Stafford Archives - Kedron Today

Stafford Stagehouse Theatre to Premiere Heartwarming Musical ‘When the Wind Blew’

Brisbane audiences are in for a treat this November as When the Wind Blew, a brand-new Australian musical, premieres at Stafford’s Stagehouse Theatre. The production tells a moving story set in the Australian bush, blending themes of family, resilience, and self-discovery, all brought to life by a 22-piece live orchestra and a cast of more than 45 performers.

Read: ‘Mamma Mia!’ Musical Production Unites Schools in Kedron

The musical is the creation of 19-year-old composer and conductor Eli Ball, who is already recognised as one of Australia’s youngest musical innovators. Working alongside award-winning Brisbane playwright Paula Mary-Camilleri, Ball has co-crafted a production that blends original orchestration with heartfelt storytelling. The collaboration between mother and son brings a unique warmth to the stage, reflecting both personal and universal experiences.

Photo credit: Facebook/Whenthewindblewmusical

When the Wind Blew follows Hazel, a young sugar glider paralysed by the fear of her first glide. When a violent storm separates her from the safety of her tree and her family, Hazel must find the bravery to navigate the unknown and return home. The story, set against the backdrop of the Australian bush, explores themes of resilience, change, and the challenges of growing up, while remaining suitable for audiences of all ages.

The production is ambitious in scale. A 22-piece live orchestra accompanies more than 45 performers, including adults and children from Brisbane’s thriving arts community. This combination of youthful energy and professional expertise promises an immersive and unforgettable theatre experience, showcasing the depth of talent available locally.

Produced by Shine Performing Arts Academy, the musical highlights the creativity emerging from Brisbane artists and demonstrates the city’s commitment to nurturing original Australian works. The team behind the production has emphasised the importance of collaboration, with music, storytelling, and performance seamlessly intertwined to create a truly Australian theatrical experience.

Performances are scheduled for 6, 7, and 8 November at Stagehouse Theatre, Stafford (57 Hayward Street). Tickets are available through TryBooking, and the show offers a family-friendly experience that will appeal to children and adults alike.

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

As Brisbane audiences prepare to welcome Hazel’s story to the stage, When the Wind Blew stands as a testament to local creativity, community spirit, and the power of theatre to inspire courage in the face of uncertainty. For tickets and information, visit trybooking.com.

Published 27-October-2025

Stafford Street Pantry Opens Its Doors to All—Take What You Need, Give What You Can

A new community pantry has quietly sprung to life in Stafford—but its impact is already anything but small. Located just outside The Community Place Stafford, facing the stage at Keong Park, the Stafford Street Pantry officially opened its doors on June 27, inviting residents to “take what you need, give what you can.”

Read: Southeast Asian Dining Favourite Oh Boy, Bok Choy! Thrives in Stafford

With no forms to fill and no questions asked, this simple wooden pantry is built on an even simpler idea: that neighbours can look out for neighbours, one tin at a time.

Photo credit: Stafford Street Pantry/Facebook

The pantry is a result of a truly collaborative local effort. Built by the skilled hands of the Ferny Grove Men’s Shed, and given a bright, welcoming finish by Steve Hall, a volunteer with Repair Café Stafford, the structure itself is a symbol of the care that has gone into the project. From there, volunteers from St Clements on the Hill Anglican Church and St Paul’s Uniting Church have taken the lead in stocking and maintaining the shelves.

Behind the scenes, the pantry is supported by the 4053 Community Connections network, a group that brings together key local stakeholders like the Salvation Army, Brisbane City Council, Queensland Police Service, Nexus Care, and both partnering churches. It’s a grassroots initiative built on cooperation, compassion, and a strong belief in the value of community care.

Whether someone is feeling the pinch from rising grocery costs, experiencing a rough patch, or simply short on time, the Stafford Street Pantry offers a place of quiet support. And for those looking to give back, dropping off a few pantry staples is an easy and impactful way to help.

There are no eligibility criteria, no operating hours to keep track of, and no judgement—just a simple exchange of kindness, made visible in tins of beans, boxes of cereal, and jars of sauce.

Read: School Catchment Property Prices Soar—Why Stafford is Still a Smart Buy

In a time when many are doing it tough, the pantry stands as a reminder that generosity doesn’t need a grand stage. Sometimes, it just needs a small wooden box and a community willing to fill it.

So next time you’re near Keong Park, take a moment to stop by. You might find something you need—or the perfect opportunity to give.

Published 23-July-2025

Shortcut to Q Roasters Cafe Highlights Growing Push for Walkable Suburbs

In Stafford, a narrow track carved through tall grass leads to the popular Q Roasters café. It’s not on any official map, but for locals, it’s the fastest way to get their morning coffee. This informal shortcut, worn down by countless footsteps, is what urban planners call a “desire path” — and it’s sparking a broader conversation about how cities should support pedestrians.

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

Instead of taking the longer, less inviting route along industrial roads, many coffee-goers have opted to create their own direct path through the vegetation lining Kedron Brook. It’s a small but telling example of how people naturally move through their neighbourhoods, often ignoring rigid planning in favour of what makes practical sense.

Desire paths like this one are found all over Brisbane, from parks in Fortitude Valley to riverside areas in West End, revealing a quiet but consistent message: people prefer walking routes that are logical, shaded, and direct. Rather than viewing these informal tracks as nuisances, some advocates believe they should be embraced as indicators of how urban spaces could be better designed.

In Stafford, this unofficial route to Q Roasters eventually prompted action. What started as a dirt trail through the grass was later formalised with a paved path, making the walk safer and more accessible, especially for parents with prams or people with mobility issues. It’s now an important part of the daily routine for many residents, offering not just convenience, but also a chance to connect with others and enjoy the outdoors.

As Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympic Games and continues to grow, there’s increasing recognition that walkability must be a priority. Projects like the Kedron Brook Vision and Master Plan, a 20-year, $85 million effort, aim to upgrade paths and bikeways across the city’s northern suburbs. Desire paths are being looked at as valuable clues for where infrastructure is truly needed.

Beyond improving mobility, these changes have economic benefits as well. Studies have shown that walkable suburbs support local businesses more effectively than car-oriented areas. Shoppers on foot or bike are more likely to stop and spend time in their communities, rather than simply passing through.

Read: Southeast Asian Dining Favourite Oh Boy, Bok Choy! Thrives in Stafford

Whether it’s a shortcut to a café or a quiet detour under shady trees, desire paths reveal a simple truth: people shape their environments based on lived experience. In places like Stafford, the trail to Q Roasters isn’t just a path — it’s a signpost for how Brisbane can better support its walkers.

Published 4-July-2025

Stafford Man’s Snack Run Leads to $100,000 Win

A Stafford man’s spontaneous decision to buy a finger bun on his way home from work resulted in him scratching a $100,000 winning instant play ticket from Homezone Newsagency in Windsor.

The lucky north Brisbane resident, whose name was not released, bought the winning $5 Crosswords Instant ticket at the Homezone Newsagency, located at Shop 104, Homezone, 142 Newmarket Road, Windsor. The win came as a complete surprise to him, as he had not planned on purchasing any tickets that day.

A Sweet Detour

The winner recounted that the unexpected win stemmed from an unplanned stop. He had been on his way home from work and decided to grab a finger bun. Noticing the newsagent next to the bakery, he felt a sudden urge to buy a couple of tickets, leading to his substantial win.

He shared that even days after scratching the ticket, the reality of the $100,000 prize had not fully settled in, and he believed it would only feel real once the money was in his bank account. While still processing the news, he acknowledged the prize would be incredibly useful.

Local Business Shares in the Joy

Doug Belyea, the owner of Homezone Newsagency, expressed immense happiness upon learning that a local customer had secured such a significant win. He stated that it was always wonderful to hear about customers achieving major prizes.

Mr Belyea noted that while his newsagency had recently sold several Division Two winning tickets, securing a top prize like this was particularly exciting for the team. The entire team at Homezone Newsagency extended their congratulations to the winner, hoping they would fully enjoy their good fortune.

Instant Play Success Across Australia

The win in Stafford is part of a broader trend of success for instant play game players across Australia. In 2024, a total of 142 instant play top prize winners collectively took home more than $11.8 million in top prizes across all of The Lott’s jurisdictions. During the same period, instant play game players enjoyed over 25.6 million wins across all prize tiers, amounting to more than $251.4 million. This impressive figure translates to almost half a million winners and over $4.8 million on instant play games every week.

For those with eligible non-winning instant play tickets, there is also a 2nd Chance Draw each month, offering another opportunity to win through thelott.com. The Lott, which is the official home of Australia’s lotteries, reported that in 2024, more than 195.3 million winners shared over $4.84 billion in prize money from various games

Published Date 25-Jun-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

School Catchment Property Prices Soar—Why Stafford is Still a Smart Buy

For families looking to secure a spot in one of Brisbane’s top school catchments without breaking the bank, Stafford is emerging as a viable option. Stafford offers one of the most affordable entry points into highly ranked school zones, with a typical three-bedroom house in the Kedron State High School catchment costing around $1.1 million.

Read: Then and Now: Waldheim, the Stephen Family’s Homestead in Annerley

Rising Property Prices in Top School Zones

New research from property firm PRD highlights the growing financial challenge of buying in Brisbane’s best-performing school areas.

The data reveals that nearly all suburbs within the top 10 school catchments now have median house prices exceeding $1 million, with some surpassing $2 million. As demand continues to rise and housing supply remains constrained, affordability in these areas is expected to decline further.

The Importance of School Catchments for Buyers

Families prioritising education are facing tough choices. Many are willing to pay a premium to secure a home in a sought-after school catchment, recognising the long-term benefits of quality education for their children. However, the increasing price tags mean that buyers must either stretch their budgets or explore alternative property options such as units.

Stafford stands out as an entry point for those seeking affordability without compromising on school quality. While the median house price remains high, units in the area provide a more accessible option. For families unable to afford a standalone house, purchasing a unit could be a strategic move to gain access to Kedron State High and other reputable schools.

Read: Street Spotlight: Mitchell St, Kedron

Market trends suggest that the affordability window may not remain open for long. As more buyers look to Stafford as a cost-effective solution, property prices are likely to rise. Those considering purchasing in the area may need to act quickly before the market shifts further out of reach.

With Brisbane’s property market continuing to evolve, Stafford presents a rare opportunity for families to invest in a top school catchment without spending millions. As demand increases, securing a home in this suburb could be a smart long-term investment for families focused on education and future growth.

Published 22-March-2025

Bella & Tortie: A Stafford Cult Bakery Selling Out in Hours

Photo Credit: Bella & Tortie

A small bakery tucked away in Stafford has gained a cult following, with customers travelling across Brisbane to get their hands on its coveted pastries. Bella & Tortie, operating only on Fridays and Saturdays, consistently sells out within hours, making it one of the city’s most exclusive food destinations.

A Bakery Born from Passion and Perseverance

Bella & Tortie was founded by pastry chef Suzi Unwin in 2018. It started as a humble market stall with an online store. Demand for her baked goods rapidly grew. This led to wholesale supply partnerships with popular Brisbane cafes. By November 2019, Ms Unwin opened her first shopfront in Grange. She employed a team of four pastry chefs, one apprentice, and six retail assistants.

However, the rapid expansion came with challenges. The bakery faced difficulties during COVID-19. Staff shortages, and global supply chain disruptions prompted Ms Unwin to close the Grange store in December 2022. She later revived Bella & Tortie in Stafford, focusing on a more sustainable approach to business.

Stafford bakery — *Photo Credit: Bella & Tortie*

Stafford’s Best-Kept Secret with a Limited Window

Located at 12/240 Stafford Road, Stafford Central, Bella & Tortie operates just two mornings weekly. The bakery opens from 7:30 a.m. to midday on Fridays and Saturdays, or until sold out.

Visitors can enjoy their pastries at picnic-style tables. They can also order coffee from the neighbouring café, Papa’s Corner, via QR codes provided at the seating area. However, some customers prefer to take their baked goods to a nearby park for a quieter dining experience.

Stafford pastry shops — *Photo Credit: Bella & Tortie*

Menu Highlights That Keep Customers Coming Back

Bella & Tortie’s rotating menu offers an array of meticulously crafted pastries and savouries, changing each week. Some standout items from the recent menu include:

Choux au Craquelin – Hazelnut praline, espresso caramel, and espresso mousse.
Matcha Yuzu Chiffon – A soft matcha chiffon cake with yuzu curd and matcha cream.
Sausage Rolls – Featuring pork, prawn, and water chestnut; beef, mushroom, and thyme; and pork, fennel, and apple options.
Strawberry & Rhubarb Trifle – Layers of vanilla custard pannacotta, compote, sponge, and mascarpone cream.
Quiches – Flavours such as mushroom, leek, and parmesan; caramelised onion and goat cheese; and maple bacon with semi-dried tomato.
Smoked Beef Brisket Pie – Made with jalapeños, pickles, and cheese, using locally sourced meat.
Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies – A permanent menu staple.
Russian Honey Cake – A delicately layered dessert.

Bella & Tortie maintains its reputation for high-end, handcrafted pastries that draw food lovers across the city.

A Bakery That Sells Out in Hours

Bella & Tortie’s limited operating hours contribute to its exclusivity. Many items are selling out quickly. Customers often arrive early to secure their favourites. Others visit Stafford purely for the experience.

For owner Suzi Unwin, the bakery’s relaunch has been a lesson in balance. It has allowed her to continue her passion for baking while maintaining a sustainable approach to business. With a dedicated fanbase and a weekly menu, Bella & Tortie remains one of Brisbane’s most sought-after bakery experiences.

Published 14-Mar-2025

Brisbane to Review Clearways, Webster Road in Stafford Among Key Corridors

Brisbane is undertaking a citywide review of clearway regulations to ease congestion and improve traffic flow. The initiative will examine major suburban corridors where extending clearway hours could help reduce delays and enhance road safety.

Read: Concerns Raised Over Road Safety After Child Hit Outside Stafford Heights Baptist Church

Webster Road Among Streets Under Review

Webster Road in Stafford has been identified as one of the key corridors under review as part of this initiative, which aims to improve traffic flow, increase road capacity, and enhance overall road safety.

Council will assess the benefits of extending clearway hours on this busy route to help reduce congestion and provide a more reliable commute for motorists and public transport users alike.

Project Benefits

The clearway expansion aims to deliver several key benefits:

Improved Traffic Flow: Restricting on-street parking during peak times will help maintain consistent traffic movement and reduce bottlenecks.
Increased Road Capacity: Removing parked cars from the kerb lane will allow more vehicles to use the available road space, improving efficiency.
Enhanced Road Safety: Clearer roads will reduce sudden lane changes and improve driver visibility, lowering accident risks.
More Efficient Public Transport: Less congestion means buses can operate more smoothly, leading to fewer delays and improved service reliability.
Safer Conditions for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Increased visibility and fewer obstructions will create a safer environment for active road users.

Community Consultation and Timeline

A six-week community consultation period will begin this month, allowing residents and businesses to provide feedback on proposed changes before implementation in June.

Local input will play a crucial role in shaping the adjustments, ensuring that changes balance the needs of road users, businesses, and residents. The Council will review feedback and implement the most effective solutions to improve travel conditions.

Looking Ahead

The review of Webster Road and other major corridors is part of Brisbane’s long-term strategy to optimise the road network and reduce congestion. Previous clearway adjustments in other parts of the city have led to noticeable improvements in traffic conditions.

Read: Street Spotlight: Kedron St, Kedron

Council urges residents and businesses to participate in the consultation process to ensure that any changes reflect community needs while enhancing overall mobility and safety.

Published 12-February-2025

Stafford Winner Plans to Share Fortune with Family

A Stafford woman experienced a thrilling moment after realising she had won $2 million over the weekend.

The North Brisbane resident held one of the two division one winning entries nationally in Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4541, drawn on Saturday, 25 January 2025. Her total prize was $2,473,272.71, making it the first major lottery win for Brisbane’s inner suburbs in 2025.

The Stafford woman’s day off was interrupted by a call from a lottery official just as she was about to leave for a walk. Overwhelmed with joy, she expressed her disbelief and described her heart racing with excitement.

She humorously mentioned struggling to write down the prize amount due to her flustered state.

She immediately planned to share the news with her sister, suggesting a celebratory drink. As she absorbed the life-changing news, she promptly cancelled her walk.

The Queensland winner’s first thought was to use her winnings to help her family. She spoke about how significant the prize would be for her loved ones. Her winning 25-game QuickPick entry was purchased through The Lott app.

Published Date 06-Feb-2025

‘Just Roll With It’: A Nostalgic Mural in Stafford

Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane

The Stafford Skate Centre served as the inspiration behind “Just Roll With It”, a vibrant artwork by artist Grace McFarlane, on a signal box located near the intersection of Webster Road and Billabong Street, completed last month under the Artforce Brisbane initiative.

This eye-catching artwork completed in 2024 November, located near the intersection of Webster Road and Billabong Street, celebrates the legacy of the Stafford Skate Centre, blending bright floral designs, roller skate imagery, and thoughtful symbolism.

Artforce Brisbane Stafford — *Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane*

The skate lace winding through the mural represents the Brisbane River, connecting Stafford to the larger Brisbane community. Assisted by Jake Fink and Kier Spilsbury, Ms McFarlane’s mural tells a story of nostalgia, connection, and hope.

A Tribute to Stafford Skate Centre

The Stafford Skate Centre was once a beloved community hub, and ‘“Just Roll With It” captures its essence with bold, retro-inspired imagery. Every detail of the mural pays homage to the joy and connection the skate rink brought to generations of locals.

Through thoughtful design and vibrant colour choices, Ms McFarlane has preserved the memory of a cherished local landmark while celebrating the evolving identity of Stafford.

New artwork in Brisbane — *Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane*

The Role of Artforce Brisbane

‘“Just Roll With It” was made possible through Artforce Brisbane, an initiative managed by Urban Smart Projects. The program empowers artists to transform traffic signal boxes and public spaces into meaningful works of art, creating shared spaces for connection and storytelling.

Artforce Brisbane continues to support local creativity, enabling artists like Ms McFarlane to leave lasting impressions on their neighbourhoods.

Community Connection Through Art

The mural has quickly become a focal point in Stafford, sparking conversations and fostering a sense of pride among residents. Public art projects like “Just Roll With It” show how creativity can transform everyday spaces into places of connection and meaning.

A Lasting Legacy for Stafford

More than just a mural, ‘“Just Roll With It” serves as a visual reminder of the suburb’s past while looking towards its future. Each brushstroke captures a piece of the suburb’s identity, ensuring the legacy of the Stafford Skate Centre lives on.

Projects like “Just Roll With It” highlight the importance of public art in building vibrant, connected communities. As Artforce Brisbane continues to grow, the mural stands as a testament to the power of creativity in shaping public spaces. To learn more about ‘“Just Roll With It” and other Artforce Brisbane projects, visit Artforce Brisbane’s official website.

Published 28-Dec-2024