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Brisbane Tramway Museum in Ferny Grove Keeps Tram History Rolling for Families

Brisbane families can swap screens for tram bells this week, with the Brisbane Tramway Museum in Ferny Grove inviting locals to hop aboard its historic fleet. Visitors get the rare chance to ride historic trams and taste a bit of nostalgia all in one day.

A Community Ride Through Time

On Thursday, 10 July, the museum is hosting a special school holiday Open Day from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., giving visitors unlimited rides on trams that once travelled Brisbane’s streets decades ago. Tickets cost $10 for children and $20 for adults, with family deals available. Cold drinks and ice cream will be on hand for families wanting to cool off between rides.

The Brisbane Tramway Museum Society, formed in 1968, stepped in to save these trams after the city’s network closed in 1969. By 1980, the Ferny Grove site was ready for the public to enjoy, thanks to local volunteers who built tracks, restored trams and collected everything from old tickets to uniforms.

Today, the museum cares for 25 heritage trams, including Brisbane’s oldest, from 1901, and the last built in 1964. Some visitors might spot vintage ads above the seats, while others will hear the original bells ring as they hop on board. The site also has depot buildings recovered from the old Ipswich Road tram depot, an elevated signal cabin and thousands of photos and technical drawings showing Brisbane’s tram network in its heyday.

A Local Day Out with History and Ice Cream

The museum’s volunteers say the event is all about letting the community share a slice of history in an outdoor setting where kids can learn and play. It’s a chance for families to picnic under the trees, chat with tram enthusiasts and see how public transport shaped the city.

For only $10 per child and $20 per adult (or $50 per family of four), visitors can enjoy unlimited rides on any of the trams in service, built between 1901 and 1964. Whether you grew up riding Brisbane’s trams or want to give your kids a ride into the past, the museum’s school holiday event promises an affordable local adventure for everyone.

Practical Info

The Brisbane Tramway Museum is at 20 Tramway Street, Ferny Grove. The Open Day runs Thursday, 10 July, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Tickets cost $10 per child, $20 per adult, $15 concession or $50 for a family of four.

Published 10-July-2025

Serious Charges for Newmarket Man After Initial Pickering Street Incident

Photo Credit: myPolice Brisbane North

A routine police patrol in the early hours of Monday morning has resulted in serious charges for a 43-year-old Newmarket man, following what began as a simple bicycle helmet violation on Pickering Street.

Officers from the Ferny Grove property crime team were conducting their regular patrols around 1.45am when they spotted the man cycling without a helmet. What caught their attention wasn’t just the missing safety gear, but the unusual sight of what appeared to be a cash register drawer sticking out of his backpack.

Upon stopping the cyclist, police discovered a concerning collection of items that painted a troubling picture. Inside the register drawer, officers found money, along with an additional bundle of cash. The man’s backpack also contained what police describe as classic burglary tools – a hammer, wire cutters, gloves, torch and a glass pipe.

Adding to the suspicions, the cyclist couldn’t provide any proof of ownership for the Giant Trance bicycle he was riding, nor could he give police a reasonable explanation for how he’d acquired it.

The investigation quickly expanded beyond the initial traffic stop. Police allege the man had broken into a nearby local business using the tools found in his possession, before making his escape on what they believe to be a stolen bicycle.

The charges now facing the Newmarket resident reflect the seriousness of the alleged crimes. He has been charged with entering premises and committing an indictable offence by break and enter, possessing items intended for use in breaking and entering, unlawful possession of suspected stolen property, and possessing drug utensils.

The man was refused bail and remanded in custody, with his case set to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 30 July.

For Enoggera residents and business owners, this incident serves as a reminder that police patrols continue around the clock, even for seemingly minor infractions that can sometimes uncover more serious criminal activity.

Anyone with information about this incident or similar suspicious activity in the area is encouraged to contact Policelink through their online reporting form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, available 24 hours a day, or by calling 131 444.

Those wishing to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Reference numbers: QP2501188334, QP2501188332

Published 8-July-2025

Ferny Grove Police Station Set for $7 Million Upgrade to Boost Local Safety

The Ferny Grove Police station is receiving a $7 million upgrade, marking one of the most significant safety investments in Brisbane’s western suburbs this year. The work will strengthen local police operations, improve facilities, and support community safety efforts across the region.

Focus on Community Safety

The $7-million Ferny Grove project forms part of a larger $560 million commitment to early intervention and rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing youth crime. An additional $4 million will expand police helicopter coverage in South East Queensland, including Brisbane West. Ferny Grove is a growing suburb where families value safety and strong community ties.

Strengthening the Justice Response

New funding will strengthen Queensland’s justice system by improving support for victims and managing high-risk offenders. Over four years, $11.6 million will expand victim support services, while $50 million will establish a dedicated Victims Advocate Service.

*Photo Credit: corrinemcmillanmp*/instagram

A $25-million pilot program will introduce electronic monitoring for domestic and family violence offenders. An additional $10 million will go toward a public register for serious child sex offenders. While statewide, these measures are expected to enhance safety in communities like Ferny Grove.

Health and Housing Investments Nearby

Brisbane West will receive additional funding for health and housing alongside the Ferny Grove Police upgrade. Health staffing across Metro North and South is set to grow to over 44,000 full-time roles, with efforts to reduce surgery wait times and ambulance delays.

These improvements aim to ease pressure on emergency services, including police. On the housing side, $5.4 million will go toward expanding social and community housing in the region. This supports long-term goals to reduce crime by addressing key social challenges.

Improvements Beyond Policing

Neighbouring suburbs of Ferny Grove will also benefit from major upgrades in transport, education and community infrastructure. Upper Kedron will receive $3.9 million for safer, more accessible roads, while $25.2 million is allocated to rebuild the Mount Crosby East Substation.

Community groups in Moggill, Kenmore and other areas will receive funding to improve sports fields, facilities and youth spaces. These projects aim to strengthen local services and improve everyday life for families across Brisbane West. While the Ferny Grove Police upgrade stands out, it’s part of a broader plan to invest in the region’s future.

Published 04-July-2025

Footage Released as Ferny Grove Manhunt Continues After Alleged Assault

Police have released new footage as they search for a man accused of assaulting a young woman while she was out walking her dog in Ferny Grove.

The 23-year-old woman was walking along Hogarth Road in Ferny Grove when a man began talking to her before allegedly indecently assaulting her and fleeing on foot. The incident happened between 3:30 p.m. and 4:20 p.m. on June 19. Officers believe the man ran through nearby streets, including Beech Street, and may have been seen by locals.

Who Police Are Looking For

Detectives from the Inner West Child Protection and Investigation Unit have described the suspect as a Caucasian man in his early twenties with brown hair. He was last seen wearing black shorts and a maroon football shirt. The footage released shows a man walking down a road in the area around the time of the incident.

Police are urging anyone who recognises the man in the footage or has dashcam footage from Hogarth Road and intersecting streets, such as Beech Street, to come forward. They say even a small clue could help them find the suspect and bring reassurance to the Ferny Grove community.

Ongoing Investigation

Detectives are reviewing the footage and continuing to speak with witnesses. They are reminding Ferny Grove residents to stay aware of their surroundings and to report any suspicious activity as the search continues.

Published 4-July-2025

Upper Kedron Athletes Crowned World Cheerleading Champions

Photo Credit: Brianna Sarna/Instagram

Two Upper Kedron teenagers have returned from Orlando as World Cheerleading Champions after representing Australia at an international competition.

Upper Kedron Teens Shine on World Stage

Amber and Brianna Sarna, 14-year-old identical twins from Upper Kedron, have secured a World Cheerleading Championship title while representing Australia. The twins competed at a major international event in Orlando as part of Team Australia’s Youth Co-Ed Median Division. Their team’s performances earned first place in the division.

Upper Kedron twins — *Photo Credit: Amber Sarna/Instagram*

Pathway to the Championship

The Sarna twins began cheerleading at five years old, inspired by their older sister. They train with Outlaws Allstars Kedron and were selected for Team Australia from more than 300 candidates after submitting video applications. Their preparation included attending intensive training camps in Melbourne and Sydney, where choreography and routines were developed for the competition.

The Event and Achievement

The ICU World Cheerleading Championship took place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando. The event, held in April 2025, featured athletes from 70 nations and is considered a pinnacle event in international cheerleading. Team Australia, including Amber and Brianna, overcame challenges in their first routine and returned on day two with a clean performance that secured top scores.

Community and Family Support

Ferny Grove State High School celebrated the twins’ achievement through school assemblies and social media posts. Social media comments from friends, teammates, and supporters expressed pride and congratulations, with messages highlighting how proud they were and praising the twins’ effort on stage.

Comments included supporters describing the achievement as “so amazing”, “well deserved”, and “absolutely amazing on stage”. Amber and Brianna’s success was also acknowledged by those who helped along the way, with messages thanking and recognising team efforts.

Looking Ahead

Amber and Brianna plan to continue competing internationally. They hope to coach in the future and aim to represent Australia again, especially if cheerleading gains inclusion in the Olympic Games.

Published 28-June-2025

The Gap Among Suburbs Tipped for Further Rent Hikes

Renters in The Gap are being warned to prepare for continued rental increases, as new data reveals the suburb is among several across Australia facing mounting pressure from tight housing supply and growing demand.

Read: New Townhouses Proposed for Ferny Grove to Boost Housing Choice

A new report by property investment company InvestorKit has flagged The Gap—alongside nearby suburbs like Loganlea and Wynnum-Manly—as one of the areas most likely to see rental prices continue rising over the next 12 months. The findings are based on key indicators such as vacancy rates, rental yields, affordability comparisons between renting and buying, and long-term population demand.

While the pace of rent hikes has moderated compared to the sharp surges of recent years, conditions in suburbs like The Gap remain particularly strained. Demand continues to outpace supply, with rental stock across Australia still around 30 per cent lower than it was before the pandemic began.

The Gap, known for its family-friendly appeal and proximity to natural parks and the CBD, is feeling the pinch more acutely due to its limited new housing development and competitive property market.

In this suburb, the cost of buying a home has become increasingly prohibitive, leading more residents to rent as a longer-term solution. That shift is adding further pressure to already scarce rental listings, reinforcing the upward trend in prices.

Nationally, rents now average $649 a week, and vacancy rates remain low at 1.2 per cent—figures that reflect a broader issue across urban and regional markets. However, the situation is especially challenging in areas like The Gap, where housing diversity is limited and construction of new rental stock has not kept pace with population growth.

Experts say the current challenges stem from structural issues that have been building for years, including a long-standing shortage of social and private rental housing, underinvestment in diverse dwelling types, and lagging construction pipelines. In suburbs like The Gap, these conditions combine to make renting not only more expensive, but also more competitive and uncertain.

Read: Young Couple Outbids Downsizers to Set Auction Record in Upper Kedron

As the country heads into another year of rental stress, suburbs like The Gap will be key areas to watch—both as pressure points for tenants and as indicators of how deeply the nation’s housing issues are being felt at a community level.

Published 19-June-2025

New Townhouses Proposed for Ferny Grove to Boost Housing Choice

Photo Credit: DA A006775078

A significant new development featuring 12 townhouses is set to enhance housing diversity within the Ferny Grove community, following a recent application lodged with Council for a multi-dwelling project and land subdivision.

Project Overview

The plans, designed by Red Door Architecture, outline the creation of 12 new homes, each featuring three bedrooms. These new residences will contribute to the low to medium-density housing options available in the area, with a mix of both detached and attached townhouse designs.

The project is planned to reach a maximum height of three storeys and will sit on a substantial 10,618 square metre site. Alongside the dwellings, the development includes provisions for 24 resident parking spaces and an additional five spaces for visitors.

Design and Green Spaces

A key aspect of the design focuses on integrating green spaces and private outdoor areas for future residents. The plans allocate 17 per cent of the site for deep planting, amounting to 514 square metres, to enhance the natural environment.

Each townhouse is also planned to have its own private open space, ranging from 35 to 38 square metres, which includes alfresco areas and balconies designed to meet residents’ recreational needs. Vehicle and pedestrian access to the development will be via a private internal road connecting directly to McGinn Road. The overall site will also be subdivided into two separate lots, measuring 3,020 square metres and 7,595 square metres respectively.

Community Integration and Planning Perspective

Planners from Ratio Consultants have expressed that the proposed development is well-suited for its location, both in terms of statutory planning guidelines and the existing neighbourhood context. They indicated that the project provides a high-quality, architecturally designed residential offering, noting the thoughtful details such as on-site refuse collection and varied building designs.

The planners believe the townhouses will present an attractive appearance due to their diverse setbacks, roof styles, building heights, and choice of materials. According to their assessment, the development is expected to contribute to creating contained, sustainable, and functional communities by providing housing diversity and choice for different household types and individuals throughout various life stages.

Published Date 12-Jun-2025

Hillbrook Chorale to Perform ‘Wattle Sky’ in Enoggera

Music lovers in Enoggera are in for a rare treat this June, as Hillbrook Anglican School’s Hillbrook Chorale presents a uniquely Australian choral concert at the Tree of Life Chapel on Sunday, 22 June from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m.

Read: Brisbane Weekend Guide: Comedy, Music & More 13 to 15 June 2025

The highlight of the afternoon is the Australian premiere of Wattle Sky, a three-movement choral song cycle by acclaimed Brisbane-based composer Joe Twist and lyricist Jodie O’Regan. This powerful new work explores Australia’s involvement in space science, telling the remarkable story of golden wattle seeds sent into orbit aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft and later studied by school students across the country.

Originally from the Gold Coast, Twist brings international experience and local heart to the piece, having composed for names like Moby, Kate Miller-Heidke, and Bluey. His deep understanding of choral music makes Wattle Sky a perfect centrepiece for the Hillbrook Chorale, who are working closely with the composer in the lead-up to the performance.

Hillbrook Chorale — Joe Twist (Photo supplied)

The program also features a vibrant lineup of Australian compositions, including:

Shackleton by Paul Jarman, a dramatic musical retelling of the Antarctic explorer’s epic journey
Bell Birds by William Brown, a lush setting of Henry Kendall’s classic poem
The Brown Snake by Thelma Plum, celebrating Brisbane’s river and untold stories
Spirit of Australia by Donna Dyson and Damien Leith, a soaring anthem
Lay Your Burden Down by Jane Christie-Johnston, an emotional original work
Keep a Dream in Your Pocket by The Seekers, a nostalgic audience favourite

Under the direction of conductor Joshua Clifford and accompanied by Judy Collins, the Hillbrook Chorale promises an afternoon of inspiring music that blends contemporary storytelling with timeless choral beauty.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 concession, and free for children under 5.

Read: When Enoggera Witnessed the Execution of a Circus Giant

This is a rare chance to experience the premiere of a major Australian work in the heart of Enoggera, performed by one of Brisbane’s most passionate school ensembles.

About the Hillbrook Chorale

Founded alongside Hillbrook Anglican School in 1986, the Hillbrook Chorale has long been a cornerstone of the school’s community. This SATB (soprano, alto, tenor, bass) community choir performs an eclectic mix of musical styles, spanning classical, folk, and contemporary genres.

Under the direction of Joshua Clifford and with Judy Collins as accompanist, the Chorale is dedicated to fostering a positive, supportive, and musically enriching choral experience.

Published 11-June-2025

Safety Concerns Rise as Ferny Grove Dog Park Remains Waterlogged

More than two dozen dog owners in Ferny Grove are calling on authorities to address significant drainage problems at the popular Ferny Grove Dog Park, which regularly leaves large sections of the community asset unusable and hazardous after rainfall.

The petition, initiated by Suzanne Broderick of Ferny Grove, has gathered 24 signatures since its launch and is open for support until Saturday, 30 August 2025.

It highlights how frequent periods of rain turn the park into a waterlogged and extremely muddy area, preventing dogs from safely enjoying the space and forcing owners to clean their pets extensively or avoid the park entirely.

Community Concerns and Safety Risks

Ferny Grove Dog Park — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Residents and frequent users of the off-leash park at Arbour Street have voiced serious concerns about the ongoing conditions. They say that the persistent poor drainage makes the park inaccessible or dangerous after wet weather. Beyond the inconvenience, the muddy conditions are also believed to pose potential health and hygiene risks for both dogs and their owners.

A significant worry for the community is the safety aspect, with several incidents reported where dog owners have slipped and fallen due to the wet ground. While no serious injuries have occurred to date, petitioners warn of a considerable risk to local residents if the issue remains unaddressed. The current state of the park also limits the community’s access to a vital recreational space intended for off-leash exercise and socialisation.

Calls for Council Action

Petitioners are formally requesting Brisbane City Council to take specific actions to improve the park’s condition. They are asking Council to assess and upgrade the park’s drainage system to stop waterlogging. Additionally, they suggest Council consider installing gravel in high-traffic zones to reduce mud. Ensuring regular maintenance and monitoring of ground conditions, particularly after wet weather, is also a key request.

The petition states that Ferny Grove Dog Park is a well-loved community asset, and that these improvements would greatly enhance its usability, safety, and overall quality for residents and their dogs. Council is being urged to prioritise this issue and act promptly to ensure the park can be enjoyed throughout the year.

A Popular Community Hub

Ferny Grove Dog Park, often referred to as Arbor Street Park, is a well-known off-leash facility situated at 1200 Samford Road, behind the Ferny Grove Police Station. It is highly valued for its accessibility and free nearby parking. The park spans a spacious 8.24 hectares, providing ample room for dogs to run and play freely within its generally fully fenced boundaries, often featuring double-gated entrances for added security.

The park offers various facilities, including water fountains for hydration, benches and shaded seating areas for owners, and convenient poo bins for waste disposal. Some sources also mention a small agility area and a dog-friendly walking trail.

Despite its popularity as a community hub for dog owners and a venue for events like “Dogs on Patrol,” some visitors note that natural shade can be limited, suggesting earlier visits might be better. It is also noted that the park does not always have designated separate areas for small and large dogs.

Published Date 09-Jun-2025

10-Year-Old Keperra Swimmer Jade Gregory Swims for a Cause

Photo Credit: Laps for Life

Jade Gregory, a 10-year-old swimmer from Keperra, has made a remarkable splash, swimming an incredible 35 kilometres and raising over $3,600 for youth mental health.

Jade Gregory, a student at Ferny Hills State School, completed the astounding distance throughout March as part of the national Laps for Life fundraiser. This annual event supports ReachOut Australia, raising vital funds and awareness to help young people facing mental health challenges and prevent youth suicide.

More than 10,000 swimmers participated this year, but Jade’s exceptional effort placed her among the top 50 fundraisers across Australia, finishing in 48th place.

A Big Goal and Strong Motivation

Jade Gregory — *Photo Credit:* *Laps for Life*

Jade, who has been taking swimming lessons at Ferny Hills Pool since she was two years old and now trains with a squad, explained that she wanted to help raise money and awareness for mental health, stating that she loves swimming and believes it’s important because “too many people suffer, and if it goes untreated, something worse could happen.”

She initially set a smaller goal for herself, but as she continued to swim, her confidence grew. She realised she could swim much further than her original aim and decided to see how far she could go, even completing 50 laps in a single session on her second-last day.

Overcoming Challenges

Her commitment was tested when the pool had to close for a week due to Cyclone Alfred, disrupting her plans. However, Jade’s motivation remained strong. She acknowledged that raising money was difficult at the start but knew she was helping people and making others aware of the issue, which made her want to keep going. Her final tally of 700 laps of the 50-metre pool is a significant achievement for someone, regardless of age.

Community Support and Future Dreams

Jade, a two-time age champion at her school who also represented Ferny Hills State School at the district level this year, mentioned that her dad was her “biggest cheerleader.”

Looking ahead, she has expressed a desire to participate in Laps for Life again next year because she enjoyed the swimming and wants to continue helping others. Jade also shared her big swimming dreams, hoping to one day swim at the Olympics.

Published Date 09-Jun-2025