Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 14 of 35

Platypus Exchange Program Enriches Conservation Efforts at Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre

A significant exchange involving one of Australia’s most iconic creatures, the platypus, has taken place between two states, which aims to bolster the platypus population whilst simultaneously advancing public education efforts regarding this unique species. Amidst this exchange, the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre in The Gap in Brisbane will also play a pivotal role, as it becomes the new home to two platypuses, further enriching Australia’s conservation efforts.

At the heart of this exchange, orchestrated by the Queensland Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) and the Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA, is a 10-year-old platypus named Wally.

Wally, from the David Fleay Wildlife Park on the Gold Coast, is now embarking on a journey to the Healesville Sanctuary in Victoria, where he will play a crucial role in the platypus national species conservation program.

This program marks a remarkable synergy between the two departments, with historical ties to where Dr. David Fleay successfully bred platypus in 1943.

Wally’s Contribution to Platypus Conservation

Wally’s relocation to Healesville Sanctuary represents a milestone in platypus conservation. As part of this program, he is set to share his genetic heritage to diversify the gene pool, which is essential for maintaining a healthy platypus population.

The program not only allows Wally to engage in natural mating behaviour but also contributes significantly to ongoing species research, a legacy of the esteemed Dr Fleay.

On the 13th of December 2023, Wally embarked on a journey from the Gold Coast to Victoria, safely enclosed in a purpose-built crate designed to maintain his body temperature below 20 degrees. Having settled into his new habitat, Wally is now introduced to a female platypus, marking a crucial step in the conservation effort.

Expanding Opportunities for Breeding

In this collaborative endeavour of the Platypus Exchange Program, male platypus Tarrabi and female platypus Waddirrang arrived in Queensland on the 16th of December 2023. This exchange not only creates more breeding opportunities but also offers a unique chance to study the behaviours and breeding strategies of multiple individuals.

With their arrival in Queensland, Waddirrang has found her new home at the David Fleay Wildlife Park on the Gold Coast. Meanwhile, Tarrabi has taken up residence at the Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre at The Gap in Brisbane.

These locations not only provide excellent living conditions for the platypuses but also serve as inspirational hubs for future generations of wildlife enthusiasts, continuing the legacy of platypus conservation in Australia.

Published 22-Jan-2024

Enoggera Dam Spill: Residents Advised to Prepare

Did you know that Enoggera Dam has been operating at a staggering 101 per cent capacity, prompting local authorities to issue flood warnings for residents? The elevated water level has also prompted the temporary suspension of paddle craft activities at the Enoggera Reservoir.

The immediate concern stems from the extraordinarily high tides experienced last week and the continuation of these unusual tide patterns over a period of several days. The highest tide of the entire year 2024 is anticipated to occur on 11 February. This unusual tide pattern is projected to peak at a height of 2.81 meters precisely at 11:09 AM AEST, according to tide data sourced from TideTime.org.

Maritime Safety Queensland has also listed the highest tide for Brisbane Bar in 2024, also occurring on February 11th, with a height of 2.77 meters at 10:45 AM.

This tide event is characteristic of a “king tide,” occurring when the Earth, moon, and sun align at perigee and perihelion, resulting in the highest spring tides, primarily during the summer months of December, January, and February.

Whilst the immediate concern revolves around water levels and tides, the public is advised to remain mindful of the prevailing weather conditions. Brisbane’s weather forecast indicates a pattern of warm and predominantly dry conditions, signalling the waning days of summer.

Enoggera Reservoir — Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

During this period, daily temperatures are expected to fluctuate between daytime highs of approximately 29° to 30°C (84° to 86°F) and nighttime lows around 22° to 24°C (73° to 75°F). These conditions suggest generally warm weather with occasional temperature variations.

Though specific rainfall predictions for the upcoming days are not explicitly provided in the sources, historical trends for February in Brisbane suggest the likelihood of some rainy days. On average, Brisbane typically experiences three to eight days of rainfall during this month.

Consequently, residents should remain prepared for intermittent showers, despite the prevailing warm weather. For residents familiar with flood-prone regions, there is a proactive measure available: free sandbags can be collected round the clock at various SES depots in Darra, Lota, Morningside, Newmarket and Zillmere.

Published 18-Jan-2024

Barbie on the Big Screen at Wittonga Park

Mark your calendars for a fun, free activity right in the neighbourhood! On Saturday, February 10, Wittonga Park in The Gap will transform into an outdoor theatre for a special screening of the 2023 blockbuster film Barbie.

Read: Brisbane’s Cafe Tara: Building Community Over Breakfast for 18 Years

Starring fellow Queenslander Margot Robbie as the iconic doll, Barbie smashed box office records this past summer. Now you can see Robbie’s hometown talent on full display as she brings Barbie to life on the big screen. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets for a relaxed movie night under the stars.

Barbie Movie At Wittonga Park

The feature film starts at 7:00 p.m. sharp. Arrive early to claim your spot on the lawn and play lawn games. Volunteers will be on hand selling popcorn, candy, and drinks to benefit local charities.

Wittonga Park (Photo credit: Claude Prinsloo/Google Maps)

These free outdoor cinema events are a beloved local tradition in Brisbane, bringing suburban neighbourhoods together. As Barbie would say, there’s no better way to “Ken-nect” with your community. Don’t miss out on the fun – mark those calendars for February 10!

Visit Brisbane City Council’s website for more details.

Read: Remembering Dr Ian Marshall and his Extraordinary Contributions to The Gap

About the Barbie Movie

The iconic Barbie doll came to life on the big screen in the new live-action comedy film Barbie. Directed by Greta Gerwig and co-written by Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, this highly anticipated film starred Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as her longtime boyfriend Ken.

When Barbie faced an existential crisis, she and Ken embarked on a hilarious journey of self-discovery by leaving the perfection of Barbieland and entering the messy real world.

With an all-star cast including America Ferrera, Michael Cera, Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae and more, Barbie delivered laughs, adventure and empowering themes.

In Australia, the film scored the largest second week ever for a total of $30.6 million after two weekends, proving its box office dominance.

Check OUT WHat’s At The MOVIEs

Published 15-January-2024

Empowering the Future: The Gap Netball Club Launches Pioneering Program

The Gap Netball Club, in collaboration with the QLD Suns Men’s & Mixed Netball, has launched its ‘Boys in Netball’ Pilot, a first-of-its-kind mentoring program designed to boost boys’ participation in netball and establish sustainable pathways within the sport.

Fueling their aspirations, the club secured a grant from Woolworths, enabling the launch of this “All Play Inclusion Program” slated for 2024. This initiative introduces a pioneering mentoring program designed to boost boys’ participation in netball and establish sustainable pathways within the sport.

The Boys in Netball initiative operates on the principle of “You can’t be what you can’t see,” striving not only to encourage boys to embrace netball but also to establish connections with elite-level players.

Beyond this groundbreaking program, the club is committed to advancing the skills of coaches, umpires, and players. Substantial investments in additional sessions, activities, and training sessions are earmarked for the coming year.

Boys aged 7-12 registering for the 2024 season will enjoy exclusive benefits, including half-price registration fees, a complimentary uniform (singlet, shorts, and socks), a ticket to a Netball Queensland School Holiday Boys Clinic in 2024, and a Queensland Suns Mentor/Buddy.

The mentorship program also promises a meet-and-greet, monthly Zoom catch-ups, attendance at a QLD Suns team training, and an experience at a Nationals game at Nissan Arena in April 2024.

Hilder Rd State School in The Gap serves as the training ground during the week, with game days unfolding at Downey Park Netball Association in Windsor on Saturdays.

As anticipation builds for the 2024 season, online registrations will open on 8 Jan 2024. Prospective members can explore the club’s offerings at a Club Open Day on Saturday, 20 Jan 2024, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Follow The Gap Netball Club on Facebook for more updates.

Published 26-Dec-2023

Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre in The Gap: Turtles Need a Long-term Commitment for Care

The Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre in The Gap is home to a unique resident, a freshwater turtle of extraordinary proportions, dubbed by wildlife officers as the largest turtle they have ever encountered.

However, amidst this notable resident at the Centre lies a deeper issue that concerns not only The Gap but Queensland at large—a growing trend of well-meaning individuals acquiring pet turtles without fully comprehending the commitment these reptiles entail and then giving them up when they realise they can no longer care for them as pets.

A Popular Yet Misunderstood Choice

Freshwater turtles have long been a beloved choice among Queenslanders when it comes to keeping pets. Their captivating appearance, especially as hatchlings, often leads people to believe they can thrive in the confines of a fish tank. However, this assumption proves misguided, as these creatures require meticulous care and attention throughout their long lives.

Warren Christensen, the Manager of Southern Wildlife Operations, emphasised that owning a turtle is not a fleeting commitment, akin to a seasonal Christmas ornament.

He explained that freshwater turtles can live for an impressive 40 to 50 years. Thus, they require not only a spacious habitat with water for swimming but also access to land for exercise, and when kept indoors, a large fish tank coupled with ultraviolet light.

Health Matters

Aside from the space and environmental requirements, the health of pet turtles is paramount. Mr. Christensen warned that neglecting their need for clean water can result in various health issues, including soft, cracked, or peeling shells.

Regrettably, many turtles surrendered to authorities, like those from The Gap, often exhibit signs of neglect and poor health due to improper care. Mr Christensen further explained the grim reality that many surrendered turtles cannot be rehomed, given the stringent requirements for their care.

One recent incident involved a 20-year-old turtle, relinquished by an owner who could no longer care for it. Astonishingly, this turtle had been living indoors with the freedom to roam and an unregulated diet, conditions far from ideal for its well-being. Fortunately, the turtle is now thriving at the Walkabout Creek Discovery in The Gap.

Addressing the Issue of Permits

One glaring issue that compounds the problem is the lack of necessary permits for turtle ownership. Many individuals who surrender these creatures have procured them without the proper documentation.

This, Mr Christensen stressed, contributes to the illegal trade of native wildlife—a grave concern in Queensland and Australia as a whole.

The illegal trade of native animals poses a significant threat to Australia’s unique wildlife, as it often involves the unlawful removal of creatures from their natural habitats. Both sellers and buyers who partake in this trade risk facing fines or even court prosecution.

The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service is unwavering in its commitment to combating this issue, reiterating its zero-tolerance stance towards the illegal wildlife trade.

An Appeal for Responsible Pet Ownership

As the holiday season approaches, and people consider welcoming a pet into their homes, Mr Christensen issues a heartfelt plea. He encourages potential pet owners to thoroughly educate themselves on the specific care requirements of native animals, including turtles.

Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of obtaining the necessary permits to ensure that these animals are acquired legally and ethically.

Published 18-Dec-2023

The Best Christmas Gift You Can Give Koalas in The Gap

Photo Credit: Unsplash

This festive season, residents of The Gap in Brisbane have a unique opportunity to give a truly meaningful gift — helping to conserve and protect the local koala population.

As Brisbane prepares for an unusually hot summer, the spotlight shifts to the koalas of The Gap, a suburb where the intersection of urban life and natural habitats brings unique challenges for these native animals.

Koalas are currently in their breeding season, a time fraught with challenges. This period is especially demanding for mother koalas with young, who face dangers such as road accidents, often leading to orphaned joeys. The need for vigilance and care in areas like The Gap is vital during this time.

Threats to Koalas

Disease Threats: Koalas contend with diseases like chlamydia and koala retrovirus, which significantly impact their health and survival. These diseases compromise their immune systems, making them more vulnerable to other health issues and environmental stressors.

Food and Water Scarcity: The current hot and dry conditions are affecting the nutritional value of gum tree leaves, koalas’ primary food source. This situation is forcing koalas to venture further in search of additional water sources, increasing their encounters with urban dangers.

Road Hazards: The Gap’s koalas often face dangers from increased traffic. Awareness and caution from drivers can play a crucial role in reducing the number of accidents involving koalas, especially during the night and early morning hours.

Dog Attacks: Domestic dogs present a significant risk to koalas. In areas like The Gap, where backyards and natural habitats intersect, dog owners need to be responsible and ensure their pets do not pose a threat to these vulnerable creatures. Keeping pets confined or restrained at night, providing wildlife avoidance training, and considering koala-friendly fencing are crucial to protecting koalas.

Backyard Encounters: Koalas may occasionally find themselves in suburban backyards. Residents should understand how to coexist with these animals, taking care to avoid direct interaction and instead contacting wildlife rescue services if a koala appears in distress or danger. Residents can further help by planting koala food trees and making fences koala-friendly, allowing these animals to move safely in and out of properties. Installing a pool cover and securing swimming pools are also important, as koalas are at risk of drowning in backyard pools.

Learn More About Threats to Koalas

Assisting Koalas in Distress

Providing Water: Residents can aid koalas by placing shallow bowls of clean water near gum trees. This small act can be a lifesaver for koalas, especially during hot days.

Rescue and Care: In case of encountering a sick or injured koala, the best course of action is to contact local koala rescue groups. Direct handling should be avoided to prevent additional stress on the animal.

Community Involvement and Awareness

Educating the public about the challenges faced by koalas and ways to mitigate these risks is critical. Residents of The Gap and surrounding areas can participate in local conservation efforts, such as habitat restoration and supporting koala hospitals and wildlife groups.

The survival of koalas in The Gap and across Brisbane depends on a collective effort from the community, government agencies, and conservationists. Understanding these animals’ challenges and taking proactive steps to mitigate them is essential in ensuring their continued presence in our natural landscapes.

MOre INfo

Published 15-Dec-2023

Meet Santa and Enjoy the Christmas Cheer At The Gap Village

Photo Credit: Unsplash

The Christmas season has arrived and is in full swing at The Gap Village Shopping Centre. With a series of delightful events lined up and FREE Kids Club activities, families are in for a treat!

Meet Santa

This Saturday and on two upcoming Saturdays—December 9th and 16th—families have the chance to meet Santa himself. From 10 am to 2 pm, near Aldi, Santa will be available for free photos. No bookings are necessary, ensuring everyone gets an opportunity to capture this magical moment.

Santa’s Village Scavenger Hunt

*Photo Credit:* The Gap Village Shopping Centre

The excitement continues with the Santa’s Village Scavenger Hunt, a thrilling adventure running until December 18th. Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet from participating stores and embark on a quest to discover hidden miniature storefronts. Complete the hunt for a chance to win a fantastic prize.

check out the terms & conditions here!

FREE Kids Club: CHRISTMAS FUN at THE GAP VILLAGE

The Gap Village Shopping Centre ensures the little ones are not left out of the festive merriment with an array of Kids Club events.

Gingerbread House Decorating

On Tuesday, December 12th, children aged 4 and above can unleash their creativity by decorating their very own gingerbread houses at 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., absolutely FREE!

Christmas Disco Party

On December 19th at 10 a.m., the centre will host a free two-hour disco extravaganza filled with dancing elves, music, and games. Open to children aged 3 and above, it promises to be a blast of holiday fun.

Christmas Bauble Decorating

Drop by on December 20th between 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to craft personalised Christmas baubles. A perfect opportunity for children aged 4 and above to add their touch to the tree decorations.

Magic Show

Start the new year with wonder as Super Steph presents an interactive magic show on January 10th, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. Suitable for children aged 2 and above, it’s an enchanting way to kick off the New Year.

The Gap Village Shopping Centre is transforming into a hub of holiday cheer, inviting residents to join in the festivities and create cherished memories with family and friends. These diverse events promise something special for everyone, making this holiday season one to remember at The Gap.

Published 2-December-2023

The Gap’s Sue Moller and Payne Road State School Win Top WasteSMART Awards

Did you know that local waste reduction champions Sue Moller and Payne Road State School have been recognised for their outstanding and long-term commitment to waste prevention at the 2023 WasteSMART Awards?

Read: Young Eco-Warriors From The Gap Receive ‘Change Maker of the Year’ Award

Sue Moller, a retired nurse turned “Master Composter” from The Gap, won the prestigious All-Star Award, which celebrates sustained dedication to decreasing waste in the community. Since completing her composting certification course in 2021, Ms Moller has worked tirelessly to cut landfill contributions from her neighbourhood.

From starting compost programs at local schools to collecting food scraps from community gardens, Ms Moller helps divert over 400 kg of waste each month. She also hosts free composting workshops and serves as a drop-off point for other composters.

Ms Moller (Photo credit: Brisbane Sustainability Agency/Facebook)

Payne Road State School, on the other hand, takes a multi-faceted approach to embed sustainability within the school. They host an annual Environmental Leadership Workshop for 11 neighbouring institutions to promote broader engagement. Students also educate the wider community about their efforts at local events like the Eco Forum by MP Jonty Bush.

Photo credit: Brisbane Sustainability Agency/Facebook

The school has both Junior and Senior Environment Clubs that meet weekly to maintain critical initiatives from their vegetable garden to their compost system.

Club members oversee native plantings and beehives across the grounds whilst monitoring energy and water consumption. They also organise classroom electricity usage competitions and have incorporated “Wrapper Free Wednesdays” to minimise plastic waste as part of the Tangalooma Ecomarines program.

Sue moller — Payne Road State School students (Photo credit: wastesmartawards.com.au)

Through their comprehensive and immersive sustainability programs, Payne Road students lead the charge on responsible waste management.

Payne Road shares the WasteSMART School Award with the Urban Farm at St Laurence’s College, which was also named winner for the said category this year.

About the 2023 WasteSMART Awards

The 2023 WasteSMART Awards featured nine categories celebrating sustainability leaders across sectors. The coveted All-Star Award specifically honours outstanding long-term dedication to waste reduction. This year’s competition also distributed over $4,000 in prize money to 12 deserving honorees.

Judging panels assembled experts from Cleanaway, Containers for Change, the University of Queensland, and other organisations to select winners in all categories except one. The People’s Choice Award was determined by votes from the general public.

Read: Brisbane Fee Cut Sparks Surge in Green Waste Recycling Bin Orders

Winners across all nine categories were formally announced at the Lord Mayor’s Awards Ceremony, held at the Brisbane City Hall on 16 November 2023.

Published 29-November-2023

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

A 5,000-sqm property at 836-842 Waterworks Road in The Gap has sat empty and neglected for years, becoming an unfortunate magnet for vandals and thrill seekers. But this could finally change, with new plans submitted to redevelop what has become a massive eyesore into a hopefully bustling, multi-use complex.

Read: New Parking Garage Opening at Ferny Grove Station, But Traffic Flow Will Be Altered

The property has a long and colourful history. It was originally purchased back in 1958 by pioneering property developer Renzo Zanuttini. At the time it was part of Zanuttini’s grand vision for the area. However, years later, the site sat mostly unused besides some small commercial enterprises.

In 2017 approval was granted by Council for a luxury residential development called Renzo’s Place. However, this project never eventuated and the approval is set to expire in November 2024.

Since then the abandoned buildings on the site have been easy pickings for vandals, graffiti artists and urban explorers. The famous property has even gained notoriety on certain social media pages dedicated to ‘urban decay.’

Now fresh plans by architecture firm Aspect have been put forward to reinvigorate the site with a mix of healthcare facilities, childcare, residential apartments and a retirement village. The proposed multi-storey buildings are consistent with the height limits that exist for the property.

The new facilities aim to fill a need for more community and aged care services in the area and the redevelopment could breathe new life into a long-neglected site with a fascinating history. After so many years sitting dormant, the revival of 836-842 Waterworks Road could be a welcome change for the community.

The proposed mix of uses also caters to The Gap’s growing population. With more young families and elderly residents, demand is increasing for childcare, healthcare and retirement living options close to the suburb’s shops and amenities.

Read: Former Quarry in Keperra to Become Site of 500 Resort-Style Homes

If approved, the revival of this iconic inner-west Brisbane site will not just remove an eyesore vandal hotspot. It will provide new facilities and housing for a range of demographics, cementing the next chapter in the property’s long and colourful history. After decades of neglect, its renewed purpose may finally be realised.

Published 9-November-2023

Grassroots Grants Give The Gap Little Athletics a Head Start

The Coles Little Athletics Community Fund has announced its latest round of grants, benefiting forty grassroots Little Athletics centres across Australia, including The Gap State High School’s Little Athletics Centre.

The Gap centre has been awarded more than $2,600 to purchase a defibrillator to ensure the safety of its aspiring athletes and parent volunteers.

Coles Little Athletics Community Fund Support

Coles Group, in partnership with its Little Athletics Community Fund, continues to invest in the development and safety of young athletes across the nation. This year’s grants, totalling over $150,000, will enable Little Athletics centres to procure essential equipment, including hurdles, mats, shot puts, laptops, and defibrillators.

The Coles Little Athletics Community Fund, established in 2018, has now contributed more than $2.4 million to support 469 Little Athletics clubs and centres.

The Gap State High School’s Grant

The Gap State High School’s Little Athletics Centre is one of the proud recipients of this grant. The centre, founded in 1977 as one of the first Little Athletics Centres in Queensland, recognises the importance of the health and safety of all participants.

The Gap Little Athletics — Photo Credit: Supplied

According to Centre Manager Craig Preston, they identified a significant safety gap when they realised that the nearest defibrillator was located in a neighbouring shopping centre. Hence, the Coles grant of $2,666.50 will be used to invest in an on-site defibrillator, ensuring that safety remains paramount for all local athletes.

“When we identified that the nearest defibrillator to our centre was located in the neighbouring shopping centre we knew we needed to use the Coles grant to invest in having one on site. Safety is paramount to us here at The Gap and a defibrillator should be a compulsory safety item for clubs where people are gathering for physical activity.”

Former Little Athlete and Coles ambassador, Jaryd Clifford, highlighted the significance of having the right equipment for young athletes. He emphasised how grant programs like the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund relieve the burden on volunteers, allowing them to focus on helping athletes succeed rather than spending their time and energy on fundraising for essential equipment.

The Coles Little Athletics Banana A-Peel

The announcement of these grant recipients coincides with the launch of the Coles Little Athletics Banana A-Peel campaign, beginning on National Banana Day, Wednesday, 18 October. Coles, in collaboration with Aussie banana growers, will donate 10 cents for every kilogram of Cavendish bananas sold during the campaign, up to a maximum of $150,000. These funds will be directed towards the next round of grants to help even more clubs and centres purchase new equipment.

Coles Little Athletics Australia CEO, Myles Foreman, praised the positive impact of the Coles Little Athletics Community Fund over the past five years, making volunteering easier for parents and providing young athletes with appropriate and safe equipment for all ages and abilities. He encouraged Coles customers to support the fund by purchasing bananas during this year’s Little Athletics Banana A-Peel.

In addition to the substantial grants, Coles has also donated over 3.9 million bananas to help fuel young athletes since 2017. This combined effort ensures that little athletes in The Gap and across the nation are equipped for success and safety as they pursue their athletic dreams.

Published 24-Oct-2023