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Bob Atkinson Centre Welcomes Future Recruits For Hands-on Learning

What’s it like to train like a Queensland police officer? A group of Brisbane teens found out as they stepped into one of the state’s most advanced police training centres.

Real-world Learning In A Real Police Setting

In May 2025, Brisbane students took part in a Queensland Police Service work experience program. They visited the $52.8 million Bob Atkinson Operational Capabilities Centre at Wacol, used by thousands of officers and recruits each year. The Centre includes a mock village and train platform to simulate real emergencies. It gives trainees practical experience in realistic settings.

The tour also took in the Centre’s indoor live-fire ranges and training zones where officers rehearse responses to high-risk incidents. These specialist spaces are used to build skills in areas like decision-making, de-escalation, and tactical operations.

More Than A School Visit

During the week, students explored QPS units including the Dog Squad, Water Police and Road Policing Command. They took part in hands-on activities like fingerprinting and crime scene analysis.

These sessions showed how real investigations are carried out across different areas of policing. Officers also shared their career paths, giving students insight into the variety of roles and how to get started.

Connecting Police With The Next Generation

The program also aimed to strengthen community ties by showing students the real work of police and encouraging open engagement. It gave young people a clearer view of how police serve the public, while giving officers a chance to connect with future generations.

The Bob Atkinson Centre supports this mission by hosting not only police training, but also joint exercises with emergency services and defence. Built by the Department of Housing and Public Works, it equips Queensland’s responders with the tools and spaces needed for complex, real-world scenarios.

Named For A Leader In Policing

The Centre is named after Bob Atkinson, a former Queensland Police Commissioner who served from 2000 to 2012. His leadership focused on training, accountability and improving the public’s trust in police.

Part of the facility includes the refurbished Jacaranda House, a heritage-listed building adapted for modern training needs. With a team of 121 staff and specialist instructors, the Centre ensures every officer receives consistent and high-quality training.

Published 20-May-2025

Darra Man’s Routine Leads to $1.25M Windfall

A quiet Sunday routine turned into a life-altering moment for a Darra man, who was on his way to a medical appointment when he received unexpected news that would reshape his future—he was suddenly more than $1.25 million richer.

Read: Mt Ommaney Resident Celebrates a Life-Changing Moment

The Brisbane local was one of only four people across the country to land a division one prize in a national draw held on Saturday 26 April 2025. His windfall of $1,259,119.90 marks the first major prize of its kind to reach Brisbane’s southern suburbs this year.

The win was the result of a long-standing habit. For about 15 years, the man has made it a point to visit his local newsagency on Sunday mornings, collecting the newspaper and a game ticket as part of his weekly ritual. This time, the tradition paid off in a way he never imagined.

While still coming to terms with the news, the Darra man and his wife spoke with officials en route to their doctor’s appointment. Plans were quickly reshuffled to include a stop at the prize office to formally claim the winnings.

The couple, who are already in retirement, said the prize brings enormous relief and security for the years ahead. With limited superannuation, the unexpected boost provides the freedom to enjoy their retirement more comfortably—and perhaps a celebration once the initial shock subsides.

Read: Street Spotlight: Westlake Dr, Westlake

The winning entry was a System ticket purchased at Lucky Monier News & Florist in the Monier Village Shopping Centre on Monier Road, Darra.

Nationally, four entries shared in the top prize during the April 26 draw—two from Queensland, and one each from New South Wales and the ACT. The draw brings the current financial year’s tally of division one wins through official channels to 389, with 102 of those claimed by Queensland players alone.

Published 10-May-2025

Woman Charged With Manslaughter Over Baby’s Death in Darra

A 63-year-old woman has been charged with manslaughter following the death of an 11-month-old boy in Darra last year.

On April 3, 2024, emergency services were called to an Ashridge Road residence in Darra after reports that an infant was unconscious and not breathing. The baby was declared deceased at the scene.

The Inala Child Protection and Investigation Unit established Operation Whiskey Nocturne to investigate the death. After a year-long investigation, police have charged the Darra woman with manslaughter.

The accused is scheduled to appear before Richlands Magistrates Court on June 4, 2025.

Queensland Police have referenced the case under number QP2400579111.

Memory Walk & Jog Returns to Seventeen Mile Rocks to Support Dementia Australia

Photo Credit: Memory Walk & Jog

Seventeen Mile Rocks will once again host the Memory Walk & Jog, part of a nationwide initiative supporting people living with dementia through fundraising and awareness.

Background and Context

Dementia Australia’s major annual fundraiser, Memory Walk & Jog, is scheduled to return to Rocks Riverside Park. Scheduled for Sunday, 8 June, the event invites participants to walk, jog, or run to raise funds supporting people living with dementia, their families, and carers.

This event also forms part of a larger national campaign aimed at generating over $2 million in 2025. Dementia Australia hopes to break participation records across all locations. Previous events established strong community engagement. Organisers are calling for an even greater turnout this year.

Event Details at Seventeen Mile Rocks

Participants will have the option to join a 2-kilometre walk, a 5-kilometre walk or jog, or a 10-kilometre timed run. The course at Seventeen Mile Rocks features a flat, paved path accessible to all, including those who use mobility aids.

Memory Walk & Jog Seventeen Mile Rocks — *Photo Credit: Memory Walk & Jog*

The event site at Rocks Riverside Park will open from 7:30 a.m. A warm-up session will commence at 8:25 a.m. The 10-kilometre timed run will start at 8:40 a.m., followed by the 5-kilometre walk or jog at 8:43 a.m. The 2-kilometre walk starts at 8:46 a.m.

Parking will be available inside the park, on surrounding streets, and in a nearby hilltop carpark. There are accessible toilets and paved pathways throughout the site.

Memory Walk & Jog Brisbane — *Photo Credit: Memory Walk & Jog*

Importance of the Cause

Across the state, more than 16,941 people are currently living with dementia, which continues to be the leading cause of death among women and the second among men. Dementia Australia highlights the Memory Walk & Jog not only as a fundraising opportunity, but also as a way to raise awareness. It is also a way to foster social connections and encourage an active lifestyle, two key measures for reducing dementia risk.

Funds raised help provide support services and education programs. The fund will also support critical research aimed at improving the lives of people affected by dementia. As of the latest update, the event has raised $58,316 towards a goal of $142,000. The newest record shows 876 participants and 53 teams already registered.

Community Involvement

Dementia Australia Ambassador Wally Lewis AM has urged Queenslanders to take part, whether by participating, volunteering, donating, or supporting others. The event will be a fun, inclusive opportunity to make a difference.

Dementia Australia CEO Professor Tanya Buchanan emphasised the critical role community events like Memory Walk & Jog play in raising awareness and funding essential services.

Looking Ahead

Registrations remain open for participants wishing to join the Brisbane Memory Walk & Jog. Participants are encouraged to register online, create a fundraising page, and attend the event at Rocks Riverside Park on Sunday, 8 June.

Published 28-Apr-2025

Heritage Cement Site for Sale in Darra

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A heritage-listed former cement factory at 16 Station Avenue, Darra, has been listed for sale, offering redevelopment potential in a key industrial corridor.

Historic Cement Works in Darra Offered to Market

A prominent industrial property in Darra with strong historical significance is now on the market. The site at 16 Station Avenue, formerly home to the Queensland Cement and Lime Company, represents a rare opportunity for developers, with flexible zoning and substantial redevelopment potential.

Origins of the Darra Cement Works

The Queensland Cement and Lime Company was officially incorporated in 1914. The company began operations at the Darra plant in 1917. The site was selected for its strategic location as it was close to a railway line and local deposits of shale and clay. It was also accessible to the Ipswich coalfields and the Gore limestone supplies. This facility played a central role in Queensland’s industrial development throughout the 20th century.

Darra heritage cement site — Photo Credit: *Google Maps*

Technological Advancements and Infrastructure

Early infrastructure included a kiln, silos, mills, and a purpose-built power station, all with machinery imported from Britain. The powerhouse, still standing today, was vital at a time when Darra lacked access to the city’s electricity grid.

The company later connected to the City Electric Light Co. as Brisbane’s grid expanded. In 1939, further expansion included new office and laboratory buildings, with design input from noted architect Mervyn Rylance.

Later innovations saw the company transition from limestone to dead coral sourced from Moreton Bay, which was transported via the Oxley Wharf. A 3.5-kilometre conveyor belt linking the wharf to the factory was constructed in the 1960s, further streamlining operations.

Local Role and Employment

The company provided materials for major Queensland infrastructure, including Brisbane City Hall, William Jolly Bridge, the Hornibrook Highway, and multiple dam and bridge projects. The Darra factory also served as a major employer, especially for post-war immigrants resettling from nearby Wacol East Dependant Holding Camp.

Queensland Cement and Lime Company — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Current Offering and Location Advantages

The 930 square metre facility sits on a site zoned for flexible commercial or retail use, with potential to increase the gross floor area to 1,240 square metres, subject to council approval.

The site is vacant and will require a full fitout. Located beside the BTP Westlink Green Business Park and the Darra Bowls Club, it is positioned 200 metres from Darra railway station and in proximity to Jindalee DFO, Monier Village, and key transport links including the Centenary Highway and Ipswich Motorway.

The property includes on-site parking and is expected to appeal to both weekday commercial users and weekend visitors due to its strategic position within an active mixed-use zone.

Published 24-Apr-2025

Major Construction Milestone for Centenary Bridge Upgrade in Jindalee

Photo Credit: TMR Qld

The Centenary Bridge Upgrade in Jindalee has reached a significant construction milestone. Installation of the first concrete girders has begun.

Project Background and Scope

The Centenary Bridge Upgrade spans the Brisbane River between Sinnamon Road, Jindalee, and Kenmore Road. It forms part of a staged improvement program along the Centenary Motorway. It is designed to meet long-term transport demands between Brisbane’s western suburbs and the CBD. A construction contract was awarded in December 2022, and works are currently underway.

The project involves constructing a new three-lane northbound bridge. This will convert the existing bridge into three southbound lanes. A key feature of the upgrade includes enhanced active transport facilities, with a dedicated path for pedestrians and cyclists linking to the Western Freeway Bikeway. The Jindalee Skate Park is being retained within the project footprint.

Key Technical Milestone Achieved

A major development has been marked by the installation of the first concrete girders on the new northbound structure. These girders, measuring between 34 and 48 metres in length, are being produced on-site at a precast facility just north of Sinnamon Road. A total of 30 girders will be manufactured as part of the bridge construction.

This step signals visible progress in the build, which aims to reduce congestion, improve safety, and increase capacity on a major arterial route.

Funding and Investment

The project is jointly funded by the State and the Australian Government. As of the December 2023 update, the total investment stands at $298.5 million. This includes $159.25 million from the Queensland Government and $139.25 million from the Australian Government (Investment ID 669801).

Centenary Bridge Jindalee — *Photo Credit: TMR Qld*

Public Opinion and Community Sentiment

Public responses to the milestone have been mixed. Some residents expressed frustration over the perceived slow pace of progress, with several noting that the upgrade merely shifts the existing bottleneck further along the motorway. Others raised concerns about the timing and extent of shared path improvements, particularly regarding pedestrian and cyclist access during construction.

Despite criticism, some members of the public acknowledged the anticipated benefits of increased bridge capacity and active transport improvements, particularly in the lead-up to Brisbane’s future growth needs.

Next Steps and Broader Implications

The bridge upgrade forms part of broader planning studies examining possible staged improvements along the Centenary Motorway corridor, including sections beyond Jindalee.

Work will continue on completing the remaining girders, installing active transport links, and rehabilitating the existing bridge for southbound use. Updates on construction staging are anticipated in future communications.

Published 24-Apr-2025

Former Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk Lists Seventeen Mile Rocks Home for Auction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: Middle Park Property Market Booms as Prices Surge

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

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

Published 17-April-2025

Grammy-Nominated Singer Danny Gokey Comes to Seventeen Mile Rocks

Photo Credit: Danny Gokey/Facebook

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

A Night of Music and Meaning

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

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

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

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

Featuring SVRCINA

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

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

Ticket purchase will open on Monday, 14 April 2025.

GET TICKETs

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

Published 12-April-2025

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

Photo Credit: Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons

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

Centenary Motorway Delays Cost Drivers 28 Hours a Year

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

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

Pressure mounting on key corridors

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

*Photo Credit: Shiftchange/Wikimedia Commons*

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

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

RACQ calls for long-term transport planning

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

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

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

Communities brace for Olympic growth

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

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

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

Published 9-April-2025

Military Camp to Migrant Centre: Camp Columbia in Wacol

Photo Credit: Mapping Brisbane History

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

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

Camp Columbia housing — *Photo Credit: Camp Columbia*

Establishment of Camp Columbia

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

Camp Columbia interior — *Photo Credit: Camp Columbia*

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

Dutch Occupation and Post-War Transition

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

Camp Columbia students — *Photo Credit: Camp Columbia*

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

Wacol Migrant Centre: A New Role

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

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

Community and Cultural Impact

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

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

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

Legacy and Preservation

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

Published 8-Apr-2025