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Caboolture Welcomes Temple of Juniper Distillery and Cellar Door

Temple of Juniper, a boutique distillery, has officially opened in Caboolture. It offers handcrafted gin infused with unique botanicals. Located at 4/23 Evans Drive, the distillery welcomes visitors to experience its cellar door tastings and small-batch creations.

Crafting a Unique Spirit in Caboolture

Temple of Juniper is the creation of husband-and-wife duo Erin and Charles. They have turned their passion for small-batch distilling into a boutique experience. Their journey began with a vision to craft premium gin infused with distinctive botanicals, drawing inspiration from Middle Eastern hospitality and Mediterranean flavours.

After navigating the development application process, the distillery has launched its flagship product, Mediterranean Summer Gin. This handcrafted gin blends lavender, lemon myrtle, grapefruit, citrus, crushed cinnamon and angelica root, creating a refreshing profile ideal for Queensland’s warm climate.

Something Special on the Horizon

Alongside its signature Mediterranean Summer Gin, Temple of Juniper is crafting a Middle Eastern Spiced Gin, described as a “true gin lovers’ gin.” The distillery hopes to launch this exciting new release at the Brisbane Gin Festival, which will take place from 4 to 6 April 2025. Gin enthusiasts attending the festival can meet the Temple of Juniper team and sample their handcrafted spirits.

Brisbane Gin Festival — *Photo Credit: Temple of Juniper/Instagram*

A New Destination for Gin Enthusiasts

Located in North Brisbane, just off the motorway, Temple of Juniper allows visitors to engage with the makers, tour the distillery, and sample the latest releases. The cellar door is open on Fridays and Saturdays. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings and learn about the distillation process from the founders themselves.

Temple of Juniper offers nationwide shipping via its online store for those unable to visit in person.

shop now

Community and Customer Response

Early visitors have praised the Mediterranean Summer Gin for its well-balanced flavour and high-quality craftsmanship. Customers have described it as “refreshing and complex.” Some compare the experience to a summer getaway. The distillery has also been well-received as a unique addition to Caboolture’s growing small business scene.

In addition to direct sales, Temple of Juniper welcomes corporate orders and boutique stockists who want to feature its handcrafted spirits.

Future Plans and What’s Next

Temple of Juniper aims to expand its product range beyond gin, with future releases already in development. The distillery is also looking to increase local stockists and explore partnerships with hospitality venues.

For those interested in experiencing the Temple of Juniper difference, tastings and purchases can be made at the cellar door or online at www.templeofjuniper.com.

Published 18-Mar-2025

Photo Credit: Temple of Juniper/Facebook

Massive Support in Caboolture as Rapid Relief Team Aids Cyclone Victims

The Rapid Relief Team (RRT) has supported Caboolture and other cyclone-affected communities across Queensland and New South Wales, delivering essential aid before, during and after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

Over a 12-day period, from 3 March to 13 March 2025, RRT volunteers provided thousands of meals and filled and distributed sandbags. They also assisted emergency service crews and displaced residents.

Rapid Relief Team packing sandbags — *Photo Credit: Rapid Relief Team AU/Facebook*

Mobilising for Relief: RRT’s Immediate Response

As Ex-Cyclone Alfred approached, emergency services called on RRT to help with sandbagging efforts. They aimed to protect homes from rising floodwaters. Volunteers produced and distributed thousands of sandbags using specialised sandbagging machines.

RRT teams also prepared and served meals at evacuation centres, ensuring that affected residents and frontline workers had access to food. In Caboolture alone, volunteers served more than 1,900 meals, providing critical support to both displaced locals and individuals experiencing homelessness.

*Photo Credit: Rapid Relief Team AU/Facebook*

Delivering Critical Aid: Meals, Snacks, and Sandbags

RRT’s response across Queensland and New South Wales involved a large-scale distribution of essential supplies, including:

33,500 sandbags to protect properties from floodwaters.
3,650 meals for emergency responders and affected residents.
4,060 Frontline Snack Packs for SES crews, police, and other emergency workers.

Caboolture volunteers were especially active in Moreton Bay Council Evacuation Centres. They played a key role in feeding displaced residents during the crisis.

Rapid Relief Team volunteers — *Photo Credit: Rapid Relief Team AU/Facebook*

Supporting Emergency Services and Communities

Beyond Caboolture, RRT volunteers provided aid across multiple regions. This includes Brisbane, Nambour, Gympie, Toowoomba, Warwick, Armidale, Maitland, and Newcastle. They worked alongside emergency responders, ensuring that SES, police, and fire crews received meals and support while managing storm-related incidents.

Additional supplies were dispatched from New South Wales to assist Queensland communities. RRT’s Penrith team packed 2,000 Frontline Snack Packs, a BBQ trailer, and emergency supplies for distribution in affected areas. Volunteers in Maryborough and Hervey Bay ensured SES crews remained well-fed while responding to flash flooding events.

Community Strength and Volunteer Efforts

The relief effort was driven by RRT’s extensive volunteer network. It operates as the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church. Since its establishment in 2013, RRT has expanded to more than 16,000 volunteers. They provide disaster relief and community support across Australia.

Volunteers packing sandbags — *Photo Credit: Rapid Relief Team AU/Facebook*

Looking Ahead: Ongoing Support and Future Readiness

As communities continue to recover, RRT remains committed to assisting in Caboolture and other affected areas. The scale of the response to Ex-Cyclone Alfred highlights the essential role of volunteer organisations in disaster relief efforts.

Published 17-Mar-2025

Photo Credit: Rapid Relief Team AU/Facebook

Elderly Man Involved in Serious Morayfield Traffic Incident

A serious traffic incident in Morayfield has left an eldery man with life-threatening injuries after he was struck by a vehicle early Tuesday morning.

The accident occurred just after 6am at the intersection of Clark Road and Summerstone Boulevard in Morayfield, when a Nissan Navara towing a trailer hit the 68-year-old man. The 19-year-old driver, a Morayfield resident, remained at the scene following the collision.

According to police, initial investigations indicate the Petrie man was standing beside his parked car when the eastbound Nissan struck him. Queensland Ambulance Service treated the victim for chest injuries at the scene before transporting him to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in critical condition.

The Forensic Crash Unit is now investigating the circumstances of the accident, which occurred on local Morayfield roads during the morning commute.

Authorities are calling for anyone with information or dashcam footage from the Morayfield area around the time of the incident to contact Policelink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Published 11-March-2025

Flood Warning in Moodlu: Roads Closed, Evacuations Possible

Residents in Moodlu are being urged to monitor conditions closely as floodwaters continue to rise, cutting off key roads and threatening homes. Emergency services warn that conditions could deteriorate rapidly, with some areas already inaccessible.

Floodwaters Rising, Roads Closed

The City of Moreton Bay has issued a Flood – Watch and Act warning for Appaloosa Court and Smiths Road in Moodlu due to rising water levels in Lagoon Creek. The Williams Road water gauge has reached 3 metres and is continuing to rise, prompting concerns of moderate flooding if it increases by another 1.4 metres.

Authorities warn that if conditions worsen, residents may need to evacuate quickly. Emergency services may not be able to provide door-to-door assistance, and residents are advised to prepare their emergency plans.

Moodlu flood warning — *As of 10-March-2025 02:08 p.m.*
*Photo Credit: CrTonyLatter/Facebook*

Road Closures and Transport Disruptions

Flooding and debris from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred have led to 140 road closures across the Moreton Bay region, with several key roads in Moodlu now impassable.

The following roads are completely closed due to flash flooding:

Williams Road at Lagoon Creek
Whittington Road in both directions

Motorists are urged to avoid these areas, as long delays are expected, and floodwaters remain unpredictable. Authorities remind drivers: “If it’s flooded, forget it.”

Moodlu flood — *As of 10-March-2025 02:08 p.m.*
*Photo Credit: CrTonyLatter/Facebook*

Power Outages and Emergency Response

Approximately 133 power outages have been reported across Moreton Bay, impacting residents in flood-affected areas. SES, Energex, and council crews are working to clear debris and restore essential services.

Authorities are advising people to:

Stay away from fallen power lines.
Avoid rivers, creeks, and flooded stormwater drains.
Prepare for possible evacuations if flood levels continue to rise.

In case of life-threatening emergencies, residents should call Triple Zero (000). For flood and storm assistance, the SES can be contacted at 132 500 or via the SES Assistance QLD app.

check when your power will be restored

Weather Conditions Expected to Ease

The City of Moreton Bay reports that while rain is still ongoing, its intensity is decreasing, with heavier rainfall moving westward. However, with sewerage overflow risks, road damage, and potential property inundation, residents are urged to remain cautious until conditions stabilise.

Next Steps and Updates

The flood warning will be updated if the Lagoon Creek water gauge reaches 3.8 metres or if the situation escalates further. Residents should continue checking the Moreton Bay Council Disaster Dashboard for real-time updates on road closures, power outages, and emergency support services.

DISASTER DASHBOARD

For ongoing emergency updates, listen to:

ABC Brisbane 612AM
99.7FM
101.5FM

Published 10-Mar-2025

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Disaster Dashboard

Moreton Bay Still on Alert for Flooding Despite Cyclone Downgrade

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has weakened to a tropical low, but authorities are warning residents that heavy rainfall could still lead to flash-flooding.

Read: Bribie Island Mourns as Pop Star Billie Eilish Dedicates Song to Shark Attack Victim

The centre of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred made landfall around 8:00 p.m. Saturday, March 8, over Bribie Island, then moved onto the mainland around 9:00 p.m. Strong winds and intense downpours caused minor damage in Bribie Island, where fallen branches were reported. However, locals expressed relief that the storm was not as severe as initially forecast.

The cyclone was originally expected to cross near Bribie Island as a category 2 storm but weakened before making landfall. Despite this, the risk of severe weather remains, with authorities urging caution.

Flood Warnings and Safety Alerts

Mayor of the City of Moreton Bay, Peter Flannery, is reminding residents to stay alert as flooding remains a real danger in low-lying areas and frequently flooded roads.

“Council is preparing to mobilise crews to start conducting damage assessments and clean-up work to ensure public safety. We will also be checking all council facilities so they can be declared safe and ready to reopen,” Mr Flannery announced.

While the worst of the storm has passed, he stressed that emergency services remain on high alert, with nine SES calls received in the Moreton Bay region this weekend and more expected in the coming days.

Power and Recovery Efforts Continue

In Woorim, some residents lined up for coffee after power outages were reported in Bongaree. Despite worsening conditions, Energex crews have been working around the clock to restore power.

Since last night’s update (March 9), an additional 31,000 customers have had their electricity reinstated, bringing the total number of restored customers to an incredible 132,000 since Sunday morning’s peak. As of Monday morning, March 10, approximately 215,000 homes and businesses remain without power.

Hazards and Precautions

Authorities continue to urge caution, particularly with the risk of flash-flooding. Fast-flowing water is unpredictable and can be life-threatening. It can sweep people off their feet or carry vehicles away, making rescue efforts extremely dangerous.

Hidden dangers such as drains, debris, chemicals, and sewage pose serious health risks. Floodwaters often contain hazardous materials that can cause infections, injuries, or other medical emergencies.

Driving through floodwaters can worsen conditions for affected homes and businesses due to the displacement of water. Vehicles create waves that can push water into buildings, exacerbating flood damage and putting more properties at risk.

Residents are urged to never walk, ride, or drive through floodwaters. If it’s flooded, forget it!

Residents are encouraged to stay updated on road closures via the Disaster Dashboard: disaster.moretonbay.qld.gov.au.

Waste Collection and Recovery

The City of Moreton Bay has issued an update regarding missed bin collections:

General waste bins missed last Thursday or Friday should be left out for catch-up collections over the next few days.
Only general waste bins will be collected at this time.
GO and recycling bins will be collected on the next scheduled day, weather permitting.
Residents can drop off any waste at council waste facilities free of charge if it is safe to do so.

Read: Unitywater Upgrades Meters in Burpengary and Morayfield

Returning to Normal but Staying Vigilant

While most businesses have resumed normal operating hours, authorities stress that residents should remain cautious. With the potential for further heavy rainfall, the community is urged to stay informed and prepared for any sudden changes in weather conditions.

Featured image: Bribie Island as of 10 March 2025 (Photo credit: Bribie Island SLSC – Surfline.com)

Published 10-March-2025

Man Charged Over Attempted Generator Theft At Caboolture

A 39-year-old Ningi man has been charged over attempted theft of a power generator that was operating traffic lights at a busy Caboolture intersection on Saturday afternoon.

The incident occurred around 3pm at the intersection of Bribie Island Road and Old Toorbul Point Road, where temporary generators have been powering traffic signals following recent severe weather events in the region.

**The incident occurred around 3pm at the intersection of Bribie Island Road and Old Toorbul Point Road**
Photo Credit: Google Maps

A community member alerted police after witnessing someone tampering with and attempting to steal the generator. The suspect reportedly fled in a white ute when disturbed.

Upon arrival, police discovered the chain securing the generator had been cut, resulting in power loss to the traffic lights at this critical Caboolture junction.

Police later attended an address in Ningi where they found a man and a white ute containing bolt cutters. The 39-year-old local man was subsequently charged with attempted stealing and wilful damage.

The accused is scheduled to appear before Caboolture Magistrates Court on April 4.

Acting Chief Superintendent Adam Guild confirmed increased police patrols throughout southeast Queensland during the recovery phase following the severe weather event.

“The Queensland Police Service has zero tolerance for stealing, especially during a disaster,” Guild stated. “As we move into the recovery phase, police will continue to target offenders and hold them responsible for their actions.”

The attempted theft highlights ongoing security concerns for emergency equipment deployed throughout the Caboolture area during post-storm recovery efforts.

Published 8-March-2025

Caboolture Sports Club Announces $20 Million Upgrade

Caboolture Sports Club will transform its 3,400-square-metre venue with a $20 million renovation. The renovation will add new dining and entertainment options and significantly expand its children’s facilities.

The renovation will begin in April and be completed by mid-2026.

Major Upgrades and New Facilities

*Photo Credit:* *Caboolture Sports Club*

The extensive project will significantly change nearly every area of the club. Plans include completely redesigning the existing restaurant, introducing a new cafe, and building a fully supervised children’s club.

The existing restaurant’s seating capacity will more than double, expanding from 165 to 340 seats, and the cafe’s seating capacity will increase from 60 to 140 seats.

The new cafe will also employ an in-house pastry chef. The restaurant will offer an expanded steak and smoked meat menu. A new sports bar, equipped with a 10-metre by 5-metre LED sports TV wall and keno terminals, will accommodate 120 people. A separate cocktail bar will host live entertainment, specialty tastings, and boutique events.

Children’s Entertainment and Family Amenities

A significant focus of the renovation is creating a large children’s play area. This space will include a playground, climbing jungle, arts and crafts area, and a movie theatre. Supervision will be provided for children aged three and over. The upgrade also features a parents’ room, modernised bathrooms, and updated staff amenities.

Construction Phases and Temporary Closures

The renovation will be carried out in three stages. Stage one, expected to be completed by August 2025, will focus on the new cafe, cafe kitchen, lounge, cocktail bar, and ladies’ amenities. The sports bar will temporarily move to the old Grevillea Room during this phase.

*Photo Credit:* *Caboolture Sports Club*

Stage two will involve the construction of the new restaurant, restaurant kitchen, restaurant bar, ladies’ amenities, kids’ club, and movie theatre. The Laneway Cafe, Mill Restaurant, and the current kids’ room will be closed during this stage.

Stage three, scheduled for completion by mid-2026, will address the new foyer entrance, gaming bar, sports bar, parents’ room, and staff amenities. The main entrance will be closed during this final stage, and a temporary entrance will be provided.

Community Impact and Job Creation

The club’s management stated that the project will create approximately 50 new jobs. The renovation will also support local businesses during construction and utilise locally sourced ingredients in the revamped menu where possible. The Caboolture Sports Club has contributed over $12 million to local initiatives in the past five years.

Published Date 05-March-2025

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