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Hamilton Heart Helpers: Join this Free Walking Group for a Healthier, Happier Lifestyle

Did you know that walking for an average of 30 minutes or more a day can lower the risk of heart disease, stroke by 35% percent and Type 2 diabetes by 40%? Hamilton Heart Helpers is a FREE walking group that promises a socially engaging experience to help people navigate their fitness journeys together.

Read: Northshore Hamilton Welcomes First Needle-Free Vaccine Patch Facility In Australia

Spearheaded by volunteer Walk Organiser Natasha, this group is rapidly gaining popularity as locals recognise the combined benefits of physical activity and community engagement.

Hercules Street Park (Photo credit: Jonelle Alvarez Reynolds/Google Maps)

Every Sunday at 8:00 a.m., members of the Hamilton Heart Helpers gather in the picturesque surroundings of Hercules Street Park on Remora Road. The meeting point not only provides a scenic backdrop for the walks but also ensures convenience for participants with its ample parking space.

The walks, lasting between 30 to 45 minutes, are deliberately designed to be slow-paced, accommodating individuals of varying fitness levels. The inclusive nature of the group extends to pets and parents with strollers, making it an ideal outing for families as well.

Photo Credit: Heart Foundation – Walking

The Heart Foundation advises that “all adults aged 18-64 years should aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week.”

If you’re walking five days a week, that’s 30 minutes per day to be considered ‘moderate.’ The exertion will require some effort but you should still be able to comfortable hold a conversation while doing it.

“When it comes to walking for heart health, some is better than none (and more is even better). If you’re not physically active, start by doing 10 minutes of brisk walking, and gradually build up to the recommended amount. Visit your GP or health professional for advice on how to safely build up your movement.”
Heart Foundation

You could break up the times as necessary but once you’ve already “found your 30,”consider upping the frequency or the duration gradually.

“Walking with guidance or supervision is an important part of cardiac rehabilitation programs, and for people diagnosed with heart disease or recovering from a heart attack. But it’s important to speak with your GP to learn how to safely build up your activity.”
Heart Foundation

Beyond the physical benefits of walking, the Hamilton Heart Helpers walks also offer a unique opportunity for participants to engage with their neighbours and foster meaningful connections. By sharing experiences, stories, and laughter, members develop a support network that transcends the boundaries of the walking group.

To get involved with the Hamilton Heart Helpers, all you need to do is show up at Hercules Street Park on Sunday mornings at 8 a.m. Whether you are a seasoned walker or someone taking their first steps towards a healthier lifestyle, this inclusive group will provide the support and encouragement needed to make walking a regular part of your routine.

Read: Stanwell To Supply Brisbane Airport With 100 Per Cent Renewable Energy

For those interested, Natasha can be reached via email at n7487304@qut.edu.au for any queries or additional information. You may also visit the Heart Foundation’s website to learn about other walking groups in your area.

Published 9-July-2023

Troubled Times Ahead for Queensland Harness Racing?

Queensland’s harness racing industry is facing uncertain times as the State’s plans to take back Albion Park may materialise earlier than anticipated.

Originally, the plan was to resume Albion Park by the end of 2026, with a transformation in mind, converting it into a basketball and indoor sports venue for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

However, recent developments suggest that the State Government’s timeline has been changed to the first half of 2025, posing a potential challenge for harness racing enthusiasts and stakeholders.

The change in the timeline will not affect greyhound racing, as its new venue south of Ipswich is set to be completed and ready for racing before the resumption of Albion Park.

On the other hand, the new Queensland Harness Centre at Norwell, which is expected to host more than 200 meetings a year and provide much-needed training and stabling facilities, will not be ready until 2026. This leaves harness racing with only Redcliffe and Marburg tracks for at least 12 months.

The implications of this delay in the premium track’s availability could be significant. Revenue might plunge, affecting the financial stability of the harness racing industry. Additionally, horses that are not suited to the smaller tracks may leave the state permanently, causing a loss of talent and potential investment in the sport.

Harness racing is a crucial contributor to Queensland’s economy, generating around $185 million annually and supporting approximately 1300 secure jobs. Losing a premium track in action could have a domino effect on the industry, leading to potential job losses and financial struggles for those involved.

Star horses could also be at risk of leaving the state if a suitable racing venue is not available. The departure of such high-profile horses would not only impact the local industry’s reputation but also deprive racing fans of witnessing top-tier talent in action.

Racing Queensland’s chief executive, Jason Scott, acknowledged the challenges posed by the new timeline and confirmed that discussions with the Government were in their early stages.

Finding a resolution that can accommodate both the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games preparations and the smooth functioning of the harness racing industry will be a delicate balance.

As the discussions continue, stakeholders in the harness racing community and fans alike will be eagerly awaiting a positive outcome.

Published 4-July-2023

Northshore Hamilton Welcomes First Needle-Free Vaccine Patch Facility In Australia

Did you know that Northshore Hamilton now has a state-of-the-art biomedical manufacturing facility producing Australia’s first needle-free vaccine patch?

Queensland biotechnology company Vaxxas plans to manufacture millions of needle-free vaccines at the new facility where cutting-edge technology produces patches that allow vaccines to be administered through the skin’s surface in a matter of seconds. This breakthrough innovation positions Queensland as a leading player in the globally competitive Asia-Pacific biomedical industry.

The facility is expected to boost the state’s economy and create up to 200 local and skilled jobs. The State Government provided funding and operational support to Vaxxas, aiding the transformation of an existing warehouse at Northshore into the manufacturing facility.

With completed human clinical trials and ongoing studies for COVID-19, influenza, and other vaccine targets, Vaxxas’ needle-free vaccine patch technology is progressing rapidly toward commercialization. David Hoey, Vaxxas CEO, expects the first commercially available vaccine patches to be manufactured and distributed from the Queensland facility within the next three to five years.

The government’s commitment to supporting local biomedical start-ups and fostering innovation has contributed to Queensland’s growing reputation as a research and innovation hub.

The establishment of the Vaxxas facility aligns with the Queensland Government’s Biomedical 10-Year Roadmap and Action Plan, which aims to further develop the biomedical sector in the state. Currently contributing $2.1 billion to Queensland’s economy and employing over 12,000 people, the biomedical industry is set to attract more interstate and international businesses through the upcoming Queensland Biomedical Business Attraction Program.

Deputy Premier Steve Miles expressed his excitement about the facility’s opening on 19 June 2023 and highlighted the importance of expanding Queensland’s capability in vaccine development, manufacturing, and delivery. He emphasized the vital role that Vaxxas’ needle-free technology could play in pandemic preparedness by enabling the quick and easy deployment of vaccines to communities.

Published 20-June-2023

Rosé Gelateria Debuts at Portside Wharf

Photo Credit: Facebook/Rosé Gelateria

Did you know that Rosé Gelateria has opened its first Brisbane artisanal ice cream shop at Portside Wharf in Hamilton?

Bronson Tucker and Diana Prinz, the husband-and-wife team behind the venture, were inspired to go into the gelato business by a trip they took to Florence in Italy, where they learned the art of gelato-making from a master teacher.

They are now introducing their artisanal gelatos to Brisbane, after two successful ventures in Sanctuary Cove in the Gold Coast and in Main Beach.

“We aren’t your everyday gelato store. As a boutique provider, we put considerable thought into every detail, flavour, and the overall experience we offer, with our customers at the forefront of each choice,”Ms Prinz said.

“Our vision for Rosé Gelateria has been to create truly beautiful spaces for friends, families and people to connect while enjoying our artisanal range of gelatos and treats. We are delighted to continue bringing this vision to life at Portside Wharf,” she added.

A wide selection of gelato flavors is available for customers to enjoy, including the famous rose gelato that is created with rosewater and topped with rose petals.

“Our menu will boast 20 signature flavours, with a range of vegan and dairy-free options, and four delicious, limited-edition flavours that will rotate each month. We will also offer pet-friendly gelato for furry family members,” Mr Tucker said.

In addition to rose gelato, Biscoff gelato, caramel flavor, and a changing list of 20 distinctive flavors are also available at Rosé Gelateria. There are options for anyone, including vegan and dairy-free selections.

For pet owners, the gelateria even serves pet-friendly gelato, so furry friends can join in on the frozen treat fun.

Rosé Gelateria also offers a range of macarons, cookies, juices, and milkshakes. They partnered with locally based Paradox Coffee Roasters to serve specialty coffee blends such as Picasso Baby (featuring dark chocolate and blackberry notes) and Paper Moon (with notes of black cherry and plum).

The menu also offers fresh artisan goods and drinks, such as cookies, macarons, juices, milkshakes, and dessert jars.

With an outdoor seating area for sunny days, the gelateria also has 56 sqm of internal seating, perfect for quick catch-ups over delicious scoops. There are dedicated areas for gelato, cafe, and takeaways.

The gelateria’s interior exudes elegance with pastel hues, white furnishings, and gold accents. It provides a pleasing atmosphere for customers to enjoy their gelato and other treats.

Located at Portside Wharf, Rosé Gelateria opens from 8 am to 10 pm daily, inviting Hamilton residents to indulge in their delightful gelato creations.

Published 14-June-2023

Hamilton Towers and Orion Towers Projects Scrapped After Failed $70-M Deal

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Descon Group Australia has recently announced that the Hamilton Towers project in Brisbane’s Olympic precinct will no longer be pushing through.

The decision comes after a failed settlement deal worth $70 million and unfavourable market conditions that will also see the Orion Towers in Surfers Paradise suffer the same fate.

Large-scale projects are finding it difficult to advance smoothly as a result of rising construction costs and loan rates. And due to the challenges faced by developers in a shifting market, Descon Group has chosen to discontinue work on these projects.

Wentworth Equities, who bought the property eight years ago, struck a deal with Descon last November 2022. At the time of the announcement, Danny Isaac, the managing director of Descon, underscored their breadth of knowledge, sound financial standing, and competence in every facet of project delivery, from engineering and construction to design. The project’s construction was originally slated to commence in early 2023.

Situated in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Athlete Village precinct at 19 Hercules Street, the Hamilton Towers development was set to be a monumental addition to the city’s urban riverside renewal project. The project encompassed three towers comprising a total of 433 residential units and a retail and dining precinct spanning 4,648 square meters.

However, Descon Group, acknowledging the prevailing market conditions and increasing building costs, concluded that the Hamilton Towers project was no longer financially feasible.

After Descon’s contract was terminated, the Hamilton site, which was once planned for the Hamilton Towers project is now up for sale via Expression of Interest.

The previous owner, Wentworth Equities, is committed to selling the property and highlights its potential as a component of an innovative new Brisbane neighbourhood. The site is an appealing prospect because of its ideal location next to Portside Wharf, with easy access to the airport and Brisbane CBD.

Meanwhile, the other project was originally intended as a 118-floor supertower in Surfers Paradise, the Orion Towers project aimed to redefine the skyline with its architectural grandeur. However, Descon Group has deemed the project commercially unviable in the current market environment. This shift in focus, however, presents an opportunity for other developers to step in and take part in the urban renewal of these areas.

Published 16-June-2023

Hamilton, Other QLD Suburbs Battle Car Theft Menace

Photo credit: Queensland Police Service Online Crime Map

Did you know that there have been 27 instances of unlawful use of motor vehicles in postcode 4007 (Hamilton, Hamilton Central and Ascot) in the second quarter of 2023 so far, according to data from the Queesland Police Service (QPS)?

Meanwhile, more than 50 vehicles are stolen in Queensland everyday over the past 12 months, with Hamilton along with other affluent Brisbane suburbs included among the car theft hotspots, according to QPS data.

Cairns is top-ranked in the list of car thefts in Queensland with 859 incidents in 2022, followed closely by Toowoomba with 640 and Hendra with 629 for the period from May 2022 to April 2023.

Shockingly, even affluent areas such as Ascot, Hamilton, and Albion have also become targets for vehicle robberies, drawing attention from car thieves to the presence of luxury cars and affluent homes. The hi-tech security systems in modern vehicles have made stealing cars without keys a challenging task, prompting thieves to focus on obtaining the keys first.

Also, experts explained that limited resources pose a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies too as they struggle to cope with the increasing crime rates. This highlights the need for adequate staffing and resources to combat this issue effectively.

A further perspective on the prevalence of auto theft in Queensland is provided by the survey results revealed by Compare the Market in March 2023. Out of all the surveyed Queensland adults, a staggering 12.4% reported having been victims of car theft, compared to significantly lower percentages in other states.

“The harsh reality is that thousands of cars are stolen each year in Australia, collectively costing us millions of dollars,” Adrian Taylor, the General Manager of General Insurance at Compare the Market said.

“While victims of car theft aren’t to blame, there are things that car owners can do to protect their vehicles from robbery – especially as youth crime rates soar in some parts of the country. Perhaps the most important thing you can do is having relevant insurance in place that covers you in the event of the vehicle being stolen.”

He emphasised the importance of key preventive measures such as avoiding leaving keys in the car, which is a common mistake that Australians make. Mr Taylor advises residents to hide their keys out of sight and always lock their car doors.

Furthermore, he suggested residents consider installing car security systems, such as alarms, to deter potential thieves and provide owners with alerts in case of any theft attempts.

Parking habits can also significantly reduce the risk of theft. Surprisingly, more than half of Australians do not lock their cars securely in a garage when at home.

Published 10-June-2023

ArtForce Brisbane: Pockets of Art In Hamilton

All around Hamilton, vivid (and sometimes whimsical) pieces of art can be seen on the streets, a collection of captivating artworks made through the ArtForce Brisbane project by talented Brisbane locals. The stories behind the subjects of the pieces also provide insights into the artists who made them.

Brisbane Cats River Ride

One of the standout artworks, titled “Brisbane Cats River Ride,” showcases a vibrant and playful depiction of cats riding down the city’s iconic river. Created by the talented local artists of Ascot State School, this imaginative piece captures the essence of Brisbane’s unique charm and love for its feline inhabitants. The artwork has quickly become a favourite among residents and tourists alike, prompting smiles and joy as they stroll past it.

Location: Racecourse Rd & Kent St

Just Breathe

“Just Breathe,” another mesmerizing artwork submitted through ArtForce Brisbane, invites viewers to pause and embrace the tranquillity of nature. This masterful creation by Margaret Lipinska portrays a solitary figure surrounded by lush greenery, reminding us of the importance of taking a moment to connect with the natural world. The artwork serves as a powerful reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us in our busy lives.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Crescent Rd

Sunset on the Water

For those who yearn for the beauty of sunsets and the serenity of water, “Sunset on the Water” from artist Shanaia Singh, offers a breathtaking visual experience. With its vivid colours and meticulous brushstrokes, this artwork transports viewers to a serene lakeside, where they can almost feel the gentle breeze and hear the peaceful sounds of nature. The artist’s skill in capturing the tranquillity and ethereal qualities of a sunset has garnered well-deserved admiration.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Racecourse Rd

Among the Trees

The allure of lush forests and their ability to evoke a sense of wonder and exploration are showcased in “Among the Trees,” by artist Gemma Nyssen. This artwork entices viewers to immerse themselves in a world of towering trunks and dappled sunlight, representing Hamilton Forest.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Alison St

Hamilton Forest

The aptly named “Hamilton Forest” piece, from artist Shari Indriani, encapsulates the enchanting beauty of the local woodland, capturing its unique atmosphere and inviting viewers to explore its hidden treasures. The intricate details and vibrant colours bring the forest to life, creating an immersive experience for art enthusiasts.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Oxford St

Hamilton Forest Community

The artwork “Hamilton Forest Community” is a vibrant and heartwarming piece that portrays a diverse group of people coming together amidst the forest, reflecting the strength and unity of the local community. It serves as a reminder of the powerful connections that can be formed when people embrace their natural surroundings and share common values. It’s from artist Russell Hall.

Location: Nudgee Rd & Hants St

Nudgee Rd and Hants St — Photo Credit: Google Maps

Hamilton Forest Community — Photo Credit: ArtforceBrisbane

Gumnuts

The delicate beauty of nature is celebrated in “Gumnuts,” an artwork from Ash Taylor that captures the essence of Australia’s unique flora. Viewers are transported to a world of native Australian gum trees, as they admire the intricate details of gumnuts, leaves, and blossoms. This piece not only showcases the artist’s skill but also honours the country’s rich natural heritage.

Location: Kingsford Smith Dr & Riverview Tce

Visitors and residents alike have been captivated by the skill, imagination, and emotion captured within each piece. ArtForce Brisbane provides a showcase of the natural splendour of the city and the community spirit that has further solidified its reputation as a vibrant and inclusive cultural hub.

Published 29-May-2023

New 11-Storey Twin Towers Proposed on Dover Street, Albion

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

The skyline of Albion could be set for a transformation with the unveiling of OpenCorp’s plans for new 11-storey twin towers on Dover Street. If approved, the development will deliver 218 apartments constructed in two stages.

OpenCorp unveiled its plans for the transformation of its property at 31 Dover Street, acquired in 2016 for $11 million. Designed by Hayes Anderson Lynch (HAL), the proposal seeks approval for a twin tower residential development on a 5,600sqm site at 31 Dover Street, Albion.

New 11-Storey Twin Towers Proposed on Dover Street, Albion — Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Consisting of 218 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, the development will be completed in two stages. The southern tower, forming the first stage, will comprise 110 apartments, followed by the northern tower with 108 apartments. The strategic V-shaped design ensures that each dwelling enjoys a view into the communal courtyard whilst maintaining privacy from the other tower.

“The ‘V’ shaped floor plate design ensures that no apartments look directly into one another, and provides for substantial communal open space within the site. Accordingly, apartments in each tower are oriented at 90 degrees to each other, and the apartments look out over and into the communal open space.” — RPS Group

At the ground floor level, between the two towers, a central pavilion will house a gym and formal dining area, available for small functions through a booking system. Surrounding this pavilion will be informal seating and gathering areas, a yoga deck, and enchanting water features.

Residents will also have access to communal rooftop areas in each tower, which boast swimming pools, BBQ facilities, and sun lounge terraces, providing panoramic views of the city and the picturesque surroundings.

All dwellings will feature private open spaces accessible from the main living areas. Ground floor terraces/courtyards will grace 11 of the dwellings, ranging in size from approximately 35.8m² to 92.1m², providing ample room for relaxation and outdoor activities.

The remaining dwellings will feature balconies ranging from around 10.7 sqm to 29.9 sqm, meticulously designed in proportion to the apartment’s size and number of bedrooms.

The development ensures ample parking for 371 residents’ cars and 55 visitor spaces across two basement levels. Additionally, provisions have been made for resident bicycle storage, promoting environmentally friendly transportation options.

Moreover, with Albion railway station a mere 550 meters away and easy access to bus routes and major roads, residents will enjoy convenient connectivity. The Albion Centre, boutique breweries, coffee outlets, and nearby Crosby Park public open space offer a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle within reach.

Published 27-May-2023

Brookfield Proposes Innovative Built-to-Rent Development at Portside Wharf, Hamilton

Photo Credit: DEV2023/1402

In an effort to provide more housing solutions to a waiting market, Brookfield has submitted a groundbreaking development application for a dual-tower, built-to-rent residential project in Portside Wharf, Hamilton.

The proposal, designed by renowned architectural firm Fender Katsalidis, aims to revolutionize the rental market by offering 560 purpose-built apartments alongside a range of non-residential amenities.

Located at 11 Macarthur Avenue, the project seeks to create a vibrant and sustainable community within the picturesque riverfront site with two 23-storey towers standing at a maximum height of approximately 85 meters. This would be the first built-to-rent (BTR) project in Northshore Hamilton, demonstrating Brookfield‘s commitment to innovative housing solutions.

The apartments will range from studios to three-bedroom units for low-income households, students and vulnerable populations.

Brookfield Hamilton build-to-rent — Photo Credit: DEV2023/1402

Aside from high-density residential units, the key features of the development include a café, a shop with a dog-grooming salon, a sizable co-working space, and a gymnasium. Whilst primarily intended for residents, the non-residential spaces are also open to the broader community, fostering inclusivity and social interaction.

The proposed food and drink outlets are designed with their own unique layout to accommodate diverse retail concepts. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, while the café provides a space for coffee and light meals.

The office spaces are meant to cater to the needs of various businesses, with different sizes and configurations, including meeting rooms, conference facilities, and workstations. Additionally, the development will feature a parking station with multiple levels, designated spaces, and separate areas for motorcycles and bicycles to ensure convenient and secure parking for residents and visitors.

To promote a sense of community, the development will offer ample communal space, including a sizable recreation zone on the podium level. This area has outdoor pools and spas, seating areas, garden lawns, a residents’ lounge, wellness and spa facilities, a wine library, private dining areas, a dog lawn, BBQ areas, and a games room.

The proposed development is also committed to sustainability, targeting a 4 Star Green Star ‘Buildings’ rating. The apartments will aim for exceptional performance in the Green Star ‘Energy Use’ category, achieving an average NatHERS 7-star rating across the development and a minimum rating of 5.5 stars.

The project will incorporate a car share scheme and electric vehicle charging facilities, along with dedicated solar panel zones on the rooftop to supply common areas with electricity.

The development application, #DEV2023/1402, was submitted to the State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning on 18 May 2023 and is currently under review.

Published 25-May-2023

Transdev and Vlogren Collaborate to Bring 17 Electric Buses to South East Queensland

Photo Credit: Transdev / .transdev.com >

Seventeen electric buses will soon be added to South East Queensland’s public transport system through Eagle Farm-based company Volgren.

These buses, which will be progressively added to the existing fleet, will serve the eastern suburbs of Brisbane. The first e-bus commenced operations in February, with the remaining 16 expected to join the network soon.

The Queensland branch of the transport giant Transdev collaborated with Translink, the State Government public transport agency, to order these environmentally friendly buses.

The buses will benefit from the solar system already installed at Transdev’s Capalaba depot, providing them with partial charging capabilities. Volgren’s manufacturing facility, located in Eagle Farm, will oversee the production of these buses.

Each of the 12.5-meter Volvo BZL buses will support five jobs and feature dual 300kW electric motors, accommodating 43 passengers. The new electric buses are not only more environmentally friendly but also quieter and fully equipped with modern features, according to Mark McKenzie, the managing director of Transdev Queensland.

Transdev Queensland is undertaking significant depot work, including the installation of cabling, utilities, and new vehicle chargers, in preparation for an electric and hydrogen-based future. The introduction of these 17 electric buses plays a crucial role in achieving emissions reduction targets, as stated by Queensland’s energy minister, Mark Bailey.

The government plans to transition to zero-emissions buses, with all new buses on the South East Queensland urban network being zero-emissions starting from 2025. The implementation of zero-emission buses in regional areas will begin between 2025 and 2030.

In addition to their environmental benefits, the shift to electric buses also provides an opportunity for upskilling the local workforce in renewable energy. Transdev’s McKenzie hopes that the work being done with Translink can serve as a model for future zero-emission bus operators, offering valuable technical skills that can be transferred to other industries.

With these 17 new electric buses, Transdev’s Queensland fleet will consist of approximately one-fifth of zero-emissions vehicles. This move aligns with the government’s commitment to increasing the use of electric buses in the state. The Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Cairns already have a combined total of 20 electric buses in operation, and by the end of 2023, it is expected that over 50 electric buses will be deployed across Queensland.

The Queensland government aims to have all new bus purchases in the southeast region be electric by 2025. Meanwhile, regional bus purchases are targeted to be electric by 2030. These goals parallel similar initiatives in other states, such as the Australian Capital Territory, which has already made all new bus purchases electric, Victoria’s commitment to achieving this by 2025, and New South Wales plan to electrify its entire bus fleet by 2047.

The 17 new electric buses will be stationed at Transdev’s Capalaba depot and will rely partially on solar panels and electricity stored in 10 Tesla batteries for charging. Mark McKenzie explained that the buses will be recharged during periods of high demand and benefit from the charging opportunities provided by the existing solar farm.

Published 24 May 2023