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Christmas Magic Set to Shine at Nundah Christmas Twilight Markets

Christmas spirit is about to sparkle through the heart of Nundah as the Nundah Christmas Twilight Markets return, transforming Station Street into a festive playground. The much-loved twilight event promises a lively celebration filled with handmade gifts, gourmet street food, live entertainment, and a special visit from Santa himself.

On Saturday, 6 December, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., visitors can look forward to over 150 market stalls, offering everything from locally crafted jewellery and art to Christmas treats and bespoke stocking fillers. Whether you’re hunting for a meaningful, handmade gift or simply soaking up the holiday atmosphere, there’s something to delight every member of the family.

Food lovers will be spoilt for choice with a curated lineup of gourmet street eats from favourites like Mystica Burgers, Djakarta Eat Indonesian, and Di Piú Tiramisu. For those eager to unwind with a festive sip, the event’s pop-up bar will serve refreshing Blood Orange Spritz and a selection of local brews.

The markets will also give families the chance to meet the season’s star guest — Santa Claus. From festive selfies to cheerful chats, Santa will be on-site to spread plenty of Christmas joy.

Adding to the atmosphere, guests can enjoy live performances across two stages from Camali Band and Souledified Band, along with roving entertainers and children’s activities designed to keep the little ones entertained.

Entry is just $3, while children aged 12 and under can join the fun for free.

For those concerned about their Sunday rituals, fear not — the beloved Nundah Farmers Markets will run as usual the following morning from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., offering all the local produce, baked goods, and handmade staples visitors know and love.

The Nundah Christmas Twilight Markets, delivered by Goodwill Projects, continue to be one of Queensland’s standout festive events, bringing community, creativity, and Christmas cheer together in one vibrant night under the twinkling lights.

Published 3-Dec-2025

Australia Post opens Temporary Pinkenba Pop-up to Ease Christmas Parcel Rush

Residents in Pinkenba will have an easier time collecting their parcels this Christmas, with Australia Post introducing a temporary pop-up Post Office to help manage the busy holiday period. The seasonal hub is designed to give locals a more convenient option during what is traditionally the organisation’s busiest time of the year.

Read: Outdoor Sport and Recreation Facility Proposed in Pinkenba

The temporary Pop-Up Post Office is now operating at 231 Holt Street in Pinkenba, offering a local collection point aimed at relieving pressure on nearby branches and reducing wait times. Australia Post says the site has been set up to support the community through the Christmas peak, when parcel volumes typically surge due to online shopping and pre-holiday gift buying.

Last year, Australia Post delivered more than 103 million parcels during November and December, a 3.1 per cent increase compared with the previous year. With millions of items moving through processing facilities such as the Stafford distribution centre during this period, the additional Pinkenba site is intended to help keep deliveries moving efficiently.

With strong volumes projected again this season, Australia Post says the Pinkenba pop-up will support its wider network as demand ramps up. The organisation is also reinstating temporary weekend deliveries from this Saturday to help keep up with the increased parcel load. The service will operate across all metro capitals and select regional communities in the lead-up to Christmas, depending on demand. Executive General Manager of Parcel, Post and eCommerce Services, Gary Starr, said the return of Saturday and Sunday deliveries would give customers more flexibility and support timely delivery during the festive rush.

The pop-up forms part of broader upgrades across Australia Post’s parcel network. The organisation has recently opened several next-generation, parcel-focused Post Offices in major cities across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT. These new-format branches feature 24/7 self-service options and secure, free parcel lockers aimed at making it easier to send, collect and return parcels. Australia Post has also continued expanding its parcel-locker network nationally, providing more options for customers who need outside-hours or contactless pickup.

These improvements come as Australians continue to turn to online shopping in record numbers. The most recent national e-commerce report showed that shoppers spent $20.7 billion online between July and September, driven by major sales events and increasingly frequent purchases. Online spending grew 15 per cent year on year, and industry projections point to continued momentum through Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the Christmas season.

Australia Post says initiatives like the Pinkenba pop-up will help ease congestion and simplify the collection process during this busy period. For residents who work irregular hours or commute, having a nearby pickup point can reduce travel and limit the need to queue at larger metropolitan Post Offices.

The organisation is also encouraging customers to download the Australia Post app to track deliveries, receive notifications and manage preferences such as redirection or parcel-locker pickup. The app can help reduce missed deliveries and allow customers to follow parcels as they move through the network.

Read: How Rino Recycling in Pinkenba is Transforming Brisbane’s Circular Economy

As Christmas approaches and more Australians rely on online shopping, temporary measures like the Pinkenba Pop-Up Post Office are intended to give the community practical support at a time when parcel volumes reach their highest point of the year.

Published 26-November-2025

Rossco’s Cafe Brings Family History to Life in Banyo

Photo Credit: Rossco’s Cafe

A northside couple is strengthening community ties in Banyo by converting a long-held family property into a vibrant space for coffee, dining, and connection through Rossco’s Cafe.

Honouring a Local Legacy

This new venue, Rossco’s Cafe, Bar & Grill, represents more than just a business venture for owners Stuart and Jackie Garbutt. The location is steeped in personal history, having been owned by Stuart’s late father, Rossco, for more than four decades.

Stuart chose to name the venue after his father to honour his memory. The project draws inspiration from Rossco’s background in North Queensland cattle country, where he developed a strong appreciation for the land and fresh produce. The owners aim to reflect these values of hospitality and connection in their daily operations.

A New Look for Tufnell Road

Transforming the site was a significant undertaking that spanned eighteen months. The process completely reimagined the old family property into a space designed for socialising. The design features a warm colour palette that utilises natural materials and soft textures to create a welcoming atmosphere. The layout is divided into distinct sections, including a cafe, a restaurant, and a beer garden.

A focal point of the outdoor area is an olive tree, which the Garbutt family views as a representation of peace and shared moments. The venue offers a mix of seating options, ranging from casual footpath dining to indoor tables and leafy outdoor spots.

Flavours and Operations

The kitchen will serve a menu described as an Australian lifestyle offering with Mediterranean influences. The culinary focus is on simple flavours and fresh ingredients sourced from Queensland and Australian producers. Patrons can expect generous dishes intended for sharing, alongside tapas-style bites that encourage diners to linger over a meal. The beverage list complements the food with approachable wines.

Early risers can visit from 6:00 am daily for coffee and breakfast items, with grab-and-go options available. The full restaurant and beer garden sections are scheduled to operate from Wednesday through Sunday. The owners expressed their desire to create a true neighbourhood space where people can connect through food and kindness. The venue is expected to begin serving the public later this month.

Published Date 26-November-2025

Giselle Grace on Making a Difference: Lessons from Her Final Year at Mary MacKillop College

A six-year journey at Mary MacKillop College (MMC) in Nundah has shaped 2025 graduate Giselle Grace into a committed leader and community advocate. As the College’s Mission Captain, she carried out a number of initiatives that highlighted her dedication to service and leadership.

Read: Mary MacKillop College in Nundah Opens New State-of-the-Art Learning Facility

During the year, Giselle worked with the Cancer Council’s Ponytail Project to support people experiencing cancer, raising both awareness and funds. She also supported The Forgotten Women charity through the Hearts and Hands Advocacy Event, contributing to student-led donations and handmade gifts for women experiencing homelessness.

In addition, she mentored the Junior Joeys for Justice Group, helping to organise social justice initiatives. She also led the MacKillop Action Group in coordinating whole-school activities — including liturgies, Harmony Week, the Hearts and Hands event, and the College’s Winter Drive.

Giselle also maintained a strong commitment to debating and public speaking. She competed in the Queensland Debating Union finals with the Year 12 debating team, coached the Year 9 team at her school, and took part in the Lions Youth of the Year Public Speaking Competition, where she was awarded Best Public Speaker.

Giselle Grace — Photo credit: Google Street View

Academically, Giselle was recognised at MMC’s Celebration of Excellence. She received the MacKillop Medallion for consistent A grades, the MMC Learner Award for high standards of application and conduct, and the Prize of Honour for outstanding service, leadership, and performance. She also took part in the University of Queensland’s three-day Women in Engineering program at the St Lucia campus.

Reflecting on her experience, Giselle said: “Throughout my journey MMC has taught me a few important things; that success and achievement is about what happens when we come together for something bigger than ourselves, it’s about the change that we can make together. I feel very fortunate to have experienced the opportunities that this College provided me.”

She also spoke highly of her teachers, noting: “Our teachers have guided and mentored us to be the best people we can be, and have encouraged us to demonstrate the MacKillop values, enabling us to grow together. That has been a life‑changing foundation that will help me navigate my future.”

Looking ahead, Giselle Grace will attend the Australian Defence Force Academy in Canberra to study Aeronautical Engineering. From there, she plans to enter the Royal Australian Air Force in a Mission Aircrew role.

Read: Teacher Recognised for Excellence in Nundah

Giselle’s final year at MMC has been defined by leadership, service, and community engagement. For her, being a MacKillop Woman means contributing to something greater than oneself and living out the College’s values of service, compassion, and integrity — values that MMC has nurtured in her through guidance, opportunity, and a strong foundation.

Published 24-November-2025

Security Upgrade Support for Toombul Cricket Club

Photo Credit: Toombul District Cricket Club/Facebook

A new round of community safety funding will support Toombul Cricket Club as part of broader security improvements being delivered across Brisbane suburban facilities.

Toombul’s Ongoing Role in Community Cricket

Toombul Cricket Club has been a long-standing part of the local sporting community, operating since 1882 and contributing to the development of players across different levels of the game. The club continues to play a central role in providing opportunities for junior and senior cricketers and remains an active presence in the Toombul and Nundah area.

Its facilities have undergone improvements over the years, including recent upgrades at Seventh Brigade Park and partnerships designed to support participation. These efforts reflect the club’s position as a community hub and a training ground for upcoming talent.

Safer Suburbs Grants — *Photo Credit: Toombul District Cricket Club/Facebook*

Safety Funding Reported Across Brisbane Clubs

It was reported on 11 November 2025 that almost $500,000 would be distributed to more than 70 community clubs under the second round of a safety grant program. This round brings the program’s total investment since 2024 to more than $980,000.

Toombul Cricket Club is among the successful applicants and will use the funding to streamline and replace locks across its clubhouse, groundskeeping sheds and changerooms. The works aim to limit unauthorised access and reduce the risk of break-ins or damage to the site.

The wider funding supports clubs that have experienced recurring issues such as vandalism, damage to playing areas, illegal dumping and theft. The program provides up to $10,000 per organisation for improvements including CCTV installation, upgraded locks, external lighting, security screens and fencing.

*Photo Credit: Toombul District Cricket Club/Facebook*

Impacts for Local Club Members

Safety improvements across community facilities are expected to benefit volunteers, players and visitors. Toombul Cricket Club anticipates that an upgraded lock system will help protect equipment and reduce time spent addressing damage or unauthorised entry.

Other clubs across Brisbane will also make use of their funding for lighting, cameras and other deterrents that support member access during early morning or late evening sessions.

Ongoing Safety Measures in Suburban Areas

Fixed CCTV cameras have been installed in several suburban locations, and 26 mobile units are available for deployment as needed. Further funding rounds will be assessed based on community demand.

For Toombul Cricket Club, the supported upgrades are expected to strengthen site security and help maintain focus on cricket activities and community engagement.

Published 17-Nov-2025

Jacob Elordi’s Nudgee Roots Highlighted as ‘Frankenstein’ Reviews Surge

Photo Credit: St Joseph’s Nudgee College/Facebook

A resurfaced school photo shared by St Joseph’s Nudgee College highlights how former Brisbane student Jacob Elordi has gone from his days in a striped blue-and-white blazer to widespread praise for his role in Guillermo del Toro’s new Frankenstein film. The image, posted by the school’s Old Boys’ Association, marks how far the actor has come since his Nudgee years.

A Local School Proud of Its Former Student

The tribute was shared as praise grew for Elordi’s physical and emotional transformation into the Creature, which has been described as one of the most striking reinventions of the character in years. The Old Boys’ Association told its community that Elordi’s work on the film has made the school proud of all he has achieved. The message was shared as a Facebook post to thousands of former students through the school’s online community network.

Behind the scenes, his transformation relied on extensive prosthetic work. Prosthetics artist Mike Hill has explained that he applied Elordi’s full-body prosthetics around 20 times, using 42 separate pieces, fake dentures and a re-sculpted brow over hours of makeup work. He said only the tip of the nose, upper lip and chin belonged to Elordi, while the rest was constructed from rubber prosthetics. Hill added that Elordi never complained during the long sessions and used the time to focus and settle into the character.

Director Guillermo del Toro has also spoken highly of Elordi, reportedly saying the actor only ever needs two takes, suggesting he rarely requires extra attempts to complete a scene. His portrayal of the Creature has been hailed internationally as one of the boldest reinventions of the character in decades.

From Brisbane Theatre Kid to Hollywood Lead

Elordi grew up in Brisbane and has described himself as a theatre kid before moving to Hollywood as a teenager to pursue acting. He first had a taste of the spotlight when he appeared as an extra in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, taking an uncredited role as a Saint Martin’s Marine.

His career shifted rapidly in the years that followed, beginning with a breakout performance in The Kissing Booth. He later took on a darker turn as a toxic high-school love interest in HBO’s Euphoria. He also stepped into the shoes of Elvis Presley in Sofia Coppola’s biographical drama Priscilla. More recently, his turn as Felix Catton in Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn earned him a BAFTA Rising Star nomination.

A Role That Reshaped His Creative Path

Elordi has said the role of the Creature was a vessel he could put every part of himself into, allowing him to bring more of his own experience to the screen than ever before. He reflected on how the character drew from his personal history, and he suggested the process helped him reconnect with the core reasons he pursued acting. He described the project as a creative reset that reignited his passion for movies.

He is also set to appear in Emerald Fennell’s adaptation of Wuthering Heights alongside fellow Australian actor Margot Robbie. This development has already attracted attention due to the high-profile pairing.

The resurfaced school photo shows a young Nudgee student, smiling in a blue-and-white blazer, who has since gone on to reach audiences around the world. As his career continues to expand, the message from St Joseph’s Nudgee College highlights the pride within the school community when one of its own succeeds on an international stage.

Published 17-Nov-2025

Fresh Plans Revealed for the Future of Toombul Shopping Centre

The long‑empty site of the former Toombul Shopping Centre is finally moving towards a new chapter. Brisbane‑based Irvine Property Group has acquired the landmark north‑side property from Mirvac, setting the stage for a retail‑led mixed‑use precinct that aims to restore the area as a community hub.

Read: Community Outcry Leads Mirvac to Prohibit Guard Dogs at Toombul Site

For decades, Toombul Shopping Centre served as a key destination for north‑side families, anchored by major retailers including Coles, Kmart, Aldi and BCC Cinemas. But repeated flooding, most notably in 2022, forced the closure of the centre, displacing around 130 retailers and disrupting access to essential services.

Toombul, July 2022 (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Mirvac had acquired the site in 2016, following earlier floods including those in January 2011, but after years of deliberation and site remediation the company decided it was no longer in a position to take the redevelopment forward on its own. In a media release dated 12 November 2025, Mirvac announced it had exchanged contracts for the sale of the site to Irvine Property Group, stating it would “enable renewed investment and the development of a new mixed‑use precinct, including a new shopping centre”.

The release noted the decision had been difficult and stressed that the scale of the site and the extensive remediation works required meant a partner with expertise in construction resource‑recovery and mixed‑use delivery was essential.

Irvine Property Group’s Managing Director, Michael Irvine, said the company was eager to deliver a project that reflected community needs. “Our priority is to deliver a new shopping centre as the first stage of a retail‑led mixed‑use development, in line with Mirvac’s draft masterplan which has Council’s in‑principle support,” he said.

He also underscored the importance of community consultation and welcomed feedback on the site’s future use. “We look forward to working through the next steps including lodging the first development application for a new retail centre and housing,” Mr Irvine added.

The redevelopment is planned in stages. Stage one will focus on a modern shopping centre and community plaza with integrated green and public spaces, flood‑resilient design, and upgraded transport links. Subsequent stages will include residential apartments and townhouses, mixed‑use retail and dining precincts, and public‑realm enhancements.

Local and federal representatives have welcomed the announcement, noting the centre’s importance to the north‑side community and promising residents another opportunity to contribute through the development‑application process. Settlement of the sale is expected in the coming months, after which Irvine Property Group will lead the detailed planning and construction phases.

Spanning approximately 100,000 square metres, the former Toombul site represents a significant opportunity for Brisbane’s north‑side. Irvine’s experience in projects across Newstead, Teneriffe and Bulimba suggests a focus on quality, sustainable design and community engagement.

Read: What’s Next for Toombul Shopping Centre? Mirvac Announces Redevelopment Plans

For residents, the project offers more than just shopping and housing: it’s a chance to revive a familiar community hub, combining retail, residential and public spaces in a modern, flood‑resilient precinct.

The Toombul Shopping Centre’s rebirth signals a hopeful future for Nundah and surrounding suburbs, transforming a once‑devastated site into a vibrant, multi‑purpose destination for north‑side families.

Published 14-November-2025

Brisbane Finishes Aerial Mosquito Spray in Pinkenba Ahead of Summer

The suburban area of Pinkenba was part of a wide-ranging aerial mosquito-control operation across Brisbane’s suburbs after a recent spring rainfall triggered early salt-marsh mosquito hatching.

The treatment involved helicopters covering around 500 hectares after entomologists identified a salt-marsh mosquito emergence. Ground crews continued their year-round efforts, having treated up to 2,400 known freshwater breeding sites during the year. In the previous season, the council undertook 12 aerial treatments covering more than 16,000 hectares, underlining the scale of the effort.

Focus on Pinkenba and surrounding suburbs

Pinkenba and nearby suburbs—including the Port of Brisbane, Tingalpa, Hemmant and the Bulimba–Tingalpa creek corridor—were targeted because of their proximity to tidal marshland where salt-marish mosquitoes breed rapidly after rain.

The mosquito-control program is backed by an uncapped budget and guided by two in-house entomologists—a structure unique among Australian local offices.

Council officials stressed that while the aerial spray has been completed, residents still have a key role in reducing mosquito numbers. They were asked to empty water-holding containers, screen doors, windows and rain-water tank openings, keep gutters free of debris, and when outdoors during dawn or dusk to wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and use insect repellent.

Mosquito peak season

Peak mosquito season typically runs from December through March, when heat, heavy rainfall and king tides combine. With the aerial program now complete, ongoing ground treatments will continue—and residents are urged to maintain vigilance through the coming months.

Published 5-Nov-2025

Upcycling Encouraged Ahead of Kerbside Collection in Nundah

Photo Credit: BCC

Residents in Nundah are preparing for the suburb’s annual kerbside collection, with reminders encouraging households to upcycle or donate usable items before placing them on the footpath.

Annual Cleanup Returns to Nundah

The next kerbside collection in Nundah is scheduled for the week commencing Monday, 10 November 2025. Residents are advised to place items on the kerb no earlier than Sunday, 9 November 2025, following the suburb-specific collection guideline.

The free annual service is available to all Brisbane suburbs and operates for one week in each area. It assists households in disposing of large or heavy items that cannot be placed in standard wheelie bins.

What Items Can Be Collected

Acceptable items include furniture, white goods, electronic waste, small household appliances, bicycles and sporting equipment, carpet and rugs, and wood products less than 1.5 cubic metres. Piles larger than 2 cubic metres—roughly a small box trailer load—will not be collected.

Residents are reminded to keep piles neat, remove doors from refrigerators and cupboards, and ensure all items can be safely lifted by two people. Unacceptable items include batteries, tyres, garden waste, hazardous materials, glass, gas bottles, and commercial or construction waste.

Any prohibited material not removed within seven days of the notified collection period may result in an illegal dumping fine.

Brisbane waste management — *Photo Credit: BCC*

Encouraging Upcycling and Reuse

Households are urged to upcycle or donate usable items to friends, family, or local charities to reduce waste and support community reuse. This practice helps extend the lifespan of valuable materials while reducing the amount sent to landfill.

For ongoing waste management, the yellow-lid bin is used for recycling materials such as glass, paper, cardboard, and firm plastics; the green-lid bin is for garden waste like grass and branches; and the red-lid bin is for general waste that cannot be reused or recycled.

Nundah kerbside collection — *Photo Credit: BCC*

Reporting Illegal Dumping

Leaving items outside the collection period or near charity bins is considered illegal dumping. Residents can report dumped waste to Council online or by calling 07 3403 8888.

Fines begin at two penalty units ($333) for small offences, with higher penalties and potential prosecution for larger volumes or repeat offenders. Illegal dumping can harm the environment, spread pests, and increase cleanup costs for ratepayers.

Promoting a Cleaner Community

By sorting waste correctly, avoiding illegal dumping, and donating reusable goods, Nundah residents help maintain a cleaner and more sustainable suburb. The annual kerbside collection continues to support responsible waste disposal and environmental awareness across Brisbane.

Published 30-Oct-2025

Operation Voltair Targets High-Risk Driving in Nudgee Ahead of Christmas

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Police have launched Operation Voltair in Nudgee and across Brisbane’s north to target drink and drug driving, speeding, fatigue, distraction, and failure to wear seatbelts in the lead-up to Christmas.

Operation Overview in Nudgee

Operation Voltair began on 17 October 2025 under the North Brisbane District, focusing on the “Fatal Five” — key risk factors responsible for serious and fatal road crashes. These include speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue, and distraction.

On the first night of the operation, officers conducted 855 roadside breath tests and 11 drug tests, resulting in 16 drivers being charged. Offences included six cases of drink driving, three of drug driving, and several incidents of unlicensed driving. Police also issued 28 traffic infringement notices.

Operation Voltair Nudgee — *Photo Credit: Queensland Police*

Targeted Enforcement Along Gateway Motorway

In Nudgee, a 26-year-old Griffin man was stopped along the Gateway Motorway just after 7:30 p.m. and allegedly returned a blood alcohol reading of 0.170 — more than three times the legal limit. His licence was suspended on the spot, and he is expected to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on 17 November.

Another driver, a 47-year-old Mount Nebo man, was intercepted for testing on Mount Nebo Road, Enoggera Reservoir, on 19 October. He allegedly returned a reading of 0.121 and was charged with driving over the middle alcohol limit. He is due to appear in court on 5 November.

Fatal Five Focus and Road Safety Data

According to the Queensland Police Service, serious crashes can be significantly reduced when drivers avoid the Fatal Five behaviours. Research by the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety – Queensland (CARRS-Q) shows that:

Speeding increases the likelihood of a casualty crash, even at just 5 km/h over the limit.
Drink driving contributes to around 30 per cent of fatal crashes nationally.
Drug driving carries similar crash risks to a blood alcohol level between 0.1 and 0.15 per cent.
Failure to wear a seatbelt makes drivers and passengers eight times more likely to die in a crash.
Fatigue and distraction remain leading causes of severe accidents.

Road Fatalities in 2025

By late October, the North Brisbane District had conducted more than 202,100 roadside breath tests this year. The district recorded ten road deaths in 2025, down from twenty in 2024.

Across Queensland, 243 lives have been lost so far this year, compared with 237 at the same time last year. The Brisbane Region reported 36 fatalities, a slight decrease from 38 in 2024.

Community Response

Community feedback on social media following the operation’s launch was mixed. Some residents supported the increased police presence and called for more patrols along busy corridors such as Gympie Road and the Bruce Highway. Others questioned the consistency of enforcement and urged greater visibility of police vehicles in suburban areas including Nundah and Nudgee.

Continued Safety Enforcement

Operation Voltair will continue through the remainder of 2025, with police maintaining proactive patrols and roadside testing across Brisbane’s north. The Queensland Police Service reiterated that preventing fatalities depends on shared responsibility among all motorists.

Published 25-Oct-2025