Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 20 of 39

Kedron Swiftie Gets A Surprise From Carrie & Tommy

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

Kerbside Collection: What to Do With Green Waste

Photo Credit: M W from Pixabay

Residents will have another opportunity to discard their bulky unwanted items as Kerbside Collection rolls into Kedron. But how do we get rid of green waste? Here are some tips.

First of all, here is a rundown of the items that you can and cannot place on the kerb for the November 13 kerbside collection:

Acceptable Items	Unacceptable Items
bath and laundry tubs	commercial builders waste
bicycles and sporting equipment	car parts and tyres, including car batteries
carpet and rugs	dirt and stones
electronic waste (e.g. televisions and computers)	garden waste (e.g. hoses, rakes, potted plants)
furniture and white goods (e.g. fridges and stoves)	gas bottles
small household appliances (e.g. fans and toasters)	general household waste (e.g. food scraps)
wood products less than 1.5 metres	glass and mirrors
	hazardous wastes (e.g. chemicals, oil, asbestos) household waste that normally goes into your waste or recycling bin liquids bricks and concretebatteries of any kind (including car, rechargeable and lithium batteries) bean bags (including the polystyrene bean filling)

Here are some important things to remember:

Large household items for collection should be on the kerbside in front of your home not earlier than one week before your suburb’s schedule. Also, all items should be on the kerb no later than 6:00 a.m. on Kerbside Collection Day.
If you are going to discard an electronic device such as your mobile phone, tablet or laptop, make sure to delete all data to prevent identity theft.
Keep your pile tidy on the kerb.
Piles larger than two cubic metres will not be collected.
Refrigerator and cupboard doors should be removed.
Never leave sharp or any dangerous objects on the footpath
Make sure that the items you discard can be easily lifted by two people
If you expect severe weather conditions, make sure that your items for disposal are well secured.

What is Green Waste?

Green waste generally includes garden waste such as plants, trees, lawn clippings and palm fronds. Illegal dumping of green waste and organic waste including food scraps, or soil in natural areas, waterways and other land can have serious environmental consequences and can cost the government millions of dollars to clean up.

Some of the potential negative effects of illegal dumping include:

introducing pest plants that can outcompete native plant species, smothering them and overtaking natural areas infesting and blocking watercourses, contaminating waterways and smothering surfaces of creeks and lakes

introducing pest animals or diseases into new areas, such as yellow crazy ants, fire ants, and myrtle rust blocking forest tracks and fire trails in natural areas that risk the lives of firefighters and members of the public

creating increased bush fire fuel loads or ignition sources attracting wildlife to roadsides to feed on organic waste, and increasing the likelihood they will be hit by cars.

What to do with green waste

recycling your green waste by composting reduces waste to landfill and can reduce greenhouse gas emissions
composting produces useful materials that can be put back into your garden to improve soil health
using green waste as a mulch around your garden can protect soils from erosion, reduce weeds and plant stress, and can help to prevent water evaporation from the soil.

Alternatively, you can:

take your green waste to your local waste transfer station
some councils provide free green waste disposal, free green waste days or may have vouchers for green waste disposal
request a green waste recycling bin from your local council (where applicable) or local garden waste removal company
rental tenants should approach their rental manager, local councillor or Department of Housing office to request dumping vouchers, or enquire about what services are available

Incidentally, Brisbane City Council invites residents to drop off palm fronds, weeds, tree and shrub prunings, loose bark and grass clippings to any one of our four resource recovery centres as part of its bushfire preparedness plan.

On 11 to 12, November 2023, Nudgee Resource Recovery Centre, located at 1372 Nudgee Road, Nudgee Beach, is open from 6.30 am to 5.45 pm daily to accept your green waste.

Published 23-October-2023

Walk the Plank: Bradbury Park Challenge Goes Viral Despite Safety Concerns

The ‘Walk the Plank challenge’ in Bradbury Park’s new $10 million adventure playground has become a viral sensation on TikTok, attracting families from all over Brisbane.

The new playground at Bradbury Park provides a unique play environment aimed at older children, but with plenty of fun for younger, more adventurous children. It features challenging elements such as the walk the plank installation, a 20cm wide beam with a grippy surface over a soft mat.

According to a local mother’s online post, her child fell 3m from the plank and injured his spine. She complained to the council that the feature was too dangerous. Viral TikTok videos, however, have only encouraged more people to try it.

While the Council states that Bradbury Park upgrade meets Australian Playground Safety Standards, it recognizes that the playscape has some very challenging aspects that some children may not feel ready to navigate.

Local parents found in the park said the playscape was safe with supervision. Older children crossed the plank while younger ones watched nervously. All parents agreed that it provided a unique, challenging play experience not found in many other Brisbane parks.

Should you let your kids test their bravery at the plank walk? Visit Bradbury Park and decide for yourself, but be sure to provide close supervision.

Published 7 October 2023

Developer Submits Plans for 265-Unit Retirement Village in Lutwyche

Developers have submitted plans for a major retirement village development along Laura Street and Lowerson Street in Lutwyche.

Read: New Bridge From Leyton St to Wolverhampton St Takes Center Stage Over Kedron Brook in Stafford

Designed by Marchese Partners, the proposed village at 32, 33, 34-36, 35-37, 36A & 39 Laura Street and 39 Lowerson St, Lutwyche would consist of 265 high-density retirement living units across three 10-storey residential buildings.

The project aims to provide quality senior housing options to meet growing demand in the area. With Lutwyche’s ageing population, the developers believe the village addresses a need for more accessible and community-focused retirement facilities.

“The proposal delivering 265 retirement living dwellings will support the availability of additional housing options in response to community and economic need in the catchment as well as supporting Brisbane City Council’s target to increase the retirement and aged care housing options in Brisbane by 50 percent by 2027 under the Retirement and Aged Care Initiative,” planners stated.

“Even with the current proposal of 265 dwellings, there will be a shortfall of retirement living housing options in the catchment. Thus, demonstrating both a community and economic need for the proposed development.”

The residential towers would be separated by landscaped spaces, with private balconies and terraces for the individual units. Communal recreation areas, including a rooftop space, are also planned. The 28,240 sqm development would be constructed over three stages.

Marchese Partners’ design incorporates features to integrate the village into the surrounding neighbourhood. Around 17 percent of the site would be dedicated to deep planting and greenery. Vehicle access points and pedestrian pathways are designed to connect residents to nearby streets and footpaths.

“The proposal will deliver a high quality architectural design that incorporates the use of a range of innovative design techniques to reduce the appearance of bulk and scale and ensure a visually balanced facade,” the planning documents read.

Read: Proposal for New Multi-Dwelling Residential Development on Norman Avenue Lodged

To learn more about the plans, visit Brisbane City Council’s PD Online with the reference A006320813.

Published 7-September-2023

Rode Meats Under New Management As Owners Retire After 43 Years

After 43 years in the business, the couple behind Rode Meats, a beloved neighbourhood butcher shop in Stafford Heights, has retired and handed over the reins to new management.

Rode Meats isn’t closing, however. Brad and Julie will be passing on the business to a new owner, Will. With Will’s determination and commitment, customers will enjoy a reassuring continuity in the same legacy of quality and services that Rode Meats provides.

The enduring loyalty of the staff further bolsters this assurance, as familiar faces will remain to ensure the business retains its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Rode Meats has been a mainstay at the Rode Road Shopping Centre since 1980, supplying premium meats and fostering community connections with generations of customers.

Rode Meats Brad and Julie — Photo Credit: Rode Meats/Facebook

With heartfelt messages pouring in from customers, Brad and Julie conveyed their mixed emotions regarding their retirement.

Brad’s journey started as a 13-year-old clean-up boy and he expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support of the community that propelled his and Julie’s dream to fruition. Julie, who handled the business operations behind the scenes, also bid a sentimental farewell to her role in the enterprise.

Brad’s promise to continue aiding during peak periods serves as a comforting reassurance that the transition is not a complete departure, but rather a seamless evolution.

“This isn’t a goodbye, I’ll still be around to help out around the busy periods. But for now, a massive thank you and a see you soon!” he said.

Kay Meredith, a long-time customer, expressed her appreciation for the enriching experiences shared around the dinner table, while Tris Rowland commended the seamless transition the couple achieved after taking over from the previous owner.

Anne-Maree Houghton underscored the diverse array of products that had adorned countless dining tables throughout the years.

Follow Rode Meats on Facebook for updates from the new management.

Stark Reminder of Road Safety: Police Arrest Man for Reckless Riding & Drug Influence in Stafford

Photo Credit QPS/Facebook

A recent incident in Stafford served as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by reckless behaviour on the roads as Queensland Road Safety Week concluded.

On the evening of Thursday, 24 Aug 2023, at approximately 4:40 pm, the police were alarmed by the sight of an unregistered motorbike being ridden at high speeds along Webster Road in Stafford. The rider was conspicuously not wearing a helmet, raising immediate concerns about his safety and the potential danger posed to others on the road.

Responding swiftly, the police initiated patrols to locate the individual. Ultimately, the man was spotted standing alongside the motorbike on Heilbromm Street in Stafford Heights. Subsequent investigations conducted by the authorities unveiled a series of alarming revelations about the rider’s behaviour.

In a disturbing turn of events, it was discovered that the motorbike operator was not only unlicensed but also allegedly under the influence of drugs. These findings led to the apprehension and arrest of a 19-year-old Chermside man, who now faces a litany of charges.

The man was booked for driving under the influence of liquor or a drug, operating an unregistered motor vehicle, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, driving without a license, failing to wear a motorbike helmet, and possessing tainted property. The accused is slated to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 27 Sept 2023.

Authorities emphasize that the ramifications of the rider’s thoughtless decisions could have been far graver. Motorcycle riders represent one of the most vulnerable groups of road users, and statistics from Queensland highlight a concerning trend of increasing motorcycle fatalities.

Due to the inherent lack of protection offered by motorcycles compared to other vehicles, riders are at an elevated risk of severe injury or worse in the event of a collision.

Law enforcement agencies and safety advocates stress the importance of motorists remaining acutely cautious and vigilant regarding motorcycle riders. This involves actively scanning for riders, checking blind spots, using indicators when changing lanes or making turns, adhering to road rules, and exercising additional prudence during adverse weather conditions.

For those who might have pertinent information related to this incident or any other criminal activities, authorities urge them to reach out to Policelink. Information can be submitted through the online suspicious activity form available 24 hours a day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. They can also contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit information online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 30-Aug-2023

Stafford Heights Baby Defies Odds After Being Born With Stomach Outside His Body

Harrison McLaren was born with his stomach and bowels protruding outside his body. Now eight months old, he is thriving and well. Find out how the McLaren family from Stafford Heights faced this formidable challenge, with the help of the medical team at Mater Mothers’ Hospital in South Brisbane.

Harrison was born with gastroschisis, a rare and challenging birth defect that left his abdominal wall compromised, resulting in his stomach and bowels protruding outside his body.

Mum Jessica McLaren shared that her pregnancy scan at 20 weeks was a turning point for her and her husband, Christopher.

Despite initial reassurances and already visualising a healthy future for their child, they received devastating news over the phone that their child had gastroschisis. With the news, the McLarens entered a world of uncertainty and concern.

The expectant couple was advised that surgery was the only viable option and that it needed to take place shortly after Harrison’s birth in November 2022.

“After the phone call, I started researching the birth defect and this is when the panic and fear truly set in,” Jessica said.

“The images online of gastroschisis are very confronting. I immediately called my husband and we both took the next couple of days off work to process the news.

“All you want and wish for is a healthy baby and to be delivered such news was devastating.”

Stafford Heights Miracle Baby Harrison McLaren — Photo Credit: Supplied

Of the 10,000 babies born at Mater Mother’s Hospital every year, about 15 babies are admitted for management of gastroschisis.

However, their journey took a positive turn as Harrison’s arrival was meticulously planned by Mater Mothers’ NICU team, helping to alleviate some of the anxiety of his parents surrounding his birth.

His surgery was postponed until his organs could be maneuvered inside his body, a feat accomplished three days after his birth with remarkable success.

Mater Director of Neonatology, Dr. Pita Birch, credited Mater’s standardised gastroschisis feeding guidelines for aiding in the improved outcomes for babies with this condition. The guidelines facilitated the progression of milk feeds, minimizing infections and hastening patient discharge. The approach, including its application to Harrison, contributed to his relatively short hospital stay.

Through a multidisciplinary neonatal intensive care team, Harrison was provided with round-the-clock care during his nearly one-month hospitalisation, with seamless collaboration between Mater Mothers’ and Queensland Children’s Hospital.

Today, baby Harrison, at eight months old, is healthy and thriving. Mrs McLaren credits every individual involved in his medical journey for her son’s remarkable recovery, describing him as a true miracle.

“Having to leave the hospital without Harrison was extremely taxing on my mental health – walking out of those hospital doors without Harry in my arms was an emptiness I have never experienced,” she said.

“I get extremely emotional thinking about the care I received at the Mater especially the NICU team. The love and care they provide for not only your child but yourself and family is phenomenal,” she said.

“The medical specialists are simply world-class I couldn’t be more thankful for each person that played a role in Harrison’s recovery.

“He is most definitely our miracle. He made the most incredible recovery. To say that Harrison is strong and resilient would be an understatement.”

Published 22-Aug-2023