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.”
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Did you know that there will soon be a new, 60-bed private mental health hospital in Nundah, after plans for a mixed-use development were changed at the last minute?
The 8,523 sqm site at 20 Nellie Street in Nundah has now been earmarked for a five-storey building. The original plans included 5,000 sqm of office space and a 954 sqm childcare centre that have now been removed from amended plans submitted to Council.
If approved, the mental health hospital will serve as a sister facility to Belmont Private Hospital, operating in Carina Heights.
Original render (Photo credit: Z Architects)
The proposed hospital is expected to facilitate treatment for low-acute, voluntary in- and out-patients, with high prevalence disorders such as anxiety, depression and addiction.
Existing approval (Photo credit: Z Architects)
“The proposed 60 bed hospital and associated consulting suites forms part of a joint venture between Aurora Healthcare and Medibank, known as IMH, to deliver an innovative integrated private mental health facility that will provide additional health care offerings to aid in meeting the increasing demand for voluntary mental health services across Brisbane,” planners at Urbis stated on behalf of the applicant.
Amended plans (Photo credit: Z Architects)
“The proposed development has had consideration of the previously approved scheme under construction, and seeks to provide a revitalised outcome for the site based on tenant interest and surrounding operations,” planners added.
Photo credit: Z Architects
As part of the original approved plans by Z Architects, existing industrial sheds were to be refurbished and woven into the development, which also included building two new buildings.
The original Development Approval for a child care centre, indoor sport and recreation facility, office space, and retail shop was granted by the Council on 23 April 2020. The approved design included 185 parking spaces located at ground level and in a single basement level.
The developers noted that the proposed changes to the approved uses will not impact the already constructed built form on site, including the approved car parking, access, and servicing.
Speaking about a remarkable radio career spanning forty years, Loretta Ryan opens up about the choices she has made along the way. As she celebrates four decades on the air, Ryan reflects on the impact of those choices throughout her career.
Brisbane Radio’s Constant Companion: Forty Years of Loretta Ryan
A familiar name in Brisbane radio, Loretta Ryan has been a constant presence on the city’s airwaves for 40 years. From her early days at Radio 10 to her current role as co-host of the ABC Breakfast Show, she has witnessed the growth of both her career and the city she calls home. Ryan’s love of the medium shines through as she shares people’s stories with her listeners.
Born and raised in Brisbane, Ryan is proud of her deep connection to the city and its people. Her extensive knowledge of the city has been a huge asset in her radio career — allowing her to connect with listeners on a personal level. While some might have encouraged her to explore opportunities elsewhere, she is proud to have made her mark in her hometown.
A Twist of Fate and a Fresh Start
The sudden termination of Ryan’s role at 4BC in 2015 left her devastated. Uncertain about her future in radio, she found support from friends who helped her transition into a role at ABC. Starting anew, she began as a producer before landing the breakfast show alongside Craig Zonca. Ryan recognises that the unexpected turn of events has led her to where she is today.
Ryan’s personal life has been a journey of its own. Single and without children of her own, she cherishes her role as an aunt to six nieces and nephews. While reflecting on the absence of her own family, Ryan finds purpose in caring for her ageing mother. She acknowledges that women face societal expectations regarding marriage and motherhood, but asserts that everyone’s path is unique.
As the world rapidly evolves in the digital age, Ryan remains confident in radio’s enduring presence in the community. Reflecting on the changes she has seen — from vinyl records to digital streaming — she believes that radio will always have a place in people’s lives.
With her love of storytelling, Loretta Ryan has certainly left an indelible mark on Brisbane’s airwaves.
He’s a 26-year-old sparky who’s played five-eighth, hooker and lock for the Norths Devils and his versatility has been a big reason for a remarkable rise that has led to an international call-up for PNG and just last week, his 50th 1st grade game for the Devils.
Born in Port Moresby but raised in Australia, Liam Horne made his first grade debut in 2019 against the Tweed Seagulls; was part of the 2021 Intrust Super Cup Premiership Winners; and last year, ran out in the Pacific Test against Fiji.
It all started when he began playing for the Norths Devils Juniors at the age of 10, collecting trophies with the Colts and the Under 18s on the way to making first grade.
From Borrowed Boots to First Grade
Reflecting on his debut against Tweed four years ago, Horne remembers that day as one that took an unexpected turn. Expecting to watch from the bench, Horne lent his boots to former junior teammate David Fauid.
After an injury to Michael Sio during the warm-up, he found himself thrust into action. Borrowing boots from a Colts player, he battled through the relentless rain despite Tweed dominating the game.
Known for his tenacity and powerful running style, Horne gained a reputation as one of the toughest runners in the competition, despite his modest 90-kg frame.
His tireless efforts have resulted in eight tries this season, catching the eye of Papua New Guinea selectors and earning him a crack at the international scene.
Horne also played a pivotal role in the Devils’ 2022 title repeat. Playing a standout game in the Grand Final against Redcliffe, he was a vital part of one of the team’s three tries during their 16-10 victory.
Horne admits that he has also had to cultivate self-belief to establish himself as a regular first-grader. He now aspires to secure a full-time role within an NRL squad, training with the Brisbane Broncos during the previous offseason.
As Devils junior Liam Horne celebrates his half-century, his journey from borrowed boots to a key player on the team is a testament to his determination and passion for his sport.
Expressing gratitude to everyone who has contributed to his development as a player, Horne acknowledged the club’s support and guidance throughout his career.
