upper kedron Archives - The Gap Today

Upper Kedron’s Eva Ilov Impresses Judges to Earn Australian Idol Golden Ticket

Eva Ilov, a 20-year-old singer-songwriter who grew up in Upper Kedron and trained at Performance Studios in Loganholme, has secured a Golden Ticket into the Top 30 of Australian Idol 2026 after one of the season’s most talked-about auditions.

Ilov walked into her audition in front of judges Amy Shark, Kyle Sandilands and Marcia Hines without a prepared song, deliberately leaving the choice in their hands. The calculated risk paid off. The judges selected three contrasting songs: a Whitney Houston ballad, a Chris Stapleton country-soul track that showcased her gritty range, and a Men at Work classic that put a smile on everyone’s face. Her ability to switch genres without missing a step earned immediate praise, with the judges awarding her a Golden Ticket to the Top 30 on the spot.

For a performer who describes herself as a “musical chameleon,” it was an entrance that made the label stick.

A Musical Life That Began in Upper Kedron

Eva Ilov’s connection to music stretches back to childhood in Brisbane’s north-west. Her granddad bought her her first guitar when she was around seven or eight, and her mother, determined not to let the gift go to waste, enrolled her in lessons. Vocals followed naturally not long after.

She appeared in the junior competition Take the Mic in 2012 and later performed in community music series Homegrown Superstars between 2020 and 2022, building stage experience well before any national platform came calling. Her early formal training included the Young Conservatorium Program at Griffith University, where she studied contemporary voice.

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By 2025 Ilov had completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Music at QUT, while also building a portfolio of live performances, studio sessions and international recognition. Her recent achievements also include finishing runner-up in the 2025 Your Shot DJ competition and releasing her debut US single in collaboration with Roy Hamilton III and The Singers Company. She also performed as a featured artist at QPAC in 2019.

The Role Performance Studios Played

Before stepping onto the national stage, Eva Ilov was making the regular drive from Upper Kedron down to Performance Studios, to train with vocal coach Lisa Lockland-Bell. Ilov said Lockland-Bell had changed her perspective on singing entirely, helping her build confidence, discipline and control so she could approach music with greater intention and artistry.

Lockland-Bell brings more than 35 years of experience as a vocal coach, performance mentor and voice transformation specialist to her work at Performance Studios, coaching singers, performers and professional speakers from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Ipswich and Redlands, as well as online worldwide. Her students have appeared on The Voice, Australian Idol, Eurovision and other high-profile platforms.

Lockland-Bell also founded Performance Studios’ Rise Up Competition, a singing contest for young artists from South East Queensland that offers a cash prize and industry training to help emerging performers build a career path. Ilov was a finalist in that competition across 2023 and 2025, making her path from local student to national Idol contestant a direct product of the studio’s ecosystem.

What Comes Next for Australian Idol’s 2026 Season

As of mid-February 2026, Eva Ilov had advanced to the Top 30 and was progressing through the early competition stages, with the show heading toward its live rounds. She joined the first group of Golden Ticket winners announced on the season’s opening night on 2 February, earning her place among 30 contestants selected from across the country.

Season 11 of Australian Idol features hosts Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie, with judges Kyle Sandilands, Marcia Hines and Amy Shark returning to the panel. The competition airs Sundays at 7pm and Mondays at 7.30pm on Channel Seven, with all episodes available to stream on 7plus at 7plus.com.au. Viewers can watch Ilov’s audition and subsequent performances online now. Follow her progress on Instagram at @evailovofficial or through her official website at evailov.com.

Published 2-March-2026.

The Gap, Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron Clubs Score Ellendale Community Funding

A netball club, a decades-old dance sport group, and several community organisations in The Gap, Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron have secured various grants through the Ellendale Community Grants, with projects ranging from resurfaced courts to school soccer goals all set to benefit.

Investing in Young Athletes

Phoenix Netball Club President Thom Contreras said the $3,500 grant will go toward resurfacing three well-used courts that have taken a beating from weather and heavy use since they opened in 2017. He explained the facilities cater for 285 players across 32 teams, training and competing up to five days a week, and resurfacing is vital to maintain safety and keep the courts in use during the coming season break.

“Over half of our members live at Ferny Grove and Upper Kedron, and we have a number who live at Ellendale,” he said. “We’re really grateful Cedar Woods supports not just our club, but other groups across the area.”

Celebrating a Growing Dance Sport

Everton Physical Culture Club, celebrating its 40-year anniversary, received $1,000 to improve its promotion at events and competitions. Associate Teacher Peta Tyquin said Physie is an accessible and affordable sport spanning children as young as three through to women in their seventies. She added the grant would help the club present professionally at national events while keeping classes affordable for its 80 members.

“We’re excited to have this injection of funds to help us continue providing for our community,” she said.

John Kibble, Mia Denning, Georgia Naggs, Elanor Lippett, Claudia Carter, Keirra Ryder, Peta Tyquin. Photo Credit: Supplied

Backing Families and Schools

Other groups to receive funding included Mitchelton Youth Club, which gained $1,500 to add safe seating to its lobby, and Samford Play Group, which will use $1,500 to repair unsafe play equipment. St Andrews P&C in Ferny Grove secured $1,500 for new aluminium soccer goals for students, while St John’s Wood The Gap Conference received $1,000 to help families purchase school supplies and cover the cost of camps.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Cedar Woods for its ongoing support through the Ellendale Community Grants Program,” Aimee Riedel from St Andrew P&C said.

“This grant will allow us to purchase durable aluminium soccer goals, a much-needed addition to support the highly popular sport during lunch breaks. For many students living in the Ellendale community, this investment encourages physical activity, teamwork and a sense of connection, both at school and within the wider local community. Initiatives like this truly make a difference in supporting the health and wellbeing of our children.”

Ellendale’s Ongoing Contribution

Cedar Woods Properties Development Director Blair Britton said this year’s round of grants brings the total contribution from the Ellendale initiative to $95,000, shared amongst more than 60 groups since 2017.

“With 590 families living at Ellendale we are proud to support these valuable initiatives, and this year’s recipients all share a common mission to improve the lives of young people in the community,” he said.

Awardee

Suburb(s)

Grant Amount

Purpose

Phoenix Netball Club

Ferny Grove / Upper Kedron

$3,500

Resurfacing three playing courts used by 285 players.

Everton Physical Culture Club

Everton Hills

$1,000

Marketing and promotional material for Physie’s 40th anniversary.

Mitchelton Youth Club

Mitchelton

$1,500

Seats and benches for renovated lobby area.

Samford Play Group

Samford

$1,500

Refurbishing unsafe and damaged play forts.

St Andrews P&C

Ferny Grove

$1,500

Purchase of aluminium soccer goals for students.

St John’s Wood The Gap Conference

The Gap

$1,000

Support for families in need (school supplies, camp costs).

Published 27-Aug-2025

Proposed Ellendale Connection Fuels Concerns Over Traffic, Parking Access

A decade after the Ellendale estate first made headlines, a proposed road connection linking the Upper Kedron development to Mt Nebo Road is once again raising concern among residents and business owners, this time over changes to parking and traffic conditions along Waterworks Road.

Read: Ellendale Stage 5 Development in Upper Kedron Rejected

The road link, intended to improve connectivity for thousands of homes in Ellendale, has prompted Brisbane’s local officials to roll out extended clearway hours along Waterworks Road, with the aim of easing congestion. However, some locals fear the changes may have created new problems for businesses, service providers, and customers who rely on convenient parking in the area.

Previously limited to weekday peak hours, the clearways now span from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. every day. Council maintains that the decision was guided by traffic data and resident feedback, suggesting most respondents supported the move. The road, a major arterial carrying more than 100,000 vehicles daily, has seen a high number of crashes in recent years, which council believes are linked to abrupt lane changes caused by parked vehicles.

Still, many business operators and nearby residents say they were not properly informed about the changes until after they were implemented. Some claim customers are already being fined for parking violations, and that elderly clients and service vehicles are finding access increasingly difficult. There are also concerns that the clearways could drive away trade and complicate logistics, with no alternative loading zones or nearby parking options provided.

The proposed Ellendale-to-Mt Nebo link has long been a point of contention, and recent state and council discussions have revived the plan. Officials have confirmed that planning processes are underway to remove barriers to the connection, which would potentially direct more traffic from Upper Kedron through Waterworks Road, which is one of the city’s busiest corridors.

Read: Upper Kedron Residents and Minister Exasperated by Delays in Ellendale Bridge Opening

While some welcome the potential relief for residents in the growing western suburbs, others argue that the changes have been rushed and that the broader impacts on surrounding communities and small businesses have not been fully considered. Some community members are calling for a more collaborative approach to traffic planning, urging authorities to provide long-term solutions that balance accessibility with safety and flow.

Published 15-July-2025

Upper Kedron Athletes Crowned World Cheerleading Champions

Photo Credit: Brianna Sarna/Instagram

Two Upper Kedron teenagers have returned from Orlando as World Cheerleading Champions after representing Australia at an international competition.

Upper Kedron Teens Shine on World Stage

Amber and Brianna Sarna, 14-year-old identical twins from Upper Kedron, have secured a World Cheerleading Championship title while representing Australia. The twins competed at a major international event in Orlando as part of Team Australia’s Youth Co-Ed Median Division. Their team’s performances earned first place in the division.

Upper Kedron twins — *Photo Credit: Amber Sarna/Instagram*

Pathway to the Championship

The Sarna twins began cheerleading at five years old, inspired by their older sister. They train with Outlaws Allstars Kedron and were selected for Team Australia from more than 300 candidates after submitting video applications. Their preparation included attending intensive training camps in Melbourne and Sydney, where choreography and routines were developed for the competition.

The Event and Achievement

The ICU World Cheerleading Championship took place at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex in Orlando. The event, held in April 2025, featured athletes from 70 nations and is considered a pinnacle event in international cheerleading. Team Australia, including Amber and Brianna, overcame challenges in their first routine and returned on day two with a clean performance that secured top scores.

Community and Family Support

Ferny Grove State High School celebrated the twins’ achievement through school assemblies and social media posts. Social media comments from friends, teammates, and supporters expressed pride and congratulations, with messages highlighting how proud they were and praising the twins’ effort on stage.

Comments included supporters describing the achievement as “so amazing”, “well deserved”, and “absolutely amazing on stage”. Amber and Brianna’s success was also acknowledged by those who helped along the way, with messages thanking and recognising team efforts.

Looking Ahead

Amber and Brianna plan to continue competing internationally. They hope to coach in the future and aim to represent Australia again, especially if cheerleading gains inclusion in the Olympic Games.

Published 28-June-2025

Local Schools and Clubs Invited to Apply for Ellendale Community Grants

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

Read: Upper Kedron-Mt Nebo Road Connection Gains Momentum

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published 29-April-2025

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

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

Upper Kedron Groups Score Big with Ellendale Grants

Upper Kedron is celebrating a wave of positive change thanks to the generosity of Cedar Woods’ Ellendale Community Grants. The grants, totalling $10,000, have been distributed to four local groups, empowering them to enhance their programmes and services.

Ferny Grove State School P&C is among the beneficiaries, which received $5,000 to purchase robotics kits. This exciting initiative will expand the school’s digital curriculum, introducing younger students to coding and making learning more engaging. The kits will benefit 300 junior school students, providing valuable hands-on experience in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

Another recipient, Westside Grovely Football Club, received $2,000 to purchase portable aluminium goals. These goals will enhance training sessions for the club’s 250 junior players, aged from under 6 to under 15. By providing smaller, age-appropriate goals, the club aims to make training more realistic and enjoyable for young players.

Ellandale — *Ellendale Development Manager John Kibble and FGSS Principal Matthew*
*Meharg with junior school students.*
*Photo Credit: Supplied*

Samford Netball Club was also awarded a $1,000 grant to replace worn-out field lightbulbs. This investment will improve the quality of lighting for night games, ensuring a safe and enjoyable playing environment for all.

Finally, St John Wood/The Gap Conference of the St Vincent De Paul Society received $2,000 to support its vital work in the community. The funds will cover education costs, living expenses, and purchasing essential items such as sanitary products, nappies, and baby formula.

As Ellendale continues to grow, Cedar Woods remains committed to fostering a sense of belonging and supporting the initiatives that make the community a special place to live.

Published Date 05-September-2024

Major Ed Orszulak from Upper Kedron Continues Epic Trek for Camp Quality Fundraiser

Photo Credit: Australian Government Defence

Major Ed Orszulak from Upper Kedron and ACT Fire Rescue senior firefighter Sebastian Boehm are making significant strides in their 2,740-km walking journey from Brisbane to Melbourne, all in support of Camp Quality, a charity dedicated to helping children battling cancer.

As of August 2024, Major Orszulak and Boehm have reached Coffs Harbour, choosing it as a key rest stop on their epic 2,740-kilometer walk for a cause. The pair took the opportunity to meet with local families involved with Camp Quality and invited community members to join them for a portion of their walk.

Reflecting on their progress, Major Orszulak shared, “The legs are feeling good; they get a bit sore at the end of the day, especially during the first three days when we got blisters and could only walk one hour at a time before taking a break.” He added that their feet have toughened up significantly, allowing them to now average about 45 kilometers a day, walking for up to three hours before needing a break.

Walk for a Cause

On 23 July 2024, Major Orszulak, alongside ACT Fire Rescue senior firefighter Sebastian Boehm, started walking in Brisbane and will aim to complete 2,720 kilometres over 70 days to reach Melbourne’s Federation Square. This ambitious expedition is part of Camp Quality’s annual Big Walk for Little Kids fundraising campaign.

Major Orszulak, a dedicated volunteer for Camp Quality for 11 years, views this challenge as minor compared to the struggles of children dealing with cancer. His inspiration came from a friend who spoke highly of Camp Quality’s positive impact on young lives. In 2016, he was part of a group that climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, raising $35,000 for the cause. This time, the goal is significantly higher at $250,000.

Logistical Planning and Support

Upper Kedron’s Major Ed Orszulak — *Photo Credit: Camp Quality*

The journey is meticulously planned. Major Orszulak and Boehm aim to cover 48 to 50 kilometres daily, including 13 rest days. Their route will rely on Army Reserve depots and accommodations offered by volunteers. A support crew, potentially including an Army Reserve cook and a medic from the 2nd Brigade, will accompany them to ensure their needs are met.

Physical Challenges and Preparation

Major Orszulak is determined to complete the trek despite recent surgical procedures, including a hip replacement and knee surgery. His surgeon is confident in his recovery, assuring him that his hip is stronger than ever.

Major Orszulak acknowledges that his biggest personal challenge will be managing his physical condition, especially his feet. With the support of Injinji Performance Products, which provides high-quality toe socks, he hopes to mitigate potential foot problems.

Community and Family Support

The journey would not have been possible without the robust support of the chain of command at Headquarters 1st (Australian) Division and his family. Karen, the partner of Major Ed Orszulak, and his family will actively support him, increasing awareness through social media and joining him for parts of the trek. His son is also expected to participate during the final week of the journey.

Published Date 18-July-2024

Bureaucratic Delays Stifle Suburban Growth in Upper Kedron: The Unopened Bridge

Photo Credit: Ferny Grove & Upper Kedron Residents Association/Facebook

Residents in a fast-growing housing estate in Upper Kedron are facing significant disruptions due to bureaucratic delays that have kept a brand-new bridge closed to the public for over six months.

Daily Inconveniences

The bridge, built by developer Cedar Woods Properties and dubbed by locals as the “Never Never Open Bridge,” was intended to provide a second entry and exit point for the estate, easing commutes and reducing travel time for local residents. The prolonged closure of the bridge, currently barricaded, has forced residents to take longer routes, increasing travel times and causing daily inconveniences.

Local businesses are also feeling the pinch. The delayed bridge opening has meant less foot traffic and fewer customers for shops and services within the estate. Business owners are concerned that prolonged delays could lead to a decline in revenue and ultimately affect the viability of their operations.

The community feels the absence of this critical infrastructure in their daily lives, and the economic repercussions are becoming more apparent.

Safety concerns are another issue arising from the delay. With only one entry and exit point, emergency response times could be affected, posing a risk to residents in emergencies. The blocked bridge also forces more traffic onto the existing routes, increasing the likelihood of accidents and congestion.

Timeline of Administrative Delays

October 2022

The Queensland Department of Resources provided pre-lodgement advice to relevant stakeholders, highlighting the requirement to submit an application to dedicate state land as a road.

November 2023

Cedar Woods Properties lodged an application with the Brisbane City Council to create a road reserve for the newly constructed bridge.

April 2024

The Department of Resources received the application from Brisbane City Council, despite regulations being highlighted two years prior.
Brisbane City Council completed the application to the Queensland Government for consent.

June 2024

Approval for the land transfer was received from the State Government.
Brisbane City Council insisted that all required documentation to open the bridge was supplied to the developer two years ago, but the developer only finalised it this year.
The Department of Resources expedited the application process and is now working with the Brisbane City Council to finalise it.

Expected Timeline

Registration and opening of the bridge are anticipated to take 4-6 weeks from June 2024, once the administrative processes are completed.

Upper Kedron Bridge — Photo Credit: Taylor Johnson/Facebook

Proposed Solutions and Reforms

Comparing Upper Kedron’s situation to other suburbs facing similar issues provides insight into how such problems can be addressed. In other regions, streamlined processes and better communication between developers and government agencies have helped expedite approvals and reduce delays.

Experts suggest several solutions to mitigate such delays in the future. These include:

Improved Coordination: Enhancing coordination between developers, local councils, and state governments to ensure all parties are aligned.

Streamlined Approval Processes: Simplifying and speeding up approval processes to prevent prolonged delays.

Transparent Communication: Keeping the community informed about the status of projects and any issues that arise to maintain trust and cooperation.

Accountability Measures: Implementing accountability measures to ensure that delays are promptly addressed and resolved.

The residents of Upper Kedron remain hopeful that the bureaucratic hurdles will soon be overcome, allowing them to fully enjoy the benefits of the new bridge and the improved connectivity it promises.

Published 8-July-2024