Hamilton has emerged as a focal point for thieves targeting car parks in multi-residential complexes, with a series of thefts raising concerns among local authorities and community members. The thefts, which have seen property stolen from storage cages and vehicles, highlight an urgent need for increased vigilance and security measures in the area.
A recent incident saw thieves gaining entry into the car park of a unit complex on Harbour Road, Hamilton, where tools and clothing were stolen from a vehicle. This event, occurring overnight on Friday, March 29, 2024, is part of a disturbing trend affecting the Hamilton area, prompting police to urge residents and property managers to adopt enhanced security protocols.
Photo Credit: QPS
Between January 8 and April 7, 2024, Hamilton has experienced a worrying total of 203 offences. This includes 36 unlawful entries and 71 other theft cases involving taking property without force, threat, or illegal entry. These statistics underscore the pressing issue of property crime in the Hamilton community.
Unlawful entry clusters Photo Credit: QPS
Other theft clusters Photo Credit: QPS
Advice for Protecting Property
In response to the rising tide of thefts, authorities advise residents to bolster their security practices. Recommendations include maintaining strict personal security habits, ensuring prompt communication with property management, and is well-acquainted with building evacuation and safety plans.
Additionally, enhancing physical security measures, such as installing high-quality locks and ensuring valuables are not stored in easily accessible areas, is crucial.
Residents are also encouraged to take proactive steps in securing vehicles and bicycles, including the use of anti-theft screws for registration plates and the strategic positioning of bikes in locked areas or using additional security devices.
Hamilton residents who observe suspicious behaviour or have information about the thefts are urged to contact Policelink by submitting details via the online suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. Crime Stoppers is available at 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au for anonymous crime reporting.
A significant dispute has erupted over a Hamilton Hill homeowner’s plans to modify their lavish trophy home’s glass balustrades, sparking fears among neighbours that these changes will render the residence overly imposing in an exclusive enclave.
At the centre of the controversy is a multimillion-dollar trophy home on Eldernell Terrace, where proposed alterations have led to objections from nearby residents. The issue arose over the homeowner’s plans to increase the structure’s size and replace certain architectural features, raising concerns about the building’s height and aesthetic impact on the area.
The contested property’s owners, Michael John Cleary and his wife Mary Jo, acquired the home for $7.3 million in 2023. Their renovation plans include removing some glass panels for fibre-cement sheeting, altering the glass balustrading to steel, and adding steel-framed awnings.
Photo Credit: Melanie Wing/ DA 10630479
These modifications, documented in council submissions, have sparked the current controversy due to concerns about the building’s increased bulk and visual dominance in the neighbourhood.
Two residents of Hamilton Hill, concerned about the potential effects of the proposed changes, have taken formal steps to halt the development.
Liza Gay and her husband Geoff, prominent figures in event management and the audiovisual sector, submitted an objection to the local council via DA 10630479, approved on 26th March 2024.
They argue that the alterations would significantly increase the building’s height beyond the acceptable limit of 9.5 meters, urging the council to issue a “stop work order” until the application undergoes due process.
“ As part of the original Development Application the Brisbane City Council sought changes to ensure glass balustrade was provided on balconies to reduce the overall height, bulk and scale of proposed development,” the couple stated it their submission.
“The current owner has totally ignored that ruling and has removed the balustrade to replace it with higher and opaque materials.
“As this work is in total contradiction to the Councils direction and does not align with the intent of the overarching purpose of the Zone code, we request the you place a ‘Stop work order’ on the property until the application goes through due process.”
Photo Credit: DA 10630479
Adding to the Gays’ opposition, another neighbour, Melanie Wing, who co-owns a popular bar with her husband, has voiced her concerns. Wing, residing in a historical house nearby, criticises the development for potentially setting a worrisome precedent regarding building height in the area. She emphasises that the proposed changes would result in a building that is too large and imposing, negatively affecting the surrounding residential zone.
As the council considers the objections, the community awaits a decision that will not only affect the immediate neighbours but also set a tone for future developments in one of Brisbane’s most prestigious locales.
A small business operating a fast ferry service from Hamilton to North Stradbroke Island has been forced to close just days after launching, with operators claiming exorbitant fees sank its operations.
River to Bay operates ferries from Brisbane River to the small seaside township of Dunwich with 30-minute and one-hour trips. However, the business shut down after Redland City Council charged them a massive fee for using a public jetty on the island.
The company had already obtained a licence for $1,000 but claimed it was later told the fee would increase to $78,000 if it used the jetty more than 50 times a year, essentially killing its business, according to the operators.
River to Bay operations manager Isla Toomey said they have asked Council to reassess the “exorbitant” fees.
The council has approved a schedule of fees that applies to all commercial operators using council-owned or managed jetties for business. The fees help maintain the jetty. The Council also said it was working with the operator and the State Government to find a solution.
Stradbroke Flyer owner John Groom, who runs ferries to the island from Cleveland’s Toondah Harbour, said all ferry operators in Redland were feeling the pinch from these fees. Straddie Chamber of Commerce president Colin Battersby called for the Council to simplify the boat and ferry licensing deals and level the playing field because this was not the first complaint.
In 2022, Mark Bailey, the former Transport Minister, criticised the Redland barge landing charges, which had increased from $72,000 to $136,000 for 2022-23. The charges were projected to increase further to $346,000 by 2025. Mayor Karen Williams justified the increases by stating that it was necessary to prevent ratepayers from subsidizing commercial ferry operators.
Did you know that the Sunset Cinema will return to the Northshore Precinct in Hamilton and will run for eight glorious weeks, screening its signature mix of new releases, family faves, and all-time classics?
Catch new season blockbusters like the new “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” and the highly anticipated “Dune: Part 2.” And don’t miss the new spy thriller “Argylle” and the Marvel action “Madame Web.”
From the 21st of March to the 11th of May 2024, Sunset Cinema will be screening from a slightly new location in The Collective Event Space, Dock D, Northshore (next to Eat Street).
Photo Credit: Sunset Cinema
Double Features and Family Fun
Check out the bunch of double features and get two movies for the price of one! Keep the kids entertained with the Disney duo “Finding Nemo” and “Toy Story.” Plan the perfect girls’ night with comedies “Mean Girls and “Clueless,” then prepare for a scare at teen horrors “Buffy The Vampire Slayer” and “Jennifer’s Body.” Treat the family to a memorable night out at the new animated adventure “Kung Fu Panda 4” and the magical world of “Wonka.”
Musical and More
Sing along to the musical masterpiece “One Love,” a celebration of Bob Marley’s life and music. Plus loads more new releases, including the Amy Winehouse biographical drama “Back to Black.”
Soak up the alfresco atmosphere from the comfort of a bean bag or get the VIP treatment in the Sunset Lounge and enjoy premium bean lounges in a reserved area with prime viewing, plus bottomless popcorn! Don’t forget to make a stop at the fully licensed snack bar for a pre-movie bevvy including a selection of sustainable Aussie wines from Oxford Landing, G&T’s from Manly Spirits Distillery Co. and refreshing craft brews from Mountain Culture Beer Co.
Be sure to grab all your movie night snacking essentials too, like Murray Street Choc Tops and freshly popped popcorn before settling in for the show.
Get a totally immersive audio experience with every ticket holder receiving brand-new Bluetooth headphones, for the ultimate movie night under the stars!
Family-Friendly Environment
Best of all your furry pals are welcome too! For everyone’s enjoyment owners are kindly asked to keep dogs on a lead within the event site for the duration of the movie.
Dates and Timing
Gates open at 5.30 pm and the film will commence at the last light. The movie program is now on sale, so head to the website for your tickets for this must-do event.
The incentives are part of a $20 million program by Brookfield Properties to revitalise the mixed-use riverfront precinct ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics.
Up to 23 packages, ranging from $50,000 to $500,000, will be available to assist retailers with costs associated with opening new stores. This includes help with fit-out and design expenses, marketing support, and other startup costs. The aim is to curate a mix of retailers that align with the vision for the waterfront village.
Rise Bakery at Portside Wharf (Photo supplied)
“We want to work with like-minded operators who will become an integral part of Hamilton and Brisbane at large,” said Brookfield Properties Executive Vice President Lee Butterworth.
With thousands of residents and workers in the area, along with a surge expected as the Olympics approach, Butterworth said the incentives will bring new energy to the village.
“This is our way of ensuring we bring the right partners to Portside and inject new energy into our village by the water. We’ll be making opportunities available for established businesses, emerging businesses and entrepreneurs,” said Mr Butterworth.
Retailers focused on health, wellness, waterfront dining, boutiques, and convenience are invited to apply.
The revitalisation of Portside Wharf kicked off in 2023 with the addition of several new dining establishments. Fine dining seafood restaurant Fosh, led by renowned Brisbane restaurateur Michael Tassis, opened to offer upscale waterfront fare.
Fosh (Photo supplied)
French bakery and tea salon Rise Bakery brought Parisian breads and pastries to the village. Yakitori bar Bird’s Nest opened for Japanese skewers and shared plates. Artisanal gelato purveyor Rosé Gelateria also launched to provide frozen Italian treats.
The latest addition is Portside Social, a new 224 sqm venue modelled after the popular Newstead Social. Other upcoming openings include sushi restaurant Choo Choo Sushi and Chinese eatery Uncle Wang.
Portside Social (Photo supplied)
Interested retailers can apply for the incentives before April 19 at inportsidewharf.com.au. With the revitalisation underway, Portside Wharf aims to become a thriving retail and dining destination along Brisbane’s waterfront.
A recent health report has found that students attending schools in Hamilton, Ascot, New Farm, Bulimba, Balmoral, Hawthorne, and Hendra that are affected by chronic and excessive aircraft noise are experiencing negative academic results and struggling with their psychological well-being.
The World Health Organization recommends that daytime aircraft noise should not go beyond 45 decibels, and at night, it should stay below 40 decibels.
However, in Brisbane’s neighbourhoods like Bulimba, Hamilton, New Farm, and Tingalpa, the noise from planes often goes way above these levels, reaching 70-85 decibels.
Some areas have as many as 89 to 100 flights per day, with most of them being louder than 70 decibels, and some even louder than 90 decibels, as recorded by Airservices Australia’s noise monitors.
The health report, published by environmental scientist Dr Sean Foley in August 2023, sheds light on a pressing issue, its potential repercussions, and the divergent viewpoints regarding the proposed solutions.
Based on local surveys from 2021 and 2022, the study has identified a staggering 1.39 million Brisbane residents, equating to 54 per cent of the population, contended with aircraft noise in 2023. Among them, 242,000 individuals, or 9 per cent, bear the brunt of severe affliction.
Health Implications
The consequences of chronic exposure to aircraft noise extend beyond mere inconvenience. The report underscores a disconcerting array of health risks that affect the residents, ranging from sleep disturbance to cardiovascular disease. It highlights the disturbing link between aircraft noise and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.
The report also reveals the adverse impacts on children’s learning outcomes, with research showing that students attending schools under flight paths, including those in Bulimba, Balmoral, Hawthorne, Hamilton, Hendra, Ascot, and New Farm, are now experiencing negative academic results and struggling with their psychological well-being. The issue doesn’t stop at the school gate; it follows them home, compounding the challenges faced by these young residents.
The research estimates the health and social costs amounting to $9,000 per person, based on insights gleaned from a parallel study at Brussels Airport in Belgium. Potentially, the study says residents will face a potential healthcare cost of $18.9 billion by 2032.
In light of these findings, the Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance (BFPCA) has called for the implementation of a curfew and flight cap at Brisbane Airport, akin to Sydney’s longstanding regulations. They assert that such measures would alleviate the suffering of affected residents.
However, Brisbane Airport Corporation maintains that roughly 70 per cent of noise complaints pertain to daytime flights. They argue that imposing a curfew may not provide the anticipated relief and could lead to unintended consequences, including diverted flights and increased prices. Instead, the airport is exploring alternative flight paths over Moreton Bay waters to minimize the noise impact on residential areas.
The Path Forward
Efforts to mitigate the adverse effects of airport noise are underway, with the airport authorities collaborating with Air Services Australia to devise strategies that reduce flight concentration over residential communities, including Hamilton.
The aim is to increase flight paths over the waters of Moreton Bay, thereby reducing the number of flights over homes. Air Services Australia, recognizing the mental distress caused by aircraft noise, now offers free mental health counselling services to affected Brisbane residents
The consequences of airport noise are not limited to specific suburbs; they reverberate across a wide swath of greater Brisbane, encompassing areas like Hamilton. Airservices Australia confirmed that residents in 226 suburbs, extending far beyond the Brisbane Local Government Area, have registered complaints about aircraft noise. This extensive problem impacts communities as far away as Upper Brookfield, Samford Valley, and Redland Bay, all while communities in Hamilton continue to bear the burden of this issue.
The Economic Dimension
Beyond the immediate health concerns, the issue carries significant economic implications, affecting not only specific areas like Hamilton but the entire region. While BFPCA argues for a curfew and flight cap, Brisbane Airport Corporation contends that such measures could negatively impact Queensland’s economy, projecting a shrinkage of $2.8 billion by 2032.
This estimate represents just 0.08 per cent of the state’s $360 billion economy, raising questions about the balance between economic growth and the well-being of affected communities.
Situated in one of the city’s most affluent areas, the motel in question has recently become a centre of contention as residents believe it poses an “imminent safety threat” to the community.
In a letter circulated among residents, the community expressed their discontent with the situation.
“We already have seen some action getting certain people removed, and we need your help to get back to the safe and quiet neighbourhood that we had prior to the placement of these people,” the letter says in part.
The motel, currently used as temporary accommodation for homeless individuals, is managed by Micah Projects, a government-funded homelessness support service. The letter urged locals to contact state politicians, the motel management, and Micah Projects, to reclaim their once safe and quiet neighbourhood.
Concerns and Accusations
The letter points out several concerns, including the conduct of some motel occupants, alleging that Micah Projects had not adequately screened those placed in the motel for shelter or provided ongoing support.
An anonymous Hamilton resident mentioned a recent incident involving a person with a knife threatening neighbours.
Micah Projects CEO Karyn Walsh responded by asserting that the organisation is actively addressing community concerns and that problematic individuals have been removed. The arrangement between the motel and Micah Projects has been in place for years, with vacant rooms being used for short-term accommodation for those in need.
According to Ms Walsh, the primary goal is to transition vulnerable individuals from temporary motel stays into permanent homes as quickly as possible. She emphasised that the motel, as a private enterprise, establishes its standards for guest behaviour, and non-compliance may result in eviction.
While Micah Projects has made significant strides in housing homeless families and individuals, the ongoing housing crisis in Australia continues to be a challenge. Factors such as rising rents and property sales have contributed to the issue.
Ms Walsh stressed the importance of efficient resource allocation and increased government housing to address the crisis and provide affordable shelter to those in need.
Despite community concerns, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) reported no specific increase in reports from the motel’s address. A QPS spokesperson encouraged concerned residents to report suspicious activity online or call 000 in emergencies.
Following the letter’s release, a homeless family was evicted from emergency accommodation, claiming the family was a threat to community safety. The family was subsequently moved to another hotel. The motel owner confirmed that the “residents of concern” had vacated the property.
This comes amidst Australia’s housing crisis. Many Australians are forced to live on the streets or in tents due to the situation. The National Shelter and SGS Economics and Planning report that property affordability has declined across most Australian capital cities, with regional Queensland being the least affordable for renters.
Developer Hua Feng Development Pty Ltd purchased the pre-1947 property at 33 Langside Rd two years ago and is now applying to tear down the four-bedroom house.
They commissioned a consultant’s report arguing that extensive modifications over the decades have stripped the transverse gable-style home of its original heritage character.
Real estate marketing photo of 33 Langside Rd, Hamilton, showing the gable roof form (Photo credit: realestate.com.au)
Changes include conversion to a duplex in the 1960s, a third storey addition in 1967, and a front carport added more recently. The report states these alterations, along with construction of larger modern houses nearby, have left the subject property looking out of place on the street.
Aerial view of subject property (Photo credit : Brisbane City Council)
Heritage consultant Malcolm Elliott concludes the 1940s home no longer retains its traditional charm and now appears “incongruous” among contemporary homes in the area.
Hua Feng submitted their development application to the Brisbane City Council in November 2023. Local officials are currently reviewing the proposal.
Can a Pre-1947 House Be Demolished?
A house or building constructed before 1947 that is also located in the Traditional building character overlay cannot be demolished. However, Council’s planning scheme allows for some limited exceptions where these older buildings can be removed.
In order for Council to approve demolition, the development application must meet the following criteria:
The building has undergone substantial alterations over time that have changed its original form and character.
The building has been deemed structurally unsound or unstable.
Demolition of the building would not result in a significant loss of traditional neighbourhood character.
The building is situated on a part of the street that no longer retains traditional building styles.
Additionally, if the house was built in 1911 or earlier, the only justification for demolition would be if the building is structurally unsound and not reasonably capable of being repaired.
In summary, local officials make some allowances for demolition of historic buildings in special cases, but there is a high bar to meet one of the qualifying criteria.
Hamilton’s Portside Wharf is gearing up to host the much-anticipated North Brisbane Vegan Markets, a vibrant hub of cruelty-free shopping, delicious vegan cuisine, and lively entertainment.
Scheduled for 18 Nov 2023, the Queensland Vegan Markets at Portside Wharf is at 39 Hercules Street, Hamilton. The event is set to run from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., allowing visitors ample time to explore, shop, and dine.
Culinary Delights and Ethical Shopping
Photo Credit: Brisbane Vegan Markets/Facebook
Food enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice with an array of plant-based culinary delights. The event will feature a delicious assortment of vegan treats, from Balinese dishes to cheese toasties and tacos, not forgetting indulgent options like cupcakes, cookies, burgers, and loaded fries.
Photo Credit: Brisbane Vegan Markets/Facebook
The markets will also provide a platform for a variety of cruelty-free stalls, showcasing an array of products including leather alternatives, unique homewares, and bespoke goods.
An Inviting Atmosphere for All
Photo Credit: Brisbane Vegan Markets/Facebook
Setting the mood for this ethical extravaganza, live music will fill the air, creating an inviting and upbeat atmosphere. Pet lovers will be delighted to know that the event is pet-friendly, offering a chance for the community to enjoy a day out with their furry companions.
This inclusive approach underscores the market’s commitment to being a welcoming space for all attendees.
Entry is free, making it accessible to everyone. Attendees can also benefit from easy public transport access and both free and paid parking options, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Slated for construction at 502 Kingsford Smith Drive, if approved, the development (DA A006335435) lodged in August 2023, is open for submissions from 25 Oct to 17 Nov 2023.
“Once a development application has been publicly notified, interested parties are invited to make submissions within a 20 business day public notification period. Following the 20 business day timeframe, the opportunity for submissions closes and the application is further assessed taking into consideration comments made by submitters,” per Economic Development Queensland.
Innovative Design and Amenities
Designed by the esteemed Myers Ellyett Architects, the proposal envisions a 5-storey residential tower with 44 high-density units, offering an array of amenities and communal spaces. The development is set to encompass levels 2 to 5, with an impressive communal rooftop space. Levels 2 and 3 will house 12 rooms each, whilst Level 4 boasts 2 landscaped terraces and 10 rooms.
Photo Credit: DA A006335435
The rooftop level, a truly standout feature, includes a café, yoga lawn, seating zone, function zone, and a garden edge. Furthermore, the ground level will feature a lobby, a convenient pick-up/drop-off area, three staff car parks, a loading/servicing zone, and lush planting and landscaping.
The project places a strong emphasis on aesthetics and community engagement, with screening and vegetation enhancing the building’s façade along Kingsford Smith Drive, affording residents private terraces and balconies. The rooftop area will provide a communal open space with outdoor landscaped spaces, a café, and a function area, all thoughtfully designed to complement the short-term accommodation use.
Photo Credit: DA A006335435
Promoting Streetscape Activation
Mewing Town Planning, the planners overseeing the project, are keen to ensure that the development aligns with the neighbourhood’s character and encourages street-level activation.
“At ground level, the development proposes the lobby and landscaped courtyard within proximity of the street frontage, consistent with the outcomes of the Neighbourhood Plan, which will encourage the activation and overlooking of the street,” the planner stated. “The landscaping within the frontage will soften the presence of the development and contribute to the character and amenity of the streetscape.”
Photo Credit: DA A006335435
The project includes a setback of 5.5 meters from the front boundary to prevent the development from overwhelming the streetscape. This setback, combined with an intricately designed façade, vertical batten screening, landscaping, and a central recessed form, ensures that the new addition to Hamilton integrates seamlessly with its surroundings.
Parking and Accessibility
A total of 22 car parking spaces are part of the plan, comprising 19 guest spaces, including three drop-off bays, and three staff spaces. Vehicle and pedestrian access will be facilitated via a shared driveway and a pedestrian entrance lobby. To accommodate environmentally conscious visitors, the proposal also includes 64 bicycle parking spaces, promoting sustainable transportation options.
The proposed development spans 1,281 square metres of gross floor area (GFA) with a site cover of 60 per cent. The development is set to invigorate the area and cater to the short-term accommodation needs of visitors and locals, creating a new landmark within the charming suburb of Hamilton.
Head to the BCC Development site to make a submission for DA A006335435.
