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Morayfield Skate Park Gets a Massive Makeover – Join the Opening Celebration!

Morayfield Skate Park is officially reopening after a $1.9 million revamp. To mark the occasion, Moreton Bay Council is throwing a free community celebration from 10 AM to 12 p.m.

The event which will happen on Saturday, 22 February, is featuring pro demos, live music, and a classic Aussie sausage sizzle. Local skaters, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts have something exciting to look forward to.

A Fun-Filled Day for Everyone

The grand reopening event promises a jam-packed morning of entertainment, including:

Pro skateboard, BMX, and roller-skating demos by LUX BMX
Live music from The Phosphenes
A free sausage sizzle for all attendees
A welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere (alcohol and smoke-free)

What’s New at Morayfield Skate Park?

This major transformation is part of Moreton Bay Council’s Skate Park Renewal Program, ensuring locals have access to top-tier recreational facilities. The redesign was shaped by community input and inspired by some of the best skate parks across Queensland.

The new and improved features include:

An intermediate-level bowl, mini bowl, and a ramp connecting two bowls
A spacious open plaza with street-style obstacles
Quarter pipes and a brand-new vert ramp with spectator seating
Better pathways, shaded seating areas, and improved accessibility
New drinking fountains and upgraded lighting

A Major Win for Moreton Bay

Mayor Peter Flannery emphasised the importance of investing in active spaces like skate parks.

“It’s essential to invest in spaces where locals can find new hobbies, connect with friends, and pursue their passions,” he said.

Cr Adam Hain (Division 3) added that the Morayfield upgrade builds on the success of Deception Bay Skate Park’s $1.5 million redevelopment.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, 22 February

Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Location: Sheep Station Creek Skate Park, Cnr Morayfield & Station Roads, Morayfield

Cost: Free

Cr Adam Hain is encouraging locals to come along and check out the newly upgraded park.

“Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, each element of the Morayfield Skate Park has been crafted to challenge and excite Moreton Bay skaters and riders,” he said.

Come and test out the new ramps, watch the pros in action, or just enjoy a great day out with family and friends, Morayfield Skate Park’s grand reopening is not to be missed!

Published 5-Feb-2025

Teenager Charlize Zmuda Killed in Bribie Island Shark Attack

A 17-year-old girl has died following a devastating shark attack at Bribie Island, north of Brisbane, leaving the local community in shock and mourning.

Tragic Shark Attack Claims Life of Young Surf Lifesaver

Charlize Zmuda, a former captain of the Bribie Island Surf Life Saving Club was swimming off Woorim Beach on Monday afternoon when the attack occurred. Emergency services rushed to the scene just before 5pm, but despite their best efforts, she succumbed to severe injuries to her upper body.

Beachgoers enjoying their afternoon were suddenly startled by what one witness described as “piercing screams” coming from the water. Initially, many thought she had been caught in a rip, unaware of the life-and-death struggle of the teenager.

Chris Potter, who was at the beach during the attack said that no one was aware of what was happening.

A Young Life Cut Short

In the days leading up to the tragedy, she had been soaking up the summer, sharing photos of herself surfing at sunrise, playing guitar by a bonfire, and cruising along the beach in her Jeep loaded with surfboards.

Her sudden and heartbreaking death has deeply impacted her friends, family, and the wider community. As news of the tragedy spread, loved ones gathered on the beach, embracing and paying their respects. Some left a carton of beer in her honour.

Photo Credit: *Charlize Zmuda/Instagram*

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli expressed his condolences, calling the loss “one of the most horrific things.”

Shark Control Measures

Authorities have deployed drumlines in the waters off Woorim Beach to monitor shark activity. These baited devices alert scientists and marine crews when a shark takes the bait, allowing for a quick response.

The Queensland Department of Primary Industries also confirmed that drones are used to scan for sharks, though only during the peak summer holiday period.

A Deadly Summer for Shark Attacks

Charlize’s death marks the third fatal shark attack in Australia this summer, raising further concerns about safety in the country’s waters.

In December, 40-year-old pastor Luke Walford was killed while spearfishing near Humpy Island in the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
In January, 28-year-old surfer Lance Appleby died after being attacked off the coast of South Australia.
Earlier in December, another spearfisher was attacked off Curtis Island near Gladstone but survived.

With another young life lost, discussions around shark management and beach safety are once again in the spotlight. For now, the Bribie Island community is grieving the tragic loss of a young woman who had her whole future ahead of her.

Published 4-Feb-2025

Son Honours Late Father’s Legacy at Caboolture Police Station

Constable Jack Masters, a new face at the Caboolture Police Station, carries a poignant reminder of his inspiration with him everyday: a specially made patch bearing his late father’s name.

Dave Masters, a Senior Constable tragically killed in the line of duty in 2021, is the driving force behind his son’s pursuit of a policing career.

The young constable, a mirror image of his father, recently opened up about his journey to joining the Queensland Police Service. It’s a childhood dream realised, sparked by countless hours spent watching CSI: Miami with his dad, but tinged with the sadness of his father’s absence. Constable Masters admits to missing his father’s guidance and the opportunity to learn from his experience.

Caboolture Police Station — *Photo Credit:* *Shane Prior/ Facebook*

Senior Constable Dave Masters was a beloved figure in the Queensland Police Service, known for his dedication and work ethic. He tragically lost his life when he was struck by an alleged stolen vehicle while deploying tyre spikes on the Bruce Highway. His death sent shockwaves through the community and left his family devastated.

Despite the immense grief, Constable Masters never wavered in his desire to become a police officer. He honoured his father’s advice to gain life experience first, completing an electrical trade before entering the Queensland Police Academy in 2023. His mother, Sharon, while understandably apprehensive, supported his decision.

Constable Masters’ journey through the academy was filled with bittersweet moments. He trained in the same spaces his father once had, encountering his name and legacy at every turn. He excelled in his studies, even receiving his father’s community service award in 2011.

Mrs. Masters described her son’s graduation as a powerful experience, bringing back memories of her husband’s graduation. Constable Masters, eager to prove himself, requested a posting at the busy Caboolture Station. He was determined to make his mark and not receive special treatment.

Now patrolling the streets of Caboolture, Constable Masters encounters his father’s former colleagues and hears stories of his dad’s reputation. While the pain of his father’s loss remains, he is committed to upholding his legacy. He aims to make his father proud by serving the community and forging his own path in the Queensland Police Service.

Published Date 28-Jan-2025

Photo Credit: Liz Willcox/ Facebook

Burpengary Bus Company Embraces New Seatbelt Warning Systems

Kangaroo Bus Lines in Burpengary is getting ready for a big change. New seatbelt warning systems are set to become mandatory in buses across Australia.

These new rules, announced by Assistant Minister Anthony Chisholm, require all new buses built from 1 November 2026 to have seatbelt warning systems installed. Existing buses must also be retrofitted with these systems by 1 November 2027. The government hopes this change will encourage more passengers, like in cars and planes, to buckle up.

A Safer Future for Bus Travel

Kangaroo Bus Lines in Burpengary — *Photo Credit:* *Kangaroo Bus Lines/ Facebook*

Chisholm stressed the importance of working with the bus industry to improve safety. He explained that too many tragedies have happened on Australian roads, and the government is committed to making bus travel as safe as possible for everyone. Tony Hopkins, Chair of the Bus Industry Confederation, echoed this sentiment. He welcomed the new rules and said the industry is keen to work with the government to implement these changes.

Overcoming the Hurdles

While the new seatbelt warning systems are a positive step, there are some challenges. Retrofitting older buses can be expensive, costing around $2,500 per bus. Some buses might not even be able to be retrofitted because of how they were built. Another issue is that buses can stay in service for a long time – up to 25 years in some cases. This means it will take quite a while for all buses to have these new safety features.

Is This Enough? The Debate Continues

The announcement also sparked discussion about whether even more safety measures are needed. Some people believe all buses, even older ones, should have seatbelts. There’s also debate about whether bus drivers should be responsible for ensuring everyone is buckled up.

Lessons from Hunter Valley

The push for better bus safety comes after the tragic Hunter Valley bus crash. The government says it is working with the families of those affected and is committed to learning from this terrible event.

Buckle Up for Change

These new seatbelt warning systems will make a real difference. The government wants bus seatbelt use to become as automatic as it is on planes. By working together, the government and the bus industry believe they can make bus travel safer for all Australians.

Published Date 28-Jan-2025

Photo Credit: Kangaroo Bus Lines/ Facebook

Travelling Jackaroo Donates Iconic Tractor to Caboolture Historical Village

A young man from Maleny, known as the Travelling Jackaroo, has donated his trusty tractor to the Caboolture Historical Village after completing a record-breaking journey around Australia.

Sam Hughes handed the keys to his bright orange 1957 Chamberlain 9G tractor, affectionately nicknamed “Slim”, to the Historical Village. The 21-year-old made headlines after driving Slim over 27,000 kilometres around the country, raising over $270,000 for rural charities and highlighting the challenges those living in the bush face.

Across the Outback for a Cause

*Photo Credit:* *The Travelling Jackaroo/ Facebook*

Mr Hughes’s epic adventure began in 2021 as a gap year project. He initially set out to raise a few thousand dollars for charity, but his journey quickly gained momentum, turning into a three-year odyssey. He travelled at 40 kilometres per hour, becoming a familiar sight on Australian roads with his distinctive orange tractor, which towed a trailer carrying an aeroplane fuselage and a gyrocopter.

Mr Hughes’s mission was to raise awareness about mental health and reduce suicide rates in rural areas. He believes more needs to be done to support the physical and mental health of people living in the bush.

Hero’s Welcome and a New Home

On Sunday, Mr Hughes returned to his hometown of Maleny to a hero’s welcome. Hundreds of people lined the streets to cheer him on as he drove Slim the final stretch home. He expressed his gratitude for the support, stating that seeing the town come out to welcome him back felt fantastic.

Mr Hughes’s sister, Isobel, spoke of her pride in her brother’s achievements. She admitted that while the family always believed in him, they never imagined his journey would become so significant.

Slim Takes Centre Stage in Caboolture

Slim has now been moved to the Caboolture Historical Village, where it will be displayed for the community to enjoy. Mr Hughes said he was pleased Slim had found a good home and encouraged everyone to visit. The Caboolture Historical Village, a beloved local institution, will showcase Slim as a symbol of Hughes’s remarkable journey and his commitment to rural communities.

The Road Ahead

After a well-deserved rest, Mr Hughes plans to continue his work promoting bush history by establishing a mobile museum. He hopes to have this project on the road by 2026. In the meantime, he will enjoy some quiet time on the farm with his dog, reflecting on his incredible adventure and his positive impact on rural Australia.

Published Date 28-Jan-2025

Caboolture Bus Services Get Back-to-School Makeover

Improved school bus services will smooth out journeys for students across the Moreton Bay region, including Caboolture, this year.

In partnership with 11 South East Queensland bus operators, Translink has rolled out a comprehensive program of changes designed to improve safety, reliability, and efficiency for young passengers. This includes the introduction of 33 new school routes, modifications to 833 existing routes, and the addition of four new buses to the fleet.

The changes are a direct response to community feedback, with new routes established in expanding areas like Pacific Harbour and Sandstone Boulevard in Caboolture and services adjusted to address concerns raised by students, parents, and schools. Caboolture Bus Lines alone has implemented 24 route changes, including new services to Elimbah State School and Pumicestone State School, and a new route to Morayfield High that eliminates a previously dangerous bus stop.

Kangaroo Bus Lines has introduced new services in Amity estate and North Harbour, reducing the need for students to walk along busy roads. A diversion into Narangba Valley State School eliminates a road crossing on Young Rd, further enhancing safety. In Caboolture, a new route to Morayfield High removes a previously dangerous stop.

Adjustments to services in Pacific Harbour, Caboolture, aim to improve trip times and overall efficiency. Multiple routes have tweaked their timetables to avoid congestion and ensure students arrive at school on time.

New bus services have been introduced in newly developed areas and expanded in the suburbs, which are experiencing growth across the Moreton Bay region. In Griffin, Thompson Bus Services has extended several routes to improve access for students north of the suburb.

Many of the changes directly result from feedback from students, parents, and schools. Service adjustments for Narangba Valley Primary School, for example, were made following concerns raised by parents.

Translink has encouraged students and their families to familiarise themselves with the changes before the start of the school year. The Translink website and app provide up-to-date information on routes and timetables, and the School Service Finder and Journey Planner tools can help plan the best travel options.

Students are also reminded to ensure their travel cards are valid, to familiarise themselves with their local bus stops and services, and to claim the School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS) if eligible.

Published Date 27-Jan-2025

Caboolture to Host Revived Urban Country Music Festival in 2025

The Urban Country Music Festival is making its long-awaited return to Caboolture, bringing back live music and community spirit to the region after a nine-year hiatus.

Originally established to celebrate country music and foster community engagement, the festival has been a significant event for both residents and visitors. Organised by 121 Networks Ltd, a not-for-profit organisation, the event has previously drawn large crowds and contributed to local economic activity.

Event Details and Objectives

The festival aims to provide a family-friendly environment while showcasing Queensland talent. The event will take place on Saturday, 4 October 2025, at its original venue, the Caboolture Showgrounds, located off Beerburrum Road.

A free launch event will be held on Sunday, 9 February 2025, at the Caboolture Country Markets, featuring live performances and the official line-up announcement. Tickets for the main festival will also go on sale on the same day, with no prior bookings required for the launch.

Community Impact and Support

All proceeds from the festival will support the Angelus Community, a local organisation providing housing solutions for women over 55 facing homelessness in the Moreton Bay region.

According to 121 Networks Ltd, this demographic represents the fastest-growing group experiencing homelessness in Australia. The festival’s return is expected to raise awareness and much-needed funds to address this pressing issue.

Local leaders have expressed strong support for the festival’s return. City official Adam Hain of the City of Moreton Division 3 stated that Caboolture is where the city meets the country. He also added that this event always belonged in the suburbs, and it is great to see the community take ownership and bring it back.

Festival organiser Eric Whitehouse also highlighted the event’s importance, saying that the Urban Country Music Festival will be a great opportunity for Caboolture, and they are excited to announce the event, including the line-up, on 9 February.

Country music festival back in Caboolture — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Next Steps and Future Outlook

The festival is expected to attract music lovers from across the region and beyond, with organisers aiming to create a vibrant and inclusive event that balances entertainment with a charitable purpose.

Further details, including ticket pricing and performer schedules, will be available on the official Urban Country Music Festival website.

Photo Credit: Pexels

Published 26-Jan-2025

Caboolture’s Liam Wilson Eyes WBO Redemption

Local boxing star Liam Wilson might train in Lawnton and dream of fighting at Redcliffe, but it’s in Caboolture where the world-ranked super featherweight has made his home.

As he prepares for his crucial 1 March rematch against Youssef Dib, Wilson’s presence has helped put Caboolture firmly on Australia’s boxing map.

Read: Bruce Highway in Caboolture: A Major Crash Hotspot in Moreton Bay

Local Hero Liam Wilson Making Waves

Living and raising his family in Caboolture while pursuing boxing glory, Wilson embodies the fighting spirit of Moreton Bay’s northern corridor. Ranked fourth by the WBO, his professional record of 14 wins (including eight knockouts) has turned national attention toward the region.

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Wilson’s upcoming bout at South Bank Piazza carries significant implications for his world title aspirations. He came agonisingly close to claiming the WBO world super featherweight title against Emanuel Navarrete last year in the controversial ‘28-second robbery’—a referee decision that many believe cost him the title. Since then, Wilson has remained laser-focused on regaining his shot at the crown.

His previous stoppage victory against Dib showcased the power Caboolture’s champion is known for. The eighth-round stoppage victory proved Wilson belongs among boxing’s elite, though Dib promises a different outcome in their rematch.

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A post shared by No Limit Boxing (@nolimit_aus)

The Showdown at the Piazza

The South Bank Piazza event features an impressive undercard, including rising stars Kirra Rushton, Jack Bowen, Floyd Masson, Paris Olympian Shannon Davey, and World Amateur Champion Cooper O’Connell. However, all eyes will be on Caboolture’s Wilson as he continues his quest for world championship glory.

“This time, I’ll make it even more decisive and prove there’s no question who’s the best,” Wilson states with confidence.

Read: New Over-50s Lifestyle Community Set to Open in Burpengary East

A victory on 1 March could pave the way for an even bigger opportunity for Wilson. No Limit Boxing is exploring the possibility of bringing a world title fight to the region, potentially at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium. Such an event would be a landmark moment for sport in the Moreton Bay Region.

Photo Credit: Instagram/allstarboxingacademy

Published 24-January-2025

Bruce Highway in Caboolture: A Major Crash Hotspot in Moreton Bay

The Bruce Highway in Caboolture is one of the most dangerous roads in Queensland, with crash numbers continuing to rise. This highlights growing road safety concerns in both Caboolture and the wider Moreton Bay area.

In 2024, Queensland recorded a total of 302 road fatalities, marking the highest toll since 2009. Over the past five years, Moreton Bay has seen 95 road deaths, and this busy stretch of Caboolture is a major trouble spot with heavy traffic and congestion. AAMI’s crash index report ranks Caboolture in the top five most dangerous areas, blaming high traffic and risky driving.

Why Are There So Many Crashes?

The most common crash type in Caboolture is nose-to-tail accidents, which make up 25% of all crashes in the past decade. The most dangerous times are in the afternoon, especially during school pick-up hours, and Fridays see the highest number of crashes.

In Moreton Bay, 18 people lost their lives on the roads in 2024, compared to 20 in 2023, 16 in 2022, 21 in 2021, and 20 in 2020. Even though cars are getting safer, bad driving habits are still causing accidents.

The Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) says tougher rules and penalties are needed to stop dangerous driving and improve road safety.

The biggest causes of serious crashes continue to be the ‘Fatal Five’: speeding, fatigue, distractions (like using mobile phones), not wearing seatbelts properly, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Officials warn that speeding is getting worse every year and urge drivers to slow down and drive safely.

Major crash hotspot in Moreton Bay — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

What Is Being Done?

Transport and Main Roads (TMR) and road safety groups such as RACQ are trying to improve road safety. They are advocating for tougher sanctions and increased public awareness to promote safer driving in congested locations such as Caboolture.

Recent efforts include bringing back the Bruce Highway Advisory Council to focus on key safety issues and making it a priority to secure more funding from the federal government to speed up improvements.

The Moreton Bay region, especially Caboolture, is a key focus for road safety efforts. Authorities ask drivers to stay alert, follow the rules, and help reduce preventable crashes.

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

Published 24-Jan-2025

New Over-50s Lifestyle Community Set to Open in Burpengary East

A new over-50s lifestyle community is set to open in Burpengary East, offering a resort-style living experience for retirees and downsizers.

Read: Caboolture to Gain Officeworks and Major Storage Facility in New Development

The 12-hectare development, known as Halcyon Serrata, will feature 250 turnkey homes with a guaranteed nine-month build time, catering to the growing demand for quality housing for Australia’s ageing population.

Stockland’s Halcyon Serrata (Photo supplied)

Developed by Stockland, this marks the company’s third over-50s community in the Moreton Bay region. With one in three Australians now over the age of 50, Stockland’s research shows this demographic is projected to grow by 1.8 percent annually over the next decade, outpacing overall population growth. Queensland, in particular, is expected to see an even higher growth rate of 1.9 percent, driven by internal migration and the popularity of coastal and rural living.

Andrew Astorquia, Stockland’s Project Director, said, “As Baby Boomers retire, the land lease model stands out as a key affordable living solution to boost Australia’s housing supply. Halcyon Serrata has been designed to meet the growing demand for quality homes while offering buyers the opportunity to move in sooner, thanks to our guarantee that your home will be built and settle in just nine months.”

He added, “Halcyon communities allow buyers to right-size without compromise, settle faster, and enjoy a lock-up-and-go lifestyle. With the option of seven house designs, and premium fixtures and finishes pre-selected, buyers can relax and enjoy a streamlined build process. Residents will enjoy a clubhouse with captivating views to the koala habitat, a heated magnesium pool, pickleball courts, bowling green, a gold class-style cinema, sauna – and so much more.”

Halcyon Serrata’s amenities will include a 25m heated salt pool with spa, gym and sauna, arts and crafts studio, community gardens, pickleball courts, a bowling green, and a clubhouse with a fireplace, library, and lounge.

Read: First Community Facilities Approved for Waraba’s Lilywood Landings

Located approximately 50 km north of Brisbane, this new lifestyle community is easily accessible via the Bruce Highway and is a short drive to Brisbane International Airport. Expressions of interest are open, with the first release of six sites scheduled for March 2025.

A public information session will take place on 6 March, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m, at The North Lakes Hotel. For more information or to register, visit Halcyon Serrata’s website.

Published 24-January-2025