentic churros from Churros Bites – Burleigh Chilli Co’s range of sauces – Traditional Glühwein, a warm mulled wine
Entertainment for All Ages
The market aims to cater to all age groups with its diverse entertainment lineup:
– Musical performances by Little Big City and Afrodisa – Old MacDonald’s Travelling Farm – Stilt walkers roaming the grounds
Community Impact
Event organisers expect the twilight market to boost local businesses and foster community spirit. The $3 entry fee and free parking aim to make the event accessible to all residents.
A pioneering initiative for Australia’s battery manufacturing industry has been unveiled in Brisbane. The country’s first Battery Supply Chain Database, a groundbreaking tool aimed at bolstering the emerging battery sector, was launched at the Quest Hub in Banyo.
Queensland Manufacturing Minister Glenn Butcher introduced the innovative platform, designed to help manufacturers identify business opportunities and address supply chain gaps in the rapidly expanding battery industry. Developed in partnership with the Advanced Materials and Battery Council, this initiative supports the Queensland Battery Industry Strategy.
The database offers a dual benefit: it allows battery technology companies to identify domestic production opportunities within the supply chain, while also enabling manufacturers from other sectors to discover new customers, markets, and potential investors.
Now live and accessible to manufacturers across Australia, the Battery Supply Chain Database is expected to play a crucial role in showcasing Queensland’s manufacturing potential within the global battery value chain.
Minister Butcher emphasised the importance of this tool for the state’s future, saying that Queensland’s regions will play a major role in supporting new battery technology, with huge dividends expected through the creation of new jobs, more economic growth, and long-term prosperity.
“By getting in early, we can ensure Queensland manufacturers have the pioneer’s advantage, staking a claim in the marketplace and becoming established early,” said Minister Butcher.
The launch in Banyo underscores the suburb’s growing importance as a hub for technological innovation and manufacturing in Queensland. As the battery industry continues to evolve, this new database is poised to position Queensland, and particularly areas like Banyo, at the forefront of Australia’s battery manufacturing landscape.