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

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.

Read: Scientology, Adelaide Crows “Collective Mind” Links to Missing Jindalee Couple

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

Jindalee New Age Counsellors Due in Court Over Child Abuse Allegations

Two New Age counsellors from Jindalee, who vanished in February and were subsequently the focus of a police search, are now set to face court on severe child sexual abuse charges.

Wolfgang Raven Wildgrace, 58, and Sonya Maria Lindley-Jones, 51, sparked significant concern after they disappeared from their Jindalee home on February 28, 2024. The couple, known for their counselling business, Wildgrace Counselling and Therapies, was last seen driving away in an orange Mitsubishi Triton.

Despite growing fears for their wellbeing, police later located them nearly 1,700km away in Kuranda, near Cairns.

Charges and Court Proceedings

Following an extensive investigation by the Sunshine Coast Child Protection and Investigation Unit, the duo had been scrutinised for offences allegedly committed across the north coast region from 2010 to 2013.

Mr Wildgrace faces 32 counts of indecent treatment and one count of rape, while Ms Lindley-Jones is charged with one count of indecent treatment of a child under 16. The allegations pertain to multiple locations, intensifying the gravity of their supposed misconduct.

Wolfgang Raven Wildgrace — Photo Credit: Google Maps

The couple’s notoriety escalated due to Mr Wildgrace’s involvement in a contentious training camp for the Adelaide Crows in 2018. The camp was intended to foster resilience among players. Still, it drew widespread criticism for its approach, with accusations of cultural insensitivity and psychological distress, notably from former star player Eddie Betts.

Mr Wildgrace and Ms Lindley-Jones were apprehended in Kuranda and have remained in custody since their arrest. They are expected to appear before Cairns Magistrates Court on 24 May 2024 for a committal mention.

They face serious charges that have shocked the community and cast a shadow over their previous professional endeavours in holistic and emotional therapy.

Published 27-April-2024

Piggy Back Cafe in Jindalee: A Visual Feast for Food Enthusiasts

Piggy Back Cafe is a charming neighbourhood cafe tucked away in Jindalee, where every dish is a masterpiece of artistry and flavour.

Read: Netflix Spotlight on Local Legend: Darra’s Que Huong Restaurant

Established in 2016 by the renowned Venzin Group, the masterminds behind the beloved Picnic and Paw Paw Cafe, this all-day eatery has become a beloved destination for food enthusiasts seeking a truly remarkable dining experience.

From the moment you step inside, the cafe’s bright and spacious interior envelops you in a warm embrace, inviting you to linger and savour every bite. But it’s the menu that truly steals the show, a curated selection of decadent offerings that cater to every palate and appetite.

For those seeking an indulgent start to their day, the Pancake stack with fresh seasonal fruits, French toast, acai bowl, banana stack, or strawberry bowl beckon with their irresistible allure. These perfectly crafted delicacies are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual spectacle, meticulously plated to evoke a sense of wonder and delight.

If a lighter fare is preferred, Piggy Back Cafe offers an array of tempting options, from crispy spring rolls and sweet potato chips to the satisfying bacon and egg muffin. Each dish is a testament to the cafe’s unwavering commitment to quality and presentation.

But it’s not just the food that captivates; the cafe’s baristas are true artisans, crafting lattes that are nothing short of edible masterpieces. Each cup is a canvas of swirling designs and intricate patterns, begging to be admired and savoured.

Families, too, will find solace at Piggy Back Cafe, where a dedicated kids’ menu offers a delightful array of treats, from fluffy pancakes and crispy popcorn chicken to creamy milkshakes and the ever-popular babychino.

Read: Hungry Jack’s, New Food Outlet Coming to Jindalee If Plans Approved

Whether you choose to dine indoors or bask in the sunshine on the outdoor seating area, Piggy Back Cafe promises an unforgettable experience. Here, food is elevated to an art form, and every bite is a celebration of culinary excellence and artful presentation.

You can find them at 86 Curragundi Rd, Jindalee, daily from 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Published 26-April-2024

The Hooper Legacy in Darra: From Wartime Correspondence to Community Cornerstone

Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

Alan and Nancy Hooper, then a young couple during World War II, transformed their wartime correspondence into a thriving business, Hooper’s Supermarket, located in the heart of Darra. This family store served the community and celebrated the couple’s journey from the turmoil of war to peace and prosperity.

Love and Letters During War

Alan’s wartime saga began in the dense jungles of New Guinea, where he served with the 1st Papuan Infantry Battalion (1PIB). Under the command of Major William Watson, a New Zealander, the battalion was composed of Papuan privates, non-commissioned officers, and Australian officers like Alan.

Allan Hooper in the war — *Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland*

During the advance of the Japanese forces, the Papuan soldiers and their allies played a crucial role in conducting scouting and surveillance missions. Their exceptional natural bushcraft skills proved to be a significant advantage in these operations.

Alan’s letters home provided a vivid description of the challenging conditions and the camaraderie amongst the troops.

Nancy’s Homefront Challenges

Back in Brisbane, Nancy O’Neill, then Alan’s fiancée, faced her own set of challenges. Only 19 when she bid Alan goodbye, Nancy quickly adapted to wartime life by joining the Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force (WAAAF).

Nancy Hooper during World War II — *Photo Credit: National Archives of Australia*

Her role took her to various locations, including the RAAF Sandgate Base and the No. 1 Bombing and Gunnery School at Evans Head, New South Wales. Through her service, Nancy developed a robust independence and a deep sense of duty, traits that shone through in her letters filled with news of home and encouragement.

The Power of Correspondence

Alan and Nancy were married in June 1943, two months after Nancy was discharged from WAAAF. They tied the knot while Alan was on leave from his duties in New Guinea during World War II.

Throughout the war, the couple exchanged letters to stay connected despite being on different continents. These letters were more than just affectionate gestures; they were lifelines that connected their hearts. They shared over 500 letters, detailing their wartime experiences, from deepest longings to daily hardships.

Alan’s correspondences were notable for his insightful observations during critical military operations and his candid reflections on the camaraderie and loss amongst his comrades.

One poignant anecdote shared in a letter dated August 1942 recounts Alan foraging for food with a U.S. aircrew whose plane had crashed nearby. This showcases his resourcefulness and the unexpected friendships forged in the face of adversity.

Similarly, Nancy’s letters often contained light-hearted yet vivid descriptions of her life in the military, from losing her wedding rings in the surf to her joy at receiving replacements sent by Alan.

Allan and Nancy Hooper letters — Photo Credit: Nancy’s letter to Allan
State Library of Queensland

Allan's letter to Nancy — *Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland*

Legacy of Love and Service

Returning from the war, Alan and Nancy wasted no time starting a new chapter. They pooled their resources and opened Hoopers Supermarket in Darra. This business was more than just a means to an economic end; it fulfilled their dream to create something lasting and beneficial for their community. The supermarket quickly became a local hub, where stories and support were as plentiful as the goods on the shelves.

Nancy’s untimely death in 1975 from breast cancer was a profound loss for Alan and the Darra community she had come to cherish. However, the legacy of the Hoopers’ love and joint venture persisted.

The correspondence between Alan and Nancy Hooper is now preserved at the John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland.

Published 15-April-2024

Alloys Strengthens Queensland Operations with New Distribution Centre in Wacol

Leading Australian technology distributor Alloys has opened a new distribution centre in Wacol to service the company’s growing business in Queensland.

Read: Wacol Youth Remand Centre Progresses Toward 2024 Completion

More than a hundred of Alloys’ Queensland-based partners and customers, including major tech brands such as Lexmark, Epson, Kyocera, and Promethean, attended the opening of the company’s new distribution centre in Brisbane late last month.

The new Wacol facility features a warehouse utilising Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) picking technology to boost efficiency and consistency for Alloys’ Brisbane and Far North Queensland customers. It also includes expanded showroom facilities, meeting rooms, training rooms and kitchens that customers can utilise.

Alloys’ CEO Paul Harman stated that the new distribution centre provides an eight times increase in size from the company’s previous Brisbane warehouse in Acacia Ridge, allowing Alloys to better serve the growing Queensland market.

Mr Harman said Alloys is really keen to continue investing in Queensland, noting this is the third facility the company has opened in Brisbane in the past 10 years as Alloys has continued to grow.

Mr Harman explained that Alloys can help customers demonstrate products, run events, and use the space as their own, with the facility designed to feel like the customer’s own.

He also noted that Alloys is seeing strong growth in its AV business, particularly in panel sales, as well as its building and security technology offerings in the Brisbane market. He said there is a great market for intercoms, access control and security cameras in Brisbane, with growth in those areas outpacing the southern states.

Read: Sinnamon Park Local Embarked on a Life-changing Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela

The new distribution centre in Wacol aims to help Alloys capitalise on untapped potential in not just southeast Queensland but also Far North Queensland, as the state continues to see a lot of new build activity, especially in the office fitout space utilising the latest technologies.

Published 12-April-2024

Wacol Youth Remand Centre Progresses Toward 2024 Completion

Photo Credit: Queensland Police/Facebook Video

Did you know that the Wacol Youth Remand Centre, a facility that aims to provide better shelter for the youth in detention and rehabilitation, will be completed by late 2024?

With the Queensland Police Service (QPS) spearheading the construction process that began in late 2023, the Wacol Youth Remand Centre is a few months away from being ready to house youth being held in watchhouses on remand.

Initially envisioned to have 50 beds, QPS has expanded the centre’s capacity to 76 beds to ensure that more young individuals will have access to the support and services they need while in custody at the Wacol Police Complex.

The centre’s strategic co-location with Brisbane and West Moreton youth detention facilities allows youth access to essential services including education, healthcare, counselling, and open-air exercise areas for recreational activities.

The Wacol Youth Remand Centre, operated by the Department of Youth Justice, will house youth in custody until new youth centres in Cairns and Woodford open.

The decision to fast-track construction and consolidate the project into a single stage is part of the State’s dedication to addressing youth crime and promoting community safety.

Rapid-build methodologies have driven progress, allowing the facility to take shape swiftly while maintaining high quality and safety standards.

In a statement to media, Premier Steven Miles said that the government will continue to invest in the prevention, intervention and detention programs that work.

“With more Police and targeted high visibility police operations taking place around the state, we are seeing an increase in arrests and offenders in custody,” he said.

“The Wacol Remand Facility will act as additional remand capacity while two new youth detention centres are built, to minimise the time young people are held in watchhouses on remand.”

“With its close proximity to the Wacol Police Complex, young people will have access to the education, health care and rehabilitation services needed to get back on the right path,” he added.

Published 8-April-2024