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.

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.

“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.

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

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

The Colour Diagnostics System of Aura Light.
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

Colour the Cosmic Code
Photo Caption: Colour the Cosmic Code by Tony Cooper.
Photo Credit: Create Happy Minds with Kinesiology/Facebook

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

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. 

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

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

A sprawling 5000-square-meter property in The Gap, known as “Renzo’s Place,” could soon have a new chapter in its decades-long story.


Read: Developers Look to Transform Eyesore on Waterworks Road Into New Community Asset


The site at 836-842 Waterworks Road, vacant and deteriorating for over a decade, has been listed for sale by receivers McGrathNicol late last year through an expressions of interest campaign.

Photo credit: Google Street View

The property has a colorful history dating back to 1958 when it was purchased by Renzo Zanuttini, a pioneering developer and one of the early Italian immigrants to Australia. Zanuttini, renowned for building the Sunshine Coast’s first high-rise, cultivated an immaculate garden on the site, earning him local acclaim. 

Over the years, the land’s prime location next to a BP service station and the now-relocated Gap Handyman Centre, made it a significant but underutilized piece of real estate.

Efforts to redevelop the site have faced multiple hurdles. In 2017, plans for a six-level unit project were shelved, and a more recent 2023 proposal for a mixed-use hub, including 26 retirement units, childcare facilities for 86 children, healthcare services, and five additional residential units, was approved in June. However, no progress has been made, and the approval is set to expire in November 2024.

Artist’s impression of proposed development for 836-842 Waterworks Road (Photo credit: Aspect/ Brisbane PD Online)

The property’s sale is being managed under instructions from McGrathNicol receivers Robert Smith and Mark Holland, overseeing K2M Investments No. 2 Pty Ltd, the company behind the 2023 development proposal

Although interest from buyers has been reported, details remain under wraps. Both McGrathNicol and Ray White Commercial, the listing agents, declined to comment on the sale process, citing the property’s receivership status.

“Renzo’s Place” has also become an urban exploration hotspot, attracting adventurers intrigued by its storied past and state of disrepair. For the local community, the property’s fate is a subject of much interest, with hopes that new ownership will finally bring the site to life.


Read: The Gap Gets First Downsizer Housing Project with Nature’s Edge


As it stands, the future of this iconic Brisbane property remains uncertain. Whether it becomes a bustling hub of activity or continues to languish depends on whether a new buyer steps in before the current development approval lapses. One thing is certain: the next chapter of “Renzo’s Place” will be closely watched.

Published 17-January-2025

The Gap Residents Advised to Stay Ready for Wildfire Risks

In the wake of the devastation that continues due to the Los Angeles wildfires, a disaster management expert has warned that climate change intensifies fire risks globally; and areas like The Gap, which is surrounded by natural bushland, carry a higher risk of bushfires under worsening climate conditions.



Climate Change Amplifies Bushfire Threat

According to Practice in Disaster Management Professor Iain MacKenzie of Griffith University, a specialist in disaster management, the global increase in extreme weather is a clear sign that these fires are becoming more frequent and intense.  Areas like The Gap, which is surrounded by natural bushland, are at risk of urban bushfires and wildfire risks under worsening climate conditions. 

He pointed to historical bushfires in The Gap during the late 1980s and early 1990s as examples of how these disasters can encroach on suburban areas.

Meteorologist Ken Kato drew parallels between Queensland and California, noting that both regions have dry climates and flammable vegetation, including eucalypts. He explained that strong winds, similar to California’s Santa Ana winds, combined with prolonged dry conditions, could create a tinderbox scenario in Brisbane suburbs like The Gap. While Brisbane has experienced strong westerly winds in the past, Mr Kato emphasised the need to be vigilant during extended dry spells.

Preparedness and Lessons from Los Angeles

The recent fires in Los Angeles, driven by exceptionally strong winds exceeding 160 km/h, have prompted Australian experts to reassess local preparedness. 

Queensland’s Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers, Ann Leahy, stated that the state’s year-round preparedness activities, such as planned burns and equipment upgrades, are critical in mitigating risks. However, concerns remain about resource adequacy. Professor MacKenzie cautioned that while response capabilities are vital, agencies must also make difficult decisions, such as revising building codes and implementing stricter community standards in fire-prone areas like The Gap. He reiterated that there would never be enough resources to combat every fire without strong preventative measures.

Experts have called for Australia to develop sovereign firefighting capabilities to reduce reliance on international assistance.

Calls for Action

Federal Minister Jenny McAllister recently emphasised the importance of preparing for longer fire seasons and more dangerous conditions. While Queensland officials monitor the Los Angeles situation, experts urge local governments to act decisively to bolster firefighting infrastructure and community resilience.

Meanwhile, residents of The Gap and other bushland-adjacent suburbs are encouraged to take individual precautions, such as clearing vegetation around properties and maintaining awareness of fire alerts. 



Published 15-January-2025

Hookworms Threaten The Gap Dogs as Parasite Resistance Rises

Hookworms, parasites that can harm dogs and humans, are developing resistance to treatments, sparking health concerns in The Gap and across Australia.



Growing Resistance in Canine Parasites

A study conducted by the University of Queensland in collaboration with the University of Sydney found that 70 per cent of hookworm samples tested in Australia showed genetic mutations linked to resistance against benzimidazole-based dewormers. These drugs, which were once highly effective, are now increasingly failing to treat canine hookworm infections, raising significant health concerns for pet owners and communities.

The study, which examined samples from over 100 dogs in Australia and New Zealand, discovered that even previously unaffected species, such as the northern hookworm, have developed resistance.

Researchers highlighted that hookworms, which live in a dog’s small intestine and feed on blood, can cause anaemia, diarrhoea, and malnutrition. In severe cases, particularly in puppies, these infections can be fatal.

The Gap’s High Pet Population at Risk

The Gap, a suburb with abundant green spaces and a reputation for pet-friendly living, faces heightened risks. With 2,085 registered dogs as of March 2024, The Gap’s parks and communal areas provide ideal conditions for the spread of hookworm infections among pets and potentially to humans.

Experts warned that hookworms can infect humans through skin contact, causing a condition known as cutaneous larva migrans (CLM). This condition, described by Dr Swaid Abdullah from the University of Queensland, causes intense itching, blistering, and a red, snake-like rash. The shared spaces in The Gap highlight the need for preventative measures to protect both pets and people.

Dr Abdullah explained that the overuse of deworming treatments without proper diagnosis contributes to the rising resistance, similar to how overprescription of antibiotics creates resistant bacteria. He called for targeted testing and treatments to address the issue effectively.

Hookworm resistance for The Gap dogs
Photo Credit: Shelby Pieper/Unsplash

Protecting The Gap’s Pets and Community

Experts emphasised several measures to mitigate the hookworm threat in The Gap and similar communities:

  • Conduct regular parasite testing for dogs, ideally twice a year.
  • Use targeted treatments based on diagnostic results rather than relying on blanket deworming approaches.
  • Maintain hygiene by promptly picking up and properly disposing of dog waste, both in public spaces and at home.

Dr Abdullah urged pet owners to remain proactive, as clean environments and responsible pet ownership are key to preventing the spread of hookworms. He highlighted that diligent waste disposal is critical in preventing the transmission of parasites in shared spaces like parks and yards.



Published 7-Jan-2024

When Enoggera Witnessed the Execution of a Circus Giant

In July 1923, Enoggera became the site of one of the most extraordinary spectacles in local history: the dramatic execution of a circus elephant named Cardie, who had attacked his trainer during a performance, shocking the community.



Cardie’s Rise and Fall

Cardie was no ordinary elephant. A towering presence at Wirth’s Circus, he was the pride of the troupe, known for his jaw-dropping strength and impressive tricks. Over his 25 years with the circus, Cardie had grown from a young, five-year-old elephant into a veteran performer, capable of pulling railway carriages and hauling loads of over 35 tons. His feats amazed audiences across Australia.

But with age came unpredictability. In the days leading up to the tragedy, Cardie’s behaviour became erratic. 

On a fateful Friday night in Brisbane, during a performance under the big top, he lashed out at his trainer, Mr Cooke, injuring him. The incident left the circus management shaken. George Wirth, the circus owner, lay awake that night, agonising over what to do. By morning, a grim decision had been made: Cardie would have to be destroyed.

Wirth Circus parade in Brisbane in the 1920s
Photo Credit: University of Queensland

A Procession Like No Other

What followed was a sight unlike anything Brisbane had ever seen. Early on Sunday morning, Cardie was led out of the city, crossing Victoria Bridge and ambling through the streets, accompanied by his keeper, Victor Lee. The destination: a secluded paddock near Kedron Brook in Enoggera.

As news of the plan spread, a crowd of curious onlookers began to gather, swelling to over a thousand by the time Cardie reached his final stop. Children and adults alike followed the procession, some out of concern, others out of fascination. For many, it was a rare chance to witness such a massive creature up close, even under tragic circumstances.

The Final Act

At the paddock, Cardie was secured to a tree with heavy chains. Two police officers, Constable Ben Hall and Constable James Egan, were assigned the unenviable task of carrying out the execution. Both men were experienced marksmen, and their orders were clear: ensure a swift and humane death.

At the signal of the circus manager’s whistle, Egan fired the first shot, hitting Cardie in the brain and causing him to collapse. Hall followed immediately, aiming for the heart. The elephant, who had entertained countless audiences, sank to the ground and lay still. To ensure no suffering, several additional shots were fired.

Mr Cardie’s keeper for eight years and the man who shared the closest bond with him, couldn’t bear to watch. Moments before the shots were fired, he walked away from the scene, heartbroken.

A Grim Aftermath

The following day, Cardie’s massive body was taken to Alderley, where butchers began the long process of dissection. Witnesses described it as a gruesome scene, with the work taking hours to complete. 

Cardie’s remains, including his skeleton and skin, were donated to the Queensland Museum, where they were intended for educational display. Even in death, the elephant’s legacy would continue, offering insights into one of the largest creatures ever to perform in Australia.



Even nearly a century later, the events in Enoggera remain a fascinating chapter in local history, a reminder of the complex relationships humans have with the animals they tame and treasure.

Published 6-January-2025

Recognition at Gallipoli Barracks: Major Robert Sawford Awarded for Years of Service

Gallipoli Barracks became the stage for a meaningful ceremony as Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart presented Major Robert Sawford (retd), affectionately known as “Rawby,” with a first and second Federation Star. 


Read: Enoggera Scout Achieves Coveted Baden-Powell Award


 The awards recognise his decades of service to the Army and the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME).

A graduate of the 32nd intake of Army apprentices, Major Sawford began his career in 1977 as an electronics tradesman. Over the course of 17 postings, he served in roles spanning Australia and abroad, retiring in 2022. He reflected on his career with gratitude, highlighting the diverse opportunities it afforded him.

Robert Sawford
Australian Army officer Major Robert Sawford receives his second Federation Star from Lieutenant General Simon Stuart at Gallipoli Barracks, Brisbane (Photo credit: Sergeant Dustin Anderson/defence.gov.au)

Among his career milestones was participating in Exercise Longlook in North Yorkshire, England, during which he joined Exercise Lionheart, the largest NATO troop movement since World War II. In 2001, he led the Ninox Validation and Support Team, conducting critical evaluations of night-fighting equipment across Australia’s defense forces. This role also involved supporting infantry troops in East Timor, a mission later commended for its success and value.

In 2012, Major Sawford served as a team leader during Exercise Pacific Partnership aboard the United States Navy Ship Mercy, delivering humanitarian aid to the Philippines, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Outside his military service, Major Sawford’s personal life reflected a touch of history. He married Jennifer Waddington, the eldest daughter of Lord and Lady Waddington, at the Church of St. Margaret, Westminster Abbey, with a reception at the Palace of Westminster attended by Margaret Thatcher. A London newspaper called the union “Ms. Waddington will wed Wizard from Oz.”

Major Sawford humorously recalled addressing concerns during his officer selection board in 1999 about his wife’s suitability for officers’ mess functions. He assured the panel that Jennifer, who had been presented to Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace, had attended far grander events.


Read: New Resource from Play Matters to Support Enoggera Playgroup Families 


Summing up his journey, Major Sawford described his career as incredible and heartfelt, emphasizing the significance of the recognition to him, his family, and his colleagues. His decades of service leave an enduring legacy of leadership and dedication to the Australian Army.

Published 6-January-2025

Ether Man Case: The Gap Holds the Key to Solving Brisbane’s Reign of Terror

A 27-year-old woman and her two-year-old son were confronted by a knife-wielding man in their home in The Gap, leading to a breakthrough in the case of the serial rapist known as the “Ether Man.” This terrifying incident, which occurred in 1966,  marked a turning point in a series of attacks that had gripped Brisbane for months.



Phillip Charles Lamont, a seemingly ordinary public servant, was identified as the perpetrator who terrorised Brisbane residents for 10 months in the 1960s.  He preyed on at least six women in their homes across inner-city Brisbane suburbs after dark, using chloroform or ether-soaked cloths to subdue his victims before raping them.

A City in Fear

Ether Man
Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Crime historian Jack Sim said the attacks triggered one of the biggest police investigations in Brisbane’s history, leaving the city in a state of fear.  “Rapes in people’s homes by strangers … it was something the city had never seen,” he explained.  In the 1960s, Brisbane was a smaller city, with unlocked doors and unfenced yards common.  This made it easier for the Ether Man to attack women in their homes, often in the evening or late at night.

The Attacks Escalate

Ether Man
Photo Credit: Queensland Police

The Ether Man’s first attack occurred in December 1965 when he attempted to rape a 59-year-old woman in her Coorparoo apartment. He continued to attack women over the next few months in suburbs like New Farm, Milton, Annerley, and Kangaroo Point.  

In June 1966, a 24-year-old woman in Annerley was attacked while hanging clothes on the line. She screamed, alerting her husband, who chased the offender but couldn’t catch him.  Days later, a 23-year-old woman in Kangaroo Point was found bound and gagged in her apartment, although she had not been raped.

A Crucial Mistake in The Gap

Ether Man
Photo Credit: Trove

The attack in The Gap, where Lamont threatened a mother and her child with a knife before raping the woman, proved to be his downfall. Witnesses saw a cream-coloured 1963 Ford Falcon Sedan with distinctive red-brown undercoat paint parked near the home around the time of the attack. This vital clue led police to Lamont.

The Investigation and Tragic End

Police questioned Lamont, who initially cooperated but gave conflicting accounts about his car.  His fingerprints matched those found at the scene of the first attack in Coorparoo. When confronted with the evidence, Lamont confessed.  While police searched his apartment, Lamont, under guard in the kitchen, grabbed a knife and fatally stabbed himself in the chest.



Justice Denied, Legacy Remains

Lamont’s suicide meant he was never brought to trial, denying his victims justice. However, the case had a lasting impact on how police in Queensland dealt with sexual assault cases.  Detectives believed Lamont was likely responsible for other unsolved attacks.  

Mr Sim said the attacks sparked reform within the police force, leading to the creation of specialist units to handle sexual assault cases. In 1975, the Queensland Police Service established the first Rape Squad in Australia, staffed by female officers and operating 24/7. This initiative provided dedicated support to victims of sexual assault.

Published Date 28-December-2024

Street Spotlight: Doncella St, The Gap

Doncella Street in The Gap tells a compelling story of Brisbane’s suburban evolution and community strength. Historical records from 1936 reveal that the street had not yet been established, with only sparse development along Waterworks Road marking the area.



Today, this peaceful enclave has flourished into a tight-knit community of 25 properties, where an impressive 85% are owner-occupied. The remarkable average residency of 17 years and 2 months, with 57% of residents calling it home for over a decade, speaks volumes about the street’s enduring appeal. This strong sense of permanence is exemplified in the property market’s history, such as 23 Doncella Street’s sale for $86,000 in February 1985 – a figure that provides a fascinating glimpse into the area’s property journey. Below, you will find an aerial image taken in 1936, offering a striking contrast to the established residential street we see today.

Doncella St, The Gap Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 25
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 85%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 17 years and 2 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 57%

Doncella St, The Gap – As It Looked in 1936

Doncella St, The Gap in 1936


SOME RECENT SALES ON DONCELLA ST, THE GAP

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
8 Doncella St, The Gap$1,255,000Jun 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON DONCELLA ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property AddressSale PriceSale Date
23 Doncella St, The Gap$86,000Feb 1985
33 Doncella St, The Gap$160,000Sep 1986

SUBURB PROFILE 

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in The Gap in 2024 was $1,023,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in The Gap in 2020 was $675,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN THE GAP SINCE 2020 : $348,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in The Gap in 2024 was $1,325,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in The Gap in 2020 was $785,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN THE GAP SINCE 2020 : $540,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in The Gap in 2024 was $1,538,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in The Gap in 2020 was $980,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN THE GAP SINCE 2020 : $558,000



If you know Doncella St, The Gap well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.