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Banyo Station Reopening After Major Accessibility Upgrade

Banyo station in Brisbane is set to reopen to passengers following an extended closure for accessibility-focused construction works.

Accessibility Works Completed at Banyo Station

Banyo station will reopen to the public on Monday, 26 May 2025, after being closed for more than a year due to a major upgrade aimed at improving accessibility for all users. The project forms part of Queensland Rail’s broader Station Accessibility Upgrade Program, which seeks to modernise public transport access across the network.

The program aims to ensure that stations across South East Queensland are inclusive and better equipped for passengers using wheelchairs, pushing prams, carrying luggage or recovering from injury. The upgrades at Banyo station have been designed to remove mobility barriers and support safer, more efficient movement across the platform and station precinct.

Banyo station reopens — *Photo Credit: Queensland Rail*

Background to the Closure

The station has been closed since 22 January 2024 to allow for full-scale construction works. During this period, train services on the Shorncliffe line have not stopped at Banyo. Alternative transport arrangements have remained in place throughout the construction period to assist commuters.

Nearby stations, including Bindha and Nudgee, have remained operational during the works, with temporary pathways and signage provided to support access.

Key Upgrades and Features

The completed upgrade includes a new overpass with lift access, fully raised platforms, improved lighting, enhanced security cameras, and disability-compliant facilities. Other features include accessible toilets, upgraded ticket windows, tactile ground surface indicators, and hearing augmentation loops. Platform signage has been updated, and extended shelters have been installed to improve the passenger experience.

Banyo station upgrade — *Photo Credit: Queensland Rail*

Additional upgrades include an improved station office, new seating, and a new bicycle storage facility, which will be available in the weeks following the reopening. The station carpark remains temporarily closed but is expected to reopen shortly.

Temporary Transport Options and Nearby Stations

To support passengers until the reopening, shuttle bus route 316 continues to operate between Northgate and Banyo stations, with services running according to the Shorncliffe line timetable. This route includes stops at the Australian Catholic University and Earnshaw College. The service will continue until the last trip on Sunday, 1 June 2025. Bus route 306 from Tufnell Road also remains available for local commuters.

Future Network Works

While Banyo station is due to reopen, additional short-term disruptions are scheduled. As part of testing for the European Train Control System (ETCS) linked to the Cross River Rail project, services along the Shorncliffe line—including Banyo—will be suspended from 2 to 5 June 2025.

Published 14-May-2025

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

Mary MacKillop College in Nundah has launched its brand-new McCormack facility, a three-storey building equipped with modern learning spaces, including a cutting-edge STEM lab, to accommodate its growing student population.

McCormack Building Enhances Learning

The new building aims to foster greater collaboration and active participation in lessons.

The newly opened McCormack building features an undercroft area, various classrooms, and a library named The Tenison Woods Library. This library includes a classroom, two seminar rooms, and a meeting room, offering views of Brisbane Port and the Nundah area.

A significant addition is the upper-level STEM makerspace, which boasts a design studio complete with 3D printers. According to a college representative, the students are excited about these new resources and the more comfortable, modern environment they provide for their studies.

Existing Spaces Reimagined

In addition to the new construction, Mary MacKillop College has refurbished existing areas. The former Tenison Woods Library has been transformed into two new Maryvale classrooms. These classrooms now feature brand new furniture and an open-plan design to encourage student engagement further. This area also includes two new meeting rooms for staff and students.

Supporting Innovative Learning

These updated facilities are designed to support Mary MacKillop College’s Innovation Project for students in Years 7 to 9. A representative stated that these spaces allow educators to engage students in active learning, encouraging movement, collaboration, and critical thinking. The college has already observed increased engagement and improved student outcomes due to these new learning environments.

Addressing Growth and Future Skills

With student enrolment numbers now at 620 and rising, the new facilities are crucial in meeting the increasing demands of the local community. The STEM makerspace is particularly important for preparing students for future careers in rapidly evolving fields such as engineering, technology, robotics, and design.

The college believes these spaces will allow students to develop their skills, confidence, and creativity in these growing industries, reinforcing its dedication to providing an optimal learning environment.

Future Development

Further developments at the college include the construction of a new car park, which is expected to be completed around September 2025.

Published Date 13-May-2025

Quantum Cooling Facility to Power Computer Project Near Brisbane Airport

Photo Credit: PsiQuantum

A large-scale cryogenic facility comparable to a supermarket is set to be installed near Brisbane Airport to support PsiQuantum’s development of a full-scale quantum computer.

Background and Context

A global initiative to build a utility-scale quantum computer has taken a major step forward with the planned installation of a large cryogenic cooling plant near Brisbane Airport. The project is being led by Silicon Valley-based firm PsiQuantum and is supported by a $470 million commitment from the State. A matching contribution from the federal government brings the total investment to nearly $1 billion.

The project was outlined in the Managing Queensland’s Debt and Investments 2024 report, which detailed various financial priorities, including the state’s rising capital program and infrastructure outlays.

Quantum System Requirements

At the centre of the Brisbane development is a cryogenic plant built by German company Linde Engineering. The system will operate at 4 Kelvin, or -269°C, using helium gas cooled to a liquid state. The facility will span nearly 3437 square metres, making it the largest cryoplant built specifically for quantum computing.

PsiQuantum’s approach differs from traditional quantum computing designs by using photons instead of matter-based qubits, allowing operation at slightly higher temperatures than systems that require near absolute zero conditions.

This design has enabled faster development towards a 1-million-qubit computer — the level at which quantum systems are expected to begin solving complex, real-world problems in fields such as medical research, clean energy, and industrial chemistry.

Local and International Links

The site near Brisbane Airport was chosen partly due to existing research networks in Queensland. PsiQuantum is collaborating with five Queensland universities—including UQ, Griffith, QUT, and USC—leveraging local academic links, with two of its founders having studied in the state.

PsiQuantum is also establishing a test laboratory at Griffith University while the primary facility is under construction, with an aim to develop a skilled local workforce.

cryoplant near Brisbane Airport — *Photo Credit: PsiQuantum*

Next Steps

The cryogenic plant is being built in Europe and will later be transported to Brisbane for assembly. Once completed, it will be assembled by local engineers. The facility is expected to form the foundation of the world’s first commercial-scale quantum computing system.

The state’s investment is part of a broader capital works program contributing to increased debt levels, with total borrowings reaching $139.2 billion as of 30 June 2024. Despite this, Queensland’s investment signals a focus on long-term innovation and technology development through projects such as the Brisbane quantum computer.

Published 10-May-2025

Railway Parade Connection Project Begins in Nudgee

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Preparations have begun for the construction of a new road connection between Railway Pde and Saint Achs St, aimed at improving local access and transport links.

Background to the Project

The works will connect Railway Parade with Saint Achs Street, contributing to improved connectivity within the local road network. Initial notices were delivered to residents earlier this year, with formal works beginning from 19 May 2025, subject to weather and ground conditions.

Railway Parade connection project — *Photo Credit: BCC*

What the Works Involve

A new segment of road will be built to establish a direct link between Railway Parade and Saint Achs Street. A pedestrian crossing will be installed on Saint Achs Street, along with new kerb ramps. BCC will also realign the kerb and extend the footpath network between Sheldon Street and Saint Achs Street. Additional features include lighting, signage, line marking, and landscaping within the project area.

To enhance visibility for drivers, yellow no stopping lines will be added on both Railway Parade and Saint Achs Street.

Nudgee road project — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Impacts on the Local Community

Residents and commuters in Nudgee can expect increased noise, vibration, dust, and construction vehicle activity while works are in progress. Traffic conditions will be adjusted to include reduced speed limits, and traffic management signage will be in place to guide pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.

The no stopping zones are being extended on key streets to maintain safe visibility and access throughout the work zone. While most activity will occur between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. from Monday to Saturday, night works may also be required with prior notice.

Nudgee road development — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Community Communication

Local residents have received updates via flyers and council notices. A formal Works Notice was distributed in early May, detailing timelines, scope, and contact details for further information. BCC has encouraged residents to follow project updates through their website or via direct contact.

Project Timeline and Next Steps

Construction is scheduled to conclude by late 2025, pending weather and site conditions. BCC has committed to minimising disruptions and completing the works as efficiently as possible to deliver benefits to motorists, pedestrians and cyclists travelling through the Nudgee area.

Published 9-May-2025

Nundah Hosts Free AI Social Media Training for Small Business

Photo Credit: AI Success Lab/Facebook

Small businesses in Nundah are being given the chance to learn how artificial intelligence can grow their online presence, without spending a cent. A free, full-day masterclass in AI-powered social media strategy is coming to the suburb on 26 June, as part of a Brisbane City Council initiative to help local businesses improve their digital skills.

Helping Locals Adapt to Changing Technology

The Nundah session will run on Thursday, 26 June, led by Brisbane consultancy Social Mediology. Each workshop is capped at 15 people to keep it hands-on and is open to small business owners of all experience levels, including beginners.

*Photo Credit: Councillor Steve Griffiths/Facebook*

The program teaches businesses to use AI to connect with their audience, covering market research, customer personas, and a 90-day social media plan. Participants will also learn to create content in their brand voice and take home reusable templates and tools.

A Focus on Community-Based Business Support

Brisbane City Council is backing the workshops to support small and home-based businesses in the digital space. Eligible applicants must be in the Brisbane LGA, have a current ABN or ACN, bring a laptop and attend the full day.

The program aims to boost the local economy by equipping business owners with practical tools they can use immediately. It’s open to all, with no AI experience needed, and suits sole traders, retailers, creatives, and service providers.

How to Apply

Applications for the Nundah workshop, and sessions in Eight Mile Plains, Keperra and Carina, close Sunday, 11 May. Applicants will be notified by Friday, 16 May via the Council’s business events page.

Join Free Masterclass

Social Mediology is led by Kate vanderVoort, a digital strategist with over 30 years of experience. The company has helped more than 3,000 organisations across Australia use AI in practical, ethical ways.

What Participants Can Expect

The sessions feature hands-on demos, group activities, and real-time content creation with AI tools. Participants leave with a ready-to-use strategy and custom materials.

The workshops aim to make AI more accessible for everyday use, helping small businesses boost visibility, save time on content, and build confidence with digital tools.

Published 7-May-2025

Rino Recycling in Pinkenba: Powering Brisbane’s Green Economic Growth

As Brisbane’s economy surges toward a projected 34 percent growth by 2031, the city is rapidly emerging as a centre for innovation, investment, and sustainable development. While the Queensland capital is known for its lifestyle appeal and natural assets, it’s the city’s bold push into advanced industries and green technologies that is now capturing national attention.

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

Among the growing wave of forward-thinking enterprises contributing to this momentum is Rino Recycling—a standout example of how Brisbane is nurturing next-generation businesses.

Photo credit: Rino (Headquarters)/Google Maps

Established in 2021, Rino Recycling is reimagining what’s possible in the waste and construction sectors. Far from a traditional recycling centre, the company operates more like a high-tech manufacturing facility, using cutting-edge automation to turn construction and demolition waste into high-quality, reusable materials such as road base, sand, and soil products.

With ambitions that extend beyond the city’s borders, Rino Recycling is diverting an impressive 95–96 percent of incoming waste from landfill, with plans to push that figure even closer to total recovery. Its facility is believed to be the first in the world to fully integrate wet and dry waste processing under one roof, making it a trailblazer in an industry often slow to evolve.

Brisbane’s unique blend of economic momentum, infrastructure investment, and policy support for sustainability provides the ideal backdrop for such innovation. The city’s commitment to achieving net-zero waste, alongside its preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, creates fertile ground for forward-thinking enterprises. For Rino, the alignment between its mission and Brisbane’s strategic direction has created the perfect platform for growth.

Rino’s impact extends beyond waste recovery. By embracing a circular economy model, the company is setting a precedent for other industries—demonstrating that profitability and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Its success is emblematic of Brisbane’s wider shift toward high-value, future-focused industries, including advanced manufacturing, logistics, and clean technologies.

Read: New Look, New Era: Brisbane Airport Celebrates Centenary with Brand Refresh

As highlighted in the 2024 State of the City report by the Brisbane Economic Development Agency and Deloitte Access Economics, it is precisely this kind of innovation-driven activity that is fuelling the city’s economic transformation. With more than 140 innovation hubs and the nation’s fastest-growing working-age population, Brisbane is not just growing—it’s evolving.

In a city increasingly defined by its ambition and agility, Rino Recycling is one of many companies helping reshape the future of urban development—where innovation meets impact and sustainability drives success.

Published 6-May-2025

Shape Kedron Brook for the Next 20 Years: Input Sought from Banyo Community

Photo Credit: CrStevenToomey/ Facebook

Residents across the city, including those in Banyo and nearby areas, are being asked for ideas on a 20-year plan to improve Kedron Brook by boosting flood protection and enhancing community spaces and lifestyle.

Planning for the Brook’s Future

Council has started early community talks for the Kedron Brook Vision and Master Plan. This long-term project aims to revitalise the well-loved waterway and its surrounding areas over the next two decades.

Key goals include making the area more resilient to floods and improving the liveability and lifestyle of residents using the brook. Council sources are keen to understand what the community wants to see happen over the next 20 years to help create a transformative plan for the Kedron Brook catchment area.

How Residents Can Share Their Views

People can share their thoughts and ideas to help shape the plan. Feedback can be given online through the Council website by completing a survey or by using an interactive map to place pins with comments about specific locations along the brook.

Residents can also speak directly with the project team by attending planned information kiosks in local parks. Feedback is being collected until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, June 29, 2025.

Upcoming Community Session

The first information kiosk is scheduled soon for those wanting to learn more in person. Council staff will be available to chat and answer questions at Dash Street Park in Keperra on Thursday, 1 May, between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. More details about this session and any future events can be found by searching ‘Kedron Brook Vision and Master Plan’ on the Council website or by phoning the Council directly.

Areas Included in the Vision

The plan covers the entire Kedron Brook area, from its beginnings to where it meets Moreton Bay. The upper catchment includes suburbs like Upper Kedron, Keperra, Ferny Grove, Mitchelton, Arana Hills, Ferny Hills, Everton Park, and Everton Hills.

The middle section, which is largely developed with homes, businesses, and industry, includes Alderley, Enoggera, Gordon Park, Grange, Kalinga, Kedron, Lutwyche, Stafford, Wavell Heights, and Wooloowin. This part also features regional parks and popular bikeways between Webster Road and Sandgate Road.

Further downstream, the lower catchment area includes communities such as Banyo, Clayfield, Hendra, Northgate, and Nundah. This section features heritage areas, established industries, the Brisbane Airport, and ends in an engineered channel next to the Boondall Wetlands flowing into Moreton Bay.

Next Steps for the Plan

Council has indicated that all community contributions will be considered alongside technical studies and Council requirements. This combined information will help prepare a draft version of the Kedron Brook Vision and Master Plan for the future.

Published Date 05-May-2025

Brisbane Airport Contamination Case Delayed as Court Grants More Time

Photo Credit: Brisbane Airport/Facebook

The ongoing legal dispute over toxic chemical pollution at Brisbane Airport has been delayed after Airservices Australia was allowed to file new expert evidence.

Background to the Contamination Dispute

Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) is pursuing legal action against Airservices Australia (ASA) over contamination linked to firefighting foam used at Brisbane Airport between 1988 and 2010. The firefighting foams contained per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often labelled as “forever chemicals” because they remain in the environment for extended periods.

The case was initiated in 2017 and is considered one of Queensland’s most complex environmental legal proceedings. BAC is seeking to recover clean-up costs from ASA.

Brisbane Airport contamination case — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Airport/Facebook*

Court Allows New Expert Evidence

On 24 April 2025, the Supreme Court of Queensland ruled that ASA could submit two additional expert reports, one from an environmental chemist and the other from a hydrologist, by 31 August 2025. These reports are expected to support ASA’s defence ahead of the scheduled 12-week trial in August 2026.

BAC maintained the reports should be submitted by 2 June 2025 to minimise additional delays. However, the court opted for a later deadline to ensure the completeness and reliability of the evidence.

Delays and Criticism of ASA

The court noted ASA’s repeated failures to meet deadlines, including missed document submissions in late 2024. The delays have placed pressure on BAC’s lead expert witness, who is 71 and expected to retire by the end of 2025.

Justice Paul Freeburn criticised ASA’s conduct but concluded that a fair trial required allowing the new evidence. He acknowledged the potential for further procedural delays due to dependencies between expert reports.

*Photo Credit: Brisbane Airport/Facebook*

Next Steps in the Legal Process

The court will next consider formal orders and which party should bear the legal costs associated with ASA’s late application. The trial remains listed in the Supreme Court’s Commercial List and is scheduled to commence in August 2026.

Published 1-May-2025

The Former Iron Woman that Paddled Around Australia in 254 Days

Bonnie Hancock is an extraordinary lady.

She covered over 12,700 kilometres on a surf ski around Australia.

Over 254 days at sea.

In the modern world where resilience in children is under question, Bonnie is a wonderful example of the highest standards of mental strength and resilience.

She started nippers at Sawtel from the age of five, and dreamt from the age of 12 to become Karla Gilbert (she won the Kelloggs Ironwoman Series seven years in a row from 1995 to 2003) and at the age of 17, she became a professional Iron Woman competitor, as did her sister, Courtenay. She waitressed through uni and trained every day, 6.5 km in the pool every morning under the eye of legendary coach, Denis Cotterell. After uni each day she would do 10-20 km on the surf ski, and some running on the soft sand to complete her day that tended to be complete by 7:00 p.m., with competitions at the weekends. That gruelling schedule shaped her life daily until the age of 25.

She then evolved from Iron Woman competitions into a ski paddler on an 18 kg craft, typically racing over five-minute races, whilst embarking on a career as a dietician.

Her ultra endurance journey began at Broadbeach Library, reading a book about a lady who had written a biography about it. She had 25 rejections for sponsorship before she signed her first sponsor.

Her incredible journey paddling around Australia for over 254 days began when she paddled 73 km on her first day. Then, after about a week in, the daily target was scheduled to be 90 km on that day; but half way through a few hours, she was told it had to be increased to 120 km that day as it was decided she had to go around an island. After a month of constant paddling she had bulging discs and various other illnesses, but nothing would stop her, including the crocodiles encountered.

The mental hurdles she smashed through were endless. “Being prepared to adapt your plan” was front and centre in her amazing journey. Everytime a headwind came, she became stronger, and she would realise that when the headwinds dropped.

Lemons into Lemonade!

In the interview, Bonnie talks about a lot of the challenges along the way, including some good and bad decisions she made, how she developed her work ethic, and the joy of working to a plan.

This included a discussion around parenting and sport, managing finances, how she got into ultra endurance and many other fascinating anecdotes.

It’s an amazing story.

You can watch the interview with Barry Wilkinson of Milton based SW Brokerage here:

Barry’s podcast series is full of some great information about life and finances.
It covers many things including little-known tips and tricks around finance.

You can see the 25 previous episodes here.

Airlie Davis: Nudgee Swimmer Overcomes Hurdles for International Competition

Photo Credit: Mount Alvernia College/ Instagram

Brisbane para-swimmer Airlie Davis, representing Nudgee College Swimming, is achieving national success and targeting Paralympic Games selection after hurdling major spinal surgery and while managing an autism spectrum diagnosis.

Health Journey and Resilience

Airlie Davis faced health difficulties from early life, being born prematurely at 35 weeks. Around the age of four, she was diagnosed with traits on the autism spectrum, which can involve sensitivities to noise and smells, a direct communication style, and related anxiety. She also manages hyperflexibility and reduced muscle tone, leading to joint dislocations, including both knees.

At age 10 or 11, she underwent major spinal surgery for idiopathic scoliosis, requiring bone fusion supported by two titanium rods and eighteen screws. Despite these hurdles, she began swimming around twelve months old. She showed remarkable resilience by competing in the Pacific School Games in Adelaide shortly after her back operation, winning gold and breaking a record as part of the Queensland 10-12 years Mixed Multiclass Medley Relay team, an event she recalls as highly memorable.

Swimming Career and Achievements

Competing in the S14 classification for intellectual impairment, Davis consistently represents Nudgee College Swimming in Brisbane. She is currently coached by Michael Gould, having previously trained under Matthew Wilson at Nudgee; she was also listed under coach Tom Noblett for a specific Brisbane representative team selection in 2022.

She made her international debut for Australia at the 2022 Virtus Oceania Asia Games held in Brisbane, followed by competing at the 2023 Virtus Global Games in Vichy, France, her first world international competition.

Nationally, she has achieved significant success, winning gold in the Girls 16-18 years 100 metre Backstroke S14 at the 2025 Australian Age and MC Age Championships with a time of 1:14.50. This followed a gold medal in the 100 metre Backstroke S14 (1:16.38) and a silver medal in the 50 metre Backstroke S14 (35.37) at the 2024 championships. She also secured a bronze medal in the Women’s 50 metre Backstroke Multi-Class at the 2024 Australian Open Championships (35.96).

Her talent was recognised early, leading to her selection for Swimming Australia’s Futures Camp in October 2023, which aimed to identify swimmers with potential for the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games. Davis has also performed well at the state level, earning medals at the Queensland Championships, including bronze in the 50-metre Freestyle Multi-Class in December 2024 (30.70) and bronze in the 13-14 years MC 100-metre Butterfly in 2020.

Future Goals and Community Context

Davis has clearly stated her ambition to represent the Australian Dolphins swim team at future Paralympic Games, with the 2028 Los Angeles and particularly the 2032 Brisbane Games being key targets. She has also previously mentioned the 2024 Games as a goal.

Airlie Davis draws inspiration from fellow Australian Paralympic swimmers Brenden Hall and Lakeisha “Lucky” Patterson, viewing them as proof that disability does not prevent reaching ambitious goals. Alongside her demanding training schedule, she pursued her education at Mount Alvernia College in Brisbane; as of March 2023, she was undertaking studies for the Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement and a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways.

Her journey and the challenges faced by developing para-athletes regarding funding and support were highlighted during work experience she completed with organisation OBE Organic in 2023.

Published Date 28-April-2025