Homepage Latest News - Page 6 of 41

Hendra and Jindalee State Schools See Decline in Student Numbers

Two Brisbane state schools, Hendra and Jindalee, are among the hardest hit by falling enrolments, even as the suburbs around them continue to grow.

Read: Jindalee’s Olivia Spallek-Caballero Crowned 2025 National Gymnastics Champion

Hendra State School, already Brisbane’s smallest public primary, has seen its enrolments halve since 2021. Meanwhile, Jindalee State School has dropped by 20 per cent, down to 587 students.

Photo credit: Hendra State School/Facebook

Yet both areas have experienced modest population growth. According to AreaSearch estimates, Hendra’s population rose by 4.5 per cent since the 2021 Census, reaching around 5,178 people as of May this year. Jindalee–Mount Ommaney grew by 4.2 per cent in the same period, up to approximately 7,960 residents.

The declines at these schools mirror a broader trend across Brisbane’s public primary sector. More than half of state primary schools shrank between 2021 and 2024, with an overall drop of 1,005 students, despite the city’s population increasing by more than 9 per cent.

Education researchers and community advocates cite a mix of causes for the shift. These include changing demographics, strict catchment rules, increased take-up of home-schooling, and more families enrolling children in private schools, particularly from Year 5 onwards.

Photo credit: Jindalee State School – JSS/Facebook

In suburbs like Jindalee, where independent schooling options are within easy reach, families may be moving away from local public schools in favour of alternatives. In Hendra, limited new housing stock and higher property prices may be reducing the number of young families with school-aged children.

While many schools are facing smaller Prep cohorts and flatter growth, some areas are experiencing the opposite. Pallara State School, in Brisbane’s south-west, grew by 48 per cent to 1,283 students over the same three-year period, with enrolments projected to reach 1,600 by 2027. Growth suburbs like Kenmore, Moorooka, Hamilton and Newmarket also saw double-digit increases.

A Department of Education spokesperson said enrolment shifts often reflect local population movements and demographic patterns, and that the department continues to plan for both high-growth and lower-demand areas.

Read: Was Jindalee’s Amazons Aquatic Adventureland a Danger Zone? Locals Share Stories

For Hendra and Jindalee, the question remains whether current trends will continue or stabilise in coming years, and what role schooling preferences and family movement will play.

Published 7-August-2025

Sunny Queen Australia Joins Hall of Fame for Feeding Millions With Integrity

Photo Credit: Sunny The Egg/Facebook

Sunny Queen Australia, the nation’s largest egg producer, has joined the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame. The Brisbane company was recognised for its strong impact on the state’s economy and culture.

Decades of Commitment to Quality

Sunny Queen began in 1930 as the Queensland Egg Board, formed by local farmers to improve food access. It has since grown into a national supplier, distributing over 1.5 billion eggs each year. The company was officially inducted into the Queensland Business Leaders Hall of Fame on 25 July at a Brisbane ceremony, with CEO Julie Proctor accepting the award.

*Photo Credit: Sunny Queen Australia/LinkedIn*

Known for prioritising innovation and animal welfare, Sunny Queen introduced Australia’s first cage-free eggs in 2009. It now offers free-range and organic options, working closely with vets and nutritionists to uphold ethical standards across its farming network.

Strong Leadership and Shared Values

CEO Julie Proctor said Sunny Queen’s success comes with a strong sense of responsibility to Australian families. She credited the company’s team and loyal customers for helping deliver healthy, protein-rich food nationwide. Directors Simon Hall and Robert Antonio highlighted Sunny Queen’s deep ties to regional farmers and long-term shareholders.

The company is known for its commitment to transparency, including the launch of its “Chook Tracker” tool. This live-stream lets customers see free-range hens in real time, showing that farming can be both humane and productive.

Innovation That Keeps Pace With Everyday Life

Sunny Queen has expanded beyond shell eggs into ready-to-eat products like omelettes, egg bakes and poached eggs. These meals are supplied to foodservice venues, aged care, schools and airlines across the country. By using eggs that don’t meet shell standards, the company helps cut food waste while maintaining nutrition.

With over 60 products, Sunny Queen continues to meet changing consumer needs without compromising quality. Its focus on innovation, sustainability and market adaptability contributed to its recognition as one of Queensland’s top business leaders.

A Win for Queensland Farming and Community

Sunny Queen’s Hall of Fame induction highlights the importance of family-led, community-based businesses in Queensland’s growth. The recognition was made possible through support from QUT, the State Library of Queensland and the Hall of Fame Induction Committee.

Headquartered in Brisbane with roots in regional areas, the company reflects values of local pride, ethical farming and strong leadership. More than just eggs, its story is about becoming part of everyday life for millions of Australians.

Published 25-July-2025

Volunteer Call for Wildlife Survey in Wacol

Photo Credit: Pexels

What’s swimming, slithering or paddling through our local creeks? A major five-year wildlife survey environmental DNA from local creek systems in Wacol is about to find out—and locals from the area and across the Centenary suburbs are being called on to help.

Creek Sampling with Cutting-Edge Science

The project, led by the Wildlife Preservation Society of Queensland (WPSQ) and Wolston & Centenary Catchments (WaCC), will use environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling to detect traces of animals in waterways. From late August to September, volunteers will collect water samples from 12 sites along Bullockhead Creek, Sandy Creek and their tributaries.

Each sample is analysed in a lab to identify species—from elusive platypus and rakali to native fish, frogs, and turtles—without disturbing their habitats. The data will be compared year-on-year to track population changes and the impact of urban pressures on local biodiversity.

Why This Matters

These creeks form part of a vital wildlife corridor linking the Brisbane River to surrounding bushland. By mapping the species that live here, scientists can better protect threatened fauna and identify areas needing habitat restoration. The survey also complements earlier monitoring projects in the area, including camera trapping for koalas and waterway health assessments.

The project will apply vertebrate metabarcoding techniques to collect eDNA from water bodies. This method allows researchers to detect species by analysing DNA fragments left behind in the environment. Data collected over the five-year period will help track species presence, highlight pollution impacts, and identify long-term ecological trends.

The Wacol catchment region has already been the focus of previous fauna and flora monitoring, including nest box installations in Riverhills and platypus and koala tracking in nearby bushland reserves. eDNA testing has previously been used to confirm platypus presence in the creeks, although visual observations remain necessary to support the findings due to limitations in the method.

How You Can Get Involved

No specialist skills are required—training is provided. Volunteers will assist with collecting, labelling and delivering samples, as well as logging site conditions. The project runs for five years, offering multiple opportunities to participate.

Interested community members are encouraged to register through a formal expression of interest process. Volunteers may assist with data collection, monitoring, and observation logging across the five-year timeline. This builds on an existing tradition of community involvement in environmental work throughout the Wacol area.

Similar community-supported efforts include the koala research program at Pooh Corner and Wacol Bushland Reserves, where trained residents have tracked released koalas and recorded habitat use, including preferred tree species like blue gum and gum-topped box.

Complementary Efforts

Citizen science has long played a role in shaping conservation actions within the region. In 2024, twelve artificial nest boxes were installed in Riverhills to provide nesting opportunities for native species in an area lacking suitable tree hollows. These installations have already been used by rainbow lorikeets and possums, based on follow-up monitoring.

The nest boxes are now subject to routine inspections with help from trained community members. A citizen science workshop conducted in late 2024 involved adults and children learning how to use inspection cameras and report findings for monitoring.

Next Steps

The upcoming eDNA survey presents another opportunity for the Wacol community to contribute to ongoing ecological monitoring. Expressions of interest are now open online for those who wish to participate ahead of the August/September 2025 launch.

Findings from the project will inform biodiversity mapping, conservation planning, and future habitat restoration efforts in the catchment.

Published 26-July-2025

Blood Donations Made Easy as Lifeblood Rolls Into Mt Ommaney

Photo Credit: Australian Red Cross Lifeblood

Residents in Mt Ommaney will have an opportunity to help meet growing hospital demand for blood, with a mobile donor centre set up at the McLeod Country Golf Club as part of a year-long initiative by the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood to make blood donation more accessible in Brisbane’s suburbs.

Mt Ommaney Gets Onboard

The mobile centre will welcome donors on 28 July 2025 and will stay in place for a week. It will return to Mt Ommaney for multiple sessions through November and December, offering flexible hours for those who need to fit appointments around school runs, work, or other responsibilities.

This site is one of several rotating pop-up locations Lifeblood is trialling in community hubs to reach more donors where they live. The idea is simple—make giving blood easier by bringing the service directly to local venues.

McLeod Country Golf Club was selected as a central and familiar location for residents in and around Mt Ommaney, providing a comfortable space for first-time and returning donors alike.

Lifeblood donation — *Photo Credit: Australian Red Cross Lifeblood/Facebook*

Meeting People Where They Are

Belinda Smetioukh, spokesperson for Lifeblood, said that the mobile centres are part of a broader effort to collect 10,000 extra donations from communities across Greater Brisbane within 12 months. She noted that making donation more convenient was essential to reaching this target.

The pop-up centres operate from local venues like halls, sports clubs, and event spaces, and are packed down and set up again on a scheduled basis. Mt Ommaney’s involvement marks one of the earliest sites in the new rollout, alongside others in Holland Park and Springfield.

While Lifeblood is confident in the community’s willingness to support the program, Smetioukh said that filling appointment slots remains key to ensuring the initiative can continue and expand to new areas.

How Mt Ommaney Residents Can Help

Donors can book a time through Lifeblood’s website at lifeblood.com.au, by calling 13 14 95, or using the Donate Blood app. While walk-ins are permitted, making an appointment helps the team prepare and ensure short wait times.

Lifeblood Pop-Up Donor Centres Schedule (2025)

Location	Dates
Holland Park Sports Club	22–25 July 2025
Holland Park Sports Club	13–17 October 2025
Mt Ommaney – McLeod Country Golf Club	28 July – 3 August 2025
Mt Ommaney	8–10 September 2025
Mt Ommaney	3–9 November 2025
Mt Ommaney	1–3 December 2025
Mt Gravatt – Showgrounds Memorial Hall	4–8 August 2025
Mt Gravatt	27–31 October 2025
Cleveland – Comfort Hotel Pacific Cleveland	11–17 August 2025
Cleveland	15–21 September 2025
Cleveland	20–26 October 2025
Cleveland	17–23 November 2025
Cleveland	8–14 December 2025
Toowong – Wests Bulldog Rugby Club	18–22 August 2025
Toowong	7–10 October 2025
Toowong	10–14 November 2025
Springfield – Brighton Homes Arena	1–6 September 2025
Springfield	24–29 November 2025
Victoria Point – YMCA Victoria Point	22 September – 3 October 2025
Victoria Point	15–24 December 2025

The mobile centre at McLeod Country Golf Club is scheduled to return again from 8–10 September, 3–9 November, and 1–3 December. Each visit will include multiple days of donation opportunities with varying opening hours to suit the local community’s needs.

With just one donation able to help up to three patients, Mt Ommaney’s participation in the new mobile donation model could play a critical role in maintaining blood supply levels across Queensland.

Published 22-July-2025

Jindalee’s Olivia Spallek-Caballero Crowned 2025 National Gymnastics Champion

Jindalee teenager Olivia Spallek-Caballero has been named the 2025 Level 10 National All-Around Champion at the Australian Gymnastics Championships, following a powerhouse performance that confirmed her status as one of the country’s rising gymnastics stars.

Read: Jindalee Siblings Recognised For Work on Raising Awareness About Childhood Stroke

Held on the Gold Coast from 3–17 July, the national championships brought together Australia’s top gymnasts across artistic, trampoline, rhythmic, aerobic and acrobatic disciplines. Among them was 17-year-old Olivia, who not only took out the prestigious All-Around title but also finished first on vault, and earned silver medals on bars and floor.

Her triumph at the national level caps off an extraordinary season. Just two months earlier at the Queensland State Championships, Olivia dominated by placing first on every apparatus — a clean sweep that saw her named the 2025 State Team Captain.

Olivia trains at Delta Gymnastics, where she began her journey in the sport at age 7. Her coaches describe her as more than just a high-level athlete — they speak of her quiet determination, resilience through setbacks, and her ability to trust the process and improve, one skill at a time.

“From nailing big routines to refining the finer details, Olivia’s hard work has paid off in a huge way,” Delta Gymnastics said. “Her journey is a reminder that showing up, backing yourself, and staying committed can lead to something truly special.”

In 2024, Olivia achieved one of her greatest milestones when she made the Level 10 Australian Team. For her, it’s a tie between that honour and placing first across the board at the State Championships.

Read: Metro Middle Park Shopping Centre Sold for $40.4M in Major Retail Deal

With her latest haul of national titles, Olivia has added a new chapter to her already remarkable gymnastics story — one built on years of discipline, focus, and a deep love for the sport.

From Jindalee to the top of the national podium, Olivia Spallek-Caballero is a name to watch.

Published 21-July-2025

1. 395 Loffs Road, Westlake – $3.15 million

Dominating the market is the extraordinary estate at 395 Loffs Road, which achieved $3.15 million in June 2025. This once-in-a-generation property spans an impressive 2,606sqm and represents the ultimate in multi-generational luxury living. The three-story executive residence boasts eight bedrooms, five bathrooms, and seven living areas, including a fully self-contained lower level with private entrance. Premium features include a 75,000-liter pool, wine cellar, outdoor kitchen, and wrap-around balcony, all complemented by expertly manicured gardens and potential development opportunities. The scale and sophistication of this sale establishes a new benchmark for large-format luxury estates in Brisbane’s western corridor.

2. 7 Wendouree Crescent, Westlake – $2.618 million

The elegant riverfront residence at 7 Wendouree Crescent captured $2.618 million in May 2025, demonstrating the premium that genuine waterfront positioning commands in Westlake. This north-facing five-bedroom home combines classic architectural charm with modern luxury, featuring direct river access via private jetty, renovated swimming pool, and panoramic water views from multiple living zones. The property’s 2021 renovation included new flooring, bathrooms, and a comprehensive air conditioning system, while its flood-free history in both 2011 and 2022 provides additional buyer confidence. The sale reflects Westlake’s growing reputation as Brisbane’s premier riverside residential destination.

3. 48 Baikal Place, Westlake – $2 million

Completing the top three is the lakeside sanctuary at 48 Baikal Place, which sold for exactly $2 million in July 2025. Positioned on the edge of Westlake’s exclusive private lake, this fully renovated five-bedroom estate occupies an expansive 1,206sqm parcel within a quiet cul-de-sac. The property’s standout features include a resort-style pool with lakeside gazebo, built-in outdoor kitchenette, and meticulously maintained terraced gardens leading to the water’s edge. With multiple formal and informal living areas and a wet bar for entertaining, the home epitomises the lakeside luxury lifestyle that defines Westlake’s market position.

Why These Numbers Matter

These three sales underscore Westlake’s transformation into one of Brisbane’s most exclusive residential addresses, with all properties achieving prices above $2 million within a concentrated timeframe. The $3.15 million result at Loffs Road represents a significant milestone for the broader western suburbs market, proving that exceptional properties with unique attributes can command premium prices regardless of distance from the CBD.

The waterfront theme running through all three sales highlights the suburb’s key competitive advantage – genuine water access in a city where such opportunities are increasingly rare. From the massive Loffs Road estate to the intimate lakeside setting at Baikal Place, each property offers a different interpretation of luxury waterside living, yet all demonstrate strong buyer appetite for this lifestyle proposition.

For Westlake property owners, these results validate the suburb’s emergence as a legitimate luxury market, with sale prices now competing with Brisbane’s established inner-city prestige suburbs. The quick sale times and strong pricing achieved suggest limited supply and strong demand dynamics that favour sellers with quality properties. For buyers and investors, these sales confirm that Westlake has evolved from a lifestyle choice to a serious investment proposition, where waterfront positioning and architectural quality continue to drive significant capital appreciation.

Published 20-July-2025

$55-Million Lifeline to Get Centenary Bridge Back on Track

Photo Credit: Dept of Transport and Main Roads

Daily delays, blown-out budgets and mounting frustration—Brisbane commuters have felt the pain of the Centenary Bridge upgrade creeping off schedule. Now, an extra $55 million has been committed to help get the project moving again after months of disruption that have left the western suburbs choked with congestion.

Worksite Disruptions Blamed for Setbacks

The long-awaited bridge expansion, designed to ease bottlenecks along the Centenary Motorway corridor, has been plagued by interruptions on-site. Since February 2024, around 70 workdays have been delayed or disrupted due to escalating tensions and physical threats on the job site.

Site access has repeatedly been blocked, with reports of delivery trucks turned away and workers needing additional security protection. These disruptions have driven an estimated $22 million in direct costs alone—covering delays to labour and materials, extra site security, and lost productivity.

Flow-on Impact for Motorists and Taxpayers

The knock-on effect for motorists has been just as costly. Ongoing delays to construction mean peak-hour traffic snarls have worsened, with fewer signs of progress and no immediate relief for frustrated drivers.

Project leaders say the extra $55 million now injected into the budget is intended to get the Centenary Bridge upgrade back on track and cover the mounting costs caused by the disruptions. The project’s overall cost has now risen from $298.5 million to $353.5 million.

Safety Measures Stepped Up

In response to the growing number of site incidents, significant security measures have been introduced. CCTV cameras and additional security personnel have been brought in to protect workers from what’s been described as violent and bullying behaviour.

The situation has prompted a broader industry response, with a Commission of Inquiry launched to investigate the underlying causes of the worksite unrest. The inquiry aims to address a reported culture of intimidation and delay tactics that have impacted not just this project, but others across the state.

While attention now turns to restoring momentum on the Centenary Bridge build, the financial and emotional toll of the setbacks continues to be felt—by the crews on-site and the commuters stuck in the queue.

Published 19-July-2025

Free Five-Minute Health Checks Hit Priceline Pharmacy Sinnamon Park for Diabetes Week

Photo Credit: Diabetes Australia/Facebook

Priceline Pharmacy Sinnamon Park offers free five-minute health checks this week, giving residents a quick way to spot type 2 diabetes in a nation where someone is diagnosed every eight minutes.

National Diabetes Week Brings Free Checks to Local Pharmacies

National Diabetes Week runs from 13 to 19 July 2025, and the checks form part of a nationwide campaign led by Diabetes Australia and supported by more than 300 Priceline Pharmacies.

*Photo Credit: Diabetes Australia/Facebook*

The self-service digital health stations measure blood pressure, cholesterol and other risk factors in about five minutes, then display results on the spot. Priceline’s national pharmacy support manager says community pharmacies are an easy first step for people who may never visit a GP until symptoms appear.

Early Detection Saves Lives

Diabetes Australia estimates 1.3 million Australians live with type 2 diabetes, with another 500,000 undiagnosed and 2 million at high risk.

The organisation notes that up to 58 per cent of cases can be prevented or delayed through better diet, exercise and regular health checks, which also cut the likelihood of stroke, heart disease and kidney failure.

Pharmacies on the Front Line

Health leaders point to pharmacies as vital access points for early screening. They highlight a Sydney man who discovered type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol during a similar check; early action and lifestyle changes have since helped him keep his condition under control.

New economic modelling puts the annual cost of diabetes to Australia’s health system at more than $9 billion, nearly triple previous estimates, underscoring the need for prevention.

Visit Priceline Pharmacy Sinnamon Park

Locals can use the health station at Priceline Pharmacy Sinnamon Park, Ground Floor, 554 Seventeen Mile Rocks Rd, Sinnamon Park, QLD 4073, during normal trading hours.

No appointment or Medicare card is required, and staff are on hand to guide first-time users.

Published 16-July-2025

Wacol Community Mourns RSPCA’s Michael Beatty

Photo Credit: RSPCA QLD/Facebook

Michael Beatty, a veteran journalist and long-serving spokesperson for RSPCA Queensland, has died following a cancer battle, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Wacol.

Media Career Before Advocacy

Born in England in 1949, Michael Beatty began his journalism career in Canada, eventually returning to the UK where he interviewed music icons and prominent figures. He later moved to Australia and built a distinguished career reporting for national programs such as Today Tonight, The 7.30 Report, This Day Tonight, and producing for Beyond 2000 and Wild Life.

Mr Beatty covered major global events including the Brixton riots, the Marcos regime’s downfall, and armed conflicts in Southeast Asia. His journalism career included assignments in dangerous situations, such as being shot at, stoned, and charged by a black rhino during field coverage.

Seventeen Years at RSPCA Queensland in Wacol

Mr Beatty joined RSPCA Queensland in 2004, initially as a short-term media advisor, but remained for 17 years. His role was based at the organisation’s Wacol headquarters, where he became the familiar public voice on issues of animal welfare. His work included media engagement, public education, and on-ground advocacy. Notably, he participated in public demonstrations like the 2004 locked-car heat test to raise awareness of animal safety risks.

In 2019, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to animal welfare. Mr Beatty redirected the recognition to the staff and volunteers of RSPCA Queensland, describing himself as “the messenger”.

Continued Involvement Post-Retirement

After retiring in 2021, Mr Beatty remained involved with the RSPCA’s Wacol centre. He continued to visit the facility regularly, donate supplies, and deliver talks on animal welfare and his career. His ongoing presence was acknowledged within the organisation following his retirement.

Tributes and Public Response

Following his passing, colleagues and RSPCA supporters shared tributes highlighting his contributions to journalism and animal advocacy. Former media peers recalled his storytelling ability and character. Animal welfare figures noted his impact on awareness and communication. Comments from RSPCA Queensland reflected his role as a key figure in the organisation’s modern identity.

Health and Passing

Mr Beatty was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2018. He lived with the condition for seven years. He was later diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia. This led to complications. His death was confirmed by family. They shared that he passed peacefully with his wife and son at his side.

Ongoing Legacy at Wacol and Beyond

Michael Beatty’s work at RSPCA Queensland’s Wacol headquarters defined the latter part of his career. His commitment to public communication. His advocacy left an enduring impact across Queensland’s animal welfare sector. The Wacol facility, where he worked and stayed connected post-retirement, remains central to that legacy.

Published 13-July-2025

Metro Middle Park Shopping Centre Sold for $40.4M in Major Retail Deal

Metro Middle Park has changed hands in a $40.4 million deal, with Clarence Property adding the busy neighbourhood centre to its growing Brisbane portfolio.

Read: Middle Park Property Market Booms as Prices Surge

The single-level retail hub, anchored by Coles and supported by 38 specialty stores, sits on a 2.1-hectare corner site and includes 301 parking spaces. Its strong location in the Centenary suburbs and steady foot traffic continue to make it a key destination for locals.

Metro Middle Park — Photo credit: Stephen Hurcom/Google Maps

Clarence Property acquired the centre through its diversified fund, viewing it as a solid example of a convenience-led asset with long-term land value and reliable tenant performance. The centre’s weighted average lease expiry is currently three years, with the anchor tenant reportedly trading above turnover thresholds.

The property fund manager said it remains confident in the suburban retail sector, particularly assets with national tenants and strong community ties. Despite softened yields and slower market activity, demand for high-performing neighbourhood centres remains steady.

Metro Middle Park fits into Clarence’s wider strategy to expand its holdings across retail, industrial, commercial and residential sectors. The company’s portfolio is now valued at over $800 million and includes last year’s $119 million purchase of 120 Edward Street in Brisbane’s CBD.

Read: Middle Park Shoppers in the Top Five of Most Active Fundraisers for MND Research

The sale was negotiated by Savills, which noted high buyer interest for tightly held retail centres of this calibre. Metro Middle Park’s position in an established, family-oriented catchment and its long-term development potential added to its appeal.

Clarence sees Brisbane as a key growth market, backed by rising population, infrastructure investment, and the lead-up to the 2032 Olympics. The purchase of Metro Middle Park marks another step in its push to secure dependable, income-producing properties across the city.

Published 14-July-2025