Keperra Pub Drawn Into National Controversy Over Australia Day Ban

Finnigan’s Chin in Keperra is one of over 200 pubs and bars owned by Australian Venue Co (AVC) that became entangled in a national controversy after the hospitality group initially announced a ban on Australia Day celebrations. 


Read: Urban Transformation: A New Chapter for Keperra Quarry


The move, aimed at “avoiding the hurt and sadness” some associate with January 26, was met with widespread criticism, prompting the company to backtrack just a day later.

On December 1, AVC, the country’s second-largest pub operator, announced it would not host or promote Australia Day celebrations at any of its venues, including Finnigan’s Chin.

Photo credit: John O’Brien/Google Maps 

The company cited growing public debate over January 26, which marks the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788—a day that, for many Indigenous Australians, represents the beginning of colonization and systemic oppression.

The ban, which affected popular venues in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, and Sydney, was intended to shift the focus toward celebrating Australian culture year-round. However, the announcement quickly drew criticism from public figures, politicians, and community leaders.

Criticism and Backlash

Australia Day
Australia Day celebration (Photo credit: Australia Day Queensland/Facebook)

Indigenous leader Warren Mundine called the decision “woke” and accused AVC of being anti-Australian, while Wurundjeri elder Ian Hunter described it as “condescending,” attributing the move to urban elites rather than Indigenous voices. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli and former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett also criticized the ban, labeling it divisive and out of touch with the public’s sentiment.

The backlash extended to social media, with many patrons voicing their dissatisfaction and accusing AVC of overstepping its role as a hospitality provider.

A Swift Apology

In response to the criticism, AVC reversed its decision on December 2 and issued an apology via Instagram:

“We can see that our comments on the weekend have caused both concern and confusion. We sincerely regret that—our purpose is to reinforce community in our venues, not divide it.

It is not for us to tell anyone whether or how to celebrate Australia Day. We acknowledge that and we apologise for our comments. It certainly wasn’t our intention to offend anyone.”

A Complex National Conversation

Australia Day
Photo credit: Australia Day Queensland/Facebook

The controversy surrounding AVC’s initial decision underscores the broader national debate about Australia Day, with growing calls to change the date or reconsider its significance. Businesses, schools, and organizations are increasingly finding themselves caught in the crossfire of this sensitive issue, balancing inclusivity with diverse community expectations.


Read: Crime Wave Prompts Keperra Sports Club to Divert Funds From Essential Services to Security


Finnigan’s Chin and the Path Forward

As one of many venues impacted by the controversy, Finnigan’s Chin continues to operate as usual, welcoming patrons with varying perspectives. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities businesses face in addressing contentious issues while striving to foster inclusivity and unity within their communities.

Published 3-December-2024

Local Sports Clubs Score Major Funding Boost

Local sporting clubs playing at The Gap, Keperra, and Ferny Grove are set to receive a significant funding boost.



The sites, which include Corramulling Park, Grovely Sports Ground, Wittonga Park, Keperra Picnic Ground Park, Oxford Grove Park, and Walton Bridge Reserve, have been selected to benefit from Brisbane’s 2024-2025 Sport Field Improvement Programme.

Westside Grovely Football Club (Grovely Sports Ground, 32 Hanran St, Keperra)

Westside Grovely Football Club is an Australian soccer club based in Grovely, Queensland, with a rich history dating back to 1964. The club offers football opportunities for players of all ages, from Miniroos to Masters, fostering a strong sense of community and passion for the sport.

Arana Leagues (Oxford Grove Park, 247 Dawson Parade, Keperra)

Photo Credit: Google Map

Arana Leagues is a popular sports club in Australia, known for its modern facilities, diverse range of activities, and vibrant community atmosphere. It offers a variety of sporting opportunities, social events, and dining options for people of all ages.

The Gap Football Club (Walton Bridge Reserve, 941 Waterworks Rd, The Gap)

Photo Credit: Gap Football Club

The Gap Football Club is an Australian soccer club based in Brisbane, founded in 1955. It competes in the Football Queensland Premier League Metro 4 and is known for its distinctive gold and purple colours.

The funding will upgrade various sports facilities, including playing fields, clubrooms, and amenities. This investment is expected to improve local athletes’ and residents’ overall sporting experience.

The community has welcomed the council’s decision to allocate funds to these local clubs.



It is a positive step towards promoting a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Published Date 25-November-2024

Magpie Swooping Season Peaks in Keperra

As Brisbane’s swooping bird season reaches its peak in September, residents of Keperra and neighbouring areas are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. The Brisbane City Council has reported a total of 68 swooping incidents since July 2024, with Keperra ranking among the top five suburbs for reported cases.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasised the seriousness of the situation, stating, “We take every bird swooping incident seriously and act appropriately to protect the community.” In response to the increasing number of incidents, the Council has implemented a proactive approach by installing over 120 new warning signs across 36 suburbs this year.

The effectiveness of these high-visibility signs, introduced in 2021, is evident in the declining number of reported incidents. From 1,193 notifications in 2021, the numbers dropped to 571 in 2023, and currently stand at 149 for 2024.

Despite this positive trend, Keperra residents should remain cautious. The suburb, along with Greenslopes, Carseldine, New Farm, and Bracken Ridge, has been identified as one of the areas with the highest number of swooping incidents this year.

Common culprits include magpies, plovers, butcherbirds, pee-wees, and noisy miners. These birds’ protective behaviour is driven by their instinct to safeguard their young from perceived threats during the breeding season, which typically lasts from July to January.



To minimise risks, residents are advised to:

  1. Avoid known nesting areas
  2. Wear protective gear such as hats and glasses
  3. Leave swooping areas quickly but calmly
  4. Refrain from provoking or interfering with the birds

The Council encourages residents to report aggressive birds, allowing for swift action in erecting warning signs and monitoring problem areas. In severe cases, qualified wildlife experts may be engaged to relocate birds posing serious risks to public safety.

As Keperra navigates this peak swooping season, the community is reminded of the importance of coexisting with native wildlife. By following the recommended precautions and staying informed, residents can contribute to a safer environment for both humans and birds during this challenging period.

Published 3-September-2024

Honeybee Haven: Sweet Start to Community Building in The Quarry

Frasers Property Australia’s $500 million master-planned community, The Quarry, in Keperra is creating a buzz with its first inhabitants – not homeowners, but honeybees. With The Quarry Bee Project, approximately 240,000 European bees have taken up residence in the development, marking an innovative approach to community building and environmental stewardship.

Read: The Quarry in Keperra Unveils ClubQ: A $5 Million Oasis for Residents

The Quarry Bee Project takes flight

The Keperra Quarry Bee Project, managed by urban beekeeping group Bee One Third, has installed eight European beehives at The Quarry. Jack Stone, Director of Bee One Third, explains, “These industrious bees are integral to the local ecosystem and venture up to 5 km from their hives at The Quarry, pollinating gardens, parks, forests, and supporting the blossoming Keperra community.”

The bees are expected to produce between 200-300 kg of honey annually, creating a unique local blend that reflects the area’s biodiversity. This initiative serves multiple purposes:

  1. Supporting local pollination
  2. Producing distinctively local honey
  3. Contributing to ecological health
  4. Enhancing community engagement
  5. Aiding in environmental monitoring

Community engagement and education

The Quarry - School Holiday Program 1
Photo Credit: Supplied

The Quarry is leveraging the bee project for community outreach. Recent school holiday programs have featured the bees, offering families educational activities such as beeswax candle crafting and watercolour painting. The honey produced is being donated to local schools for fundraising and to the nearby Keperra Sanctuary Aged Care facility.

The Quarry - School Holiday Program 2
Photo Credit: Supplied

Scott Ullman, General Manager Queensland Development at Frasers Property Australia, reports strong interest in The Quarry since its launch in Winter 2023. The first release of 29 lots has sold out, with subsequent releases also selling rapidly. When complete, The Quarry will feature approximately 500 residences and extensive amenities for residents.

Looking ahead

The Quarry
Photo Credit: Supplied

As the Keperra Quarry winds down its 60-year granite mining operation, the new development is set to transform the area. Located just 9.5 kilometres northwest of Brisbane’s CBD, The Quarry aims to become a vibrant community that balances modern living with environmental consciousness.

Read: Urban Transformation: A New Chapter for Keperra Quarry

The introduction of beehives as The Quarry’s first residents symbolises the development’s commitment to sustainability and community integration. As human residents prepare to move in, they can look forward to being part of a unique ecosystem where urban living and nature coexist harmoniously.

Published 22-June-2024

Free Family Fun at The Quarry’s Winter School Holiday Program

Looking for something fun to do with the kids these winter school holidays? Mark your calendars for Sunday, June 30th as The Quarry in Keperra is hosting a free Winter School Holiday Program from 9am to 12pm that is open to families across Brisbane.



The event will take place at The Quarry Sales & Display Centre at 1004 Samford Road, Keperra. Frasers Property, the developers behind The Quarry master planned community, are inviting children and their parents to enjoy a morning packed with activities and entertainment.

Kids will have the chance to get their hands dirty with some flower planting, try their skills at being “little builders”, get their faces painted, and burn off some energy with lawn games. Each child will get to take home their very own miniature house creation and flowers they planted.

Photo Credit: Supplied

Children will be given a fun experience learning about woodworking, caring for the environment, and how The Quarry is transforming this former granite quarry site into a fantastic new residential neighbourhood.

Photo Credit: Humanitix

The little ones will be treated to sandwiches and juice, while the parents can enjoy complimentary barista-made coffee and gourmet wraps throughout the morning’s festivities.



Spots are limited, so families are encouraged to RSVP by June 21st to secure their attendance for the free Winter School Holiday Program.

With such an exciting lineup of free, family-friendly activities, this promises to be one school holiday event you won’t want to miss out on!

Published 10-June-2024

Urban Transformation: A New Chapter for Keperra Quarry

Did you know that the once-bustling Keperra Quarry is being transformed into a vibrant residential community?  Set approximately 9.5km from the CBD, this ambitious $500-million project is changing the landscape and setting a precedent for urban redevelopment. 



With the second phase of land release now in progress, this project combines historical significance with a futuristic vision for community living.

Phase Two: A Leap Towards Modern Living

The project’s second phase marks a significant step in the transformation of the 60-year-old gravel quarry. 

Scott Ullman, General Manager of Queensland Development at Frasers Property Australia, highlighted the uniqueness of the upcoming homesites. Nestled on the hillside, these sites offer expansive views of the D’Aguilar Range and beyond, presenting a rare opportunity for homeowners to immerse themselves in both the natural beauty and the historical essence of the area.

Community and Amenities at Heart

At the core of the Keperra Quarry project is a commitment to creating a community-centric environment. Upon completion, the development will feature approximately 500 homes surrounded by over 40% dedicated green spaces, including existing bushland and newly curated areas. More than 100,000 new plants and trees are set to be planted, emphasizing the project’s dedication to regeneration and sustainability.

Keperra Quarry
Photo Credit: FrasierProperty.com.au

Future residents can look forward to a life where nature meets modern convenience. The Quarry will introduce a range of communal amenities, including the already popular cliffside staircase lookout and the resort-style ClubQ. This hub will include a 25m lap pool, sunset lounges, and a variety of spaces designed for entertainment, work, and relaxation. Further enhancements will include additional pools, a wellness centre, and a meditation room, ensuring a lifestyle of comfort and well-being.

Keperra Quarry
Photo Credit: FrasierProperty.com.au

A Legacy of Transformation

The development’s innovative approach extends beyond residential spaces. With 20 lots in the second land release, including 15 ridgeline view homesites, the project is carefully designed to integrate the natural landscape with the built environment. Homes will line tree-filled streets and beautifully landscaped areas, promising a future where the quarry’s industrial past becomes a distant memory.



Scheduled for home construction to commence in mid-2024, the Keperra Quarry transformation is a testament to the power of vision and commitment to community and environmental regeneration. As this project moves into its next phase, it stands as a shining example of how urban redevelopment can harmonize with nature, offering a blueprint for future transformations around the globe.

Published 20-March-2024

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

In an innovative construction project, nearly 500 new homes are being built in a former quarry site in Keperra.


Read: The Gap Property Market Breaches Million-Dollar Median Price


The $500 million development, called The Quarry, will feature 8 stages of resort-style residential housing with the first residents expected to move in early next year.

The development features a 25m lap pool, an interactive kids rock pool area with two additional pools, a barbecue pavilion, a kickaround area, and a wellness gym. In the future, there is a possibility of incorporating a neighbourhood centre and childcare facility.

Photo credit: Rothelowman

Situated amidst an iconic hillside, The Quarry offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding D’Aguilar Ranges, Glasshouse Mountains, and beyond. The community is expected to house approximately 1,500-1,800 people. 

Photo credit: Rothelowman

Frasers Property Australia, the project’s developer, commenced sales in June 2023 for 29 lots, which form part of the initial phase of development. The first stage of the project, designed by  Rothelowman includes a state-of-the-art recreational centre, valued at $5 million.

Within the Quarry masterplanned community, there will be a range of retail services available in the future. These services will include places where you can grab a coffee, shop for everyday necessities, and access childcare and other useful amenities.

Photo credit: Rothelowman

Reports indicate that land lots for Stage 1 of the development come with a price of  $580,000 to $850,000. The old quarry near Brisbane, which is less than 10km away, has been made suitable for the housing project.

The land lots within the development, totaling around 237, will allow buyers to select their own builders. Additionally, Frasers Property intends to construct approximately 250 townhomes.

Photo credit: Rothelowman

Stage three landlots are already taking shape, designed with tiered levels to optimise views for each resident. Construction is also underway for the stage four landlots, which will be integrated into the hillside.


Read: Upper Kedron Road Multiple-Dwelling Project Sees Updated Plans


To officially launch the new masterplanned community, Frasers Property will host The Quarry Open Day on Saturday, 8 July, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The event will take place at 1004 Samford Rd, Keperra. Visit their website for event details & RSVP.

Published 22-August-2023

Crime Wave Prompts Keperra Sports Club to Divert Funds From Essential Services to Security

The West Arana Hills Rugby League Football Club in Keperra has made the difficult decision to divert a portion of its funding towards bolstering security measures in response to a surge in criminal activities in their area. 



The Club, which relies on grants from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund, has decided that diverting funds away from essential services is necessary at this point time to protect their facilities from theft and vandalism.

Anne-Maree Davis, the secretary of the West Arana Hills Rugby League Football Club, explained that the Club had recently installed four security cameras using the grant money. The decision was prompted by a series of break-ins and incidents of stolen vehicles in the local area. 

Ms. Davis lamented that the funds allocated to security could have been used for other beneficial purposes, but the club’s limited resources necessitated a balancing act between security and other critical needs, such as the development of a multimedia room.

According to reports, more than 20 not-for-profit groups, including Men’s Sheds and sports clubs, have also utilised some of their funds to cover security-related expenses. These funds are supposed to help promote health, well-being, and leisure activities for Queensland communities but the organisations are grappling with the pressing issue of escalating crime rates.

Similarly, the Atherton Men’s Shed, an organization supporting retired individuals and those struggling with mental health issues, had experienced multiple break-ins before applying for the grant. 

Glyn Mitchell, the president of the Men’s Shed, expressed sadness that the funds intended for power tools and equipment had to be redirected to enhance security measures. The safety of their valuable community assets compelled them to prioritise security despite the urgent need for other resources. The not-for-profit groups also acknowledged the need for security enhancements to protect their facilities from burglaries and vandalism. 

As community groups struggle to navigate the rising tide of crime, Queensland Police Commissioner Katarina Carroll assured the public of the Queensland Police Service’s commitment to safety. She emphasised the proactive efforts of police officers in conducting intelligence-driven patrols and maintaining a strong presence in communities.



The Gambling Community Benefit Fund, established in 1994, has provided over $1.1 billion in grants to support more than 66,000 organizations. The next round of funding applications will open next month, offering an opportunity for community and sporting groups to seek financial assistance for various projects.

Published 4-July-2023

​​Keperra Childcare Centre Overcomes Mystery Substance Incident

In a turn of events that initially caused concern, more than 10 children at a Keperra childcare centre experienced skin rashes and swelling after being exposed to an “unknown substance” at lunch. 



The incident prompted immediate action from the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS), arriving at  Milestones Early Learning in Keperra around 12:30 p.m. Thursday, 25 May 2023.

Upon assessing the kids, paramedics discovered various reactions, including redness on the face and body. In response to the situation, Milestones Early Learning promptly issued a letter to parents, assuring them that all necessary measures were undertaken to address the issue. The letter described the reactions as minor and assured parents that medical advice was being strictly followed.

In a text message sent shortly before 2 p.m., the Keperra childcare centre asked the parents to pick up their children. Whilst some were tight-lipped about the incident, one mother confirmed that the minor rashes but was unaware of the cause. A father, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed confidence in the safety of the centre, noting that his child had not eaten lunch and remained unaffected.

The swift response from emergency services and adherence to safety protocols ensured that no child required transportation to the hospital by ambulance. All children were reported as stable and their symptoms subsided within a short period of time.

Throughout the ordeal, three ambulance vehicles and several Queensland Health vehicles arrived in Keperra to provide assistance. By 4:30 p.m., after the last children were collected and the staff began to leave, all emergency vehicles had departed. 

A Milestones Early Learning Keperra spokesperson confirmed that they diligently followed safety policies and medical advice. The cause of the rash was being thoroughly investigated.

Photo Credit: Susan Swallow/Milestones Early Learning Keperra/Facebook

Parents who observe any symptoms in their children were advised to follow the current advice of medical authorities and seek appropriate medical attention. Milestones Early Learning Keperra remained in close contact with families to address any concerns and offered guidance on further actions if necessary.



Reassuringly, the Department of Health approved the reopening of the facility. The spokesperson emphasised their commitment to the safety and well-being of all children under their care and assured parents that updates would be provided as new information became available.

Published 30-May-2023

Old Tyres for New Roads: Resurfacing Trial Rolls Out to Keperra, Cannon Hill, Eagle Farm Streets

Brisbane has rolled out a road resurfacing program using bitumen made with recycled old rubber tyres in a trial that includes Muir Street in Cannon Hill; Marble Street in Keperra; and Ferrett Street in Eagle Farm.



Cost-effective, longer-lasting roads

Council has commenced the three trials which involve the repurposing of old tyres to create a new bitumen. The benefits of using the modified bitumen are twofold: it is cost-effective and sustainable.

Council said that the experimental bitumen will help reduce the number of old tyres that end up in landfills by more than 10,000 tyres each year. Moreover, the modified bitumen helps make residential roads last longer compared to using ordinary bitumen.

Currently, Council is using a mixture of crushed recycled glass and recycled asphalt for its road resurfacing projects. That special glass mix alone has already helped the Council recover some 20,000 tonnes of glass from landfills and saved more than $3.6 million each year.

Road resurfacing on Brisbane roads
Photo credit: Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner / Facebook

However, adding ‘crumbed’ tyres in the resurfacing treatment mix can further help the city save more by extending the lifespan of residential pavements, which typically last for up to 30 years, to an additional ten years or more.

This experimental bitumen blend allows the crumbed rubber to act as an agent that retards the aging and oxidation, and improves the quality of the resurfaced pavement.

Similar trials were also launched on several major roads across Brisbane which has been made possible by a special grant from the Tyre Stewardship Australia. 



The state of tyre recovery in Australia

In April 2020, Tyre Stewardship Australia reported that 69 per cent of the 466,000 tonnes of end-of-life tyres generated in Australia in 2018-19 have been recovered for further use. 

That means that approximately 323,000 tonnes of tyres have been recovered for productive outcomes while the rest are either stockpiled or disposed of to landfill. Also, in 2018-19, there has been a marked decline in the number of used tyres that were stockpiled owing to stricter EPA regulations across Australia.