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Tributes Flow for Victim of Kedron Brook Bikeway Tragedy

Family and friends are mourning the loss of Kerri Clevens, a much-loved woman who tragically died on the Kedron Brook bikeway on 24 March.

Read: Incident on Perry Street Leaves Cyclist In Critical Condition

Kerri, known affectionately as ‘Aunty Kerri’, is believed to have passed away after falling and sustaining fatal injury while trying to retrieve a dropped water bottle at the bikeway. However, it was not clear how she was injured. Local authorities considered her death “non-suspicious.”

Described by loved ones as a warm and generous soul, Kerri’s passing has left a deep void in the hearts of many. Her niece Jacqueline shared a heartfelt tribute online as the family launched a fundraiser to help cover funeral expenses and give Kerri the honourable farewell she deserves.

“Aunty Kerri was an incredible person who touched the lives of everyone she met,” Jacqueline wrote. “She was always so thoughtful, kind and giving. She always had gifts & shared what she had—and if she didn’t have it, she would find a way to get it and give it.”

Those closest to Kerri say she was known for her big heart and the way she made time for everyone around her. Whether it was a warm smile, a helping hand, or a small thoughtful gesture, she made a lasting impact on people from all walks of life.

“She will be missed dearly,” Jacqueline said. “There are no words or time that could ever compensate for the love and kindness that woman shared. So let’s dig down and help support the family and give this beautiful woman a send-off she truly deserves.”

Read: Intersection in Kedron a Fines Frenzy with 700+ Notices

Kerri’s funeral service will be held on 16 April at Our Lady of Fatima Church, 350 Mortimer Road, Acacia Ridge. All who knew her are welcome to attend and celebrate a life so well lived.

Published 6-April-2025

Alderley Residents Demand Better Lighting in Grinstead Park

Grinstead Park in Alderley is a well-loved green space, serving as a key link for pedestrians and cyclists accessing major transport routes. However, as the sun sets, this bustling thoroughfare becomes a source of concern for local residents due to a lack of adequate lighting.

Read: Incident on Perry Street Leaves Cyclist In Critical Condition

For years, community members have raised the alarm about poor visibility along the pathways, particularly for those using the park to reach the 345 bus stop—one of the main transit connections to the city. With limited streetlights, sections of the park become shrouded in darkness, making it an intimidating route for evening commuters, cyclists, and families.

The issue extends beyond mere inconvenience; it is a matter of public safety. Residents report feeling uneasy traversing the park after dark, and with crime rates on the rise, the lack of lighting increases the risk of potential incidents. Vulnerable members of the community, including elderly residents, women, and young people, are particularly affected.

Grinstead Park — Photo credit: Liam Crowe/Google Maps

Adding to the frustration, a long-standing issue with inoperative lights between Stafford City Shopping Centre and Royal Parade remains unresolved, despite repeated reports to the Council and Energex. The continued neglect of these vital pedestrian routes raises concerns about the priority given to community safety and accessibility.

Residents are now calling for urgent action. An e-petition has been launched demanding immediate repairs to the faulty lights and a clear, transparent plan for additional lighting installations throughout Grinstead Park and the Kedron Brook corridor. Petitioners argue that well-lit public spaces are essential for ensuring safe access to transport options, recreational areas, and community services.

“We wish to have communicated to the community, an action plan for the installation and maintenance of additional lighting through parks within Alderley and the Kedron Brook that outlines dates of implementation and locations,” Julianne, the principal petitioner wrote.

The concerned citizens hope their voices will be heard. As the petition gains traction, they are pushing for the council to take responsibility and deliver a timely solution. Until then, residents remain wary of navigating the darkness, hoping for change before another preventable incident occurs.

Read: North Residents to Face Major Traffic Changes with $10-B Gympie Road Tunnel Plan

Brisbane’s suburban parks should be spaces of leisure and connectivity—not fear. The community’s plea for lighting upgrades is not just about visibility; it’s about fostering a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone who calls Alderley home.

Published 31-March-2025

Woman’s Death on Kedron Brook Bikeway Likely Accidental, Police Report

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

A woman’s death on the popular Kedron Brook Bikeway in Lutwyche last week may have resulted from an accidental fall while retrieving a dropped water bottle, according to Queensland Police.

The body of the woman, identified only as being in her 50s and referred to in memorial tributes as “Kerri,” was discovered by a passerby at approximately 5:40 a.m. on Monday, March 24. Emergency services were called to the scene, but the woman was declared dead upon their arrival.

“Initial investigations suggest that the woman may have been attempting to retrieve a dropped water bottle when she fell and sustained a fatal injury,” a Queensland Police Service spokeswoman confirmed on Tuesday. The exact circumstances of the fall, including the height and specific injuries sustained, have not been disclosed.

A makeshift memorial has appeared at the site, with red and orange flowers lining the barrier alongside coloured balloons bearing messages including “love you Nan Kerri,” “love you,” and “fly high momma K” written directly on the railing.

Following the discovery, temporary orange fencing was installed on both sides of the bikeway, which was closed while police conducted their investigation. By Tuesday night, the temporary fencing had been removed, with permanent railings now blocking direct access to the brook.

The Brisbane City Council has declined to comment on questions regarding the condition of the barriers before the incident, citing the ongoing police investigation. Police have stated they will prepare a report for the coroner, and the death is being treated as non-suspicious.

The Kedron Brook Bikeway, which connects several northern Brisbane suburbs, is a popular route for cyclists, joggers, and pedestrians in the area.

Published 25-March-2025

School Catchment Property Prices Soar—Why Stafford is Still a Smart Buy

For families looking to secure a spot in one of Brisbane’s top school catchments without breaking the bank, Stafford is emerging as a viable option. Stafford offers one of the most affordable entry points into highly ranked school zones, with a typical three-bedroom house in the Kedron State High School catchment costing around $1.1 million.

Read: Then and Now: Waldheim, the Stephen Family’s Homestead in Annerley

Rising Property Prices in Top School Zones

New research from property firm PRD highlights the growing financial challenge of buying in Brisbane’s best-performing school areas.

The data reveals that nearly all suburbs within the top 10 school catchments now have median house prices exceeding $1 million, with some surpassing $2 million. As demand continues to rise and housing supply remains constrained, affordability in these areas is expected to decline further.

The Importance of School Catchments for Buyers

Families prioritising education are facing tough choices. Many are willing to pay a premium to secure a home in a sought-after school catchment, recognising the long-term benefits of quality education for their children. However, the increasing price tags mean that buyers must either stretch their budgets or explore alternative property options such as units.

Stafford stands out as an entry point for those seeking affordability without compromising on school quality. While the median house price remains high, units in the area provide a more accessible option. For families unable to afford a standalone house, purchasing a unit could be a strategic move to gain access to Kedron State High and other reputable schools.

Read: Street Spotlight: Mitchell St, Kedron

Market trends suggest that the affordability window may not remain open for long. As more buyers look to Stafford as a cost-effective solution, property prices are likely to rise. Those considering purchasing in the area may need to act quickly before the market shifts further out of reach.

With Brisbane’s property market continuing to evolve, Stafford presents a rare opportunity for families to invest in a top school catchment without spending millions. As demand increases, securing a home in this suburb could be a smart long-term investment for families focused on education and future growth.

Published 22-March-2025

Kedron Emergency Hub Expansion Aims to Ease Strain on QLD’s Ambulances

Photo Credit: Queensland Ambulance Service/ Facebook

The Kedron Emergency Services Complex will expand its 24/7 Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) Clinical Hub by $8.31 million, designed to redirect up to 1,700 daily patient interactions away from overstretched emergency services.

The $8.31-million expansion will increase the hub’s capacity to handle calls and direct patients to appropriate care. The initiative, which began in 2020, aims to relieve pressure on ambulances and emergency departments across the state. It has been deemed necessary to manage the increasing demand for emergency services better.

Expanded Services and Staffing

Kedron Emergency Hub Expansion Aims to Ease Strain on QLD's Ambulances — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Ambulance Service/ Facebook*

The QAS Clinical Hub, located within the Kedron complex, operates with a team of senior paramedics, specialist doctors, registered nurses, mental health and social workers, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists. The expansion will increase the number of desks from 30 to 66, allowing more staff to manage the high volume of calls.

The hub’s primary function is to triage Triple Zero (000) calls and determine the most suitable care pathway for each patient. This may involve dispatching specialised units, such as falls referral teams or mental health co-responders, or connecting patients with telehealth services. The additional funding will also improve the hub’s telehealth capabilities.

Focus on Timely and Appropriate Care

The expansion aims to ensure patients receive the right care at the right time. The hub frees up resources for those who require immediate, life-saving assistance by diverting non-emergency calls away from ambulances and emergency departments. The hub monitors patients through telehealth and can escalate responses if a patient’s condition deteriorates.

The government has highlighted the importance of this expansion in improving the overall efficiency of the Queensland health system. This investment will help ensure that ambulances are available for genuine emergencies and that emergency departments are not overwhelmed with non-critical cases.

Construction and Future Plans

Construction has begun at the Kedron Emergency Services Complex, with BADGE awarded the tender for the expansion. The existing QAS Clinical Hub will be refurbished to provide additional offices and training spaces. The government has said this expansion is part of a broader plan to improve access to healthcare services across Queensland.

Published Date 18-March-2025

Hardship Assistance Grants Now Open as Brisbane Recovers from Severe Weather

Residents of Kedron affected by flooding caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred can now apply for financial assistance to support their recovery. This comes after Queensland has activated the Personal Hardship Assistance Grant to help those impacted by the severe weather event, which has left homes and public spaces damaged.

Read: Cyclone Alfred Aftermath: North Brisbane Underwater as Kedron Brook Swells

Assistance for Affected Residents

The Emergency Hardship Assistance Grant, one of the grants offered, provides $180 for individuals and up to $900 for families of five or more. This grant is designed to cover essential needs such as food, clothing, and medicine for those facing immediate hardship.

The Essential Services Hardship Assistance Grant is available for residents who have lost access to essential services like power, gas, water, or sewage for more than five days. This grant provides $150 for individuals and up to $750 for families of five or more.

Other available support includes the Household Contents Grant, which helps uninsured residents replace damaged household items, including white goods and linen; and the Structural Assistance Grant provides income-tested support for uninsured residents to reconnect essential services or carry out structural repairs to make their homes safe.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s Impact on Kedron

Kedron Brook, which spans over 110 square kilometres and runs through multiple Brisbane suburbs, burst its banks during Cyclone Alfred, flooding homes, roads, and sporting fields across North Brisbane. Emergency crews remain on high alert as they monitor water levels and work to prevent further damage.

hardship assistance — Photo credit: Sharon Rowley/Facebook

The flooding followed days of relentless rainfall, with more than 400mm recorded in the region. While much of the immediate crisis has passed, Kedron residents are now focused on cleaning up. Many properties are clearing fallen trees from backyards, and debris, mud, and branches remain scattered along footpaths and car parks. Despite this, businesses have resumed normal operations, and local events such as the Kedron Park Run proceeded as scheduled on March 15.

Read: Street Spotlight: St Clair St, Kedron

How to Apply

Eligible Kedron residents can apply for personal hardship assistance online at www.qld.gov.au or call the 24/7 Queensland Community Recovery Hotline at 1800 173 349. Residents are encouraged to apply promptly to access the support needed for their recovery.

Published 15-March-2025

Bella & Tortie: A Stafford Cult Bakery Selling Out in Hours

Photo Credit: Bella & Tortie

A small bakery tucked away in Stafford has gained a cult following, with customers travelling across Brisbane to get their hands on its coveted pastries. Bella & Tortie, operating only on Fridays and Saturdays, consistently sells out within hours, making it one of the city’s most exclusive food destinations.

A Bakery Born from Passion and Perseverance

Bella & Tortie was founded by pastry chef Suzi Unwin in 2018. It started as a humble market stall with an online store. Demand for her baked goods rapidly grew. This led to wholesale supply partnerships with popular Brisbane cafes. By November 2019, Ms Unwin opened her first shopfront in Grange. She employed a team of four pastry chefs, one apprentice, and six retail assistants.

However, the rapid expansion came with challenges. The bakery faced difficulties during COVID-19. Staff shortages, and global supply chain disruptions prompted Ms Unwin to close the Grange store in December 2022. She later revived Bella & Tortie in Stafford, focusing on a more sustainable approach to business.

Stafford bakery — *Photo Credit: Bella & Tortie*

Stafford’s Best-Kept Secret with a Limited Window

Located at 12/240 Stafford Road, Stafford Central, Bella & Tortie operates just two mornings weekly. The bakery opens from 7:30 a.m. to midday on Fridays and Saturdays, or until sold out.

Visitors can enjoy their pastries at picnic-style tables. They can also order coffee from the neighbouring café, Papa’s Corner, via QR codes provided at the seating area. However, some customers prefer to take their baked goods to a nearby park for a quieter dining experience.

Stafford pastry shops — *Photo Credit: Bella & Tortie*

Menu Highlights That Keep Customers Coming Back

Bella & Tortie’s rotating menu offers an array of meticulously crafted pastries and savouries, changing each week. Some standout items from the recent menu include:

Choux au Craquelin – Hazelnut praline, espresso caramel, and espresso mousse.
Matcha Yuzu Chiffon – A soft matcha chiffon cake with yuzu curd and matcha cream.
Sausage Rolls – Featuring pork, prawn, and water chestnut; beef, mushroom, and thyme; and pork, fennel, and apple options.
Strawberry & Rhubarb Trifle – Layers of vanilla custard pannacotta, compote, sponge, and mascarpone cream.
Quiches – Flavours such as mushroom, leek, and parmesan; caramelised onion and goat cheese; and maple bacon with semi-dried tomato.
Smoked Beef Brisket Pie – Made with jalapeños, pickles, and cheese, using locally sourced meat.
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies – A permanent menu staple.
Russian Honey Cake – A delicately layered dessert.

Bella & Tortie maintains its reputation for high-end, handcrafted pastries that draw food lovers across the city.

A Bakery That Sells Out in Hours

Bella & Tortie’s limited operating hours contribute to its exclusivity. Many items are selling out quickly. Customers often arrive early to secure their favourites. Others visit Stafford purely for the experience.

For owner Suzi Unwin, the bakery’s relaunch has been a lesson in balance. It has allowed her to continue her passion for baking while maintaining a sustainable approach to business. With a dedicated fanbase and a weekly menu, Bella & Tortie remains one of Brisbane’s most sought-after bakery experiences.

Published 14-Mar-2025

Cyclone Alfred Aftermath: North Brisbane Underwater as Kedron Brook Swells

Photo Credit: Russell Parry/Facebook

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is a developing story. Last update: 10 March 2025 12:00 p.m.

Kedron Brook has burst its banks, flooding homes, roads, and sporting fields across North Brisbane, leaving communities bracing for further damage. Streets have turned into waterways, and backyards are submerged as emergency crews work to monitor rising water levels. The heavy flooding follows days of relentless rainfall brought by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which has dumped more than 400mm of rain on the region.

Widespread Impact Across Kedron and Surrounding Suburbs

The Kedron Brook catchment spans over 110 square kilometres, running through suburbs such as Mitchelton, Everton Park, Lutwyche, Kedron, and Nundah. The overflow has affected several key areas, including Montrose Street Bridge in Gordon Park, where floodwaters have cut off roads, and Windsor, where parts of Homezone and Noble Street are underwater. Footage shared by residents shows Downey Park in Windsor resembling a river, with water creeping towards nearby properties.

Kedron Brook Overflow Damage Local Sporting Clubs

The flooding has dealt a heavy blow to local sporting clubs, some of which are still recovering from Brisbane’s devastating 2022 floods. Norths Rugby Club in Wavell Heights is facing an estimated $50,000 in potential damages, as water levels have reached the crossbar of the goalposts at Hugh Courtney Oval.

In Mitchelton, the football club has warned locals to stay off their waterlogged fields after children were seen boogie boarding through the flooded grounds. Club representatives expressed frustration, stating that the damage could cost “hundreds of thousands of dollars” in repairs.

Residents Rally as Recovery Efforts Begin

Despite the destruction, community members are stepping up to help those in need. Locals have been seen assisting neighbours with sandbags and offering shelter to those forced to leave their homes. Social media posts from the area show streets lined with residents assessing the damage and working together to protect their properties.

Authorities continue to stress the importance of staying out of floodwaters due to hidden dangers, including fast-moving currents and potential contamination. Residents are encouraged to monitor updates from Brisbane City Council and the Bureau of Meteorology for the latest flood warnings and recovery plans.

Evacuation Centres Open for Residents Affected by Flooding

Updated: 10 March 2025

Brisbane City Council has opened evacuation centres for residents needing to leave their homes due to flooding.

Evacuation Centres Now Open:

Sleeman Sports Complex (Chandler Arena) – 757 Tilley Road, Chandler, 4155 (access via Old Cleveland Road, Car Park 3)
Kedron Wavell Services Club – 21 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside, 4032
Community-led Evacuation Centre: Riverlife Community Centre – 47 Jennifer Street, Seventeen Mile Rocks, 4073

Safety Reminders:

Check alerts and road conditions before evacuating.
Leave early and avoid driving through floodwaters.
If stopping, avoid parking near trees, creeks, or drains.

What to Bring:

Essential items – mobile phone, charger, spare clothing, toiletries, towel, important documents (e.g., insurance papers, passports, medical prescriptions).
Medication and infant supplies – formula, nappies, or any special medical needs.
Bedding – pillows and blankets are recommended.
Before leaving: Inform neighbours, turn off electricity and gas, and lock your home.

Pet Guidelines:

Sleeman Sports Complex & Riverlife Community Centre – Pets allowed but must be crated, leashed, and securely transported. Owners must bring food and litter trays.
Kedron Wavell Services Club – No pets allowed, except for registered service animals.

Council continues to monitor the situation and will provide updates. For more information, visit the Council’s emergency dashboard or call Brisbane City Council on 3403 8888.

Brisbane Council Service Updates Following Cyclone Alfred

Updated: 10 March 10:00 a.m.

Council has adjusted its services and facility operations due to Alfred’s impact.

Closures Until Further Notice:

Cemeteries, City Hall, Community Halls, Libraries, Pools, and Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
Five Council Customer Service Centres (North & South Regional Business Centres, Indooroopilly, Carindale, Brisbane Square)
Golf Courses and Off-Street Parking (King George Square & Wickham Terrace)
Mountain bike tracks at Gap Creek and Mt Coot-tha Reserve
All Council-run playground water play areas
CityCat, KittyCat, and most bus services
Story Bridge footpaths

Service Suspensions:

Brisbane Greeter tours, Immunisation Clinics, Active & Healthy classes (until 11 March)
Visible Ink youth hub (until 11 March)
Council Cabs and Personalised Public Transport services
Kerbside large item collection and bin repair services

Open Facilities & Services:

Chandler and Ferny Grove Resource Recovery Centres (offering free green waste drop-off)
Regular bin collections (yellow and green bins resume 10 March)

For more information, visit brisbane.qld.gov.au or call 07 3403 8888. For public transport updates, visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30. Traffic information is available at QLDtraffic.qld.gov.au or 13 19 40.

Incident on Perry Street Leaves Cyclist In Critical Condition

Photo Credit: bertknot

On February 28, 2025, a serious incident occurred on Perry Street in Lutwyche, leaving a cyclist in his 50s in critical condition.

Incident Location

The accident took place on Perry Street in Lutwyche, with emergency services responding to the scene just before 11:00 AM. The precise location highlights a potential safety concern for local cyclists in this suburban area.

Medical Emergency

Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) reported that the cyclist suffered a significant head injury after coming off his bike and striking a light pole. The cyclist was immediately transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in a life-threatening condition.

Published 28-February-2025

Shoppers Surprised as Kmart Rolls Out Coin-Operated Trolleys in Stafford

Photo Credit: Project Strategies Australia

Shoppers in Stafford have been caught off guard by Kmart’s introduction of coin-operated trolleys. These trolleys require a $1 or $2 coin to unlock, a move to reduce trolley abandonment and theft.

Background: Why the Change?

Kmart has begun rolling out coin-operated trolleys at select stores across Queensland, including Stafford, Capalaba, and North Lakes. The change is in response to shopping centres and councils implementing stricter trolley containment measures.

A key factor behind this decision is the growing issue of abandoned trolleys in public spaces, with retailers facing ongoing complaints and costs associated with retrieving them. Reports suggest that approximately a third of Kmart stores in Queensland now have locked trolleys.

How the System Works

The new system requires customers to insert a $1 or $2 coin to unlock a trolley. The coin is refunded once the trolley is returned to the designated bay inside the store. While Kmart’s system mirrors Aldi’s, it remains a relatively new concept for shoppers at the retail giant.

In response to concerns, Kmart has installed signs in affected stores to notify customers of the change. A spokesperson has confirmed that there are no immediate plans for a nationwide rollout, with implementation occurring on a case-by-case basis.

Mixed Reactions from Shoppers

While some customers see the move as a positive step toward preventing trolley misuse, others argue that it creates unnecessary inconvenience, particularly in an increasingly cashless society.

A shopper from Hamilton voiced her frustration after visiting a Brisbane Kmart store without any coins. She said she had to go home, change, and have a frustrated return.

Meanwhile, a shopper from Ferny Hills found a workaround using her Aldi trolley token. Some Stafford shoppers have bypassed the issue entirely, using trolleys from nearby supermarkets instead.

Addressing Trolley Abandonment

The introduction of coin-operated trolleys aims to reduce the number of abandoned carts left in car parks and public areas. Some residents have welcomed the change, arguing that it will encourage shoppers to return trolleys properly.

However, others have criticised the lack of trolley bays in car parks, which forces customers to return trolleys inside the store. Shoppers with mobility issues have raised accessibility concerns.

Future Implications

As Kmart continues to trial the system, customer feedback may determine whether coin-operated trolleys expand further. Stafford shoppers must carry spare change—or an Aldi token—to access a trolley.

Abandoned trolleys can be reported to Kmart’s hotline at 1800 876 553 and are expected to be retrieved within 24 hours.

Published 27-Feb-2025