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.
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
Photo credit: Google Street View
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: Pexels
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane
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.
The Brisbane Apollo Male Choir, based in Stafford, stands as one of the city’s most enduring cultural treasures, its roots stretching back to the late 19th century. Here’s a look back at the history of this iconic ensemble, which still operates to this day, continuing to enrich Brisbane’s musical heritage.
Formed in 1884, the choir’s origins began with an appeal for Brisbane’s gentlemen to convene and create a male choir, culminating in their first rehearsal in May 1885 at Pollard and Co’s warehouse on Queen Street.
Audience photograph of a ‘Liedertafel smoke concert’ held in the Exhibition Concert Hall, Bowen Hills, 1901 (Photo credit: John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)
Originally christened Brisbane Liedertafel, the choir’s name was German, with “Liedertafel” translating to “song table.” This name evoked the convivial German tradition of men gathering to sing harmoniously over beer steins. However, as World War I brought anti-German sentiment, the group adopted a new identity in 1916: the Brisbane Apollo Male Choir.
A Legacy of Musical Excellence
Photo credit: brisbaneapollochoir.com
Under the baton of its first conductor, H.J. Pollard, and later esteemed leaders such as W.A. Caflisch, George Sampson, and Percy Brier, the choir quickly established itself as a cornerstone of Brisbane’s cultural scene.
Early performances garnered widespread enthusiasm, with audiences eager for the “feast of good male choral singing” the choir reliably delivered. Over the decades, the Brisbane Apollo Male Choir expanded its repertoire and reach, becoming a beloved feature of the city’s musical landscape.
A New Era in Stafford
Photo credit: brisbaneapollochoir.com
Today, the Brisbane Apollo Male Choir continues its proud tradition, bringing joy to audiences across Brisbane and beyond. After years of rehearsing at the Shaftesbury Centre in Spring Hill, the group relocated to St James Anglican Church Hall in Newmarket in 2008.
A decade later, seeking refuge from traffic noise, the choir found its current home in Stafford at St Clement’s on the Hill Anglican Church Hall.
The choir’s current Music Director, Guillaume R. Lemay-Yates, has brought a fresh energy to the group since taking the helm in June 2021. A Montreal native, Guillaume’s musical journey began with the violin and saxophone before he delved into Brisbane’s choral scene upon relocating to Australia in 2018.
Also the Music Director of the Queensland University Musical Society and Serenata Singers, Guillaume’s leadership reflects the choir’s dedication to evolving while honoring its storied history.
Joining the Choir
Photo credit: St Clement’s on the Hill Anglican Church/Google Maps
For those seeking a harmonious pastime, the Brisbane Apollo Male Choir extends a warm welcome. Rehearsals take place on Mondays from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at St Clement’s on the Hill Anglican Church Hall, 2 Eudunda Street, Stafford. Whether seasoned singers or enthusiastic novices, new members are encouraged to join and contribute to the choir’s rich tradition.
Choir members at the Windsor Community Centre Open Day (Photo credit: Brisbane Apollo Male Choir 2024/Facebook)
Today, many choir members are retirees who find joy in sharing musical entertainment with retirement villages, aged care facilities, churches, and community groups.
With nearly 140 years of history, the Brisbane Apollo Male Choir exemplifies the timeless power of music to unite, inspire, and bring joy. As the choir looks to the future, it remains a cherished part of Stafford’s cultural fabric, keeping the harmony alive for generations to come.
Carseldine, Kedron, Stafford, and other suburbs in Brisbane’s north will be significantly impacted by the proposed $10-billion Gympie Road Bypass Tunnel, a project that’s expected to cut congestion by routing long-distance vehicles underground.
Proposed by the Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC) and overseen by its dedicated subsidiary, North Brisbane Infrastructure (NBI), the tunnel is set to have one of its main entry points in Stafford and Carseldine, which could be a game changer for the local community’s connectivity to the broader Brisbane area.
Project Rationale: Addressing Congestion in North Brisbane
The tunnel project emerged in response to increased congestion in Brisbane’s northern suburbs, with population growth and new developments pushing existing infrastructure to its limits. With residents moving into high-density areas like Chermside and the outer north fringe, streets like Gympie Road have seen significant congestion. Stafford, directly linked to this main route, has experienced mounting delays, and locals are familiar with the challenges of daily travel in peak periods.
According to documents released by NBI, the tunnel is expected to cut Gympie Road traffic by up to 8 per cent, making a noticeable difference for drivers who commute to Brisbane’s inner north and city centre. NBI’s traffic modelling shows the tunnel could save motorists who start their journey north of the Pine River up to 18 minutes by 2046, particularly benefiting those travelling long distances.
However, the project also comes with trade-offs. While main routes may see some relief, congestion around the tunnel’s entrance and exit points in Stafford and Carseldine could become more complex due to redirected traffic demand.
Photo Credit: NBI
Community Feedback and Local Concerns
Consultations organised by NBI revealed that many north-side residents recognise the importance of reducing congestion in their area. While there was general support for the tunnel, several locals questioned whether building a new toll road was the best investment for their community.
Focus groups expressed interest in public transport solutions, with some noting that Brisbane City Council’s proposal for an underground rail line might have been a more effective long-term approach for reducing vehicle dependence.
Concerns about the tunnel’s potential impact on local traffic were also raised. Residents pointed to possible bottlenecks around the Gympie Arterial and Bruce Highway convergence points, areas where congestion could worsen even with the tunnel in place. The recent traffic modelling report from NBI indicates that the high demand for the tunnel is likely to increase congestion around its northern and southern portals, reducing local speeds by up to 20 per cent in peak times.
Photo Credit: NBI
Future Impact and Decisions
Premier David Crisafulli has inherited the project and expressed general support but faces tough decisions on whether to proceed wholly and how to manage costs. Initial taxpayer contributions to the project have already reached $350 million, covering preliminary planning. Yet, the economic benefit projected by NBI is only $1.6 billion, prompting questions about whether the tunnel’s financial outlay can be justified.
The Northern Transitway bus project has paused amidst considerations of above-ground public and active transport options that might work alongside the tunnel if it goes ahead.
Projected to cost just under $10 billion, the tunnel’s price tag includes potential cost escalations, and the NBI’s proposal did not consider possible future policy changes or industry condition amendments, meaning that the actual expenditure may be even higher.
What This Means for Locals
For residents, the tunnel represents both an opportunity to reduce travel times and a challenge in terms of managing increased local traffic. While the tunnel could ease the load on Gympie Road and provide a faster route into the city, nearby areas may see slower speeds, especially during peak hours, as the project draws traffic into its portal areas.
With the tunnel’s construction still in planning stages and government decisions ongoing, locals will need to stay informed on the project’s progress and raise any concerns about its impact on local infrastructure.
La Familia on Minimine Street in Stafford has now been trading for just over a year. Mark and Amelia have received many great reviews for their coffee and fare.
They were kind enough to talk about how it has evolved.
Our La Familia Big Breakfast is a weekend favourite, and we offer a Veggie Big Breakfast for a delicious plant-based option.
Photo Credit: Facebook/La Familia Espresso Bar
For something lighter, try our smashed avocado with fresh avocado and feta on sourdough, or try our freshly prepared pastries.
All our sandwiches are prepared in-house, with gluten-free options available upon request.
You have a stunning logo. What’s the story behind it?
Our logo is inspired by the Tree of Life, symbolising growth, connection, and community. The branches reach outward, representing the friendships we’ve formed, while each leaf symbolises a new connection that has become part of the La Familia Family.
You’ve been in business for just over a year now, talk about your regulars and the warmth of the local community.
We’ve just celebrated our first year in business. Since we opened our doors a year ago, our business has grown in ways we couldn’t have imagined. Like many small businesses, we’ve had our fair share of challenges, but what keeps us going is the joy of serving our community.
We have listened to our customers’ feedback, expanding our menu to offer something for everyone. The support from our regulars like Margaret, Principal Sarah, Bodhi, Dave with the hat, Glenda, Ross, and the Walshes—to name just a few—has been truly heartwarming.
Every smile, every conversation, and every opportunity to provide genuine, old-fashioned service reminds us why we started this journey.
We take pride in providing employment opportunities to those who need it most—whether they are unemployed, from immigrant backgrounds, or part of the First Nations community.
The highlight of our first year has been the sense of community that has blossomed here. We’re more than a cafe; we’ve become a gathering place where friendships form and stories are shared. Thanks to our incredible customers, we have built a warm, tight-knit community that truly feels like family.
La Familia is built on the belief that everyone deserves a chance, and it is our mission to offer that chance, day after day.
Our café’s wall of gratitude honours those who’ve supported us, and our cherry blossom tree of gratitude invites our customers to leave messages about what family and community mean to them. And then there’s our coffee—our specialty. We take great pride in sourcing the finest beans to deliver an experience that brings people together.
We believe that each cup of coffee, each pastry, and each smile served at La Familia is a small but significant part of building a strong, more connected community.
That brings me to the Wesley Mission’s Orca Project. We’ve been involved since March this year, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience.
For those of you who may not be familiar with the Orca Project, it provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to engage in work experience and build valuable skills.
At La Familia, we’ve welcomed around eight participants so far, each of whom have completed four-week work placements, two hours per week, accompanied by a support worker.
The tasks they take on are diverse, ranging from food preparation to customer service and cleaning, and our team and customers have embraced them with open arms.
These participants bring an energy and enthusiasm that is contagious, and we’ve seen firsthand the positive impact this program has on their confidence, skills, and sense of belonging.
Photo Credit: Facebook/La Familia Espresso Bar
What makes La Familia unique?
At La Familia, we’re more than just a cafe. We focus on creating a welcoming, inclusive space where everyone feels part of our community. We’re proud to support local causes, employ people from diverse backgrounds and showcase the work of local artists. Our menu is crafted with high-quality ingredients and we’re always working to make it fresh and exciting!
Do you have options for dietary restrictions?
Yes, we offer a variety of options for different dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian and gluten free, and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Do you bake your pastries in-house?
We bake our croissants and danishes freshly in-house on a daily basis.
How do you support the community?
Supporting the community is at the heart of what we do. We offer employment opportunities to people from immigrant backgrounds and First Nations communities and we’re involved with the Wesley Mission’s Orca Project, which provides work experience for people with disabilities. We’re also proud to feature the work of local artists and support mental health initiatives.
Is La Familia pet-friendly?
Yes, we are a pet-friendly cafe. We welcome pets in our outdoor seating area and we have water bowls for our furry friends.
Is La Familia child-friendly?
Yes, we welcome families and have high chairs for toddlers.
Is La Familia wheelchair-accessible?
Yes, we’re fully wheelchair-accessible, with ramps available to ensure that everyone can comfortably enjoy our space.
Can I reserve a table or space for a small event or for breakfast/lunch?
Of course! We’re happy to accommodate small groups and events. Give us a call on 0434 901 366, drop us an email at lafamiliacoffee.co@outlook.com or visit us in-store at Shop 2, 20 Minimine Street, Stafford and we will do our best to accommodate.
We’re open 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tuesday to Friday and 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on weekends. Come by anytime for a coffee, a bite to eat, or just to say hi!
Is there parking nearby?
Yes, there’s ample parking nearby, so you can visit us without any hassle.
Police responded to an incident at the Kedron residence of Stafford MP Jimmy Sullivan late Sunday, October 27, with a Queensland Police spokesman confirming officers “took up with all parties involved.” No charges were laid.
Multiple sources have raised concerns about Sullivan’s welfare and relationship with alcohol, noting his personal struggles intensified during the recent election campaign.
Former state minister Anthony Lynham and federal Sports Minister Anika Wells intervened last week to assist Sullivan. When contacted, Sullivan confirmed he had already sought support, mentioning he was “surrounded by good people” including Dr. Lynham. He also referenced being at a busy time in his life with both the election and a newborn baby.
Sullivan, who became Assistant Minister for Justice and Veterans’ Affairs in December 2023, secured re-election on Saturday with a near 40 percent primary vote. He has held the seat of Stafford since 2020.
A Labor colleague expressed worry about Sullivan’s welfare, stating: “I’m concerned for him.”
Witness Michael Nocotra reported hearing a loud gunshot, stating, “We hear this big gunshot, this bang so we quickly ran inside.” Another neighbour, Rosana Romano, described the incident as “traumatising”.
According to reports, three individuals were seen quickly leaving the scene shortly after the shooting. The victim’s screams were heard by nearby residents.
Police responded rapidly to the incident, calling for immediate helicopter support. In an unusual turn of events, the police helicopter spotted a red Volkswagen, seen leaving the area, return to the crime scene. Officers on the ground were waiting and subsequently arrested a man and a woman who, according to police, are known to the victim.
Inspector Karl Hahne commended the swift action of the responding officers, saying, “Police immediately applied first aid and a tourniquet, which probably saved the gentleman’s life.” The victim was given CPR at the scene before being transported to the hospital by ambulance.
As of 7:28 PM on September 29, 2024, authorities are still searching for at least one more suspect believed to be involved in the shooting. The investigation is ongoing, and police have not released further details about the identities of those involved or the motive behind the shooting.
Residents are advised to remain vigilant as the police continue their search for the remaining suspects.
Baking their French Pâtisserie on site every day whilst serving specialty coffee in a pet-friendly indoor and alfresco seating area, Mark Fletcher and Amelia Chan have brought a sanctuary to local people.
“Oh my goodness! Why is the whole of Australia not talking about this place. The food is awesome. The desserts sublime and the coffee amazing. Not sure really if I want to share about this place because as people hear about it, my favourites will be gone 😭 ”
When Mark and Amelia established La Familia six months ago, they were committed to three very specific goals:
To unearth the very best specialist coffee
To offer Delicious Fresh Fayre from freshly baked Vegan Raspberry Croissants to French Butter Croissants to Almond Croissants to French Chocolate Croissants along with scrumptious Portuguese tarts and a range of other pastries.
To train and employ the underprivileged and give them a go.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
Mindfulness & Gratitude
Beyond providing customers with a delicious chapter to their day, Mark and Amelia also hold mental health high on their priority list, “Through initiatives like the Big Blue Table, we raise funds for Beyond Blue while fostering a safe haven for community connection,” says Mark.
As passionate advocates of Mental Health, they have established a wall of gratitude, “the wall of gratitude provides recognition to those who have contributed to our journey, while our cherry blossom tree of gratitude invites personal reflections on the meaning of family,” says Amelia.
At the end of the year, they express their thanks by drawing cards of heartfelt messages from the cherry blossom tree of gratitude with Bunnings and IKEA gift cards.
“We take the time to connect with each customer on a personal level, creating a friendly atmosphere making every visit memorable,” says Mark and the reviews of La Familia certainly prove he isn’t just making that up.
Minimine Street Making a Comeback After Covid Decimation
La Familia is located on Minimine St, off Webster Road in Stafford.
Minimine Street is famous for the annual Christmas Lighting competition when several thousand locals attend the houses that make a special effort.
Before Covid, Minimine Street had developed a thriving retail community that was decimated by the pandemic but La Familia is leading the comeback and the community feel is returning.
Mark asked a local artist to produce this painting and La Familia also educates its customers on the different taste notes of the current beans on offer.
“Genuinely the best coffee I’ve had in my entire life. The smoothies, pastries and sandwiches are also a solid 10/10. Everyone is super friendly and my days are always better after walking through the door.”
Andrew
“Great music and great coffee, super croissants 🥐 hope you locals know how lucky you are?”
Malcolm
“Amazing coffee!!! Every food item I’ve tried has been great especially the Portuguese tarts which are perfect. Friendly, knowledgeable service.”
Jess
La Familia can also cater to large groups.
“We are championing mental health awareness and building a stronger, more connected community, one conversation at a time”, says Mark.
Stafford is emerging as a haven for those with a sweet tooth. Two bakeries, in particular, are drawing crowds and tantalising taste buds with their creative and classic pastries: Hugs, an ultra-cool bakehouse, and Bella & Tortie, a hidden gem with a devoted following.
Hugs, located at 2/27 Windorah Street, is more than just a bakery; it’s an experience. Hugs is quickly becoming a favourite among locals and visitors with its trendy atmosphere and innovative menu.
It would be best to take advantage of the culinary adventure of biting into a flaky croissant filled with creamy garlic potato bake or a medley of mushrooms and halloumi.
Located at 240 Stafford Road, Bella & Tortie operates on a unique model. Open only on Fridays and Saturdays, this bakery has cultivated an air of exclusivity that adds to its allure.
The menu changes weekly, so following their Instagram is essential to stay in the loop.
From their signature canelés to an array of tarts, cakes, and pastries, Bella & Tortie offers a tempting selection worth the wait.
More than Just Bakeries
These bakeries are more than just businesses; they’re community hubs. They’re places where people gather to enjoy delicious treats, catch up with friends, and celebrate special occasions. The owner’s passion and dedication shine through every creation, making each visit memorable.
The rise of these bakeries speaks to a larger trend. People are increasingly seeking out high-quality, artisanal food experiences. They’re willing to travel and queue to taste something truly special. With its burgeoning bakery scene, Stafford is at the forefront of this movement.
Add Hugs, Bella, and Tortie to your itinerary, whether you’re a local or just passing through. You won’t regret it.