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

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

Think Twice: Enoggera Driver Charged After Ignoring Floodwater Warning Signs

When floodwaters rise, common sense should prevail—but recent events in Brisbane show that some motorists are still taking unnecessary risks. In one case, an Enoggera woman found herself facing legal consequences after allegedly driving into floodwaters on a closed road, causing her car to float away. Queensland Police are now urging residents to avoid dangerous decisions that put lives at risk.

Ignoring Road Closures Can Land You in Court

On 10 March, a 58-year-old woman from Enoggera approached a closed section of Newmarket Road in Stafford. At first, she turned away—but then she made a U-turn and drove straight into the floodwaters. Her car quickly became submerged and was later found floating unattended. Fortunately, she managed to escape, but she now faces a charge of driving without due care and attention. She is set to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 14 April.

More Drivers, More Rescues, More Risks

She wasn’t the only driver making dangerous choices. On 9 March, a 61-year-old Murarrie woman needed rescuing after her car got stuck in floodwaters on Wynnum Road in Cannon Hill. Later that day, police helped tow another vehicle out of floodwaters in Tingalpa after a 59-year-old Cannon Hill man attempted to drive through deep water.

The following day, an 84-year-old man drove past a road-closed sign in Oxley and found himself trapped in a partially submerged vehicle. Police officers, who had been deployed from Cairns for disaster response, assisted in getting him to safety and ensuring he got home unharmed.

Why Driving Through Floodwaters Is Never Worth It

Brisbane Disaster District Coordinator, Acting Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman, has made it clear: driving into floodwaters is reckless, even if the water seems shallow. Vehicles can lose traction in as little as 15 centimetres of water, making it impossible to maintain control.

Police warn that while no injuries occurred in these cases, the outcome could have been far worse. Ignoring road closures not only endangers the driver but also puts emergency responders at risk.

Authorities are urging residents to take safety seriously, follow road closure signs, and never assume they can outdrive floodwaters.

Stay Safe and Let Emergency Crews Do Their Job

As of press time, crews are still working to remove debris, fallen trees, and other hazards left by the heavy rains. Many traffic signals remain out of service, and motorists are advised to drive cautiously, giving way where necessary.

For life-threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000). For storm damage or non-urgent assistance, contact the State Emergency Service (SES) at 132 500. And most importantly—if it’s flooded, forget it.

Published 11-March-2025

Fox Sightings in The Gap Prompt Warning for Chicken Owners

Photo Credit: Pexels

Residents of The Gap have been urged to secure their backyard chickens amid increasing fox activity. The warning follows multiple incidents of foxes preying on poultry in suburban areas, prompting concerns about local wildlife and pet safety.

Originally brought for hunting, foxes have been a part of Australia’s ecosystem since their introduction in the 1800s. Over time, they have adapted to urban environments. They scavenge from bins and prey on small mammals, birds, and household pets.

Fox activity has become more prominent in Brisbane’s western suburbs, including The Gap and Upper Kedron. Foxes are usually seen in areas near bushland. Reports indicate that foxes often travel between Keperra and Mount Coot-tha, using these routes to move through urban spaces.

Authorities suggest seasonal patterns influence sightings. Younger foxes search for new territory. With increased security cameras across homes, more residents have captured footage of foxes roaming suburban streets.

Fox activity in The Gap — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Foxes Pose a Serious Risk to Backyard Poultry

Foxes present a major threat to backyard chickenkeepers. Several residents have experienced attacks. Experts suggest that foxes will readily target chickens when food sources become scarce.

The risk is heightened by the ease with which foxes can break into unsecured coops. They are capable diggers and can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps, making poorly secured enclosures vulnerable.

BCC urges poultry owners to reinforce their chicken coops with fox-proof designs to combat this. Their website provides detailed recommendations, including elevated structures and secure wire mesh.

fox proof chicken COOP guide

Community Observations and Growing Concerns

Discussions among residents have highlighted concerns over the increasing visibility of foxes in urban areas. Many have noted regular sightings in The Gap and locations such as Bowen Hills and Paddington. Some residents have expressed concern that backyard chickens remain unprotected despite the known risk of fox attacks. Others have pointed out that foxes often kill multiple chickens in a single incident rather than targeting one.

Fox sighting in The Gap — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

BCC’s Response and Future Measures

BCC encourages residents to report fox sightings, assisting authorities in monitoring their movement. For chicken owners, securing coops remains the most effective measure against fox attacks. While foxes do not directly threaten humans, officials advise against approaching foxes due to their unpredictable nature.

Published 3-Mar-2025

Hundreds of Trees Planted as Enoggera Catchment Restoration Continues

Photo Credit: CrStevenToomey/ Facebook

Community volunteers have planted more than 400 trees in the Enoggera catchment area, aiming to connect rehabilitated sections and improve the health of local waterways.

Community Effort in Action

Hundreds of Trees Planted as Enoggera Catchment Restoration Continues — *Photo Credit:* *CrStevenToomey/ Facebook*

Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN), a local environmental organisation, led a significant tree planting initiative that brought together numerous volunteers to work on restoring the Enoggera Creek catchment. The event, designed to link existing rehabilitation efforts along Yoorala Street with the neighbouring SEQ Water precinct, saw many native trees planted and mulched. The organisation, which has been active since 1994, continues to promote community involvement in restoring local waterways.

They have focused on the Enoggera, Ithaca and Fish Creeks, an area over 23 kilometres that flows into Breakfast Creek. SOWN aims to rehabilitate, restore, and maintain the catchment’s waterways and linked habitat areas by supporting and encouraging community participation.

Enoggera Reservoir Event

In a separate event, SOWN collaborated with The Gap Sustainability Initiative and SEQ Water to conduct a community planting and creek discovery session at Enoggera Reservoir. Volunteers planted native trees at the base of the dam wall. The session also included a macroinvertebrate study, where participants examined small water creatures to assess the creek’s health. This activity allowed the community to understand the local ecosystem better.

SEQ Water’s involvement made the event possible, providing access to the reservoir and supporting the restoration efforts. The organisation’s history reflects a long-term commitment to improving the health of the Enoggera catchment, with a focus on community participation and education.

SOWN’s History and Objectives

SOWN, which began as a project committee in 1994 and incorporated in 1998, has a long history of community-based environmental work. The organisation was formed due to concerns about the deteriorating state of Enoggera and Ithaca Creeks.

Early on, the organisation established objectives to provide a model for waterway rehabilitation, develop catchment plans, recruit and support volunteers, and rehabilitate waterways by removing rubbish and planting native species.

The organisation also operates a plant nursery and partners with Arthur Gorrie Correctional Centre to produce plants for restoration projects. SOWN has published educational materials, including “The creek in our backyard” and a 25th-anniversary history book, to raise awareness and inspire community action.

Published Date 28-Feb-2025