Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 12 of 35

Magpie Swooping Season Peaks in Keperra

As Brisbane’s swooping bird season reaches its peak in September, residents of Keperra and neighbouring areas are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. The Brisbane City Council has reported a total of 68 swooping incidents since July 2024, with Keperra ranking among the top five suburbs for reported cases.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasised the seriousness of the situation, stating, “We take every bird swooping incident seriously and act appropriately to protect the community.” In response to the increasing number of incidents, the Council has implemented a proactive approach by installing over 120 new warning signs across 36 suburbs this year.

The effectiveness of these high-visibility signs, introduced in 2021, is evident in the declining number of reported incidents. From 1,193 notifications in 2021, the numbers dropped to 571 in 2023, and currently stand at 149 for 2024.

Despite this positive trend, Keperra residents should remain cautious. The suburb, along with Greenslopes, Carseldine, New Farm, and Bracken Ridge, has been identified as one of the areas with the highest number of swooping incidents this year.

magpie alert map

Common culprits include magpies, plovers, butcherbirds, pee-wees, and noisy miners. These birds’ protective behaviour is driven by their instinct to safeguard their young from perceived threats during the breeding season, which typically lasts from July to January.

To minimise risks, residents are advised to:

Avoid known nesting areas
Wear protective gear such as hats and glasses
Leave swooping areas quickly but calmly
Refrain from provoking or interfering with the birds

The Council encourages residents to report aggressive birds, allowing for swift action in erecting warning signs and monitoring problem areas. In severe cases, qualified wildlife experts may be engaged to relocate birds posing serious risks to public safety.

As Keperra navigates this peak swooping season, the community is reminded of the importance of coexisting with native wildlife. By following the recommended precautions and staying informed, residents can contribute to a safer environment for both humans and birds during this challenging period.

Published 3-September-2024

Australian Cancer Atlas Data: The Gap Among Queensland’s Best for Cancer Survival

Did you know that Australian cancer atlas data shows that The Gap ranks second among Queensland suburbs for the best 5-year cancer survival rates across all cancer types from 2010 to 2019?

Read: Why Residents Hardly Leave The Gap & Other Brisbane Suburbs

According to startling new data from the Australian Cancer Atlas, The Gap, along with other affluent suburbs such as St Lucia and Brookfield, shows significantly higher cancer survival rates compared to Queenslanders living in Indigenous communities.

The suburb boasts a 40% cancer survival rate, just behind St Lucia, which leads with a 48% survival rate. This means residents of The Gap have a 40% better chance of surviving cancer compared to the national average.

The Role of Socioeconomic Factors

Whilst these figures highlight pockets of exceptional survival rates, they also underscore the stark disparities in cancer outcomes across Queensland.

The Australian Cancer Atlas data shows that in some regions, people are nearly 60% more likely than the average Australian to be diagnosed with cancer. Unfortunately, the research indicates that the inequalities faced by Australians in regional and remote areas have not improved over time.

Several factors contribute to these disparities, including the behaviours of people living in these areas and the availability and access to health services. Wealthy suburbs like The Gap benefit from better healthcare infrastructure, more accessible services, and possibly healthier lifestyles, which collectively enhance survival rates.

Source of the Data

The data for these findings comes from the Australian Cancer Database, which includes all primary invasive cancer cases (excluding basal and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin) reported to cancer registries across Australia. Notifications to this database come from various sources, including hospitals, pathology laboratories, general practitioners, cancer screening registers, and nursing homes in some states and territories.

A Tool for Future Research

The world-leading Australian Cancer Atlas, developed through a collaboration between Cancer Council Queensland and the Queensland University of Technology, is a crucial tool for researchers. It will be instrumental in understanding why diagnosis and survivability rates vary so dramatically across different areas.

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

The insights from the Atlas are not just numbers; they represent lives and highlight the critical need for targeted health policies and improved healthcare access to bridge the survival gap between affluent suburbs and disadvantaged communities. As The Gap exemplifies high survival rates, it also serves as a reminder of the work needed to ensure that every Australian has the same fighting chance against cancer.

Published 9-Sept-2024

Upper Kedron Groups Score Big with Ellendale Grants

Upper Kedron is celebrating a wave of positive change thanks to the generosity of Cedar Woods’ Ellendale Community Grants. The grants, totalling $10,000, have been distributed to four local groups, empowering them to enhance their programmes and services.

Ferny Grove State School P&C is among the beneficiaries, which received $5,000 to purchase robotics kits. This exciting initiative will expand the school’s digital curriculum, introducing younger students to coding and making learning more engaging. The kits will benefit 300 junior school students, providing valuable hands-on experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Another recipient, Westside Grovely Football Club, received $2,000 to purchase portable aluminium goals. These goals will enhance training sessions for the club’s 250 junior players, aged from under 6 to under 15. By providing smaller, age-appropriate goals, the club aims to make training more realistic and enjoyable for young players.

Ellandale — *Ellendale Development Manager John Kibble and FGSS Principal Matthew*
*Meharg with junior school students.*
*Photo Credit: Supplied*

Samford Netball Club was also awarded a $1,000 grant to replace worn-out field lightbulbs. This investment will improve the quality of lighting for night games, ensuring a safe and enjoyable playing environment for all.

Finally, St John Wood/The Gap Conference of the St Vincent De Paul Society received $2,000 to support its vital work in the community. The funds will cover education costs, living expenses, and purchasing essential items such as sanitary products, nappies, and baby formula.

As Ellendale continues to grow, Cedar Woods remains committed to fostering a sense of belonging and supporting the initiatives that make the community a special place to live.

Published Date 05-September-2024

Major Ed Orszulak from Upper Kedron Continues Epic Trek for Camp Quality Fundraiser

Photo Credit: Australian Government Defence

Major Ed Orszulak from Upper Kedron and ACT Fire Rescue senior firefighter Sebastian Boehm are making significant strides in their 2,740-km walking journey from Brisbane to Melbourne, all in support of Camp Quality, a charity dedicated to helping children battling cancer.

As of August 2024, Major Orszulak and Boehm have reached Coffs Harbour, choosing it as a key rest stop on their epic 2,740-kilometer walk for a cause. The pair took the opportunity to meet with local families involved with Camp Quality and invited community members to join them for a portion of their walk.

Reflecting on their progress, Major Orszulak shared, “The legs are feeling good; they get a bit sore at the end of the day, especially during the first three days when we got blisters and could only walk one hour at a time before taking a break.” He added that their feet have toughened up significantly, allowing them to now average about 45 kilometers a day, walking for up to three hours before needing a break.

Walk for a Cause

On 23 July 2024, Major Orszulak, alongside ACT Fire Rescue senior firefighter Sebastian Boehm, started walking in Brisbane and will aim to complete 2,720 kilometres over 70 days to reach Melbourne’s Federation Square. This ambitious expedition is part of Camp Quality’s annual Big Walk for Little Kids fundraising campaign.

Major Orszulak, a dedicated volunteer for Camp Quality for 11 years, views this challenge as minor compared to the struggles of children dealing with cancer. His inspiration came from a friend who spoke highly of Camp Quality’s positive impact on young lives. In 2016, he was part of a group that climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, raising $35,000 for the cause. This time, the goal is significantly higher at $250,000.

Logistical Planning and Support

Upper Kedron’s Major Ed Orszulak — *Photo Credit: Camp Quality*

The journey is meticulously planned. Major Orszulak and Boehm aim to cover 48 to 50 kilometres daily, including 13 rest days. Their route will rely on Army Reserve depots and accommodations offered by volunteers. A support crew, potentially including an Army Reserve cook and a medic from the 2nd Brigade, will accompany them to ensure their needs are met.

Physical Challenges and Preparation

Major Orszulak is determined to complete the trek despite recent surgical procedures, including a hip replacement and knee surgery. His surgeon is confident in his recovery, assuring him that his hip is stronger than ever.

Major Orszulak acknowledges that his biggest personal challenge will be managing his physical condition, especially his feet. With the support of Injinji Performance Products, which provides high-quality toe socks, he hopes to mitigate potential foot problems.

Community and Family Support

The journey would not have been possible without the robust support of the chain of command at Headquarters 1st (Australian) Division and his family. Karen, the partner of Major Ed Orszulak, and his family will actively support him, increasing awareness through social media and joining him for parts of the trek. His son is also expected to participate during the final week of the journey.

Published Date 18-July-2024

The Gap Student Wins Top Prize in A Literary Competition

Photo Credit: Independent Education Union

Melanie Wild, a student from The Gap State High School, has clinched the top prize in the Open Short Story category at the 2024 Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) and English Teachers’ Association of Queensland’s (ETAQ) annual Literary Competition.

The competition, now in its 65th year, saw over 1,300 submissions from students across Queensland, showcasing a diverse range of writing styles and creativity. Melanie’s victory in the Open category represents the highest level of achievement in this prestigious contest.

ETAQ President Anne Wood praised the high quality of entries received this year, emphasising the competition’s significance as the longest-running writing competition in Queensland. The event, open to both state and non-government school students and staff, continues to be a cornerstone for nurturing young literary talent in the state.

At the awards ceremony held at the Queensland Multicultural Centre on August 7, Melanie, along with other first-prize recipients, had the opportunity to read her winning piece to an engaged audience. The event also featured a lecture by guest speaker Zanni Louise, a renowned Byron Bay-based children’s author.

IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke commended the exceptional talent on display this year, noting the diverse range of entries submitted from across Queensland. He emphasised the competition’s role in encouraging literary development and freedom of expression among young people.

Melanie’s achievement stands out as a testament to The Gap State High School’s nurturing environment and quality education.

Published 9-August-2024

High School Sporting Achievers Shine in The Gap and Other Suburbs

The Gap State High School (SHS) is a fertile ground for exceptional sporting talent, with students achieving remarkable success across various disciplines. From gymnastics to athletics and volleyball, these young athletes are making their mark on national and international stages.

Kaley Croot: A Multifaceted Athletic Prodigy

Year 8 student Kaley Croot boasts an impressive array of athletic accomplishments. A consistent school athletics age champion from 2018 to 2023 and the 2023 Sportsperson of the Year, Croot has excelled in various track and field events. She has claimed first place in the 100m, 200m, and long jump while representing Met North in her age group. Croot secured second place in the 100m and 200m finals at the Queensland School Sport Track and Field State Championships last season.

She has also represented The Gap at the Little Athletics State Championships and Queensland at the National Track & Field Championships, showcasing her speed and agility. Croot’s sporting prowess extends beyond athletics. She has also demonstrated outstanding touch football skills, earning a spot on the Met Northside team that competed at the state championships.

Eli Pullen: Gymnastics Star on the Rise

Year 12 student Eli Pullen is a force to be reckoned with in artistic gymnastics. As a Junior International gymnast, Pullen secured first place at the regionals earlier this year, amassing four gold, one silver, and one bronze medal on individual apparatuses for the Boys Grammar Club.

His achievements extend to the international arena, where he contributed to Australia’s fourth-place finish at the Austrian Future Cup and a triumphant first place at the Olympic Hopes Cup as part of the Junior Australian team.

Harvey Schutte, Nicoleta Kioupelis, and Caitlin Clarke: Volleyball Virtuosos

The Gap SHS also fosters a thriving volleyball programme, with three students participating. Year 12 student Harvey Schutte, a Queensland Academy of Sport Volleyball scholarship holder, has ascended to the Queensland beach team and the Australian Junior Indoor team, which recently toured Thailand. Schutte aspires to play for the Australian Senior Men’s indoor team and pursue volleyball opportunities overseas.

Year 8 talent Nicoleta Kioupelis, emerging from the QAS emerging talent programme, has made the Queensland beach volleyball and indoor state teams. Kioupelis acknowledges The Gap SHS’s instrumental role in nurturing her volleyball journey.

Caitlin Clarke, a Queensland beach representative and Australian Junior Indoor team member who represented Australia at the 15th Asian Women’s U18 Volleyball Championship in June, also credits The Gap SHS’s support for her success. She values the school’s volleyball community and aspires to compete for Australia at the 2032 Brisbane Olympics in Beach Volleyball.

The achievements of these remarkable students are evidence of Gap State High School’s commitment to fostering sporting excellence. As they continue to pursue their athletic passions, they inspire their peers and testify to the school’s dedication to providing a supportive environment for young athletes to flourish.

Published Date 19-July-2024

Whooping Cough at The Gap State High School

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A case of whooping cough has been confirmed at The Gap State High School, prompting health officials to issue a community-wide alert. The Metro North Public Health Unit notified parents of the infection on Friday, July 19, 2024, raising concerns about the potential spread of this highly contagious bacterial illness in The Gap area.

The infected individual is believed to have attended the school while unknowingly infectious, potentially exposing other students and staff. This development is particularly alarming for The Gap community, as it comes amidst a significant surge in respiratory illnesses across Queensland.

Dr. Megan Young from Metro North Public Health emphasised the seriousness of the situation, stating, “The illness is troublesome and distressing at any age but can be very serious in young infants.” She added that while vaccination provides good protection for young children, this protection can diminish over time.

The Gap residents should be aware that this local case is part of a broader trend. Queensland has seen a dramatic increase in whooping cough cases, with 4,951 cases recorded in the first half of 2024 — nearly five times the total for the entire previous year.

Queensland Health is urging anyone at The Gap State High School experiencing a persistent cough to see their doctor, even if they have been previously vaccinated against pertussis. Those diagnosed with whooping cough are advised to stay home for 21 days after symptom onset or until they have completed at least five full days of appropriate antibiotic treatment.

Adding to the community’s concerns is a statewide shortage of the most commonly used medication to treat whooping cough. While alternative generic medicines are available, the Therapeutic Goods Administration reports that this shortage is unlikely to be resolved within the year.

The Gap residents are reminded of the importance of up-to-date vaccinations. Pertussis vaccines are included in routine childhood immunisations and are available free of charge as part of the childhood and adolescent immunisation schedules, as well as for pregnant women.

As the community remains vigilant, parents and residents are encouraged to stay informed about any updates from school and health authorities.

Published 24-July-2024

Bureaucratic Delays Stifle Suburban Growth in Upper Kedron: The Unopened Bridge

Photo Credit: Ferny Grove & Upper Kedron Residents Association/Facebook

Residents in a fast-growing housing estate in Upper Kedron are facing significant disruptions due to bureaucratic delays that have kept a brand-new bridge closed to the public for over six months.

Daily Inconveniences

The bridge, built by developer Cedar Woods Properties and dubbed by locals as the “Never Never Open Bridge,” was intended to provide a second entry and exit point for the estate, easing commutes and reducing travel time for local residents. The prolonged closure of the bridge, currently barricaded, has forced residents to take longer routes, increasing travel times and causing daily inconveniences.

Local businesses are also feeling the pinch. The delayed bridge opening has meant less foot traffic and fewer customers for shops and services within the estate. Business owners are concerned that prolonged delays could lead to a decline in revenue and ultimately affect the viability of their operations.

The community feels the absence of this critical infrastructure in their daily lives, and the economic repercussions are becoming more apparent.

Safety concerns are another issue arising from the delay. With only one entry and exit point, emergency response times could be affected, posing a risk to residents in emergencies. The blocked bridge also forces more traffic onto the existing routes, increasing the likelihood of accidents and congestion.

Timeline of Administrative Delays

October 2022

The Queensland Department of Resources provided pre-lodgement advice to relevant stakeholders, highlighting the requirement to submit an application to dedicate state land as a road.

November 2023

Cedar Woods Properties lodged an application with the Brisbane City Council to create a road reserve for the newly constructed bridge.

April 2024

The Department of Resources received the application from Brisbane City Council, despite regulations being highlighted two years prior.
Brisbane City Council completed the application to the Queensland Government for consent.

June 2024

Approval for the land transfer was received from the State Government.
Brisbane City Council insisted that all required documentation to open the bridge was supplied to the developer two years ago, but the developer only finalised it this year.
The Department of Resources expedited the application process and is now working with the Brisbane City Council to finalise it.

Expected Timeline

Registration and opening of the bridge are anticipated to take 4-6 weeks from June 2024, once the administrative processes are completed.

Upper Kedron Bridge — Photo Credit: Taylor Johnson/Facebook

Proposed Solutions and Reforms

Comparing Upper Kedron’s situation to other suburbs facing similar issues provides insight into how such problems can be addressed. In other regions, streamlined processes and better communication between developers and government agencies have helped expedite approvals and reduce delays.

Experts suggest several solutions to mitigate such delays in the future. These include:

Improved Coordination: Enhancing coordination between developers, local councils, and state governments to ensure all parties are aligned.

Streamlined Approval Processes: Simplifying and speeding up approval processes to prevent prolonged delays.

Transparent Communication: Keeping the community informed about the status of projects and any issues that arise to maintain trust and cooperation.

Accountability Measures: Implementing accountability measures to ensure that delays are promptly addressed and resolved.

The residents of Upper Kedron remain hopeful that the bureaucratic hurdles will soon be overcome, allowing them to fully enjoy the benefits of the new bridge and the improved connectivity it promises.

Published 8-July-2024

The Gap Stalwart Joshua Pope Heads to Ireland for Under-17 Cricket Selections

Joshua Pope, a teenage cricket stalwart from The Gap, is set to compete in the upcoming Under-17 Provincial Championships in Belfast, Ireland. The young all-rounder, currently playing for Valley District Cricket Club, has been selected by Cricket Ireland for their Provincial Carnival—a selection competition—starting July 8.

Read: Honeybee Haven: Sweet Start to Community Building in The Quarry

Shane Warne connection and legacy

Pope’s journey is particularly noteworthy due to his connection with the late Shane Warne. Growing up in Blackrock, Melbourne, just two blocks away from the cricket legend, Pope, 14, developed a passion for spin bowling inspired by Warne’s iconic style. This influence has shaped Pope into a left-arm wrist spinner known for his aggressive shot-making.

Pope’s trip to Belfast carries additional significance as he will represent the Shane Warne Legacy. The organisation plans to conduct health checks for stadium spectators during the event, commemorating Warne’s game in Belfast 23 years ago.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Priceline Australia (@pricelineau)

This initiative aims to raise awareness about heart health, reflecting the legacy Warne’s family has created following his untimely passing.

Joshua Pope prepares for the selection

Before the championships, Pope plans to hone his skills by playing for Ampthill and Cople cricket clubs in the Bedfordshire County Cricket League. This competition has been a starting ground for several English cricket stars.

Nathan Hauritz, Pope’s mentor at Valley District Cricket Club and former Test spinner, expresses confidence in Pope’s skills and mental preparedness for the challenge ahead.

Read: Upper Kedron Residents and Minister Exasperated by Delays in Ellendale Bridge Opening

Pope’s eligibility to play for Ireland stems from his father’s Irish heritage. The young cricketer initiated this opportunity himself, inquiring about the possibility of representing Ireland. This chance arose after Pope narrowly missed the age cut-off for Queensland’s Taverners Under-17s representative competition.

Published 22-June-2024

Honeybee Haven: Sweet Start to Community Building in The Quarry

Frasers Property Australia’s $500 million master-planned community, The Quarry, in Keperra is creating a buzz with its first inhabitants – not homeowners, but honeybees. With The Quarry Bee Project, approximately 240,000 European bees have taken up residence in the development, marking an innovative approach to community building and environmental stewardship.

Read: The Quarry in Keperra Unveils ClubQ: A $5 Million Oasis for Residents

The Quarry Bee Project takes flight

The Keperra Quarry Bee Project, managed by urban beekeeping group Bee One Third, has installed eight European beehives at The Quarry. Jack Stone, Director of Bee One Third, explains, “These industrious bees are integral to the local ecosystem and venture up to 5 km from their hives at The Quarry, pollinating gardens, parks, forests, and supporting the blossoming Keperra community.”

The bees are expected to produce between 200-300 kg of honey annually, creating a unique local blend that reflects the area’s biodiversity. This initiative serves multiple purposes:

Supporting local pollination
Producing distinctively local honey
Contributing to ecological health
Enhancing community engagement
Aiding in environmental monitoring

Community engagement and education

The Quarry - School Holiday Program 1 — Photo Credit: Supplied

The Quarry is leveraging the bee project for community outreach. Recent school holiday programs have featured the bees, offering families educational activities such as beeswax candle crafting and watercolour painting. The honey produced is being donated to local schools for fundraising and to the nearby Keperra Sanctuary Aged Care facility.

The Quarry - School Holiday Program 2 — Photo Credit: Supplied

Scott Ullman, General Manager Queensland Development at Frasers Property Australia, reports strong interest in The Quarry since its launch in Winter 2023. The first release of 29 lots has sold out, with subsequent releases also selling rapidly. When complete, The Quarry will feature approximately 500 residences and extensive amenities for residents.

Looking ahead

As the Keperra Quarry winds down its 60-year granite mining operation, the new development is set to transform the area. Located just 9.5 kilometres northwest of Brisbane’s CBD, The Quarry aims to become a vibrant community that balances modern living with environmental consciousness.

Read: Urban Transformation: A New Chapter for Keperra Quarry

The introduction of beehives as The Quarry’s first residents symbolises the development’s commitment to sustainability and community integration. As human residents prepare to move in, they can look forward to being part of a unique ecosystem where urban living and nature coexist harmoniously.

Published 22-June-2024