Devils vs Clydesdales: Norths Seek Redemption from 2023

The Norths Devils are gearing up for a crucial clash against the Western Clydesdales in round 7 of the Hostplus Cup this Saturday, April 26. After a challenging game on the road, the Devils are eager to capitalise on their return to familiar territory and reclaim their winning form. Devils vs Clydesdales kickoff  at 5:00 p.m. at Bishop Park.

Read: Nudgee State School: A Long and Proud History and an Enduring Legacy

Lessons from Cairns

Devils vs Pride 2024
Photo Credit: Facebook / Norths Devils Rugby League Football Club

Last week’s performance against Northern Pride in Cairns highlighted areas for improvement for the Devils. Despite moments of excellence, defensive lapses and errors plagued their gameplay, resulting in a 38-12 loss.

With a 3-3 win-loss record built on fluctuating results, the Devils recognize the need to develop consistency as a squad with fifteen new players.

Devils vs Clydesdales, redemption on the agenda

The Norths Devils lost their only matchup 42-34 so far against Clydesdale, who returned to the QRL just last season. This sole defeat came at the most crucial time, denying the Devils a chance to compete in the 2023 finals round. A win this Saturday would help redeem last season’s woes and assert the Devils among the league’s top teams this season.

Read: Discover a Haven of Relaxation and Recovery at Merse Wellness Spa in Virginia

Looking forward, the Devils will have a bye before returning to Bishop Park on May 12 to face the Brisbane Tigers. With a challenging start to the season against a tough schedule, the Devils are determined to find their stride and secure a strong foothold in the league standings.

Published 26-April-2024

Nundah Shopping Centre Incident Sparks Increased Police Patrols Across North Brisbane

Nundah and other areas in North Brisbane will see heightened police presence under a new initiative dubbed Operation Whiskey Dolma.



This heightened police presence comes after a concerning incident at a Nundah shopping centre on Monday, 15th of April 2024.

Photo Credit: Youtube/ Queensland Police Service

Just after 10:30 a.m., reports emerged of a young male allegedly wielding a knife and threatening another individual. The police swiftly responded to the situation, apprehended the suspect, and recovered the weapon without further incident. 

A 16-year-old from Zillmere now faces charges of going armed to cause fear and possessing dangerous drugs after his appearance on the 19th of April at the Brisbane Children’s Court.

“Operation Whiskey Dolma reflects our commitment to maintaining community safety and public confidence,” declared a spokesperson for the Queensland Police Service. “Highly visible patrols will be deployed across shopping centres, with a focus on deterring criminal activity and ensuring a sense of security for residents.”

Photo Credit: Youtube/ Queensland Police Service

The initiative will encompass increased police presence at major transportation hubs in Chermside, Stafford, Nundah, and Northgate. This includes proactive “wanding operations” authorised under Jack’s Law, which empowers officers to conduct weapon searches on public transport and designated areas.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Emergency situations require dialing 000, while non-urgent concerns can be reported through the Queensland Police Service website or by calling Policelink at 131 444.



Anonymous reports can be made to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or visiting their website.

Published Date 21-April-2024

Pioneering Wood Therapist Brings Ancient Art of Healing to Nundah

Abby Mortimer, a trailblazer in holistic wellness, introduces Nundah to the ancient art of Wood Therapy through her latest venture, NuVue Body Sculpting.



Initially starting NuVue in Coopers Plains in 2022, Abby brings her therapeutic technique to North Brisbane to help deliver a holistic approach to health and well-being.

Wood Therapy Nundah
Photo Credit: NuVue Body Sculpting/Facebook

Drawing inspiration from the ancient healing practices of South America, Wood Therapy encompasses a lymphatic drainage massage that detoxifies and sculpts the body.  

This non-invasive technique uses meticulously crafted wooden tools to break down adipose tissue and stimulate the lymphatic system, promoting detoxification, reducing inflammation, and enhancing overall well-being. Unlike conventional massage therapies, Wood Therapy offers a unique blend of detoxification and sculpting, targeting specific areas of concern with precision and care.

Abby’s passion for Wood Therapy stems from a deeply personal experience with cellulite that began at the tender age of 12. She witnessed firsthand its myriad benefits, from diminished cellulite to improved energy levels and hormonal balance. 

She also showed resilience in the face of adversity, having been diagnosed with lipoedema in 2023. This genetic condition, affecting 11 per cent of Australian women, propelled Abby to deepen her understanding of holistic health and wellness. 

Motivated by her journey, Abby was driven to share the therapeutic potential of Wood Therapy with others, particularly those battling conditions like endometriosis. As Abby delved deeper into this practice, she recognised its potential to address many health concerns beyond cellulite reduction. Through extensive training in Melbourne and overseas, Abby honed her skills as a Wood Therapist, culminating in establishing NuVue Body Sculpting.

Through her services, Abby seeks to offer solace and support to individuals grappling with lipoedema and other chronic conditions. 

NuVue Body Sculpting in Nundah opens on 4 March 2024. Boasting a central location with ample parking, the new studio, located at Fifth Avenue Lifestyle along Ryans Rd, promises to be a haven for those seeking respite from the stresses of modern life.



Follow NuVue Body Sculpting on Instagram to learn more about healing from chronic pain through Wood Therapy. Enquiries about Abby’s services may also be made through the page.

Published 28-February-2024

Virginia Centre Seeks Additional Blood Donations to Make Extra Day Count for Leap Year

The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood, with a mobile donor centre in Virginia, is urging an extra 5,500 people for blood donations to help meet Leap Day demand. 



Whilst Australians enjoy an extra 24 hours this month, the bonus leap year day, 29 February 2024, means an extra day of need for hospital patients.

With time frequently listed as one of the greatest barriers to donating blood, Lifeblood hopes people will turn their extra time this month into a lifetime for someone in need by donating blood or plasma.

Lifeblood Executive Director of Donor Experience, Cath Stone, said there was no better way to spend this leap day than becoming a blood or plasma donor and saving up to three lives. 

“Around 33,000 blood donations are needed every week to help a range of seriously ill Australians,” she said. “This year, we have an extra day of that need, requiring more than 5,500 extra blood and plasma donations. We are urging people to make an appointment to donate blood or plasma so they can use their extra day – either now or later – to save lives. Cancer patients, pregnant women, road trauma victims, premature babies, and people with blood disorders need blood every single day, including leap days.”

Ms Stone said people living with cancer would be the biggest users of donated blood in Australia this leap day. 

“Around 2,000 of the donations made on February 29 will be used for cancer treatments. With 1 in 2 Australians expected to be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, the chances are you’ll be helping someone you know to tackle cancer.”

Blood donations
Photo Credit: Unsplash

As part of Lifeblood’s partnership with the Cancer Council for World Cancer Day this month, everyone who donates blood or plasma throughout February will receive a limited-edition Beci Orpin-designed daffodil bandage. 



How to Donate

To book a donation visit lifeblood.com.au, download the free donate blood app or call 13 14 95.

Donation Location 

Please call or check the app first to confirm opening dates:

Virginia Virginia Mobile Donor Centre Powerlink, 33 Harold St, Virginia Queensland 4014
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PinkebaQantas Engineering, Hangar 3, 550 Main Myrtletown Rd, Pinkenba Queensland 4008
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Published 27-February-2024

Nundah Christmas Twilight Market Jam-Packed with Festive Cheer

We’re making a list and checking it twice, finding eats, beats, and treats both naughty and nice at the jam-packed Nundah Christmas Twilight Market!


Read: Second Brisbane Cruise Liner Terminal in Pinkenba Planned as Demand Surges


On Saturday 2 Dec 2023, from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., soak up the festive vibes as you wander through over 150 stalls featuring the best gourmet eats from local tastemakers and unique, handmade gifts from bespoke makers and creators.

If you feel like mistle-toasting to the silly season, don’t forget to stop by the North Pole Bar to sip on an icy cold brew from Stone & Wood and Revel Brewing Co. or extra festive Christmas spirits from Milton Rum Distillery.

But it doesn’t stop there! Jingle bell rock the night away with live music by Yellow Bird Trio and The B-Sides, be mesmerised by roving Chrissy performers and majestic stilt walkers, stop by the petting zoo, and grab a selfie with SANTA! No resting grinch faces here!

WIN A $200 BAR TAB TO SPEND!

We’re offering you a chance to WIN a $200 bar tab to spend the night of Nundah Christmas Twilight Market! Cheers to that!

HOW TO ENTER:

* T&C’s apply. See full details here.


Read: 60-Bed Mental Health Facility Proposed for Nundah


Nundah Christmas Twilight Market
When: Saturday 2 December | 4PM – 10PM
$3 Entry (free for kids under 12) | FREE Parking
Where: Station St, Nundah
Snaps with Santa: 5PM – 8PM

Featuring: Mr Pulled Slow Cooked Meats, Teppanyaki Noodles, Piante Pizza, Churros Bites, Roll It Ice Cream Co., Bucky’s Cookies and Creations, and more!

Follow updates about the event on Facebook.

Published 28-Nov-2023

Free Early Screening for Type 1 Diabetes for Infants in Nundah

A lifesaving Type 1 Diabetes National Screening Pilot will take place in Nundah, which will be aimed at identifying infants aged 6-12 months who are at risk of developing type 1 diabetes.



The program will also be available to residents in the suburbs of Chermside, Bracken Ridge, and Ferny Hills, providing a significant opportunity for early detection.

Addressing the Urgent Need for Early Detection

Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong autoimmune condition that can have severe and even fatal immediate and long-term health implications. Alarming statistics show that this condition affects 1 in 300 children in Australia, and what’s particularly challenging is that 90 per cent of these cases have no family history of the condition. 

Consequently, this potentially life-threatening illness can be incredibly hard to identify, especially in infants, where its symptoms can often be mistaken for minor childhood concerns. Consequently, children often aren’t diagnosed until they become severely ill, necessitating emergency care.

To address this critical issue, the Type 1 Diabetes National Screening Pilot offers a simple and free method to detect infants at risk. This initiative is being funded by JDRF and is spearheaded by a dedicated team at the University of Sydney.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Early detection is critical for ensuring better health outcomes for children who may be at risk of developing type 1 diabetes. This autoimmune condition is one of the most common chronic illnesses affecting children and adolescents. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, resulting in insulin deficiency. 

Without insulin, the body cannot convert glucose from food into energy, leading to dangerous levels of glucose in the bloodstream. Early screening can identify very early signs of the condition before children start showing symptoms. 

Dr. Gary Deed, a General Practitioner involved in the program’s development, highlights the significance of early detection.

“Type 1 Diabetes is a unique illness which doesn’t come from lifestyle choices. It may develop in very young people right through to older ages. The current problem is that early onset is often missed and children especially are presenting in severe medical crises called ketoacidosis, which can have both an immediate even fatal outcome but if the person can be managed there are longer term impacts of difficulty sustaining healthy outcomes compared to people who don’t have this alarming ketoacidosis presentation,” Dr Deed told Brisbane Suburbs Online News

“This is why screening early, helps us support people at risk to be in touch with health professionals who can prevent serious outcomes mentioned and intervene where needed to offset the emotional and physical crises that are known to occur.

“My passion about knowing the real benefit this reseach project will bring from identifying at risk people/children and then the sheer effort in getting all the aspect of the trial aligned and in place, has required positive patience, but I know the benefits once rolled out will make a difference to families and children.” 

A Vision for the Future

The Type 1 Diabetes National Screening Pilot is a crucial step towards early detection and improved long-term health outcomes. The program has a broader vision of making early type 1 diabetes detection a routine part of childhood screening across Australia. 

“Given that the goal of the pilot program is to make early type 1 diabetes detection available for every child in Australia and have it become part of routine childhood screening, where are we in terms of achieving that statewide (QLD) at the moment? What’s the critical path that needs to be taken and the barriers or challenges that you see? The goal of this Type 1 Diabetes National Screening Pilot is to identify the best option for implementing screening for type 1 diabetes in children in Australia,” Dr Kirstine Bell from the University of Sydney’s Charles Perkin Centre, who led the development of the program, said.

Type 1 Diabetes National Screening Pilot
Photo Credit: Supplied

“A number of screening models have been very successful internationally. So we’re learning from these as well as other national and statewide public health programs in Australia, and then using this Pilot to partner with local communities, like Brisbane North, to understand how this screening should run in our health system and in the Australian population. 

“Ultimately, the vision is for this to be a national, government-funded screening program.  To achieve that, the government will look at all the evidence from this Pilot and from around the world, to determine if and how best to run a type 1 diabetes screening program.”

Dr Bell also said that the program is set to close at the end of 2024, but children identified as having an increased risk will continue to be monitored for five years to catch any early markers of the autoimmune condition. Over the next two years, the program aims to work with the government to build a roadmap towards full implementation.

Bronwen Manger, a local resident whose child has undergone the screening, emphasizes the simplicity and importance of the process. 

“The screening process is simple and hassle-free. I was happy to see that it was available, and I could take proactive action to see if my child was at risk of type 1 diabetes,” she shared.

Type 1 Diabetes National Screening Pilot
Photo Credit:  Supplied

Simplified Process for Parents

Parents have been given an easy and accessible way to participate in the screening program. They can register for a free test kit online at www.KidsDiabetesScreen.com.au, and the kit will be conveniently delivered to their homes. The screening process involves collecting a saliva sample from the child’s mouth, which can then be sent for analysis.



The majority of children will receive a low-risk result from early screening. However, for those identified as having an increased risk, regular follow-up testing will be recommended to monitor early signs of the condition. The Screening Pilot is not just about identifying at-risk children but also about providing education and support to their families.

Published 23-Oct-2023

Karise Eden Returns to Nundah, Her Former Home, for a Special Performance

Karise Eden, the inaugural winner of “The Voice Australia” in 2012, is set to make a triumphant return to Nundah, her former home, as she gears up for a special performance at the Royal Hotel Nundah.



On Saturday, 28 Oct 2023,  the Royal Hotel will be abuzz with excitement as it unveils its new live music room, and the local community is eagerly awaiting Karise’s performance.

A Special Gig for Karise Eden

This homecoming gig holds immense significance for Karise, who has spent the past year touring the East Coast relentlessly. For the artist, who has seamlessly transitioned from reality show fame to a successful recording and touring career, it is a heartwarming experience to be back where it all began.

Karise’s connection to the Royal Hotel goes beyond her upcoming performance. She has a history with the venue, having once worked behind the bar.

Nowadays, she can be spotted there as a regular patron, often dining with her husband and two adorable children. Her roots in the community run deep, after moving to Brisbane in 2016. No doubt, she’s excited to be part of the pub’s new live music room launch.

A Remarkable Journey in Music

Karise’s career has seen her excel in various music genres, from blues to soul, rock to power pop, and country to Americana. She has been compared to the likes of Adele and Amy Winehouse, thanks to her distinctive voice and emotive performances.

Her 2022 indie release, “Into The Black,” features an AIR No. 1 single, and her solo performances are an eclectic blend of original songs and reimagined classics. With a musical journey that continues to evolve, she remains a compelling force in the Australian music scene.

Karise Eden’s Journey from Fame to Self-discovery

While Karise has enjoyed remarkable success in her music career, she has also faced her share of personal challenges. After her success on “The Voice,” the 31-year-old artist, known for her powerful and soulful voice, has achieved multiple ARIA Awards, gold and platinum records, and even secured top positions in the ARIA and AIR charts.

However, there was one aspect of her life where she felt a void – her education. Karise dropped out of school at just 13 and entered foster care. Despite her success as an artist, she struggled with feelings of inadequacy because she lacked a formal education. The industry’s pressures and expectations exacerbated her insecurity, with some people in the business world treating her unfairly due to her perceived lack of education.

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Karise found herself without a source of income, prompting her to reevaluate her life’s direction. In her pursuit of personal growth and self-rediscovery, she decided it was time to complete her high school education. The artist took a significant step by enrolling in the Tertiary Preparation Pathway (TPP) course at a Queensland TAFE, aiming for graduation in Easter 2024.



Karise’s determination has seen her excel in her studies, proving that it’s never too late to return to education. She is juggling her studies with a bustling career, public speaking, running a business, and raising children. Her story echoes the common experience of many adults who have faced obstacles in their education, highlighting the importance of flexible adult learning opportunities.

Her motivation extends beyond personal growth. She’s eager to set an example for her children and break the cycle of abuse through perseverance and determination.

Published 21-Oct-2023

60-Bed Mental Health Facility Proposed for Nundah

Did you know that a new 60-bed mental health hospital has been proposed for Nundah, aiming to address the growing demand for dedicated mental health facilities in Brisbane.


Read: Indoor Sport and Recreation, Medical Centre, and Child Care Centre at Nellie Street in Nundah Proposed


The proposed development, a joint venture between healthcare providers Aurora and Medibank known as IMH, would be located at 20 Nellie Street on a 10,590 square metre site.

The mental health facility is planned as the centrepiece of a larger health and wellness hub spanning five buildings. In addition to the mental health building, the hub would include space for further health services, food and drink, offices, and indoor sports. 

Artist’s impression of mixed-use building (Photo credit: Z Architects)

Designed by Z Architects, the complex is envisioned between two and five storeys tall, with 214 parking spaces to accommodate patients and staff.

Mental Health
Photo credit: Z Architects

According to planning documents, the hospital would operate 24/7, with peak activity from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily for admissions, appointments, visiting hours, and deliveries. Patient care would be overseen by psychiatrists, with voluntary admissions and personalised treatment plans.

Mental Health
Photo credit: Queensland Globe

Developers note that patients accessing mental health services are often outwardly functioning members of the community, seeking support, therapy and education. They emphasise that private facilities like the proposed hospital provide essential specialised care within the broader health system.

The Nundah site already has approval for a material change of use, granted in 2020. The defined land uses for the existing application include an Indoor Sport and Recreation Office, Shop, and Child Care Centre.

The amended application has removed the Child Care Centre in place of a Food and Drink Outlet, and has added the Hospital and the Health Care Services land uses.

Construction is said to be largely complete on the approved buildings and layout, meaning the proposed shift to mental health services would not require significant additional changes to the site.

Photo credit: Z Architects

Backers hope the project can complement nearby Belmont Hospital and expand access to quality mental health treatment in the region. If approved, the facility would be one of Australia’s few private psychiatric hospitals, catering to demand for more dedicated mental health infrastructure and expertise.


Read: Banyo Clinic Doctor Honoured as GP Supervisor of the Year


Published 11-October-2023

Beloved Nundah Mechanic Peter Scott Retires & Closes Pete’s Garage After 41 Years

Peter Scott, a beloved mechanic from Nundah, has announced his retirement and the closure of his iconic garage, Pete’s Garage, after serving the community for over four decades. The bittersweet decision comes as Mr Scott eagerly anticipates the arrival of his first grandchild and reflects on a successful career that has left an indelible mark on the community.



Mr Scott first opened the doors of Pete’s Garage back in 1982 when he was a young mechanic of 25. He started with a humble workshop at a service station in Wavell Heights. As his reputation for quality work grew, he eventually took over the petrol sales at the station. In 1995, he relocated the business to its current location in Nundah, where it has thrived ever since.

Originally from England, Mr Scott moved to Brisbane at the age of 17 and completed his mechanic apprenticeship at the Grange Caltex. Throughout his career, he has built a legacy of exceptional service and craftsmanship.

Just months away from his 67th birthday, Mr Scott is preparing to retire on 29 Sept 2023 with mixed emotions. His pride in his work is evident as he reminisces about customers who have been loyal to him for the entire 40 years, even extending to their children’s and grandchildren’s cars. 

Pete’s Garage has earned a sterling reputation for customer satisfaction throughout Nundah and the surrounding areas. The team recently took to Facebook to announce the closure.

Looking ahead to retirement, Mr Scott is excited about the new chapter that awaits him. He will become a grandfather for the first time as his daughter Elle, who works at the garage’s reception, is expecting her first child. 



Additionally, since he is an avid snorkeller, Mr Scott has plans to explore Australia, with Western Australia and the Northern Territory topping his list of destinations. He expressed his enthusiasm for snorkelling in the beautiful Australian waters. 

Published 20-Sept-2023

Historic Royal Hotel in Nundah Receives Major Makeover, Opens New Entertainment Venue

After an extensive $1.1-million renovation, the historic Royal Hotel in Nundah has reopened, revealing a transformation that blends heritage with modernisation and introducing a brand-new, state-of-the-art entertainment venue on the upper floor, aptly named the Royal Quarters.



Originally established in 1888, the Royal Hotel has long been a beloved fixture in the Northside community, catering to generations of beer enthusiasts. The venue has now gone full circle, reclaiming its original name as part of the refurbishment process.

The centrepiece of the revitalisation is the Royal Quarters, a spacious entertainment area on the upper floor with a capacity to host up to 200 patrons. 

The versatile space promises a diverse lineup of entertainment options throughout the week, including live music performances, comedy nights, piano bar sessions, and even bingo on Sundays.

This multi-purpose area aims to provide a platform for local talent while offering residents and visitors an inviting space to unwind and enjoy.

The new Royal Quarters also offers unique booth seating for 40 guests. The booth space is ideal for smaller gatherings, with booths offering some privacy within the larger confines of the iconic Quarters.

Several other function rooms and areas, offering both cocktail-style and seating arrangements, are available for up to 250 guests.

In addition to the Royal Quarters, the hotel’s ground floor has also received a comprehensive makeover. The bistro and terrace area have been revamped to create a family-friendly dining space, accommodating up to 120 diners.

The new menu, which blends classic pub fare with seasonal dishes, boasts a variety of tantalizing options, ranging from Moreton Bay bug rolls and pan-seared barramundi to a delectable baked brie cheesecake.

Royal Hotel
Photo Credit: RoyalHotelNundah/Facebook

The renovation project paid careful attention to preserving the Royal Hotel’s historical façade, which has been a staple of the Nundah streetscape for over a century. Architectural firm Mel Porter Design masterfully merged traditional elements with contemporary design, breathing new life into the beloved establishment.

new bistro
Photo Credit: RoyalHotelNundah/Facebook
new gaming room
Photo Credit: RoyalHotelNundah/Facebook

The Royal Hotel’s refurbishment is part of Australian Venue Co’s larger initiative to rejuvenate iconic establishments across Brisbane and Queensland. Craig Ellison, Chief Operating Officer of Australian Venue Co, emphasized the company’s commitment to honouring the pub’s heritage while creating a modern space that the community can take pride in.



Follow updates of shows and events at Royal Quarters via their Facebook page and for everything else about Royal Hotel, visit their official site to see what’s on at the bistro, bar and gaming areas.

Published 25-Aug-2023