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Former Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk Lists Seventeen Mile Rocks Home for Auction

Perched on a leafy ridge overlooking one of Brisbane’s hidden gems, a rare clifftop property in Seventeen Mile Rocks—once the peaceful haven of former Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk—is now up for grabs.

Read: Grinding Mill Relic at Rocks Riverside Park, Seventeen Mile Rocks

Set to go under the hammer at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, 10 May, just a week after the federal election, the north-facing home is nestled in a tightly held enclave known for its serenity and natural beauty. It’s the kind of place where waking up to misty mornings and the chatter of lorikeets isn’t just possible—it’s part of the daily rhythm.

Palaszczuk, who led Queensland through significant milestones including securing the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, purchased the block in 2005 for $260,000 and had the home built the following year. Now, almost two decades later, she’s bidding farewell to a property that blends privacy, practicality and a touch of luxury—one that’s likely to draw strong interest from buyers seeking lifestyle and location in equal measure.

Spanning a generous 1,094 square metres, the property boasts an open-plan layout designed for modern living, with a voluminous kitchen, light-filled dining and living areas, and an expansive entertainer’s balcony that captures the breeze and bushland views.

Only ever owned by the former premier, the home reflects thoughtful design and a love for indoor-outdoor flow. The tropical front gardens are a magnet for native birds, and nearby walking trails to Rocks Riverside Park add to the suburb’s quiet charm.

Seventeen Mile Rocks, once a well-kept local secret, has seen a remarkable rise in property value—up 69.3 percent in the past five years. With a current median house price of $1.075 million, Palaszczuk’s home is expected to sell for between $1.39 million and $1.77 million, with rental potential of up to $1,100 per week.

The home’s listing by Saeed Moghaddam of Brisbane Real Estate – Chapel Hill highlights its prime position close to St Aidan’s, local shops, and riverside leisure spaces, making it an ideal spot for families, professionals, or those seeking a peaceful retreat still well-connected to the city.

Read: Middle Park Property Market Booms as Prices Surge

With the sale, Annastacia Palaszczuk will retain just one Queensland property—a one-bedroom beachfront unit on the Gold Coast purchased in 2019 for $705,000. While she may be stepping away from the spotlight and from this beloved home, it’s clear that her choice in real estate reflects the same calm, grounded presence she brought to public office.

For one lucky buyer, this home offers more than walls and a view—it’s a chance to step into a space built for both quiet reflection and vibrant gatherings, wrapped in the natural beauty of Brisbane’s western suburbs.

Published 17-April-2025

Grammy-Nominated Singer Danny Gokey Comes to Seventeen Mile Rocks

Photo Credit: Danny Gokey/Facebook

American Christian music star Danny Gokey is set to bring his powerful vocals and chart-topping hits to Seventeen Mile Rocks, with a live concert at Riverlife Baptist Church. Fans in the local community can expect an inspiring night of music and messages when Gokey takes the stage as part of The Sound of Heaven tour.

A Night of Music and Meaning

The concert is scheduled for Friday, 18 July 2025 at 7:00 p.m., and will take place at Riverlife Baptist Church, located at 47 Jennifer Street, Seventeen Mile Rocks. This Brisbane event is one of three Queensland stops, with performances also planned in Toowoomba and on the Gold Coast.

Gokey rose to fame as a Top 3 finalist on Season Eight of American Idol.

He went on to launch a successful career in Christian music, with his debut album My Best Days landing at No. 4 on the Billboard Top 200 chart. Since then, he has earned three Grammy nominations, multiple K-LOVE Fan Awards, and two Dove Awards.

Gokey is known for hit songs like “Haven’t Seen It Yet,” “Rise,” “Love God Love People” and “Tell Your Heart to Beat Again”, the latter earning RIAA Gold status. His music regularly tops Christian radio charts in the United States, Canada and Latin America, including a growing number of Spanish-language releases.

Featuring SVRCINA

Joining Gokey in Brisbane will be Nashville-based artist SVRCINA, who may be familiar to 96five listeners for her songs “Flowers” and “Next Generation.” She last toured Australia in 2023 as a support act for Jeremy Camp. Known for her emotional vocals and lyrical depth, SVRCINA adds a fresh dynamic to the concert lineup.

Gokey’s visit to Seventeen Mile Rocks brings global attention to the local area, giving the community an opportunity to host an artist whose music carries messages of faith, hope and perseverance. He has also used his platform to support others through his non-profit, Better Than I Found It, which partners with charities around the world.

Ticket purchase will open on Monday, 14 April 2025.

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With four young children and a life rooted in family and faith, Gokey continues to connect with fans not just through his voice, but through his story. He and his wife, Leyicet, live in Tennessee with their children Daniel, Victoria, Gabriel and Emanuel, and share a desire to encourage others on their own journeys.

Published 12-April-2025

RACQ Flags Centenary Motorway as Brisbane’s Worst for Morning Traffic

Photo Credit: Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons

Commuters travelling Brisbane’s Centenary Motorway are losing over 28 hours each year to traffic delays, with RACQ naming it one of the region’s worst peak-hour choke points.

Centenary Motorway Delays Cost Drivers 28 Hours a Year

Drivers travelling the Centenary Motorway between Ipswich Motorway and Fig Tree Pocket Road are losing more than 28 hours every year to traffic delays, the worst congestion in Brisbane’s southwest, and a growing frustration for residents in Darra, Seventeen Mile Rocks and Fig Tree Pocket.

Morning peak speeds on this stretch have dropped to 35.9 km/h, adding nearly seven minutes per trip compared to free-flowing traffic, according to the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) 2024 Travel Speeds Report on South East Queensland congestion.

Pressure mounting on key corridors

The RACQ reports the Centenary Motorway is among the slowest major routes during peak times, with worsening delays. Since 2019, morning speeds have fallen on 66% of Brisbane’s key roads, and afternoon congestion is rising. Traffic pressure has surged in suburbs along the Centenary Motorway due to population growth.

*Photo Credit: Shiftchange/Wikimedia Commons*

The report highlights how the extra travel time adds up quickly for regular commuters, especially those working standard full-time hours. That 7-minute delay each morning equals over 28 hours a year behind the wheel, based on a typical 48-week work year.

Neighbouring areas like Mount Ommaney and Jindalee are also affected by congestion on adjoining sections of the motorway, although the Ipswich-to-Fig Tree Pocket corridor remains the hardest hit.

RACQ calls for long-term transport planning

RACQ’s Head of Public Policy, Dr Michael Kane, warned that road widening isn’t enough to meet future demand. He called for long-term solutions, including improved public transport, smarter upgrades, and alternative travel options.

RACQ has proposed extending Brisbane Metro into suburbs like Loganholme and Carseldine, and introducing electric Metro Gliders for faster city-bound routes.

Other ideas include better bike lanes and walkways to cut car use for short trips, but most plans are still in early stages, leaving residents to face worsening commutes.

Communities brace for Olympic growth

The push for faster action has taken on new urgency as Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympic Games. With major events planned across the city, including in the western suburbs, locals are worried that existing road networks won’t cope with increased demand.

With tourism and economic growth, traffic on the Centenary Motorway is set to rise. Renewed calls for a western bypass and outer ring road aim to ease pressure by diverting through-traffic.

Despite $1 billion in funding for transport projects, timelines remain unclear. Meanwhile, residents in Darra, Seventeen Mile Rocks, and Fig Tree Pocket endure slow commutes with no quick fix.

Published 9-April-2025

Military Camp to Migrant Centre: Camp Columbia in Wacol

Photo Credit: Mapping Brisbane History

Camp Columbia in Wacol served as a key military hub for American and Dutch forces during World War II. After the war, it became a migrant reception centre, reflecting its evolving role in Brisbane’s history.

Camp Columbia is a significant historical site that reflects its various roles throughout the mid-20th century. Established in 1942 as a United States Army base, it played a pivotal role in the Pacific theatre during World War II and later became a migrant reception centre and refuge.

Camp Columbia housing — *Photo Credit: Camp Columbia*

Establishment of Camp Columbia

During World War II, the United States Army established Camp Columbia at Wacol as part of its strategic operations in the Pacific. The camp was the headquarters for the Sixth United States Army, known as the “Alamo Force.” Built by engineer Sir Manuel Hornibrook, it housed about 5,000 personnel. It featured essential infrastructure, such as water pipelines from Darra and a sewerage system.

Camp Columbia interior — *Photo Credit: Camp Columbia*

Camp Columbia was a key staging ground for troops. It provided them with training and equipment before deployment to Pacific battlefields. It also hosted an Officer Candidate School to train soldiers for leadership roles.

Dutch Occupation and Post-War Transition

After American forces left in 1944, the camp was handed over to the Netherlands East Indies Government-in-Exile. Dutch military units and agencies, including the Netherlands Forces Intelligence Service (NEFIS), used the site for training and administration. This is supporting military operations and planning during Indonesia’s post-war transition.

Camp Columbia students — *Photo Credit: Camp Columbia*

The Dutch remained at the camp until the end of World War II. The camp later served as a reception and rehabilitation centre for civilians and military personnel.

Wacol Migrant Centre: A New Role

After the war, Australia faced a migrant influx. The influx prompted Camp Columbia’s transformation into the Wacol Migrant Centre. From 1949, the camp provided temporary housing and training for displaced Europeans. This includes those from Eastern Europe and the Netherlands. The centre housed around 1,600 people, sometimes exceeding 2,000.

Residents lived in repurposed military barracks with communal facilities like mess halls and shared bathrooms. English classes and employment training were offered to help migrants integrate. The camp remained an entry point for new Australians until its closure in 1987.

Community and Cultural Impact

American troops in Wacol during the war left a cultural impression. They introduced locals to American music and social practices. Community dances and events hosted at nearby halls helped maintain morale and build connections.

After the camp’s conversion, the migrant centre became a hub for multicultural interaction. Migrants from various backgrounds built new lives in Wacol.

Wacol's migrant centre — *Photo Credit: Camp Columbia*

Legacy and Preservation

Some of Camp Columbia’s infrastructure remains at Wacol. The community continues to honour the camp as ANZAC Day approaches on 25 April. The site also now houses the Wacol Military Museum, where visitors can explore artifacts and learn more about the camp.

Published 8-Apr-2025

JD.com Set to Buy $240m Wacol Logistics Hub in Brisbane’s West

Photo Credit: descubriendo.china/Instagram

Chinese retail giant JD.com is set to spend $240 million on a logistics hub in Wacol, marking one of Brisbane’s biggest industrial property deals.

JD.com Makes $240 Million Move Into Wacol Logistics Hub

Chinese online retailer JD.com is set to acquire a huge Wacol logistics site for over $240 million, putting the Brisbane suburb at the forefront of a high-value industrial property transaction.

The acquisition marks JD.com’s increasing focus on moving into the Australian market, with Wacol providing a strategic location for distribution and logistics.

Deal to Close by Late April

JD.com is nearing a $240 million purchase of the Wacol Logistics Hub from ESR, with the sale expected by April 2025. While unconfirmed, industry sources say it’s nearly complete, marking one of Queensland’s biggest logistics deals and a sign of growing e-commerce investment in local infrastructure.

Community and Industrial Impact

The Wacol acquisition could boost the local economy through job creation and investment if JD.com uses it as a warehouse or fulfilment centre. Known for managing its own logistics, the company may bring significant operations to the site.

Nearby suburbs like Darra and Richlands could see traffic changes, with community response hinging on site management and infrastructure support.

Why Wacol Matters

Wacol’s location near major highways makes it a prime logistics hub with strong access to Brisbane and southeast Queensland. Its industrial zoning has attracted major players, and JD.com’s deal signals confidence in Australia’s supply chain while spotlighting Brisbane’s west as a rising e-commerce hub.

Published 3-April-2025

Insane Açai Bar Brings Custom Bowls to Jindalee Shoppers

Jindalee residents can now enjoy large, customisable açai bowls and fresh fruit treats as the Insane Açai Bar opens its doors at DFO Jindalee.

New Food Options in Jindalee

The arrival of the Insane Açai Bar brings new, healthy food options to the DFO Jindalee shopping centre. The popular business in West End is now expanding to serve the Centenary Suburbs. Georges Chehade, the owner, said he wanted to share his love for fresh, simple food with more people.

He explained that the açai bowls are called “insane” because they are very big. Customers can choose from seven different flavours, mixing and matching to create their own combinations.

Homemade and Fresh

A key feature of the Insane Açai Bar is its commitment to using fresh, quality ingredients. Mr Chehade said all their topping sauces, including peanut butter, hazelnut, pistachio, and chocolate, are made in-house.

The menu includes seven types of açai bowls, eight smoothie choices, six fresh juice options, and four homemade ice cream flavours from fresh fruit. Customers can also find organic coffee and a range of organic, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly sweets and protein add-ons.

Family Business Expansion

The Insane Açai Bar is a family-run business that grew from owning fruit shops. Mr Chehade said the location at DFO Jindalee, with its mix of retail shops, cinemas, a gym, and outdoor dining, was perfect for their new store. The shop has seating for 24 people and is designed to make it easy for customers to grab takeaway food.

Community Welcome

Donna O’Neill, the Marketing Director for DFO Jindalee, said the centre is happy to welcome the new business. She said the Insane Açai Bar adds a healthy fruit-based dining option to the centre’s existing food choices, and it is good for the centre to be part of the growth of a new food business. The Insane Açai Bar at DFO Jindalee is open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sundays.

Published Date 01-April-2025

Queensland Opens Wacol Youth Remand Centre for Young Offenders

The Wacol Youth Remand Centre has officially opened, marking a significant step in addressing Queensland’s strained youth detention system. The new facility aims to reduce the number of young offenders held in watchhouses while providing essential rehabilitation and support services.

Read: Wacol Youth Remand Centre Set for Completion in Mid-2025

The 76-bed facility boasts advanced security management systems and offers access to education, vocational training, rehabilitation programs, healthcare, and other support services. The centre is designed not only to ensure consequences for youth crime but also to foster rehabilitation and prevent reoffending.

Inside one of the rooms at the Wacol Youth Remand Centre (Photo credit: LauraGerberMP/Facebook)

Young offenders will be transferred to the facility, many of whom face charges under Queensland’s new “Adult Crime, Adult Time” laws. These laws impose stricter penalties on youth offenders for serious crimes, including:

Murder: Mandatory life imprisonment with a non-parole period of 20 years (previously 10 years).
Manslaughter and acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm: Maximum life imprisonment with a minimum non-parole period of 15 years (previously 10 years, or life for particularly heinous cases).
Unlawful striking causing death: Maximum life imprisonment, with parole eligibility after serving 80 per cent of the sentence or 15 years (previously 10 years, or life for particularly heinous cases).
Grievous bodily harm: Maximum 14 years imprisonment (doubled from 7 years).
Wounding and serious assault: Maximum 7 years imprisonment (doubled from 3.5 years).
Dangerous operation of a vehicle: Maximum 3 years imprisonment or 200 penalty points (previously 1.5 years if sentenced by a judge).

The centre is expected to play a key role in halting the cycle of youth crime by providing access to comprehensive rehabilitation, education, and medical services. Queensland’s Minister for Youth Justice and Victim Support, Laura Gerber, reinforced the government’s commitment to balancing strict sentencing with effective rehabilitation.

“Youth who choose to commit the most serious crimes will serve the time under ‘Adult Crime, Adult Time.’ But with effective early intervention and intensive rehabilitation programs, we are giving them the best chance to turn their lives around,” Minister Gerber stated.

Read: Development Application Lodged for Wacol Warehouse Complex

The opening of the Wacol Youth Remand Centre signifies a firm stance on youth crime while ensuring that offenders have access to the necessary programs to reintegrate successfully into society.

Published 31-March-2025

Jindalee Tragedy: 23-Year-Old Man Drowns in Brisbane River

Photo Credit: Harvey Shore/Facebook

What started as a quiet morning by the river in Jindalee turned into heartbreak as a 23-year-old man slipped into the water and never resurfaced.

Incident and Search Effort

The body of a 23-year-old man who drowned in the Brisbane River at Jindalee was discovered downstream after a thorough search. The local community has been stunned by the incident.

The man drowned in the river close to the Jindalee Boat Ramp at approximately 5:30 a.m. on Sunday during a pontoon trip with family and friends. Strong currents swept him away despite efforts at an immediate rescue.

Offices opened up a mass search, with Queensland Water Police, Dive Squad, SES, and Marine Rescue utilising boats, helicopters, and submersible gear. Local people also assembled in the hopes of a rescue.

Body Recovered, Community Impact

Emergency workers discovered his body downstream on Tuesday morning after close to two days. The authorities declared the event an accident with no sign of foul play. Although alcohol was not clearly implicated, officials appealed for people to exercise caution by the river.

The Jindalee community has been very touched, with many offering condolences. Residents recognized the river’s dangers, especially its volatile currents.

Safety Reminder

Authorities caution about the dangers on Brisbane’s waterways, suggesting life jackets, careful behaviour, and an eye on conditions. While Jindalee is in mourning, the tragedy emphasizes the importance of water safety watchfulness.

Published 18-March-2025

Darra Banh Mi Shops Spark Brisbane Food Debate

Two neighbouring shops in Darra, Darra Takeaway and Bun Bun Pork Roll, have become the centre of a heated debate among Brisbane food lovers, each claiming to serve the city’s best banh mi.

The Darra Rivalry

Darra Banh Mi Shops Spark Brisbane Food Debate — *Photo Credit:* *Tripadvisor*

Railway Parade in Darra has become a culinary hotspot, with Darra Takeaway and Bun Bun Pork Roll attracting large crowds, particularly during lunchtime. A recent taste test revealed that while both shops offer quality banh mi, opinions on which is superior are strongly divided.

*Pork Banh Mi at Bun Bun Pork Roll*
*Photo Credit: Google Map*

Findings noted that Darra Takeaway presented a lighter, fresher banh mi with shredded chicken and pickled vegetables, however, the bread lacked the desired crunch. Bun Bun Pork Roll, on the other hand, offered a larger portion with chunky chicken and crispier bread. Still, the strong butter and mayonnaise flavour was criticised for overpowering the fresh ingredients. The Bun Bun Pork Roll was ultimately given a slightly higher rating, but suggested that better banh mi can be found elsewhere in Brisbane.

Community Opinions and Online Discussions

The debate extends beyond online forums and community groups buzzing with opinions. Many residents strongly favour Darra Takeaway, with some claiming it is undeniably the best in Brisbane.

One online user, who used to work with Vietnamese pharmacists, stated that it was the preferred banh mi location for their colleagues. Others highlighted the pork and gravy rolls as a standout item. Online discussions also suggested that Fat Carrot and Kim Thanh in West End are acceptable alternatives for those unable to make the trip to Darra.

A general community inquiry was also made online, asking for the best Banh Mi locations in the Brisbane area. This shows a high level of community interest in the food.

Local Impact

The popularity of these banh mi shops has significantly impacted the local Darra community, drawing customers from across Brisbane. The cash-only policy at Darra Takeaway has been noted, requiring customers to plan ahead. The high volume of customers visiting these shops highlights their significance to the local economy.

The strong opinions and loyal customer bases of both establishments create a vibrant atmosphere in the area, contributing to Darra’s reputation as a destination for authentic and delicious food.

Published Date 14-March-2025

Music by the River Returns to Riverhills with Live Tunes and Local Flavours

Photo Credit: CrSarahHutton/Facebook

Riverhills residents are set for an evening of live music and community festivities as Music by the River returns to the Centenary Rowing Club. The free, family-friendly event, will feature live music from The Pints, a selection of food trucks, and a relaxed riverside atmosphere.

Live band The Pints performing in Riverhills — *Photo Credit: The Pints*

A Celebration by the Brisbane River

Held twice a year, Music by the River brings locals together to enjoy live entertainment in a scenic setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic rugs and chairs to soak in the evening by the river while enjoying a lineup of food vendors and local performers. The upcoming event will see The Pints take the stage 14 March 2025 from 6:00 p.m., following food truck service from 5:30 p.m.

Food Vendors Bringing a Variety of Flavours

A range of food trucks will offer something for every taste, including:

Centenary Rowing Club – Sausage sizzle and drinks stand
Fully Loaded Monster Fries – Loaded fries with various toppings
Dumpling Master – Handmade dumplings
Sheena’s Coffee Van – Freshly brewed coffee
House of Poffertjes – Dutch mini pancakes

Music by the River food trucks — *Photo Credit: CrSarahHutton/Facebook*

Supported by the Community Fund

The event is made possible through the Community Fund, which allocates $40,000 per ward annually for local community projects and events. The initiative supports Brisbane’s goal of fostering safe, vibrant, and active communities by funding local events, community facility improvements, and sporting activities. Applications for the 2024-25 financial year are open and will close on 13 June 2025 or earlier if funds are exhausted.

Community Excitement for the Event

With 191 people already responding to the event page, Music by the River is expected to draw a strong crowd. Local attendees have expressed enthusiasm about the event’s food options and the opportunity to enjoy live music in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Music by the River food vendors — *Photo Credit: CrSarahHutton/Facebook*

What’s Next?

Music by the River will take place behind the Centenary Rowing Club, at the end of Sumners Road, Riverhills. Organisers encourage attendees to mark their calendars for Friday, 14 March, to enjoy a night of music, food, and community spirit.

Published 28-Feb-2025