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Unexpected Closure: Stafford City Tavern Shutters Doors Abruptly

Stafford witnessed a sudden turn of events as the renowned Stafford City Tavern, a beloved local hotspot, announced its permanent closure.

Within hours of the announcement on Friday, 9 February 2024, the tavern’s doors were shuttered for the final time, marking the end of an era for the venue that had been a fixture in the Stafford City Shopping Centre since its opening in 2005.

The staff and loyal customers scrambled to come to terms with the sudden loss of a beloved gathering spot.

Swift Closure

Star Group’s decision to close the doors of the Stafford City Tavern came after efforts to negotiate a new lease, which had been ongoing since September 2023, were unsuccessful. The closure not only leaves a void in the local community but also raises questions about the future of the space within the shopping centre.

“Love going in there, best steak sandwich ever!!! I hear it’s because the shopping centre put the rent up too high. They did it to Australia Post & Bubble Car Wash. Started shopping at Stafford Heights on Rode Road now. Wishing the team at Stafford Tavern All The Best, going to miss the place,” a local said on the tavern’s Facebook announcement.

“I’m so sorry to hear this. My mum, dad and I enjoyed lunch there on 9 February, with no knowledge that it would be the last time we would be able to do so. Our meals were fabulous and such great value (including the largest chicken parmigiana we’d ever seen, which even my dad – who doesn’t believe in wasting food – couldn’t finish). What stands out the most though is the wonderful, friendly service from the staff, who made our visit so enjoyable. Thank you to you all, and I wish you all the best of luck for the future.”

“So devastated to hear this news tonight. It’s been our regular weekly family Snitzel Friday night for so long…. Even before this iteration. Perfect placement, parking readily available, not too loud, not too quiet. Amazing food! I have never had a bad meal there. Staff have always been amazing. You will most definitely be missed. I know you have the same menu at West End… but that’s a little too far for us. Stafford Shopping Centre will feel your absence!”

The Stafford City Shopping Centre remains optimistic about finding a new tenant but the loss of the tavern leaves behind a legacy that will be hard to replace.

Published 15-Feb-2024

Couple Arrested After String of Break and Enter Offences

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A couple, a 26-year-old man from Warner and a 33-year-old woman from Chermside, have been arrested and charged concerning a series of break and enter offences in the Stafford Heights and Chermside areas earlier this week.

The incidents began unfolding around 7:15 am on Tuesday, February 6th when residents of a home on Ringrose Street in Stafford Heights arrived to find two men allegedly loading property from their residence into a red Hyundai IX35. The offenders had allegedly forced entry through the front door and stolen items from three bedrooms.

As the alleged thieves fled the scene in the Hyundai, the quick-thinking residents avoided their cars from the thieves’ route, narrowly avoiding a collision. Some stolen goods spilled from the open boot of the getaway car along Webster Road and Kitchener Road.

A short time later, police received a report of the suspected red Hyundai parked in the car park of a unit complex on Spark Street in Chermside. Upon arriving at the location, officers allege they found not only the vehicle, which had been reported stolen from Aspley on January 25th, but a large haul of suspected stolen property inside.

Further investigations led police to a nearby hotel room, where they allegedly uncovered more stolen goods taken from a unit on Latham Street in Chermside.

The 26-year-old Warner man was arrested and charged with entering a dwelling to commit an indictable offence, two counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, receiving tainted property, and possession of a knife in a public place. He is due to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on February 28th.

His alleged 33-year-old female accomplice from Chermside was charged with receiving tainted property and possessing drug utensils. She is scheduled to face Brisbane Magistrates Court on March 8th.

Police state a third man allegedly fled the scene and remains at large. They are appealing to the public for any further information related to the case.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote these reference numbers: QP2400211073, QP2400209561, QP2400144861, QP2400211196

Published 8-February-2024

Stafford Tavern Offers Free Meals for Kids

Stafford Tavern delights families every day of the week with its “Kids Eat Free” deal, where children can choose from a range of delicious options including steak, chicken nuggets, calamari, and pasta.

The “Kids Eat Free” promotion, offered with a purchase of a full-priced adult meal, is a highlight of Stafford Tavern’s dining specials. It’s designed to cater to families, providing a cost-effective way to enjoy a meal out. The Tavern’s friendly atmosphere, combined with this deal, makes it a go-to destination for family dining.

Lunch and Dinner Timings at Stafford Tavern

Lunch: Available 7 days a week from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
Dinner: From Sunday to Thursday from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, and on Friday & Saturday from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

Beyond the main meal times, Stafford Tavern offers an all-day bar menu from 11:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Whether it’s for a casual meet-up, a family dinner, or a work event, the Tavern’s indoor and outdoor dining settings cater to every occasion.

MAKE A RESERVATION

Kids Eat for Free Stafford — Photo Credit: Stafford Tavern

Other Places Kids Eat for Free in North Brisbane

The Royal Hotel, Nundah

Offer: Free kids meal with any adult main meal purchase every Monday (kids aged 12 & under)
Not available: On public holidays
Contact: 3051 7619
Address: 1259 Sandgate Rd, Nundah QLD 4012

Everton Park Hotel, Everton Park

Offer: Kids under 12 eat free every Monday night
Not available: On public holidays
Contact: 3051 7606
Address: 101 Flockton Street, Everton Park

Tips for Accessing Free Kids Meal Deals in Australia

Check the Day: Kids eat free offers vary by day and establishment. It’s crucial to check in advance which day the deal is available.

Check the Age Requirements: Age limits for “kids” differ per eatery. Some might cap it at 10 years, while others extend to 12. Always verify the age limit beforehand.

Look Closely at the Requirements: Terms for kids eat free deals can vary. Some require the purchase of a full-priced adult meal, others may have different conditions. Always read the fine print.

Asking Never Hurt Anybody: Don’t hesitate to ask about free kids’ meal deals. Some establishments might not advertise these offers widely, so inquiring can uncover hidden deals. Remember, using these promotions can lead to enjoyable family meals at a fraction of the cost.

Published 21-Jan-2024

Thousands of Job Opportunities Emerge for Queenslanders at ECQ

Did you know that more than 10,000 jobs, offering substantial daily wages of up to $800 a day, have opened in Queensland? Residents of Kedron, like 50-year-old Sheyne Hindle, have already embraced these job prospects.

These employment opportunities are available to Queensland residents, and they come into play well ahead of the upcoming election day.

Having participated in election work since the age of 17, Ms Hindle, highly recommends these roles for individuals seeking sustainable employment opportunities. She relayed that the tasks are relatively straightforward, involving responsibilities such as counting ballots and ensuring the accuracy of the electoral process.

The training is paid and the rates vary according to the roles taken. Ms Hindle said the experience is also an “excellent way to actively contribute to the election process while witnessing democracy in action.”

Election officials play a pivotal role on the front lines during elections, facilitating millions of Queenslanders in exercising their democratic right to choose their local representatives. The numerous casual positions on offer are relevant for work both before, on, and after the election day scheduled for 16 March 2024.

Electoral Commissioner Pat Vidgen emphasized that applications are welcomed from individuals of diverse backgrounds and all corners of the state.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the ECQ website for comprehensive details regarding the roles, including eligibility criteria and requirements for political neutrality. Applications will remain open throughout the election period, providing a substantial chance for individuals to seize these unique employment prospects.

Applicants can choose from several types of positions. An “issuing officer,” responsible for distributing ballots and counting votes, can earn up to $530 per day. A “count assistant,” involved in packing up the polling place and assisting with vote counting, can earn $215 a day. Supervisor positions, responsible for managing the polling place on and before election day, offer a competitive daily wage of up to $881.95.

Upholding electoral integrity is a top priority for the Electoral Commission, ensuring that election officials reflect the principles of fairness, integrity, and transparency.

Published 16-Jan-2024

Brisbane Commuters Face Soaring Toll Costs as AirportlinkM7 Fees Increase

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

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