The lucky winner, who wishes to remain anonymous, purchased her winning ticket at Nextra Mt Ommaney News in the Mount Ommaney Shopping Centre.
Photo Credit: Pexels
The woman, who has only bought Instant Scratch-Its a few times, said she felt something urging her to buy a couple of tickets that day.
Upon scratching the ticket and seeing the winning numbers, she was in disbelief. She expressed her gratitude to the universe, feeling like someone was looking out for her.
Photo Credit: Google Map
The win has come at an opportune time for the woman, who is looking forward to using the money to pay off debts and take a dream holiday. She also plans to share some winnings with her family and friends.
Nextra Mount Ommaney News manager Andie was thrilled to hear that one of her customers had won a big prize. She expressed her joy at the customer’s good fortune and stated that the news agency would celebrate the win and remind customers of the possibility of winning big with Instant Scratch-Its.
The woman’s win reminds us that anyone can win big on Instant Scratch-Its. In FY24, 143 Instant Scratch-Its top prize winners across The Lott’s jurisdictions took home over $12.12 million in top prizes.
During this same time, Instant Scratch-Its players enjoyed more than 26.4 million wins across all prize tiers worth more than $249.65 million.
The application, designed by HAL Architects, outlines a project to transform the partially cleared 7,835.78 square metre site.
The Wacol Warehouse Complex development envisions a complex of thirty individual warehouse units and accommodation for an on-site caretaker. The proposed structures, with a maximum height of 15 metres, would cover 6,510 square metres of the site, totaling 12,430 square metres of floor area.
This will include 123 car parking spaces and 17 bicycle spaces to accommodate workers and visitors. The plans also show provisions for landscaping along pedestrian pathways, enhancing the site’s visual appeal. Two separate entry and exit points will facilitate vehicle access to the site.
Furthermore, the development has been designed to accommodate Medium Rigid Vehicles (MRVs) and Refuse Collection Vehicles (RCVs), ensuring smooth operational flow for businesses.
HAL Architects emphasised that the design incorporates measures to minimise the visual impact of the warehouse buildings, utilising various construction materials and colours to break up the facade. The architects also indicated that the development would cater to the needs of nearby residential areas.
The relevant authorities will now assess the application. The project is expected to generate employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy if approved.
The grinding mill at Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks serves as a notable industrial relic, symbolising the area’s past as a prominent cement manufacturing centre.
Once integral to the operations of the Queensland Cement and Lime Company (QCL), established in 1914, the mill highlights the industrial heritage of the region.
QCL played a vital role in Queensland’s construction industry, manufacturing cement and lime at its factory in Darra, Brisbane. Initially, limestone from the Darling Downs was used, but by the 1930s, the company transitioned to using coral dredged from Moreton Bay. This coral was transported via barges to Oxley Wharf at Seventeen Mile Rocks before being conveyed to the factory.
The grinding mill was used to process the coral into cement by crushing it using either rotational methods or steel balls. Maintenance of this equipment was intensive, with workers frequently replacing steel cables and maintaining cranes that handled the coral. The industrial operations ceased in 1998 after QCL was unable to renew its dredging licences, leading to the closure of the Darra plant.
Rocks Riverside Park: A Historical Site
Rocks Riverside Park, established in 2003, preserves the industrial heritage of the area. The park was built on the former site of QCL’s operations, with remnants of the grinding mill and other industrial artefacts scattered throughout. These relics serve as a reminder of the area’s history while contributing to its unique character.
The park is divided into zones, including the river flat, bushland ridge, and a green link. Its features include picnic areas, playgrounds, a water play area, and shared pathways, making it a popular destination for families and history enthusiasts alike.
The community appreciates the incorporation of industrial artefacts into the park, which offer a tangible link to Seventeen Mile Rocks’ industrial past. Visitors often reflect on the area’s transformation from an industrial site to a recreational park. The grinding mill remains a focal point, symbolising the transition of the space while maintaining its historical identity.
The grinding mill at Seventeen Mile Rocks is a key historical feature, bridging the area’s industrial heritage with its current role as a vibrant recreational park. Rocks Riverside Park not only honours the past but also provides a unique setting for the community to enjoy.
A conservation project at Bullockhead Creek in Wacol, a crucial refuge to Brisbane’s dwindling platypus population, has received $1.9 million in funding to focus on habitat repair, weed removal, and revegetation.
Bullockhead Creek in Wacol has long been recognised as a crucial refuge for Brisbane’s dwindling platypus population. With only 35 sightings recorded in Brisbane waterways last year, immediate action is necessary to safeguard this iconic species.
Previous research by the University of Queensland and BCC identified habitat degradation as a significant factor impacting platypus numbers in the area.
The Conservation Project Explained
Under the Urban Rivers and Catchments Program, $1.9 million has been allocated to improve 4.5 hectares of the creek’s ecosystem. The initiative includes habitat repair, weed removal, and revegetation using native riparian species to strengthen the ecological health of the area.
The strategy also includes ongoing research into platypus movement and waterway health, with DNA sampling at 100 sites in Brisbane providing data to guide future efforts.
The project is part of the broader “Boost Platypus by 2032” plan, which aims to reverse population declines through habitat restoration, research, and community awareness programs.
If you would like to be added to the Urban Rivers and Catchments Program mailing list, please fill up the form here.
Community Sentiment and Stakeholder Support
Local environmental groups and researchers have expressed optimism about the project’s potential impact. According to BCC’s Chair for Environment, Parks, and Sustainability, Tracy Davis, the program underscores a commitment to protecting biodiversity in urban areas, similar to previous efforts for koalas.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite the funding boost, long-term success depends on addressing broader environmental issues such as urban runoff and pollution.
Photo Credit: Australian Museum
To report sightings, please provide details at these sites:
Future plans include the introduction of educational tools like Platyplatforms and Platycams, allowing the public to view live footage of known platypus hotspots and learn about their habitats while ensuring minimal disturbance to the environment.
Planning for habitat restoration will begin in early 2025. This initiative is a vital step towards securing a sustainable future for platypus populations in Wacol and beyond.
Construction of the Wacol Youth Remand Centre, a facility designed to tackle overcrowding in Queensland’s youth detention system, is now set for completion in mid-2025.
Originally projected for completion by December 2024, the timeline for the Wacol Youth Remand Centre has been adjusted to accommodate detailed planning and ensure it meets the demands of the state’s youth justice system. The centre will provide much-needed detention space for young offenders, easing the strain on police watchhouses and other detention centres across Queensland.
The Wacol facility is a response to increasing youth crime and the resulting pressure on the state’s detention infrastructure. Reports indicate that current facilities are operating near capacity, with police watchhouses often holding young offenders for extended periods. This new centre aims to relieve those pressures by providing secure, purpose-built detention beds for young people awaiting court outcomes.
Photo Credit: QPS
Part of a Larger Strategy
The centre is one of several planned developments to address the state’s youth detention challenges. Additional centres, including a 50-bed remand facility at Woodford expected to be ready in 2027 and another in Cairns with an unspecified timeline, are also in the pipeline.
Until these centres become operational, Wacol will serve as a vital stopgap measure to manage the growing population of youth offenders in detention.
The facility’s location near existing detention centres ensures that resources can be shared efficiently, and detainees will benefit from nearby rehabilitation services. This strategic positioning is expected to enhance the overall effectiveness of Queensland’s youth justice system.
Focus on Rehabilitation
The Wacol Youth Remand Centre programs will include education, mental health support, and cultural activities, addressing the root causes of youth crime. Authorities stress the importance of these services in helping young people turn their lives around while ensuring the safety of the community.
Young offenders detained at the Wacol facility will have access to Queensland Education programs, vocational training, and counselling services. These efforts aim to prepare detainees for reintegration into society and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
Photo Credit: QPS
Managing Challenges and Expectations
The news comes amidst ongoing concerns about detention overcrowding, particularly during peak periods like the holiday season. Some have questioned whether the bed capacity will be sufficient to meet the demands of new laws targeting youth offending. However, officials maintain that the facility will provide much-needed relief and is a significant step toward improving the youth justice framework.
While delays are inevitable in such projects, those overseeing the development remain confident that the Wacol centre will have a meaningful impact on both detention capacity and rehabilitation outcomes.
Jindalee residents are sharing their memories of Amazons Aquatic Adventureland, a once-popular water park notorious for its dangerous rides and frequent injuries.
The park operated in Jindalee from 1982 to 2001 and has become a topic of conversation on Reddit, where users recount their experiences and mishaps on the infamous “Shotgun” waterslide.
One user recalled dislocating their ribs on the Shotgun because they didn’t lean forward as instructed, while another fractured their arm when they hit the side of the slide. Others shared stories of wedgies, near-drowning experiences, and even a cancelled school excursion after a student broke their nose on one of the rides.
Amazons Aquatic Adventureland was known for its thrilling waterslides, pools, and obstacle courses. However, it also gained a reputation for lacking safety and supervision. One Reddit user described the park as a “scene out of Platoon,” with “nothing but chaos and maimed/injured kids.” Another claimed that the park often left rides unsupervised if staff weren’t available, simply putting up a sign warning patrons not to use them.
This lack of supervision may have contributed to a tragic incident in 1999 when a 5-year-old boy drowned in the deep water near the Shotgun slide. An inquest into the boy’s death found that he had been left unattended by his uncle and that there was insufficient lifeguard surveillance. While the coroner concluded that the death could have been prevented, there was not enough evidence to charge anyone.
Amazons closed its doors in 2001, two years after the drowning incident. The official reason was low patronage, with the owners stating that Brisbane lacked an inbound tourist market and that locals preferred to go to the coast for day trips. The site is now home to DFO Jindalee.
Despite its closure, Amazons continues to live on in the memories of Jindalee residents, who have taken to social media to share their good and bad experiences. While some remember the park fondly, others recall it as a place where safety was an afterthought and injuries were commonplace. The stories shared online serve as a reminder of a time when water parks were a little less regulated and a lot more wild.
The tragic accident occurred on Sunday, 5 January 2025, at around 7:30 p.m., at the intersection of Mount Cotton and Coorang Roads. Sandra Schuptar, 65, and her husband Peter, 63, both residents of Cornubia, were riding their Honda Goldwing motorcycle when the crash happened.
Emergency services treated the couple for severe injuries, but both were pronounced dead at the scene.
Community in Mourning
Sandra was a prominent figure at Mount Ommaney Special School, where she was the head of the Early Childhood Development Program and Special Education Services. The school described her as a dedicated educator who made everyone feel welcome and valued. Colleagues and parents expressed their heartbreak at the loss, with one parent recalling how Sandra had been a source of unwavering support for families of children with special needs.
The school community issued a statement describing the news of her death as a shock, leaving them “heartbroken beyond belief.” Tributes also came from neighbouring special schools and the Queensland Association of Special Education Leaders, which highlighted her significant contribution to the field of special education.
Remembering the Couple’s Contributions
Beyond her professional achievements, Sandra, along with her husband Peter, was an active member of the local Jewish community. The couple organised prayer groups and led trips to Israel, leaving an indelible impact on those around them. Friends remembered them as caring and generous individuals who brought people together.
Peter, who was well-known for his involvement in local transport services, shared his wife’s passion for community service. Together, they were remembered as compassionate leaders who touched many lives through their work and personal connections.
Investigation Underway
The driver of the Nissan Patrol, a 21-year-old Carbrook man, was unharmed in the crash. Queensland Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident, urging anyone with information, including dashcam footage, to come forward.
A Lasting Legacy
Sandra and Peter Schuptar’s sudden passing has left a profound void in the communities they served. Their dedication to education, family support, and faith continues to resonate with those who knew them.
Dog owners in Sinnamon Park are invited to the Leave It Program—a free hands-on training session focusing on two essential commands: recall and leave it.
The Leave It Program focuses on helping dog owners teach their pets to respond reliably in public spaces, particularly when wildlife or distractions are present. Commands like leave it and a strong recall can prevent dogs from running into danger or disturbing native animals.
What to Expect on the Day
Local trainers will guide participants through practical exercises, including:
Teaching dogs to come when called, even with distractions.
Using the leave it cue to prevent dogs from approaching harmful items or wildlife.
Managing dogs effectively in both on-leash and off-leash situations.
A Leave It popup stand will also be available, offering free dog-related resources and goodies.
Responsible Dog Ownership in Brisbane
Photo Credit: Furry Friends/Instagram
While the Leave It Program focuses on practical training, it also reinforces the broader responsibilities of dog ownership in Brisbane. Dog owners are required to:
Register and microchip their dogs.
Keep dogs on a lead in public spaces unless in designated off-leash areas.
Remove their dogs’ waste from public areas.
Provide secure fencing at home to prevent escapes.
Avoid leaving pet food outside, as it can attract pests.
Desex their dogs to prevent unwanted litters and promote better health and behaviour.
Follow safety regulations for guard dogs, including secure enclosures, clear warning signs, and effective control during public access.
These rules are designed to ensure the safety of dogs, people, and local wildlife.
The Importance of Programs Like Leave It
The Leave It Program goes beyond basic training commands. It fosters trust and confidence between dogs and their owners while promoting responsible habits that make shared spaces safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
How to Get Involved
Photo Credit: Furry Friends/Instagram
Dog owners have a great opportunity to help foster a more responsible dog-friendly community while also improving their pets’ behaviour through the Leave It Program at Sinnamon Park. It is recommended to register early due to the limited number of spots.
By participating in the Leave It Program, dog owners contribute to creating a safer and more enjoyable environment in Brisbane’s parks and public spaces.
The intersection at Dandenong Road, Sirocco Street, and Central Avenue in Jamboree Heights has been upgraded, with traffic lights now fully operational and new safety features in place for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
The intersection’s construction began last March 2024 and was completed in December 2024. Under joint funding from a national infrastructure programme and local contributions, the project sought to solve long-standing safety and traffic issues at this busy crossing.
Before the upgrade, the intersection had two slip lanes in and out of Central Avenue. While the outbound slip lane was rebuilt, the inbound slip lane was removed totally. These modifications were instituted to increase pedestrian and cyclist access and safety across the junction.
Photo Credit: Brisbane West BUG/Facebook
Key Features of the Upgrade
New traffic lights have been installed to manage vehicle movements more safely, while pedestrian crossings with signals have been added to all sides of the intersection. The northbound slip lane on Dandenong Road was removed entirely, and a raised zebra—or “wombat”—crossing was added on Central Avenue’s eastbound slip lane.
The bike lanes on Dandenong Road have been extended, creating a clearer route for cyclists. While they’re still painted lanes and not physically separated, they now extend past the vehicle stop lines and are equipped with sensor loops to trigger the traffic lights.
For cyclists wanting to turn right, off-ramps have been added so they can safely use the pedestrian crossings. The kerbs and footpaths around the intersection have also been upgraded, making it easier for people with mobility needs to get around.
Additionally, stormwater drainage at the intersection has been improved with upgraded and newly installed stormwater pipes and pits, reducing the risk of water buildup during heavy rain.
Replacing the left-turn slip lane on Dandenong Road with a controlled left-turn arrow has significantly improved safety for both pedestrians and cyclists crossing Central Avenue.
Signalised pedestrian crossing facilities have been installed across all approaches, ensuring safer access for pedestrians and improved connectivity to local bus stops, shopping centres, and community facilities.
Photo Credit: Brisbane West BUG/Facebook
Traffic Lights Now Operational
The new traffic lights went live in December 2024, marking the official completion of the upgrade. Locals are already noticing smoother traffic flow and safer crossing points for both pedestrians and cyclists.
This upgrade is designed to:
Improve safety for all road users
Reduce congestion and improve traffic efficiency
Make walking safer and cycling more accessible
Community Impact and Future Outlook
City official Sarah Hutton highlighted the importance of these upgrades in improving safety and accessibility for everyone in the area.
Photo Credit: Brisbane West BUG/Facebook
With the intersection now fully operational, local authorities will continue monitoring traffic flow and user feedback to ensure everything’s running smoothly. Any adjustments needed will be addressed over time.
For now, residents and visitors to Jamboree Heights can enjoy a safer and more efficient intersection, whether they’re driving, walking, or cycling through the area.
Westlake Drive paints a remarkable picture of transformation, from its humble beginnings to the established residential enclave it is today. In 1936, the area was completely undeveloped, with no trace of the current road networks or neighbourhoods that would eventually define this sought-after pocket.
The street’s evolution is evident in its real estate history, with properties like 168 Westlake Drive changing hands for $37,600 in March 1975 – a figure that reflects how far the area has come. Today, the street boasts an impressive 90% owner-occupancy rate, with residents staying an average of nearly 16 years, and 60% calling it home for more than a decade. This stability, spread across 186 properties, underscores Westlake Drive’s enduring appeal as a tightly-knit community where neighbours become long-term friends.
Westlake Dr, Westlake Residents
NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 186 % OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 90% AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 15 years, 11 months % OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 60%
Westlake Dr, Westlake – As It Looked in 1936
Westlake Dr, Westlake in 1936
SOME RECENT SALES ON WESTLAKE DR, WESTLAKE
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
189 Westlake, Westlake
$3,500,000
Jul 2024
145 Westlake, Westlake
$1,100,000
Jun 2024
341 Westlake, Westlake
$1,345,000
Jun 2024
166 Westlake, Westlake
$1,337,000
May 2024
136 Westlake, Westlake
$1,350,000
May 2024
302 Westlake, Westlake
$1,282,500
Feb 2024
SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON WESTLAKE DR FROM YESTERYEAR
Property Address
Sale Price
Sale Date
168 Westlake, Westlake
$37,600
Mar 1975
156 Westlake, Westlake
$43,500
Jun 1975
SUBURB PROFILE
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Westlake in 2024 was $1,215,000 The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Westlake in 2020 was $735,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN WESTLAKE SINCE 2020 : $480,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Westlake in 2024 was $1,450,000 The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Westlake in 2020 was $813,000 TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN WESTLAKE SINCE 2020 : $637,000
