Valerie-Ann Abbott, a product lead for a global platform, first began kettlebell training at her local gym after a coach encouraged her to try it.
She never expected to compete on the world stage a few years later. In October 2024, Abbott travelled to Greece with eight Australian athletes to compete in the Kettlebell World Championship. Despite her busy work schedule, Abbott prioritises her training, fitting in four weekly sessions. These sessions, programmed by her coach in Scotland, focus on full-body strength and endurance.
Abbott believes her success is due to her “train hard, compete easy” motto. By varying her training conditions, she prepares for unexpected challenges during competitions. The strong support within the Australian team also played a crucial role. Kettlebell lifting is an individual sport, and Abbott explained that hearing her teammates cheer her on helped her push through the pain and achieve her goals.
Abbott was impressed by the diverse range of athletes at the championship, from a six-year-old to a 76-year-old competitor. She believes this shows that kettlebell lifting is a sport for everyone.
Abbott encourages anyone interested in the sport to try it out and join the growing community in Brisbane. She highlights the quality of local trainers and the sport’s accessibility, noting that four of the eight Australian team members were from Brisbane clubs.
Abbott is already setting sights on the next World Championship in Milan, Italy. She plans to compete in the professional category, where she lifts 24kg kettlebells instead of her usual 16kg, and aims to win gold. She is excited to continue her kettlebell journey and see what the future holds.
Banyo, a Brisbane suburb traditionally known for its aviation ties, has been highlighted as a top spot for property investment in 2025 due to its affordability, connectivity, and ongoing gentrification.
A recent report by the REA Group places Banyo among its “Hot 100” suburbs expected to see significant property price growth. With a median house price of $946,250—well below many Brisbane suburbs—Banyo is attracting buyers who value affordability without sacrificing proximity to the city. Located just 11.8 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, the suburb offers excellent train connectivity and easy access to the Gateway Motorway, making it a practical choice for commuters.
Economic researcher Cameron Kusher emphasised that Banyo’s affordability and family-friendly appeal make it stand out in Brisbane’s competitive housing market. Its relative affordability compared to nearby blue-chip suburbs is also a drawcard for younger families and first-home buyers.
Connectivity and Growth
Historically a hub for workers in Brisbane’s aviation industry, Banyo is transforming into a vibrant, diverse community thanks to its strong infrastructure and strategic location. Situated next to the Brisbane Airport, which was once considered a deterrent, the suburb is now seen as a prime spot for budget-conscious buyers and investors. According to REA Group data, Banyo has experienced a 9% annual increase in median house prices and a 21% rise in buyer demand over the past year.
Property experts noted that Banyo’s ongoing gentrification has made it a standout among suburbs experiencing similar growth. The influx of families and professionals has led to an increase in amenities such as parks, cafes, and shops, enhancing its community atmosphere.
National Trends Reflected in Banyo
The inclusion of Banyo in the Hot 100 reflects broader trends in Australia’s property market. Suburbs with high rental yields and a balance of affordability and lifestyle appeal are being prioritised by investors and homebuyers alike. Experts point to strong rental yields in Western Australia as an example of this trend, with similar patterns observed in Banyo.
Anne Flaherty, an economist with REA Group, explained that high-yield suburbs like Banyo provide a dual benefit: steady rental income and long-term capital growth. Despite rising property prices in Brisbane, Banyo remains an attractive option for investors seeking value in a tightening market.
Community Perspective
Residents in Banyo are already seeing the benefits of the suburb’s evolution. Local infrastructure projects, including upgrades to major roads and public transport, have further boosted its appeal. The close-knit community continues to grow, with new families contributing to the suburb’s welcoming vibe.
In a daring operation on Wednesday night, emergency crews saved a mobility-impaired woman from her burning Virginia home, just minutes from Nundah’s town centre.
At 9:14 p.m., a fire erupted in a single-storey residence on Jefferis Street, prompting a swift response from emergency services. Twenty-five firefighters arrived to find the home engulfed in flames, with the woman trapped at the rear of the property.
In an extraordinary act of quick thinking, rescue crews cut through an external wall to reach the trapped resident. This unconventional method proved successful, though the operation came at a cost: several Queensland Police officers sustained injuries while assisting with the evacuation.
Injuries and investigation at the Virginia site
The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, was treated for smoke inhalation at the scene before being transported to Prince Charles Hospital. Multiple police officers also required medical attention after their heroic efforts during the rescue.
Although firefighters extinguished the blaze by 9:33 p.m., the incident has taken a serious turn as investigators have declared the fire suspicious. Police have established a crime scene, and investigations into its cause are underway.
On the same evening, emergency services responded to another structure fire in Brisbane’s south. Just minutes before the Virginia incident, firefighters contained a blaze at an abandoned brick building on Laxton Road, Pallara. That fire was successfully extinguished by 9:50 p.m.
The proximity of these incidents has raised concerns among local residents, although authorities have not suggested any connection between the two fires.
Buckland Road in Nundah paints a compelling picture of Brisbane’s suburban evolution over nearly nine decades. Historical records from 1936 show a partially developed streetscape with several vacant lots — a stark contrast to today’s fully established residential thoroughfare.
With 75% of properties owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 9 years and 8 months, the street demonstrates strong community ties, with nearly one-third of homeowners calling Buckland Road home for over a decade. This enduring connection to the neighbourhood is particularly notable when considering early property transactions, such as the sale of 1/20 Buckland Road for $40,000 in September 1975. Below, an aerial photograph from 1936 captures a fascinating glimpse of the street’s early development, highlighting just how far this cherished Nundah address has come.
Buckland Rd, Nundah Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 449 % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 9 years and 8 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 31%
Buckland Rd, Nundah – As It Looked in 1936
Buckland Rd, Nundah in 1936
SOME RECENT SALES ON BUCKLAND RD, NUNDAH
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
258 Buckland, Nundah
$1,580,000
Nov 2024
263 Buckland, Nundah
$1,190,000
Sep 2024
16/61-75 Buckland, Nundah
$768,000
Sep 2024
2/10 Buckland, Nundah
$565,000
Sep 2024
8/58 Buckland, Nundah
$670,000
Sep 2024
4/13 Buckland, Nundah
$560,000
Sep 2024
183A Buckland, Nundah
$1,150,000
Aug 2024
12/55 Buckland, Nundah
$414,820
Aug 2024
3/15 Buckland, Nundah
$800,000
Jul 2024
12/61-75 Buckland, Nundah
$715,000
Jul 2024
510/61-75 Buckland, Nundah
$640,000
Jun 2024
405/61-75 Buckland, Nundah
$625,000
Jun 2024
3/144 Buckland, Nundah
$570,000
Jun 2024
504/61-75 Buckland, Nundah
$585,000
Jun 2024
6/49 Buckland, Nundah
$525,000
May 2024
5/144 Buckland, Nundah
$602,500
May 2024
179 Buckland, Nundah
$900,000
Apr 2024
4/49 Buckland, Nundah
$483,000
Mar 2024
3/166 Buckland, Nundah
$521,000
Feb 2024
5/13 Buckland, Nundah
$480,000
Feb 2024
259A Buckland, Nundah
$1,630,000
May 2024
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON BUCKLAND RD FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
1/20 Buckland, Nundah
$40,000
Sep 1975
1/152 Buckland, Nundah
$111,500
Sep 1978
5/40 Buckland, Nundah
$310,000
Feb 1984
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Nundah in 2024 was $700,000 The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Nundah in 2020 was $465,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM HOUSE IN NUNDAH SINCE 2020 : $235,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Nundah in 2024 was $1,034,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Nundah in 2020 was $680,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN NUNDAH SINCE 2020 : $354,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Nundah in 2024 was $1,560,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Nundah in 2020 was $950,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN NUNDAH SINCE 2020 : $354,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Nundah in 2024 was $1,825,000 The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Nundah in 2020 was $1,148,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN NUNDAH SINCE 2020 : $677,000
The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Nundah in 2024 was $470,000 The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Nundah in 2020 was $291,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 1 BEDROOM UNIT IN NUNDAH SINCE 2020 : $179,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Nundah in 2024 was $590,000 The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Nundah in 2020 was $350,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN NUNDAH SINCE 2020 : $240,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Nundah in 2024 was $778,000 The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Nundah in 2020 was $518,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN NUNDAH SINCE 2020 : $260,000
Emergency services are currently responding to a collision between a school bus and a car at the intersection of Melton Road and Masefield Street in Nundah. The incident occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. Friday during peak traffic hours.
The bus, carrying students from St Joseph’s Nudgee College, was involved in the collision, prompting immediate medical response. Paramedics are assessing 34 people at the scene, predominantly students, though initial reports indicate injuries are minor.
The crash has resulted in complete road closure at the intersection of Melton Road and Masefield Street. Police are actively diverting traffic in the area, and local authorities advise residents to expect delays. Motorists are urged to seek alternative routes during the afternoon commute.
Emergency medical teams remain on site conducting assessments of those involved. While the incident has caused significant disruption to local traffic, there are currently no reports of serious injuries among the passengers.
Local residents seeking to navigate through the area should monitor traffic updates and follow police directions. The investigation into the cause of the collision is ongoing, and authorities have yet to provide additional details.
A 26-year-old man was shot while attempting to defend himself with a samurai sword during a home invasion at Florence Street, Nundah, just after midnight on October 31. Police are searching for three to five men of African heritage in connection with the incident.
The victim suffered a non-life threatening gunshot wound to his leg and was hospitalised, while a 24-year-old woman, also present at the address, sustained minor shrapnel-type injuries.
Detective Inspector John Mison stated the attack appears to be targeted, noting the occupants had only moved to the address approximately one month ago. Police believe a shotgun-type weapon was used in the attack, which occurred outside the house.
Neighbour Jessica Schultz reported hearing a commotion followed by a loud bang. She witnessed the injured man lying on the footpath while neighbours attempted to apply pressure to his wound before ambulance arrival.
Another resident, Lillian Kennedy, awakened to the sound of a single gunshot and observed a white SUV speeding away from the scene, with someone entering the passenger side of the vehicle.
Detective Inspector Mison confirmed that while the suspects fled, nothing appears to have been taken from the home. Police are conducting door knocks and analysing CCTV footage in the surrounding area. The suspects may still be armed, and the public is advised not to approach anyone they believe might be involved.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
Hidden in plain sight lies Nudgee Cemetery, a sprawling testament to Queensland’s past. But it’s more than just rows of headstones – it’s a treasure trove of stories waiting to be uncovered. Come with us as we delve into the history and mysteries of this fascinating final resting place.
Established in 1867 as the first Catholic burial ground in the region, Nudgee Cemetery quickly became a significant landmark in Queensland’s history. Originally owned and operated by the Catholic Church, it has evolved into the largest cemetery in the Brisbane area, a sprawling tapestry of diverse stories and backgrounds.
Within its grounds lie the remains of prominent figures who shaped the state, alongside everyday individuals who contributed to its vibrant fabric. This mix of the famous and the ordinary, the grand and the humble, is part of what makes Nudgee so compelling.
Photo Credit: Google Map
But beyond the historical significance lies a deeper mystery. Nudgee has garnered a reputation as a haven for restless spirits, their presence whispered amongst those who wander its paths after sunset. These whispers, combined with the sheer age and scale of the cemetery, create an atmosphere ripe for historical exploration and paranormal investigation.
Eerie Encounters and Unexplained Phenomena
Photo Credit: Google Map
Among the most enduring tales is that of a young girl, her spectral form reportedly seen flitting amongst the tombstones. Visitors claim to have caught glimpses of her ghostly figure, moving swiftly through the shadows before vanishing into thin air. Her identity remains a mystery, adding to the intrigue surrounding her presence. Is she a lost soul, forever bound to the grounds, or a figment of overactive imaginations?
Adding to the cemetery’s spectral reputation are the strange orbs of light that have been witnessed floating above the graves. Some claim to have captured these luminous anomalies in photographs, while others describe seeing them with their own eyes. These unexplained lights, dancing in the darkness, fuel speculation about the nature of the afterlife and the possibility of spirits lingering among us.
A Place of Peace and Reflection
Photo Credit: Google Map
While the ghostly tales certainly add a layer of intrigue to Nudgee Cemetery, it’s important to remember that it is, first and foremost, a place of rest and remembrance. It’s a place where families come to honour loved ones and reflect on lives lived. The site’s historical significance, with its connections to Queensland’s past, adds another dimension to its appeal.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a paranormal investigator, or simply seeking a quiet place for contemplation, Nudgee Cemetery offers a unique experience. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine, stories are etched in stone and whispered on the wind, and the line between the living and the departed seems to blur.
Hold onto your stubby holders, Nundah! The legendary Heath Franklin, aka Chopper, is bringing his riotous stand-up show to the Royal Quarters this November, and it’s guaranteed to be wilder than a night out with the real Chopper Read.
After a sold-out tour across Australia and New Zealand, the award-winning comedian is making his first-ever Queensland appearance on this leg, and he’s ready to unleash his trademark brand of unfiltered, side-splitting humour.
But who is the man behind the menacing moustache and dark glasses? Heath Franklin first burst onto the Australian comedy scene with his hilarious impersonation of notorious criminal Mark “Chopper” Read. He honed his comedic skills on shows like The Ronnie Johns Half Hour, Spicks and Specks, and Thank God You’re Here, quickly becoming a household name for his bold and irreverent style.
Franklin, nominated for two ARIAs and a Logie, brings his unique comedic stylings to Queensland for the first time on this tour. His show promises to tackle many topics, from e-scooters and UberEats to Bluey and vegans, leaving no sacred cow unscathed.
The comedian, who has sold over half a million tickets worldwide, has received rave reviews for his performances. Critics have praised his ability to deliver “an hour of uproariously entertaining comedy” and “so wrong it’s right” moments. His latest show has been described as a “smashing” return to form, with “good gags” and plenty of laughs.
Two Nundah-based mental health programs have earned top honours at the 28th Queensland Mental Health Week Achievement Awards, highlighting their critical role in supporting families and mental health in the community.
The awards were presented during a Friday, 11 October 2024 ceremony at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event recognises outstanding contributions to mental health across the state, and both programs from Nundah stood out among a competitive pool of nominees.
Nicki Walsh Wins Jude Bugeja Lived Experience Award
Nicki Walsh, a key figure in Nundah, was recognised with the Jude Bugeja Lived Experience Award for her work as the Statewide Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Consumer Carer Coordinator at the Queensland Centre for Perinatal and Infant Mental Health (QCPIMH). This award, sponsored by the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health, honours individuals who use their own experiences to make a significant difference in the lives of others living with mental illness.
Walsh has been lauded for her efforts in connecting with families and ensuring their voices are heard, particularly in perinatal and infant mental health.
“We are proud to recognise Nicki for her authenticity and empathy which she brings to all aspects of her work. She continually challenges stigma and promotes understanding within the community,” Kate Johnson, CEO of Open Minds, remarked.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Zero to Four Family Support Service Wins Two Major Awards
The Zero to Four Family Support Service also based in Nundah, took home two prestigious awards: the Early Years Award and the overall Earle Duus Award, which recognises the top overall winner of the Queensland Mental Health Week Achievement Awards.
The service focuses on improving the wellbeing and safety of children and families, empowering parents, and preventing children from entering the statutory child protection system. Its volunteer programs aim to reduce social isolation, promote mental health, and build parental confidence.
“We are immensely proud to honour community members who play a crucial role in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of vulnerable young people in Queensland,” Ms Johnson said.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Community Impact
These awards highlight the critical work happening in Nundah and underscore the importance of community-driven mental health initiatives. The Queensland Mental Health Week Achievement Awards provide a platform for recognising local efforts that have a state-wide impact.
Both winners reflect the dedication of local mental health programs to fostering healthier futures for families and children, ensuring the Nundah community remains a supportive and nurturing environment for all.
