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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

Young Couple Outbids Downsizers to Set Auction Record in Upper Kedron

Photo Credit: Pexels

A determined young couple upgrading from their first home in Keperra secured a record-breaking $1.301 million auction win for a three-bedroom house in Upper Kedron. The property at 54 Tooloom Circuit attracted nine bidders, most of whom were downsizers, with rapid bidding increments pushing the final sale price beyond expectations.

The auction began at $900,000, quickly rising through $10,000 increments before slowing to $1,000 bids as the final two contenders—a downsizing couple and the young buyers—faced off. The emotional winners, who had covered their home with handwritten affirmations before the auction, were overcome with joy as they secured their new home.

Upper Kedron property market — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

The Rising Market

The property market in Upper Kedron has seen a 20% increase in house prices over the past year, with the suburb’s median house price now sitting at $1.2 million, according to Domain. The suburb has gained popularity due to its proximity to more established areas like Ashgrove, Bardon, and The Gap, where comparable homes are up to $2 million.

Selling agent Lee Warren of Ray White Ashgrove highlighted the suburb’s growing appeal. Mr Warren stated that residents of Ashgrove and Bardon are looking at Upper Kedron because they can get similar houses at a lower price.

Brisbane’s Market Trends and Affordability Concerns

The Upper Kedron home was one of 177 auctions held in Brisbane last week, with a preliminary auction clearance rate of 36% recorded by Domain Group. Out of the 110 reported results, 10 auctions were withdrawn, indicating ongoing market caution.

According to AMP Capital chief economist Shane Oliver, Brisbane’s market is adjusting after a strong 18-month growth period and tends to lag behind Sydney and Melbourne by about six months.

Mr Oliver emphasised that affordability is becoming an issue, especially since Brisbane’s median house price passed $1 million last December.

Property market — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pexels*

Other Notable Auction Results in Brisbane

The record sale in Upper Kedron was not the only significant auction result last weekend.

Belmont: A five-acre property at 104 Boston Road sold for $3.9 million, marking Brisbane’s highest auction sale of the weekend. A New Zealand-based family won after 25 bids, outpacing a Brisbane-based family.
Paddington: A six-bedroom home at 51 Stevenson Street secured $3.28 million, ranking as Brisbane’s second-highest sale of the weekend. The buyers, a young family returning from overseas, won after 22 bids.

Future Outlook for Upper Kedron and Brisbane’s Property Market

With the property values of the suburb continuing to rise and Brisbane’s median prices surpassing $1 million, affordability remains a growing concern. However, buyer demand remains strong, particularly for well-located homes that offer value compared to premium-priced suburbs.

Industry experts suggest that a potential RBA rate cut in the coming months could further influence the market’s recovery, potentially driving more competition in Brisbane’s housing sector.

Published 17-Feb-2025

Enoggera Student Among 2024 Charlie Bell Scholarship Recipients

Photo Credit: RMHC SEQ/Facebook

Enoggera student Ella Schwarz has been named a recipient of the 2024 Charlie Bell Scholarship, awarded by Ronald McDonald House Charities South East Queensland (RMHC SEQ). The scholarship, valued at $5,000, supports young Australians whose education has been impacted by serious illness or injury and helps them pursue tertiary studies.

2024 Charlie Bell Scholarship Recipients — *Photo Credit: RMHC SEQ/Facebook*

Supporting Education Despite Challenges

The Charlie Bell Scholarship is named in honour of the late McDonald’s Global CEO Charlie Bell. It is awarded annually to young individuals who have faced significant medical challenges yet remain committed to their education. The program assists recipients with university fees, apprenticeship tools, study materials, and other educational costs.

Ms Schwarz, diagnosed with stage 4 endometriosis, has faced ongoing medical hurdles. Despite this, she has excelled academically. She has secured an early offer to study a Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) and a Bachelor of Justice at Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

Ms Shwarz shared that her personal journey taught her the importance of resilience. She also learned the value of giving back to the community, which inspired her to make a positive difference. Thanks to RMHC SEQ, the Charlie Bell Scholarship will allow her to work toward achieving her aspirations.

Recognising Inspirational Young Australians

The scholarship also recognised two other young women: Maryam Moradi of Drewvale, who has Goldenhar Syndrome and aspires to become a doctor, and Erin Formann of Carina, who lives with Tuberous Sclerosis and plans to pursue nursing. The three recipients were celebrated at the Ronald McDonald House South Brisbane rooftop event. They are joined by their families, RMHC SEQ staff, and volunteers.

Emma Thompson, Chief Executive Officer of RMHC SEQ, praised the recipients for their determination. Ms Thompson stated that despite their challenges, these young women are inspirational. They showed that no matter what, anyone can achieve anything they set their mind to.

A Legacy of Support for Students

The Charlie Bell Scholarship continues to provide critical financial assistance to young Australians affected by illness, ensuring they have the resources needed to continue their education.

Those interested in applying can visit the Charlie Bell Scholarships website.

Published 14-Feb-2025

Brisbane’s Clearway Review Expands to The Gap

Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View

The existing clearway times along Musgrave Road and Waterworks Road, spanning from Red Hill to The Gap, are under review. The initiative is part of the Brisbane Clearway Action Plan – Keeping Brisbane Moving, which seeks to optimise road use and ease congestion in high-traffic corridors.

The current clearway operating times on this route were established over 15 years ago and are now under review to accommodate Brisbane’s growing population and evolving commuting habits. Currently, clearways are in effect between 7–9 a.m. inbound and 4–7 p.m. outbound on weekdays. The review aims to assess whether extending these hours or adjusting the schedule could improve travel times and safety for motorists.

Community Consultation to Guide Changes

City official Adrian Schrinner announced that public consultation on the Brisbane Clearway Action Plan will commence later this February and will be open for six weeks. Residents and local businesses in The Gap and surrounding areas will have the opportunity to provide feedback on how potential changes could impact their daily travel and parking access.

Mr Schrinner emphasised that making better use of Brisbane’s existing road network is a priority, stating that clearway reviews are a cost-effective measure to reduce congestion. Infrastructure Chair Andrew Wines added that the city authorities are committed to balancing road efficiency with the needs of the community.

Why Musgrave Road-Waterworks Road?

With more than 130,000 vehicles using this corridor on weekdays and over 39,000 on weekends, congestion remains a significant issue. Parked cars along the route force motorists to weave between lanes, contributing to delays and safety concerns.

By reviewing the clearway times, the city authorities aims to free up road space during peak hours, allowing more vehicles to move through without disruptions caused by on-street parking. When active, clearways create an additional traffic lane, reducing congestion and travel times.

Potential Expansion to Other Roads

The Musgrave Road-Waterworks Road review marks the first step in a broader plan to evaluate clearways on several major Brisbane corridors. Future locations identified for possible clearway extensions include:

Bowen Bridge Road–Lutwyche Road
Abbotsford Road, Bowen Hills
Wynnum Road
Vulture Street
Wellington Road, East Brisbane
Moggill Road
Webster Road, Stafford
Wickham Terrace–Leichhardt Street, Spring Hill
St Pauls Terrace, Fortitude Valley
Klumpp Road, Upper Mt Gravatt

The last major clearway adjustment in Brisbane occurred in August 2022 on Kelvin Grove Road-Enoggera Road, where an additional hour was added to both morning and afternoon peak periods, saving an estimated 6,500 hours of travel time per year.

Musgrave Road — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

Public Response and Considerations

While clearways are designed to improve traffic conditions, they can also present challenges for local businesses and residents. Some business owners have previously expressed concerns that extending clearway hours could limit customer parking, potentially affecting foot traffic.

In 2024 alone, there were 9,650 instances of motorists blocking clearways, with over 1,660 vehicles towed for non-compliance. The fine for illegally parking in a clearway is three penalty units, equating to approximately $480.

City officials stress that reviewing and extending clearways is a low-cost, practical solution to Brisbane’s increasing traffic congestion, avoiding the need for expensive infrastructure projects such as road widening.

Next Steps for The Gap’s Clearway Review

Community consultation will be open for six weeks starting this month. Residents and businesses can share their feedback through BCC’s official channels, including email, phone, and written submissions. Any proposed changes resulting from the review are expected to be implemented by June.

The city officials encourage Brisbane residents to participate in the upcoming consultation process to help strike a balance between traffic efficiency and community needs.

Published 11-Feb-2025

Upper Kedron-Mt Nebo Road Connection Gains Momentum

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The road connection between The Gap and Upper Kedron has taken a significant step forward after the Deputy Premier directed State departments to engage with BCC on modifying the Ferny Grove–Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan. The decision follows strong community advocacy, including a petition with approximately 1,400 signatures.

For over a decade, residents of Upper Kedron and Ferny Grove have called for a vehicular connection to Mt Nebo Road, seeking improved accessibility and alternative transport routes.

The initial 2014 development application (DA A003905687) for the Ellendale estate proposed two road connections to Mt Nebo Road. However, after community opposition—primarily from residents in The Gap, Ashgrove, and Bardon—BCC limited the corridor to emergency vehicles and active transport (pedestrians and cyclists).

Despite 79 public submissions opposing restricted access, the 2018 Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron Neighbourhood Plan retained the emergency-only classification. The State upheld the restriction, stating that BCC was responsible for seeking amendments.

The Gap road — *Photo Credit: Ferny Grove Upper Kedron (FGUK) Residents Association*

Recent Developments

In response to community advocacy and a petition signed by around 1,400 residents, the Deputy Premier has now instructed the Department of State Development, Infrastructure, and Planning to collaborate with BCC on changes to the neighbourhood plan. This directive aligns with the city officials’ commitment to removing obstacles for the road’s consideration.

While this does not guarantee immediate construction, it is a crucial step towards securing approval for a general traffic connection.

Challenges and Considerations

BCC’s original opposition to a public road was based on traffic modelling, which suggested low usage compared to the cost of construction and maintenance. Additionally, some residents of The Gap and Ashgrove have raised concerns about increased traffic flow.

Advocates argue that:

The current road network forces all traffic onto Samford Road, creating inefficiencies.
A new road would improve emergency access, particularly during landslides and bushfire events.
Environmental benefits include reduced emissions by shortening travel distances to Enoggera Dam, Walkabout Creek, and The Gap Park ‘n’ Ride.

Potential mitigation strategies include reducing speed limits on the 2km section of Mt Nebo Road to 60 km/h.

Community Reactions: Mixed Views on the Road Connection

The Ferny Grove Upper Kedron (FGUK) Residents Association, which led the petition effort, maintains that a majority of Upper Kedron and Ferny Grove residents support a full traffic connection.

The proposal to connect Upper Kedron to Mt Nebo Road has sparked strong opinions among residents, with discussions unfolding across social media. Many supporters see the recent State directive as a positive step towards better connectivity, viewing it as a long-overdue improvement. Some believe that Upper Kedron and Ferny Grove residents should have greater access to surrounding suburbs, especially as past development plans indicated a road connection was always a possibility. Others argue that infrastructure should evolve with changing community needs rather than remain fixed to the conditions at the time of purchase.

However, opposition remains. Some residents feel that those who moved into Upper Kedron did so knowing there was no connection to Mt Nebo Road, questioning why there is now a push to change that. Concerns about traffic safety and increased accidents on Mt Nebo Road have also been raised, suggesting that a bus service would be a better alternative to a full road connection. Supporters argue that traffic concerns may be overstated, while opponents stress safety risks. Others propose mitigation measures, such as lowering the speed limit on the relevant stretch of Mt Nebo Road.

Upper Kedron road — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Discussions continue, with a clear divide between those advocating for improved accessibility and those concerned about the potential consequences of opening the road to general traffic.

What Happens Next?

While the State’s directive to engage with BCC is a significant milestone, key steps remain:

BCC must initiate amendments to the Brisbane City Plan.
A feasibility assessment will determine construction viability.
Ongoing public consultation will likely shape final decisions.

Residents can learn more at the FGUK Residents Association AGM on 23 February at 2 p.m. at Upper Kedron Hall.

Published 5-Feb-2025

Ashgrove Golf Club to Host Lions and Roses Charity Dinner for Cystic Fibrosis Queensland

Photo Credit: Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club/Facebook

The Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club is bringing the community together for a charity dinner at Ashgrove Golf Club on Saturday, 15 March 2025, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event aims to raise funds for Cystic Fibrosis Queensland.

A History of Community Support

The Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club has a long history supporting local causes. Originally established as separate clubs in the 1960s, they merged in 2007. Today, the club continues its work more effectively. It has organised numerous fundraising efforts, including charity events, raffles, and community initiatives. The upcoming Lions and Roses Charity Dinner will continue this legacy.

Cystic Fibrosis: A Lifelong Challenge

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic condition that causes a thick mucus buildup in the lungs, airways, and digestive system. People with CF need constant medical care and physiotherapy, which can be exhausting and life-altering. There is no cure, so ongoing support, treatment, and research funding are essential.

For over 60 years, Cystic Fibrosis Queensland has supported individuals and families affected by CF. As a not-for-profit organisation, they raise awareness, improve access to treatment, and enhance the quality of life for those living with this challenging condition.

A Night of Entertainment and Giving Back

The Lions and Roses Charity Dinner will feature a live entertainment program, a roast meal, and a chance to win prizes through raffles. Guests will also hear from inspirational speakers telling stories of resilience and hope.

The dress code for the event is “something special.” Attendees are urged to embrace the evening with a spirit of celebration and generosity.

Community Commitment and Future Support

The event’s proceeds will directly support Cystic Fibrosis Queensland’s programs and initiatives. Every dollar ensures individuals receive the support they need. By hosting fundraising events like this, the Ashgrove/The Gap Lions Club continues to strengthen its impact on local causes and reinforce its dedication to charitable service.

With an RSVP deadline of 8 March, the club encourages community members to book early to secure a spot at this meaningful fundraising event. For further details, interested individuals can contact Jennie Jackson at 0413 308 320.

BOOK TICKET

Published 4-Feb-2025

Route 742 Launches to Improve Student Transport in The Gap

Photo Credit: BCC

A new school bus service, Route 742, has been introduced to ease overcrowding on Route 362 and improve student transport in The Gap. Part of Brisbane’s New Bus Network, the route connects The Gap State High School to Keperra, Mitchelton, and Brookside Shopping Centre.

Overcrowding on existing services has been a persistent issue, particularly in the afternoons. The first Route 742 service departs at 2:36 p.m., offering a direct connection to Brookside Shopping Centre via Keperra and Mitchelton. This service is designed to reduce congestion, improve reliability, and enhance student safety and comfort.

Route 742 The Gap — *Photo Credit: TransLink*

Brisbane’s Bus Network Overhaul

The launch of Route 742 is part of Stage 2 of Brisbane’s New Bus Network, the largest transformation of the city’s public transport system in a decade. This overhaul aims to improve efficiency, reduce travel times, and enhance connectivity.

One major change is the rebranding of Route 66 as Metro M2, now operating with high-frequency electric Metro vehicles between UQ Lakes and the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH). Additionally, Metro M2 no longer stops at Dutton Park Place, and several school bus services have been adjusted to improve accessibility.

Why Route 742?

Route 742 was introduced in response to the growing demand for student transport. Route 362, which previously served many students, experienced frequent overcrowding, leading to concerns about safety, delays, and limited seating.

By adding an extra school bus service, BCC aims to reduce congestion and provide a safer, more reliable commute. Route 742 operates only in the afternoon, timed to align with The Gap State High School’s bell times, ensuring a seamless transition for students.

Future Transport Improvements

The introduction of Route 742 addressed the previous concerns about overcrowding. As Brisbane’s New Bus Network continues to roll out, further improvements include:

Stage 3 (Q2 2025): Expansion of Brisbane’s New Bus Network and the introduction of new M1 services.
Stage 4 (Q3 2025): Completion of the Adelaide Street tunnel, designed to enhance city connectivity and reduce congestion.

These upcoming stages will further improve public transport efficiency, ensuring better access to schools, work, and key locations across Brisbane.

Staying Updated on Service Changes

Passengers can stay informed about service updates by:

Visiting Translink’s website
Using the Translink app
Calling 13 12 30

plan your journey

These platforms provide real-time updates and essential travel information for easier journey planning.

Published 3-Feb-2025

The Gap Homeowner’s Roof Colour Sparks Two-Year Battle with Housing Complex

A homeowner from The Gap has been ordered to repaint her roof following a two-year legal battle with her body corporate.

Read: Will ‘Renzo’s Place’ Finally Find New Life? Property On the Market After Years of Neglect

The dispute arose after the homeowner, Maria Gourley, 64, painted her roof a different colour than the surrounding homes in her housing complex at The Gap in March 2023.

Her body corporate, which manages the 64 townhouses at Paltarra Street under a community titles scheme, deemed the colour of Ms Gourley’s roof “disruptive” and in violation of the complex’s by-laws. Complaints from neighbours described the colour as “disturbing,” “jarring,” and “alien.”

After Ms Gourley failed to repaint the roof, the body corporate escalated the matter to the Office of the Commissioner for Body Corporate and Community Management. In a submission, the committee argued that the roof’s colour had significantly altered the external appearance of the lot, a change that required prior written approval.

On January 16, the adjudicator ruled in favour of the body corporate, ordering Ms Gourley to repaint her roof within three months.

A Complex Dispute

Ms Gourley’s legal troubles began after she sought guidance from the body corporate in January 2022 regarding permissible roof colours. According to Ms Gourley, the committee did not specify an exact colour but instead suggested she consult a contractor to match her roof tiles with those of her neighbours.

Ms Gourley claimed she tried to do the right thing, asked for a colour, and was allegedly let down. She believes the body corporate should cover the cost of repainting the roof, given that a mandatory colour was not specified until after her roof was painted.

Despite this, the adjudication process revealed that 13 residents submitted complaints opposing Ms Gourley’s roof colour. In their submission, it was stated that the discordant red roof was negatively impacting property values and the overall aesthetic harmony of the complex.

Moving Forward

At the October 2023 annual general meeting, the body corporate committee formally adopted a mandatory roof colour policy to prevent similar disputes in the future. However, the damage had already been done for Ms Gourley, who now faces the financial burden of repainting her roof and potentially higher legal costs if she proceeds with her appeal.

The body corporate maintained that the dispute was necessary to preserve the integrity of the community’s aesthetic standards.

Meanwhile, the homeowner expressed her frustration, stating that no neighbours had approached her directly to voice concerns about the roof colour. She said she feels like the matter could have been resolved through a conversation, rather than escalating it to this level.

Read: The Gap Residents Advised to Stay Ready for Wildfire Risks

Enforcement and Penalties

According to Queensland’s Adjudicators’ orders, failure to comply with the order could lead to enforcement through the magistrates court. Non-compliance carries a maximum penalty of $64,520.

Ms Gourley has indicated her intention to appeal the decision, hoping for a different outcome at a higher level. For now, the dispute serves as a cautionary tale for homeowners navigating the often-complex world of body corporate regulations.

Published 24-January-2025