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	<title>Redcliffe Today</title>
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	<description>News and other stories about real people, places, and events in Redcliffe and nearby suburbs.</description>
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<title><![CDATA[Morayfield South Growth Plan Maps Out 9,800 Homes, Schools, and Parks]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/morayfield-south-growth-plan-26000-residents</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 04 Nov 2026 04:25:44 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[HomepageNews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Caboolture]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Morayfield]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Morayfield South]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/?page_id=15187</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Morayfield South is preparing for a major population increase, with a newly adopted planning framework setting out how the growing suburb could eventually accommodate 26,000 residents and about 9,800 homes.







Read: Morayfield Housing Development Moves Ahead On Oakey Flat Road







The City of Moreton Bay's second-largest greenfield growth area has reached an important planning milestone, with amendments to its planning scheme taking effect on November 2. The changes introduce a structure plan identifying where future roads, schools, shopping centres, parks, and community facilities could be located.



Covering approximately 900 hectares of predominantly rural residential land in the southern part of Morayfield, the emerging community area has been earmarked for urban growth since 2016. Its development will form part of the City's longer-term strategy to accommodate a population expected to reach one million over the next 30 years.



Schools, parks, and neighbourhood centres mapped out



Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay



The Morayfield South Structure Plan provides a framework for how the area could develop as new residential neighbourhoods take shape.



Its provisions include locations for four future state school sites, comprising three primary schools and one secondary school. The Queensland Department of Education will be responsible for planning and delivering the future schools, with their timing requiring further consideration.



Two local centres are also identified to serve the growing population. Each is designed around a catchment of 10,000 to 15,000 people and would typically include a full-line supermarket, providing for everyday shopping and services closer to residential areas.



The plan also identifies four locations for community facilities and four future district recreation parks. These are intended to provide spaces for community activities, sport and recreation as the new neighbourhoods develop.



Transport and environmental considerations also feature in the framework. Proposed road improvements and off-road shared pathways are intended to connect residential areas with schools, parks and local shops.



Environmental corridors form another significant part of the plan. The updated mapping provides for approximately 360 hectares of land to be protected for environmental purposes, up from 335 hectares under the previous interim structure plan.




  Morayfield South at a glance

  
    
      26,000
      Projected residents
    

    
      9,800
      Projected dwellings
    

    
      900ha
      Approximate growth area
    

    
      360ha
      Land protected for environmental purposes
    

    
      4
      Future state school sites
    

    
      2
      Planned local centres
    
  

  
    Source: City of Moreton Bay planning information.
    Figures represent long-term planning provisions and estimates.
  



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Years of planning lead to new framework



Morayfield South was included in the emerging community zone when the City's 2016 planning scheme commenced. Increasing development pressure prompted the introduction of temporary planning controls in 2021 while longer-term arrangements were developed.



Early engagement on the draft structure plan took place in September and October 2023. A formal public consultation period followed from October 13 to November 7, 2025, allowing residents and other stakeholders to comment on the proposed changes.



The Queensland Planning Minister approved the amendment for adoption on October 2, 2026. The City formally adopted the major planning amendment on October 28, with the updated Version 9 of the planning scheme commencing on November 2.







Read: New Childcare Centre Proposed Beside Future School Site in Morayfield







The amendment also addresses building requirements in designated bushfire-prone areas across Moreton Bay, alongside administrative changes to the planning scheme.



Infrastructure delivery remains a future step



Although the structure plan identifies where important infrastructure and community facilities could be located, it does not mean every project is ready for construction.



Further detailed planning is required to determine the specific types, timing and design of community facilities. The City has also not published a consolidated construction timetable for the roads, schools, parks and other infrastructure identified across the growth area.



The distinction is important as Morayfield South moves towards accommodating a much larger population. The planning framework provides direction for future development, while the delivery of services and facilities will depend on further planning and decisions by the relevant authorities.



The adopted structure plan is available through the City of Moreton Bay's planning information, giving residents an opportunity to examine how the emerging community area is expected to take shape over the coming decades.



Published 4-November-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Morayfield South is preparing for a major population increase, with a newly adopted planning framework setting out how the growing suburb could eventually accommodate 26,000 residents and about 9,800 homes.







Read: Morayfield Housing Development Moves Ahead On Oakey Flat Road







The City of Moreton Bay's second-largest greenfield growth area has reached an important planning milestone, with amendments to its planning scheme taking effect on November 2. The changes introduce a structure plan identifying where future roads, schools, shopping centres, parks, and community facilities could be located.



Covering approximately 900 hectares of predominantly rural residential land in the southern part of Morayfield, the emerging community area has been earmarked for urban growth since 2016. Its development will form part of the City's longer-term strategy to accommodate a population expected to reach one million over the next 30 years.



Schools, parks, and neighbourhood centres mapped out



Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay



The Morayfield South Structure Plan provides a framework for how the area could develop as new residential neighbourhoods take shape.



Its provisions include locations for four future state school sites, comprising three primary schools and one secondary school. The Queensland Department of Education will be responsible for planning and delivering the future schools, with their timing requiring further consideration.



Two local centres are also identified to serve the growing population. Each is designed around a catchment of 10,000 to 15,000 people and would typically include a full-line supermarket, providing for everyday shopping and services closer to residential areas.



The plan also identifies four locations for community facilities and four future district recreation parks. These are intended to provide spaces for community activities, sport and recreation as the new neighbourhoods develop.



Transport and environmental considerations also feature in the framework. Proposed road improvements and off-road shared pathways are intended to connect residential areas with schools, parks and local shops.



Environmental corridors form another significant part of the plan. The updated mapping provides for approximately 360 hectares of land to be protected for environmental purposes, up from 335 hectares under the previous interim structure plan.




  Morayfield South at a glance

  
    
      26,000
      Projected residents
    

    
      9,800
      Projected dwellings
    

    
      900ha
      Approximate growth area
    

    
      360ha
      Land protected for environmental purposes
    

    
      4
      Future state school sites
    

    
      2
      Planned local centres
    
  

  
    Source: City of Moreton Bay planning information.
    Figures represent long-term planning provisions and estimates.
  



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Years of planning lead to new framework



Morayfield South was included in the emerging community zone when the City's 2016 planning scheme commenced. Increasing development pressure prompted the introduction of temporary planning controls in 2021 while longer-term arrangements were developed.



Early engagement on the draft structure plan took place in September and October 2023. A formal public consultation period followed from October 13 to November 7, 2025, allowing residents and other stakeholders to comment on the proposed changes.



The Queensland Planning Minister approved the amendment for adoption on October 2, 2026. The City formally adopted the major planning amendment on October 28, with the updated Version 9 of the planning scheme commencing on November 2.







Read: New Childcare Centre Proposed Beside Future School Site in Morayfield







The amendment also addresses building requirements in designated bushfire-prone areas across Moreton Bay, alongside administrative changes to the planning scheme.



Infrastructure delivery remains a future step



Although the structure plan identifies where important infrastructure and community facilities could be located, it does not mean every project is ready for construction.



Further detailed planning is required to determine the specific types, timing and design of community facilities. The City has also not published a consolidated construction timetable for the roads, schools, parks and other infrastructure identified across the growth area.



The distinction is important as Morayfield South moves towards accommodating a much larger population. The planning framework provides direction for future development, while the delivery of services and facilities will depend on further planning and decisions by the relevant authorities.



The adopted structure plan is available through the City of Moreton Bay's planning information, giving residents an opportunity to examine how the emerging community area is expected to take shape over the coming decades.



Published 4-November-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[The Moreton Column]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/the-moreton-column</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2026 18:28:41 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/?page_id=15164</guid>
<description><![CDATA[COMING SOON]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[COMING SOON]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[The World At Large]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/the-world-at-large</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2026 18:28:40 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/?page_id=15166</guid>
<description><![CDATA[COMING SOON]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[COMING SOON]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[The Australia Column]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/the-australia-column</link>
<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2026 18:28:08 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/?page_id=15165</guid>
<description><![CDATA[COMING SOON]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[COMING SOON]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Wamuran Family Seeks Compulsory Eye Checks for Queensland Drivers]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/wamuran-family-seeks-compulsory-eye-checks-for-queensland-drivers</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 02 Nov 2026 05:46:57 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[HomepageNews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[carol ismail]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Carol’s Law Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Compulsory eyesight tests Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Wamuran]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/?page_id=15155</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A Wamuran family is calling for regular eyesight assessments for Queensland drivers, following the death of local cyclist Carol Ismail in a collision in 2020.







Read: New 2.4km Pathway Will Improve Access to Caboolture–Wamuran Rail Trail







Carol, 55, and her husband Adam, 56, were cycling at the intersection of Boden Road and Harrison Road on August 16, 2020, when a vehicle struck them. Queensland Police said Carol was airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital with critical injuries and later died. Adam was taken to the same hospital in a serious but stable condition.



Their daughter, optometrist Brittney McDonogh, is campaigning for compulsory eyesight checks to be introduced at set stages of a driver’s life. The proposal has become known as Carol’s Law.



Photo credit: Google Street View



A Queensland Parliament petition lodged by Adam Ismail on October 13, 2026, calls for assessments by an optometrist or ophthalmologist when a person first applies for a driver licence, at ages 50 and 60, every five years until age 75, and annually from then on.



The petition, numbered 4736-26, asks Parliament to introduce the changes through amendments to transport regulations. It remains open until January 31, 2027. The proposal is not current Queensland law.



How the proposal differs from current rules



Queensland already requires drivers to report permanent or long-term medical conditions likely to affect their ability to drive safely. Depending on the condition, a medical certificate may also be required.



However, the current arrangements do not impose routine, age-based eyesight tests on private vehicle drivers at the milestones proposed by Carol’s Law. A private driver’s eyesight must be assessed by a health professional if the applicant declares a vision or eye disorder, or if the licensing authority requires it.



Drivers aged 75 and over must obtain an annual medical fitness assessment from their doctor to continue driving. This is a broader assessment of medical fitness and is not automatically a specialist eyesight examination.



Other states have different requirements. In New South Wales, drivers must pass an eyesight test when first applying for a licence, every 10 years if under 45, every five years from age 45, and annually from age 75.



The Queensland petition argues that relying on motorists to recognise and report deteriorating vision can leave gaps in the licensing system. It cites Carol’s death as the reason for seeking scheduled assessments, rather than relying solely on self-reporting.



The proposal would require consideration by Parliament and any necessary changes to Queensland’s transport rules before it could take effect. The petition’s closing date is January 31, 2027.



Published 2-November-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A Wamuran family is calling for regular eyesight assessments for Queensland drivers, following the death of local cyclist Carol Ismail in a collision in 2020.







Read: New 2.4km Pathway Will Improve Access to Caboolture–Wamuran Rail Trail







Carol, 55, and her husband Adam, 56, were cycling at the intersection of Boden Road and Harrison Road on August 16, 2020, when a vehicle struck them. Queensland Police said Carol was airlifted to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital with critical injuries and later died. Adam was taken to the same hospital in a serious but stable condition.



Their daughter, optometrist Brittney McDonogh, is campaigning for compulsory eyesight checks to be introduced at set stages of a driver’s life. The proposal has become known as Carol’s Law.



Photo credit: Google Street View



A Queensland Parliament petition lodged by Adam Ismail on October 13, 2026, calls for assessments by an optometrist or ophthalmologist when a person first applies for a driver licence, at ages 50 and 60, every five years until age 75, and annually from then on.



The petition, numbered 4736-26, asks Parliament to introduce the changes through amendments to transport regulations. It remains open until January 31, 2027. The proposal is not current Queensland law.



How the proposal differs from current rules



Queensland already requires drivers to report permanent or long-term medical conditions likely to affect their ability to drive safely. Depending on the condition, a medical certificate may also be required.



However, the current arrangements do not impose routine, age-based eyesight tests on private vehicle drivers at the milestones proposed by Carol’s Law. A private driver’s eyesight must be assessed by a health professional if the applicant declares a vision or eye disorder, or if the licensing authority requires it.



Drivers aged 75 and over must obtain an annual medical fitness assessment from their doctor to continue driving. This is a broader assessment of medical fitness and is not automatically a specialist eyesight examination.



Other states have different requirements. In New South Wales, drivers must pass an eyesight test when first applying for a licence, every 10 years if under 45, every five years from age 45, and annually from age 75.



The Queensland petition argues that relying on motorists to recognise and report deteriorating vision can leave gaps in the licensing system. It cites Carol’s death as the reason for seeking scheduled assessments, rather than relying solely on self-reporting.



The proposal would require consideration by Parliament and any necessary changes to Queensland’s transport rules before it could take effect. The petition’s closing date is January 31, 2027.



Published 2-November-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Woorim Beach Erosion Prompts Major Sand Restoration Ahead of Summer]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/woorim-beach-erosion-sand-restoration</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2026 01:29:14 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[HomepageNews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[beach nourishment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bribie Island]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[City of Moreton Bay]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[coastal erosion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[offshore dredging]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[sand replenishment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tropical Cyclone Alfred]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Woorim Beach]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Woorim Beach erosion]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Woorim sand restoration]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/?page_id=15144</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Woorim Beach on Bribie Island is receiving 175,000 cubic metres of sand to rebuild its eroded shoreline and strengthen coastal protection for nearby homes, businesses and public spaces ahead of summer.



Read: Woorim Beach Accessibility Upgrade Opens Up More of the Coast






The restoration covers 2.7 kilometres between Eighth Avenue and Lowry Street, where recent severe weather, including Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, has narrowed the beach, damaged dunes and exposed vegetation roots. Work is underway, with completion targeted before the December school holidays, depending on weather and sea conditions.



Sand dredged from an approved offshore location is being pumped into shallow water using a technique called rainbowing. The high-pressure discharge creates an arc of sand and seawater, which waves and tides gradually redistribute towards the beach and dunes.



Beach access continues during sand works



Woorim Beach remains open throughout the restoration, although small sections will close temporarily during sand pumping. Operations may run 24 hours a day, with exclusion zones monitored by council staff during daylight hours and affected sections closed in the evenings.



Surf Life Saving Queensland will continue patrolling flagged swimming areas, generally from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., extending from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during school holidays, subject to conditions.



Accessible facilities will remain available, including beach matting at Access Point 12 beside Bluey and Jean Piva Park, free beach mobility equipment and the recently opened Changing Places facility. Some shark-control drumlines may be temporarily relocated to accommodate the works.





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    Visiting Woorim Beach During the Works?
  
  
    Beach restoration is underway ahead of
    the summer holidays. Here is what
    visitors need to know.
  
  
    
      Work area
      Eighth Avenue to Lowry Street
    
    
      Beach access
      Generally open, with temporary
      exclusion zones.
    
    
      Patrolled swimming
      8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily;
      7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during
      school holidays, subject to change.
    
    
      Accessibility
      Beach matting and free mobility
      equipment remain available.
    
    
      Work schedule
      Up to 24 hours a day. Affected
      sections close during evening work.
    
    
      Target completion
      Before December school holidays,
      weather permitting.
    
  
  
    Check the
    
      official project updates
    
    before visiting. Follow safety signage
    and directions from council staff
    and surf lifesavers.
  





Storm damage exposes Woorim's natural defences



Woorim's dunes form a natural barrier between the ocean and nearby residential areas, roads, shops and public facilities. They also support coastal vegetation and wildlife habitats.



Erosion has reduced the beach's width and damaged vegetation that helps hold the dunes together, leaving parts of the shoreline more exposed to further severe weather.



City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said recent storms had weakened the beach's natural protection, making restoration necessary before the coming storm season. He described the work as part of council's longer-term approach to managing coastal erosion.



According to Council, the project has received $4.39 million through the Coastline Rehabilitation Grant Program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under disaster recovery arrangements.



Decades of work to keep sand on the shoreline



Woorim has relied on sand replenishment since the 1980s, when offshore dredging was used to replace sand lost through natural coastal processes.



In late 2019, council began trialling a land-based alternative. A pumping station near Benalong Street collected sand accumulating at the southern end of the beach and transferred it north through a two-kilometre pipeline towards Fifth Avenue.



The trial continued until 2023, with mixed results. Council's assessment found the system successfully maintained the beach and front dune between First and Fifth Avenues, but erosion slightly increased near Benalong Street.



Modelling suggested that continued pumping could cause further beach recession near and south of the pumping station. In 2024, council announced plans to decommission the trial infrastructure and return to offshore dredging as its preferred method of replenishment.



Coastal engineering consultancy BMT subsequently examined the trial and modelled alternative approaches to managing Woorim's shoreline.



Its assessment, published in June 2025, found that replenishment at five-year intervals offered better coastal protection than three-yearly nourishment or continued backpassing under the conditions studied. The evaluation also identified the importance of regular beach surveys to monitor changes and guide future work.



Offshore dredging returns as coastal strategy



The current restoration follows the approach council identified in 2024, when another offshore nourishment campaign was already being planned for the second half of 2026.



Council's coastal hazard planning recognises that Woorim remains exposed to erosion and requires ongoing management to protect the developed shoreline and natural environment.



Read: Bribie Island Dredging Works Done, Coast Guard Returns Home



Beach nourishment replaces lost sand but does not prevent waves, tides and storms from reshaping the coast. Continued monitoring and future restoration remain part of the approach to maintaining Woorim's beaches and dunes.



Residents and visitors can check the Woorim Beach Nourishment Project webpage for updated information about temporary closures, beach access and construction arrangements.Published 29-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Woorim Beach on Bribie Island is receiving 175,000 cubic metres of sand to rebuild its eroded shoreline and strengthen coastal protection for nearby homes, businesses and public spaces ahead of summer.



Read: Woorim Beach Accessibility Upgrade Opens Up More of the Coast






The restoration covers 2.7 kilometres between Eighth Avenue and Lowry Street, where recent severe weather, including Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, has narrowed the beach, damaged dunes and exposed vegetation roots. Work is underway, with completion targeted before the December school holidays, depending on weather and sea conditions.



Sand dredged from an approved offshore location is being pumped into shallow water using a technique called rainbowing. The high-pressure discharge creates an arc of sand and seawater, which waves and tides gradually redistribute towards the beach and dunes.



Beach access continues during sand works



Woorim Beach remains open throughout the restoration, although small sections will close temporarily during sand pumping. Operations may run 24 hours a day, with exclusion zones monitored by council staff during daylight hours and affected sections closed in the evenings.



Surf Life Saving Queensland will continue patrolling flagged swimming areas, generally from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., extending from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during school holidays, subject to conditions.



Accessible facilities will remain available, including beach matting at Access Point 12 beside Bluey and Jean Piva Park, free beach mobility equipment and the recently opened Changing Places facility. Some shark-control drumlines may be temporarily relocated to accommodate the works.





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    Visiting Woorim Beach During the Works?
  
  
    Beach restoration is underway ahead of
    the summer holidays. Here is what
    visitors need to know.
  
  
    
      Work area
      Eighth Avenue to Lowry Street
    
    
      Beach access
      Generally open, with temporary
      exclusion zones.
    
    
      Patrolled swimming
      8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily;
      7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. during
      school holidays, subject to change.
    
    
      Accessibility
      Beach matting and free mobility
      equipment remain available.
    
    
      Work schedule
      Up to 24 hours a day. Affected
      sections close during evening work.
    
    
      Target completion
      Before December school holidays,
      weather permitting.
    
  
  
    Check the
    
      official project updates
    
    before visiting. Follow safety signage
    and directions from council staff
    and surf lifesavers.
  





Storm damage exposes Woorim's natural defences



Woorim's dunes form a natural barrier between the ocean and nearby residential areas, roads, shops and public facilities. They also support coastal vegetation and wildlife habitats.



Erosion has reduced the beach's width and damaged vegetation that helps hold the dunes together, leaving parts of the shoreline more exposed to further severe weather.



City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said recent storms had weakened the beach's natural protection, making restoration necessary before the coming storm season. He described the work as part of council's longer-term approach to managing coastal erosion.



According to Council, the project has received $4.39 million through the Coastline Rehabilitation Grant Program, jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under disaster recovery arrangements.



Decades of work to keep sand on the shoreline



Woorim has relied on sand replenishment since the 1980s, when offshore dredging was used to replace sand lost through natural coastal processes.



In late 2019, council began trialling a land-based alternative. A pumping station near Benalong Street collected sand accumulating at the southern end of the beach and transferred it north through a two-kilometre pipeline towards Fifth Avenue.



The trial continued until 2023, with mixed results. Council's assessment found the system successfully maintained the beach and front dune between First and Fifth Avenues, but erosion slightly increased near Benalong Street.



Modelling suggested that continued pumping could cause further beach recession near and south of the pumping station. In 2024, council announced plans to decommission the trial infrastructure and return to offshore dredging as its preferred method of replenishment.



Coastal engineering consultancy BMT subsequently examined the trial and modelled alternative approaches to managing Woorim's shoreline.



Its assessment, published in June 2025, found that replenishment at five-year intervals offered better coastal protection than three-yearly nourishment or continued backpassing under the conditions studied. The evaluation also identified the importance of regular beach surveys to monitor changes and guide future work.



Offshore dredging returns as coastal strategy



The current restoration follows the approach council identified in 2024, when another offshore nourishment campaign was already being planned for the second half of 2026.



Council's coastal hazard planning recognises that Woorim remains exposed to erosion and requires ongoing management to protect the developed shoreline and natural environment.



Read: Bribie Island Dredging Works Done, Coast Guard Returns Home



Beach nourishment replaces lost sand but does not prevent waves, tides and storms from reshaping the coast. Continued monitoring and future restoration remain part of the approach to maintaining Woorim's beaches and dunes.



Residents and visitors can check the Woorim Beach Nourishment Project webpage for updated information about temporary closures, beach access and construction arrangements.Published 29-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Bushfire Building Requirements to Expand Across Moreton Bay from November]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/moreton-bay-bushfire-building-requirements-november-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 22:05:00 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[HomepageNews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bushfire Attack Level]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[bushfire construction standards]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[bushfire-prone areas]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Caboolture bushfire rules]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Major Planning Scheme Amendment No. 4]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Morayfield bushfire planning]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Morayfield South development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay bushfire building requirements]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay planning scheme]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[National Construction Code]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/?page_id=15138</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
People planning to build homes in bushfire-prone parts of Caboolture and Morayfield could face additional construction requirements under changes to Moreton Bay's planning scheme taking effect in November.




  Read:
    
      Morayfield South Set for 26,000 Residents as New Planning Rules Move Forward
    
  




The changes form part of Major Planning Scheme Amendment No. 4, adopted on 28 October 2026 and scheduled to commence on 2 November. They remove zoning exemptions that previously prevented bushfire-specific National Construction Code (NCC) requirements from applying to certain new buildings on land identified as bushfire-prone.



For prospective homeowners, the changes could influence building materials, design and construction costs, depending on the location of their property and its assessed bushfire exposure. Existing houses, however, will not automatically require upgrades simply because their land falls within a designated bushfire-prone area.



Four planning zones lose bushfire exemptions



The amendment removes exclusions covering the General residential, Township, Centre and Industry zones, including their applicable precincts. Relevant new building work on land identified by the planning scheme's bushfire hazard mapping may now need to meet NCC bushfire construction requirements.



The changes affect more than detached houses. Relevant residential buildings, including apartments, are covered, along with specified healthcare facilities, schools and residential care buildings. Certain associated structures, such as garages and sheds, may also be subject to requirements depending on their classification and relationship to the main building.



Not every property in Caboolture or Morayfield will be affected. A property's zoning alone does not determine whether bushfire construction standards apply.



Council has retained its existing bushfire hazard overlay maps, although the amendment changes how designated bushfire-prone areas are treated under building rules.



The council has acknowledged that its existing maps do not reflect the current State Planning Policy bushfire mapping. A separate city-wide bushfire hazard risk assessment is underway, while further state mapping updates remain pending.



Windows, roofs and building costs



Bushfire construction standards aim to reduce damage from burning embers, radiant heat and direct flame contact. Depending on a property's assessed Bushfire Attack Level (BAL), requirements may affect roofing, external walls, windows, doors and the sealing of gaps where embers could enter.



A BAL assessment takes account of surrounding vegetation, land slope and the distance between vegetation and the proposed building.



Queensland uses Australian Standard AS 3959:2018 for residential construction in bushfire-prone areas, with the applicable measures varying according to the assessed exposure. Higher bushfire exposure can require more protective construction materials and design features.



Additional measures may increase construction costs for some projects, although the financial impact will depend on the property, building design and applicable standards. No overall cost estimate has been established for the amendment.



Existing homes do not face automatic upgrades



Homeowners will not be required to replace existing roofs, windows or external walls solely because their property falls within a designated bushfire-prone area.



However, owners undertaking extensions, rebuilding or certain repairs may need to comply with applicable bushfire construction standards, depending on the work proposed.



Queensland Government guidance identifies new homes, rebuilding, repairs and additions among the types of building work potentially covered by residential bushfire requirements. Property owners should confirm what applies to their project before beginning construction.





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    Does my existing home need bushfire upgrades?
  

  
    Already living in your house?
    
      No automatic retrofit is required solely
      because your property becomes designated
      bushfire-prone.
    

    Planning an extension or rebuilding?
    
      Applicable bushfire construction requirements
      may apply, depending on the proposed work.
    

    Building a new home?
    
      Check whether your site is in a designated
      bushfire-prone area and which construction
      standards apply.
    

    Unsure about your property?
    
      Check the
      
        Moreton Bay online planning scheme
      
      and seek advice from a building certifier.
    
  





Morayfield South growth brings building requirements into focus



Morayfield South is among Moreton Bay's designated growth areas, with an updated structure plan adopted through the same planning scheme amendment.



Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay



The structure plan identifies future residential areas, roads, schools, community facilities and environmental corridors intended to support development as the area grows.



Although both changes are included in Amendment No. 4, the Morayfield South Structure Plan and the city-wide bushfire designation changes serve different purposes.



Future building projects in Morayfield South will need to meet the applicable bushfire construction standards where the property's designation and proposed building work trigger those requirements.



The available council material does not establish which individual Morayfield South lots or proposed housing developments will be affected by the removal of zoning exemptions.



Read:
      Moreton Bay's growth test: Is flood infrastructure keeping pace?
    
  
   



How to check your property's bushfire designation



Residents considering a new home or building alterations can consult the Moreton Bay online planning scheme to review property zoning and bushfire hazard mapping.



A building certifier can help determine whether a proposed project requires a bushfire assessment and which construction provisions apply. Property owners can also contact council's Planning Scheme team on (07) 3205 0555 for information about the amended planning scheme.



Published 29-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
People planning to build homes in bushfire-prone parts of Caboolture and Morayfield could face additional construction requirements under changes to Moreton Bay's planning scheme taking effect in November.




  Read:
    
      Morayfield South Set for 26,000 Residents as New Planning Rules Move Forward
    
  




The changes form part of Major Planning Scheme Amendment No. 4, adopted on 28 October 2026 and scheduled to commence on 2 November. They remove zoning exemptions that previously prevented bushfire-specific National Construction Code (NCC) requirements from applying to certain new buildings on land identified as bushfire-prone.



For prospective homeowners, the changes could influence building materials, design and construction costs, depending on the location of their property and its assessed bushfire exposure. Existing houses, however, will not automatically require upgrades simply because their land falls within a designated bushfire-prone area.



Four planning zones lose bushfire exemptions



The amendment removes exclusions covering the General residential, Township, Centre and Industry zones, including their applicable precincts. Relevant new building work on land identified by the planning scheme's bushfire hazard mapping may now need to meet NCC bushfire construction requirements.



The changes affect more than detached houses. Relevant residential buildings, including apartments, are covered, along with specified healthcare facilities, schools and residential care buildings. Certain associated structures, such as garages and sheds, may also be subject to requirements depending on their classification and relationship to the main building.



Not every property in Caboolture or Morayfield will be affected. A property's zoning alone does not determine whether bushfire construction standards apply.



Council has retained its existing bushfire hazard overlay maps, although the amendment changes how designated bushfire-prone areas are treated under building rules.



The council has acknowledged that its existing maps do not reflect the current State Planning Policy bushfire mapping. A separate city-wide bushfire hazard risk assessment is underway, while further state mapping updates remain pending.



Windows, roofs and building costs



Bushfire construction standards aim to reduce damage from burning embers, radiant heat and direct flame contact. Depending on a property's assessed Bushfire Attack Level (BAL), requirements may affect roofing, external walls, windows, doors and the sealing of gaps where embers could enter.



A BAL assessment takes account of surrounding vegetation, land slope and the distance between vegetation and the proposed building.



Queensland uses Australian Standard AS 3959:2018 for residential construction in bushfire-prone areas, with the applicable measures varying according to the assessed exposure. Higher bushfire exposure can require more protective construction materials and design features.



Additional measures may increase construction costs for some projects, although the financial impact will depend on the property, building design and applicable standards. No overall cost estimate has been established for the amendment.



Existing homes do not face automatic upgrades



Homeowners will not be required to replace existing roofs, windows or external walls solely because their property falls within a designated bushfire-prone area.



However, owners undertaking extensions, rebuilding or certain repairs may need to comply with applicable bushfire construction standards, depending on the work proposed.



Queensland Government guidance identifies new homes, rebuilding, repairs and additions among the types of building work potentially covered by residential bushfire requirements. Property owners should confirm what applies to their project before beginning construction.





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    Does my existing home need bushfire upgrades?
  

  
    Already living in your house?
    
      No automatic retrofit is required solely
      because your property becomes designated
      bushfire-prone.
    

    Planning an extension or rebuilding?
    
      Applicable bushfire construction requirements
      may apply, depending on the proposed work.
    

    Building a new home?
    
      Check whether your site is in a designated
      bushfire-prone area and which construction
      standards apply.
    

    Unsure about your property?
    
      Check the
      
        Moreton Bay online planning scheme
      
      and seek advice from a building certifier.
    
  





Morayfield South growth brings building requirements into focus



Morayfield South is among Moreton Bay's designated growth areas, with an updated structure plan adopted through the same planning scheme amendment.



Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay



The structure plan identifies future residential areas, roads, schools, community facilities and environmental corridors intended to support development as the area grows.



Although both changes are included in Amendment No. 4, the Morayfield South Structure Plan and the city-wide bushfire designation changes serve different purposes.



Future building projects in Morayfield South will need to meet the applicable bushfire construction standards where the property's designation and proposed building work trigger those requirements.



The available council material does not establish which individual Morayfield South lots or proposed housing developments will be affected by the removal of zoning exemptions.



Read:
      Moreton Bay's growth test: Is flood infrastructure keeping pace?
    
  
   



How to check your property's bushfire designation



Residents considering a new home or building alterations can consult the Moreton Bay online planning scheme to review property zoning and bushfire hazard mapping.



A building certifier can help determine whether a proposed project requires a bushfire assessment and which construction provisions apply. Property owners can also contact council's Planning Scheme team on (07) 3205 0555 for information about the amended planning scheme.



Published 29-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Caboolture Drivers Urged to Stay Cautious as Flood-Hit Roads Reopen]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/caboolture-drivers-urged-to-stay-cautious-as-flood-hit-roads-reopen</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:38:53 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[HomepageNews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Caboolture]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Caboolture flooding]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[City of Moreton Bay]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[flood recovery]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[flood safety]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Hume Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay floods]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland weather]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[road closures]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[SES]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/?page_id=15133</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A single downpour dumped more than 200mm of rain on Caboolture and left dozens of roads and 14 Moreton Bay schools shut.



Read: Morayfield and Caboolture’s 400mm Rainfall Week Puts October Flooding in Perspective



How Much Rain Fell



Photo Credit: Bureau of Meteorology/ Facebook



The storm struck on 22 October. Caboolture picked up 203mm in six hours that morning. Parts of central Moreton Bay saw more than 100mm in about three hours, and flash flooding followed. By 23 October, some areas had passed 270mm over 24 hours. Prepare-to-leave alerts covered parts of Caboolture and Burpengary.&nbsp;



Locals know this isn’t a first. The Pine and Caboolture river catchments have had major floods before, including in 2022 and 2024.&nbsp;



Roads and Schools



On 22 October, Pumicestone Road at Caboolture was closed, along with Beerburrum Road, which was shut to all traffic. Within a day, the numbers fell sharply. On 23 October, 38 state and local roads were still closed, compared with more than 70 the day before. All Moreton Bay schools were open again, including the 14 that had shut.&nbsp;



By the morning of 26 October, the list was shorter still. Six roads remained closed across the city, in Brendale, Bunya, Elimbah, Mango Hill, Stanmore and Woodford. Caboolture wasn’t on it.&nbsp;



Help and Warnings



Photo Credit: Bureau of Meteorology/ Facebook



Emergency crews had a busy few days. The local SES received 185 requests for help from midnight on 21 October, and 125 of those jobs were finished by 9 a.m. on 23 October. Moreton Bay Mayor Jodie Shipway asked residents to skip unnecessary trips, even trips to pick up sandbags.&nbsp;



Bin collections were thrown off too. Council asked residents to leave bins out where it was safe and to hold off on reporting missed services while the disruption lasted.&nbsp;



What About Hume Road?



So where does Hume Road stand? It has form. It was listed as flooded in January 2024 and again in March 2025. Its location has been recorded in different ways, too, and on one occasion it was placed in Toorbul, near Bonney Road.&nbsp;



This time, it looks clearer. Hume Road wasn’t among the six closed roads on the morning of 26 October. No closure there had been reported for this flood. Still, conditions change fast, so check QLDTraffic and the council’s Disaster Dashboard before heading out.







Read: Caboolture Players Can Book Morayfield Sport Centre Courts Again After Flooding




Staying Safe



Open doesn’t always mean safe for long. Roads that have reopened may close again. Residents are urged to stay off flooded roads, in line with the “If It’s Flooded, Forget It” message. A quick check costs a minute. A stalled car in moving water costs far more.&nbsp;



Caboolture has bounced back quickly, but the job isn’t done. Stay alert, drive to the conditions and keep an eye on your neighbours.



Published Date 28-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A single downpour dumped more than 200mm of rain on Caboolture and left dozens of roads and 14 Moreton Bay schools shut.



Read: Morayfield and Caboolture’s 400mm Rainfall Week Puts October Flooding in Perspective



How Much Rain Fell



Photo Credit: Bureau of Meteorology/ Facebook



The storm struck on 22 October. Caboolture picked up 203mm in six hours that morning. Parts of central Moreton Bay saw more than 100mm in about three hours, and flash flooding followed. By 23 October, some areas had passed 270mm over 24 hours. Prepare-to-leave alerts covered parts of Caboolture and Burpengary.&nbsp;



Locals know this isn’t a first. The Pine and Caboolture river catchments have had major floods before, including in 2022 and 2024.&nbsp;



Roads and Schools



On 22 October, Pumicestone Road at Caboolture was closed, along with Beerburrum Road, which was shut to all traffic. Within a day, the numbers fell sharply. On 23 October, 38 state and local roads were still closed, compared with more than 70 the day before. All Moreton Bay schools were open again, including the 14 that had shut.&nbsp;



By the morning of 26 October, the list was shorter still. Six roads remained closed across the city, in Brendale, Bunya, Elimbah, Mango Hill, Stanmore and Woodford. Caboolture wasn’t on it.&nbsp;



Help and Warnings



Photo Credit: Bureau of Meteorology/ Facebook



Emergency crews had a busy few days. The local SES received 185 requests for help from midnight on 21 October, and 125 of those jobs were finished by 9 a.m. on 23 October. Moreton Bay Mayor Jodie Shipway asked residents to skip unnecessary trips, even trips to pick up sandbags.&nbsp;



Bin collections were thrown off too. Council asked residents to leave bins out where it was safe and to hold off on reporting missed services while the disruption lasted.&nbsp;



What About Hume Road?



So where does Hume Road stand? It has form. It was listed as flooded in January 2024 and again in March 2025. Its location has been recorded in different ways, too, and on one occasion it was placed in Toorbul, near Bonney Road.&nbsp;



This time, it looks clearer. Hume Road wasn’t among the six closed roads on the morning of 26 October. No closure there had been reported for this flood. Still, conditions change fast, so check QLDTraffic and the council’s Disaster Dashboard before heading out.







Read: Caboolture Players Can Book Morayfield Sport Centre Courts Again After Flooding




Staying Safe



Open doesn’t always mean safe for long. Roads that have reopened may close again. Residents are urged to stay off flooded roads, in line with the “If It’s Flooded, Forget It” message. A quick check costs a minute. A stalled car in moving water costs far more.&nbsp;



Caboolture has bounced back quickly, but the job isn’t done. Stay alert, drive to the conditions and keep an eye on your neighbours.



Published Date 28-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland’s Smoke Alarm Deadline Is Near — Is Your Family Really Protected?]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2026 05:57:43 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/queensland-smoke-alarm-deadline-2027-home-safety/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


By Cathy Brand | Fire Safety Advocate and CEO of Brooks Australia



A Queensland homeowner could have several working smoke alarms throughout their property and still fall short of the state's requirements when the final stage of its smoke alarm reforms takes effect on 1 January 2027.



The changes go well beyond replacing ageing devices. They affect where alarms must be installed, how they communicate with one another and the type of technology permitted. For households that have relied on the same arrangement for years, becoming compliant may involve a more substantial upgrade than expected.



With just over two months remaining, the approaching deadline also presents an opportunity to consider whether the warning system provides everyone in the home with the best possible chance of escaping a fire.



A decade of reform reaches its final deadline



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms have been introduced progressively over the past decade, beginning with new homes and substantial renovations in 2017. Properties being sold or leased were required to meet the upgraded standards from January 2022, while the final stage, commencing on 1 January 2027, applies to the remaining domestic dwellings.




  
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  The Slacks Creek Tragedy That Changed Queensland's Smoke Alarm Laws

  
    On 24 August 2011, a house fire at Slacks Creek,
    south of Brisbane, claimed 11 lives, including
    eight children. The disaster became
    a defining tragedy in Queensland's
    approach to residential fire safety,
    ultimately helping drive some of the country's
    most significant smoke alarm reforms.
  

  
    The coronial inquest, whose findings were
    delivered on 28 November 2014, examined
    the failure of the home's smoke alarms.
    The coroner concluded there was a reasonable
    prospect that some or all of those who died
    could have escaped had the alarms been working.
  

  
    The coroner's recommendations helped shape
    sweeping changes to Queensland's smoke alarm
    laws. Legislation passed in 2016 introduced
    a ten-year transition towards photoelectric,
    interconnected alarms installed in bedrooms,
    connecting hallways and on every storey.
  

  
    The reforms began taking effect in January 2017,
    with the final stage due on 1 January 2027.
  

  
    The changes reflect a fundamental lesson from
    the tragedy: providing an earlier warning
    throughout a home can give occupants more
    time to escape.
  




The legislation requires photoelectric smoke alarms complying with Australian Standard AS 3786:2014, without an ionisation sensor. They must be less than ten years old, operate when tested and be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all connected alarms sound.



Placement is equally important. Alarms are required in every bedroom, in hallways connecting bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling and on each storey, with additional provisions for levels without bedrooms. A home with functioning alarms in its hallways, for example, may still need additional units inside bedrooms to satisfy the requirements.



One common misconception is that compliance necessarily involves extensive rewiring. Queensland permits compliant alarms powered by non-removable ten-year batteries in existing dwellings where appropriate, and wireless interconnection can provide an alternative to running interconnect cables throughout a property.



However, an existing hardwired smoke alarm must be replaced with another hardwired unit, with the electrical work undertaken by a licensed electrician. New homes and substantial renovations have separate hardwiring requirements. Depending on the home's existing installation, a combination of hardwired and compatible wireless interconnected alarms may also be suitable.




  
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  Queensland's 2027 Smoke Alarm Rules: A Homeowner's Checklist

  
    From 1 January 2027, remaining domestic dwellings
    in Queensland must meet the state's upgraded
    smoke alarm requirements.
  

  

    
      Alarm type
      
        Required alarms must be photoelectric,
        comply with AS 3786:2014 and contain
        no ionisation sensor.
      
    

    
      Age
      
        Alarms must be less than ten years old
        from their manufacture date.
      
    

    
      Interconnection
      
        All required alarms must be interconnected
        so that when one activates, they all sound.
      
    

    
      Bedrooms
      
        An alarm must be installed in every bedroom.
      
    

    
      Hallways
      
        Alarms must be installed in hallways connecting
        bedrooms to the rest of the dwelling.
      
    

    
      Every storey
      
        Each level requires appropriate coverage.
        On storeys without bedrooms, an alarm must
        be installed in the most likely path of
        travel to an exit.
      
    

    
      Power source
      
        Alarms must be hardwired or use a
        non-removable ten-year battery, as permitted
        for the property. New homes and substantial
        renovations require hardwired alarms.
      
    

    
      Hardwired replacements
      
        Existing hardwired alarms must be replaced
        with hardwired units, with electrical work
        undertaken by a licensed electrician.
      
    

    
      Operation
      
        All alarms must work when tested.
      
    

  

  
    Important: Placement requirements
    depend on the dwelling's layout. Consult the
    Queensland Fire Department's official guidance
    or a suitably qualified installer if uncertain.
  




A fire doesn't wait for smoke to reach your bedroom



A fire may begin in a part of the house far removed from where occupants are sleeping. In a conventional arrangement of independent alarms, someone at the opposite end of the property may not receive a warning until smoke reaches an alarm closer to their bedroom.



Interconnected alarms address that delay by activating throughout the home when any one of the connected devices detects smoke.



The practical importance becomes particularly clear in larger houses, multi-storey properties and homes where bedroom doors are kept closed overnight. A fire starting in one sleeping area can trigger alarms elsewhere, alerting other occupants who may be able to assist.



In my own home, our bedroom is at one end of the house and our children's bedrooms are at the other. They sleep with their doors closed, as many children do. If a fire were to start in one of their rooms, I would want to know immediately, rather than wait for smoke to reach an alarm closer to where we sleep.



That is why interconnection matters. We want the warning travelling through the house faster than the smoke, giving everyone the earliest possible opportunity to respond.



The last-minute rush Queenslanders could do without



Despite years of public information campaigns, awareness of the legislation has not necessarily translated into completed installations.



The Queensland Fire Department's 2025 Community Insights Survey found that 72 per cent of respondents were aware of the interconnected smoke alarm legislation, but only 54 per cent knew about the 1 January 2027 deadline. At the time of the survey, 52 per cent reported having interconnected alarms installed.



These figures reflect what respondents reported rather than independently verified compliance, but they indicate that a substantial number of Queensland households may still need to review their arrangements.



A concentrated rush in the final weeks could also place pressure on product availability and electrician appointments. While shortages are not inevitable, households that act earlier have more time to understand their options, obtain advice and arrange any necessary installation work.



An initial assessment need not be complicated. Homeowners can begin by checking the location and manufacture date of their existing alarms, confirming whether they are photoelectric and interconnected, and testing that they operate correctly. They should also establish whether every required sleeping area and storey has appropriate coverage.



For households with existing hardwired systems, advice from a licensed electrician can help determine what needs replacing and how additional alarms can be incorporated.



A compliant home isn't necessarily a safer home for everyone



Queensland's legislation establishes a minimum standard for residential smoke alarm protection, but the circumstances of the people living in each home can be just as important as the building itself.



An audible warning, for example, may not be sufficient for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, while a person with limited mobility may require additional time or assistance to evacuate. These considerations do not change the legal requirements, but they can influence whether a household needs supplementary warning equipment or other safety arrangements.



Families should also develop and practise an escape plan that accounts for the needs of everyone living in the home, including children, older residents and people who may require assistance. Installing compliant alarms is important, but knowing how to respond when they sound is another essential part of household fire safety.



Homeowners who have yet to complete their upgrades should begin by reviewing their existing alarms, checking the requirements for their property and arranging professional advice where needed. Leaving the work until the final weeks of December may unnecessarily limit their options.



Queensland's smoke alarm reforms were introduced to improve the warning people receive when fire breaks out at home. Meeting the requirements before 1 January 2027 is an important step, but the greater responsibility is ensuring that everyone in the household knows what to do when those alarms sound.




  
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      About Cathy Brand

      
        Cathy Brand is the Chief
        Executive Officer of
        Brooks Australia,
        a provider of fire detection and warning
        technology. Through her work in the fire
        safety industry, she advocates for greater
        awareness of residential fire protection,
        interconnected smoke alarm systems and
        solutions that consider the needs of
        different households.
      
    

  

  
    Home Fire Safety with Cathy Brand is a five-part
    sponsored editorial series presented in
    partnership with Brooks Australia.
  




Published 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Caboolture Players Can Book Morayfield Sport Centre Courts Again After Flooding]]></title>
<link>https://caboolturetoday.com.au/caboolture-players-can-book-morayfield-sport-centre-courts-again-after-flooding</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 00:31:29 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[HomepageNews]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Caboolture]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[City of Moreton Bay]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community sport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[indoor sport]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Morayfield]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Morayfield Sport and Events Centre]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay flooding]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[MSEC]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[October 2026 floods]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Caboolture Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://caboolturetoday.com.au/?page_id=15130</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Caboolture-district players, clubs and families can book courts again at the Morayfield Sport and Events Centre, which says it has reopened following a flooding closure.



Read: Caboolture Roads Affected by Flooding as More Storms Loom



A post from the centre announced it would reopen from 10:30am that day, a Friday, and invited people to phone the team on (07) 5498 6211 to make a booking. The post didn’t say how long the closure lasted, why it began or whether any sessions were affected.



The centre has five timber sprung courts, a large event space, meeting rooms and a café, and it takes regular and one-off bookings. Its listings earlier this year included kids’ basketball, wheelchair basketball, a soccer program for young children and taekwon-do classes.&nbsp;







Caboolture and Morayfield sit on opposite sides of the Caboolture River, and heavy rain and flash flooding hit both on 22 October. Nothing I found links that flooding to damage at the centre, and no cancellations or relocations have been confirmed.



Before you go, ring the centre first if you hold a booking or run a weekly session. Organisers are the best contact for whether a specific competition or class is back on, and anyone chasing a refund or credit should ask whoever took their payment.



Read: Moreton Bay Mosquito Control Targets 14 Areas From Redcliffe to Bribie Island



Roads in the area may still be affected, so check conditions on QLDTraffic before leaving.







Published Date 27-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Caboolture-district players, clubs and families can book courts again at the Morayfield Sport and Events Centre, which says it has reopened following a flooding closure.



Read: Caboolture Roads Affected by Flooding as More Storms Loom



A post from the centre announced it would reopen from 10:30am that day, a Friday, and invited people to phone the team on (07) 5498 6211 to make a booking. The post didn’t say how long the closure lasted, why it began or whether any sessions were affected.



The centre has five timber sprung courts, a large event space, meeting rooms and a café, and it takes regular and one-off bookings. Its listings earlier this year included kids’ basketball, wheelchair basketball, a soccer program for young children and taekwon-do classes.&nbsp;







Caboolture and Morayfield sit on opposite sides of the Caboolture River, and heavy rain and flash flooding hit both on 22 October. Nothing I found links that flooding to damage at the centre, and no cancellations or relocations have been confirmed.



Before you go, ring the centre first if you hold a booking or run a weekly session. Organisers are the best contact for whether a specific competition or class is back on, and anyone chasing a refund or credit should ask whoever took their payment.



Read: Moreton Bay Mosquito Control Targets 14 Areas From Redcliffe to Bribie Island



Roads in the area may still be affected, so check conditions on QLDTraffic before leaving.







Published Date 27-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Old Petrie Town's Future Now Open for Public Consultation]]></title>
<link>https://northlakestoday.com.au/old-petrie-town-revitalisation-north-lakes-consultation</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 02 Nov 2026 02:08:25 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community consultation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[heritage restoration]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay Council]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Lakes]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Lakes Library]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Old Petrie Town]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Old Petrie Town revitalisation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Petrie]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[structure plan]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Whiteside]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[North Lakes Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://northlakestoday.com.au/?page_id=14435</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Residents in North Lakes can help shape the future of Old Petrie Town as public consultation begins on a long-term plan for the historic village at Whiteside, moving beyond ongoing building repairs to consider how the precinct could be used in the years ahead.



Read: Old Petrie Town Revival Mirrors Petrie’s Changing Identity 





The consultation, which opened on 29 October 2026, will run until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, 27 November. Feedback will inform a draft structure plan covering the precinct's future uses, facilities, public spaces and opportunities for community activities.



North Lakes residents can complete the survey online or collect a printed copy from North Lakes Library. Council is also seeking feedback from existing businesses, community organisations and visitors who use the historic site.



The consultation marks a new stage in the revitalisation of Old Petrie Town, which has been undergoing building assessments and repairs since council assumed responsibility for managing the property in July 2025.



While restoration has focused on keeping existing buildings safe and usable, the latest planning process asks a broader question: how should the historic village function as Moreton Bay continues to grow?



From Building Repairs to Long-Term Planning



Old Petrie Town has been undergoing a gradual transition since council took over management from Y Queensland, which had operated the precinct for more than 25 years.



In June 2025, council endorsed a $2.5 million commitment towards revitalising Old Petrie Town, including improvements to ageing buildings and infrastructure. Restoration was to proceed in stages to minimise disruption to businesses, community groups and visitors.



Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay



Some buildings had deteriorated sufficiently to require closure, with work prioritised to address safety concerns while allowing other parts of the precinct to continue operating.



In May 2026, council announced that the Heritage Hotel and Function Centre would close for refurbishment following the retirement of long-term operator Peter Hempsall. At the same time, repairs to three vacant buildings were expected to be completed within three months.



Council's latest consultation confirms that building assessments and repairs remain under way while longer-term planning begins. The structure plan will provide a framework for considering how Old Petrie Town could be used and improved over time.



A Village Designed for More Than Sunday Markets



Old Petrie Town is known for its collection of historic buildings, weekly markets and museums, but the precinct also supports businesses, volunteer organisations and community activities throughout the year.



Its attractions include the Pine Rivers Heritage Museum, Queensland Fire Museum, Murrumba District Scout Museum and the Queensland Steam and Vintage Machinery Society.



The precinct also accommodates cafes, arts and gift businesses, clothing and wellness operators, alongside organisations that use the village for meetings, workshops and heritage activities.



Sunday markets remain one of its best-known attractions, drawing visitors for food stalls, local produce, entertainment and shopping within the historical setting.



Photo Credit: Old Petrie Town



Council's revitalisation ambitions extend beyond maintaining those established activities. Its consultation material identifies an opportunity to consider how the precinct could attract visitors at different times of the week while retaining its heritage and community functions.



However, any future changes must operate within the site's planning restrictions.



The Moreton Bay planning framework identifies Old Petrie Town as a place with a distinctive character and role. Council's current project material describes appropriate uses as including community facilities, recreation, open space, tourism, events and compatible commercial activities that support the precinct.



The consultation does not propose a residential redevelopment or identify a final set of new attractions.



Existing Businesses and Heritage Groups Part of the Discussion



The future of Old Petrie Town has been a concern for businesses and community organisations since the transition away from Y Queensland's management was first considered.



Before council assumed responsibility, questions had been raised about lease arrangements, building conditions and whether existing operators would be able to remain.



A council taskforce examined the site's management and infrastructure before recommending that Old Petrie Town continue to serve community purposes. Lease arrangements and safe use of existing facilities were among the matters considered during the transition.



Council subsequently committed to working through arrangements with commercial tenants and community organisations while proceeding with staged building improvements.



The latest consultation continues that engagement, with council confirming it is working directly with businesses and groups already based at the precinct.



Their involvement will form part of the broader planning process, particularly where future land uses, building improvements and public activities may affect how existing spaces operate.



Council has not identified specific tenancy changes or the removal of existing community facilities in its current consultation material. It says it is continuing to work with businesses and community groups already operating at Old Petrie Town.



Photo Credit: Old Petrie Town



Structure Plan Will Guide Future Development



The central outcome of the consultation will be a draft structure plan, rather than an immediate construction program.



A structure plan establishes a framework for how a precinct may develop over time. For Old Petrie Town, it could address land uses, pedestrian and vehicle movement, open spaces, infrastructure and principles for future improvements.



Council distinguishes this process from a master plan, which would show how an agreed planning framework might be translated into physical improvements. Further investigations, concept planning and detailed design would be required before specific projects could proceed.



No overall construction timetable or budget for improvements emerging from the new structure plan has been announced.



North Lakes Library Among Survey Collection Points



Residents have several ways to contribute before submissions close on 27 November.



The online survey is available through the Your Say Moreton Bay Old Petrie Town revitalisation project page. Participants must register for a free Your Say Moreton Bay account before completing the survey.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Printed surveys are available at North Lakes, Strathpine and Albany Creek libraries, providing an alternative for residents who prefer not to submit feedback online. Copies can also be obtained from the Strathpine Customer Service Centre.



Read: North Lakes Town Centre Wins Approval for Nine-Storey Hotel and Lifestyle Hub 



Council will also have a consultation presence at Moreton Bay Eco-Fest at the University of the Sunshine Coast's Petrie campus on Saturday, 7 November, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.



Written submissions can be emailed to yoursay@moretonbay.qld.gov.au or posted to the Community Engagement Team, City of Moreton Bay, Reply Paid 159, Caboolture Qld 4510.



Published 2-Nov-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Residents in North Lakes can help shape the future of Old Petrie Town as public consultation begins on a long-term plan for the historic village at Whiteside, moving beyond ongoing building repairs to consider how the precinct could be used in the years ahead.



Read: Old Petrie Town Revival Mirrors Petrie’s Changing Identity 





The consultation, which opened on 29 October 2026, will run until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, 27 November. Feedback will inform a draft structure plan covering the precinct's future uses, facilities, public spaces and opportunities for community activities.



North Lakes residents can complete the survey online or collect a printed copy from North Lakes Library. Council is also seeking feedback from existing businesses, community organisations and visitors who use the historic site.



The consultation marks a new stage in the revitalisation of Old Petrie Town, which has been undergoing building assessments and repairs since council assumed responsibility for managing the property in July 2025.



While restoration has focused on keeping existing buildings safe and usable, the latest planning process asks a broader question: how should the historic village function as Moreton Bay continues to grow?



From Building Repairs to Long-Term Planning



Old Petrie Town has been undergoing a gradual transition since council took over management from Y Queensland, which had operated the precinct for more than 25 years.



In June 2025, council endorsed a $2.5 million commitment towards revitalising Old Petrie Town, including improvements to ageing buildings and infrastructure. Restoration was to proceed in stages to minimise disruption to businesses, community groups and visitors.



Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay



Some buildings had deteriorated sufficiently to require closure, with work prioritised to address safety concerns while allowing other parts of the precinct to continue operating.



In May 2026, council announced that the Heritage Hotel and Function Centre would close for refurbishment following the retirement of long-term operator Peter Hempsall. At the same time, repairs to three vacant buildings were expected to be completed within three months.



Council's latest consultation confirms that building assessments and repairs remain under way while longer-term planning begins. The structure plan will provide a framework for considering how Old Petrie Town could be used and improved over time.



A Village Designed for More Than Sunday Markets



Old Petrie Town is known for its collection of historic buildings, weekly markets and museums, but the precinct also supports businesses, volunteer organisations and community activities throughout the year.



Its attractions include the Pine Rivers Heritage Museum, Queensland Fire Museum, Murrumba District Scout Museum and the Queensland Steam and Vintage Machinery Society.



The precinct also accommodates cafes, arts and gift businesses, clothing and wellness operators, alongside organisations that use the village for meetings, workshops and heritage activities.



Sunday markets remain one of its best-known attractions, drawing visitors for food stalls, local produce, entertainment and shopping within the historical setting.



Photo Credit: Old Petrie Town



Council's revitalisation ambitions extend beyond maintaining those established activities. Its consultation material identifies an opportunity to consider how the precinct could attract visitors at different times of the week while retaining its heritage and community functions.



However, any future changes must operate within the site's planning restrictions.



The Moreton Bay planning framework identifies Old Petrie Town as a place with a distinctive character and role. Council's current project material describes appropriate uses as including community facilities, recreation, open space, tourism, events and compatible commercial activities that support the precinct.



The consultation does not propose a residential redevelopment or identify a final set of new attractions.



Existing Businesses and Heritage Groups Part of the Discussion



The future of Old Petrie Town has been a concern for businesses and community organisations since the transition away from Y Queensland's management was first considered.



Before council assumed responsibility, questions had been raised about lease arrangements, building conditions and whether existing operators would be able to remain.



A council taskforce examined the site's management and infrastructure before recommending that Old Petrie Town continue to serve community purposes. Lease arrangements and safe use of existing facilities were among the matters considered during the transition.



Council subsequently committed to working through arrangements with commercial tenants and community organisations while proceeding with staged building improvements.



The latest consultation continues that engagement, with council confirming it is working directly with businesses and groups already based at the precinct.



Their involvement will form part of the broader planning process, particularly where future land uses, building improvements and public activities may affect how existing spaces operate.



Council has not identified specific tenancy changes or the removal of existing community facilities in its current consultation material. It says it is continuing to work with businesses and community groups already operating at Old Petrie Town.



Photo Credit: Old Petrie Town



Structure Plan Will Guide Future Development



The central outcome of the consultation will be a draft structure plan, rather than an immediate construction program.



A structure plan establishes a framework for how a precinct may develop over time. For Old Petrie Town, it could address land uses, pedestrian and vehicle movement, open spaces, infrastructure and principles for future improvements.



Council distinguishes this process from a master plan, which would show how an agreed planning framework might be translated into physical improvements. Further investigations, concept planning and detailed design would be required before specific projects could proceed.



No overall construction timetable or budget for improvements emerging from the new structure plan has been announced.



North Lakes Library Among Survey Collection Points



Residents have several ways to contribute before submissions close on 27 November.



The online survey is available through the Your Say Moreton Bay Old Petrie Town revitalisation project page. Participants must register for a free Your Say Moreton Bay account before completing the survey.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Printed surveys are available at North Lakes, Strathpine and Albany Creek libraries, providing an alternative for residents who prefer not to submit feedback online. Copies can also be obtained from the Strathpine Customer Service Centre.



Read: North Lakes Town Centre Wins Approval for Nine-Storey Hotel and Lifestyle Hub 



Council will also have a consultation presence at Moreton Bay Eco-Fest at the University of the Sunshine Coast's Petrie campus on Saturday, 7 November, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.



Written submissions can be emailed to yoursay@moretonbay.qld.gov.au or posted to the Community Engagement Team, City of Moreton Bay, Reply Paid 159, Caboolture Qld 4510.



Published 2-Nov-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Nathan Road Upgrade to Improve Safety and Access in Rothwell]]></title>
<link>https://northlakestoday.com.au/nathan-road-upgrade-rothwell</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 30 Oct 2026 03:49:08 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay road projects]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nathan Road roadworks]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nathan Road Sports Ground]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rothwell cycling infrastructure]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rothwell road upgrade]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[North Lakes Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://northlakestoday.com.au/?page_id=14424</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A busy stretch of Nathan Road in Rothwell is set for an upgrade, with new road, cycling, and pedestrian infrastructure planned between Lakeview Promenade and Pegasus Street.







Read: Major Anzac Avenue Resurfacing Project to Begin in Mango Hill and Rothwell







The project will widen the road and improve access to the Nathan Road Sports Ground, while also preparing infrastructure for the next stage of the sporting precinct's redevelopment. The works are intended to improve safety for different road users as traffic demands increase in the area.



New Facilities for Road Users



Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay



The planned design includes new pavement and a wider road cross-section that will connect with adjoining sections of Nathan Road. One traffic lane will run in each direction, alongside on-road cycle lanes.



Kerbside parking and a pathway are also planned along the frontage of the sports ground. Channelised turning lanes will provide access into the sporting precinct, while a pedestrian refuge near Pegasus Street will give people a designated place to cross the road in stages.



Wildlife protection is another part of the upgrade. Fauna fencing is included in the city's published project scope to help protect animals in the area. The combination of road improvements, cycling infrastructure and pedestrian facilities is intended to cater for different types of road users along this section of Nathan Road.



Early Works for Sports Ground Expansion



Photo credit: Google Maps/Ryan



The project will also include preliminary infrastructure for the second stage of the Nathan Road Sports Ground redevelopment, preparing the precinct for future sporting facilities.



The planned works include earthmoving for future playing fields and a new clubhouse, along with stormwater drainage and service conduit installation. Temporary sediment and erosion controls will be used during construction, and the project scope includes an expanded car park.





  Nathan Road Upgrade at a Glance
  
    Location
    Nathan Road, Rothwell, between Lakeview Promenade and Pegasus Street

    Road design
    One traffic lane and one on-road cycle lane in each direction

    Pedestrian access
    Pathway and pedestrian refuge near Pegasus Street

    Sports ground works
    Preparation for future playing fields, a clubhouse and expanded car parking

    Wildlife protection
    Fauna fencing is included in the published project scope

    Construction dates
    Mid-2026 to late 2027
  



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The City of Moreton Bay has identified the early works as a benefit for the Redcliffe Tigers AFL club. However, the available project information does not specify when the future fields and clubhouse will be completed or open for use.



The combined scope means the road upgrade will involve more than changes to traffic lanes and pedestrian access. It will also prepare parts of the sporting precinct for further development.



Construction Expected Before Christmas



Construction on the Nathan Road upgrade is expected to start before Christmas 2026, with work anticipated to continue into mid-2027.



The City of Moreton Bay's project page lists late 2027 as the estimated completion date. The mid-2027 timeframe refers to the expected construction period reported for the works, while late 2027 remains the city's published estimate for completion.



Further details about construction staging and temporary traffic arrangements have not been confirmed in the available project information. These details will be important for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians travelling through the area while work is underway.







Read: Rothwell Welcomes New Homemaker Centre After Approval







Once completed, the upgraded section is expected to include dedicated cycle lanes, a pathway, a pedestrian refuge and improved vehicle access around the sports ground. Fauna fencing is also included in the city's published project scope.



Published 30-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A busy stretch of Nathan Road in Rothwell is set for an upgrade, with new road, cycling, and pedestrian infrastructure planned between Lakeview Promenade and Pegasus Street.







Read: Major Anzac Avenue Resurfacing Project to Begin in Mango Hill and Rothwell







The project will widen the road and improve access to the Nathan Road Sports Ground, while also preparing infrastructure for the next stage of the sporting precinct's redevelopment. The works are intended to improve safety for different road users as traffic demands increase in the area.



New Facilities for Road Users



Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay



The planned design includes new pavement and a wider road cross-section that will connect with adjoining sections of Nathan Road. One traffic lane will run in each direction, alongside on-road cycle lanes.



Kerbside parking and a pathway are also planned along the frontage of the sports ground. Channelised turning lanes will provide access into the sporting precinct, while a pedestrian refuge near Pegasus Street will give people a designated place to cross the road in stages.



Wildlife protection is another part of the upgrade. Fauna fencing is included in the city's published project scope to help protect animals in the area. The combination of road improvements, cycling infrastructure and pedestrian facilities is intended to cater for different types of road users along this section of Nathan Road.



Early Works for Sports Ground Expansion



Photo credit: Google Maps/Ryan



The project will also include preliminary infrastructure for the second stage of the Nathan Road Sports Ground redevelopment, preparing the precinct for future sporting facilities.



The planned works include earthmoving for future playing fields and a new clubhouse, along with stormwater drainage and service conduit installation. Temporary sediment and erosion controls will be used during construction, and the project scope includes an expanded car park.





  Nathan Road Upgrade at a Glance
  
    Location
    Nathan Road, Rothwell, between Lakeview Promenade and Pegasus Street

    Road design
    One traffic lane and one on-road cycle lane in each direction

    Pedestrian access
    Pathway and pedestrian refuge near Pegasus Street

    Sports ground works
    Preparation for future playing fields, a clubhouse and expanded car parking

    Wildlife protection
    Fauna fencing is included in the published project scope

    Construction dates
    Mid-2026 to late 2027
  



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The City of Moreton Bay has identified the early works as a benefit for the Redcliffe Tigers AFL club. However, the available project information does not specify when the future fields and clubhouse will be completed or open for use.



The combined scope means the road upgrade will involve more than changes to traffic lanes and pedestrian access. It will also prepare parts of the sporting precinct for further development.



Construction Expected Before Christmas



Construction on the Nathan Road upgrade is expected to start before Christmas 2026, with work anticipated to continue into mid-2027.



The City of Moreton Bay's project page lists late 2027 as the estimated completion date. The mid-2027 timeframe refers to the expected construction period reported for the works, while late 2027 remains the city's published estimate for completion.



Further details about construction staging and temporary traffic arrangements have not been confirmed in the available project information. These details will be important for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians travelling through the area while work is underway.







Read: Rothwell Welcomes New Homemaker Centre After Approval







Once completed, the upgraded section is expected to include dedicated cycle lanes, a pathway, a pedestrian refuge and improved vehicle access around the sports ground. Fauna fencing is also included in the city's published project scope.



Published 30-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Moreton Bay Mosquito Control Targets 14 Areas From Redcliffe to Bribie Island]]></title>
<link>https://northlakestoday.com.au/moreton-bay-mosquito-control-treatment-areas-2026/moreton-bay-mosquito-control-treatment-areas-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2026 05:15:41 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[North Lakes Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://northlakestoday.com.au/moreton-bay-mosquito-control-treatment-areas-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Mosquito treatments across Moreton Bay are targeting breeding hotspots from the Redcliffe Peninsula to Bribie Island, with helicopters assigned to designated wetland areas and ground crews managing mosquito activity in public spaces. The seasonal program includes parts of 14 suburbs and localities, while inland communities such as Samford Valley and Albany Creek face different mosquito breeding conditions.



The&nbsp;program&nbsp;runs&nbsp;from&nbsp;September&nbsp;2026&nbsp;to&nbsp;April&nbsp;2027,&nbsp;with&nbsp;additional&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;planned&nbsp;when&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;activity&nbsp;increases.&nbsp;Recent&nbsp;heavy&nbsp;rainfall&nbsp;has&nbsp;added&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;potential&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;conditions,&nbsp;with&nbsp;parts&nbsp;of&nbsp;central&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay&nbsp;recording&nbsp;more&nbsp;than&nbsp;100&nbsp;mm&nbsp;in&nbsp;approximately&nbsp;three&nbsp;hours&nbsp;on&nbsp;22&nbsp;October,&nbsp;according&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;City&nbsp;of&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay.&nbsp;



Coastal&nbsp;wetlands&nbsp;account&nbsp;for&nbsp;much&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;area



The&nbsp;City&nbsp;of&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay's&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;management&nbsp;program&nbsp;identifies&nbsp;designated&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;areas&nbsp;in&nbsp;Clontarf,&nbsp;Kippa-Ring&nbsp;and&nbsp;Rothwell&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Redcliffe&nbsp;Peninsula,&nbsp;along&nbsp;with&nbsp;Griffin,&nbsp;Mango&nbsp;Hill,&nbsp;Lawnton&nbsp;and&nbsp;Deception&nbsp;Bay.



Further&nbsp;north,&nbsp;the&nbsp;program&nbsp;includes&nbsp;parts&nbsp;of&nbsp;Beachmere,&nbsp;Burpengary&nbsp;East,&nbsp;Donnybrook,&nbsp;Elimbah,&nbsp;Ningi&nbsp;and&nbsp;Toorbul,&nbsp;as&nbsp;well&nbsp;as&nbsp;Bribie&nbsp;Island.&nbsp;Helicopter&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;focus&nbsp;on&nbsp;intertidal&nbsp;wetlands&nbsp;and&nbsp;mangrove&nbsp;environments&nbsp;where&nbsp;saltmarsh&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;larvae&nbsp;develop.



Hays&nbsp;Inlet&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;coastal&nbsp;wetlands&nbsp;around&nbsp;Griffin,&nbsp;Mango&nbsp;Hill,&nbsp;Beachmere&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bribie&nbsp;Island&nbsp;are&nbsp;among&nbsp;the&nbsp;region's&nbsp;recognised&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;habitats.&nbsp;Aerial&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;cover&nbsp;designated&nbsp;sections&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;listed&nbsp;suburbs&nbsp;rather&nbsp;than&nbsp;entire&nbsp;residential&nbsp;neighbourhoods.&nbsp;



Inland&nbsp;communities&nbsp;face&nbsp;different&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;conditions



Inland&nbsp;communities&nbsp;such&nbsp;as&nbsp;Samford&nbsp;Valley,&nbsp;Samford&nbsp;Village,&nbsp;Mount&nbsp;Samson,&nbsp;Albany&nbsp;Creek,&nbsp;Eatons&nbsp;Hill,&nbsp;Cashmere,&nbsp;Arana&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ferny&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;can&nbsp;also&nbsp;experience&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;where&nbsp;rainwater&nbsp;accumulates.



Freshwater&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;can&nbsp;develop&nbsp;in&nbsp;pooled&nbsp;water&nbsp;beside&nbsp;roads,&nbsp;within&nbsp;parks&nbsp;and&nbsp;reserves,&nbsp;and&nbsp;around&nbsp;residential&nbsp;properties.&nbsp;Containers&nbsp;left&nbsp;outdoors,&nbsp;blocked&nbsp;gutters&nbsp;and&nbsp;poorly&nbsp;screened&nbsp;rainwater&nbsp;tanks&nbsp;provide&nbsp;additional&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;sites.



Council's&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;management&nbsp;program&nbsp;includes&nbsp;monitoring&nbsp;and&nbsp;targeted&nbsp;ground&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;in&nbsp;public&nbsp;spaces,&nbsp;but&nbsp;the&nbsp;inland&nbsp;communities&nbsp;listed&nbsp;above&nbsp;are&nbsp;not&nbsp;among&nbsp;the&nbsp;14&nbsp;designated&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;locations.&nbsp;No&nbsp;specific&nbsp;ground-treatment&nbsp;schedule&nbsp;has&nbsp;been&nbsp;confirmed&nbsp;for&nbsp;those&nbsp;communities.





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    Where Mosquito Management Applies Across Moreton Bay
  

  
    SEPTEMBER 2026 – APRIL 2027
  

  Designated aerial treatment areas

  
    Council identifies parts of the following
    14 suburbs and localities for seasonal
    helicopter treatments targeting mosquito larvae.
  

  
    
      
        
          District
          Locations
        
      
      
        
          Redcliffe Peninsula
          Clontarf, Kippa-Ring, Rothwell
        
        
          Southern Moreton Bay
          Griffin, Mango Hill, Lawnton
        
        
          Deception Bay district
          Deception Bay
        
        
          Northern coastal communities
          
            Beachmere, Burpengary East,
            Donnybrook, Elimbah, Ningi, Toorbul
          
        
        
          Bribie Island
          Bribie Island
        
      
    
  

  Inland communities — mosquito prevention

  
    Freshwater mosquitoes can breed in standing
    water after rainfall, including in the
    following communities.
  

  
    
      
        
          District
          Communities
        
      
      
        
          Samford district
          
            Samford Valley, Samford Village,
            Mount Samson
          
        
        
          Albany Creek district
          
            Albany Creek, Eatons Hill, Cashmere
          
        
        
          Hills district
          Arana Hills, Ferny Hills
        
      
    
  

  
    The inland locations are examples of communities
    where mosquito prevention is relevant. They are
    not confirmed aerial treatment areas, and
    specific ground treatments have not been
    announced for them.
  

  How treatments work

  
    
      Aerial treatments:
      Helicopter-applied larvicides target mosquito
      larvae in designated wetland habitats.
    
    
      Ground treatments:
      Targeted larval control, fogging and barrier
      spraying are used in public areas where required.
    
    
      Household prevention:
      Residents can remove standing water, maintain
      pools and tanks, and use screens and
      insect repellent.
    
  

  
    Treatment dates depend on tidal conditions,
    rainfall, wind and mosquito activity.
    Inclusion in a designated treatment area
    does not mean an entire suburb is sprayed.
  

  
    Source:
    
      City of Moreton Bay mosquito management program
    
  






Rainfall&nbsp;and&nbsp;high&nbsp;tides&nbsp;influence&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;schedules



Saltmarsh&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;is&nbsp;closely&nbsp;linked&nbsp;to&nbsp;rainfall&nbsp;and&nbsp;tidal&nbsp;conditions.&nbsp;Council&nbsp;identifies&nbsp;tides&nbsp;above&nbsp;2.45&nbsp;metres&nbsp;as&nbsp;one&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;triggers&nbsp;for&nbsp;larvae&nbsp;to&nbsp;develop&nbsp;in&nbsp;coastal&nbsp;habitats,&nbsp;with&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;operations&nbsp;planned&nbsp;around&nbsp;predicted&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;cycles.



Weather&nbsp;conditions&nbsp;also&nbsp;determine&nbsp;when&nbsp;helicopters&nbsp;can&nbsp;operate.&nbsp;Wind&nbsp;and&nbsp;rain&nbsp;can&nbsp;affect&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;success,&nbsp;while&nbsp;additional&nbsp;work&nbsp;may&nbsp;be&nbsp;scheduled&nbsp;when&nbsp;monitoring&nbsp;identifies&nbsp;increased&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;activity.



The&nbsp;recent&nbsp;wet&nbsp;weather&nbsp;provides&nbsp;favourable&nbsp;conditions&nbsp;for&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding,&nbsp;particularly&nbsp;where&nbsp;water&nbsp;remains&nbsp;after&nbsp;storms.&nbsp;Queensland&nbsp;Health&nbsp;warns&nbsp;that&nbsp;heavy&nbsp;rainfall&nbsp;and&nbsp;flooding&nbsp;can&nbsp;increase&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;numbers,&nbsp;although&nbsp;no&nbsp;specific&nbsp;surge&nbsp;following&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay's&nbsp;October&nbsp;storms&nbsp;has&nbsp;been&nbsp;established.&nbsp;



Helicopters&nbsp;and&nbsp;ground&nbsp;crews&nbsp;use&nbsp;different&nbsp;treatments



Aerial&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;use&nbsp;larvicides&nbsp;containing&nbsp;Bacillus&nbsp;thuringiensis&nbsp;israelensis&nbsp;(Bti)&nbsp;or&nbsp;S-methoprene&nbsp;to&nbsp;control&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;larvae&nbsp;in&nbsp;aquatic&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;areas.&nbsp;Bti&nbsp;acts&nbsp;on&nbsp;larvae&nbsp;when&nbsp;ingested,&nbsp;while&nbsp;S-methoprene&nbsp;interferes&nbsp;with&nbsp;their&nbsp;development&nbsp;before&nbsp;they&nbsp;emerge&nbsp;as&nbsp;adults.



Ground&nbsp;crews&nbsp;use&nbsp;separate&nbsp;treatments,&nbsp;including&nbsp;applications&nbsp;to&nbsp;pooled&nbsp;water&nbsp;and&nbsp;targeted&nbsp;fogging&nbsp;or&nbsp;barrier&nbsp;spraying&nbsp;against&nbsp;adult&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;in&nbsp;public&nbsp;areas.&nbsp;Council&nbsp;identifies&nbsp;phenothrin&nbsp;as&nbsp;the&nbsp;active&nbsp;ingredient&nbsp;used&nbsp;for&nbsp;fogging&nbsp;and&nbsp;bifenthrin&nbsp;for&nbsp;barrier&nbsp;treatments.



Unlike&nbsp;the&nbsp;larvicides&nbsp;used&nbsp;in&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;operations,&nbsp;adult&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;insecticides&nbsp;can&nbsp;also&nbsp;affect&nbsp;other&nbsp;insects.&nbsp;Council&nbsp;says&nbsp;ground&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;are&nbsp;concentrated&nbsp;in&nbsp;identified&nbsp;hotspots,&nbsp;with&nbsp;crews&nbsp;avoiding&nbsp;flowering&nbsp;plants&nbsp;and&nbsp;selecting&nbsp;application&nbsp;times&nbsp;intended&nbsp;to&nbsp;reduce&nbsp;impacts&nbsp;on&nbsp;non-target&nbsp;species.&nbsp;



Mayor&nbsp;Peter&nbsp;Flannery&nbsp;said&nbsp;the&nbsp;annual&nbsp;program&nbsp;aimed&nbsp;to&nbsp;reduce&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;bites&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;risk&nbsp;of&nbsp;mosquito-borne&nbsp;viruses.&nbsp;He&nbsp;also&nbsp;encouraged&nbsp;residents&nbsp;to&nbsp;address&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;sites&nbsp;around&nbsp;their&nbsp;homes&nbsp;while&nbsp;Council&nbsp;managed&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;in&nbsp;public&nbsp;areas&nbsp;and&nbsp;natural&nbsp;habitats.



Mosquito-borne&nbsp;viruses&nbsp;remain&nbsp;a&nbsp;public&nbsp;health&nbsp;concern



Ross&nbsp;River&nbsp;virus&nbsp;and&nbsp;Barmah&nbsp;Forest&nbsp;virus&nbsp;are&nbsp;among&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;common&nbsp;mosquito-borne&nbsp;diseases&nbsp;in&nbsp;Queensland.&nbsp;Both&nbsp;are&nbsp;transmitted&nbsp;through&nbsp;infected&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;bites&nbsp;and&nbsp;can&nbsp;cause&nbsp;fever,&nbsp;headaches,&nbsp;joint&nbsp;or&nbsp;muscle&nbsp;pain,&nbsp;fatigue&nbsp;and&nbsp;skin&nbsp;rashes.



Some&nbsp;people&nbsp;experience&nbsp;prolonged&nbsp;symptoms,&nbsp;particularly&nbsp;joint&nbsp;discomfort&nbsp;associated&nbsp;with&nbsp;Ross&nbsp;River&nbsp;virus.&nbsp;Metro&nbsp;North&nbsp;Health&nbsp;advises&nbsp;people&nbsp;experiencing&nbsp;symptoms&nbsp;to&nbsp;seek&nbsp;medical&nbsp;assessment.&nbsp;The&nbsp;seasonal&nbsp;control&nbsp;program&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;preventive&nbsp;measure,&nbsp;with&nbsp;no&nbsp;new&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay&nbsp;outbreak&nbsp;established&nbsp;by&nbsp;the&nbsp;available&nbsp;information.&nbsp;



Queensland&nbsp;Health&nbsp;recommends&nbsp;using&nbsp;insect&nbsp;repellent&nbsp;containing&nbsp;DEET&nbsp;or&nbsp;picaridin,&nbsp;wearing&nbsp;loose,&nbsp;light-coloured&nbsp;protective&nbsp;clothing&nbsp;and&nbsp;checking&nbsp;household&nbsp;insect&nbsp;screens.&nbsp;Protection&nbsp;is&nbsp;particularly&nbsp;important&nbsp;around&nbsp;dawn&nbsp;and&nbsp;dusk,&nbsp;when&nbsp;many&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;are&nbsp;active.



Standing&nbsp;water&nbsp;around&nbsp;homes&nbsp;remains&nbsp;a&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;risk



Residents&nbsp;can&nbsp;reduce&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;by&nbsp;emptying&nbsp;outdoor&nbsp;containers,&nbsp;clearing&nbsp;blocked&nbsp;gutters&nbsp;and&nbsp;regularly&nbsp;replacing&nbsp;water&nbsp;in&nbsp;pet&nbsp;bowls&nbsp;and&nbsp;bird&nbsp;baths.&nbsp;Swimming&nbsp;pools&nbsp;should&nbsp;remain&nbsp;properly&nbsp;chlorinated,&nbsp;while&nbsp;rainwater&nbsp;tanks&nbsp;need&nbsp;securely&nbsp;fitted&nbsp;mosquito-proof&nbsp;screens.



Garden&nbsp;ponds&nbsp;can&nbsp;be&nbsp;maintained&nbsp;with&nbsp;suitable&nbsp;fish&nbsp;that&nbsp;feed&nbsp;on&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;larvae,&nbsp;while&nbsp;native&nbsp;plants&nbsp;and&nbsp;sheltered&nbsp;areas&nbsp;can&nbsp;support&nbsp;frogs&nbsp;and&nbsp;other&nbsp;insect&nbsp;predators.&nbsp;Water&nbsp;features&nbsp;still&nbsp;require&nbsp;maintenance&nbsp;to&nbsp;prevent&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;from&nbsp;breeding.



Council's&nbsp;seasonal&nbsp;program&nbsp;will&nbsp;continue&nbsp;through&nbsp;April&nbsp;2027,&nbsp;with&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;timing&nbsp;dependent&nbsp;on&nbsp;tides,&nbsp;rainfall&nbsp;and&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;activity.&nbsp;Residents&nbsp;can&nbsp;check&nbsp;completed&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;records&nbsp;or&nbsp;report&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;through&nbsp;the&nbsp;Council&nbsp;website.&nbsp;



Published 26-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Mosquito treatments across Moreton Bay are targeting breeding hotspots from the Redcliffe Peninsula to Bribie Island, with helicopters assigned to designated wetland areas and ground crews managing mosquito activity in public spaces. The seasonal program includes parts of 14 suburbs and localities, while inland communities such as Samford Valley and Albany Creek face different mosquito breeding conditions.



The&nbsp;program&nbsp;runs&nbsp;from&nbsp;September&nbsp;2026&nbsp;to&nbsp;April&nbsp;2027,&nbsp;with&nbsp;additional&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;planned&nbsp;when&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;activity&nbsp;increases.&nbsp;Recent&nbsp;heavy&nbsp;rainfall&nbsp;has&nbsp;added&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;potential&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;conditions,&nbsp;with&nbsp;parts&nbsp;of&nbsp;central&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay&nbsp;recording&nbsp;more&nbsp;than&nbsp;100&nbsp;mm&nbsp;in&nbsp;approximately&nbsp;three&nbsp;hours&nbsp;on&nbsp;22&nbsp;October,&nbsp;according&nbsp;to&nbsp;the&nbsp;City&nbsp;of&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay.&nbsp;



Coastal&nbsp;wetlands&nbsp;account&nbsp;for&nbsp;much&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;area



The&nbsp;City&nbsp;of&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay's&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;management&nbsp;program&nbsp;identifies&nbsp;designated&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;areas&nbsp;in&nbsp;Clontarf,&nbsp;Kippa-Ring&nbsp;and&nbsp;Rothwell&nbsp;on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Redcliffe&nbsp;Peninsula,&nbsp;along&nbsp;with&nbsp;Griffin,&nbsp;Mango&nbsp;Hill,&nbsp;Lawnton&nbsp;and&nbsp;Deception&nbsp;Bay.



Further&nbsp;north,&nbsp;the&nbsp;program&nbsp;includes&nbsp;parts&nbsp;of&nbsp;Beachmere,&nbsp;Burpengary&nbsp;East,&nbsp;Donnybrook,&nbsp;Elimbah,&nbsp;Ningi&nbsp;and&nbsp;Toorbul,&nbsp;as&nbsp;well&nbsp;as&nbsp;Bribie&nbsp;Island.&nbsp;Helicopter&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;focus&nbsp;on&nbsp;intertidal&nbsp;wetlands&nbsp;and&nbsp;mangrove&nbsp;environments&nbsp;where&nbsp;saltmarsh&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;larvae&nbsp;develop.



Hays&nbsp;Inlet&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;coastal&nbsp;wetlands&nbsp;around&nbsp;Griffin,&nbsp;Mango&nbsp;Hill,&nbsp;Beachmere&nbsp;and&nbsp;Bribie&nbsp;Island&nbsp;are&nbsp;among&nbsp;the&nbsp;region's&nbsp;recognised&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;habitats.&nbsp;Aerial&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;cover&nbsp;designated&nbsp;sections&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;listed&nbsp;suburbs&nbsp;rather&nbsp;than&nbsp;entire&nbsp;residential&nbsp;neighbourhoods.&nbsp;



Inland&nbsp;communities&nbsp;face&nbsp;different&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;conditions



Inland&nbsp;communities&nbsp;such&nbsp;as&nbsp;Samford&nbsp;Valley,&nbsp;Samford&nbsp;Village,&nbsp;Mount&nbsp;Samson,&nbsp;Albany&nbsp;Creek,&nbsp;Eatons&nbsp;Hill,&nbsp;Cashmere,&nbsp;Arana&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;and&nbsp;Ferny&nbsp;Hills&nbsp;can&nbsp;also&nbsp;experience&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;where&nbsp;rainwater&nbsp;accumulates.



Freshwater&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;can&nbsp;develop&nbsp;in&nbsp;pooled&nbsp;water&nbsp;beside&nbsp;roads,&nbsp;within&nbsp;parks&nbsp;and&nbsp;reserves,&nbsp;and&nbsp;around&nbsp;residential&nbsp;properties.&nbsp;Containers&nbsp;left&nbsp;outdoors,&nbsp;blocked&nbsp;gutters&nbsp;and&nbsp;poorly&nbsp;screened&nbsp;rainwater&nbsp;tanks&nbsp;provide&nbsp;additional&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;sites.



Council's&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;management&nbsp;program&nbsp;includes&nbsp;monitoring&nbsp;and&nbsp;targeted&nbsp;ground&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;in&nbsp;public&nbsp;spaces,&nbsp;but&nbsp;the&nbsp;inland&nbsp;communities&nbsp;listed&nbsp;above&nbsp;are&nbsp;not&nbsp;among&nbsp;the&nbsp;14&nbsp;designated&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;locations.&nbsp;No&nbsp;specific&nbsp;ground-treatment&nbsp;schedule&nbsp;has&nbsp;been&nbsp;confirmed&nbsp;for&nbsp;those&nbsp;communities.





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    Where Mosquito Management Applies Across Moreton Bay
  

  
    SEPTEMBER 2026 – APRIL 2027
  

  Designated aerial treatment areas

  
    Council identifies parts of the following
    14 suburbs and localities for seasonal
    helicopter treatments targeting mosquito larvae.
  

  
    
      
        
          District
          Locations
        
      
      
        
          Redcliffe Peninsula
          Clontarf, Kippa-Ring, Rothwell
        
        
          Southern Moreton Bay
          Griffin, Mango Hill, Lawnton
        
        
          Deception Bay district
          Deception Bay
        
        
          Northern coastal communities
          
            Beachmere, Burpengary East,
            Donnybrook, Elimbah, Ningi, Toorbul
          
        
        
          Bribie Island
          Bribie Island
        
      
    
  

  Inland communities — mosquito prevention

  
    Freshwater mosquitoes can breed in standing
    water after rainfall, including in the
    following communities.
  

  
    
      
        
          District
          Communities
        
      
      
        
          Samford district
          
            Samford Valley, Samford Village,
            Mount Samson
          
        
        
          Albany Creek district
          
            Albany Creek, Eatons Hill, Cashmere
          
        
        
          Hills district
          Arana Hills, Ferny Hills
        
      
    
  

  
    The inland locations are examples of communities
    where mosquito prevention is relevant. They are
    not confirmed aerial treatment areas, and
    specific ground treatments have not been
    announced for them.
  

  How treatments work

  
    
      Aerial treatments:
      Helicopter-applied larvicides target mosquito
      larvae in designated wetland habitats.
    
    
      Ground treatments:
      Targeted larval control, fogging and barrier
      spraying are used in public areas where required.
    
    
      Household prevention:
      Residents can remove standing water, maintain
      pools and tanks, and use screens and
      insect repellent.
    
  

  
    Treatment dates depend on tidal conditions,
    rainfall, wind and mosquito activity.
    Inclusion in a designated treatment area
    does not mean an entire suburb is sprayed.
  

  
    Source:
    
      City of Moreton Bay mosquito management program
    
  






Rainfall&nbsp;and&nbsp;high&nbsp;tides&nbsp;influence&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;schedules



Saltmarsh&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;is&nbsp;closely&nbsp;linked&nbsp;to&nbsp;rainfall&nbsp;and&nbsp;tidal&nbsp;conditions.&nbsp;Council&nbsp;identifies&nbsp;tides&nbsp;above&nbsp;2.45&nbsp;metres&nbsp;as&nbsp;one&nbsp;of&nbsp;the&nbsp;triggers&nbsp;for&nbsp;larvae&nbsp;to&nbsp;develop&nbsp;in&nbsp;coastal&nbsp;habitats,&nbsp;with&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;operations&nbsp;planned&nbsp;around&nbsp;predicted&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;cycles.



Weather&nbsp;conditions&nbsp;also&nbsp;determine&nbsp;when&nbsp;helicopters&nbsp;can&nbsp;operate.&nbsp;Wind&nbsp;and&nbsp;rain&nbsp;can&nbsp;affect&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;success,&nbsp;while&nbsp;additional&nbsp;work&nbsp;may&nbsp;be&nbsp;scheduled&nbsp;when&nbsp;monitoring&nbsp;identifies&nbsp;increased&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;activity.



The&nbsp;recent&nbsp;wet&nbsp;weather&nbsp;provides&nbsp;favourable&nbsp;conditions&nbsp;for&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding,&nbsp;particularly&nbsp;where&nbsp;water&nbsp;remains&nbsp;after&nbsp;storms.&nbsp;Queensland&nbsp;Health&nbsp;warns&nbsp;that&nbsp;heavy&nbsp;rainfall&nbsp;and&nbsp;flooding&nbsp;can&nbsp;increase&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;numbers,&nbsp;although&nbsp;no&nbsp;specific&nbsp;surge&nbsp;following&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay's&nbsp;October&nbsp;storms&nbsp;has&nbsp;been&nbsp;established.&nbsp;



Helicopters&nbsp;and&nbsp;ground&nbsp;crews&nbsp;use&nbsp;different&nbsp;treatments



Aerial&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;use&nbsp;larvicides&nbsp;containing&nbsp;Bacillus&nbsp;thuringiensis&nbsp;israelensis&nbsp;(Bti)&nbsp;or&nbsp;S-methoprene&nbsp;to&nbsp;control&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;larvae&nbsp;in&nbsp;aquatic&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;areas.&nbsp;Bti&nbsp;acts&nbsp;on&nbsp;larvae&nbsp;when&nbsp;ingested,&nbsp;while&nbsp;S-methoprene&nbsp;interferes&nbsp;with&nbsp;their&nbsp;development&nbsp;before&nbsp;they&nbsp;emerge&nbsp;as&nbsp;adults.



Ground&nbsp;crews&nbsp;use&nbsp;separate&nbsp;treatments,&nbsp;including&nbsp;applications&nbsp;to&nbsp;pooled&nbsp;water&nbsp;and&nbsp;targeted&nbsp;fogging&nbsp;or&nbsp;barrier&nbsp;spraying&nbsp;against&nbsp;adult&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;in&nbsp;public&nbsp;areas.&nbsp;Council&nbsp;identifies&nbsp;phenothrin&nbsp;as&nbsp;the&nbsp;active&nbsp;ingredient&nbsp;used&nbsp;for&nbsp;fogging&nbsp;and&nbsp;bifenthrin&nbsp;for&nbsp;barrier&nbsp;treatments.



Unlike&nbsp;the&nbsp;larvicides&nbsp;used&nbsp;in&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;operations,&nbsp;adult&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;insecticides&nbsp;can&nbsp;also&nbsp;affect&nbsp;other&nbsp;insects.&nbsp;Council&nbsp;says&nbsp;ground&nbsp;treatments&nbsp;are&nbsp;concentrated&nbsp;in&nbsp;identified&nbsp;hotspots,&nbsp;with&nbsp;crews&nbsp;avoiding&nbsp;flowering&nbsp;plants&nbsp;and&nbsp;selecting&nbsp;application&nbsp;times&nbsp;intended&nbsp;to&nbsp;reduce&nbsp;impacts&nbsp;on&nbsp;non-target&nbsp;species.&nbsp;



Mayor&nbsp;Peter&nbsp;Flannery&nbsp;said&nbsp;the&nbsp;annual&nbsp;program&nbsp;aimed&nbsp;to&nbsp;reduce&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;bites&nbsp;and&nbsp;the&nbsp;risk&nbsp;of&nbsp;mosquito-borne&nbsp;viruses.&nbsp;He&nbsp;also&nbsp;encouraged&nbsp;residents&nbsp;to&nbsp;address&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;sites&nbsp;around&nbsp;their&nbsp;homes&nbsp;while&nbsp;Council&nbsp;managed&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;in&nbsp;public&nbsp;areas&nbsp;and&nbsp;natural&nbsp;habitats.



Mosquito-borne&nbsp;viruses&nbsp;remain&nbsp;a&nbsp;public&nbsp;health&nbsp;concern



Ross&nbsp;River&nbsp;virus&nbsp;and&nbsp;Barmah&nbsp;Forest&nbsp;virus&nbsp;are&nbsp;among&nbsp;the&nbsp;most&nbsp;common&nbsp;mosquito-borne&nbsp;diseases&nbsp;in&nbsp;Queensland.&nbsp;Both&nbsp;are&nbsp;transmitted&nbsp;through&nbsp;infected&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;bites&nbsp;and&nbsp;can&nbsp;cause&nbsp;fever,&nbsp;headaches,&nbsp;joint&nbsp;or&nbsp;muscle&nbsp;pain,&nbsp;fatigue&nbsp;and&nbsp;skin&nbsp;rashes.



Some&nbsp;people&nbsp;experience&nbsp;prolonged&nbsp;symptoms,&nbsp;particularly&nbsp;joint&nbsp;discomfort&nbsp;associated&nbsp;with&nbsp;Ross&nbsp;River&nbsp;virus.&nbsp;Metro&nbsp;North&nbsp;Health&nbsp;advises&nbsp;people&nbsp;experiencing&nbsp;symptoms&nbsp;to&nbsp;seek&nbsp;medical&nbsp;assessment.&nbsp;The&nbsp;seasonal&nbsp;control&nbsp;program&nbsp;is&nbsp;a&nbsp;preventive&nbsp;measure,&nbsp;with&nbsp;no&nbsp;new&nbsp;Moreton&nbsp;Bay&nbsp;outbreak&nbsp;established&nbsp;by&nbsp;the&nbsp;available&nbsp;information.&nbsp;



Queensland&nbsp;Health&nbsp;recommends&nbsp;using&nbsp;insect&nbsp;repellent&nbsp;containing&nbsp;DEET&nbsp;or&nbsp;picaridin,&nbsp;wearing&nbsp;loose,&nbsp;light-coloured&nbsp;protective&nbsp;clothing&nbsp;and&nbsp;checking&nbsp;household&nbsp;insect&nbsp;screens.&nbsp;Protection&nbsp;is&nbsp;particularly&nbsp;important&nbsp;around&nbsp;dawn&nbsp;and&nbsp;dusk,&nbsp;when&nbsp;many&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;are&nbsp;active.



Standing&nbsp;water&nbsp;around&nbsp;homes&nbsp;remains&nbsp;a&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;risk



Residents&nbsp;can&nbsp;reduce&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;breeding&nbsp;by&nbsp;emptying&nbsp;outdoor&nbsp;containers,&nbsp;clearing&nbsp;blocked&nbsp;gutters&nbsp;and&nbsp;regularly&nbsp;replacing&nbsp;water&nbsp;in&nbsp;pet&nbsp;bowls&nbsp;and&nbsp;bird&nbsp;baths.&nbsp;Swimming&nbsp;pools&nbsp;should&nbsp;remain&nbsp;properly&nbsp;chlorinated,&nbsp;while&nbsp;rainwater&nbsp;tanks&nbsp;need&nbsp;securely&nbsp;fitted&nbsp;mosquito-proof&nbsp;screens.



Garden&nbsp;ponds&nbsp;can&nbsp;be&nbsp;maintained&nbsp;with&nbsp;suitable&nbsp;fish&nbsp;that&nbsp;feed&nbsp;on&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;larvae,&nbsp;while&nbsp;native&nbsp;plants&nbsp;and&nbsp;sheltered&nbsp;areas&nbsp;can&nbsp;support&nbsp;frogs&nbsp;and&nbsp;other&nbsp;insect&nbsp;predators.&nbsp;Water&nbsp;features&nbsp;still&nbsp;require&nbsp;maintenance&nbsp;to&nbsp;prevent&nbsp;mosquitoes&nbsp;from&nbsp;breeding.



Council's&nbsp;seasonal&nbsp;program&nbsp;will&nbsp;continue&nbsp;through&nbsp;April&nbsp;2027,&nbsp;with&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;timing&nbsp;dependent&nbsp;on&nbsp;tides,&nbsp;rainfall&nbsp;and&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;activity.&nbsp;Residents&nbsp;can&nbsp;check&nbsp;completed&nbsp;aerial&nbsp;treatment&nbsp;records&nbsp;or&nbsp;report&nbsp;mosquito&nbsp;concerns&nbsp;through&nbsp;the&nbsp;Council&nbsp;website.&nbsp;



Published 26-Oct-2026
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</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Lakes’ Boundary Road on Council’s Wildlife Watch List as Kangaroo Camera Is Set Up]]></title>
<link>https://northlakestoday.com.au/north-lakes-boundary-road-on-councils-wildlife-watch-list-as-kangaroo-camera-is-set-up</link>
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<pubDate>Sat, 24 Oct 2026 02:09:18 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Boundary Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[City of Moreton Bay]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dakabin]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[driver safety]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[fauna escape hatches]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Green Infrastructure Program]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Griffin]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[kangaroo camera]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[kangaroos]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mango Hill]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mayor Peter Flannery]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Lakes]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[wildlife collisions]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[wildlife road safety]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[World Kangaroo Day]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[North Lakes Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://northlakestoday.com.au/?page_id=14370</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Boundary Road in North Lakes is one of 11 roads that Moreton Bay officials have asked drivers to watch for wildlife, while the officials also set up a camera to study kangaroos near roads where they are commonly struck.



Read: North Lakes Town Centre Wins Approval for Nine-Storey Hotel and Lifestyle Hub



Photo Credit: Supplied



Council announced the camera on World Kangaroo Day, Saturday 24 October. Its media release says the motion-activated mobile camera is being set up around roads where kangaroos are often hit, with the footage analysed for ways to prevent collisions and to see how kangaroos react around vehicles. It does not say where the camera is, name any kangaroo hotspots or give suburb-level collision numbers, so it is not confirmed that North Lakes is involved.



Boundary Road’s place on the list comes from a council appeal to drivers in June, as reported by Moreton Daily. That report named the road but not the animals at risk there, so it does not show kangaroos are a particular problem on it. In the same report, Mayor Peter Flannery described dawn and dusk as “peak feeding times for koalas, kangaroos and other animals”.



Photo Credit: Wildlife Rescue Queensland/ Facebook



“It’s important our wildlife can move around safely across roads and community areas,” Mayor Peter Flannery said in the council’s written release, which also urges drivers to take care around dawn and dusk and report injured wildlife as soon as possible.



North Lakes and its neighbours already appear in council’s wildlife road records. A 2019 council release listed wildlife stencils on Diamond Jubilee Way at North Lakes, and Maryvale Road at Mango Hill and Alma Road at Dakabin were among 12 sites for a 10-day warning sign trial in 2022. In Griffin, council has installed two escape hatches on Henry Road and two on Dohles Rocks Road. Those hatches are one-way exits designed for koalas, not kangaroos. Council’s trial of larger kangaroo and wallaby hatches is on Bribie Island.



The release also lists 150 LED vehicle-activated signs, 48 fauna underpasses and more than 40 fauna exclusion fencing locations. Those are city-wide totals, not figures for these suburbs. Council reported 130 of the signs in July 2025, so the count is growing.



Growth is part of council’s framing. Last year the mayor tied its wildlife road program to rising traffic from a “booming population”, and council says it counts 8.8 million vehicle movements a week in its wildlife zones. Nothing published shows whether that growth has changed where kangaroos cross in North Lakes, Mango Hill, Griffin or Dakabin, and no kangaroo-specific collision figures are available for those suburbs. An earlier Moreton Daily report quoted a local environment group member who spotted a young kangaroo family at North Lakes Reserve and recalled a much larger kangaroo population in the suburb.







Read: Nine Golds for North Lakes: PK Taekwondo Shines in Canberra



For residents, council’s advice is to watch for wildlife signs, slow down where it is safe, take extra care at dawn and dusk, and make sure headlights work. It also asks people to keep dogs on a lead near kangaroos, not to feed or approach them, and to report sick or injured animals to the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL.



Whether Boundary Road or any other local street ends up in front of the camera is still for council to say.



Published Date 24-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Boundary Road in North Lakes is one of 11 roads that Moreton Bay officials have asked drivers to watch for wildlife, while the officials also set up a camera to study kangaroos near roads where they are commonly struck.



Read: North Lakes Town Centre Wins Approval for Nine-Storey Hotel and Lifestyle Hub



Photo Credit: Supplied



Council announced the camera on World Kangaroo Day, Saturday 24 October. Its media release says the motion-activated mobile camera is being set up around roads where kangaroos are often hit, with the footage analysed for ways to prevent collisions and to see how kangaroos react around vehicles. It does not say where the camera is, name any kangaroo hotspots or give suburb-level collision numbers, so it is not confirmed that North Lakes is involved.



Boundary Road’s place on the list comes from a council appeal to drivers in June, as reported by Moreton Daily. That report named the road but not the animals at risk there, so it does not show kangaroos are a particular problem on it. In the same report, Mayor Peter Flannery described dawn and dusk as “peak feeding times for koalas, kangaroos and other animals”.



Photo Credit: Wildlife Rescue Queensland/ Facebook



“It’s important our wildlife can move around safely across roads and community areas,” Mayor Peter Flannery said in the council’s written release, which also urges drivers to take care around dawn and dusk and report injured wildlife as soon as possible.



North Lakes and its neighbours already appear in council’s wildlife road records. A 2019 council release listed wildlife stencils on Diamond Jubilee Way at North Lakes, and Maryvale Road at Mango Hill and Alma Road at Dakabin were among 12 sites for a 10-day warning sign trial in 2022. In Griffin, council has installed two escape hatches on Henry Road and two on Dohles Rocks Road. Those hatches are one-way exits designed for koalas, not kangaroos. Council’s trial of larger kangaroo and wallaby hatches is on Bribie Island.



The release also lists 150 LED vehicle-activated signs, 48 fauna underpasses and more than 40 fauna exclusion fencing locations. Those are city-wide totals, not figures for these suburbs. Council reported 130 of the signs in July 2025, so the count is growing.



Growth is part of council’s framing. Last year the mayor tied its wildlife road program to rising traffic from a “booming population”, and council says it counts 8.8 million vehicle movements a week in its wildlife zones. Nothing published shows whether that growth has changed where kangaroos cross in North Lakes, Mango Hill, Griffin or Dakabin, and no kangaroo-specific collision figures are available for those suburbs. An earlier Moreton Daily report quoted a local environment group member who spotted a young kangaroo family at North Lakes Reserve and recalled a much larger kangaroo population in the suburb.







Read: Nine Golds for North Lakes: PK Taekwondo Shines in Canberra



For residents, council’s advice is to watch for wildlife signs, slow down where it is safe, take extra care at dawn and dusk, and make sure headlights work. It also asks people to keep dogs on a lead near kangaroos, not to feed or approach them, and to report sick or injured animals to the RSPCA on 1300 ANIMAL.



Whether Boundary Road or any other local street ends up in front of the camera is still for council to say.



Published Date 24-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[North Pine Dam Releases Continue as Youngs Crossing Closes]]></title>
<link>https://northlakestoday.com.au/north-pine-dam-releases-youngs-crossing/north-pine-dam-releases-youngs-crossing</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 23 Oct 2026 07:12:50 +0000</pubDate>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[North Lakes Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://northlakestoday.com.au/north-pine-dam-releases-youngs-crossing/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Seqwater says North Pine Dam was 53.7 per cent full at 3.46pm on Friday, 23 October, as flood releases continued after Thursday’s heavy rain across Brisbane and Moreton Bay. The latest public update also says releases began at 11pm on Thursday and that Youngs Crossing is closed.



That is the clearest verified local finding. The dam is releasing water. Youngs Crossing is shut. Beyond that, the public record does not support a wider claim about flooding across every downstream suburb.



Youngs Crossing is the confirmed downstream impact



Seqwater says the flood releases, together with river and creek flows downstream of the dam, inundated Youngs Crossing. The agency also says a controlled release from a gated dam will not necessarily cause downstream flooding.



That distinction matters for Petrie, Murrumba Downs and other communities downstream of the North Pine River. A release is a managed operational response. It is not, by itself, proof of wider flood damage.



North Pine Dam sits across the North Pine River near Petrie. Seqwater says its five steel gates allow controlled releases during heavy rain.




  North Pine Dam: Levels, Releases and Downstream Information
  
    
      Storage
      53.7%
      114,982 ML of 214,302 ML
    
    
      Release status
      Flood releases underway
      Started 11:00pm Thu 22 Oct 2026
    
    
      Confirmed impact
      Youngs Crossing closed
      Seqwater says releases and downstream flows caused inundation
    
  
  
    Public pages checked do not publish a separate inflow figure or a full downstream gauge table.
  




What the public pages do not show



Seqwater’s release notice directs people to local council and Queensland Traffic for road and crossing closures, and to the Bureau of Meteorology for weather warnings and river heights. The Bureau’s Pine/Caboolture brochure says it does not currently provide a flood warning service for the Pine River or Caboolture River.



That leaves a real information gap for local readers. The public pages checked do not publish a separate inflow figure. They also do not provide a full official gauge table for every downstream suburb.



So the safest reading is narrow. Storage is near the reduced operating level. Releases are underway. Youngs Crossing is closed. Anything broader needs a fresh official check.



Downstream readers still need local checks



For people in Petrie, Murrumba Downs and nearby suburbs, the sensible next step is to keep checking Seqwater, council road notices, Queensland Traffic and the Bureau of Meteorology.



That is the only reliable way to track whether the situation changes downstream. It is also the best guard against assuming too much from a single release notice.



Published 23-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Seqwater says North Pine Dam was 53.7 per cent full at 3.46pm on Friday, 23 October, as flood releases continued after Thursday’s heavy rain across Brisbane and Moreton Bay. The latest public update also says releases began at 11pm on Thursday and that Youngs Crossing is closed.



That is the clearest verified local finding. The dam is releasing water. Youngs Crossing is shut. Beyond that, the public record does not support a wider claim about flooding across every downstream suburb.



Youngs Crossing is the confirmed downstream impact



Seqwater says the flood releases, together with river and creek flows downstream of the dam, inundated Youngs Crossing. The agency also says a controlled release from a gated dam will not necessarily cause downstream flooding.



That distinction matters for Petrie, Murrumba Downs and other communities downstream of the North Pine River. A release is a managed operational response. It is not, by itself, proof of wider flood damage.



North Pine Dam sits across the North Pine River near Petrie. Seqwater says its five steel gates allow controlled releases during heavy rain.




  North Pine Dam: Levels, Releases and Downstream Information
  
    
      Storage
      53.7%
      114,982 ML of 214,302 ML
    
    
      Release status
      Flood releases underway
      Started 11:00pm Thu 22 Oct 2026
    
    
      Confirmed impact
      Youngs Crossing closed
      Seqwater says releases and downstream flows caused inundation
    
  
  
    Public pages checked do not publish a separate inflow figure or a full downstream gauge table.
  




What the public pages do not show



Seqwater’s release notice directs people to local council and Queensland Traffic for road and crossing closures, and to the Bureau of Meteorology for weather warnings and river heights. The Bureau’s Pine/Caboolture brochure says it does not currently provide a flood warning service for the Pine River or Caboolture River.



That leaves a real information gap for local readers. The public pages checked do not publish a separate inflow figure. They also do not provide a full official gauge table for every downstream suburb.



So the safest reading is narrow. Storage is near the reduced operating level. Releases are underway. Youngs Crossing is closed. Anything broader needs a fresh official check.



Downstream readers still need local checks



For people in Petrie, Murrumba Downs and nearby suburbs, the sensible next step is to keep checking Seqwater, council road notices, Queensland Traffic and the Bureau of Meteorology.



That is the only reliable way to track whether the situation changes downstream. It is also the best guard against assuming too much from a single release notice.



Published 23-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Mango Hill Drainage Upgrades Press On As Another Wet Spell Exposes Weak Spots]]></title>
<link>https://northlakestoday.com.au/mango-hill-drainage-upgrades-rose-mary-winifred</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 23 Oct 2026 02:38:53 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[City of Moreton Bay]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[drainage upgrade]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[heavy rain]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[infrastructure]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mango Hill]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mary Street]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Lakes]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[roadworks]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rose Street]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[stormwater]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[North Lakes Today]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://northlakestoday.com.au/?page_id=14359</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
City of Moreton Bay has moved the long-planned Mango Hill drainage upgrades into construction, and the first stage is now under way on Rose Street West and Mary Street West. The project matters because council says those streets still lack kerbs and adequate drainage, leaving nearby homes exposed to shallow flooding when heavy rain hits.



Read: Major Road and Drainage Upgrade Gets Underway in Mango Hill




The 22 October downpour did not prove the new works either way. It did, however, underline why the project exists. Council says this is a chronic drainage problem, not a one-off nuisance, and the upgrade is meant to fix the street network rather than respond to a single storm.



A fix for streets that still pool



Council’s project page says current works began in mid-August 2026. Early activity includes utility relocations, some vegetation removal and driveway removals where needed to make room for the drainage layout. That tells residents this is a full street rebuild, not a minor kerb-and-channel patch.



The scope is broader than many people might expect. Council says the work will bring new stormwater drains and kerbs, replace sections of road pavement, reinstate driveways to standard designs, and add footpaths and landscaping. It also says the design follows water sensitive urban design principles so stormwater can move more effectively through the road reserve.



That approach should bring long-term benefit, but council has not published measured results yet. It would be premature to claim the finished works have already reduced flooding. For now, the upgrade remains a promise of better drainage, not a proven outcome.




  
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  Mango Hill Drainage Works: Stage by Stage
  Council says the upgrade is being delivered in stages across Rose Street, Mary Street and Winifred Street.

  
    Stage
    Streets / sections
    Scope
    Commencement
    Expected completion

    Stage 1
    Rose Street West and Mary Street West
    Utility relocations, drainage works, kerb and channel works, road reconstruction and related site works
    Started mid-August 2026
    April 2027

    Stage 2
    Rose Street East and Mary Street East
    Continued drainage upgrade, kerb and road works, driveway reinstatement and footpath works
    April 2027
    September 2027

    Stage 3
    Winifred Street
    Later-stage drainage and road upgrade works
    2028–29
    Not publicly finalised
  




Rain still keeps the suburb on alert



The storm on 22 October showed that wet weather still affects Mango Hill. City of Moreton Bay’s weather-impacted roads page later listed Chermside Road between John Street and Kinsellas Road West as closed. That is not the same as a failed drainage project, but it is a reminder that the suburb still copes with weather pressure.



The broader weather event was significant across Moreton Bay, with official road and flood updates spreading across the region. But in Mango Hill, the key point is local: the wet weather arrived while council was already in the middle of a drainage rebuild that has been discussed for years.



That distinction matters. It is fair to say the suburb remains vulnerable in heavy rain. It is not fair to say the new works have failed, or that they were fully tested, without evidence.



A staged rebuild across Rose, Mary and Winifred streets



Council has spread the project over several years. Stage 1 covers Rose Street West and Mary Street West from September 2026 to April 2027. Stage 2 moves to Rose Street East and Mary Street East from April 2027 to September 2027. Stage 3 is Winifred Street, listed for the 2028/29 financial year.



The 2025–26 budget materials place the project in Division 4 and say service relocations will occur in 2025–26 before construction starts in 2026–27. The reviewed budget page does not publish a separate project cost, so a verified dollar figure is not available here.



Read: Urban Village Proposal Unveiled for Mango Hill




What is clear is that the suburb has been waiting for this work for a long time. Council says the streets have had inadequate drainage. Residents will now have to live with construction disruption before they see the long-term payoff. For Mango Hill, the real test is not whether rain returns. It is whether the staged rebuild finally delivers the drainage the suburb has needed for years.



Published 23-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
City of Moreton Bay has moved the long-planned Mango Hill drainage upgrades into construction, and the first stage is now under way on Rose Street West and Mary Street West. The project matters because council says those streets still lack kerbs and adequate drainage, leaving nearby homes exposed to shallow flooding when heavy rain hits.



Read: Major Road and Drainage Upgrade Gets Underway in Mango Hill




The 22 October downpour did not prove the new works either way. It did, however, underline why the project exists. Council says this is a chronic drainage problem, not a one-off nuisance, and the upgrade is meant to fix the street network rather than respond to a single storm.



A fix for streets that still pool



Council’s project page says current works began in mid-August 2026. Early activity includes utility relocations, some vegetation removal and driveway removals where needed to make room for the drainage layout. That tells residents this is a full street rebuild, not a minor kerb-and-channel patch.



The scope is broader than many people might expect. Council says the work will bring new stormwater drains and kerbs, replace sections of road pavement, reinstate driveways to standard designs, and add footpaths and landscaping. It also says the design follows water sensitive urban design principles so stormwater can move more effectively through the road reserve.



That approach should bring long-term benefit, but council has not published measured results yet. It would be premature to claim the finished works have already reduced flooding. For now, the upgrade remains a promise of better drainage, not a proven outcome.




  
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  Mango Hill Drainage Works: Stage by Stage
  Council says the upgrade is being delivered in stages across Rose Street, Mary Street and Winifred Street.

  
    Stage
    Streets / sections
    Scope
    Commencement
    Expected completion

    Stage 1
    Rose Street West and Mary Street West
    Utility relocations, drainage works, kerb and channel works, road reconstruction and related site works
    Started mid-August 2026
    April 2027

    Stage 2
    Rose Street East and Mary Street East
    Continued drainage upgrade, kerb and road works, driveway reinstatement and footpath works
    April 2027
    September 2027

    Stage 3
    Winifred Street
    Later-stage drainage and road upgrade works
    2028–29
    Not publicly finalised
  




Rain still keeps the suburb on alert



The storm on 22 October showed that wet weather still affects Mango Hill. City of Moreton Bay’s weather-impacted roads page later listed Chermside Road between John Street and Kinsellas Road West as closed. That is not the same as a failed drainage project, but it is a reminder that the suburb still copes with weather pressure.



The broader weather event was significant across Moreton Bay, with official road and flood updates spreading across the region. But in Mango Hill, the key point is local: the wet weather arrived while council was already in the middle of a drainage rebuild that has been discussed for years.



That distinction matters. It is fair to say the suburb remains vulnerable in heavy rain. It is not fair to say the new works have failed, or that they were fully tested, without evidence.



A staged rebuild across Rose, Mary and Winifred streets



Council has spread the project over several years. Stage 1 covers Rose Street West and Mary Street West from September 2026 to April 2027. Stage 2 moves to Rose Street East and Mary Street East from April 2027 to September 2027. Stage 3 is Winifred Street, listed for the 2028/29 financial year.



The 2025–26 budget materials place the project in Division 4 and say service relocations will occur in 2025–26 before construction starts in 2026–27. The reviewed budget page does not publish a separate project cost, so a verified dollar figure is not available here.



Read: Urban Village Proposal Unveiled for Mango Hill




What is clear is that the suburb has been waiting for this work for a long time. Council says the streets have had inadequate drainage. Residents will now have to live with construction disruption before they see the long-term payoff. For Mango Hill, the real test is not whether rain returns. It is whether the staged rebuild finally delivers the drainage the suburb has needed for years.



Published 23-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[The Samford Nursery Helping Put Food on Tables Across North Brisbane]]></title>
<link>https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/closeburn-country-garden-nexus-care-food-relief</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2026 00:35:44 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Closeburn Country Garden]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[food relief]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nexus Care]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Nexus Church]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Samford Valley]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Social Enterprise]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Yugar]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Samford Valley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/?page_id=13410</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
At Closeburn Country Garden in Yugar, buying a plant does more than support a local nursery. The business on Mount Samson Road also helps fund food relief and community services for families experiencing hardship across Brisbane’s northern suburbs.



Read: 1,000 Koala Habitat Trees Planted as Samford Valley Reserve Undergoes Restoration



The nursery is operated as a social enterprise of Nexus Care, a Brisbane charity that provides food parcels, school breakfasts and other practical assistance. Its retail activities generate income that helps sustain those programmes alongside donations and other support.



A Garden Business with a Different Purpose



Closeburn Country Garden, at&nbsp;1850 Mount Samson Road, has been part of the local gardening community for almost four decades.



Established around 1986, the nursery was already a familiar destination for gardeners when Nexus Care and Nexus Church acquired the business in September 2023.



The purchase marked a new direction for Nexus Care, which had relied primarily on donations since beginning its charitable work in 2011.



Photo Credit: Google Maps



Rather than establish a conventional fundraising venture, the organisation took over an existing retail business, continuing to sell plants and gardening supplies while directing the proceeds towards its community programmes.



Nexus Care’s 2023 annual report describes the nursery as an alternative income source that could help the charity meet increasing demand for assistance. It also identifies opportunities for volunteering, training and community activities at the property.



For customers, Closeburn remains a garden centre offering plants, gardening supplies and advice. Behind the retail operation is a charitable purpose that extends well beyond Samford Valley.



From Garden Sales to Food Relief



The nursery contributes to a much larger charitable operation serving north and north-west Brisbane.



Nexus Care’s Fresh Start Food Program provides parcels containing fresh produce and other groceries to individuals and families experiencing hardship. The charity operates service locations at Everton Park and Sandgate.



Photo Credit: Nexus Care



Nexus Care reports providing the equivalent of more than 340,000 meals annually through food parcels, alongside more than 14,500 school breakfasts.



These are figures for the charity’s wider operations, supported through donations, volunteers, community partnerships and other funding sources, including income from Closeburn Country Garden. They are not figures attributable solely to the nursery.



The growth in demand is reflected in Nexus Care’s earlier reporting. Its 2023 annual report recorded the equivalent of 327,240 meals distributed through food parcels that year, compared with approximately 42,000 when the programme began in 2011.



Food assistance is only part of the charity’s work. Nexus Care also provides emergency financial relief, career coaching and community activities designed to help people build connections and improve their circumstances.



A Wider Community Role for the Nursery



The relationship between Nexus Care and Nexus Church also forms part of the property’s future.



The two organisations jointly acquired Closeburn Country Garden and have proposed a multipurpose community building at the site.



Nexus Church Samford currently uses hired community spaces for its Sunday services. The proposed building would provide a permanent gathering place while allowing Nexus Care to expand community activities at the property.



Plans associated with development application DA/2024/3769 describe a single-storey, barn-style building with a 126-seat gathering space, smaller meeting rooms, shared offices and a covered children’s play area.



The proposal also includes a small coffee outlet associated with the nursery, together with parking and vehicle access improvements.



Public notification for the proposed development has closed.



The applicants envisage the property becoming a place for community gatherings, volunteering and practical support, alongside its established nursery operations.



Growing Support Beyond the Valley



Closeburn Country Garden offers Nexus Care something that conventional fundraising cannot always provide: an ongoing commercial operation with the potential to generate income throughout the year.



The charity has also identified opportunities to use the property for employment-related training, volunteering and community connection.



For a nursery that has served Samford gardeners for almost 40 years, the change in ownership has brought a second purpose to its familiar retail activities.



Read: Why Is It Called Clear Mountain? 



Its plants and garden products remain the attraction for customers, while the proceeds help support people facing hardship across Brisbane’s northern suburbs.



Published 29-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
At Closeburn Country Garden in Yugar, buying a plant does more than support a local nursery. The business on Mount Samson Road also helps fund food relief and community services for families experiencing hardship across Brisbane’s northern suburbs.



Read: 1,000 Koala Habitat Trees Planted as Samford Valley Reserve Undergoes Restoration



The nursery is operated as a social enterprise of Nexus Care, a Brisbane charity that provides food parcels, school breakfasts and other practical assistance. Its retail activities generate income that helps sustain those programmes alongside donations and other support.



A Garden Business with a Different Purpose



Closeburn Country Garden, at&nbsp;1850 Mount Samson Road, has been part of the local gardening community for almost four decades.



Established around 1986, the nursery was already a familiar destination for gardeners when Nexus Care and Nexus Church acquired the business in September 2023.



The purchase marked a new direction for Nexus Care, which had relied primarily on donations since beginning its charitable work in 2011.



Photo Credit: Google Maps



Rather than establish a conventional fundraising venture, the organisation took over an existing retail business, continuing to sell plants and gardening supplies while directing the proceeds towards its community programmes.



Nexus Care’s 2023 annual report describes the nursery as an alternative income source that could help the charity meet increasing demand for assistance. It also identifies opportunities for volunteering, training and community activities at the property.



For customers, Closeburn remains a garden centre offering plants, gardening supplies and advice. Behind the retail operation is a charitable purpose that extends well beyond Samford Valley.



From Garden Sales to Food Relief



The nursery contributes to a much larger charitable operation serving north and north-west Brisbane.



Nexus Care’s Fresh Start Food Program provides parcels containing fresh produce and other groceries to individuals and families experiencing hardship. The charity operates service locations at Everton Park and Sandgate.



Photo Credit: Nexus Care



Nexus Care reports providing the equivalent of more than 340,000 meals annually through food parcels, alongside more than 14,500 school breakfasts.



These are figures for the charity’s wider operations, supported through donations, volunteers, community partnerships and other funding sources, including income from Closeburn Country Garden. They are not figures attributable solely to the nursery.



The growth in demand is reflected in Nexus Care’s earlier reporting. Its 2023 annual report recorded the equivalent of 327,240 meals distributed through food parcels that year, compared with approximately 42,000 when the programme began in 2011.



Food assistance is only part of the charity’s work. Nexus Care also provides emergency financial relief, career coaching and community activities designed to help people build connections and improve their circumstances.



A Wider Community Role for the Nursery



The relationship between Nexus Care and Nexus Church also forms part of the property’s future.



The two organisations jointly acquired Closeburn Country Garden and have proposed a multipurpose community building at the site.



Nexus Church Samford currently uses hired community spaces for its Sunday services. The proposed building would provide a permanent gathering place while allowing Nexus Care to expand community activities at the property.



Plans associated with development application DA/2024/3769 describe a single-storey, barn-style building with a 126-seat gathering space, smaller meeting rooms, shared offices and a covered children’s play area.



The proposal also includes a small coffee outlet associated with the nursery, together with parking and vehicle access improvements.



Public notification for the proposed development has closed.



The applicants envisage the property becoming a place for community gatherings, volunteering and practical support, alongside its established nursery operations.



Growing Support Beyond the Valley



Closeburn Country Garden offers Nexus Care something that conventional fundraising cannot always provide: an ongoing commercial operation with the potential to generate income throughout the year.



The charity has also identified opportunities to use the property for employment-related training, volunteering and community connection.



For a nursery that has served Samford gardeners for almost 40 years, the change in ownership has brought a second purpose to its familiar retail activities.



Read: Why Is It Called Clear Mountain? 



Its plants and garden products remain the attraction for customers, while the proceeds help support people facing hardship across Brisbane’s northern suburbs.



Published 29-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[New Turning Lane Among Samford Intersection Upgrades Starting in November]]></title>
<link>https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/samford-intersection-upgrades-november-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 04:46:21 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Eatons Crossing Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Gibbons Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mount Samson Road]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Yugar roadworks]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Samford Valley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/?page_id=13374</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Roadworks at two intersections near Samford Valley are scheduled to begin in early November 2026, bringing a new left-turn lane and changes to accommodate larger vehicles along the Eatons Crossing Road and Mount Samson Road corridor.







Read: “This Made It Worse”: Samford Community Rallies Behind Petition Over Road Changes



Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is proceeding with the improvements following investigations and monitoring of the intersections at Eatons Crossing Road and Mount Samson Road, and Mount Samson Road and Gibbons Road, in Yugar.



Construction is expected to last approximately three months, subject to weather and construction conditions. The works follow the completion of a much larger road safety project along the corridor in October 2025.



New Lane Addresses Earlier Intersection Concerns







The addition of an auxiliary left-turn lane at Eatons Crossing Road and Mount Samson Road comes after concerns were raised about changes made during the previous upgrade.



In July 2025, Samford Valley News reported on a community petition seeking the reinstatement of separate turning lanes at the intersection. Residents had complained about congestion and the removal of the previous turning arrangement, with some questioning whether the changes had improved traffic conditions.



The latest construction will introduce a dedicated left-turn facility, although the available announcement does not establish whether the final layout will match the arrangement sought by petitioners.



Meanwhile, the works at Mount Samson Road and Gibbons Road will focus on improving access and manoeuvrability for larger vehicles. TMR has not publicly specified the detailed design changes for that intersection in the announcement reviewed.



Further Work After $75.2 Million Road Project



The new improvements follow the Strathpine-Samford Road Route Safety Project, which began construction in August 2023 and was funded at $75.2 million through Queensland's Targeted Road Safety Program.



The earlier project delivered wider shoulders, additional turning lanes and greater separation between opposing traffic. Traffic signals were also installed at Eatons Crossing Road and Lilley Road in Cashmere.







Read: Samford Valley Residents Voice Concerns Over Strathpine-Samford Road Upgrade







TMR confirmed the completion of major construction on 3 October 2025, while advising that minor finalisation works could still occur.



Justin Valks, TMR's Acting Regional Director for the North Coast Region, said the department had committed to continuing its monitoring after the earlier project and identifying locations where further improvements could be made.



The department expects the latest changes to improve traffic movement through Yugar, particularly where larger vehicles need additional space.



Traffic Changes Expected During Construction



Temporary lane closures and altered traffic conditions may affect motorists while the works proceed. Drivers have been advised to allow extra travel time, follow traffic management signs and drive according to conditions.



An exact commencement date, daily construction hours and any detailed lane-closure schedule have not been confirmed. The anticipated three-month construction period places completion around early February 2027, although this remains an estimate rather than a confirmed finishing date.



Published 28-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Roadworks at two intersections near Samford Valley are scheduled to begin in early November 2026, bringing a new left-turn lane and changes to accommodate larger vehicles along the Eatons Crossing Road and Mount Samson Road corridor.







Read: “This Made It Worse”: Samford Community Rallies Behind Petition Over Road Changes



Transport and Main Roads (TMR) is proceeding with the improvements following investigations and monitoring of the intersections at Eatons Crossing Road and Mount Samson Road, and Mount Samson Road and Gibbons Road, in Yugar.



Construction is expected to last approximately three months, subject to weather and construction conditions. The works follow the completion of a much larger road safety project along the corridor in October 2025.



New Lane Addresses Earlier Intersection Concerns







The addition of an auxiliary left-turn lane at Eatons Crossing Road and Mount Samson Road comes after concerns were raised about changes made during the previous upgrade.



In July 2025, Samford Valley News reported on a community petition seeking the reinstatement of separate turning lanes at the intersection. Residents had complained about congestion and the removal of the previous turning arrangement, with some questioning whether the changes had improved traffic conditions.



The latest construction will introduce a dedicated left-turn facility, although the available announcement does not establish whether the final layout will match the arrangement sought by petitioners.



Meanwhile, the works at Mount Samson Road and Gibbons Road will focus on improving access and manoeuvrability for larger vehicles. TMR has not publicly specified the detailed design changes for that intersection in the announcement reviewed.



Further Work After $75.2 Million Road Project



The new improvements follow the Strathpine-Samford Road Route Safety Project, which began construction in August 2023 and was funded at $75.2 million through Queensland's Targeted Road Safety Program.



The earlier project delivered wider shoulders, additional turning lanes and greater separation between opposing traffic. Traffic signals were also installed at Eatons Crossing Road and Lilley Road in Cashmere.







Read: Samford Valley Residents Voice Concerns Over Strathpine-Samford Road Upgrade







TMR confirmed the completion of major construction on 3 October 2025, while advising that minor finalisation works could still occur.



Justin Valks, TMR's Acting Regional Director for the North Coast Region, said the department had committed to continuing its monitoring after the earlier project and identifying locations where further improvements could be made.



The department expects the latest changes to improve traffic movement through Yugar, particularly where larger vehicles need additional space.



Traffic Changes Expected During Construction



Temporary lane closures and altered traffic conditions may affect motorists while the works proceed. Drivers have been advised to allow extra travel time, follow traffic management signs and drive according to conditions.



An exact commencement date, daily construction hours and any detailed lane-closure schedule have not been confirmed. The anticipated three-month construction period places completion around early February 2027, although this remains an estimate rather than a confirmed finishing date.



Published 28-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[1,000 Koala Habitat Trees Planted as Samford Valley Reserve Undergoes Restoration]]></title>
<link>https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/samford-valley-brian-burke-reserve-koala-habitat-restoration-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2026 05:16:16 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brian Burke Reserve]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Koala habitat restoration]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Samford Valley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/?page_id=13365</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
One thousand koala habitat trees have been planted at Brian Burke Reserve in Samford Valley, where a grant-supported project is tackling invasive weeds and helping native vegetation recover.



Read: Drones to be Used for Koala Habitat Protection in Moreton Bay Reserves



City of Moreton Bay has also reported clearing seven hectares of lantana and carrying out a controlled burn covering 12.8 hectares. The works form part of a restoration program supported by a $135,000 grant, with further activity scheduled through to June 2027.



Council's published update identifies the completed activities but does not give a separate completion date for each, list the planted tree species or publish survival rates. The figures describe work undertaken, not an immediate increase in established koala habitat.



Clearing space for native growth



Lantana can form dense thickets that compete with native seedlings and make regeneration harder. Removing it creates opportunities for native vegetation to recover, while planting adds young trees that could provide future feeding or shelter resources if they establish successfully.



Council describes its planting as koala habitat trees, although its project update does not identify individual species. Koalas rely on suitable local eucalypts and other habitat trees, and young plantings need time and maintenance before they can make the same contribution as mature vegetation.



Council's general koala conservation information says restoration sites receive ongoing maintenance after planting. They also report a 12.8-hectare controlled burn undertaken to reduce weeds and encourage plant regeneration. 



Its current planned-burn register marks a Brian Burke Reserve site off Gibbons Road as completed.  Council’s published burn procedures include prior site assessments, habitat safeguards and an on-site wildlife spotter. 





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Brian Burke Reserve: restoration at a glance

1,000 koala habitat trees planted
7 hectares of lantana cleared
12.8 hectares covered by a council-reported controlled burn
$135,000 grant contribution reported by council
June 2027 reported end point for further works

Figures are from City of Moreton Bay's project update. The trees are newly planted, not established habitat; the $135,000 has not been verified as the project's total cost.





A protected reserve in a wider koala corridor



Brian Burke Reserve covers 268 hectares and was formally declared a nature refuge on 1 May 2014, according to Queensland Government records. Nature-refuge agreements provide a framework for conserving land while it remains under its existing ownership and management arrangements.



The reserve is part of a broader Samford-area koala landscape that also includes the separately named McDowalls Road Reserve. Earlier thermal-drone work reported 20 adult koalas across the two survey sites combined.



The new restoration effort builds on that earlier monitoring work but measures a different kind of progress: land treated and trees planted. Whether the plantings ultimately improve usable habitat will depend on establishment, regeneration and subsequent management.



Grant funding and work through 2027



Council attributes its $135,000 grant to the Restore and Reconnect SEQ Koala Habitat program, supported by Healthy Land &amp; Water and the Queensland Government's environment department. Queensland Government funding records confirm that $3.5 million was allocated to Healthy Land &amp; Water in 2024 to continue the broader regional program.



Read: Gibbons Road Wildlife Crossing Puts Samford Kangaroo Safety in Spotlight



No public project budget located for this report establishes whether the $135,000 represents the whole cost of work at Brian Burke Reserve or only the grant contribution. Council has said work will continue until June 2027, without detailing the next planting numbers, treated hectares or monitoring milestones in its announcement.



Published 27-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
One thousand koala habitat trees have been planted at Brian Burke Reserve in Samford Valley, where a grant-supported project is tackling invasive weeds and helping native vegetation recover.



Read: Drones to be Used for Koala Habitat Protection in Moreton Bay Reserves



City of Moreton Bay has also reported clearing seven hectares of lantana and carrying out a controlled burn covering 12.8 hectares. The works form part of a restoration program supported by a $135,000 grant, with further activity scheduled through to June 2027.



Council's published update identifies the completed activities but does not give a separate completion date for each, list the planted tree species or publish survival rates. The figures describe work undertaken, not an immediate increase in established koala habitat.



Clearing space for native growth



Lantana can form dense thickets that compete with native seedlings and make regeneration harder. Removing it creates opportunities for native vegetation to recover, while planting adds young trees that could provide future feeding or shelter resources if they establish successfully.



Council describes its planting as koala habitat trees, although its project update does not identify individual species. Koalas rely on suitable local eucalypts and other habitat trees, and young plantings need time and maintenance before they can make the same contribution as mature vegetation.



Council's general koala conservation information says restoration sites receive ongoing maintenance after planting. They also report a 12.8-hectare controlled burn undertaken to reduce weeds and encourage plant regeneration. 



Its current planned-burn register marks a Brian Burke Reserve site off Gibbons Road as completed.  Council’s published burn procedures include prior site assessments, habitat safeguards and an on-site wildlife spotter. 





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Brian Burke Reserve: restoration at a glance

1,000 koala habitat trees planted
7 hectares of lantana cleared
12.8 hectares covered by a council-reported controlled burn
$135,000 grant contribution reported by council
June 2027 reported end point for further works

Figures are from City of Moreton Bay's project update. The trees are newly planted, not established habitat; the $135,000 has not been verified as the project's total cost.





A protected reserve in a wider koala corridor



Brian Burke Reserve covers 268 hectares and was formally declared a nature refuge on 1 May 2014, according to Queensland Government records. Nature-refuge agreements provide a framework for conserving land while it remains under its existing ownership and management arrangements.



The reserve is part of a broader Samford-area koala landscape that also includes the separately named McDowalls Road Reserve. Earlier thermal-drone work reported 20 adult koalas across the two survey sites combined.



The new restoration effort builds on that earlier monitoring work but measures a different kind of progress: land treated and trees planted. Whether the plantings ultimately improve usable habitat will depend on establishment, regeneration and subsequent management.



Grant funding and work through 2027



Council attributes its $135,000 grant to the Restore and Reconnect SEQ Koala Habitat program, supported by Healthy Land &amp; Water and the Queensland Government's environment department. Queensland Government funding records confirm that $3.5 million was allocated to Healthy Land &amp; Water in 2024 to continue the broader regional program.



Read: Gibbons Road Wildlife Crossing Puts Samford Kangaroo Safety in Spotlight



No public project budget located for this report establishes whether the $135,000 represents the whole cost of work at Brian Burke Reserve or only the grant contribution. Council has said work will continue until June 2027, without detailing the next planting numbers, treated hectares or monitoring milestones in its announcement.



Published 27-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[New Platypus Detection Adds to Three Years of Positive Results Around Samford]]></title>
<link>https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/new-platypus-detection-adds-to-three-years-of-positive-results-around-samford</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2026 07:19:54 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[environmental DNA testing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay platypus monitoring]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay wildlife survey]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[platypus DNA detection]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[platypus habitat conservation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Samford platypus]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Samford Valley platypus]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Samford Valley waterways]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Samford wildlife]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[South Pine River platypus]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Samford Valley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/?page_id=13275</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A new platypus DNA detection in Samford Valley has added to three years of positive monitoring results around Samford, providing further evidence of the native species' presence in waterways across the district.



Read: Samford Facility Breeds Insects to Battle Invasive Weeds in Moreton Bay



The City of Moreton Bay revealed the findings on 9 October 2026, following environmental DNA testing at 158 locations across the region. Platypus DNA was detected at 91 sites, including eight that returned positive results for the first time. Another 50 sites have recorded positive detections for three consecutive years.



Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay



Samford Valley adds another positive monitoring location



Samford Valley was among six localities identified in the latest survey as having newly positive monitoring sites, alongside Burpengary, Morayfield, Elimbah, Petrie and Strathpine.



The new result extends the monitoring record in an area where platypuses have already been detected during previous surveys. Samford is among the locations with sampling sites that have returned positive results for three consecutive years.



Repeated detections provide evidence that platypuses have been present during successive monitoring rounds, although they do not establish whether the same individual animals have remained in those waterways. A first positive test also does not necessarily mean platypuses have only recently appeared at the location.



Three consecutive years strengthen Samford's wildlife record



The latest results form part of a monitoring program that has tracked platypus presence across Moreton Bay's river systems over several years.



Samford is among the western and central areas where positive DNA results have been recorded for three consecutive years. Other established detection areas include Dayboro, Wamuran, Stony Creek, Caboolture, Bunya and Albany Creek.



Mayor Peter Flannery said the findings indicated a widespread platypus population across Moreton Bay. He welcomed the latest detections and highlighted the role of catchment management in protecting native wildlife and the waterways they inhabit.



The 2026 survey recorded positive results across five major catchments: the South Pine River, North Pine River, Caboolture River, Stanley River and Mary River.



Although the project has recorded a high number of positive sites, the results do not establish the number of individual platypuses living in the region or whether the population has increased.&nbsp;



Water samples uncover traces of an elusive animal



Platypuses spend much of their lives in freshwater environments, where their behaviour and movements can make them difficult to observe directly.



Researchers use environmental DNA, or eDNA, to identify genetic material left behind as animals move through creeks and rivers. Water samples are collected and analysed for biological traces, allowing platypus presence to be detected without capturing or handling the animals.



The method is particularly useful for surveying multiple waterways, but positive results cannot determine how many animals occupy a site.



Negative samples are also not definitive. Platypus DNA may be present at levels too low to detect, or absent from the particular water sample collected.



Council reported that camera monitoring and community observations had confirmed platypuses at several locations where DNA sampling produced negative results. Using different monitoring methods helps establish a more complete record of where the species has been found.



Creek-bank vegetation remains central to habitat management



Information collected through the program will support catchment management initiatives aimed at maintaining and improving waterway conditions across Moreton Bay.



Council's restoration work includes rehabilitating riparian areas, the land and vegetation bordering creeks and rivers. Such projects aim to improve water quality, protect wildlife habitat and reduce erosion along waterway banks.



Platypuses rely on freshwater systems that provide suitable feeding areas and places to shelter. Research into platypus distribution has identified water availability, organic material and streambed conditions among the environmental factors associated with their presence.



The new Samford Valley detection and established results around Samford will contribute to the longer-term monitoring record used to inform habitat management.



Read: Fire Ant Poison Threatens Samford Valley Organic Farms and Wildlife



Residents who observe platypuses in Samford Valley or surrounding waterways can report their sightings through the City of Moreton Bay's native wildlife sightings service.



The monitoring locations and full results are available through the City of Moreton Bay's environmental data map.



Published 25-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A new platypus DNA detection in Samford Valley has added to three years of positive monitoring results around Samford, providing further evidence of the native species' presence in waterways across the district.



Read: Samford Facility Breeds Insects to Battle Invasive Weeds in Moreton Bay



The City of Moreton Bay revealed the findings on 9 October 2026, following environmental DNA testing at 158 locations across the region. Platypus DNA was detected at 91 sites, including eight that returned positive results for the first time. Another 50 sites have recorded positive detections for three consecutive years.



Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay



Samford Valley adds another positive monitoring location



Samford Valley was among six localities identified in the latest survey as having newly positive monitoring sites, alongside Burpengary, Morayfield, Elimbah, Petrie and Strathpine.



The new result extends the monitoring record in an area where platypuses have already been detected during previous surveys. Samford is among the locations with sampling sites that have returned positive results for three consecutive years.



Repeated detections provide evidence that platypuses have been present during successive monitoring rounds, although they do not establish whether the same individual animals have remained in those waterways. A first positive test also does not necessarily mean platypuses have only recently appeared at the location.



Three consecutive years strengthen Samford's wildlife record



The latest results form part of a monitoring program that has tracked platypus presence across Moreton Bay's river systems over several years.



Samford is among the western and central areas where positive DNA results have been recorded for three consecutive years. Other established detection areas include Dayboro, Wamuran, Stony Creek, Caboolture, Bunya and Albany Creek.



Mayor Peter Flannery said the findings indicated a widespread platypus population across Moreton Bay. He welcomed the latest detections and highlighted the role of catchment management in protecting native wildlife and the waterways they inhabit.



The 2026 survey recorded positive results across five major catchments: the South Pine River, North Pine River, Caboolture River, Stanley River and Mary River.



Although the project has recorded a high number of positive sites, the results do not establish the number of individual platypuses living in the region or whether the population has increased.&nbsp;



Water samples uncover traces of an elusive animal



Platypuses spend much of their lives in freshwater environments, where their behaviour and movements can make them difficult to observe directly.



Researchers use environmental DNA, or eDNA, to identify genetic material left behind as animals move through creeks and rivers. Water samples are collected and analysed for biological traces, allowing platypus presence to be detected without capturing or handling the animals.



The method is particularly useful for surveying multiple waterways, but positive results cannot determine how many animals occupy a site.



Negative samples are also not definitive. Platypus DNA may be present at levels too low to detect, or absent from the particular water sample collected.



Council reported that camera monitoring and community observations had confirmed platypuses at several locations where DNA sampling produced negative results. Using different monitoring methods helps establish a more complete record of where the species has been found.



Creek-bank vegetation remains central to habitat management



Information collected through the program will support catchment management initiatives aimed at maintaining and improving waterway conditions across Moreton Bay.



Council's restoration work includes rehabilitating riparian areas, the land and vegetation bordering creeks and rivers. Such projects aim to improve water quality, protect wildlife habitat and reduce erosion along waterway banks.



Platypuses rely on freshwater systems that provide suitable feeding areas and places to shelter. Research into platypus distribution has identified water availability, organic material and streambed conditions among the environmental factors associated with their presence.



The new Samford Valley detection and established results around Samford will contribute to the longer-term monitoring record used to inform habitat management.



Read: Fire Ant Poison Threatens Samford Valley Organic Farms and Wildlife



Residents who observe platypuses in Samford Valley or surrounding waterways can report their sightings through the City of Moreton Bay's native wildlife sightings service.



The monitoring locations and full results are available through the City of Moreton Bay's environmental data map.



Published 25-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Why Is It Called Clear Mountain?]]></title>
<link>https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/why-is-it-called-clear-mountain</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2026 07:23:44 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clear Mountain]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Clear Mountain history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Pine Rivers]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Samford]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Samford Valley]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Samford Valley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/?page_id=13159</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Anyone driving through Clear Mountain today could reasonably wonder about the name. Bushland still covers substantial parts of the high country, while wooded acreage properties line many of its roads.



But Clear Mountain was named for the geographical feature, not the modern suburb, and the surviving official record does not provide a definitive explanation for why that mountain was called “Clear”.



READ: Kelly Bros Store Dayboro: The History of a Local Icon



The Mountain Had the Name First



Queensland place-name records show the locality took its name from Clear Mountain, the physical feature. The modern locality therefore inherited a name already attached to the landscape.



By 1903, Clear Mountain was established enough as a district name for Clear Mountain Provisional School to open on 12 October that year. It became Clear Mountain State School in 1909 and operated until 1947.



Historical records also place Clear Mountain on an early route between the Pine Rivers district and Samford. The University of Queensland's Fryer Library catalogues an early photograph as “Clear Mountain between Petrie &amp; Samford”, showing cars on the road and the surrounding valley.



Clear Mountain Road also appears in historical records, while State Library of Queensland material documents a drive through the district to the Clear Mountain lookout in 1948–49.



Together, those records show the name was associated with a prominent piece of high ground and its approaches well before Clear Mountain became the modern locality.



Farms Changed Parts of the Landscape



The wooded appearance of Clear Mountain today should not be mistaken for an unchanged landscape.



European settlement transformed parts of the surrounding district, particularly the more workable alluvial country along Branch Creek and Cedar Creek. Farmers grew corn and vegetables, bananas and pineapples, while dairying and pig raising also formed part of the local economy.



Branch Creek had a school from 1889 to 1913, evidence of an established farming community nearby before the Clear Mountain school opened. Clear Mountain itself remained sparsely populated; historical population figures record just 38 people in 1933.



The result was a mixed landscape. Cultivation and grazing created open country around parts of the creeks and farms, while native vegetation remained elsewhere. That history does establish that Clear Mountain once contained cleared and cultivated land, but it does not establish that this was the reason for its name.



READ: Wights Mountain Commuters Face Epic Journeys as Brisbane Transport Study Exposes Urban Divide



But Why “Clear”?



This is where the documentary trail becomes less certain.



The Queensland Government's publicly available place-name information identifies Clear Mountain as the geographical feature from which the locality derived its name, but does not identify who named the mountain or provide a documented explanation for “Clear”.



There is another historical clue. An early settler, W.L. Gordon, reportedly referred to the mountain as Tongi, which he said was an Aboriginal name meaning “plenty of wind”. That provides evidence of another name associated with the mountain, but does not explain when or why “Clear Mountain” replaced or existed alongside it.



The mountain's elevation offers one possibility. Clear Mountain became known for its lookout and extensive views across the surrounding country. “Clear” might have described an open summit, a comparatively lightly timbered part of the ridge or the outlook itself.



Historical farming also means some of the surrounding landscape was considerably more open than parts of Clear Mountain are today.



But neither explanation is sufficiently documented to present as the origin of the name.



What can be established is the sequence: Clear Mountain was first the name of a physical landmark; it was subsequently used for the surrounding district, its school and roads; and eventually became the name of the present locality.



More than a century after the name was already in local use, exactly what its first namer meant by “Clear” remains unresolved.



Published 25-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Anyone driving through Clear Mountain today could reasonably wonder about the name. Bushland still covers substantial parts of the high country, while wooded acreage properties line many of its roads.



But Clear Mountain was named for the geographical feature, not the modern suburb, and the surviving official record does not provide a definitive explanation for why that mountain was called “Clear”.



READ: Kelly Bros Store Dayboro: The History of a Local Icon



The Mountain Had the Name First



Queensland place-name records show the locality took its name from Clear Mountain, the physical feature. The modern locality therefore inherited a name already attached to the landscape.



By 1903, Clear Mountain was established enough as a district name for Clear Mountain Provisional School to open on 12 October that year. It became Clear Mountain State School in 1909 and operated until 1947.



Historical records also place Clear Mountain on an early route between the Pine Rivers district and Samford. The University of Queensland's Fryer Library catalogues an early photograph as “Clear Mountain between Petrie &amp; Samford”, showing cars on the road and the surrounding valley.



Clear Mountain Road also appears in historical records, while State Library of Queensland material documents a drive through the district to the Clear Mountain lookout in 1948–49.



Together, those records show the name was associated with a prominent piece of high ground and its approaches well before Clear Mountain became the modern locality.



Farms Changed Parts of the Landscape



The wooded appearance of Clear Mountain today should not be mistaken for an unchanged landscape.



European settlement transformed parts of the surrounding district, particularly the more workable alluvial country along Branch Creek and Cedar Creek. Farmers grew corn and vegetables, bananas and pineapples, while dairying and pig raising also formed part of the local economy.



Branch Creek had a school from 1889 to 1913, evidence of an established farming community nearby before the Clear Mountain school opened. Clear Mountain itself remained sparsely populated; historical population figures record just 38 people in 1933.



The result was a mixed landscape. Cultivation and grazing created open country around parts of the creeks and farms, while native vegetation remained elsewhere. That history does establish that Clear Mountain once contained cleared and cultivated land, but it does not establish that this was the reason for its name.



READ: Wights Mountain Commuters Face Epic Journeys as Brisbane Transport Study Exposes Urban Divide



But Why “Clear”?



This is where the documentary trail becomes less certain.



The Queensland Government's publicly available place-name information identifies Clear Mountain as the geographical feature from which the locality derived its name, but does not identify who named the mountain or provide a documented explanation for “Clear”.



There is another historical clue. An early settler, W.L. Gordon, reportedly referred to the mountain as Tongi, which he said was an Aboriginal name meaning “plenty of wind”. That provides evidence of another name associated with the mountain, but does not explain when or why “Clear Mountain” replaced or existed alongside it.



The mountain's elevation offers one possibility. Clear Mountain became known for its lookout and extensive views across the surrounding country. “Clear” might have described an open summit, a comparatively lightly timbered part of the ridge or the outlook itself.



Historical farming also means some of the surrounding landscape was considerably more open than parts of Clear Mountain are today.



But neither explanation is sufficiently documented to present as the origin of the name.



What can be established is the sequence: Clear Mountain was first the name of a physical landmark; it was subsequently used for the surrounding district, its school and roads; and eventually became the name of the present locality.



More than a century after the name was already in local use, exactly what its first namer meant by “Clear” remains unresolved.



Published 25-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Ferny Hills State School Floodlight Plan Could Allow Sport Until Late Evening]]></title>
<link>https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/ferny-hills-state-school-floodlight-plan-could-allow-sport-until-late-evening</link>
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<media:thumbnail url="https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Ferny-Hills-State-School-FI-scaled.png"/>
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<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2026 07:24:04 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community sports facilities]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ferny Hills]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ferny Hills school floodlights]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ferny Hills sports oval]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ferny Hills State School]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Ministerial Infrastructure Designation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Moreton Bay development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[school oval lighting]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[sports field noise assessment]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Samford Valley News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://samfordvalleynews.com.au/?page_id=13282</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Ferny Hills State School could host evening community sport under a proposal to install four 22-metre-high floodlight poles around its oval, extending access to the grounds beyond school hours.



Read: Up to 12 Storeys Planned for Ferny Hills — But What About the Infrastructure?



The Queensland Department of Education has lodged a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID0826-1059) application for the school at 30–56 Illuta Avenue. The proposal was advertised for public comment on 15 October 2026, with submissions closing on 13 November 2026.



The application also seeks to formalise third-party use of the school's existing tennis courts. No increase in student enrolment capacity or staffing is proposed.



Four floodlight poles planned for school oval



Electrical plans prepared by Webb Australia Group show four LED lighting poles positioned around the existing oval, supported by underground cabling and new electrical infrastructure.



The lighting system has been designed to meet Australian Standard AS 2560.2 for semi-professional football competition and match practice. It would allow approved community sporting groups to use the oval after dark, subject to operating arrangements.



The proposal does not involve expanding the oval or constructing additional sporting courts. Existing vehicle access arrangements would remain unchanged.



Photo Credit: MID0826-1059



Noise assessment recommends earlier finish near homes



A noise assessment by Soar Acoustics recommends different finishing times across the oval to limit potential impacts on neighbouring properties along the school's eastern and western boundaries.



The assessment included noise monitoring in June 2026 and measurements of football training and tennis activities. Acoustic modelling indicated that training and gameplay in the centre of the oval could continue until 10:00 p.m. within the assessed noise limits.



Activities near the eastern and western edges were predicted to exceed relevant criteria under later evening conditions, prompting the consultant to recommend an 8:00 p.m. finish in those areas.



The recommended community-use hours are:



Sporting areaRecommended hoursFull oval7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Centre of oval6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.Western section6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.Eastern section6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.Tennis courts7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.



The hours apply Monday to Sunday. The consultant also recommended that participants complete their activities, pack up and leave the grounds before 10:00 p.m.



The restrictions are recommendations contained in the acoustic report, not final operating conditions. Approval of the proposed designation remains outstanding.



Photo Credit: MID0826-1059



Parking assessment identifies 52-space requirement



A traffic assessment prepared by Pekol Traffic and Transport calculated a requirement of 52 parking spaces for community use of the oval and two tennis courts.



The report identified 33 spaces in an adjoining council car park, 14 school parking spaces available after hours and room for approximately 14 vehicles along Ferny Way.



The consultant considered the available parking sufficient for anticipated demand. Additional sporting traffic would generally occur outside school peak periods and was not expected to significantly affect the surrounding road network.



No changes to existing vehicle entrances or pedestrian facilities were proposed, although the assessment recommended making school bicycle parking available to community users.



Community access subject to planning conditions



The proposal would establish planning arrangements for approved sporting organisations to use the school's existing facilities outside school hours.



The traffic assessment considers weekday community use between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., with Saturday activities potentially continuing until 10:00 p.m. The acoustic report assesses a broader schedule covering 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday to Sunday, subject to restrictions on different parts of the oval.



Final operating hours and management requirements have not been established in the supplied documents. Community use would be subject to appropriate agreements and operational controls.



Read: Ferny Hills State School Recipe Reaches Queensland Tuckshop Final



Submissions close on 13 November 2026 and may be lodged through the Ministerial Infrastructure Designations website or emailed to infrastructuredesignation@dsdip.qld.gov.au.



Published 25-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Ferny Hills State School could host evening community sport under a proposal to install four 22-metre-high floodlight poles around its oval, extending access to the grounds beyond school hours.



Read: Up to 12 Storeys Planned for Ferny Hills — But What About the Infrastructure?



The Queensland Department of Education has lodged a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID0826-1059) application for the school at 30–56 Illuta Avenue. The proposal was advertised for public comment on 15 October 2026, with submissions closing on 13 November 2026.



The application also seeks to formalise third-party use of the school's existing tennis courts. No increase in student enrolment capacity or staffing is proposed.



Four floodlight poles planned for school oval



Electrical plans prepared by Webb Australia Group show four LED lighting poles positioned around the existing oval, supported by underground cabling and new electrical infrastructure.



The lighting system has been designed to meet Australian Standard AS 2560.2 for semi-professional football competition and match practice. It would allow approved community sporting groups to use the oval after dark, subject to operating arrangements.



The proposal does not involve expanding the oval or constructing additional sporting courts. Existing vehicle access arrangements would remain unchanged.



Photo Credit: MID0826-1059



Noise assessment recommends earlier finish near homes



A noise assessment by Soar Acoustics recommends different finishing times across the oval to limit potential impacts on neighbouring properties along the school's eastern and western boundaries.



The assessment included noise monitoring in June 2026 and measurements of football training and tennis activities. Acoustic modelling indicated that training and gameplay in the centre of the oval could continue until 10:00 p.m. within the assessed noise limits.



Activities near the eastern and western edges were predicted to exceed relevant criteria under later evening conditions, prompting the consultant to recommend an 8:00 p.m. finish in those areas.



The recommended community-use hours are:



Sporting areaRecommended hoursFull oval7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Centre of oval6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.Western section6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.Eastern section6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.Tennis courts7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.



The hours apply Monday to Sunday. The consultant also recommended that participants complete their activities, pack up and leave the grounds before 10:00 p.m.



The restrictions are recommendations contained in the acoustic report, not final operating conditions. Approval of the proposed designation remains outstanding.



Photo Credit: MID0826-1059



Parking assessment identifies 52-space requirement



A traffic assessment prepared by Pekol Traffic and Transport calculated a requirement of 52 parking spaces for community use of the oval and two tennis courts.



The report identified 33 spaces in an adjoining council car park, 14 school parking spaces available after hours and room for approximately 14 vehicles along Ferny Way.



The consultant considered the available parking sufficient for anticipated demand. Additional sporting traffic would generally occur outside school peak periods and was not expected to significantly affect the surrounding road network.



No changes to existing vehicle entrances or pedestrian facilities were proposed, although the assessment recommended making school bicycle parking available to community users.



Community access subject to planning conditions



The proposal would establish planning arrangements for approved sporting organisations to use the school's existing facilities outside school hours.



The traffic assessment considers weekday community use between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., with Saturday activities potentially continuing until 10:00 p.m. The acoustic report assesses a broader schedule covering 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Monday to Sunday, subject to restrictions on different parts of the oval.



Final operating hours and management requirements have not been established in the supplied documents. Community use would be subject to appropriate agreements and operational controls.



Read: Ferny Hills State School Recipe Reaches Queensland Tuckshop Final



Submissions close on 13 November 2026 and may be lodged through the Ministerial Infrastructure Designations website or emailed to infrastructuredesignation@dsdip.qld.gov.au.



Published 25-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[From Sandgate to Oprah: The Local Roots of Share the Dignity]]></title>
<link>https://sandgatenews.com.au/share-the-dignity-sandgate-brighton-history</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 04 Nov 2026 23:57:58 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brighton Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bunnings Virginia]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Christmas charity appeal]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[It's in the Bag 2026]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Oprah Winfrey]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[period poverty Australia]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Rochelle Courtenay]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sandgate community]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sandgate history]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Share the Dignity]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandgate News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://sandgatenews.com.au/?page_id=13463</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A national charity now attracting international attention through Oprah Winfrey has a little-known history in Sandgate, where founder Rochelle Courtenay once ran Share the Dignity from her family home before the organisation moved into its first office in neighbouring Brighton.







Read: Sandgate Museum Turns To Community To Help Secure Its Future







The charity's local beginnings are receiving renewed attention as its annual It's in the Bag Christmas appeal prepares to collect donations across Australia from 6 to 22 November 2026. The campaign encourages people to fill bags with essential personal care products for women and girls experiencing homelessness or spending Christmas in domestic violence refuges.



A community collection that became a charity



Photo credit: Facebook/Share the Dignity



Share the Dignity began in 2015 after Ms Courtenay read about the difficulties faced by women experiencing homelessness who could not afford basic menstrual products.



The charity's founder explained that the issue prompted her to seek donations from her local Queensland community. She wanted to collect period products for nearby women's shelters, turning an initial community collection into an organisation that would eventually operate nationally.



The early initiative addressed a basic problem that often received little public attention. Women without reliable access to menstrual products could face difficult choices between purchasing essential items and paying for other necessities.



What makes the organisation's history particularly relevant to Sandgate is where its early operations were based. Its 2019 annual report specifically identifies Ms Courtenay's Sandgate home as the charity's original workplace.



The report describes a small operation that gradually outgrew its domestic setting. Ms Courtenay's kitchen table had become inadequate as the team expanded and more people were needed to support the organisation's work.



From a Sandgate home to Brighton







The next chapter in the charity's development took place just across the suburb boundary. According to the 2019 annual report, Ms Courtenay's home served as Share the Dignity's office until January 2019. The organisation then moved into premises at 12 Paul Street, Brighton, where staff established a dedicated workplace.



The report describes the new premises as having pink walls and desks installed for the growing team. It also records a substantial staffing increase, from two employees at the beginning of the financial year to ten by its conclusion.



The move marked a practical change in how the charity operated. Staff, interns and volunteers could work together outside Ms Courtenay's home, providing more room for the organisation's expanding activities.



The historical connection is significant for both suburbs. Sandgate was the original operating base, while Brighton became home to the charity's first dedicated office. The 2019 report documents that particular period in the organisation's development. It does not establish that the Brighton premises remain its current office, so the address should be understood as a historical location rather than a present-day destination.



A local beginning with national reach



Photo credit: Facebook/Share the Dignity



Share the Dignity has since grown well beyond its original community collection. Its official website reports more than 2,500 volunteers and more than 3,000 charity partners, alongside millions of period products distributed across Australia. The organisation also reports more than 1.1 million It's in the Bag donations collected through its work with Bunnings.



The scale of the organisation's activities reflects how a local initiative developed into a national charity. Its work now includes period-product collections, Christmas care packages, advocacy and initiatives aimed at improving access to essential products. One recent development has also brought an internationally recognised name into the charity's Christmas campaign.



How Oprah became part of the story



Photo credit: Facebook/Share the Dignity



Oprah Winfrey's involvement is a recent chapter, rather than the starting point of the charity's history. Ms Courtenay met Winfrey during the television personality's visit to Australia in 2025. According to reporting about the encounter, Winfrey expressed an interest in the It's in the Bag initiative and later packed a bag for the 2026 campaign.



The charity's October 2026 podcast episode also documents Ms Courtenay opening the bag prepared by Winfrey. It describes the contribution as a personal It's in the Bag donation intended for an Australian woman or girl.



Photo credit: Facebook/Share the Dignity



The involvement has generated considerable attention, but the central purpose of the campaign remains unchanged. Donations are intended to provide practical essentials, regardless of who packs them.



Why the work remains relevant



The need for access to basic menstrual products is also reflected in the charity's national research. Its 2024 Bloody Big Survey received 153,620 responses. The findings reported that 64 per cent of respondents had struggled to afford period products, while 56 per cent had missed work because of their periods.



These figures describe survey respondents, not a representative measurement of every Australian or residents of Sandgate and Brighton. The research nevertheless provides insight into the experiences reported by a substantial number of people who participated.



The organisation continues to use the findings to support its advocacy for better access to menstrual products in schools, workplaces and other public settings.



How Sandgate residents can support the appeal



The 2026 It's in the Bag collection provides a practical way for residents to participate. Bunnings is the charity's official nationwide collection partner, with donation points scheduled to operate from 6 to 22 November. One verified nearby option is Bunnings Virginia, at 1836 Sandgate Road, Virginia.



Donors can choose between three bag categories:




Adult bags: Period products, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant and soap or body wash.



Teen bags: Similar personal care essentials, with period products suitable for smaller bodies. These bags should carry a yellow tag or ribbon.



Mum and Bub bags: Maternity period products, toiletries, newborn nappies, breast pads, baby wipes and other listed baby essentials. These bags require a purple tag or ribbon.




The charity asks donors to use a new bag or one in excellent condition. All donated products must be new, sealed and in their original packaging. Opened products, food, drinks and used clothing are among the items that cannot be accepted.



People who cannot visit a Bunnings collection point can also sponsor a bag through the charity's website. The organisation provides instructions for individuals, schools and workplaces interested in organising their own packing parties.







Read: Sandgate Backs Large-Scale Container Recycling Effort







Donations are sorted and distributed through the charity's network of partner organisations. Share the Dignity says it tries to distribute bags locally where possible but may reallocate donations between areas according to need. A bag handed in at a local store therefore cannot be guaranteed to remain in the immediate district.



Residents can check the official packing lists, collection arrangements and campaign information at https://sharethedignity.org.au/ before preparing their donation.



Published 5-November-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A national charity now attracting international attention through Oprah Winfrey has a little-known history in Sandgate, where founder Rochelle Courtenay once ran Share the Dignity from her family home before the organisation moved into its first office in neighbouring Brighton.







Read: Sandgate Museum Turns To Community To Help Secure Its Future







The charity's local beginnings are receiving renewed attention as its annual It's in the Bag Christmas appeal prepares to collect donations across Australia from 6 to 22 November 2026. The campaign encourages people to fill bags with essential personal care products for women and girls experiencing homelessness or spending Christmas in domestic violence refuges.



A community collection that became a charity



Photo credit: Facebook/Share the Dignity



Share the Dignity began in 2015 after Ms Courtenay read about the difficulties faced by women experiencing homelessness who could not afford basic menstrual products.



The charity's founder explained that the issue prompted her to seek donations from her local Queensland community. She wanted to collect period products for nearby women's shelters, turning an initial community collection into an organisation that would eventually operate nationally.



The early initiative addressed a basic problem that often received little public attention. Women without reliable access to menstrual products could face difficult choices between purchasing essential items and paying for other necessities.



What makes the organisation's history particularly relevant to Sandgate is where its early operations were based. Its 2019 annual report specifically identifies Ms Courtenay's Sandgate home as the charity's original workplace.



The report describes a small operation that gradually outgrew its domestic setting. Ms Courtenay's kitchen table had become inadequate as the team expanded and more people were needed to support the organisation's work.



From a Sandgate home to Brighton







The next chapter in the charity's development took place just across the suburb boundary. According to the 2019 annual report, Ms Courtenay's home served as Share the Dignity's office until January 2019. The organisation then moved into premises at 12 Paul Street, Brighton, where staff established a dedicated workplace.



The report describes the new premises as having pink walls and desks installed for the growing team. It also records a substantial staffing increase, from two employees at the beginning of the financial year to ten by its conclusion.



The move marked a practical change in how the charity operated. Staff, interns and volunteers could work together outside Ms Courtenay's home, providing more room for the organisation's expanding activities.



The historical connection is significant for both suburbs. Sandgate was the original operating base, while Brighton became home to the charity's first dedicated office. The 2019 report documents that particular period in the organisation's development. It does not establish that the Brighton premises remain its current office, so the address should be understood as a historical location rather than a present-day destination.



A local beginning with national reach



Photo credit: Facebook/Share the Dignity



Share the Dignity has since grown well beyond its original community collection. Its official website reports more than 2,500 volunteers and more than 3,000 charity partners, alongside millions of period products distributed across Australia. The organisation also reports more than 1.1 million It's in the Bag donations collected through its work with Bunnings.



The scale of the organisation's activities reflects how a local initiative developed into a national charity. Its work now includes period-product collections, Christmas care packages, advocacy and initiatives aimed at improving access to essential products. One recent development has also brought an internationally recognised name into the charity's Christmas campaign.



How Oprah became part of the story



Photo credit: Facebook/Share the Dignity



Oprah Winfrey's involvement is a recent chapter, rather than the starting point of the charity's history. Ms Courtenay met Winfrey during the television personality's visit to Australia in 2025. According to reporting about the encounter, Winfrey expressed an interest in the It's in the Bag initiative and later packed a bag for the 2026 campaign.



The charity's October 2026 podcast episode also documents Ms Courtenay opening the bag prepared by Winfrey. It describes the contribution as a personal It's in the Bag donation intended for an Australian woman or girl.



Photo credit: Facebook/Share the Dignity



The involvement has generated considerable attention, but the central purpose of the campaign remains unchanged. Donations are intended to provide practical essentials, regardless of who packs them.



Why the work remains relevant



The need for access to basic menstrual products is also reflected in the charity's national research. Its 2024 Bloody Big Survey received 153,620 responses. The findings reported that 64 per cent of respondents had struggled to afford period products, while 56 per cent had missed work because of their periods.



These figures describe survey respondents, not a representative measurement of every Australian or residents of Sandgate and Brighton. The research nevertheless provides insight into the experiences reported by a substantial number of people who participated.



The organisation continues to use the findings to support its advocacy for better access to menstrual products in schools, workplaces and other public settings.



How Sandgate residents can support the appeal



The 2026 It's in the Bag collection provides a practical way for residents to participate. Bunnings is the charity's official nationwide collection partner, with donation points scheduled to operate from 6 to 22 November. One verified nearby option is Bunnings Virginia, at 1836 Sandgate Road, Virginia.



Donors can choose between three bag categories:




Adult bags: Period products, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant and soap or body wash.



Teen bags: Similar personal care essentials, with period products suitable for smaller bodies. These bags should carry a yellow tag or ribbon.



Mum and Bub bags: Maternity period products, toiletries, newborn nappies, breast pads, baby wipes and other listed baby essentials. These bags require a purple tag or ribbon.




The charity asks donors to use a new bag or one in excellent condition. All donated products must be new, sealed and in their original packaging. Opened products, food, drinks and used clothing are among the items that cannot be accepted.



People who cannot visit a Bunnings collection point can also sponsor a bag through the charity's website. The organisation provides instructions for individuals, schools and workplaces interested in organising their own packing parties.







Read: Sandgate Backs Large-Scale Container Recycling Effort







Donations are sorted and distributed through the charity's network of partner organisations. Share the Dignity says it tries to distribute bags locally where possible but may reallocate donations between areas according to need. A bag handed in at a local store therefore cannot be guaranteed to remain in the immediate district.



Residents can check the official packing lists, collection arrangements and campaign information at https://sharethedignity.org.au/ before preparing their donation.



Published 5-November-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brighton Residents Invited to Meet Police Over Coffee and Help Start Neighbourhood Watch Group]]></title>
<link>https://sandgatenews.com.au/brighton-residents-invited-to-meet-police-over-coffee-and-help-start-neighbourhood-watch-group</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 04 Nov 2026 23:08:28 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Beaconsfield Terrace]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brighton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brighton QLD]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brighton residents]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Coffee With A Cop]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community safety]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[local news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Neighbourhood Watch]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[police community event]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandgate News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://sandgatenews.com.au/?page_id=13458</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Brighton residents are being invited to sit down with police over coffee and help launch an online Neighbourhood Watch group for their community.



Read: Why Can I Do the Difficult Things but Struggle With the Simple Ones?



The Coffee With A Cop session runs from 10:30am to 11:30am on Sunday 8 November at Luan Café, inside the shopping centre at 353 Beaconsfield Terrace.



Police will be there to answer questions and hear concerns from locals. Organisers describe Brighton as a relaxed bayside suburb and say they want to keep it that way. Residents can turn up with whatever is on their minds.



Photo Credit: MyPolice Queensland



Part of the morning will go to a conversation about setting up a new online Neighbourhood Watch group for the suburb. Can’t make it on the day? Organisers say residents can still register interest by emailing brightonneighbourhoodwatch@gmail.com.



Neighbourhood Watch is a community-run program that operates in partnership with the Queensland Police Service. Neighbourhood Watch Queensland has more information for anyone curious about how groups work with police.



Read: Sandgate Retirees Turn $48,000 Bitcoin Investment Into Nearly $500,000




Promotional material for the event also leans on the social side. It encourages locals to come along, have a coffee and get to know the people who live nearby.



Published Date 05-November-2026








]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Brighton residents are being invited to sit down with police over coffee and help launch an online Neighbourhood Watch group for their community.



Read: Why Can I Do the Difficult Things but Struggle With the Simple Ones?



The Coffee With A Cop session runs from 10:30am to 11:30am on Sunday 8 November at Luan Café, inside the shopping centre at 353 Beaconsfield Terrace.



Police will be there to answer questions and hear concerns from locals. Organisers describe Brighton as a relaxed bayside suburb and say they want to keep it that way. Residents can turn up with whatever is on their minds.



Photo Credit: MyPolice Queensland



Part of the morning will go to a conversation about setting up a new online Neighbourhood Watch group for the suburb. Can’t make it on the day? Organisers say residents can still register interest by emailing brightonneighbourhoodwatch@gmail.com.



Neighbourhood Watch is a community-run program that operates in partnership with the Queensland Police Service. Neighbourhood Watch Queensland has more information for anyone curious about how groups work with police.



Read: Sandgate Retirees Turn $48,000 Bitcoin Investment Into Nearly $500,000




Promotional material for the event also leans on the social side. It encourages locals to come along, have a coffee and get to know the people who live nearby.



Published Date 05-November-2026








]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Baby Rhyme Time Brings a Little Rhythm to Brisbane’s Libraries]]></title>
<link>https://sandgatenews.com.au/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2026 05:15:01 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandgate News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://sandgatenews.com.au/baby-rhyme-time-brings-a-little-rhythm-to-brisbanes-libraries/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Baby rhyme time is one of those small library events that quietly earns its keep. It is free, simple and aimed at babies up to one year old. The November schedule shows it at Indooroopilly, with the wider run also reaching libraries across Brisbane. That makes it an easy one for local families to actually use.



A quick outing that feels close to home 



The event page keeps things plain. Families can meet other parents and babies for singing, clapping and dancing. There is no booking needed, which keeps the whole thing easy. At the same time, places are limited, so a session can close if it fills up.



That balance suits a library pretty well. It is open, but not chaotic. It is friendly, but still orderly. For parents juggling naps, bottles and everything else, that sort of setup matters more than people might think. 



The bigger schedule gives the program a wider reach. Alongside Indooroopilly, it also shows sessions at places like Holland Park, Chermside, Carina, Banyo, Nundah and Zillmere. So this is not just one nice little event in one suburb. It is a regular community rhythm across several parts of the city. 



The kind of noise libraries can welcome 



Baby rhyme time works because it is built for the early months. The event listing says the songs and action rhymes help nurture pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. That sounds formal, but the idea behind it is pretty simple. Babies hear words, watch faces and start getting used to the sound of language. 



That is where libraries come into their own. They are already calm places. They already belong to the community. So a session like this feels natural there, not bolted on. 



And honestly, that is part of the appeal. Parents do not need a grand plan for the morning. They just need something local, useful and low-fuss. Baby rhyme time gives them that. 



A small session worth repeating 



First 5 Forever backs the program, with the State Library of Queensland coordinating it in partnership with local government. That gives the session a proper public purpose, but the benefit is still felt at the local level. One suburb gets a room full of songs. Another suburb gets the same thing on a different day. 



That is the charm of it. Baby rhyme time is not trying to be bigger than it needs to be. It just gives babies, parents and carers a warm little place to start. In a city as busy as Brisbane, that feels worth keeping on the calendar.




  
    
      Place
      Date
      Time
    
  
  
    Annerley Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Ashgrove Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Banyo Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bracken Ridge Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Brisbane Square Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bulimba Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Carina Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Carindale Library11/3/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carindale Library11/10/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/11/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/17/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/18/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/24/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/25/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Chermside Library11/3/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Coopers Plain Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Corinda Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Everton Park LIbrary11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Fairfield Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Garden City Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Grange Library11/5/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/12/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/19/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/26/202611:15AM - 11:45AM

    Holland Park Library11/4/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/11/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/18/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/25/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Inala Library11/3/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/10/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/17/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/24/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Indooroopilly Library11/2/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/6/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/9/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/13/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/16/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/20/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/23/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/27/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/30/202610:15AM - 10:45AM

    Kenmore Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Mitchelton Library11/6/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/13/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/20/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/27/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Mount Gravatt Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Mt Ommaney Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    New Farm Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Nundah Library11/5/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/12/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/19/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/26/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sandgate Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Stones Corner Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sunnybank Hills Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Toowong Library11/3/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/10/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/17/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/24/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    West End Library11/4/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/11/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/18/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/25/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Wynnum Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Zillmere Library11/5/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/12/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/19/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/26/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
  




Published 28-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Baby rhyme time is one of those small library events that quietly earns its keep. It is free, simple and aimed at babies up to one year old. The November schedule shows it at Indooroopilly, with the wider run also reaching libraries across Brisbane. That makes it an easy one for local families to actually use.



A quick outing that feels close to home 



The event page keeps things plain. Families can meet other parents and babies for singing, clapping and dancing. There is no booking needed, which keeps the whole thing easy. At the same time, places are limited, so a session can close if it fills up.



That balance suits a library pretty well. It is open, but not chaotic. It is friendly, but still orderly. For parents juggling naps, bottles and everything else, that sort of setup matters more than people might think. 



The bigger schedule gives the program a wider reach. Alongside Indooroopilly, it also shows sessions at places like Holland Park, Chermside, Carina, Banyo, Nundah and Zillmere. So this is not just one nice little event in one suburb. It is a regular community rhythm across several parts of the city. 



The kind of noise libraries can welcome 



Baby rhyme time works because it is built for the early months. The event listing says the songs and action rhymes help nurture pre-literacy, communication, language and social skills. That sounds formal, but the idea behind it is pretty simple. Babies hear words, watch faces and start getting used to the sound of language. 



That is where libraries come into their own. They are already calm places. They already belong to the community. So a session like this feels natural there, not bolted on. 



And honestly, that is part of the appeal. Parents do not need a grand plan for the morning. They just need something local, useful and low-fuss. Baby rhyme time gives them that. 



A small session worth repeating 



First 5 Forever backs the program, with the State Library of Queensland coordinating it in partnership with local government. That gives the session a proper public purpose, but the benefit is still felt at the local level. One suburb gets a room full of songs. Another suburb gets the same thing on a different day. 



That is the charm of it. Baby rhyme time is not trying to be bigger than it needs to be. It just gives babies, parents and carers a warm little place to start. In a city as busy as Brisbane, that feels worth keeping on the calendar.




  
    
      Place
      Date
      Time
    
  
  
    Annerley Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Annerley Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Ashgrove Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Ashgrove Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Banyo Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Banyo Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bracken Ridge Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bracken Ridge Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Brisbane Square Library11/5/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/12/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/19/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Brisbane Square Library11/26/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    Bulimba Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Bulimba Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Carina Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carina Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Carindale Library11/3/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Carindale Library11/10/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/11/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/17/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/18/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Carindale Library11/24/202610:45AM - 11:15AM
    Carindale Library11/25/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Chermside Library11/3/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Chermside Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Coopers Plain Library11/5/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/12/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/19/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Coopers Plain Library11/26/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Corinda Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Corinda Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Everton Park LIbrary11/3/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/10/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/17/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Everton Park LIbrary11/24/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Fairfield Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Fairfield Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Garden City Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Garden City Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Grange Library11/5/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/12/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/19/202611:15AM - 11:45AM
    Grange Library11/26/202611:15AM - 11:45AM

    Holland Park Library11/4/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/11/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/18/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Holland Park Library11/25/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Inala Library11/3/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/10/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/17/20262:00PM - 2:30PM
    Inala Library11/24/20262:00PM - 2:30PM

    Indooroopilly Library11/2/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/6/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/9/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/13/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/16/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/20/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/23/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/27/202610:15AM - 10:45AM
    Indooroopilly Library11/30/202610:15AM - 10:45AM

    Kenmore Library11/4/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/11/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/18/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Kenmore Library11/25/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Mitchelton Library11/6/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/13/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/20/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    Mitchelton Library11/27/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Mount Gravatt Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mount Gravatt Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Mt Ommaney Library11/4/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/11/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/18/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Mt Ommaney Library11/25/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    New Farm Library11/4/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/11/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/18/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM
    New Farm Library11/25/202611:00AM - 11:30 AM

    Nundah Library11/5/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/12/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/19/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Nundah Library11/26/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sandgate Library11/6/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/13/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/20/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM
    Sandgate Library11/27/202610:00AM - 10:30 AM

    Stones Corner Library11/6/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/13/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/20/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM
    Stones Corner Library11/27/20269:30AM - 10:00 AM

    Sunnybank Hills Library11/2/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/9/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/16/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/23/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Sunnybank Hills Library11/30/202610:30AM- 11:00AM

    Toowong Library11/3/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/10/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/17/202611:30AM - 12:00PM
    Toowong Library11/24/202611:30AM - 12:00PM

    West End Library11/4/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/11/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/18/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    West End Library11/25/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Wynnum Library11/6/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/13/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/20/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM
    Wynnum Library11/27/20269:15AM - 9:45 AM

    Zillmere Library11/5/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/12/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/19/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
    Zillmere Library11/26/202610:30AM- 11:00AM
  




Published 28-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Metro Expansion Survey Opens as Residents Asked About Local Transport Problems]]></title>
<link>https://sandgatenews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems</link>
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<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2026 04:56:12 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandgate News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://sandgatenews.com.au/brisbane-metro-expansion-survey-opens-as-residents-asked-about-local-transport-problems/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane residents are being invited to share their public transport concerns and suggest improvements as community consultation begins on proposed Metro expansions across the city's northern, eastern, southern and airport corridors.



Submissions close on Sunday, 13 December 2026, giving commuters an opportunity to describe difficulties with existing services and suggest improvements. Their feedback will help inform a business case examining how Brisbane Metro could reach more suburbs.



Four corridors bring different transport questions



The proposed Northern Metro would connect the CBD with Carseldine, extending services through Lutwyche, Kedron, Chermside and Aspley. Gympie Road has been identified as a potential corridor, raising questions about how dedicated bus infrastructure could improve journeys along one of Brisbane's major northern transport routes.



For residents in these suburbs, the consultation provides an opportunity to describe existing problems involving bus connections, journey reliability and access to public transport. Final station locations and the infrastructure needed for a northern extension remain undecided.



The Eastern Metro proposal would connect central Brisbane with Capalaba through the eastern suburbs, with Old Cleveland Road identified as a potential route. Commuters travelling through areas including Coorparoo could provide feedback about existing services, transfers and difficulties encountered during their journeys.



South of the city, the proposed Southern Metro would connect the CBD with Springwood, complementing the South East Busway extension and linking with the existing M1 service at Eight Mile Plains busway station.



The fourth corridor would create express Metro connections between Brisbane Airport's domestic and international terminals and the CBD. Planning will examine how those services could fit into the wider public transport network.



All four corridors remain proposals, with their potential alignments and infrastructure needs to be examined through the business case.



Photo Credit: BCC



Population growth adds pressure to existing routes



Council forecasts substantial population growth along the three residential corridors over the next 20 years.



Its projections indicate increases of 60 per cent along the CBD-to-Carseldine corridor, 29 per cent towards Capalaba and 96 per cent towards Springwood. Approximately 88,000 additional residents are expected in areas surrounding those corridors.



Brisbane's latest expansion proposals also revisit ambitions from the South East Queensland Integrated Regional Transport Plan developed in the 1990s. The earlier plan proposed approximately 75 kilometres of busways, but only about 25 kilometres were ultimately built.



Infrastructure Australia has identified the Metro expansion as an early-stage investment proposal that could improve public transport capacity, interchange connections and service reliability. Potential benefits remain subject to further planning and assessment.



Council wants to hear where journeys fall short



The consultation focuses on residents' current travel experiences and suggestions for improving bus services along the proposed corridors, rather than asking them to comment on completed designs.



Issues such as unreliable travel times, inconvenient transfers, access to stops and gaps in service coverage could be raised by residents. Council has not indicated that participants will be able to vote on final station locations or select specific route alignments.



The consultation follows the introduction of Brisbane Metro's M1 and M2 services in 2025, alongside changes to the city's wider bus network. Council is now investigating how similar high-capacity services could operate beyond the existing network.



LM Adrian Schrinner has encouraged residents to contribute to the expansion plans, arguing that the Metro model should be extended into other parts of Brisbane.



Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Cr Andrew Wines has also sought feedback from regular passengers and people who would consider using public transport if better services were available.







Construction funding and 2032 timetable remain uncertain



Brisbane City Council is working with the Queensland and Australian governments on the Brisbane Metro Expansions Business Case, with Jacobs Group (Australia) engaged to undertake the work.



The business case will investigate possible route alignments, depot locations, network improvements, infrastructure requirements and the order in which different sections could be delivered.



The Australian Government has committed $50 million to support development of the final business case and related expansion planning. However, construction funding for the proposed corridors has not been secured, and major infrastructure works would require substantial additional investment.



Mr Schrinner has declined to guarantee that any of the proposed extensions will be completed before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



The distinction between long-term expansion plans and present-day transport needs has also attracted criticism. Opposition Leader Cr Jared Cassidy has called for more suburban bus services now, rather than waiting years for major infrastructure projects.



Council expects the expansion business case to be completed in late 2027. Any subsequent construction would depend on funding availability, relevant approvals and decisions about which sections should proceed.



How residents can have their say



The survey is open until Sunday, 13 December 2026. Council has also provided an option for residents to register for project updates as the business case progresses.




HAVE YOUR SAY










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  box-sizing: border-box;
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}



  Have Your Say on Brisbane Metro

  Survey closes:
  Sunday, 13 December 2026

  Brisbane City Council is seeking feedback
  about current travel experiences and
  potential bus network improvements.

  Proposed expansion corridors:
  
    Northern: CBD to Carseldine
    Eastern: CBD to Capalaba
    Southern: CBD to Springwood
    Airport: CBD to Brisbane Airport
  

  
    
      View Consultation and Survey
    
  

  
    The proposed corridors remain subject to
    the business case, funding and approvals.
    No final routes or construction timetable
    have been confirmed.
  





The&nbsp;online community survey&nbsp;can be accessed directly, while questions about the project can be sent to&nbsp;metroexpansions@brisbane.qld.gov.au.



Feedback gathered during the consultation will contribute to the business case, which is expected to provide more detailed information about potential routes, infrastructure requirements and delivery stages in late 2027.



Published 28-Oct-2026



Featured Image Credit: Wikipedia/Kyethepie21/CC0




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers]]></title>
<link>https://sandgatenews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2026 01:48:19 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandgate News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://sandgatenews.com.au/brisbane-dawn-economy-plan-2026/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Brisbane's early-morning routines could receive greater attention under a new citywide plan examining improvements to public facilities, walking and cycling routes, transport connections and opportunities for businesses trading before sunrise.



Brisbane City Council opened&nbsp;public consultation&nbsp;on 20 October 2026, inviting residents to share how they use the city between 4:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. The five-minute survey closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, 22 November 2026, with responses intended to guide future planning and investment.




HAVE YOUR SAY




Better lighting, paths and public facilities under consideration



The proposed&nbsp;Dawn Economy Plan&nbsp;considers improved lighting along walking and running routes, more drinking fountains and public toilets, additional shade and seating in parks, and better connections between pedestrian and cycling paths.



Residents are being asked where they go, what activities they undertake and which improvements would make Brisbane easier to navigate in the early hours. Public transport connections and opportunities for early-trading businesses are also part of the consultation.



No suburb-specific upgrades have been approved through the plan. Council will use community feedback to help establish priorities, while businesses and precinct representatives will be consulted about opportunities to support morning activity.



Brisbane's early trading leads other capitals



Research by Ingenium&nbsp;found that one in eight Brisbane food and drink venues was trading at 5:00 a.m., compared with one in 25 in Sydney and one in 33 in Melbourne and Perth.



Further analysis by researcher Dr Anna Edwards found that approximately one-third of Brisbane's food and drink businesses were operating between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., with around half open by 8:00 a.m.



Dr Edwards identified Brisbane's established early-trading patterns as an economic advantage, supported by the city's outdoor lifestyle and demand for morning hospitality and recreation.



Council has also highlighted Brisbane's 19 Saturday parkruns, which attract thousands of runners, walkers and volunteers, as evidence of the city's established appetite for early outdoor activity.



Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the consultation would help identify practical improvements for residents who already use Brisbane's parks, pathways, pools and hospitality venues before the conventional working day begins.



Five precinct connections proposed across Brisbane



The&nbsp;Committee for Brisbane's Dawn Economy Position Paper, released on 18 October, examines economic activity between 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and proposes stronger connections between major recreation, cultural, education and business precincts.



Its recommendations identify five potential corridors spanning the Brisbane River, education and research centres, recreation areas, cultural destinations and sporting facilities.



The proposed connections include South Bank and Kangaroo Point along the river, Mt Coot-tha and Victoria Park through the recreation corridor, and Fortitude Valley, New Farm and West End through the cultural corridor. No construction commitments have been announced for these recommendations.





  Five Proposed Dawn Economy Connections Across Brisbane

  
    The Committee for Brisbane has identified five potential
    connections between major activity precincts.
  

  
    River corridor
    Howard Smith Wharves, CBD, Botanic Gardens,
    South Bank and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Knowledge corridor
    Herston, Kelvin Grove, Roma Street, CBD,
    Gardens Point and Boggo Road.
  

  
    Recreation corridor
    Mt Coot-tha, Victoria Park, Spring Hill,
    CBD and Kangaroo Point.
  

  
    Cultural corridor
    Fortitude Valley, New Farm, Howard Smith Wharves,
    Queensland Cultural Centre and West End.
  

  
    Sports corridor
    Ballymore, Victoria Park, RNA Showgrounds,
    Woolloongabba and Queensland Tennis Centre.
  

  
    Planning status:
    These connections are recommendations, not approved
    or funded construction projects.
  

  
    Source:
    
      Committee for Brisbane, Dawn Economy Position Paper
    , October 2026, page 13.
  



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The Committee also advocates a coordinated 24-hour economy strategy, opportunities in wellness tourism and greater use of Brisbane's outdoor lifestyle as the city prepares for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.



Committee for Brisbane chief executive Jen Williams has identified early-morning activity as an opportunity to strengthen the city's economy alongside its established night-time hospitality and entertainment sectors.



Queensland's&nbsp;draft State Planning Policy&nbsp;also recognises dawn and night-time economic activity as considerations in land-use planning. Public consultation on the draft closed on 26 October, with the final policy yet to be settled.



Existing recreation investment and transport priorities



Brisbane City Council has separately announced a $5.6 million investment in&nbsp;Move Well Brisbane, expanding its existing Active and Healthy programme. Council says the initiative will deliver 20,000 free and low-cost activity sessions over two years and involve approximately 400 local businesses.



Activities will be available across mornings, evenings and weekends, including fitness, nutrition and wellbeing programmes. Funding for Move Well Brisbane is separate from any future infrastructure commitments arising from the Dawn Economy Plan.



Council Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy criticised the survey as unnecessary, arguing that council should prioritise earlier public transport services and improved lighting in parks and along bikeways, particularly during winter mornings.



The Dawn Economy Plan remains in development, with no confirmed list of suburb-specific upgrades, construction timetable or dedicated infrastructure budget. Feedback from residents, businesses and precinct representatives will help inform the council's next steps.



Published 27-Oct-2026Featured Image Credit: Committee for Brisbane




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Where to Get Sandbags in Brisbane and Moreton Bay During Heavy Rain]]></title>
<link>https://sandgatenews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain</link>
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<pubDate>Mon, 26 Oct 2026 23:24:25 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandgate News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://sandgatenews.com.au/sandbag-stations-brisbane-moreton-bay-heavy-rain/</guid>
<description><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Residents preparing for flooding across Brisbane and Moreton Bay have different sandbag collection arrangements depending on where they live, with five established collection points in Brisbane and emergency-activated stations across Moreton Bay.



Following heavy rainfall on Thursday, 22 October, Brisbane City Council's five permanent storm-season collection points remained covered by its published 24-hour arrangements. City of Moreton Bay, meanwhile, operates temporary self-service stations that must be activated before residents can collect sandbags.



Brisbane's five sandbag collection points



Brisbane City Council provides pre-filled sandbags from five depots throughout the October-to-March storm season. Its published arrangements specify collection 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the following locations:




Darra: South Depot, 38 Shamrock Road



Lota: Depot, 58 Herbert Street



Morningside: Balmoral Depot, 9 Redfern Street



Newmarket: SES Depot, 66 Wilston Road



Zillmere: North Depot, 33 Jennings Street




The collection points are part of the council's established storm-season service rather than temporary locations opened solely in response to Thursday's rainfall. Individual stock levels have not been confirmed, and residents should check official updates before travelling.



Additional self-service stations may be established across Brisbane during significant severe weather. No extra location was independently verified during this review.



Moreton Bay stations require activation



City of Moreton Bay operates free sandbag collection stations when significant rainfall or potential flooding is forecast. Its published register identifies 13 sites across the region, although their operating status can change during severe weather.



The following locations are among those designated for emergency activation:




Caboolture: Council Depot Car Park, 98 Beerburrum Road



Narangba: 910 Oakey Flat Road, between Raynbird Road and Sovereign Drive



Deception Bay: SES, 2–22 Old Bay Road



Petrie: 3 Woonara Drive



Arana Hills: SES, 2 Pine Hills Drive, off Jinker Track



Margate: Jull Street, opposite the council depot



Bongaree: Bribie Island SES, 208 First Avenue



Beachmere: Rogers Street Sports Ground, 57 Rogers Street




Other designated locations are in Dayboro, Elimbah, Toorbul and Woodford, which has two collection sites.



The council's indexed station register displayed all 13 locations as closed during this research. However, its live dashboard map could not be independently checked, so the current operating status of individual sites remains unconfirmed.



Residents should consult the Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard before leaving home. Operating locations are identified by green shovel icons, while activated stations are generally available around the clock until supplies run out.



What residents need to bring



Brisbane's regular collection points provide pre-filled sandbags. Moreton Bay's activated stations operate differently, with residents required to fill their own bags using sand supplied by the council.



Moreton Bay advises bringing a shovel, gloves, enclosed shoes, string or zip-ties, and spare empty bags. Council provides polypropylene bags when available, but supplies may run out.



Sandbags should be filled no more than two-thirds full to make them easier to carry and position. Queensland SES advises leaving the tops untied when laying the bags, although they may be secured for transport. Collection limits and assistance arrangements at individual stations have not been independently confirmed.







Before You Collect Sandbags



Check before travelling.
Stations may close or run out of supplies.
Never walk or drive through floodwater.



Brisbane: Five established storm-season
collection points provide pre-filled bags under
published 24-hour arrangements. Stock is not guaranteed.



Moreton Bay: Stations open only when
activated. Look for green shovel icons on the council
disaster dashboard. Collection is free and self-service.



What to bring in Moreton Bay



A shovel and spare empty bags
Gloves and enclosed shoes
String or zip-ties for transporting bags



Using sandbags safely



Fill bags halfway to two-thirds full.
Leave bag tops untied when positioning them.
Use plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows.
Keep at least one doorway accessible.
Do not rely on sandbags to stop major flooding.



Need help? SES:
132 500.
Life-threatening emergencies:
000.




Moreton Bay Disaster Dashboard





Brisbane emergency dashboard




Council arrangements checked 22 October 2026.
Confirm current station operations before travelling.







Heavy rainfall and flood safety



The Bureau of Meteorology recorded intense rainfall around Caboolture, Morayfield and Burpengary on Thursday morning.



A warning issued at 7:02 a.m. reported 131 millimetres at Caboolture, 128 millimetres at Sheep Station Creek in Morayfield and 127 millimetres at Burpengary during three-hour periods ending at 6:45 a.m. Those figures describe morning observations, not rainfall totals for the entire day.



Sandbags can reduce water entering buildings but cannot completely prevent flooding. Residents should place them where water may enter, using plastic sheeting beneath staggered rows, while keeping at least one exit accessible.



Never walk or drive through floodwater to collect supplies. For storm or flood assistance, contact the State Emergency Service on&nbsp;132 500. Call&nbsp;Triple Zero (000)&nbsp;for life-threatening emergencies.



Current warnings, local road closures and sandbag activation information are available through the Brisbane and Moreton Bay emergency dashboards.



Published 22-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Sandgate Walking Group Gives Men a Place to Talk, Mate by Mate]]></title>
<link>https://sandgatenews.com.au/sandgate-walking-group-gives-men-a-place-to-talk-mate-by-mate</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2026 04:18:54 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane bayside]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community walking group]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Kings Walk]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[mateship]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[men’s mental health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[men’s wellbeing]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sandgate]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sandgate Aquatic Centre]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Saturday walk]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Shorncliffe Pier]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandgate News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://sandgatenews.com.au/?page_id=13399</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A free walk from Sandgate Pool to Shorncliffe Pier is giving Brisbane’s dads, sons, brothers, uncles and granddads a gentle way to catch up with other men.



Read: ADHD Isn’t Always Obvious: What Parents and Adults Should Know



Kings Walk is the name, and the group’s motto says "kings do not walk alone". Organisers describe it as support for men’s mental health, connection and brotherhood. It costs nothing, has no formal program and needs no sign-up. It is an informal peer gathering, not a counselling or clinical service.



Walkers meet at 5 a.m. every Saturday at Sandgate Pool, formally the Sandgate Aquatic Centre on Flinders Parade. According to Brisbane City Council, the pool itself does not open to swimmers until 6 a.m. on Saturdays, so this is an early meet-up rather than a swim session. At 5:15 a.m. the group sets off for Shorncliffe Pier and back. Local route guides put the return trip at roughly 5 to 6 kilometres. Organisers say most mornings wrap up by 6:30 a.m., and they aim to have men home by 7 a.m., in time for kids’ sport and other weekend plans.



Some mornings the conversation stays light. Other mornings it carries more weight. Organisers say there is comfort in starting the weekend next to men who share similar pressures and responsibilities. They also say nobody is judged, egos stay at home and no one gets left behind. The group describes the walks as a way to look out for mates through the good days and the hard ones.



One local resident, commenting on the group’s online post, called the idea much needed. The commenter said women in online mothers’ groups often write about how hard it is for their husbands to make new friends. The same comment asked whether the group might hold a later catch-up for men who are not early risers. Two other commenters also responded. One said they would be there at 5 a.m., and the other said they hoped to make it. The post’s author replied to both with encouragement.



So what does it take to join? Very little. Men can turn up at Sandgate Pool on a Saturday, and organisers encourage them to bring a mate who might benefit. Anyone with a question beforehand can email kingswalk100@gmail.com, though the group says that is optional. Organisers describe turning up as the first step, and something a man does for himself.



Read: Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn’t Enough



The walk is not a crisis service. Anyone who is struggling can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Beyond Blue support service on 1300 224 636. In an emergency, call triple zero (000).



Published Date 22-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A free walk from Sandgate Pool to Shorncliffe Pier is giving Brisbane’s dads, sons, brothers, uncles and granddads a gentle way to catch up with other men.



Read: ADHD Isn’t Always Obvious: What Parents and Adults Should Know



Kings Walk is the name, and the group’s motto says "kings do not walk alone". Organisers describe it as support for men’s mental health, connection and brotherhood. It costs nothing, has no formal program and needs no sign-up. It is an informal peer gathering, not a counselling or clinical service.



Walkers meet at 5 a.m. every Saturday at Sandgate Pool, formally the Sandgate Aquatic Centre on Flinders Parade. According to Brisbane City Council, the pool itself does not open to swimmers until 6 a.m. on Saturdays, so this is an early meet-up rather than a swim session. At 5:15 a.m. the group sets off for Shorncliffe Pier and back. Local route guides put the return trip at roughly 5 to 6 kilometres. Organisers say most mornings wrap up by 6:30 a.m., and they aim to have men home by 7 a.m., in time for kids’ sport and other weekend plans.



Some mornings the conversation stays light. Other mornings it carries more weight. Organisers say there is comfort in starting the weekend next to men who share similar pressures and responsibilities. They also say nobody is judged, egos stay at home and no one gets left behind. The group describes the walks as a way to look out for mates through the good days and the hard ones.



One local resident, commenting on the group’s online post, called the idea much needed. The commenter said women in online mothers’ groups often write about how hard it is for their husbands to make new friends. The same comment asked whether the group might hold a later catch-up for men who are not early risers. Two other commenters also responded. One said they would be there at 5 a.m., and the other said they hoped to make it. The post’s author replied to both with encouragement.



So what does it take to join? Very little. Men can turn up at Sandgate Pool on a Saturday, and organisers encourage them to bring a mate who might benefit. Anyone with a question beforehand can email kingswalk100@gmail.com, though the group says that is optional. Organisers describe turning up as the first step, and something a man does for himself.



Read: Dementia and Home Fire Safety: When a Smoke Alarm Isn’t Enough



The walk is not a crisis service. Anyone who is struggling can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the Beyond Blue support service on 1300 224 636. In an emergency, call triple zero (000).



Published Date 22-October-2026




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<title><![CDATA[Sandgate Retirees Turn $48,000 Bitcoin Investment Into Nearly $500,000]]></title>
<link>https://sandgatenews.com.au/sandgate-retirees-turn-48000-bitcoin-investment-into-nearly-500000</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2026 00:41:13 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bitcoin investment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bitcoin profits]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane retirees]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[cryptocurrency Australia]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[cryptocurrency risks]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[older Australian investors]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[retirement savings]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sandgate]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sandgate retirees]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Terry and Justine Sanders]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandgate News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://sandgatenews.com.au/?page_id=13359</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A Sandgate couple who invested $48,000 in Bitcoin during retirement eventually made almost half a million dollars, transforming their financial circumstances after years of limited superannuation savings.



Read: Brisbane Dentist Behind Smilo.ai Wins Queensland Pearcey Award 



Terry and Justine Sanders purchased the cryptocurrency in 2019 and cashed out four years later, in 2023. Speaking publicly about their experience in May 2025, the couple described how the investment had changed their retirement, despite their initial unfamiliarity with digital currencies.



Retirement savings take an unexpected turn



Terry said their savings had been running low and their superannuation had never amounted to much. He compared the Bitcoin gains with the modest returns from their superannuation and a bank account paying 2 per cent interest.



The couple reported making almost $500,000 after selling their holdings, although the published account did not establish the precise sale proceeds, net profit or applicable taxes. Justine, who was 79 when interviewed, described the outcome as life-changing.



Their involvement in cryptocurrency also surprised people their own age. Justine said they had told very few of their peers about the investment because those who knew about it questioned their judgement.



Neither had been particularly comfortable with the technology at first. Terry acknowledged that they had gradually improved their skills, although their grandchildren remained considerably more proficient.



Cryptocurrency attracts more older investors



The Sanders couple are among a growing number of older Australians who have entered the cryptocurrency market, despite its history of sharp price movements.



Research by cryptocurrency exchange Independent Reserve found that the proportion of surveyed Australians aged over 65 who had owned cryptocurrency rose from 2 per cent in 2019 to 8.2 per cent in 2025. The findings were based on an annual survey of approximately 2,000 Australians.&nbsp;



A subsequent 2026 survey by Independent Reserve estimated that 33 per cent of Australians had owned cryptocurrency, compared with 31 per cent in its 2025 findings.



Bitcoin, the best-known cryptocurrency, is traded through digital platforms rather than traditional savings accounts. Its value is driven by market demand and can fluctuate dramatically, creating opportunities for large gains alongside the possibility of substantial losses.



Photo Credit: Wikipedia/Edwin Images/CC 4.0



Big returns carry serious financial risks



The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has warned that cryptocurrency can be particularly risky for retirees who depend on their savings to cover living expenses.



ASIC commissioner Alan Kirkland explained in 2025 that cryptocurrency prices could rise quickly but could also collapse, leaving older investors with limited opportunities to rebuild their savings.



The regulator's Moneysmart guidance identifies crypto assets as high-risk investments and warns of limited consumer protections, market volatility and the potential loss of invested funds.



Fraudulent investment platforms present another danger. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's Scamwatch service warns that scammers may use false promises of high returns, fabricated account balances and pressure tactics to persuade people to transfer money.



Read: Shorncliffe Line Is the Pilot Route for Queensland’s New Train Signalling as Railbus Swaps Continue



Terry recognised those dangers despite his own financial success. He acknowledged that people over 65 could face particular difficulties recovering from major investment losses because they generally had fewer working years ahead of them.



Published 16-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A Sandgate couple who invested $48,000 in Bitcoin during retirement eventually made almost half a million dollars, transforming their financial circumstances after years of limited superannuation savings.



Read: Brisbane Dentist Behind Smilo.ai Wins Queensland Pearcey Award 



Terry and Justine Sanders purchased the cryptocurrency in 2019 and cashed out four years later, in 2023. Speaking publicly about their experience in May 2025, the couple described how the investment had changed their retirement, despite their initial unfamiliarity with digital currencies.



Retirement savings take an unexpected turn



Terry said their savings had been running low and their superannuation had never amounted to much. He compared the Bitcoin gains with the modest returns from their superannuation and a bank account paying 2 per cent interest.



The couple reported making almost $500,000 after selling their holdings, although the published account did not establish the precise sale proceeds, net profit or applicable taxes. Justine, who was 79 when interviewed, described the outcome as life-changing.



Their involvement in cryptocurrency also surprised people their own age. Justine said they had told very few of their peers about the investment because those who knew about it questioned their judgement.



Neither had been particularly comfortable with the technology at first. Terry acknowledged that they had gradually improved their skills, although their grandchildren remained considerably more proficient.



Cryptocurrency attracts more older investors



The Sanders couple are among a growing number of older Australians who have entered the cryptocurrency market, despite its history of sharp price movements.



Research by cryptocurrency exchange Independent Reserve found that the proportion of surveyed Australians aged over 65 who had owned cryptocurrency rose from 2 per cent in 2019 to 8.2 per cent in 2025. The findings were based on an annual survey of approximately 2,000 Australians.&nbsp;



A subsequent 2026 survey by Independent Reserve estimated that 33 per cent of Australians had owned cryptocurrency, compared with 31 per cent in its 2025 findings.



Bitcoin, the best-known cryptocurrency, is traded through digital platforms rather than traditional savings accounts. Its value is driven by market demand and can fluctuate dramatically, creating opportunities for large gains alongside the possibility of substantial losses.



Photo Credit: Wikipedia/Edwin Images/CC 4.0



Big returns carry serious financial risks



The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has warned that cryptocurrency can be particularly risky for retirees who depend on their savings to cover living expenses.



ASIC commissioner Alan Kirkland explained in 2025 that cryptocurrency prices could rise quickly but could also collapse, leaving older investors with limited opportunities to rebuild their savings.



The regulator's Moneysmart guidance identifies crypto assets as high-risk investments and warns of limited consumer protections, market volatility and the potential loss of invested funds.



Fraudulent investment platforms present another danger. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's Scamwatch service warns that scammers may use false promises of high returns, fabricated account balances and pressure tactics to persuade people to transfer money.



Read: Shorncliffe Line Is the Pilot Route for Queensland’s New Train Signalling as Railbus Swaps Continue



Terry recognised those dangers despite his own financial success. He acknowledged that people over 65 could face particular difficulties recovering from major investment losses because they generally had fewer working years ahead of them.



Published 16-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Why Can I Do the Difficult Things but Struggle With the Simple Ones?]]></title>
<link>https://sandgatenews.com.au/adhd-signs-children-adults-brighton</link>
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<pubDate>Sat, 24 Oct 2026 10:06:24 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ADHD]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ADHD assessment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ADHD diagnosis]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ADHD in children]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ADHD masking]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[ADHD symptoms]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Adult ADHD]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brighton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Child development]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dr Anchita Karmakar]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Executive dysfunction]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Mental health]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Neurodevelopmental disorders]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[North Brisbane]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sandgate]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Telos Medical Centre]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Sandgate News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://sandgatenews.com.au/?page_id=13329</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Why can someone manage a demanding career but struggle to pay a bill on time? Why does a bright teenager leave assignments until the last minute? And why does a child who understands instructions keep forgetting what to do next?



Sarah* is successful at work. She handles complicated projects, manages deadlines and is the person her colleagues turn to when something goes wrong.



Yet the simplest tasks at home can feel strangely overwhelming.



She has been meaning to book a dental appointment for weeks. A bill remains unpaid despite having enough money in her account. She knows the laundry needs doing, but somehow ends up tackling everything except the laundry.



She isn't avoiding these things deliberately. She genuinely intends to do them. Getting started is the difficult part.



Sixteen-year-old Daniel* has a different version of the same frustration. He is bright, understands difficult concepts and can spend hours concentrating on subjects that interest him. But an assignment he has known about for three weeks remains untouched until the night before it is due.



His parents cannot understand why someone so capable needs constant reminders to complete ordinary schoolwork.



Eight-year-old Mia* presents another puzzle. She is a quiet child who does well in class, but regularly forgets instructions, loses her belongings and gets distracted halfway through getting ready for school.



Her parents sometimes wonder whether she is listening at all.



The experiences of Sarah, Daniel, and Mia illustrate the difficulties that many adults, teenagers and children encounter.



There can be several reasons for these behaviours. Persistent difficulties with attention, organisation and getting started on tasks can also be associated with a condition that does not always look the way people expect.



Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.



*Sarah, Daniel, and Mia are pseudonyms. Some details have also been edited for privacy.



ADHD Doesn't Always Look the Way We Expect







When Dr Anchita Karmakar speaks with people about ADHD, one of the misconceptions she encounters is that it always involves a restless child who cannot sit still.



In reality, ADHD can present in many different ways. It can affect attention, planning, organisation, impulse control and the ability to manage everyday responsibilities. Some of these difficulties are readily noticeable, while others can remain hidden for years.



Australian clinical guidelines estimate that ADHD affects approximately 6–10 per cent of children and adolescents and 2–6 per cent of adults.



As a GP and Medical Director at Telos Medical Centre in Brighton, Dr Karmakar believes one of the most important things families can understand is that ADHD does not always look the way they expect it to.



When Coping Becomes Exhausting



Some adults with ADHD become remarkably good at finding ways around their difficulties.



They may depend on multiple reminders, work late into the night to meet deadlines or maintain strict routines because they worry about forgetting something important.



To colleagues, friends and even family members, they may appear organised, productive and entirely in control. But what others cannot see is how much effort it takes to maintain that appearance.



We sometimes call this masking — when someone conceals or compensates for difficulties so they are less apparent to other people. Masking is not unique to ADHD, and not everyone with ADHD experiences it. For those who do, however, constantly trying to keep everything together can be exhausting.



I find it particularly important to explore how people have managed their responsibilities over time, rather than looking only at how well they appear to be functioning today.



Someone may have coped reasonably well through school or early adulthood, only to find things increasingly difficult after starting university, taking on a demanding job, becoming a parent or assuming greater responsibilities.



Sometimes, the demands of life simply become greater than the coping strategies a person has developed.



Executive Dysfunction: When Everyday Tasks Become Difficult



Another aspect of ADHD that I think deserves greater understanding is executive dysfunction.



Executive functions are the mental processes that help us plan, organise, prioritise, manage time and follow through on tasks.



Imagine knowing that an important bill needs to be paid, having the money available and fully understanding the consequences of missing the deadline — yet somehow continuing to put it off.



Or sitting down to begin a work project, knowing exactly what needs to be done, but finding it extraordinarily difficult to take the first step.



For some people with ADHD, this gap between knowing what to do and being able to do it can affect almost every part of daily life.



It may mean repeatedly running late, forgetting appointments, struggling to complete household tasks or becoming overwhelmed when several responsibilities compete for attention.



Over time, these difficulties can affect relationships, financial wellbeing, career opportunities and self-confidence. When people do not understand why these things keep happening, they may begin questioning their own abilities.



Figuring Out Why



Part of the explanation lies in how the brain regulates attention, motivation and the ability to act on our intentions.



Photo credit: Discover Your Path 



Dopamine is one of the chemical messengers involved in these processes. Alongside noradrenaline and other brain systems, it plays a role in how we respond to rewards, sustain attention and manage everyday tasks.



ADHD is more complicated than simply having too little dopamine. However, differences in these systems can help explain why someone may find an interesting or urgent task relatively easy to complete, yet struggle to begin something routine, even when they understand its importance.



This is why I encourage people to look beyond labels such as lazy, careless or unmotivated. Sometimes, what appears to be a lack of effort is a genuine difficulty with the processes that help us turn intentions into actions.



However, I always emphasise that executive-function difficulties are not exclusive to ADHD. Poor sleep, anxiety, depression and other health conditions can produce similar experiences.



That is why a comprehensive assessment is so important. We need to understand the whole person, not simply identify a collection of symptoms.




  
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    Could It Be ADHD? When to Consider an Assessment
  

  
    Clinicians consider 18 recognised ADHD symptoms:
    nine relating to inattention and nine to hyperactivity and
    impulsivity.
  

  
    Examples include losing things, difficulty organising tasks,
    forgetfulness, persistent restlessness, interrupting others
    and difficulty waiting.
  

  
    Under the
    
      DSM-5 diagnostic criteria used in Australia
    ,
    children up to age 16 generally need
    at least six symptoms in either symptom group.
    For people aged 17 and older, the threshold is
    five symptoms in either group.
  

  
    Symptom counts alone are not enough. The difficulties must:
  

  
    Persist for at least six months.
    Be inconsistent with the person's developmental stage.
    Have been evident in some form before age 12.
    Occur in at least two settings, such as home, school or work.
    Interfere with everyday functioning.
    Not be better explained by another condition.
  

  
    
      When is it worth seeking advice?
    

    
      If persistent difficulties with attention, organisation,
      impulsivity or restlessness are affecting work, studies,
      relationships or home life, consider seeking a professional
      assessment.
    

    
      These signs do not necessarily mean you have ADHD.
      Assessment considers other possible explanations alongside
      medical and developmental history.
    
  




Why a Child’s Assessment Can Raise Questions for Parents



One of the interesting things about ADHD is its strong genetic component.



Sometimes, when parents begin learning about ADHD during their child's assessment, they recognise experiences from their own childhood.



They may remember struggling to finish schoolwork, losing belongings, finding it difficult to concentrate or needing much more effort than their classmates to stay organised.



They may have developed ways of coping without ever considering that ADHD could be involved.



ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means symptoms begin during childhood, although a person may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood.



Of course, recognising similarities between yourself and your child does not automatically mean you both have ADHD.



But it can be a useful starting point for a conversation with a healthcare professional, particularly when those difficulties have persisted over many years and continue to affect daily life.



The Signs in Children Aren’t Always Loud



Photo Credit: Facebook/Telos Medical Centre



When parents think about ADHD, they often picture a child who is constantly moving, interrupting conversations or struggling to remain seated.



Those behaviours can certainly be associated with ADHD, but they are not the only signs.



Some children have predominantly inattentive symptoms. They may be quiet, frequently daydream, miss parts of instructions or struggle to complete tasks even when they understand what is expected.



Others may regularly lose school materials, forget everyday routines, find it difficult to wait their turn or struggle to manage frustration.



I encourage parents to look for patterns rather than isolated incidents.



All children become distracted, restless or forgetful at times. What matters is whether these difficulties are persistent, greater than would be expected for the child's developmental stage and affecting everyday life across different settings.



A child may experience difficulties at home that are also apparent to teachers at school.



Importantly, good academic results do not necessarily rule out ADHD. Some children perform well in class but expend considerable effort managing their attention, organisation and schoolwork.



We should not assume that a child is coping comfortably simply because their grades are good.



It's Never Too Early to Ask for Help



If parents are concerned about their child's attention, behaviour or development, my advice is not to wait until those concerns become serious problems before seeking guidance.



Seeking help early does not mean rushing into a diagnosis or medication.



For younger children, the first steps may involve discussing developmental concerns, learning practical strategies to support behaviour and routines, or working with early childhood educators.



A formal ADHD diagnosis may be more difficult to establish in very young children, and not every developmental concern will turn out to be ADHD.



Nevertheless, parents can seek professional advice whenever they notice persistent difficulties affecting their child's wellbeing or development.



Early support can help families better understand a child's needs and respond to challenges before they begin affecting learning, friendships or confidence.




  
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  Preparing for an ADHD Assessment

  
    Whether you're seeking advice for yourself or your
    child, a little preparation can help make the first
    appointment more productive. Here are some common
    questions families have before an assessment.
  

  
    What information should I prepare?
    
      
        Write down examples of difficulties with attention,
        organisation, impulsivity or completing tasks.
        Include when they occur and how they affect school,
        work, home life or relationships.
      
    
  

  
    Are childhood school reports important?
    
      
        They can be helpful, even for adults. ADHD symptoms
        begin in childhood, so old reports, family
        recollections and teacher observations may help
        establish a developmental history.
      
    
  

  
    Should I bring information from teachers or family members?
    
      
        Yes, where available. Observations from people who
        know the individual in different settings can
        provide useful context. Ask the clinic beforehand
        what information it prefers.
      
    
  

  
    What medical information should I bring?
    
      
        Details of current medications, previous
        assessments, sleep difficulties, relevant medical
        conditions and family history can help the clinician
        consider possible explanations for symptoms.
      
    
  

  
    Will an assessment automatically lead to medication?
    
      
        No. An assessment does not guarantee an ADHD
        diagnosis or a medication prescription. Treatment
        recommendations depend on individual needs and
        clinical findings.
      
    
  

  
    What should I ask when booking?
    
      
        Confirm the assessment process, appointment length,
        expected costs, Medicare eligibility, whether
        further consultations may be required and what
        ongoing care is available.
      
    
  




For older children and adults, an ADHD assessment generally involves looking at current symptoms, developmental history and the impact of those symptoms on everyday life.



We may also consider information from family members, teachers, previous school reports or other relevant records.



One thing I want people to understand is that there is no single blood test or brain scan that can confirm ADHD.



Diagnosis involves a careful clinical assessment, including consideration of other medical, developmental or psychological conditions that could explain similar symptoms.



Why Access to Local ADHD Care Matters



For many families, deciding to seek an ADHD assessment is only the first hurdle. Finding an appropriately qualified clinician, arranging appointments and understanding the likely costs can also be challenging.



Waiting times vary considerably between providers and locations. Where specialist services have lengthy waiting lists, the delay can leave families trying to manage difficulties at home, school or work without a clear explanation or support plan.



I believe access to care closer to home can make a meaningful difference, particularly because ADHD assessment and management may involve more than one appointment.



A local clinic can make it easier for parents to fit consultations around school and work, and for adults to attend follow-up appointments without extensive travel. It may also help maintain continuity of care, allowing the treating clinician to monitor progress, discuss concerns and adjust a management plan where appropriate.



Accessibility and Cost



At Telos Medical Centre Brighton, we aim to provide an accessible pathway for people seeking ADHD-related care. Some patients may establish a stable management plan within several appointments, although the time required depends on individual circumstances.



More complex presentations can require additional investigations, specialist input or longer-term follow-up. The priority should always be a thorough assessment and appropriate care, rather than simply reaching a diagnosis quickly.



Cost is another consideration for families and adults exploring an ADHD assessment. At Telos Medical Centre Brighton, indicative initial assessment fees are $300 for children and $500 for adults. 



Subsequent appointments may be bulk-billed for eligible patients, while standard adult follow-ups are approximately $45 out of pocket. Fees, Medicare eligibility and the number of appointments required can vary, so patients should confirm the expected costs and inclusions before booking.



Finding Support Close to Home



Queensland's ADHD prescribing arrangements changed in December 2025, expanding the role of appropriately qualified specialist GPs in initiating and managing certain ADHD medications for adults, subject to specific requirements.



These changes are helping create additional pathways for people who need assessment and ongoing care.



Telos Medical Centre in Brighton. Photo Credit: Facebook/Telos Medical Centre



At Telos Medical Centre in Brighton, we provide ADHD-related assessment and management services for children and adults.



My approach is to understand each person's individual circumstances, including their developmental history, everyday challenges and broader health needs.



Treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Depending on the individual, it may involve education, behavioural strategies, psychological support, medication where appropriate and ongoing monitoring.



Not everyone diagnosed with ADHD will require the same treatment, and receiving a diagnosis does not automatically mean taking medication.



What matters is finding an approach that helps the person function better in their daily life and supports their overall wellbeing.



For parents wondering whether their child's difficulties deserve closer attention, or adults who have spent years trying to understand their own experiences, I hope the message is reassuring.



ADHD is not always obvious, and it can affect people in different ways. Asking questions, recognising patterns and seeking appropriate guidance can be the beginning of a better understanding of yourself or someone you care about.




  
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      About Dr Anchita Karmakar

      
        General Practitioner and Medical Director,
        Telos Medical Centre Brighton
      

      
        Dr Anchita Karmakar is a General Practitioner and
        Medical Director at Telos Medical Centre Brighton.
        Her special areas of interest include ADHD assessment,
        women's health with a focus on perimenopause and
        menopause, cardiac risk assessments, integrative
        health, addiction medicine and pain management.
      

    

  




Telos Medical Centre Brighton is a Proud Promotional Partner of Brisbane Suburbs Online News



Published 15-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Why can someone manage a demanding career but struggle to pay a bill on time? Why does a bright teenager leave assignments until the last minute? And why does a child who understands instructions keep forgetting what to do next?



Sarah* is successful at work. She handles complicated projects, manages deadlines and is the person her colleagues turn to when something goes wrong.



Yet the simplest tasks at home can feel strangely overwhelming.



She has been meaning to book a dental appointment for weeks. A bill remains unpaid despite having enough money in her account. She knows the laundry needs doing, but somehow ends up tackling everything except the laundry.



She isn't avoiding these things deliberately. She genuinely intends to do them. Getting started is the difficult part.



Sixteen-year-old Daniel* has a different version of the same frustration. He is bright, understands difficult concepts and can spend hours concentrating on subjects that interest him. But an assignment he has known about for three weeks remains untouched until the night before it is due.



His parents cannot understand why someone so capable needs constant reminders to complete ordinary schoolwork.



Eight-year-old Mia* presents another puzzle. She is a quiet child who does well in class, but regularly forgets instructions, loses her belongings and gets distracted halfway through getting ready for school.



Her parents sometimes wonder whether she is listening at all.



The experiences of Sarah, Daniel, and Mia illustrate the difficulties that many adults, teenagers and children encounter.



There can be several reasons for these behaviours. Persistent difficulties with attention, organisation and getting started on tasks can also be associated with a condition that does not always look the way people expect.



Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.



*Sarah, Daniel, and Mia are pseudonyms. Some details have also been edited for privacy.



ADHD Doesn't Always Look the Way We Expect







When Dr Anchita Karmakar speaks with people about ADHD, one of the misconceptions she encounters is that it always involves a restless child who cannot sit still.



In reality, ADHD can present in many different ways. It can affect attention, planning, organisation, impulse control and the ability to manage everyday responsibilities. Some of these difficulties are readily noticeable, while others can remain hidden for years.



Australian clinical guidelines estimate that ADHD affects approximately 6–10 per cent of children and adolescents and 2–6 per cent of adults.



As a GP and Medical Director at Telos Medical Centre in Brighton, Dr Karmakar believes one of the most important things families can understand is that ADHD does not always look the way they expect it to.



When Coping Becomes Exhausting



Some adults with ADHD become remarkably good at finding ways around their difficulties.



They may depend on multiple reminders, work late into the night to meet deadlines or maintain strict routines because they worry about forgetting something important.



To colleagues, friends and even family members, they may appear organised, productive and entirely in control. But what others cannot see is how much effort it takes to maintain that appearance.



We sometimes call this masking — when someone conceals or compensates for difficulties so they are less apparent to other people. Masking is not unique to ADHD, and not everyone with ADHD experiences it. For those who do, however, constantly trying to keep everything together can be exhausting.



I find it particularly important to explore how people have managed their responsibilities over time, rather than looking only at how well they appear to be functioning today.



Someone may have coped reasonably well through school or early adulthood, only to find things increasingly difficult after starting university, taking on a demanding job, becoming a parent or assuming greater responsibilities.



Sometimes, the demands of life simply become greater than the coping strategies a person has developed.



Executive Dysfunction: When Everyday Tasks Become Difficult



Another aspect of ADHD that I think deserves greater understanding is executive dysfunction.



Executive functions are the mental processes that help us plan, organise, prioritise, manage time and follow through on tasks.



Imagine knowing that an important bill needs to be paid, having the money available and fully understanding the consequences of missing the deadline — yet somehow continuing to put it off.



Or sitting down to begin a work project, knowing exactly what needs to be done, but finding it extraordinarily difficult to take the first step.



For some people with ADHD, this gap between knowing what to do and being able to do it can affect almost every part of daily life.



It may mean repeatedly running late, forgetting appointments, struggling to complete household tasks or becoming overwhelmed when several responsibilities compete for attention.



Over time, these difficulties can affect relationships, financial wellbeing, career opportunities and self-confidence. When people do not understand why these things keep happening, they may begin questioning their own abilities.



Figuring Out Why



Part of the explanation lies in how the brain regulates attention, motivation and the ability to act on our intentions.



Photo credit: Discover Your Path 



Dopamine is one of the chemical messengers involved in these processes. Alongside noradrenaline and other brain systems, it plays a role in how we respond to rewards, sustain attention and manage everyday tasks.



ADHD is more complicated than simply having too little dopamine. However, differences in these systems can help explain why someone may find an interesting or urgent task relatively easy to complete, yet struggle to begin something routine, even when they understand its importance.



This is why I encourage people to look beyond labels such as lazy, careless or unmotivated. Sometimes, what appears to be a lack of effort is a genuine difficulty with the processes that help us turn intentions into actions.



However, I always emphasise that executive-function difficulties are not exclusive to ADHD. Poor sleep, anxiety, depression and other health conditions can produce similar experiences.



That is why a comprehensive assessment is so important. We need to understand the whole person, not simply identify a collection of symptoms.




  
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    Could It Be ADHD? When to Consider an Assessment
  

  
    Clinicians consider 18 recognised ADHD symptoms:
    nine relating to inattention and nine to hyperactivity and
    impulsivity.
  

  
    Examples include losing things, difficulty organising tasks,
    forgetfulness, persistent restlessness, interrupting others
    and difficulty waiting.
  

  
    Under the
    
      DSM-5 diagnostic criteria used in Australia
    ,
    children up to age 16 generally need
    at least six symptoms in either symptom group.
    For people aged 17 and older, the threshold is
    five symptoms in either group.
  

  
    Symptom counts alone are not enough. The difficulties must:
  

  
    Persist for at least six months.
    Be inconsistent with the person's developmental stage.
    Have been evident in some form before age 12.
    Occur in at least two settings, such as home, school or work.
    Interfere with everyday functioning.
    Not be better explained by another condition.
  

  
    
      When is it worth seeking advice?
    

    
      If persistent difficulties with attention, organisation,
      impulsivity or restlessness are affecting work, studies,
      relationships or home life, consider seeking a professional
      assessment.
    

    
      These signs do not necessarily mean you have ADHD.
      Assessment considers other possible explanations alongside
      medical and developmental history.
    
  




Why a Child’s Assessment Can Raise Questions for Parents



One of the interesting things about ADHD is its strong genetic component.



Sometimes, when parents begin learning about ADHD during their child's assessment, they recognise experiences from their own childhood.



They may remember struggling to finish schoolwork, losing belongings, finding it difficult to concentrate or needing much more effort than their classmates to stay organised.



They may have developed ways of coping without ever considering that ADHD could be involved.



ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means symptoms begin during childhood, although a person may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood.



Of course, recognising similarities between yourself and your child does not automatically mean you both have ADHD.



But it can be a useful starting point for a conversation with a healthcare professional, particularly when those difficulties have persisted over many years and continue to affect daily life.



The Signs in Children Aren’t Always Loud



Photo Credit: Facebook/Telos Medical Centre



When parents think about ADHD, they often picture a child who is constantly moving, interrupting conversations or struggling to remain seated.



Those behaviours can certainly be associated with ADHD, but they are not the only signs.



Some children have predominantly inattentive symptoms. They may be quiet, frequently daydream, miss parts of instructions or struggle to complete tasks even when they understand what is expected.



Others may regularly lose school materials, forget everyday routines, find it difficult to wait their turn or struggle to manage frustration.



I encourage parents to look for patterns rather than isolated incidents.



All children become distracted, restless or forgetful at times. What matters is whether these difficulties are persistent, greater than would be expected for the child's developmental stage and affecting everyday life across different settings.



A child may experience difficulties at home that are also apparent to teachers at school.



Importantly, good academic results do not necessarily rule out ADHD. Some children perform well in class but expend considerable effort managing their attention, organisation and schoolwork.



We should not assume that a child is coping comfortably simply because their grades are good.



It's Never Too Early to Ask for Help



If parents are concerned about their child's attention, behaviour or development, my advice is not to wait until those concerns become serious problems before seeking guidance.



Seeking help early does not mean rushing into a diagnosis or medication.



For younger children, the first steps may involve discussing developmental concerns, learning practical strategies to support behaviour and routines, or working with early childhood educators.



A formal ADHD diagnosis may be more difficult to establish in very young children, and not every developmental concern will turn out to be ADHD.



Nevertheless, parents can seek professional advice whenever they notice persistent difficulties affecting their child's wellbeing or development.



Early support can help families better understand a child's needs and respond to challenges before they begin affecting learning, friendships or confidence.




  
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  Preparing for an ADHD Assessment

  
    Whether you're seeking advice for yourself or your
    child, a little preparation can help make the first
    appointment more productive. Here are some common
    questions families have before an assessment.
  

  
    What information should I prepare?
    
      
        Write down examples of difficulties with attention,
        organisation, impulsivity or completing tasks.
        Include when they occur and how they affect school,
        work, home life or relationships.
      
    
  

  
    Are childhood school reports important?
    
      
        They can be helpful, even for adults. ADHD symptoms
        begin in childhood, so old reports, family
        recollections and teacher observations may help
        establish a developmental history.
      
    
  

  
    Should I bring information from teachers or family members?
    
      
        Yes, where available. Observations from people who
        know the individual in different settings can
        provide useful context. Ask the clinic beforehand
        what information it prefers.
      
    
  

  
    What medical information should I bring?
    
      
        Details of current medications, previous
        assessments, sleep difficulties, relevant medical
        conditions and family history can help the clinician
        consider possible explanations for symptoms.
      
    
  

  
    Will an assessment automatically lead to medication?
    
      
        No. An assessment does not guarantee an ADHD
        diagnosis or a medication prescription. Treatment
        recommendations depend on individual needs and
        clinical findings.
      
    
  

  
    What should I ask when booking?
    
      
        Confirm the assessment process, appointment length,
        expected costs, Medicare eligibility, whether
        further consultations may be required and what
        ongoing care is available.
      
    
  




For older children and adults, an ADHD assessment generally involves looking at current symptoms, developmental history and the impact of those symptoms on everyday life.



We may also consider information from family members, teachers, previous school reports or other relevant records.



One thing I want people to understand is that there is no single blood test or brain scan that can confirm ADHD.



Diagnosis involves a careful clinical assessment, including consideration of other medical, developmental or psychological conditions that could explain similar symptoms.



Why Access to Local ADHD Care Matters



For many families, deciding to seek an ADHD assessment is only the first hurdle. Finding an appropriately qualified clinician, arranging appointments and understanding the likely costs can also be challenging.



Waiting times vary considerably between providers and locations. Where specialist services have lengthy waiting lists, the delay can leave families trying to manage difficulties at home, school or work without a clear explanation or support plan.



I believe access to care closer to home can make a meaningful difference, particularly because ADHD assessment and management may involve more than one appointment.



A local clinic can make it easier for parents to fit consultations around school and work, and for adults to attend follow-up appointments without extensive travel. It may also help maintain continuity of care, allowing the treating clinician to monitor progress, discuss concerns and adjust a management plan where appropriate.



Accessibility and Cost



At Telos Medical Centre Brighton, we aim to provide an accessible pathway for people seeking ADHD-related care. Some patients may establish a stable management plan within several appointments, although the time required depends on individual circumstances.



More complex presentations can require additional investigations, specialist input or longer-term follow-up. The priority should always be a thorough assessment and appropriate care, rather than simply reaching a diagnosis quickly.



Cost is another consideration for families and adults exploring an ADHD assessment. At Telos Medical Centre Brighton, indicative initial assessment fees are $300 for children and $500 for adults. 



Subsequent appointments may be bulk-billed for eligible patients, while standard adult follow-ups are approximately $45 out of pocket. Fees, Medicare eligibility and the number of appointments required can vary, so patients should confirm the expected costs and inclusions before booking.



Finding Support Close to Home



Queensland's ADHD prescribing arrangements changed in December 2025, expanding the role of appropriately qualified specialist GPs in initiating and managing certain ADHD medications for adults, subject to specific requirements.



These changes are helping create additional pathways for people who need assessment and ongoing care.



Telos Medical Centre in Brighton. Photo Credit: Facebook/Telos Medical Centre



At Telos Medical Centre in Brighton, we provide ADHD-related assessment and management services for children and adults.



My approach is to understand each person's individual circumstances, including their developmental history, everyday challenges and broader health needs.



Treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Depending on the individual, it may involve education, behavioural strategies, psychological support, medication where appropriate and ongoing monitoring.



Not everyone diagnosed with ADHD will require the same treatment, and receiving a diagnosis does not automatically mean taking medication.



What matters is finding an approach that helps the person function better in their daily life and supports their overall wellbeing.



For parents wondering whether their child's difficulties deserve closer attention, or adults who have spent years trying to understand their own experiences, I hope the message is reassuring.



ADHD is not always obvious, and it can affect people in different ways. Asking questions, recognising patterns and seeking appropriate guidance can be the beginning of a better understanding of yourself or someone you care about.




  
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      About Dr Anchita Karmakar

      
        General Practitioner and Medical Director,
        Telos Medical Centre Brighton
      

      
        Dr Anchita Karmakar is a General Practitioner and
        Medical Director at Telos Medical Centre Brighton.
        Her special areas of interest include ADHD assessment,
        women's health with a focus on perimenopause and
        menopause, cardiac risk assessments, integrative
        health, addiction medicine and pain management.
      

    

  




Telos Medical Centre Brighton is a Proud Promotional Partner of Brisbane Suburbs Online News



Published 15-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
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<title><![CDATA[Three Wise Monkeys Cafe Turns Coffee Sales Into Hospital Donations]]></title>
<link>https://brackenridgenews.com.au/three-wise-monkeys-cafe-bracken-ridge-hospital-fundraiser</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2026 06:17:12 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Prince Charles Hospital Foundation]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[The Common Good]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Three Wise Monkeys Cafe]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge News]]></dc:creator>
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A regular coffee run has helped raise nearly $3,500 for The Prince Charles Hospital, with a Bracken Ridge cafe combining small donations from customers with a recurring contribution from its coffee sales over six months.







Read: Bracken Ridge Students Earn WasteSMART Recognition for Recycling Projects







Three Wise Monkeys Cafe directed $1 from every coffee sold on designated Thursdays to The Common Good, the fundraising initiative of The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation. Customers could also support the effort by putting money into a collection box kept at the cafe's counter.



The fundraising total reached nearly $3,500 after 17 Thursday donation days and six months of collecting contributions from customers, according to a November 1 post published on the cafe's Facebook page. The money was subsequently handed over to The Common Good at The Prince Charles Hospital in connection with its 2026 Giving Day.



A Coffee Purchase With a Purpose



Photo credit: Facebook/Three Wise Monkeys Cafe



The initiative gave customers an opportunity to contribute to hospital fundraising through an ordinary purchase, with the cafe setting aside part of its coffee sales on the designated days. The collection box provided another avenue for people who wanted to add a separate donation. Both streams were included in the final amount announced by the business.



Cr Sandy Landers also acknowledged the initiative in a Facebook post, recognising Ti and the cafe's contribution to the hospital fundraising effort. Cr Landers reported that the coffee donations and money collected at the counter had exceeded $3,000 over six months. The cafe's November 1 announcement placed the combined total at nearly $3,500.



The initiative was built around repeated contributions rather than a single fundraising event. Across 17 designated Thursdays, each participating coffee sale generated a $1 donation, while the counter collection allowed customers to contribute independently of their purchases.



Where the Fundraising Money Will Help



Photo credit: Facebook/The Common Good Au



The cafe's contribution came alongside a wider fundraising campaign for The Prince Charles Hospital. The Common Good announced that its sixth annual Giving Day had raised $205,150, bringing together donations from community members, hospital staff, corporate partners and other supporters.



The funds are intended to support patient-focused initiatives, including Comfort Packs for vulnerable patients who arrive at hospital without personal belongings. The packs contain everyday essentials and items intended to provide additional comfort during a hospital stay.



Another initiative identified in the Giving Day campaign is a Laughter Care pilot program for older patients. It will use humour, music and storytelling to support emotional wellbeing and social connection.



The fundraising organisation also supports medical research, equipment and additional patient-care initiatives at the hospital. The $205,150 Giving Day result is separate from the nearly $3,500 raised through Three Wise Monkeys Cafe. The cafe's contribution formed part of the broader community support surrounding the campaign.



A Bracken Ridge Business Takes Part



Photo credit: Facebook/Three Wise Monkeys Cafe



Three Wise Monkeys Cafe operates at Bracken Ridge Plaza on Telegraph Road, where its centre listing describes an offering that includes all-day breakfast, lunch and Campos Coffee.



Its fundraising initiative added a charitable component to the cafe's regular coffee sales, giving customers a direct way to support a hospital cause through their visits. Ti and the cafe team acknowledged the people who bought coffee, contributed to the collection box or did both, crediting their participation in helping reach the final amount.







Read: Bracken Ridge CPR Awareness Gives Locals A Skill That Matters When Seconds Count







The nearly $3,500 raised by Three Wise Monkeys Cafe reflects the combined efforts of the business and its customers over six months. Their contributions have added to the support available for The Prince Charles Hospital, with everyday coffee purchases helping fund a broader effort to improve the experience of patients and their families.



Published 3-November-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A regular coffee run has helped raise nearly $3,500 for The Prince Charles Hospital, with a Bracken Ridge cafe combining small donations from customers with a recurring contribution from its coffee sales over six months.







Read: Bracken Ridge Students Earn WasteSMART Recognition for Recycling Projects







Three Wise Monkeys Cafe directed $1 from every coffee sold on designated Thursdays to The Common Good, the fundraising initiative of The Prince Charles Hospital Foundation. Customers could also support the effort by putting money into a collection box kept at the cafe's counter.



The fundraising total reached nearly $3,500 after 17 Thursday donation days and six months of collecting contributions from customers, according to a November 1 post published on the cafe's Facebook page. The money was subsequently handed over to The Common Good at The Prince Charles Hospital in connection with its 2026 Giving Day.



A Coffee Purchase With a Purpose



Photo credit: Facebook/Three Wise Monkeys Cafe



The initiative gave customers an opportunity to contribute to hospital fundraising through an ordinary purchase, with the cafe setting aside part of its coffee sales on the designated days. The collection box provided another avenue for people who wanted to add a separate donation. Both streams were included in the final amount announced by the business.



Cr Sandy Landers also acknowledged the initiative in a Facebook post, recognising Ti and the cafe's contribution to the hospital fundraising effort. Cr Landers reported that the coffee donations and money collected at the counter had exceeded $3,000 over six months. The cafe's November 1 announcement placed the combined total at nearly $3,500.



The initiative was built around repeated contributions rather than a single fundraising event. Across 17 designated Thursdays, each participating coffee sale generated a $1 donation, while the counter collection allowed customers to contribute independently of their purchases.



Where the Fundraising Money Will Help



Photo credit: Facebook/The Common Good Au



The cafe's contribution came alongside a wider fundraising campaign for The Prince Charles Hospital. The Common Good announced that its sixth annual Giving Day had raised $205,150, bringing together donations from community members, hospital staff, corporate partners and other supporters.



The funds are intended to support patient-focused initiatives, including Comfort Packs for vulnerable patients who arrive at hospital without personal belongings. The packs contain everyday essentials and items intended to provide additional comfort during a hospital stay.



Another initiative identified in the Giving Day campaign is a Laughter Care pilot program for older patients. It will use humour, music and storytelling to support emotional wellbeing and social connection.



The fundraising organisation also supports medical research, equipment and additional patient-care initiatives at the hospital. The $205,150 Giving Day result is separate from the nearly $3,500 raised through Three Wise Monkeys Cafe. The cafe's contribution formed part of the broader community support surrounding the campaign.



A Bracken Ridge Business Takes Part



Photo credit: Facebook/Three Wise Monkeys Cafe



Three Wise Monkeys Cafe operates at Bracken Ridge Plaza on Telegraph Road, where its centre listing describes an offering that includes all-day breakfast, lunch and Campos Coffee.



Its fundraising initiative added a charitable component to the cafe's regular coffee sales, giving customers a direct way to support a hospital cause through their visits. Ti and the cafe team acknowledged the people who bought coffee, contributed to the collection box or did both, crediting their participation in helping reach the final amount.







Read: Bracken Ridge CPR Awareness Gives Locals A Skill That Matters When Seconds Count







The nearly $3,500 raised by Three Wise Monkeys Cafe reflects the combined efforts of the business and its customers over six months. Their contributions have added to the support available for The Prince Charles Hospital, with everyday coffee purchases helping fund a broader effort to improve the experience of patients and their families.



Published 3-November-2026
]]></content:encoded>
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<title><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge Students Earn WasteSMART Recognition for Recycling Projects]]></title>
<link>https://brackenridgenews.com.au/bracken-ridge-students-earn-wastesmart-recognition-for-recycling-projects</link>
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<pubDate>Tue, 27 Oct 2026 09:50:20 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane Schools]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[community news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Environment]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[recycling]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Schools Award]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[SJFC Enviro Club]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[St John Fisher College]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Sustainability]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[WasteSMART Brisbane Awards]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge News]]></dc:creator>
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<description><![CDATA[
Students at St John Fisher College in Bracken Ridge have earned a place among the finalists in the 2026 WasteSMART Brisbane Awards, following years of school-based recycling projects, fundraising and environmental activities led by the college's Enviro Club.



Read: ADHD Isn’t Always Obvious: What Parents and Adults Should Know





The student-run group is a finalist in the WasteSMART Schools Award category, recognising its efforts to reduce everyday waste while encouraging fellow students to take part in practical environmental projects.



Small Fundraisers, Lasting Changes



The club's work began with efforts to improve recycling around the school, including raising money through plant propagation and student-run stalls to purchase classroom recycling bins. In 2023, St John Fisher College reported that the Enviro Club had purchased 37 paper recycling bins using profits from its plant stalls. Classes were also asked to nominate two students as Waste Warriors, responsible for emptying the bins fortnightly.



The initiative placed recycling facilities directly into classrooms while giving students responsibility for maintaining the collection system. The club later extended its efforts beyond paper recycling through a partnership with 7-Eleven's coffee cup recycling program. According to the official WasteSMART finalist profile, the arrangement has helped divert thousands of single-use coffee cups from landfill.



Photo Credit: St John Fisher College/Facebook



Students also found another use for leftover coffee grounds, turning them into handmade body scrubs sold at school markets. The project combined recycling with practical experience in creating products from materials that would otherwise be discarded.



A Greener Corner of the School



The Enviro Club's work has also included developing a garden featuring Indigenous native plants, with the plants purchased using money raised through student stalls. In an earlier school update, St John Fisher College described the garden as a project intended to regenerate part of the grounds while providing a cultural connection to the area's history.



The students' environmental involvement has extended beyond the campus, including participation in an EcoMarines Ambassador Training Day at Tangalooma. These projects have allowed club members to take an active role in planning, fundraising and carrying out initiatives that involve the wider school community.



Photo Credit: St John Fisher College/Facebook



Young Environmental Leaders Recognised



St John Fisher College joins Ashgrove State School and St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Corinda among the finalists in this year's WasteSMART Schools Award category. The WasteSMART Brisbane Awards recognise schools, businesses, community organisations and individuals involved in waste prevention, recycling and resource recovery.



Read: Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers





The nomination brings recognition to projects developed by students using fundraising, cooperation and everyday materials already available around the campus. The winners will be announced at Brisbane City Hall on Friday, 20 November 2026, with the SJFC Enviro Club among the school groups awaiting the results.



Published 26-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Students at St John Fisher College in Bracken Ridge have earned a place among the finalists in the 2026 WasteSMART Brisbane Awards, following years of school-based recycling projects, fundraising and environmental activities led by the college's Enviro Club.



Read: ADHD Isn’t Always Obvious: What Parents and Adults Should Know





The student-run group is a finalist in the WasteSMART Schools Award category, recognising its efforts to reduce everyday waste while encouraging fellow students to take part in practical environmental projects.



Small Fundraisers, Lasting Changes



The club's work began with efforts to improve recycling around the school, including raising money through plant propagation and student-run stalls to purchase classroom recycling bins. In 2023, St John Fisher College reported that the Enviro Club had purchased 37 paper recycling bins using profits from its plant stalls. Classes were also asked to nominate two students as Waste Warriors, responsible for emptying the bins fortnightly.



The initiative placed recycling facilities directly into classrooms while giving students responsibility for maintaining the collection system. The club later extended its efforts beyond paper recycling through a partnership with 7-Eleven's coffee cup recycling program. According to the official WasteSMART finalist profile, the arrangement has helped divert thousands of single-use coffee cups from landfill.



Photo Credit: St John Fisher College/Facebook



Students also found another use for leftover coffee grounds, turning them into handmade body scrubs sold at school markets. The project combined recycling with practical experience in creating products from materials that would otherwise be discarded.



A Greener Corner of the School



The Enviro Club's work has also included developing a garden featuring Indigenous native plants, with the plants purchased using money raised through student stalls. In an earlier school update, St John Fisher College described the garden as a project intended to regenerate part of the grounds while providing a cultural connection to the area's history.



The students' environmental involvement has extended beyond the campus, including participation in an EcoMarines Ambassador Training Day at Tangalooma. These projects have allowed club members to take an active role in planning, fundraising and carrying out initiatives that involve the wider school community.



Photo Credit: St John Fisher College/Facebook



Young Environmental Leaders Recognised



St John Fisher College joins Ashgrove State School and St Joseph's Catholic Primary School in Corinda among the finalists in this year's WasteSMART Schools Award category. The WasteSMART Brisbane Awards recognise schools, businesses, community organisations and individuals involved in waste prevention, recycling and resource recovery.



Read: Brisbane Dawn Economy Consultation Opens as City Plans for Early Risers





The nomination brings recognition to projects developed by students using fundraising, cooperation and everyday materials already available around the campus. The winners will be announced at Brisbane City Hall on Friday, 20 November 2026, with the SJFC Enviro Club among the school groups awaiting the results.



Published 26-October-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[ADHD Isn’t Always Obvious: What Parents and Adults Should Know]]></title>
<link>https://brackenridgenews.com.au/adhd-signs-children-adults-brighton/adhd-signs-children-adults-brighton</link>
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<pubDate>Sun, 25 Oct 2026 22:39:18 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://brackenridgenews.com.au/adhd-signs-children-adults-brighton/</guid>
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Why can someone manage a demanding career but struggle to pay a bill on time? Why does a bright teenager leave assignments until the last minute? And why does a child who understands instructions keep forgetting what to do next?



Sarah* is successful at work. She handles complicated projects, manages deadlines and is the person her colleagues turn to when something goes wrong.



Yet the simplest tasks at home can feel strangely overwhelming.



She has been meaning to book a dental appointment for weeks. A bill remains unpaid despite having enough money in her account. She knows the laundry needs doing, but somehow ends up tackling everything except the laundry.



She isn't avoiding these things deliberately. She genuinely intends to do them. Getting started is the difficult part.



Sixteen-year-old Daniel* has a different version of the same frustration. He is bright, understands difficult concepts and can spend hours concentrating on subjects that interest him. But an assignment he has known about for three weeks remains untouched until the night before it is due.



His parents cannot understand why someone so capable needs constant reminders to complete ordinary schoolwork.



Eight-year-old Mia* presents another puzzle. She is a quiet child who does well in class, but regularly forgets instructions, loses her belongings and gets distracted halfway through getting ready for school.



Her parents sometimes wonder whether she is listening at all.



The experiences of Sarah, Daniel, and Mia illustrate the difficulties that many adults, teenagers and children encounter.



There can be several reasons for these behaviours. Persistent difficulties with attention, organisation and getting started on tasks can also be associated with a condition that does not always look the way people expect.



Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.



*Sarah, Daniel, and Mia are pseudonyms. Some details have also been edited for privacy.



ADHD Doesn't Always Look the Way We Expect







When Dr Anchita Karmakar speaks with people about ADHD, one of the misconceptions she encounters is that it always involves a restless child who cannot sit still.



In reality, ADHD can present in many different ways. It can affect attention, planning, organisation, impulse control and the ability to manage everyday responsibilities. Some of these difficulties are readily noticeable, while others can remain hidden for years.



Australian clinical guidelines estimate that ADHD affects approximately 6–10 per cent of children and adolescents and 2–6 per cent of adults.



As a GP and Medical Director at Telos Medical Centre in Brighton, Dr Karmakar believes one of the most important things families can understand is that ADHD does not always look the way they expect it to.



When Coping Becomes Exhausting



Some adults with ADHD become remarkably good at finding ways around their difficulties.



They may depend on multiple reminders, work late into the night to meet deadlines or maintain strict routines because they worry about forgetting something important.



To colleagues, friends and even family members, they may appear organised, productive and entirely in control. But what others cannot see is how much effort it takes to maintain that appearance.



We sometimes call this masking — when someone conceals or compensates for difficulties so they are less apparent to other people. Masking is not unique to ADHD, and not everyone with ADHD experiences it. For those who do, however, constantly trying to keep everything together can be exhausting.



I find it particularly important to explore how people have managed their responsibilities over time, rather than looking only at how well they appear to be functioning today.



Someone may have coped reasonably well through school or early adulthood, only to find things increasingly difficult after starting university, taking on a demanding job, becoming a parent or assuming greater responsibilities.



Sometimes, the demands of life simply become greater than the coping strategies a person has developed.



Executive Dysfunction: When Everyday Tasks Become Difficult



Another aspect of ADHD that I think deserves greater understanding is executive dysfunction.



Executive functions are the mental processes that help us plan, organise, prioritise, manage time and follow through on tasks.



Imagine knowing that an important bill needs to be paid, having the money available and fully understanding the consequences of missing the deadline — yet somehow continuing to put it off.



Or sitting down to begin a work project, knowing exactly what needs to be done, but finding it extraordinarily difficult to take the first step.



For some people with ADHD, this gap between knowing what to do and being able to do it can affect almost every part of daily life.



It may mean repeatedly running late, forgetting appointments, struggling to complete household tasks or becoming overwhelmed when several responsibilities compete for attention.



Over time, these difficulties can affect relationships, financial wellbeing, career opportunities and self-confidence. When people do not understand why these things keep happening, they may begin questioning their own abilities.



Figuring Out Why



Part of the explanation lies in how the brain regulates attention, motivation and the ability to act on our intentions.



Photo credit: Discover Your Path 



Dopamine is one of the chemical messengers involved in these processes. Alongside noradrenaline and other brain systems, it plays a role in how we respond to rewards, sustain attention and manage everyday tasks.



ADHD is more complicated than simply having too little dopamine. However, differences in these systems can help explain why someone may find an interesting or urgent task relatively easy to complete, yet struggle to begin something routine, even when they understand its importance.



This is why I encourage people to look beyond labels such as lazy, careless or unmotivated. Sometimes, what appears to be a lack of effort is a genuine difficulty with the processes that help us turn intentions into actions.



However, I always emphasise that executive-function difficulties are not exclusive to ADHD. Poor sleep, anxiety, depression and other health conditions can produce similar experiences.



That is why a comprehensive assessment is so important. We need to understand the whole person, not simply identify a collection of symptoms.




  
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    Could It Be ADHD? When to Consider an Assessment
  

  
    Clinicians consider 18 recognised ADHD symptoms:
    nine relating to inattention and nine to hyperactivity and
    impulsivity.
  

  
    Examples include losing things, difficulty organising tasks,
    forgetfulness, persistent restlessness, interrupting others
    and difficulty waiting.
  

  
    Under the
    
      DSM-5 diagnostic criteria used in Australia
    ,
    children up to age 16 generally need
    at least six symptoms in either symptom group.
    For people aged 17 and older, the threshold is
    five symptoms in either group.
  

  
    Symptom counts alone are not enough. The difficulties must:
  

  
    Persist for at least six months.
    Be inconsistent with the person's developmental stage.
    Have been evident in some form before age 12.
    Occur in at least two settings, such as home, school or work.
    Interfere with everyday functioning.
    Not be better explained by another condition.
  

  
    
      When is it worth seeking advice?
    

    
      If persistent difficulties with attention, organisation,
      impulsivity or restlessness are affecting work, studies,
      relationships or home life, consider seeking a professional
      assessment.
    

    
      These signs do not necessarily mean you have ADHD.
      Assessment considers other possible explanations alongside
      medical and developmental history.
    
  




Why a Child’s Assessment Can Raise Questions for Parents



One of the interesting things about ADHD is its strong genetic component.



Sometimes, when parents begin learning about ADHD during their child's assessment, they recognise experiences from their own childhood.



They may remember struggling to finish schoolwork, losing belongings, finding it difficult to concentrate or needing much more effort than their classmates to stay organised.



They may have developed ways of coping without ever considering that ADHD could be involved.



ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means symptoms begin during childhood, although a person may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood.



Of course, recognising similarities between yourself and your child does not automatically mean you both have ADHD.



But it can be a useful starting point for a conversation with a healthcare professional, particularly when those difficulties have persisted over many years and continue to affect daily life.



The Signs in Children Aren’t Always Loud



Photo Credit: Facebook/Telos Medical Centre



When parents think about ADHD, they often picture a child who is constantly moving, interrupting conversations or struggling to remain seated.



Those behaviours can certainly be associated with ADHD, but they are not the only signs.



Some children have predominantly inattentive symptoms. They may be quiet, frequently daydream, miss parts of instructions or struggle to complete tasks even when they understand what is expected.



Others may regularly lose school materials, forget everyday routines, find it difficult to wait their turn or struggle to manage frustration.



I encourage parents to look for patterns rather than isolated incidents.



All children become distracted, restless or forgetful at times. What matters is whether these difficulties are persistent, greater than would be expected for the child's developmental stage and affecting everyday life across different settings.



A child may experience difficulties at home that are also apparent to teachers at school.



Importantly, good academic results do not necessarily rule out ADHD. Some children perform well in class but expend considerable effort managing their attention, organisation and schoolwork.



We should not assume that a child is coping comfortably simply because their grades are good.



It's Never Too Early to Ask for Help



If parents are concerned about their child's attention, behaviour or development, my advice is not to wait until those concerns become serious problems before seeking guidance.



Seeking help early does not mean rushing into a diagnosis or medication.



For younger children, the first steps may involve discussing developmental concerns, learning practical strategies to support behaviour and routines, or working with early childhood educators.



A formal ADHD diagnosis may be more difficult to establish in very young children, and not every developmental concern will turn out to be ADHD.



Nevertheless, parents can seek professional advice whenever they notice persistent difficulties affecting their child's wellbeing or development.



Early support can help families better understand a child's needs and respond to challenges before they begin affecting learning, friendships or confidence.




  
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  Preparing for an ADHD Assessment

  
    Whether you're seeking advice for yourself or your
    child, a little preparation can help make the first
    appointment more productive. Here are some common
    questions families have before an assessment.
  

  
    What information should I prepare?
    
      
        Write down examples of difficulties with attention,
        organisation, impulsivity or completing tasks.
        Include when they occur and how they affect school,
        work, home life or relationships.
      
    
  

  
    Are childhood school reports important?
    
      
        They can be helpful, even for adults. ADHD symptoms
        begin in childhood, so old reports, family
        recollections and teacher observations may help
        establish a developmental history.
      
    
  

  
    Should I bring information from teachers or family members?
    
      
        Yes, where available. Observations from people who
        know the individual in different settings can
        provide useful context. Ask the clinic beforehand
        what information it prefers.
      
    
  

  
    What medical information should I bring?
    
      
        Details of current medications, previous
        assessments, sleep difficulties, relevant medical
        conditions and family history can help the clinician
        consider possible explanations for symptoms.
      
    
  

  
    Will an assessment automatically lead to medication?
    
      
        No. An assessment does not guarantee an ADHD
        diagnosis or a medication prescription. Treatment
        recommendations depend on individual needs and
        clinical findings.
      
    
  

  
    What should I ask when booking?
    
      
        Confirm the assessment process, appointment length,
        expected costs, Medicare eligibility, whether
        further consultations may be required and what
        ongoing care is available.
      
    
  




For older children and adults, an ADHD assessment generally involves looking at current symptoms, developmental history and the impact of those symptoms on everyday life.



We may also consider information from family members, teachers, previous school reports or other relevant records.



One thing I want people to understand is that there is no single blood test or brain scan that can confirm ADHD.



Diagnosis involves a careful clinical assessment, including consideration of other medical, developmental or psychological conditions that could explain similar symptoms.



Why Access to Local ADHD Care Matters



For many families, deciding to seek an ADHD assessment is only the first hurdle. Finding an appropriately qualified clinician, arranging appointments and understanding the likely costs can also be challenging.



Waiting times vary considerably between providers and locations. Where specialist services have lengthy waiting lists, the delay can leave families trying to manage difficulties at home, school or work without a clear explanation or support plan.



I believe access to care closer to home can make a meaningful difference, particularly because ADHD assessment and management may involve more than one appointment.



A local clinic can make it easier for parents to fit consultations around school and work, and for adults to attend follow-up appointments without extensive travel. It may also help maintain continuity of care, allowing the treating clinician to monitor progress, discuss concerns and adjust a management plan where appropriate.



Accessibility and Cost



At Telos Medical Centre Brighton, we aim to provide an accessible pathway for people seeking ADHD-related care. Some patients may establish a stable management plan within several appointments, although the time required depends on individual circumstances.



More complex presentations can require additional investigations, specialist input or longer-term follow-up. The priority should always be a thorough assessment and appropriate care, rather than simply reaching a diagnosis quickly.



Cost is another consideration for families and adults exploring an ADHD assessment. At Telos Medical Centre Brighton, indicative initial assessment fees are $300 for children and $500 for adults. 



Subsequent appointments may be bulk-billed for eligible patients, while standard adult follow-ups are approximately $45 out of pocket. Fees, Medicare eligibility and the number of appointments required can vary, so patients should confirm the expected costs and inclusions before booking.



Finding Support Close to Home



Queensland's ADHD prescribing arrangements changed in December 2025, expanding the role of appropriately qualified specialist GPs in initiating and managing certain ADHD medications for adults, subject to specific requirements.



These changes are helping create additional pathways for people who need assessment and ongoing care.



Telos Medical Centre in Brighton. Photo Credit: Facebook/Telos Medical Centre



At Telos Medical Centre in Brighton, we provide ADHD-related assessment and management services for children and adults.



My approach is to understand each person's individual circumstances, including their developmental history, everyday challenges and broader health needs.



Treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Depending on the individual, it may involve education, behavioural strategies, psychological support, medication where appropriate and ongoing monitoring.



Not everyone diagnosed with ADHD will require the same treatment, and receiving a diagnosis does not automatically mean taking medication.



What matters is finding an approach that helps the person function better in their daily life and supports their overall wellbeing.



For parents wondering whether their child's difficulties deserve closer attention, or adults who have spent years trying to understand their own experiences, I hope the message is reassuring.



ADHD is not always obvious, and it can affect people in different ways. Asking questions, recognising patterns and seeking appropriate guidance can be the beginning of a better understanding of yourself or someone you care about.




  
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      About Dr Anchita Karmakar

      
        General Practitioner and Medical Director,
        Telos Medical Centre Brighton
      

      
        Dr Anchita Karmakar is a General Practitioner and
        Medical Director at Telos Medical Centre Brighton.
        Her special areas of interest include ADHD assessment,
        women's health with a focus on perimenopause and
        menopause, cardiac risk assessments, integrative
        health, addiction medicine and pain management.
      

    

  




Telos Medical Centre Brighton is a Proud Promotional Partner of Brisbane Suburbs Online News



Published 15-October-2026




]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[


Why can someone manage a demanding career but struggle to pay a bill on time? Why does a bright teenager leave assignments until the last minute? And why does a child who understands instructions keep forgetting what to do next?



Sarah* is successful at work. She handles complicated projects, manages deadlines and is the person her colleagues turn to when something goes wrong.



Yet the simplest tasks at home can feel strangely overwhelming.



She has been meaning to book a dental appointment for weeks. A bill remains unpaid despite having enough money in her account. She knows the laundry needs doing, but somehow ends up tackling everything except the laundry.



She isn't avoiding these things deliberately. She genuinely intends to do them. Getting started is the difficult part.



Sixteen-year-old Daniel* has a different version of the same frustration. He is bright, understands difficult concepts and can spend hours concentrating on subjects that interest him. But an assignment he has known about for three weeks remains untouched until the night before it is due.



His parents cannot understand why someone so capable needs constant reminders to complete ordinary schoolwork.



Eight-year-old Mia* presents another puzzle. She is a quiet child who does well in class, but regularly forgets instructions, loses her belongings and gets distracted halfway through getting ready for school.



Her parents sometimes wonder whether she is listening at all.



The experiences of Sarah, Daniel, and Mia illustrate the difficulties that many adults, teenagers and children encounter.



There can be several reasons for these behaviours. Persistent difficulties with attention, organisation and getting started on tasks can also be associated with a condition that does not always look the way people expect.



Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD.



*Sarah, Daniel, and Mia are pseudonyms. Some details have also been edited for privacy.



ADHD Doesn't Always Look the Way We Expect







When Dr Anchita Karmakar speaks with people about ADHD, one of the misconceptions she encounters is that it always involves a restless child who cannot sit still.



In reality, ADHD can present in many different ways. It can affect attention, planning, organisation, impulse control and the ability to manage everyday responsibilities. Some of these difficulties are readily noticeable, while others can remain hidden for years.



Australian clinical guidelines estimate that ADHD affects approximately 6–10 per cent of children and adolescents and 2–6 per cent of adults.



As a GP and Medical Director at Telos Medical Centre in Brighton, Dr Karmakar believes one of the most important things families can understand is that ADHD does not always look the way they expect it to.



When Coping Becomes Exhausting



Some adults with ADHD become remarkably good at finding ways around their difficulties.



They may depend on multiple reminders, work late into the night to meet deadlines or maintain strict routines because they worry about forgetting something important.



To colleagues, friends and even family members, they may appear organised, productive and entirely in control. But what others cannot see is how much effort it takes to maintain that appearance.



We sometimes call this masking — when someone conceals or compensates for difficulties so they are less apparent to other people. Masking is not unique to ADHD, and not everyone with ADHD experiences it. For those who do, however, constantly trying to keep everything together can be exhausting.



I find it particularly important to explore how people have managed their responsibilities over time, rather than looking only at how well they appear to be functioning today.



Someone may have coped reasonably well through school or early adulthood, only to find things increasingly difficult after starting university, taking on a demanding job, becoming a parent or assuming greater responsibilities.



Sometimes, the demands of life simply become greater than the coping strategies a person has developed.



Executive Dysfunction: When Everyday Tasks Become Difficult



Another aspect of ADHD that I think deserves greater understanding is executive dysfunction.



Executive functions are the mental processes that help us plan, organise, prioritise, manage time and follow through on tasks.



Imagine knowing that an important bill needs to be paid, having the money available and fully understanding the consequences of missing the deadline — yet somehow continuing to put it off.



Or sitting down to begin a work project, knowing exactly what needs to be done, but finding it extraordinarily difficult to take the first step.



For some people with ADHD, this gap between knowing what to do and being able to do it can affect almost every part of daily life.



It may mean repeatedly running late, forgetting appointments, struggling to complete household tasks or becoming overwhelmed when several responsibilities compete for attention.



Over time, these difficulties can affect relationships, financial wellbeing, career opportunities and self-confidence. When people do not understand why these things keep happening, they may begin questioning their own abilities.



Figuring Out Why



Part of the explanation lies in how the brain regulates attention, motivation and the ability to act on our intentions.



Photo credit: Discover Your Path 



Dopamine is one of the chemical messengers involved in these processes. Alongside noradrenaline and other brain systems, it plays a role in how we respond to rewards, sustain attention and manage everyday tasks.



ADHD is more complicated than simply having too little dopamine. However, differences in these systems can help explain why someone may find an interesting or urgent task relatively easy to complete, yet struggle to begin something routine, even when they understand its importance.



This is why I encourage people to look beyond labels such as lazy, careless or unmotivated. Sometimes, what appears to be a lack of effort is a genuine difficulty with the processes that help us turn intentions into actions.



However, I always emphasise that executive-function difficulties are not exclusive to ADHD. Poor sleep, anxiety, depression and other health conditions can produce similar experiences.



That is why a comprehensive assessment is so important. We need to understand the whole person, not simply identify a collection of symptoms.




  
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    Could It Be ADHD? When to Consider an Assessment
  

  
    Clinicians consider 18 recognised ADHD symptoms:
    nine relating to inattention and nine to hyperactivity and
    impulsivity.
  

  
    Examples include losing things, difficulty organising tasks,
    forgetfulness, persistent restlessness, interrupting others
    and difficulty waiting.
  

  
    Under the
    
      DSM-5 diagnostic criteria used in Australia
    ,
    children up to age 16 generally need
    at least six symptoms in either symptom group.
    For people aged 17 and older, the threshold is
    five symptoms in either group.
  

  
    Symptom counts alone are not enough. The difficulties must:
  

  
    Persist for at least six months.
    Be inconsistent with the person's developmental stage.
    Have been evident in some form before age 12.
    Occur in at least two settings, such as home, school or work.
    Interfere with everyday functioning.
    Not be better explained by another condition.
  

  
    
      When is it worth seeking advice?
    

    
      If persistent difficulties with attention, organisation,
      impulsivity or restlessness are affecting work, studies,
      relationships or home life, consider seeking a professional
      assessment.
    

    
      These signs do not necessarily mean you have ADHD.
      Assessment considers other possible explanations alongside
      medical and developmental history.
    
  




Why a Child’s Assessment Can Raise Questions for Parents



One of the interesting things about ADHD is its strong genetic component.



Sometimes, when parents begin learning about ADHD during their child's assessment, they recognise experiences from their own childhood.



They may remember struggling to finish schoolwork, losing belongings, finding it difficult to concentrate or needing much more effort than their classmates to stay organised.



They may have developed ways of coping without ever considering that ADHD could be involved.



ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, which means symptoms begin during childhood, although a person may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood.



Of course, recognising similarities between yourself and your child does not automatically mean you both have ADHD.



But it can be a useful starting point for a conversation with a healthcare professional, particularly when those difficulties have persisted over many years and continue to affect daily life.



The Signs in Children Aren’t Always Loud



Photo Credit: Facebook/Telos Medical Centre



When parents think about ADHD, they often picture a child who is constantly moving, interrupting conversations or struggling to remain seated.



Those behaviours can certainly be associated with ADHD, but they are not the only signs.



Some children have predominantly inattentive symptoms. They may be quiet, frequently daydream, miss parts of instructions or struggle to complete tasks even when they understand what is expected.



Others may regularly lose school materials, forget everyday routines, find it difficult to wait their turn or struggle to manage frustration.



I encourage parents to look for patterns rather than isolated incidents.



All children become distracted, restless or forgetful at times. What matters is whether these difficulties are persistent, greater than would be expected for the child's developmental stage and affecting everyday life across different settings.



A child may experience difficulties at home that are also apparent to teachers at school.



Importantly, good academic results do not necessarily rule out ADHD. Some children perform well in class but expend considerable effort managing their attention, organisation and schoolwork.



We should not assume that a child is coping comfortably simply because their grades are good.



It's Never Too Early to Ask for Help



If parents are concerned about their child's attention, behaviour or development, my advice is not to wait until those concerns become serious problems before seeking guidance.



Seeking help early does not mean rushing into a diagnosis or medication.



For younger children, the first steps may involve discussing developmental concerns, learning practical strategies to support behaviour and routines, or working with early childhood educators.



A formal ADHD diagnosis may be more difficult to establish in very young children, and not every developmental concern will turn out to be ADHD.



Nevertheless, parents can seek professional advice whenever they notice persistent difficulties affecting their child's wellbeing or development.



Early support can help families better understand a child's needs and respond to challenges before they begin affecting learning, friendships or confidence.




  
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  Preparing for an ADHD Assessment

  
    Whether you're seeking advice for yourself or your
    child, a little preparation can help make the first
    appointment more productive. Here are some common
    questions families have before an assessment.
  

  
    What information should I prepare?
    
      
        Write down examples of difficulties with attention,
        organisation, impulsivity or completing tasks.
        Include when they occur and how they affect school,
        work, home life or relationships.
      
    
  

  
    Are childhood school reports important?
    
      
        They can be helpful, even for adults. ADHD symptoms
        begin in childhood, so old reports, family
        recollections and teacher observations may help
        establish a developmental history.
      
    
  

  
    Should I bring information from teachers or family members?
    
      
        Yes, where available. Observations from people who
        know the individual in different settings can
        provide useful context. Ask the clinic beforehand
        what information it prefers.
      
    
  

  
    What medical information should I bring?
    
      
        Details of current medications, previous
        assessments, sleep difficulties, relevant medical
        conditions and family history can help the clinician
        consider possible explanations for symptoms.
      
    
  

  
    Will an assessment automatically lead to medication?
    
      
        No. An assessment does not guarantee an ADHD
        diagnosis or a medication prescription. Treatment
        recommendations depend on individual needs and
        clinical findings.
      
    
  

  
    What should I ask when booking?
    
      
        Confirm the assessment process, appointment length,
        expected costs, Medicare eligibility, whether
        further consultations may be required and what
        ongoing care is available.
      
    
  




For older children and adults, an ADHD assessment generally involves looking at current symptoms, developmental history and the impact of those symptoms on everyday life.



We may also consider information from family members, teachers, previous school reports or other relevant records.



One thing I want people to understand is that there is no single blood test or brain scan that can confirm ADHD.



Diagnosis involves a careful clinical assessment, including consideration of other medical, developmental or psychological conditions that could explain similar symptoms.



Why Access to Local ADHD Care Matters



For many families, deciding to seek an ADHD assessment is only the first hurdle. Finding an appropriately qualified clinician, arranging appointments and understanding the likely costs can also be challenging.



Waiting times vary considerably between providers and locations. Where specialist services have lengthy waiting lists, the delay can leave families trying to manage difficulties at home, school or work without a clear explanation or support plan.



I believe access to care closer to home can make a meaningful difference, particularly because ADHD assessment and management may involve more than one appointment.



A local clinic can make it easier for parents to fit consultations around school and work, and for adults to attend follow-up appointments without extensive travel. It may also help maintain continuity of care, allowing the treating clinician to monitor progress, discuss concerns and adjust a management plan where appropriate.



Accessibility and Cost



At Telos Medical Centre Brighton, we aim to provide an accessible pathway for people seeking ADHD-related care. Some patients may establish a stable management plan within several appointments, although the time required depends on individual circumstances.



More complex presentations can require additional investigations, specialist input or longer-term follow-up. The priority should always be a thorough assessment and appropriate care, rather than simply reaching a diagnosis quickly.



Cost is another consideration for families and adults exploring an ADHD assessment. At Telos Medical Centre Brighton, indicative initial assessment fees are $300 for children and $500 for adults. 



Subsequent appointments may be bulk-billed for eligible patients, while standard adult follow-ups are approximately $45 out of pocket. Fees, Medicare eligibility and the number of appointments required can vary, so patients should confirm the expected costs and inclusions before booking.



Finding Support Close to Home



Queensland's ADHD prescribing arrangements changed in December 2025, expanding the role of appropriately qualified specialist GPs in initiating and managing certain ADHD medications for adults, subject to specific requirements.



These changes are helping create additional pathways for people who need assessment and ongoing care.



Telos Medical Centre in Brighton. Photo Credit: Facebook/Telos Medical Centre



At Telos Medical Centre in Brighton, we provide ADHD-related assessment and management services for children and adults.



My approach is to understand each person's individual circumstances, including their developmental history, everyday challenges and broader health needs.



Treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Depending on the individual, it may involve education, behavioural strategies, psychological support, medication where appropriate and ongoing monitoring.



Not everyone diagnosed with ADHD will require the same treatment, and receiving a diagnosis does not automatically mean taking medication.



What matters is finding an approach that helps the person function better in their daily life and supports their overall wellbeing.



For parents wondering whether their child's difficulties deserve closer attention, or adults who have spent years trying to understand their own experiences, I hope the message is reassuring.



ADHD is not always obvious, and it can affect people in different ways. Asking questions, recognising patterns and seeking appropriate guidance can be the beginning of a better understanding of yourself or someone you care about.




  
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      About Dr Anchita Karmakar

      
        General Practitioner and Medical Director,
        Telos Medical Centre Brighton
      

      
        Dr Anchita Karmakar is a General Practitioner and
        Medical Director at Telos Medical Centre Brighton.
        Her special areas of interest include ADHD assessment,
        women's health with a focus on perimenopause and
        menopause, cardiac risk assessments, integrative
        health, addiction medicine and pain management.
      

    

  




Telos Medical Centre Brighton is a Proud Promotional Partner of Brisbane Suburbs Online News



Published 15-October-2026




]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Queensland Insurance Report Revisits Bracken Ridge's Devastating 2022 Flood Year]]></title>
<link>https://brackenridgenews.com.au/queensland-insurance-report-revisits-bracken-ridges-devastating-2022-flood-year</link>
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<pubDate>Fri, 16 Oct 2026 02:22:14 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge flood 2022]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge flood risk]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge insurance claims]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge news]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane floods 2022]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Brisbane severe weather]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Cabbage Tree Creek]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Queensland storm damage hotspots]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Suncorp Insurance]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://brackenridgenews.com.au/?page_id=2753</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
Bracken Ridge recorded Queensland's highest number of home insurance claims linked to extreme weather during the devastating 2022 floods, according to newly released data examining five years of storm damage across the state.



Read: Bracken Ridge Yards Targeted in Suburban Wastewater Blitz 




The Suncorp Insurance analysis, released in October 2026, examined more than 126,000 home claims lodged between the 2021–22 and 2025–26 financial years. Bracken Ridge led Queensland in 2021–22, when extraordinary rainfall and widespread flooding affected Southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales.



Six days of exceptional rainfall across Brisbane



The 2022 flood disaster followed one of Brisbane's most intense periods of sustained rainfall, with several consecutive days of heavy downpours overwhelming waterways and drainage systems.



According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Brisbane recorded 792.8 millimetres of rain between 23 and 28 February 2022, equivalent to 78 per cent of its average annual rainfall at the official city gauge.



The city's February rainfall reached 887 millimetres, making it the second-wettest February on record after 1893. Daily totals exceeded 200 millimetres on three consecutive days from 26 to 28 February, an unprecedented sequence in Brisbane's historical rainfall records.



Saturated catchments and sustained heavy rain contributed to widespread river, creek and flash flooding across the region. The exceptional conditions coincided with the financial year in which Bracken Ridge topped Suncorp's claims ranking, although the insurer did not publish a separate breakdown of flood, wind or storm claims for the suburb.



As It Happened in 2022







Cabbage Tree Creek remains part of local flood monitoring



Bracken Ridge forms part of the wider Cabbage Tree Creek catchment, which extends through Brisbane's northern suburbs towards the coastal lowlands around Deagon and Sandgate.



The suburb is included in Brisbane's Greater Deagon flood alert area, alongside Deagon, Sandgate and Taigum. The Brisbane Severe Weather Alert network provides access to local flood monitoring information, including creek conditions during periods of heavy rainfall.



Flood exposure differs considerably between individual properties according to elevation, drainage and proximity to waterways. Inclusion in the catchment or alert area does not mean every Bracken Ridge home is exposed to creek flooding.



Bracken Ridge hosts flood insurance support



The scale of the 2022 disaster prompted the insurance industry to organise face-to-face community meetings across Queensland as households dealt with damaged properties and insurance claims.



Bracken Ridge Tavern was selected as the Brisbane North venue for an Insurance Council of Australia meeting scheduled for 15 June 2022. The event was intended to give flood-affected policyholders an opportunity to discuss their claims with insurers, raise concerns and obtain information about the recovery process.



Similar sessions were arranged in Gympie, Maryborough, Forest Lake and Ipswich. The Insurance Council also identified delays involving building supplies and contractors among the difficulties facing flood-affected households across Queensland.



By September 2022, the Insurance Council reported that the February–March disaster had generated more than 233,000 claims and approximately $5.28 billion in insured losses across affected regions.



Bracken Ridge's ranking gives way to other hotspots



Bracken Ridge's position at the top of Queensland's 2021–22 claims ranking was followed by a succession of severe weather events affecting other parts of the state.



Maryborough led the insurer's records in 2022–23, followed by Gympie in 2023–24 and Runaway Bay on the Gold Coast in 2024–25. Manly West became Queensland's leading hotspot in 2025–26.



Suncorp Executive General Manager Home Insurance Anna Cartwright said the latest analysis demonstrated how quickly the concentration of claims could change between communities following major weather events.



The rankings cover Suncorp Insurance and AAMI customers rather than all Queensland households. No suburb-specific claims total was published for Bracken Ridge, and its absence from the top position in subsequent years does not establish that its weather-related risks have diminished.



Read: The Men’s Breakfast in Fitzgibbon: A Monthly Gathering Every Man Should Experience




Where residents can check their flood risk



Bracken Ridge homeowners can access Brisbane's FloodWise Property Report service to check available flood information for their address, including relevant flood levels and hazards where modelling exists.



Brisbane's Severe Weather Alert network also provides information on local flood monitoring, while residents can prepare for future heavy rainfall by checking gutters, downpipes and drainage around their properties.



Published 16-Oct-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
Bracken Ridge recorded Queensland's highest number of home insurance claims linked to extreme weather during the devastating 2022 floods, according to newly released data examining five years of storm damage across the state.



Read: Bracken Ridge Yards Targeted in Suburban Wastewater Blitz 




The Suncorp Insurance analysis, released in October 2026, examined more than 126,000 home claims lodged between the 2021–22 and 2025–26 financial years. Bracken Ridge led Queensland in 2021–22, when extraordinary rainfall and widespread flooding affected Southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales.



Six days of exceptional rainfall across Brisbane



The 2022 flood disaster followed one of Brisbane's most intense periods of sustained rainfall, with several consecutive days of heavy downpours overwhelming waterways and drainage systems.



According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Brisbane recorded 792.8 millimetres of rain between 23 and 28 February 2022, equivalent to 78 per cent of its average annual rainfall at the official city gauge.



The city's February rainfall reached 887 millimetres, making it the second-wettest February on record after 1893. Daily totals exceeded 200 millimetres on three consecutive days from 26 to 28 February, an unprecedented sequence in Brisbane's historical rainfall records.



Saturated catchments and sustained heavy rain contributed to widespread river, creek and flash flooding across the region. The exceptional conditions coincided with the financial year in which Bracken Ridge topped Suncorp's claims ranking, although the insurer did not publish a separate breakdown of flood, wind or storm claims for the suburb.



As It Happened in 2022







Cabbage Tree Creek remains part of local flood monitoring



Bracken Ridge forms part of the wider Cabbage Tree Creek catchment, which extends through Brisbane's northern suburbs towards the coastal lowlands around Deagon and Sandgate.



The suburb is included in Brisbane's Greater Deagon flood alert area, alongside Deagon, Sandgate and Taigum. The Brisbane Severe Weather Alert network provides access to local flood monitoring information, including creek conditions during periods of heavy rainfall.



Flood exposure differs considerably between individual properties according to elevation, drainage and proximity to waterways. Inclusion in the catchment or alert area does not mean every Bracken Ridge home is exposed to creek flooding.



Bracken Ridge hosts flood insurance support



The scale of the 2022 disaster prompted the insurance industry to organise face-to-face community meetings across Queensland as households dealt with damaged properties and insurance claims.



Bracken Ridge Tavern was selected as the Brisbane North venue for an Insurance Council of Australia meeting scheduled for 15 June 2022. The event was intended to give flood-affected policyholders an opportunity to discuss their claims with insurers, raise concerns and obtain information about the recovery process.



Similar sessions were arranged in Gympie, Maryborough, Forest Lake and Ipswich. The Insurance Council also identified delays involving building supplies and contractors among the difficulties facing flood-affected households across Queensland.



By September 2022, the Insurance Council reported that the February–March disaster had generated more than 233,000 claims and approximately $5.28 billion in insured losses across affected regions.



Bracken Ridge's ranking gives way to other hotspots



Bracken Ridge's position at the top of Queensland's 2021–22 claims ranking was followed by a succession of severe weather events affecting other parts of the state.



Maryborough led the insurer's records in 2022–23, followed by Gympie in 2023–24 and Runaway Bay on the Gold Coast in 2024–25. Manly West became Queensland's leading hotspot in 2025–26.



Suncorp Executive General Manager Home Insurance Anna Cartwright said the latest analysis demonstrated how quickly the concentration of claims could change between communities following major weather events.



The rankings cover Suncorp Insurance and AAMI customers rather than all Queensland households. No suburb-specific claims total was published for Bracken Ridge, and its absence from the top position in subsequent years does not establish that its weather-related risks have diminished.



Read: The Men’s Breakfast in Fitzgibbon: A Monthly Gathering Every Man Should Experience




Where residents can check their flood risk



Bracken Ridge homeowners can access Brisbane's FloodWise Property Report service to check available flood information for their address, including relevant flood levels and hazards where modelling exists.



Brisbane's Severe Weather Alert network also provides information on local flood monitoring, while residents can prepare for future heavy rainfall by checking gutters, downpipes and drainage around their properties.



Published 16-Oct-2026
]]></content:encoded>
</item><item>
<title><![CDATA[Murrumba Downs Tully’s Trek Honours Maddie Lawrence With 3,433 Laps]]></title>
<link>https://brackenridgenews.com.au/murrumba-downs-tullys-trek-honours-maddie-lawrence-with-3433-laps</link>
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<pubDate>Wed, 21 Oct 2026 03:15:53 +0000</pubDate>
<category><![CDATA[Homepage Latest News]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Community Fundraising]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Dreams2Live4]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Girl Guides Queensland]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Lawnton]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Maddie Lawrence]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Murrumba Downs]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tully’s Fund]]></category>
<category><![CDATA[Tully’s Trek]]></category>
<dc:creator><![CDATA[Bracken Ridge News]]></dc:creator>
<guid isPermaLink="true">https://brackenridgenews.com.au/?page_id=2789</guid>
<description><![CDATA[
A fundraising walk in Murrumba Downs has seen participants complete 3,433 laps in memory of Lawnton Girl Guide Madeline ‘Maddie’ Lawrence, with the event enabling a $7,000 donation to cancer charity Dreams2Live4.



Read: Queensland Insurance Report Revisits Bracken Ridge’s Devastating 2022 Flood Year





The inaugural Tully’s Trek, held on 29 August, brought together members of Girl Guides Queensland’s Brisbane North and Glasshouse Regions to remember Maddie, affectionately known as Tully, who died following a battle with cancer.



Inspired by Relay for Life, the event involved sponsored laps to raise money for Dreams2Live4 and the newly established Tully’s Fund, which aims to help Guiding members continue participating when difficult circumstances place a financial strain on them.



From 104 Laps To A Head-Shaving Fundraiser



Among the participants was Olivia, who completed 104 laps, while Tayla raised $700 to become the highest individual walker fundraiser. Jasmin, who had been an Olave alongside Maddie, also contributed through a head-shaving fundraiser. Her GoFundMe campaign raised $2,086 from 38 donations towards a $2,500 target, supporting both Dreams2Live4 and the fund established in Maddie’s memory.



The day extended beyond the walking track, with face painting, friendship bracelet making, games, a photo booth and craft activities bringing participants together between laps. Organisers acknowledged the contributions of walkers, donors and volunteers, along with support from All Occasion by Nic, In2Adventure and Sunshine Coast First Aid Volunteers.



Photo Credit: GoFundMe



The Young Guide Behind The Name Tully



Maddie’s connection with Guiding began at five years old when she joined 3rd Lawnton Brownies, where she attended her first camp. She later progressed to 1st Lawnton Guides and Glasshouse Synergy Olaves, building friendships and taking part in camps, challenges and leadership activities. Her original Guiding name was Tullawong, meaning magpie. When she began leadership training at 18, fellow members shortened the name to Tully, which remained her nickname within the organisation.



As a Junior Leader, Maddie helped organise activities and encouraged younger Guides as they developed their skills. She continued participating in Guiding while living with terminal cancer and attended her final camp at 23. According to Jasmin’s fundraising campaign, Maddie died in 2025 from a rare melanoma. During her cancer journey, Dreams2Live4 helped Maddie fulfil a wish for a family holiday on a farm. The experience was later shared by Burpengary Girl Guides when encouraging donations to Tully’s Trek.



Read: Tully’s Trek To Honour Lawnton Guide Maddie Lawrence



The charity supports eligible people living with advanced cancer and certain other serious cancer diagnoses by helping them pursue personal dreams. Maddie’s involvement in Guiding also shaped the creation of Tully’s Fund, which will support members facing financial hardship due to medical circumstances. Money raised for the fund will help cover membership fees, camps and activities, allowing young people and adult members experiencing difficult circumstances to remain involved in Guiding.



Published 12-October-2026
]]></description>
<content:encoded><![CDATA[
A fundraising walk in Murrumba Downs has seen participants complete 3,433 laps in memory of Lawnton Girl Guide Madeline ‘Maddie’ Lawrence, with the event enabling a $7,000 donation to cancer charity Dreams2Live4.



Read: Queensland Insurance Report Revisits Bracken Ridge’s Devastating 2022 Flood Year





The inaugural Tully’s Trek, held on 29 August, brought together members of Girl Guides Queensland’s Brisbane North and Glasshouse Regions to remember Maddie, affectionately known as Tully, who died following a battle with cancer.



Inspired by Relay for Life, the event involved sponsored laps to raise money for Dreams2Live4 and the newly established Tully’s Fund, which aims to help Guiding members continue participating when difficult circumstances place a financial strain on them.



From 104 Laps To A Head-Shaving Fundraiser



Among the participants was Olivia, who completed 104 laps, while Tayla raised $700 to become the highest individual walker fundraiser. Jasmin, who had been an Olave alongside Maddie, also contributed through a head-shaving fundraiser. Her GoFundMe campaign raised $2,086 from 38 donations towards a $2,500 target, supporting both Dreams2Live4 and the fund established in Maddie’s memory.



The day extended beyond the walking track, with face painting, friendship bracelet making, games, a photo booth and craft activities bringing participants together between laps. Organisers acknowledged the contributions of walkers, donors and volunteers, along with support from All Occasion by Nic, In2Adventure and Sunshine Coast First Aid Volunteers.



Photo Credit: GoFundMe



The Young Guide Behind The Name Tully



Maddie’s connection with Guiding began at five years old when she joined 3rd Lawnton Brownies, where she attended her first camp. She later progressed to 1st Lawnton Guides and Glasshouse Synergy Olaves, building friendships and taking part in camps, challenges and leadership activities. Her original Guiding name was Tullawong, meaning magpie. When she began leadership training at 18, fellow members shortened the name to Tully, which remained her nickname within the organisation.



As a Junior Leader, Maddie helped organise activities and encouraged younger Guides as they developed their skills. She continued participating in Guiding while living with terminal cancer and attended her final camp at 23. According to Jasmin’s fundraising campaign, Maddie died in 2025 from a rare melanoma. During her cancer journey, Dreams2Live4 helped Maddie fulfil a wish for a family holiday on a farm. The experience was later shared by Burpengary Girl Guides when encouraging donations to Tully’s Trek.



Read: Tully’s Trek To Honour Lawnton Guide Maddie Lawrence



The charity supports eligible people living with advanced cancer and certain other serious cancer diagnoses by helping them pursue personal dreams. Maddie’s involvement in Guiding also shaped the creation of Tully’s Fund, which will support members facing financial hardship due to medical circumstances. Money raised for the fund will help cover membership fees, camps and activities, allowing young people and adult members experiencing difficult circumstances to remain involved in Guiding.



Published 12-October-2026
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