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Man In Critical Condition After Morayfield Snake Bite

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safety Warnings from Health Officials

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

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

What To Do If Bitten

Queensland Health advises:

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

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

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

Published 17-February-2025

Bribie Island Father Stunned by $60 Million Windfall

A Bribie Island father’s life changed in an instant when he received a call in the middle of the night, revealing he had won $60 million.

A Call That Changed Everything

He was winding down, getting ready for bed, and lost in thought about what it would be like to win a big prize. What he didn’t expect was that, in just a few minutes, his daydream would turn into reality.

His phone rang, and the voice on the other end delivered news that would change his life. Struggling to believe it, he burst out laughing, thinking this definitely called for a bottle of champagne, even though it was after 9 pm.

Still in disbelief, he kept asking himself, “I’ve won $60 million?!” as the magnitude of the moment slowly began to sink in.

It was the kind of moment you never think will happen to you—until it does.

Bribie Island Father Almost Missed

As incredible as it was, this moment nearly didn’t happen at all. The man admitted that, for a brief time, he’d forgotten to buy his ticket. Life got busy, and it wasn’t until the last minute that he thought to enter.

He remembered having a vivid dream a few months back where he and a friend won a massive prize. Since then, they’ve made it a point to buy tickets whenever the jackpot exceeds $40 million.

He had been playing the same numbers for years, but sometimes he mixed them up. On this night, though, he stuck with his usual picks—and it was exactly what he needed to secure the life-changing win.

Plans for the Future

Despite the shock of it all, his thoughts quickly turned to the people he could help. For him, this wasn’t just about the money—it was about making a difference for his loved ones.

He explained that he could now help his kids and support friends who are struggling.

But there was one thing in particular that stood out to him—something personal. His mum used to have a vintage car she adored, but had to sell it years ago.

He’s always remembered that, and now he’s determined to bring it back. Now, he plans to honour that memory by buying the same model, something he’s always wanted to do.

Bribie Island Father To Celebrate the Big Win

Still in disbelief, the man and his family started brainstorming how they’d celebrate.

For this Queensland father, it was a chance to make life easier for those closest to him, fulfil old dreams, and create memories that would last forever.

One thing’s for sure—this was a night he’d never forget, and his life would never be the same.

Published 10-Feb-2025

Caboolture to House First Dedicated Bus Safety Education Facility

Child safety could be significantly boosted in Caboolture with a proposed dedicated bus safety training facility – a Queensland first – that has the potential to save young lives.

Caboolture Bus Lines, a local company operating for 37 years, has lodged a town planning application with Moreton Bay City Council to establish this vital community resource. The proposed facility aims to teach children essential bus safety skills through real-life simulations, hands-on activities, and educational sessions.

Owners Grant and Janette Craike expressed their commitment to educating the region’s youngest passengers, believing the program will provide parents with greater peace of mind. The program would be free to schools in the Moreton Bay region and tailored to different age groups.

Realistic Training Environment

Caboolture to House First Dedicated Bus Safety Education Facility — *Photo Credit:* *Caboolture Bus Lines*

The facility will feature a simulated street-front bus stop where children can practice boarding and alighting safely. A dedicated bus will serve as a classroom, providing a unique and engaging learning environment.

This immersive approach will allow children to experience real-life scenarios and develop safe travel habits. The aim is to empower thousands of children each year with the knowledge and confidence to become responsible bus passengers.

Local Support and Council Approval

The application has garnered strong support from local businesses, with ARC Planning committing to the project free of charge. Director Adrian Raedel, a father of two, emphasised the initiative’s importance and hoped that Moreton Bay City Council would approve the application.

He highlighted the unique nature of the proposed street-side bus stop, which would only be used briefly during school days for drop-offs and pick-ups. Mr. Raedel added that he believes this facility will save young lives.

Community Backing

The proposal has also received positive feedback from the community. One resident, a former school bus driver, spoke of the declining behaviour on buses since a similar program ceased, emphasising the need for renewed education. Other community members have voiced their strong support, calling the initiative “fantastic” and “brilliant,” and expressing their hopes for council approval.

Looking to the Future

Caboolture Bus Lines believes that by investing in the education of future generations, it is teaching bus safety and fostering a culture of care, respect, and responsibility. It believes this program will provide invaluable life skills to the children of the Moreton Bay region.

Published Date 07-Feb-2025

Photo Credit: Town Planning and Development Services/ Facebook

Joy Connection 2025: Free Creative Workshops Coming to Caboolture

Caboolture residents will have the chance to unleash their inner artist and join an epic monster battle through the Moreton Bay’s Joy Connection 2025 program.

Children in Caboolture can design their unique shields and masks at free Creative Armour Workshops by local artist and sculptor David Spooner. These interactive sessions allow kids to express creativity and prepare for the Monster Siege Big Adventure.

The workshops will be held at Caboolture Town Square, 4 Hasking St, on February 8th. Additional workshops will be held in February and March at Pine Rivers Park, Caboolture Region Environmental Education Centre, and Morayfield Sport and Events Centre. However, dates for these locations were not specified.

The culmination of the Creative Armour workshops will be the Monster Siege Big Adventure, a family fun day held at the Morayfield Sports and Events Centre on 8 and 9 April. This imaginative game pits children, known as Defenders, against adults, called Slobbers, in a quest to protect magical rubber ducks.

Participants are encouraged to wear the armour they created at the workshops and join the parade into battle. The event promises a day of imaginative play, physical activity, and strategic thinking, with additional free activities for all ages.

Moreton Bay City Council Mayor Peter Flannery said the Joy Connection 2025 program offers something for everyone, regardless of artistic experience. He encouraged residents to participate, emphasising the program’s role in strengthening community connections and celebrating artistic expression.

The council believes the workshops provide a fun and welcoming environment for families to create, connect, and share memorable experiences. The Joy Connection 2025 program runs from February to October.

Published Date 05-Feb-2025

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

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