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Children Lead Accessibility Action in Gordon Park

Photo Credit: The Brook Early Education and Care/Facebook

Children from The Brook Early Education and Care in Gordon Park have raised concerns about a deteriorating section of the braille trail along their regular Bush Kindy walk.

The initiative began when students noticed parts of the tactile ground indicators were damaged, impacting the safety and accessibility of the footpath for vision-impaired pedestrians.

Community Advocacy Through Bush Kindy

As part of their Bush Kindy program, the children developed awareness of the shared use of public spaces. After identifying the issue, they used traditional letter writing to contact local official Danita Parry. Cr Parry responded and later joined the group on their walk to inspect the site firsthand.

Understanding the Role of Braille Trails

Braille trails consist of tactile indicators embedded in footpaths to guide individuals who are blind or have low vision. These markers include raised lines and dots that signal directions, changes, and warnings such as street crossings. However, sighted individuals often obstruct or overlook these paths, sometimes inadvertently creating hazards.

inclusive infrastructure — *Photo Credit: BCC/Facebook*

Accessibility Needs in Brisbane

An estimated 357,000 Australians are currently living with blindness or vision impairment, a number projected to increase to 564,000 by 2030. In Brisbane, more than 6800 kilometres of roads include 50,000 intersections—making consistent tactile accessibility features crucial. Studies have shown that 8% of visually impaired pedestrians have experienced a collision with vehicles or bicycles, while 20% reported near misses over a five-year span.

Brisbane’s original Braille trail in Queen Street Mall was established in 1989, and an additional $90,000 has been invested to extend the network in recent years. The longest continuous trail now stretches approximately 1.6 kilometres through the CBD.

City of Brisbane Accessibility Measures

BCC has implemented several measures aimed at enhancing accessibility, including audio-tactile traffic signals that adjust to ambient noise levels, tactile street signs, extended crossing times, and consistent footpath upgrades. As part of its long-term strategy, the Council launched the “Inclusive Brisbane Plan 2019–2029,” building on the achievements of its 2012–2017 Access and Inclusion Plan, which invested $6.8 million annually into inclusive infrastructure.

braille trail — *Photo Credit: The Brook Early Education and Care/Facebook*

Community Response and Educational Value

City official Parry responded positively to the children’s concerns, sharing her support publicly. The event has also highlighted the potential of early education in shaping responsible community members, aligning with the centre’s broader goals of encouraging global citizenship in children.

Looking Ahead

The damaged braille trail in Gordon Park has been brought to BCC’s attention following the children’s advocacy. The engagement has reinforced both the importance of accessible infrastructure and the role of education in civic participation.

Published 20-June-2025

Kedron Home Defies Flood Fears, Fetches $2.2M at Auction

A newly built five-bedroom Kedron home has sold for $2.2 million, defying traditional buyer concerns over flooding and neighbouring a cemetery.

Read: Stafford Centre Sold as Brisbane Retail Market Hits $32.3M in Sales

The auction result reflects the growing demand for high-end homes in Brisbane’s inner north, where land scarcity is pushing buyers to reconsider properties that may have previously been overlooked.

The property at 5 Bloxsom Street, which sits on a 683 square metre block, was designed and built by developer Andrew Bourner, who acquired the original house in 2014. Rather than demolish it, the house was relocated to Toowoomba to make way for the elevated, flood-conscious design now in its place.

Photo credit: Brisbane Flood Awareness Map

Despite the site’s overland flow classification—meaning it’s prone to stormwater runoff—the home was carefully designed with elevation across the sloping block. Even the pool was raised to the same level as the living areas, creating a seamless layout while protecting against future weather events.

The Kedron home spent just three weeks on the market before going under the hammer. It opened at $1.5 million and swiftly climbed to $2.2 million as two serious bidders competed. The agent, Caleb Mayberry of Ray White Ascot, believed the price reflected the home’s quality and the suburb’s growing popularity.

Mayberry said the presence of the adjacent cemetery, once seen as a deterrent, actually became a point of interest for buyers seeking value in a tightly held suburb. He felt that many saw the opportunity to buy into Kedron at a price point that wouldn’t be possible on a nearby street without such perceived compromises.

Flood concerns, too, were addressed proactively. Bourner and Mayberry provided detailed information about insurance premiums and excerpts from a hydraulic engineering report to reassure prospective buyers. They aimed to show that the risks were manageable, especially with the home’s elevated construction and stormwater planning.

Mayberry noted that in the current climate—where extreme weather events have become top of mind for Queensland buyers—what mattered most was how the property might be impacted and whether insurance remained affordable. The campaign addressed these concerns early on, helping build confidence in the home’s resilience.

Bourner emphasised that while the floor height had been raised, the home retained an appealing and cohesive look, avoiding the awkwardness often seen in flood-prone builds perched high on stilts. The rear fence was also designed to be removed in extreme weather, allowing water to wash through without damaging the property.

Read: Street Spotlight: Beauval Street, Kedron

The strong result, Mayberry suggested, could signal a new wave of interest in homes like this across Kedron. With land values in the suburb now exceeding $1 million and many post-war homes being replaced with new builds, the area is reaching a tipping point. He predicted that more premium properties will emerge on formerly overlooked blocks and that similar sales are likely to follow in the next property cycle.

Published 19-June-2025

Kedron Man Arrested With Firearm and Drugs in Operation Brisbane Safe

A man has been charged with multiple offences after allegedly being found with a homemade firearm, ammunition, and drugs during a major police operation in Brisbane’s north. The 27-year-old was arrested on June 12 in Kedron as part of Operation Brisbane Safe — a coordinated police blitz targeting property crime and knife offences across the Gateway area.

Read: 100 Lives Lost on Queensland Roads: Authorities Urge Safer Driving

Officers from the Boondall Tactical Crime Squad intercepted a stolen Kia sedan in a Gympie Road car park around 9:30 p.m. after it was allegedly taken from an address in Burpengary sometime between May 25 and June 4.

Police said the driver reversed into a police car before surrendering without further incident. A search of the vehicle allegedly uncovered a bag containing a homemade firearm, ammunition, methylamphetamine, cannabis, and various drug paraphernalia.

Photo credit: Queensland Police Service/Facebook

The man is facing 11 charges, including unlawful possession of a Category H weapon (handgun), possession of dangerous drugs, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, stealing, driving without a licence, and possession of explosives. He was also charged with possessing restricted substances including 4-hydroxybutanoic acid and pregabalin, as well as suspected stolen property.

He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on July 14.

The Kedron arrest was one of several outcomes from Operation Brisbane Safe, which involved police from the North Brisbane District Tactical Crime Squad, Highway Patrol, and general duties units. In total, the day-long operation saw 36 people charged, 47 wandings, and nearly 400 random breath tests conducted.

Read: Tributes Flow for Victim of Kedron Brook Bikeway Tragedy

Police say the crackdown is part of ongoing efforts to tackle property and weapon-related offences in Brisbane’s north. Locals are urged to report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers or call 1800 333 000.

Published 17-June-2025

100 Lives Lost on Queensland Roads: Authorities Urge Safer Driving

With 100 lives already lost on Queensland roads this year, local emergency leaders are joining the urgent call for safer driving behaviour as part of a state-wide plea from the Queensland Police Service (QPS) and Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS).

Read: Incident on Perry Street Leaves Cyclist In Critical Condition

April marked the deadliest month so far in 2025, with 27 fatalities. QAS Metro North Assistant Commissioner Tony Armstrong said the loss of 100 lives is a sobering reminder that road safety is a shared responsibility.

“Every life lost on our roads is a tragedy, and it’s up to all of us to make the right decisions so we all get home safely,” Assistant Commissioner Armstrong said.

“Road fatalities not only impact you – but your loved ones, your community, and the emergency services who are dedicated to assist you.”

While Armstrong’s Metro North office covers a wide area including Kedron, the message hits particularly close to home for local paramedics and responders based at the recently expanded Kedron Emergency Services Complex, which plays a central role in responding to serious traffic incidents across Brisbane’s northside.

The upgrade to the complex, completed in late 2023, was aimed at improving emergency response capacity in a growing region—but as the fatal crash toll rises, even upgraded facilities are no substitute for prevention.

QPS Road Policing Acting Assistant Commissioner Shane Holmes said authorities are doing all they can—boosting patrols, using data to target high-risk areas, and launching public awareness campaigns—but cannot solve the problem alone.

“These 100 lives lost aren’t just statistics,” Holmes said. “They’re mothers, fathers, sons, daughters and friends—real people whose lives were cut short.”

Holmes added that enforcement alone won’t fix the issue, and stressed the need to address the “Fatal Five” road risks: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, driver fatigue and distraction.

The reminder comes at the close of National Road Safety Week (May 11–18), a time for communities to honour lives lost or changed forever by road trauma—and to commit to safer behaviours behind the wheel.

As Kedron locals commute daily along some of Brisbane’s busiest arterial roads, Armstrong and other emergency service leaders are urging drivers to slow down, stay alert, and think of the wider impact of their actions.

Read: Community-Driven Safer School Precinct Launches in Kedron

“Simple decisions—like driving sober and putting your phone away—can save a life,” Armstrong said. “Maybe even your own.”

To learn more about the Fatal Five and how to stay safe, visit the QPS road safety page: police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads

Published 22-May-2025

Lutwyche Volunteers Create Thousands of Lunches for Hungry Brisbane Children

Photo Credit: Eat Up Australia/ Facebook

Over 1,700 nutritious sandwiches were prepared by dedicated volunteers at HomeCo—Lutwyche, destined for disadvantaged children across Brisbane who might otherwise go to school without a proper lunch.

Community Comes Together

The public volunteering session was part of Eat Up Australia’s ongoing efforts to address childhood hunger. These “fast and fun” sandwich-making events are regularly held, inviting community members to contribute directly to ensuring no child goes hungry at school.

The recent Lutwyche event saw many returning volunteers, highlighting a strong community spirit and commitment to the cause. While yesterday’s event focused on Brisbane, similar sessions are organised in Melbourne, Sydney, and Perth, with details shared on social media for those interested in participating.

Addressing a Critical Need

*Photo Credit:* *Eat Up Australia/ Facebook*

Eat Up Australia is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing free lunches to Australian schoolchildren. The organisation states that one in four children at the schools it supports requires an Eat Up lunch.

Many children arrive at school without adequate food due to various family challenges, including financial difficulties, homelessness, or being from refugee backgrounds. This lack of proper nutrition can significantly impact a child’s ability to concentrate, leading to learning and behavioural issues in the classroom.

How Eat Up Australia Operates

Eat Up Australia primarily operates through volunteer-driven sandwich-making events. Volunteers, including individuals, corporate groups, community organisations, and even school students, come together to prepare fresh sandwiches and pack snacks.

These prepared lunches are delivered directly to schools, where teachers and support staff distribute them to needy students. Eat Up collaborates with various partners, including businesses that provide in-kind food donations such as bread, spreads, and cheese, alongside financial support.

The organisation began in Shepparton, Victoria, and has since grown to a national initiative, delivering lunches to schools across New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, Victoria, and Western Australia.

Significant Impact Achieved

Since its establishment, Eat Up Australia has provided over 4 million lunches to Australian children in need. In the 2024 financial year alone, they delivered close to 950,000 lunches to 940 schools. Schools have reported that Eat Up’s lunches improve students’ nutrition, energy levels, concentration, participation in class, academic performance, and overall well-being.

The organisation engages thousands of volunteers annually, offering a direct way for people to help combat hunger in schools. Notably, in partnership with Wonder, Eat Up recently achieved a Guinness World Record for the longest sandwich line ever assembled, creating over 14,500 sandwiches distributed to children in need.

By providing these essential meals, Eat Up Australia helps remove barriers to education, allowing disadvantaged children to engage in their learning and pursue a brighter future fully.

Published Date 21-May-2025

Remembering Jack Pool: A Legacy of Service Honoured During National Volunteer Week

As Australia celebrates National Volunteer Week from 19 to 25 May, the spotlight turns to the millions of people who generously give their time to strengthen and connect their communities. Among the many stories of dedication and compassion, one name continues to resonate deeply — John “Jack” Pool.

Read: Stafford Celebrates Keith Payne: Australia’s Most Decorated Living War Hero

Jack, a finalist for the Queensland Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Award, is being posthumously recognised in 2025 for his extraordinary lifelong commitment to community service. Though he passed away in March this year, Jack’s legacy remains firmly rooted in the hearts of those he served, led, and inspired.

A Life Devoted to Service

Jack Pool’s volunteering journey began in 1998 as a delivery driver for Stafford Meals on Wheels, an organisation he would help shape for more than 30 years. His dedication quickly led him into leadership roles, serving as Vice-President and President from 2001 to 2021. In later years, he became Patron — a role he embraced with heartfelt pride.

From 2011 to 2018, Jack extended his influence to the state level, serving as a Board Member for Meals on Wheels Queensland. His strategic vision and tenacity were instrumental in securing long-overdue repairs and upgrades to the Stafford facility — a major achievement that took nearly a decade to realise.

Even into his 90s, Jack remained a familiar and reassuring presence. He greeted volunteers with warmth, encouraged staff, and proudly represented the organisation at countless community events and expos. His commitment exemplified this year’s National Volunteer Week theme: Connecting Communities.

A Celebrated Contribution

Jack’s service did not go unnoticed during his lifetime. In 2020, he received the Westfield Local Heroes Award, and just last year, the Mary Lowe Living Legend Award celebrated his lifetime of contribution.

These honours reflect a legacy defined by kindness, perseverance, and a deep belief in the power of giving back.

Inspiring the Next Generation

As we reflect on the impact of volunteers like Jack Pool, National Volunteer Week serves as a call to action. Volunteering Australia is inviting Australians from all walks of life to discover how their own skills, time, and passions can contribute to building stronger, more connected communities.

For those feeling inspired, opportunities can be found by visiting the GoVolunteer website, contacting state or territory volunteering peak bodies, or simply reaching out to local organisations.

This year, while the Queensland Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Award was awarded to Noel Sherrington and Peter Morley, Jack’s recognition as a finalist is a poignant reminder that volunteering isn’t just about service — it’s about legacy.

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

Jack Pool lived his values, led by example, and showed what it means to serve with heart. As Australia celebrates its volunteers this May, we honour not just the hours given, but the spirit in which they are offered. Jack’s story is not only one of service — it’s one of community, connection, and compassion that will continue to inspire for generations.

Published 19-May-2025

Kedron Brook Vision and Master Plan: Consultation Dates Announced for Middle Catchment

Residents in the heart of Brisbane’s northern suburbs are being invited to shape the future of one of the city’s most treasured natural corridors as part of the Kedron Brook Vision and Master Plan.

Read: Have Your Say on the 20-Year Kedron Brook Vision and Master Plan

Brisbane has launched community engagement for its 20-year plan to revitalise the Kedron Brook catchment—starting with those who live, work or play in the middle catchment suburbs of Kedron, Alderley, Enoggera, Stafford, Kalinga, Lutwyche, Grange, Gordon Park, Wavell Heights, and Wooloowin.

The consultation process kicked off this week with the first community information kiosk at Dash Street Park in Keperra. More pop-up kiosks are scheduled throughout May, giving locals the chance to speak with project officers, share ideas, and help guide the long-term direction of the brook.

Upcoming Information Kiosks in the Middle Catchment:

Grinstead Park, Alderley
Saturday, 10 May 2025 | 8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
Shaw Estate Park, Wavell Heights
Wednesday, 14 May 2025 | 3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Hickey Park, Stafford
Saturday, 24 May 2025 | 8:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.

Kedron Brook Vision — Kedron Brook middle catchment (Photo credit: BCC)

More dates may be announced in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, local officials say the vision for the Kedron Brook catchment is about more than just maintaining green space—it’s about transforming the area into a vibrant, accessible, and resilient corridor for generations to come.

“At this early stage of community engagement, Council is keen to understand your aspirations and perspectives about where and what we focus on over the next 20 years, to deliver a transformational Vision and Master Plan,” Council wrote.

Residents who are unable to attend a kiosk session are encouraged to provide their feedback online. Feedback will remain open until 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 29 June 2025.

Read: Alderley Residents Demand Better Lighting in Grinstead Park

Whether you’re a regular user of the brook’s walking trails, a nearby resident concerned about the environment, or a parent looking for more family-friendly spaces, this is your chance to influence the future of Kedron Brook.

Published 2-May-2025

‘Mamma Mia!’ Musical Production Unites Schools in Kedron

Photo Credit: Humanitix

Padua and Mount Alvernia Colleges are staging a joint production of “Mamma Mia!” in Kedron, presenting a collaborative school musical based on ABBA’s iconic songs.

Background on the Production

Mount Alvernia and Padua Colleges have collaborated to stage a shared production of “Mamma Mia!” at the San Damiano Centre in Kedron. The event is set across four shows running from 29 May to 1 June 2025. Students from both colleges have been rehearsing since the start of the year to prepare for the production.

Musical Structure and Key Details

The storyline centres on a bride-to-be who sets out to learn about her family’s past on a Greek island before her wedding. The show features songs written by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, with some tracks co-written by Stig Anderson. The book is written by Catherine Johnson, with original concept by Judy Craymer.

Each performance will run for two hours with a 20-minute interval. The Thursday, Friday, and Saturday shows will run from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., while Sunday’s performance will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Cast and Chorus Composition

Mamma Mia Kedron — *Photo Credit: Mount Alvernia College/Facebook*

Key roles include Georgette as Lisa, Matilda as Ali, Ewan as Pepper, Fraser as Eddie, and John as Fr Alexandrios. A featured dance ensemble includes 14 students.

The broader cast is divided into two chorus groups, Chorus 1 and Chorus 2, comprising over 80 student performers in total. These groups represent a wide cross-section of both campuses.

Community Engagement

In the lead-up to the performance season, both colleges have shared cast profiles and rehearsal updates on their platforms to engage the school communities. Tickets are selling quickly, with limited availability remaining via Humanitix.

Students perform musical in Kedron — *Photo Credit: Mount Alvernia College/Facebook*

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Looking Ahead

The “Mamma Mia!” musical production in Kedron reflects a collaboration between Padua and Mount Alvernia Colleges. With students leading onstage and off, the show offers a structured, community-driven experience that highlights music, teamwork, and performing arts.

Published 14-May-2025

From Carrots To Chords: Padua College Showcases Music And Gardening At Open Day

Photo Credit: Padua College Kedron/Facebook

Padua College in Brisbane’s northside suburb of Kedron is inviting families to explore its campuses and programs at the annual Open Day on Sunday, 25 May. Running from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the event offers student-led tours, classroom displays, live performances and the chance to meet staff and students.

Music That Starts In Year 5

Music is part of the foundation at Padua College, with every Year 5 student joining a Music Immersion Program that includes learning an instrument. This early start has led to strong outcomes, including several perfect scores in Music Extension over the past two years.

*Photo Credit: Padua College Kedron/Facebook*

Padua leads the Franciscan Colleges Instrumental Program, partnering with Mount Alvernia College and St Anthony’s School to offer shared lessons, ensembles and concerts that support musical growth across all three communities.

A School Garden With Purpose

Behind the classrooms, a sustainable garden grows carrots, lemons and snow peas, reflecting Padua College’s Franciscan heritage and its focus on caring for the environment.

Gardening Club students help grow produce and care for the space, building life skills and a sense of responsibility through hands-on, community-focused learning.

A Tour Led By Students

Open Day visitors will tour the Greccio and Assisi campuses with current students, gaining insight into daily life at Padua. Displays in science, the arts and humanities will offer a hands-on look at classroom learning.

The event will feature music and drama performances, showcasing Padua’s co-curricular programs. Staff and College Rector Peter Elmore will be on hand to discuss the school’s mission and values.

Enrolling With Values In Mind

Padua College’s focus goes beyond academics, aiming to develop the whole person. Its “Developing Good Men” approach is reflected in programs that support leadership, wellbeing and service.

Families can explore more about Padua College by attending the Open Day. For enquiries, email enrolments@padua.qld.edu.au or call (07) 3857 9915. Those unable to attend can book a Rector’s Tour, available throughout the year.

Published 13-May-2025

Stafford Bakery Draws Early Morning Crowds for Sausage Rolls With a Yum Cha Twist

Every Friday and Saturday morning in Stafford, hungry locals line up as early as 7 a.m. outside Bella & Tortie, a tiny bakery that’s built a loyal following for its unexpectedly addictive sausage roll inspired by siu mai dumplings.

A Fusion That Started With Cravings

The bakery’s founder, Suzi Unwin, didn’t set out to reinvent a classic. One weekend, she was simply craving yum cha. Sitting down to plates of siu mai, the familiar flavours sparked an idea: what if the traditional pork and prawn dumpling could be reimagined inside puff pastry?

She experimented with the ingredients by swapping mushrooms for crunchy water chestnuts, boosting the ginger, and adding carrot and shallots. The result was a flaky, juicy, and full-flavored sausage roll. Alongside it comes a chilli soy dipping sauce made with sesame oil and roasted sesame seeds, which customers now request by the bottle.

Stafford bakery Bella & Tortie — *Photo Credit: Bella & Tortie/IG*

Suzi says this particular sausage roll has become her signature. Although Bella & Tortie offers other variations, this is the one she always comes back to. She recommends enjoying it fresh from the oven or crisped up at home in an air fryer or hot oven. Frozen versions are also available to take home.

A Business Built on Determination and Change

Bella & Tortie didn’t always look like this. It began in 2018 as a modest market stall and online shop, run by Suzi, a former interior designer who changed careers after living abroad in Sweden and South Korea. Her time in Korea, where she started selling baked goods at local markets, marked the beginning of her food journey.

After returning to Brisbane in 2014, she trained as a pastry chef and worked at several local institutions before launching her own business. The first version of Bella & Tortie opened in late 2019 and quickly grew, with a whole team and a growing customer base. But the pressures of rapid expansion, paired with COVID-19, floods, and supply chain issues, eventually led to the closure of the original store in 2022.

Within months, Suzi relaunched Bella & Tortie in a smaller, more manageable setup behind a Stafford shopping precinct. This time, she focused on quality, not scale. The current model is intentionally compact, with limited trading hours—Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to midday—and a weekly menu.

One-Woman Kitchen, Big Plans Ahead

For much of 2023 and 2024, Suzi ran the bakery solo—testing new recipes, managing walk-in trade, and baking everything herself. She described the period as the hardest work she’s ever done. With no other chefs or kitchen staff, the demands were intense, and the experience nearly pushed her to the edge. Still, she kept going.

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A post shared by Bella & Tortie (@bella_and_tortie)

Now, Bella & Tortie is entering a new phase. Suzi has hired a senior pastry chef and is preparing to renovate the space. Her goal is to create a more sustainable work environment, expand her small team, and improve the layout for both customers and staff. She says she wants to keep the quality high, reduce her working hours from 90 to 60 per week, and make the space more comfortable for everyone who walks in.

After years of setbacks and lessons, Suzi says she’s starting to believe in herself and the direction Bella & Tortie is heading. The bakery, once built out of necessity and survival, is now slowly shaping into the business she always hoped for.

Published 10-May-2025