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Seventeen Mile Rocks House Undergoes Transformation After Nearly Five Decades

A house on Carlyle Street in Seventeen Mile Rocks commenced construction in 1977 and was never finished. Premek Borek of Property & Beyond has decided to take on the challenge of completing it.

The project, located at 29 Carlyle St, has been a long-standing concern for residents due to its unfinished state over the past four decades. However, with the intervention of Property & Beyond in 2023, the house is currently being constructed, promising a unique design while preserving its original features.

“Construction commenced in 1977 and never got finished,” Mr Borek said.

“It has been a sore eye (sic) to local residents for the last 40+ years and now is being transformed to a unique design, whilst retaining original features. I get a lot of support from locals, whenever they walk past it and see me.”

29 Carlyle St Seventeen Mile Rocks — Photo Credit: Supplied

The site, falling within the Low Density Residential Zone, is presently occupied by a post-1946 Dwelling house and ancillary domestic outbuildings. Despite the proposal for a technical third storey, it will be implemented as a mezzanine within the upper level of the house. This addition aims to optimize the utilization of existing high ceilings while maintaining the external appearance of a two-storey dwelling.

The Development Application (A006315220) for the project was filed on June 2023 and decided in September of the same year.

The approval was granted considering various factors, including the consistent land use for the Low Density Residential Zone, the internal nature of the third storey, adherence to maximum height regulations, setbacks, and materials consistent with the streetscape character of Carlyle St.

Interestingly, the original building approval from nearly 50 years ago permitted the owner to reside in a caravan on the premises during the construction of the house, highlighting the lengthy history and unique circumstances surrounding the property’s development.

Published 28-February-2024

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

Local viewers of the Netflix show Boy Swallows Universe likely noticed Darra’s Que Huong Restaurant when it appeared on screen.

Read: Abandoned Asylum: The Haunting Legacy of Wolston Park in Wacol

Keen observers would have seen that the Vietnamese restaurant was used as a filming location and featured in some scenes in the second episode of the series.

The Netflix series was inspired by the novel Boy Swallows Universe by Trent Dalton, which tells the story of protagonist Eli Bell growing up in 1980s Darra and navigating its complications.

Though Que Huong enjoyed its Netflix debut, the restaurant has been a staple in the Darra community long before the cameras arrived. It has developed a devoted customer base as a well-known restaurant in the Darra area for years.

Photo credit: Que Huong Restaurant/Facebook

More than a restaurant, Que Huong provides the backdrop for traditions, connections, and memories spanning generations of locals. For many Darra families, this unassuming eatery is where their history together has grown with each visit over the years.

Their signature dishes like chilli crab, prawns and barbecue duck have garnered quite a fanbase over the decades. Beyond these specialties, Que Huong boasts an extensive menu filled with salad dishes, soups, hotpots, and rice meals.

What makes the restaurant even more special is its retro vibes – the decor is straight out of the 1990s with mirror ball, coloured lights, and a mural depicting Halong Bay.

Photo credit: Que Huong Restaurant/Google Maps

With its mouthwatering Vietnamese fare, it’s no wonder Que Huong has a dedicated customer base who don’t mind that the restaurant is usually packed with diners.

The spacious interior can easily accommodate large groups and families. Whilst Que Huong enjoyed its time in the Netflix spotlight, it remains a darling among locals as one of Brisbane’s best Vietnamese restaurants.

Read: Rocks Riverside Park: Among Brisbane’s Most Popular Parks

For fans of the book or show who want to get a taste of the setting, Que Huong offers the perfect opportunity to dine in a place that seems frozen in time.

Published 5-February-2024

Community Rallies Behind Riverhills Bakery Landmark After Storm Ruins Equipment

Following the devastation caused by the storms in South East Queensland, residents of Riverhills find themselves grappling with the reality of a beloved local bakery’s prolonged closure.

For more than two decades, Riverhills Bakery has held a special place in the hearts of its patrons but on 2 Feb 2024, the store appeared to be cleared of its items, leaving some locals to wonder if it will open again.

As concerns grew among the bakery’s patrons about its prolonged closure, social media platforms such as Facebook became a forum for discussion. Questions were raised about why the beloved Riverhills Bakery had not yet reopened.

A resident provided insight into the situation, explaining that the complex’s owners had refused to repair the damaged roof, leading to persistent leaks during rainy weather. These leaks, in turn, caused significant harm to the bakery’s equipment.

Adding to the adversity, the bakery lacked insurance coverage, which further complicated the recovery process. Some tenants within the complex grew weary of the ongoing battle, resulting in the unfortunate closure of the cherished establishment.

Whilst Riverhills Bakery had been a source of joy and comfort for the 4074 community, the storm that swept through the area left a trail of destruction in its wake. The powerful flooding inflicted considerable damage on the bakery’s valuable equipment, rendering it inoperable.

The most significant losses included an aging bread slicer and other specialised tools, the replacement costs of which proved to be exorbitant. To compound the challenge, finding the necessary parts for repair became an arduous endeavour.

In the spirit of solidarity, Stephanie Liley took the initiative to create a GoFundMe page aimed at helping the bakery owners cover the costs associated with repairing the damaged equipment.

Liley expressed her deep appreciation for Riverhills Bakery, describing it as a “wonderful fixture in the 4074 community.” Carol and her family, who have managed the bakery on Bogong Street for over two decades, have been instrumental in creating countless cherished memories and delicious meals for the residents.

However, it’s worth noting that Ms Liley’s GoFundMe campaign, initially launched to support the bakery, has now been closed without any clear indication of whether it has reached the fundraising goals.

Riverhills Bakery was renowned not only for its longevity but also for its commitment to providing affordable and high-quality baked goods. Customers were drawn to the bakery’s welcoming atmosphere and the freshness of its products.

With a remarkable four-star rating on Google, the bakery received praise and glowing reviews from its loyal patrons. Their testimonials exemplify the bakery’s reputation for excellence.

Published 5-Feb-2024

Major Expansion Planned for Western Suburbs State Special School in Durack

Plans have been unveiled for the expansion of the Western Suburbs State Special School in Durack to cater to an additional 60 students.

The seven-phase project (MID-1123-0745) highlights the construction of new facilities, classrooms, elevators, and parking spaces.

Despite being designed for only 186 students, Western Suburbs State Special School (WSSS), one of Brisbane’s leading special schools, currently serves 193 students ranging from Prep to Year 12.

Projections indicate that the school, which does not limit enrolments based on catchment areas, could see its student population reach 209 in the next three years.

The proposed expansion aims to provide space for up to 252 students and allow for an increase in staff from the current 90 to 114. The development’s primary goal is to address functionality challenges in the school’s senior student cohort, specifically in buildings within the F Block area, which were originally introduced to the site when state special schools did not need to cater to students with physical impairments.

Western Suburbs State Special School — *Photo Credit: MID-1123-0745*

Stage 1 of the expansion involves the construction of a new building, block R, with 14 classrooms and administration facilities. It also includes the development of a 68-space carpark, a 20-space carpark near the administration building, lifts, ramps, demolition of block F, and the establishment of a new bus drop-off/pick-up zone.

Stage 2 focuses on renovating block A to create two new classrooms and redeveloping block E into a new library. The subsequent stages include the construction of a new hall with therapy areas, improved accessibility features such as stairs, ramps, and lifts, relocation of existing greenhouses and horticultural sheds, demolition of block F, refurbishment of block A to accommodate two new classes and a new library, and the creation of outdoor learning spaces and play areas. Blocks G, J, K, and L will be demolished, while blocks B and C will undergo renovation or reconstruction.

This expansion comes amid discussions following the Disability Royal Commission’s recommendation last October 2023 for a 30-year phase-out of special education and a halt on new special school developments from 2025. The recommendation, which aims to integrate students with disabilities into mainstream schools, has raised concerns among Queensland’s educational sectors. The State Government is currently reviewing this proposal.

The project is now subject to public review, with submissions accepted until 16 February 2024. Look for MID-1123-0745 on the planning site.

Feedback can also be sent via email to infrastructuredesignation@dsilgp.qld.gov.au or mailed to PO Box 15009, City East, QLD, 4002.

Published 31-Jan-2024

State Schools in Durack, Jamboree Heights Scramble to Repair Storm Damage Ahead of School Opening Day

Durack State School and Jamboree Heights State School are among nearly 100 Queensland state schools that have been damaged in Queensland’s dual disasters recently, with authorities now racing to repair facilities in time for the first day of school.

With the new school term scheduled to begin on 22 Jan 2024, repair works are ongoing to ensure that every school is ready for the return of students.

Durack State School and Jamboree Heights State School were among the casualties as roofs were ripped off and trees crashed into classrooms. Helensvale State School was hit particularly hard, with a tree causing substantial damage.

In some cases where classrooms and facilities are out of commission, demountable classrooms will be brought in as temporary solutions.

The scope of the repairs varies, from simple flood clean-ups to long-term rebuilding efforts on sections of buildings.

One school in Far North Queensland is experiencing a particularly tight race against the clock to complete repairs.

While the cost of repairing the schools remains unknown, the state government has assured that no state school will suffer financially due to the storm damage.

Education officials confirmed that a total of 96 state schools had been damaged. About 35 schools were affected in South East Queensland, while the Far North bore the brunt with 61 schools in need of repairs.

Although acknowledging the extent of the damage, Helensvale State School Principal James Forrest expressed gratitude that the situation was not worse, considering the fallen trees scattered throughout the school grounds. Despite the challenges, the damaged building at Helensvale State School is expected to be unavailable for approximately the first three weeks of the school year.

Published 10-Jan-2024

Developer Hopes to Activate Warrender Street with Mixed-Use Development

A new five-storey mixed-use development has been proposed for Warrender Street in Darra, featuring residential units, restaurants, offices, and retail spaces.

Read: Designs Unveiled for Retirement Village at McLeod Country Golf Club

Designed by architecture firm Refresh Design, the development aims to activate the area with new housing, dining, and commercial options.

Located at 45 Warrender Street, the proposed development will have two main buildings across 2,744 sqm of total floor area. Building 1 will be 820 sqm, whilst the larger Building 2 is planned at 2,422 sqm.

Site plan (Photo credit: Refresh Design)

Between the two structures, there will be space for eight retail shops (644 sqm in total), four commercial office tenancies (282 sqm), and 12 rooming accommodation units (523 sqm) on the ground floor.

The upper levels include a mix of four single-story units, four loft-style units, and four two-story townhouse units for residential spaces totaling over 1,400 sqm.

Outdoor areas are a focus as well, with 498 sqm of private open space and 113 sqm of communal courtyard. Significant deep planting, landscaping, and parking spots round out the site plan.

The proposal incorporates 31 on-site parking spaces to accommodate residents and visitors. Refuse storage and collection has also been addressed with a dedicated area for RCV pickup service within the site.

For vehicle access, there will be two entry points to the development from Warrender Street via new crossovers to be constructed. The planned parking and servicing arrangements aim to fully support the mixed-use complex onsite once operational.

45 Warrender St, Darra (Photo credit: Google Street View)

According to planners, the proposed development utilises several design elements to minimise the perceived size and scale across the site. Careful articulation, varied roof pitches, and a mix of exterior materials and finishes help break up building mass. An active ground floor and upper level balconies facing the street frontage further reduce bulk whilst enhancing street activation and casual surveillance opportunities.

Read: Proposed Childcare Centre in Sinnamon Park to Repurpose Heritage Church

The proposed mixed-use complex aims to bring new housing diversity and commercial activity through its blend of shops, offices, restaurants and residential spaces conveniently located near public transport in Darra. With city approval, construction could begin soon on the development.

Published 7-January-2024

Community Consultation Continues for Centenary Motorway Upgrade

After an initial round of consultations in early 2023, the second round of community engagement for the Centenary Motorway Upgrade – Darra to Toowong will start this year.

Read: Olympic-Size Congestion: Call For Urgent Upgrade on Centenary Highway0

Local residents will have the opportunity to review updated draft plans and provide input on the proposed masterplan.

Over the four-week consultation period earlier in 2023, there were over 2,000 interactions with stakeholders and community members. Some of the key issues raised included reducing congestion on the motorway; improving biking and walking facilities; and considering additional public transportation services.

Centenary Motorway (Photo credit: tmr.qld.gov.au)

The current project encompasses improvements along the entire stretch of road from the Ipswich Motorway interchange to the Toowong Roundabout.

Project map (Photo credit: tmr.qld.gov.au)

Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) stresses the importance of public feedback in finalising designs for the next phase of construction after the current bridge upgrades are completed.

The $298.5 million Centenary Bridge Upgrade represents the first stage of the broader motorway enhancements.

Works on the new three-lane northbound bridge, rehabilitation of the existing southbound bridges, and improved pedestrian/cycling infrastructure were slated to commence in late March 2023.

Centenary Motorway Upgrade, Stage 1 (Photo credit: tmr.qld.gov.au)

The Centenary Bridge, which forms part of the Motorway, currently carries over 85,000 vehicles daily, and projections estimate over 150,000 vehicles will need to cross it by 2036; the upgrade will improve safety to reduce crashes, increase capacity to meet current and future traffic demand with better travel time reliability, provide better facilities for active transport, and lengthen entry and exit ramps for safer merge lanes.

TMR and contractors aim to minimise impacts to motorists and residents throughout construction. The team is currently finalising work plans and permits ahead of the start date. Initial on-site activities will involve surveys, site preparation, and utility relocations.

The federal government has pledged $10 million through the Major Project Business Case fund, in additional funding to support planning and development of the corridor upgrades.

Read: Contractors Chosen for the Centenary Bridge Upgrade

TMR plans to hold a series of community information sessions beginning February 14. Further information including the survey form can be viewed on TMR’s website.

Published 10-December-2023

Designs Unveiled for Retirement Village at McLeod Country Golf Club

Citing traffic and flooding concerns, among other things, some local residents have expressed concerns over the proposal to build a large retirement living facility at the McLeod Country Golf Club in Mount Ommaney.

Read: Former Jindalee Resident Celebrates 100th Birthday With Trip Down Memory Lane

Designed by Marchese Partners in collaboration with Life 3A, the development would consist of five multi-storey buildings with 126 units in total.

The mix of two-bedroom, three-bedroom apartments, and penthouse units would surround a central communal open space featuring amenities like barbecue areas, a community garden, and landscaped seating zones. There will be 207 total parking spaces – 167 resident spaces and 40 visitor and staff spaces.

The project is slated to be constructed in two stages by developer Aura Holdings, pending approval.

Although many locals have welcomed the potential revenue source for club improvements, concerns have also been raised. Others have also criticised the length and height of the proposed structures.

Some worry the large buildings at the site could exacerbate existing traffic and flooding issues. The golf course was even forced to temporarily close after severe flooding in February 2022.

In response to concerns about flooding, planners emphasised the buildings would be constructed on an elevated section of the course at least 3 metres above flood levels.

Club president Diane Lally defended the plans, saying the leasing arrangement with Aura Holdings would provide vital capital for clubhouse and course upgrades, as well as a reliable income stream to ensure the club’s future viability.

The high-end retirement community would be operated by Aura Holdings, which is also behind the Somerset development in Indooroopilly and The Atrium in Lutwyche.

“The proposed Retirement Facility will provide significant benefits to the club, club members and local residents through its continued operation by providing a variety of indoor and outdoor recreation spaces in conjunction with the existing 18-hole golf course. The redevelopment of the site will provide additional funding for the club to undertake essential infrastructure upgrades on site, securing the long term feasibility of the MCGC,” planners wrote.

Read: Proposal Submitted for Oxley Retirement Facility & Community Centre

Planners highlighted that the proposal will cater to Brisbane’s ageing population, particularly those seeking independent living but not requiring full-time care and who want to remain independent.

They said the development will also help address the current housing shortage by allowing older residents to move out of their existing homes but stay in their neighbourhood. This would open up those homes to be occupied by other community members.

Published 28-December-2023

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

Plans have been submitted for a new Hungry Jack’s restaurant featuring a drive-through and an additional food outlet to be constructed at the Jindalee Direct Factory Outlet shopping centre.

Read: Proposed Childcare Centre in Sinnamon Park to Repurpose Heritage Church

The plans from CCN Architects call for reconfiguring the internal layout of the Direct Factory Outlet shopping complex to make way for new dining and retail spaces. This would be Phase 3 of developments at the complex, located at 11 Pavilions Close, Jindalee.

The realignment would rearrange the Bonds, Florentine, and other specialty shops on the ground level to improve sight lines. The two proposed food tenancies, a 460 sqm Hungry Jack’s and a 180 sqm food and drink outlet, would be situated in the existing Level B car park area near Pavilions Close.

Existing site plan (Photo credit: CCN Architects)

Proposed site plan (Photo credit: CCN Architects)

To accommodate the buildouts, changes to the car parking layout would also be completed, adding 32 new spaces. New vehicle access roads and pedestrian crossings are included as part of the proposal.

Artist’s impression of food outlet (Photo credit: CCN Architects)

The outlets would be open 24/7, with the planning report stating the location towards the centre of the site would maximise safety and minimise impacts on nearby residential areas. Setbacks, building separation, and landscaping are also called out as methods to maintain amenity.

“The proposal will involve extensions to the existing centre on the site, consisting of two new tenancies within the existing car park, with a consequential increase in carparking. Additionally, the uppermost carparking deck will be extended,” planners stated.

11 Pavilions Cl, Jindalee (Photo credit: Google Street View)

“The proposal will not result in an increase in overall height of the development, nor cause any adverse impacts on the amenity of the locality as demonstrated through compliance with noise and traffic criteria of Brisbane City Plan 2014. Furthermore, the improved design of the new spaces around the buildings will offer greater levels of amenity to pedestrian users of the centre.”

Read: Construction Contract Awarded: Centenary Bridge Upgrade Now a Step Closer

The plans are currently in for review, with construction timelines depending on the application approval.

Published 18-December-2023

Young Musicians, Including a Seventeen Mile Rocks Local, Conclude Inspiring Music Intensive in Melbourne

Eline van Bruggen, a flutist from Seventeen Mile Rocks, was one of a group of young, emerging musicians from Queensland, ACT, and South Australia who gathered at the Camberwell Grammar School in Melbourne and the Conservatorium High School in Sydney for the much-anticipated Young Mannheim Symphonists 2023 Intensives.

The five-day music festival was organised by the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra, offering a unique opportunity for these emerging artists to immerse themselves in the world of historical performance style. The event culminated in two spectacular public concerts, showcasing the talent and dedication of the participants.

A Gathering of Emerging Talent

The Young Mannheim Symphonists 2023 Intensives brought together 32 music students between the ages of 12 and 23, hailing from various corners of the country, including Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra, and many more. The participants were joined by 11 professional specialist tutors, all eager to share their expertise and passion for classical and romantic music.

These young musicians are not only dedicated to their craft but are also pursuing their education at institutions such as the ANU, TAFE Queensland, University of Queensland, Elder Conservatorium, and Prince Alfred College Adelaide.

The youth orchestra, conducted by Rachael Beesley, explored masterpieces by renowned composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, Elgar, CPE Bach, and lesser-known masters like Stamitz and Reicha. Co-directed by Beesley and Nicole van Bruggen, the program aimed to provide a hands-on experience of discovering music through the lens of historical performance style. It’s an opportunity to nurture musicians for the future, equipping them with the knowledge and insight to make informed musical decisions.

An Orchestra with a Mission

The Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra is renowned for its specialisation in period instrument performances of late 18th- to early 20th-century orchestral and chamber music. Under the artistic direction of Ms Beesley and Ms van Bruggen, the orchestra has been celebrated for its “intelligent and warm performances” that demonstrate the importance of historically informed musicianship.

Established in 2012, the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra is celebrating its 10th year, significantly impacting the Australian music scene. It successfully combines the twin goals of performance and education through live concerts, collaborations, broadcasts, recordings, and innovative music education programmes. By gathering leading Australian and international musicians, the orchestra brings historical insights to masterpieces from the Classical and Romantic periods.

The Young Mannheim Symphonists is an initiative designed to nurture musicians for the future. Each year, they delve into the world of Classical and Romantic music, providing the next generation of HIP musicians with the knowledge and insight needed to make informed musical decisions. The program tutors are the principal musicians of the Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra, and their passion for understanding historical musical heritage is matched only by their dedication to inspiring and enlightening young musicians.

As these young musicians head back to their homes, they leave with a wealth of knowledge and a renewed passion for historically informed performance, ready to embark on their own musical journeys. For those interested in the 2024 Young Mannheim Symphonists programs, further information can be found at arco.org.au/yms.

Published 26-Oct-2023