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Brisbane Commuters Face Soaring Toll Costs as AirportlinkM7 Fees Increase

Motorists using the AirportlinkM7 tunnel, including Kedron locals, are now facing the prospect of shelling out a hefty $94 per week in toll charges.

As of 1 Jan 2024, the toll prices for the Brisbane Airportlink tunnel will increase in line with the All Groups Consumer Price Index. Following the increase, trucks are now charged an additional 80 cents per trip and regular cars an extra 34 cents.

Motorists looking to take the tunnel between Bowen Hills and Kedron or Toombul will now pay $6.72 a trip, up from $6.38 in 2023.

According to reports, car drivers using the tunnel twice daily will pay $13.44 a round trip, or $94.08 a week if they take the tunnel to and from work each day.

Those taking light commercial vehicles through the tunnel, such as load-carrying vans or utilities, will pay even more, with the new trip price now $10.08, up 50 cents.

Heavy commercial vehicles including trucks will pay a staggering $17.79 per trip, an increase of 82 cents each way.

Those travelling between Kedron and Toombul only will pay slightly less fares, with car trips priced at $5.03, up from $4.78 in 2023. Light commercial vehicles taking the shorter trip will pay $7.55 instead of $7.18, and trucks will be stung with $13.35 per trip, an increase of 67 cents.

A Transurban spokeswoman confirmed the toll price increase, which will not change until 2025. Motorists may contact the Linkt Assist team to help with a range of services including payment plans, more time to pay, and toll credits.

The AirportlinkM7 is a 6.7km twin tunnel connecting the Clem7 and Legacy Way tunnels via the Inner City Bypass. Drivers who use the tunnel can avoid up to 14 sets of traffic lights. According to Transurban’s latest traffic data, on average 63,000 trips are taken on the Airportlink every day.

Published 9-Jan-2024

How Repair Cafe Workshops Foster Community Connections

At Repair Cafe Stafford, the focus isn’t just on fixing broken items—it’s about fostering connections. The free workshops aim to reduce waste, build skills, and strengthen community bonds along the way.

Read: Effinity Proposes Bold Stafford Heights Development

Run by volunteers, the community workshops aim to reduce waste and costs by reviving damaged and dysfunctional belongings. At each workshop, people can bring in anything from faulty electrical appliances to ripped clothing to be assessed and repaired with the help of volunteers.

The Repair Cafe provides the workspace, tools, and materials. Attendees learn handy repair skills in the process, building self-reliance and contributing to a circular economy.

Photo credit: Repair Cafe Stafford/Facebook

For many volunteers, the sessions often lead to meaningful conversations and connections. There’s a real spirit of collaboration. People chat whilst working on projects and end up making new friends.

The workshops also provide an opportunity for knowledge transfer between generations. Jon, one of the young volunteers, enjoys learning from the experienced helpers, many of whom are retirees with a lifetime of practical expertise.

One of those were Roy, who once worked for hours to repair a set of antique drawers, carefully measuring and cutting, reconstructing the deteriorated runners so the drawers could slide properly again. It was only after they were successfully mended that their long history was revealed.

Volunteer Roy (Photo credit: Repair Cafe Stafford/Facebook)

The English oak dresser was a wedding gift to the current owner Jennifer’s great-grandmother in 1901. It immigrated with the family from England to South Africa in 1911, passing down through generations of women. When Jennifer moved to Australia, the heirloom made the journey too.

Jennifer was so appreciative she wrote Roy a thank-you letter. Roy admits had he known the drawers’ provenance, he would have been more nervous about repairing the 130-year-old treasure.

Stories like this are common at the workshops, where strangers collaborate to fix sentimental possessions—and end up fixing connections within the community too.

More Workshops in 2024

Due to an overwhelming response from the community, the Repair Cafe workshops in Stafford will be held more frequently starting in the new year, giving locals more chances to join together and mend their damaged possessions.

The organisation decided to hold workshops the first week of every second month, starting 3 February 2024. The upcoming workshop on February 3 already has a waitlist for spots. Bookings open one week prior on January 25 for the 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. session. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Read: Feel Like a Pilot for a Day at Flight Simulator Queensland in Lutwyche

The Repair Cafe hosts their community workshops at The Community Place on 33 Teevan Street in Stafford. See their Facebook page for news and updates about their initiative.

Published 27-December-2023

More Workshops Coming Soon to Repair Cafe Stafford

Read: Effinity Proposes Bold Stafford Heights Development

Run by volunteers, the free community workshops aim to reduce waste and costs by reviving damaged and dysfunctional belongings.

At each workshop, people can bring in anything from faulty electrical appliances to ripped clothing to be assessed and repaired with the help of volunteers. The Repair Cafe provides the workspace, tools, and materials. Attendees learn handy repair skills in the process, building self-reliance and contributing to a circular economy.

The organisation heard fascinating stories behind items brought in for repair, including 130-year-old wooden drawers that had travelled from England to South Africa to Australia. They sharpened an antique pair of nursing scissors and partially fixed a musical box silent for over 40 years.

Given the enthusiastic community response from the community, the organisation decided to hold workshops the first week of every second month, starting 3 February 2024.

The upcoming workshop on February 3 already has a waitlist for spots. Bookings open one week prior on January 25 for the 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. session. Walk-ins are also welcome.

The Repair Cafe is always looking for new volunteers interested in registrations, hospitality, and fixing various items.

Read: Feel Like a Pilot for a Day at Flight Simulator Queensland in Lutwyche

The Repair Cafe hosts their community workshops at The Community Place on 33 Teevan Street in Stafford. See their Facebook page for more information and updates about their initiative.

Published 27-December-2023

Effinity Proposes Bold Stafford Heights Development

Stafford Heights, a thriving suburb in the northside of Brisbane, is poised to witness a transformation as Effinity, a prominent developer in the region, unveils its most ambitious project to date.

Effinity’s proposal (DA A006422560) envisions a four-to-six storey residential-led project comprising 32 apartments, set to replace an existing vet clinic situated on Appleby Road, adjacent to the Rode Plus Centre.

Gatehouse Architects, the masterminds behind the project, have incorporated a ground-floor retail space and two basement parking levels. Additionally, a communal rooftop garden, designed by Andrew Gold Landscape Architecture, adds a touch of greenery to the urban landscape.

Effinity Lodge Milton — Photo Credit: DA A006422560

Overcoming Height Restrictions

As the Brisbane City Council initiates plans to increase density in select areas, the influx of applications for higher and infill projects has been noticeable. While Effinity’s latest application falls just outside the designated density zone, it aims to push the boundaries in Stafford Heights.

Stafford Heights currently maintains a height limit of four storeys for developments. However, the unique topography of the proposed site, covering 1609 square meters at 45 Maryland Street and 734 Rode Road, Stafford Heights, is expected to work in favour of Effinity’s application.

Effinity Lodge — *Photo Credit: DA A006422560*

The innovative design includes boundary changes, as the site forms a part of a larger 16,117 square meter retail centre owned by multiple entities, with Woolworths Metro as its anchor.

Urban Consolidation and Housing Diversity

Effinity’s visionary project aligns with the broader goals of urban consolidation and redevelopment within the Stafford Heights District Centre Zone. Mewing Planning Consultants, responsible for the project report, state, “The proposed multiple dwelling use will contribute to the housing diversity and choice within Stafford Heights, which is predominantly characterized by low-density residential housing.”

The introduction of medium-density residential units will cater to various households, life stages, and income levels, fostering local economic support, services, and businesses. This development is poised to meet the growing demand for infill residential projects within a well-located and serviced part of the city, addressing both current housing demands and supply issues.

A Legacy of Medium-Density Excellence

Effinity’s track record includes several successful medium-density developments, such as Bank Street in West End, The Blake in MacGregor, The Maison in Sunnybank, Uki Toowong, Alba Terrace Ascot, and H&M Kelvin Grove. Their commitment to quality and urban innovation is poised to leave an indelible mark on Stafford Heights as they continue to shape the city’s evolving landscape.

Effinity’s proposal signifies more than just a development; it represents a vision for a vibrant, diverse, and sustainable future for Stafford Heights. As this project moves through the approval process, it will be closely watched by residents, urban planners, and investors, all eager to see how it will contribute to the ongoing growth and development of this thriving Brisbane suburb.

Published 20-Dec-2023

Coles Lutwyche Among First Stores to Get ‘Smart Gate’ at Self-Service Checkouts

Coles has announced it will soon activate new “smart gate” anti-theft technology at select locations, including its Lutwyche store, as part of an effort to prevent theft at self-service checkouts.

Read: Locals at Odds Over Kedron State High School’s New Security Fence

The gates, which work through artificial intelligence, will lock automatically if a customer attempts to exit the store after failing to scan and pay for items at the self-checkout stations. A Coles spokesperson said the measure became necessary due to “a small number of customers” unfortunately not doing the right thing.

The smart gates will supplement existing security systems like CCTV, electronic article surveillance tags, security personnel, and even trolley locking mechanisms already in place at some stores. Customers without items or who cannot find what they are looking for will still be permitted to exit by staff.

Coles Lutwyche (Photo credit: Si Vi/Google Maps)

Similar anti-theft gates utilising the “skip scan” technology will also be introduced at select Coles stores in Brisbane, such as Westfield Mount Gravatt and New Farm in coming weeks.

Public reaction to the news has been mixed. In a Reddit thread, some users expressed concerns that honest shoppers could get locked in by mistake if there are glitches with the system. Others questioned whether the smart gate rollout reflects broader issues around self-checkout theft that some shoppers feel compelled to commit.

“I think supermarkets should take a look at their insurance policy. Sounds like it also breaks laws in case of fire,” one Reddit user commented.

“It would be safe to assume these gates deactivate when a fire alarm is activated,” another user argued.

Read: Get Ready for Some Epic Shopping at Kedron Garage Sale!

Coles maintains the technology will only target intentional thieves and improve the shopping experience for honest customers. But critics argue the gates could backfire, further eroding consumer trust and satisfaction.

Published 4-December-2023

Scaling Back Challenges: The Northern Transitway Adjusts Path through Kedron

The Northern Transitway project in Brisbane, initially intended to stretch to Hamilton Rd, has been curtailed due to budget overruns and delays, now concluding at Rode Rd in Kedron. This revision has also led to the layoff of about 300 workers, signifying a significant alteration in both the scale and influence of this key public transport development.

These changes have raised questions about the project’s future. A Department of Transport and Main Roads spokesperson noted that it is “working collaboratively with its contractor to deliver the works as efficiently as possible, targeting completion by mid-2024.”

Despite the scale-back, the project’s core goals of improving safety, capacity, and efficiency remain steadfast.

Project Overview

The Northern Transitway extends along a 2.3km corridor on Gympie Arterial Road, stretching from Sadlier Street in Kedron to Hamilton Road in Chermside. The project’s construction has been in full swing, promising to revolutionise public transport in Northern Brisbane.

Key features of the project include:

Dedicated Bus Lanes: Serving over 5,000 commuters daily, these lanes aim to streamline bus travel.
Travel Time Reductions: Anticipated time savings of up to 6 minutes during peak hours.
Increased Bus Frequency: Bus services within the corridor are set to increase significantly.
Accessibility Enhancements: Upgrades to bus stops will ensure compliance with disability access requirements.
Safety Improvements: The removal of unsignalised right-turn movements and new traffic signals at key intersections will bolster safety.

Community Impact

The transitway has stirred mixed reactions among local businesses and commuters. The removal of on-street parking to accommodate the bus lanes has particularly affected local businesses.

As the Northern Transitway progresses towards its revised completion in mid-2024, it continues to be a symbol of Brisbane’s evolving public transport landscape. Despite the challenges, the project holds the promise of a more connected and efficient Northern Brisbane, albeit with a footprint different from what was initially envisioned.

Published 29-Nov-2023

Kedron Swiftie Gets A Surprise From Carrie & Tommy

Photo Credit: YouTube / Hit Network

A devoted Swiftie from Kedron State High School saw his wildest dreams come true, thanks to the efforts of B105’s popular radio hosts, Carrie & Tommy.

Duncan, an avid Taylor Swift fan, has been immersed in Swift’s music for the longest time, dedicating countless hours to listening to her tracks. His room, adorned with official and DIY merchandise, is a testament to his devotion to the pop sensation.

Duncan’s Spotify statistics last year were straight from Swiftie folklore. He ranked in the top 0.01% of Taylor listeners on Spotify, clocking an astounding 107,000 minutes of her music. Of his top 250 most-played songs, 201 were from Taylor Swift. He even secured a spot as one of the top 50 listeners of Swift’s song, ‘Mr. Perfectly Fine’.

Despite his deep admiration for the artist, Duncan faced disappointment when he missed out on tickets for Taylor Swift’s upcoming Australian tour, even after an exhaustive 48-hour online pursuit. Just when he ran out of hope, fate intervened in a surprise visit to his classroom.

The popular radio hosts, Carrie & Tommy from B105, sneaked into his classroom, handing him not just one but two tickets to Taylor Swift’s concert. The emotional moment captured on video revealed Duncan’s disbelief, asking, “Are you Carrie & Tommy?”

Emma, Duncan’s friend, played a pivotal role in making this dream a reality. Nominating him for the tickets, she explained, “because he’s my best friend and the biggest Taylor Swift fan” embodying the genuine spirit of Swifties.

Witnessing this magical moment, Emma let out a few tears of joy, and Duncan reciprocated with the biggest grateful hug.

In true Swiftie style, Duncan celebrated by performing some Taylor Swift songs on the piano, trumpet, and violin in front of the class, turning the classroom into a mini Taylor Swift concert.

The heartwarming video of the surprise has swiftly gone viral on social media, with fans congratulating Duncan on this extraordinary opportunity. Duncan’s journey from a dedicated listener to a concert attendee resonates with the power of music to bring joy into people’s lives.

As Duncan eagerly prepares for the concert, the excitement is palpable. This unexpected turn of events proves that dreams can materialise, even in the most surprising circumstances. Now, everyone can tell that he’s the lucky one!

listen to carrie & tommy here!

Published 11-November-2023

Previously Unmarked War Graves in Lutwyche Cemetery Honoured Ahead of Remembrance Day

In the days leading up to Remembrance Day on November 11, the Toowong RSL Sub Branch held a ceremony to unveil commemorative plaques for the 301 war veterans that were previously buried in unmarked graves at the Lutwyche Cemetery.

Read: Windsor Air Raid Shelter: A Remnant of WWII in Lutwyche

The plaques were the result of extensive research by Cate Walker and Katrina Trevethan of the Australian Remembrance Army, with support from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ Unmarked WW1 Graves Program which provides funding for grave markers to honour veterans buried in unmarked graves.

Through meticulous investigation, the soldiers’ service backgrounds and personal stories were uncovered.

Remembrance Day — Kenmore-Moggill RSL Sub Branch member Chris Moon, Australian Remembrance Army researchers Cate Walker and Katrina Trevethan, and Toowong RSL Sub Branch President Peter Gow (Photo credit: rslqld.org)

Around 57 of them served the nation at Gallipoli. Among the identified were two recipients of the Military Medal, one of the Military Cross, and one of the Meritorious Service Medal. Around 203 of the veterans were born in Australia whilst others were from countries around the world, including England, Ireland, and Scotland.

The research by the Australian Remembrance Army uncovered the difficult realities many of the identified veterans faced upon returning home. Some struggled with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from the horrors of war, whilst others came back physically disabled from trench warfare.

According to the Toowong RSL Sub Branch President Peter Gow, the project symbolises their commitment to encouraging commemoration and honouring the service of those who fought for the country’s freedom.

Read: Lutwyche: Get to Know One of Brisbane’s Oldest Suburbs

Cate Walker of the Australian Remembrance Army said some of those graves would require an additional funding of $1,000 per veteran grave, in addition to grant from the government, to be fully commemorated. She hopes the grant program would be extended and that the government would increase the funding for each veteran.

REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE NEAR YOU

Attend a service, wear a poppy, or observe a minute’s silence at 11am, and help keep the legacy of our service people alive. Lest we forget.
RSL Queensland

Published 8-November-2023

Public Consultation Opens on Proposed Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel

Consultation on a proposed Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel between Kedron and Carseldine has commenced and will run until this December.

Read: $35 Million Allocated to Check Viability of Toll Tunnel from Kedron to Carseldine

The Queensland Government is inviting residents, businesses, and other interested parties to have their say on the tunnel proposal, which aims to tackle congestion in Brisbane’s North.

The consultation follows an announcement by Treasurer Cameron Dick in June this year that a detailed investment proposal was underway into the proposed tunnel.

Map of the Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel investigation area, from Kedron to Carseldine, and the surrounding road network (Photo credit: northbrisbaneinfrastructure.com.au)

The investment proposal analysis is being conducted by North Brisbane Infrastructure, a subsidiary of the Queensland Investment Corporation. The results are due to be submitted to the State Government in mid-2024 for further consideration.

Treasurer Dick said the Government is committed to listening to Queenslanders and investing in planning for the state’s future growth.

“This tunnel proposal presents a potential solution for a congestion challenge on Brisbane’s northern fringe,” he said.

Forecast population growth on the Sunshine Coast and in the Moreton Bay region is expected to result in increased commuter traffic heading into Brisbane.

“Now is the right time to do this work,” Mr Dick said.

Minister for Transport Mark Bailey said the tunnel proposal is one way the Queensland Government is tackling congestion.

“From the ‘Second M1’ on the Gold Coast to significant upgrades along the Bruce Highway, we are doing the heavy lifting for commuters in the South East,” Mr Bailey said.

Read: Kedron Residents Voice Concerns Over Potentially Hazardous Crossing on Gympie Road

The community can have their say by taking a quick poll, completing an online survey, posting on the comment board or attending an information session. More details are available at www.northbrisbaneinfrastructure.com.au. The consultation period ends on 3 December 2023.

Published 1-November-2023

Feel Like a Pilot for a Day at Flight Simulator Queensland in Lutwyche

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to fly a commercial airplane or a fighter jet? At Flight Simulator Queensland in Lutwyche, you can step into a state-of-the-art flight simulator that places you right in the cockpit of a Boeing 737 or F/A-18 Super Hornet, in control under various flying conditions.

Read: Windsor Air Raid Shelter: A Remnant of WWII in Lutwyche

With high-tech flight simulators modelled after real-world aircraft, you can learn the basics of flight in a safe and realistic environment.

Whether you opt for the Boeing 737 or F/A-18 Super Hornet simulator, an experienced pilot will provide a pre-flight briefing to teach you about the instruments and controls, such as interpreting the instrument panel, communicating with air traffic control, and landing the simulated aircraft.

Once you are settled into the flight deck, you will be able to practise taking off, landing, and recovering from engine failure at one of over 24,000 airports worldwide. The state-of-the-art HD visuals and real-world flight procedures make it feel like you’re really soaring through the skies.

Flight Simulator Queensland — Photo credit: flightsimulatorqld.com.au

The simulators can replicate almost any weather condition imaginable, from sunny skies to thunderstorms and heavy snow. You can even bring up to three friends along to watch and take photos as you test your pilot skills. It’s an unforgettable and safe way to get a small taste of the thrill that comes from flying a plane!

Flight Simulator Queensland offers sessions on weekends (Friday to Sunday) by appointment. Whether you’re a budding pilot looking for some training or just a flying enthusiast, it’s an experience unlike any other. With an expert pilot guiding you every step of the way, you will gain invaluable insights into the world of aviation from the flight deck.

Read: From the Zone Bowling Alley to a New Medical Centre: Reimagining 278 Gympie Road

To book a session and feel what it’s like to take the controls, visit their website at flightsimulatorqld.com.au. The sky’s the limit!

Published 26-October-2023