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Urgent Appeal: Seeking Witnesses to Bruce Highway Altercation Near Caboolture

A concerning incident involving a white 2015 Holden Colorado travelling southbound on the Bruce Highway from Gympie to Caboolture, with a 4-year-old girl seated in the rear passenger seat, has the Queensland Police asking for the public’s help.

Near the on-ramp from the Sunshine Motorway at Sippy Downs, the driver of the Colorado encountered a light workman’s truck carrying concreting equipment in the right lane, including a wheelbarrow and cement mixer.

Attempting to merge into the right lane, the Colorado driver signalled his intentions to the truck driver. However, upon merging, the truck allegedly collided with the rear end of the Colorado, forcing the driver back into the left lane to avoid further danger.

The situation escalated when the truck driver purportedly accelerated and cut off the Colorado, preventing them from passing. Subsequently, the Colorado driver decided to pull over into what he believed was an emergency stopping bay north of the Palmview exit just before reaching Caloundra. The truck followed suit, pulling over in front of them.

The truck driver reportedly brandished weapons and vandalised the Colorado, damaging the headlights and bonnet, and subsequently shattering the rear passenger window where the driver’s daughter was seated.

Authorities urge anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. Whether you spotted the vehicles involved or possess dash cam footage, your assistance is invaluable in resolving this matter.

Please contact Policelink on 131 444 if you can provide any details. Any information, no matter how small, could prove crucial.

To report information anonymously, you can also contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated in helping ensure the safety of our community.

Published 18-March-2024

Caboolture Hospital Welcomes Leap Year Baby: A Rare Celebration

On a day that arrives only every four years, Caboolture Hospital recorded the birth of its lone Leap Year baby for 2024, Emerson, the pride and joy of parents Kelley and Roy Mahoney.

Born on 29 February 2024, Emerson’s arrival was a joyful surprise for the couple, who had anticipated a March 6 delivery. Roy expressed feelings of joy because it’s pretty special to have a baby born on “such a unique day.”

Other Leap Year Births in Brisbane

In 2020, Tahlia Field, a young mother, also from Caboolture, experienced the special joy of giving birth to her son on 29 February, which also happened to be her own leap year birthday. This rare coincidence, with odds of 1 in 2,134,521, created a unique bond between mother and son, who will celebrate their actual birthdays only every four years.

On 29 February 1940, the Brisbane Women’s Hospital in Herston added to the leap year festivities by welcoming twelve leap year babies.

Caboolture Hospital — *Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland*

This group of leaplings, consisting of nine boys and three girls, joins the exclusive club of individuals celebrating their birthdays quadrennially. The phenomenon of leap year births brings a mix of amusement and practical considerations for families, as they navigate the celebration of birthdays in non-leap years.

*Photo Credit: National Library of Australia*

Celebrating Leap Year Birthdays

Leap year babies, often referred to as “leaplings,” find themselves in a unique position, celebrating their actual birthdays only once every four years. This rarity makes their birthdays special and poses exciting challenges and opportunities for celebration. Families and leaplings often choose either 28 February or 1 March for off-year celebrations, maintaining a sense of continuity while embracing the uniqueness of their situation.

Leaplings share their birthday with about 5 million other people worldwide, making it the rarest birthday with a 1 in 1,461 chance of being born on the 29th of February.

Today is 29 February, this day only occurs every four years and is the rarest birthday in Australia. 568 people were born on this day in 2020. Tag a leap year baby! 👇🎂🎉 pic.twitter.com/95sWmSyT8d
— Australian Bureau of Statistics (@ABSStats) February 29, 2024

The purpose of leap years is to synchronize the months with the Earth’s orbit around the Sun and its annual events such as solstices and equinoxes. The Earth takes around 365.2422 days to orbit the Sun, which is slightly longer than our calendar year by about a quarter of a day. As a result, the calendar drifts away from the seasons over time, and leap years are added to adjust the calendar and align it with the astronomical year.

Leap years are not exclusive to the Gregorian calendar, as they have been utilized in various calendars throughout history, including the ancient Roman calendar. The additional day is added to the end of February, which was the last month in the original Roman calendar.

Published 5-March-2024

Caboolture Crash: School-Aged E-Scooter Rider Seriously Injured in Vehicle Collision

A young boy is in serious condition after a collision between an e-scooter he was riding and a car on Tuesday morning, 27 February 2024.

Read: Young Girl’s Visit to Caboolture Station Honours Officers’ Life-Saving Efforts

The incident occurred at the intersection of Charles Street and Hayes Street in Caboolture at approximately 9:07 a.m.

According to a Queensland Ambulance Services spokeswoman, paramedics were dispatched to the scene following reports of the crash. Upon arrival, they found the school-aged boy had sustained serious injuries from the collision with the vehicle whilst riding his e-scooter.

The boy was promptly transported to the Queensland Children’s Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment and remains in a serious condition. The identity of the boy has not been disclosed to the public at this time.

Local authorities are investigating the cause of the accident, and it is not yet clear whether any charges will be filed in connection with the incident.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly when it comes to the growing popularity of e-scooters. Authorities urge all road users, including drivers, cyclists, and e-scooter riders, to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws to prevent such tragic accidents from occurring in the future.

Read: Caboolture Connection Road Safety Project Wraps Up With Final Improvements

E-Scooter Regulations in Queensland

Queensland has legalised the use of electric scooters, subject to a few important regulations aimed at ensuring the safety of riders and other road users.

Age Restrictions

To operate an e-scooter in Queensland, individuals must be at least 16 years old. However, children aged 12 and above may ride an e-scooter under the supervision of an adult. These age restrictions are in place to ensure that riders have the necessary maturity and judgement to navigate roads safely.

Mandatory Education Program

Before taking to the streets on an e-scooter, riders aged 16 and above are required to complete a competency-based education program. This program is designed to equip riders with essential knowledge of road safety rules, responsible riding practices, and the proper handling of e-scooters.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with any of these regulations may result in a fine of $154. This penalty serves as a deterrent to ensure that e-scooter riders adhere to the rules and prioritise their own safety as well as that of others on the road.

By following these regulations, e-scooter riders in Queensland can enjoy the convenience and fun of this mode of transportation whilst contributing to a safer road environment for all.

Featured Image credit: Markus Spiske/Pexels

Published 1-March-2024

Support Available for Caboolture Residents Impacted by Cyclone Kirrily

Did you know that the Community Recovery Hub have in Caboolture is ready to support residents impacted by Tropical Cyclone Kirrily through various personal hardship assistance grants?

Read: Over 800 Submissions Prompt Review of Bruce Highway Western Alternative Through Elimbah

The Caboolture Community Recovery Hub is operating out of the Caboolture Neighbourhood Centre at 9 George Street. The hub is open weekday afternoons on Monday to Wednesday from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM, and on Thursdays and Fridays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

The hubs offer face-to-face emotional support, assistance applying for grants, and referrals to other organisations.

Grants for residents affected by of Cyclone Kirrily

A number of personal hardship assistance grants are available to Caboolture residents affected by Cyclone Kirrily.

The Emergency Hardship Assistance grant provides up to $900 per family for immediate essential needs like food, clothing, or medical supplies.

The Essential Services Hardship Assistance grant offers up to $750 per family to help with urgent needs after losing essential home services for over 5 days.

The Essential Household Contents Grant provides up to $5,300 to replace destroyed essential household items.

For uninsured owner-occupiers, the Structural Assistance Grant offers up to $50,000 for repairs to make a damaged home safe and habitable again.

Read: Caboolture Boxer Liam Wilson Eyes Title Shot Once Again

Can I access support and apply for grants outside the Community Recovery Hub?

Residents can contact the 24/7 Community Recovery Hotline at 1800 173 349 to get support and apply for grants. The Queensland Government’s disaster help website also provides information on accessing support and grants here.

Free counselling and support are available through a dedicated Lifeline support line. Call Lifeline via 1800 116 671 8:00 am to 8:00 pm daily, or via 13 11 14 after hours.

Featured Image Credit: qld.gov.au

Published 24-February-2024

Over 800 Submissions Prompt Review of Bruce Highway Western Alternative Through Elimbah

A comprehensive review of community feedback on the proposed route for Stage Four of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative through Elimbah is now underway.

The consultation, which drew to a close on 9 February 2024, spotlighted the community’s active participation, with more than 800 submissions received, marking a significant phase in the project’s planning process.

The consultation period was initiated after TMR released detailed plans in December 2023, outlining two potential routes for the BHWA through Elimbah to Moodlu.

This announcement spurred a robust campaign from the residents of Elimbah, who rallied for a route that would circumvent the town, favouring paths through state forests or farmland to minimise the impact on the local community.

The community’s efforts included a petition that amassed over 10,000 signatures, numerous packed community meetings, and direct engagements with local councillors, state members, and ministers.

These actions underscore the residents’ strong desire to influence the route’s final selection, emphasising the importance of preserving the town’s integrity.

In response to the consultation’s closure, TMR has indicated that early feedback highlights a preference for a corridor option that lies further west of Elimbah township. This alternative aims to lessen the impact on residential properties and reduce community division.

The BHWA project, intended to span 50km as a dual motorway from Beerburrum to Bald Hills and passing through Moodlu, Morina, and the western side of Morayfield and Narangba, has already seen the route and land for its first two stages identified and secured.

Meanwhile, after months of grassroots campaigning and gathering nearly 11,000 signatures, community members concerned about the potential resumption of their homes for the Bruce Highway Alternative Route have secured a crucial meeting with State Transport Minister Bart Mellish on 23 February 2024.

Elimbah, Bruce Highway Western Alternative — Photo Credit: Elimbah Residents

The focus of the discussions will be on urging TMR to reconsider the proposed routes to minimise community impact and prioritise sustainable public transport and upgrades to existing infrastructure over new highway constructions.

Jason Smith, one of the lead petitioners against the TMR project, said the upcoming meeting as just the beginning of a prolonged effort to ensure a route selection that addresses long-term issues without disproportionately affecting the community.

As the government and TMR mull over the community’s submissions, with a response expected within four weeks, the collective effort of East Caboolture, Moodlu, and Elimbah residents stands as a significant movement towards achieving a more considerate and less intrusive highway development plan.

Published 23-February-2024

Caboolture Boxer Liam Wilson Eyes Title Shot Once Again

Caboolture’s Liam Wilson heads back to Arizona in March with hopes of becoming a world champion. The All Star Boxing Academy trainee takes on Mexican boxer Oscar Valdez on the 29th in Glendale.

Read: Sod Turned for Lilywood Landings in Waraba, SEQ’s New Residential Community

The 10-round junior lightweight fight has no titles on the line, at least currently.

Potential for title vacancy

There are rumours that the current World Boxing Organization (WBO) champion, Emanuel Navarrete, may move up a weight class and vacate his title. Both Liam Wilson and Valdez lost to the three-weight world champion Navarrete last year.

Navarrete controversially went down in the fourth round but was given a 27-second count rather than 10 seconds to recover. Navarrete stopped Wilson in the ninth round.

Liam Wilson seeks redemption

With two victories under his belt since that loss, a confident Wilson said: “Valdez is a good fighter, a tough man, but after what I’ve been through already and what I plan on bringing, I believe he’s going to regret taking this fight.”

Currently ranked #2 by the WBO, Wilson (13-2-0) trains in Thailand and plans a seven-week training camp in the US before the March 29 showdown at the Desert Diamond Arena.

He has a 10cm height and reach advantage over Valdez, who has a record of 31-2-0.

Read: Shovels Hit the Ground at Sage Burpengary

Another local on the undercard

“Headsplitter” Isaac Hardman (15-2-0) will also be in action on March 13. He will face Endry Saavedra (15-1-0) of Venezuela for the WBO Inter-Continental middleweight title in Wollongong.

Featured Image Credit: Facebook/Liam Wilson

Published 16-February-2024

Sod Turned for Lilywood Landings in Waraba, SEQ’s New Residential Community

South East Queensland is set to witness the birth of a monumental new city project as the first sod has been turned on a sprawling Waraba development: Lilywood Landings. This ambitious endeavour, in the area formerly known as Caboolture West, aims to alleviate the pressing housing crisis, offering land prices starting below $300,000.

Lilywood Landings is heralded as the largest new residential community in the inaugural suburb of Lilywood in the new city of Waraba. Lennium Group, the driving force behind this initiative, is committed to addressing the region’s rapid growth by providing much-needed, affordable housing options.

The historic sod-turning ceremony was graced by key dignitaries including Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Planning, Meaghan Scanlon, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Jarrod Bleiije, and Mayor of the City of Moreton Bay, Peter Flannery.

Ian Worthington, Development Manager at Lennium Group, expressed enthusiasm for the 40-year Waraba project, anticipating it to accommodate approximately 70,000 residents in around 30,000 homes, rivalling the size of Mackay.

“Lilywood Landings marks the inaugural phase of this promising development,” stated Mr Worthington. “Covering approximately 70 hectares, Lilywood Landings will offer 705 lots intertwined with parklands, trails, and conservation areas along the picturesque Caboolture River.”

He further announced the affordability of the land, with prices starting below $300,000, ensuring accessibility for prospective buyers seeking 3-4 bedroom family homes.

Lennium Group’s groundbreaking endeavour is the first among several developers poised to contribute to Waraba’s initial precinct. With over two decades of experience in creating residential communities, the Australian-owned family company is primed to deliver quality housing solutions for southeast Queensland.

Lilywood Landings represents Lennium’s most extensive project yet, featuring Waraba’s inaugural display village in collaboration with Master Builders Queensland.

Nicholas Lennon, Director of Lennium Group, emphasised the significance of Lilywood Landings, reflecting on the company’s long-standing commitment to the Caboolture West vision.

“Our dedication to planning Lilywood Landings spans nearly two decades,” Lennon affirmed. “We are proud to witness the fruition of our efforts as we embark on the development of a brand-new city, poised to address the housing challenge with affordable solutions for Queensland families.”

The community is strategically located, boasting riverfront access, expansive parklands, and essential amenities such as convenience stores and childcare centres. Positioned adjacent to existing housing, Lilywood Landings offers convenient access to education, shopping, recreation, and transportation links.

Check out Lilywood Landings for more information.

Published 16-Feb-2024

Shovels Hit the Ground at Sage Burpengary

Builders are about to start work on the first homes in the new Sage Burpengary subdivision located at Hunt Road.

Read: Bruce Highway Western Alternative: Elimbah Residents Unite in Battle to Save Homes and Community

Developer Cedar Woods Properties has completed civil works and settled land sales for 49 home sites in stage one of the masterplanned community.

Stage two sold out quickly as well, with 54 lots to settle in March. Just launched, stage three is expected to see first settlements in May.

The completed Sage development will offer 329 residential lots centred around an 8,000 square metre park and traversed by a seven-hectare green spine.

In keeping with its environmental principles, Cedar Woods is preserving roughly 30 percent of the Sage Burpengary site as a naturalised green corridor. The developer is making a significant investment to rehabilitate and connect the ecological reserve to wider regional conservation areas.

This environmental focus aligns with Cedar Woods’ commitment to sustainability across its masterplanned communities.

Through retention and enhancement of vegetated spaces, the Sage development aims to support local biodiversity and create natural amenity within the neighbourhood.

The planned 7-hectare green spine will provide recreational trails linking homes to the open space network. Cedar Woods’ approach balances residential growth with protection of ecologically sensitive lands.

Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Peter Flannery welcomed the development, saying it will help provide much-needed new housing for the area.

Mayor Flannery highlighted that the city is thriving with around 240 new residents arriving each week, drawn by affordable living, lifestyle, jobs, education and transport options.

Cedar Woods Queensland Development Director Blair Britton said the strong buyer response to stages one and two shows demand for affordable new homes in Burpengary.

He noted that Urbis’ research shows population and house price growth in this area is outpacing Greater Brisbane due to employment, lifestyle and housing affordability.

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

Construction on the initial Sage homes is slated to commence in February.

Featured Image credit: cedarwoods.com.au

Published 8-February-2024

Andrew Swift Named Ambassador For 2024 Gympie Music Muster

Andrew Swift, an esteemed figure in the Australian music scene, has been officially appointed as the ambassador for the upcoming 2024 Gympie Music Muster.

This significant announcement was released through a video message from Swift himself, expressing his deep-rooted connection to the region and the festival.

Swift, whose affinity for Gympie and the Music Muster runs deep, warmly acknowledged the honour bestowed upon him.

“It’s truly an honour to be the ambassador for something that I love,” he conveyed.

Swift’s enthusiasm for the festival is evident as he passionately encourages others to experience Gympie.

“I’m always telling people to go to Gympie and put it on their bucket lists.”

Moreover, Swift spoke about his personal connection to the event.

“To be an ambassador for something I’m already passionate about is an exciting moment… I’ve got friends who do the rope-off the month before and then commute to Brisbane for work.”

He emphasized that the Gympie Music Muster caters to diverse audiences, accommodating families and those seeking a vibrant social experience. Swift believes that the festival seamlessly checks all the boxes for a memorable time.

“Whenever I come up, I make sure I camp because I love the whole vibe of it; camping means immersing yourself in it all.”

Greg Cavanagh, the CEO of the Gympie Music Muster, reciprocated the excitement surrounding Swift’s appointment.

In a statement, he expressed his delight at having an artist of Andrew’s stature represent the festival. Cavanagh highlighted Swift’s authentic passion for the event and his dedication to sharing it with others, making him a perfect fit for the role.

The 2024 Gympie Music Muster is scheduled to take place from 22 to 25 August 2024 in the picturesque Amamoor Creek State Forest, promising a vibrant celebration of music and culture.

The Gympie Music Muster proudly enjoys the support of the Gympie Regional Council and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, embodying the spirit of unity and collaboration.

Published 2-Feb-2024

Bruce Highway Western Alternative: Community Input Sought for Queensland’s New Motorway

At the heart of an ambitious initiative for the Bruce Highway Western Alternative (BHWA) lies Stage 4 of the project, a stretch between Beerburrum and Moodlu near Caboolture, holds the potential to significantly impact the region’s transportation landscape.

The BHWA project has a dual mission: to provide an alternative route to the Bruce Highway, a vital artery connecting communities, and to address persistent congestion issues while preparing for future growth, including the Elimbah future development area.

Community Involvement

Transport and Main Roads is urging the community to actively participate in shaping the future of this critical transport corridor. Residents are encouraged to share their insights and opinions on various corridor options proposed for Stage 4. The consultation period is set to conclude on Friday, 9th February 2024, with the deadline for submissions at 5:00 PM.

have YOUR SAY

The importance of community involvement cannot be overstated. Since the consultation’s launch on November 30, 2023, TMR has engaged with over 500 community members through informative sessions in Elimbah, Wamuran, and Beerburrum. Moreover, the project has received over 200 individual feedback submissions.

A Phased Approach to Planning and Protection

The BHWA project operates under a four-stage approach to identify and safeguard the land necessary for the future motorway. Stages 1 and 2, spanning from Moodlu to Narangba, have already successfully protected more than 22 kilometers for a future state-controlled road.

Investigations are currently underway for Stage 3, which encompasses the stretch between Narangba and north Brisbane. Early feedback for this area continues to be sought, and TMR remains dedicated to keeping the community informed as the planning process unfolds.

“This once-in-a-generation infrastructure project is being planned in response to our rapidly growing region. With the forecast growth across South East Queensland, a new, alternative road west of the Bruce Highway will boost the capacity of the transport network, reduce congestion and future-proof the enviable lifestyle enjoyed by residents in the area. Community consultation is an important part of major projects like this, to make sure we are delivering the best outcome for the community,” Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Catherine King said.

“The future Moreton Motorway will become a key route linking north Brisbane with Beerburrum. It will help connect existing, emerging, and future communities across the region, without having to get on the Bruce Highway. Our region’s forecast growth will result in inevitable change, and we are planning ahead to meet the travel needs and expectations of locals and visitors,” Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish said.

The Importance of the BHWA Project

In light of South East Queensland’s projected growth of almost 2.2 million people over the next 25 years, it is evident that this new motorway project holds far-reaching implications. Even with substantial upgrades to the Bruce Highway, an additional and separate transport corridor is imperative to connect existing and emerging communities identified in the South East Queensland Regional Plan (SEQRP). Communities such as Waraba, Morayfield South, Pine Valley, Petrie, and Elimbah stand to benefit significantly from this forward-looking initiative.

As the consultation deadline approaches, the BHWA project represents an opportunity for the community to actively contribute to shaping the future of transportation in the region. Your insights and opinions matter, and TMR is eager to hear them.

Published 29-Jan-2024