Contro Wellness: Lutwyche Residents Embrace New Private Wellness Experience

Lutwyche locals now have access to a unique wellness experience with the opening of Contro Wellness, a bathhouse offering private treatment rooms.



Located at 488 Lutwyche Road, Contro Wellness provides services designed to help people relax and rejuvenate in their own space. This Mediterranean-inspired facility is just 13 minutes north of Brisbane’s city centre, making it a convenient option for those seeking a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

A Variety of Therapies

Contro Wellness
Photo Credit: Contro Wellness

It offers a wide range of treatments to suit individual needs.  The bathhouse has traditional and infrared saunas for those seeking traditional heat therapy. Infrared saunas use light to heat the body directly, which some believe promotes deeper relaxation and improved circulation.  

The facility also offers contrast therapy, in which clients alternate between a sauna’s heat and an ice bath’s cold. This practice is said to stimulate circulation and reduce inflammation.

Beyond Saunas

Contro Wellness
Photo Credit: Contro Wellness

Contro Wellness also provides float therapy in open tanks and pods if you want something different. Float therapy involves floating weightlessly in a sensory deprivation environment, which can help reduce stress and improve mental clarity.  

Other services include mineral soaks, steam rooms, red light, and massage therapy. Mineral soaks are designed to detoxify the body and improve skin health, while red light therapy is believed to enhance healing and stimulate regeneration.

Affordable Wellness

Contro Wellness
Photo Credit: Contro Wellness

It aims to make wellness accessible to everyone, with sessions starting at just $45.  The bathhouse also offers discounts for those who bring a friend or purchase a multi-pack of sessions.  All necessary amenities, such as towels, robes, and slippers, are provided. Clients are encouraged to bring comfortable clothing after their session; swimwear is optional for float therapy.



Booking and Payment

Bookings can be made online through the Contro Wellness website or by calling 0423 257 517. 

Published Date 22-Jan-2025

Street Spotlight: Dorrigo St, Kedron

Dorrigo Street in Kedron stands as a testament to Brisbane’s evolving suburban landscape, transforming from undeveloped land in 1936 to a close-knit residential community. Historical aerial imagery from 1936 reveals that while Turner Road and Scott Street were already taking shape, Dorrigo Street was yet to emerge from the growing neighborhood.



The street’s strong sense of community is evident in its impressive 80% owner-occupier rate, with residents choosing to call Dorrigo Street home for an average of 17 years and 3 months. This dedication to the area is further highlighted by the fact that 67% of residents have lived there for over a decade. Property records provide fascinating insights into the area’s growth, with one notable example being 96 Dorrigo Street, which changed hands for $105,000 in August 1991 – a figure that reflects just how far the suburb’s property values have come.

Dorrigo St, Kedron Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 17
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 80%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 17 years, 3 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 67%

Dorrigo St, Kedron – As It Looked in 1936

Dorrigo St, Kedron in 1936


SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON DORRIGO ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
96 Dorrigo Street, Kedron$105,000Aug 1991
88 Dorrigo Street, Kedron$110,500Feb 1995
90 Dorrigo Street, Kedron$128,717Jun 1997

SUBURB PROFILE 

The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,085,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $630,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2-BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $455,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,200,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $719,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $481,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,443,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $850,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $593,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $2,035,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $1,287,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $748,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2024 was $579,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2020 was $333,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $246,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2024 was $765,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2020 was $535,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $230,000



If you know Dorrigo St, Kedron well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

St Carthage’s School: A Gordon Park Landmark with a Rich History

St Carthage’s School in Gordon Park stands as a testament to time, weaving a rich tapestry of history, faith, and community spirit. Constructed in 1929, this enduring establishment has long served the dual role of church and school, playing a pivotal part in shaping the suburb’s identity.



Brisbane’s Catholic community was fast growing in the vibrant late 1920s. With his great foresight, Archbishop James Duhig saw Gordon Park needed a new parish.

His announcement of St Carthage’s came as a surprise to many locals, who questioned whether the burgeoning suburb could sustain such an ambitious project.

The first priest of the parish, Father John McCarthy took the lead and the construction started quickly. The foundation stone was laid by July 1929, and by November the elegant Georgian Revival building, designed by architect J.P. Donoghue, stood ready.

This two-storey brick structure, with its school on the ground floor and church above, became a symbol of hope and resilience.

Photo Caption: St Carthage’s Catholic Church (the building that the school was within), 1998
Photo Credit: Brisbane Wiki

Architectural and Cultural Significance

St Carthage’s School quickly emerged as a hub for education and worship. The Sisters of Mercy, travelling daily from Wooloowin’s Holy Cross Convent, ran the school, which opened in July 1930 with just 29 students. By year’s end, enrolments had swelled to 79, reflecting the community’s growing trust and reliance on the institution.

Newspaper clippings capturing St Carthage's School students proudly receiving awards for their achievements.
Photo Caption: Newspaper clippings capturing St Carthage’s School students proudly receiving awards for their achievements.
Photo Credit: Brendan Sammon/Facebook

During the challenging years of the Great Depression, unemployed parish men levelled the rugged school grounds, transforming them into a communal space of unity and purpose. For many families, the school provided not just education but also a sanctuary of stability and spiritual growth.

Deeply resonant with the Catholic community, the building itself, a classic example of Georgian Revival architecture, radiated permanency and tradition with its symmetrical design, terracotta tile roofing, and face brick walls.

 Inside St Carthage church, Oct 1972
Photo Caption: Inside St Carthage church, Oct 1972
Photo Credit: Bernadette Breaker/Facebook

Growth and Changes Over the Decades

St Carthage evolved over the years from a mere educational institution to a cultural pulse. The school strengthened the ties between the parish and the larger community by organising events including concerts, fundraisers, and community meetings.

A new church and presbytery were constructed by the 1960s to serve the growing congregation, so enabling the school to widen its educational emphasis.

St Carthage School fete (1975)
Photo Caption: St Carthage School fete (1975)
Photo Credit: Kg Boggy/Facebook

However, by the 1970s, demographic shifts led to a decline in student numbers. Suburban sprawl and changes in population density meant fewer local enrolments.

In 1975, the appointment of a lay principal marked broader changes in Catholic education across Brisbane. Despite the dedicated efforts of staff and community, financial constraints and low enrolment led to the school’s closure in 1976.

Former students of St Carthage's School (1970)
Photo Caption: Former students of St Carthage’s School (1970)
Photo Credit: Greg Kelly/Facebook

Community Sentiment and Preservation Efforts

The end of St Carthage’s as a school did not diminish its role within the community. The building found new life as a youth centre, hosting social events and indoor sports. Former students and parishioners fondly remember the friendships forged and the invaluable lessons learned within its walls.

In recent years, local heritage organisations have championed the preservation of St Carthage’s, focusing on maintaining its structure and repurposing it for community use. Residents remain passionate advocates for its conservation, ensuring it remains a cherished landmark in Gordon Park.



St Carthage is still a lighthouse of history and community spirit even though it is no longer a school. Its legacy lasts, safeguarded and appreciated by those who see its importance. St Carthage’s future resides in constant preservation and adaptive reuse, so guaranteeing that its story will inspire next generations. 

Published 20-Jan-2025

A Marksman Remembered: Billy Sing and His Extraordinary Legacy

William “Billy” Sing, one of Australia’s most celebrated ANZAC snipers during World War I, rests in Lutwyche Cemetery. His incredible bravery and skill on the battlefield have made his life a fascinating chapter in the nation’s history. Let’s take a moment to look back at the life of an extraordinary Australian hero whose remarkable story is etched into the history of Brisbane. 


Read: The Stafford Ambush: The Crime Scene That Changed Queensland’s Forensics Forever


Born in 1886 to a Chinese father and English mother, Billy grew up in rural Queensland, learning to ride horses and shoot with remarkable skill. Life in the countryside was challenging, and from an early age, Billy assisted his parents with their market garden and milk delivery business.

Photo credit: Australian War Memorial/ awm.gov.au

When war broke out in 1914, he enlisted in the 5th Light Horse Regiment. Retired Major General Darryl Low Choy, patron of the Australian Chinese Ex-Servicemen’s National Reunion, noted that during a predominantly white Anglo-Saxon era, First World War regulations required servicemen to be of substantial European descent. Despite this, Billy Sing enlisted, fully aware his half-Chinese heritage might bar him. However, once in the Army, his origins no longer mattered.

Billy Sing
Soldiers of the 5th Light Horse Regiment, Queensland, ca 1915 Photo credit: State Library of Queensland

He soon earned a fearsome reputation at Gallipoli. Nicknamed “The Assassin,” Billy was credited with over 200 confirmed kills, a feat that garnered him fame across Australia and the world. His incredible marksmanship protected countless lives during the brutal campaign.

Warfare on the Western Front differed greatly from that at Gallipoli, and it’s unlikely that Billy spent much time on the battlefield as a sniper. Even so, his expertise remained valuable. In 1917, he was nominated—though not awarded—the Military Medal for leading an anti-sniper fighting patrol at Polygon Wood in Belgium.

Photo credit: Australian War Memorial/ awm.gov.au

Billy’s contributions earned him numerous awards, including the Distinguished Conduct Medal and the Belgian Croix de Guerre. But his post-war years were far less kind. Health problems, financial struggles, and personal setbacks marked his later life, and he moved to Brisbane to be near family.

Billy Sing
Billy Sing’s medals on display at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra (Photo credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Abraham, B.S./Wikimedia Commons)

In 1943, Billy passed away at age 57, his wartime glory long forgotten by many. Today, his grave at Lutwyche Cemetery stands as a tribute to his incredible wartime achievements, with an inscription that honours his life-saving skill as a sniper:

His incredible accuracy contributed greatly to the preservation of the lives of those with whom he served during a war always remembered for countless acts of valour and tragic carnage.

Billy Sing
Billy Sing’s monument at Lutwyche Cemetery (Photo credit: CC-BY-SA-4.0/ Q8682/ Wikimedia Commons)

Read: A Look Back at Kedron’s Cinematic Legacy: The WinterGarden Theatre


Next time you visit Lutwyche Cemetery, take a moment to find Billy Sing’s resting place and reflect on the legacy of this remarkable figure. His story serves as a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by ordinary Australians.

Published 20-January-2025

Street Spotlight: Leckie Rd, Kedron

Leckie Road in Kedron stands as a testament to Brisbane’s suburban evolution, with historical roots tracing back to 1936 when numerous empty lots awaited development.



The street’s property landscape reflects a strong sense of community, with 75% owner occupancy and residents averaging nearly a decade of tenure. A notable historical tidbit reveals that 20 Leckie Road changed hands in September 1988 for $290,000, capturing a snapshot of the area’s real estate trajectory. Today, with 37% of residents having established long-term connections of 10+ years or more, Leckie Road embodies the enduring character of this established Kedron neighbourhood.

Leckie Rd, Kedron Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 171
% OF OWNER-OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 9 years, 7 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 37%

Leckie Rd, Kedron – As It Looked in 1946

Leckie Rd, Kedron in 1946


SOME RECENT SALES ON LECKIE RD, KEDRON

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
30 Leckie Road, Kedron$1,135,000Apr 2024
62 Leckie Road, Kedron$1,435,000Apr 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON LECKIE RD FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
20 Leckie Road, Kedron$290,000Sep 1988
2/106 Leckie Road, Kedron$89,000Nov 1989
94 Leckie Road, Kedron$130,000Aug 1991

SUBURB PROFILE 

The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,085,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $630,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2-BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $455,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,200,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $719,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $481,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,443,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $850,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $593,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $2,035,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $1,287,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $748,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2024 was $579,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2020 was $333,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $246,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2024 was $765,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2020 was $535,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $230,000



If you know Leckie Rd, Kedron well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

The Stafford Ambush: The Crime Scene That Changed Queensland’s Forensics Forever

In the quiet suburb of Stafford, a chilling event would forever be etched in local history as the setting of one of the most perplexing crimes.



In 1971, what initially appeared to be an unfortunate roadside accident quickly unravelled into a calculated murder, meticulously staged with fruit boxes as bait. The events that unfolded on Shand Street not only shook the local community but also showcased the growing sophistication of forensic investigation in Australia.

The Scene on Shand Street

It was an ordinary day in Stafford when the body of Jack Henry Cooper, a trusted employee of the National Hotel, was discovered near his vehicle amidst scattered timber fruit boxes.

Jack Henry Cooper worked at the National Hotel in New Farm
Photo Credit: Alan Ketley/Old Brisbane/Facebook

At first glance, it seemed as though Mr Cooper’s vehicle had swerved to avoid the obstruction, resulting in his untimely demise. However, sharp-eyed investigators quickly identified inconsistencies—spent bullet shells near the body, entry wounds inconsistent with an accident, and the deliberate arrangement of the fruit boxes.

The Queensland Police Scientific Section stepped in, meticulously reconstructing the scene. Their findings painted a chilling picture: the fruit boxes were not carelessly strewn about but strategically placed to force Mr Cooper to stop his vehicle. The crime scene reconstruction also demonstrated that a single person could have dragged Mr Cooper’s lifeless body into position, dismissing earlier suspicions of multiple perpetrators.

Re-enactment in Stafford
Photo Credit: myPolice Museum/QPS

A Key Witness and a Breakthrough

While investigators pieced together the physical evidence, a breakthrough came from an unlikely source. A New Farm resident reported seeing a man removing fruit boxes from the New Farm Fruit and Vegetable Market the night before the crime. This seemingly innocuous detail turned out to be the thread that unraveled the case.

Ballistics experts identified a .22 calibre rimfire Armalite auto-loading rifle, modified with a silencer, as the weapon used in the murder. The sophistication of the modification spoke to premeditation and cold precision.

The Motive: Greed and Desperation

As the net closed in, suspicion fell on Donald John Maher, a Brisbane printing business owner who was drowning in financial ruin. Investigations revealed that Mr Maher was aware of significant funds being held at the National Hotel and had hatched a plan to ambush Mr Cooper, believing he carried the keys to the hotel’s safe.

However, on 26 September 1971, it was the assistant manager’s turn to hold the safe’s key, which would have contained approximately $16,000. Mr Maher’s plan was foiled when Mr Cooper did not have the key, and in a moment of panic, Maher fired the fatal shots.

A $10,000 reward was offered for information about Mr Cooper’s slaying, along with a free pardon to any accomplice who provided information, as long as they had not caused the murder.

Photo Credit: myPolice Museum/QPS

The Trial and Aftermath

In November 1971, Mr Maher was charged with Mr Cooper’s murder. By May 1972, following a month-long trial, he was found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment with hard labour.

During the trial, Perry Alan Vincent, a convicted bank robber, testified that Mr Maher had offered him $10,000 to falsely implicate Detective Sergeant Glen Hallahan in the crime. Mr Maher countered, claiming Vincent and others had threatened him and even crashed into his car weeks before the murder.

Controversies Behind Bars

In 1976, Mr Maher was controversially granted temporary leave from prison to attend a Neil Diamond concert. In the early 1980s, it was revealed he had been commuting unaccompanied to Queensland University to attend lectures. While imprisoned, Mr Maher completed high school, earned a Bachelor’s degree in psychology, and began a PhD in advanced mathematics.

Despite his education and release in 1987 after serving 15 years, Mr Maher continued to claim he did not pull the trigger, insisting he knew who did but would not reveal the name, citing safety concerns.

Journalist Steve Bishop’s 2012 book “The Most Dangerous Detective” later alleged that Detective Sergeant Glen Hallahan may have been involved in Mr Cooper’s murder, adding yet another layer of intrigue to the Stafford case.

Stafford Remembers

The Stafford ambush remains a defining moment in the suburb’s history—a grim reminder of human greed, but also a testament to the evolution of forensic science and investigative diligence. Today, the streets of Stafford bustle with suburban life, but the echoes of 1971 linger as a haunting chapter in Brisbane’s criminal past.



As the years pass, the Stafford ambush serves as both a cautionary tale and a reminder of the relentless pursuit of justice by Queensland’s law enforcement—a story of tragedy, resilience, and ultimately, resolution.

Published 3-Jan-2025

Street Spotlight: Mitchell St, Kedron

Mitchell Street in Kedron tells a compelling story of Brisbane’s suburban evolution, from its modest beginnings to the established residential pocket it is today. Historical records from 1936 show only a handful of properties dotting the streetscape, with the road yet to extend through to Somerset Road.



This tight-knit community now comprises 32 properties, with 70% being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of nearly 13 years — a testament to the street’s enduring appeal. Property records reveal interesting snapshots of the area’s growth, such as the sale of 7 Mitchell Street for $66,000 in July 1987. Today, with 43% of residents calling Mitchell Street home for over a decade, it stands as a prime example of Kedron’s stable and community-minded character. Below, you will find an aerial image taken in 1936, offering a fascinating glimpse into the street’s early days.

Mitchell St, Kedron Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 32
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 70%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years, 10 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 43%

Mitchell St, Kedron – As It Looked in 1936

Mitchell St Kedron

Mitchell St, Kedron in 1936


SOME RECENT SALES ON MITCHELL ST, KEDRON

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
14 Mitchell Street, Kedron$1,170,000Jul 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON MITCHELL ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
7 Mitchell Street, Kedron$66,000Jul 1987
10 Mitchell Street, Kedron$104,500Oct 1991
5 Mitchell Street, Kedron$130,000Nov 1997

SUBURB PROFILE 

The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,085,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $630,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2-BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $455,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,200,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $719,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $481,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $1,443,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $850,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $593,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2024 was $2,035,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kedron in 2020 was $1,287,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $748,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2024 was $579,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2020 was $333,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $246,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2024 was $765,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Kedron in 2020 was $535,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN KEDRON SINCE 2020 : $230,000



If you know Mitchell St, Kedron well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Community-Driven Safer School Precinct Launches in Kedron

Brisbane is working to ease traffic congestion and improve safety for families in Kedron by introducing a Safer School Precinct, addressing challenges near three local schools.



Improving Safety and Reducing Congestion

The Kedron Safer School Precinct initiative focuses on improving road safety, pedestrian access, and sustainable transport options for students and families. Located in Brisbane’s inner north, the project supports Padua College, St Anthony’s Primary School, and Mount Alvernia College near busy main roads such as Gympie and Stafford roads.

With over 66% of Brisbane students currently being driven to school, Council aims to reduce traffic volume during peak periods by encouraging active transport options, such as walking and cycling, and improving infrastructure to make these safer and more accessible.

Padua College will benefit from the Kedron Safe Schools Precinct program
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Community Consultation Shapes Solutions

Council sought feedback from residents, businesses, and the school community during a month-long consultation period from 12 November to 12 December 2024. The insights gathered will be considered alongside technical data to design a tailored transport plan that meets community needs.

Suggested infrastructure improvements include pedestrian crossings, widened footpaths, traffic calming measures, and optimised school drop-off zones. Plans to implement these changes in a phased approach are underway, starting with Kedron and Mansfield precincts, before expanding to Indooroopilly and Wynnum Manly.

St Anthony's Primary School in Kedron
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Coordinated Efforts for Sustainable Travel

The Safer School Precincts program builds on award-winning initiatives, such as Active School Travel, which promotes walking and cycling to school. This program also includes behaviour change campaigns aimed at empowering families to make sustainable and safe travel choices.

By improving active transport infrastructure and reducing vehicle congestion, the aim is to create more liveable precincts that benefit both school communities and surrounding neighbourhoods. Enhanced pathways, dedicated bike parking, and safer pedestrian zones are among the changes designed to make the journey to school more enjoyable and environmentally friendly.

Mt Alvernia is part of the Kedron Safe Schools Precinct
Photo Credit: Google Maps

How It Works

  1. Community Engagement: Council collaborates with schools, businesses, and residents to identify local transport needs.
  2. Infrastructure Implementation: Solutions like safer pedestrian crossings, widened footpaths, and active transport facilities are developed.
  3. Behavioral Change Programs: These initiatives will guide communities to adopt sustainable, safe travel options.
  4. Healthy, Sustainable Travel: Emphasizing wellness, environmental sustainability, and stronger community connections.

A Broader Vision for Brisbane

The Kedron project is part of a larger effort to address the city’s growing population and increasing traffic demands. Brisbane is using community-driven insights to implement projects that align with broader city-shaping goals, including preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

As infrastructure improvements take shape, the plan is to work closely with schools and residents to ensure the long-term success of the Safer School Precincts initiative.



Published 2-Jan-2025

‘Just Roll With It’: A Nostalgic Mural in Stafford

The Stafford Skate Centre served as the inspiration behind “Just Roll With It”, a vibrant artwork by artist Grace McFarlane, on a signal box located near the intersection of Webster Road and Billabong Street, completed last month under the Artforce Brisbane initiative.



This eye-catching artwork completed in 2024 November, located near the intersection of Webster Road and Billabong Street, celebrates the legacy of the Stafford Skate Centre, blending bright floral designs, roller skate imagery, and thoughtful symbolism.

Artforce Brisbane Stafford
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane

The skate lace winding through the mural represents the Brisbane River, connecting Stafford to the larger Brisbane community. Assisted by Jake Fink and Kier Spilsbury, Ms McFarlane’s mural tells a story of nostalgia, connection, and hope.

A Tribute to Stafford Skate Centre

The Stafford Skate Centre was once a beloved community hub, and ‘“Just Roll With It” captures its essence with bold, retro-inspired imagery. Every detail of the mural pays homage to the joy and connection the skate rink brought to generations of locals.

Through thoughtful design and vibrant colour choices, Ms McFarlane has preserved the memory of a cherished local landmark while celebrating the evolving identity of Stafford.

New artwork in Brisbane
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane

The Role of Artforce Brisbane

‘“Just Roll With It” was made possible through Artforce Brisbane, an initiative managed by Urban Smart Projects. The program empowers artists to transform traffic signal boxes and public spaces into meaningful works of art, creating shared spaces for connection and storytelling.

Artforce Brisbane continues to support local creativity, enabling artists like Ms McFarlane to leave lasting impressions on their neighbourhoods.

Community Connection Through Art

The mural has quickly become a focal point in Stafford, sparking conversations and fostering a sense of pride among residents. Public art projects like “Just Roll With It” show how creativity can transform everyday spaces into places of connection and meaning.

Just Roll With It
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane

A Lasting Legacy for Stafford

More than just a mural, ‘“Just Roll With It” serves as a visual reminder of the suburb’s past while looking towards its future. Each brushstroke captures a piece of the suburb’s identity, ensuring the legacy of the Stafford Skate Centre lives on.



Projects like “Just Roll With It” highlight the importance of public art in building vibrant, connected communities. As Artforce Brisbane continues to grow, the mural stands as a testament to the power of creativity in shaping public spaces. To learn more about ‘“Just Roll With It” and other Artforce Brisbane projects, visit Artforce Brisbane’s official website.

Published 28-Dec-2024

Padua College Kedron Celebrates Academic Milestones

Padua College in Kedron has achieved a remarkable milestone, boasting exceptional academic results and extensive community involvement. 



From state-topping achievements to a 100% QCE attainment rate this 2024, the college continues to make a lasting impact.

Background on the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE)

The QCE is a senior secondary certificate awarded to students who meet specific educational requirements. To earn a QCE, students need to complete a set amount of learning, demonstrate literacy and numeracy skills, and meet a required standard of achievement across their subjects. This certificate is a recognised pathway to further education, training, or employment, making it an important milestone for students in the state.

Academic Achievements in 2024

Padua College proudly announced a 100% QCE attainment rate for its Year 12 graduates in 2024. This result reflects the school’s strong focus on academic support and high standards for all students.

Two students, Liam Coughlan and Rowan Barbour, achieved perfect scores of 100 in Music Extension and Music, respectively. These accomplishments highlight Padua College’s dedication to providing opportunities for students to excel in their areas of interest while meeting the QCE requirements.

Padual College also celebrated 116 students completing VET qualifications, including 52 Diplomas and 32 apprenticeships or traineeships. These qualifications equip students with practical skills that prepare them for diverse career pathways.

Encouraging Success Through Community and Growth

Padua College emphasises both academic and personal growth. This year, eight students achieved A grades across all six of their General Subjects, while 12 students earned A grades in five subjects. These results underscore the supportive environment that helps students achieve their best.

Beyond the classroom, Padua students contribute significantly to the Kedron community through sports, cultural events, and volunteer initiatives. Padua College’s holistic approach ensures students leave with more than just academic accomplishments.

Recognising Excellence Among Students

The achievements of Padua College’s students are widely celebrated within Kedron. Many graduates have participated in local events and community initiatives, strengthening the school’s connection to the area.

Kevin Kingsmill, Padua College’s 2024 Dux, and Benjamin Sargent, Proxime Accessit, were recognised for their academic achievements and contributions to the school. Their dedication reflects the leadership qualities Padua Colllege encourages in its students.

Preparing for the Future

Padua College makes sure its students are prepared for life after school by placing a high priority on VET credentials. The school helps students pursue higher education or enter the workforce by emphasising practical skills and certifications, which benefits Kedron’s local economy and industries.

Ongoing Commitment to Excellence

As 2024 draws to a close, Padua College considers a year filled with noteworthy accomplishments while anticipating what lies ahead. To ensure ongoing success for its students and Kedron as a whole, the school is still dedicated to enhancing its academic offerings and building solid community ties.



Padua College continues to be a cornerstone of education in Kedron, preparing students for bright futures and celebrating their contributions to the local community.

Published-26-Dec-2024