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

Trailblazing Queensland entrepreneur Betty Byrne Henderson, co-founder of Byrne Ford in Kedron, has died at the age of 93. She leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in both the automotive industry and philanthropy.

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

Establishing Byrne Ford in Kedron

In 1969, Betty and her husband, Bernie Byrne, established Byrne Ford in Brisbane’s northside. The dealership was granted to Bernie that year, but Betty was an integral part of the business from the start.

When Bernie passed away in 1977, Betty took the reins as Governing Director, defying industry norms in a time when female leadership in the automotive sector was rare. Under her direction, the business grew rapidly, expanding from 35 employees to over 140 and becoming a household name in Brisbane’s car market.

By 1993, Byrne Ford was selling approximately 300 new and used cars each month. In 1998, it ranked 29th in Queensland’s Top 400 privately owned companies.

Byrne Ford’s roots in Kedron were central to its success, with the dealership becoming a trusted name in the local community. Its growth was a testament to Betty’s resilience, business acumen, and willingness to challenge the male-dominated industry.

She not only had to fight for a place in the business—first against her husband’s resistance and later against corporate scepticism—but also overcame significant industry chauvinism to establish herself as a formidable leader.

A Legacy of Philanthropy

Photo credit: Betty Byrne Henderson/Facebook

Beyond business, Betty was an ardent philanthropist, dedicating much of her life to supporting women’s healthcare and education. She was repeatedly nominated for Queensland Philanthropist of the Year by the Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital Foundation and the Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

In 2022, the Queensland Community Foundation Board of Governors honoured her with the Outstanding Achievement Award for her lifetime of giving. Queensland Gives described her as “one of Queensland’s greatest philanthropists,” highlighting her dedication to the Queensland Philanthropy Awards and her unwavering support for initiatives benefiting women’s health.

Read: Community-Driven Safer School Precinct Launches in Kedron

Though she handed over the trading company to her son Peter Byrne in 1995, Betty continued to oversee her property and investment businesses while actively contributing to her community. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her legacy—both in Kedron’s business landscape and in Queensland’s philanthropic sector—will endure for generations to come.

Published 12-February-2025

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

A young girl was struck by a car outside Stafford Heights Baptist Church while crossing the road with her family, leaving the tight-knit community shaken. The 11-year-old suffered facial injuries in the incident, which took place on Appleby Road in Stafford Heights as the family was heading to their Sunday service.

Incident Details and Emergency Response

The accident occurred at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, 9 February, when the girl’s hand slipped from her father’s grip just before she was hit by a slow-moving vehicle. Her father, T Sui Dun, said the family was going to the church when the incident happened. Witnesses immediately called for an ambulance, and paramedics treated the child for scars and grazes on her right jaw before transporting her to Queensland Children’s Hospital in stable condition.

QAS brings girl to hospital after she was struck by a car at the Stafford Heights Baptist Church — For illustration purposes only
Photo Credit: QAS

According to witnesses, the vehicle’s driver remained at the scene briefly but left before emergency services arrived, leaving a contact number with bystanders. Queensland Police have launched an investigation into the circumstances of the crash.

The accident occurred in front of fellow churchgoers, including Pastor Cungbik Kingbawl—also known as KB—who said the congregation was rallying around the family. The church serves Chin people from Myanmar and a Sudanese congregation and has been a long-standing support system for refugee and migrant families in the area. Pastor Kingbawl emphasised that the church community offers prayers and assistance to the affected family during their recovery.

A Close-Knit Multicultural Community

Stafford Heights Baptist Church has served diverse communities since 2006, when it welcomed new families, including refugees, into its congregation. The accident has reinforced the church’s role as a pillar of support for the Chin and Sudanese communities in Brisbane’s north, with members coming together to check in on the family’s well-being.

As the investigation continues, residents express concerns about road safety near the church, particularly for families crossing Appleby Road on their way to Sunday services. Community members have suggested reviewing pedestrian safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Published 12-February-2025

Stafford Winner Plans to Share Fortune with Family

A Stafford woman experienced a thrilling moment after realising she had won $2 million over the weekend.

The North Brisbane resident held one of the two division one winning entries nationally in Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4541, drawn on Saturday, 25 January 2025. Her total prize was $2,473,272.71, making it the first major lottery win for Brisbane’s inner suburbs in 2025.

The Stafford woman’s day off was interrupted by a call from a lottery official just as she was about to leave for a walk. Overwhelmed with joy, she expressed her disbelief and described her heart racing with excitement.

She humorously mentioned struggling to write down the prize amount due to her flustered state.

She immediately planned to share the news with her sister, suggesting a celebratory drink. As she absorbed the life-changing news, she promptly cancelled her walk.

The Queensland winner’s first thought was to use her winnings to help her family. She spoke about how significant the prize would be for her loved ones. Her winning 25-game QuickPick entry was purchased through The Lott app.

Published Date 06-Feb-2025

Kedron Fire Declared Crime Scene as Police Confirm Arson

Photo Credit: Queensland Fire Department

A massive industrial fire in Kedron that sent thick black smoke billowing across the city has now been determined to be the result of criminal activity. Authorities have declared the site a crime scene, launching a full investigation into the cause of the blaze that saw emergency crews battle the flames for hours.

The fire broke out in the afternoon of 30 January at a commercial site and quickly spread to three nearby industrial sheds. Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) received the call just after 4:00 p.m., prompting a large-scale response.

By 4:30 p.m., police issued an emergency declaration, setting up an exclusion zone encompassing Gympie Road, Childers Street, Bristol Road, and Kate Street. Residents were urged to remain indoors, shut their windows, and take precautions against the smoke, which was visible for kilometres.

Firefighter Injured as Crews Battle Intense Flames

As the fire intensified, additional resources were deployed. Firefighters used both foam and water to douse the flames from multiple angles. Despite their efforts, one firefighter suffered from heat exhaustion and was transported to hospital at 6:15 p.m.

Kedron fire — *Photo Credit: Queensland Fire Department*

By 6:40 p.m., police partially reopened Gympie Road, which had been fully closed earlier in the evening. The emergency declaration remained in place until 8:20 p.m., when the fire was finally under control. However, the area was formally declared a crime scene, with authorities confirming that the fire was deliberately lit and that investigations were now underway.

Police Confirm Fire Was Deliberately Lit

Queensland Police confirmed that forensic teams are now assessing the site to determine how the fire started and who may be responsible. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, as detectives work to uncover the circumstances surrounding the blaze.

Nearby residents described the scene as “unreal,” with flames lighting up the sky and thick smoke reducing visibility. Witnesses also reported hearing loud bangs before the fire rapidly intensified, raising further questions about how the blaze started.

Local businesses in Kedron have expressed concern over the incident, with some reporting minor damage due to the intense heat and embers carried by the wind.

Fire crews remained on site overnight to ensure no flare-ups occurred, and authorities continue to urge the public to stay clear of the scene as investigations progress.

Published 31-January-2025

Street Spotlight: Kedron St, Kedron

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Kedron Street in Kedron tells a fascinating story of suburban evolution and community stability. Historical records from 1936 show the street in its nascent form, extending only halfway compared to its current reach to Colac Street.

With 60% of properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 19 years and 4 months, the street demonstrates remarkable longevity in homeownership. This commitment to the area is further evidenced by the fact that 65% of residents have called Kedron Street home for more than a decade. The street’s history of property transactions provides interesting insights into Brisbane’s property evolution, with 12 Kedron Street selling for $32,000 in January 1978 – a figure that highlights the remarkable transformation of the area’s real estate market over the decades. Below, an aerial image from 1936 captures this historic street in its early stages, offering a window into Kedron’s suburban development.

Kedron St, Kedron Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 51
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 60%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 19 years, 4 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 65%

Kedron St, Kedron – As It Looked in 1936

Kedron St, Kedron in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON KEDRON ST, KEDRON

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
36 Kedron Street, Kedron	$875,000	Apr 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON KEDRON ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
12 Kedron Street, Kedron	$32,000	Jan 1978
38 Kedron Street, Kedron	$45,000	Jan 1985
32 Kedron Street, Kedron	$94,500	Nov 1988

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

Kedron-Based Pool Contractor Vasa Pool Designs Goes into Liquidation After Regulatory Issues

Kedron-based swimming pool contractor Swim Quote Australia, trading as Vasa Pool Designs, has entered liquidation after the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) applied for a winding-up order in November.

Read: Kedron Properties Face Reclassification in Brisbane Flood Maps

The move follows mounting complaints from customers and contractors regarding unpaid debts and project issues.

The company had its Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) licence cancelled after receiving 10 infringement notices, resulting in fines of more than $20,000. Allegations against the business include claims of unpaid deposits and compensation owed to clients and contractors.

Photo credit: Vasa Pool Designs/Instagram

Court records reveal that in 2021, plumbing supplier Reece Australia took legal action against the company over an unpaid debt of $20,500. Separately, a customer who wished to remain anonymous reported that his pool had serious drainage problems, failing to meet engineering standards. Fixing the issues cost the customer over $30,000, and attempts to contact the company director via QBCC for resolution reportedly went unanswered.

The customer expressed worry that the Kedron-based pool contractor might restart their business under a new name or licence, raising concerns about the potential for further issues.

Read: Street Spotlight: Haines Street, Kedron

Feedback on the company has been mixed, with some reviews acknowledging the quality of pool components and praising the contracted installers. However, others criticised the company’s lack of communication and perceived disorganisation.

“The finished pool and its components are of a very high standard (pool shell; coping tiles; pool pump and filters etc), so big ticks for quality components. The actual pool installers who were contracted to install the pool shell (Jamie and Shawn from Complex Pools) were also fantastic,” one customer wrote in their review of the company.

“However, we experienced numerous issues with our build going forward from the initial dig and install of the pool shell, primarily due to a lack of communication between our pool sales representative, the construction manager, the site supervisor and the director,” the customer further stated.

An ATO spokesperson declined to comment on the matter, citing confidentiality laws regarding individual and corporate tax affairs.

Published 29-January-2025

Gordon Park Resident Launches Fundraiser for Friend Battling Advanced Ovarian Cancer

A resident from Gordon Park has started a fundraiser to help a friend who has been diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer.

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

Jemma Goos from Gordon Park organised the campaign for her friend Miriam Gard, who was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has gone through extensive treatments, including chemotherapy, a lumpectomy, a double mastectomy, and the discovery of the BRCA1 gene, which increases her risk of cancer.

After overcoming breast cancer, Miriam, with the support of her husband, Dave, built the family they always dreamed of: three beautiful children—Genevieve, now 10, Christian, 7, and Nicholas, 5.

In September 2023, as a precaution, Miriam chose to undergo a hysterectomy to reduce her risk of cancer later in life. However, just 11 months later, in August 2024, she began to experience bloating. At first, she dismissed it, assuming it was just a normal issue many women face. But after visiting her doctor and undergoing tests in October 2024, the devastating news arrived: she had 3C advanced ovarian cancer.

“This diagnosis has completely changed her family’s life. Due to the aggressive nature of ovarian cancer, Miriam now faces intensive chemotherapy treatments, and a major surgery scheduled for January,” Ms Goos shared.

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Miriam Gard (@mimsymim)

As the costs associated with scans, oncology appointments, medications, and treatments continue to add up, Miriam and Dave are struggling to keep up with the financial burden.

Miriam, exhausted from the chemotherapy and emotionally drained by her diagnosis, is doing everything she can to stay strong for her children. Despite the challenging circumstances, she and Dave are determined to create as normal a life as possible for their kids, especially during the holiday season. However, the weight of this illness has taken its toll.

This is where the fundraiser comes in. The community is rallying behind Miriam and her family, hoping to ease the financial strain so that Miriam can focus on her treatment and, most importantly, spend time with her children. Every dollar donated will make a real and tangible difference in helping them through this dark time.

“Advanced ovarian cancer is known for having a low survival rate, with only 29% of women diagnosed with advanced-stage ovarian cancer surviving more than five years. On top of that, because of the genetic mutation Miriam carries (the BRCA1 gene), she faces an 80% chance of relapse within three years,” Ms Goos wrote.

“This is why every bit of support is so vital—not only for helping them get through this holiday season but for ensuring that Miriam has the time, resources, and care to fight this battle with all her strength.”

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

How You Can Help

There are several ways people can help. Donations of any amount are deeply appreciated, as they will help ease the financial burden on Miriam’s family. Sharing the GoFundMe campaign with others will also expand the reach of this fundraiser, increasing the support Miriam can receive. Additionally, even if one cannot donate financially, prayers and positive thoughts are just as impactful.

Ms Goos shared Miriam and Dave are incredibly grateful for the love, strength, and support they have already received. They also thanked everyone who took the time to read their story and for being part of their journey.

Published 27-January-2025

Street Spotlight: St Clair St, Kedron

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

St Clair Street in Kedron tells a compelling story of Brisbane’s suburban evolution and community stability. While aerial photographs from 1936 show the area was yet to be developed, with only Batten Street extending from Kitchener Road, the street has since transformed into a tight-knit residential enclave.

Today, with an impressive 90% owner-occupancy rate and residents staying an average of nearly 14 years, St Clair Street exemplifies Kedron’s appeal as a family-focused neighborhood. Property records trace this transformation, with homes like number 15 changing hands for $55,660 in March 1987 – a figure that reflects how far the suburb has come in its journey from undeveloped land to an established, sought-after pocket where 61% of residents have called the street home for more than a decade.

St Clair St, Kedron Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 26
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 90%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 13 years, 11 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 61%

St Clair St, Kedron – As It Looked in 1936

Kilburn St, Chermside in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON ST CLAIR ST, KEDRON

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
17 Saint Clair Street, Kedron	$1,085,000	Sep 2024
14 Saint Clair Street, Kedron	$2,035,000	Aug 2024
21 Saint Clair Street, Kedron	$1,565,000	Jan 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON ST CLAIR ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
15 Saint Clair Street, Kedron	$55,600	Mar 1987
3 Saint Clair Street, Kedron	$175,000	May 2000

SUBURB PROFILE

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

Contro Wellness: Lutwyche Residents Embrace New Private Wellness Experience

Photo Credit: Contro Wellness

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

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 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

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

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

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 Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
96 Dorrigo Street, Kedron	$105,000	Aug 1991
88 Dorrigo Street, Kedron	$110,500	Feb 1995
90 Dorrigo Street, Kedron	$128,717	Jun 1997

SUBURB PROFILE

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