Mark Warren is a 42-year-old Nundah man, who is living with dwarfism and uses a motorised wheelchair. He is also acutely aware of the additional accessibility challenges he faces as a person living with disability.
But Mark didn’t let the fact that he has a disability stop him from attending his first Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Festival, where he enjoyed “the fanfare, the colour, people coming together!”
Instead of a 1.5-hour flight, he opted to drive his customised van that accommodates his motorised wheelchair all the way from northern Brisbane to Sydney. This significantly increased his travel time to at least 12 hours each way.
But with his wheelchair having previously been dropped and roughly handled by baggage handlers, Mark says he “couldn’t risk it”.
Mark Warren, who is the Marketing Lead at First2Care, says: “All of your costs simply shoot up when you look to travel as a person with disability. It’s the lost travel time, the petrol costs, the countless calls to airlines and hotels to confirm that they are accessible to me. Not to mention the mental anguish and uncertainty that it may in fact not be accessible once you get there.”
He stresses that it was also “challenging” when looking to book a hotel that would ensure both he and his carer would be comfortable, that the room could accommodate his motorised wheelchair, and he would have both access and independence in the ensuite bathroom.
Again, cost is a factor, as he is still looking at $360 on average a night – with a member’s discount – as he says that usually rooms that can accommodate wheelchair users range upwards of that.
Mark says: “It’s simple: hotel and airline staff don’t always know what disability and accessibility means, as it means something different for everyone. Not everyone is trained up and has the awareness to understand what accessibility really means.”
“Sometimes I feel like I’ve been living in a bubble. But I have hopes and dreams to continue travelling, across Australia and to go to Europe and Dubai,” he says.
The installation of a community battery in Nundah has been blocked, citing concerns about the loss of green space. The decision, part of a broader dispute over renewable energy infrastructure, has sparked a mixed response from local residents and environmental advocates.
BCC recently rejected a proposal to install a community battery at the site of the old Scouts Hall in Nundah. The decision is part of a broader pushback against the State’s renewable energy initiative aimed at promoting local solar energy storage.
The battery, known as the PowerShaper XL, is approximately the size of a household fridge and is intended to store solar energy for later use. It was one of three proposed installations in Brisbane, along with sites in Newmarket and The Gap. The installations were to be funded through the State’s $200 million community batteries for household solar program, which aims to support sustainable energy use across the country.
Many residents and environmental groups disagreed with BCC’s decision. Some community members, particularly those in Nundah, feel that the loss of a small area of green space is a reasonable trade-off for improved energy storage and sustainability.
Residents like those living near Boyd Park in Nundah argue that the site, previously occupied by the Scouts Hall, has not been significantly transformed into a community space since the building’s removal. While some greenery has been established, they believe the area lacks active use and could accommodate the battery without significant disruption.
Others, however, have supported the BCC’s stance, valuing green space preservation over infrastructure changes. This sentiment reflects a broader debate within the community about balancing urban development with environmental conservation.
Challenges and Alternatives
One of the primary challenges identified by the local officials is the location of the batteries within green spaces. The BCC’s environment chair, Tracy Davis, stated that large infrastructure like community batteries should not be “plonked” into public parks.
However, critics argue that similar infrastructure, such as NBN or traffic signal boxes, already exists in urban environments without causing significant disruption. Community members have also suggested exploring alternative sites, including underutilised or abandoned substation areas, which could serve the same purpose without impacting green spaces.
The State has urged the BCC to reconsider its stance or propose alternative sites in the same suburbs. Other Queensland councils have found compromise solutions, offering different locations when rejecting initial proposals.
Caption: The community batteries are installed in Bondi Beach, Sydney. (For Illustration Purposes Only) Photo Credit: Pixii Energy Storage/Facebook
Public Reactions and Community Debate
Online discussions have revealed a mix of frustration and support. Some residents question why the BCC prioritises green space in this instance while backing other large projects, such as developing parts of Victoria Park into an Olympic stadium.
Others feel that the decision reflects inconsistency, pointing out the long-term benefits of community batteries in reducing household energy costs and reliance on non-renewable sources.
Others argued that energy companies should utilise existing infrastructure rather than occupy public spaces. Some comments expressed scepticism about whether the authorities genuinely prioritise environmental concerns or if other motives are at play.
Next Steps
The BCC’s decision to block the community battery in Nundah remains contentious, with both environmental advocates and residents calling for a reassessment. The State continues to push for alternative solutions, stressing the importance of renewable energy infrastructure in urban areas.
Community members are now waiting to see whether the authorities will offer alternative sites or maintain its position, as debate continues over balancing green space preservation with the need for sustainable energy solutions.
Jonny Munro, a Nudgee College graduate, is facing a life-changing battle. He was diagnosed with advanced Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. The local community unites to support him and his family as they navigate this challenging journey.
Jonny Munro, 18, described as a fit and healthy young man, began experiencing pain in his leg a few weeks ago. After undergoing tests, specialists diagnosed him with advanced Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer that primarily affects young people.
Jonny, who graduated from Nudgee College in 2023, is a second-year apprentice. His diagnosis came as a shock to his family, friends, and the wider community. Jonny will undergo intensive chemotherapy and radiation for up to a year, with the possibility of reconstructive surgery.
The Nudgee community is uniting to support Jonny after his diagnosis, as it has profoundly impacted him and his family.
A Strong Support Network
Jonny is surrounded by his close-knit family, including his parents, Lucille and Steve, his two older brothers, and his supportive girlfriend. Despite the emotional and financial toll of the diagnosis, Jonny remains determined to fight the illness, especially now that his first chemotherapy session has commenced.
Jonny cannot work during his treatment. To help cover the medical expenses, a fundraising campaign has been set up. The GoFundMe campaign, organised by Tricia Steffen, has already raised $74,905 AUD. 801 donations have been made, exceeding the initial $60,000 target.
Jonny’s journey through cancer treatment is going to be long and difficult. The Munro family remains resilient. The family is thankful to everyone who has donated and sent messages of encouragement. Tricia Steffen shared that the family’s spirit remains strong despite the challenges. The community’s support means the world to them as Jonny fights for a healthy future.
In a world that’s louder, faster, and more “woke” than ever, mental health has quietly become one of society’s biggest battles. We’re more connected digitally, yet more disconnected emotionally. Anxiety, burnout, and isolation are no longer rare—they’re common. But in the heart of Nundah, one local practice, KC Psych, is flipping the script, offering something increasingly rare: real understanding. Whether it’s someone who hasn’t made eye contact in months due to social anxiety, or another caught in an exhausting cycle of emotional highs and lows, the people walking through KC Psych’s doors are often carrying more than they’ve shared with anyone.
The influence of KC Psych, a psychology and therapy institution peacefully serving the Brisbane Northside for more than 15 years, cannot be denied despite its lack of ostentation. Clients like those discussed below have fundamentally improved their lives, working with experienced psychologists and proven treatments like CBT and DBT. What they offer isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s care that meets people where they are, even when that place feels stuck, reactive, or afraid. It has become a dependable first step towards improved mental health for many members of the Nundah community.
Case Studies: One Step, Then Another
After years of avoiding interactions, declining invitations, and questioning every connection, one client who was struggling with social anxiety came in. They started to carefully question the ideas that were holding them back with the assistance of a psychologist who used Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Little experiments like ordering coffee or making eye contact grew into significant turning points. Over time, they didn’t just learn to cope. They re-entered the parts of life they’d been avoiding.
After experiencing years of emotional ups and downs, impulsivity, and tumultuous relationships, another client joined KC Psych’s Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) programme. Individual therapy and structured group skills training are combined in DBT. The client gained emotional control, decreased self-destructive habits, and learnt how to handle stress without becoming defensive or irascible thanks to this combination. More significantly, their relationship with themselves improved along with their relationships.
A Place People Turn To — Often Quietly
The reasons people find themselves at KC Psych are as varied as the people themselves. Some are navigating anxiety that’s grown louder over time. Others are feeling overburdened by the demands of job and family life, or they are coping with emotional fluctuations that cause stress in their relationships. Some people question whether their lifelong inability to focus could be ADHD, and some parents are unsure about how to help their child through behavioural changes.
Photo Credit: KCPsych/Facebook
No two paths look exactly alike, and that’s something the clinic takes seriously. Each new client begins with a one-on-one session designed not just to assess, but to understand — who you are, what brought you in, and what kind of support would actually make a difference.
Keeping Pace With a Changing World
What sets KC Psych apart isn’t just the empathy they bring to each session.
To meet people where they are, they use a range of tactics. Counsellors, psychologists, and mental health social workers who have been trained in a range of evidence-based therapies make up the team. This includes more modern methods like EMDR, which is used to process trauma, and Schema Therapy, which focuses on deep-rooted patterns that may affect a person’s identity and relationships.
“KC Psych stands out through its holistic approach, diverse therapeutic options (including Schema Therapy, EMDR, Compassion-Focused Therapy), collaborative treatment planning, and a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, counsellors, and social workers dedicated to comprehensive support.”
In recent years, the clinic has expanded support for clients dealing with ADHD. It’s a shift that mirrors a broader wave of self-awareness and late diagnoses among adults. Their approach focuses on practical strategies: executive function, productivity, emotion regulation, and building systems that actually work for how a person’s brain functions.
During times of conflict or alienation, programmes such as Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) offer parents nonjudgmental, emotionally-informed assistance that often helps to bring the family back together. The clinic also provides services to individuals with criminal justice system connections, victims of domestic abuse, and groups that are often stigmatised and disenfranchised in traditional mental health settings.
Photo Credit: KCPsych/Facebook
Another area of quiet impact is KC Psych’s work with separated parents navigating the Family Court system. Their clinicians provide professional, court-recognised assessments and reports — including those requested by Independent Children’s Lawyers — often funded through Legal Aid. This kind of support can offer clarity and compassion for families in high-stress legal situations during difficult times.
For many in frontline roles—including Queensland Police and Fire Services—the clinic provides free psychological care, acknowledging the toll that high-stress environments can take over time.
A Starting Point, Close to Home
KC Psych doesn’t promise instant transformation. What it offers is something steadier: a consistent, supportive space to do the work — whatever that looks like for each person. Whether it’s building emotional resilience, untangling a long-standing issue, or simply finding a safe place to talk things through, therapy here is about progress, not perfection.
Photo Credit: KCPsych/Facebook
Specialised Support at KC Psych
Anxiety Management: Practical coping strategies using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, relaxation, guided exposure, and resilience-building techniques.
Parenting and Family Support: Programs like Circle of Security Parenting (COSP) to foster secure, supportive relationships and emotional well-being within families.
Family and Domestic Violence: Confidential, professional therapy to support recovery and stability for those experiencing or recovering from FDV, complementing available community and government support.
Criminal Justice System Involvement: Therapeutic support for reducing re-offending, addressing mental health issues, and assisting rehabilitation and community reintegration.
Family Court Reports: Comprehensive reports for separated parents involved in Family Court processes, including expert assessments for cases with Independent Children’s Lawyers, often funded by Legal Aid.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Assessments and tailored group and individual therapy aimed at improving day-to-day functioning, organisational skills, productivity, and emotional regulation.
For residents of Nundah and the adjacent suburbs, the site offers an additional level of accessibility. Usually, appointments can be set up in a week or two, and there are midweek evening times available. To help keep costs under control, the clinic also collaborates with a number of referral alternatives, such as NDIS, WorkCover, and Mental Health Care Plans.
Taking that first step, especially if it’s your first experience with therapy, can feel uncomfortable. But as many of KC Psych’s clients would say, showing up is where things start to shift. Sometimes, the hardest part is just getting through the door. After that, you’re not doing it alone.
KC Psych is proud to be a Promotional Partner of Nundah News
Family-owned Kangaroo Bus Lines (KBL), operating in Queensland for 47 years under the Webster family, will open a second satellite depot in April 2025. The new location in Banyo supports the company’s strategic growth in the tour and charter sector, following continued expansion in recent years. KBL was named the 2024 BIC National Operator of the Year.
Depot Features and Purpose
The new Banyo depot will accommodate up to 40 vehicles at full capacity. The facility includes onsite refuelling, washing, and basic servicing, as well as an office and full driver amenities. According to KBL CEO Darren Webster, the depot will enhance operational efficiency by eliminating the need for coaches to travel from the company’s Burpengary head office through congested roads.
Improving Efficiency and Reach in Banyo
The decision to establish the depot in Banyo is intended to better service clients based in Brisbane, including work regularly carried out at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal. A dedicated team will manage the Banyo site, which complements KBL’s existing operations in Burpengary and the Sunshine Coast.
Strategic Advantage over Alternatives
Mr Webster noted that finding a suitable location in the northern part of Brisbane was essential for strengthening the company’s charter business. By reducing reliance on travel to and from Burpengary, the Banyo depot is expected to deliver measurable efficiencies for both clients and operations.
KBL’s announcement has drawn wide praise across social media, with Facebook users congratulating the team and celebrating the company’s growth.
Comments included, “Congratulations on this huge milestone!” and “Well done KBL, that’s a game changer.” Others described the expansion as a “fabulous achievement” and a “fantastic strategic move.” One commenter added, “I’d apply to drive, but I can’t get a DA. So, I’ll just say well done on the expansion.”
With operations stretching from Brisbane City to the Sunshine Coast, Kangaroo Bus Lines aims to use the Banyo depot to expand its logistical capabilities. The site is part of KBL’s long-term strategy to enhance its transport services across southeast Queensland.
From 19 March 2025, all eligible passengers on Qantas international flights arriving at Brisbane Airport will be able to complete the Australia Travel Declaration (ATD) digitally.
Photo credit: Australian Border Force
The initiative, led by the Australian Border Force (ABF) in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) and Qantas, aims to streamline the arrival process. The ATD pilot program first launched in October 2024 for passengers flying from New Zealand.
After a successful five-month trial, the system was expanded last week to include Qantas flights from Los Angeles and is now being rolled out to all Qantas international arrivals at Brisbane Airport.
Passengers can complete the digital declaration up to 72 hours before departure via the Qantas app, receiving a QR code instead of a paper card. This code is presented to border officials upon arrival, eliminating the need for manual paperwork. Since the trial began, nearly 12,000 passengers have used the ATD, with many praising its convenience and efficiency.
Sample of ATD QR code (Photo credit: Australian Border Force)
ABF Commissioner Gavan Reynolds stated that moving away from paper Incoming Passenger Cards is a key step toward creating a fully digital and streamlined border system.
“The expansion of the Australian Travel Declaration pilot program marks a significant advancement in our mission to modernise border processes and enhance the traveller experience,” Commissioner Reynolds said.
“The positive feedback so far has demonstrated a clear demand for a more efficient and user-friendly approach. As we prepare for global events like the 2032 Olympics, the ABF is committed to using technology to create a seamless travel experience while maintaining our high standards of security and compliance.”
The transition is expected to phase out paper forms entirely over time, preventing the use of millions of paper copies each year. Officials also note that the digital system speeds up the airport process, reducing delays at border control. The Brisbane pilot is providing valuable insights for potential expansion to other airports and airlines, marking a step towards a fully digital border system in Australia.
The incident happened just before 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, 20 March, on Imbros Street. Emergency services were called to the scene after reports that a man had become stuck under a vehicle while attending to what appeared to be a mechanical issue.
Authorities believe the car was stationary at first but unexpectedly rolled backward, pinning the man beneath it. Three fire crews responded quickly and worked to free the man before he was taken to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in a critical condition.
Photo Credit: Imbros St
Queensland Police said early investigations suggest the man had been trying to fix the car when the tragic accident occurred.
The exact circumstances are still under review, and anyone with dashcam or CCTV footage from the area has been asked to contact police.
Local authorities are reminding residents to take extra caution around vehicles, particularly when inspecting mechanical faults or navigating areas where pedestrian activity is high.
To help communities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025, Queensland has launched the Personal Hardship Financial Assistance program. This initiative aims to help individuals and families struggling with the effects of flooding, storm damage, and disruptions to essential services.
Nundah is among the Brisbane suburbs eligible for this financial aid. While the flooding was not as severe as in 2022, some areas still felt the impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Nundah has a history of flooding, particularly in areas near Nundah Creek, and once again, water levels rose in the vicinity of the demolished Toombul Shopping Centre, which suffered severe damage in the 2022 floods.
However, this time, the water cleared more quickly. The suburb also faced power outages, and non-functioning traffic lights at key intersections created additional challenges for residents trying to travel safely.
About the Personal Hardship Financial Assistance
Grants are available to cover urgent needs such as food, clothing, medication, temporary accommodation, and the replacement of essential household items. The Emergency Hardship Assistance grant, one of the available grants, offers up to $900 for families of five or more.
Additional assistance is provided for those who have lost access to power, water, gas, or sewage for an extended period, as well as for safety inspections, structural repairs, and the reconnection of essential services.
Photo credit: Community Recovery QLD/Facebook
Community Recovery Hubs are also open to provide further support. Besides assisting with grant applications, these hubs offer emotional and wellbeing support, as well as referrals to community organisations and other recovery services.
Due to high demand across Queensland, authorities are working through a large volume of applications. Residents are encouraged to remain patient as support teams process requests as quickly as possible. More details on eligibility and how to apply can be found through Queensland Government’s website.
Following days of intense rainfall and widespread flooding, Toombul Creek has now cleared, allowing vehicles to once again pass through the area. This is a sign of improving conditions across Brisbane’s suburban tributaries.
After a prolonged period of heavy rainfall associated with the tail end of the Alfred system, water levels in Toombul Creek have significantly subsided. This improvement has enabled the reopening of roads in the vicinity, which were previously impassable due to flooding. Residents report that while the initial deluge caused substantial disruption, the rapid clearing of the creek has brought much-needed relief.
The area surrounding the demolished Toombul shopping centre, which suffered severe damage in the 2022 floods, was submerged again. The rapid clearing of the water is a welcome change. The constant rainfall over two days led to widespread flooding, with numerous roads closed and fallen trees obstructing travel. The challenges included power outages and intersections without working traffic lights, making essential travel difficult. However, the clearance of Toombul Creek indicates a positive shift in the overall situation.
The reopening of roads around Toombul Creek has been met with relief from the local community. Residents who had been experiencing disruptions to their daily routines are now able to resume normal activities. The ability for cars to pass through the area again is a significant step towards recovery, reflecting the community’s resilience in the face of adverse weather conditions.
While the initial flooding caused displacement and inconvenience, the swift receding of the waters has allowed a return to normalcy. One resident noted that while they were concerned that this flood would be as bad as the 2022 floods, the water had cleared much faster than expected. The speed of the water receding has allowed access to many people’s homes again.
Despite the improved conditions, residents are reminded to remain vigilant and stay informed about potential weather changes. The recent flooding serves as a reminder of Brisbane’s suburban areas’ vulnerability to heavy rainfall and the importance of preparedness. While Toombul Creek has cleared, ongoing monitoring of weather patterns and water levels is crucial to ensure the continued safety and well-being of the community.
As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches Brisbane, residents, especially those in flood-prone suburbs like Nundah, must take immediate action to safeguard their homes and families.
Alfred, currently a Category 2 system, is expected to hit Queensland around Thursday or early Friday, bringing damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding.
Preparation Steps for Cyclone Alfred
Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare a ‘grab and go’ kit with essential supplies to last five to seven days. This should include non-perishable food, water, medications, important documents, cash, and supplies for pets. Given the potential for power outages, include a battery-operated radio, torch, spare batteries, and power banks for charging mobile devices.
Secure Your Property: Remove or secure any loose items around your property that could become projectiles in strong winds. Clean gutters and check drainage systems to ensure they are clear of debris, reducing the risk of water accumulation and potential flooding.
Utilise Sandbags: Sandbags can help reduce the impact of flooding on your property. While they won’t stop water entirely, they can minimise water entry. Sandbags are available at several Brisbane locations, Darra, Lota, Morningside, Newmarket, and Zillmere. The nearest one to Nundah is the one at Newmarket, located at the SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road.
Photo credit: BCC (As of 4 March 2025)
Ensure you check your vehicle’s weight restrictions before loading sandbags, as each weighs approximately 18–20 kilograms.
Photo credit: BCC (As of 4 March 2025)
Protect Vehicles: Avoid parking cars on the street, especially in areas prone to flooding or under trees and power lines. If possible, move vehicles to higher ground or secure garages to prevent damage from rising waters or debris. Brisbane officials have warned of higher-than-predicted high tides in foreshore and riverside areas from Saturday, 1 March, to Wednesday, 5 March 2025.
Stay Informed: Keep updated with the latest weather forecasts and warnings through official channels such as the Bureau of Meteorology or Council’s emergency dashboard. A battery-operated radio can be invaluable during power outages. Follow advice from local authorities and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Nundah’s Flood Risk
Nundah has a documented history of flooding, particularly due to its proximity to Nundah Creek. Back in February 2022, the Toombul Shopping Centre suffered extensive flood damage, leading to a decision not to reopen. Business owners were notified in a letter stating that restoring the centre to its previous condition was neither practical nor desirable.
Photo credit: Jared Pollack/Facebook
As of February 2025, the shopping centre has been fully demolished, with Mirvac announcing plans to redevelop it into a mixed-use precinct. However, since the area is prone to flooding, any new plans must include strong flood resilience measures to avoid a repeat of the past.
Council has conducted detailed flood studies for the Nundah Creek area to manage and mitigate flood risks. Residents can access the Flood Awareness Map to understand their property’s flood likelihood and prepare accordingly.
Impact on Brisbane Airport
Photo credit: Brisbane Airport/Google Maps
Brisbane Airport has not yet announced flight cancellations, but there is a possibility of disruptions if conditions worsen.
Passengers with upcoming flights should monitor airline updates and Brisbane Airport’s official channels for real-time information. As always, safety is a priority—if roads leading to the airport become flooded, it is advised not to attempt to travel. “If it’s flooded, forget it.”
Brisbane offers resources to assist residents in preparing for severe weather events. Free green waste drop-off is available at all four resource recovery centres (RRCs) until further notice, with extended opening hours from 6:30 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. to aid in preparation efforts.
However, kerbside collection has been suspended due to the significant risk posed by Cyclone Alfred. Residents are advised to secure any items placed on the kerb as soon as possible to prevent hazards during the cyclone.
Preparation is crucial in mitigating the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. By taking proactive steps, residents of Nundah and the greater Brisbane area can enhance their safety and resilience against the impending severe weather. Remember, if it’s flooded, forget it—never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters.
