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‘Bells Corner’ to Bring New Life to D’Aguilar Highway?

Plans have been lodged for a vibrant new precinct dubbed ‘Bells Corner’ located at 2011 D’Aguilar Highway in D’Aguilar.

Read: $7-M Expansion Underway at Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex

The proposed development would feature a cafe, restaurant, offices, and shops along the D’Aguilar Highway, which connects Moreton Bay to the Bruce Highway.

If approved, the single-storey development could become an emerging new community hub in the area. It would include 448 square metres of retail space, making it slightly smaller than the 951 square metre childcare centre that is already under construction on the same site.

Designed by Neylan Architecture, Bells Corner would be “a vibrant new community hub in the midst of D’Aguilar, providing a contextually appropriate and natural commercial expansion.”

“The new commercial development proposal provides a natural and contextually appropriate expansion of commercial uses over the site adjacent to the D’Aguilar Highway. Bells Corner will enhance the visual appearance of the area while at the same time having no impact on the amenity of the adjacent residential uses,” planners stated.

Rendered image of proposed development (Photo credit: Neylan Architecture)

The planners state the new amenities would “establish a place for the local D’Aguilar community to gather, share conversation, and participate in the local economy.”

The prime location along D’Aguilar Highway’s existing commercial strip would enable the proposed development to integrate seamlessly with the area. Its proximity to the new childcare centre is expected to be a boon for business.

Bells Corner — Photo credit: Neylan Architecture

“The proximity to the childcare centre would capture young families dropping children off, encouraging them to interact with both their community and the local economy,” the planners noted.

The large childcare facility with enough space for 90 children is slated to open its doors to the local community in the next few months.

If approved, the cafe would operate 5:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. daily, whilst the restaurant, shops and offices would be open 7:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m, 7 days a week. A total of 48 parking spaces would service the entire Bells Corner precinct.

With its modern amenities and community-focused design, Bells Corner could become a popular new social hub for D’Aguilar residents if it gets the green light from council.

Featured image credit: Neylan Architecture

Published 10-May-2024

$1.8B Unitywater Project Preps Underground for Waraba

In May 2024, Unitywater will kick off construction on the critical underground infrastructure to support more than half of the 70,000 new residents projected to call Waraba home over the coming years.

Read: Then and Now: Waldheim, the Stephen Family’s Homestead in Annerley

This initial stage in the former Caboolture West area will see Unitywater collaborating with six development companies to build out water and wastewater networks by late 2025.

Stage one will deliver a significant new wastewater pumping station capable of handling approximately 195 litres per second at 3500 kilopascal pressure. Supporting this will be four kilometres of wastewater rising mains and seven odour control facilities distributed throughout the network.

Unitywater has engaged Brisbane-based firms Killard Infrastructure and Tallai Project Group as construction delivery partners, utilising their combined 45 years of civil contracting experience. This will create over 70 new jobs during the build-out phase.

“Many of our team will be local and it’s always special to know that we’re helping deliver infrastructure in our area, which our children or future neighbours will benefit from,” said Killard Managing Director Jerry Daly. “We are committed to working collaboratively with the local community throughout this project.”

About Waraba

The Waraba development, approved in 2023, will be a major greenfield growth hub transforming the former Caboolture West area north of Brisbane. The master-planned community is expected to accommodate approximately 70,000 residents across 30,000 homes within the next 40 years.

The visionary plans call for six distinct residential villages and a neighbourhood hub centred around a series of walkable neighbourhoods. Promoting connectivity and green spaces is a core focus, as outlined in the development’s Infrastructure Agreement.

This Agreement stipulates the provision of seven local recreation parks, district open space areas, and conservation areas totaling 52.7 hectares of public land. An additional 17.7 hectares will be rehabilitated into a green network precinct.

Read: Caboolture Railway Electrical Substations Level Up in $48M Rail Network Renovation

To support the incoming population, all internal stormwater infrastructure necessitated by the large-scale development must also be provided by the developers. Financial contributions towards constructing a future district sports park and regional sports park are included as well.

Featured image credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council

Published 1-May-2024

Caboolture Railway Electrical Substations Level Up in $48M Rail Network Renovation

Significant infrastructure work is currently in progress to modernise and enhance critical railway electrical substations located in Caboolture and Corinda.

Read: Keeping the Dream Alive: Restoring the Beaufort Bomber in Memory of Wally Dalitz

It’s part of a $48 million project that will boost reliability and efficiency across the electrical substations in Caboolture and Corinda.

In Caboolture, work is well underway on a new switch room, two massive traction power transformers, 11 new overhead line masts, high voltage isolators, oil/water separation systems, and more. The ageing Air Insulated Switchgears are being replaced with more environmentally-friendly Gas Insulated Switchgears.

These electrical substations are the backbone of the rail network, ensuring electric trains keep running during planned maintenance or power outages. The upgraded substations in Caboolture and Corinda will be able to pick up extra power loads when needed, such as after storms, to get trains moving again faster.

However, it’s not just about reliability today. The future-proofed substations will provide backup power for major projects like Cross River Rail and the Beerburrum-Landsborough duplication.

The infrastructure upgrades are also getting a vibrant community touch. Once installed, the new Caboolture substation will feature colourful murals from local artists The Brightsiders celebrating the stunning native flora and fauna as part of Queensland Rail’s Positive pARTnerships Program.

“Electrical substations are crucial to helping our trains run on time and we’re committed to providing a world-class service,” said Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton. “Put simply, without these substations our electric trains just could not run.”

Degnan’s Managing Director, Chris Degnan said they are thrilled to continue their partnership with Queensland Rail to deliver rail infrastructure upgrades.

“This project, which is critical to Queensland Rail’s network, is one we look forward to delivering safely and successfully with the Queensland Rail teams and our supply chain.”

Read: New PCYC Caboolture Facility Underway, Set to Finish in Mid-2025

The $48 million substation overhauls at Caboolture and Corinda, led by contractor Degnan, are due for completion in 2025.

Featured image: Artwork showing laced monitor and fan leaf wattle on Caboolture substation building (Photo credit: Queensland Rail)

Published 27-April-2024

Burpengary East Tragedy: Community Shaken by Violent Gardening Dispute

The peaceful community of Burpengary East is mourning the shocking death of Nicholas Reeves, a 74-year-old grandfather of six, who was fatally injured at his home. The incident has left his wife, Suzanne Reeves, 71, hospitalised in critical condition, battling severe head injuries.

On the morning of Anzac Day around 9:20 a.m., police were called to the Reeves’ residence on Bramston Ct, following reports of a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers found Nicholas deceased and Suzanne suffering from severe head trauma.

The alleged assailant, Frederick Steel Sayers, a 26-year-old man from Beachmere hired to perform gardening, was arrested at the scene. Mr Sayers was charged with murder and attempted murder later that evening.

Community Reaction

Nicholas, a retired businessman who once owned a local garage door company, and Suzanne were integral to the community’s fabric. They were known for their loving natures and the grand Christmas parties they hosted. Their absence has left a void in the community, with neighbours like Ben Olsen and the couple’s close friend, Ron Lea, expressing profound grief and disbelief.

Mr Lea, in particular, lamented the tragic circumstances on social media, highlighting the family’s extensive local ties and the couple’s commitment to their community and family.

Burpengary East Nicholas Reeves — *Photo Credit: Ron Lea/Facebook*

The incident has galvanised the Burpengary East community, prompting an outpouring of support for the Reeves family and calls for justice. The community remains in mourning, grappling with the sudden and violent loss of one of their own and the critical injury of another.

Legal Proceedings and Arrest

Meanwhile, Mr Sayers was denied police bail and his initial court appearance was scheduled for the following day at Pine Rivers Magistrates Court. Due to the severity of the charges and the complex nature of the case, his lawyer requested a three-month adjournment, with the case set to return to court on July 26.

Detective Inspector David Harbison, leading the investigation, noted the scene’s traumatic nature, with ongoing inquiries to ascertain the events leading to the assault. The police have seized numerous tools from the property, which are being examined as part of the homicide investigation.

The detailed crime scene work and forensic analyses aim to provide clarity on the altercation’s dynamics and the motives behind this heinous act.

Published 27-April-2024

Urgent Call for Caboolture Mums: Donations Needed to Address Breast Milk Shortage

Caboolture and other hospitals in Queensland are facing a pressing shortage of donated breast milk for premature and low birth-weight babies, causing an urgent announcement from Australian Red Cross Lifeblood to call for more donors to aid the shortage.

The call that was made on Thursday, the 10th of April 2024, revealed that the supply of donated breast milk in Queensland has fallen to less than only two weeks’ worth, putting hospitals in Caboolture and other neighbouring hospitals in Queensland in need.

As these hospitals face a shortage of donated breast milk, this brings out an alarming situation for premature and low birth-weight babies since breast milk serves as an essential key for their growth and development at their age.

“Currently, supply for Queensland is down to just two weeks of raw milk to send out to the hospital,” said Chris Sulfaro, Lifeblood’s Milk Service Manager.

“No babies are currently missing out but we are moving milk around to ensure there’s an adequate supply of raw milk that we can then make into pasteurised donor milk so we can continue to supply the hospitals,” she added.

Lifeblood, in collaboration with Queensland hospitals, operates a crucial network for collecting, processing, and distributing donated breast milk.

Photo Credit: *Polyn Reondanga/Facebook*

Donors are encouraged to contribute more than three litres of frozen or expressed milk, which is less than ten weeks old, to help meet the growing demand.

Residents of Caboolture who are interested in donating breast milk can find more information on eligibility criteria and registration procedures on the Lifeblood website.

After ensuring one’s eligibility, donations are collected from donors’ homes or hospital locations by Lifeblood’s dedicated milk donor coordinators, who offer guidance and support throughout the donation process.

The processing hub at Lifeblood’s Kelvin Grove centre in Brisbane oversees logistics to ensure a smooth supply chain to partner hospitals, including those donations from Caboolture.

Donated breast milk plays a vital role in supporting the health and well-being of premature and sick infants, providing essential nutrients and promoting healthy growth. By donating excess breast milk, individual mums can make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable newborns and their families in Caboolture and surrounding areas.

Published 26-April-2024

Photo Credit: Red Cross Lifeblood Website

New Dog Laws Put to the Test: Burpengary Attack Leaves Woman Injured

Burpengary residents are reeling after a vicious dog attack left a woman in her 60s hospitalised with serious injuries.

Emergency services were called to a private residence in Burpengary at around 6:30 am on Tuesday. Queensland ambulance paramedics treated the woman for significant wounds to her arm and hand before transporting her to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in a serious condition.

Moreton Bay Council removed the desexed American Staffordshire Terrier (Blue) from the premises after confirming it was the attacking dog. The dog is currently in council custody.

While the breed isn’t currently banned in Queensland, the incident raises concerns about dog safety just days after the state parliament passed stricter legislation targeting dangerous breeds.

“The incident was on private premises,” a council spokesperson said. “The dog has been removed and is being held by Council. Investigations are continuing and any further actions are contingent on the outcome of this investigation.”

This attack comes on the heels of the Agriculture and Fisheries and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2023 passing the Queensland Parliament last week.

The new legislation increases penalties for owners whose dogs inflict serious injuries or death on a person, with a maximum sentence of three years in jail and a fine of $108,000. Previously, dog owners faced a maximum penalty of $45,000.

The stricter laws specifically target five breeds: the Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Japanese Tosa, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Presa Canario, all of which are now banned in the state.

Published Date 26-April-2024

Photo Credit: Pexel

Moreton Bay Community Rallies as Young Mum Battles Terminal Brain Cancer

A young mother of a one-year-old child was recently diagnosed with terminal Stage 4 brain cancer, prompting an outpouring of community support in Moreton Bay as she confronts this life-threatening challenge.

Brie Huhse, 28, and her family are grappling with a dire prognosis after a sudden and unexpected brain surgery revealed an apple-sized tumour, initially diagnosed as Stage 3 Anaplastic Astrocytoma. This devastating situation worsened when the diagnosis escalated to Stage 4 Glioblastoma, drastically reducing her expected lifespan to just 12-18 months.

Brie begins an intensive treatment regimen, including daily chemotherapy and radiation five days a week in six-week cycles.

This news has rallied her family and the wider community to ensure she can focus on her family rather than financial burdens.

The Huhse family’s life has been turned upside down. Brie, her husband, Sean, and their one-year-old son, Mack, have moved back to Sean’s parental home in Caboolture for additional support.

Sean, a concrete pumper with unpredictable hours, now shoulders the full financial responsibility after Brie lost her job due to her condition. The family, known well throughout the Moreton region, faces not only the emotional and physical challenges of Brie’s illness but also the escalating medical and living expenses.

The local and online communities have come together to support the Huhse family through a GoFundMe campaign organised by Kasanndra Rotolone, Brie’s sister-in-law. The campaign aims to alleviate the financial pressures so the family can focus on making memories and managing Brie’s intensive treatment regimen.

Donations can be made through their GoFundMe page, and sharing their story within your networks can also make a significant difference. There is no fixed goal for the fundraising; the primary aim is to provide as much support as possible to allow Brie, Sean, and Mack to cherish their time together.

Published 25-April-2024

Caboolture Woman Adds To Rising QLD E-Scooter Crash Cases

A Caboolture woman is the third person in Queensland to suffer serious injuries from an e-scooter crash in a week in Queensland.

The crash took place on Merino St just before 7:49 p.m. on Wednesday, 17 April 2024, according to Queensland Ambulance Services.

Paramedics promptly arrived at the scene and provided immediate medical attention to the woman. She was later transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital for further treatment.

This incident follows another serious e-scooter accident on a Gold Coast road just two days prior, where another woman was seriously injured in a collision involving two cars and an e-scooter.

Earlier this month, a tragic accident in Bundaberg claimed the life of a 14-year-old boy. The boy suffered critical injuries when his e-scooter collided with a Suzuki Baleno at an intersection on Maynard St in Norville on 3 April . Despite the best efforts of medical professionals at the Queensland Children’s Hospital, the boy succumbed to his injuries one week after the crash.

These incidents highlight the growing safety concerns surrounding the use of e-scooters in Queensland. Authorities are urged to take necessary measures to ensure the safety of e-scooter users and the public.

Published 20-April-2024

$7-M Expansion Underway at Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex

In an exciting development for the local community, Stage 2 of the Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex in Burpengary is now underway.

Read: New PCYC Caboolture Facility Underway, Set to Finish in Mid-2025

This $7-million project will bring significant improvements to the complex, including the creation of three brand new fields, enhanced field lighting, and the addition of more car parking spaces.

The project is being funded through a 50/50 partnership between the Federal Government’s Investing in Our Communities (IiOC) Program and the City of Moreton Bay, with each entity contributing $3.5 million.

The Caboolture Sports Football Club has experienced a dramatic increase in membership since moving to the Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex. The club’s registration numbers have more than doubled, growing from 525 players in 2018 to over 1,100 registered players across 90 teams in 2024. The club has also expanded its staff, now employing four full-time employees.

The expansion of the Moreton Bay Central Sports Complex is a significant investment in the local community, providing enhanced sports facilities and opportunities for residents to stay active and engaged. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the region, contributing to the overall well-being and quality of life for residents.

Earlier this month, a ceremony was held to mark the occasion, with Mayor Peter Flannery, Hon Kristy McBain MP (Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories), Peter Dutton (General Manager – Football, Caboolture Sports FC) and Craig Thomas (CEO, Caboolture Sports Club Group) in attendance, along with Cr Mark Booth.

*Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook*

Read: Shovels Hit the Ground at Sage Burpengary

Cr Mark Booth expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Recognised as one of the premier Football facilities in QLD by FIFA, who selected the grounds to host the Brazilian Women’s team during their World Cup Campaign in 2023, the additional 3 fields will not only help elevate the club further but also provide much needed additional space for their growing membership base and helping kids stay healthy and active!”

Featured image credit: moretonbay.qld.gov.au

Published 18-April-2024

Meet Karen-Rose Dailly: Caboolture’s Four-Year-Old BMX Prodigy

Caboolture has a new rising star, and she’s only four years old! Karen-Rose Dailly isn’t your average pre-prep student. This pint-sized powerhouse is already a state BMX champion, tearing up the track with skill and determination.

Photo Credit: Facebook/ Australian Christian College – Moreton

Karen-Rose’s passion for bikes began early. Her parents, Stephanie Holyoake and George Dailly (a BMX enthusiast himself), introduced her to dirt bikes at a mere six months old. By one year old, she was mastering a balance bike, and by two, she was competing in her first mini-wheeler race.

“She could make motorbike noises before she could talk,” Stephanie laughs, sharing Karen-Rose’s early fascination with all things two-wheeled. “We saw her interest and decided to nurture it.”

Despite being the youngest racer on the track, Karen-Rose’s competitive spirit shines. “She’s incredibly determined,” Stephanie says. “Last year, her legs hadn’t quite caught up yet, but she never gave up. By the end of the year, she was consistently placing on the podium, and often taking first place!”

While her seven-month-old sister isn’t quite ready for the BMX track yet, and her six-year-old stepsister hasn’t caught the bug, Karen-Rose has a strong support system. Her dad, George, is a passionate rider himself, and her cousins on his side of the family share her love for the sport. Together, they form a dedicated team, cheering Karen-Rose on and helping her hone her skills.

Karen-Rose can often be found racing alongside her dad on Friday and Saturday nights, training hard on the tracks around Gympie. She even proudly wears the family’s coveted “55” number, a symbol of both racing legacy and future victories.

Karen-Rose Dailly is a name to remember. This four-year-old champion is just getting started, and with her talent, determination, and supportive family, the future of BMX looks bright!

Published Date 17-April-2024

Photo Credit: Facebook/ Australian Christian College – Moreton