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Filmmaker from Mt Ommaney Debuts Acclaimed Horror Feature ‘In The Room Where He Waits’

Mt Ommaney native Timothy Despina Marshall is set to showcase his critically acclaimed debut feature film “In the Room Where He Waits” in Brisbane cinemas.

Read: Meet the Next Generation of Dance Superstars from Centenary Dance Academy in Sumner

“In the Room Where He Waits,” a psychological horror that has been hailed as “the year’s best Australian horror” and “one of the best Australian debut features,” marks the realisation of Marshall’s long-held dream to create his first film in his hometown.

Marshall’s journey from a horror-obsessed kid in Mt Ommaney to an award-winning filmmaker is a testament to his passion and perseverance. He honed his craft using nothing more than a camcorder and a bottle of tomato sauce for fake blood, creating amateur horror flicks with his friends.

“This film looks at fears of loneliness and aging, and brings them to life in an unnerving claustrophobic nightmare,” Marshall explains, drawing parallels between his work and the collective experience of isolation during recent global events. “I wanted the hotel room Tobin is trapped in to become the manifestation of his deepest fears. Something many of us can relate to after spending so much time stuck inside in recent years.”

The film centres on Tobin Wade, an ambitious young star played by rising talent Daniel Monks. Forced to isolate in a hotel room before his father’s funeral, Wade confronts his subconscious fears as they materialise around him, blurring the lines between reality and nightmare.

Monks, known for his roles in indie horror “Sissy” and the Aussie-made American comedy “Ricky Stanicky,” brings depth to the tormented lead. His involvement, along with his upcoming appearance in Netflix’s “Kaos” alongside Jeff Goldblum, adds to the film’s growing buzz.

Marshall’s Mt Ommaney roots have clearly influenced his artistic vision, proving that sometimes, you don’t have to venture far from home to make a significant impact in the film industry. His success serves as an inspiration to aspiring filmmakers in Brisbane and beyond.

Reviews

“Not only one of the best queer Australian films it is also one of the best Australian debut features. Haunting, deeply affecting, and resonant.”
Nadine Whitney (Alliance of Women Film Journalists)

Director Timothy Despina Marshall has crafted an intensely claustrophobic film. While many of us are still attempting to heal from the trauma that was the Covid-19 pandemic (particularly if you lived in Melbourne!) and this film does a great job of really tapping into that to capitalise on any unresolved feelings you have about this period. Having the lead trapped in a room, unable to leave for any reason is also the perfect setting for a horror movie.
Alaisdair Leith, Novastream Network

Local film enthusiasts can catch “In the Room Where He Waits” at a special screening this Sunday, June 30, 4:00 pm at Dendy Coorparoo.

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As Timothy Despina Marshall’s star continues to rise, Mt Ommaney can proudly claim him as one of their own – a local whose childhood passion has blossomed into a promising career in the competitive world of filmmaking.

Published 26-June-2024

Westlake Leads Pause on Food Waste Recycling Service

Brisbane announced a pause in its food waste recycling service, affecting suburbs like Westlake. This temporary suspension follows a successful trial that provided valuable insights into the community’s food waste behaviours, which will inform the planning of an expanded recycling programme in the future.

Effective 1 July 2024, food waste will no longer be accepted in the green waste recycling bins of residents in the participating suburbs, like Westlake. Despite this change, the green waste recycling bins in eligible service areas will continue to be collected on the regular fortnightly schedule.

Residents’ Adaptation and Future Plans

Residents who have received a food waste caddy from the Council are encouraged to repurpose it for home composting or worm farming. These caddies, crafted from recycled materials, can also be used to transport food scraps to the nearest Community Composting Hub. In the event of damage, the caddy can be recycled by placing it in the yellow recycling bin.

Key Insights from the Trial

The trial’s findings have shed light on Brisbane’s food waste habits, which will play a crucial role in shaping a more extensive food waste recycling service. The insights gained will aid in developing strategies to improve waste management and sustainability across the city.

While the food waste recycling service is on hold, the city remains committed to enhancing its waste management systems. The Council is using this hiatus to refine and expand the programme, ensuring a more efficient and comprehensive service in the future.

Ongoing Green Waste Collection

During this pause, the city reassures residents that their green waste recycling bins will still be collected as usual. This continuation ensures that the temporary suspension of the food waste service does not disrupt the overall waste management routine in Westlake.

Community Involvement and Sustainability Efforts

The Council encourages all residents to continue their efforts in sustainable waste management. By using the provided food waste caddies for home composting or participating in community composting initiatives, residents can still contribute to reducing the environmental impact of food waste.

This pause in the service is a strategic step towards a more effective and widespread food waste recycling programme in the future. Westlake’s commitment to sustainability and responsible waste management remains steadfast as the city plans for an improved service that benefits the entire community.

Published Date 21-June-2024

Man Wanted in Fatal Crash in Wacol Surrenders, Faces Multiple Charges

A man sought by Queensland Police in connection with a fatal traffic crash in Wacol has turned himself in approximately a week after the incident, now confronting a litany of charges stemming from the tragic collision.

Read: Wacol Hit-and-Run Leaves Gold Coast Man Dead, Two Hospitalised

The crash in Wacol, which took place on May 28 at the intersection of Boundary Road and Progress Road, involved a Ford Mondeo and a Toyota Camry, resulting in the death of a 30-year-old man identified as Ryan Grafton, a passenger in the Camry.

Initially fleeing the scene, the driver of the Ford Mondeo, identified as Kai Fursey, a 28-year-old from Goodna, was the subject of a widespread manhunt and public appeal by the Queensland Police. CCTV footage captured a figure fleeing the site shortly after the collision, prompting intensified efforts to locate Fursey.

Upon his surrender, Fursey was promptly arrested and now faces a slew of charges including murder, dangerous operation of a vehicle causing grievous bodily harm, driving whilst disqualified, possession of property suspected of being involved in a drug offence, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and multiple counts of drug possession, receiving tainted property, and stealing.

Photo credit: Queensland Police Service/Facebook

Court documents revealed Fursey allegedly took registration plates from Eight Mile Plains and Redbank Plains between May 19 and May 29.

Appearing before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on June 5, Fursey did not seek bail, consistent with Queensland law where bail applications for murder charges must be made in the Supreme Court. During the court proceedings, it was disclosed that police required additional time to finalise their case before submitting it to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Read: Violent Carjacking Targets Ride-Share Driver in Mount Ommaney

The case has garnered significant attention due to the severity of charges and the tragic loss of life involved in the incident. Authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash as legal proceedings progress.

Published 18-June-2024

Meet the Next Generation of Dance Superstars from Centenary Dance Academy in Sumner

In Sumner, the Centenary Dance Academy is nurturing the next generation of dance superstars. Dance teachers have identified several standout students who are poised to make significant impacts on the dance world.

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Here are five young dancers from the Sumner dance school who are turning heads and winning hearts with their exceptional talent and dedication.

Nadine Mae Cabrera, 13

Nadine Mae Cabrera’s name is synonymous with excellence in dance. At just 13, she has already achieved remarkable feats, including winning the prestigious Jacqueline Morland Awards from the Royal Academy of Dance.

Her trophy cabinet is brimming with accolades from local dance eisteddfods, where she has shone both as a solo performer and as part of a group. Nadine’s talent was also showcased on a grand stage at the Ballet International Gala in Brisbane. Just recently, she was named as one of the eight finalists for the BPAC Intermediate Ballet Scholarship.

Her love for dance is evident in her passionate performances, where she embraces the freedom and joy that dancing brings.

Ashley Chen, 10

Ashley Chen has been dancing since she was two years old, mastering ballet, lyrical, tap, and jazz at Centenary Dance Academy. Her dedication has paid off with numerous awards at various eisteddfods, including a first and third place at a national competition.

Next January, she will be gracing the stage at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre as Snow White with Ballet Theatre Queensland. Ashley’s meticulous attention to detail in class translates beautifully on stage, where she thrives on the challenge of perfecting her craft.

Malcolm Doyle, 9

Photo credit: Centenary Dance Academy/Facebook

Malcolm Doyle’s dancing prowess has earned him acceptance into four prestigious international ballet schools, with three offering him full tuition scholarships. Competing in eisteddfods across Brisbane, Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast, Malcolm consistently takes home first-place awards.

His talent has also been featured in performances of Sleeping Beauty with the Queensland Ballet Company and Ballet Theatre Queensland. Malcolm finds joy and fulfilment in the expressive and challenging nature of dance, working hard to achieve his goals and savouring the happiness it brings.

Alexia Henderson, 10

Alexia Henderson is another promising young talent at Centenary Dance Academy. She excels in ballet, lyrical, and jazz, earning accolades at multiple Ipswich eisteddfods. Alexia’s enthusiasm for dance is fueled by the camaraderie with her friends in class and the exhilarating experience of performing on stage. Her passion and dedication are evident in every performance, making her a dancer to watch.

Kayla York, 16

At 16, Kayla York is already a seasoned performer and an emerging dance educator. She has achieved a Certificate III in Dance and is currently pursuing a Certificate IV in Dance at RAW Dance Company.

Alongside her studies in ballet and jazz, Kayla also serves as an assistant teacher at Centenary Dance Academy. She finds immense joy in the storytelling aspect of dance, relishing the challenge of mastering new steps and perfecting her routines. Kayla’s commitment to dance and her ability to inspire others make her a standout in her field.

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These five rising stars from Centenary Dance Academy in Sumner embody the passion, dedication, and talent that define future dance superstars. As they continue to hone their skills and chase their dreams, they are sure to leave an indelible mark on the world of dance.

Published 9-June-2024

Beer Recall at Seventeen Mile Rocks: Health Risks Cited

White Lies Brewing Company has recalled its Hazy Craze Sessions NEIPA beer sold at Seventeen Mile Rocks due to unexpected secondary fermentation that has increased alcohol and carbonation levels, posing potential health risks.

Consumers are strongly advised not to consume, open, or even keep the affected beer, which has a best-before date of 1 February 2025.

The beer was distributed in 500ml cans and is available at First Choice Liquor stores across Queensland and directly from the brewery’s taprooms at Sumner and Seventeen Mile Rocks.

The presence of excess alcohol and carbonation in food products may lead to illness or injury. According to Food Standards Australia New Zealand, this unexpected change in the beer’s composition has elevated it to a potential food safety hazard. The company has urgently requested that consumers who have purchased this beer dispose of it safely and contact them for reimbursement and further disposal instructions.

White Lies Brewing Company has taken full responsibility for the mishap, emphasising their commitment to quality and safety. They have established formal product recall procedures and are retrieving the affected stock from trade.

Fortunately, less than five cartons of the affected product reached end customers before the issue was identified. The company reassures that those who have purchased the product can return it for a full refund.

Established in 2013 by Lee McAlister-Smiley, a former engineer turned brewer, White Lies Brewing began in a garage but soon expanded to become Queensland’s first residential brewery. Known for its innovative approach to craft brewing, the company has garnered numerous accolades, including medals at both Australian and International Beer Awards.

Following its expansion in 2016, White Lies also ventured into distilling, producing a selection of craft spirits.

Published 6-June-2024

Wacol-Built Electric, HVO Trucks Spearhead QFES’s Green Transport Push

Photo Credit: Volvo Trucks Australia

In an Australian-first trial, the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) is set to revolutionise its fleet with two groundbreaking prime movers built at Volvo’s Wacol factory.

One truck will run solely on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a renewable fuel, while the other will be entirely electric, marking a significant stride towards decarbonising the emergency service’s operations.

Queensland Leads the Way in Sustainable Emergency Response

Electric Truck built in Wacol — *Photo Credit:* *Volvo Trucks Australia*

The HVO-powered truck built in Wacol, will be mainly based in Townsville, and will undergo rigorous testing across vast distances in North Queensland, demonstrating its ability to handle demanding conditions while significantly reducing carbon emissions.

Meanwhile, the electric truck, also built in Wacol, will be stationed in Caloundra. It will be the first Volvo FMX electric prime mover operating in Australia, utilised for logistical deliveries as part of its trial.

Collaboration for a Cleaner Future

QFES has partnered with the University of Queensland’s researchers to evaluate the trial’s effectiveness, collecting data through on-board vehicle information systems and field assessments.

This collaboration underscores the commitment to evidence-based decision-making and continuous improvement in the pursuit of a greener future.

Government and Industry Unite for a Greener Queensland

Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Nikki Boyd, hailed the trial as a groundbreaking advancement for both emergency services and sustainable transport. She emphasised the government’s dedication to decarbonising the QFES fleet and highlighted the positive impact these trucks will have on the environment and community through reduced emissions and noise pollution.

Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs, Mick de Brenni, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of decarbonising the heavy transport sector, which contributes significantly to Queensland’s emissions. He praised the collaboration with Volvo, emphasising the benefits for local manufacturing and clean economy jobs.

QFES Paves the Way for a Sustainable Fleet

QFES Commissioner Steve Smith expressed pride in leading the charge towards emissions reduction, emphasising that this trial is a pivotal step in their broader decarbonisation strategy. He noted the potential for expanding the use of HVO and electric vehicles within the extensive QFES fleet, encompassing both Fire and Rescue and Rural Fire Services.

Volvo’s Commitment to Australian Manufacturing and Sustainability

Volvo Group Australia’s vice-president of public affairs, Lauren Pulitano, celebrated the delivery of these innovative trucks as a testament to Volvo’s commitment to a cleaner future and its dedication to local manufacturing in Wacol. She emphasised the importance of partnerships between industry, government, and stakeholders in achieving a sustainable and decarbonised heavy transport sector.

This landmark trial positions QFES and Queensland at the forefront of sustainable transportation, demonstrating a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and a cleaner future for all Queenslanders.

Published Date 03-June-2024

Wacol Hit-and-Run Leaves Gold Coast Man Dead, Two Hospitalised

A Gold Coast man with an extensive criminal history was killed in a two-car collision in Wacol.

In the morning of the 28th of May 2024, at the intersection of Boundary and Progress roads, a Ford Mondeo struck Ryan William Victor Grafton, a 30-year-old passenger in a rideshare vehicle. The Ford driver fled the scene, prompting an ongoing police search.

The impact left the rideshare driver, Hussein Ali Mohamed, with suspected back injuries, and Grafton’s friend, Amelia Vinden, 26, in critical but stable condition with chest and abdominal injuries. Mohamed was discharged from Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital on Tuesday night, while Vinden remains hospitalised.

Grafton’s sister, Lauren Bennett, remembered him as a devoted brother and uncle. Grafton’s past included a 2019 court appearance for offences such as car theft, using counterfeit money, and other crimes. A magistrate at the time described his behaviour as “totally out of control,” acknowledging his history of drug and dishonesty offences across three states.

Police are investigating the crash and urge anyone with information or dashcam footage to come forward. An Uber spokeswoman expressed condolences for the passenger’s death and confirmed support for the driver and injured passenger.

This incident occurred shortly after a fatal rideshare accident in Sydney claimed the lives of a father and daughter. Additionally, a car hit a man in Goodna, causing serious injuries. The driver later turned himself in to the police. Another man was injured and hospitalised following a car crash in Purga.

Published Date 29-May-2024

Step Up Against Dementia: Brisbane Memory Walk & Jog with Wally Lewis

This Sunday, May 26, the picturesque Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks will be the stage for a significant event – the Brisbane Memory Walk & Jog. This community-driven initiative aims to raise vital funds and awareness for those impacted by dementia.

Read: Seventeen Mile Rocks House Undergoes Transformation After Nearly Five Decades

The event offers something for everyone, with multiple distances tailored to all fitness levels. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or prefer a leisurely stroll, your participation is welcomed and encouraged.

Adding to the significance of the occasion is the attendance of Australian sporting legend, Wally Lewis AM. Recently appointed as a Dementia Australia Ambassador, Lewis brings both his sporting prowess and personal journey with probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) to the forefront of the cause.

CTE is a disease predominantly linked to athletes in contact sports. Its symptoms can involve memory issues, disorientation, poor decision-making, aggressiveness, depression, and ultimately, progressive dementia. Unfortunately, there are currently no available treatments or cures for this condition.

Earlier this year, the iconic Queensland sporting figure candidly discussed the challenging day-to-day difficulties he faces due to his CTE.

During his talk for the National Press Club last April, Mr Lewis emphasised that Australia must urgently implement standardised national protocols across all sports to help prevent, identify, and monitor head injuries. He stated that education on the risks needs to start at the grassroots level, teaching young players from an early age about the potential dangers.

Photo credit: Memory Walk and Jog/Facebook

His passionate advocacy for increased government support underscores the importance of events like the Brisbane Memory Walk & Jog in funding research and providing support services for those affected by dementia.

“I encourage anyone who is free Sunday 26 May to come down to Rocks Riverside Park in Seventeen Mile Rocks and walk, run or jog to beat dementia,” Mr Lewis stated.

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Starting at 7:30 a.m, this event promises a morning of unity and purpose as the Brisbane community comes together to support a cause that touches the lives of so many. Registrations are still open through memorywalk.com.au, inviting individuals from all walks of life to join in the fight against dementia.

Published 22-May-2024

Furry Hope: Adam Joins Thriving Koala Community in Wacol

A two-year-old koala named Adam has joined a thriving koala community at Pooh Corner, a bushland reserve in Wacol, as part of the Koala Reestablishment Program.

The initiative aims to strengthen the declining koala population in the region, by creating a sustainable habitat for these iconic creatures.

Plans to achieve this, through careful planning and collaboration with the University of Queensland, have been set in place to establish a sanctuary where koalas can flourish, reproduce and survive.

Recent sightings and the birth of a new joey signal the resilience and adaptability of the reintroduced koalas. Signs of a growing koala community are evident at Pooh Corner, raising hopes for the success of the re-establishment program amidst the lush greenery.

Adam joins a community of koalas that include Attie, Chandler, Glenda, Heaven, Karri, Lady Jane, Matilda, Olive, Oscar, and Olive’s unnamed joey, who have called Pooh Corner home since 2022.

Adam Koala Pooh Corner Wacol — *LordMayorAdrianSchrinner/Facebook*

Acquired by the Council in 2006 through the Bushland Acquisition Program, Pooh Corner has undergone habitat restoration efforts, rendering it an ideal sanctuary for koalas.

Dr. Sean FitzGibbon of The University of Queensland’s Koala Ecology Group commends the Council’s leadership in koala conservation, noting Pooh Corner’s rich koala habitat and the proactive reintroduction project.

This initiative demonstrates the feasibility of reestablishing koala populations in areas where they have previously disappeared, contributing to the long-term survival of the species in Brisbane and providing residents with opportunities to encounter koalas in their natural habitat

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A post shared by Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner (@brisbane.lordmayor)

The success of the Koala Reestablishment Program has encouraged plans to expand into new territories, including Mount Coot-tha Reserve, Marstaeller Road Reserve, and other potential sites. These locations offer promising habitats for reintroduced koalas, with abundant food sources and suitable living conditions.

Published 3-May-2024