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Street Spotlight: Chaprowe Rd, The Gap

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Chaprowe Road in The Gap is steeped in a legacy of remembrance and post-war resilience. Its very name is a tribute to two early residents and servicemen — Robert Chapman and Samuel Rowe — whose stories are intertwined with the district’s military and settlement history.

With 70% of properties being owner-occupied and residents staying an average of 16 years and 4 months, Benalla Street demonstrates strong community attachment and stability. This commitment to the area is reflected in the fact that 52% of residents have called Benalla Street home for more than a decade. The street’s property transaction history reveals the remarkable transformation of Manly’s real estate landscape, with 38 Benalla Street selling for $49,800 in January 1981 – a testament to the area’s evolution over the decades.

REMEMBRANCE: Mr Chapman and Mr Rowe

In 1956, the Gap Progress Association requested that Council name a road off Settlement Road in honour of Mr Chapman and Mr Rowe, both of whom served with the First A.I.F. and later became residents of the district. This tribute places Chaprowe Road within Brisbane City Council’s Streets of Remembrance project, which honours Australia’s military heritage through the placement of Australian Defence Force Rising Sun and Royal Australian Navy badges on commemorative street signs.

Robert Auburn Chapman enlisted in February 1916 at the age of 38 and served in France. Post-war, he lived on portion 103, parish of Enoggera — land adjoining what is now Fish Creek and Chaprowe Road. Samuel Ruewenzori Kerangosi Rowe enlisted at age 18 in June 1916, served with the Field Engineers in France, and later lived on adjacent portion 104.

These land parcels were part of the Enoggera Soldiers Settlement Group, created under the Discharged Soldiers Settlement Act of 1917. While these settlements aimed to help returned soldiers support themselves through farming, many — including those in The Gap — proved unsustainable due to poor land quality and lack of support resources.

Chaprowe Rd, The Gap Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 34
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 90%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 14 years
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 48%

Chaprowe Rd, The Gap – As It Looked in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON CHAPROWE RD, THE GAP

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
78 Chaprowe Rd, The Gap	$1,790,000	Sep 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON CHAPROWE RD FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
113 Chaprowe Rd, The Gap	$345,000	Sep 1996
28 Chaprowe Rd, The Gap	$58,000	Nov 1986
64 Chaprowe Rd, The Gap	$83,000	Jun 1982

THE GAP SUBURB PROFILE

Bedrooms	Type	Median Price 2025	Median Price 2021	Typical Increase
3	House	$1,100,000	$705,000	$395,000
4	House	$1,406,000	$830,000	$576,000
5	House	$1,593,000	$1,098,000	$495,000

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

Local Schools and Clubs Invited to Apply for Ellendale Community Grants

Local schools, sporting clubs, and community groups in Upper Kedron and surrounding suburbs are being invited to apply for a share in $10,000 in grant funding, aimed at supporting initiatives that enhance community life. Applications for the 2025 Ellendale Community Grants program are now open, with successful recipients to be announced in June.

Read: Upper Kedron-Mt Nebo Road Connection Gains Momentum

The grants are part of an ongoing commitment by leading developer Cedar Woods Properties, which has delivered the program since the inception of its Ellendale masterplanned community. Since 2017, Cedar Woods has distributed $85,000 across 57 local organisations through the initiative.

Cedar Woods Properties Development Director Blair Britton said the grants had already made a significant difference to groups working to build stronger local connections. “The funding we provide enables local groups to continue their work, fostering connections and enhancing the quality of life for residents of Ellendale and their neighbours, and we’ve seen the impact of the grants firsthand,” he said.

Past recipients include Ferny Grove State School, which used a 2024 grant to purchase robotics kits to strengthen its Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) program.

Applications are open until 23 May 2025, with schools and not-for-profit groups operating for more than 12 months, including sporting and community organisations, eligible to apply. The program’s reach is intended to extend beyond Upper Kedron, reflecting the broader community spirit fostered by the Ellendale development.

Read: Tony Cooper’s Journey: From The Gap to a Legacy of Colour and Healing

Ellendale is a 227-hectare masterplanned community developed by Cedar Woods, nestled alongside South D’Aguilar National Park and home to more than 590 families. The masterplan blends natural corridors and recreational spaces with premium homesites to create a balanced and connected community. To apply or learn more about the grants, visit www.cedarwoods.com.au/ellendale.

Published 29-April-2025

Keperra’s Quarry hits 100th home sale as growth continues

Photo Credit: The Quarry/Facebook

Property momentum continues in Keperra, with The Quarry notching its 100th homesite sale and demand building ahead of a premium land release this month.

Rock solid growth: Keperra welcomes 100th homebuyer in $500 million hillside community

A young Southside couple has become the 100th family to purchase land in Keperra’s largest residential development, marking a major moment in the transformation of the north-west Brisbane suburb.

On 4 April, Frasers Property confirmed the 100th sale at The Quarry, a 48.7-hectare estate transforming a former granite quarry in Keperra into a 400-home community with resident-only amenities.

A community on the rise

Gabriel and Mariana Boni, who had lived on Brisbane’s Southside, chose The Quarry after a year-long search, drawn by its natural setting, community feel, large blocks, and easy access to transport and the CBD.

The couple plans to build a five-bedroom, two-storey coastal-style home with open-plan living, as construction progresses along Ridgeline Way and early buyers prepare to move in.

Local demand drives growth

Frasers Property’s Queensland Development GM, Scott Ullman, said buyer interest has remained strong through 2024 and into 2025. Release Five, launched in December, saw all 14 lots sold quickly while Release Four, featuring elevated homesites near the community hub, has only a few blocks remaining.

The Quarry features ClubQ, a private facility with pools, a gym and green spaces, reflecting the estate’s focus on lifestyle as Keperra attracts more families and professionals.

Upcoming land release

Frasers Property will release 13 elevated homesites later this month, offering views of the Glass House Mountains, D’Aguilar Ranges and Moreton Bay. Details about this next stage will be announced soon.

Located less than 10 kilometres from Brisbane’s CBD, Keperra has attracted growing buyer interest for its greenery, transport links, and access to schools and healthcare. While parts of the quarry remain in use, industrial activity is gradually winding down as the residential estate expands.

Published 10-April-2025

Stan the Ram’s Legacy Lives On at Enoggera This ANZAC Day

Photo Credit: 8/9 RAR/X

The 8th/9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment at Enoggera is marking ANZAC Day by reflecting on over five decades of tradition linked to its distinctive regimental mascot—Stan the Ram.

Marching on Four Legs: A History of Stan the Ram at Enoggera

For more than 50 years, a succession of merino rams, each officially named John Macarthur but known to diggers as Stan, has served as the symbolic mascot of the 8/9 RAR. The battalion is based at Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera. As ANZAC Day approaches, the battalion reflects on the enduring legacy of Stan the Ram, a tradition born in 1971 and still marching strong in 2025.

Caption: Private John ‘Stan’ MacArthur IX arriving at Enoggera barracks. (2020)
Photo Credit: Australian Army/Facebook

From Scone to Parade Ground

The tradition began in early 1971 when Mr W.W. Collinson of Scone, New South Wales, donated a purebred merino to the 9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. With permission from the Macarthur-Onslow family, the ram was named Private John Macarthur I. This move is a tribute to Australia’s wool industry pioneer. However, among the soldiers, the name “Stan” stuck.

Formally presented on parade in March 1971, Stan quickly became a part of daily life and military routine. When 9 RAR was amalgamated with 8 RAR to form 8/9 RAR in October 1973, the new battalion retained the mascot without interruption.

Tales of Tradition and Discipline

Over the decades, Stan became more than a symbol—he was an active participant in battalion culture. Some stories are now legendary. In the 1970s, Stan I famously knocked down the brigade’s Regimental Sergeant Major, WO1 Lamb, outside Battalion HQ—a moment forever etched in the battalion’s collective memory.

Every Stan also leads parades and stands on review during commemorations. Stan V has taken part in significant events such as the 1992 Freedom of Entry to Brisbane and annual battalion birthday parades at Enoggera.

*Caption: John “Stan” MacArthur in the Brisbane Anzac Day Parade (2015)*
*Photo Credit: State Library Queensland*

Each Stan has held an honorary rank, starting at Private and sometimes progressing through promotions. The mascots are formally inducted, given service numbers, and assigned handlers—often junior soldiers tasked with training them for ceremonial appearances.

Stan’s Place in Ceremonial Life

The mascot’s fleece has been woven into regimental history in a literal sense. Over the past five years, the Caloundra Spinners and Weavers have processed the ultrafine wool from Stan—dyed in the battalion’s slate grey and beech brown colours—and braided it into ceremonial lanyards.

Stan the Ram fleece — *Caption: During the process of spinning and braiding Stan’s fleece.*
*Photo Credit: Mac Kerrie/Instagram*

These lanyards are now worn by battalion members on ANZAC Day, continuing a tactile link between the mascot and those who serve.

Stan the Ram Timeline (John Macarthur I–IX)

1971 – John Macarthur I
Donated from Scone, NSW. Became 9 RAR’s mascot. Then, 8/9 RAR’s mascot after the 1973 merger. Promoted to Corporal.
c.1979 – John Macarthur II
Killed by stray dogs after a pen relocation in 1984.
1984 – John Macarthur III
Served mid-1980s; donated by the Roberts family.
Late 1980s – John Macarthur IV
Mascot during ceremonial years until 1991.
c.1991 – John Macarthur V
Held rank of Lance Corporal. Joined the parade for Brisbane’s Freedom of Entry in 1992. Retired when 8/9 RAR disbanded in 1997.
2008 – John Macarthur VI
Revived mascot tradition after 8/9 RAR re-raised. Retired in early 2010s.
2013 – John Macarthur VII
Served through mid-2010s. Retired in 2019.
2017 – John Macarthur VIII
First to have a ewe companion, Lizzie. Retired in 2020.
2020 – John Macarthur IX (current)
Enlisted and serving as the present mascot. Appears in parades and public events from Enoggera.

More Than a Mascot

While dogs, pigeons, and horses played active roles in wartime, Stan the Ram represents a different contribution—symbolism, spirit, and connection. His presence at Enoggera has bridged generations of service, brought light-hearted relief to regiment life, and served as a community ambassador at schools, hospitals, and civic events.

Caption: Private John ‘Stan’ MacArthur VIII during his first Army haircut.
Photo Credit: 8/9 RAR/X

Far from being just a novelty, Stan the Ram remains a respected part of 8/9 RAR’s structure. Saluted on parade and honoured in the mess, each Stan has reinforced the regiment’s heritage and offered soldiers a reminder that tradition, mateship and humour hold a place alongside duty and discipline.

An Enduring Presence at Enoggera

ANZAC Day will be commemorated at Gallipoli Barracks on 25 April. Stan the Ram’s story continues through his current iteration. Whether on parade, in the field, or at a community event, he stands not only as a mascot, but as a living emblem of 8/9 RAR’s history, identity, and the enduring link between soldier and service.

Published 10-Apr-2025

First Ashore: Brisbane’s 9th Battalion and the Road to Gallipoli

The 9th Battalion, Queensland’s first infantry unit raised for the Australian Imperial Force during the First World War, brought together men from various suburbs and regional towns—clerks, shopkeepers, shearers, and farmers who left behind their ordinary lives to answer the call to serve.

Read: Keith Payne VC: Local Training at The Gap Forged Australia’s Most Decorated Soldier

Many of these early recruits had militia experience, including time with the 9/49th Battalion, and adapted quickly to military life. They assembled at Enoggera Army Camp—then known as Bell’s Paddock—where paddocks once used for grazing became grounds for drill and preparation as war loomed overseas.

Bell’s Paddock, Enoggera Army Camp (Photo credit: Picture Ipswich/pictureipswich.com.au)

The base at Enoggera has a longer military legacy, with the surrounding area used for defence purposes as early as 1855. The original camp was laid out across four training paddocks—Bell, Fraser’s, Rifle, and Thompson’s—and included several rifle ranges used by both militia units and civilian shooting clubs.

During the First World War, drill exercises echoed across its dusty fields, alongside other paddocks like Fraser’s, Rifle, and Thompson’s. The nearby Exhibition Showgrounds also buzzed with preparation. Ipswich lads, city workers, and country bushmen trained side by side.

HMAT Palermo A56 leaving Pinkenba Wharf, 1915 (Photo credit: Australian War Memorial)

Months later, their preliminary training was complete. The battalion was ready. Communities gathered to farewell the volunteers—fathers, brothers, sons—as they boarded trains and trams to Pinkenba Wharf. The scent of saltwater mingled with nervous excitement as families waved goodbye, not knowing if they would see their families again.

Australian troops bound for the Middle East and Europe travelled by ship. While some vessels sailed in convoys, others departed alone without naval escort. Even within convoys, departure dates were often staggered over several weeks, reflecting the logistical complexity of wartime transport.

Among the ships that carried Queensland’s sons to war was the Palermo, which departed from Pinkenba Wharf in May 1915. Like many troop transports, the Palermo had been hastily converted for war, its lower decks refitted with wooden stalls for horses.

The Men Who Served

Colonel Arthur Graham Butler (Photo credit: Australian War Memorial)

Behind the battalion’s collective story are the personal histories of those who wore its uniform. Some names endure:

Arthur Graham Butler, a physician and medical historian, joined the 9th as its regimental medical officer. He not only treated the wounded but later chronicled the war in one of Australia’s official medical histories.
Major James Campbell Robertson, a stockbroker by profession, became second-in-command of the 9th Battalion. His leadership helped shape the unit in its earliest days.
John Patrick “Jock” Tunn, a Scottish migrant who worked as an insurance agent and cabinetmaker in Brisbane, enlisted in 1916. He joined as part of the 23rd reinforcements and later saw action on the Western Front.

9th Battalion — John Patrick “Jock” Tunn (Photo credit: State Library of Queensland)

These men, like so many others, were drawn from all walks of life—bushmen and city workers, professionals and labourers. Their motivations varied: duty, adventure, mateship, or the belief they were defending the Empire. Whatever the reason, they would be forever marked by war.

In Egypt, they trained under the hot desert sun. Then, on 25 April 1915, the 9th Battalion made history—they were in the first wave ashore at Gallipoli, part of the first Anzac landing. Under gunfire and chaos, Queensland’s sons were among the first Australians to step onto that fateful beach.

The 9th Battalion served throughout the Gallipoli campaign before continuing service on the Western Front. Their journey ended in 1918, as peace was declared. Demobilisation followed, and men returned home to rebuild their lives.

Read: Soldiers Train with New F9 Pistols at Enoggera Base

Today, their legacy is preserved through groups like the Ninth Battalions Association Inc., and places like the Milne Bay Memorial Library in Chermside, where the “First Ashore” display honours their sacrifice.

What began in Bell’s Paddock grew into one of the most defining chapters in Queensland’s military history—a story of everyday men who answered an extraordinary call.

Published 8-April-2025

Keith Payne VC: Local Training at Enoggera Forged Australia’s Most Decorated Soldier

Photo Credit: Australian War Memorial

Australia’s most highly decorated living soldier, Keith Payne VC AM, whose distinguished military career, including training at Enoggera Barracks, culminated in receiving the Victoria Cross for exceptional bravery in Vietnam, remains a dedicated advocate for veterans nationwide.

Early Life and Enoggera Training

*Photo Credit:* *Australian War Memorial*

Born in Ingham, North Queensland, during the Great Depression, Keith Payne grew up in a large family. He left school at 14 to become an apprentice cabinetmaker but found the trade unsatisfying. After a short period in the Citizen Military Forces (CMF), he joined the Australian Regular Army. His extensive service career included training at Brisbane’s Enoggera Barracks, known locally as ‘The Gap’. He was also posted to the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR), based at Enoggera, later in his career.

Decades of Dedicated Service

Mr Payne’s military life spanned several major conflicts and postings. He served in the Korean War with the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR). Later, he served in Malaya during the Emergency with 3RAR. His career saw him rise through the ranks, becoming a Corporal, Sergeant, and Warrant Officer Class II. He also served as an instructor at the Officer Training Unit in Scheyville, New South Wales, and served with the 2nd Battalion, Pacific Islands Regiment in Papua New Guinea.

Heroism Under Fire: The Victoria Cross Action

Mr Payne was appointed to the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV). While commanding the 212th Company of the 1st Mobile Strike Force Battalion in Kontum Province, his unit came under heavy attack from a large North Vietnamese force. The company was surrounded on three sides, and his soldiers began to fall back under intense mortar, rocket, and machine-gun fire.

Despite being wounded in the hands, arms, and head by shrapnel, Mr Payne moved under fire, firing his weapon and throwing grenades to keep the enemy back while rallying his troops. He covered the withdrawal and helped organise a defensive position. That night, demonstrating exceptional courage, he spent around three hours moving through the dark, enemy-occupied area, searching for missing and wounded soldiers.

He located about 40 men, organised assistance for the injured, and led the group safely through dangerous territory. Payne later stated his actions were driven by his responsibility as a company commander to look after his soldiers and admitted he experienced fear during the intense battle.

Queen Elizabeth II awarded him the Victoria Cross in Brisbane for these actions. He is the last living Australian recipient of the original Imperial Victoria Cross. His valour was also recognised with the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star from the United States, and the Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Star from the Republic of Vietnam.

Life After Service: Advocacy and Support

After retiring from the Australian Army, Mr Payne served briefly as a Captain with the Sultan of Oman’s Army during the Dhofar War. Returning to Australia, he faced significant personal challenges, including struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from his war experiences, which affected his family life. His wife Florence said their strong relationship helped them through difficult times. Mr Payne has acknowledged that post-traumatic stress never fully disappears but affirmed that it can be managed.

He turned this challenging experience into a lifelong commitment to supporting fellow veterans. He became deeply involved in the veteran community, particularly counselling those suffering from PTSD. His advocacy includes lobbying for better health and mental care services, pushing for recognition of First Nations service personnel, and supporting campaigns like the one for Edward Sheean VC. He remains active in his 90s, working to ensure veterans receive the support they need, stating that inaction cannot continue for another generation.

His dedication to veterans and their families has earned him further recognition, including the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and later being made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM). The mental health ward at Greenslopes Private Hospital in Brisbane is named the Keith Payne Unit (KPU) in his honour. Living in Mackay, Queensland, with his wife Florence, Mr Payne continues to serve his community.

Published Date 07-April-2025

Morning Mishap Turns into Heartwarming Moment in The Gap

Photo Credit: QPS

Police officers from The Gap stepped in to assist local resident Tony Keim after he took a fall during his morning walk, highlighting the community spirit and the importance of mental and physical well-being.

Police Assistance During Morning Walk in The Gap

Officers from The Gap Police Station demonstrated the importance of community care when they responded to a situation involving local resident Tony Keim. Mr Keim, known in the area for his daily walks to support his mental health, had taken a fall during one of his regular morning routes.

Community Connection and Support

Sergeant Brad Holland, who had recently met Mr Keim during a night shift, was among the officers who responded. Sgt Holland shared that his brief encounter with Mr Keim left a lasting impression, describing him as a person who valued staying active for his mental well-being.

Following their first meeting, Mr Keim had sent a thoughtful thank-you gift to the police station, expressing his appreciation for Holland’s willingness to listen to his story.

On 17 March, officers had set out to find Mr Keim to personally express their gratitude. Instead, they came across an ambulance along Mr Keim’s usual route and learned of his fall. The officers remained with Mr Keim, keeping his spirits up with conversation and jokes while paramedics attended to his injuries.

Ambulance service — *Photo Credit: QAS/Facebook*

Mental Health Awareness and Officer Reflection

Sgt Holland reflected on the encounter, stating that Mr Keim’s story served as an important reminder about the connection between physical and mental health. He noted that as first responders, maintaining personal well-being is crucial, as they regularly encounter people dealing with challenging situations.

The Gap police extended their well-wishes for Mr Keim’s recovery and acknowledged the positive impact of his commitment to health and exercise on the local community.

Community Reaction

The Queensland Police Service shared the story on social media. Community members praised both Mr Keim and the officers involved. Comments highlighted the importance of mental health awareness and praised Sgt Holland for his caring nature.

Community members also expressed their support, wishing Mr Keim a speedy recovery and commending the police for their compassionate response.

Mental Health Support Resources

The incident also prompted a reminder of available mental health resources. Community members in need of support can reach out to services such as Lifeline on 131114, Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636, and Headspace on 1800 650 890 for assistance.

The Gap police look forward to seeing Mr Keim back on his morning walks soon. They are grateful for the chance to support a community member whose dedication to mental and physical health continues to inspire others.

Published 1-Apr-2025

Soldiers Train with New F9 Pistols at Enoggera Base

Photo Credit: 7th Brigade - Australian Army/ Facebook

Soldiers at Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera are now armed with the new F9 pistols, which bring modern firepower to the base.

The Australian Defence Force has started giving out the new F9 pistols to troops at the 7th Brigade in Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, replacing the older Browning Mk3. The new pistol, known commercially as the SIG P320 X-Carry pro, is a 9mm sidearm designed to be light and hold many bullets.

Soldiers have been learning how to use the new pistols at the base’s weapons training area, including how to put them together and take them apart.

The Defence Force says the F9 pistol is a reliable and good option for soldiers needing to defend themselves. It is part of a bigger plan called Project LAND 300, which aims to give soldiers better weapons for close combat.

This plan will bring new pistols, sniper rifles, fighting knives, and small rifles between late 2024 and mid 2027. The F9 pistols are given out with reflex sights and white light illuminators attached. The change to the F9 pistols will continue through 2025.

Soldiers at Gallipoli Barracks have been spending time at the shooting range, getting used to the new F9 pistols. The NIOA Group gave the pistols to the 7th Brigade earlier this year. The Defence Force has said that choosing the 7th Brigade as the first to get the new pistols shows the importance of giving soldiers the best tools for their work.

Published Date 26-March-2025

Man Charged with Murder of Mother After The Gap Stabbing

Photo Credit: Pixabay

In what police describe as “one of the worst crime scenes” they’ve encountered, a 40-year-old man has been charged with the domestic violence murder of his elderly mother in The Gap.

Mother Found with Fatal Stab Wounds

Cecilia Webb, 79, was discovered unresponsive in the front yard of her Chestnut Place home shortly before 4:30pm on Monday. Despite emergency services being called to the property, she was declared dead at the scene with what Detective Acting Inspector Michael Jones described as “quite horrific” injuries.

“She was stabbed multiple times,” Inspector Jones said. “I’ve been an investigator for over 20 years, and it was one of the worst crime scenes I’ve seen.”

Police allege Ms. Webb was attacked with a Japanese cooking knife that her son had recently purchased, and that she suffered defensive wounds while trying to protect herself.

Son Arrested While Allegedly Attempting to Flee

Alexander Clive Webb, 40, a Victorian resident born in London, was arrested by Australian Federal Police at Brisbane International Airport Monday evening. Dramatic footage released by police shows officers pinning Webb to the ground outside the international terminal, with his hands appearing bandaged and bloody as he was taken into custody.

According to police, Webb had purchased a ticket to Tokyo after the alleged murder.

“It was booked after the incident had occurred,” Inspector Jones confirmed, adding that investigators were unaware of any connections Webb might have to Tokyo.

Aftermath of the Attack

Following the alleged stabbing, police say Webb sought first aid at a nearby residence for an injury to his hand before going to another property where he “washed himself down” with a garden hose. Local resident Brian Say told reporters he had unknowingly hosed away blood from his concrete driveway, thinking children had cut themselves.

Webb allegedly then took an Uber to an address in South Brisbane, followed by a second Uber to the airport.

Community in Shock

Neighbours described Ms. Webb as a kind woman who had lost her husband about 18 months ago. She was often seen gardening and had been receiving support from community members who helped with shopping and yard work.

“Everyone was kind of rallying around her in the street,” said neighbour Ross Parker. “I didn’t believe it, that it could happen in this neighbourhood in particular… to happen to such a lovely lady, it just didn’t make any sense.”

The incident sparked a major police operation throughout The Gap, including helicopter searches and dog squad deployment.

Court Proceedings

Webb made no appearance at his brief court mention in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Tuesday. The case has been adjourned until April 22. Police say Webb refused to be interviewed by detectives.

Inspector Jones has appealed for anyone with information relating to Cecilia Webb or her son to come forward as investigations continue.

Published 25-March-2025

Keperra Store Reopens as Queensland Grapples with Cyclone Aftermath, Panic Buying Grips Region

Photo Credit: BCC

After ex-Cyclone Alfred lashed south-east Queensland, the reopening of the Woolworths store in Keperra, where staff worked to restock shelves amid strong winds, highlighted the community’s efforts to return to normal, even as widespread panic buying left many supermarkets stripped of essential supplies.

Store Reopening and Community Response

Keperra Store Reopens as Queensland Grapples with Cyclone Aftermath, Panic Buying Grips Region — *Photo Credit: Google Map*

The Woolworths store in Keperra reopened its doors to the public after authorities deemed it safe for employees to return to work. A video shared online showed an employee, Emily, announcing the reopening, noting that the store had sustained minimal damage and power had been restored. She explained that the team was working hard to replenish stock, asking for patience to get essential items back on the shelves.

Woolworths confirmed that many of its stores across Queensland and northern New South Wales were also reopening following safety assessments. The company also stated that iPhoto Credit: Google Mapt had sent over 300 truckloads of supplies from its Brisbane distribution centres to stores in the affected areas.

The video, however, drew attention online, with many people commenting on the employee’s scripted delivery and the windy conditions. Some viewers commented light-heartedly about her well-being, while others criticised her for reading from a script. Woolworths acknowledged the hard work of its team members in difficult conditions to serve the community.

Panic Buying and Supply Shortages

In the lead-up to the cyclone, Queensland Premier David Crisafulli advised residents to prepare for potential power and water outages, leading to widespread panic buying. Supermarkets across the region reported a surge in demand for essential items such as bottled water, batteries, and radios.

Bottled water was sold out at Coles in Westfield Carindale and Woolworths in Kenmore and Morningside. Staff at Coles in Cannon Hill confirmed that their stock of bottled water was gone by early morning, and Woolworths staff noted that toilet paper and some meat products were also selling rapidly.

Retailers struggled to keep up with the demand for radios, with JB Hi-Fi, Officeworks, and Big W stores in the city reporting they had sold out. Bunnings stores also experienced shortages of battery-operated radios.

The Premier acknowledged the panic buying, stating that it was understandable for people to prepare for the worst. He urged supermarkets to restock their shelves quickly and reminded residents to prepare important documents, have tinned food on hand, and secure loose outdoor items.

Government and Emergency Response

The Premier stressed the potential for significant flooding due to heavy rainfall in saturated catchments, and urged residents to take warnings seriously. Brisbane residents also flocked to council and State Emergency Service depots to collect sandbags. Generators were sent to Moreton Bay island communities, where residents faced decisions on whether to stay or evacuate.

Coles also released a statement saying all its stores had reopened but that it was still struggling with product availability and that online orders would be affected. It asked for patience and recommended that online users use the substitution option when ordering online.

Published Date 12-March-2025