Kedron Brook Archives - Kedron Today

Kedron on Alert as Invasive Oysters Remain a Biosecurity Concern

An invasive oyster species detected in Kedron Brook is still prompting warnings from authorities, with Biosecurity Queensland continuing to urge residents to report any potential sightings months after the initial alert.

**Suminoe oyster**
Supplied: DPI / Queensland Government

Biosecurity Queensland first called for public reports in early September and is maintaining its request as monitoring of local waterways continues. Officials say community awareness remains essential, particularly in urban creeks where invasive species can be difficult to detect in their early stages.

**Mature Suminoe oyster (left), native Sydney rock oyster (middle), and a juvenile Suminoe oyster (right)**
Supplied: DPI / Queensland Government

What’s been found in Kedron Brook

**The interior shell of the Suminoe oyster has a distinguishable purple to blackish scar.**
Supplied: DPI / Queensland Government

The species involved is the Suminoe oyster, also known as the Chinese river oyster — a non-native species previously identified in Kedron Brook. While it may resemble other oysters, it is a concern because of its ability to spread rapidly and survive in a wide range of conditions, including low salinity and poorer water quality.

**Suminoe oysters grow much faster than native oysters.**
Supplied: DPI / Queensland Government

This adaptability makes urban waterways especially vulnerable. Authorities say the oysters can attach themselves to rocks, concrete, bridge pylons and other hard surfaces, sometimes forming clusters that are easy to overlook unless you know what to look for.

Why authorities remain concerned

Biosecurity Queensland is continuing to seek public reports as part of efforts to track and manage the species.

**These oysters are difficult to identify during their early stages.**
Supplied: DPI / Queensland Government

Invasive oysters can establish quietly and expand over time. Overseas, similar species have been shown to outcompete native shellfish and alter waterways by changing habitat structure and water flow. While the oysters are not known to pose a direct risk to people, their long-term impact on local ecosystems can be significant.

Once an invasive species becomes widespread, eradication becomes extremely difficult — which is why early detection is critical.

What locals are being asked to do

Residents who regularly use Kedron Brook — whether walking, cycling, kayaking or fishing — are encouraged to stay alert. Anyone who notices unfamiliar oysters or shellfish attached to hard surfaces is urged not to touch or remove them.

Instead, Biosecurity Queensland asks people to document what they see and report it through official biosecurity reporting channels. Photos and accurate location details can help authorities identify the species and respond appropriately.

**Anita Wohlsen urges people to report giant oyster findings.**
Supplied: DPI / Queensland Government

Officials warn that well-intentioned attempts to remove oysters can worsen the problem by spreading larvae to new areas.

Community eyes on the creek

Kedron Brook is a valued green corridor through Brisbane’s northern suburbs, used daily by locals and supporting a range of wildlife. Protecting it from invasive species relies not only on government action but also on the people who spend time along the water noticing when something does not look right.

**These invasive oysters are spreading faster than native species.**
Supplied: DPI / Queensland Government

Authorities say public reports have already helped identify invasive species elsewhere, and the same vigilance is now being encouraged along Kedron Brook.

For locals, the message remains clear months after the first alert: enjoy the creek — but if you spot something unusual, report it. Early action could help prevent long-term damage to one of the area’s most important natural assets.

Published 29-December-2025

Stafford’s Next Chapter: A Suburban Shift Along Kedron Brook

Once defined by workshops and traffic-clogged roads, Stafford is emerging as a key site of urban transformation in Brisbane, with plans to reshape the suburb into a thriving, connected community built around Kedron Brook.

A New Vision for Brisbane’s North

A comprehensive redevelopment proposal led by Open Architecture Studio aims to turn Stafford’s overlooked industrial areas into a vibrant mixed-use precinct, blending homes, shops, green spaces, and community hubs. The plan proposes medium- and high-density housing, new dining and retail spaces, and social infrastructure designed to serve a growing population.

The suburb’s transformation centres on “turning Stafford to face the creek,” making Kedron Brook a focal point with new boardwalks, cafes, and public spaces overlooking the water.

The proposal covers a stretch of land about 1.3 kilometres long along the brook, bordered by Shand Street and Gamelin Crescent, incorporating key community assets such as Stafford City Shopping Centre, Bunnings Warehouse, Hoyts Cinemas, and local sports fields.

Plans include a Central Park-style green space, swimming lagoons, and a waterside amphitheatre. Developers cite urban renewal examples like Fish Lane, West Village, and Barangaroo in Sydney as inspiration for how Stafford could evolve.

Stafford — *Photo Credit: Open Architecture Studio*

Community Input and Future Planning

The redevelopment aligns closely with the ongoing Kedron Brook Vision and Master Plan, a city-led initiative that seeks public input to shape the future of the brook’s “middle catchment” and surrounding suburbs, including Stafford. The master plan focuses on improving access, enhancing green corridors, and integrating natural spaces with urban growth — goals that overlap with the priorities outlined in the Stafford proposal.

Residents have shown cautious optimism about the changes. Some see the redevelopment as a chance to improve housing diversity and create new public spaces. In contrast, others stress the need for investment in schools, transport, and infrastructure to support a larger population. City planners and developers agree that collaboration between landowners, Council, and the community will be essential for the plan to succeed.

Long-Term Transformation with Local Impact

Although the project is still in its early stages, developers believe the suburb already has the “building blocks” needed for transformation: strong public transport links, concentrated land ownership, and underutilised land along the brook. If key stakeholders support rezoning, initial developments could begin to emerge within the next decade, with full transformation potentially unfolding over more than 20 years.

Urban planners say Stafford is one of several middle-ring suburbs poised to attract significant investment in the coming decades, but they note that not all landowners may be ready to participate. While redevelopment could increase land values, it might also bring higher costs for owners who do not plan to change their property use immediately.

The proposed project aims to redevelop Stafford’s underused spaces into a connected precinct combining public areas, housing, and commercial activity. If realised, the project could significantly reshape Brisbane’s northern suburbs and influence future approaches to suburban growth.

Published 17-Oct-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

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

Local residents are being invited to help shape a long-term vision for one of the city’s most well-loved natural spaces, with community consultation now open on a major plan to revitalise the Kedron Brook catchment.

Read: Kedron Brook Set for Major Transformation in Olympic Lead-up

Stretching 29 kilometres from Ferny Grove to Nudgee, Kedron Brook winds through 14 suburbs and serves as both a natural waterway and a vital green corridor. Whether it’s a place for morning walks, bike rides, or spotting native wildlife, for many locals the brook is part of daily life—and now, they have a chance to help decide its future.

Kedron Brook Vision

Kedron Brook catchment (Photo credit: BCC)

The Kedron Brook Revitalisation Vision and Master Plan is a 20-year, $85 million proposal that aims to protect and improve the catchment while making it more accessible, enjoyable and resilient for generations to come.

Key goals of the project include:

Developing a long-term vision and master plan for the entire catchment
Revitalising creekside areas with new planting and improved water flow
Strengthening the flood resilience of the waterway
Creating more spaces for recreation and relaxation

Four precincts along the brook will be identified for targeted upgrades, and the plan is being shaped in stages, with multiple opportunities for the community and key stakeholders to provide input.

kedron brook — Photo credit: Robert Goh/Google Maps

The current phase—running from April to June 2025—focuses on gathering ideas and feedback from the public. This will inform a draft master plan, to be released for further consultation from mid-2025 to early 2026. The final vision and plan are expected to be completed in the second half of 2026.

While major projects like this often draw attention for their scale, what sets this one apart is the emphasis on everyday voices. Residents, community groups, and local users of the brook are being placed at the heart of the planning process.

Read: Cyclone Alfred Aftermath: North Brisbane Underwater as Kedron Brook Swells

How to Have Your Say

There are two easy ways to get involved and share your thoughts:

Online
Visit the Council’s “Kedron Brook Revitalisation” project page to:

Add location-specific comments on an interactive map
Share your aspirations for the catchment
Complete a short survey

Online feedback closes at 11.59pm on Sunday, 29 June 2025.

In Person
Pop by one of the local information kiosks to speak with the project team:

Thursday 1 May, 3–5pm — Dash Street Park, Keperra
Saturday 10 May, 8–10am — Grinstead Park, Alderley
Wednesday 14 May, 3–5pm — Shaw Estate Park, Wavell Heights
Thursday 15 May, 3–5pm — Teralba Park, Everton Park
Saturday 17 May, 8–10am — Kalinga Park, Clayfield
Saturday 24 May, 8–10am — Hickey Park, Stafford
Sunday 25 May, 9am–3pm — Sustainable BNE Festival, Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane City

Whether you walk it daily or simply love Brisbane’s natural spaces, this is your opportunity to help shape what Kedron Brook will look like in 2045 and beyond.

Published 21-April-2025

Kedron Brook Set for Major Transformation in Olympic Lead-up

Photo Credit: Facebook / Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner

Brisbane City Council is progressing with an $85 million plan for a major transformation of the flood-prone Kedron Brook catchment as part of the city’s preparation for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Kedron Brook Revitalisation Vision will transform a 110-square kilometre catchment that runs through 14 suburbs from Ferny Grove to Nudgee. Further investigations and technical work are currently underway to examine:

Reinstating vegetation
Bank stabilisation
Creating room for water flow
Developing more spaces for recreation with seating and shade

The project is one of four key leisure and lifestyle destinations that will be revitalised before the 2032 Games, alongside Victoria Park, Oxley Creek, and the Wynnum, Manly and Lota foreshores.

“Brisbane’s natural environment is one of the things that sets us apart from other cities,” LM Adrian Schrinner said. “Our river and creeks are places for both wildlife and people and this will no doubt be part of the unique ‘Brisbane’ experience for people visiting before, during and after the 2032 Games.”

According to James Tuma, managing partner of urban planning consultancy Urbis, Brisbane’s position is unique among Australian capitals due to its climate and relative youth as a city. “Expectations around amenity and the quality of green space and the amount of landscape available to residents is just the standard setting now,” he said. “We’re uniquely positioned in Australia to have this incredible city that is so different to all the other capitals because we can actually grow vegetation almost anywhere we want.”

The Kedron Brook project aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s interest in Brisbane’s natural setting, he noted: “One of the things that the International Olympic Committee are most enamoured by the idea of in 2032, is the natural setting of the city.”

The transformation forms part of what LM Schrinner describes as an “ambitious plan to transform hundreds of hectares of under-utilised parts of Brisbane into an incredible lifestyle destination for everyone.”

Published 19-November-2024

Mystery Surrounds Rescued Puppy Found Adrift with Dog and Cat in Kedron Brook

A puppy, along with a dog and cat, were rescued from the treacherous waters of Kedron Brook after being spotted in distress on a moored boat.

The Rescue

The incident occurred on Saturday night, 8 Nov, after concerned citizens alerted authorities about the puppy’s perilous situation. Brisbane Water Police swiftly responded to the scene and located the small canine clinging to a partially submerged tyre.

Officers carefully retrieved the animals and transported them to an emergency vet clinic in Stafford for immediate medical attention.

The Mystery Deepens

Despite the successful rescue, questions remain unanswered. No one was found on the boat to account for the puppy or the two other animals discovered on board. The RSPCA has taken over the investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure the animals’ well-being.

Rescued Dog Kedron Brook — *Photo Credit: QPS*

The local community has expressed relief and admiration for the efforts of the emergency services. Many have praised the quick thinking of the concerned citizens who reported the incident.

“So thankful these poor animals were saved and shown kindness. Great work and thanks to whoever reported it.”

The rescue has highlighted the importance of community vigilance and responsible pet owners.

Published 13-Nov-2024

Suminoe Oysters Found Infesting Queensland’s Coastal Areas

Did you know that Biosecurity Queensland confirmed the presence of the Suminoe oyster, an invasive oyster species that can grow up to 24 cm, in several of the state’s waterways, including locations around Bribie Island, Kedron Brook, Boggy Creek in Pinkenba, and near the mouth of the Brisbane River?

Read: Transforming Kedron Brook: A Vision for Flood Resilience and Recreation

Also known as Chinese river oysters, the suminoe oysters pose a serious threat to the region’s natural marine environments.

“This marine pest attaches to submerged and floating infrastructure including pylons, pontoons and boats and can occupy shallow waters as well as muddy creeks. It competes with native species for space and may carry exotic diseases and parasites,” Biosecurity Queensland stated.

Photo credit: Queensland Government — A juvenile Suminoe oyster (left), native Sydney rock oyster (middle) and mature Suminoe oyster (right)/Photo credit: Biosecurity Queensland/Facebook

The outer surface of the Suminoe oyster’s shell can exhibit a range of colours, including grey, yellowish-brown, and even purple. In contrast, the inner surface of the shells is smooth and has a greyish-white hue, with purple coloration along the edges.

The Suminoe oyster is known for its rapid growth rate, allowing it to quickly proliferate and displace native oyster populations. It also poses risks to important infrastructure, as the oysters can attach to and foul submerged and floating objects like pylons, pontoons, and boats.

Biosecurity experts are urging the public to be vigilant and report any sightings of the larger-than-normal oysters immediately. Boat owners are also being advised to thoroughly clean and dry their equipment to prevent the further spread of the Suminoe oyster.

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

Whilst the Suminoe oysters do not impact the quality of commercially grown oysters, they are not recommended for human consumption.

If you suspect you have spotted the invasive Suminoe oyster, Biosecurity Queensland is urging you to take action. Record the exact location, take a photo if it is safe to do so, and immediately report the sighting by calling 13 25 23.

Published 16-April-2024

Transforming Kedron Brook: A Vision for Flood Resilience and Recreation

An ambitious $85 million, 20-year plan to revitalise the Kedron Brook catchment area spanning 14 suburbs from Ferny Grove to Nudgee has been unveiled.

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

Dubbed the “Kedron Brook Revitalisation Vision,” this far-reaching initiative aims to enhance flood resilience whilst creating vibrant recreational spaces for the community.

The key features of the vision include four targeted precincts across the upper, middle, and lower catchment areas for interventions like bank stabilisation, habitat planting, and waterway management.

Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Facebook

Major bank stabilisation works have already happened in parts of the catchment area, with over 4,000 native plants used in just one section to help retain the creek banks.

The vision includes seating areas, shaded rest stops, and other amenities to encourage an active, outdoor lifestyle for residents. It builds on ongoing efforts like the planned Downfall Creek revitalisation in Stafford Heights, replacing a concrete drain with a green waterway and parkland similar to the award-winning Hanlon Park project.

Hanlon Park (Photo credit: Rob/Google Maps)

A major goal is achieving 80 percent tree cover across the entire catchment by reinstating native vegetation and stabilising creek banks. This will create a lush green corridor to bolster flood defences and provide a haven for wildlife.

Recognising the value of the area, LM Adrian Schrinner emphasised the plan will also integrate community spaces along the 20 kilometres of existing pathways used by over 600,000 people annually.

“This long-term vision is focused on clean and sustainable outcomes that will make Brisbane more flood resilient while also improving the lifestyle of our suburbs,” said Cr Schrinner.

“We have a track record of delivering master-planned lifestyle precincts, such as Hanlon Park and the Archerfield Wetlands, and the new Kedron Brook Vision will add to our strong record of increasing lifestyle and leisure opportunities and making our suburbs even better,” he stated.

Read: How Did Kedron Get Its Name?

As Brisbane grows, the Kedron Brook Revitalisation Vision demonstrates the council’s balance of sustainable development, flood mitigation, and preservation of natural assets for present and future generations to enjoy.

Published 11-March-2024

After the Floods: Kedron Brook Restoration Updates

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au

Spanning an area of more than 110 kilometres from Ferny Grove to Nudgee, the Kedron Brook catchment was among the Brisbane locations that were severely impacted by the February 2022 floods. Here are some updates and information on how the Kedron Brook restoration works are progressing.

Council’s Kedron Brook recovery and restoration plan consists of a three-stage approach: Assessment and immediate make safe works, restoration and reconnection works, and longer-term improvements at key locations.

Kedron Brook plan | Cr Andrew Wines / Facebook

Most of the sections and green spaces of the bikeway have been restored and reopened, whilst restoration works on lighting and electrical infrastructure are expected to commence when it is safe to do so.

Council expects all restoration and rebuilding works to be completed by late 2022. These works include:

reconnecting creek crossings at Royal Parade (reopened on 10 June 2022), Wolverhampton Street (underway), Walter Bourke Park (underway)

*Creek crossing at Royal Parade| Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au*

*Wolverhampton Street creek crossing | Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au*

*Walter Bourke Park creek crossing | Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au*

rehabilitating embankments at Bedford Street (nearing completion) and Johnston Street (nearing completion)

*Embankment rehabilitation at Bedford Street | Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au*

*Embankment rehabilitation at Johnston Street | Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au*

rebuilding at the rail underpass (reopened late June 2022) and culvert crossing (reopened late July 2022) and minor handrail replacement works at culvert crossing (underway)

repairing embankment under the Burwood Road bridge (underway)

Upcoming: restoration of lighting along the 20km section of Kedron Brook Bikeway — *Upcoming: restoration of* **lighting** *along the 20km section of Kedron Brook Bikeway | Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au*

*Section of Kedron Brook Bikeway in Corbett Park | Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / brisbane.qld.gov.au*

view Kedron Brook restoration updates

Upcoming are restoration and rebuilding works in Corbett Park at Uxbridge Street (erosion protection works on Burnwood Road bridge abutment and piers) and lighting along the 20km section of Kedron Brook Bikeway. (design, repair and restoration).

For more updates, check out the Kedron Brook Restoration plan on the Council’s website to get the latest updates including works being undertaken along the bikeway.

Works To Reinstate Kedron Brook Waterway Now Progressing

2 Next page