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	<title>Hamilton Today</title>
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<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:12:43 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland’s Smoke Alarm Deadline Is Near — Is Your Family Really Protected?]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 03:58:08 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026</link>
<media:content url="https://hamiltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Brisbane-Dawn-Economy-FI-scaled.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://hamiltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Brisbane-Dawn-Economy-FI-scaled.png"/>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 01:47:43 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




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<title><![CDATA[Hamilton’s Eat Street Northshore Earns WasteSMART Recognition for Recycling Efforts]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/hamiltons-eat-street-northshore-earns-wastesmart-recognition-for-recycling-efforts</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2026 10:14:06 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[All-Star WasteSMART Award]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Community News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eat Street Northshore]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northshore Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Oyster Shell Recycling]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Recycling]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sustainability]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Waste Reduction]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[WasteSMART Brisbane Awards]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/?page_id=13220</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Eat Street Northshore in Hamilton has been named a finalist in the 2026 WasteSMART Brisbane Awards, recognising its efforts to reduce waste across a riverside dining precinct that welcomes around 600,000 visitors each year.



Read: Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers



The popular food and entertainment destination at 221D MacArthur Avenue is competing in the All-Star WasteSMART Award category, following initiatives involving oyster shell recycling, food waste collection and the reuse of materials from its daily operations.



With more than 60 food vendors operating across the precinct, Eat Street Northshore has introduced waste reduction measures that extend beyond its kitchens and dining areas to support environmental and community projects across Brisbane.



Photo Credit: Eat Street Northshore/Facebook



From Dinner Plates to Moreton Bay



One of Eat Street Northshore's recycling initiatives involves collecting discarded oyster shells and directing them towards reef restoration efforts in Moreton Bay. According to the official WasteSMART Brisbane Awards finalist profile, the venue has diverted more than 15,360 kilograms of oyster shells to support marine restoration work.



The shells are provided to OzFish Unlimited, whose Central Moreton Bay chapter works to rebuild shellfish reefs. The recovered materials can provide a foundation for new oyster habitats rather than being sent to landfill.



The precinct has also introduced compostable food packaging and arrangements for collecting food scraps, with some of the recovered food waste supplied to local farmers for animal feed. These measures form part of the venue's efforts to manage waste generated by its food vendors and large numbers of visitors.



Photo Credit: Eat Street Northshore/Facebook



Giving Everyday Waste Another Life



Eat Street Northshore's recycling activities also cover materials commonly generated behind the scenes at food businesses. The venue has recycled approximately 25,000 litres of cooking oil and recovered 20,000 plastic bottle caps for reuse in products such as park benches and other construction materials.



Wooden pallets have been transformed into seating, while thousands of buckets, jars and polystyrene boxes have been repurposed by community members and businesses. These arrangements allow materials from the precinct's operations to be used for other purposes rather than being discarded after their initial use. The venue itself also incorporates repurposed shipping containers, which house its food vendors, bars and entertainment spaces along the Brisbane River.



Recycling That Gives Back to the Community



Eat Street Northshore's waste reduction work also contributes to charitable fundraising through Queensland's Containers for Change scheme. The venue has helped raise more than $26,000 for Variety – the Children's Charity through the collection and recycling of eligible drink containers.



The initiative connects the precinct's recycling efforts with support for children and families, while encouraging the recovery of containers generated during busy trading periods. Eat Street Northshore also provides a platform for more than 60 independent food and hospitality operators, bringing together small businesses, visitors and entertainers each weekend. Its location along the Northshore Hamilton riverfront makes the precinct a familiar gathering place for Brisbane residents and visitors, with waste reduction measures incorporated into the operation of its food stalls and shared spaces.



A Place Among Brisbane’s WasteSMART Finalists



Eat Street Northshore is one of three finalists in the 2026 All-Star WasteSMART Award category, alongside Reverse Garbage Queensland and Finn Biogas – The Wasteworks. The WasteSMART Brisbane Awards recognise individuals, schools, businesses and community groups working to prevent waste and improve resource recovery across the city.



Read: Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers



The nomination brings attention to the less visible work taking place behind its food stalls and entertainment areas, including the collection, sorting and reuse of materials generated by thousands of visitors. The winners will be announced at Brisbane City Hall on Friday, 20 November 2026, when Eat Street Northshore will learn whether its recycling and sustainability efforts have secured this year's All-Star award.



Published 26-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Eat Street Northshore in Hamilton has been named a finalist in the 2026 WasteSMART Brisbane Awards, recognising its efforts to reduce waste across a riverside dining precinct that welcomes around 600,000 visitors each year.



Read: Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers



The popular food and entertainment destination at 221D MacArthur Avenue is competing in the All-Star WasteSMART Award category, following initiatives involving oyster shell recycling, food waste collection and the reuse of materials from its daily operations.



With more than 60 food vendors operating across the precinct, Eat Street Northshore has introduced waste reduction measures that extend beyond its kitchens and dining areas to support environmental and community projects across Brisbane.



Photo Credit: Eat Street Northshore/Facebook



From Dinner Plates to Moreton Bay



One of Eat Street Northshore's recycling initiatives involves collecting discarded oyster shells and directing them towards reef restoration efforts in Moreton Bay. According to the official WasteSMART Brisbane Awards finalist profile, the venue has diverted more than 15,360 kilograms of oyster shells to support marine restoration work.



The shells are provided to OzFish Unlimited, whose Central Moreton Bay chapter works to rebuild shellfish reefs. The recovered materials can provide a foundation for new oyster habitats rather than being sent to landfill.



The precinct has also introduced compostable food packaging and arrangements for collecting food scraps, with some of the recovered food waste supplied to local farmers for animal feed. These measures form part of the venue's efforts to manage waste generated by its food vendors and large numbers of visitors.



Photo Credit: Eat Street Northshore/Facebook



Giving Everyday Waste Another Life



Eat Street Northshore's recycling activities also cover materials commonly generated behind the scenes at food businesses. The venue has recycled approximately 25,000 litres of cooking oil and recovered 20,000 plastic bottle caps for reuse in products such as park benches and other construction materials.



Wooden pallets have been transformed into seating, while thousands of buckets, jars and polystyrene boxes have been repurposed by community members and businesses. These arrangements allow materials from the precinct's operations to be used for other purposes rather than being discarded after their initial use. The venue itself also incorporates repurposed shipping containers, which house its food vendors, bars and entertainment spaces along the Brisbane River.



Recycling That Gives Back to the Community



Eat Street Northshore's waste reduction work also contributes to charitable fundraising through Queensland's Containers for Change scheme. The venue has helped raise more than $26,000 for Variety – the Children's Charity through the collection and recycling of eligible drink containers.



The initiative connects the precinct's recycling efforts with support for children and families, while encouraging the recovery of containers generated during busy trading periods. Eat Street Northshore also provides a platform for more than 60 independent food and hospitality operators, bringing together small businesses, visitors and entertainers each weekend. Its location along the Northshore Hamilton riverfront makes the precinct a familiar gathering place for Brisbane residents and visitors, with waste reduction measures incorporated into the operation of its food stalls and shared spaces.



A Place Among Brisbane’s WasteSMART Finalists



Eat Street Northshore is one of three finalists in the 2026 All-Star WasteSMART Award category, alongside Reverse Garbage Queensland and Finn Biogas – The Wasteworks. The WasteSMART Brisbane Awards recognise individuals, schools, businesses and community groups working to prevent waste and improve resource recovery across the city.



Read: Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers



The nomination brings attention to the less visible work taking place behind its food stalls and entertainment areas, including the collection, sorting and reuse of materials generated by thousands of visitors. The winners will be announced at Brisbane City Hall on Friday, 20 November 2026, when Eat Street Northshore will learn whether its recycling and sustainability efforts have secured this year's All-Star award.



Published 26-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
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<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Airport Launches $400-M Industrial Land Expansion]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/brisbane-airport-industrial-land-expansion</link>
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<pubDate>Sat, 24 Oct 2026 03:16:19 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Airport Industrial Park Stage 2]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane industrial property]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Future BNE investment program]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/?page_id=13196</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Brisbane Airport is preparing a 30-hectare industrial land rollout backed by more than $400 million in land preparation and building construction, in its largest release of industrial land to date.







Read: GEODIS Warehouse Construction at Brisbane Airport’s Export Park Begins







The three-year program is expected to add more than 150,000 square metres of industrial property to the airport’s investment portfolio, targeting businesses in logistics, warehousing and advanced manufacturing. The announcement, made on 21 October, comes as Brisbane’s industrial vacancy rate remains low, with limited space available for operators seeking suitable facilities.



The airport’s plans extend beyond vacant land. The rollout is intended to provide purpose-built facilities, round-the-clock operating capacity and access to major road connections, including the Gateway Motorway. Proximity to airport operations is another feature being offered to prospective tenants, alongside lease terms of at least seven years.



Demand and limited industrial space



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport



Brisbane Airport Corporation says its existing industrial precincts are fully occupied, with a weighted average lease expiry of 8.55 years across its industrial portfolio. The airport also reports that it has developed more than 120,000 square metres of gross lettable industrial space over the past five years.



Independent market research from commercial property firm CBRE put Brisbane’s industrial and logistics vacancy rate at 3 per cent in the first half of 2026. The figure measures available built space in the market tracked by CBRE, rather than all undeveloped industrial land. It provides context for the airport’s decision to bring more industrial capacity to market, although it does not by itself establish demand for every type of facility.



The airport’s investment property portfolio is valued at more than $2.6 billion, following growth of more than $500 million over the past two years, according to the company. Its wider business community includes more than 600 businesses, spanning different property and operating arrangements.



Airport Industrial Park adds new facilities



One part of the expansion is already progressing at Airport Industrial Park, where Stage 2 was launched to the market in April 2026. The stage includes 27,000 square metres of customisable facilities intended to accommodate up to 10 tenants.



Brisbane Airport reported that about 40 per cent of the Stage 2 lettable area had been pre-committed following its launch. Construction of the first tenant facilities was due to commence shortly when the airport published its October announcement. The wider 30-hectare rollout and this specific stage are related, but they are not the same project milestone.







Read: New Plane Spotting Area Planned at Brisbane Airport







The Stage 2 facilities are targeting a five-star Green Star rating and are expected to reach practical completion by mid-2027. The rating remains a target, not a confirmed certification.



Stage 1 already accommodates businesses including 4WD SupaCentre, Aramex, Australia Post, Martin Brower, Sadleirs and Tile One, according to Brisbane Airport.




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  Brisbane Airport industrial expansion
  
    Key figures from the announced land release and current market research.
  

  
    
      30 hectares
      Industrial land pipeline over three years
    
    
      More than $400 million
      Land preparation and building construction investment
    
    
      150,000+ sqm
      Expected addition to the airport's industrial property portfolio
    
    
      3 per cent
      Brisbane industrial and logistics vacancy rate in the first half of 2026
    
    
      27,000 sqm
      Customisable facilities in Airport Industrial Park Stage 2
    
    
      Mid-2027
      Expected practical completion for Stage 2 facilities
    
  

  
    Sources:
    
      Brisbane Airport Corporation
    
    and
    
      CBRE, first-half 2026 vacancy update
    .
    Stage 2 completion is a forecast, not a confirmed outcome.
  




Part of a wider airport investment program



The industrial release forms part of Future BNE, a $5 billion investment program under which Brisbane Airport plans to deliver more than 150 projects over five years. The company has also outlined plans to manage 420 hectares over the next decade as part of its longer-term development strategy.



The release creates another potential source of industrial space in Brisbane for businesses weighing up where to locate warehouses, distribution facilities or manufacturing operations, t. How quickly the wider land pipeline becomes available will depend on the staged rollout and delivery of individual facilities.



Published 24-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Brisbane Airport is preparing a 30-hectare industrial land rollout backed by more than $400 million in land preparation and building construction, in its largest release of industrial land to date.







Read: GEODIS Warehouse Construction at Brisbane Airport’s Export Park Begins







The three-year program is expected to add more than 150,000 square metres of industrial property to the airport’s investment portfolio, targeting businesses in logistics, warehousing and advanced manufacturing. The announcement, made on 21 October, comes as Brisbane’s industrial vacancy rate remains low, with limited space available for operators seeking suitable facilities.



The airport’s plans extend beyond vacant land. The rollout is intended to provide purpose-built facilities, round-the-clock operating capacity and access to major road connections, including the Gateway Motorway. Proximity to airport operations is another feature being offered to prospective tenants, alongside lease terms of at least seven years.



Demand and limited industrial space



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport



Brisbane Airport Corporation says its existing industrial precincts are fully occupied, with a weighted average lease expiry of 8.55 years across its industrial portfolio. The airport also reports that it has developed more than 120,000 square metres of gross lettable industrial space over the past five years.



Independent market research from commercial property firm CBRE put Brisbane’s industrial and logistics vacancy rate at 3 per cent in the first half of 2026. The figure measures available built space in the market tracked by CBRE, rather than all undeveloped industrial land. It provides context for the airport’s decision to bring more industrial capacity to market, although it does not by itself establish demand for every type of facility.



The airport’s investment property portfolio is valued at more than $2.6 billion, following growth of more than $500 million over the past two years, according to the company. Its wider business community includes more than 600 businesses, spanning different property and operating arrangements.



Airport Industrial Park adds new facilities



One part of the expansion is already progressing at Airport Industrial Park, where Stage 2 was launched to the market in April 2026. The stage includes 27,000 square metres of customisable facilities intended to accommodate up to 10 tenants.



Brisbane Airport reported that about 40 per cent of the Stage 2 lettable area had been pre-committed following its launch. Construction of the first tenant facilities was due to commence shortly when the airport published its October announcement. The wider 30-hectare rollout and this specific stage are related, but they are not the same project milestone.







Read: New Plane Spotting Area Planned at Brisbane Airport







The Stage 2 facilities are targeting a five-star Green Star rating and are expected to reach practical completion by mid-2027. The rating remains a target, not a confirmed certification.



Stage 1 already accommodates businesses including 4WD SupaCentre, Aramex, Australia Post, Martin Brower, Sadleirs and Tile One, according to Brisbane Airport.




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  Brisbane Airport industrial expansion
  
    Key figures from the announced land release and current market research.
  

  
    
      30 hectares
      Industrial land pipeline over three years
    
    
      More than $400 million
      Land preparation and building construction investment
    
    
      150,000+ sqm
      Expected addition to the airport's industrial property portfolio
    
    
      3 per cent
      Brisbane industrial and logistics vacancy rate in the first half of 2026
    
    
      27,000 sqm
      Customisable facilities in Airport Industrial Park Stage 2
    
    
      Mid-2027
      Expected practical completion for Stage 2 facilities
    
  

  
    Sources:
    
      Brisbane Airport Corporation
    
    and
    
      CBRE, first-half 2026 vacancy update
    .
    Stage 2 completion is a forecast, not a confirmed outcome.
  




Part of a wider airport investment program



The industrial release forms part of Future BNE, a $5 billion investment program under which Brisbane Airport plans to deliver more than 150 projects over five years. The company has also outlined plans to manage 420 hectares over the next decade as part of its longer-term development strategy.



The release creates another potential source of industrial space in Brisbane for businesses weighing up where to locate warehouses, distribution facilities or manufacturing operations, t. How quickly the wider land pipeline becomes available will depend on the staged rollout and delivery of individual facilities.



Published 24-October-2026




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</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Work Starts on $1.2 Billion Hamilton Riverfront Precinct]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/work-starts-on-1-2-billion-hamilton-riverfront-precinct</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 23 Oct 2026 02:23:20 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[apartments]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane riverfront]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Economic Development Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[five-star hotel]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton Grove]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hercules Street]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mainland Civil]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northshore Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[public precinct]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland property]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wentworth Equities]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/?page_id=13191</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A $1.2 billion riverfront precinct with 292 apartments, a 196-room five-star hotel and a public precinct is now under construction in Hamilton.



Read: Northshore Hamilton to Bulimba Could Be 25 Minutes Faster Under RACQ Bus Barges Plan



What is Going Up on Hercules Street



Photo Credit: Hamilton Grove



Hamilton Grove is led by Sydney-based Wentworth Equities and sits at 19 Hercules Street. The plan covers three towers, the hotel, 3,000 square metres of retail space and open public areas. The developer calls the project Los Angeles-inspired. Its executive chairman, Sameh Ibrahim, says the apartments are designed to give buyers the room and comfort usually found in a suburban house, and that the sky homes will be the centrepiece. He believes Brisbane hasn’t seen that level of luxury before. That is the developer’s own view, not an independent market assessment.&nbsp;



More than a Place to Live&nbsp;



Not everyone who visits will need to live there. Earlier coverage reported Mr. Ibrahim saying a lucky few will call the precinct home, while the rest of Brisbane can still explore it. What the public space will include has not been detailed, so neighbours will have to wait to see the finished design.&nbsp;



Who is On Site&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Hamilton Grove



Mainland Civil is the contractor working on the project. Its Brisbane credits include Queens Wharf, 300 George Street, Infinity Tower and 1 William Street, which will matter to local subcontractors and suppliers looking for work. A sod-turning ceremony was scheduled for Wednesday, 21 October, according to realestate.com.au. Clayfield MP Tim Nicholls and Hamilton Ward councillor Julia Dixon were due to attend.



Who Makes the Planning Calls



Many residents assume Brisbane City Council decides what gets built nearby. Here, it doesn’t. Hamilton Grove sits inside the 304-hectare Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area, where Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) is the planning authority. Any later stages, or changes to the scheme, go through that agency.



The wider area is also attracting public money. The state is spending $154 million on enabling infrastructure works at Northshore Hamilton, and EDQ says the precinct is set to contribute more than $14 billion to Queensland’s economy. Both figures cover the whole area, not Hamilton Grove’s budget. EDQ has also named partners for five other sites in the area, with nearly 2,200 homes planned.&nbsp;



Read: Three-Year Hamilton Build Takes Its Cues From Eblin Drive’s Character



What Comes Next



Hamilton Grove launched to buyers earlier this year, and realestate.com.au reported that apartments in the first towers have been selling since. No sales figures have been released. There is also no public construction timetable, completion date or settlement date. Planning is under way for future stages and the hotel, but neither has a published start date.



Published Date 22-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A $1.2 billion riverfront precinct with 292 apartments, a 196-room five-star hotel and a public precinct is now under construction in Hamilton.



Read: Northshore Hamilton to Bulimba Could Be 25 Minutes Faster Under RACQ Bus Barges Plan



What is Going Up on Hercules Street



Photo Credit: Hamilton Grove



Hamilton Grove is led by Sydney-based Wentworth Equities and sits at 19 Hercules Street. The plan covers three towers, the hotel, 3,000 square metres of retail space and open public areas. The developer calls the project Los Angeles-inspired. Its executive chairman, Sameh Ibrahim, says the apartments are designed to give buyers the room and comfort usually found in a suburban house, and that the sky homes will be the centrepiece. He believes Brisbane hasn’t seen that level of luxury before. That is the developer’s own view, not an independent market assessment.&nbsp;



More than a Place to Live&nbsp;



Not everyone who visits will need to live there. Earlier coverage reported Mr. Ibrahim saying a lucky few will call the precinct home, while the rest of Brisbane can still explore it. What the public space will include has not been detailed, so neighbours will have to wait to see the finished design.&nbsp;



Who is On Site&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Hamilton Grove



Mainland Civil is the contractor working on the project. Its Brisbane credits include Queens Wharf, 300 George Street, Infinity Tower and 1 William Street, which will matter to local subcontractors and suppliers looking for work. A sod-turning ceremony was scheduled for Wednesday, 21 October, according to realestate.com.au. Clayfield MP Tim Nicholls and Hamilton Ward councillor Julia Dixon were due to attend.



Who Makes the Planning Calls



Many residents assume Brisbane City Council decides what gets built nearby. Here, it doesn’t. Hamilton Grove sits inside the 304-hectare Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area, where Economic Development Queensland (EDQ) is the planning authority. Any later stages, or changes to the scheme, go through that agency.



The wider area is also attracting public money. The state is spending $154 million on enabling infrastructure works at Northshore Hamilton, and EDQ says the precinct is set to contribute more than $14 billion to Queensland’s economy. Both figures cover the whole area, not Hamilton Grove’s budget. EDQ has also named partners for five other sites in the area, with nearly 2,200 homes planned.&nbsp;



Read: Three-Year Hamilton Build Takes Its Cues From Eblin Drive’s Character



What Comes Next



Hamilton Grove launched to buyers earlier this year, and realestate.com.au reported that apartments in the first towers have been selling since. No sales figures have been released. There is also no public construction timetable, completion date or settlement date. Planning is under way for future stages and the hotel, but neither has a published start date.



Published Date 22-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 01:43:43 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Northshore Hamilton to Bulimba Could Be 25 Minutes Faster Under RACQ Bus Barges Plan]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/northshore-hamilton-to-bulimba-could-be-25-minutes-faster-under-racq-bus-barges-plan</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 21 Oct 2026 02:12:44 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane bus ferries]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane public transport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane River crossing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bulimba to Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton transport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northshore Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northshore Hamilton development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northshore Hamilton ferry]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[RACQ bus barges]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/?page_id=13167</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Northshore Hamilton could gain a new public transport connection to Bulimba under an RACQ proposal to carry buses across the Brisbane River on specially designed barges, with modelling suggesting morning peak journeys could be shortened by up to 25 minutes.



Read: Roads, Flood Resilience and Riverfront Works Drive Northshore Hamilton Renewal



Announced on 20 October 2026, the concept would allow buses to drive onto cross-river ferries, keeping passengers on board throughout the crossing. Transport modelling by Aptura Consulting examined a four-kilometre route between Bulimba and Northshore Hamilton, one of four potential connections assessed across Brisbane.



The proposed service, nicknamed “Berries” for bus and ferries, remains at the concept stage, with the estimated travel savings based on modelling rather than an operating service.



Crossing the river without changing buses



Northshore Hamilton and Bulimba are already connected by the F1 CityCat service, but passengers travelling beyond ferry terminals may need to transfer to other public transport. RACQ's proposal would allow buses to continue their journeys on the opposite bank, potentially removing transfers for some commuters.



RACQ executive manager of public policy Dr Michael Kane identified peninsula suburbs such as Bulimba as suitable locations for dedicated bus ferries. The organisation argues that carrying buses across the river could offer a lower-cost alternative to building new bridges while helping establish demand for larger transport projects.







Northshore's residential growth brings transport into focus



The proposal comes as Northshore Hamilton continues its transformation from an industrial and port precinct into a residential, commercial and recreational destination.



The 304-hectare Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area is governed by an amended development scheme that took effect on 21 November 2025. The scheme guides future development and infrastructure planning across the riverfront precinct.&nbsp;



In September 2026, Economic Development Queensland announced five development partners for approximately 6.1 hectares of land at Northshore, with proposed projects expected to deliver nearly 2,200 homes for around 4,000 residents. The projects form part of the precinct's continuing residential expansion.



Northshore's broader transport vision also identifies a possible high-frequency Gold CityGlider bus service to the CBD and an additional CityCat terminal to support more frequent and express river services. Both are future proposals, separate from RACQ's bus-barge concept.



Hamilton's river connection dates back to the 1890s



Cross-river transport between Hamilton and Bulimba has a history extending more than a century.



A ferry began operating between Hamilton and Apollo Road in Bulimba during the 1890s. By 1925, the service was reportedly carrying more than 500 people daily, most of them workers. Passengers also raised concerns about fares and the lack of adequate shelter at the landing.



A terminal building was constructed on the Hamilton side in 1926, while a waiting shed and toilet facilities were later provided at Apollo Road. The original ferry operated until 1998, when it was replaced by CityCat services.&nbsp;



Read: Nearly 2,200 Homes Planned Across Northshore Hamilton Waterfront



Landing sites and funding remain unresolved



RACQ's bus-barge proposal has not identified confirmed landing sites, service frequencies, infrastructure costs or a delivery timetable in the published material.



The locations where buses would board and leave the barges, and how those facilities would connect with existing roads, remain unspecified. No government commitment to fund the concept has been announced in the material reviewed.



Published 21-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Northshore Hamilton could gain a new public transport connection to Bulimba under an RACQ proposal to carry buses across the Brisbane River on specially designed barges, with modelling suggesting morning peak journeys could be shortened by up to 25 minutes.



Read: Roads, Flood Resilience and Riverfront Works Drive Northshore Hamilton Renewal



Announced on 20 October 2026, the concept would allow buses to drive onto cross-river ferries, keeping passengers on board throughout the crossing. Transport modelling by Aptura Consulting examined a four-kilometre route between Bulimba and Northshore Hamilton, one of four potential connections assessed across Brisbane.



The proposed service, nicknamed “Berries” for bus and ferries, remains at the concept stage, with the estimated travel savings based on modelling rather than an operating service.



Crossing the river without changing buses



Northshore Hamilton and Bulimba are already connected by the F1 CityCat service, but passengers travelling beyond ferry terminals may need to transfer to other public transport. RACQ's proposal would allow buses to continue their journeys on the opposite bank, potentially removing transfers for some commuters.



RACQ executive manager of public policy Dr Michael Kane identified peninsula suburbs such as Bulimba as suitable locations for dedicated bus ferries. The organisation argues that carrying buses across the river could offer a lower-cost alternative to building new bridges while helping establish demand for larger transport projects.







Northshore's residential growth brings transport into focus



The proposal comes as Northshore Hamilton continues its transformation from an industrial and port precinct into a residential, commercial and recreational destination.



The 304-hectare Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area is governed by an amended development scheme that took effect on 21 November 2025. The scheme guides future development and infrastructure planning across the riverfront precinct.&nbsp;



In September 2026, Economic Development Queensland announced five development partners for approximately 6.1 hectares of land at Northshore, with proposed projects expected to deliver nearly 2,200 homes for around 4,000 residents. The projects form part of the precinct's continuing residential expansion.



Northshore's broader transport vision also identifies a possible high-frequency Gold CityGlider bus service to the CBD and an additional CityCat terminal to support more frequent and express river services. Both are future proposals, separate from RACQ's bus-barge concept.



Hamilton's river connection dates back to the 1890s



Cross-river transport between Hamilton and Bulimba has a history extending more than a century.



A ferry began operating between Hamilton and Apollo Road in Bulimba during the 1890s. By 1925, the service was reportedly carrying more than 500 people daily, most of them workers. Passengers also raised concerns about fares and the lack of adequate shelter at the landing.



A terminal building was constructed on the Hamilton side in 1926, while a waiting shed and toilet facilities were later provided at Apollo Road. The original ferry operated until 1998, when it was replaced by CityCat services.&nbsp;



Read: Nearly 2,200 Homes Planned Across Northshore Hamilton Waterfront



Landing sites and funding remain unresolved



RACQ's bus-barge proposal has not identified confirmed landing sites, service frequencies, infrastructure costs or a delivery timetable in the published material.



The locations where buses would board and leave the barges, and how those facilities would connect with existing roads, remain unspecified. No government commitment to fund the concept has been announced in the material reviewed.



Published 21-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[What’s in Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction This Year?]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/whats-in-brisbane-airports-lost-property-auction-this-year</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2026 00:42:21 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Airport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Children’s Hospital Foundation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lost Property Auction]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/?page_id=13123</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Forgotten travel essentials, unusual keepsakes, and pieces of aviation history are among the items up for grabs in Brisbane Airport’s annual lost property auction, with the sale raising money for sick and injured children across Queensland.







Read: Brisbane Airport Named Australia-Pacific’s Cleanest Airport Again







The auction features thousands of belongings grouped into almost 700 lots, giving bidders an opportunity to pick up everything from electronic devices and jewellery to outdoor equipment and unexpected finds. All proceeds from this year’s sale will go to the Children’s Hospital Foundation.



Brisbane Airport announced the auction on 12 October, following a year in which about 25 million passengers travelled through its terminals. 



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport



Brisbane Airport chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff said the fundraiser would help the foundation support children receiving hospital care and their families.



“Every dollar raised through our Lost Property Auction will support the Children’s Hospital Foundation and its work supporting Queensland’s youngest patients receiving hospital care and their families,” he said.



A varied collection with a charitable purpose



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport



Money raised through the auction will help the Children’s Hospital Foundation fund medical research, equipment and programs designed to improve care and outcomes for children. Foundation chief executive Lyndsey Rice said the initiative would give unclaimed belongings a meaningful second life by helping children and families experiencing difficult circumstances.



Lloyds Auctions is supporting the fundraiser by donating its auction services, according to Brisbane Airport. The catalogue covers a wide range of goods, with technology among the major categories. Laptops, tablets, mobile phones, gaming consoles, headphones and smartwatches are included, alongside luxury perfumes, jewellery and new boots.



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport







Outdoor enthusiasts may find camping equipment, tents, sleeping bags, surfboards, bicycles and electric scooters among the available lots. Power tools and other practical items also feature. Some entries are less conventional. A boat’s outboard engine, a vehicle towbar, a sewing machine, a Christmas tree, and a radio-controlled helicopter are among the belongings listed in the airport’s announcement.



Brisbane Airport said some larger items had been left behind because they were overweight or impractical to take aboard an aircraft.



The auction also presents an opportunity for aviation enthusiasts to acquire parts from a Fokker F28 Friendship aircraft that was repurposed as the centrepiece of Brisbane Airport’s Fellowship Place.



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport







Available components include the aircraft’s nose cone, pilot’s seat, control yoke, instruments and sections of the control panel. The items offer a connection to Brisbane’s aviation history beyond the usual electronics and personal belongings found in the catalogue.



Another distinctive lot is Sparkly Brain, a sculpture created by Brisbane artist Rachel Burke. The Children’s Hospital Foundation commissioned the artwork for its 10th birthday to mark a decade of neurological care and research at Queensland Children’s Hospital. The foundation has donated the sculpture to the auction.



Other offerings listed by the airport include VIP sports packages, signed sporting memorabilia, an airport airside tour and a year of free airport parking. Buyers should review the individual listings for details and any applicable conditions.







Read: Confiscated Carry-On Items at Brisbane Airport Find New Purpose with Local Charities







De Graaff said the auction could appeal to people looking for electronics, jewellery or an item to inspire a new hobby ahead of Christmas. The sale combines an eclectic collection of unclaimed belongings with a fundraising effort intended to benefit children and families throughout Queensland. Those interested in participating can browse the available lots and check bidding requirements through Brisbane Airport’s auction page.



How to bid: Visit https://bne.com.au/auction. Online bidding is scheduled to conclude on 8 November 2026, with a livestreamed auction to finish the sale.



Published 16-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Forgotten travel essentials, unusual keepsakes, and pieces of aviation history are among the items up for grabs in Brisbane Airport’s annual lost property auction, with the sale raising money for sick and injured children across Queensland.







Read: Brisbane Airport Named Australia-Pacific’s Cleanest Airport Again







The auction features thousands of belongings grouped into almost 700 lots, giving bidders an opportunity to pick up everything from electronic devices and jewellery to outdoor equipment and unexpected finds. All proceeds from this year’s sale will go to the Children’s Hospital Foundation.



Brisbane Airport announced the auction on 12 October, following a year in which about 25 million passengers travelled through its terminals. 



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport



Brisbane Airport chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff said the fundraiser would help the foundation support children receiving hospital care and their families.



“Every dollar raised through our Lost Property Auction will support the Children’s Hospital Foundation and its work supporting Queensland’s youngest patients receiving hospital care and their families,” he said.



A varied collection with a charitable purpose



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport



Money raised through the auction will help the Children’s Hospital Foundation fund medical research, equipment and programs designed to improve care and outcomes for children. Foundation chief executive Lyndsey Rice said the initiative would give unclaimed belongings a meaningful second life by helping children and families experiencing difficult circumstances.



Lloyds Auctions is supporting the fundraiser by donating its auction services, according to Brisbane Airport. The catalogue covers a wide range of goods, with technology among the major categories. Laptops, tablets, mobile phones, gaming consoles, headphones and smartwatches are included, alongside luxury perfumes, jewellery and new boots.



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport







Outdoor enthusiasts may find camping equipment, tents, sleeping bags, surfboards, bicycles and electric scooters among the available lots. Power tools and other practical items also feature. Some entries are less conventional. A boat’s outboard engine, a vehicle towbar, a sewing machine, a Christmas tree, and a radio-controlled helicopter are among the belongings listed in the airport’s announcement.



Brisbane Airport said some larger items had been left behind because they were overweight or impractical to take aboard an aircraft.



The auction also presents an opportunity for aviation enthusiasts to acquire parts from a Fokker F28 Friendship aircraft that was repurposed as the centrepiece of Brisbane Airport’s Fellowship Place.



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport







Available components include the aircraft’s nose cone, pilot’s seat, control yoke, instruments and sections of the control panel. The items offer a connection to Brisbane’s aviation history beyond the usual electronics and personal belongings found in the catalogue.



Another distinctive lot is Sparkly Brain, a sculpture created by Brisbane artist Rachel Burke. The Children’s Hospital Foundation commissioned the artwork for its 10th birthday to mark a decade of neurological care and research at Queensland Children’s Hospital. The foundation has donated the sculpture to the auction.



Other offerings listed by the airport include VIP sports packages, signed sporting memorabilia, an airport airside tour and a year of free airport parking. Buyers should review the individual listings for details and any applicable conditions.







Read: Confiscated Carry-On Items at Brisbane Airport Find New Purpose with Local Charities







De Graaff said the auction could appeal to people looking for electronics, jewellery or an item to inspire a new hobby ahead of Christmas. The sale combines an eclectic collection of unclaimed belongings with a fundraising effort intended to benefit children and families throughout Queensland. Those interested in participating can browse the available lots and check bidding requirements through Brisbane Airport’s auction page.



How to bid: Visit https://bne.com.au/auction. Online bidding is scheduled to conclude on 8 November 2026, with a livestreamed auction to finish the sale.



Published 16-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Three-Year Hamilton Build Takes Its Cues From Eblin Drive's Character]]></title>
<link>https://hamiltontoday.com.au/three-year-hamilton-build-takes-its-cues-from-eblin-drives-character</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 21 Oct 2026 02:52:18 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane property]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eblin Drive]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton auction]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hamilton property]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Muscolino Shaw]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Patrice Knott]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ray White Ascot]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hamilton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://hamiltontoday.com.au/?page_id=13172</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
On a quiet Hamilton hillside street containing just 12 residences, a newly completed home has been designed with the surrounding neighbourhood's character in mind, following three years of planning and construction.



Read: Northshore Hamilton to Bulimba Could Be 25 Minutes Faster Under RACQ Bus Barges Plan



The five-bedroom property at 30 Eblin Drive occupies a 787-square-metre block in one of the suburb's established residential areas. North Queensland developer Patrice Knott worked with architecture firm Muscolino Shaw and Aligned Builders on the project, which is now heading to auction. The development involved a year of planning and two years of building work, with particular attention given to how the residence would sit within its surroundings.



Photo Credit: Ray White Ascot



A Design Shaped By Its Surroundings



Maintaining the character of Eblin Drive was among Knott's priorities, with the new residence intended to complement the homes already established along the street. Architect Lewis Shaw, from Muscolino Shaw, said the project was approached with the intention of respecting the neighbourhood's existing character while improving the streetscape. The firm was responsible for the home's architecture, interiors and landscaping concept.



Photo Credit: Ray White Ascot



Privacy also influenced the layout, particularly around the outdoor entertaining areas. The swimming pool and surrounding gardens were designed to limit views towards neighbouring properties, while rooftop greenery provides additional separation around the upper-level balcony. The residence is positioned close to several established Hamilton and Ascot destinations. Ascot State School is approximately 450 metres away, while Racecourse Road, Portside Wharf and the Brisbane River are also nearby. Brisbane's CBD is about five kilometres from the property.



Photo Credit: Ray White Ascot



Three Years Of Work Behind The Finished Home



One of the more extensive changes during construction took place below ground, where an entirely new basement was excavated. The basement includes a temperature-controlled wine cellar for more than 1,000 bottles, a tasting room and vehicle parking. Although the property is advertised with six garage spaces, its basement is described as having capacity for up to ten vehicles, with provision for electric vehicle charging.



Above ground, the main living spaces connect to a terrace, lawn and magnesium swimming pool. The design incorporates limestone and European oak flooring, marble finishes, ceilings exceeding three metres and large sliding doors opening towards the gardens. The upper level contains five bedrooms, three with ensuites, alongside a study and second lounge. The main bedroom includes a private balcony overlooking rooftop gardens, a dressing room and an ensuite with heated flooring.



Read: What’s in Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction This Year?



Ray White Ascot agent Damon Warat is managing the sale. Warat said buyers in the prestige housing market were increasingly interested in completed properties that did not require them to undertake their own building projects. The residence is being offered without a published price guide, with inspections scheduled for Saturday 24 October from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. The auction will take place on Friday 13 November 2026 at 10:00 a.m., at Ray White Corporate, Level 26, 111 Eagle Street, Brisbane City.



Published 15-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
On a quiet Hamilton hillside street containing just 12 residences, a newly completed home has been designed with the surrounding neighbourhood's character in mind, following three years of planning and construction.



Read: Northshore Hamilton to Bulimba Could Be 25 Minutes Faster Under RACQ Bus Barges Plan



The five-bedroom property at 30 Eblin Drive occupies a 787-square-metre block in one of the suburb's established residential areas. North Queensland developer Patrice Knott worked with architecture firm Muscolino Shaw and Aligned Builders on the project, which is now heading to auction. The development involved a year of planning and two years of building work, with particular attention given to how the residence would sit within its surroundings.



Photo Credit: Ray White Ascot



A Design Shaped By Its Surroundings



Maintaining the character of Eblin Drive was among Knott's priorities, with the new residence intended to complement the homes already established along the street. Architect Lewis Shaw, from Muscolino Shaw, said the project was approached with the intention of respecting the neighbourhood's existing character while improving the streetscape. The firm was responsible for the home's architecture, interiors and landscaping concept.



Photo Credit: Ray White Ascot



Privacy also influenced the layout, particularly around the outdoor entertaining areas. The swimming pool and surrounding gardens were designed to limit views towards neighbouring properties, while rooftop greenery provides additional separation around the upper-level balcony. The residence is positioned close to several established Hamilton and Ascot destinations. Ascot State School is approximately 450 metres away, while Racecourse Road, Portside Wharf and the Brisbane River are also nearby. Brisbane's CBD is about five kilometres from the property.



Photo Credit: Ray White Ascot



Three Years Of Work Behind The Finished Home



One of the more extensive changes during construction took place below ground, where an entirely new basement was excavated. The basement includes a temperature-controlled wine cellar for more than 1,000 bottles, a tasting room and vehicle parking. Although the property is advertised with six garage spaces, its basement is described as having capacity for up to ten vehicles, with provision for electric vehicle charging.



Above ground, the main living spaces connect to a terrace, lawn and magnesium swimming pool. The design incorporates limestone and European oak flooring, marble finishes, ceilings exceeding three metres and large sliding doors opening towards the gardens. The upper level contains five bedrooms, three with ensuites, alongside a study and second lounge. The main bedroom includes a private balcony overlooking rooftop gardens, a dressing room and an ensuite with heated flooring.



Read: What’s in Brisbane Airport’s Lost Property Auction This Year?



Ray White Ascot agent Damon Warat is managing the sale. Warat said buyers in the prestige housing market were increasingly interested in completed properties that did not require them to undertake their own building projects. The residence is being offered without a published price guide, with inspections scheduled for Saturday 24 October from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. The auction will take place on Friday 13 November 2026 at 10:00 a.m., at Ray White Corporate, Level 26, 111 Eagle Street, Brisbane City.



Published 15-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Downey Park Junior Netball Trials Approach as Brisbane 2032 Olympic Ambitions Continue]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/downey-park-junior-netball-trials-brisbane-2032</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2026 05:45:23 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane 2032]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Downey Park Netball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Junior Netball]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Junior State Age]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Windsor]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/?page_id=27257</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Young netballers from across Brisbane are preparing to gather at Downey Park in Windsor on Sunday, 8 November, hoping to secure places in the association’s 2027 representative squads while their sport continues its campaign for a place at the Brisbane Olympics.



Read: Windsor Netball Leader Diana Moore Earns Top Queensland Honour



The trials will bring together nominated players turning 12, 13 and 14 next year, with successful participants progressing into a representative programme involving specialised training, preparatory carnivals and competitions against other Queensland associations.



For the players attending, selection for next season is the immediate priority. Beyond the Windsor courts, however, netball’s longstanding ambition to join the Olympic programme provides a broader backdrop, particularly with Brisbane preparing to host the Games in 2032.



Competition Beyond the Club Courts



Downey Park Netball Association draws players from clubs across Brisbane, bringing together young netballers whose regular competitions are based around their suburban teams.



Representative selection offers a different challenge, with players assessed for association squads rather than their individual clubs. Those selected will train together and compete against teams from other parts of Queensland, gaining experience beyond their usual weekend fixtures.



The first trials take place on 8 November, followed by a second session on 15 November and invitation-only callbacks on 22 November. Selectors will assess players in their nominated positions while retaining the flexibility to consider them elsewhere on the court.



Age-group squads are scheduled to be announced in December, ahead of development sessions beginning in February and regular team training from April.



Downey Park’s Red and Green teams are intended to compete at the Junior State Age Championships, scheduled for 3–6 July 2027 at Sunshine Coast Netball Association, while White teams will participate in the Tigers Cup.



Before those competitions, representative players will also take part in preparatory carnivals, providing opportunities to develop combinations and adjust to playing alongside teammates drawn from different clubs.



An Olympic Campaign With Brisbane in Its Sights



While Downey Park prepares its next representative season, netball’s international governing bodies are pursuing a considerably larger opportunity.



Netball has featured at the Commonwealth Games since 1998 but has never been contested as an Olympic medal sport. World Netball and Netball Australia have been advocating for its inclusion at Brisbane 2032, where the sport could make its Olympic debut in a city with an established netball community.



The campaign has centred on securing recognition for a sport with a substantial international following, although inclusion remains subject to the Olympic programme selection process.



For Brisbane’s suburban netball associations, the prospect brings the possibility of a future Olympic tournament much closer to the places where young players currently develop their skills.



Five Years of Development Before 2032



Players turning 12 in 2027 will be approximately 17 when Brisbane hosts the Olympics, while those in the older trial groups will be approaching their early twenties.



Their immediate commitments, however, lie within Queensland’s junior representative competitions, which have no direct connection to Olympic team selection. Even if netball eventually joins the Olympic programme, selection for national teams would involve an entirely separate process.



By the time Brisbane hosts the Games, the young players attending this November’s trials will have moved well beyond their current age groups, although their individual sporting paths cannot be predicted.



Read: Downey Park Netball Association To Upgrade Four Windsor Courts With New Lighting



At Downey Park, preparations are focused on another representative season, with the November trials offering young players from across Brisbane an opportunity to compete beyond club level while netball’s Olympic ambitions continue to develop.



Published 31-Oct-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Young netballers from across Brisbane are preparing to gather at Downey Park in Windsor on Sunday, 8 November, hoping to secure places in the association’s 2027 representative squads while their sport continues its campaign for a place at the Brisbane Olympics.



Read: Windsor Netball Leader Diana Moore Earns Top Queensland Honour



The trials will bring together nominated players turning 12, 13 and 14 next year, with successful participants progressing into a representative programme involving specialised training, preparatory carnivals and competitions against other Queensland associations.



For the players attending, selection for next season is the immediate priority. Beyond the Windsor courts, however, netball’s longstanding ambition to join the Olympic programme provides a broader backdrop, particularly with Brisbane preparing to host the Games in 2032.



Competition Beyond the Club Courts



Downey Park Netball Association draws players from clubs across Brisbane, bringing together young netballers whose regular competitions are based around their suburban teams.



Representative selection offers a different challenge, with players assessed for association squads rather than their individual clubs. Those selected will train together and compete against teams from other parts of Queensland, gaining experience beyond their usual weekend fixtures.



The first trials take place on 8 November, followed by a second session on 15 November and invitation-only callbacks on 22 November. Selectors will assess players in their nominated positions while retaining the flexibility to consider them elsewhere on the court.



Age-group squads are scheduled to be announced in December, ahead of development sessions beginning in February and regular team training from April.



Downey Park’s Red and Green teams are intended to compete at the Junior State Age Championships, scheduled for 3–6 July 2027 at Sunshine Coast Netball Association, while White teams will participate in the Tigers Cup.



Before those competitions, representative players will also take part in preparatory carnivals, providing opportunities to develop combinations and adjust to playing alongside teammates drawn from different clubs.



An Olympic Campaign With Brisbane in Its Sights



While Downey Park prepares its next representative season, netball’s international governing bodies are pursuing a considerably larger opportunity.



Netball has featured at the Commonwealth Games since 1998 but has never been contested as an Olympic medal sport. World Netball and Netball Australia have been advocating for its inclusion at Brisbane 2032, where the sport could make its Olympic debut in a city with an established netball community.



The campaign has centred on securing recognition for a sport with a substantial international following, although inclusion remains subject to the Olympic programme selection process.



For Brisbane’s suburban netball associations, the prospect brings the possibility of a future Olympic tournament much closer to the places where young players currently develop their skills.



Five Years of Development Before 2032



Players turning 12 in 2027 will be approximately 17 when Brisbane hosts the Olympics, while those in the older trial groups will be approaching their early twenties.



Their immediate commitments, however, lie within Queensland’s junior representative competitions, which have no direct connection to Olympic team selection. Even if netball eventually joins the Olympic programme, selection for national teams would involve an entirely separate process.



By the time Brisbane hosts the Games, the young players attending this November’s trials will have moved well beyond their current age groups, although their individual sporting paths cannot be predicted.



Read: Downey Park Netball Association To Upgrade Four Windsor Courts With New Lighting



At Downey Park, preparations are focused on another representative season, with the November trials offering young players from across Brisbane an opportunity to compete beyond club level while netball’s Olympic ambitions continue to develop.



Published 31-Oct-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Baby Rhyme Time Brings a Little Rhythm to Brisbane’s Libraries]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 06:36:42 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Baby rhyme time is one of those small library events that quietly earns its keep. It is free, simple and aimed at babies up to one year old. The November schedule shows it at Indooroopilly, with the wider run also reaching libraries across Brisbane. That makes it an easy one for local families to actually use.



A quick outing that feels close to home 



The event page keeps things plain. Families can meet other parents and babies for singing, clapping and dancing. There is no booking needed, which keeps the whole thing easy. At the same time, places are limited, so a session can close if it fills up.



That balance suits a library pretty well. It is open, but not chaotic. It is friendly, but still orderly. For parents juggling naps, bottles and everything else, that sort of setup matters more than people might think. 



The bigger schedule gives the program a wider reach. Alongside Indooroopilly, it also shows sessions at places like Holland Park, Chermside, Carina, Banyo, Nundah and Zillmere. So this is not just one nice little event in one suburb. It is a regular community rhythm across several parts of the city. 



The kind of noise libraries can welcome 



Baby rhyme time works because it is built for the early months. The event listing says the songs and action rhymes help nurture pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. That sounds formal, but the idea behind it is pretty simple. Babies hear words, watch faces and start getting used to the sound of language. 



That is where libraries come into their own. They are already calm places. They already belong to the community. So a session like this feels natural there, not bolted on. 



And honestly, that is part of the appeal. Parents do not need a grand plan for the morning. They just need something local, useful and low-fuss. Baby rhyme time gives them that. 



A small session worth repeating 



First 5 Forever backs the program, with the State Library of Queensland coordinating it in partnership with local government. That gives the session a proper public purpose, but the benefit is still felt at the local level. One suburb gets a room full of songs. Another suburb gets the same thing on a different day. 



That is the charm of it. Baby rhyme time is not trying to be bigger than it needs to be. It just gives babies, parents and carers a warm little place to start. In a city as busy as Brisbane, that feels worth keeping on the calendar.




  
    
      Place
      Date
      Time
    
  
  
    Annerley Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Ashgrove Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Banyo Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bracken Ridge Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Brisbane Square Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bulimba Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Carina Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Carindale Library11/3/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carindale Library11/10/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/11/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/17/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/18/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/24/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/25/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Chermside Library11/3/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Coopers Plain Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Corinda Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Everton Park LIbrary11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Fairfield Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Garden City Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Grange Library11/5/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/12/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/19/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/26/202611:15AM - 11:45AM

    Holland Park Library11/4/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/11/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/18/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/25/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Inala Library11/3/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/10/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/17/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/24/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Indooroopilly Library11/2/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/6/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/9/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/13/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/16/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/20/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/23/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/27/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/30/202610:15AM - 10:45AM

    Kenmore Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Mitchelton Library11/6/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/13/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/20/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/27/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Mount Gravatt Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Mt Ommaney Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    New Farm Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Nundah Library11/5/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/12/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/19/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/26/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sandgate Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Stones Corner Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sunnybank Hills Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Toowong Library11/3/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/10/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/17/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/24/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    West End Library11/4/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/11/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/18/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/25/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Wynnum Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Zillmere Library11/5/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/12/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/19/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/26/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
  




Published 28-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Baby rhyme time is one of those small library events that quietly earns its keep. It is free, simple and aimed at babies up to one year old. The November schedule shows it at Indooroopilly, with the wider run also reaching libraries across Brisbane. That makes it an easy one for local families to actually use.



A quick outing that feels close to home 



The event page keeps things plain. Families can meet other parents and babies for singing, clapping and dancing. There is no booking needed, which keeps the whole thing easy. At the same time, places are limited, so a session can close if it fills up.



That balance suits a library pretty well. It is open, but not chaotic. It is friendly, but still orderly. For parents juggling naps, bottles and everything else, that sort of setup matters more than people might think. 



The bigger schedule gives the program a wider reach. Alongside Indooroopilly, it also shows sessions at places like Holland Park, Chermside, Carina, Banyo, Nundah and Zillmere. So this is not just one nice little event in one suburb. It is a regular community rhythm across several parts of the city. 



The kind of noise libraries can welcome 



Baby rhyme time works because it is built for the early months. The event listing says the songs and action rhymes help nurture pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. That sounds formal, but the idea behind it is pretty simple. Babies hear words, watch faces and start getting used to the sound of language. 



That is where libraries come into their own. They are already calm places. They already belong to the community. So a session like this feels natural there, not bolted on. 



And honestly, that is part of the appeal. Parents do not need a grand plan for the morning. They just need something local, useful and low-fuss. Baby rhyme time gives them that. 



A small session worth repeating 



First 5 Forever backs the program, with the State Library of Queensland coordinating it in partnership with local government. That gives the session a proper public purpose, but the benefit is still felt at the local level. One suburb gets a room full of songs. Another suburb gets the same thing on a different day. 



That is the charm of it. Baby rhyme time is not trying to be bigger than it needs to be. It just gives babies, parents and carers a warm little place to start. In a city as busy as Brisbane, that feels worth keeping on the calendar.




  
    
      Place
      Date
      Time
    
  
  
    Annerley Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Ashgrove Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Banyo Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bracken Ridge Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Brisbane Square Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bulimba Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Carina Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Carindale Library11/3/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carindale Library11/10/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/11/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/17/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/18/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/24/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/25/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Chermside Library11/3/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Coopers Plain Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Corinda Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Everton Park LIbrary11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Fairfield Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Garden City Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Grange Library11/5/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/12/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/19/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/26/202611:15AM - 11:45AM

    Holland Park Library11/4/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/11/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/18/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/25/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Inala Library11/3/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/10/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/17/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/24/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Indooroopilly Library11/2/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/6/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/9/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/13/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/16/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/20/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/23/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/27/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/30/202610:15AM - 10:45AM

    Kenmore Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Mitchelton Library11/6/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/13/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/20/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/27/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Mount Gravatt Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Mt Ommaney Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    New Farm Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Nundah Library11/5/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/12/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/19/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/26/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sandgate Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Stones Corner Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sunnybank Hills Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Toowong Library11/3/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/10/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/17/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/24/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    West End Library11/4/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/11/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/18/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/25/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Wynnum Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Zillmere Library11/5/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/12/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/19/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/26/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
  




Published 28-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:12:41 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
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<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland’s Smoke Alarm Deadline Is Near — Is Your Family Really Protected?]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety</link>
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<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
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<description><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 01:47:39 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 01:43:42 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
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</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[RBWH Specialists Celebrate Healthy Birth After Two Molar Pregnancies]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/rbwh-specialists-celebrate-healthy-birth-after-two-molar-pregnancies</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2026 04:06:37 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[molar pregnancies]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Trophoblast Centre]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[RBWH]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/?page_id=27175</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Gabby Marosz experienced two molar pregnancies in 2024 before welcoming her healthy baby boy, Sullivan, earlier in 2026, following care from the Queensland Trophoblast Centre at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH).







Read: How Brisbane’s Specialist Trophoblast Centre Supports Women With Molar Pregnancies







Now four months old, Sully marks a happy milestone after a difficult period for his mother, who underwent surgery and received specialist monitoring following both pregnancy complications. Her experience highlights a rare pregnancy-related condition that many people may not have heard of until it affects them or someone close to them.



An unexpected diagnosis







Gabby’s first molar pregnancy was identified in 2024 after an ultrasound showed the pregnancy was not viable. She subsequently underwent surgery and was connected with the Queensland Trophoblast Centre, where clinicians monitored her pregnancy hormone levels and supported her until she could try to conceive again.



Photo credit: Google Maps/Metro North HHS



A molar pregnancy occurs when abnormal tissue develops in the uterus instead of a viable pregnancy. It is one of the conditions associated with gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), a group of conditions that can require follow-up care to monitor whether the abnormal tissue has resolved.



Before her diagnosis, Gabby had never heard of GTD and recalled finding the condition’s name unusual. After her first experience, she faced a waiting period before trying for another pregnancy. However, her second pregnancy in late 2024 also resulted in a molar pregnancy.



Gabby described the experience as difficult and said she felt particularly unlucky to have the complication twice in a row. She subsequently became pregnant again and welcomed Sullivan earlier this year.



Understanding gestational trophoblastic disease



Molar pregnancies are uncommon, affecting approximately one in every 1,000 to 2,000 pregnancies, according to Metro North Health. The likelihood of experiencing another molar pregnancy increases after a previous one, with the chance rising to about one in 100. Metro North Health said there is no clear known cause for experiencing two molar pregnancies.



Although a molar pregnancy is not viable, patients can receive medical care and follow-up monitoring. Surgery may be required, followed by regular testing to track pregnancy hormone levels.



The Queensland Trophoblast Centre monitors patients until their hormone levels return to normal, after which they can consider trying to become pregnant again. RBWH gynaecological oncologist Dr Andrea Garrett said the centre sees approximately 250 patients each year, including people from Queensland, New South Wales and Tasmania.



She explained that around 85 per cent of the centre’s patients are managed through monitoring, with testing generally conducted every one to two weeks until their pregnancy hormone levels return to normal.



A smaller proportion of patients develop persistent disease, which can behave like cancer and spread to other parts of the body, including the lungs. These patients may require chemotherapy, Dr Garrett explained. She said the disease is highly treatable, even when it has spread to the lungs, and most women do well with chemotherapy.



A happy outcome



Gabby did not require chemotherapy. Her care involved surgery and monitoring through the RBWH team, which followed her pregnancy hormone levels after the molar pregnancies. Her experience shows that a molar pregnancy does not necessarily prevent a later successful pregnancy. After two difficult experiences in 2024, she was able to welcome a healthy baby earlier this year.



Read: Brisbane Metro Serving RBWH Recognised for Engineering Excellence



Dr Garrett said the team was always pleased to hear when former patients went on to have successful pregnancies and welcomed babies. Gabby’s news is a welcome outcome after the uncertainty surrounding her earlier pregnancies. Her story also highlights the Queensland Trophoblast Centre’s role in monitoring patients and supporting them as they consider future pregnancies.



With Sully now four months old, Gabby’s experience offers a personal perspective on a condition she had never heard of before her own diagnosis, as well as the specialist care available to people affected by it.



Published 16-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Gabby Marosz experienced two molar pregnancies in 2024 before welcoming her healthy baby boy, Sullivan, earlier in 2026, following care from the Queensland Trophoblast Centre at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH).







Read: How Brisbane’s Specialist Trophoblast Centre Supports Women With Molar Pregnancies







Now four months old, Sully marks a happy milestone after a difficult period for his mother, who underwent surgery and received specialist monitoring following both pregnancy complications. Her experience highlights a rare pregnancy-related condition that many people may not have heard of until it affects them or someone close to them.



An unexpected diagnosis







Gabby’s first molar pregnancy was identified in 2024 after an ultrasound showed the pregnancy was not viable. She subsequently underwent surgery and was connected with the Queensland Trophoblast Centre, where clinicians monitored her pregnancy hormone levels and supported her until she could try to conceive again.



Photo credit: Google Maps/Metro North HHS



A molar pregnancy occurs when abnormal tissue develops in the uterus instead of a viable pregnancy. It is one of the conditions associated with gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), a group of conditions that can require follow-up care to monitor whether the abnormal tissue has resolved.



Before her diagnosis, Gabby had never heard of GTD and recalled finding the condition’s name unusual. After her first experience, she faced a waiting period before trying for another pregnancy. However, her second pregnancy in late 2024 also resulted in a molar pregnancy.



Gabby described the experience as difficult and said she felt particularly unlucky to have the complication twice in a row. She subsequently became pregnant again and welcomed Sullivan earlier this year.



Understanding gestational trophoblastic disease



Molar pregnancies are uncommon, affecting approximately one in every 1,000 to 2,000 pregnancies, according to Metro North Health. The likelihood of experiencing another molar pregnancy increases after a previous one, with the chance rising to about one in 100. Metro North Health said there is no clear known cause for experiencing two molar pregnancies.



Although a molar pregnancy is not viable, patients can receive medical care and follow-up monitoring. Surgery may be required, followed by regular testing to track pregnancy hormone levels.



The Queensland Trophoblast Centre monitors patients until their hormone levels return to normal, after which they can consider trying to become pregnant again. RBWH gynaecological oncologist Dr Andrea Garrett said the centre sees approximately 250 patients each year, including people from Queensland, New South Wales and Tasmania.



She explained that around 85 per cent of the centre’s patients are managed through monitoring, with testing generally conducted every one to two weeks until their pregnancy hormone levels return to normal.



A smaller proportion of patients develop persistent disease, which can behave like cancer and spread to other parts of the body, including the lungs. These patients may require chemotherapy, Dr Garrett explained. She said the disease is highly treatable, even when it has spread to the lungs, and most women do well with chemotherapy.



A happy outcome



Gabby did not require chemotherapy. Her care involved surgery and monitoring through the RBWH team, which followed her pregnancy hormone levels after the molar pregnancies. Her experience shows that a molar pregnancy does not necessarily prevent a later successful pregnancy. After two difficult experiences in 2024, she was able to welcome a healthy baby earlier this year.



Read: Brisbane Metro Serving RBWH Recognised for Engineering Excellence



Dr Garrett said the team was always pleased to hear when former patients went on to have successful pregnancies and welcomed babies. Gabby’s news is a welcome outcome after the uncertainty surrounding her earlier pregnancies. Her story also highlights the Queensland Trophoblast Centre’s role in monitoring patients and supporting them as they consider future pregnancies.



With Sully now four months old, Gabby’s experience offers a personal perspective on a condition she had never heard of before her own diagnosis, as well as the specialist care available to people affected by it.



Published 16-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Serving RBWH Recognised for Engineering Excellence]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/brisbane-metro-serving-rbwh-recognised-for-engineering-excellence</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 00:19:15 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro engineering]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro expansion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro M2]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Engineers Australia Awards 2026]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Herston busway station]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Herston public transport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[RBWH Herston]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[STARS Herston]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/?page_id=27168</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Brisbane Metro has received recognition for engineering excellence, with its M2 route connecting the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) in Herston to the CBD, major universities and other hospitals.



Read: Brisbane Metro Launches M2 Service to Ease Congestion at RBWH in Herston



The project was named an Outstanding Nominee in the Project of the Year category at the Engineers Australia Queensland Excellence Awards on 17 September 2026. Construction partner ACCIONA described the recognition as Highly Commended in an announcement on 8 October, citing the infrastructure developed for Brisbane’s high-frequency public transport network.



RBWH anchors the northern end of the M2



The M2 runs between UQ Lakes and RBWH, travelling through Boggo Road, the Princess Alexandra Hospital, South Bank, the CBD and Kelvin Grove before reaching Herston. RBWH is the northern terminus, with Herston station providing another stop within the surrounding health precinct.



Services are scheduled approximately every five minutes on weekdays between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., with intervals of 10 to 15 minutes outside those hours. Weekend services operate around the clock from Friday evening through Sunday evening, generally at 10- to 15-minute intervals.



The M2 began operating on 28 January 2025, establishing a direct public transport connection between the hospital precinct and destinations across inner Brisbane.



Photo Credit: BCC



Parking and accessibility across the hospital precinct



Metro provides an alternative to driving for patients, hospital staff and visitors travelling to Herston. RBWH has three multi-storey undercover car parks where fees apply, while surrounding streets have regulated parking and limited metered spaces.



Eligible patients and primary carers can apply for discounted parking, including those meeting requirements for extended inpatient stays, frequent outpatient appointments or financial hardship.



The M2 also provides access to the Surgical, Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS) at 296 Herston Road via Herston station. According to Metro North Health, the station is approximately 75 metres from STARS, compared with around 550 metres from RBWH busway station.



Metro vehicles include deployable ramps, designated mobility spaces, support rails and padded backrests. Passengers with mobility requirements can use these onboard features, although access between stations and hospital entrances varies by destination.



Tunnel and station upgrades behind the recognition



ACCIONA led construction for the Brisbane Move consortium, working with design lead Arup on station upgrades, electric vehicle charging facilities and a new tunnel beneath Adelaide Street. The M1 and M2 routes together serve 18 stations across approximately 21 kilometres of existing busway infrastructure.



Among the major engineering works was a 225-metre tunnel connecting North Quay with King George Square station. Its roof lies three to six metres beneath Adelaide Street, where engineers used a specialised excavation method to minimise ground movement and protect nearby buildings while accounting for underground utilities and traffic above.



Victoria Bridge was strengthened to accommodate Metro vehicles, with its layout changed to provide three dedicated bus and Metro lanes alongside a two-way cycling and e-mobility route. Charging infrastructure was also integrated into existing busway facilities to support the electric fleet.



Expansion plans extend beyond the existing routes



Brisbane Metro's engineering recognition comes as expansion opportunities are being explored to Brisbane's north, east, further south and airport. Routes, funding and delivery arrangements remain subject to future planning and decisions.



Read: Search Your Route: Brisbane Metro Starts M2 Line From RBWH to UQ



Passengers travelling to RBWH and other destinations along the M2 can check current departure times, station information and connections through the Translink journey planner.



Published 13-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Brisbane Metro has received recognition for engineering excellence, with its M2 route connecting the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) in Herston to the CBD, major universities and other hospitals.



Read: Brisbane Metro Launches M2 Service to Ease Congestion at RBWH in Herston



The project was named an Outstanding Nominee in the Project of the Year category at the Engineers Australia Queensland Excellence Awards on 17 September 2026. Construction partner ACCIONA described the recognition as Highly Commended in an announcement on 8 October, citing the infrastructure developed for Brisbane’s high-frequency public transport network.



RBWH anchors the northern end of the M2



The M2 runs between UQ Lakes and RBWH, travelling through Boggo Road, the Princess Alexandra Hospital, South Bank, the CBD and Kelvin Grove before reaching Herston. RBWH is the northern terminus, with Herston station providing another stop within the surrounding health precinct.



Services are scheduled approximately every five minutes on weekdays between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., with intervals of 10 to 15 minutes outside those hours. Weekend services operate around the clock from Friday evening through Sunday evening, generally at 10- to 15-minute intervals.



The M2 began operating on 28 January 2025, establishing a direct public transport connection between the hospital precinct and destinations across inner Brisbane.



Photo Credit: BCC



Parking and accessibility across the hospital precinct



Metro provides an alternative to driving for patients, hospital staff and visitors travelling to Herston. RBWH has three multi-storey undercover car parks where fees apply, while surrounding streets have regulated parking and limited metered spaces.



Eligible patients and primary carers can apply for discounted parking, including those meeting requirements for extended inpatient stays, frequent outpatient appointments or financial hardship.



The M2 also provides access to the Surgical, Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS) at 296 Herston Road via Herston station. According to Metro North Health, the station is approximately 75 metres from STARS, compared with around 550 metres from RBWH busway station.



Metro vehicles include deployable ramps, designated mobility spaces, support rails and padded backrests. Passengers with mobility requirements can use these onboard features, although access between stations and hospital entrances varies by destination.



Tunnel and station upgrades behind the recognition



ACCIONA led construction for the Brisbane Move consortium, working with design lead Arup on station upgrades, electric vehicle charging facilities and a new tunnel beneath Adelaide Street. The M1 and M2 routes together serve 18 stations across approximately 21 kilometres of existing busway infrastructure.



Among the major engineering works was a 225-metre tunnel connecting North Quay with King George Square station. Its roof lies three to six metres beneath Adelaide Street, where engineers used a specialised excavation method to minimise ground movement and protect nearby buildings while accounting for underground utilities and traffic above.



Victoria Bridge was strengthened to accommodate Metro vehicles, with its layout changed to provide three dedicated bus and Metro lanes alongside a two-way cycling and e-mobility route. Charging infrastructure was also integrated into existing busway facilities to support the electric fleet.



Expansion plans extend beyond the existing routes



Brisbane Metro's engineering recognition comes as expansion opportunities are being explored to Brisbane's north, east, further south and airport. Routes, funding and delivery arrangements remain subject to future planning and decisions.



Read: Search Your Route: Brisbane Metro Starts M2 Line From RBWH to UQ



Passengers travelling to RBWH and other destinations along the M2 can check current departure times, station information and connections through the Translink journey planner.



Published 13-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn't Enough]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/dementia-and-home-fire-safety-when-a-smoke-alarm-isnt-enough/dementia-and-home-fire-safety-when-a-smoke-alarm-isnt-enough</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 12 Oct 2026 04:43:21 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/dementia-and-home-fire-safety-when-a-smoke-alarm-isnt-enough/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


According to Dementia Australia, an estimated 446,500 Australians are living with dementia in 2026, and that number is projected to exceed one million by 2065. For families caring for a parent, partner or loved one, keeping them safe at home involves plenty of everyday considerations. One that can easily be overlooked is what happens if a fire breaks out.



Most of us know what a smoke alarm means. We hear it, recognise the danger and understand that we need to get out. For someone living with dementia, however, that familiar sound may cause confusion rather than prompt an immediate response, particularly if they are woken suddenly in the middle of the night.



Hearing loss and reduced mobility can complicate matters further. Someone may not hear the warning clearly or may need assistance to reach an exit, even in a home they have lived in for decades.



Families supporting older relatives often spend considerable time thinking about medication, mobility and preventing falls. Fire safety deserves a place in those conversations too, especially when a person's needs are changing.



The Risks Behind the Numbers



An Australian study examining 900 preventable residential fire deaths between 2003 and 2017 found that nearly 47 per cent of those who died had at least one identified disability. When researchers excluded cases where disability status could not be established, that proportion rose to approximately 62 per cent.



Although the findings cover a broad range of disabilities rather than dementia alone, they raise an important consideration for households: a working smoke alarm is only one part of keeping people safe. Someone must also be able to recognise the danger and respond, which may be difficult when memory, hearing or mobility is affected.



Cathy Brand, CEO of Australian fire-safety company Brooks Australia, says household protection needs to reflect the abilities of the people living there.



“An alarm only works if the person can actually hear it, see it and understand what it means. For someone living with dementia, that’s not always the case,” Ms Brand says.



When a Familiar Sound Becomes Confusing



Dementia affects people differently, and the changes are not always obvious. Someone who manages comfortably during the day may struggle with an unexpected alarm or decisions that need to be made quickly.



An alarm sounding overnight can be especially disorienting. Even a person who knows the layout of their home may become uncertain about which way to go, while someone with hearing difficulties might miss the warning altogether.



Fire-safety technology offers additional ways to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Interconnected smoke alarms activate together when one detects smoke, allowing a warning to reach other parts of the home without waiting for smoke to spread to each detector.



Compatible systems can also incorporate flashing strobe lights or vibrating pads placed beneath pillows, providing another way to alert someone who may not hear an audible alarm. Brooks Australia is among the manufacturers offering these options, including visual alert accessories and bedside vibration systems.



Ms Brand sums up the value of interconnection simply: “You want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke.”



While these devices can help people receive a warning, they cannot necessarily overcome the confusion or difficulty interpreting danger that some people with dementia experience. Families therefore need to consider how a person is likely to respond, as well as how they will be alerted.



Making the Escape Plan Fit the Person



Families often adjust a home gradually as an older relative's needs change. Loose rugs are removed, bathroom handrails installed and furniture rearranged to make moving around easier. Fire safety deserves the same attention, particularly when someone may need help leaving the house quickly.



Ms Brand encourages families to approach an escape plan much as they would fall prevention.



“We’d also encourage families to think about a fire escape plan the same way they’d think about a fall prevention plan — walk through it together, practice it, and make sure it's realistic for the person’s current abilities, not the abilities they had five years ago,” she says.



For someone using a walking frame, that could mean ensuring hallways remain clear and doors can be opened easily. In other households, the greater concern may be whether a person will recognise an exit or remember what to do when frightened.



Overnight arrangements deserve particular thought, including who could provide assistance if someone cannot evacuate independently. Rehearsing an escape route can help, but a plan should not depend entirely on a person with dementia remembering instructions during an emergency.



Small Changes Worth Making Now



A home fire-safety review need not involve major renovations. Testing smoke alarms, checking their age and location, clearing escape routes and keeping combustible materials away from heaters and cooking areas are sensible starting points.



Where someone has hearing loss, visual or vibrating alerts may provide an additional warning. Households supporting someone with dementia or significant mobility limitations may also benefit from discussing their arrangements with carers, relevant health professionals or qualified fire-safety installers.



There is a timely reason for Queensland homeowners to review their existing alarms. From 1 January 2027, the final stage of the state's smoke-alarm reforms will apply to remaining domestic dwellings, including existing owner-occupied homes. Required alarms must be interconnected and installed in prescribed locations, including every bedroom and relevant hallways.



Meeting those requirements provides an important foundation, although families may need additional measures depending on who lives in the home.



A Conversation Before It Becomes an Emergency



As Australia's dementia population grows, more families will face the challenge of helping loved ones remain safe while preserving as much independence as possible. Fire safety belongs in that conversation, alongside the everyday adjustments that make a home easier and safer to live in.



“We want families, carers and aged care providers to feel empowered to have this conversation early, rather than waiting for a near miss to prompt change,” Ms Brand says.



For families, a useful starting point is to walk through the home together, check the alarms and consider what would happen if a fire started while everyone was asleep.



The important question is whether the people living there would have the warning, understanding and assistance they need to get out safely.



Published 9-Oct-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


According to Dementia Australia, an estimated 446,500 Australians are living with dementia in 2026, and that number is projected to exceed one million by 2065. For families caring for a parent, partner or loved one, keeping them safe at home involves plenty of everyday considerations. One that can easily be overlooked is what happens if a fire breaks out.



Most of us know what a smoke alarm means. We hear it, recognise the danger and understand that we need to get out. For someone living with dementia, however, that familiar sound may cause confusion rather than prompt an immediate response, particularly if they are woken suddenly in the middle of the night.



Hearing loss and reduced mobility can complicate matters further. Someone may not hear the warning clearly or may need assistance to reach an exit, even in a home they have lived in for decades.



Families supporting older relatives often spend considerable time thinking about medication, mobility and preventing falls. Fire safety deserves a place in those conversations too, especially when a person's needs are changing.



The Risks Behind the Numbers



An Australian study examining 900 preventable residential fire deaths between 2003 and 2017 found that nearly 47 per cent of those who died had at least one identified disability. When researchers excluded cases where disability status could not be established, that proportion rose to approximately 62 per cent.



Although the findings cover a broad range of disabilities rather than dementia alone, they raise an important consideration for households: a working smoke alarm is only one part of keeping people safe. Someone must also be able to recognise the danger and respond, which may be difficult when memory, hearing or mobility is affected.



Cathy Brand, CEO of Australian fire-safety company Brooks Australia, says household protection needs to reflect the abilities of the people living there.



“An alarm only works if the person can actually hear it, see it and understand what it means. For someone living with dementia, that’s not always the case,” Ms Brand says.



When a Familiar Sound Becomes Confusing



Dementia affects people differently, and the changes are not always obvious. Someone who manages comfortably during the day may struggle with an unexpected alarm or decisions that need to be made quickly.



An alarm sounding overnight can be especially disorienting. Even a person who knows the layout of their home may become uncertain about which way to go, while someone with hearing difficulties might miss the warning altogether.



Fire-safety technology offers additional ways to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Interconnected smoke alarms activate together when one detects smoke, allowing a warning to reach other parts of the home without waiting for smoke to spread to each detector.



Compatible systems can also incorporate flashing strobe lights or vibrating pads placed beneath pillows, providing another way to alert someone who may not hear an audible alarm. Brooks Australia is among the manufacturers offering these options, including visual alert accessories and bedside vibration systems.



Ms Brand sums up the value of interconnection simply: “You want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke.”



While these devices can help people receive a warning, they cannot necessarily overcome the confusion or difficulty interpreting danger that some people with dementia experience. Families therefore need to consider how a person is likely to respond, as well as how they will be alerted.



Making the Escape Plan Fit the Person



Families often adjust a home gradually as an older relative's needs change. Loose rugs are removed, bathroom handrails installed and furniture rearranged to make moving around easier. Fire safety deserves the same attention, particularly when someone may need help leaving the house quickly.



Ms Brand encourages families to approach an escape plan much as they would fall prevention.



“We’d also encourage families to think about a fire escape plan the same way they’d think about a fall prevention plan — walk through it together, practice it, and make sure it's realistic for the person’s current abilities, not the abilities they had five years ago,” she says.



For someone using a walking frame, that could mean ensuring hallways remain clear and doors can be opened easily. In other households, the greater concern may be whether a person will recognise an exit or remember what to do when frightened.



Overnight arrangements deserve particular thought, including who could provide assistance if someone cannot evacuate independently. Rehearsing an escape route can help, but a plan should not depend entirely on a person with dementia remembering instructions during an emergency.



Small Changes Worth Making Now



A home fire-safety review need not involve major renovations. Testing smoke alarms, checking their age and location, clearing escape routes and keeping combustible materials away from heaters and cooking areas are sensible starting points.



Where someone has hearing loss, visual or vibrating alerts may provide an additional warning. Households supporting someone with dementia or significant mobility limitations may also benefit from discussing their arrangements with carers, relevant health professionals or qualified fire-safety installers.



There is a timely reason for Queensland homeowners to review their existing alarms. From 1 January 2027, the final stage of the state's smoke-alarm reforms will apply to remaining domestic dwellings, including existing owner-occupied homes. Required alarms must be interconnected and installed in prescribed locations, including every bedroom and relevant hallways.



Meeting those requirements provides an important foundation, although families may need additional measures depending on who lives in the home.



A Conversation Before It Becomes an Emergency



As Australia's dementia population grows, more families will face the challenge of helping loved ones remain safe while preserving as much independence as possible. Fire safety belongs in that conversation, alongside the everyday adjustments that make a home easier and safer to live in.



“We want families, carers and aged care providers to feel empowered to have this conversation early, rather than waiting for a near miss to prompt change,” Ms Brand says.



For families, a useful starting point is to walk through the home together, check the alarms and consider what would happen if a fire started while everyone was asleep.



The important question is whether the people living there would have the warning, understanding and assistance they need to get out safely.



Published 9-Oct-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[A Days Road Shopfront Gets a Third Life as ‘A Team Deli’]]></title>
<link>https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/a-days-road-shopfront-gets-a-third-life-as-a-team-deli</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 08 Oct 2026 03:47:14 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[A Team Deli]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Allen Kao]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[banana bread cold foam]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane northside cafes]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Cavalier Coffee Roasters]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Days Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[former antique shop]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[former bakery]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Grange]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Grange Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Japanese-inspired beef curry sandwich]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[new cafe Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[sandwich shop]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wilston Grange]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wilston Grange News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wilstongrangenews.com.au/?page_id=27150</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
What do you do with a Grange shopfront that has already been a bakery and an antique shop? A Team Deli's answer is a Japanese-inspired beef curry sandwich, served to the Wilston Grange area.



Read: Cockatoos Take Centre Stage In Brisbane 2032 Olympic And Paralympic Emblems



One Address, Three Lives



Photo Credit: A Team Deli/ Facebook



Think about what a neighbour might have walked into this building to buy over the years. Bread came first, then antiques. Now it is a toasted sandwich and a coffee.



The street has its own long history, too. According to Queensland Places, a tram service began running along Days Road in 1928, and a shopping area grew up near where the line ended. The road has been part of the neighbourhood's daily routine for nearly a century, and A Team Deli hopes to join it.&nbsp;



What is on the Board?



Photo Credit: A Team Deli/ Facebook



Start with the beef curry sandwich. It layers slow-cooked beef, pickled onions, American cheese and curry mayo between toasted sourdough. Allen Kao, who runs the cafe, told The Weekend Edition that the curry is thick enough to hold the meat in place.&nbsp;



Sauce is a big part of the story. Kao told the outlet that bread and fillings matter, but sauce gives a sandwich its character, and every sauce here is made in-house. The AT sauce is a good example, blending barbecue sauce with the cafe's herby mayo. Kao says it adds a touch of sweet acidity.



The rest of the menu covers plenty of ground. Banana bread and crumpets come with house-made cinnamon butter, and there is a bacon and egg muffin, a marinated chicken melt and a fig jam toastie. Shortly before the Oct. 6 report, three fresh ciabatta sandwiches joined the lineup: New York-style chopped beef brisket, peppercorn mortadella with stracciatella, and a chicken caesar.



Read: How Brisbane’s Specialist Trophoblast Centre Supports Women With Molar Pregnancies



A Menu that Keeps Moving



Regulars should expect a board that looks different from one month to the next. Kao plans to add something new every month, and he intends to show the thinking behind each addition on Instagram. He told The Weekend Edition his cafe is meant to feel creative, and that he drew on Australia's mix of cultures when pairing classic deli sandwiches with flavours from elsewhere.



About 50 seats are spread across the interior, deck and footpath, so a quick takeaway and a long catch-up both fit. Inside, a Scandi-inspired fit-out features a stainless steel coffee counter and light oak timber furniture.



Cavalier Coffee Roasters supplies the beans. Along with espresso drinks, the cafe pours iced lattes topped with banana bread cold foam and a Mont Blanc finished with pistachio cold foam.



Kao, a former co-owner of Better Day in Hendra according to The Weekend Edition, told the outlet he believes the local community likes to try new things. He hopes people find the cafe enjoyable and relaxing, and wants it to become part of their daily routine.







Published Date 08-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
What do you do with a Grange shopfront that has already been a bakery and an antique shop? A Team Deli's answer is a Japanese-inspired beef curry sandwich, served to the Wilston Grange area.



Read: Cockatoos Take Centre Stage In Brisbane 2032 Olympic And Paralympic Emblems



One Address, Three Lives



Photo Credit: A Team Deli/ Facebook



Think about what a neighbour might have walked into this building to buy over the years. Bread came first, then antiques. Now it is a toasted sandwich and a coffee.



The street has its own long history, too. According to Queensland Places, a tram service began running along Days Road in 1928, and a shopping area grew up near where the line ended. The road has been part of the neighbourhood's daily routine for nearly a century, and A Team Deli hopes to join it.&nbsp;



What is on the Board?



Photo Credit: A Team Deli/ Facebook



Start with the beef curry sandwich. It layers slow-cooked beef, pickled onions, American cheese and curry mayo between toasted sourdough. Allen Kao, who runs the cafe, told The Weekend Edition that the curry is thick enough to hold the meat in place.&nbsp;



Sauce is a big part of the story. Kao told the outlet that bread and fillings matter, but sauce gives a sandwich its character, and every sauce here is made in-house. The AT sauce is a good example, blending barbecue sauce with the cafe's herby mayo. Kao says it adds a touch of sweet acidity.



The rest of the menu covers plenty of ground. Banana bread and crumpets come with house-made cinnamon butter, and there is a bacon and egg muffin, a marinated chicken melt and a fig jam toastie. Shortly before the Oct. 6 report, three fresh ciabatta sandwiches joined the lineup: New York-style chopped beef brisket, peppercorn mortadella with stracciatella, and a chicken caesar.



Read: How Brisbane’s Specialist Trophoblast Centre Supports Women With Molar Pregnancies



A Menu that Keeps Moving



Regulars should expect a board that looks different from one month to the next. Kao plans to add something new every month, and he intends to show the thinking behind each addition on Instagram. He told The Weekend Edition his cafe is meant to feel creative, and that he drew on Australia's mix of cultures when pairing classic deli sandwiches with flavours from elsewhere.



About 50 seats are spread across the interior, deck and footpath, so a quick takeaway and a long catch-up both fit. Inside, a Scandi-inspired fit-out features a stainless steel coffee counter and light oak timber furniture.



Cavalier Coffee Roasters supplies the beans. Along with espresso drinks, the cafe pours iced lattes topped with banana bread cold foam and a Mont Blanc finished with pistachio cold foam.



Kao, a former co-owner of Better Day in Hendra according to The Weekend Edition, told the outlet he believes the local community likes to try new things. He hopes people find the cafe enjoyable and relaxing, and wants it to become part of their daily routine.







Published Date 08-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Wooloowin and Kalinga Memoir Recalls Forgotten Kedron Brook Swimming Holes]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wooloowin-and-kalinga-memoir-recalls-forgotten-kendron-brook-swimming-holes</link>
<media:content url="https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/11/Swimming-Hole.png" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 02 Nov 2026 09:19:14 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane clay pits]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane local history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eagle Junction State School]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Frank Charlton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kalinga Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron Brook]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nundah and Districts Historical Society]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wooloowin history]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=26242</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Wooloowin and Kalinga residents who stroll beside Kedron Brook today may be surprised that a Clayfield man’s memoir describes a deep swimming hole at Kalinga Park where most local boys learned to swim.



Read: Clayfield Families Reminded of School Zone Parking Rules as Council Releases Safer Schools Program



Frank Charlton lived almost all his life in Clayfield and wrote down his recollections in a manuscript titled “Clayfield as I have seen it”. Born in 1898 and dying in 1982, he described the district as he knew it in boyhood, so the scenes belong mainly to the early 1900s. The Nundah and Districts Historical Society holds a copy and shared an excerpt online, which is the only account of these swimming spots found for this story.



A Brooke Hole Where Boys Learned to Swim&nbsp;



According to the society’s excerpt, Charlton called the spot The Isleton. He put it at about 25 yards across, with deep water right up to the bank. He also recalled that boys from Eagle Junction State School would hurry there at lunchtime, though he judged the walk to be close to a mile.&nbsp;



The school itself is well documented, and Council’s heritage record shows it opened in July 1895 as Clayfield School and took its present name in 1901. Nothing in that record mentions swimming, so the lunchtime habit rests on Charlton’s word alone.



What Kalinga Park's Records Do and Don't Show



The park’s history offers a clue but no proof. A 1999 Historical Society booklet written for Council says the Goeldner families settled at Eagle Junction in 1863, and that the Toombul Shire Council later bought a large block facing the brook.&nbsp;



It also records an auction of 182 lots in the Goeldner-Isleston Estates in October 1911, and the booklet’s authors speculate that an older name, Isles Town, could refer to the Isleston Estate. Charlton’s spelling is Isleton. Nothing found confirms that the swimming hole took its name from the estate, or places it at a particular bend of the brook.



The Clay Pit Between Oriel Road and Reeve Street&nbsp;



Charlton’s second site was The Pit, an old clay excavation in Clayfield between Oriel Road and Reeve Street, roughly from Montpelier Street to Bartley Street. He recalled that it was not fenced until about 1911, when a small boy drowned, and that swimmers swung out on a rope hung from a gum tree on the Reeve Street side.&nbsp;



He also reported that the pit was said to be 30 feet deep and to have filled during the 1893 floods, leaving old machinery on the bottom. Charlton was born years after that flood, so he was relaying what others had told him about its cause.



Brickmaking History and the Unanswered Questions



So what can be said for certain? Council’s heritage record for 71 Oriel Road confirms that fine clay was mined in Albion from the 1860s and that brickworks stood between Oriel Road and Reeve Street near Sandgate Road. The area came to be known as the clay fields. The setting fits what Charlton describes.&nbsp;



The record does not mention a flooded pit, a rope swing or a drowning, and no newspaper report of a drowning has yet been located. The 1893 floods are well documented across Brisbane, yet nothing found shows they filled this particular pit.



Read: Brisbane Airport Auction Gives Lost Property a Second Chance for Charity



From Clay Working to a Suburb of Homes&nbsp;



Council notes that development opportunities followed the closure of the brickworks, and its figures show Clayfield’s population growing from 2049 in 1911 to 10,006 in 2011. The ground once dug for clay is now streets and homes, while the land beside the brook is parkland. Nothing in the records suggests Kedron Brook is a recommended place to swim today, so anyone walking its banks should follow Council signage.



Published Date 31-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Wooloowin and Kalinga residents who stroll beside Kedron Brook today may be surprised that a Clayfield man’s memoir describes a deep swimming hole at Kalinga Park where most local boys learned to swim.



Read: Clayfield Families Reminded of School Zone Parking Rules as Council Releases Safer Schools Program



Frank Charlton lived almost all his life in Clayfield and wrote down his recollections in a manuscript titled “Clayfield as I have seen it”. Born in 1898 and dying in 1982, he described the district as he knew it in boyhood, so the scenes belong mainly to the early 1900s. The Nundah and Districts Historical Society holds a copy and shared an excerpt online, which is the only account of these swimming spots found for this story.



A Brooke Hole Where Boys Learned to Swim&nbsp;



According to the society’s excerpt, Charlton called the spot The Isleton. He put it at about 25 yards across, with deep water right up to the bank. He also recalled that boys from Eagle Junction State School would hurry there at lunchtime, though he judged the walk to be close to a mile.&nbsp;



The school itself is well documented, and Council’s heritage record shows it opened in July 1895 as Clayfield School and took its present name in 1901. Nothing in that record mentions swimming, so the lunchtime habit rests on Charlton’s word alone.



What Kalinga Park's Records Do and Don't Show



The park’s history offers a clue but no proof. A 1999 Historical Society booklet written for Council says the Goeldner families settled at Eagle Junction in 1863, and that the Toombul Shire Council later bought a large block facing the brook.&nbsp;



It also records an auction of 182 lots in the Goeldner-Isleston Estates in October 1911, and the booklet’s authors speculate that an older name, Isles Town, could refer to the Isleston Estate. Charlton’s spelling is Isleton. Nothing found confirms that the swimming hole took its name from the estate, or places it at a particular bend of the brook.



The Clay Pit Between Oriel Road and Reeve Street&nbsp;



Charlton’s second site was The Pit, an old clay excavation in Clayfield between Oriel Road and Reeve Street, roughly from Montpelier Street to Bartley Street. He recalled that it was not fenced until about 1911, when a small boy drowned, and that swimmers swung out on a rope hung from a gum tree on the Reeve Street side.&nbsp;



He also reported that the pit was said to be 30 feet deep and to have filled during the 1893 floods, leaving old machinery on the bottom. Charlton was born years after that flood, so he was relaying what others had told him about its cause.



Brickmaking History and the Unanswered Questions



So what can be said for certain? Council’s heritage record for 71 Oriel Road confirms that fine clay was mined in Albion from the 1860s and that brickworks stood between Oriel Road and Reeve Street near Sandgate Road. The area came to be known as the clay fields. The setting fits what Charlton describes.&nbsp;



The record does not mention a flooded pit, a rope swing or a drowning, and no newspaper report of a drowning has yet been located. The 1893 floods are well documented across Brisbane, yet nothing found shows they filled this particular pit.



Read: Brisbane Airport Auction Gives Lost Property a Second Chance for Charity



From Clay Working to a Suburb of Homes&nbsp;



Council notes that development opportunities followed the closure of the brickworks, and its figures show Clayfield’s population growing from 2049 in 1911 to 10,006 in 2011. The ground once dug for clay is now streets and homes, while the land beside the brook is parkland. Nothing in the records suggests Kedron Brook is a recommended place to swim today, so anyone walking its banks should follow Council signage.



Published Date 31-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:12:32 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland’s Smoke Alarm Deadline Is Near — Is Your Family Really Protected?]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 03:57:57 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 01:47:27 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 01:43:34 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Teen Formally Indicted for Murder Over Greg Josephson's Death in Clayfield]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/teen-formally-indicted-for-murder-over-greg-josephsons-death-in-clayfield</link>
<media:content url="https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/QPS-1.png" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 19 Oct 2026 01:03:37 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane court proceedings]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield murder case]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Greg Josephson]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Greg Josephson indictment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Greg Josephson murder]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Oriel Road Clayfield]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Supreme Court]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[teenager charged with murder]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Universal Store co-founder]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=26191</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A teenager accused of murdering Clayfield businessman and Universal Store co-founder Greg Josephson at his home has been formally indicted, with the case continuing through the Queensland Supreme Court.



Read: Update: Police Renew Appeal in Greg Josephson Homicide Investigation 



The Crown presented a single count of murder on Thursday, 15 October 2026. Justice Peter Callaghan adjourned proceedings until 26 November for a further review. The accused, now 16, was not present in court and remains in custody on remand. No plea has been entered.



Fatal stabbing at Clayfield home



Mr Josephson, 58, was found dead at his Oriel Road residence on 26 June 2025, during a gathering attended by approximately 30 teenagers. Police were called to the property at around 8:15 p.m. and subsequently charged a 15-year-old boy, who was known to Mr Josephson, with murder.



The teenager was arrested a few streets away after calling triple-0. Police later sought CCTV and dashcam footage from nearby roads, including Oriel Road, Alexandra Road and Barlow Street, as part of Operation Xray Matte.



Court hearing involved 104 witness statements



The case was committed to the Supreme Court following proceedings in the Brisbane Childrens Court in June 2026.



During the committal hearing, defence lawyer Kris Jahnke told the court that 104 witness statements had been submitted. He consented to the case proceeding to trial in the Supreme Court, while the teenager declined to present evidence or enter a plea.



Businessman farewelled in Clayfield



Mr Josephson co-founded Universal Store with his brother Michael in 1999, building the fashion retailer into a national business before its sale to private equity investors in 2018. He later pursued other business interests, including hospitality and property ventures in Queensland.



Hundreds of family members, friends and colleagues gathered at St Agatha's Catholic Church in Clayfield on 14 July 2025 to farewell the father of three. The church is a short distance from the Oriel Road property where he died.



Read: Case of Clayfield Businessman’s Death Moves to Supreme Court



November court review ahead



The Supreme Court is scheduled to review the case on 26 November 2026, with no trial date publicly confirmed.



The teenager remains on remand. The murder charge has not been determined at trial, and the accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.



Published 17-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A teenager accused of murdering Clayfield businessman and Universal Store co-founder Greg Josephson at his home has been formally indicted, with the case continuing through the Queensland Supreme Court.



Read: Update: Police Renew Appeal in Greg Josephson Homicide Investigation 



The Crown presented a single count of murder on Thursday, 15 October 2026. Justice Peter Callaghan adjourned proceedings until 26 November for a further review. The accused, now 16, was not present in court and remains in custody on remand. No plea has been entered.



Fatal stabbing at Clayfield home



Mr Josephson, 58, was found dead at his Oriel Road residence on 26 June 2025, during a gathering attended by approximately 30 teenagers. Police were called to the property at around 8:15 p.m. and subsequently charged a 15-year-old boy, who was known to Mr Josephson, with murder.



The teenager was arrested a few streets away after calling triple-0. Police later sought CCTV and dashcam footage from nearby roads, including Oriel Road, Alexandra Road and Barlow Street, as part of Operation Xray Matte.



Court hearing involved 104 witness statements



The case was committed to the Supreme Court following proceedings in the Brisbane Childrens Court in June 2026.



During the committal hearing, defence lawyer Kris Jahnke told the court that 104 witness statements had been submitted. He consented to the case proceeding to trial in the Supreme Court, while the teenager declined to present evidence or enter a plea.



Businessman farewelled in Clayfield



Mr Josephson co-founded Universal Store with his brother Michael in 1999, building the fashion retailer into a national business before its sale to private equity investors in 2018. He later pursued other business interests, including hospitality and property ventures in Queensland.



Hundreds of family members, friends and colleagues gathered at St Agatha's Catholic Church in Clayfield on 14 July 2025 to farewell the father of three. The church is a short distance from the Oriel Road property where he died.



Read: Case of Clayfield Businessman’s Death Moves to Supreme Court



November court review ahead



The Supreme Court is scheduled to review the case on 26 November 2026, with no trial date publicly confirmed.



The teenager remains on remand. The murder charge has not been determined at trial, and the accused is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.



Published 17-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Clayfield Families Reminded of School Zone Parking Rules as Council Releases Safer Schools Program]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/clayfield-families-reminded-of-school-zone-parking-rules-as-council-releases-safer-schools-program</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2026 03:03:14 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=26163</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Parking illegally near a school can bring a fine or even a tow, and the Safer Schools Program is a timely reminder for Clayfield families at schools such as Eagle Junction State School and St Rita’s College.



Read: St Rita’s College Included in Catholic Schools Ballot Amid Union Pay Concerns



What the Program Is About



Photo Credit: CrJuliaDixon/ Facebook



The council has released its Safer Schools Program for Term 4. Three principles guide it: data driven compliance, safety and impact, and education, engagement and enforcement. If it follows the pattern of earlier terms, the focus is parking. Council notices sent to other Brisbane schools describe officers patrolling nearby streets on foot and in marked vehicles. The vehicles use number plate recognition and GPS to flag alleged offences. According to those notices, a school joins the program after council receives more reports of illegal parking in the area.



How the Principles Could Work



Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council



Picture the three principles as a loop. Reports and observed breaches point officers to trouble spots. Spots where driver behaviour puts children and pedestrians at risk then move to the front of the queue. Reminders, conversations with school communities and, where warranted, fines follow.&nbsp;



That last step has solid backing. Queensland Government guidance says drivers who overstay a two-minute drop-off zone can be fined, and council says it may fine or tow a vehicle parked illegally or hazardously.



What the Schools Already Do



Eagle Junction State School runs a supervised pick-up zone, according to its school newsletters. Council has also surveyed the school’s parents through its Active School Travel program, which supports walking and riding to school. St Rita’s College keeps its message simple. It asks every driver who visits the campus, whether staff, parents or students, to follow traffic and parking laws and keep access clear for local residents.



Read: Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn’t Enough



What It Means for Clayfield



Who hasn’t been tempted to pull over for just a minute at pick-up? The rules exist because stopping in the wrong place puts children walking between cars at risk. A few habits go a long way. Check the signs before stopping, use the signed loading zone, and move on within two minutes. Keep neighbours’ driveways clear as well. Anyone worried about a badly parked vehicle near a school can report it to council on 07 3403 8888.



Published Date 15-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Parking illegally near a school can bring a fine or even a tow, and the Safer Schools Program is a timely reminder for Clayfield families at schools such as Eagle Junction State School and St Rita’s College.



Read: St Rita’s College Included in Catholic Schools Ballot Amid Union Pay Concerns



What the Program Is About



Photo Credit: CrJuliaDixon/ Facebook



The council has released its Safer Schools Program for Term 4. Three principles guide it: data driven compliance, safety and impact, and education, engagement and enforcement. If it follows the pattern of earlier terms, the focus is parking. Council notices sent to other Brisbane schools describe officers patrolling nearby streets on foot and in marked vehicles. The vehicles use number plate recognition and GPS to flag alleged offences. According to those notices, a school joins the program after council receives more reports of illegal parking in the area.



How the Principles Could Work



Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council



Picture the three principles as a loop. Reports and observed breaches point officers to trouble spots. Spots where driver behaviour puts children and pedestrians at risk then move to the front of the queue. Reminders, conversations with school communities and, where warranted, fines follow.&nbsp;



That last step has solid backing. Queensland Government guidance says drivers who overstay a two-minute drop-off zone can be fined, and council says it may fine or tow a vehicle parked illegally or hazardously.



What the Schools Already Do



Eagle Junction State School runs a supervised pick-up zone, according to its school newsletters. Council has also surveyed the school’s parents through its Active School Travel program, which supports walking and riding to school. St Rita’s College keeps its message simple. It asks every driver who visits the campus, whether staff, parents or students, to follow traffic and parking laws and keep access clear for local residents.



Read: Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn’t Enough



What It Means for Clayfield



Who hasn’t been tempted to pull over for just a minute at pick-up? The rules exist because stopping in the wrong place puts children walking between cars at risk. A few habits go a long way. Check the signs before stopping, use the signed loading zone, and move on within two minutes. Keep neighbours’ driveways clear as well. Anyone worried about a badly parked vehicle near a school can report it to council on 07 3403 8888.



Published Date 15-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Airport Auction Gives Lost Property a Second Chance for Charity]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/brisbane-airport-auction-gives-lost-property-a-second-chance-for-charity</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2026 00:30:42 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[auctions]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Airport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Airport Auction]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=26154</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Thousands of forgotten belongings left behind by travellers at Brisbane Airport could help support sick and injured children, with all proceeds from the airport’s annual lost property auction set to benefit the Children’s Hospital Foundation.







Read: Brisbane Airport Brings Back Its Beloved Therapy Dogs for School Holidays







Almost 700 lots are available, offering buyers the chance to bid on everything from laptops and smartwatches to surfboards, jewellery, and unusual oversized belongings. The auction gives unclaimed items another chance to be useful while raising funds for a cause supporting families across Queensland.



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport 







Brisbane Airport announced the auction on 12 October, following a year in which about 25 million passengers travelled through the airport. Online bidding is scheduled to conclude on 8 November 2026, with a livestreamed auction marking the end of the sale.



Brisbane Airport chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff said the fundraiser would help the Children’s Hospital Foundation support young patients receiving hospital care and their families.



“Every dollar raised through our Lost Property Auction will support the Children’s Hospital Foundation and its work supporting Queensland’s youngest patients receiving hospital care and their families,” he said.



From forgotten luggage to a fundraising opportunity



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport 



The auction’s proceeds will support the Children’s Hospital Foundation’s work funding medical research, equipment, and programs aimed at improving care and outcomes for children.



Foundation chief executive Lyndsey Rice said the partnership would turn unclaimed belongings into support for children and families facing difficult circumstances.



The annual sale is supported by Lloyds Auctions, which is donating its services to the fundraiser. The catalogue includes electronics, personal accessories, outdoor equipment and a range of unusual items. Hundreds of electronic devices are among the offerings, including laptops, tablets, mobile phones, gaming consoles, headphones, and smartwatches.



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport 







Luxury perfumes, jewellery, and brand-new boots also feature, alongside camping gear, bicycles, electric scooters, surfboards and power tools. Some of the more surprising items include a boat’s outboard engine, a vehicle towbar, a sewing machine, a Christmas tree and a radio-controlled helicopter.



The collection also includes bulky belongings that Brisbane Airport said may have been overweight or impractical to take aboard an aircraft.



Aviation history and an unusual artwork join the lots



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport 



Collectors have another reason to browse the catalogue, with parts from a Fokker F28 Friendship aircraft included in the auction. The aircraft was repurposed as the centrepiece of Brisbane Airport’s Fellowship Place. Items on offer include its nose cone, pilot’s seat, control yoke, instruments and parts of the control panel, providing a chance to acquire a piece of Brisbane aviation history.



An artwork known as Sparkly Brain will also go under the hammer. Created by Brisbane artist Rachel Burke, the sculpture was commissioned by the Children’s Hospital Foundation for its 10th birthday to recognise a decade of neurological care and research at Queensland Children’s Hospital. The foundation has donated the piece to the auction.



Other offerings include VIP sports packages, signed sporting memorabilia, an airport airside tour and a year of free airport parking. Buyers should check the individual auction listings for the conditions and availability of specific packages and offers. De Graaff said the sale could appeal to people searching for electronics, jewellery or something to inspire a new hobby ahead of Christmas.







Read: Wooloowin Family Walk Ends in Surprise $1.21m Home Purchase







The catalogue and online bidding details are available through Brisbane Airport’s auction page, where prospective buyers can review the lots and any applicable conditions before bidding. Beyond the unusual finds and potential bargains, the fundraiser gives forgotten belongings a new purpose, helping support sick and injured children and their families across Queensland.



How to take part: Browse the lots and check bidding details at https://bne.com.au/auction. The auction is scheduled to conclude on 8 November 2026.



Published 15-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Thousands of forgotten belongings left behind by travellers at Brisbane Airport could help support sick and injured children, with all proceeds from the airport’s annual lost property auction set to benefit the Children’s Hospital Foundation.







Read: Brisbane Airport Brings Back Its Beloved Therapy Dogs for School Holidays







Almost 700 lots are available, offering buyers the chance to bid on everything from laptops and smartwatches to surfboards, jewellery, and unusual oversized belongings. The auction gives unclaimed items another chance to be useful while raising funds for a cause supporting families across Queensland.



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport 







Brisbane Airport announced the auction on 12 October, following a year in which about 25 million passengers travelled through the airport. Online bidding is scheduled to conclude on 8 November 2026, with a livestreamed auction marking the end of the sale.



Brisbane Airport chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff said the fundraiser would help the Children’s Hospital Foundation support young patients receiving hospital care and their families.



“Every dollar raised through our Lost Property Auction will support the Children’s Hospital Foundation and its work supporting Queensland’s youngest patients receiving hospital care and their families,” he said.



From forgotten luggage to a fundraising opportunity



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport 



The auction’s proceeds will support the Children’s Hospital Foundation’s work funding medical research, equipment, and programs aimed at improving care and outcomes for children.



Foundation chief executive Lyndsey Rice said the partnership would turn unclaimed belongings into support for children and families facing difficult circumstances.



The annual sale is supported by Lloyds Auctions, which is donating its services to the fundraiser. The catalogue includes electronics, personal accessories, outdoor equipment and a range of unusual items. Hundreds of electronic devices are among the offerings, including laptops, tablets, mobile phones, gaming consoles, headphones, and smartwatches.



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport 







Luxury perfumes, jewellery, and brand-new boots also feature, alongside camping gear, bicycles, electric scooters, surfboards and power tools. Some of the more surprising items include a boat’s outboard engine, a vehicle towbar, a sewing machine, a Christmas tree and a radio-controlled helicopter.



The collection also includes bulky belongings that Brisbane Airport said may have been overweight or impractical to take aboard an aircraft.



Aviation history and an unusual artwork join the lots



Photo credit: Brisbane Airport 



Collectors have another reason to browse the catalogue, with parts from a Fokker F28 Friendship aircraft included in the auction. The aircraft was repurposed as the centrepiece of Brisbane Airport’s Fellowship Place. Items on offer include its nose cone, pilot’s seat, control yoke, instruments and parts of the control panel, providing a chance to acquire a piece of Brisbane aviation history.



An artwork known as Sparkly Brain will also go under the hammer. Created by Brisbane artist Rachel Burke, the sculpture was commissioned by the Children’s Hospital Foundation for its 10th birthday to recognise a decade of neurological care and research at Queensland Children’s Hospital. The foundation has donated the piece to the auction.



Other offerings include VIP sports packages, signed sporting memorabilia, an airport airside tour and a year of free airport parking. Buyers should check the individual auction listings for the conditions and availability of specific packages and offers. De Graaff said the sale could appeal to people searching for electronics, jewellery or something to inspire a new hobby ahead of Christmas.







Read: Wooloowin Family Walk Ends in Surprise $1.21m Home Purchase







The catalogue and online bidding details are available through Brisbane Airport’s auction page, where prospective buyers can review the lots and any applicable conditions before bidding. Beyond the unusual finds and potential bargains, the fundraiser gives forgotten belongings a new purpose, helping support sick and injured children and their families across Queensland.



How to take part: Browse the lots and check bidding details at https://bne.com.au/auction. The auction is scheduled to conclude on 8 November 2026.



Published 15-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn't Enough]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/dementia-and-home-fire-safety-when-a-smoke-alarm-isnt-enough/dementia-and-home-fire-safety-when-a-smoke-alarm-isnt-enough</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 12 Oct 2026 04:43:17 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/dementia-and-home-fire-safety-when-a-smoke-alarm-isnt-enough/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


According to Dementia Australia, an estimated 446,500 Australians are living with dementia in 2026, and that number is projected to exceed one million by 2065. For families caring for a parent, partner or loved one, keeping them safe at home involves plenty of everyday considerations. One that can easily be overlooked is what happens if a fire breaks out.



Most of us know what a smoke alarm means. We hear it, recognise the danger and understand that we need to get out. For someone living with dementia, however, that familiar sound may cause confusion rather than prompt an immediate response, particularly if they are woken suddenly in the middle of the night.



Hearing loss and reduced mobility can complicate matters further. Someone may not hear the warning clearly or may need assistance to reach an exit, even in a home they have lived in for decades.



Families supporting older relatives often spend considerable time thinking about medication, mobility and preventing falls. Fire safety deserves a place in those conversations too, especially when a person's needs are changing.



The Risks Behind the Numbers



An Australian study examining 900 preventable residential fire deaths between 2003 and 2017 found that nearly 47 per cent of those who died had at least one identified disability. When researchers excluded cases where disability status could not be established, that proportion rose to approximately 62 per cent.



Although the findings cover a broad range of disabilities rather than dementia alone, they raise an important consideration for households: a working smoke alarm is only one part of keeping people safe. Someone must also be able to recognise the danger and respond, which may be difficult when memory, hearing or mobility is affected.



Cathy Brand, CEO of Australian fire-safety company Brooks Australia, says household protection needs to reflect the abilities of the people living there.



“An alarm only works if the person can actually hear it, see it and understand what it means. For someone living with dementia, that’s not always the case,” Ms Brand says.



When a Familiar Sound Becomes Confusing



Dementia affects people differently, and the changes are not always obvious. Someone who manages comfortably during the day may struggle with an unexpected alarm or decisions that need to be made quickly.



An alarm sounding overnight can be especially disorienting. Even a person who knows the layout of their home may become uncertain about which way to go, while someone with hearing difficulties might miss the warning altogether.



Fire-safety technology offers additional ways to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Interconnected smoke alarms activate together when one detects smoke, allowing a warning to reach other parts of the home without waiting for smoke to spread to each detector.



Compatible systems can also incorporate flashing strobe lights or vibrating pads placed beneath pillows, providing another way to alert someone who may not hear an audible alarm. Brooks Australia is among the manufacturers offering these options, including visual alert accessories and bedside vibration systems.



Ms Brand sums up the value of interconnection simply: “You want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke.”



While these devices can help people receive a warning, they cannot necessarily overcome the confusion or difficulty interpreting danger that some people with dementia experience. Families therefore need to consider how a person is likely to respond, as well as how they will be alerted.



Making the Escape Plan Fit the Person



Families often adjust a home gradually as an older relative's needs change. Loose rugs are removed, bathroom handrails installed and furniture rearranged to make moving around easier. Fire safety deserves the same attention, particularly when someone may need help leaving the house quickly.



Ms Brand encourages families to approach an escape plan much as they would fall prevention.



“We’d also encourage families to think about a fire escape plan the same way they’d think about a fall prevention plan — walk through it together, practice it, and make sure it's realistic for the person’s current abilities, not the abilities they had five years ago,” she says.



For someone using a walking frame, that could mean ensuring hallways remain clear and doors can be opened easily. In other households, the greater concern may be whether a person will recognise an exit or remember what to do when frightened.



Overnight arrangements deserve particular thought, including who could provide assistance if someone cannot evacuate independently. Rehearsing an escape route can help, but a plan should not depend entirely on a person with dementia remembering instructions during an emergency.



Small Changes Worth Making Now



A home fire-safety review need not involve major renovations. Testing smoke alarms, checking their age and location, clearing escape routes and keeping combustible materials away from heaters and cooking areas are sensible starting points.



Where someone has hearing loss, visual or vibrating alerts may provide an additional warning. Households supporting someone with dementia or significant mobility limitations may also benefit from discussing their arrangements with carers, relevant health professionals or qualified fire-safety installers.



There is a timely reason for Queensland homeowners to review their existing alarms. From 1 January 2027, the final stage of the state's smoke-alarm reforms will apply to remaining domestic dwellings, including existing owner-occupied homes. Required alarms must be interconnected and installed in prescribed locations, including every bedroom and relevant hallways.



Meeting those requirements provides an important foundation, although families may need additional measures depending on who lives in the home.



A Conversation Before It Becomes an Emergency



As Australia's dementia population grows, more families will face the challenge of helping loved ones remain safe while preserving as much independence as possible. Fire safety belongs in that conversation, alongside the everyday adjustments that make a home easier and safer to live in.



“We want families, carers and aged care providers to feel empowered to have this conversation early, rather than waiting for a near miss to prompt change,” Ms Brand says.



For families, a useful starting point is to walk through the home together, check the alarms and consider what would happen if a fire started while everyone was asleep.



The important question is whether the people living there would have the warning, understanding and assistance they need to get out safely.



Published 9-Oct-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


According to Dementia Australia, an estimated 446,500 Australians are living with dementia in 2026, and that number is projected to exceed one million by 2065. For families caring for a parent, partner or loved one, keeping them safe at home involves plenty of everyday considerations. One that can easily be overlooked is what happens if a fire breaks out.



Most of us know what a smoke alarm means. We hear it, recognise the danger and understand that we need to get out. For someone living with dementia, however, that familiar sound may cause confusion rather than prompt an immediate response, particularly if they are woken suddenly in the middle of the night.



Hearing loss and reduced mobility can complicate matters further. Someone may not hear the warning clearly or may need assistance to reach an exit, even in a home they have lived in for decades.



Families supporting older relatives often spend considerable time thinking about medication, mobility and preventing falls. Fire safety deserves a place in those conversations too, especially when a person's needs are changing.



The Risks Behind the Numbers



An Australian study examining 900 preventable residential fire deaths between 2003 and 2017 found that nearly 47 per cent of those who died had at least one identified disability. When researchers excluded cases where disability status could not be established, that proportion rose to approximately 62 per cent.



Although the findings cover a broad range of disabilities rather than dementia alone, they raise an important consideration for households: a working smoke alarm is only one part of keeping people safe. Someone must also be able to recognise the danger and respond, which may be difficult when memory, hearing or mobility is affected.



Cathy Brand, CEO of Australian fire-safety company Brooks Australia, says household protection needs to reflect the abilities of the people living there.



“An alarm only works if the person can actually hear it, see it and understand what it means. For someone living with dementia, that’s not always the case,” Ms Brand says.



When a Familiar Sound Becomes Confusing



Dementia affects people differently, and the changes are not always obvious. Someone who manages comfortably during the day may struggle with an unexpected alarm or decisions that need to be made quickly.



An alarm sounding overnight can be especially disorienting. Even a person who knows the layout of their home may become uncertain about which way to go, while someone with hearing difficulties might miss the warning altogether.



Fire-safety technology offers additional ways to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Interconnected smoke alarms activate together when one detects smoke, allowing a warning to reach other parts of the home without waiting for smoke to spread to each detector.



Compatible systems can also incorporate flashing strobe lights or vibrating pads placed beneath pillows, providing another way to alert someone who may not hear an audible alarm. Brooks Australia is among the manufacturers offering these options, including visual alert accessories and bedside vibration systems.



Ms Brand sums up the value of interconnection simply: “You want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke.”



While these devices can help people receive a warning, they cannot necessarily overcome the confusion or difficulty interpreting danger that some people with dementia experience. Families therefore need to consider how a person is likely to respond, as well as how they will be alerted.



Making the Escape Plan Fit the Person



Families often adjust a home gradually as an older relative's needs change. Loose rugs are removed, bathroom handrails installed and furniture rearranged to make moving around easier. Fire safety deserves the same attention, particularly when someone may need help leaving the house quickly.



Ms Brand encourages families to approach an escape plan much as they would fall prevention.



“We’d also encourage families to think about a fire escape plan the same way they’d think about a fall prevention plan — walk through it together, practice it, and make sure it's realistic for the person’s current abilities, not the abilities they had five years ago,” she says.



For someone using a walking frame, that could mean ensuring hallways remain clear and doors can be opened easily. In other households, the greater concern may be whether a person will recognise an exit or remember what to do when frightened.



Overnight arrangements deserve particular thought, including who could provide assistance if someone cannot evacuate independently. Rehearsing an escape route can help, but a plan should not depend entirely on a person with dementia remembering instructions during an emergency.



Small Changes Worth Making Now



A home fire-safety review need not involve major renovations. Testing smoke alarms, checking their age and location, clearing escape routes and keeping combustible materials away from heaters and cooking areas are sensible starting points.



Where someone has hearing loss, visual or vibrating alerts may provide an additional warning. Households supporting someone with dementia or significant mobility limitations may also benefit from discussing their arrangements with carers, relevant health professionals or qualified fire-safety installers.



There is a timely reason for Queensland homeowners to review their existing alarms. From 1 January 2027, the final stage of the state's smoke-alarm reforms will apply to remaining domestic dwellings, including existing owner-occupied homes. Required alarms must be interconnected and installed in prescribed locations, including every bedroom and relevant hallways.



Meeting those requirements provides an important foundation, although families may need additional measures depending on who lives in the home.



A Conversation Before It Becomes an Emergency



As Australia's dementia population grows, more families will face the challenge of helping loved ones remain safe while preserving as much independence as possible. Fire safety belongs in that conversation, alongside the everyday adjustments that make a home easier and safer to live in.



“We want families, carers and aged care providers to feel empowered to have this conversation early, rather than waiting for a near miss to prompt change,” Ms Brand says.



For families, a useful starting point is to walk through the home together, check the alarms and consider what would happen if a fire started while everyone was asleep.



The important question is whether the people living there would have the warning, understanding and assistance they need to get out safely.



Published 9-Oct-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[St Rita's College Included in Catholic Schools Ballot Amid Union Pay Concerns]]></title>
<link>https://clayfieldnews.com.au/st-ritas-college-included-in-catholic-schools-ballot-amid-union-pay-concerns</link>
<media:content url="https://clayfieldnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Clayfield-St-Ritas-College.png" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2026 03:41:04 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Catholic school pay dispute]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clayfield Catholic schools]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Independent Education Union]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Catholic schools ballot]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[reproductive health leave]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school officer wages]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school staff enterprise agreement]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[St Rita's College staff]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[St. Rita’s College]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Clayfield News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://clayfieldnews.com.au/?page_id=26122</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Pay differences between Queensland and interstate Catholic school employees have become part of a workplace dispute involving St Rita's College in Clayfield, where eligible staff will vote on a new enterprise agreement. The proposed package also includes reproductive health leave provisions that the education union considers too restrictive.



Read: When Clayfield Was the End of the Line for Brisbane’s Northern Travellers  





St Rita's College appears in the official Religious Institute Schools employer list. The agreement was released on 8 October 2026, with employees scheduled to cast their votes online between 19 and 29 October.



School officer wages remain contested



The Independent Education Union claims that some Queensland Catholic school classroom assistants receive between 10 and 25 per cent less than comparable employees in New South Wales Catholic schools. It has sought changes to classification structures as well as improvements to teacher salaries, workloads and other workplace entitlements.



An earlier advisory ballot conducted among union members produced a 94 per cent rejection of the employers' offer, according to the union. The forthcoming formal vote is separate and will be open to all eligible employees covered by the proposed agreement, regardless of union membership.



Five days of leave under restricted conditions



Clause 8.19 of the proposed Catholic school agreements provides up to five days of paid reproductive health leave each calendar year for eligible employees. The entitlement would not accumulate annually, with part-time and term-time staff receiving a proportionate allowance and casual employees excluded.



Eligibility would require an employee to be absent because of chronic symptoms associated with at least one of eight listed conditions or procedures: endometriosis, adenomyosis, dysmenorrhoea, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hysterectomy, menopause, perimenopause or prostate disease.



A further restriction applies to accumulated personal or carer's leave. Full-time employees must have fewer than 10 days remaining, while part-time and term-time staff must have less than a proportionately adjusted balance. Employees would also need to meet the agreement's notification and evidence requirements.



IVF included in public-sector leave provisions



Queensland public-sector employees have had access to up to 10 working days of paid reproductive health leave annually since 30 September 2024. The entitlement includes fertility treatment such as IVF, chronic reproductive health conditions, preventative screening and specified medical procedures, without requiring employees to exhaust other types of leave first.



Photo Credit: Pixabay



The Catholic school proposals do not expressly include IVF among the qualifying reasons for the new reproductive leave entitlement. Other existing leave arrangements may remain available for medical treatment or appointments, depending on the circumstances. The proposed agreements also provide for accumulated personal or carer's leave to be used for preventative medical advice or treatment, including reproductive health screening.&nbsp;



Union raises pay gaps and workload concerns



The Independent Education Union Queensland and Northern Territory has sought reproductive health leave comparable to the public-sector entitlement, alongside improvements in wages and working conditions. Its bargaining claims also cover teacher workloads, school officer classifications and recognition of specialist and leadership roles.



The union says some Queensland Catholic school classroom assistants earn between 10 and 25 per cent less than workers performing comparable jobs in New South Wales Catholic schools. It also argues that the proposed agreement does not adequately address increasing teaching workloads or the working conditions of specialist staff.&nbsp;



Catholic school employers have proposed teacher wage increases of four per cent in 2026, followed by 3.5 per cent in both 2027 and 2028. Their package also includes changes to certain school officer and services staff classifications, along with proposed improvements to leave arrangements. The union maintains that the offer does not sufficiently address its outstanding claims.



More than 22,000 employees covered by ballot



According to Catholic Education Queensland, the bargaining arrangements cover more than 22,000 employees across 313 schools. Separate proposed agreements apply to schools operated by diocesan Catholic education authorities and those under Religious Institutes or Ministerial Public Juridic Persons.



The online ballot will run from 19 to 29 October 2026, with eligible employees able to vote whether or not they belong to a union. An agreement must receive majority support from employees casting valid votes and subsequently obtain approval from the Fair Work Commission before taking effect.



Backpay remains contested as vote approaches



Employers say approval during the October ballot would secure their proposed retrospective wage payments, including backpay from 1 July 2026 for teachers. If the agreement is rejected, existing employment conditions would continue while a replacement is pursued.



Read: New 20-Year Vision Maps Out Future Of Kedron Brook



Under the employers' stated approach, backpay following a later successful ballot would begin from the first day of the month in which that vote occurs. The union has criticised the condition, arguing that retrospective wages should remain part of further negotiations rather than depend on approval of the current offer.



Published 9-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Pay differences between Queensland and interstate Catholic school employees have become part of a workplace dispute involving St Rita's College in Clayfield, where eligible staff will vote on a new enterprise agreement. The proposed package also includes reproductive health leave provisions that the education union considers too restrictive.



Read: When Clayfield Was the End of the Line for Brisbane’s Northern Travellers  





St Rita's College appears in the official Religious Institute Schools employer list. The agreement was released on 8 October 2026, with employees scheduled to cast their votes online between 19 and 29 October.



School officer wages remain contested



The Independent Education Union claims that some Queensland Catholic school classroom assistants receive between 10 and 25 per cent less than comparable employees in New South Wales Catholic schools. It has sought changes to classification structures as well as improvements to teacher salaries, workloads and other workplace entitlements.



An earlier advisory ballot conducted among union members produced a 94 per cent rejection of the employers' offer, according to the union. The forthcoming formal vote is separate and will be open to all eligible employees covered by the proposed agreement, regardless of union membership.



Five days of leave under restricted conditions



Clause 8.19 of the proposed Catholic school agreements provides up to five days of paid reproductive health leave each calendar year for eligible employees. The entitlement would not accumulate annually, with part-time and term-time staff receiving a proportionate allowance and casual employees excluded.



Eligibility would require an employee to be absent because of chronic symptoms associated with at least one of eight listed conditions or procedures: endometriosis, adenomyosis, dysmenorrhoea, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hysterectomy, menopause, perimenopause or prostate disease.



A further restriction applies to accumulated personal or carer's leave. Full-time employees must have fewer than 10 days remaining, while part-time and term-time staff must have less than a proportionately adjusted balance. Employees would also need to meet the agreement's notification and evidence requirements.



IVF included in public-sector leave provisions



Queensland public-sector employees have had access to up to 10 working days of paid reproductive health leave annually since 30 September 2024. The entitlement includes fertility treatment such as IVF, chronic reproductive health conditions, preventative screening and specified medical procedures, without requiring employees to exhaust other types of leave first.



Photo Credit: Pixabay



The Catholic school proposals do not expressly include IVF among the qualifying reasons for the new reproductive leave entitlement. Other existing leave arrangements may remain available for medical treatment or appointments, depending on the circumstances. The proposed agreements also provide for accumulated personal or carer's leave to be used for preventative medical advice or treatment, including reproductive health screening.&nbsp;



Union raises pay gaps and workload concerns



The Independent Education Union Queensland and Northern Territory has sought reproductive health leave comparable to the public-sector entitlement, alongside improvements in wages and working conditions. Its bargaining claims also cover teacher workloads, school officer classifications and recognition of specialist and leadership roles.



The union says some Queensland Catholic school classroom assistants earn between 10 and 25 per cent less than workers performing comparable jobs in New South Wales Catholic schools. It also argues that the proposed agreement does not adequately address increasing teaching workloads or the working conditions of specialist staff.&nbsp;



Catholic school employers have proposed teacher wage increases of four per cent in 2026, followed by 3.5 per cent in both 2027 and 2028. Their package also includes changes to certain school officer and services staff classifications, along with proposed improvements to leave arrangements. The union maintains that the offer does not sufficiently address its outstanding claims.



More than 22,000 employees covered by ballot



According to Catholic Education Queensland, the bargaining arrangements cover more than 22,000 employees across 313 schools. Separate proposed agreements apply to schools operated by diocesan Catholic education authorities and those under Religious Institutes or Ministerial Public Juridic Persons.



The online ballot will run from 19 to 29 October 2026, with eligible employees able to vote whether or not they belong to a union. An agreement must receive majority support from employees casting valid votes and subsequently obtain approval from the Fair Work Commission before taking effect.



Backpay remains contested as vote approaches



Employers say approval during the October ballot would secure their proposed retrospective wage payments, including backpay from 1 July 2026 for teachers. If the agreement is rejected, existing employment conditions would continue while a replacement is pursued.



Read: New 20-Year Vision Maps Out Future Of Kedron Brook



Under the employers' stated approach, backpay following a later successful ballot would begin from the first day of the month in which that vote occurs. The union has criticised the condition, arguing that retrospective wages should remain part of further negotiations rather than depend on approval of the current offer.



Published 9-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Ascot State School's iLearn Program Balances Screens and Outdoor Learning]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/ascot-state-school-ilearn-ipad-requirements-2027</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 04:08:12 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ascot education]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ascot school news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ascot State School]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[BYOD Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[digital learning]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[iLearn program]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[primary school technology]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland education]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school device requirements]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school iPad policy]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=12561</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Ascot State School's iLearn program is set to extend its student-owned iPad arrangements across Years 3 to 6 by 2027, while its published policy calls for a balance between digital activities, offline learning, and outdoor play.







Read: New School Crossing Opens at Ascot State School to Improve Safety







The school's 2026 handbook outlines the staged rollout, device specifications and support available to families. It also distinguishes between students who bring their own devices and younger children who use school-provided classroom iPads.



Which students need an iPad?



Photo credit: Pexels/Armin Rimoldi



Ascot State School's  iLearn handbook sets out a staged implementation schedule for its BYOD program. Years 3 and 5 were identified as the first participating groups in 2026. Years 4 and 6 initially had access to existing school devices, including laptops, while Prep to Year 2 students used school-provided iPads in their classrooms.



The handbook scheduled Year 2 to join the BYOD arrangements during 2026. It then identified the beginning of 2027 as the point when all students in Years 3 to 6 would operate under the iPad resourcing model.



The timetable is a published implementation schedule, rather than confirmation of a new policy announcement for 2027. No verified school notice establishes that the program will be discontinued or replaced.



What does the school recommend families buy?



Photo credit: Google Street View



The handbook's device guidance is headed 2026 requirements. For new purchases, it recommends an 11th-generation iPad with Wi-Fi, an 11-inch screen and at least 128GB of storage.



Families with existing devices have other options. The handbook lists compatible older iPads, including eighth-generation standard iPads, fourth-generation iPad Air models and specified iPad Pro models.



Existing devices must meet the school's operating-system requirements. The handbook specifies a minimum of iPadOS 17 in its 2026 guidance and says cellular access must be disabled at school.



Keyboard cases are listed under required accessories because they make writing and classroom work easier. However, the handbook allows a sturdy protective case with a front cover in certain circumstances where a family cannot provide a keyboard case.



Headphones are recommended, although the handbook said they are no longer included on the Year 3 and Year 5 student booklists. A stylus and device insurance are optional purchases. The school said families can buy devices from a retailer of their choice. Its education purchasing portal provides another option, with device bundles and accessories.



Equity support and classroom balance



The handbook also identifies temporary equity iPads for students who need assistance. These devices are made available for a period of time following discussions with families. The school's teaching guidance places digital devices alongside other learning activities rather than treating them as a replacement for classroom interaction.



It says teachers should use professional judgement when planning lessons to balance offline and active learning experiences. The handbook also specifically calls for device use to be balanced with playful and outdoor learning, particularly in Prep and Year 1.



The school describes digital literacy as part of the Australian Curriculum and its approach to preparing students for a digitally enabled society.



National debate does not mean a local ban



Ascot's published approach comes as education ministers reconsider technology use in Australian schools. Ministers met on 2 November 2026. The federal Education Department published its A Digital Detox paper on 4 November, outlining the case for more purposeful technology use.



A ministerial announcement on 5 November said states and territories had agreed to set or consider school screen-time limits. Ministers also agreed to restrict student use of generative AI in primary schools and secondary school assessments.



The announcement does not establish a nationwide prohibition on classroom iPads. Nor does it confirm that Ascot State School must change its existing BYOD arrangements.







Read: Ascot State School: A Century of Learning and Growth







Ministers also decided to return Year 5 NAPLAN writing tests to pen and paper. This is a change to national assessment delivery, not a general restriction on digital classroom activities.



Ascot's handbook provides for all students in Years 3 to 6 to operate under its BYOD iPad model from the beginning of 2027. The school's next published purchasing instructions will be important in confirming whether its existing device specifications remain unchanged.





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  What Ascot families need to know about iLearn devices
  
    Key information from Ascot State School's 2026 iLearn handbook,
    Version 1.0, November 2025.
  

  New iPad purchases
  
    Recommended: 11th-generation iPad.
    Wi-Fi model, 11-inch screen.
    Minimum recommended storage: 128GB.
  

  Existing devices
  
    Compatible older iPad models may be used.
    Devices must meet the school's operating-system requirements.
    Cellular access must be disabled at school.
  

  Accessories
  
    Keyboard cases are listed as required, with a protective-case alternative in certain circumstances.
    Headphones are recommended, subject to the school's device arrangements.
    Styluses and device insurance are optional.
  

  Family purchasing and assistance
  
    Families may purchase from a retailer of their choice.
    The school provides access to an education purchasing portal.
    Temporary equity iPads are available following discussions with families.
  

  
    Important: This information comes from the 2026 handbook,
    not a confirmed 2027 purchasing notice. The school's August 2026 online
    BYOD page also contains accessory wording that differs from the handbook.
    Check the school's latest instructions before purchasing.
  

  
    
      Read the 2026 iLearn handbook
    
  





Published 9-November-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Ascot State School's iLearn program is set to extend its student-owned iPad arrangements across Years 3 to 6 by 2027, while its published policy calls for a balance between digital activities, offline learning, and outdoor play.







Read: New School Crossing Opens at Ascot State School to Improve Safety







The school's 2026 handbook outlines the staged rollout, device specifications and support available to families. It also distinguishes between students who bring their own devices and younger children who use school-provided classroom iPads.



Which students need an iPad?



Photo credit: Pexels/Armin Rimoldi



Ascot State School's  iLearn handbook sets out a staged implementation schedule for its BYOD program. Years 3 and 5 were identified as the first participating groups in 2026. Years 4 and 6 initially had access to existing school devices, including laptops, while Prep to Year 2 students used school-provided iPads in their classrooms.



The handbook scheduled Year 2 to join the BYOD arrangements during 2026. It then identified the beginning of 2027 as the point when all students in Years 3 to 6 would operate under the iPad resourcing model.



The timetable is a published implementation schedule, rather than confirmation of a new policy announcement for 2027. No verified school notice establishes that the program will be discontinued or replaced.



What does the school recommend families buy?



Photo credit: Google Street View



The handbook's device guidance is headed 2026 requirements. For new purchases, it recommends an 11th-generation iPad with Wi-Fi, an 11-inch screen and at least 128GB of storage.



Families with existing devices have other options. The handbook lists compatible older iPads, including eighth-generation standard iPads, fourth-generation iPad Air models and specified iPad Pro models.



Existing devices must meet the school's operating-system requirements. The handbook specifies a minimum of iPadOS 17 in its 2026 guidance and says cellular access must be disabled at school.



Keyboard cases are listed under required accessories because they make writing and classroom work easier. However, the handbook allows a sturdy protective case with a front cover in certain circumstances where a family cannot provide a keyboard case.



Headphones are recommended, although the handbook said they are no longer included on the Year 3 and Year 5 student booklists. A stylus and device insurance are optional purchases. The school said families can buy devices from a retailer of their choice. Its education purchasing portal provides another option, with device bundles and accessories.



Equity support and classroom balance



The handbook also identifies temporary equity iPads for students who need assistance. These devices are made available for a period of time following discussions with families. The school's teaching guidance places digital devices alongside other learning activities rather than treating them as a replacement for classroom interaction.



It says teachers should use professional judgement when planning lessons to balance offline and active learning experiences. The handbook also specifically calls for device use to be balanced with playful and outdoor learning, particularly in Prep and Year 1.



The school describes digital literacy as part of the Australian Curriculum and its approach to preparing students for a digitally enabled society.



National debate does not mean a local ban



Ascot's published approach comes as education ministers reconsider technology use in Australian schools. Ministers met on 2 November 2026. The federal Education Department published its A Digital Detox paper on 4 November, outlining the case for more purposeful technology use.



A ministerial announcement on 5 November said states and territories had agreed to set or consider school screen-time limits. Ministers also agreed to restrict student use of generative AI in primary schools and secondary school assessments.



The announcement does not establish a nationwide prohibition on classroom iPads. Nor does it confirm that Ascot State School must change its existing BYOD arrangements.







Read: Ascot State School: A Century of Learning and Growth







Ministers also decided to return Year 5 NAPLAN writing tests to pen and paper. This is a change to national assessment delivery, not a general restriction on digital classroom activities.



Ascot's handbook provides for all students in Years 3 to 6 to operate under its BYOD iPad model from the beginning of 2027. The school's next published purchasing instructions will be important in confirming whether its existing device specifications remain unchanged.





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  What Ascot families need to know about iLearn devices
  
    Key information from Ascot State School's 2026 iLearn handbook,
    Version 1.0, November 2025.
  

  New iPad purchases
  
    Recommended: 11th-generation iPad.
    Wi-Fi model, 11-inch screen.
    Minimum recommended storage: 128GB.
  

  Existing devices
  
    Compatible older iPad models may be used.
    Devices must meet the school's operating-system requirements.
    Cellular access must be disabled at school.
  

  Accessories
  
    Keyboard cases are listed as required, with a protective-case alternative in certain circumstances.
    Headphones are recommended, subject to the school's device arrangements.
    Styluses and device insurance are optional.
  

  Family purchasing and assistance
  
    Families may purchase from a retailer of their choice.
    The school provides access to an education purchasing portal.
    Temporary equity iPads are available following discussions with families.
  

  
    Important: This information comes from the 2026 handbook,
    not a confirmed 2027 purchasing notice. The school's August 2026 online
    BYOD page also contains accessory wording that differs from the handbook.
    Check the school's latest instructions before purchasing.
  

  
    
      Read the 2026 iLearn handbook
    
  





Published 9-November-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[St Margaret’s Old Girl Annabelle Traves Lands Snoop Dogg Ice Cream Job]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/annabelle-traves-snoop-dogg-ice-cream-taster</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 07:17:03 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Annabelle Traves]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Snoop Dogg ice cream]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=12534</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School Old Girl Annabelle Traves has added an unexpected achievement to her international music career, with the Brisbane-born violinist selected as the first international ice cream taster for Dr. Bombay, the ice cream brand co-founded by rapper Snoop Dogg.







Read: Music Journeys: How St Margaret’s Old Girls Are Inspiring the Next Generation







Traves, who graduated from St Margaret’s in 2014, was chosen from a pool of more than 350,000 applications for the unusual three-month position. Her successful application drew on an unlikely combination of classical music and hip-hop, with a violin performance of one of Snoop Dogg’s best-known collaborations helping her stand out.



The opportunity came through a worldwide recruitment campaign managed by international human resources platform Deel. Applications opened in August and closed on September 18, with the selection process eventually narrowing the field to 50 finalists who were interviewed.



        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Dr. Bombay France (@drbombaysnaxfr)




Traves made it through the competition with a submission that showcased her musical background rather than attempting to demonstrate culinary qualifications. After reaching the final 15, she worked with her grandmother on a violin rendition of Young, Wild &amp; Free, the song by Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa and Bruno Mars.



The approach paid off. Snoop Dogg personally delivered the news of her selection through a recorded video message, while Deel announced her appointment on October 28.



More Than a Celebrity Ice Cream Endorsement



Despite the unusual connection between a classical violinist and a hip-hop star, Traves has joined a business in which Snoop Dogg has a direct commercial interest.



Dr. Bombay Ice Cream launched in the United States in July 2023 through a partnership between Snoop Dogg and food company Happi Co., operating under the Bosslady Foods umbrella. The rapper helped develop the original flavours and has remained involved in the brand beyond lending his name to its promotion.



His son, Cordell Broadus, is also part of the venture. Broadus has described developing the business alongside his father, drawing inspiration from their family's history, including his grandfather's childhood on a Mississippi dairy farm. He has also been involved in the brand's creative direction and marketing.



The partnership combines the family's ideas and public profile with Happi Co.'s experience in food production and retail distribution. For Traves, the appointment is therefore a role with an established ice cream business co-founded by Snoop Dogg, rather than simply a celebrity promotional campaign.



An Ascot Education Before the International Stages



Photo credit: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School



Long before her name became associated with the American rapper's ice cream business, Traves was developing her musical abilities at St Margaret’s in Ascot.



She attended the school from 2008 to 2014, serving as Prefect, Music Captain and Strings Captain in her final year. Her achievements also included the Old Girls’ Association Prize, recognition of her contribution to the school community.



Her musical development had attracted attention even earlier. At 14, she received a scholarship to attend the Rising Stars Program at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and became the youngest member selected for the Australian Youth Orchestra.



During her senior year, Traves toured Europe as a soloist and concertmaster with St Margaret’s Chamber Strings. The group performed in London and Paris, where she also competed at the Llangollen International Music Festival in Wales, winning first place.



After graduating, she completed a Bachelor of Music Performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Her subsequent career included an appointment as concertmaster of the Australian Youth Orchestra in 2018, followed by its international tour the next year.



The violinist has since performed at major venues including Carnegie Hall in New York, Amsterdam's Het Concertgebouw and the Sydney Opera House. She also spent three years, from 2022 to 2025, as concertmaster of André Rieu's Johann Strauss Orchestra and has performed alongside artists including Bruce Springsteen and Delta Goodrem.



A New Challenge Beyond Classical Music



        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Tamron Hall Show (@tamronhallshow)




The ice cream appointment comes with a US$30,000 contract covering three months, equivalent to US$10,000 a month. The position is remote, although international travel is expected to form part of the work as Dr. Bombay looks to develop flavours and explore opportunities in new markets.



The recruitment process also demonstrated the reach of international hiring. Deel facilitated the selection and employment arrangements across more than 130 countries, allowing the company to appoint someone based outside the United States.



Traves, an Australian currently based in Dubai according to recent reporting, initially had concerns about whether she could accept a position connected to a US-based business without an American work visa. Deel completed her onboarding within 48 hours of her accepting the offer, according to her account to SmartCompany.



Her musical training may seem an unusual foundation for a food-related role, but Traves has drawn a comparison between the concentration required in performance and the attention needed to assess flavours.



The new position gives the former Ascot student an opportunity to apply that discipline in a completely different setting, with international food traditions and new ice cream combinations now part of her professional brief.



Australian desserts could also feature in the flavour conversation. Traves has mentioned lamington and pavlova as possibilities worth exploring, potentially bringing a familiar taste of home into Dr. Bombay's international range.




  Annabelle Traves: Career Highlights

  
    
      2008–2014:
      Attended St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot.
    

    
      Age 14:
      Received a scholarship to the Rising Stars Program at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
    

    
      2018:
      Appointed concertmaster of the Australian Youth Orchestra.
    

    
      2019:
      Led the Australian Youth Orchestra on its international tour.
    

    
      2022–2025:
      Served as concertmaster of André Rieu’s Johann Strauss Orchestra.
    

    
      2026:
      Selected as Snoop Dogg’s first international ice cream taster for Dr. Bombay.
    
  



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Published 2-November-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School Old Girl Annabelle Traves has added an unexpected achievement to her international music career, with the Brisbane-born violinist selected as the first international ice cream taster for Dr. Bombay, the ice cream brand co-founded by rapper Snoop Dogg.







Read: Music Journeys: How St Margaret’s Old Girls Are Inspiring the Next Generation







Traves, who graduated from St Margaret’s in 2014, was chosen from a pool of more than 350,000 applications for the unusual three-month position. Her successful application drew on an unlikely combination of classical music and hip-hop, with a violin performance of one of Snoop Dogg’s best-known collaborations helping her stand out.



The opportunity came through a worldwide recruitment campaign managed by international human resources platform Deel. Applications opened in August and closed on September 18, with the selection process eventually narrowing the field to 50 finalists who were interviewed.



        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Dr. Bombay France (@drbombaysnaxfr)




Traves made it through the competition with a submission that showcased her musical background rather than attempting to demonstrate culinary qualifications. After reaching the final 15, she worked with her grandmother on a violin rendition of Young, Wild &amp; Free, the song by Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa and Bruno Mars.



The approach paid off. Snoop Dogg personally delivered the news of her selection through a recorded video message, while Deel announced her appointment on October 28.



More Than a Celebrity Ice Cream Endorsement



Despite the unusual connection between a classical violinist and a hip-hop star, Traves has joined a business in which Snoop Dogg has a direct commercial interest.



Dr. Bombay Ice Cream launched in the United States in July 2023 through a partnership between Snoop Dogg and food company Happi Co., operating under the Bosslady Foods umbrella. The rapper helped develop the original flavours and has remained involved in the brand beyond lending his name to its promotion.



His son, Cordell Broadus, is also part of the venture. Broadus has described developing the business alongside his father, drawing inspiration from their family's history, including his grandfather's childhood on a Mississippi dairy farm. He has also been involved in the brand's creative direction and marketing.



The partnership combines the family's ideas and public profile with Happi Co.'s experience in food production and retail distribution. For Traves, the appointment is therefore a role with an established ice cream business co-founded by Snoop Dogg, rather than simply a celebrity promotional campaign.



An Ascot Education Before the International Stages



Photo credit: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School



Long before her name became associated with the American rapper's ice cream business, Traves was developing her musical abilities at St Margaret’s in Ascot.



She attended the school from 2008 to 2014, serving as Prefect, Music Captain and Strings Captain in her final year. Her achievements also included the Old Girls’ Association Prize, recognition of her contribution to the school community.



Her musical development had attracted attention even earlier. At 14, she received a scholarship to attend the Rising Stars Program at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and became the youngest member selected for the Australian Youth Orchestra.



During her senior year, Traves toured Europe as a soloist and concertmaster with St Margaret’s Chamber Strings. The group performed in London and Paris, where she also competed at the Llangollen International Music Festival in Wales, winning first place.



After graduating, she completed a Bachelor of Music Performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. Her subsequent career included an appointment as concertmaster of the Australian Youth Orchestra in 2018, followed by its international tour the next year.



The violinist has since performed at major venues including Carnegie Hall in New York, Amsterdam's Het Concertgebouw and the Sydney Opera House. She also spent three years, from 2022 to 2025, as concertmaster of André Rieu's Johann Strauss Orchestra and has performed alongside artists including Bruce Springsteen and Delta Goodrem.



A New Challenge Beyond Classical Music



        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Tamron Hall Show (@tamronhallshow)




The ice cream appointment comes with a US$30,000 contract covering three months, equivalent to US$10,000 a month. The position is remote, although international travel is expected to form part of the work as Dr. Bombay looks to develop flavours and explore opportunities in new markets.



The recruitment process also demonstrated the reach of international hiring. Deel facilitated the selection and employment arrangements across more than 130 countries, allowing the company to appoint someone based outside the United States.



Traves, an Australian currently based in Dubai according to recent reporting, initially had concerns about whether she could accept a position connected to a US-based business without an American work visa. Deel completed her onboarding within 48 hours of her accepting the offer, according to her account to SmartCompany.



Her musical training may seem an unusual foundation for a food-related role, but Traves has drawn a comparison between the concentration required in performance and the attention needed to assess flavours.



The new position gives the former Ascot student an opportunity to apply that discipline in a completely different setting, with international food traditions and new ice cream combinations now part of her professional brief.



Australian desserts could also feature in the flavour conversation. Traves has mentioned lamington and pavlova as possibilities worth exploring, potentially bringing a familiar taste of home into Dr. Bombay's international range.




  Annabelle Traves: Career Highlights

  
    
      2008–2014:
      Attended St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot.
    

    
      Age 14:
      Received a scholarship to the Rising Stars Program at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
    

    
      2018:
      Appointed concertmaster of the Australian Youth Orchestra.
    

    
      2019:
      Led the Australian Youth Orchestra on its international tour.
    

    
      2022–2025:
      Served as concertmaster of André Rieu’s Johann Strauss Orchestra.
    

    
      2026:
      Selected as Snoop Dogg’s first international ice cream taster for Dr. Bombay.
    
  



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Published 2-November-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Hendra's Forgotten Swimming Hole and the Mystery of Tuckers Stables]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/hendras-forgotten-swimming-hole-and-the-mystery-of-tuckers-stables</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2026 00:37:13 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ardon Hendra]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ascot horse-racing history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bowley Street Hendra]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eagle Farm Racecourse]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hendra heritage]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hendra history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tuckers swimming hole]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[William James Tucker]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=12526</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A forgotten Hendra swimming hole may offer a glimpse into the suburb’s horse-racing past. In a historical account shared by the Nundah and Districts Historical Society, Frank Charlton recalled a place called Tuckers behind stables in Bowley Street.







Read: Hendra Childcare Centre and Outdoor Sport and Recreation Facility Planned







The society’s Facebook post, titled “Swimming holes that once were,” reproduces an extract from Clayfield as I have seen it, a manuscript by Charlton, who lived most of his life in Clayfield. The society says it received a copy of the work.



According to the extract, Tuckers had a tiny island before the swimming hole was filled in and became part of Hendra Bowling Club. The account provides a glimpse of a former local landmark, although the original manuscript has not been independently examined and the precise location has not been established.



A Bowley Street link to horse racing



Ardon (Photo credit: BCC)



One possible lead lies in the history of a Bowley Street property associated with horse trainer William James Tucker.



Brisbane City Council’s heritage record for Ardon, at 27 Bowley Street, states that the house was built around 1897 or 1898 for Tucker, a former jockey and respected horse trainer. The property was named Ardon around 1903 after one of his better-performing horses.



The Tucker family had strong links to racing, with several of William James Tucker’s sons becoming jockeys. The family retained the property until 1954, according to the heritage record.



The shared surname, street and racing connection make the property relevant to further investigation. They do not, however, establish that Tucker owned the stables mentioned in Charlton’s account or that the swimming hole was located on or near the Ardon property.



Racing stables shaped the district



Tattersalls Lodge (Photo credit: BCC)



Horse racing has a documented history across the wider Ascot and Hendra area. Brisbane City Council’s heritage entry for Tattersalls Lodge, at 110 Yabba Street, Ascot, describes a house built around 1890 by James Clark as a residence associated with one of the area’s early commercial stables near Eagle Farm Racecourse.



The heritage record states that Charles Burton acquired allotments in the Tattersall’s Estate in 1888 and established stables for lease to trainers before selling the property to Clark in 1890. Those stables have since disappeared.



The history provides context for Charlton’s recollection of stables in Hendra, but it does not independently verify the location or ownership of Tuckers.



The bowling-club connection remains uncertain



Charlton’s account said the swimming hole was filled in and became part of Hendra Bowling Club. However, the club’s address is listed as 25 Lethem Street, Hendra, while the historical account places Tuckers behind stables in Bowley Street.



The streets are different, and the material reviewed for this article does not establish how the swimming hole related to the club’s property. Without a historical map, survey plan or other supporting record, the reported connection remains unconfirmed.







Read: Hendra Residents Challenge Mega Childcare Centre on Flood-Prone Site







Brisbane City Archives holds historical maps, street-naming records, council documents and plans that may help researchers investigate the area’s former landscape. Comparing older plans with the locations described in Charlton’s account could help clarify where the swimming hole stood and what happened to the land.



For now, Tuckers survives in a published recollection of Hendra’s past. Its possible connection to the suburb’s racing history offers a promising research lead, but its exact location and eventual fate remain unresolved.



Published 30-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A forgotten Hendra swimming hole may offer a glimpse into the suburb’s horse-racing past. In a historical account shared by the Nundah and Districts Historical Society, Frank Charlton recalled a place called Tuckers behind stables in Bowley Street.







Read: Hendra Childcare Centre and Outdoor Sport and Recreation Facility Planned







The society’s Facebook post, titled “Swimming holes that once were,” reproduces an extract from Clayfield as I have seen it, a manuscript by Charlton, who lived most of his life in Clayfield. The society says it received a copy of the work.



According to the extract, Tuckers had a tiny island before the swimming hole was filled in and became part of Hendra Bowling Club. The account provides a glimpse of a former local landmark, although the original manuscript has not been independently examined and the precise location has not been established.



A Bowley Street link to horse racing



Ardon (Photo credit: BCC)



One possible lead lies in the history of a Bowley Street property associated with horse trainer William James Tucker.



Brisbane City Council’s heritage record for Ardon, at 27 Bowley Street, states that the house was built around 1897 or 1898 for Tucker, a former jockey and respected horse trainer. The property was named Ardon around 1903 after one of his better-performing horses.



The Tucker family had strong links to racing, with several of William James Tucker’s sons becoming jockeys. The family retained the property until 1954, according to the heritage record.



The shared surname, street and racing connection make the property relevant to further investigation. They do not, however, establish that Tucker owned the stables mentioned in Charlton’s account or that the swimming hole was located on or near the Ardon property.



Racing stables shaped the district



Tattersalls Lodge (Photo credit: BCC)



Horse racing has a documented history across the wider Ascot and Hendra area. Brisbane City Council’s heritage entry for Tattersalls Lodge, at 110 Yabba Street, Ascot, describes a house built around 1890 by James Clark as a residence associated with one of the area’s early commercial stables near Eagle Farm Racecourse.



The heritage record states that Charles Burton acquired allotments in the Tattersall’s Estate in 1888 and established stables for lease to trainers before selling the property to Clark in 1890. Those stables have since disappeared.



The history provides context for Charlton’s recollection of stables in Hendra, but it does not independently verify the location or ownership of Tuckers.



The bowling-club connection remains uncertain



Charlton’s account said the swimming hole was filled in and became part of Hendra Bowling Club. However, the club’s address is listed as 25 Lethem Street, Hendra, while the historical account places Tuckers behind stables in Bowley Street.



The streets are different, and the material reviewed for this article does not establish how the swimming hole related to the club’s property. Without a historical map, survey plan or other supporting record, the reported connection remains unconfirmed.







Read: Hendra Residents Challenge Mega Childcare Centre on Flood-Prone Site







Brisbane City Archives holds historical maps, street-naming records, council documents and plans that may help researchers investigate the area’s former landscape. Comparing older plans with the locations described in Charlton’s account could help clarify where the swimming hole stood and what happened to the land.



For now, Tuckers survives in a published recollection of Hendra’s past. Its possible connection to the suburb’s racing history offers a promising research lead, but its exact location and eventual fate remain unresolved.



Published 30-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Sourdough, Seedlings and Crafts: Hendra Neighbours Swap Their Way to Become a WasteSMART Finalist]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/sourdough-seedlings-and-crafts-hendra-neighbours-swap-their-way-to-an-wastesmart-finalists-spot</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 02 Nov 2026 09:35:44 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Apricot Café]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane City Council]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community swap]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Councillors’ Choice Award]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Harvest Cook Create]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hendra]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Julia Dixon]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Melinda Adams]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northside Community Swap]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[produce swap]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[reduce waste]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[SJFC Enviro Club]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[sustainability]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[upcycling]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[WasteSMART Brisbane Awards]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wavell Heights]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=12518</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Melinda Adams spotted a gap on Brisbane’s northside, and her answer, a Hendra community swap where homemade food, seedlings and crafts are traded without a cent, has earned a place among the city’s WasteSMART finalists.



Read: Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn’t Enough



Bring Something, Take Something



Photo Credit: Harvest Cook Create/ Facebook



The idea is easy to explain. People turn up with things they have grown, cooked or made, then head home with something from another person’s table. Fruit, vegetables, herbs and seedlings sit beside sourdough, jams, pickles and cakes. Crochet, jewellery, artwork and handmade household goods fill out the rest. Nobody has to match values or prices.



So what does a jar of preserves get you? Whatever a neighbour has made.



Spotting a Gap on the Northside&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Harvest Cook Create/ Facebook



Adams noticed that Brisbane’s northside had no produce swap like the ones running in other parts of the city. She didn’t rush. She spent months visiting those swaps and doing her research, drawn by the friendly spirit she found there.



Harvest Cook Create – Northside Community Swap launched in October 2024 and recently turned two. Around 50 people now go along to the monthly swaps, which are usually held on the third Saturday of the month at The Beirne Park, also known as T.C. Beirne Park, on Gerler Road in Hendra. Adams organises the events, manages the group’s Facebook page and spreads the word through local businesses and community groups.



Recognition from the Council&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Harvest Cook Create/ Facebook



The swap is one of three finalists in the Councillors’ Choice Award, part of Brisbane City Council’s WasteSMART Brisbane Awards. Hamilton Ward Councillor Julia Dixon nominated it. The awards recognise individuals, community groups, schools and businesses that help prevent waste and recover resources across the city.



Seeing Rubbish as a Resource&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Harvest Cook Create/ Facebook



Members are encouraged to ask a simple question before anything goes in the bin: could this still be useful? Worn-out shirts have become reusable bags. Pots that were headed for the rubbish now hold plants. Surplus produce, spare jars and leftover fabric all get a second look.



Skills change hands too. Gardening tips, cooking know-how, family recipes and traditional crafts get passed along, and sharing in place of buying can help ease a household budget.



Two More Northside Finalists



Hendra is not the only local name on the list. Apricot Café in Wavell Heights, listed by the awards as Apricot Coffee, is a finalist in the Hospitality and Tourism Award for tackling the waste that comes with the daily coffee run. Its Mug Library gives donated mugs a second life, letting customers borrow one for takeaway and bring it back next visit. The awards entry says it keeps more than 3,277 single-use cups out of landfill each year. Customers who bring their own cup get 30 cents off, and the café also uses home-compostable takeaway cups and shows customers how to compost them at home.



Esme, from the café, said the goal is to make cutting waste feel like a normal part of the coffee routine rather than ask anyone to be perfect. Small daily choices add up, she said, and the nomination was a welcome nod for a small team and the customers who help



Read: Skygate Adds New Driving Attraction to Its Entertainment Line-Up



Students are in the mix as well. The SJFC Enviro Club at St John Fisher College in Bracken Ridge is a finalist in the School Award. One of its first wins was getting paper recycling bins into every classroom, paid for by plant propagation and fundraising. The club has also teamed up with 7-Eleven’s coffee cup recycling program, keeping thousands of single-use cups out of landfill. And the leftover coffee grounds? They are made into handmade body scrubs and sold at school markets.



The winners will be announced at a ceremony at Brisbane City Hall on Friday, 20 November.



Published Date 29-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Melinda Adams spotted a gap on Brisbane’s northside, and her answer, a Hendra community swap where homemade food, seedlings and crafts are traded without a cent, has earned a place among the city’s WasteSMART finalists.



Read: Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn’t Enough



Bring Something, Take Something



Photo Credit: Harvest Cook Create/ Facebook



The idea is easy to explain. People turn up with things they have grown, cooked or made, then head home with something from another person’s table. Fruit, vegetables, herbs and seedlings sit beside sourdough, jams, pickles and cakes. Crochet, jewellery, artwork and handmade household goods fill out the rest. Nobody has to match values or prices.



So what does a jar of preserves get you? Whatever a neighbour has made.



Spotting a Gap on the Northside&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Harvest Cook Create/ Facebook



Adams noticed that Brisbane’s northside had no produce swap like the ones running in other parts of the city. She didn’t rush. She spent months visiting those swaps and doing her research, drawn by the friendly spirit she found there.



Harvest Cook Create – Northside Community Swap launched in October 2024 and recently turned two. Around 50 people now go along to the monthly swaps, which are usually held on the third Saturday of the month at The Beirne Park, also known as T.C. Beirne Park, on Gerler Road in Hendra. Adams organises the events, manages the group’s Facebook page and spreads the word through local businesses and community groups.



Recognition from the Council&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Harvest Cook Create/ Facebook



The swap is one of three finalists in the Councillors’ Choice Award, part of Brisbane City Council’s WasteSMART Brisbane Awards. Hamilton Ward Councillor Julia Dixon nominated it. The awards recognise individuals, community groups, schools and businesses that help prevent waste and recover resources across the city.



Seeing Rubbish as a Resource&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Harvest Cook Create/ Facebook



Members are encouraged to ask a simple question before anything goes in the bin: could this still be useful? Worn-out shirts have become reusable bags. Pots that were headed for the rubbish now hold plants. Surplus produce, spare jars and leftover fabric all get a second look.



Skills change hands too. Gardening tips, cooking know-how, family recipes and traditional crafts get passed along, and sharing in place of buying can help ease a household budget.



Two More Northside Finalists



Hendra is not the only local name on the list. Apricot Café in Wavell Heights, listed by the awards as Apricot Coffee, is a finalist in the Hospitality and Tourism Award for tackling the waste that comes with the daily coffee run. Its Mug Library gives donated mugs a second life, letting customers borrow one for takeaway and bring it back next visit. The awards entry says it keeps more than 3,277 single-use cups out of landfill each year. Customers who bring their own cup get 30 cents off, and the café also uses home-compostable takeaway cups and shows customers how to compost them at home.



Esme, from the café, said the goal is to make cutting waste feel like a normal part of the coffee routine rather than ask anyone to be perfect. Small daily choices add up, she said, and the nomination was a welcome nod for a small team and the customers who help



Read: Skygate Adds New Driving Attraction to Its Entertainment Line-Up



Students are in the mix as well. The SJFC Enviro Club at St John Fisher College in Bracken Ridge is a finalist in the School Award. One of its first wins was getting paper recycling bins into every classroom, paid for by plant propagation and fundraising. The club has also teamed up with 7-Eleven’s coffee cup recycling program, keeping thousands of single-use cups out of landfill. And the leftover coffee grounds? They are made into handmade body scrubs and sold at school markets.



The winners will be announced at a ceremony at Brisbane City Hall on Friday, 20 November.



Published Date 29-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:12:44 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland’s Smoke Alarm Deadline Is Near — Is Your Family Really Protected?]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 03:58:09 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 01:47:44 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Airport Plans $400m-Plus Industrial Expansion Across 30 Hectares]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/brisbane-airport-plans-400m-plus-industrial-expansion-across-30-hectares</link>
<media:content url="https://ascotnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/1.png" medium="image"/>
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<pubDate>Sun, 25 Oct 2026 20:40:26 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Airport Industrial Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ascot]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Airport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Airport Corporation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[commercial property]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Future BNE]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[industrial development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tamarind Place]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=12492</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Brisbane Airport is preparing its largest industrial land release, with more than $400 million earmarked for new warehouses and industrial facilities across 30 hectares as available space becomes increasingly scarce.



Read: Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain



Brisbane Airport Corporation announced the three-year program on 21 October, outlining plans to deliver more than 150,000 square metres of industrial space for logistics, warehousing and advanced manufacturing businesses. All existing industrial precincts at the airport are fully occupied, while Brisbane's wider industrial vacancy rate sits at approximately 3 per cent, according to figures cited by the corporation.



Executive General Manager Commercial Scott Norris said the shortage of suitable industrial properties had increased pressure on businesses seeking premises in South East Queensland. The new sites will offer round-the-clock operating capability, access to the Gateway Motorway and other major roads, and proximity to airport operations. Prospective tenants can negotiate purpose-built facilities under lease arrangements of seven years or more.



New Warehouses Planned Along Tamarind Place



Airport Industrial Park on Tamarind Place is among the precincts being developed, with its second stage already attracting commitments from prospective tenants. Released to market in April 2026, Stage 2 involves 27,000 square metres of customisable facilities intended to accommodate up to 10 businesses. Approximately 40 per cent of the lettable area had been pre-committed by October.



Development concepts for six lots include warehouse buildings, two-level offices, loading areas, truck courts and parking facilities. The individual proposals cover sites ranging from approximately 2.2 hectares to 7.1 hectares, although the designs remain subject to change. Construction of the first tenant facilities was expected to commence shortly after the October announcement, with practical completion anticipated by mid-2027. The buildings are targeting a 5 Star Green Star sustainability rating. The completed first stage already accommodates several established operators, including Australia Post, Aramex, Martin Brower, Sadleirs, Tile One and 4WD SupaCentre.



Photo Credit: Google Maps



More Than 600 Businesses On Airport Land



Brisbane Airport's commercial operations extend well beyond its passenger terminals, with more than 600 businesses located across the airport estate. Around 200 tenants occupy building leases covering approximately 450,000 square metres of net lettable area, alongside more than 1.3 million square metres of ground leases.



The corporation has developed more than 120,000 square metres of industrial space over the past five years. Its investment property portfolio is now valued at more than $2.6 billion, having grown by over $500 million in two years. The industrial rollout forms part of Future BNE, a broader investment program exceeding $5 billion, involving more than 150 projects over five years. The program includes upgrades to airport infrastructure and terminals alongside further commercial development.



Read: Hendra Family Says Goodbye to the Home Four Generations Knew



Other plans include a 51-hectare mixed-use precinct opposite the International Terminal, where Costco has secured a 6.7-hectare site for a warehouse and fuel station. The proposed 15,600-square-metre Costco warehouse is scheduled to open in late 2029, while the industrial expansion's next construction milestone remains the first tenant facilities at Airport Industrial Park Stage 2.



Published 24-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Brisbane Airport is preparing its largest industrial land release, with more than $400 million earmarked for new warehouses and industrial facilities across 30 hectares as available space becomes increasingly scarce.



Read: Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain



Brisbane Airport Corporation announced the three-year program on 21 October, outlining plans to deliver more than 150,000 square metres of industrial space for logistics, warehousing and advanced manufacturing businesses. All existing industrial precincts at the airport are fully occupied, while Brisbane's wider industrial vacancy rate sits at approximately 3 per cent, according to figures cited by the corporation.



Executive General Manager Commercial Scott Norris said the shortage of suitable industrial properties had increased pressure on businesses seeking premises in South East Queensland. The new sites will offer round-the-clock operating capability, access to the Gateway Motorway and other major roads, and proximity to airport operations. Prospective tenants can negotiate purpose-built facilities under lease arrangements of seven years or more.



New Warehouses Planned Along Tamarind Place



Airport Industrial Park on Tamarind Place is among the precincts being developed, with its second stage already attracting commitments from prospective tenants. Released to market in April 2026, Stage 2 involves 27,000 square metres of customisable facilities intended to accommodate up to 10 businesses. Approximately 40 per cent of the lettable area had been pre-committed by October.



Development concepts for six lots include warehouse buildings, two-level offices, loading areas, truck courts and parking facilities. The individual proposals cover sites ranging from approximately 2.2 hectares to 7.1 hectares, although the designs remain subject to change. Construction of the first tenant facilities was expected to commence shortly after the October announcement, with practical completion anticipated by mid-2027. The buildings are targeting a 5 Star Green Star sustainability rating. The completed first stage already accommodates several established operators, including Australia Post, Aramex, Martin Brower, Sadleirs, Tile One and 4WD SupaCentre.



Photo Credit: Google Maps



More Than 600 Businesses On Airport Land



Brisbane Airport's commercial operations extend well beyond its passenger terminals, with more than 600 businesses located across the airport estate. Around 200 tenants occupy building leases covering approximately 450,000 square metres of net lettable area, alongside more than 1.3 million square metres of ground leases.



The corporation has developed more than 120,000 square metres of industrial space over the past five years. Its investment property portfolio is now valued at more than $2.6 billion, having grown by over $500 million in two years. The industrial rollout forms part of Future BNE, a broader investment program exceeding $5 billion, involving more than 150 projects over five years. The program includes upgrades to airport infrastructure and terminals alongside further commercial development.



Read: Hendra Family Says Goodbye to the Home Four Generations Knew



Other plans include a 51-hectare mixed-use precinct opposite the International Terminal, where Costco has secured a 6.7-hectare site for a warehouse and fuel station. The proposed 15,600-square-metre Costco warehouse is scheduled to open in late 2029, while the industrial expansion's next construction milestone remains the first tenant facilities at Airport Industrial Park Stage 2.



Published 24-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 01:43:46 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Hendra Family Says Goodbye to the Home Four Generations Knew]]></title>
<link>https://ascotnews.com.au/hendra-family-says-goodbye-to-the-home-four-generations-knew</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 21 Oct 2026 03:26:32 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane real estate]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Cary family]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[character home]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Doomben]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Flemington Street]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Harglad]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hendra]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hendra property]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[historic home]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mary Valley timber]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queenslander]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ray White New Farm]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ascot News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://ascotnews.com.au/?page_id=12479</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
After nearly a century of backyard games, family visits and a shared fence line, one Hendra family is saying goodbye to the Queenslander at the centre of their story.



Read: Handmade Pasta, Charcoal Grills and a Chatty Bar: Dimmi Is Coming to Ascot



A House Built the Slow Way



Photo Credit: Ray White New Farm



Harold Cary built the home at 24 Flemington Street, and the listing dates it to about 1927. He named it Harglad, a mix of his own name and that of his wife, Gladys. His grandson, Colin Miller, says no power tools were used. Heavy timber was cut and drilled by hand, and Miller still can’t work out how his grandfather managed it.



The timber came from a family-owned mill near Amamoor in the Mary Valley, close to Gympie. Cary used the same supply for several other houses around Hendra.



Sawdust in the Family Line&nbsp;



Sawmilling ran deep in the Cary family. Miller’s great-grandfather, Thomas William Cary, was a well-known timber merchant across south-east Queensland. Another family mill stood at Newstead, near the gasworks, with a rail line running through to the wharves. Timber arrived at Bowen Hills, then moved along a siding through Newstead and Teneriffe.



Miller says the Amamoor mill supplied cedar, softwoods and hardwoods. The listing says the softwood finishing timber inside the house came from his great-grandfather’s business, and it describes the frames and trusses as selected hardwood.



Two Homes, One Backyard



Photo Credit: Ray White New Farm



Next door at No. 26, Cary built a house for his mother-in-law. He called it Lenrow, after a cattle property near Roma that belonged to the other side of Miller’s family. After she died, Miller’s parents bought the house from her estate, and that’s where Miller and his siblings grew up. There was no fence between the two backyards. Miller says the three blocks worked like one big family property.



Hendra looked quite different in the 1960s. Miller remembers horses from the nearby Doomben racecourse in the streets and a blacksmith working across the road. In his grandparents’ yard stood a custard apple tree brought from the Roma property. It shed leaves all the time, and the grandchildren earned pocket money by picking them up. They called it the money tree.



Gladys came from country stock. Miller’s great-great-grandfather, Benjamin Rayner, was a pioneer of the Roma district, and she brought that country background to Flemington Street, growing flowers and vegetables. Miller calls his childhood next to his grandparents incredible. He could talk with them about things he didn’t feel able to raise with his parents, who he says were a bit more lenient.



Looking After the Place



Harold died in 1972. Gladys stayed in the house until her death in 1990. Miller’s parents then moved in after deciding to sell No. 26, which kept the family link going. His father died in 2021, and his mother has since died. Miller has looked after the house ever since.



He didn’t want it to sit locked up and quiet. By his count, four generations of the family have been tied to the place, and he says plenty of people value the fact that it hasn’t been tampered with.



What Buyers Will Find



Photo Credit: Ray White New Farm



The home sits on a 599-square-metre corner block with more than 50 metres of frontage on two streets. The listing says the north-east position catches bay breezes. Inside, it describes 3.1-metre ceilings, leadlight glass and handcrafted detailing. The layout takes in three bedrooms, listed as one and a half bathrooms, plus a study, lounge room, dining room and kitchen. Outside are a double carport, a steel shed and a rotary clothesline. The undercroft holds a laundry, a chute and a second shower.



The agent also has concept plans for a six-bedroom version, with a children’s wing, a parents’ retreat, guest quarters and a swimming pool. Any such work would be subject to council approval.



Per the listing, a cafe, a restaurant and a wine bar are within 350 metres, and bus stops are 130 metres away. Hendra State School and TC Beirne Park are about 550 metres from the house, while Racecourse Village and Our Lady Help of Christians are about 850 metres. The CBD is 8 kilometres away, and Brisbane Airport is nine minutes away.



Read: Unclaimed Belongings Up for Auction at Brisbane Airport



Hoping for the Right Next Owners&nbsp;



Selling hasn’t been easy. Miller says he has only ever known this house and the one beside it, and he calls the decision confronting, even though he doesn’t think of himself as emotional. He hopes the buyers will be people who care about the place. Driving past in a few years and wincing at what he sees would be hard to take, he says, and he feels the family has a duty to look after what happens once the house leaves their hands.



Josh Brown of Ray White New Farm is marketing the property. He describes it as a special piece of Brisbane’s history. Interested buyers can contact him on 0403 139 397.







Published Date 21-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
After nearly a century of backyard games, family visits and a shared fence line, one Hendra family is saying goodbye to the Queenslander at the centre of their story.



Read: Handmade Pasta, Charcoal Grills and a Chatty Bar: Dimmi Is Coming to Ascot



A House Built the Slow Way



Photo Credit: Ray White New Farm



Harold Cary built the home at 24 Flemington Street, and the listing dates it to about 1927. He named it Harglad, a mix of his own name and that of his wife, Gladys. His grandson, Colin Miller, says no power tools were used. Heavy timber was cut and drilled by hand, and Miller still can’t work out how his grandfather managed it.



The timber came from a family-owned mill near Amamoor in the Mary Valley, close to Gympie. Cary used the same supply for several other houses around Hendra.



Sawdust in the Family Line&nbsp;



Sawmilling ran deep in the Cary family. Miller’s great-grandfather, Thomas William Cary, was a well-known timber merchant across south-east Queensland. Another family mill stood at Newstead, near the gasworks, with a rail line running through to the wharves. Timber arrived at Bowen Hills, then moved along a siding through Newstead and Teneriffe.



Miller says the Amamoor mill supplied cedar, softwoods and hardwoods. The listing says the softwood finishing timber inside the house came from his great-grandfather’s business, and it describes the frames and trusses as selected hardwood.



Two Homes, One Backyard



Photo Credit: Ray White New Farm



Next door at No. 26, Cary built a house for his mother-in-law. He called it Lenrow, after a cattle property near Roma that belonged to the other side of Miller’s family. After she died, Miller’s parents bought the house from her estate, and that’s where Miller and his siblings grew up. There was no fence between the two backyards. Miller says the three blocks worked like one big family property.



Hendra looked quite different in the 1960s. Miller remembers horses from the nearby Doomben racecourse in the streets and a blacksmith working across the road. In his grandparents’ yard stood a custard apple tree brought from the Roma property. It shed leaves all the time, and the grandchildren earned pocket money by picking them up. They called it the money tree.



Gladys came from country stock. Miller’s great-great-grandfather, Benjamin Rayner, was a pioneer of the Roma district, and she brought that country background to Flemington Street, growing flowers and vegetables. Miller calls his childhood next to his grandparents incredible. He could talk with them about things he didn’t feel able to raise with his parents, who he says were a bit more lenient.



Looking After the Place



Harold died in 1972. Gladys stayed in the house until her death in 1990. Miller’s parents then moved in after deciding to sell No. 26, which kept the family link going. His father died in 2021, and his mother has since died. Miller has looked after the house ever since.



He didn’t want it to sit locked up and quiet. By his count, four generations of the family have been tied to the place, and he says plenty of people value the fact that it hasn’t been tampered with.



What Buyers Will Find



Photo Credit: Ray White New Farm



The home sits on a 599-square-metre corner block with more than 50 metres of frontage on two streets. The listing says the north-east position catches bay breezes. Inside, it describes 3.1-metre ceilings, leadlight glass and handcrafted detailing. The layout takes in three bedrooms, listed as one and a half bathrooms, plus a study, lounge room, dining room and kitchen. Outside are a double carport, a steel shed and a rotary clothesline. The undercroft holds a laundry, a chute and a second shower.



The agent also has concept plans for a six-bedroom version, with a children’s wing, a parents’ retreat, guest quarters and a swimming pool. Any such work would be subject to council approval.



Per the listing, a cafe, a restaurant and a wine bar are within 350 metres, and bus stops are 130 metres away. Hendra State School and TC Beirne Park are about 550 metres from the house, while Racecourse Village and Our Lady Help of Christians are about 850 metres. The CBD is 8 kilometres away, and Brisbane Airport is nine minutes away.



Read: Unclaimed Belongings Up for Auction at Brisbane Airport



Hoping for the Right Next Owners&nbsp;



Selling hasn’t been easy. Miller says he has only ever known this house and the one beside it, and he calls the decision confronting, even though he doesn’t think of himself as emotional. He hopes the buyers will be people who care about the place. Driving past in a few years and wincing at what he sees would be hard to take, he says, and he feels the family has a duty to look after what happens once the house leaves their hands.



Josh Brown of Ray White New Farm is marketing the property. He describes it as a special piece of Brisbane’s history. Interested buyers can contact him on 0403 139 397.







Published Date 21-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[St Anthony’s School Kedron Wins Funding for Five New Classrooms]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/st-anthonys-kedron-five-new-classrooms</link>
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<pubDate>Sun, 01 Nov 2026 23:19:29 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Catholic school development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron classrooms]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron school expansion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland school funding]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[St Anthony’s Primary School]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/?page_id=19090</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
St Anthony’s School in Kedron has secured State funding for a new two-storey learning wing, with five additional classrooms and supporting facilities set to form the next stage of the Catholic primary school's campus development.







Read: A Life in Schools: Kedron Principal Retires After 44 Years of Service







The project will include classrooms designed for Year 4 students, integrated Learning Support areas, a flexible outdoor learning terrace, connecting walkways, and additional student amenities.



The school announced its funding success through its official Facebook page, saying the investment would support its ongoing development and help provide contemporary learning environments for students and families.



Photo credit: Google Street View



The announcement identified two funding sources: the State Capital Assistance Scheme and the External Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme. However, it did not disclose the total construction cost, the amount awarded under either scheme or the school's own financial contribution.



The expansion adds to the facilities of a school that currently enrols 700 students, according to its website. St Anthony’s provides co-educational primary schooling from Prep to Year 6.



New learning spaces for Year 4



Photo credit: Google Street View



The five additional classrooms will be designed to support Year 4 students, while integrated Learning Support areas will form part of the new wing. The development also includes a flexible outdoor learning terrace, giving the school an additional space for outdoor learning activities. Walkways and student amenities are included in the project scope.



The school has described the investment as part of its broader growth journey, with the facilities intended to support its students and families while strengthening its established Kedron community.



St Anthony’s has a long association with the suburb. Brisbane's local heritage register records that the original school opened in Turner Road in 1930, serving children from the local Catholic parish. As enrolments increased, the school moved to a new site at the corner of Turner and Somerset roads in 1951. The latest expansion represents another stage in the development of the school, although no construction timetable has been announced.



Two funding streams support the project



The State Capital Assistance Scheme assists eligible non-state schools with capital works involving new educational facilities, conversions, refurbishments and upgrades. Approved projects receive one-off grants, with applications assessed through designated Capital Assistance Authorities.



The External Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme has a different focus. It helps eligible schools meet certain external infrastructure expenses associated with capital works, including headworks contributions, passenger pick-up and set-down facilities at developing schools and other related infrastructure costs.



Both schemes are administered through designated Capital Assistance Authorities, with Catholic Education Queensland responsible for the Catholic school sector's capital assistance arrangements.







Read: Kedron School Traffic Plan Could Change Parking Beyond School Hours







The funding announcement confirms support through both programs, but the individual allocations and how much each will contribute to the Kedron project have not been publicly established in the material reviewed for this article.



The school has also yet to announce the construction contractor, expected start date or completion timeframe.




  
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  St Anthony’s School Expansion at a Glance

  
    Location: Kedron, Brisbane
    Building: New two-storey learning wing
    Classrooms: Five additional rooms for Year 4 students
    Other facilities: Learning Support areas, outdoor learning terrace, walkways and student amenities
    Funding: State Capital Assistance Scheme and External Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme
  

  
    Not yet disclosed: Total project cost, individual funding allocations, construction commencement and completion dates.
  




Published 2-November-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
St Anthony’s School in Kedron has secured State funding for a new two-storey learning wing, with five additional classrooms and supporting facilities set to form the next stage of the Catholic primary school's campus development.







Read: A Life in Schools: Kedron Principal Retires After 44 Years of Service







The project will include classrooms designed for Year 4 students, integrated Learning Support areas, a flexible outdoor learning terrace, connecting walkways, and additional student amenities.



The school announced its funding success through its official Facebook page, saying the investment would support its ongoing development and help provide contemporary learning environments for students and families.



Photo credit: Google Street View



The announcement identified two funding sources: the State Capital Assistance Scheme and the External Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme. However, it did not disclose the total construction cost, the amount awarded under either scheme or the school's own financial contribution.



The expansion adds to the facilities of a school that currently enrols 700 students, according to its website. St Anthony’s provides co-educational primary schooling from Prep to Year 6.



New learning spaces for Year 4



Photo credit: Google Street View



The five additional classrooms will be designed to support Year 4 students, while integrated Learning Support areas will form part of the new wing. The development also includes a flexible outdoor learning terrace, giving the school an additional space for outdoor learning activities. Walkways and student amenities are included in the project scope.



The school has described the investment as part of its broader growth journey, with the facilities intended to support its students and families while strengthening its established Kedron community.



St Anthony’s has a long association with the suburb. Brisbane's local heritage register records that the original school opened in Turner Road in 1930, serving children from the local Catholic parish. As enrolments increased, the school moved to a new site at the corner of Turner and Somerset roads in 1951. The latest expansion represents another stage in the development of the school, although no construction timetable has been announced.



Two funding streams support the project



The State Capital Assistance Scheme assists eligible non-state schools with capital works involving new educational facilities, conversions, refurbishments and upgrades. Approved projects receive one-off grants, with applications assessed through designated Capital Assistance Authorities.



The External Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme has a different focus. It helps eligible schools meet certain external infrastructure expenses associated with capital works, including headworks contributions, passenger pick-up and set-down facilities at developing schools and other related infrastructure costs.



Both schemes are administered through designated Capital Assistance Authorities, with Catholic Education Queensland responsible for the Catholic school sector's capital assistance arrangements.







Read: Kedron School Traffic Plan Could Change Parking Beyond School Hours







The funding announcement confirms support through both programs, but the individual allocations and how much each will contribute to the Kedron project have not been publicly established in the material reviewed for this article.



The school has also yet to announce the construction contractor, expected start date or completion timeframe.




  
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  St Anthony’s School Expansion at a Glance

  
    Location: Kedron, Brisbane
    Building: New two-storey learning wing
    Classrooms: Five additional rooms for Year 4 students
    Other facilities: Learning Support areas, outdoor learning terrace, walkways and student amenities
    Funding: State Capital Assistance Scheme and External Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme
  

  
    Not yet disclosed: Total project cost, individual funding allocations, construction commencement and completion dates.
  




Published 2-November-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Kedron Park to Host Free Christmas Get-Together for HeartKids Families]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/kedron-park-to-host-free-christmas-get-together-for-heartkids-families</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2026 23:18:58 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bradbury Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Christmas in the Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane community events]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane northside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[childhood heart disease]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Christmas get-together]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[free family events]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[heart families]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[HeartKids]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[kids craft activities]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland families]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/?page_id=19085</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
HeartKids families will gather for a free Christmas get-together at Bradbury Park in Kedron, where children can play, make new friends and craft something to take home.



Read: Mount Alvernia College Scholarships Could Cut Kedron Tuition Fees by Up to $36,000



Brisbane Christmas in the Park runs on Saturday, 21 November, from 10 a.m. to noon. HeartKids is pitching it as a relaxed pre-Christmas event where heart families can connect and socialise.



Photo Credit: HeartKids



Kids get time to play, meet other children and put together a handmade Christmas craft. The organisers haven’t said what the craft will be.



Heart kids and their immediate family pay nothing to attend. They do need to register, though, because the organisers use the numbers to plan the catering. Planning to go? Sign up before the day.



Read: Kedron Metro Expansion Raises Fresh Questions Over Gympie Road Bus Prioritya>



Photo Credit: HeartKids



HeartKids has supported families through childhood heart disease for more than 40 years and runs state-based get-togethers for parents and families. In Queensland, the state’s children’s hospital says it supports more than 6,500 children and young people with heart conditions every year. The charity hopes families will come along for a bit of Christmas cheer and time together.







Published Date 31-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
HeartKids families will gather for a free Christmas get-together at Bradbury Park in Kedron, where children can play, make new friends and craft something to take home.



Read: Mount Alvernia College Scholarships Could Cut Kedron Tuition Fees by Up to $36,000



Brisbane Christmas in the Park runs on Saturday, 21 November, from 10 a.m. to noon. HeartKids is pitching it as a relaxed pre-Christmas event where heart families can connect and socialise.



Photo Credit: HeartKids



Kids get time to play, meet other children and put together a handmade Christmas craft. The organisers haven’t said what the craft will be.



Heart kids and their immediate family pay nothing to attend. They do need to register, though, because the organisers use the numbers to plan the catering. Planning to go? Sign up before the day.



Read: Kedron Metro Expansion Raises Fresh Questions Over Gympie Road Bus Prioritya>



Photo Credit: HeartKids



HeartKids has supported families through childhood heart disease for more than 40 years and runs state-based get-togethers for parents and families. In Queensland, the state’s children’s hospital says it supports more than 6,500 children and young people with heart conditions every year. The charity hopes families will come along for a bit of Christmas cheer and time together.







Published Date 31-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Kedron School Traffic Plan Could Change Parking Beyond School Hours]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/kedron-school-traffic-parking-restrictions</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2026 00:15:40 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane City Council]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Broughton Road Kedron]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron parking restrictions]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron road safety]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron Safer School Precinct]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron school traffic plan]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron traffic changes]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mount Alvernia College]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Padua College]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[St Anthony’s Primary School]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/?page_id=19072</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Kedron residents could face new parking restrictions and altered road access under a proposed school safety plan, while earlier consultation records raise questions about how existing traffic rules will be enforced.



Read: Kedron School Precinct Plan Still In Design Beyond Expected Release



The Kedron Safer School Precinct proposal includes new pedestrian crossings, intersection upgrades and revised parking arrangements around Padua College, Mount Alvernia College and St Anthony's Primary School.



Although some parking changes would apply only during school hours, others could permanently affect where residents and visitors can leave their vehicles. A proposed one-way section of Broughton Road would also change access for some households.



Photo Credit: BCC



Council says the improvements are intended to reduce congestion, improve visibility and make streets safer for students, pedestrians and motorists.



However, its earlier consultation findings identified illegal parking, blocked driveways and dangerous driving among the problems affecting the neighbourhood. 



Some parking restrictions would extend beyond school hours



The proposed precinct design distinguishes between several types of parking controls, with different rules applying according to location and time of day.



Under the October 2026 plan, designated no-parking areas would operate between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m. and between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. on school days.



Two-minute loading zones and 15-minute parking areas would operate during the same periods, while designated bus zones would apply between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. and between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. on school days.



Other restrictions would have a more lasting effect.



The precinct map identifies yellow no-stopping lines near parts of the road network. Unless signs specify otherwise, these prohibit stopping at any time, including weekends and school holidays, subject to applicable road-rule exceptions.



For nearby households, the distinction could affect everyday parking arrangements for residents, family visitors and tradespeople, even when school traffic is absent.



Council says the changes are intended to improve visibility around pedestrian crossings, school entrances and bus stops while reducing conflicts between vehicles.



Its published project documents do not provide a precinct-wide figure showing how many existing unrestricted parking spaces would be permanently removed.




  Kedron parking changes at a glance
  Proposed restrictions near the three-school precinct:

  
    
      
        No parking
        7:00–9:00 a.m. and 2:00–4:00 p.m., school days
      
      
        Two-minute loading
        7:00–9:00 a.m. and 2:00–4:00 p.m., school days
      
      
        15-minute parking
        7:00–9:00 a.m. and 2:00–4:00 p.m., school days
      
      
        Bus zones
        7:30–8:30 a.m. and 3:00–4:00 p.m., school days
      
      
        Yellow no-stopping lines
        Generally apply at all times unless otherwise signed
      
    
  

  
    Proposed arrangements only. Final rules depend on
    the approved design and installed signs.
    Source: Brisbane City Council.
  



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Broughton Road residents face changed access



A separate proposal would make Broughton Road one-way towards Wood Street between Wayland Street and Wood Street.



Council identifies the narrow, steep road as a location where opposing traffic movements create safety concerns. The change is also intended to discourage motorists from using residential streets as shortcuts.



Photo Credit: BCC



In its project information, council acknowledges that some residents may need to travel along different routes when entering or leaving their properties.



The one-way arrangement forms part of wider traffic changes involving Turner Road, Somerset Road, Cremorne Road, Goodall Street and nearby intersections.



Proposed improvements include roundabouts, raised pedestrian crossings, traffic islands and revised road markings designed to reduce speeds and make vehicle movements more predictable.



Council says technical investigations and traffic modelling helped shape the design. However, the published project documents reviewed do not include a street-by-street forecast showing how traffic volumes would change on surrounding roads following the Broughton Road conversion.



The extent to which nearby residential streets could experience altered traffic patterns is therefore not established in the publicly available project material.



Earlier complaints included drivers breaking road rules



The question of enforcement has a history in Kedron's school precinct.



During community consultation in November and December 2024, residents and other road users identified unsafe driving, school pick-up queues and motorists using residential streets to avoid congestion as major concerns. Council received 311 survey responses containing 11,826 pieces of feedback, with more than 80 per cent of survey respondents rating congestion as poor or very poor. Its subsequent consultation report recorded complaints about motorists queuing through intersections, parking illegally and blocking driveways.



Council identified several possible responses, including traffic-calming infrastructure, driver education and working with Queensland Police Service on additional enforcement of road rules. The October 2026 plan includes physical measures intended to influence driver behaviour, such as raised crossings, redesigned intersections and changes to traffic movements.



Council also plans to work with the three schools through its Active School Travel programme to encourage safer journeys and help families adapt to the new arrangements.



Pedestrian improvements form a major part of the plan



Beyond changes affecting motorists, the proposal includes new and upgraded footpaths along Goodall Street, Cremorne Road and Somerset Road. Pedestrian crossing improvements are also proposed along Turner Road, Somerset Road, Cremorne Road, Jardine Street and Wood Street.



Council says the crossings, footpaths and kerb upgrades will improve access to schools and bus stops, particularly for children, families and people with limited mobility.



Changes to bus zones and school pick-up areas are intended to better separate buses, private vehicles and pedestrians during busy arrival and departure periods. The existing stop, drop and go arrangement outside St Anthony's Primary School on Turner Road would remain accessible, while revised two-minute loading areas would serve the surrounding schools.



Council considers the combination of infrastructure improvements and school travel education necessary to reduce reliance on private vehicles and ease congestion. The proposed measures also reflect concerns raised during the earlier consultation about unsafe crossings, speeding and the large number of vehicles using local streets.



Final parking and traffic arrangements remain open for comment



Council has maintained that its priority is improving safety while considering the needs of surrounding households and on-street parking wherever possible. The project remains at the draft stage, with council stating that technical assessments and community feedback will inform the final design.



Residents have until midnight on Sunday, 1 November 2026, to provide feedback on the proposed parking restrictions, street layouts and traffic arrangements. Council says it will review submissions before releasing the final plan and construction details.



Work is expected to begin in December 2026 and continue until approximately mid-2027, subject to final design requirements, weather and site conditions. Construction is expected to be staged, with some activities scheduled during school holidays or outside peak periods where possible to reduce disruption.



Read: Kedron Residents Invited to Review School Safety Plan Ahead of December Works



Residents can examine the detailed precinct map and accompanying project information through the Brisbane City Council website.



Feedback can be submitted by emailing SaferSchoolPrecincts@brisbane.qld.gov.au or contacting the project team on 07 3178 5413 during business hours.



Published 30-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Kedron residents could face new parking restrictions and altered road access under a proposed school safety plan, while earlier consultation records raise questions about how existing traffic rules will be enforced.



Read: Kedron School Precinct Plan Still In Design Beyond Expected Release



The Kedron Safer School Precinct proposal includes new pedestrian crossings, intersection upgrades and revised parking arrangements around Padua College, Mount Alvernia College and St Anthony's Primary School.



Although some parking changes would apply only during school hours, others could permanently affect where residents and visitors can leave their vehicles. A proposed one-way section of Broughton Road would also change access for some households.



Photo Credit: BCC



Council says the improvements are intended to reduce congestion, improve visibility and make streets safer for students, pedestrians and motorists.



However, its earlier consultation findings identified illegal parking, blocked driveways and dangerous driving among the problems affecting the neighbourhood. 



Some parking restrictions would extend beyond school hours



The proposed precinct design distinguishes between several types of parking controls, with different rules applying according to location and time of day.



Under the October 2026 plan, designated no-parking areas would operate between 7:00 and 9:00 a.m. and between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. on school days.



Two-minute loading zones and 15-minute parking areas would operate during the same periods, while designated bus zones would apply between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. and between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. on school days.



Other restrictions would have a more lasting effect.



The precinct map identifies yellow no-stopping lines near parts of the road network. Unless signs specify otherwise, these prohibit stopping at any time, including weekends and school holidays, subject to applicable road-rule exceptions.



For nearby households, the distinction could affect everyday parking arrangements for residents, family visitors and tradespeople, even when school traffic is absent.



Council says the changes are intended to improve visibility around pedestrian crossings, school entrances and bus stops while reducing conflicts between vehicles.



Its published project documents do not provide a precinct-wide figure showing how many existing unrestricted parking spaces would be permanently removed.




  Kedron parking changes at a glance
  Proposed restrictions near the three-school precinct:

  
    
      
        No parking
        7:00–9:00 a.m. and 2:00–4:00 p.m., school days
      
      
        Two-minute loading
        7:00–9:00 a.m. and 2:00–4:00 p.m., school days
      
      
        15-minute parking
        7:00–9:00 a.m. and 2:00–4:00 p.m., school days
      
      
        Bus zones
        7:30–8:30 a.m. and 3:00–4:00 p.m., school days
      
      
        Yellow no-stopping lines
        Generally apply at all times unless otherwise signed
      
    
  

  
    Proposed arrangements only. Final rules depend on
    the approved design and installed signs.
    Source: Brisbane City Council.
  



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Broughton Road residents face changed access



A separate proposal would make Broughton Road one-way towards Wood Street between Wayland Street and Wood Street.



Council identifies the narrow, steep road as a location where opposing traffic movements create safety concerns. The change is also intended to discourage motorists from using residential streets as shortcuts.



Photo Credit: BCC



In its project information, council acknowledges that some residents may need to travel along different routes when entering or leaving their properties.



The one-way arrangement forms part of wider traffic changes involving Turner Road, Somerset Road, Cremorne Road, Goodall Street and nearby intersections.



Proposed improvements include roundabouts, raised pedestrian crossings, traffic islands and revised road markings designed to reduce speeds and make vehicle movements more predictable.



Council says technical investigations and traffic modelling helped shape the design. However, the published project documents reviewed do not include a street-by-street forecast showing how traffic volumes would change on surrounding roads following the Broughton Road conversion.



The extent to which nearby residential streets could experience altered traffic patterns is therefore not established in the publicly available project material.



Earlier complaints included drivers breaking road rules



The question of enforcement has a history in Kedron's school precinct.



During community consultation in November and December 2024, residents and other road users identified unsafe driving, school pick-up queues and motorists using residential streets to avoid congestion as major concerns. Council received 311 survey responses containing 11,826 pieces of feedback, with more than 80 per cent of survey respondents rating congestion as poor or very poor. Its subsequent consultation report recorded complaints about motorists queuing through intersections, parking illegally and blocking driveways.



Council identified several possible responses, including traffic-calming infrastructure, driver education and working with Queensland Police Service on additional enforcement of road rules. The October 2026 plan includes physical measures intended to influence driver behaviour, such as raised crossings, redesigned intersections and changes to traffic movements.



Council also plans to work with the three schools through its Active School Travel programme to encourage safer journeys and help families adapt to the new arrangements.



Pedestrian improvements form a major part of the plan



Beyond changes affecting motorists, the proposal includes new and upgraded footpaths along Goodall Street, Cremorne Road and Somerset Road. Pedestrian crossing improvements are also proposed along Turner Road, Somerset Road, Cremorne Road, Jardine Street and Wood Street.



Council says the crossings, footpaths and kerb upgrades will improve access to schools and bus stops, particularly for children, families and people with limited mobility.



Changes to bus zones and school pick-up areas are intended to better separate buses, private vehicles and pedestrians during busy arrival and departure periods. The existing stop, drop and go arrangement outside St Anthony's Primary School on Turner Road would remain accessible, while revised two-minute loading areas would serve the surrounding schools.



Council considers the combination of infrastructure improvements and school travel education necessary to reduce reliance on private vehicles and ease congestion. The proposed measures also reflect concerns raised during the earlier consultation about unsafe crossings, speeding and the large number of vehicles using local streets.



Final parking and traffic arrangements remain open for comment



Council has maintained that its priority is improving safety while considering the needs of surrounding households and on-street parking wherever possible. The project remains at the draft stage, with council stating that technical assessments and community feedback will inform the final design.



Residents have until midnight on Sunday, 1 November 2026, to provide feedback on the proposed parking restrictions, street layouts and traffic arrangements. Council says it will review submissions before releasing the final plan and construction details.



Work is expected to begin in December 2026 and continue until approximately mid-2027, subject to final design requirements, weather and site conditions. Construction is expected to be staged, with some activities scheduled during school holidays or outside peak periods where possible to reduce disruption.



Read: Kedron Residents Invited to Review School Safety Plan Ahead of December Works



Residents can examine the detailed precinct map and accompanying project information through the Brisbane City Council website.



Feedback can be submitted by emailing SaferSchoolPrecincts@brisbane.qld.gov.au or contacting the project team on 07 3178 5413 during business hours.



Published 30-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Lutwyche Road Clearway Changes Set to Affect Parking and Peak-Hour Travel]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/lutwyche-road-clearway-changes-set-to-affect-parking-and-peak-hour-travel</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2026 13:16:48 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[BCC clearways]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Clearway Action Plan]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron traffic]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lutwyche Road parking]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/?page_id=19066</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Parking restrictions along Lutwyche Road are set to change as BCC prepares to update clearway operating hours between Windsor and Lutwyche, potentially affecting when motorists can park along the busy northside corridor.







Read: Intersection in Kedron a Fines Frenzy with 700+ Notices







The changes are part of the Brisbane Clearway Action Plan, which seeks to improve traffic flow by making kerbside lanes available to moving vehicles during busy periods. BCC has completed a technical review of the route and found that existing clearway hours no longer meet traffic demands.



The section under review extends from Northey Street in Windsor to Kedron Park Road in Lutwyche, near the Kedron boundary. New operating hours have yet to be announced, leaving the precise extent of the parking changes unresolved.



Parking Access and Traffic Flow



Photo credit: Google Street View



Clearways prevent vehicles from parking along designated sections of road during specified hours. When the restrictions are in effect, the kerbside lane can accommodate moving traffic rather than parked vehicles.



Under the proposed changes, existing parking periods could be reduced along affected sections of Lutwyche Road. The impact on individual parking spaces will depend on the revised operating hours and the locations covered by the restrictions.



Businesses with customers who use kerbside parking will need to check the final arrangements once they become available. BCC has not published a detailed breakdown of the new hours or identified which parking locations will be affected.



The plan also targets delays caused by parked vehicles occupying traffic lanes. BCC says keeping these lanes clear can improve road capacity without the need for major infrastructure works such as road widening.



Bus movements are another part of the initiative. According to BCC, clearways can help public transport operate more smoothly by reducing obstructions during periods of heavy traffic. Improved visibility for pedestrians and cyclists is also among the benefits identified in the plan.



Revised Hours Still to Be Announced



BCC has previously extended clearway hours along Musgrave Road and Waterworks Road between Red Hill and The Gap, completing that project in June 2025.



The authority reports that the changes are saving motorists more than 1,000 hours each week, with average travel times reduced by up to 4.1 per cent. Those figures apply to the completed western corridor and do not establish what results Lutwyche Road will achieve.







Read: Lutwyche Road Fast Food Development Receives Design Changes Amid Community Feedback







The Lutwyche Road project remains at the pre-implementation stage, with detailed operating hours and a commencement date still to be released.



Residents and businesses in affected areas will receive project notification newsletters before work begins. BCC also intends to distribute further updates and install temporary roadside signs to alert motorists before the new restrictions take effect.



Motorists should continue to follow existing parking signs until any changes are formally introduced. Further project information is available through BCC's Brisbane Clearway Action Plan webpage.




  
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    Lutwyche Road Clearway: Key Details
  
  
    Road section
    Northey Street, Windsor, to Kedron Park Road, Lutwyche
    Project status
    Technical review completed; operating hours pending
    New clearway hours
    Not yet announced
    Commencement date
    Not yet announced
    Project enquiries
    07 3178 5413 (business hours)
  
  
    
      View the official BCC project information
    
  




Published 29-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Parking restrictions along Lutwyche Road are set to change as BCC prepares to update clearway operating hours between Windsor and Lutwyche, potentially affecting when motorists can park along the busy northside corridor.







Read: Intersection in Kedron a Fines Frenzy with 700+ Notices







The changes are part of the Brisbane Clearway Action Plan, which seeks to improve traffic flow by making kerbside lanes available to moving vehicles during busy periods. BCC has completed a technical review of the route and found that existing clearway hours no longer meet traffic demands.



The section under review extends from Northey Street in Windsor to Kedron Park Road in Lutwyche, near the Kedron boundary. New operating hours have yet to be announced, leaving the precise extent of the parking changes unresolved.



Parking Access and Traffic Flow



Photo credit: Google Street View



Clearways prevent vehicles from parking along designated sections of road during specified hours. When the restrictions are in effect, the kerbside lane can accommodate moving traffic rather than parked vehicles.



Under the proposed changes, existing parking periods could be reduced along affected sections of Lutwyche Road. The impact on individual parking spaces will depend on the revised operating hours and the locations covered by the restrictions.



Businesses with customers who use kerbside parking will need to check the final arrangements once they become available. BCC has not published a detailed breakdown of the new hours or identified which parking locations will be affected.



The plan also targets delays caused by parked vehicles occupying traffic lanes. BCC says keeping these lanes clear can improve road capacity without the need for major infrastructure works such as road widening.



Bus movements are another part of the initiative. According to BCC, clearways can help public transport operate more smoothly by reducing obstructions during periods of heavy traffic. Improved visibility for pedestrians and cyclists is also among the benefits identified in the plan.



Revised Hours Still to Be Announced



BCC has previously extended clearway hours along Musgrave Road and Waterworks Road between Red Hill and The Gap, completing that project in June 2025.



The authority reports that the changes are saving motorists more than 1,000 hours each week, with average travel times reduced by up to 4.1 per cent. Those figures apply to the completed western corridor and do not establish what results Lutwyche Road will achieve.







Read: Lutwyche Road Fast Food Development Receives Design Changes Amid Community Feedback







The Lutwyche Road project remains at the pre-implementation stage, with detailed operating hours and a commencement date still to be released.



Residents and businesses in affected areas will receive project notification newsletters before work begins. BCC also intends to distribute further updates and install temporary roadside signs to alert motorists before the new restrictions take effect.



Motorists should continue to follow existing parking signs until any changes are formally introduced. Further project information is available through BCC's Brisbane Clearway Action Plan webpage.




  
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    Lutwyche Road Clearway: Key Details
  
  
    Road section
    Northey Street, Windsor, to Kedron Park Road, Lutwyche
    Project status
    Technical review completed; operating hours pending
    New clearway hours
    Not yet announced
    Commencement date
    Not yet announced
    Project enquiries
    07 3178 5413 (business hours)
  
  
    
      View the official BCC project information
    
  




Published 29-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:12:36 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland’s Smoke Alarm Deadline Is Near — Is Your Family Really Protected?]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 03:57:58 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Mount Alvernia College Scholarships Could Cut Kedron Tuition Fees by Up to $36,000]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/mount-alvernia-college-scholarships-kedron</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://kedrontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/FI-for-OMC-42.webp"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2026 00:57:21 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[2028 school entry]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[academic scholarships Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ACER scholarship test]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron scholarships]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mount Alvernia College]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[private school fees Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school tuition assistance]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Year 10 scholarships]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Year 7 scholarships]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/?page_id=19054</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Families considering secondary school in Kedron could reduce tuition costs through Mount Alvernia College’s academic scholarship program, which offers eligible students assistance covering 50 to 100 per cent of tuition fees for three years.







Read: Mount Alvernia College Outlines Vision for New Learning Hub at Elizabeth Hayes Building







The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) lists 7 February 2027 as the application closing date and 27 February 2027 as the test date for Mount Alvernia’s cooperative scholarship program. The college lists a $180 ACER registration fee, which families should confirm when applying.



Two entry points for three-year scholarships



Photo credit: Google Maps/Mount Alvernia College



Mount Alvernia offers Level 1 scholarships for students entering Year 7 and Level 2 scholarships for students entering Year 10. The first level covers tuition fees for Years 7 to 9, while the second covers Years 10 to 12.



According to the college’s published scholarship criteria, applicants should demonstrate commitment to academic achievement, support for the school’s ethos and mission, respect for its Student Code of Conduct, and the capacity to act as positive role models.



The college says its program recognises general excellence or high potential in academic disciplines. All academic scholarship awards are at the discretion of the College Principal.



The published policy does not state how many scholarships are available, how award percentages are allocated, or whether recipients must meet specific academic results or other conditions to retain an award. Families should seek clarification from the college before relying on a scholarship in their financial planning.



What the tuition savings could be worth



Photo credit: Google Maps/Mount Alvernia College



Mount Alvernia’s 2026 fee schedule lists annual tuition at $10,490 for Years 7 to 9 and $12,045 for Years 10 to 12.



If those rates remained unchanged for all three years, a 100 per cent tuition scholarship would be worth $31,470 for Years 7 to 9 or $36,135 for Years 10 to 12. At 50 per cent coverage, the equivalent amounts would be $15,735 and $18,067.50.



These are calculations based on 2026 fees, not guaranteed future savings. Tuition rates may change, and the headline figure of up to $36,000 is a rounded description of the higher three-year projection. The actual benefit depends on the scholarship percentage awarded and the fees charged during the relevant years.







Read: Padua College and Mount Alvernia College Announce Expansion Plans in Kedron







The scholarship covers tuition fees only. The college’s 2026 schedule separately lists a $750 annual technology levy, a $150 annual resource levy, a $425 annual capital levy per family and a $120 annual Parent Partnership Levy per family.



Other listed costs include a Year 7 locker padlock and Year 12 formal, graduation and senior tie charges. Families should check the fee schedule for the charges applicable to their child rather than assume these expenses are covered by the award.



How families can apply



Parents or guardians can register through the ACER scholarship portal, create an account, add their child and follow the instructions to apply for the school’s cooperative testing program.



The published dates are 7 February 2027 for applications to close and 27 February for testing. Families should confirm the entry year and all registration requirements before submitting an application.



Mount Alvernia says it contacts prospective candidates after an application has been submitted to provide further details about onsite testing in February.



Scholarship enquiries can be directed to the college’s enrolments team on (07) 3357 6000 or at enrolments@mta.qld.edu.au. Families should ask about award conditions, future tuition increases, non-tuition charges and any separate enrolment requirements before making decisions based on a possible scholarship.




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  Mount Alvernia scholarships at a glance

  Key dates
  
    Applications close: 7 February 2027
    ACER test date: 27 February 2027
    Published registration fee: $180
  

  Potential three-year tuition savings
  
    Years 7–9: $15,735 at 50% or $31,470 at 100%
    Years 10–12: $18,067.50 at 50% or $36,135 at 100%
  

  Calculations use published 2026 tuition rates and assume those rates remain unchanged for three years. Actual awards and future fees may differ.

  Costs outside the scholarship
  
    Technology levy: $750 per year
    Resource levy: $150 per year
    Capital levy: $425 per family per year
    Parent Partnership Levy: $120 per family per year
  

  Scholarships cover tuition fees only. Check the school's scholarship policy and current fee schedule before applying.




Published 27-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Families considering secondary school in Kedron could reduce tuition costs through Mount Alvernia College’s academic scholarship program, which offers eligible students assistance covering 50 to 100 per cent of tuition fees for three years.







Read: Mount Alvernia College Outlines Vision for New Learning Hub at Elizabeth Hayes Building







The Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) lists 7 February 2027 as the application closing date and 27 February 2027 as the test date for Mount Alvernia’s cooperative scholarship program. The college lists a $180 ACER registration fee, which families should confirm when applying.



Two entry points for three-year scholarships



Photo credit: Google Maps/Mount Alvernia College



Mount Alvernia offers Level 1 scholarships for students entering Year 7 and Level 2 scholarships for students entering Year 10. The first level covers tuition fees for Years 7 to 9, while the second covers Years 10 to 12.



According to the college’s published scholarship criteria, applicants should demonstrate commitment to academic achievement, support for the school’s ethos and mission, respect for its Student Code of Conduct, and the capacity to act as positive role models.



The college says its program recognises general excellence or high potential in academic disciplines. All academic scholarship awards are at the discretion of the College Principal.



The published policy does not state how many scholarships are available, how award percentages are allocated, or whether recipients must meet specific academic results or other conditions to retain an award. Families should seek clarification from the college before relying on a scholarship in their financial planning.



What the tuition savings could be worth



Photo credit: Google Maps/Mount Alvernia College



Mount Alvernia’s 2026 fee schedule lists annual tuition at $10,490 for Years 7 to 9 and $12,045 for Years 10 to 12.



If those rates remained unchanged for all three years, a 100 per cent tuition scholarship would be worth $31,470 for Years 7 to 9 or $36,135 for Years 10 to 12. At 50 per cent coverage, the equivalent amounts would be $15,735 and $18,067.50.



These are calculations based on 2026 fees, not guaranteed future savings. Tuition rates may change, and the headline figure of up to $36,000 is a rounded description of the higher three-year projection. The actual benefit depends on the scholarship percentage awarded and the fees charged during the relevant years.







Read: Padua College and Mount Alvernia College Announce Expansion Plans in Kedron







The scholarship covers tuition fees only. The college’s 2026 schedule separately lists a $750 annual technology levy, a $150 annual resource levy, a $425 annual capital levy per family and a $120 annual Parent Partnership Levy per family.



Other listed costs include a Year 7 locker padlock and Year 12 formal, graduation and senior tie charges. Families should check the fee schedule for the charges applicable to their child rather than assume these expenses are covered by the award.



How families can apply



Parents or guardians can register through the ACER scholarship portal, create an account, add their child and follow the instructions to apply for the school’s cooperative testing program.



The published dates are 7 February 2027 for applications to close and 27 February for testing. Families should confirm the entry year and all registration requirements before submitting an application.



Mount Alvernia says it contacts prospective candidates after an application has been submitted to provide further details about onsite testing in February.



Scholarship enquiries can be directed to the college’s enrolments team on (07) 3357 6000 or at enrolments@mta.qld.edu.au. Families should ask about award conditions, future tuition increases, non-tuition charges and any separate enrolment requirements before making decisions based on a possible scholarship.




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  Mount Alvernia scholarships at a glance

  Key dates
  
    Applications close: 7 February 2027
    ACER test date: 27 February 2027
    Published registration fee: $180
  

  Potential three-year tuition savings
  
    Years 7–9: $15,735 at 50% or $31,470 at 100%
    Years 10–12: $18,067.50 at 50% or $36,135 at 100%
  

  Calculations use published 2026 tuition rates and assume those rates remain unchanged for three years. Actual awards and future fees may differ.

  Costs outside the scholarship
  
    Technology levy: $750 per year
    Resource levy: $150 per year
    Capital levy: $425 per family per year
    Parent Partnership Levy: $120 per family per year
  

  Scholarships cover tuition fees only. Check the school's scholarship policy and current fee schedule before applying.




Published 27-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 01:47:30 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Kedron Metro Expansion Raises Fresh Questions Over Gympie Road Bus Priority]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/kedron-metro-expansion-raises-fresh-questions-over-gympie-road-bus-priority</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2026 00:51:05 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane transport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[bus priority lanes]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gympie Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron Metro expansion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northern Metro]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northern Transitway]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[public transport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[RACQ congestion]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/?page_id=19034</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Kedron is part of Brisbane's proposed northern Metro expansion, bringing renewed attention to how buses could move more efficiently along Gympie Road as the city investigates smaller vehicles for suburban routes. Fresh congestion figures show the challenge facing transport planners, even with earlier bus-priority improvements along the corridor.



Read: Kedron Residents Voice Concerns Over Potentially Hazardous Crossing on Gympie Road



On 21 October 2026, RACQ released findings showing that afternoon peak traffic averaged just 25.2 km/h on Gympie Road between Kedron and Beams Road at Carseldine. The same week, Council's investigation into smaller Metro-style vehicles emerged as part of broader planning for public transport expansion across Brisbane.



Gympie Road congestion adds pressure to Metro planning



RACQ's Annual Travel Speeds findings show that congestion added almost nine minutes to the afternoon journey between Kedron and Beams Road. The speed figure covers the full road section and does not measure traffic through Kedron separately.



Across South East Queensland, more than 70 per cent of the major road sections surveyed were slower during 2025 peak periods than in 2019. The results have prompted further calls for coordinated road and public transport investment rather than isolated congestion measures.



Kedron sits along the Northern Metro corridor, which Brisbane City Council is investigating between the CBD and Carseldine, via Lutwyche, Chermside and Aspley. The business case remains in development, with route alignment, infrastructure, depot locations and delivery stages yet to be settled.



Existing bus lanes provide a starting point



Gympie Road is already used by high-frequency bus services, including routes 333 and 340. Translink's route information confirms that the 340 runs between Carseldine and Woolloongabba via the city, serving Kedron stops at Rode Road, Kitchener Road, Strathmore Street and Sadlier Street.



Route 333 also serves Gympie Road through Kedron, linking Chermside with Woolloongabba via the city. Both services use the northern corridor that could be affected by future changes to Metro operations.



Earlier bus-priority planning provides important context. The Northern Transitway was designed for a 2.3-kilometre section of Gympie Road between Sadlier Street in Kedron and Hamilton Road in Chermside, with dedicated bus lanes intended to improve reliability during peak periods.



Under the 2020 final design, the lanes were to operate on weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The design retained stops near Coles at Strathmore and Castle streets following community concerns about access.



The planning also addressed intersections and turning movements, including changes near Boothby Street. Those earlier decisions show how bus travel times, local road access and on-street parking have already competed for space along Gympie Road.



Smaller vehicles remain under investigation



The latest proposal involves investigating smaller Metro-style vehicles that could operate beyond the dedicated busways used by Brisbane's existing Metro fleet. Battery-electric buses are among the options reported to be under consideration, although no vehicle model, procurement decision or deployment timetable has been confirmed.



Smaller vehicles would not automatically eliminate delays at traffic signals or congested intersections. Their ability to offer more reliable journeys through Kedron would depend partly on the corridor design and the priority measures ultimately selected.



The Department of Transport and Main Roads is separately examining transport improvements between Herston and Carseldine through its Gympie Road Planning Program. The work covers road access, safety, active transport, network reliability and congestion.



Read: What You Need to Know About Gympie Road Bus Stops and On-Street Parking Proposal Changes



Final route and delivery timetable still to be decided



Brisbane City Council is developing the Metro expansions business case with Jacobs Group (Australia), covering proposed northern, eastern, southern and airport connections. The assessment will consider infrastructure improvements and delivery stages before final routes are determined.



Infrastructure Australia lists the expansions as a planning investment and identifies a $50 million Australian Government commitment supporting the business-case development. The national assessment does not amount to approval for constructing a Metro route through Kedron.




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Transport snapshotKedron Metro and Gympie Road

RACQ findings — 2025 afternoon peak25.2 km/hAverage speed on Gympie Road between Kedron and Beams Road, Carseldine. The figure covers the full section, not Kedron alone.
Existing public transportRoutes 333 and 340Both serve Gympie Road through Kedron. Route 340 continues to Carseldine station.
Northern Transitway — historic design2.3 kmBus-priority corridor designed between Sadlier Street, Kedron and Hamilton Road, Chermside. The 2020 design specified weekday peak-period bus-lane operation. Current conditions require confirmation.
Proposed Northern MetroUnder investigationCBD to Carseldine via Kedron. No final Metro stop, vehicle type, alignment or service start date confirmed for Kedron.

Sources: RACQ, Brisbane Metro, Translink and TMR historic Northern Transitway planning documents.




The outstanding issue is how future Metro services would differ from buses already using Gympie Road. No final Metro stops, additional bus lanes or traffic-signal changes have been announced specifically for the suburb under the current expansion proposal.Published 23-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Kedron is part of Brisbane's proposed northern Metro expansion, bringing renewed attention to how buses could move more efficiently along Gympie Road as the city investigates smaller vehicles for suburban routes. Fresh congestion figures show the challenge facing transport planners, even with earlier bus-priority improvements along the corridor.



Read: Kedron Residents Voice Concerns Over Potentially Hazardous Crossing on Gympie Road



On 21 October 2026, RACQ released findings showing that afternoon peak traffic averaged just 25.2 km/h on Gympie Road between Kedron and Beams Road at Carseldine. The same week, Council's investigation into smaller Metro-style vehicles emerged as part of broader planning for public transport expansion across Brisbane.



Gympie Road congestion adds pressure to Metro planning



RACQ's Annual Travel Speeds findings show that congestion added almost nine minutes to the afternoon journey between Kedron and Beams Road. The speed figure covers the full road section and does not measure traffic through Kedron separately.



Across South East Queensland, more than 70 per cent of the major road sections surveyed were slower during 2025 peak periods than in 2019. The results have prompted further calls for coordinated road and public transport investment rather than isolated congestion measures.



Kedron sits along the Northern Metro corridor, which Brisbane City Council is investigating between the CBD and Carseldine, via Lutwyche, Chermside and Aspley. The business case remains in development, with route alignment, infrastructure, depot locations and delivery stages yet to be settled.



Existing bus lanes provide a starting point



Gympie Road is already used by high-frequency bus services, including routes 333 and 340. Translink's route information confirms that the 340 runs between Carseldine and Woolloongabba via the city, serving Kedron stops at Rode Road, Kitchener Road, Strathmore Street and Sadlier Street.



Route 333 also serves Gympie Road through Kedron, linking Chermside with Woolloongabba via the city. Both services use the northern corridor that could be affected by future changes to Metro operations.



Earlier bus-priority planning provides important context. The Northern Transitway was designed for a 2.3-kilometre section of Gympie Road between Sadlier Street in Kedron and Hamilton Road in Chermside, with dedicated bus lanes intended to improve reliability during peak periods.



Under the 2020 final design, the lanes were to operate on weekdays from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The design retained stops near Coles at Strathmore and Castle streets following community concerns about access.



The planning also addressed intersections and turning movements, including changes near Boothby Street. Those earlier decisions show how bus travel times, local road access and on-street parking have already competed for space along Gympie Road.



Smaller vehicles remain under investigation



The latest proposal involves investigating smaller Metro-style vehicles that could operate beyond the dedicated busways used by Brisbane's existing Metro fleet. Battery-electric buses are among the options reported to be under consideration, although no vehicle model, procurement decision or deployment timetable has been confirmed.



Smaller vehicles would not automatically eliminate delays at traffic signals or congested intersections. Their ability to offer more reliable journeys through Kedron would depend partly on the corridor design and the priority measures ultimately selected.



The Department of Transport and Main Roads is separately examining transport improvements between Herston and Carseldine through its Gympie Road Planning Program. The work covers road access, safety, active transport, network reliability and congestion.



Read: What You Need to Know About Gympie Road Bus Stops and On-Street Parking Proposal Changes



Final route and delivery timetable still to be decided



Brisbane City Council is developing the Metro expansions business case with Jacobs Group (Australia), covering proposed northern, eastern, southern and airport connections. The assessment will consider infrastructure improvements and delivery stages before final routes are determined.



Infrastructure Australia lists the expansions as a planning investment and identifies a $50 million Australian Government commitment supporting the business-case development. The national assessment does not amount to approval for constructing a Metro route through Kedron.




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Transport snapshotKedron Metro and Gympie Road

RACQ findings — 2025 afternoon peak25.2 km/hAverage speed on Gympie Road between Kedron and Beams Road, Carseldine. The figure covers the full section, not Kedron alone.
Existing public transportRoutes 333 and 340Both serve Gympie Road through Kedron. Route 340 continues to Carseldine station.
Northern Transitway — historic design2.3 kmBus-priority corridor designed between Sadlier Street, Kedron and Hamilton Road, Chermside. The 2020 design specified weekday peak-period bus-lane operation. Current conditions require confirmation.
Proposed Northern MetroUnder investigationCBD to Carseldine via Kedron. No final Metro stop, vehicle type, alignment or service start date confirmed for Kedron.

Sources: RACQ, Brisbane Metro, Translink and TMR historic Northern Transitway planning documents.




The outstanding issue is how future Metro services would differ from buses already using Gympie Road. No final Metro stops, additional bus lanes or traffic-signal changes have been announced specifically for the suburb under the current expansion proposal.Published 23-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain]]></title>
<link>https://kedrontoday.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 01:43:37 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Kedron Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://kedrontoday.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Virginia Residents Invited to Fill a Bag and Support Women in Need Through National Christmas Appeal]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/virginia-residents-invited-to-fill-a-bag-and-support-women-in-need-through-national-christmas-appeal</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 06:29:09 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bunnings Virginia]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Christmas appeal]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Christmas giving]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community donations]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[It's in the Bag]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[period poverty]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland community news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Share the Dignity]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Virginia community]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Virginia QLD]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wavell Heights news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[women's charity]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=22516</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Residents across Virginia have an opportunity to support women and girls experiencing hardship by donating bags filled with essential everyday items through Share the Dignity's annual It's in the Bag campaign at Bunnings Virginia.



Read: Wavell Heights Café Apricot Coffee Named WasteSMART Finalist



A Local Way to Give Back



Photo Credit: Share the Dignity/ Facebook



From 6 to 22 November, Australians are encouraged to prepare and donate bags containing personal care products, period items and other daily essentials as part of the campaign. Donations can be dropped off at Bunnings Virginia, located at 1836 Sandgate Road, alongside collection points at Bunnings stores nationwide.



The appeal has become one of Australia's best-known community giving campaigns during the lead-up to Christmas. While the bags contain practical items, the initiative is designed to provide support and encouragement to women and girls facing homelessness, domestic violence and financial hardship.



What Goes Inside a Bag?



Photo Credit: Share the Dignity/ Facebook



A quick trip to the supermarket or pharmacy can make a meaningful contribution.



The campaign encourages donors to pack an Adult, Teen or Mum &amp; Bub bag, each tailored to different needs. Essential items commonly include shampoo, conditioner, soap or body wash, deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste and unopened period products. Teen bags are identified with yellow ribbons or tags, while Mum &amp; Bub bags use purple identification.



Every item must be new and in its original packaging. The charity also asks supporters not to include prohibited items such as food, drinks or pharmaceuticals.



For many participants, the process goes beyond simply purchasing products. A handwritten note is often included, offering a few words of kindness to someone they will never meet. The campaign describes these messages as an additional gesture of support alongside the practical contents of each bag.



How Donations Reach Those in Need



Photo Credit: Share the Dignity/ Facebook



According to Share the Dignity, donated bags are collected, sorted and distributed through a network of charity partners that support women and girls experiencing difficult circumstances. Distribution is based on need, meaning donations may be directed to communities across Australia rather than remaining in the area where they were collected.



That national reach is one reason the appeal continues to attract support from schools, workplaces, sporting clubs and community organisations. A single donation from a local resident can ultimately assist someone hundreds of kilometres away.



Virginia's Connection to the Campaign



Photo Credit: Share the Dignity/ Facebook



The campaign carries a notable connection to Virginia.



Share the Dignity publicly lists a Virginia postal address and accepts mailed donations through PO Box 345, Virginia, Queensland. Supporters who cannot reach a collection point can also send eligible donations through the post.



For local residents, that connection adds another layer of relevance to a campaign that operates on a national scale while relying heavily on grassroots community participation.



Read: Shoot Gecko Combines Smoked Meats and Café Classics in Virginia



Community Groups Encouraged to Get Involved



Individuals are not the only people being encouraged to participate.



Campaign materials promote packing parties and community donation drives, giving schools, businesses, churches and local groups an opportunity to collect items together before delivering completed bags to a collection point. Organisers say these events help increase awareness of the challenges faced by many women and girls while building a sense of community involvement.



With collection points already operating, local residents have a limited window to prepare a bag and contribute to the appeal before the campaign closes later this month.



Published Date 09-November-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Residents across Virginia have an opportunity to support women and girls experiencing hardship by donating bags filled with essential everyday items through Share the Dignity's annual It's in the Bag campaign at Bunnings Virginia.



Read: Wavell Heights Café Apricot Coffee Named WasteSMART Finalist



A Local Way to Give Back



Photo Credit: Share the Dignity/ Facebook



From 6 to 22 November, Australians are encouraged to prepare and donate bags containing personal care products, period items and other daily essentials as part of the campaign. Donations can be dropped off at Bunnings Virginia, located at 1836 Sandgate Road, alongside collection points at Bunnings stores nationwide.



The appeal has become one of Australia's best-known community giving campaigns during the lead-up to Christmas. While the bags contain practical items, the initiative is designed to provide support and encouragement to women and girls facing homelessness, domestic violence and financial hardship.



What Goes Inside a Bag?



Photo Credit: Share the Dignity/ Facebook



A quick trip to the supermarket or pharmacy can make a meaningful contribution.



The campaign encourages donors to pack an Adult, Teen or Mum &amp; Bub bag, each tailored to different needs. Essential items commonly include shampoo, conditioner, soap or body wash, deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste and unopened period products. Teen bags are identified with yellow ribbons or tags, while Mum &amp; Bub bags use purple identification.



Every item must be new and in its original packaging. The charity also asks supporters not to include prohibited items such as food, drinks or pharmaceuticals.



For many participants, the process goes beyond simply purchasing products. A handwritten note is often included, offering a few words of kindness to someone they will never meet. The campaign describes these messages as an additional gesture of support alongside the practical contents of each bag.



How Donations Reach Those in Need



Photo Credit: Share the Dignity/ Facebook



According to Share the Dignity, donated bags are collected, sorted and distributed through a network of charity partners that support women and girls experiencing difficult circumstances. Distribution is based on need, meaning donations may be directed to communities across Australia rather than remaining in the area where they were collected.



That national reach is one reason the appeal continues to attract support from schools, workplaces, sporting clubs and community organisations. A single donation from a local resident can ultimately assist someone hundreds of kilometres away.



Virginia's Connection to the Campaign



Photo Credit: Share the Dignity/ Facebook



The campaign carries a notable connection to Virginia.



Share the Dignity publicly lists a Virginia postal address and accepts mailed donations through PO Box 345, Virginia, Queensland. Supporters who cannot reach a collection point can also send eligible donations through the post.



For local residents, that connection adds another layer of relevance to a campaign that operates on a national scale while relying heavily on grassroots community participation.



Read: Shoot Gecko Combines Smoked Meats and Café Classics in Virginia



Community Groups Encouraged to Get Involved



Individuals are not the only people being encouraged to participate.



Campaign materials promote packing parties and community donation drives, giving schools, businesses, churches and local groups an opportunity to collect items together before delivering completed bags to a collection point. Organisers say these events help increase awareness of the challenges faced by many women and girls while building a sense of community involvement.



With collection points already operating, local residents have a limited window to prepare a bag and contribute to the appeal before the campaign closes later this month.



Published Date 09-November-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Roadworks Across Five Wavell Heights Streets Stretch Into November and December]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/roadworks-across-five-wavell-heights-streets-stretch-into-november-and-december</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2026 21:15:47 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=22501</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Motorists travelling through Wavell Heights face the possibility of temporary lane restrictions and changed traffic arrangements over the coming weeks, with construction-related road occupancies listed across five streets through November and into December.



Read: Wavell Heights Intersection Upgrade Takes Shape — But There’s Still No Start Date 





The notices cover sections of Rode Road, Hamilton Road and Edinburgh Castle Road, along with residential stretches of Fourteenth Avenue and Kotara Street. Together, they place several of the suburb's familiar routes within permitted construction periods, although the restrictions differ considerably from one location to another.



Brisbane City Council's temporary road occupancies register contains seven entries across the five streets. Four allow overnight works, while three cover daytime hours, bringing potential changes to both evening journeys and weekday travel through local neighbourhoods.



The advertised periods are not continuous construction schedules. They identify when road space may be occupied, and do not necessarily represent seven separate projects.



Overnight Works Along Major Routes



Rode Road accounts for two of the notices, covering different sections of the busy east-west route.



Between Barker Street and Warraba Avenue, shuttle flow arrangements are permitted from 8.00 p.m. to 4.00 a.m. until 16 November. Further east, between Eliza Lane and Sandgate Road, an eastbound shoulder closure is listed from 7.00 p.m. to 4.00 a.m. until 10 December.



The distinction matters for drivers. Shuttle flow can involve waiting while traffic is directed through a restricted section, whereas the second notice specifically concerns the road shoulder rather than a full carriageway closure.



Edinburgh Castle Road is also included in the overnight programme, with shuttle flow permitted in both directions between Chesterfield Street and Shaw Road. The listed hours are 7.00 p.m. to 4.00 a.m., with the occupancy period extending to 10 December.



On Hamilton Road, the section between Pfingst Road and Roderick Street has an overnight contraflow notice covering the same hours and end date. This allows traffic to be redirected through an altered lane arrangement while part of the roadway is occupied.



Together, the four notices indicate that motorists using these routes after dark may encounter temporary traffic control, even where roads remain accessible.



Daytime Restrictions Reach Residential Streets



The remaining three notices cover daytime hours, including a second section of Hamilton Road.



Between Albar Street and Frankit Street, one northbound lane may be occupied from 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. until 25 November. The restriction concerns a single lane rather than the entire road.



Nearby residential streets have their own arrangements. Fourteenth Avenue, between Edinburgh Castle Road and Bennelong Street, is listed for a southbound half-road closure between 6.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. until 4 December.



Kotara Street, between Orben Street and Benecia Street, has a shuttle flow notice applying to both directions from 7.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. until 23 November.



For households along these streets, temporary traffic management could affect how they approach or leave their neighbourhoods during permitted work hours. The register does not specify whether individual driveways or footpaths will be restricted.



Hamilton Road Upgrade Remains a Separate Proposal



The two Hamilton Road notices come as the suburb continues to await progress on the proposed Hamilton Road–Spence Road intersection upgrade.



That project, previously reported by Wavell Heights News, includes plans for traffic signals and pedestrian crossing improvements. Council's published project information continues to list the construction timeframe as pending funding.



Neither temporary occupancy entry identifies the proposed intersection upgrade as the reason for the current restrictions, and the register does not describe the specific construction activities involved.



Read: Hamilton Road Resurfacing Brings Brisbane Road Blitz To Wavell Height 




With several notices extending into December, residents may encounter changing conditions at different locations rather than one continuous period of disruption. None of the seven entries explicitly identifies a complete road closure.



Motorists can check Council's roadworks information before travelling and follow temporary signage or traffic controllers where restrictions are operating.



Published 29-Oct-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Motorists travelling through Wavell Heights face the possibility of temporary lane restrictions and changed traffic arrangements over the coming weeks, with construction-related road occupancies listed across five streets through November and into December.



Read: Wavell Heights Intersection Upgrade Takes Shape — But There’s Still No Start Date 





The notices cover sections of Rode Road, Hamilton Road and Edinburgh Castle Road, along with residential stretches of Fourteenth Avenue and Kotara Street. Together, they place several of the suburb's familiar routes within permitted construction periods, although the restrictions differ considerably from one location to another.



Brisbane City Council's temporary road occupancies register contains seven entries across the five streets. Four allow overnight works, while three cover daytime hours, bringing potential changes to both evening journeys and weekday travel through local neighbourhoods.



The advertised periods are not continuous construction schedules. They identify when road space may be occupied, and do not necessarily represent seven separate projects.



Overnight Works Along Major Routes



Rode Road accounts for two of the notices, covering different sections of the busy east-west route.



Between Barker Street and Warraba Avenue, shuttle flow arrangements are permitted from 8.00 p.m. to 4.00 a.m. until 16 November. Further east, between Eliza Lane and Sandgate Road, an eastbound shoulder closure is listed from 7.00 p.m. to 4.00 a.m. until 10 December.



The distinction matters for drivers. Shuttle flow can involve waiting while traffic is directed through a restricted section, whereas the second notice specifically concerns the road shoulder rather than a full carriageway closure.



Edinburgh Castle Road is also included in the overnight programme, with shuttle flow permitted in both directions between Chesterfield Street and Shaw Road. The listed hours are 7.00 p.m. to 4.00 a.m., with the occupancy period extending to 10 December.



On Hamilton Road, the section between Pfingst Road and Roderick Street has an overnight contraflow notice covering the same hours and end date. This allows traffic to be redirected through an altered lane arrangement while part of the roadway is occupied.



Together, the four notices indicate that motorists using these routes after dark may encounter temporary traffic control, even where roads remain accessible.



Daytime Restrictions Reach Residential Streets



The remaining three notices cover daytime hours, including a second section of Hamilton Road.



Between Albar Street and Frankit Street, one northbound lane may be occupied from 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. until 25 November. The restriction concerns a single lane rather than the entire road.



Nearby residential streets have their own arrangements. Fourteenth Avenue, between Edinburgh Castle Road and Bennelong Street, is listed for a southbound half-road closure between 6.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. until 4 December.



Kotara Street, between Orben Street and Benecia Street, has a shuttle flow notice applying to both directions from 7.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. until 23 November.



For households along these streets, temporary traffic management could affect how they approach or leave their neighbourhoods during permitted work hours. The register does not specify whether individual driveways or footpaths will be restricted.



Hamilton Road Upgrade Remains a Separate Proposal



The two Hamilton Road notices come as the suburb continues to await progress on the proposed Hamilton Road–Spence Road intersection upgrade.



That project, previously reported by Wavell Heights News, includes plans for traffic signals and pedestrian crossing improvements. Council's published project information continues to list the construction timeframe as pending funding.



Neither temporary occupancy entry identifies the proposed intersection upgrade as the reason for the current restrictions, and the register does not describe the specific construction activities involved.



Read: Hamilton Road Resurfacing Brings Brisbane Road Blitz To Wavell Height 




With several notices extending into December, residents may encounter changing conditions at different locations rather than one continuous period of disruption. None of the seven entries explicitly identifies a complete road closure.



Motorists can check Council's roadworks information before travelling and follow temporary signage or traffic controllers where restrictions are operating.



Published 29-Oct-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:12:37 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Wavell Heights Café Apricot Coffee Named WasteSMART Finalist]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/apricot-coffee-wavell-heights-wastesmart-finalist</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2026 09:40:31 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Apricot Coffee Mug Library]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[reusable coffee cups Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[WasteSMART Brisbane Awards 2026]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=22468</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A collection of unwanted coffee mugs is helping a Wavell Heights café cut down on disposable cup waste, earning Apricot Coffee a finalist spot in Brisbane's 2026 WasteSMART Awards. Its Mug Library gives old mugs another purpose while offering takeaway customers an alternative to single-use packaging.







Read: Why Buying or Dropping Off Used Goods at the Geebung Tip Shop is a Rewarding Experience







The café is a finalist in the WasteSMART Hospitality and Tourism Award, which recognises waste-reduction efforts in the sector. Apricot Coffee's entry centres on making reusable options part of an ordinary coffee run rather than something customers need to plan ahead.



A Second Life for Unwanted Mugs



Photo credit: Facebook/Apricot Coffee



The Mug Library puts unwanted mugs back into circulation, allowing customers to use them for takeaway drinks instead of disposable cups. It also offers an option for people who arrive without their own reusable coffee cup.



According to WasteSMART, the initiative diverts more than 3,277 single-use cups from landfill annually. The figure is reported by the awards organisers and should be understood as an estimate of the initiative's annual impact, rather than an independently audited measurement.



The idea is straightforward. Mugs that might otherwise sit unused in cupboards can serve a practical purpose at the café, reducing reliance on disposable packaging while keeping existing items in use.



Apricot Coffee also offers home-compostable takeaway cups. The awards organisers report that the business has served more than 10,000 takeaway drinks in reusable or compostable cups since the beginning of 2026.



Those figures describe two different measures. The annual Mug Library estimate concerns single-use cups avoided, while the larger total includes drinks served in both reusable and compostable cups. It would be misleading to treat all 10,000 drinks as disposable cups prevented from entering landfill.



Waste Reduction Beyond Takeaway Cups



Photo credit: Facebook/Apricot Coffee



The café's approach also extends to the waste generated while preparing and serving drinks. Creative Café Company has identified Apricot Coffee as a customer of InTheLoop, a North Brisbane compost collection service.



The service collects suitable organic waste, including coffee grounds, food scraps and compostable cups, from participating hospitality businesses. Its inclusion in the café's waste-management arrangements provides a separate pathway for materials that would otherwise require disposal.



Apricot Coffee's published business updates have also described recycling paper, plastic and glass, as well as participation in Containers for Change. Those accounts provide further background on the café's approach, although the current operation of each arrangement has not been independently confirmed.



Reusable mugs and compostable cups serve different purposes. Mugs can be washed and used again, while compostable packaging needs suitable collection and processing conditions to deliver its intended waste-management benefits.



The Mug Library remains the clearest example of Apricot Coffee's efforts because it reduces the need for a disposable cup at the point of purchase.




  WasteSMART Awards 2026: At a Glance
  
    Finalist: Apricot Coffee, Wavell Heights
    Category: Hospitality and Tourism
    Awards ceremony: Friday 20 November 2026
    Venue: Brisbane City Hall
    Organiser: Brisbane City Council, in partnership with Brisbane Sustainability Agency
    Awards: 12 categories, with more than $4,000 in prizes
  
  Winners will be announced at the ceremony. Apricot Coffee has been named a finalist.



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Local Café Recognised Among Brisbane Finalists



Apricot Coffee's recognition places a neighbourhood business among the finalists in a Brisbane-wide program celebrating waste reduction and resource recovery.



The Hospitality and Tourism nomination acknowledges an initiative built around an everyday item rather than specialised equipment or a large-scale project. Its reported results also show how the café is measuring the use of alternatives to disposable takeaway cups.



At Apricot Coffee, the idea behind the nomination is visible in the mugs themselves. An item no longer needed in one household can be used for another takeaway coffee, without requiring a new disposable cup.



Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A collection of unwanted coffee mugs is helping a Wavell Heights café cut down on disposable cup waste, earning Apricot Coffee a finalist spot in Brisbane's 2026 WasteSMART Awards. Its Mug Library gives old mugs another purpose while offering takeaway customers an alternative to single-use packaging.







Read: Why Buying or Dropping Off Used Goods at the Geebung Tip Shop is a Rewarding Experience







The café is a finalist in the WasteSMART Hospitality and Tourism Award, which recognises waste-reduction efforts in the sector. Apricot Coffee's entry centres on making reusable options part of an ordinary coffee run rather than something customers need to plan ahead.



A Second Life for Unwanted Mugs



Photo credit: Facebook/Apricot Coffee



The Mug Library puts unwanted mugs back into circulation, allowing customers to use them for takeaway drinks instead of disposable cups. It also offers an option for people who arrive without their own reusable coffee cup.



According to WasteSMART, the initiative diverts more than 3,277 single-use cups from landfill annually. The figure is reported by the awards organisers and should be understood as an estimate of the initiative's annual impact, rather than an independently audited measurement.



The idea is straightforward. Mugs that might otherwise sit unused in cupboards can serve a practical purpose at the café, reducing reliance on disposable packaging while keeping existing items in use.



Apricot Coffee also offers home-compostable takeaway cups. The awards organisers report that the business has served more than 10,000 takeaway drinks in reusable or compostable cups since the beginning of 2026.



Those figures describe two different measures. The annual Mug Library estimate concerns single-use cups avoided, while the larger total includes drinks served in both reusable and compostable cups. It would be misleading to treat all 10,000 drinks as disposable cups prevented from entering landfill.



Waste Reduction Beyond Takeaway Cups



Photo credit: Facebook/Apricot Coffee



The café's approach also extends to the waste generated while preparing and serving drinks. Creative Café Company has identified Apricot Coffee as a customer of InTheLoop, a North Brisbane compost collection service.



The service collects suitable organic waste, including coffee grounds, food scraps and compostable cups, from participating hospitality businesses. Its inclusion in the café's waste-management arrangements provides a separate pathway for materials that would otherwise require disposal.



Apricot Coffee's published business updates have also described recycling paper, plastic and glass, as well as participation in Containers for Change. Those accounts provide further background on the café's approach, although the current operation of each arrangement has not been independently confirmed.



Reusable mugs and compostable cups serve different purposes. Mugs can be washed and used again, while compostable packaging needs suitable collection and processing conditions to deliver its intended waste-management benefits.



The Mug Library remains the clearest example of Apricot Coffee's efforts because it reduces the need for a disposable cup at the point of purchase.




  WasteSMART Awards 2026: At a Glance
  
    Finalist: Apricot Coffee, Wavell Heights
    Category: Hospitality and Tourism
    Awards ceremony: Friday 20 November 2026
    Venue: Brisbane City Hall
    Organiser: Brisbane City Council, in partnership with Brisbane Sustainability Agency
    Awards: 12 categories, with more than $4,000 in prizes
  
  Winners will be announced at the ceremony. Apricot Coffee has been named a finalist.



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Local Café Recognised Among Brisbane Finalists



Apricot Coffee's recognition places a neighbourhood business among the finalists in a Brisbane-wide program celebrating waste reduction and resource recovery.



The Hospitality and Tourism nomination acknowledges an initiative built around an everyday item rather than specialised equipment or a large-scale project. Its reported results also show how the café is measuring the use of alternatives to disposable takeaway cups.



At Apricot Coffee, the idea behind the nomination is visible in the mugs themselves. An item no longer needed in one household can be used for another takeaway coffee, without requiring a new disposable cup.



Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland’s Smoke Alarm Deadline Is Near — Is Your Family Really Protected?]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 03:57:59 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
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<description><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 01:47:33 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Shoot Gecko Combines Smoked Meats and Café Classics in Virginia]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/shoot-gecko-virginia-barbecue-lunch</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 23 Oct 2026 12:24:03 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[barbecue in Virginia Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Northlink Place cafés]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Shoot Gecko menu]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Virginia lunch options]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=22442</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Shoot Gecko brings American-style barbecue and familiar café options to Northlink Place in Virginia, with a menu featuring smoked meats, filled rolls, toasties, and hot drinks.







Read: Alby's Opens on Bilsen Road, Serving Comfort Food and Specialty Coffee







The menu spans smoked meats, filled rolls, toasted sandwiches and hot drinks, giving diners a choice between a barbecue-focused meal and simpler café staples. 



Barbecue is a key part of the offering, with brisket, pulled pork and smoked chicken among the advertised fillings. The menu also includes Vietnamese pork, smoked bratwurst and bacon and egg rolls, providing alternatives for customers who prefer something other than slow-cooked beef.



More than a brisket roll



Photo credit: Facebook/Shoot Gecko



One of the venue’s signature items is a brisket roll made with beef cooked in a smoker for more than 20 hours. The advertised version combines the meat with a toasted milk bun, American cheese, pickles, house-made barbecue sauce, slaw and fried onions.



The Reuben sandwich is another menu feature, while the toasties include brisket with cheese and pickle, ham with cheese and tomato, and smoked chicken with cheese and avocado. These options place the barbecue offerings alongside more familiar takeaway combinations.



Photo credit: Facebook/Shoot Gecko



A smoked bratwurst roll has also featured on the business’s social media page. The advertised version includes cheese and sauerkraut, with a choice of sauces. The post specified that this item was available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, although customers should check the latest menu before making a trip.



Coffee and hot chocolate round out the drinks selection.



A northside lunch option



Photo credit: Facebook/Shoot Gecko



Shoot Gecko is located in an industrial part of Virginia, away from the more familiar high-street café setting. Its advertised menu is geared towards weekday trade, although current opening hours should be confirmed directly with the business before visiting.




  Plan a visit
  Business: Shoot Gecko
  Address: 53 Northlink Place, Virginia, Queensland
  
    Check the business's official Facebook page for current opening hours,
    menu availability and ordering arrangements.
  
  
    
      Visit Shoot Gecko on Facebook
    
  



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The venue’s social media updates have also referred to renovations and made-to-order meals, as well as plans for an online ordering system.  The menu advertised to date ranges from a more substantial brisket roll to toasties, breakfast-style rolls and hot drinks.







Shoot Gecko is listed at 53 Northlink Place, Virginia. Check the business’s official Facebook page for current trading hours, menu availability and ordering information before visiting.



Published 23-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Shoot Gecko brings American-style barbecue and familiar café options to Northlink Place in Virginia, with a menu featuring smoked meats, filled rolls, toasties, and hot drinks.







Read: Alby's Opens on Bilsen Road, Serving Comfort Food and Specialty Coffee







The menu spans smoked meats, filled rolls, toasted sandwiches and hot drinks, giving diners a choice between a barbecue-focused meal and simpler café staples. 



Barbecue is a key part of the offering, with brisket, pulled pork and smoked chicken among the advertised fillings. The menu also includes Vietnamese pork, smoked bratwurst and bacon and egg rolls, providing alternatives for customers who prefer something other than slow-cooked beef.



More than a brisket roll



Photo credit: Facebook/Shoot Gecko



One of the venue’s signature items is a brisket roll made with beef cooked in a smoker for more than 20 hours. The advertised version combines the meat with a toasted milk bun, American cheese, pickles, house-made barbecue sauce, slaw and fried onions.



The Reuben sandwich is another menu feature, while the toasties include brisket with cheese and pickle, ham with cheese and tomato, and smoked chicken with cheese and avocado. These options place the barbecue offerings alongside more familiar takeaway combinations.



Photo credit: Facebook/Shoot Gecko



A smoked bratwurst roll has also featured on the business’s social media page. The advertised version includes cheese and sauerkraut, with a choice of sauces. The post specified that this item was available on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, although customers should check the latest menu before making a trip.



Coffee and hot chocolate round out the drinks selection.



A northside lunch option



Photo credit: Facebook/Shoot Gecko



Shoot Gecko is located in an industrial part of Virginia, away from the more familiar high-street café setting. Its advertised menu is geared towards weekday trade, although current opening hours should be confirmed directly with the business before visiting.




  Plan a visit
  Business: Shoot Gecko
  Address: 53 Northlink Place, Virginia, Queensland
  
    Check the business's official Facebook page for current opening hours,
    menu availability and ordering arrangements.
  
  
    
      Visit Shoot Gecko on Facebook
    
  



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The venue’s social media updates have also referred to renovations and made-to-order meals, as well as plans for an online ordering system.  The menu advertised to date ranges from a more substantial brisket roll to toasties, breakfast-style rolls and hot drinks.







Shoot Gecko is listed at 53 Northlink Place, Virginia. Check the business’s official Facebook page for current trading hours, menu availability and ordering information before visiting.



Published 23-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 01:43:38 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Wavell Heights Boy Who Made It to Hollywood Returns to Brisbane as a Comedian]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/wavell-heights-boy-who-made-it-to-hollywood-returns-to-brisbane-as-a-comedian</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2026 23:07:36 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane comedy shows]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hollywood]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nick Abrahams]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nick Abrahams comedian]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[The Accidental Lawyer]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tokyo Comedy Store]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wavell Heights]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wavell Heights local news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wavell Heights personalities]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/?page_id=22395</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Growing up in Wavell Heights, Nick Abrahams dreamed of working in Hollywood. He eventually made it there, but not before an accidental law degree took him to Japanese comedy stages and set him on a career that would later bring him back to Australia's legal profession.



Read: Wavell Heights’ Own Jacob Elordi Takes Hollywood by Storm 





Abrahams is returning to Brisbane with his stand-up show "The Accidental Lawyer", scheduled for 29 and 30 October 2026 at The Paddo Tavern in Paddington. The performances follow appearances in London, Tokyo, Sydney and Melbourne, with the show drawing on his experiences in entertainment, law and technology.



Hollywood dreams and a university mix-up



As a boy growing up in Wavell Heights during the 1970s, Abrahams had two ambitions: playing rugby for Australia and becoming a Hollywood studio executive. His fascination with films extended to the names appearing in the closing credits, where he imagined one day seeing his own.



His father, a dentist, had hoped he would pursue the same profession. Although Abrahams achieved the marks required for dentistry, a mistake in arranging his university preferences resulted in an offer to study law instead. Unable to reverse the mix-up, he enrolled in a course he had never intended to take.



After graduating, he joined Blake Dawson Waldron, now Ashurst, in Sydney. A secondment to Tokyo brought an unexpected opportunity to explore his interest in performing while maintaining his legal career.



A lawyer by day and comedian by night



In Japan, Abrahams established the Tokyo Comedy Store, an English-language comedy club where he performed stand-up outside his regular working hours. The venture proved successful enough to attract television opportunities.



He subsequently helped develop a Japanese television comedy project, with producers hoping to establish him as a major comedy personality. Although the programme failed to become a hit, the experience provided a body of work that helped him secure admission to the University of Southern California's film school.&nbsp;



The move to Los Angeles finally brought his childhood ambition within reach.



Hollywood success came with an unexpected discovery



After completing his film studies, Abrahams became a creative executive at Warner Bros, working on television productions including "ER" and "The West Wing."



Despite securing the position he had dreamed about growing up in Brisbane, he discovered that Hollywood was less rewarding than he had imagined. He later recalled finding greater satisfaction in practising law than in his work as a studio executive.



Another career change followed when he became chief operating officer of technology startup Spike Networks, which listed on the Australian stock exchange before suffering during the dot-com crash in 2001. The downturn contributed to his decision to return to Sydney and resume legal practice.



His experience in the entertainment and technology industries would become part of his subsequent work in legal innovation.



From Hollywood to legal technology



Abrahams went on to become a partner at international law firm Norton Rose Fulbright, where his work included digital transformation and technology innovation.



He also co-founded Lawpath, an online legal services platform, and helped develop Parker, a chatbot designed to guide businesses through data privacy and breach notification requirements. His professional work extended into artificial intelligence and the application of new technologies within the legal industry.



After approximately 25 years as a law firm partner, Abrahams stepped away from Norton Rose Fulbright in late 2025 to focus on creative projects, including a return to stand-up comedy.



Brisbane audiences get his accidental life story



His latest production, "The Accidental Lawyer," turns his professional experiences into comedy, covering Hollywood encounters, corporate life, artificial intelligence and the unpredictable decisions that shaped his career.



Photo Credit: The Sit Down Comedy Club



The show has attracted audiences at comedy festivals in Sydney and Melbourne, along with performances in London and Tokyo. Abrahams has also begun work on "The Spotted Bengoshi," a book inspired by his experiences as a young lawyer in Japan.



His Brisbane homecoming brings the production to the Sit Down Comedy Club at The Paddo Tavern in Paddington. The Thursday 29 October performance, scheduled for 7:00 p.m., has sold out, while a second show is scheduled for Friday 30 October at 6:00 p.m.



Read: Wavell State High Ends 24-Year Wait for National Title



Tickets for the second performance are advertised at $28, including the booking fee. Admission is restricted to people aged 18 and over, with bookings available through the official Sit Down Comedy Club website.



Published 16-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Growing up in Wavell Heights, Nick Abrahams dreamed of working in Hollywood. He eventually made it there, but not before an accidental law degree took him to Japanese comedy stages and set him on a career that would later bring him back to Australia's legal profession.



Read: Wavell Heights’ Own Jacob Elordi Takes Hollywood by Storm 





Abrahams is returning to Brisbane with his stand-up show "The Accidental Lawyer", scheduled for 29 and 30 October 2026 at The Paddo Tavern in Paddington. The performances follow appearances in London, Tokyo, Sydney and Melbourne, with the show drawing on his experiences in entertainment, law and technology.



Hollywood dreams and a university mix-up



As a boy growing up in Wavell Heights during the 1970s, Abrahams had two ambitions: playing rugby for Australia and becoming a Hollywood studio executive. His fascination with films extended to the names appearing in the closing credits, where he imagined one day seeing his own.



His father, a dentist, had hoped he would pursue the same profession. Although Abrahams achieved the marks required for dentistry, a mistake in arranging his university preferences resulted in an offer to study law instead. Unable to reverse the mix-up, he enrolled in a course he had never intended to take.



After graduating, he joined Blake Dawson Waldron, now Ashurst, in Sydney. A secondment to Tokyo brought an unexpected opportunity to explore his interest in performing while maintaining his legal career.



A lawyer by day and comedian by night



In Japan, Abrahams established the Tokyo Comedy Store, an English-language comedy club where he performed stand-up outside his regular working hours. The venture proved successful enough to attract television opportunities.



He subsequently helped develop a Japanese television comedy project, with producers hoping to establish him as a major comedy personality. Although the programme failed to become a hit, the experience provided a body of work that helped him secure admission to the University of Southern California's film school.&nbsp;



The move to Los Angeles finally brought his childhood ambition within reach.



Hollywood success came with an unexpected discovery



After completing his film studies, Abrahams became a creative executive at Warner Bros, working on television productions including "ER" and "The West Wing."



Despite securing the position he had dreamed about growing up in Brisbane, he discovered that Hollywood was less rewarding than he had imagined. He later recalled finding greater satisfaction in practising law than in his work as a studio executive.



Another career change followed when he became chief operating officer of technology startup Spike Networks, which listed on the Australian stock exchange before suffering during the dot-com crash in 2001. The downturn contributed to his decision to return to Sydney and resume legal practice.



His experience in the entertainment and technology industries would become part of his subsequent work in legal innovation.



From Hollywood to legal technology



Abrahams went on to become a partner at international law firm Norton Rose Fulbright, where his work included digital transformation and technology innovation.



He also co-founded Lawpath, an online legal services platform, and helped develop Parker, a chatbot designed to guide businesses through data privacy and breach notification requirements. His professional work extended into artificial intelligence and the application of new technologies within the legal industry.



After approximately 25 years as a law firm partner, Abrahams stepped away from Norton Rose Fulbright in late 2025 to focus on creative projects, including a return to stand-up comedy.



Brisbane audiences get his accidental life story



His latest production, "The Accidental Lawyer," turns his professional experiences into comedy, covering Hollywood encounters, corporate life, artificial intelligence and the unpredictable decisions that shaped his career.



Photo Credit: The Sit Down Comedy Club



The show has attracted audiences at comedy festivals in Sydney and Melbourne, along with performances in London and Tokyo. Abrahams has also begun work on "The Spotted Bengoshi," a book inspired by his experiences as a young lawyer in Japan.



His Brisbane homecoming brings the production to the Sit Down Comedy Club at The Paddo Tavern in Paddington. The Thursday 29 October performance, scheduled for 7:00 p.m., has sold out, while a second show is scheduled for Friday 30 October at 6:00 p.m.



Read: Wavell State High Ends 24-Year Wait for National Title



Tickets for the second performance are advertised at $28, including the booking fee. Admission is restricted to people aged 18 and over, with bookings available through the official Sit Down Comedy Club website.



Published 16-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn't Enough]]></title>
<link>https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/dementia-and-home-fire-safety-when-a-smoke-alarm-isnt-enough/dementia-and-home-fire-safety-when-a-smoke-alarm-isnt-enough</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 12 Oct 2026 04:43:19 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Wavell Heights News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://wavellheightsnews.com.au/dementia-and-home-fire-safety-when-a-smoke-alarm-isnt-enough/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


According to Dementia Australia, an estimated 446,500 Australians are living with dementia in 2026, and that number is projected to exceed one million by 2065. For families caring for a parent, partner or loved one, keeping them safe at home involves plenty of everyday considerations. One that can easily be overlooked is what happens if a fire breaks out.



Most of us know what a smoke alarm means. We hear it, recognise the danger and understand that we need to get out. For someone living with dementia, however, that familiar sound may cause confusion rather than prompt an immediate response, particularly if they are woken suddenly in the middle of the night.



Hearing loss and reduced mobility can complicate matters further. Someone may not hear the warning clearly or may need assistance to reach an exit, even in a home they have lived in for decades.



Families supporting older relatives often spend considerable time thinking about medication, mobility and preventing falls. Fire safety deserves a place in those conversations too, especially when a person's needs are changing.



The Risks Behind the Numbers



An Australian study examining 900 preventable residential fire deaths between 2003 and 2017 found that nearly 47 per cent of those who died had at least one identified disability. When researchers excluded cases where disability status could not be established, that proportion rose to approximately 62 per cent.



Although the findings cover a broad range of disabilities rather than dementia alone, they raise an important consideration for households: a working smoke alarm is only one part of keeping people safe. Someone must also be able to recognise the danger and respond, which may be difficult when memory, hearing or mobility is affected.



Cathy Brand, CEO of Australian fire-safety company Brooks Australia, says household protection needs to reflect the abilities of the people living there.



“An alarm only works if the person can actually hear it, see it and understand what it means. For someone living with dementia, that’s not always the case,” Ms Brand says.



When a Familiar Sound Becomes Confusing



Dementia affects people differently, and the changes are not always obvious. Someone who manages comfortably during the day may struggle with an unexpected alarm or decisions that need to be made quickly.



An alarm sounding overnight can be especially disorienting. Even a person who knows the layout of their home may become uncertain about which way to go, while someone with hearing difficulties might miss the warning altogether.



Fire-safety technology offers additional ways to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Interconnected smoke alarms activate together when one detects smoke, allowing a warning to reach other parts of the home without waiting for smoke to spread to each detector.



Compatible systems can also incorporate flashing strobe lights or vibrating pads placed beneath pillows, providing another way to alert someone who may not hear an audible alarm. Brooks Australia is among the manufacturers offering these options, including visual alert accessories and bedside vibration systems.



Ms Brand sums up the value of interconnection simply: “You want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke.”



While these devices can help people receive a warning, they cannot necessarily overcome the confusion or difficulty interpreting danger that some people with dementia experience. Families therefore need to consider how a person is likely to respond, as well as how they will be alerted.



Making the Escape Plan Fit the Person



Families often adjust a home gradually as an older relative's needs change. Loose rugs are removed, bathroom handrails installed and furniture rearranged to make moving around easier. Fire safety deserves the same attention, particularly when someone may need help leaving the house quickly.



Ms Brand encourages families to approach an escape plan much as they would fall prevention.



“We’d also encourage families to think about a fire escape plan the same way they’d think about a fall prevention plan — walk through it together, practice it, and make sure it's realistic for the person’s current abilities, not the abilities they had five years ago,” she says.



For someone using a walking frame, that could mean ensuring hallways remain clear and doors can be opened easily. In other households, the greater concern may be whether a person will recognise an exit or remember what to do when frightened.



Overnight arrangements deserve particular thought, including who could provide assistance if someone cannot evacuate independently. Rehearsing an escape route can help, but a plan should not depend entirely on a person with dementia remembering instructions during an emergency.



Small Changes Worth Making Now



A home fire-safety review need not involve major renovations. Testing smoke alarms, checking their age and location, clearing escape routes and keeping combustible materials away from heaters and cooking areas are sensible starting points.



Where someone has hearing loss, visual or vibrating alerts may provide an additional warning. Households supporting someone with dementia or significant mobility limitations may also benefit from discussing their arrangements with carers, relevant health professionals or qualified fire-safety installers.



There is a timely reason for Queensland homeowners to review their existing alarms. From 1 January 2027, the final stage of the state's smoke-alarm reforms will apply to remaining domestic dwellings, including existing owner-occupied homes. Required alarms must be interconnected and installed in prescribed locations, including every bedroom and relevant hallways.



Meeting those requirements provides an important foundation, although families may need additional measures depending on who lives in the home.



A Conversation Before It Becomes an Emergency



As Australia's dementia population grows, more families will face the challenge of helping loved ones remain safe while preserving as much independence as possible. Fire safety belongs in that conversation, alongside the everyday adjustments that make a home easier and safer to live in.



“We want families, carers and aged care providers to feel empowered to have this conversation early, rather than waiting for a near miss to prompt change,” Ms Brand says.



For families, a useful starting point is to walk through the home together, check the alarms and consider what would happen if a fire started while everyone was asleep.



The important question is whether the people living there would have the warning, understanding and assistance they need to get out safely.



Published 9-Oct-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


According to Dementia Australia, an estimated 446,500 Australians are living with dementia in 2026, and that number is projected to exceed one million by 2065. For families caring for a parent, partner or loved one, keeping them safe at home involves plenty of everyday considerations. One that can easily be overlooked is what happens if a fire breaks out.



Most of us know what a smoke alarm means. We hear it, recognise the danger and understand that we need to get out. For someone living with dementia, however, that familiar sound may cause confusion rather than prompt an immediate response, particularly if they are woken suddenly in the middle of the night.



Hearing loss and reduced mobility can complicate matters further. Someone may not hear the warning clearly or may need assistance to reach an exit, even in a home they have lived in for decades.



Families supporting older relatives often spend considerable time thinking about medication, mobility and preventing falls. Fire safety deserves a place in those conversations too, especially when a person's needs are changing.



The Risks Behind the Numbers



An Australian study examining 900 preventable residential fire deaths between 2003 and 2017 found that nearly 47 per cent of those who died had at least one identified disability. When researchers excluded cases where disability status could not be established, that proportion rose to approximately 62 per cent.



Although the findings cover a broad range of disabilities rather than dementia alone, they raise an important consideration for households: a working smoke alarm is only one part of keeping people safe. Someone must also be able to recognise the danger and respond, which may be difficult when memory, hearing or mobility is affected.



Cathy Brand, CEO of Australian fire-safety company Brooks Australia, says household protection needs to reflect the abilities of the people living there.



“An alarm only works if the person can actually hear it, see it and understand what it means. For someone living with dementia, that’s not always the case,” Ms Brand says.



When a Familiar Sound Becomes Confusing



Dementia affects people differently, and the changes are not always obvious. Someone who manages comfortably during the day may struggle with an unexpected alarm or decisions that need to be made quickly.



An alarm sounding overnight can be especially disorienting. Even a person who knows the layout of their home may become uncertain about which way to go, while someone with hearing difficulties might miss the warning altogether.



Fire-safety technology offers additional ways to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Interconnected smoke alarms activate together when one detects smoke, allowing a warning to reach other parts of the home without waiting for smoke to spread to each detector.



Compatible systems can also incorporate flashing strobe lights or vibrating pads placed beneath pillows, providing another way to alert someone who may not hear an audible alarm. Brooks Australia is among the manufacturers offering these options, including visual alert accessories and bedside vibration systems.



Ms Brand sums up the value of interconnection simply: “You want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke.”



While these devices can help people receive a warning, they cannot necessarily overcome the confusion or difficulty interpreting danger that some people with dementia experience. Families therefore need to consider how a person is likely to respond, as well as how they will be alerted.



Making the Escape Plan Fit the Person



Families often adjust a home gradually as an older relative's needs change. Loose rugs are removed, bathroom handrails installed and furniture rearranged to make moving around easier. Fire safety deserves the same attention, particularly when someone may need help leaving the house quickly.



Ms Brand encourages families to approach an escape plan much as they would fall prevention.



“We’d also encourage families to think about a fire escape plan the same way they’d think about a fall prevention plan — walk through it together, practice it, and make sure it's realistic for the person’s current abilities, not the abilities they had five years ago,” she says.



For someone using a walking frame, that could mean ensuring hallways remain clear and doors can be opened easily. In other households, the greater concern may be whether a person will recognise an exit or remember what to do when frightened.



Overnight arrangements deserve particular thought, including who could provide assistance if someone cannot evacuate independently. Rehearsing an escape route can help, but a plan should not depend entirely on a person with dementia remembering instructions during an emergency.



Small Changes Worth Making Now



A home fire-safety review need not involve major renovations. Testing smoke alarms, checking their age and location, clearing escape routes and keeping combustible materials away from heaters and cooking areas are sensible starting points.



Where someone has hearing loss, visual or vibrating alerts may provide an additional warning. Households supporting someone with dementia or significant mobility limitations may also benefit from discussing their arrangements with carers, relevant health professionals or qualified fire-safety installers.



There is a timely reason for Queensland homeowners to review their existing alarms. From 1 January 2027, the final stage of the state's smoke-alarm reforms will apply to remaining domestic dwellings, including existing owner-occupied homes. Required alarms must be interconnected and installed in prescribed locations, including every bedroom and relevant hallways.



Meeting those requirements provides an important foundation, although families may need additional measures depending on who lives in the home.



A Conversation Before It Becomes an Emergency



As Australia's dementia population grows, more families will face the challenge of helping loved ones remain safe while preserving as much independence as possible. Fire safety belongs in that conversation, alongside the everyday adjustments that make a home easier and safer to live in.



“We want families, carers and aged care providers to feel empowered to have this conversation early, rather than waiting for a near miss to prompt change,” Ms Brand says.



For families, a useful starting point is to walk through the home together, check the alarms and consider what would happen if a fire started while everyone was asleep.



The important question is whether the people living there would have the warning, understanding and assistance they need to get out safely.



Published 9-Oct-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Baby Rhyme Time Brings a Little Rhythm to Brisbane’s Libraries]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/BSON_First5Forever-1.jpg"/>
<enclosure url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/BSON_First5Forever-1.jpg" length="82202" type="image/jpeg"/>
<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 06:36:38 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Baby rhyme time is one of those small library events that quietly earns its keep. It is free, simple and aimed at babies up to one year old. The November schedule shows it at Indooroopilly, with the wider run also reaching libraries across Brisbane. That makes it an easy one for local families to actually use.



A quick outing that feels close to home 



The event page keeps things plain. Families can meet other parents and babies for singing, clapping and dancing. There is no booking needed, which keeps the whole thing easy. At the same time, places are limited, so a session can close if it fills up.



That balance suits a library pretty well. It is open, but not chaotic. It is friendly, but still orderly. For parents juggling naps, bottles and everything else, that sort of setup matters more than people might think. 



The bigger schedule gives the program a wider reach. Alongside Indooroopilly, it also shows sessions at places like Holland Park, Chermside, Carina, Banyo, Nundah and Zillmere. So this is not just one nice little event in one suburb. It is a regular community rhythm across several parts of the city. 



The kind of noise libraries can welcome 



Baby rhyme time works because it is built for the early months. The event listing says the songs and action rhymes help nurture pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. That sounds formal, but the idea behind it is pretty simple. Babies hear words, watch faces and start getting used to the sound of language. 



That is where libraries come into their own. They are already calm places. They already belong to the community. So a session like this feels natural there, not bolted on. 



And honestly, that is part of the appeal. Parents do not need a grand plan for the morning. They just need something local, useful and low-fuss. Baby rhyme time gives them that. 



A small session worth repeating 



First 5 Forever backs the program, with the State Library of Queensland coordinating it in partnership with local government. That gives the session a proper public purpose, but the benefit is still felt at the local level. One suburb gets a room full of songs. Another suburb gets the same thing on a different day. 



That is the charm of it. Baby rhyme time is not trying to be bigger than it needs to be. It just gives babies, parents and carers a warm little place to start. In a city as busy as Brisbane, that feels worth keeping on the calendar.




  
    
      Place
      Date
      Time
    
  
  
    Annerley Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Ashgrove Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Banyo Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bracken Ridge Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Brisbane Square Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bulimba Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Carina Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Carindale Library11/3/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carindale Library11/10/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/11/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/17/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/18/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/24/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/25/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Chermside Library11/3/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Coopers Plain Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Corinda Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Everton Park LIbrary11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Fairfield Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Garden City Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Grange Library11/5/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/12/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/19/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/26/202611:15AM - 11:45AM

    Holland Park Library11/4/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/11/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/18/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/25/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Inala Library11/3/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/10/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/17/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/24/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Indooroopilly Library11/2/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/6/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/9/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/13/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/16/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/20/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/23/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/27/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/30/202610:15AM - 10:45AM

    Kenmore Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Mitchelton Library11/6/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/13/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/20/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/27/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Mount Gravatt Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Mt Ommaney Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    New Farm Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Nundah Library11/5/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/12/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/19/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/26/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sandgate Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Stones Corner Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sunnybank Hills Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Toowong Library11/3/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/10/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/17/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/24/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    West End Library11/4/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/11/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/18/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/25/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Wynnum Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Zillmere Library11/5/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/12/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/19/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/26/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
  




Published 28-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Baby rhyme time is one of those small library events that quietly earns its keep. It is free, simple and aimed at babies up to one year old. The November schedule shows it at Indooroopilly, with the wider run also reaching libraries across Brisbane. That makes it an easy one for local families to actually use.



A quick outing that feels close to home 



The event page keeps things plain. Families can meet other parents and babies for singing, clapping and dancing. There is no booking needed, which keeps the whole thing easy. At the same time, places are limited, so a session can close if it fills up.



That balance suits a library pretty well. It is open, but not chaotic. It is friendly, but still orderly. For parents juggling naps, bottles and everything else, that sort of setup matters more than people might think. 



The bigger schedule gives the program a wider reach. Alongside Indooroopilly, it also shows sessions at places like Holland Park, Chermside, Carina, Banyo, Nundah and Zillmere. So this is not just one nice little event in one suburb. It is a regular community rhythm across several parts of the city. 



The kind of noise libraries can welcome 



Baby rhyme time works because it is built for the early months. The event listing says the songs and action rhymes help nurture pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. That sounds formal, but the idea behind it is pretty simple. Babies hear words, watch faces and start getting used to the sound of language. 



That is where libraries come into their own. They are already calm places. They already belong to the community. So a session like this feels natural there, not bolted on. 



And honestly, that is part of the appeal. Parents do not need a grand plan for the morning. They just need something local, useful and low-fuss. Baby rhyme time gives them that. 



A small session worth repeating 



First 5 Forever backs the program, with the State Library of Queensland coordinating it in partnership with local government. That gives the session a proper public purpose, but the benefit is still felt at the local level. One suburb gets a room full of songs. Another suburb gets the same thing on a different day. 



That is the charm of it. Baby rhyme time is not trying to be bigger than it needs to be. It just gives babies, parents and carers a warm little place to start. In a city as busy as Brisbane, that feels worth keeping on the calendar.




  
    
      Place
      Date
      Time
    
  
  
    Annerley Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Ashgrove Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Banyo Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bracken Ridge Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Brisbane Square Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bulimba Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Carina Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Carindale Library11/3/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carindale Library11/10/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/11/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/17/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/18/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/24/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/25/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Chermside Library11/3/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Coopers Plain Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Corinda Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Everton Park LIbrary11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Fairfield Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Garden City Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Grange Library11/5/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/12/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/19/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/26/202611:15AM - 11:45AM

    Holland Park Library11/4/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/11/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/18/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/25/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Inala Library11/3/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/10/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/17/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/24/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Indooroopilly Library11/2/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/6/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/9/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/13/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/16/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/20/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/23/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/27/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/30/202610:15AM - 10:45AM

    Kenmore Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Mitchelton Library11/6/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/13/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/20/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/27/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Mount Gravatt Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Mt Ommaney Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    New Farm Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Nundah Library11/5/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/12/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/19/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/26/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sandgate Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Stones Corner Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sunnybank Hills Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Toowong Library11/3/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/10/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/17/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/24/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    West End Library11/4/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/11/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/18/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/25/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Wynnum Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Zillmere Library11/5/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/12/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/19/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/26/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
  




Published 28-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:12:38 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland’s Smoke Alarm Deadline Is Near — Is Your Family Really Protected?]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 03:58:00 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Brisbane-Dawn-Economy-FI.png"/>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 01:47:35 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Everton Park Gets a 350-Seat Italian-Style Local in Alfi Eatery &amp; Bar]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/everton-park-gets-a-350-seat-italian-style-local-in-alfi-eatery-bar</link>
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<pubDate>Sat, 24 Oct 2026 04:21:38 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Alfi Eatery & Bar]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane north]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane restaurants]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Everton Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Everton Plaza]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[family dining]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ghanem Group]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[italian restaurant]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mediterranean dining]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[new restaurants Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[park lane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[woodfired pizza]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/?page_id=38340</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Ghanem Group has added a 350-seat Italian-style restaurant and bar to Everton Park, and the operator says Alfi Eatery &amp; Bar is the largest food and beverage venue in Everton Plaza.



Read: Teralba Park, Osborne Road in Focus Under $85-Million Kedron Brook Plan



Alfi started serving at noon on Thursday, 22 October, in the Park Lane dining precinct. That was about 80 to 90 days after its original winter target, and a few months after the same group reopened Hotel Terminus in South Brisbane.



Room for the Whole Neighbourhood&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Alfi Eatery &amp; Bar/ Instagram



The numbers are big. Alfi covers roughly 800 square metres, and the courtyard alone has 200 seats. An open kitchen and a U-shaped bar anchor the main room.



Nehme Ghanem, the group’s managing director, said the aim was a restaurant that becomes people’s local. He said the team believes Alfi has done that, with a neighbourhood spot where people can gather over a spritz and a good meal. It is also the group’s first suburban Brisbane venue. Director Adonis Ghanem has said Italian food fits the idea because it is casual, approachable and built around family. He added that the team was surprised by how busy the plaza is on an ordinary night.



Everton Park itself is changing fast. One Brisbane food writer has called it a boom suburb.



Inside the Space&nbsp;



Queensland studio Space Cubed, a long-time Ghanem Group partner, took its cue from the Amalfi Coast. Italian stone and marble, light timber and pastel upholstery set the colour scheme. Arched windows and curved ceiling features add some shape. Some booths can be curtained off from the main dining room. Outside, the courtyard has tiled paving and a timber bench seat framed by greenery.



What’s on the Menu



Photo Credit: Alfi Eatery &amp; Bar/ Instagram



Head chef Roberto D’Anna and group executive chef Jake Nicolson have mixed Italian-inspired takes on pub favourites with dishes made for sharing. Chicken parmigiana sits alongside slow-roasted porchetta, spicy vodka rigatoni, beef ragu and baked barramundi. The woodfired pizzas start with dough made fresh each morning and left to ferment for 36 hours. They are cooked in an imported oven at the heart of the kitchen.



The wine list leans towards Australian producers working in a European style. There are also spritz, after-dinner drink and cocktail menus, plus nine beers on tap.



The Team Behind It&nbsp;



Brothers Nehme and Adonis Ghanem founded the group, and their first venue, Byblos, started in 2006. Their Brisbane portfolio now includes Donna Chang and Iris Rooftop.



Nehme said openings get easier in some ways but are never smooth sailing. He recalled sleeping at Byblos and working 20-hour days when it launched. Adonis said experience helps, but every venue has its own team and audience, so a plan that worked once can’t simply be copied. Bigger sites also have more moving parts, from the kitchen and service to the bar and separate spaces.



Read: John Carter Reserve Clearing Reveals Bigger Creek Rehabilitation Plan



A Place to Gather



Photo Credit: Alfi Eatery &amp; Bar/ Instagram



Adonis said the group hopes Alfi becomes part of the community. He pictures a place to bring the family, meet friends for pizza and a drink, or settle in for live music in the courtyard. Good food matters, he said, but so does making people feel looked after from the moment they walk in.



The venue also suits group celebrations, casual lunches, after-work drinks, functions and private events.



Hours and Location&nbsp;



Alfi is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until late, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It is closed on Mondays. Find it at Park Lane, Everton Plaza, 791 Stafford Rd., Everton Park, Queensland 4053. The dining precinct car park is on Sizer Street.



Published Date 24-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Ghanem Group has added a 350-seat Italian-style restaurant and bar to Everton Park, and the operator says Alfi Eatery &amp; Bar is the largest food and beverage venue in Everton Plaza.



Read: Teralba Park, Osborne Road in Focus Under $85-Million Kedron Brook Plan



Alfi started serving at noon on Thursday, 22 October, in the Park Lane dining precinct. That was about 80 to 90 days after its original winter target, and a few months after the same group reopened Hotel Terminus in South Brisbane.



Room for the Whole Neighbourhood&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Alfi Eatery &amp; Bar/ Instagram



The numbers are big. Alfi covers roughly 800 square metres, and the courtyard alone has 200 seats. An open kitchen and a U-shaped bar anchor the main room.



Nehme Ghanem, the group’s managing director, said the aim was a restaurant that becomes people’s local. He said the team believes Alfi has done that, with a neighbourhood spot where people can gather over a spritz and a good meal. It is also the group’s first suburban Brisbane venue. Director Adonis Ghanem has said Italian food fits the idea because it is casual, approachable and built around family. He added that the team was surprised by how busy the plaza is on an ordinary night.



Everton Park itself is changing fast. One Brisbane food writer has called it a boom suburb.



Inside the Space&nbsp;



Queensland studio Space Cubed, a long-time Ghanem Group partner, took its cue from the Amalfi Coast. Italian stone and marble, light timber and pastel upholstery set the colour scheme. Arched windows and curved ceiling features add some shape. Some booths can be curtained off from the main dining room. Outside, the courtyard has tiled paving and a timber bench seat framed by greenery.



What’s on the Menu



Photo Credit: Alfi Eatery &amp; Bar/ Instagram



Head chef Roberto D’Anna and group executive chef Jake Nicolson have mixed Italian-inspired takes on pub favourites with dishes made for sharing. Chicken parmigiana sits alongside slow-roasted porchetta, spicy vodka rigatoni, beef ragu and baked barramundi. The woodfired pizzas start with dough made fresh each morning and left to ferment for 36 hours. They are cooked in an imported oven at the heart of the kitchen.



The wine list leans towards Australian producers working in a European style. There are also spritz, after-dinner drink and cocktail menus, plus nine beers on tap.



The Team Behind It&nbsp;



Brothers Nehme and Adonis Ghanem founded the group, and their first venue, Byblos, started in 2006. Their Brisbane portfolio now includes Donna Chang and Iris Rooftop.



Nehme said openings get easier in some ways but are never smooth sailing. He recalled sleeping at Byblos and working 20-hour days when it launched. Adonis said experience helps, but every venue has its own team and audience, so a plan that worked once can’t simply be copied. Bigger sites also have more moving parts, from the kitchen and service to the bar and separate spaces.



Read: John Carter Reserve Clearing Reveals Bigger Creek Rehabilitation Plan



A Place to Gather



Photo Credit: Alfi Eatery &amp; Bar/ Instagram



Adonis said the group hopes Alfi becomes part of the community. He pictures a place to bring the family, meet friends for pizza and a drink, or settle in for live music in the courtyard. Good food matters, he said, but so does making people feel looked after from the moment they walk in.



The venue also suits group celebrations, casual lunches, after-work drinks, functions and private events.



Hours and Location&nbsp;



Alfi is open Tuesday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. until late, and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It is closed on Mondays. Find it at Park Lane, Everton Plaza, 791 Stafford Rd., Everton Park, Queensland 4053. The dining precinct car park is on Sizer Street.



Published Date 24-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 01:43:39 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Mitchelton Parkrun Mornings Bring Teralba Park to Life]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/mitchelton-parkrun-mornings-bring-teralba-park-to-life</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/7_Mitchelton_FI.jpg" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/7_Mitchelton_FI.jpg"/>
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<pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2026 02:20:38 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community sport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Everton Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron Brook]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mitchelton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[parkrun]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[running]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Teralba Park]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[volunteering]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/?page_id=38281</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Mitchelton parkrun mornings now shape a steady Saturday routine at Teralba Park. Every week, the event begins at 7am and welcomes walkers, joggers, runners, volunteers and spectators. It is free to join, but participants must register first and bring a scannable barcode.



Read: Mitchelton Soccer Death in 2021 Leads to Recommendations for Safer Public Scaffolding




There is no pace requirement. People can walk, jog or run the course at a speed that suits them. That makes the event open to a wide mix of locals, from regular runners chasing a personal best to first-timers easing into the distance.



The numbers show the scale of that weekly habit. Mitchelton parkrun has now held 652 events. It has recorded more than 21,000 finishers, more than 203,000 finishes and 27,967 personal bests. It has also relied on 1,676 volunteer roles to keep the event running.



A simple 5km course through Teralba Park



The course itself is straightforward. It is a 5km out-and-back route through Teralba Park and along the Kedron Brook bikeway. The run starts behind the Mitchelton Soccer Club fields 8 and 9. From there, it follows the bikeway eastward, then turns back just after the bridge into Shand Street Park.







Most of the course uses concrete paths. Only the first and last 100 metres run on grass. After rain, some sections may also hold mud, leaves and puddles. Even so, the route stays easy to follow, with marshals or signs placed at key points when available.



Public toilets are nearby in the northern part of the park off Pullen Road. They sit about a five-minute walk from the start and finish area. That practical detail helps make the event more manageable for families and visitors alike.



Shared paths, shared space



Mitchelton parkrun also asks participants to respect the other people who use the park. The course runs on shared paths, so runners and walkers are reminded to give way where needed. That approach helps the event fit neatly into the park rather than take it over.



The organisers also encourage people to walk, cycle or use public transport if they can. If driving is necessary, parking may be limited, so early arrival helps. Car-sharing is also encouraged. Those are small habits, but they suit an event that depends on local goodwill.



Photo Credit: Mitchelton Parkrun



Safety rules are clear as well. Children under 11 must stay within arm’s reach of a parent or guardian. Dogs are welcome on a short, handheld, non-extendable lead. Buggies are also allowed, provided participants choose an appropriate starting position.



Coffee after the finish



The weekly run does not end at the finish line. Each Saturday, many participants head to the Mitchelton Soccer Club café for post-run coffee. That has become part of the event’s appeal.



Read: Two Boys Unharmed After Alleged Noxious Substance Incident at Mitchelton Home




Mitchelton parkrun mornings work because they are simple, social and consistent. They offer a free 5km event, a safe routine and a place where local people can turn up and belong.



Published 9-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Mitchelton parkrun mornings now shape a steady Saturday routine at Teralba Park. Every week, the event begins at 7am and welcomes walkers, joggers, runners, volunteers and spectators. It is free to join, but participants must register first and bring a scannable barcode.



Read: Mitchelton Soccer Death in 2021 Leads to Recommendations for Safer Public Scaffolding




There is no pace requirement. People can walk, jog or run the course at a speed that suits them. That makes the event open to a wide mix of locals, from regular runners chasing a personal best to first-timers easing into the distance.



The numbers show the scale of that weekly habit. Mitchelton parkrun has now held 652 events. It has recorded more than 21,000 finishers, more than 203,000 finishes and 27,967 personal bests. It has also relied on 1,676 volunteer roles to keep the event running.



A simple 5km course through Teralba Park



The course itself is straightforward. It is a 5km out-and-back route through Teralba Park and along the Kedron Brook bikeway. The run starts behind the Mitchelton Soccer Club fields 8 and 9. From there, it follows the bikeway eastward, then turns back just after the bridge into Shand Street Park.







Most of the course uses concrete paths. Only the first and last 100 metres run on grass. After rain, some sections may also hold mud, leaves and puddles. Even so, the route stays easy to follow, with marshals or signs placed at key points when available.



Public toilets are nearby in the northern part of the park off Pullen Road. They sit about a five-minute walk from the start and finish area. That practical detail helps make the event more manageable for families and visitors alike.



Shared paths, shared space



Mitchelton parkrun also asks participants to respect the other people who use the park. The course runs on shared paths, so runners and walkers are reminded to give way where needed. That approach helps the event fit neatly into the park rather than take it over.



The organisers also encourage people to walk, cycle or use public transport if they can. If driving is necessary, parking may be limited, so early arrival helps. Car-sharing is also encouraged. Those are small habits, but they suit an event that depends on local goodwill.



Photo Credit: Mitchelton Parkrun



Safety rules are clear as well. Children under 11 must stay within arm’s reach of a parent or guardian. Dogs are welcome on a short, handheld, non-extendable lead. Buggies are also allowed, provided participants choose an appropriate starting position.



Coffee after the finish



The weekly run does not end at the finish line. Each Saturday, many participants head to the Mitchelton Soccer Club café for post-run coffee. That has become part of the event’s appeal.



Read: Two Boys Unharmed After Alleged Noxious Substance Incident at Mitchelton Home




Mitchelton parkrun mornings work because they are simple, social and consistent. They offer a free 5km event, a safe routine and a place where local people can turn up and belong.



Published 9-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn't Enough]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/dementia-home-fire-safety</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 09 Oct 2026 02:02:58 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Aged Care]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dementia]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Disability]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Fire Safety]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Home Safety]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Smoke Alarms]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/?page_id=38275</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
According to Dementia Australia, an estimated 446,500 Australians are living with dementia in 2026, and that number is projected to exceed one million by 2065. For families caring for a parent, partner or loved one, keeping them safe at home involves plenty of everyday considerations. One that can easily be overlooked is what happens if a fire breaks out.



Most of us know what a smoke alarm means. We hear it, recognise the danger and understand that we need to get out. For someone living with dementia, however, that familiar sound may cause confusion rather than prompt an immediate response, particularly if they are woken suddenly in the middle of the night.



Hearing loss and reduced mobility can complicate matters further. Someone may not hear the warning clearly or may need assistance to reach an exit, even in a home they have lived in for decades.



Families supporting older relatives often spend considerable time thinking about medication, mobility and preventing falls. Fire safety deserves a place in those conversations too, especially when a person's needs are changing.



The Risks Behind the Numbers



An Australian study examining 900 preventable residential fire deaths between 2003 and 2017 found that nearly 47 per cent of those who died had at least one identified disability. When researchers excluded cases where disability status could not be established, that proportion rose to approximately 62 per cent.



Although the findings cover a broad range of disabilities rather than dementia alone, they raise an important consideration for households: a working smoke alarm is only one part of keeping people safe. Someone must also be able to recognise the danger and respond, which may be difficult when memory, hearing or mobility is affected.



Cathy Brand, CEO of Australian fire-safety company Brooks Australia, says household protection needs to reflect the abilities of the people living there.



“An alarm only works if the person can actually hear it, see it and understand what it means. For someone living with dementia, that’s not always the case,” Ms Brand says.



When a Familiar Sound Becomes Confusing



Dementia affects people differently, and the changes are not always obvious. Someone who manages comfortably during the day may struggle with an unexpected alarm or decisions that need to be made quickly.



An alarm sounding overnight can be especially disorienting. Even a person who knows the layout of their home may become uncertain about which way to go, while someone with hearing difficulties might miss the warning altogether.



Fire-safety technology offers additional ways to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Interconnected smoke alarms activate together when one detects smoke, allowing a warning to reach other parts of the home without waiting for smoke to spread to each detector.



Compatible systems can also incorporate flashing strobe lights or vibrating pads placed beneath pillows, providing another way to alert someone who may not hear an audible alarm. Brooks Australia is among the manufacturers offering these options, including visual alert accessories and bedside vibration systems.



Ms Brand sums up the value of interconnection simply: “You want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke.”



While these devices can help people receive a warning, they cannot necessarily overcome the confusion or difficulty interpreting danger that some people with dementia experience. Families therefore need to consider how a person is likely to respond, as well as how they will be alerted.



Making the Escape Plan Fit the Person



Families often adjust a home gradually as an older relative's needs change. Loose rugs are removed, bathroom handrails installed and furniture rearranged to make moving around easier. Fire safety deserves the same attention, particularly when someone may need help leaving the house quickly.



Ms Brand encourages families to approach an escape plan much as they would fall prevention.



“We’d also encourage families to think about a fire escape plan the same way they’d think about a fall prevention plan — walk through it together, practice it, and make sure it's realistic for the person’s current abilities, not the abilities they had five years ago,” she says.



For someone using a walking frame, that could mean ensuring hallways remain clear and doors can be opened easily. In other households, the greater concern may be whether a person will recognise an exit or remember what to do when frightened.



Overnight arrangements deserve particular thought, including who could provide assistance if someone cannot evacuate independently. Rehearsing an escape route can help, but a plan should not depend entirely on a person with dementia remembering instructions during an emergency.



Small Changes Worth Making Now



A home fire-safety review need not involve major renovations. Testing smoke alarms, checking their age and location, clearing escape routes and keeping combustible materials away from heaters and cooking areas are sensible starting points.



Where someone has hearing loss, visual or vibrating alerts may provide an additional warning. Households supporting someone with dementia or significant mobility limitations may also benefit from discussing their arrangements with carers, relevant health professionals or qualified fire-safety installers.



There is a timely reason for Queensland homeowners to review their existing alarms. From 1 January 2027, the final stage of the state's smoke-alarm reforms will apply to remaining domestic dwellings, including existing owner-occupied homes. Required alarms must be interconnected and installed in prescribed locations, including every bedroom and relevant hallways.



Meeting those requirements provides an important foundation, although families may need additional measures depending on who lives in the home.



A Conversation Before It Becomes an Emergency



As Australia's dementia population grows, more families will face the challenge of helping loved ones remain safe while preserving as much independence as possible. Fire safety belongs in that conversation, alongside the everyday adjustments that make a home easier and safer to live in.



“We want families, carers and aged care providers to feel empowered to have this conversation early, rather than waiting for a near miss to prompt change,” Ms Brand says.



For families, a useful starting point is to walk through the home together, check the alarms and consider what would happen if a fire started while everyone was asleep.



The important question is whether the people living there would have the warning, understanding and assistance they need to get out safely.



Published 9-Oct-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
According to Dementia Australia, an estimated 446,500 Australians are living with dementia in 2026, and that number is projected to exceed one million by 2065. For families caring for a parent, partner or loved one, keeping them safe at home involves plenty of everyday considerations. One that can easily be overlooked is what happens if a fire breaks out.



Most of us know what a smoke alarm means. We hear it, recognise the danger and understand that we need to get out. For someone living with dementia, however, that familiar sound may cause confusion rather than prompt an immediate response, particularly if they are woken suddenly in the middle of the night.



Hearing loss and reduced mobility can complicate matters further. Someone may not hear the warning clearly or may need assistance to reach an exit, even in a home they have lived in for decades.



Families supporting older relatives often spend considerable time thinking about medication, mobility and preventing falls. Fire safety deserves a place in those conversations too, especially when a person's needs are changing.



The Risks Behind the Numbers



An Australian study examining 900 preventable residential fire deaths between 2003 and 2017 found that nearly 47 per cent of those who died had at least one identified disability. When researchers excluded cases where disability status could not be established, that proportion rose to approximately 62 per cent.



Although the findings cover a broad range of disabilities rather than dementia alone, they raise an important consideration for households: a working smoke alarm is only one part of keeping people safe. Someone must also be able to recognise the danger and respond, which may be difficult when memory, hearing or mobility is affected.



Cathy Brand, CEO of Australian fire-safety company Brooks Australia, says household protection needs to reflect the abilities of the people living there.



“An alarm only works if the person can actually hear it, see it and understand what it means. For someone living with dementia, that’s not always the case,” Ms Brand says.



When a Familiar Sound Becomes Confusing



Dementia affects people differently, and the changes are not always obvious. Someone who manages comfortably during the day may struggle with an unexpected alarm or decisions that need to be made quickly.



An alarm sounding overnight can be especially disorienting. Even a person who knows the layout of their home may become uncertain about which way to go, while someone with hearing difficulties might miss the warning altogether.



Fire-safety technology offers additional ways to alert people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Interconnected smoke alarms activate together when one detects smoke, allowing a warning to reach other parts of the home without waiting for smoke to spread to each detector.



Compatible systems can also incorporate flashing strobe lights or vibrating pads placed beneath pillows, providing another way to alert someone who may not hear an audible alarm. Brooks Australia is among the manufacturers offering these options, including visual alert accessories and bedside vibration systems.



Ms Brand sums up the value of interconnection simply: “You want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke.”



While these devices can help people receive a warning, they cannot necessarily overcome the confusion or difficulty interpreting danger that some people with dementia experience. Families therefore need to consider how a person is likely to respond, as well as how they will be alerted.



Making the Escape Plan Fit the Person



Families often adjust a home gradually as an older relative's needs change. Loose rugs are removed, bathroom handrails installed and furniture rearranged to make moving around easier. Fire safety deserves the same attention, particularly when someone may need help leaving the house quickly.



Ms Brand encourages families to approach an escape plan much as they would fall prevention.



“We’d also encourage families to think about a fire escape plan the same way they’d think about a fall prevention plan — walk through it together, practice it, and make sure it's realistic for the person’s current abilities, not the abilities they had five years ago,” she says.



For someone using a walking frame, that could mean ensuring hallways remain clear and doors can be opened easily. In other households, the greater concern may be whether a person will recognise an exit or remember what to do when frightened.



Overnight arrangements deserve particular thought, including who could provide assistance if someone cannot evacuate independently. Rehearsing an escape route can help, but a plan should not depend entirely on a person with dementia remembering instructions during an emergency.



Small Changes Worth Making Now



A home fire-safety review need not involve major renovations. Testing smoke alarms, checking their age and location, clearing escape routes and keeping combustible materials away from heaters and cooking areas are sensible starting points.



Where someone has hearing loss, visual or vibrating alerts may provide an additional warning. Households supporting someone with dementia or significant mobility limitations may also benefit from discussing their arrangements with carers, relevant health professionals or qualified fire-safety installers.



There is a timely reason for Queensland homeowners to review their existing alarms. From 1 January 2027, the final stage of the state's smoke-alarm reforms will apply to remaining domestic dwellings, including existing owner-occupied homes. Required alarms must be interconnected and installed in prescribed locations, including every bedroom and relevant hallways.



Meeting those requirements provides an important foundation, although families may need additional measures depending on who lives in the home.



A Conversation Before It Becomes an Emergency



As Australia's dementia population grows, more families will face the challenge of helping loved ones remain safe while preserving as much independence as possible. Fire safety belongs in that conversation, alongside the everyday adjustments that make a home easier and safer to live in.



“We want families, carers and aged care providers to feel empowered to have this conversation early, rather than waiting for a near miss to prompt change,” Ms Brand says.



For families, a useful starting point is to walk through the home together, check the alarms and consider what would happen if a fire started while everyone was asleep.



The important question is whether the people living there would have the warning, understanding and assistance they need to get out safely.



Published 9-Oct-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Two Boys Unharmed After Alleged Noxious Substance Incident at Mitchelton Home]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/two-boys-unharmed-after-alleged-noxious-substance-incident-at-mitchelton-home</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/QPS.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/QPS.png"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 08 Oct 2026 23:16:34 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane attempted murder charges]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Magistrates Court]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane north-west crime news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ferny Grove Child Protection Unit]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mitchelton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mitchelton domestic violence incident]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mitchelton news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mitchelton police investigation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[noxious substance incident]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland Police Service]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/?page_id=38272</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Two boys aged 12 and 15 were unharmed following an alleged incident involving a noxious substance at a Mitchelton home, with a 47-year-old local woman charged with two counts of attempted murder.



Read: Mitchelton Soccer Death in 2021 Leads to Recommendations for Safer Public Scaffolding 



The incident allegedly occurred on 24 September 2026, when police said the woman attempted to kill the children by exposing them to the substance inside the residence. Both boys were confirmed to be safe and did not require medical treatment.



Visitor's discovery brings incident to police attention



The matter was reported to police after a 70-year-old man attended the Mitchelton property and detected the substance.



Police have not publicly identified the substance or specified how the alleged exposure occurred. Investigators from the Ferny Grove Child Protection and Investigation Unit subsequently handled the case.



Woman charged following hospital discharge



The 47-year-old woman was taken to hospital for medical treatment before being discharged on 8 October. She was taken into police custody immediately after her discharge and charged with two counts of attempted murder, each designated as a domestic violence offence against a child.



The woman reportedly appeared before Brisbane Magistrates Court on 8 October, where no application for bail was made. The matter was adjourned until Tuesday, 13 October.



Read: Blackwood Street CCTV Rollout Complete



Attempted murder charges carry life imprisonment penalty



Under Section 306 of Queensland's Criminal Code, attempted murder carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The woman has not been convicted, and the allegations remain before the court.



Published 9-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Two boys aged 12 and 15 were unharmed following an alleged incident involving a noxious substance at a Mitchelton home, with a 47-year-old local woman charged with two counts of attempted murder.



Read: Mitchelton Soccer Death in 2021 Leads to Recommendations for Safer Public Scaffolding 



The incident allegedly occurred on 24 September 2026, when police said the woman attempted to kill the children by exposing them to the substance inside the residence. Both boys were confirmed to be safe and did not require medical treatment.



Visitor's discovery brings incident to police attention



The matter was reported to police after a 70-year-old man attended the Mitchelton property and detected the substance.



Police have not publicly identified the substance or specified how the alleged exposure occurred. Investigators from the Ferny Grove Child Protection and Investigation Unit subsequently handled the case.



Woman charged following hospital discharge



The 47-year-old woman was taken to hospital for medical treatment before being discharged on 8 October. She was taken into police custody immediately after her discharge and charged with two counts of attempted murder, each designated as a domestic violence offence against a child.



The woman reportedly appeared before Brisbane Magistrates Court on 8 October, where no application for bail was made. The matter was adjourned until Tuesday, 13 October.



Read: Blackwood Street CCTV Rollout Complete



Attempted murder charges carry life imprisonment penalty



Under Section 306 of Queensland's Criminal Code, attempted murder carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. The woman has not been convicted, and the allegations remain before the court.



Published 9-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Mitchelton Soccer Death in 2021 Leads to Recommendations for Safer Public Scaffolding]]></title>
<link>https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/mitchelton-soccer-death-in-2021-leads-to-recommendations-for-safer-public-scaffolding</link>
<media:content url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/FI-for-OMC-2026-10-06T175207.651.webp" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/FI-for-OMC-2026-10-06T175207.651.webp"/>
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<pubDate>Tue, 06 Oct 2026 10:05:58 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Andy Jones]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[coroner finding]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mitchelton Football Club]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Mitchelton Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://mitcheltontoday.com.au/?page_id=38250</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
The findings of an inquest into the death of Brisbane father Andrew “Andy” Jones have prompted recommendations for changes to scaffolding safety in public places.







Read: Mitchelton Scaffolding Company Fined $400K Over Local’s Death in 2021







Mr Jones, 37 and a father of four, was acting as a ground official at his son’s soccer game at Mitchelton Football Club at Teralba Park on 25 July 2021, when an unusually strong gust caused a nearby tower scaffold to topple.



The scaffold struck Mr Jones from behind and pinned him against a fence. Several people lifted the structure free before he initially walked a few steps and collapsed. He was taken to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital but died from blunt force chest injuries.



Coroner Megan Fairweather delivered her findings on 30 September 2026, following an inquest into the circumstances of Mr Jones’ death. The investigation examined the scaffold’s installation, risk assessments, controls for strong winds and the adequacy of existing industry codes and standards.



Coroner identifies wider safety issues



Photo credit: Google Maps/Mehdi Etemadi



The tower was installed on 13 April 2021 by Mobile Scaffolds Queensland for filming Premier League soccer games. It was positioned between two playing fields at the Teralba Park Sports Complex.



The freestanding scaffold was about 2.4 metres high and had a height-to-base ratio of 1.6:1. It did not have additional stability measures such as outriggers, tie-downs or counterweights.



The coroner found the circumstances of Mr Jones’ death raised issues broader than the actions of any individual. Ms Fairweather also found that the owner of the scaffolding company had acted in good faith and within the limits of his training and experience when installing the tower.



Expert evidence considered during the inquest indicated that additional control measures could have prevented the scaffold from toppling. The findings also highlighted limitations in existing guidance for assessing wind risks affecting temporary tower scaffolds.



Mobile Scaffolds Queensland Pty Ltd was sentenced in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 16 August 16 2024, after being convicted of a breach of Queensland’s Work Health and Safety Act and fined $400,000.



The company had entered liquidation earlier that year and did not participate further in the court proceedings. The owner of the company was separately charged, but the charge was dismissed in November 2024 after the Work Health and Safety Prosecutor offered no evidence.



Recommendations target public scaffolding



Photo credit: Pexels/Tuan Vy







Ms Fairweather recommended that the Office of Industrial Relations amend Queensland’s Scaffolding Code of Practice to define “strong winds” and require freestanding tower scaffolds erected in public places to have additional control measures where appropriate.



The measures could include outriggers, tie-downs, counterweights, or tube-and-clip systems, with the appropriate controls determined on a case-by-case basis.



The coroner also recommended a comprehensive education campaign following any amendment to the code, covering scaffold manufacturers, suppliers, installers and businesses that hire out scaffolding. A compliance campaign should then follow to ensure the changes are understood and applied.



Manufacturers and distributors of scaffolding materials were also recommended to provide instructions, guidance and warnings for use, including information covering design choice, environmental factors, location, accessibility, duration of use and appropriate control measures.



The recommendations followed findings that existing industry guidance did not provide a sufficient method for assessing the risks posed by strong winds to freestanding tower scaffolds in public areas.







Read: Mitchelton Football Club Eyes Security Upgrade After String of Vandalism Incidents







The Scaffolding Association of Australia said it supported the recommendation for a comprehensive education campaign and expressed its thoughts for Mr Jones’ family and everyone affected by his death.



The association said the value of the findings would be in applying the lessons from the tragedy to safer scaffolding practices and helping prevent a similar incident in the future.



Published 6-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
The findings of an inquest into the death of Brisbane father Andrew “Andy” Jones have prompted recommendations for changes to scaffolding safety in public places.







Read: Mitchelton Scaffolding Company Fined $400K Over Local’s Death in 2021







Mr Jones, 37 and a father of four, was acting as a ground official at his son’s soccer game at Mitchelton Football Club at Teralba Park on 25 July 2021, when an unusually strong gust caused a nearby tower scaffold to topple.



The scaffold struck Mr Jones from behind and pinned him against a fence. Several people lifted the structure free before he initially walked a few steps and collapsed. He was taken to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital but died from blunt force chest injuries.



Coroner Megan Fairweather delivered her findings on 30 September 2026, following an inquest into the circumstances of Mr Jones’ death. The investigation examined the scaffold’s installation, risk assessments, controls for strong winds and the adequacy of existing industry codes and standards.



Coroner identifies wider safety issues



Photo credit: Google Maps/Mehdi Etemadi



The tower was installed on 13 April 2021 by Mobile Scaffolds Queensland for filming Premier League soccer games. It was positioned between two playing fields at the Teralba Park Sports Complex.



The freestanding scaffold was about 2.4 metres high and had a height-to-base ratio of 1.6:1. It did not have additional stability measures such as outriggers, tie-downs or counterweights.



The coroner found the circumstances of Mr Jones’ death raised issues broader than the actions of any individual. Ms Fairweather also found that the owner of the scaffolding company had acted in good faith and within the limits of his training and experience when installing the tower.



Expert evidence considered during the inquest indicated that additional control measures could have prevented the scaffold from toppling. The findings also highlighted limitations in existing guidance for assessing wind risks affecting temporary tower scaffolds.



Mobile Scaffolds Queensland Pty Ltd was sentenced in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 16 August 16 2024, after being convicted of a breach of Queensland’s Work Health and Safety Act and fined $400,000.



The company had entered liquidation earlier that year and did not participate further in the court proceedings. The owner of the company was separately charged, but the charge was dismissed in November 2024 after the Work Health and Safety Prosecutor offered no evidence.



Recommendations target public scaffolding



Photo credit: Pexels/Tuan Vy







Ms Fairweather recommended that the Office of Industrial Relations amend Queensland’s Scaffolding Code of Practice to define “strong winds” and require freestanding tower scaffolds erected in public places to have additional control measures where appropriate.



The measures could include outriggers, tie-downs, counterweights, or tube-and-clip systems, with the appropriate controls determined on a case-by-case basis.



The coroner also recommended a comprehensive education campaign following any amendment to the code, covering scaffold manufacturers, suppliers, installers and businesses that hire out scaffolding. A compliance campaign should then follow to ensure the changes are understood and applied.



Manufacturers and distributors of scaffolding materials were also recommended to provide instructions, guidance and warnings for use, including information covering design choice, environmental factors, location, accessibility, duration of use and appropriate control measures.



The recommendations followed findings that existing industry guidance did not provide a sufficient method for assessing the risks posed by strong winds to freestanding tower scaffolds in public areas.







Read: Mitchelton Football Club Eyes Security Upgrade After String of Vandalism Incidents







The Scaffolding Association of Australia said it supported the recommendation for a comprehensive education campaign and expressed its thoughts for Mr Jones’ family and everyone affected by his death.



The association said the value of the findings would be in applying the lessons from the tragedy to safer scaffolding practices and helping prevent a similar incident in the future.



Published 6-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Toombul Swimming Hole Called The Muscle Recalled by Clayfield Resident]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/toombul-swimming-hole-called-the-muscle-recalled-by-clayfield-resident</link>
<media:content url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2-1.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/2-1.png"/>
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<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2026 10:25:34 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Frank Charlton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kedron Brook]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nundah]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Swimming Holes]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[The Muscle]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Toombul]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/?page_id=12790</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A Toombul swimming hole known as The Muscle was remembered as a place few people swam, according to a former Clayfield resident who described the old pools along Kedron Brook.



Read: Baby Rhyme Time Brings a Little Rhythm to Brisbane’s Libraries



Frank Charlton (1898–1982) recorded his recollections of the district in Clayfield as I have seen it. In an extract shared by the Nundah &amp; Districts Historical Society, he placed The Muscle near a bridge close to the later Toombul Shoppingtown and said it had a reputation for danger. Charlton did not identify the reason and acknowledged that he had never swum there.



The society's extract also describes a separate swimming hole known as The Isleton at what is now Kalinga Park. Charlton remembered it as a place where boys learnt to swim, a contrast with his account of The Muscle. Neither recollection establishes the precise position of the pools on a present-day map.



How The Toombul Swimming Hole Was Remembered



John Miller, responding to the Historical Society's post, recalled knowing The Muscle as the '4 foot'. He also described falling into the water and being helped out. His recollection offers another name for the pool but does not independently establish its depth or explain its reputation.



Other records document swimming-related facilities along Kedron Brook farther upstream. An account published in The Brisbane Courier on 23 October 1909, reproduced by the Windsor &amp; Districts Historical Society, reported that a bathing shed had been erected at Kalinga Park. The newspaper described the creek there as suitable for conversion into a swimming pool; it did not mention The Muscle.



BCC’s Nundah Heritage Trail reproduces a State Library of Queensland photograph captioned Tree-lined banks of Kedron Brook, Toombul, dated to about 1910. The image provides a view of the waterway in that period, although it does not identify either the pool or the bridge in Charlton's account.



Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland



A Changing Stretch of Kedron Brook



The bridge's identity remains unresolved. A BCC heritage record covering the Sandgate railway mentions a timber-pier crossing of Kedron Brook at Toombul during the railway's construction, but it does not connect that crossing with The Muscle. No verified historical map has placed the swimming hole on the later shopping-centre site.



Toombul Shopping Centre opened in 1967 at 1015 Sandgate Road, Nundah. Flood damage in February 2022 led to its closure, and the centre was later demolished. BCC now includes the site among the stops on its Nundah Heritage Trail.



A redevelopment application lodged on 6 October 2026 proposes a mixed-use precinct, including retail facilities, public open space and measures intended to manage flooding. BCC's development register lists the application as in progress, with no final decision recorded at the time of checking.



Read: Nundah Farmers Markets Reschedules 20th Anniversary Celebration



The location and fate of the Toombul swimming hole remain undocumented in the records examined. Charlton's account gives a name, an approximate setting and an unexplained reputation, but not the particular crossing where The Muscle once lay.



Published 28-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A Toombul swimming hole known as The Muscle was remembered as a place few people swam, according to a former Clayfield resident who described the old pools along Kedron Brook.



Read: Baby Rhyme Time Brings a Little Rhythm to Brisbane’s Libraries



Frank Charlton (1898–1982) recorded his recollections of the district in Clayfield as I have seen it. In an extract shared by the Nundah &amp; Districts Historical Society, he placed The Muscle near a bridge close to the later Toombul Shoppingtown and said it had a reputation for danger. Charlton did not identify the reason and acknowledged that he had never swum there.



The society's extract also describes a separate swimming hole known as The Isleton at what is now Kalinga Park. Charlton remembered it as a place where boys learnt to swim, a contrast with his account of The Muscle. Neither recollection establishes the precise position of the pools on a present-day map.



How The Toombul Swimming Hole Was Remembered



John Miller, responding to the Historical Society's post, recalled knowing The Muscle as the '4 foot'. He also described falling into the water and being helped out. His recollection offers another name for the pool but does not independently establish its depth or explain its reputation.



Other records document swimming-related facilities along Kedron Brook farther upstream. An account published in The Brisbane Courier on 23 October 1909, reproduced by the Windsor &amp; Districts Historical Society, reported that a bathing shed had been erected at Kalinga Park. The newspaper described the creek there as suitable for conversion into a swimming pool; it did not mention The Muscle.



BCC’s Nundah Heritage Trail reproduces a State Library of Queensland photograph captioned Tree-lined banks of Kedron Brook, Toombul, dated to about 1910. The image provides a view of the waterway in that period, although it does not identify either the pool or the bridge in Charlton's account.



Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland



A Changing Stretch of Kedron Brook



The bridge's identity remains unresolved. A BCC heritage record covering the Sandgate railway mentions a timber-pier crossing of Kedron Brook at Toombul during the railway's construction, but it does not connect that crossing with The Muscle. No verified historical map has placed the swimming hole on the later shopping-centre site.



Toombul Shopping Centre opened in 1967 at 1015 Sandgate Road, Nundah. Flood damage in February 2022 led to its closure, and the centre was later demolished. BCC now includes the site among the stops on its Nundah Heritage Trail.



A redevelopment application lodged on 6 October 2026 proposes a mixed-use precinct, including retail facilities, public open space and measures intended to manage flooding. BCC's development register lists the application as in progress, with no final decision recorded at the time of checking.



Read: Nundah Farmers Markets Reschedules 20th Anniversary Celebration



The location and fate of the Toombul swimming hole remain undocumented in the records examined. Charlton's account gives a name, an approximate setting and an unexplained reputation, but not the particular crossing where The Muscle once lay.



Published 28-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
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<title><![CDATA[Baby Rhyme Time Brings a Little Rhythm to Brisbane’s Libraries]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 06:36:41 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
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<description><![CDATA[


Baby rhyme time is one of those small library events that quietly earns its keep. It is free, simple and aimed at babies up to one year old. The November schedule shows it at Indooroopilly, with the wider run also reaching libraries across Brisbane. That makes it an easy one for local families to actually use.



A quick outing that feels close to home 



The event page keeps things plain. Families can meet other parents and babies for singing, clapping and dancing. There is no booking needed, which keeps the whole thing easy. At the same time, places are limited, so a session can close if it fills up.



That balance suits a library pretty well. It is open, but not chaotic. It is friendly, but still orderly. For parents juggling naps, bottles and everything else, that sort of setup matters more than people might think. 



The bigger schedule gives the program a wider reach. Alongside Indooroopilly, it also shows sessions at places like Holland Park, Chermside, Carina, Banyo, Nundah and Zillmere. So this is not just one nice little event in one suburb. It is a regular community rhythm across several parts of the city. 



The kind of noise libraries can welcome 



Baby rhyme time works because it is built for the early months. The event listing says the songs and action rhymes help nurture pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. That sounds formal, but the idea behind it is pretty simple. Babies hear words, watch faces and start getting used to the sound of language. 



That is where libraries come into their own. They are already calm places. They already belong to the community. So a session like this feels natural there, not bolted on. 



And honestly, that is part of the appeal. Parents do not need a grand plan for the morning. They just need something local, useful and low-fuss. Baby rhyme time gives them that. 



A small session worth repeating 



First 5 Forever backs the program, with the State Library of Queensland coordinating it in partnership with local government. That gives the session a proper public purpose, but the benefit is still felt at the local level. One suburb gets a room full of songs. Another suburb gets the same thing on a different day. 



That is the charm of it. Baby rhyme time is not trying to be bigger than it needs to be. It just gives babies, parents and carers a warm little place to start. In a city as busy as Brisbane, that feels worth keeping on the calendar.




  
    
      Place
      Date
      Time
    
  
  
    Annerley Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Ashgrove Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Banyo Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bracken Ridge Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Brisbane Square Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bulimba Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Carina Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Carindale Library11/3/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carindale Library11/10/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/11/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/17/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/18/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/24/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/25/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Chermside Library11/3/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Coopers Plain Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Corinda Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Everton Park LIbrary11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Fairfield Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Garden City Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Grange Library11/5/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/12/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/19/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/26/202611:15AM - 11:45AM

    Holland Park Library11/4/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/11/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/18/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/25/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Inala Library11/3/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/10/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/17/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/24/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Indooroopilly Library11/2/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/6/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/9/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/13/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/16/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/20/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/23/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/27/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/30/202610:15AM - 10:45AM

    Kenmore Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Mitchelton Library11/6/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/13/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/20/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/27/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Mount Gravatt Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Mt Ommaney Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    New Farm Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Nundah Library11/5/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/12/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/19/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/26/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sandgate Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Stones Corner Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sunnybank Hills Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Toowong Library11/3/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/10/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/17/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/24/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    West End Library11/4/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/11/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/18/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/25/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Wynnum Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Zillmere Library11/5/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/12/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/19/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/26/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
  




Published 28-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Baby rhyme time is one of those small library events that quietly earns its keep. It is free, simple and aimed at babies up to one year old. The November schedule shows it at Indooroopilly, with the wider run also reaching libraries across Brisbane. That makes it an easy one for local families to actually use.



A quick outing that feels close to home 



The event page keeps things plain. Families can meet other parents and babies for singing, clapping and dancing. There is no booking needed, which keeps the whole thing easy. At the same time, places are limited, so a session can close if it fills up.



That balance suits a library pretty well. It is open, but not chaotic. It is friendly, but still orderly. For parents juggling naps, bottles and everything else, that sort of setup matters more than people might think. 



The bigger schedule gives the program a wider reach. Alongside Indooroopilly, it also shows sessions at places like Holland Park, Chermside, Carina, Banyo, Nundah and Zillmere. So this is not just one nice little event in one suburb. It is a regular community rhythm across several parts of the city. 



The kind of noise libraries can welcome 



Baby rhyme time works because it is built for the early months. The event listing says the songs and action rhymes help nurture pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. That sounds formal, but the idea behind it is pretty simple. Babies hear words, watch faces and start getting used to the sound of language. 



That is where libraries come into their own. They are already calm places. They already belong to the community. So a session like this feels natural there, not bolted on. 



And honestly, that is part of the appeal. Parents do not need a grand plan for the morning. They just need something local, useful and low-fuss. Baby rhyme time gives them that. 



A small session worth repeating 



First 5 Forever backs the program, with the State Library of Queensland coordinating it in partnership with local government. That gives the session a proper public purpose, but the benefit is still felt at the local level. One suburb gets a room full of songs. Another suburb gets the same thing on a different day. 



That is the charm of it. Baby rhyme time is not trying to be bigger than it needs to be. It just gives babies, parents and carers a warm little place to start. In a city as busy as Brisbane, that feels worth keeping on the calendar.




  
    
      Place
      Date
      Time
    
  
  
    Annerley Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Ashgrove Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Banyo Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bracken Ridge Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Brisbane Square Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bulimba Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Carina Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Carindale Library11/3/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carindale Library11/10/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/11/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/17/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/18/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/24/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/25/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Chermside Library11/3/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Coopers Plain Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Corinda Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Everton Park LIbrary11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Fairfield Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Garden City Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Grange Library11/5/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/12/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/19/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/26/202611:15AM - 11:45AM

    Holland Park Library11/4/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/11/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/18/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/25/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Inala Library11/3/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/10/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/17/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/24/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Indooroopilly Library11/2/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/6/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/9/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/13/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/16/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/20/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/23/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/27/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/30/202610:15AM - 10:45AM

    Kenmore Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Mitchelton Library11/6/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/13/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/20/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/27/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Mount Gravatt Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Mt Ommaney Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    New Farm Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Nundah Library11/5/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/12/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/19/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/26/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sandgate Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Stones Corner Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sunnybank Hills Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Toowong Library11/3/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/10/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/17/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/24/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    West End Library11/4/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/11/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/18/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/25/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Wynnum Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Zillmere Library11/5/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/12/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/19/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/26/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
  




Published 28-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Nundah Farmers Markets Reschedules 20th Anniversary Celebration]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/nundah-farmers-markets-reschedules-20th-anniversary-celebration</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2026 04:26:25 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Farmers Markets]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community events]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Goodwill Projects]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local produce]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nundah]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nundah Farmers Markets]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/?page_id=12782</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Nundah Farmers Markets has rescheduled its 20th anniversary celebration, with a new market layout, additional seating and free entertainment planned for its Station Street venue.



Read: Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems



Organisers announced on 28 October that the celebration would move from 25 October to Sunday, 1 November 2026. The event will run from 6:00 a.m. until noon, alongside the market's regular Sunday trading.




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  Nundah Farmers Markets: 20th Anniversary

  
    Date
    Sunday, 1 November 2026

    Time
    6:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

    Location
    
      Nundah Train Station car park,
      Station Street, Nundah QLD 4012
    

    Admission
    Free
  

  
    Organisers announced the revised date on
    28 October 2026. The earlier online event
    listing may not yet reflect the change.
  

  
    
      Official market information
    
  




New Activities Planned For Nundah Farmers Markets



A brand-new layout is planned for the anniversary, with more shaded areas and seating throughout the market. Organisers have also announced a dedicated Puppy Zone, while face painting and balloon twisting will be among the activities offered for children.



Live music and roving entertainment are also scheduled throughout the morning. Entry will remain free, with visitors able to explore the usual selection of fresh produce, food stalls and other market offerings.



The celebration will take place at the Nundah Train Station car park, below Nundah Village. The regular Sunday market offers freshly roasted coffee and breakfast options, alongside produce from local growers and other small businesses.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Two Decades Of Markets On Station Street



Established in 2006, Nundah Farmers Markets was the original farmers market operated by Goodwill Projects, which has since expanded into managing other markets, events and venues across Queensland.



Over the past two decades, the market has operated during periods of economic and social change, including the Global Financial Crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic and more recent cost-of-living pressures. Organisers have identified support for local growers, small businesses and South-East Queensland producers as continuing priorities.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The market's anniversary also coincides with changes across Brisbane's inner northern suburbs. According to estimates cited by organisers, the population of Inner North Brisbane has increased from 55,964 in 2006 to approximately 210,000 in 2026. The geographical boundaries and underlying dataset used for the comparison were not identified.



Organisers have also pointed to changing shopping preferences, citing figures suggesting that 61 per cent of Australians favour seasonal produce and 55 per cent consider environmental impacts when purchasing food. The original surveys and their methodologies were not identified. Supporting regional producers and maintaining a regular trading venue for small businesses remain central to the operator's stated plans as the market enters its third decade.



Read: Baby Rhyme Time Brings a Little Rhythm to Brisbane’s Libraries



Following the anniversary celebration, Nundah Farmers Markets is scheduled to continue operating every Sunday from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with free admission. Further trading information is available through the official Nundah Farmers Markets website.



Published 28-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Nundah Farmers Markets has rescheduled its 20th anniversary celebration, with a new market layout, additional seating and free entertainment planned for its Station Street venue.



Read: Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems



Organisers announced on 28 October that the celebration would move from 25 October to Sunday, 1 November 2026. The event will run from 6:00 a.m. until noon, alongside the market's regular Sunday trading.




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  Nundah Farmers Markets: 20th Anniversary

  
    Date
    Sunday, 1 November 2026

    Time
    6:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

    Location
    
      Nundah Train Station car park,
      Station Street, Nundah QLD 4012
    

    Admission
    Free
  

  
    Organisers announced the revised date on
    28 October 2026. The earlier online event
    listing may not yet reflect the change.
  

  
    
      Official market information
    
  




New Activities Planned For Nundah Farmers Markets



A brand-new layout is planned for the anniversary, with more shaded areas and seating throughout the market. Organisers have also announced a dedicated Puppy Zone, while face painting and balloon twisting will be among the activities offered for children.



Live music and roving entertainment are also scheduled throughout the morning. Entry will remain free, with visitors able to explore the usual selection of fresh produce, food stalls and other market offerings.



The celebration will take place at the Nundah Train Station car park, below Nundah Village. The regular Sunday market offers freshly roasted coffee and breakfast options, alongside produce from local growers and other small businesses.



Photo Credit: Supplied



Two Decades Of Markets On Station Street



Established in 2006, Nundah Farmers Markets was the original farmers market operated by Goodwill Projects, which has since expanded into managing other markets, events and venues across Queensland.



Over the past two decades, the market has operated during periods of economic and social change, including the Global Financial Crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic and more recent cost-of-living pressures. Organisers have identified support for local growers, small businesses and South-East Queensland producers as continuing priorities.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The market's anniversary also coincides with changes across Brisbane's inner northern suburbs. According to estimates cited by organisers, the population of Inner North Brisbane has increased from 55,964 in 2006 to approximately 210,000 in 2026. The geographical boundaries and underlying dataset used for the comparison were not identified.



Organisers have also pointed to changing shopping preferences, citing figures suggesting that 61 per cent of Australians favour seasonal produce and 55 per cent consider environmental impacts when purchasing food. The original surveys and their methodologies were not identified. Supporting regional producers and maintaining a regular trading venue for small businesses remain central to the operator's stated plans as the market enters its third decade.



Read: Baby Rhyme Time Brings a Little Rhythm to Brisbane’s Libraries



Following the anniversary celebration, Nundah Farmers Markets is scheduled to continue operating every Sunday from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with free admission. Further trading information is available through the official Nundah Farmers Markets website.



Published 28-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:12:40 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland’s Smoke Alarm Deadline Is Near — Is Your Family Really Protected?]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2026 03:58:02 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 01:47:37 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Airport to Release 30 Hectares of Industrial Land for Local Business]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/brisbane-airport-to-release-30-hectares-of-industrial-land-for-local-business</link>
<media:content url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Brisbane-Airport.png" medium="image"/>
<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Brisbane-Airport.png"/>
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<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 20:46:07 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/?page_id=12741</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Brisbane Airport plans to release 30 hectares of industrial land to logistics, warehousing and manufacturing firms across South-East Queensland, in a rollout it values at more than $400 million.



Read: Banyo Development Shows the Infrastructure Challenge Behind Queensland’s Housing Target



Space for Firms that Need It&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Google Maps



Brisbane Airport Corporation outlined the plan on Wednesday, 21 October, with the land due to reach the market over the next three years. It is expected to add more than 150,000 square metres to the airport’s investment property portfolio. The airport values that portfolio at more than $2.6 billion, up by more than $500 million in two years.



Scott Norris, the airport’s executive general manager commercial, called it the most intensive industrial program in the airport’s history. He described it as one of the last chances of this size in the region and said businesses are under real pressure to find space. The airport says Brisbane’s industrial vacancy rate has fallen to 3 per cent and that its own industrial precincts are full. Independent reports this year put the citywide rate higher, between 3.7 per cent and 5.3 per cent depending on the survey.



Why Firms Look at an Airport Site



Location does much of the work. The precinct runs around the clock, and some sites could offer direct access to the airfield. The Gateway Motorway and the Port of Brisbane are both close by. Tenants can also ask for flexible leases or buildings made to their own design.



Stage two of the Airport Industrial Park



Photo Credit: Google Maps



The Airport Industrial Park covers 100 hectares, and its first stage is fully leased. Stage two, which launched earlier this year, takes up 25 hectares and plans 27,000 square metres of customisable space for up to 10 tenants. About 40 per cent of the lettable area was pre-committed after launch, the airport says. Building work is expected to finish by mid-2027, and the facilities are aiming for a 5 Star Green Star rating, a measure of sustainable design. Australia Post and Aramex are among the businesses already in the precinct.



Costco and a Bigger Plan



The industrial release is one piece of Future BNE, a program of more than $5 billion over five years and more than 150 projects. It covers everything from terminal upgrades to new commercial land.



The most visible piece so far is a 51-hectare site opposite the International Terminal, planned as a mixed-use area. Brisbane’s first Costco will take 6.7 hectares of it, with a 15,600-square-metre warehouse and fuel station due in late 2029. Chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff has said the retailer is the first of many announcements expected for the site. Hotels, shopping centres and data centres could follow, but none is confirmed.



Read: Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain



What it Could Mean for Locals



More than 20,000 people already work at the airport across more than 600 businesses, and the airport has forecast another 10,000 workers over the coming decade. How many jobs the new projects will create has not been detailed in the information released so far.



The 2026 Master Plan, approved by the federal government in June, sets the longer-term direction. The transport minister also asked the airport to keep talking with nearby communities about aircraft noise and to make any flight path changes public once they are decided. For residents and local firms alike, those talks and the rollout ahead will shape how the precinct grows.



Published Date 23-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Brisbane Airport plans to release 30 hectares of industrial land to logistics, warehousing and manufacturing firms across South-East Queensland, in a rollout it values at more than $400 million.



Read: Banyo Development Shows the Infrastructure Challenge Behind Queensland’s Housing Target



Space for Firms that Need It&nbsp;



Photo Credit: Google Maps



Brisbane Airport Corporation outlined the plan on Wednesday, 21 October, with the land due to reach the market over the next three years. It is expected to add more than 150,000 square metres to the airport’s investment property portfolio. The airport values that portfolio at more than $2.6 billion, up by more than $500 million in two years.



Scott Norris, the airport’s executive general manager commercial, called it the most intensive industrial program in the airport’s history. He described it as one of the last chances of this size in the region and said businesses are under real pressure to find space. The airport says Brisbane’s industrial vacancy rate has fallen to 3 per cent and that its own industrial precincts are full. Independent reports this year put the citywide rate higher, between 3.7 per cent and 5.3 per cent depending on the survey.



Why Firms Look at an Airport Site



Location does much of the work. The precinct runs around the clock, and some sites could offer direct access to the airfield. The Gateway Motorway and the Port of Brisbane are both close by. Tenants can also ask for flexible leases or buildings made to their own design.



Stage two of the Airport Industrial Park



Photo Credit: Google Maps



The Airport Industrial Park covers 100 hectares, and its first stage is fully leased. Stage two, which launched earlier this year, takes up 25 hectares and plans 27,000 square metres of customisable space for up to 10 tenants. About 40 per cent of the lettable area was pre-committed after launch, the airport says. Building work is expected to finish by mid-2027, and the facilities are aiming for a 5 Star Green Star rating, a measure of sustainable design. Australia Post and Aramex are among the businesses already in the precinct.



Costco and a Bigger Plan



The industrial release is one piece of Future BNE, a program of more than $5 billion over five years and more than 150 projects. It covers everything from terminal upgrades to new commercial land.



The most visible piece so far is a 51-hectare site opposite the International Terminal, planned as a mixed-use area. Brisbane’s first Costco will take 6.7 hectares of it, with a 15,600-square-metre warehouse and fuel station due in late 2029. Chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff has said the retailer is the first of many announcements expected for the site. Hotels, shopping centres and data centres could follow, but none is confirmed.



Read: Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain



What it Could Mean for Locals



More than 20,000 people already work at the airport across more than 600 businesses, and the airport has forecast another 10,000 workers over the coming decade. How many jobs the new projects will create has not been detailed in the information released so far.



The 2026 Master Plan, approved by the federal government in June, sets the longer-term direction. The transport minister also asked the airport to keep talking with nearby communities about aircraft noise and to make any flight path changes public once they are decided. For residents and local firms alike, those talks and the rollout ahead will shape how the precinct grows.



Published Date 23-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2026 01:43:41 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Banyo Development Shows the Infrastructure Challenge Behind Queensland's Housing Target]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/banyo-development-shows-the-infrastructure-challenge-behind-queenslands-housing-target</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 21 Oct 2026 03:21:31 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Banyo]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Energex depot]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[housing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Land Activation Program]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/?page_id=12732</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Banyo’s former Energex depot is earmarked for a new residential precinct, with proposals for townhouses, affordable housing and an aged care facility on a site close to the train station, schools, and local services.&nbsp;







Read: Banyo Land Sale Puts 400 Homes on the Table







As Queensland pursues its target of building one million homes by 2044, questions about how new developments will accommodate residents and provide supporting infrastructure are gaining importance.



The 6.4-hectare site has proposals for 207 townhouses, 64 affordable homes and a 180-bed residential aged care facility. The project forms part of Queensland’s Land Activation Program, which aims to unlock underused publicly owned land for housing. The proposal offers a local example of the challenge of integrating additional housing into an established suburban neighbourhood.



Infrastructure among residents' concerns



Artist’s impression of Banyo precinct (Photo credit: Economic Development Queensland)



Traffic, parking, drainage and infrastructure capacity were among the issues raised during community consultation on the Banyo precinct, according to Economic Development Queensland (EDQ). Feedback also addressed pedestrian and cycling connections, transport, neighbourhood character and building heights.



These matters were considered when the final Provisional Land Use Plan came into effect on 24 August 2026. The plan establishes a framework for medium-density housing while recognising the need for appropriate infrastructure, transport connections and improvements to public spaces.



The consultation record does not establish that existing services are inadequate or that specific upgrades will be required. Further technical investigations during development assessment are expected to clarify how roads, drainage and other infrastructure will be integrated into the precinct.



The site is close to existing public transport, schools, shops and community facilities, according to EDQ. However, proximity to these services does not by itself establish how they will accommodate additional demand.



Traffic, parking, walking and cycling connections, drainage and public spaces were among the issues raised during consultation. Further details about planned infrastructure works, their costs, funding and delivery schedules would clarify how the project will address those concerns.



A local project with statewide significance



Photo credit: Economic Development Queensland







The Banyo precinct is one example of Queensland’s broader strategy to increase housing supply by unlocking underused public land. Preferred proponents for the site were announced in June 2026. EDQ's project information outlines a pathway for future development, with detailed assessment still required before the residential proposals can proceed. The planning framework provides guidance for development, but it should not be confused with final approval for every building.



The proposal includes 64 affordable homes intended for key workers. Queensland also has a separate target of delivering 53,500 social and community homes by 2044. Whether the Banyo homes will count towards that broader target requires confirmation, as affordable housing and social housing are distinct categories.



Queensland’s wider housing ambition requires an average of about 50,000 additional homes each year over 20 years to reach one million. Delivering more homes involves more than identifying suitable land. Planning, construction and infrastructure provision all need to progress, with technical assessments helping determine how new precincts can connect with existing neighbourhoods.



What comes next for Banyo?



The final precinct plan provides a framework for the former Energex site, but the effects on the surrounding neighbourhood will depend on how the development proceeds and how supporting infrastructure is addressed.



EDQ says detailed investigations into matters such as traffic, infrastructure and flooding are undertaken at the development application stage. Those assessments will help establish how the proposed precinct can manage its impacts and integrate with surrounding areas. Further information about infrastructure upgrades, costs, funding and delivery schedules would give residents a clearer picture of what the development could mean for their neighbourhood.







Read: Nundah Office Building Sale Confirms Brisbane Area as Investment Destination







Banyo’s proposed redevelopment illustrates the balance involved in Queensland’s long-term housing ambitions. Finding land for new homes is one part of the task. Planning for the roads, drainage, transport connections and public spaces that support a growing population is another.



As planning progresses, the details of those assessments will be important in understanding how the former depot can be redeveloped while responding to the needs of the surrounding community.



Published 21-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Banyo’s former Energex depot is earmarked for a new residential precinct, with proposals for townhouses, affordable housing and an aged care facility on a site close to the train station, schools, and local services.&nbsp;







Read: Banyo Land Sale Puts 400 Homes on the Table







As Queensland pursues its target of building one million homes by 2044, questions about how new developments will accommodate residents and provide supporting infrastructure are gaining importance.



The 6.4-hectare site has proposals for 207 townhouses, 64 affordable homes and a 180-bed residential aged care facility. The project forms part of Queensland’s Land Activation Program, which aims to unlock underused publicly owned land for housing. The proposal offers a local example of the challenge of integrating additional housing into an established suburban neighbourhood.



Infrastructure among residents' concerns



Artist’s impression of Banyo precinct (Photo credit: Economic Development Queensland)



Traffic, parking, drainage and infrastructure capacity were among the issues raised during community consultation on the Banyo precinct, according to Economic Development Queensland (EDQ). Feedback also addressed pedestrian and cycling connections, transport, neighbourhood character and building heights.



These matters were considered when the final Provisional Land Use Plan came into effect on 24 August 2026. The plan establishes a framework for medium-density housing while recognising the need for appropriate infrastructure, transport connections and improvements to public spaces.



The consultation record does not establish that existing services are inadequate or that specific upgrades will be required. Further technical investigations during development assessment are expected to clarify how roads, drainage and other infrastructure will be integrated into the precinct.



The site is close to existing public transport, schools, shops and community facilities, according to EDQ. However, proximity to these services does not by itself establish how they will accommodate additional demand.



Traffic, parking, walking and cycling connections, drainage and public spaces were among the issues raised during consultation. Further details about planned infrastructure works, their costs, funding and delivery schedules would clarify how the project will address those concerns.



A local project with statewide significance



Photo credit: Economic Development Queensland







The Banyo precinct is one example of Queensland’s broader strategy to increase housing supply by unlocking underused public land. Preferred proponents for the site were announced in June 2026. EDQ's project information outlines a pathway for future development, with detailed assessment still required before the residential proposals can proceed. The planning framework provides guidance for development, but it should not be confused with final approval for every building.



The proposal includes 64 affordable homes intended for key workers. Queensland also has a separate target of delivering 53,500 social and community homes by 2044. Whether the Banyo homes will count towards that broader target requires confirmation, as affordable housing and social housing are distinct categories.



Queensland’s wider housing ambition requires an average of about 50,000 additional homes each year over 20 years to reach one million. Delivering more homes involves more than identifying suitable land. Planning, construction and infrastructure provision all need to progress, with technical assessments helping determine how new precincts can connect with existing neighbourhoods.



What comes next for Banyo?



The final precinct plan provides a framework for the former Energex site, but the effects on the surrounding neighbourhood will depend on how the development proceeds and how supporting infrastructure is addressed.



EDQ says detailed investigations into matters such as traffic, infrastructure and flooding are undertaken at the development application stage. Those assessments will help establish how the proposed precinct can manage its impacts and integrate with surrounding areas. Further information about infrastructure upgrades, costs, funding and delivery schedules would give residents a clearer picture of what the development could mean for their neighbourhood.







Read: Nundah Office Building Sale Confirms Brisbane Area as Investment Destination







Banyo’s proposed redevelopment illustrates the balance involved in Queensland’s long-term housing ambitions. Finding land for new homes is one part of the task. Planning for the roads, drainage, transport connections and public spaces that support a growing population is another.



As planning progresses, the details of those assessments will be important in understanding how the former depot can be redeveloped while responding to the needs of the surrounding community.



Published 21-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Nundah Farmers Markets Marks 20 Years With a Refreshed Layout and a Free Celebration]]></title>
<link>https://nundahnews.com.au/nundah-farmers-markets-marks-20-years-with-a-refreshed-layout-and-a-free-celebration</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://nundahnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Nundah-Farmers-Markets.png"/>
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<pubDate>Wed, 21 Oct 2026 02:41:02 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nundah News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://nundahnews.com.au/?page_id=12725</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Nundah Farmers Markets has kept shoppers coming back to Station Street through a global financial crisis and a pandemic, and the organisers say it is now marking 20 years.



Read: Japanese Energy Giant Opens Bulwer Island Hydrogen Facility



Photo Credit: Supplied



According to the organisers, the markets began in 2006. A lot has happened since. The Global Financial Crisis hit, then COVID-19, then a stretch of rising living costs. Through all of it, the markets stayed a fixture on Brisbane’s northside.



The area around the markets looks very different today. Organisers describe Inner North Brisbane as a thriving urban hub that has grown considerably over the past two decades. For a market that has been around that long, that means plenty of new faces in the crowd.



So why does a weekly market still have a place in the neighbourhood? The organisers point to growing interest in seasonal produce and in shopping with the environment in mind, especially among younger people. A market built around local growers and small businesses fits that mood well. It also gives neighbours a regular spot to run into each other.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The anniversary celebration runs on Sunday, 25 October, from 6 a.m. to noon at Station Street, Nundah. Locals are invited to explore the refreshed layout and help mark 20 years of Sunday morning tradition. Entry is free. Anyone who misses the party can still visit, as the markets trade on Sundays from 6 a.m. to noon.



Organisers say the layout has been refreshed, with more shade and seating dotted through the market. Dog owners will find a dedicated Puppy Zone for their four-legged friends. Younger visitors can get their faces painted or watch balloons twisted into shapes. Live music and roving entertainment round out the morning, alongside the local flavours the markets are known for.



Read: Nundah CPR Awareness Brings a Useful Skill Closer to Home



As Nundah Farmers Markets heads into its third decade, the aim stays the same. Supporting local businesses and celebrating the best of South-East Queensland remain at the heart of what the markets do.



Published Date 21-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Nundah Farmers Markets has kept shoppers coming back to Station Street through a global financial crisis and a pandemic, and the organisers say it is now marking 20 years.



Read: Japanese Energy Giant Opens Bulwer Island Hydrogen Facility



Photo Credit: Supplied



According to the organisers, the markets began in 2006. A lot has happened since. The Global Financial Crisis hit, then COVID-19, then a stretch of rising living costs. Through all of it, the markets stayed a fixture on Brisbane’s northside.



The area around the markets looks very different today. Organisers describe Inner North Brisbane as a thriving urban hub that has grown considerably over the past two decades. For a market that has been around that long, that means plenty of new faces in the crowd.



So why does a weekly market still have a place in the neighbourhood? The organisers point to growing interest in seasonal produce and in shopping with the environment in mind, especially among younger people. A market built around local growers and small businesses fits that mood well. It also gives neighbours a regular spot to run into each other.



Photo Credit: Supplied



The anniversary celebration runs on Sunday, 25 October, from 6 a.m. to noon at Station Street, Nundah. Locals are invited to explore the refreshed layout and help mark 20 years of Sunday morning tradition. Entry is free. Anyone who misses the party can still visit, as the markets trade on Sundays from 6 a.m. to noon.



Organisers say the layout has been refreshed, with more shade and seating dotted through the market. Dog owners will find a dedicated Puppy Zone for their four-legged friends. Younger visitors can get their faces painted or watch balloons twisted into shapes. Live music and roving entertainment round out the morning, alongside the local flavours the markets are known for.



Read: Nundah CPR Awareness Brings a Useful Skill Closer to Home



As Nundah Farmers Markets heads into its third decade, the aim stays the same. Supporting local businesses and celebrating the best of South-East Queensland remain at the heart of what the markets do.



Published Date 21-October-2026




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