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Morayfield Bridge Included in Queensland’s Most Frequently Struck Bridges

A new campaign to address the alarming frequency of bridge strikes across the state has been launched. The initiative, dubbed “Truckload of Trouble,” comes in response to recurring incidents, with the William Berry Drive / Visentin Road connection in Morayfield identified as one of the most frequently struck bridges in the 2023/24 financial year.

Read: Caboolture Railway Electrical Substations Level Up in $48M Rail Network Renovation

The low rail bridge at William Berry Drive, with its 2.8m road clearance, has been a particular concern. In 2020, a vehicle collision with this bridge led to the suspension of all train services between Morayfield and Caboolture, highlighting the severe disruptions such incidents can cause.

Morayfield — Photo credit: Google Street View

There were 369 rail bridge or protection beam strikes recorded in the 2023/24 financial year and in 2023 alone, bridge strikes caused over 200 hours of rail delays.

The most frequently struck bridges in the 2023/24 financial year are:

• Logan Road, Buranda

• North Street, Willowburn

• Bergin Street, Booval

• Oxley Road, Corinda

• William Berry Drive / Visentin Road connection, Morayfield

Joanna Robinson, General Manager of Land Transport Safety and Regulation at TMR, emphasised the dangers associated with bridge strikes.

“Bridge strikes are dangerous. They’re dangerous for the driver of the over-height vehicle, they’re dangerous for train drivers and the passengers and they’re dangerous for other road users.

“Falling debris from the bridge can damage other people’s cars, or in worst case scenarios, serious injury, cause a road crash or kill someone.

The “Truckload of Trouble” campaign, a collaborative effort between TMR, Queensland Rail, and the Queensland Trucking Association, aims to increase driver awareness about the consequences of bridge strikes. It encourages drivers to be mindful of their vehicle’s height and load, and provides practical solutions for route planning to avoid low clearance bridges.

Queensland Rail’s Acting Head of SEQ, Rob Hill, highlighted the operational impacts of these incidents. “When there’s a bridge strike, rail traffic is halted, and our teams carefully inspect it to ensure it’s safe for trains to operate,” he said.

Gary Mahon, CEO of the Queensland Trucking Association, called for increased education within the industry.

“Awareness about truck and bridge heights should be included in pre-start check lists, toolbox talks and trip planning. Truck drivers who are newly licenced, new to driving around the city or hiring a truck, must be provided with information on bridge and truck heights to avoid these preventable incidents.”

Read: Fast-Growing Moreton Bay Seeks More Infrastructure to Handle Population Growth

While low clearance bridges are equipped with warning signage and various protective measures, including protection beams and height chimes, the campaign stresses that ultimate responsibility lies with drivers to know their vehicle’s dimensions and plan accordingly.

Published 13-September-2024

Morayfield: Little Hands, Big Impact – Beach Kindy Champions Coastal Conservation

Queensland Childcare Services (QCCS) is setting a new standard for early learning with its innovative Beach Kindy programme, which is currently offered at QCCS’ Prince Charles and Morayfield locations.

Photo Credit: Queensland Childcare Services

The programme fosters a deep connection with nature and a commitment to conservation in young children. It utilises the beach as a dynamic classroom, providing unique opportunities for children to explore, learn, and grow.

Through activities like collecting shells, observing marine life, and understanding the intricacies of the tidal ecosystem, children develop a profound appreciation for the natural world. This hands-on approach cultivates environmental awareness and enhances essential life skills like adaptability, problem-solving, and motor development.

*Photo Credit:* *Queensland Childcare Services*

This programme’s timing aligns perfectly with International Coastal Cleanup Day, highlighting early education’s vital role in shaping a generation of environmentally conscious individuals. QCCS invites the community to witness the inspiring work of its Beach Kindy programme at either the Prince Charles or Morayfield Education Centres.

Picture a scene of young children, vibrant with energy, contributing to the well-being of their coastal home by collecting colourful recyclable items—a powerful testament to the impact even the most petite hands can make.

QCCS’ Beach Kindy programme exemplifies the transformative power of experiential learning and underscores the importance of instilling a sense of environmental responsibility from an early age.

As these children grow, they carry the memories of joyful beach days and the values and knowledge to protect and preserve our precious coastal ecosystems.

Published Date 12-September-2024

Photo Credit: Queensland Childcare Services/ Facebook

Caboolture Golf Club Witnesses Whitelock’s Triumph at Pampling Plate

In a display of exceptional golfing prowess, Conor Whitelock, hailing from Ballina, has clinched the coveted No. 1 seed for the matchplay phase of the Pampling Plate at Caboolture Golf Club.
Read: Caboolture Calls for Community to Conjure Up a Halloween Haunt
Whitelock’s remarkable performance, which included matching rounds of 3-under 68 in the 36-hole qualifier, secured him a comfortable lead over his competitors.
This victory marks a significant turning point for Whitelock, who recently transferred from Ballina Golf Club to pursue the Membership Pathway Programme at The Brisbane Golf Club. Whitelock’s consistent play throughout the qualifier earned him the top seed and a bye in the first round of the matchplay, along with the other top eight qualifiers.
Reflecting on his win, Whitelock attributed his success to seamlessly integrating various aspects of his game. He emphasised the synergy between his putting, chipping, driving, and approach shots.
Photo Credit: PGA Australia
This commanding victory is significant for Whitelock, who has been battling thyroid cancer for the past 18 months. Despite undergoing treatment, Whitelock has remained committed to his golfing aspirations and has recently received encouraging medical results. He acknowledged the impact of his illness on his performance but expressed optimism about his recovery. This win, he believes, is a testament to his resilience and determination.
Whitelock’s journey to the top seed was challenging. He encountered a minor setback with a bogey on the par-4 first hole but quickly recovered with an eagle at the par-5 third. Despite sharing the best score of Round 1, the soaring temperatures posed an additional hurdle.
However, Whitelock’s unwavering focus and determination propelled him to the forefront in Round 2. He birdied four consecutive holes, and although a late double-bogey momentarily disrupted his momentum, he maintained a comfortable lead throughout.
He mentioned looking at the live scoring and observing how the double bogey momentarily threatened his lead. However, a subsequent birdie helped him regain his composure.
With the matchplay phase set to commence, Whitelock is brimming with confidence. He is scheduled to face the winner of the Minami Inoue v Rylee Johnson match in Round 2, eager to carry his winning momentum forward.
The first round of matchplay kicks off at 6:40 a.m. on Tuesday, with the top eight seeds joining the competition in Round 2 from 11:39 a.m. As the Pampling Plate unfolds, all eyes will be on Whitelock as he strives to continue his impressive run and etch his name in the tournament’s history.
Read: Burpengary East Retirement Community Launches State-of-the-Art Sports Hub
Published Date 09-September-2024
Photo Credit: PGA Australia

Condamine Street Shaken by Suspicious Caravan Explosion

In the early hours of September 9, 2024, residents of Condamine Street in Caboolture were jolted awake by a caravan explosion in the driveway of a local home.
Read: Caboolture Calls for Community to Conjure Up a Halloween Haunt
CCTV footage captured the terrifying moment when the caravan ignited, sending flames dangerously close to neighbouring properties. The blast was so powerful that residents in nearby Morayfield reported hearing the explosion.
Local fire crews responded swiftly to the scene, arriving at the Condamine Street address shortly after 2 am. However, the incident had begun to unfold even earlier. Police were already en route to the location following reports of a disturbance.
While the investigation is still in its preliminary stages, authorities suspect that gas bottles inside the caravan may have been the cause of the powerful blast.
The burnt-out shell of the caravan remains in the driveway. The property owner returned to the scene later in the morning to find his home cordoned off as a crime scene.
Read: Burpengary East Retirement Community Launches State-of-the-Art Sports Hub
As of now, no charges have been laid in connection with the explosion.
Published 9-September-2024

Caboolture Calls for Community to Conjure Up a Halloween Haunt

Calling All Ghouls and Goblins! The Caboolture Historical Village is conjuring up a frightfully fun Halloween extravaganza and needs your help to transform the sprawling 12-acre site into a spine-chilling “Village of the Damned.”
Read: Caboolture Made: Locals Unite to Showcase Region’s True Potential
Photo Credit: trybooking
With roaming zombies, interactive displays, trick-or-treating, food stalls, and a Halloween mini-market, this year’s event promises to be a spooktacular night for families.
Saskia Huismans, Events and Marketing Manager at the Village is eager to make this year’s Halloween bigger and better. With over 70 buildings to decorate, she’s calling on locals to join in the fun and help bring the village to life.
Halloween Haunt Competition
Photo Credit: trybooking
The popular Halloween Haunt Competition is back. It invites community groups, not-for-profit organisations, sporting clubs, and anyone else interested to choose an area or building to transform into a terrifying spectacle. Participants can dress up, scare visitors, compete for cash prizes, and use buildings exclusively for future events.
Last year’s winner, the Rotary Club of Caboolture, set the bar high with a gruesome hospital, complete with a screaming baby in the nursery. Huismans believes the competition is a great way to unite the community and create a memorable family experience.
book ticket
Fright Night Festivities
Photo Credit: trybooking
The Halloween event will take place on October 31st from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to dress up and enjoy the interactive displays, trick-or-treating, mini market, and a special zombie walk through the village.
The first hour will be scare-free, catering to younger children. From 6:00 p.m. onwards, the village will come alive with frights and scares.
Read: Caboolture Riders Unite for Cancer Research in Eighth Annual Ride for Red
Event Details and Tickets
Special event entry fees apply: $10 for adults, $5 for children aged 6-16, and free for children 5 and under. Tickets are already available at Trybooking.com
The Caboolture Historical Village is ready to welcome all ghouls, ghosts, and goblins for a Halloween night to remember.
Published Date 04-September-2024
Photo Credit: trybooking

Burpengary East Retirement Community Launches State-of-the-Art Sports Hub

Halcyon Promenade, a retirement community in Burpengary East, recently opened its new Sports Hub. The grand opening was marked by an Olympic-themed event that brought residents together for a day of fun, friendship, and friendly competition.
Read: Caboolture Aged Care Service Paves the Way for Innovative Dementia Study
The new Sports Hub in Burpengary East is part of Stockland Halcyon Promenade’s commitment to fostering an engaging and active lifestyle for its residents. Boasting an impressive array of facilities, the hub includes:

Three pickleball courts
Two billiard tables
A state-of-the-art golf simulator
Outdoor tennis tables
A spacious dance floor
An arts room for creative pursuits
A bar and kitchen for social gatherings
A community garden for green-thumbed enthusiasts
A barbecue pavilion for outdoor dining
An outdoor deck for relaxation
A community courtyard complete with a cosy fire pit
These new additions complement the community’s existing amenities, which include a lap pool, gym, sauna, and yoga lawn, as well as popular features like the dog park and Spratt Park.
Ribbon cutting at Stockland Halcyon Promenade Sports Hub grand opening event with Andrew Astorquia (Stockland Halcyon Communities Project Director), Denise Drysdale (special guest and Australian television presenter), Gary Pearce (Halcyon Promenade homeowner), Jo-Anne Mbouche (Stockland Halcyon Community Manager/Photo credit: stockland.com.au

The grand opening celebration embraced an Olympic theme, dividing guests into teams for friendly competitions across the various sporting facilities. The atmosphere was electric with camaraderie as residents tried their hand at pickleball, billiards, golf, and table tennis.
Gary Pearce, a retired police officer who moved to Halcyon Promenade in March, shared his enthusiasm for the new Sports Hub. “Seeing so many people come together to enjoy the new sports hub is incredibly exciting,” Mr Pearce said. “It’s fantastic to have a place where we can all gather for some fun and friendly competition.”
Stockland Halcyon homeowners Gary and Debbie Pearce enjoying a game of pickleball at the newly opened Sports Hub (Photo credit: stockland.com.au)
For Mr Pearce, the Sports Hub is more than just a recreational facility; it’s a key to maintaining an active retirement.
“Having recently retired from the police force, staying active is a priority for me, so the sports hub means a lot,” he explained. “Hopefully, I’ve still got another 15 or so years of a very active lifestyle ahead, and having this space means I can keep up my daily exercise routine and have a lot of fun doing it.”
Read: Explore, Learn, Play: Adventure Park Opens at CREEC in Burpengary
As the Sports Hub springs to life with the laughter and energy of its residents, it stands as a shining example of how retirement communities can promote active, engaged, and fulfilling lifestyles for seniors. The Halcyon Promenade Sports Hub is not just a collection of facilities; it’s a vibrant heart of the community, pumping vitality and joy into the golden years of its residents.
Featured image credit: stockland.com.au
Published 4-September-2024

Burpengary Jets Claim Undefeated Season with Grand Final Victory

The Burpengary Jets have capped off an undefeated season, defeating the Wests Arana Hills Panthers 24-18 in a thrilling Rugby League Brisbane Open 1 grand final at Emerson Park on Tuesday, September 3. The victory marks the end of a perfect campaign for the Jets, who had already secured the minor premiership earlier in the season.
Read: Police Arrest Man for Wilful Damage at Caboolture Cemetery
Photo Credit: QRL
Led by former NRL talent Luke Capewell, who was named man of the match, the Jets overcame a star-studded Panthers lineup that included ex-Broncos players Sam Thaiday, Josh Hoffman, and Korbin Sims. Capewell’s brilliance was on full display, orchestrating several key plays that proved decisive in the outcome.
The match began with an auspicious sign for Burpengary, as jets soared overhead during the players’ entrance, coinciding with Brisbane’s Riverfire event. Despite this, it was the Panthers who struck first, with Hoffman crossing the line in the tenth minute.
Photo Credit: QRL
Burpengary’s response came through winger Nathan Tunufai, who finished off a slick backline move. The Jets then took control, with Capewell setting up tries for Jonathon Fatamai and Liam Georgetown, the latter coming from a clever chip and chase.
Chris Aiton, another former NRL player in the Jets’ ranks, combined well with Capewell to extend their lead to 18-6 at halftime. However, the Panthers fought back after the break, with tries to Callum Stewart and Connor Claridge levelling the scores at 18-18.
Photo Credit: QRL
In a dramatic finish, Jets fullback Inga Limoni intercepted a pass and raced 70 meters to score the winning try with just a minute remaining on the clock. The touchdown sent the Burpengary supporters into a frenzy and sealed a memorable victory for the local side.
The win not only secures the Open 1 premiership for Burpengary but also cements their status as the dominant force in the competition this season. The Jets’ blend of experienced former NRL and Hostplus Cup players, combined with local talent, proved too strong for their opponents throughout the year.
Photo Credit: QRL
Read: Caboolture Made: Locals Unite to Showcase Region’s True Potential
This triumph marks a significant achievement for the Burpengary community, with the Jets showcasing the depth of rugby league talent in the area. The team’s success is likely to inspire the next generation of players in the region and further strengthen the club’s position within the Rugby League Brisbane competition.
Published 3-September-2024

Police Arrest Man for Wilful Damage at Caboolture Cemetery

A 50-year-old man from Caboolture has been arrested and charged with the vandalism of nine gravestones at Caboolture Cemetery.
Read: Caboolture Made: Locals Unite to Showcase Region’s True Potential
The arrest took place on August 26 after Police Liaison Officers spotted the suspect from the Caboolture Police Station.
Authorities allege that the man randomly damaged nine tombstones in the cemetery. The police are currently working to locate and inform the relatives of the affected graves about the damage.
The suspect faces nine charges of wilful damage and was scheduled to appear in the Caboolture Magistrates Court on August 27.
Photo credit: Queensland Police
Under Queensland’s criminal code, wilful damage to cemetery graves or memorials is considered a severe offence, carrying a potential maximum sentence of seven years imprisonment.
Local law enforcement continues to investigate the incident. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the authorities. If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24 hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
About Caboolture Cemetery
Photo credit: Pioneers Memoirs/Google Maps
Established in 1885, the Caboolture Cemetery, also known as King Street Cemetery is a historic burial ground in Caboolture. It’s renowned for its monumental graves and serves as the final resting place for many of the area’s early settlers.
Read: Caboolture Aged Care Service Paves the Way for Innovative Dementia Study
While the cemetery no longer has room for new burials, it does allow for the reopening of existing graves. For those choosing cremation, the cemetery offers columbarium walls nestled under large, shady trees for the placement of ashes.
Caboolture Cemetery is located at 148 King St, Caboolture. Visiting hours are Monday to Sunday: 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Featured image credit: Queensland Police
Published 31-August-2024

Caboolture Made: Locals Unite to Showcase Region’s True Potential

A grassroots initiative aimed at boosting Caboolture’s image is gaining momentum, with supporters gearing up to intensify their efforts in the coming months. The campaign, aptly named “Caboolture Made,” is calling on proud locals to rally behind its mission of showcasing the town’s potential and challenging long-standing misconceptions.
Read: Heritage Day in Caboolture: A Journey Through Time
Originally launched as a Moreton Bay City Council project, Caboolture Made is evolving into a community-led movement focused on driving success for local businesses and champions.
Photo credit: Caboolture Made/Facebook
The initiative’s steering committee, which includes Greater Caboolture Chamber of Commerce President Carla Melbourne and Business and Professional Women (BPW Moreton Bay) President Vicki Wood, is spearheading efforts to transform public perception of the area.
Ms Melbourne acknowledged that while Caboolture has been the subject of many jokes, the reality is quite different. She describes the area as a boom town experiencing rapid growth and development, with significant government investment at all levels.
The campaign aims to highlight Caboolture’s strengths, including its vibrant local assets, high quality of life, and thriving business community. Ms Wood emphasised the importance of community participation, noting that they’re relying on the broader business community to help spread their message, particularly through social media channels.
How You Can Get Involved
Photo credit: Caboolture Made/Facebook
The success of this initiative relies heavily on community participation. The campaign organisers have outlined several ways for locals to support the initiative and contribute to changing the narrative about Caboolture:

Amplify positive messages: Residents are encouraged to follow the campaign’s on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. By sharing posts and using the hashtag #CabooltureMade, individuals can help spread the word about local successes and achievements.
Focus on community achievements: The campaign urges locals to counter negative comments by highlighting the positive aspects of Caboolture and the community’s accomplishments.
Participate in local events: Attending and supporting local events and activities is seen as a crucial way to foster community spirit and showcase Caboolture’s vibrancy.
Support local businesses: Shopping locally and encouraging others to do the same is emphasised as a key way to boost the local economy and demonstrate community pride.
Display campaign materials: Business owners are invited to print and display Caboolture Made posters in their shop fronts or offices to increase visibility of the campaign.
Share personal stories: The campaign encourages residents to share their positive experiences and observations about Caboolture, helping to build a collection of authentic, local narratives that reflect the true spirit of the community.
Read: Caboolture Set for 36 New Luxury Townhouses
The initiative is supported by prominent local businesses, the Greater Caboolture Chamber of Commerce, BPW Moreton Bay, and the City of Moreton Bay Council.
As the campaign gains traction, organisers hope to create a positive momentum that will sustain and grow organically, driven by the collective enthusiasm of the Caboolture community. With no cost to participate and open to all businesses, this campaign is poised to redefine the narrative surrounding this rapidly developing hub in the City of Moreton Bay.
Featured image credit: Caboolture Made/Facebook
Published 30-August-2024

Man Shot in Bellmere Home Invasion, Suspects at Large

A man was shot during a home invasion in Bellmere in the early hours of Thursday morning, August 29, 2024. Queensland Police are currently on the hunt for three male suspects who fled the scene.
Read: Caboolture Riders Unite for Cancer Research in Eighth Annual Ride for Red
At around 1:20 AM, emergency services responded to reports of a shooting at a residence on Peggy Road. According to initial investigations, three unidentified men forcibly entered the home and opened fire on one of the male occupants before fleeing in a small black vehicle.
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was promptly transported to Caboolture Hospital. Hospital staff report that he is in stable condition. Unconfirmed reports suggest the man may have sustained multiple gunshot wounds.
Queensland Police have launched an extensive investigation into the incident. While they assure the public that there is no broader threat to community safety, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Law enforcement officials are particularly interested in any surveillance footage that may aid in identifying the suspects or their vehicle. Residents in the Bellmere area with CCTV or dash cam recordings from the early hours of August 29 are encouraged to review their footage.
Read: Caboolture Aged Care Service Paves the Way for Innovative Dementia Study
As the investigation unfolds, police are appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. All information will be treated confidentially.
Published 29-August-2024