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Bribie Island Secures Multi-Million Dollar Boost in State Budget

Bribie Island is set for a transformative period with significant funding allocated for a new bridge and substantial upgrades to vital community and recreational facilities, aiming to deliver enduring improvements for residents.

The 2025-26 Queensland Budget includes a substantial $757 million allocation for the Bribie Island Bridge Upgrade, a generational infrastructure project designed to improve transport access for the growing population.

The preferred option for the bridge involves constructing a new bridge featuring two eastbound traffic lanes and dedicated cycling and walking paths, while the existing bridge will be reconfigured to carry two westbound traffic lanes.

This project is currently in the post-business case stage, with final costs and timelines to be confirmed following market engagement and procurement processes. Initial funding of $5.2 million for planning was committed in the 2022-23 Budget.

Investing in Community Hubs

Beyond the major bridge project, Bribie Island’s community infrastructure is also receiving significant investment. The Bribie Island Neighbourhood Centre is set for a $4.7 million redevelopment to completion, forming part of a broader state-wide initiative to enhance these crucial community support hubs.

These centres are essential for combating isolation and providing services such as emergency relief and financial resilience programs, with the Bribie Island building already under construction as of the 2024-25 budget.

Enhancing Recreation and Learning

Recreational and educational facilities on the island are also earmarked for improvements. The Bribie Island Movement & Strength Club will receive $920,000 for an expansion, allowing for improved facilities for their Olympic Weightlifting and general strength training programs, which cater to both children and adults in a family-friendly environment.

Additionally, the Bribie Island Netball Club is set to benefit from $170,500 for court resurfacing, an upgrade intended to provide modern, safe, and accessible courts for members and promote active lifestyles.

For the older adults in the community, U3A (University of the Third Age) Bribie Island has been granted $100,000 to assist in securing a new home, supporting their mission to offer educational, social, and recreational opportunities for retired and semi-retired individuals.

Broader Moreton Bay Investments

The investment in Bribie Island forms part of a broader “fresh start” for the Moreton Bay region within the 2025-26 Budget, as stated by the Crisafulli Government. Premier David Crisafulli affirmed that the budget is designed to address issues such as youth crime, health, housing, and cost of living.

Key investments across Moreton Bay include upgrades to the Redcliffe police facility and the expansion of POLAIR airborne law enforcement operations. The Redcliffe Hospital is slated for an expansion that will deliver at least 210 new overnight beds, alongside additional Stage 1 car parking spaces.

Furthermore, the Caboolture Hospital will receive $367.7 million for redevelopment, including an additional 130 beds and a dedicated Paediatric Outpatients area. The budget also introduces cost of living relief programs, such as a $100 “Back to School Boost” and a $200 “Play On! Sports Vouchers” program.

Published Date 26-Jun-2025

Photo Credit: U3A (University of the Third Age) Bribie Island

Community Outcry Follows Catastrophic Blaze in Storage King Burpengary

Hundreds of individuals have been left grappling with immense personal loss after a catastrophic fire at a Storage King facility in Burpengary led to the destruction of over a hundred units and significant damage to many more.

The massive blaze erupted last week, engulfing the large storage facility north of Brisbane. Nearly 120 storage units were utterly destroyed, with an additional 258 units potentially impacted by heat, smoke, and water damage. The Queensland Fire Department arrived on site within seven minutes of the fire breaking out; however, the extent of the inferno proved devastating.

Irreplaceable Losses Mount for Families

Storage King — *Photo Credit:* *Brisbane Incident Alerts/ Facebook*

For many families, the fire means the loss of nearly all their worldly possessions. Norah Abraham and her family, who had been living in emergency accommodation since early January, lost the entire contents of a four-bedroom house, including all their children’s belongings. They had recently received news of a potential new home, only to discover they now had nothing to furnish it with. Judy and Gwynne Hewitt are mourning the loss of over $100,000 worth of furniture, describing the experience as emotionally devastating for everyone affected.

The emotional toll extends to the irreplaceable; Ellian Price expressed her profound grief at losing her aunt’s ashes and numerous other priceless personal items. Ashton Grohn, reflecting on the shared tragedy, noted the loss of cherished memories like baby and wedding photos, and children’s items, emphasising the difficulty of starting the grieving process without access to the site. Another customer shared the heartbreaking detail of having signed a contract just a day before the fire, losing 100 photo albums without ever having used her keys for the unit.

Rising Tensions Over Alleged Business Operations

As the cause of the fire remains under investigation, tensions are high among unit holders who point to an e-scooter business reportedly operating within the facility. Customers allege that Storage King’s contracts explicitly prohibit flammable materials and the running of businesses from the premises.

Ellian Price stated her contract clearly outlined these restrictions and claimed the business operation was known. Unit owner Adam Pringle echoed these concerns, remarking that while Storage King asserts insurance is the customer’s responsibility, the company itself must adhere to its own rules, particularly regarding businesses involving lithium batteries.

Storage King’s Response and Insurance Stance

Storage King has indicated it is cooperating with police in their ongoing investigation and advised against premature speculation regarding the fire’s cause. A spokesperson for the company affirmed that the storage industry is continually adapting to risks posed by lithium batteries, updating terms and conditions accordingly. The company has communicated with customers via SMS, emails, and FAQs, noting the initial lack of tangible details following the fire.

They established a dedicated call centre and have shared an interim engineer’s report and initial photos, promising more visual evidence for insurance claims as site access improves. Storage King has reiterated that the responsibility for insuring stored goods rests with individual customers. They explained that it is not financially viable for a storage company to insure goods on behalf of all customers or to operate a compensation program for such widespread losses, as each customer’s items are unique in value and sentiment.

A blanket insurance policy, they added, would be impractical and potentially unsuitable for many. They also highlighted that the facility’s state-of-the-art construction, including an extra firewall, prevented two-thirds of the facility from being completely destroyed.

Community’s Call for Answers and Closure

Dozens of emotional Storage King Burpengary customers gathered outside the damaged building, expressing their frustration with communication and their desire for more direct engagement from the company. Ashton Grohn highlighted that customers, despite still paying rent, are unable to access their units and begin processing their losses. She voiced the community’s feeling that generic emails and a remote hotline are insufficient during such a distressing time.

The Queensland Fire Department has classified the fire’s cause as undetermined, while the Queensland Police Service continues its investigation. Access to the site remains restricted due to safety concerns, with parts of the facility scheduled for demolition.

A Facebook group established by tenants for mutual support has rapidly grown to over 300 members, underscoring the widespread impact and the community’s collective need for answers and healing.

Published Date 25-Jun-2025

Photo Credit: Brisbane Incident Alerts/ Facebook

Unitywater Replaces Ageing Water Meters Across Moreton Bay Suburbs

Unitywater is replacing thousands of outdated water meters across suburbs in Moreton Bay, including Burpengary, Kallangur and Caboolture, to help households receive more accurate water bills and support future infrastructure needs in the growing region.

Focus On Fair Billing And Future Planning

Unitywater began replacing old water meters in June 2024 as part of its broader infrastructure renewal plan. The program targets more than 11,000 meters due for replacement by mid-2025, focusing on those worn out from age or heavy use.

Over 9,000 meters have already been swapped across the Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast and Noosa regions, including 2,472 in Burpengary and Kallangur. Older meters can become inaccurate over time, which may affect household water bills.

Unitywater says the process takes about 30 to 60 minutes, with only brief water interruption. Residents are notified at least two days ahead and receive a follow-up card showing the old meter’s final reading.

A Major Investment In Local Infrastructure

The water meter rollout is part of Unitywater’s five-year capital program, which includes a $400 million investment in water and wastewater network upgrades. This sits within a larger $1.8 billion infrastructure plan, the biggest in the utility’s history.

In Caboolture, Unitywater is also building a 15-megalitre water tank and several kilometres of pipeline. These works will support Waraba, the future community planned for Caboolture West. That area is expected to grow to around 70,000 residents over the next four decades.

Caboolture Plays A Central Role

The suburb plays a central role in Unitywater’s long-term planning as demand in northern Moreton Bay continues to rise.

Projects like the Waraba wastewater network and the Caboolture River Nutrient Offset are part of this strategy. These efforts include new pipelines, pump station upgrades and riverbank restoration. Together, they aim to support growth while protecting the region’s water health.

Residents Encouraged To Stay Informed

Unitywater recommends that residents visit its website for updates on works in their area and to learn more about the maintenance and renewal program. The utility continues to provide notice before any meter work is carried out and is aiming to make the process as smooth as possible for households.

As the region grows and more homes are built, Unitywater says it is committed to keeping services reliable and infrastructure ready for future generations.

Published 25-June-2025

Featured Photo Credit: Unitywater/Facebook

From Sausage Rolls to Soul Food: Meet ACC Moreton’s Beloved Tuckshop Legend

At Australian Christian College – Moreton, Glenn, the tuckshop manager, is the quiet hero of the school day, even before the lunch bell rings. For the past four years, the unassuming culinary innovator has been more than just the man who hands out lunch orders. He has transformed the canteen into a vibrant hub of flavour and connection, introducing students not just to food — but also, to the world.

“It started with trying to make healthy food that kids actually want to eat,” Glenn says, laughing. “They don’t even realise they’re eating healthy most of the time.”

Originally trained in pastry, Glenn’s journey into the world of cooking was unexpected. “I got into it by accident,” he admits. “I started out as a breakfast chef at a resort in Cairns, then slowly moved into night service. From there, it just evolved.”

Australian Christian College Moreton Bay — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Evolved is right. These days, Glenn is known for crafting meals that sneak in nutrients without sacrificing taste. Hidden veggies, wholefoods, and herbs picked straight from the school’s garden often make surprise appearances in fan favourites. He calls them “cheeky meals”—nutritious and delicious in equal measure.

While the classic pie and sausage roll still make regular appearances, it’s Glenn’s weekly specials that have built a loyal following. From Jamaican jerk chicken and Massaman beef curry to Mexican salad bowls bursting with fresh herbs and charred corn, Glenn serves up dishes that wouldn’t look out of place at a trendy Brisbane café.

Then there’s the southern fried chicken burger—made completely from scratch and lovingly assembled. “Nothing frozen,” Glenn says proudly. “That one’s always a hit.”

For Glenn, the food is just the beginning. He sees every lunch order as an opportunity to spark curiosity, connection, and even courage.

“When we’re cooking something new, we’ll sometimes put out little tasters. It gets the students interested—and sometimes we challenge them, in a fun way, to try something different,” he explains.

This approach has led to some surprising wins. Whether it’s a Korean fried chicken burger drizzled with spicy mayo or an experimental chili oil drizzle over rice, Glenn finds ways to get even the fussiest eaters to take a bite—and often come back for more.

The kids don’t get to customise their meals too much (“They don’t get that choice here—it’s what we give them, not the other way around!” he jokes), but there’s a mutual respect in the tuckshop. “If they don’t like something, they just don’t order it. We’ve got a good rhythm.”

That rhythm is built on trust, consistency, and a genuine love of food. Glenn’s commitment to the students extends beyond the plate. He takes the time to learn their names, remember their preferences, and quietly looks out for the ones who might need a little extra care.

His canteen isn’t just a place to grab a snack—it’s a space where cultures are celebrated, healthy eating is made fun, and where lunch is always served with heart.

In a world where food can divide, Glenn uses it to bring people together. “Food is a connector,” he says simply. “It opens up conversations. It builds curiosity. And it helps us appreciate the world a little more.” For World Diversity Day, for example, Glenn made sure that the students went on a gastronomic journey through different cultures through taste.

So the next time you pass through the gates at ACC Moreton and catch the scent of spices in the air, know that Glenn’s at it again—cooking up something special, and quietly reminding students that the world is much bigger than what’s on their plate. And that what’s on their plate is a good place to start.

Published 23-June-2025

Morayfield Residents to See Major Road Transformation as Moreton Bay Commits $6.7-M to Buchanan Road Planning

Residents in Morayfield can anticipate significant improvements to their daily commute and local infrastructure, with the City of Moreton Bay dedicating $6.7 million towards the planning and design of a crucial upgrade for Buchanan Road and William Berry Drive.

This substantial investment is part of the Council’s newly adopted $1 billion budget for the upcoming financial year, focusing on preparing the rapidly expanding region for its projected growth.

The 2025-26 budget, adopted by Council on 13 June 2025, marks the first time the City of Moreton Bay’s annual budget has reached the billion-dollar mark.

Mayor Peter Flannery indicated that careful financial management, including $15 million in operational savings, helped keep the minimum general rate rise for owner-occupiers to a modest 87 cents per week, or $45 per year. Despite this minimal increase, the budget includes a record capital works commitment of almost $400 million, signalling a strong focus on vital infrastructure.

Addressing Community Traffic Concerns

The Buchanan Road project directly responds to a key concern raised by nearly 50% of the community: traffic congestion. The planned upgrade between Morayfield Road and the Bruce Highway is considered vital for handling future traffic demands in one of Australia’s fastest-growing areas.

The comprehensive plan for Buchanan Road and William Berry Drive aims to create additional capacity for vehicles, provide a more direct connection between the Bruce Highway and Morayfield, and importantly, improve road immunity to flooding at Sheepstation Creek. It will also introduce new and improved pathways for pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging active transport options.

Project Details and Future Outlook

The Buchanan Road upgrade is a complex undertaking. The planning and design phase, supported by the allocated funding, will address various challenges, including constructing a new bridge over the Caboolture railway line that meets required height clearances and spans the Sheepstation Creek flood zone.

The project will also need to seamlessly integrate with existing intersections, such as those at Morayfield Road and the Bruce Highway. Council will continue to work closely with the Department of Transport and Main Roads and Queensland Rail throughout this process.

Key features anticipated for the project include widening Buchanan Road between Visentin Road and the Bruce Highway to four lanes (two in each direction) and a similar widening of William Berry Drive between Morayfield Road and the new bridge. The roundabout at the Graham Road intersection is also set for an upgrade to traffic signals, along with other supporting access works for local roads and enhanced pedestrian and bicycle facilities.

Council stated that the record capital works budget ensures the city is ready to meet the demands of its rapidly growing population, which is expected to reach one million people in approximately 30 years.

Mayor Flannery highlighted the Council’s strong financial position, low debt, and a commitment to balancing affordability with long-term ambition. The Council also remains the only local government in South East Queensland to offer discounts for self-funded retirees who hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, in addition to existing pensioner rebates.

Published Date 17-Jun-2025

Photo Credit: Moreton Bay City Council

From Silence To The Stage: Caboolture Student’s Journey Through Music

For most of her childhood, Caboolture State High School student Grace Alexandra hardly spoke. Living with selective mutism and autism, she was quiet in classrooms and often passed over in group activities, until she picked up a saxophone and everything changed.

Music As A Turning Point

In 2020, Grace joined Caboolture State High School’s instrumental music program, where teacher Janelle Moore noticed her strong connection to the saxophone. It quickly became her way of expressing herself, and she began learning other instruments like guitar, piano and drums.

*Photo Credit: grace_alexandra_music/instagram*

With support from staff, she overcame anxiety to sing “Fix Me Up” at the school’s carols event, her first public performance. Grace has since played nearly 100 gigs and written more than 40 original songs exploring personal and emotional themes. In 2024, she performed 97 shows and was named a finalist in both the Gympie Muster and 2025 Bluesfest under-18 category.

Inclusive Education And Teacher Support

Grace’s mother, Sam, says Caboolture State High School played a major role in her daughter’s growth by focusing on her strengths instead of her challenges. Teachers adjusted lessons and routines to help Grace feel supported and comfortable.

Music became more than a subject, it was a way for her to connect and gain confidence. Staff across the arts department worked together to involve her in performances and songwriting. Their approach supported not just her learning, but also her sense of identity and belonging.

Culture And Community Connections

Grace is proud of her First Nations heritage and embraces it through music and learning. In 2024, she was the only Queensland student invited to a First Nations songwriting workshop at Kameygal Music Studio in Sydney, joined by her teachers. They worked alongside student producers and brought new ideas back to the classroom.

In Caboolture, Grace also learns traditional language and songs with Aunty Stacey Serico-Blair, a Gubbi Gubbi Traditional Owner. Performing in language at school events has helped her connect more deeply with her culture and classmates.

A Bright Path Ahead

Now 15, Grace is a student leader and mentor in the Caboolture SHS music program, often guiding younger students. She hopes to study business and justice while continuing to write and perform.

Her song “Home” was selected for First Sounds Vol.11, a national album featuring First Nations artists. The track highlights both her artistic growth and the strong support she’s received from her school community.

Published 13-June-2025

Featured Photo Credit: grace_alexandra_music/instagram

Simple Steps, Stronger Community: Caboolture Man Walk Hits 400th Community Stroll

Caboolture Man Walk, a local health initiative where men gather for supportive strolls, is set to celebrate its remarkable 400th weekly outing in Central Lakes.

The significant milestone for this community group is set for Friday, June 27, when participants will begin their walk in Central Lakes before returning for a sausage sizzle breakfast. Councillor Adam Hain is expected to join the landmark event. Although unable to attend the celebration, State Member for Morayfield Mark Ryan has provided a donation towards the breakfast.

A Simple Idea with Deep Roots

Caboolture Man Walk — *Photo Credit:* *The Man Walk Caboolture*

The Man Walk began in Kiama, New South Wales, in 2018 as a straightforward way for men to connect. It has since grown significantly, now operating in around 100 locations across Australia and some overseas, covering every state and territory.

The initiative has collectively seen participants take over 2.25 billion steps, proving the wide reach of its simple concept. The core aim remains consistent: to provide an opportunity for men to come together to walk, talk, and offer support to one another regularly and healthily.

Fostering Connection and Support

This mental health initiative, now in its eighth year, offers a positive, supportive, and inclusive environment. It is completely free and open to men of all ages and backgrounds, requiring no prior registration – participants simply need to turn up.

The programme is designed to strengthen communities and actively combat social isolation by encouraging men to meet each week to walk, chat, and provide mutual support. The initiative emphasizes making it acceptable for men to talk openly and to ask for help when they need it.

Stephen Pooler, who coordinates both the Beachmere and Caboolture Man Walks, has noted the strong community interest. He shared that people often approach the groups during their walks, asking how to join. Mr. Pooler consistently informs them that there is no cost, no judgment, no pressure, and no expectations; men just need to come along to meet new friends and have a conversation, often followed by coffee.

Local Impact and Growth

In the Moreton Bay region, five Man Walks are now active: Beachmere, Caboolture, Narangba, Newport, and Redcliffe. The Caboolture Man Walk meets twice weekly, every Monday and Friday at 6:30 AM, starting from The Coffee Club in Central Lakes Shopping Centre on McKean Street.

Meanwhile, the Beachmere Man Walk is also thriving, set to achieve its 100th outing on 1 October. This group gathers every Wednesday at 6:30 AM at the Silver Spoon, located at 19 Biggs Avenue in Beachmere.

The CEO and Founder of The Man Walk, Mark Burns, speaks passionately about the power of community and connection. He states that everyone needs opportunities to connect, share stories, laugh, and feel a sense of belonging.

Mr Burns observes that The Man Walk has become a crucial lifeline for men in numerous locations, creating a positive impact that is deeply moving. He believes the initiative is more than just walking; it is a movement dedicated to connecting men, strengthening communities, and combating social isolation and loneliness.

Published Date 11-Jun-2025

Photo Credit: The Man Walk Caboolture

Unitywater’s Community Art Program to Transform Bongaree and Bray Park Utilities

Moreton Bay local, Jayda Bruce, will transform Unitywater’s roadside cabinet at Bongaree’s foreshore (Photo supplied)

Two essential pieces of infrastructure in Moreton Bay are about to get a colourful transformation, as Unitywater’s Community Art Program continues its mission to celebrate the region’s culture, history and environment through public art.

Read: Wildlife in Caboolture Area Get New Homes as Water Project Progresses

This month, a roadside cabinet at the Bongaree foreshore and a red brick pump station on Francis Road in Bray Park will be reimagined by local artists, turning practical assets into eye-catching community landmarks.

Unitywater Executive Manager Strategic Engagement, Joshua Zugajev, said the initiative provides a unique opportunity to connect with the community and enhance the local environment.

Community Art Program — Bongaree foreshore (Photo credit: Carlos Yesid Arciniegas Baron/Google Maps)

“These assets are essential pieces of infrastructure that enable us to provide safe, reliable water and wastewater services, but they also offer a wonderful way of sharing what makes our region unique, improving the aesthetic of our assets, preventing graffiti, and they’re a great conversation starter,” Mr Zugajev said.

In Bongaree, wildlife scientist and Moreton Bay local Jayda Bruce will apply her life-long passion for animals and art to a mural on the roadside cabinet along Welsby Parade. Her design, developed in collaboration with the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association, aims to raise awareness of the island’s vulnerable wildlife.

“I’m very excited to begin painting the mural. My design concept grew out of a collaborative project with Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association where we’ve been exploring the diverse wildlife that inhabits Bribie Island,” Ms Bruce said.

“The mural will highlight some lesser-known mammal species that many people may not even realise live in this area to raise awareness about their significance and the need to protect them,” she said.

Read: $17.5M PCYC Caboolture Project Brings Sport And Support Together

Meanwhile, in Bray Park, artist Dan Krause will bring a splash of colour to the pump station with a design inspired by the natural beauty of the area. His artwork will feature native creatures and a bold fusion of colours to help reimagine the everyday structure.

To learn more about Unitywater’s Community Art Program, visit: www.unitywater.com/artwork

Published 11-June-2025

From Caboolture to Milan: How a Local SDA Provider is Backing Australia’s Paralympic Dreams

When Australia’s Winter Paralympians head to Milan in 2026, they will be bolstered in part by community goodwill and the support provided by institutions and businesses such as the PNP Group. At the launch of Apollo Apartments in Caboolture recently, the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) provider announced a $10,000-donation to Paralympics Australia, a gesture that may seem unusual for a property launch. But then again, the PNP Group is not a typical SDA provider and Apollo Apartments is a cut above the ordinary.

The contribution shows how their work extends beyond quality housing, and how they partner with communities, including elite sport.

A New Vision for Disability Housing

Apollo Apartments, located at 40 Manley Street, is the flagship project of the SDA B.O.O.T.S.™ program, developed by PNP Group in collaboration with PNP Constructions. This initiative moves away from the standard approach to Specialist Disability Accommodation, where homes are built with little input from those who will live in them.

PNP Group’s SDA B.O.O.T.S.™ (Building. Opportunities. Outcomes. Trust. Sustainability.) Program offers more than smart homes and accessible design. The program puts participants at the heart of the process.

Future residents are involved in shaping their homes from the very beginning, influencing all aspects of their living spaces. Here’s a sneak peak into what is in each home:

✅ Exceptional craftsmanship throughout achieving enduring quality and timeless appeal
✅ High-end appliances
✅ Fully smart, automated assistive technology for ease of living
✅ Fully accessible indoor, outdoor & common areas, including alfresco & BBQ
✅ Facility management
✅ Automated gated community & 24/7 security

“For too long people living with disabilities have been treated differently in the SDA space. Properties are offered on a take it or leave it basis, without consideration for an individual’s unique needs and desires,” says Mr Pavlakis, co-founder of the PNP Group. “We are changing that; we are giving back the respect and dignity that people living with disabilities deserve.”

VIRTUAL TOUR

These homes are all about empowerment. Assistive technology combines luxury with accessibility, ensuring each home reflects their needs, preferences and sense of comfort.

The lifetime residency model puts people at the centre and ensures stability, making it easier to build a life in homes where they will feel comfortable and secure, inside and out.

The quality has been independently verified. Western Sydney University assessed PNP homes at over 90 percent for performance, compliance, and innovation. That’s significantly above the 60 percent industry benchmark.

Grounded in Community, Moving Together

Despite its growing profile, PNP stays rooted in local communities. In Caboolture, that means partnering with local sporting clubs and backing athletes of all levels. The Apollo Apartments development stands not just as a high-standard SDA site, but as a symbol of a broader vision—where housing meets dignity, choice, and social impact.

PNP’s announcement of the recent $10,000 donation for the Paralympians bound for Milan in 2026 is a great example of how their efforts align with a larger national effort for accessibility for everyone.

The pledge is not a one-off gesture; it’s a continuing commitment of support. For every property (whether that be shared house or complex of units, like Apollo), the PNP Group will give $10,000 to Paralympics Australia or other local community organisations that align with the company’s purpose and values.

To the PNP Group, it’s a way to give back and a way to ensure that the company’s impact goes beyond housing. The true story isn’t constrained by property walls. It is about building environments where people and dreams take root.

At the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Paralympics, Australia will compete in six sports, a record for the nation. The events include para‑alpine skiing, para‑biathlon, para‑cross‑country skiing, para‑snowboard, para‑ice hockey and wheelchair curling.

From Caboolture to Milan, the PNP Group is helping to create a future in which everyone can thrive.

Mr Pavlakis perfectly captures the connection: “Supporting our Paralympians is about more than sport. It reflects a belief in what people can achieve when they are given the right support. That belief applies equally to someone chasing a medal on the international stage and to someone building a life of independence in their own home.”

Curious about Apollo Apartments?

The PNP Team are popping up at the Morayfield Shopping Centre on June 12 to 14, in the Atrium near Adairs and Sportsgirl, to chat about anything and everything related to Specialist Disability Accommodation, the SDA B.O.O.T.S.™ program and the new Apollo Apartments in Caboolture. There will also be some exclusive offers for visitors on those days.

Private viewings are now also available. If you’re curious and would like to see the flagship property in Caboolture, the team is taking appointments for private inspections. Please get in touch on 1300 767 462 to arrange a suitable time. If you’ d like to learn more about the program email info@sdaboots.com.au or visit www.sdaboots.com

The PNP Group is a Proud Promotional Partner of Caboolture Today.

Published 9-June-2025

Featured Image Photo Credit: PNP Constructions/Facebook

Four Local Teens Hurt in Rodeo Incidents at 2025 Caboolture Show

A celebration of rodeo skills and community spirit unfolded at the 98th Caboolture Show held at the Caboolture Showgrounds from Friday 6 to Sunday 8 June, alongside a reminder of just how tough and courageous young rodeo riders can be. Four teens were hospitalised in separate rodeo incidents. All are in stable condition, thanks to the swift response of onsite medical crews and event coordinators.

The annual three-day event welcomed rodeo action across all age groups—from Under‑8s through to U‑18s—backed by the National Rodeo Association on Saturday and Sunday. Highlights ranged from barrel racing and calf-tying to dummy roping and junior bull riding competitions.

Saturday thrills turned serious as a Triple B Rodeo showcase ran from 2 pm till 10.30 pm. While cowboys and cowgirls captivated the crowd with bull and bronc riding, injuries marred the evening.

At half past 2:00 p.m., a teen was thrown from a bull, suffering a head injury and neck pain. He was rushed to Caboolture Hospital in stable condition. Shortly after, onlookers saw another youth injured after a similar fall, resulting in a hand injury. He, too, arrived at the hospital in stable condition. In the evening, a third teen came off a bull, sustaining a minor head injury.

Sunday’s competition brought further drama when a fourth teenager was kicked by a bull and sustained back injuries. Queensland Ambulance attended the scene and he was taken in serious but stable condition to Queensland Children’s Hospital.

*Photo Credit: Queensland Children’s Hospital*

Despite the injuries, the rodeo events proceeded under careful supervision, with emergency medical teams stationed on site.

Thrills and Risks

These incidents are a reminder of both the thrill and risks of rodeo sports—especially for younger participants. The local response so far has been guardedly optimistic about the continued implementation of safety protocols at the beloved show, with spectators witnessing prompt action by the Show’s organisers. It’s expected that the Caboolture Show Society and the National Rodeo Association will review current guidelines to bolster protections for competitors.

Flashback: Rodeo Rider Injury at 2023 Show

In 2023, 15-year-old bull riding champion Jacob Kellett was thrown off and trampled in the chest and abdomen seconds into his ride, suffering serious injuries at the same show.

In the wake of what happened, his mother, Karen Kellett, praised first responders for their immediate assistance and emphasised the importance of stringent measures to protect riders. She also stressed that her son’s safety equipment undoubtedly helped mitigate the injuries he sustained, with his recovery underscoring the personal toll these events can take on participants.

Published 9-June-2025

Feature Image for Representation Only | Photo Credit: Unsplash