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

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

A Life Well Lived: Pearl Ruby Harvey, Wife of Former Brisbane Alderman Roy Harvey

Pearl Ruby Harvey, wife of the late Brisbane alderman Roy Harvey, has passed away at the age of 104.

Read: Kedron’s Automotive Pioneer: The Legacy of Betty Byrne Henderson

She died on Tuesday, 11 February 2025, at Kawana, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, resilience, and unwavering support for her family and city.

Roy Harvey (Photo credit: Queensland Parliament)

Pearl was a devoted wife to Roy Harvey for 56 years. She stood beside him through his extensive public service career, which spanned decades in local government and state politics.

Roy Harvey was elected as an Alderman of Brisbane for the Kedron Ward from 1952 to 1973, later serving as the Labor member for Stafford in the Queensland Legislative Assembly from 1972 to 1974.

Queen Elizabeth II and Lord Mayor Roy Harvey at the City Hall, 1982 (Photo credit: Cr Adrian Schrinner/Facebook)

Returning to local government, he represented Mitchelton from 1979 to 1982 and held the position of Vice-Mayor of Brisbane during that time. His tenure coincided with Brisbane’s hosting of the 1982 Commonwealth Games, a milestone event for the city.

Despite her husband’s public profile, Pearl was a pillar of strength and grace in her own right. She dedicated herself to her family, raising their three children—one son and two daughters—with love and care. Her role as a grandmother to eight and great-grandmother to six brought her immense joy, and she was cherished by all who knew her.

Throughout her long life, Pearl remained deeply connected to her community, embodying the spirit of service and generosity. Her warmth and dedication to those around her made a lasting impact, earning her the admiration and respect of many.

Pearl’s funeral service was held on 19 February at St Mark’s Lutheran Church in Caloundra, where family and friends gathered to honour her remarkable life. While she is now reunited with her late husband, who passed away in 2006 and was accorded a state funeral, her legacy lives on through her family and the many lives she touched.

Read: A Marksman Remembered: Billy Sing and His Extraordinary Legacy

Her passing marks the end of an era, but the values she upheld—love, resilience, and dedication to community—will continue to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.

Published 20-February-2025

Mount Alvernia College Outlines Vision for New Learning Hub at Elizabeth Hayes Building

Mount Alvernia College in Kedron has applied to demolish the Elizabeth Hayes Learning Centre, a long-standing part of its campus, to make way for a new five-storey facility designed to enhance learning and student resources.

Read: Nature’s Classroom: Discover La Foresta, Mount Alvernia College’s Thriving Garden

Plans showed the new building will feature a state-of-the-art library, learning centre, and auditorium. The project also includes plans for a redesigned forecourt area on the ground floor.

Photo credit: Mount Alvernia College/Brisbane PD Online

The new facility will have a gross floor area of 1,975.59 square metres across five levels, adding 1,011.31 sqm of space. Although the existing Elizabeth Hayes Learning Centre will be removed, key structural components will be salvaged and repurposed in the new construction. The design will integrate seamlessly with adjacent buildings at the ground level and on levels one and two.

According to planners, this redevelopment aims to enhance the functionality of the campus without increasing student capacity. The initiative is part of an ongoing effort to modernise the school’s infrastructure and provide improved learning spaces for current students.

Elizabeth Hayes — Photo credit: Mount Alvernia College/Google Maps

“This proposal is part of an ongoing program of upgrading and improving the College facilities and to improve the efficiency of the College Campus. It is not intended that this proposal will increase student capacity, rather the upgrading of the library building will provide for an overall improvement in the facilities available to existing students,” planners stated.

About Mount Alvernia College

In 1930, the Missionary Franciscan Sisters arrived in Kedron and, at the invitation of the Parish Priest, established Saint Anthony’s Primary School. Their long-term vision of a secondary school for girls was realised in 1956 when Mount Alvernia College opened with only 10 students.

Elizabeth Hayes (Photo credit: Missionary Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception Australia)

The Elizabeth Hayes Learning Centre, named in honour of the pioneering educationalist who founded the Missionary Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception in 1854, has played a key role in the college’s history. Constructed in 1996, it has served as the school’s library but could soon be replaced by a more modern and functional educational facility.

Read: Padua College and Mount Alvernia College Announce Expansion Plans in Kedron

If approved, the project will mark a significant milestone in Mount Alvernia College’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality learning environments while continuing to honour its heritage.

Published 18-February-2025

Woodfired Perfection: Prova Pizzeria’s Unique and Delicious Creations

Prova Pizzeria is an Italian restaurant in Stafford Heights that serves up authentic flavours to the northside of Brisbane.

Read: Enjoy Authentic Italian Pizza at the Popular Prova Pizzeria

This beloved eatery is home to an imported Stefano Ferraro woodfire pizza oven and a team of highly skilled pizzaiolos who masterfully craft dough into something truly special. If you’re searching for a pizza experience beyond the ordinary, this Italian restaurant is the place to be.

A Menu Full of Unique Creations

NuStella (Photo credit: Prova Pizzeria/Facebook)

Prova Pizzeria doesn’t just stick to the classics—it pushes the boundaries of flavour. One of its most talked-about offerings is the pistachio pizza, an inventive creation featuring pistachio cream, mozzarella, Italian sausage, and even more pistachios for a nutty, savoury delight.

For those with a sweet tooth, Prova delivers in spades. Traditional Italian desserts like cannoli and tiramisu are on the menu, but the NuStella—a Nutella-filled pizza pocket—adds a playful twist to the usual fare. And if you’re in the mood for something hearty, their 100-layer lasagna is a must-try, featuring layers upon layers of rich beef Bolognese ragu, creamy béchamel sauce, and a generous helping of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.

From Side Project to Award-Winning Pizzeria

Photo credit: Prova Pizzeria/Google Maps

Prova Pizzeria was founded by Joseph Vecchio and Caterina Sullivan, originally as a side venture while Mr Vecchio was working on building projects. However, it wasn’t long before the pizzeria took centre stage in their lives, with Mr Vecchio leading the kitchen and Ms Sullivan managing the front-of-house.

Their dedication and passion have paid off—back in 2021, readers of a local newspaper voted Prova as North Brisbane’s best pizzeria, cementing its reputation as a community favourite.

Whether you’re looking for a cosy spot to enjoy a meal or prefer to take your pizza home, the restaurant has you covered. The restaurant offers both dine-in and takeaway options, ensuring you can indulge in their delicious offerings however you like.

Read: Healthy Eatery Marketcart Shuts Doors in Kedron Amid Economic Pressures

Located at 61 Wilgarning St, Stafford Heights, Prova Pizzeria is a must-visit for anyone craving top-quality, innovative Italian cuisine. Whether it’s a perfectly charred pizza, a decadent dessert, or a hearty lasagna, this local gem delivers on every front.

Published 17-February-2025

Michel’s Patisserie to Close All Stores, Including Lutwyche Location

One of Australia’s well-known bakery chains, Michel’s Patisserie, is set to close all its remaining stores, including its store inside shopping centre HomeCo Lutwyche.

Read: Healthy Eatery Marketcart Shuts Doors in Kedron Amid Economic Pressures

The decision was announced by Retail Food Group (RFG), the company behind the brand, which attributed the closures to various challenges preventing future growth.

According to an RFG spokesperson, despite Michel’s Patisserie’s long-standing presence in Australia’s retail food sector, an internal review revealed several obstacles to sustaining the brand’s expansion.

As a result, franchise owners are being encouraged to transition their businesses to either the Gloria Jean’s brand or Donut King, two other RFG-owned chains.

The spokesperson also mentioned that both Gloria Jean’s and Donut King present promising opportunities for Michel’s Patisserie franchisees who are considering their business prospects in the short or long term.

A Legacy of Baked Goods and Coffee

Like other stores under the brand, the Lutwyche location was best known for its exclusive coffee blends and baked goods, ranging from cakes to quiches. Michel’s Patisserie was a popular destination for customers seeking high-quality pastries, birthday cakes, and savoury treats, making its closure a significant shift in the Australian café and bakery scene.

The news has left many long-time patrons disappointed, as the brand had established itself as a go-to for affordable and delicious treats. With the upcoming closures, customers will have to look elsewhere for their favourite Michel’s Patisserie offerings.

Read: La Familia Coffee: Building Community in Stafford One Cup at a Time

About Michel’s Patisserie

Michel’s Patisserie was founded in Sydney in 1980 by French chef Michel Cattoen and his wife Elisabeth. Initially a small operation, it rapidly grew in popularity before being sold in 1988 to Noel Carroll and Noel Roberts. Under new ownership, the brand expanded across Australia, gaining a reputation for its European-inspired baked goods and coffee.

Retail Food Group acquired Michel’s Patisserie in 2007, overseeing the chain during its peak when it had over 300 locations nationwide. However, by 2025, only 19 stores remained, all of which are now set to be either closed or converted into other RFG brands.

The closure marks the end of an era for the brand that once dominated the Australian bakery landscape. For loyal customers, the transition away from Michel’s Patisserie signals a significant change in the country’s café and bakery offerings.

Published 14-February-2025

Brisbane to Review Clearways, Webster Road in Stafford Among Key Corridors

Brisbane is undertaking a citywide review of clearway regulations to ease congestion and improve traffic flow. The initiative will examine major suburban corridors where extending clearway hours could help reduce delays and enhance road safety.

Read: Concerns Raised Over Road Safety After Child Hit Outside Stafford Heights Baptist Church

Webster Road Among Streets Under Review

Webster Road in Stafford has been identified as one of the key corridors under review as part of this initiative, which aims to improve traffic flow, increase road capacity, and enhance overall road safety.

Council will assess the benefits of extending clearway hours on this busy route to help reduce congestion and provide a more reliable commute for motorists and public transport users alike.

Project Benefits

The clearway expansion aims to deliver several key benefits:

Improved Traffic Flow: Restricting on-street parking during peak times will help maintain consistent traffic movement and reduce bottlenecks.
Increased Road Capacity: Removing parked cars from the kerb lane will allow more vehicles to use the available road space, improving efficiency.
Enhanced Road Safety: Clearer roads will reduce sudden lane changes and improve driver visibility, lowering accident risks.
More Efficient Public Transport: Less congestion means buses can operate more smoothly, leading to fewer delays and improved service reliability.
Safer Conditions for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Increased visibility and fewer obstructions will create a safer environment for active road users.

Community Consultation and Timeline

A six-week community consultation period will begin this month, allowing residents and businesses to provide feedback on proposed changes before implementation in June.

Local input will play a crucial role in shaping the adjustments, ensuring that changes balance the needs of road users, businesses, and residents. The Council will review feedback and implement the most effective solutions to improve travel conditions.

Looking Ahead

The review of Webster Road and other major corridors is part of Brisbane’s long-term strategy to optimise the road network and reduce congestion. Previous clearway adjustments in other parts of the city have led to noticeable improvements in traffic conditions.

Read: Street Spotlight: Kedron St, Kedron

Council urges residents and businesses to participate in the consultation process to ensure that any changes reflect community needs while enhancing overall mobility and safety.

Published 12-February-2025

Healthy Eatery Marketcart Shuts Doors in Kedron Amid Economic Pressures

Brisbane’s northside has lost a popular healthy eatery, with MarketCart closing its Kedron store just months before reaching its first anniversary. The restaurant, which specialised in fresh, locally sourced meals, opened on Gympie Road in February last year but ceased operations before Christmas.

Read: Marketcart Kedron Brings Healthy Drive-Thru Dining to Brisbane

MarketCart was the brainchild of husband-and-wife duo Andrew and Andrea Harcourt, who set out to offer busy locals a quick and healthy alternative to fast food. Their vision was to serve “real food, real fast,” making nutritious meals more accessible to the community.

The eatery gained a loyal following for its grab-and-go meals, all priced under $15. Customers particularly praised the menu’s breakfast burritos, salads, and toasties, which featured high-quality ingredients inspired by farmer’s market-style whole foods.

The hospitality industry has faced immense financial strain, and MarketCart was no exception. With the rising cost of living and continuous interest rate hikes, many small businesses are struggling to sustain operations, leading to difficult closures like this one.

The now-vacant site, located beside the Kedron Car Centre car-sales yard, features a 71-square-metre high-turnover kitchen and an alfresco deck. The modern, purpose-built facility, positioned on a high-traffic corner where over 75,000 vehicles pass daily, was listed for sale or lease last December.

Read: La Familia Coffee: Building Community in Stafford One Cup at a Time

While the Kedron outlet has shut, MarketCart continues to operate at its two remaining locations—one at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in Herston and another at the University of Queensland. Both stores remain open Monday to Friday.

The closure of the Kedron store reflects the growing challenges for small food businesses in today’s economic climate. Whether a new operator will take over the prime location or if it will remain vacant amid financial uncertainty remains an open question.

Published 12-February-2025