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Brown and Hurley DAF Caboolture Wins 2024 Dealer of the Year

In a major win for the local community, Caboolture’s Brown and Hurley Kenworth DAF dealership has been named the top DAF dealer in Australia for 2024. This is the first time the Caboolture location has received this national honour.

A First for the Region

*Photo Credit:* *DAF Trucks Australia/ Facebook*

The award, presented by PACCAR Australia, recognises the dealership’s strong performance across all business areas. This includes sales of new trucks and parts, service quality, finance options, and customer support.

The Caboolture branch opened in 2015 and is part of the larger Brown and Hurley network. The company has been selling heavy-duty trucks in Australia since 1964. This win marks a significant milestone for the Caboolture team, showing their dedication to the local area.

Recognition of Excellence

*Photo Credit:* *DAF Trucks Australia/ Facebook*

Damian Smethurst, Managing Director of PACCAR Australia, presented the award to Dylan Hurley, Dealer Principal of Kenworth DAF Caboolture. Mr Smethurst noted that customers expect more from their dealers in today’s competitive market. He explained that the Caboolture team had met and exceeded these expectations by providing excellent customer service and professional support.

He also pointed to the dealership’s ongoing investment in their team and facilities, which allows them to offer the latest products and industry knowledge. This commitment, he said, sets a high standard in the industry.

Teamwork and Customer Focus

*Photo Credit:* *DAF Trucks Australia/ Facebook*

Dylan Hurley expressed his pride in accepting the award on behalf of his team. He stated it was an honour to be recognised as the top-performing dealer by one of Australia’s leading heavy-duty truck manufacturers.

He thanked his sales, service, and support staff for their hard work and PACCAR for their quality trucks. He acknowledged that the past year had been challenging, but the award showed the dedication of his team, who always went the extra mile for their customers.

He also thanked PACCAR for their ongoing support, vital to their success. DAF Trucks Australia is known for providing trucks built to handle Australia’s tough conditions. They focus on fuel-efficient engines, comfortable cabs, and driver safety.

Published Date 03-March-2025

Photo Credit: DAF Trucks Australia/ Facebook

Brave Caboolture Mum Hailed a Hero After Gunpoint Home Invasion

A Caboolture mother has been hailed a hero after she confronted three masked intruders who allegedly held her 19-year-old son at gunpoint and demanded her car keys in a terrifying home invasion.

A Night of Terror in Caboolture

In the early hours of 27 February 2025, Caboolture resident Natasha Burnet woke up to a disturbance outside her home. Stepping outside, she found three masked individuals allegedly holding her 19-year-old son at gunpoint, demanding the keys to her Mazda CX-9.

Moments later, the armed offenders allegedly turned the gun on Ms Burnet, forcing her to start the car so they could flee. She described the ordeal as terrifying, saying her only focus was on getting the intruders out of her garage to protect her family, including her three younger children inside.

Caboolture incident — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Emotional Toll on the Family

The traumatic experience has left the family struggling to cope. Ms Burnet admitted she is still processing the events, often finding herself lost in thought. Her son, unable to overcome the stress of the incident, has since left his job.

Adding to their hardship, the family did not have theft insurance. Although the stolen car was recovered, Ms Burnet described it as heavily damaged inside and said she had not yet been able to inspect it properly or come to terms with its condition.

Police Investigation and Arrest

Later that day, police apprehended a 24-year-old Mansfield man at North Lakes shopping centre following a dramatic chase. He was charged with multiple offences, such as:

Enter dwelling and commit an offence
Dangerous operation of a vehicle
Unlawful use of a motor vehicle
Receiving stolen property

Authorities confirmed that two other offenders remain at large, and investigations into their identities and whereabouts are ongoing.

Caboolture home invasion — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Community Concerns Over Rising Crime

The incident has sparked concern among local residents about home invasions and violent crime in Caboolture. Ms Burnet admitted she never thought something like this could happen in her own home.

While police continue their investigation, the family is focused on recovery. Ms Burnet, now being hailed as a hero for her bravery, is taking things “one day at a time” as they come to terms with the shocking experience.

Published 4-Mar-2025

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

Weekend Surcharge at Sandstone Point Hotel Sparks Debate

A diner at Sandstone Point Hotel recently voiced frustration online over a 7.5% Sunday surcharge, sparking debate about weekend penalties in the hospitality industry. While some customers criticised the extra charge, others defended it as necessary to cover rising wage costs.

Why Do Venues Charge Weekend Surcharges?

Sandstone Point Hotel, owned by the Comiskey Group, applies a 10% surcharge on Sundays and 15% on public holidays, similar to other venues in the region. These charges are clearly displayed on menus and signage.

The recent backlash came after a receipt showed a 7.5% surcharge, leading to speculation about a possible adjustment. However, industry experts explain that such surcharges are standard to help businesses cover higher wages on Sundays and public holidays, as required by Fair Work Australia.

Under national employment regulations:

Casual hospitality workers earn 175% of their standard wage on Sundays and 250% on public holidays.
Full-time employees receive 150% on Sundays and 225% on public holidays.

Mixed Reactions from the Public

Public opinion is divided—some believe weekend surcharges are an unfair extra cost, while others acknowledge businesses’ financial strain.

Hospitality owners in Brisbane argue that while these charges help cover higher wages, they don’t fully offset the additional costs of weekend operations. Many customers accept surcharges as necessary to keep venues open on busy days.

Sandstone Point Hotel, known for its waterfront dining, fresh seafood, premium steaks, wood-fired pizzas, and live weekend music, operates all-day dining on weekends. Given its size and scenic location, surcharges help maintain service quality while managing labour costs.

Sandstone Point Hotel surcharge — *Photo Credit: Sandstone Point Hotel*

The Broader Debate on Penalty Rates

Weekend surcharges are related to the wider discussion on penalty rates in Australia. Recently, major retailers proposed changes to retail workers’ weekend pay, adding to the national debate.

While some industries push for more flexibility in weekend wages, hospitality venues like Sandstone Point Hotel continue following existing regulations. The hotel maintains its Sunday and public holiday surcharges, ensuring customer transparency. The debate over whether these charges are fair is unlikely to end anytime soon.

Published 28-Feb-2025

Photo Credit: Pexels

Caboolture Mother’s Misdiagnosed Symptoms Lead to Terminal Cancer Diagnosis

A Caboolture mother of three, initially told her severe symptoms were related to menopause, now faces a terminal cancer diagnosis after the disease spread rapidly throughout her body.

Kristi Nurse, 46, a local aged care nurse, began experiencing concerning health issues in January 2024. What she and medical professionals initially attributed to typical menopausal changes turned out to be the onset of aggressive cancer. Her friend, Dennise Higham, explained that Kristi’s initial symptoms, which included difficulties with urination, were dismissed. Despite an initial ultrasound revealing nothing, an abnormal pap smear raised further concerns.

Rapid Progression of Illness

Caboolture Mother's Misdiagnosed Symptoms Lead to Terminal Cancer Diagnosis — *Photo Credit:* *GoFundMe*

Following the initial tests, Kristi’s condition deteriorated quickly. Significant pain emerged, and she struggled to pass urine. Hospital examinations revealed large, stage three tumours pressing on her ureters. The cancer had already spread throughout her pelvis.

Complications with kidney cysts and abscesses delayed the start of her cancer treatment. By March, a PET scan showed the cancer had advanced to stage four, spreading to her lymph nodes.

Treatment involved chemotherapy and immunotherapy. However, the chemotherapy caused significant neuropathic damage, limiting the number of rounds she could complete. While the immunotherapy initially showed promise, subsequent scans in December revealed the cancer had spread further, including to her liver. The pain intensified, requiring strong pain medication. She underwent palliative radiation to manage the pain.

Family’s Response and Community Support

Kristi’s family, including her daughters Courtney, Lily, and son Dylan, are now focused on spending quality time together. Courtney Larner expressed the family’s devastation, highlighting her mother’s dedication and caring nature. She stated that Kristi is deeply concerned about leaving behind her youngest daughter, Lily, who is only seven years old, particularly due to financial worries.

The family has found it difficult to come to terms with the diagnosis, as they have not had major illnesses in the past. Dylan Larner communicated the family’s feelings of helplessness and the emotional strain the diagnosis has placed on them.

The family spend time together, often at Bribie Island, where they enjoy fishing and beach visits. Dennise Higham has organised a GoFundMe campaign to provide financial support and enable the family to create lasting memories during Kristi’s remaining time. The community is being asked to provide support during this difficult time.

Published Date 25-Feb-2025

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

Bribie Island Mourns as Pop Star Bille Eilish Dedicates Song to Shark Attack Victim

Bribie Island and Brisbane shared a moment of collective grief and remembrance as pop superstar Billie Eilish dedicated a song to 17-year-old Charlize Zmuda, who tragically died in a shark attack off Bribie Island. At the same time, the community held a memorial service for the young woman.

Tribute at Brisbane Concert

Bribie Island Mourns as Pop Star Bille Eilish Dedicates Song to Shark Attack Victim — *Photo Credit:* *kiyaa98/TikTok*

At her final Brisbane performance at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Billie Eilish honoured Charlize Zmuda by dedicating her song “Everything I Wanted” to the teenager and her family. A video shared online showed Eilish addressing the audience before the song began.

Family and friends had launched a campaign to have Eilish perform a tribute, sharing videos of Charlize, an amateur musician, performing. Social media users appreciated Eilish’s gesture, with many commenting on the singer’s respect and connection to the community during a difficult time.

Memorial on Bribie Island

Hundreds gathered for a memorial at Bribie Island Surf Life Saving Club the day after the concert. Surf Life Saving Queensland, the club, and the Zmuda family organised a paddle-out in honour of Charlize. Her father, Steve Zmuda, and sister led the paddlers into the ocean. Surf life-saving boats and the Westpac helicopter, which dropped a wreath, joined the paddle-out. The beach was quiet as paddlers held hands, then cheered and splashed water into the air, with applause from the shoreline.

Two of Charlize’s school friends described the day as emotional, noting that the ceremonies and school tributes, such as a prayer garden with a plaque, provided comfort. They revealed that a private ceremony had taken place the previous day, where Charlize’s ashes, placed in a biodegradable turtle, were scattered in the ocean.

The friends wanted to keep Charlize’s memory alive by speaking about her love of life and the beach and encouraging people to respect and protect the beaches. They said Eilish’s tribute was a surprise.

Following the paddle out, Steve Zmuda embraced members of the crowd and surf lifesaving club. A Surf Life-Saving Queensland manager stated that the morning was emotional but an important step in supporting the Zmuda family. He described the incident as a tragedy and emphasised the organisation’s commitment to supporting the family.

He added that the community should continue to enjoy the beaches safely, noting Charlize’s connection to surf lifesaving. He stressed that people should continue to enjoy the beaches and ocean while respecting safety measures.

Published Date 24-Feb-2025

Photo Credit: LNPAndrewWallace/ Facebook

CSIRO’s Bribie Island Research Facility Leading the Way in Sustainable Pompano Farming

A groundbreaking project at CSIRO’s Bribie Island research facility is paving the way for a new, sustainable seafood option for Australians. With 62 per cent of the country’s seafood currently imported, the national science agency is working to introduce a native white-flesh fish, pompano, to the commercial market through aquaculture.

Read: Seagrass Planting Project Making Waves in Caboolture River

The initiative, which began in late 2019, aims to address the rising demand for seafood and reduce reliance on imports. CSIRO researchers at Bribie Island have conducted successful breeding trials, focusing on selecting the most suitable fish species for farming.

Pompano (Trachinotus anak), a fish found in northern Australian waters, was chosen due to its fast growth, high fillet yield, and suitability for tank-based aquaculture.

Lead scientist Pollyanna Hilder emphasised the importance of selecting a species capable of thriving in a controlled environment, noting that while many fish in Australia have great taste, not all are suitable for aquaculture.

“The pompano is a robust, sociable fish endemic to northern Australia that grows really quickly and tastes great, making it an ideal candidate for adapting to our aquaculture environments.”
–Pollyanna Hilder, CSIRO researcher

To ensure long-term sustainability, CSIRO scientists are also using DNA tools to manage breeding and prevent inbreeding. Senior principal research scientist James Kijas explained that the team is currently breeding the first generation of fish at the Bribie Island facility and working on domesticating the species to perform well in a production system.

Developing a new Pompano industry could significantly contribute to Australian aquaculture by reducing the country’s reliance on approximately 100,000 tonnes of imported white-flesh fish annually. This effort not only enhances local seafood production but also supports sustainable practices to meet the increasing demand for seafood.

With strong early market tests from chefs and consumers, the CSIRO team is optimistic that pompano will be commercially available by the early 2030s. The project is not only expected to meet the growing demand for protein but also create jobs and boost Australia’s seafood industry.

Read: Koala ‘Doggy Door’ Trials in Toorbul Aim to Save Wildlife from Roads

Pompano on the Menu: A Future for Caboolture’s Dining Scene

Tillerman’s Golden Pompano with Sauce Meunier (Photo credit: Tillerman Seafood Restaurant/Facebook)

As the CSIRO continues to refine the farming of pompano, local restaurants may soon benefit from a fresh and sustainable seafood supply. In Caboolture and nearby areas, seafood lovers could see pompano featured in top dining establishments, including Tillerman Seafood Restaurant, known for serving dishes like golden pompano meunière. With its delicate flavour and firm texture, pompano could become a staple on menus across the region, offering diners a locally sourced alternative to imported fish.

Currently, however, there are only a few places in the Bribie Island and Caboolture areas that serve or sell pompano. Seafood restaurants and other fresh seafood outlets in the region may consider incorporating locally farmed pompano into their offerings as production expands. While options remain limited, the CSIRO’s efforts could soon make pompano a more widely available choice for both restaurants and consumers looking for a sustainable seafood alternative.

As global protein demand is predicted to double by 2050, CSIRO’s work at Bribie Island is playing a key role in securing a sustainable and locally sourced seafood future for Australia.

Featured image credit: CSIRO

Published 25-February-2025

Caboolture Watchhouse Under Scrutiny as Overcrowding Crisis Grips South East Queensland

Caboolture’s designated child-specific watchhouse is facing intense criticism as it grapples with a surge in adult detainees, leading to prolonged stays for juveniles, some exceeding 17 days.

Advocacy groups warn that this situation is symptomatic of a broader overcrowding crisis across South East Queensland’s detention facilities.

The Youth Advocacy Centre raised serious concerns about the operational practices at the Caboolture facility. They stated that the presence of adults, even in separate sections, compromises young people’s well-being. The central issue revolves around adults receiving priority processing, which in turn delays access to legal representation, education, and support services for the detained children. Reports indicate that the watchhouse, intended for a capacity of 31, has simultaneously housed adults and many young people.

Caboolture Watchhouse Under Scrutiny as Overcrowding Crisis Grips South East Queensland — *Photo Credit:* *Youth Advocacy Center*

Leaked internal documents revealed that other watchhouses in the region are also struggling. Southport, Logan, and Coolangatta have reported multiple instances of overcrowding in recent weeks, placing immense strain on resources. In Southport, capacity issues surfaced at least nine times in nine days. Logan’s lockups were overwhelmed multiple times, and Coolangatta’s facility was consistently filled.

The situation in Caboolture, initially intended as a youth hub, has drawn sharp criticism for its lack of suitability as a long-term detention centre. Concerns have been raised about the facility’s adherence to youth justice standards, which mandate access to medical, educational, and psychological support. Critics argue that the watchhouse functions more as a temporary holding pen than a proper detention facility.

A police spokeswoman confirmed that the Caboolture watchhouse is a central point for young people awaiting transfer to youth detention centres. She added that adults are held separately and transferred as quickly as possible. However, the prolonged stays of juveniles, some lasting over two weeks, contradict this statement.

The Office of the Minister for Police and Emergency Services acknowledged the pressures on the system, blaming previous administrations for inadequate infrastructure investment. They stated that the Caboolture facility will remain in use until the Wacol Youth Remand Centre opens later this year.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Child Protection Peak expressed alarm over the co-location of adults and children. They emphasised the need for purpose-built facilities that cater to the specific needs of young people, rather than placing them in adult-centric environments.

Police sources further highlighted the strain on other facilities, with officers from Southport forced to transport offenders to already overcrowded lockups in Logan. This creates a domino effect, leading to cramped conditions and limited access to essential services. Concerns about the potential health risks associated with prolonged stays in such environments were raised.

A criminologist from Bond University attributed the current crisis to previous governments’ lack of strategic planning. He argued that while bail laws for young offenders were tightened, insufficient resources were allocated to accommodate the increased demand for detention facilities. He stated that existing facilities should have adequate capacity and that new watchhouses are not necessarily the solution.

Published Date 23-Feb-2025

Photo Credit: Google Map

Caboolture Churches to Join World Day of Prayer for Cook Islands

Caboolture Churches to Join World Day of Prayer for Cook IslandsCaboolture’s diverse Christian community will unite with worshippers worldwide on Friday, 7 March 2025, to observe the World Day of Prayer. The event will focus on the Cook Islands and the theme “I made you wonderful.”

Local Churches Unite for Global Cause

Each year, churches across Caboolture take turns hosting the World Day of Prayer, an international initiative started by women. This year, The Salvation Army at the corner of Lower King and Dux Streets will open its doors to all denominations at 10:30 am. The service, prepared by women from the Cook Islands, will lift up prayers for their nation, with a particular focus on supporting women affected by domestic violence.

The World Day of Prayer offers local congregations a chance to connect with a global movement and learn about the featured country’s culture, history, and challenges.

Focus on the Cook Islands

The 2025 World Day of Prayer program centres around the Cook Islands, a nation known for its rich music, dance, and storytelling traditions. The theme, “I Made You Wonderful,” taken from Psalm 139:14, celebrates God’s creation and the diversity of human expression.

Organisers hope participants will better appreciate the Cook Islands and its people through prayer and reflection. The service will include prayers for environmental protection, the well-being of Cook Islanders, and the continued growth of Christian faith within their communities.

A Global Day of Unity

The World Day of Prayer is an annual event held on the first Friday in March. It unites Christians worldwide in a shared act of worship and intercession. While participation is optional for some church groups, it is strongly encouraged as it provides an opportunity to stand in solidarity with Christians worldwide.

For those unable to attend the Caboolture event, information about other local and online gatherings can be found within the wider community.

Published Date 21-Feb-2025

Photo Credit: USC Women’s Ministries

Fresh Flavours Arrive in Burpengary East with Ruby Tuesday

The wait is almost over, Burpangery East! Ruby Tuesday, the vibrant new café you’ve been waiting for, opens this Sunday, 16 February at 115-117 Buckley Rd.

Ruby Tuesday is the brainchild of Candice Kiss, who also owns the successful Gather and Feast in Caboolture and Annie Lane on Bribie Island. While her other ventures are well-regarded, Kiss emphasised that Ruby Tuesday will have its distinct character. The new establishment will offer a refined all-day brunch menu, focusing on high-quality, locally sourced produce.

Kiss explained that the meals will be more elaborate, with a greater emphasis on in-house preparation. The café is still seeking to partner with additional local suppliers.

Kiss identified a gap in the market in Burpengary East, particularly for specialty coffee and healthy food options. She aims to provide the community with a bright and vibrant alternative. Ruby Tuesday’s operating hours will be 6:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m. Monday to Friday and 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on weekends.

Diners can anticipate a range of freshly baked goods daily, alongside specialty coffee from Tim Adams and cold brew. A unique feature will be a canning machine producing personalised take-away cans filled with iced coffee, matcha, and other beverages, including decadent iced coffees featuring house-made soft serve.

The all-day brunch menu will cater to various dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options. The chef is committed to creating almost everything from scratch, from oils to fermented ingredients like croutons, promoting good gut health. This focus on wellness extends to a large selection of naturopath-designed teas. While healthy choices are a priority, the menu includes indulgent treats and weekend specials.

The café’s décor reflects a fusion of Palm Beach and Amalfi Coast influences, creating a fun, colourful, light, and airy atmosphere that complements the fresh food. The name, Ruby Tuesday, is a tribute to the classic Rolling Stones song, reflecting Kiss’s passion for music.

Published Date 19-Feb-2025

Photo Credit: Ruby Tuesday Cafe/ Facebook

Man In Critical Condition After Morayfield Snake Bite

A local man is in critical condition at Caboolture Hospital after being bitten by a snake at a Morayfield property yesterday afternoon.

The incident occurred around 3:16 PM Sunday when paramedics were called to treat the man in his 30s who suffered a snake bite to the ankle. He was rushed to Caboolture Hospital where he remains in critical condition.

This case highlights a concerning trend across Queensland, with seven people hospitalised for snake bites over the weekend alone. The spike in incidents has prompted health officials to issue fresh warnings to residents in Caboolture and surrounding areas.

According to Queensland Ambulance Service data, 24 snake bite reports were recorded in the week leading up to February 10, with concentrations in the Gold Coast, Cairns and Hinterland, and Darling Downs regions. The monthly figures show a dramatic increase from 88 incidents in November 2024 to 129 in December, with 128 cases in January 2025.

Snake catcher David Voss noted that this has been an unusually active period. “It’s been a busy summer,” Voss explained. “Snake season started a little earlier than usual following a warm winter last year.”

The surge isn’t limited to the Caboolture area. Rockhampton has experienced a notable increase in hospitalisations for snake bites between November 2024 and January 2025. Last November, 16-year-old Beau Horan died following a snake bite in Wurdong Heights.

Safety Warnings from Health Officials

Queensland Ambulance Service Rockhampton acting operations supervisor Joseph O’Donnell advised: “If you see a snake, leave it alone. We assume every snake bite is a venomous bite.”

Health officials warn that snake bite symptoms can range from vomiting and diarrhoea to significant pain at the bite site. However, bites aren’t always immediately noticeable – they may not be visible or felt right away, with symptoms potentially taking an hour or more to appear.

What To Do If Bitten

Queensland Health advises:

Don’t panic, run, or try to catch the snake
Move to a safe place and remain still
Don’t wash, suck, or cut the bite site
Call triple-0 immediately
Lie down to prevent movement until an ambulance arrives

Residents seeking specific information on treating bites based on location can consult the Queensland Health website.

The Caboolture region’s warm climate and diverse environments make it an ideal habitat for various snake species. As temperatures remain high, authorities urge residents to remain vigilant, particularly when outdoors in bush areas or when working in gardens and sheds.

Published 17-February-2025