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Young Couple Outbids Downsizers to Set Auction Record in Upper Kedron

A determined young couple upgrading from their first home in Keperra secured a record-breaking $1.301 million auction win for a three-bedroom house in Upper Kedron. The property at 54 Tooloom Circuit attracted nine bidders, most of whom were downsizers, with rapid bidding increments pushing the final sale price beyond expectations.

The auction began at $900,000, quickly rising through $10,000 increments before slowing to $1,000 bids as the final two contenders—a downsizing couple and the young buyers—faced off. The emotional winners, who had covered their home with handwritten affirmations before the auction, were overcome with joy as they secured their new home.

Upper Kedron property market — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

The Rising Market

The property market in Upper Kedron has seen a 20% increase in house prices over the past year, with the suburb’s median house price now sitting at $1.2 million, according to Domain. The suburb has gained popularity due to its proximity to more established areas like Ashgrove, Bardon, and The Gap, where comparable homes are up to $2 million.

Selling agent Lee Warren of Ray White Ashgrove highlighted the suburb’s growing appeal. Mr Warren stated that residents of Ashgrove and Bardon are looking at Upper Kedron because they can get similar houses at a lower price.

Brisbane’s Market Trends and Affordability Concerns

The Upper Kedron home was one of 177 auctions held in Brisbane last week, with a preliminary auction clearance rate of 36% recorded by Domain Group. Out of the 110 reported results, 10 auctions were withdrawn, indicating ongoing market caution.

According to AMP Capital chief economist Shane Oliver, Brisbane’s market is adjusting after a strong 18-month growth period and tends to lag behind Sydney and Melbourne by about six months.

Mr Oliver emphasised that affordability is becoming an issue, especially since Brisbane’s median house price passed $1 million last December.

Property market — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Other Notable Auction Results in Brisbane

The record sale in Upper Kedron was not the only significant auction result last weekend.

Belmont: A five-acre property at 104 Boston Road sold for $3.9 million, marking Brisbane’s highest auction sale of the weekend. A New Zealand-based family won after 25 bids, outpacing a Brisbane-based family.
Paddington: A six-bedroom home at 51 Stevenson Street secured $3.28 million, ranking as Brisbane’s second-highest sale of the weekend. The buyers, a young family returning from overseas, won after 22 bids.

Future Outlook for Upper Kedron and Brisbane’s Property Market

With the property values of the suburb continuing to rise and Brisbane’s median prices surpassing $1 million, affordability remains a growing concern. However, buyer demand remains strong, particularly for well-located homes that offer value compared to premium-priced suburbs.

Industry experts suggest that a potential RBA rate cut in the coming months could further influence the market’s recovery, potentially driving more competition in Brisbane’s housing sector.

Published 17-Feb-2025

Enoggera Student Among 2024 Charlie Bell Scholarship Recipients

Photo Credit: RMHC SEQ/Facebook

Enoggera student Ella Schwarz has been named a recipient of the 2024 Charlie Bell Scholarship, awarded by Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland (RMHC SEQ). The scholarship, valued at $5,000, supports young Australians whose education has been impacted by serious illness or injury and helps them pursue tertiary studies.

2024 Charlie Bell Scholarship Recipients — *Photo Credit: RMHC SEQ/Facebook*

Supporting Education Despite Challenges

The Charlie Bell Scholarship is named in honour of the late McDonald’s Global CEO Charlie Bell. It is awarded annually to young individuals who have faced significant medical challenges yet remain committed to their education. The program assists recipients with university fees, apprenticeship tools, study materials, and other educational costs.

Ms Schwarz, diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis, has faced ongoing medical hurdles. Despite this, she has excelled academically. She has secured an early offer to study a Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) and a Bachelor of Justice at Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

Ms Shwarz shared that her personal journey taught her the importance of resilience. She also learned the value of giving back to the community, which inspired her to make a positive difference. Thanks to RMHC SEQ, the Charlie Bell Scholarship will allow her to work toward achieving her aspirations.

Recognising Inspirational Young Australians

The scholarship also recognised two other young women: Maryam Moradi of Drewvale, who has Goldenhar Syndrome and aspires to become a doctor, and Erin Formann of Carina, who lives with Tuberous Sclerosis and plans to pursue nursing. The three recipients were celebrated at the Ronald McDonald House South Brisbane rooftop event. They are joined by their families, RMHC SEQ staff, and volunteers.

Emma Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of RMHC SEQ, praised the recipients for their determination. Ms Thompson stated that despite their challenges, these young women are inspirational. They showed that no matter what, anyone can achieve anything they set their mind to.

A Legacy of Support for Students

The Charlie Bell Scholarship continues to provide critical financial assistance to young Australians affected by illness, ensuring they have the resources needed to continue their education.

Those interested in applying can visit the Charlie Bell Scholarships website.

Published 14-Feb-2025

Brisbane’s Clearway Review Expands to The Gap

Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View

The existing clearway times along Musgrave Road and Waterworks Road, spanning from Red Hill to The Gap, are under review. The initiative is part of the Brisbane Clearway Action Plan – Keeping Brisbane Moving, which seeks to optimise road use and ease congestion in high-traffic corridors.

The current clearway operating times on this route were established over 15 years ago and are now under review to accommodate Brisbane’s growing population and evolving commuting habits. Currently, clearways are in effect between 7–9 a.m. inbound and 4–7 p.m. outbound on weekdays. The review aims to assess whether extending these hours or adjusting the schedule could improve travel times and safety for motorists.

Community Consultation to Guide Changes

City official Adrian Schrinner announced that public consultation on the Brisbane Clearway Action Plan will commence later this February and will be open for six weeks. Residents and local businesses in The Gap and surrounding areas will have the opportunity to provide feedback on how potential changes could impact their daily travel and parking access.

Mr Schrinner emphasised that making better use of Brisbane’s existing road network is a priority, stating that clearway reviews are a cost-effective measure to reduce congestion. Infrastructure Chair Andrew Wines added that the city authorities are committed to balancing road efficiency with the needs of the community.

Why Musgrave Road-Waterworks Road?

With more than 130,000 vehicles using this corridor on weekdays and over 39,000 on weekends, congestion remains a significant issue. Parked cars along the route force motorists to weave between lanes, contributing to delays and safety concerns.

By reviewing the clearway times, the city authorities aims to free up road space during peak hours, allowing more vehicles to move through without disruptions caused by on-street parking. When active, clearways create an additional traffic lane, reducing congestion and travel times.

Potential Expansion to Other Roads

The Musgrave Road-Waterworks Road review marks the first step in a broader plan to evaluate clearways on several major Brisbane corridors. Future locations identified for possible clearway extensions include:

Bowen Bridge Road–Lutwyche Road
Abbotsford Road, Bowen Hills
Wynnum Road
Vulture Street
Wellington Road, East Brisbane
Moggill Road
Webster Road, Stafford
Wickham Terrace–Leichhardt Street, Spring Hill
St Pauls Terrace, Fortitude Valley
Klumpp Road, Upper Mt Gravatt

The last major clearway adjustment in Brisbane occurred in August 2022 on Kelvin Grove Road-Enoggera Road, where an additional hour was added to both morning and afternoon peak periods, saving an estimated 6,500 hours of travel time per year.

Musgrave Road — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

Public Response and Considerations

While clearways are designed to improve traffic conditions, they can also present challenges for local businesses and residents. Some business owners have previously expressed concerns that extending clearway hours could limit customer parking, potentially affecting foot traffic.

In 2024 alone, there were 9,650 instances of motorists blocking clearways, with over 1,660 vehicles towed for non-compliance. The fine for illegally parking in a clearway is three penalty units, equating to approximately $480.

City officials stress that reviewing and extending clearways is a low-cost, practical solution to Brisbane’s increasing traffic congestion, avoiding the need for expensive infrastructure projects such as road widening.

Next Steps for The Gap’s Clearway Review

Community consultation will be open for six weeks starting this month. Residents and businesses can share their feedback through BCC’s official channels, including email, phone, and written submissions. Any proposed changes resulting from the review are expected to be implemented by June.

The city officials encourage Brisbane residents to participate in the upcoming consultation process to help strike a balance between traffic efficiency and community needs.

Published 11-Feb-2025

Upper Kedron-Mt Nebo Road Connection Gains Momentum

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The road connection between The Gap and Upper Kedron has taken a significant step forward after the Deputy Premier directed State departments to engage with BCC on modifying the Ferny Grove–Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan. The decision follows strong community advocacy, including a petition with approximately 1,400 signatures.

For over a decade, residents of Upper Kedron and Ferny Grove have called for a vehicular connection to Mt Nebo Road, seeking improved accessibility and alternative transport routes.

The initial 2014 development application (DA A003905687) for the Ellendale estate proposed two road connections to Mt Nebo Road. However, after community opposition—primarily from residents in The Gap, Ashgrove, and Bardon—BCC limited the corridor to emergency vehicles and active transport (pedestrians and cyclists).

Despite 79 public submissions opposing restricted access, the 2018 Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan retained the emergency-only classification. The State upheld the restriction, stating that BCC was responsible for seeking amendments.

The Gap road — *Photo Credit: Ferny Grove Upper Kedron (FGUK) Residents Association*

Recent Developments

In response to community advocacy and a petition signed by around 1,400 residents, the Deputy Premier has now instructed the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, and Planning to collaborate with BCC on changes to the neighbourhood plan. This directive aligns with the city officials’ commitment to removing obstacles for the road’s consideration.

While this does not guarantee immediate construction, it is a crucial step towards securing approval for a general traffic connection.

Challenges and Considerations

BCC’s original opposition to a public road was based on traffic modelling, which suggested low usage compared to the cost of construction and maintenance. Additionally, some residents of The Gap and Ashgrove have raised concerns about increased traffic flow.

Advocates argue that:

The current road network forces all traffic onto Samford Road, creating inefficiencies.
A new road would improve emergency access, particularly during landslides and bushfire events.
Environmental benefits include reduced emissions by shortening travel distances to Enoggera Dam, Walkabout Creek, and The Gap Park ‘n’ Ride.

Potential mitigation strategies include reducing speed limits on the 2km section of Mt Nebo Road to 60 km/h.

Community Reactions: Mixed Views on the Road Connection

The Ferny Grove Upper Kedron (FGUK) Residents Association, which led the petition effort, maintains that a majority of Upper Kedron and Ferny Grove residents support a full traffic connection.

The proposal to connect Upper Kedron to Mt Nebo Road has sparked strong opinions among residents, with discussions unfolding across social media. Many supporters see the recent State directive as a positive step towards better connectivity, viewing it as a long-overdue improvement. Some believe that Upper Kedron and Ferny Grove residents should have greater access to surrounding suburbs, especially as past development plans indicated a road connection was always a possibility. Others argue that infrastructure should evolve with changing community needs rather than remain fixed to the conditions at the time of purchase.

However, opposition remains. Some residents feel that those who moved into Upper Kedron did so knowing there was no connection to Mt Nebo Road, questioning why there is now a push to change that. Concerns about traffic safety and increased accidents on Mt Nebo Road have also been raised, suggesting that a bus service would be a better alternative to a full road connection. Supporters argue that traffic concerns may be overstated, while opponents stress safety risks. Others propose mitigation measures, such as lowering the speed limit on the relevant stretch of Mt Nebo Road.

Upper Kedron road — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Discussions continue, with a clear divide between those advocating for improved accessibility and those concerned about the potential consequences of opening the road to general traffic.

What Happens Next?

While the State’s directive to engage with BCC is a significant milestone, key steps remain:

BCC must initiate amendments to the Brisbane City Plan.
A feasibility assessment will determine construction viability.
Ongoing public consultation will likely shape final decisions.

Residents can learn more at the FGUK Residents Association AGM on 23 February at 2 p.m. at Upper Kedron Hall.

Published 5-Feb-2025

Ashgrove Golf Club to Host Lions and Roses Charity Dinner for Cystic Fibrosis Queensland

Photo Credit: Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club/Facebook

The Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club is bringing the community together for a charity dinner at Ashgrove Golf Club on Saturday, 15 March 2025, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event aims to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis Queensland.

A History of Community Support

The Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club has a long history supporting local causes. Originally established as separate clubs in the 1960s, they merged in 2007. Today, the club continues its work more effectively. It has organised numerous fundraising efforts, including charity events, raffles, and community initiatives. The upcoming Lions and Roses Charity Dinner will continue this legacy.

Cystic Fibrosis: A Lifelong Challenge

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition that causes a thick mucus buildup in the lungs, airways, and digestive system. People with CF need constant medical care and physiotherapy, which can be exhausting and life-altering. There is no cure, so ongoing support, treatment, and research funding are essential.

For over 60 years, Cystic Fibrosis Queensland has supported individuals and families affected by CF. As a not-for-profit organisation, they raise awareness, improve access to treatment, and enhance the quality of life for those living with this challenging condition.

A Night of Entertainment and Giving Back

The Lions and Roses Charity Dinner will feature a live entertainment program, a roast meal, and a chance to win prizes through raffles. Guests will also hear from inspirational speakers telling stories of resilience and hope.

The dress code for the event is “something special.” Attendees are urged to embrace the evening with a spirit of celebration and generosity.

Community Commitment and Future Support

The event’s proceeds will directly support Cystic Fibrosis Queensland’s programs and initiatives. Every dollar ensures individuals receive the support they need. By hosting fundraising events like this, the Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club continues to strengthen its impact on local causes and reinforce its dedication to charitable service.

With an RSVP deadline of 8 March, the club encourages community members to book early to secure a spot at this meaningful fundraising event. For further details, interested individuals can contact Jennie Jackson at 0413 308 320.

BOOK TICKET

Published 4-Feb-2025

Route 742 Launches to Improve Student Transport in The Gap

Photo Credit: BCC

A new school bus service, Route 742, has been introduced to ease overcrowding on Route 362 and improve student transport in The Gap. Part of Brisbane’s New Bus Network, the route connects The Gap State High School to Keperra, Mitchelton, and Brookside Shopping Centre.

Overcrowding on existing services has been a persistent issue, particularly in the afternoons. The first Route 742 service departs at 2:36 p.m., offering a direct connection to Brookside Shopping Centre via Keperra and Mitchelton. This service is designed to reduce congestion, improve reliability, and enhance student safety and comfort.

Route 742 The Gap — *Photo Credit: TransLink*

Brisbane’s Bus Network Overhaul

The launch of Route 742 is part of Stage 2 of Brisbane’s New Bus Network, the largest transformation of the city’s public transport system in a decade. This overhaul aims to improve efficiency, reduce travel times, and enhance connectivity.

One major change is the rebranding of Route 66 as Metro M2, now operating with high-frequency electric Metro vehicles between UQ Lakes and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH). Additionally, Metro M2 no longer stops at Dutton Park Place, and several school bus services have been adjusted to improve accessibility.

Why Route 742?

Route 742 was introduced in response to the growing demand for student transport. Route 362, which previously served many students, experienced frequent overcrowding, leading to concerns about safety, delays, and limited seating.

By adding an extra school bus service, BCC aims to reduce congestion and provide a safer, more reliable commute. Route 742 operates only in the afternoon, timed to align with The Gap State High School’s bell times, ensuring a seamless transition for students.

Future Transport Improvements

The introduction of Route 742 addressed the previous concerns about overcrowding. As Brisbane’s New Bus Network continues to roll out, further improvements include:

Stage 3 (Q2 2025): Expansion of Brisbane’s New Bus Network and the introduction of new M1 services.
Stage 4 (Q3 2025): Completion of the Adelaide Street tunnel, designed to enhance city connectivity and reduce congestion.

These upcoming stages will further improve public transport efficiency, ensuring better access to schools, work, and key locations across Brisbane.

Staying Updated on Service Changes

Passengers can stay informed about service updates by:

Visiting Translink’s website
Using the Translink app
Calling 13 12 30

plan your journey

These platforms provide real-time updates and essential travel information for easier journey planning.

Published 3-Feb-2025

The Gap Homeowner’s Roof Colour Sparks Two-Year Battle with Housing Complex

A homeowner from The Gap has been ordered to repaint her roof following a two-year legal battle with her body corporate.

Read: Will ‘Renzo’s Place’ Finally Find New Life? Property On the Market After Years of Neglect

The dispute arose after the homeowner, Maria Gourley, 64, painted her roof a different colour than the surrounding homes in her housing complex at The Gap in March 2023.

Her body corporate, which manages the 64 townhouses at Paltarra Street under a community titles scheme, deemed the colour of Ms Gourley’s roof “disruptive” and in violation of the complex’s by-laws. Complaints from neighbours described the colour as “disturbing,” “jarring,” and “alien.”

After Ms Gourley failed to repaint the roof, the body corporate escalated the matter to the Office of the Commissioner for Body Corporate and Community Management. In a submission, the committee argued that the roof’s colour had significantly altered the external appearance of the lot, a change that required prior written approval.

On January 16, the adjudicator ruled in favour of the body corporate, ordering Ms Gourley to repaint her roof within three months.

A Complex Dispute

Ms Gourley’s legal troubles began after she sought guidance from the body corporate in January 2022 regarding permissible roof colours. According to Ms Gourley, the committee did not specify an exact colour but instead suggested she consult a contractor to match her roof tiles with those of her neighbours.

Ms Gourley claimed she tried to do the right thing, asked for a colour, and was allegedly let down. She believes the body corporate should cover the cost of repainting the roof, given that a mandatory colour was not specified until after her roof was painted.

Despite this, the adjudication process revealed that 13 residents submitted complaints opposing Ms Gourley’s roof colour. In their submission, it was stated that the discordant red roof was negatively impacting property values and the overall aesthetic harmony of the complex.

Moving Forward

At the October 2023 annual general meeting, the body corporate committee formally adopted a mandatory roof colour policy to prevent similar disputes in the future. However, the damage had already been done for Ms Gourley, who now faces the financial burden of repainting her roof and potentially higher legal costs if she proceeds with her appeal.

The body corporate maintained that the dispute was necessary to preserve the integrity of the community’s aesthetic standards.

Meanwhile, the homeowner expressed her frustration, stating that no neighbours had approached her directly to voice concerns about the roof colour. She said she feels like the matter could have been resolved through a conversation, rather than escalating it to this level.

Read: The Gap Residents Advised to Stay Ready for Wildfire Risks

Enforcement and Penalties

According to Queensland’s Adjudicators’ orders, failure to comply with the order could lead to enforcement through the magistrates court. Non-compliance carries a maximum penalty of $64,520.

Ms Gourley has indicated her intention to appeal the decision, hoping for a different outcome at a higher level. For now, the dispute serves as a cautionary tale for homeowners navigating the often-complex world of body corporate regulations.

Published 24-January-2025

The Gap FC Product Sharn Freier Makes Bundesliga Move to VfL Wolfsburg

Rising Matildas forward Sharn Freier, who was scouted by the Brisbane Roar from The Gap FC, is rewriting Australian football history as she prepares for a landmark move to German giants VfL Wolfsburg, with a deal that will keep her at the Bundesliga club until mid-2028, under what is reported to be a club record transfer fee for the Queensland outfit.

Read: Tony Cooper’s Journey: From The Gap to a Legacy of Colour and Healing

A Product of The Gap FC

Her journey to European football began on Brisbane’s northside, where Freier first laced up her boots for Pine Rivers United alongside twin sister Laini. She later shone at The Gap FC, catching the attention of Brisbane Roar scouts and kickstarting her professional career.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SHARN FREIER (@_sharnfreier_)

The 23-year-old’s remarkable rise hasn’t come without challenges. After an ACL injury sidelined her for a year, Freier’s determination saw her return stronger than ever, culminating in a stellar 2023–24 season. She swept every major club award at Brisbane Roar, including the prestigious Kate McShea Medal for Player of the Year.

Sharn Freier, the Matildas’ Future

Freier’s domestic form translated to international success, earning her first Matildas cap against Mexico last April. Her rapid progression also saw her represent Australia at the 2024 Olympics, where she faced Germany—her future home at the club level—in a memorable match.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CommBank Matildas (@matildas)

“They are a very successful club with class players, so to be given the opportunity to be a part of something like that, I am extremely grateful,” Freier shared about her upcoming move to Wolfsburg. Her new club’s director of women’s football, Ralf Kellermann, also praised the Australian forward, noting her consistent performances at both club and international levels.

Read: Saving Wattle Creek: Community Unites to Revive The Gap Rainforest

A Talisman for the Roar

While preparing for her European adventure, Freier continues to shine in the current A-League season. She has already contributed two goals and four assists in the Roar’s chase for the premiership, with three of those assists setting up goals for her twin sister Laini. Her impending departure marks the end of an era at Brisbane Roar, where she has made 57 appearances since her debut in December 2020.

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A post shared by A-Leagues (@aleagues)

The forward will remain with Roar until the conclusion of the 2024–25 Ninja Women’s A-League season, giving local fans a few more months to witness the talents that caught the attention of one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs.

Published 23-January-2025

Tony Cooper’s Journey: From The Gap to a Legacy of Colour and Healing

Photo Credit: Jasmin Cooper/Facebook

Vale Antony John (Tony) Cooper, a visionary entrepreneur from The Gap, established his first business, High Style Interiors, where he discovered his passion for colour psychology. It was here that he explored the influence of colour on human emotions, a pursuit that would shape his future ventures and lasting legacy.

Arriving in The Gap in 1967 with his wife Marion and their children, Mr Cooper quickly established himself within the community. He launched High Style Interiors, combining his background in fashion and tailoring with a newfound passion for interior design.

Tony Cooper The Gap — Photo Caption: Marion and Tony Cooper discussing “Colour The Cosmic Code” during an interview.
Photo Credit: Create Happy Minds with Kinesiology/Facebook

His exploration of colour psychology began during these formative years, leading him to discover its potential beyond aesthetics, delving into its effects on well-being and emotional states.

Aura Light: A Vision for Colour Healing

*Photo Caption: The Colour Diagnostics System of Aura Light.*
*Photo Credit: Aura Light*

In 1991, Mr Cooper founded Aura Light in Mapleton on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. His business produced vibrant essences, oils, and creams that incorporated essential oils, crystal and flower essences, natural dyes, and herbal energies.

Aura Light became a cornerstone in the field of vibrational medicine, offering a range of products and consultations aimed at aligning the body and mind through colour therapy.

Colour the Cosmic Code: A Lifelong Philosophy

In 1999, Mr Cooper published “Colour the Cosmic Code,” a comprehensive guide detailing the philosophy and practice of colour in personal and planetary healing.

The book provided practical insights and explored the historical significance of colour across cultures, reflecting his deep belief in its transformative power. His work gained recognition internationally, leading him to speak at conferences across Europe, Canada, Japan, and Australia.

Remembering Tony Cooper

Tony Cooper, an entrepreneur from The Gap, made this bicycle. — *Photo Caption:* A bike born from Tony Cooper’s creativity and innovation.
Photo Credit: Illume Creations

Mr Cooper passed away on 23 November 2024, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and innovation. A funeral service celebrating his life was held on 10 December 2024 at Gregson and Weight in Nambour.

Attendees were encouraged to honour his passion for colour by wearing their favourite shades. A livestream was made available for those unable to attend in person.

Mr Cooper was well known for his love of Saluki dogs, often seen walking his beloved pets, Earl, Ella, and later Leah, around Montville’s Main Street and Mapleton’s Lily Ponds.

Published 22-Jan-2025

Saving Wattle Creek: Community Unites to Revive The Gap Rainforest

Photo Credit: Save Our Waterways Now/Facebook

Efforts to restore Wattle Creek in The Gap are underway. This once-thriving rainforest, now strangled by invasive weeds, is at the heart of an ambitious restoration project led by Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN).

Chinese elm, ochna, and aggressive vines have overtaken the area, destroying native vegetation and threatening the delicate balance of a critically endangered ecosystem.

Saving Wattle Creek — *Photo Credit: Save Our Waterways Now/Facebook*

Reclaiming a Rainforest

The project is more than just environmental rehabilitation. It’s about reconnecting Brisbane’s natural landscapes by restoring Wattle Creek as a vital wildlife corridor between Enoggera Creek and Mt Coot-tha.

SOWN calls for volunteers to help in restoring Wattle Creek — *Photo Credit: Save Our Waterways Now/Facebook*

This link is critical for several vulnerable and endangered species, including the Tusked Frog, Regent Honeyeater, Swift Parrot, Koala, and Southern Greater Glider. Without urgent action, these species face shrinking habitats and greater challenges to their survival.

For SOWN, this is part of a broader mission to protect Brisbane’s waterways and their surrounding ecosystems. By focusing on biodiversity, sustainability, and community engagement, SOWN has already made significant strides in restoring nearby catchments such as Enoggera, Ithaca, and Fish Creek.

A Community-Led Effort

What makes this project stand out is its reliance on community power. While SOWN applied for grants to cover large-scale weed clearing, SOWN’s vision depends on volunteers to do the heavy lifting: removing invasive plants, planting natives, and ensuring ongoing care for the area.

By participating, locals can contribute to protecting a rare and valuable ecosystem. This collaboration not only enhances biodiversity but also strengthens the community’s connection to nature.

Restore The Gap rainforest — *Photo Credit: Save Our Waterways Now/Facebook*

Join the Movement

SOWN is calling on locals to be part of this transformative effort. Whether it’s volunteering for planting days, spreading awareness, or simply lending a hand in removing weeds, there’s a role for everyone.

To get involved, contact info@saveourwaterwaysnow.com.au. The time to act is now—Wattle Creek’s future depends on it. Together, the community can create a sanctuary for native wildlife and a space everyone can be proud of.

Published 17-Jan-2025