Banyo Archives - Nundah News

Talent Factory: ACU Brisbane North Cougars Dominate State Netball Squads

ACU Brisbane North Cougars have secured thirteen positions in Queensland’s reduced state netball squads for 2025, cementing their status as the state’s premier development program.

Read: Community Engages Strongly with Proposed 24/7 Fast-Food Chain Development in Hendra

ACU Brisbane North Cougars dominates the field

The program’s athletes represent more than one-third of the total 37 players selected for Queensland’s pathway program, more than doubling the representation of any other institution.

This achievement builds on the program’s established success under coach Liz White, whose leadership has delivered 17 premierships in 24 years, including a remarkable four consecutive Sapphire Series championships through 2023.

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The under-17 squad showcases both experienced and emerging Cougars talent. Returning athlete Simoné Botha, fresh from her 2024 AIS selection, leads a strong contingent of newcomers including Matilda Canning, Chelsea Edwards, Ariana Ransfield, Embah Tait, and Tereneah Tapuai.

In the under-19 division, five athletes have successfully progressed from the under-17s: Marley Burns, Rio Burns, Sienna Jones, Ella McCartney, and Tia Molo. The squad is further strengthened by two-time Judy Sampson Memorial Trophy winner Ellie Brice and talented athlete Gemma Hutchings.

Read: Banyo Educator First to Graduate from Ground-breaking Accelerated Teaching Programme

“The talent displayed made the process very competitive,” notes Netball Queensland head of talent and development Roselee Jencke.

These athletes now focus on preparing for the 2025 National Netball Championships, scheduled for April in Sydney. Final team selection, comprising 12 players plus training partners, will be announced in early 2025.

Published 31-October-2024

Banyo Educator First to Graduate from Ground-breaking Accelerated Teaching Programme

Photo Credit: Australian Catholic University/ Facebook

A Banyo-based early childhood educator has become among the first to graduate from a revolutionary accelerated teaching programme at the Australian Catholic University (ACU).

This innovative course, the first of its kind in Queensland, allows diploma-qualified educators to fast-track their studies and obtain a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five Years) in 18 months, compared to the traditional four years.

This programme is a much-needed solution to the ongoing workforce shortage in the early childhood education sector. Launched in March this year, the accelerated degree has already attracted 70 Queensland-based students in its first intake, all eager to upskill and lead preschool classrooms.

ACU lecturer Laurien Beane hailed the programme as a “game changer,” emphasising its importance in “closing the gap” and ensuring adequate staffing to keep childcare services operational. The programme draws students from diverse locations across Queensland, including Cairns, Townsville, Thursday Island, the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Warwick.

Beane stressed the significance of upskilling educators in urban and regional areas to guarantee all families access to quality early childhood education and care.

Chloe Buchtmann, a 39-year-old educator from Banyo with 20 years of experience, is one of the programme’s success stories. She highlighted the programme’s accessibility and the significant time savings it offered.

Previously facing a nine-year path to completing her degree part-time, Buchtmann is now on track to graduate next year. She praised the programme’s affordability, noting the availability of scholarships through providers like Goodstart, which make it a viable option for those with families and financial commitments.

Professor Donna King, ACU National Head of the School of Education, explained that the programme was developed in partnership with key industry players to address the sector’s need for highly qualified early childhood teachers.

The course maintains a rigorous curriculum without compromising quality or disrupting students’ work lives.

It utilises a multi-mode delivery approach, incorporating virtual reality technology and intensive weekend symposiums (both in-person and online) to foster interaction and professional networking among future educators.

Published Date 29-October-2024

Banyo Station Undergoes Major Accessibility Upgrade

Queensland Rail has announced a significant upgrade to Banyo station as part of its Station Accessibility Upgrade Program. The project aims to improve accessibility for all community members, including those with prams, luggage, wheelchairs, or injuries.

Read: Banyo Level Crossing to Get Safety Upgrade

Key Upgrade Features

Banyo Station aerial view (Photo credit: queenslandrail.com.au)

The comprehensive upgrade includes a new footbridge with lift access and improved accessible parking. Passengers will benefit from full-length high-level platforms, upgraded hearing augmentation loops, and tactile ground surface indicators.

Security will be enhanced with new cameras and lighting, while improved wayfinding and platform signage will help travellers navigate the station more easily.

The renovation also encompasses accessible toilets, disability-compliant ticket windows, and an upgraded bicycle storage facility. Commuters will enjoy improved seating and extended platform shelters, along with an upgraded station office and facilities.

Station Closure and Alternative Transport

To expedite construction and ensure safety, Banyo station is now closed until the second half of 2024. During this period, trains will run express through the station. A dedicated shuttle bus service (Route 316) will operate between Northgate and Banyo stations, including stops at the Australian Catholic University and Earnshaw College.

The existing bus route 306 remains available from Tufnell Road, near Banyo station. All route 316 services are designed to be accessible. The station car park will be closed for upgrade works from August 29 until late October 2024.

Nearby Alternatives

Site – August 2024 (Photo credit: queenslandrail.com.au)

Bindha and Nudgee stations, the nearest to Banyo, will remain open during the upgrade works. To assist commuters, the footpath from Royal Parade to Bindha station has been opened.

Passengers are advised to plan their travel by downloading the MyTranslink app, visiting translink.com.au, or calling 13 12 30 for the latest information and assistance.

Read: Nudgee Recreation Reserve Reopens with Major Upgrades

This upgrade is part of Queensland Rail’s commitment to improving accessibility across its network, ensuring that public transportation is convenient and accessible for all community members.

Published 16-September-2024

Banyo Level Crossing to Get Safety Upgrade

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Banyo residents and commuters can expect improved safety and traffic flow as plans are now being developed to overhaul the Banyo level crossing.

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.

*Photo Credit:* *Banyo Level Crossing Improvement Proposals/ Facebook*

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.

Published Date 07-August-2024

Australia’s First Battery Supply Chain Database Launches in Banyo

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.

Read: Shovels Hit Ground for Mental Health Hospital in Nundah

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.

Read: Pinkenba Quarantine Facility Repurposed as AFP Training Hub

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.

Published 16-July-2024

Third Time’s the Charm: Banyo Couple Celebrates Love After Pandemic Setbacks

After two heartbreaking cancellations due to restrictions during the pandemic, Alice and Michael of Banyo finally said “I do” in a beautiful ceremony last March. The couple’s persistence and love triumphed over pandemic obstacles, making their long-awaited wedding day even more special.

Read: Growing Precincts Together: Banyo Precinct

The couple, who have been together for 12 years, initially planned to tie the knot in 2021. However, the unpredictable nature of the pandemic forced them to postpone their nuptials.

Undeterred, they rescheduled for the following year, only to face another disappointing cancellation as Covid-19 continued to disrupt daily life.

They expressed that the most stressful aspect of their wedding planning was having to cancel twice due to Covid. The emotional rollercoaster of planning, cancelling, and replanning took its toll, but their commitment to each other never wavered.

As restrictions eased and life began to return to a semblance of normalcy, Alice and Michael decided to give wedding planning one more try. This time, fortune smiled upon them. With fewer limitations in place, they were able to create the celebration they had always dreamed of.

The couple chose the picturesque Hillstone St Lucia as their venue, providing a stunning backdrop for their long-awaited union. Surrounded by their immediate family and closest friends, Alice and Michael finally exchanged vows in an intimate and joyous ceremony.

The success of Alice and Michael’s wedding reflects the broader easing of restrictions across the country. As more couples find themselves able to celebrate their love without the strict limitations of the past few years, there’s a palpable sense of relief and joy in the air.

Read: Nundah Resident Celebrates 107th Birthday

As life continues to normalise, Alice and Michael’s wedding stands as a beacon of hope for other couples whose plans were derailed by the pandemic. It’s a reminder that love endures, even in the most trying times, and that sometimes, the third time really is the charm.

Published 4-July-2024

Banyo’s ‘Grandma’s Christmas’ Celebrates 20 Years

Photo Credit: Facebook / Ashleigh Wendorf

‘Grandma’s Christmas’, a cherished tradition illuminating 4 Huron Street, Banyo, celebrates 20 years!

Jeanette Meyer began this enchanting journey when her daughter, Jodie Wendorf, brought home the joy of Christmas lights after marrying an American. With Kendall Meyer by their side, three generations came together, transforming their home into ‘Grandma’s Christmas.’

What started with a few lights has blossomed into an awe-inspiring display, drawing the community together each festive season. The house has become a beacon, welcoming families to an interactive wonderland that pays homage to Alice in Wonderland, blending classic Christmas elements with whimsy.

Jeanette Meyer’s creativity shines through homemade decorations crafted from wood, paper mache, and thousands of lights. The display has evolved from a humble sleigh and reindeer ears to an intricate exhibit that captures the imagination.

However, amidst the lights and admiration, the display holds a heartfelt memorial garden. It’s a place of remembrance for the community, honouring those who’ve passed, including premature babies like Jodie’s son.

The appeal of ‘Grandma’s Christmas’ is undeniable. Hundreds flock to witness the spectacle each night, transforming the street into a scene reminiscent of ‘The Walking Dead.’ The display’s acclaim even reached the heights of winning best northside residence and best overall at the 4KQ Christmas lights competition in 2019.

Despite the global attention, Jeanette Meyer remains grounded. Her favourite part? The cherished moments spent together as a family, a sentiment echoed by her daughter. For Ashley Wendorf, growing up amidst this luminous tradition has been nothing short of incredible.

In Banyo, ‘Grandma’s Christmas’ isn’t just lights; it’s a testament to familial bonds, creativity, and the communal spirit of the festive season. For 20 years, this radiant spectacle has illuminated the hearts of locals and will continue to do so for generations to come.

Published 4-January-2024

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

Photo credit: Queensland Police Service / mypolice.qld.gov.au

A dog squad from Hendra Station was able to successfully track two of three teens who allegedly broke into a house in Banyo and attempted to steal a vehicle. All three youth offenders have been charged with burglary offences.

At approximately 9.30 pm on 24 November 2022, police were alerted to an attempted burglary and car theft at a Banyo residence. Three teenagers were disturbed by the owner of the house whilst attempting to steal a vehicle. Two of them ran from the residence.

Multiple crews from Hendra Station with their dog squad cordoned the area off and tracked the offenders who attempted to escape.

Investigations revealed that two of the youth offenders had allegedly broken into the residence the previous day and stolen car keys, returning the next day to attempt to steal the car.

A 13-year-old Nudgee boy, a 13-year-old Sandgate girl, and a 15-year-old Bracken Ridge girl will appear in Brisbane Children’s Court to face burglary charges.

Youths Attempting to Steal Vehicle From a Banyo Residence Tracked by Dog Squad — Photo Credit: Kris from Pixabay

Police said that house-breaking, also called a break and enter or burglary, is one of the most common crimes and can occur at any time of the day or night.

Residents are then advised to regularly assess their home security, introduce targeted security measures and make changes to their everyday behaviours to help keep one’s home safe.

Good home security makes it easy for an offender to be seen, difficult for an offender to gain entry, difficult for an offender to exit with your property, and difficult for an offender to gain benefit from your property.

Have any information for the police? Please contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information using the online form. Or report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or via crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Inside Expansion Plans For $100-M Summerlin Estate In Banyo

Developers of Summerlin Estate, a $100-million, master-planned development in Banyo, have lodged plans to expand its existing community north of Brisbane.

Read: Happening Soon! Banyo Railway Station Upgrades

Based on the application documents submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for five-storey multiple dwellings with 30 two and three-bedroom units within Stage 3A and part of Stage 3B of the Summerlin Estate at 15 Solomon St, Banyo.

Apartments at the Stage 3A will have their own courtyards at the ground level and balconies above ground level to provide residents with a private open space. It will also feature communal open space, which has been delivered as part of earlier stages of the Summerlin Estate.

summerlin banyo plans — Ground floor plans (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council)

The $100 million Summerlin Master Planned development, a new community and lifestyle destination in the heart of Banyo consisting of unique terrace homes and boutique apartments.

summerlin banyo — Level 1 (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council)

summerlin brisbane — Level 2 (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council)

The DA also includes a total of 40 car parking spaces for residents and eight car parking spaces for visitors. Both the vehicle and pedestrian access will be via Rochat Avenue.

Designed by Arqus Design, the buildings feature a contemporary design and assorted layouts suitable for varied households. A planning report for the DA highlighted that each unit has been designed to accommodate large internal layouts and private courtyards and balconies interfacing high quality communal open space and landscaped areas.

masterplan summerlin banyo — Summerlin Banyo Masterplan (Photo credit: https://summerlin.com.au/)

Aside from the DA lodged to the Brisbane City Council, developers are planning to build three more buildings (still under Council assessment) with three storeys each, in addition to townhouses currently being built.

“The site is well serviced being in close proximity to transport, education, and community facilities, being within walking distance to Nudgee Station,” a report by Wolter Consulting Group stated.

Wolter Consulting Group has also noted that the proposal is consistent with the maximum five-storey height and provisions of the Residential Design – Medium Density Zone Under the City Plan 2000.

For more details, visit Council’s PD Online with the Reference A005957767.

Lite n’ Easy Steps Up Recruitment for Banyo Facility

Did you know that Lite n’ Easy, one of Australia’s longest-running healthy food delivery services, is stepping up recruitment for its Banyo facility, with more than a hundred job vacancies for permanent, part-time, and casual workers?

Following an investment of $80 million to improve its delivery service in this COVID-19 pandemic, Lite n’ Easy is expecting a busy year-end as it expands its frozen food range and Home Care Package. The Lite n’ Easy compound on Buchanan Road, which houses its main headquarters and kitchen, is also preparing to improve its manufacturing process for food packs as demand has increased because of the lockdowns.

Research from Roy Morgan has shown that the market for meal delivery service rose by 26.5 percent in 2020 with a noticeable rise among newer and younger customers, the millennials and Generation Z. However, Lite n’ Easy’s chief executive Dennis Stark acknowledged that ageing Australians, who have been staying home longer, have become more reliant on their service.

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Established in 1986 by Queenslander Graham Mitchell, Lite n’ Easy and its parent company, Mitchell’s Quality Foods, have over 1,600 workers across the country.

With an average of one million meal deliveries per week, including those under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the company has always aimed to make meals for a healthier Australia with its Full Meal Plans for weight loss or weight maintenance.

“For years I’ve enjoyed Lite n’ Easy, not to lose weight, but because the meals really are delicious and healthy. After a hard day in my restaurant, there are times when the last thing I want to do is cook a healthy dinner for myself. That’s when I leave all the hard work to Lite n Easy!” said the company’s ambassador Chef Dominique Rizzo, who saw first-hand that the kitchen staff, the chefs, and dietitians working at the Banyo facility are dedicated to their work.

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