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Morning Mishap Turns into Heartwarming Moment in The Gap

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

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

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

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

The Gap FC Product Sharn Freier Makes Bundesliga Move to VfL Wolfsburg

Rising Matildas forward Sharn Freier, who was scouted by the Brisbane Roar from The Gap FC, is rewriting Australian football history as she prepares for a landmark move to German giants VfL Wolfsburg, with a deal that will keep her at the Bundesliga club until mid-2028, under what is reported to be a club record transfer fee for the Queensland outfit.

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

A Product of The Gap FC

Her journey to European football began on Brisbane’s northside, where Freier first laced up her boots for Pine Rivers United alongside twin sister Laini. She later shone at The Gap FC, catching the attention of Brisbane Roar scouts and kickstarting her professional career.

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A post shared by SHARN FREIER (@_sharnfreier_)

The 23-year-old’s remarkable rise hasn’t come without challenges. After an ACL injury sidelined her for a year, Freier’s determination saw her return stronger than ever, culminating in a stellar 2023–24 season. She swept every major club award at Brisbane Roar, including the prestigious Kate McShea Medal for Player of the Year.

Sharn Freier, the Matildas’ Future

Freier’s domestic form translated to international success, earning her first Matildas cap against Mexico last April. Her rapid progression also saw her represent Australia at the 2024 Olympics, where she faced Germany—her future home at the club level—in a memorable match.

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A post shared by CommBank Matildas (@matildas)

“They are a very successful club with class players, so to be given the opportunity to be a part of something like that, I am extremely grateful,” Freier shared about her upcoming move to Wolfsburg. Her new club’s director of women’s football, Ralf Kellermann, also praised the Australian forward, noting her consistent performances at both club and international levels.

Read: Saving Wattle Creek: Community Unites to Revive The Gap Rainforest

A Talisman for the Roar

While preparing for her European adventure, Freier continues to shine in the current A-League season. She has already contributed two goals and four assists in the Roar’s chase for the premiership, with three of those assists setting up goals for her twin sister Laini. Her impending departure marks the end of an era at Brisbane Roar, where she has made 57 appearances since her debut in December 2020.

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The forward will remain with Roar until the conclusion of the 2024–25 Ninja Women’s A-League season, giving local fans a few more months to witness the talents that caught the attention of one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs.

Published 23-January-2025

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

Photo Credit: Jasmin Cooper/Facebook

Vale Antony John (Tony) Cooper, a visionary entrepreneur from The Gap, established his first business, High Style Interiors, where he discovered his passion for colour psychology. It was here that he explored the influence of colour on human emotions, a pursuit that would shape his future ventures and lasting legacy.

Arriving in The Gap in 1967 with his wife Marion and their children, Mr Cooper quickly established himself within the community. He launched High Style Interiors, combining his background in fashion and tailoring with a newfound passion for interior design.

Tony Cooper The Gap — Photo Caption: Marion and Tony Cooper discussing “Colour The Cosmic Code” during an interview.
Photo Credit: Create Happy Minds with Kinesiology/Facebook

His exploration of colour psychology began during these formative years, leading him to discover its potential beyond aesthetics, delving into its effects on well-being and emotional states.

Aura Light: A Vision for Colour Healing

*Photo Caption: The Colour Diagnostics System of Aura Light.*
*Photo Credit: Aura Light*

In 1991, Mr Cooper founded Aura Light in Mapleton on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. His business produced vibrant essences, oils, and creams that incorporated essential oils, crystal and flower essences, natural dyes, and herbal energies.

Aura Light became a cornerstone in the field of vibrational medicine, offering a range of products and consultations aimed at aligning the body and mind through colour therapy.

Colour the Cosmic Code: A Lifelong Philosophy

In 1999, Mr Cooper published “Colour the Cosmic Code,” a comprehensive guide detailing the philosophy and practice of colour in personal and planetary healing.

The book provided practical insights and explored the historical significance of colour across cultures, reflecting his deep belief in its transformative power. His work gained recognition internationally, leading him to speak at conferences across Europe, Canada, Japan, and Australia.

Remembering Tony Cooper

Tony Cooper, an entrepreneur from The Gap, made this bicycle. — *Photo Caption:* A bike born from Tony Cooper’s creativity and innovation.
Photo Credit: Illume Creations

Mr Cooper passed away on 23 November 2024, leaving behind a legacy of creativity and innovation. A funeral service celebrating his life was held on 10 December 2024 at Gregson and Weight in Nambour.

Attendees were encouraged to honour his passion for colour by wearing their favourite shades. A livestream was made available for those unable to attend in person.

Mr Cooper was well known for his love of Saluki dogs, often seen walking his beloved pets, Earl, Ella, and later Leah, around Montville’s Main Street and Mapleton’s Lily Ponds.

Published 22-Jan-2025

Saving Wattle Creek: Community Unites to Revive The Gap Rainforest

Photo Credit: Save Our Waterways Now/Facebook

Efforts to restore Wattle Creek in The Gap are underway. This once-thriving rainforest, now strangled by invasive weeds, is at the heart of an ambitious restoration project led by Save Our Waterways Now (SOWN).

Chinese elm, ochna, and aggressive vines have overtaken the area, destroying native vegetation and threatening the delicate balance of a critically endangered ecosystem.

Saving Wattle Creek — *Photo Credit: Save Our Waterways Now/Facebook*

Reclaiming a Rainforest

The project is more than just environmental rehabilitation. It’s about reconnecting Brisbane’s natural landscapes by restoring Wattle Creek as a vital wildlife corridor between Enoggera Creek and Mt Coot-tha.

SOWN calls for volunteers to help in restoring Wattle Creek — *Photo Credit: Save Our Waterways Now/Facebook*

This link is critical for several vulnerable and endangered species, including the Tusked Frog, Regent Honeyeater, Swift Parrot, Koala, and Southern Greater Glider. Without urgent action, these species face shrinking habitats and greater challenges to their survival.

For SOWN, this is part of a broader mission to protect Brisbane’s waterways and their surrounding ecosystems. By focusing on biodiversity, sustainability, and community engagement, SOWN has already made significant strides in restoring nearby catchments such as Enoggera, Ithaca, and Fish Creek.

A Community-Led Effort

What makes this project stand out is its reliance on community power. While SOWN applied for grants to cover large-scale weed clearing, SOWN’s vision depends on volunteers to do the heavy lifting: removing invasive plants, planting natives, and ensuring ongoing care for the area.

By participating, locals can contribute to protecting a rare and valuable ecosystem. This collaboration not only enhances biodiversity but also strengthens the community’s connection to nature.

Restore The Gap rainforest — *Photo Credit: Save Our Waterways Now/Facebook*

Join the Movement

SOWN is calling on locals to be part of this transformative effort. Whether it’s volunteering for planting days, spreading awareness, or simply lending a hand in removing weeds, there’s a role for everyone.

To get involved, contact info@saveourwaterwaysnow.com.au. The time to act is now—Wattle Creek’s future depends on it. Together, the community can create a sanctuary for native wildlife and a space everyone can be proud of.

Published 17-Jan-2025

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

A sprawling 5000-square-meter property in The Gap, known as “Renzo’s Place,” could soon have a new chapter in its decades-long story.

Read: Developers Look to Transform Eyesore on Waterworks Road Into New Community Asset

The site at 836-842 Waterworks Road, vacant and deteriorating for over a decade, has been listed for sale by receivers McGrathNicol late last year through an expressions of interest campaign.

The property has a colorful history dating back to 1958 when it was purchased by Renzo Zanuttini, a pioneering developer and one of the early Italian immigrants to Australia. Zanuttini, renowned for building the Sunshine Coast’s first high-rise, cultivated an immaculate garden on the site, earning him local acclaim.

Over the years, the land’s prime location next to a BP service station and the now-relocated Gap Handyman Centre, made it a significant but underutilized piece of real estate.

Efforts to redevelop the site have faced multiple hurdles. In 2017, plans for a six-level unit project were shelved, and a more recent 2023 proposal for a mixed-use hub, including 26 retirement units, childcare facilities for 86 children, healthcare services, and five additional residential units, was approved in June. However, no progress has been made, and the approval is set to expire in November 2024.

Artist’s impression of proposed development for 836-842 Waterworks Road (Photo credit: Aspect/ Brisbane PD Online)

The property’s sale is being managed under instructions from McGrathNicol receivers Robert Smith and Mark Holland, overseeing K2M Investments No. 2 Pty Ltd, the company behind the 2023 development proposal.

Although interest from buyers has been reported, details remain under wraps. Both McGrathNicol and Ray White Commercial, the listing agents, declined to comment on the sale process, citing the property’s receivership status.

“Renzo’s Place” has also become an urban exploration hotspot, attracting adventurers intrigued by its storied past and state of disrepair. For the local community, the property’s fate is a subject of much interest, with hopes that new ownership will finally bring the site to life.

Read: The Gap Gets First Downsizer Housing Project with Nature’s Edge

As it stands, the future of this iconic Brisbane property remains uncertain. Whether it becomes a bustling hub of activity or continues to languish depends on whether a new buyer steps in before the current development approval lapses. One thing is certain: the next chapter of “Renzo’s Place” will be closely watched.

Published 17-January-2025

Hookworms Threaten The Gap Dogs as Parasite Resistance Rises

Photo Credit: Oskar Kadaksoo/Unsplash

Hookworms, parasites that can harm dogs and humans, are developing resistance to treatments, sparking health concerns in The Gap and across Australia.

Growing Resistance in Canine Parasites

A study conducted by the University of Queensland in collaboration with the University of Sydney found that 70 per cent of hookworm samples tested in Australia showed genetic mutations linked to resistance against benzimidazole-based dewormers. These drugs, which were once highly effective, are now increasingly failing to treat canine hookworm infections, raising significant health concerns for pet owners and communities.

The study, which examined samples from over 100 dogs in Australia and New Zealand, discovered that even previously unaffected species, such as the northern hookworm, have developed resistance.

Researchers highlighted that hookworms, which live in a dog’s small intestine and feed on blood, can cause anaemia, diarrhoea, and malnutrition. In severe cases, particularly in puppies, these infections can be fatal.

The Gap’s High Pet Population at Risk

The Gap, a suburb with abundant green spaces and a reputation for pet-friendly living, faces heightened risks. With 2,085 registered dogs as of March 2024, The Gap’s parks and communal areas provide ideal conditions for the spread of hookworm infections among pets and potentially to humans.

Experts warned that hookworms can infect humans through skin contact, causing a condition known as cutaneous larva migrans (CLM). This condition, described by Dr Swaid Abdullah from the University of Queensland, causes intense itching, blistering, and a red, snake-like rash. The shared spaces in The Gap highlight the need for preventative measures to protect both pets and people.

Dr Abdullah explained that the overuse of deworming treatments without proper diagnosis contributes to the rising resistance, similar to how overprescription of antibiotics creates resistant bacteria. He called for targeted testing and treatments to address the issue effectively.

Hookworm resistance for The Gap dogs — *Photo Credit: Shelby Pieper/Unsplash*

Protecting The Gap’s Pets and Community

Experts emphasised several measures to mitigate the hookworm threat in The Gap and similar communities:

Conduct regular parasite testing for dogs, ideally twice a year.
Use targeted treatments based on diagnostic results rather than relying on blanket deworming approaches.
Maintain hygiene by promptly picking up and properly disposing of dog waste, both in public spaces and at home.

Dr Abdullah urged pet owners to remain proactive, as clean environments and responsible pet ownership are key to preventing the spread of hookworms. He highlighted that diligent waste disposal is critical in preventing the transmission of parasites in shared spaces like parks and yards.

Published 7-Jan-2024

Ether Man Case: The Gap Holds the Key to Solving Brisbane’s Reign of Terror

A 27-year-old woman and her two-year-old son were confronted by a knife-wielding man in their home in The Gap, leading to a breakthrough in the case of the serial rapist known as the “Ether Man.” This terrifying incident, which occurred in 1966, marked a turning point in a series of attacks that had gripped Brisbane for months.

Phillip Charles Lamont, a seemingly ordinary public servant, was identified as the perpetrator who terrorised Brisbane residents for 10 months in the 1960s. He preyed on at least six women in their homes across inner-city Brisbane suburbs after dark, using chloroform or ether-soaked cloths to subdue his victims before raping them.

A City in Fear

Ether Man — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police*

Crime historian Jack Sim said the attacks triggered one of the biggest police investigations in Brisbane’s history, leaving the city in a state of fear. “Rapes in people’s homes by strangers … it was something the city had never seen,” he explained. In the 1960s, Brisbane was a smaller city, with unlocked doors and unfenced yards common. This made it easier for the Ether Man to attack women in their homes, often in the evening or late at night.

The Attacks Escalate

The Ether Man’s first attack occurred in December 1965 when he attempted to rape a 59-year-old woman in her Coorparoo apartment. He continued to attack women over the next few months in suburbs like New Farm, Milton, Annerley, and Kangaroo Point.

In June 1966, a 24-year-old woman in Annerley was attacked while hanging clothes on the line. She screamed, alerting her husband, who chased the offender but couldn’t catch him. Days later, a 23-year-old woman in Kangaroo Point was found bound and gagged in her apartment, although she had not been raped.

A Crucial Mistake in The Gap

The attack in The Gap, where Lamont threatened a mother and her child with a knife before raping the woman, proved to be his downfall. Witnesses saw a cream-coloured 1963 Ford Falcon Sedan with distinctive red-brown undercoat paint parked near the home around the time of the attack. This vital clue led police to Lamont.

The Investigation and Tragic End

Police questioned Lamont, who initially cooperated but gave conflicting accounts about his car. His fingerprints matched those found at the scene of the first attack in Coorparoo. When confronted with the evidence, Lamont confessed. While police searched his apartment, Lamont, under guard in the kitchen, grabbed a knife and fatally stabbed himself in the chest.

Justice Denied, Legacy Remains

Lamont’s suicide meant he was never brought to trial, denying his victims justice. However, the case had a lasting impact on how police in Queensland dealt with sexual assault cases. Detectives believed Lamont was likely responsible for other unsolved attacks.

Mr Sim said the attacks sparked reform within the police force, leading to the creation of specialist units to handle sexual assault cases. In 1975, the Queensland Police Service established the first Rape Squad in Australia, staffed by female officers and operating 24/7. This initiative provided dedicated support to victims of sexual assault.

Published Date 28-December-2024