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New Resource from Play Matters to Support Enoggera Playgroup Families

The Playgroup, a part of Play Matters Australia with an outlet in Enoggera, is set to release a new free resource for families. The resource will offer activities and tools to support children’s development through play and strengthen family bonds.

Bringing Play-Based Learning to Enoggera Families

Play Matters Australia, a national organisation that promotes early childhood development through play, is introducing the “Let’s Play” Playbook, a new guide for parents and caregivers.

Designed to enhance families’ experiences attending the Enoggera Playgroup and others nationwide, the Playbook will be available for free download on World Children’s Day, 20 November.

This play-based resource, drawing from the latest child development research, encourages interactive, educational play sessions for families with young children.

The book recently won the 2024 Speech Pathology Australia Language and Literacy Development Book of the Year for Birth to 3 Years, recognising its role in fostering early language skills and family engagement. Families who attend the Enoggera Playgroup will be among the first to experience the benefits of this resource, which integrates activities aligned with the evidence-based Sing&Grow program.

The Playgroup in Enoggera offers a welcoming environment where families can engage in meaningful, play-based interactions that contribute to children’s social, emotional, and cognitive growth. The new Playbook will support these sessions with activities inspired by Karen Tyrrell, the award-winning author.

Supporting Families with Resources and Community

Play Matters Australia has a long history of supporting Australian families, dating back to 1973 when it was established as the Playgroup Association of Queensland. Initially run by volunteers, it has since expanded into a national organisation with programs and resources serving thousands of families nationwide.

Like others under the Play Matters network, the Enoggera Playgroup is part of a broader mission to make play-based learning accessible to all families, including those with children who have additional needs.

The organisation’s other programs, such as Sing&Grow, use music therapy to support family relationships and child development, particularly targeting early childhood skills to assist children as they transition to school.

Learn more about Play Matters on its official site.

Published 12-Nov-2024

Fire Breaks Out at The Gap State High School, Evening Events Cancelled

A fire has broken out at The Gap State High School, forcing the cancellation of all scheduled evening events as emergency services work to contain the blaze.

Emergency services were alerted to the incident on Wednesday, 30 Oct, in the afternoon when smoke was reported coming from a building at the school, located near the intersection of Pammay Street and Col Miller Drive.

Queensland Fire Department crews arrived on the scene around 4:02 p.m. and made entry to address the flames, with reports confirming that all individuals have been accounted for. Police and paramedics are also on-site as firefighters work to suppress the fire.

Community Events Cancelled

The Gap State High School has posted an update on social media notifying the public of the event cancellations, including the School Support Parent Group (SSPG) meeting, Dragons Volleyball, and Brisbane Brass activities scheduled for the evening. “Please note that all events being held at The Gap SHS this evening have been cancelled. This includes: SSPG meeting, Dragons Volleyball and Brisbane Brass. We apologise for the inconvenience,” read the post from the school’s representative.

Firefighters’ Response and Safety Precautions

Queensland Fire Department spokesman shared that firefighting crews are focused on suppressing the fire and ensuring that no persons remain in the affected area. Local authorities are currently working to secure the site and investigate the cause of the fire.

Published 30-Oct-2024

Brisbane Woman Charged with Attempted Murder After Alleged Stabbing on Enoggera Rd

A 46-year-old Brisbane woman has been charged with attempted murder following an alleged stabbing at a storage facility on Enoggera Rd in Brisbane’s north.

The incident occurred on Saturday, 26 Oct, with emergency services called to the scene just before 10 a.m. to respond to reports of a stabbing. Upon arrival, they found a 45-year-old man with life-threatening injuries.

Police report that the injured man, who resides in Holland Park West, was transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital by a member of the public in a private vehicle. As of Saturday evening, he remains in a serious but stable condition.

Allegations and Charges

Authorities allege that the man and the accused woman are known to each other, though they are not in a relationship. After attending the scene, police took the woman into custody and later charged her with attempted murder. She was subsequently remanded and is expected to appear at Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday, 28 October.

Ongoing Investigation

Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and have not released additional details. Authorities urge anyone with information related to the case to come forward as they work to piece together the events leading up to the alleged stabbing.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses and court proceedings begin.

Published 28-Oct-2024

Santa Sleigh Tradition at Risk in The Gap Without Volunteer Drivers

The beloved Santa Sleigh event in The Gap, organised by the Rotary Club of Ashgrove/The Gap, faces cancellation this year due to a lack of experienced drivers to tow Santa’s sleigh through the streets.

The event is scheduled for 30 November to 6 December, but organisers have issued a call for help, urging anyone with experience towing large vehicles to step forward.

The sleigh has been a tradition in The Gap for over 40 years. Santa, accompanied by volunteers, travels through local streets spreading Christmas cheer to families. According to the Rotary Club, the event relies heavily on community support, including donations from businesses and volunteers. This year, the absence of available tow drivers has jeopardised the entire event.

In a recent appeal, the Rotary stated, “We need people with experience towing large trailers or caravans to tow the sleigh for the seven nights of the event. If we don’t have drivers, Santa will not be able to visit The Gap.”

Caravanning experience is significant as drivers are expected to navigate narrow streets and cul-de-sacs, and turn the vehicle safely.

The Santa Sleigh has long been a highlight of the holiday season in The Gap, bringing joy to children and families who gather to see Santa in their neighbourhoods. Santa visits several stops each night for a week each December, where residents can meet him and receive treats like sweets or stickers. As reported, the sleigh is decorated with festive lights and music, and Santa makes a brief stop in each area, adding to the local excitement.

Since its inception, the Santa Sleigh has been a community-driven effort, with volunteers, local businesses, and even politicians contributing their time and resources. Businesses make the event possible through their in-kind support.

Each night, a traffic safety officer will support volunteers, helping them navigate difficult turns and ensure the sleigh’s safe journey.

“Santa needs more helpers to ensure this tradition continues,” the Rotary Club said in their statement. Anyone interested in helping keep this cherished event alive can contact the Rotary Club through their website.

Losing this annual tradition would be a significant blow to the Gap community’s festive spirit, but with enough support, the sleigh could once again bring joy to the streets this Christmas season.

Published 22-Oct-2024

The Gap Resident Joan Hunter Celebrates 100 Years

Joan Hunter from The Gap marked a century of life with a vibrant celebration at Carinity Hilltop aged care community in Kelvin Grove.

Born on 22 September 1924 in Newquay, Cornwall, Joan’s journey took her from the munitions factories of World War II England to the diverse landscapes of Africa, and finally to the friendly confines of Australia. After the war, Joan moved to Cape Town with her first husband and son, later living in Zimbabwe and Zambia, where she and her second husband, Noel Hunter, managed several large hotels.

The couple moved to Australia in 1970, drawn by its promise and their moral stance against the apartheid regime in South Africa.

Joan’s life in The Gap was filled with community interaction and family joys until her move to Carinity Hilltop in 2018. Her daughter Gail reminisced about their life in Australia, noting, “Joan says it’s the best country in the world.”

Gail described her mother as “loving and kind with a witty sense of humour” and deeply cherished by both family and friends. Joan has maintained her interests in reading, watching old films, and is a devoted Christian.

Joan enjoyed two birthday celebrations this year—one with friends at her aged care community and another with her family. Her 100th birthday was made even more special with congratulatory messages from dignitaries such as King Charles, and leaders from Australia, reflecting her significant community impact and the respect she has garnered over the years.

Continuing her contented life at Carinity Hilltop, Joan remains a beloved member of The Gap community, her story a vivid narrative of history, resilience, and the embracing of new beginnings.

Published 30-Sept-2024

Enoggera Golfers Swing into Action for Sick Kids

Golf enthusiasts in Enoggera and across Brisbane have a unique opportunity to combine their love for the sport with a noble cause.

X-Golf South Bank, Enoggera, and North Lakes have launched their inaugural Starlight Scramble to raise funds for the Starlight Foundation and grant life-changing wishes to sick children.

The initiative, running until October 12, invites golfers to a nine-hole scramble at a discounted rate. The Starlight Foundation receives the savings directly.

The national goal is to fund five Starlight Wishes, each costing $7,500, which will offer a glimmer of hope and happiness to children facing challenging medical conditions.

X-Golf’s Peter Nolan emphasised the profound impact of a Starlight Wish, providing a much-needed escape from the realities of hospitals and treatments. The partnership with the Starlight Foundation resonates deeply with X-Golf, reflecting their commitment to supporting the community.

With 25 X-Golf locations across Australia participating, including Enoggera, golfers have ample opportunities to contribute to this worthy cause. Participants enjoy a fun-filled golfing experience and enter a draw to win exciting prizes.

X-Golf, renowned for its innovative approach to indoor golf entertainment, continues to break barriers and make the sport accessible to all.

Through the Starlight Scramble, they’re demonstrating that golf can be more than just a game—it’s a powerful tool for making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Published Date 20-September-2024

Motorcyclist Critically Injured in Collision at Waterworks Road

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A serious collision between a motorcycle and a car occurred this morning at Waterworks Road just before 8 AM on September 11, 2024.

Emergency services responded to calls reporting the collision. Upon arrival, they found the male motorcyclist on the ground, surrounded by bystanders. He was conscious and breathing at the scene.

The rider sustained life-threatening injuries, including trauma to his arm. He was transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, where he is currently fighting for his life.

The female driver of the car involved in the crash declined medical assessment at the scene.

The accident has caused traffic disruptions, with reduced inbound lanes on Waterworks Road. Authorities are advising motorists to expect delays and avoid the area if possible.

The Forensic Crash Unit is investigating the circumstances of the collision at Waterworks Road. They are appealing for witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to come forward to assist with their enquiries.

Published 11-September-2024

Ferny Grove Residents Urged to Properly Dispose of Batteries After Surge in Rubbish Fires

Photo Credit: Media Announcement

Ferny Grove and other Brisbane suburbs have seen a concerning rise in fires sparked by residents incorrectly disposing of batteries and flammable items in their household bins.

These incidents have led to 140 rubbish fires over the past five years, with potentially deadly fires and explosions becoming increasingly frequent.

Authorities emphasise that batteries and other flammable items like gas bottles should never be placed in household bins. These items can ignite or explode at Council dumps and garbage trucks, potentially harming bystanders and drivers, destroying the trucks, and damaging nearby properties.

In the past five years alone, there have been 43 instances of what is known as a “hot load,” where a garbage truck has had to dump its entire load onto the street due to an explosion caused by a flammable item.

Residents are reminded that batteries can be recycled for free at any of the Council’s four Resource Recovery Centres, including the one located in Ferny Grove. The Council also organises free Household Hazardous Waste days, allowing residents to safely dispose of items not accepted in general waste bins, such as bleach and garden and pool chemicals.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner stressed the seriousness of the issue, stating that many residents are unaware that throwing batteries in their household bins is causing potentially deadly fires and explosions in their communities. He highlighted recent incidents where a battery nearly struck someone in the head and flaming rubbish had to be dumped on suburban streets.

Schrinner emphasised the importance of responsible disposal, especially with the increasing popularity of vapes, e-scooters, and e-bikes. He urged residents to remove batteries from these devices and dispose of them correctly, never placing them in household bins.

QFD Assistant Commissioner John Cawcutt echoed these concerns, explaining that rechargeable devices and batteries will likely be damaged during waste disposal, leading to ignition and potentially significant fires or explosions.

The Council and fire authorities urge residents to take responsibility for keeping their city safe, clean, and sustainable by properly disposing of batteries and flammable items.

Published Date 10-September-2024

The Gap Leads Brisbane Suburbs in Resident Psychologists, New Census Data Reveals

The Gap has emerged as Brisbane’s psychology hub, boasting the highest concentration of resident psychologists among the city’s suburbs, according to recent census data analysis.

The results, which mapped the most common suburbs of residence for over 1,000 different occupations across Queensland, uncovered intriguing patterns in where various worker tribes choose to live. Whilst The Gap topped the list for psychologists, other suburbs showed distinct professional clusters, representing Brisbane’s workforce distribution.

Professional Clusters

The inner-city areas of West End and Highgate Hill were found to be home to the largest number of architects in Brisbane, with 68 calling these suburbs home. This concentration might be attributed to the unique housing challenges and opportunities of the area’s sloping terrain and flood-prone sections.

Andrew Carter, a local architect, suggested that the area’s appeal for his colleagues might lie in its sense of community and proximity to the city centre. He noted that the diverse housing typologies in these suburbs offer interesting projects for architects looking to make their mark.

Other Notable Concentrations

The census data revealed several other notable professional concentrations across Brisbane:

– Albany Creek is home to most police officers, with 91 residents.
– Camp Hill boasts the highest number of PR professionals (39) and footballers (11).
– New Farm is the preferred suburb for lawyers.
– Sunnybank Hills has attracted the most dentists, with 46 residing there.
– Indooroopilly appears to be an engineering hub, with the highest numbers of mechanical, electrical, and industrial engineers.

Indooroopilly
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Creative Hub

The data reinforced West End’s reputation as a creative hotspot, showing it as home to the most graphic designers (50), musicians (19), and web designers (14) in Brisbane. The suburb also houses the highest number of professional dancers and choreographers (20), likely due to its proximity to the Queensland Ballet’s Thomas Dixon Centre.

These concentrations of professionals in specific suburbs can significantly impact local communities. For example, The Gap’s high number of resident psychologists might influence the availability of mental health services in the area. Similarly, the concentration of creative professionals in West End could contribute to the suburb’s vibrant cultural scene.

Published 10-Sept-2024

Labrador Retrievers Reign Supreme as The Gap’s Top Dog

Labrador Retrievers are firmly in the spotlight in The Gap, where recent data reveals an abundance of these beloved canines, solidifying their position as the top dog in the leafy enclave.

According to recent data compiled by Ray White analyst Jemima White from Brisbane City Council animal registrations, Labradors is the city’s top dog, with a remarkable presence in several suburbs, particularly in The Gap.

The report highlights The Gap as a Labrador haven, boasting 2085 registered Labs, showcasing the breed’s popularity in sprawling house blocks. However, Labradors aren’t solely confined to The Gap; they’re a beloved presence stretching across various suburbs from Alderley to Annerley and beyond.

The analysis also sheds light on other popular breeds in Brisbane, revealing that while Labradors dominate, breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Border Collies also enjoy substantial representation. These insights not only provide a glimpse into Brisbane’s dog culture but also reflect the preferences of residents and the housing dynamics of different areas.

Jemima White noted that suburbs with higher populations of young families and relatively affordable median property prices tend to be the hotspots for dog ownership. These areas offer amenities like parks, schools, and easy access to the city, making them ideal for families with furry companions.

Real estate agents are also witnessing a shift in priorities among house hunters, with many considering their pets’ needs when searching for a new home. For instance, Ray White Sherwood agent Lisette Schults-Rand highlighted the importance of accommodating pets like her office companion, Steve, who contributes to a positive work environment with his friendly demeanour.

However, amid this canine craze, there’s a sobering reality. The housing crisis in Brisbane has impacted pet owners, leading to an increase in surrender rates at animal shelters like the Animal Welfare League Queensland. Rising living costs and limited rental options have forced some to part with their beloved pets, underscoring the challenges faced by both humans and their furry friends in these uncertain times.

As Brisbane continues to evolve, so does its relationship with its four-legged residents. While Labradors may reign supreme for now, the ever-changing landscape of pet ownership reflects broader societal trends and challenges, reminding us of the importance of compassion and understanding in our communities.

Published Date 9-Sept-2024