HomepageNews Archives - Page 38 of 50

Andrew Swift Named Ambassador For 2024 Gympie Music Muster

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published 2-Feb-2024

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

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

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

Community Involvement

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

have YOUR SAY

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

A Phased Approach to Planning and Protection

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

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

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

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

The Importance of the BHWA Project

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

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

Published 29-Jan-2024

Police Hunt Woman Who Allegedly Stole Dying Caboolture Man’s $300 Win

Queensland Police are investigating an incident at a Caboolture pub last November where a terminally ill pensioner’s jackpot ticket was allegedly taken by a woman after he collapsed.

Read: Queensland Police Service Celebrates 160 Years of Service!

Thomas Purtill, 80, was on his way to collect his $300 pokies win at the pub when he suddenly collapsed from a medical episode around 11:30 a.m. In the chaos, he dropped the winning ticket on the ground nearby.

CCTV footage shows that a woman witnessed Mr Purtill’s collapse, picked up the winning ticket, and proceeded to cash it in for herself; all these, whilst pub staff tended to Mr Purtill. He was subsequently taken to the hospital where he spent two days recuperating.

Screenshot from CCTV footage (Photo credit: Queensland Police)

Earlier in January, just a couple of months after the incident, Mr Purtill returned to the hospital and was diagnosed with late-stage cancer. Sadly, he was given only six months left to live. The stolen $300 would have represented a significant amount for the pensioner to help with his medical needs.

Queensland Police have obtained the CCTV footage of the incident and are seeking public assistance to identify the woman.

“It is alleged that a woman who witnessed him collapse, located the ticket and cashed it shortly after, while the man was being treated to by staff,” said Senior Constable Jo Arthur.

“Police have obtained video footage of the incident and are seeking public assistance to identify the woman in the video, who may be able to assist police with their investigations,” said S/Con Arthur.

Anyone with information about the woman’s identity or details about the incident is urged to contact Policelink online or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

Read: Fake Physiotherapist Gets Six-Year Sentence for Fraud and Money Laundering

The heartbreaking incident has marred what should have been a bright spot for the Caboolture man amidst grave health challenges. Police hope identifying the woman will bring some justice to Mr Purtill’s loss.

Featured Image credit: Screenshot from CCTV footage (Queensland Police)

Published 18-January-2024

Commuters Asked to Find Alternative Transport Options as Burpengary Station Closes for Upgrades

Commuters are being asked to use alternative transport from late January as Burpengary train station closes for almost a year to undergo a major accessibility upgrade.

Read: Caboolture-Bribie Island Road Upgrade Nears Completion

From Monday 22 January 2024, the station will be closed for works including the construction of lifts, overpasses and raised platforms. It means services on the Caboolture and Sunshine Coast lines will not stop at Burpengary until the station reopens in late 2024.

The closure will impact thousands of commuters who use Burpengary station daily. However, a new route 661 shuttle bus service will run between Narangba station and Burpengary station every 10-15 minutes during peak hours. Outside of peak times, the shuttle will match the Caboolture line frequency at Narangba station.

The route 661 service is a temporary shuttle running for the duration of the Burpengary station closure. Transport authorities are advising customers to use the shuttle buses or make other travel arrangements whilst the upgrade project is completed.

About the Burpengary Station Upgrades

Concept design of bus interchange and station from Burpengary Road (Photo credit: Queensland Rail)

Burpengary station will be closed so lifts, an overpass, and raised platforms can be constructed to improve accessibility and safety when boarding trains. The station will also receive a new building, hearing loops, tactile indicators, signage, information screens, CCTV, and lighting upgrades.

Other accessibility focused additions will include accessible toilets, a disability-compliant ticket window, more seating, and extended platform shelters.

Transport Minister Bart Mellish acknowledged the disruption but said the end result will benefit commuters.

“By closing the stations temporarily we’re able to get the job done safely and efficiently, meaning we’ll be reopening the upgraded stations sooner, complete with lifts, raised platforms, overpasses and other accessibility features,” he said.

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

Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton acknowledged that the station closure would cause some inconvenience for customers, but said she is committed to keeping people moving during the construction period.

Stapleton noted that closing the station completely is the safest and most efficient approach to enable major upgrades. She said that whilst disruptive in the short term, closing the station will ensure customers can return to an excellent, fully accessible facility once works are completed and the station reopens.

Featured Image credit: Queensland Rail

Published 12-January-2024

Queensland Police Service Celebrates 160 Years of Service!

If Lieutenant David Thompson Seymour were still alive today, 160 years after he became the first Commissioner of the Queensland Police Force, he would most certainly be amazed at how the Service has evolved to include state-of-the-art facilities like the Caboolture Watchhouse, which opened in 2021; the Cyber Crime Group; Police Air Operations; Forensic Crash Unit; along with the Dog Squad, the Dive Squad, and the Mounted Unit.

In its early days, the QPS had 287 officers entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding a population of approximately 61,467.

Lt David Thompson Seymour, a distinguished former British Army officer, assumed the role of the inaugural commissioner in 1864.

Born in Ireland and educated at Ennis College, he joined the British Army as an ensign in 1856 and was promoted to lieutenant in 1858. He arrived in Brisbane in January 1861, commanding the first detachment in Queensland after its separation. He served as aide-de-camp and private secretary to the governor before retiring from the army to become the acting commissioner of police under the Police Act of 1863. His official appointment as Commissioner came in July 1864.

Lieutenant David Thompson Seymour — Photo Credit: QPS

Commissioner Seymour played a pivotal role in the establishment of a detective force in 1864 and the incorporation of the Water Police in 1893. His era was marked by a resolute commitment to law enforcement, evident in his handling of events like the Brisbane riot of 1866 and the dispatch of Indigenous trackers to assist in the hunt for Ned Kelly’s gang in 1880. Beyond his policing duties, Seymour advocated for various social causes, including improvements in immigrant ship routes and reformatories for girls under fourteen years of age.

Under his leadership, the QPS grew to 907 officers by his retirement in 1895.

Queensland Police Service — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Modern Evolution of the QPS

Over time, the QPS has undergone significant evolution. In the 2000s, pivotal legislative changes occurred, consolidating police powers under the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 and redefining the Service’s responsibilities through the Crime and Misconduct Act 2001. Technological advancements, such as introducing Tasers, have played a vital role in enhancing officers’ capabilities.

The QPS has demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, allowing officers and staff to participate in events like the Brisbane Pride Festival since 2015, reflecting the Service’s evolving approach to community engagement.

QPS Impact in Caboolture

The Caboolture Police Station serves as a crucial hub for law enforcement in Moreton Bay, ensuring the safety and security of its surrounding communities. The Caboolture Watchhouse, a state-of-the-art facility opened in 2021, further bolsters the QPS’s presence in the region.

In a notable development, 129 recruits were inducted into the QPS, with four first-year constables assigned to the Caboolture Station. This initiative reflects the QPS’s dedication to strengthening its presence in the area, aligned with the region’s growth.

The Queensland Police Service has actively engaged with the Caboolture community through programs like SupportLink, resulting in over 530 referrals addressing diverse support needs, including road trauma, substance misuse, youth and parenting support, domestic violence, and victim support services.

Published 5-Jan-2024

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

Over a thousand residents of Elimbah are facing an uphill battle to preserve their homes and cherished way of life following the unveiling of two options for a Bruce Highway Western Alternative, a development that could spell disaster for this tight-knit community.

Option 1 proposes the construction of the Stage 4 path of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative, which would run west of the North Coast rail line. Option 2, on the other hand, suggests an eastern route adjacent to the rail line.

Unfortunately, both options loom ominously for the residents of Elimbah, who fear the imminent resumption of hundreds of properties.

In response to a letter received on 1 Dec 2023, warning of the potential impact on their properties, homeowner Jason Smith leaped into action. In less than two weeks, he initiated an E-Petition, formed a Facebook group, and held a Community Town Hall meeting with fellow landowners.

Their resounding message: whilst the community recognises the need for a Western Alternative to the Bruce Highway, it should not come at the grave expense of their homes and properties.

Bruce Highway Caboolture-Bribie Island Road — Photo Credit: TMR

A Personal Struggle for Homeowners

For many residents like Rod Brady, who has called Elimbah home for 24 years, the prospect of losing their beloved homes is a heart-wrenching reality.

Tanya Balashova, a resident for five years, faces an uncertain future as well. Although her property may not be directly impacted, any option chosen will disrupt her way of life. The years of effort and love invested in her property cannot easily be replaced.

Scott Moore, who moved into his Elimbah home at the start of the Covid pandemic, will see half of his backyard disappear under either option, replacing a peaceful view with the sight and sound of a highway.

Cara Macpherson, who has only lived in her “dream home” for over a year, faces a similar fate. She and her partner had sold their previous homes to build a future for their family. The thought of starting anew, if forced to leave, is a daunting prospect.

Gilda Cowell, a resident of over 70 years, worries about the potential impact on the local flora and fauna. Her property is designated as a Land for Wildlife site, and any alteration to the area could disrupt the delicate balance of wallum frogs, grey kangaroos, and bird species that inhabit the region.

Even the local economy stands to suffer. James Francis, a pineapple farmer in Elimbah who supplies fruit Australia-wide, could see his farm divided in half, rendering continued business operations unsustainable. He employs more than 20 individuals, highlighting the ripple effect of this proposed development.

The Bruce Highway Western Alternative

The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) defends the new transport corridor, describing it as a “long-term alternative to the Bruce Highway” aimed at addressing traffic congestion over time.

According to a TMR spokesman, the project promises improved travel time, reliability, access, connectivity, safety, and travel options for both existing and emerging communities. The TMR remains committed to minimising property impacts and pledges to engage with potentially affected property owners to understand their unique circumstances. As of now, no property impacts for Stage 4 have been confirmed, with resumptions only considered if construction becomes imminent.

The Bruce Highway Western Alternative is a long-term planning endeavour, and specific timelines for planning, design, and construction remain uncertain, contingent on government priorities and future funding commitments.

Eligible residents have until 9 Feb 2024 to submit their feedback on the TMR website, providing them with a valuable opportunity to influence the outcome of this critical decision that could forever change the landscape of Elimbah.

Published 2-Jan-2024

Caboolture-Bribie Island Road Upgrade Nears Completion

The Bruce Highway upgrade, stretching from Caboolture-Bribie Island Road to Steve Irwin Way (Exit 163) in Elimbah, continues to make substantial progress towards completion, with a significant announcement just in time for the festive season.

As of press time, three lanes on the northbound section of this vital roadway are now operational, promising a smoother traffic flow for travellers during the upcoming holiday rush. The eagerly awaited third lane on the southbound carriageway is expected to open its lanes to commuters in early 2024.

The completion of this transformative project is anticipated early next year, contingent on favourable weather conditions and construction progress. Some minor lane adjustments in both directions will be required in the new year to put the finishing touches in place.

Shared Investment and Economic Impact

Funding for this $662.5 million project is a collaborative effort, with $530 million contributed by the Australian Government and $132.5 million provided by the Queensland Government. This substantial investment is poised to generate an estimated 664 direct job opportunities throughout the project’s lifespan.

The heightened speed limit of 110 km/h on this upgraded 11-kilometre stretch aims to optimise travel efficiency and enhance the overall commuting experience, benefitting a multitude of travellers along the route.

Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Catherine King underscored the Australian Government’s dedication to bolstering the safety, flood resilience, and capacity of vital Bruce Highway infrastructure. This project aligns with the broader Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, which promises to revolutionize travel between Brisbane and Cairns.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said the reduction in congestion and improved travel times that this extra lane expansion towards the southern end of Steve Irwin Way will bring, particularly for those heading to the picturesque Sunshine Coast.

Queensland’s continued attraction for interstate migrants necessitates infrastructure development like this. The Queensland Government has allocated $96.2 billion for infrastructure over the next four years and remains steadfast in its commitment to the 15-year Bruce Highway Upgrade.

Crucial Infrastructure for a Thriving Queensland

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish applauded the hard work of the crews, who persevered through recent wet weather to ensure the third northbound lane’s opening before Christmas.

This achievement translates to increased capacity and upgraded flood resilience, coinciding with a busy time on the roads. The vital importance of building and upgrading roads and infrastructure to support Queensland’s growth remains a top priority for the government.

Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm expressed the relief the Caboolture-Bribie Island Road brings to the multitude of daily commuters on this section of the Bruce Highway. The widening of this portion of the Bruce Highway is aligned with the commitment of the Albanese Government to enhance travel times and road safety on Queensland’s longest and busiest highway.

Member for Caloundra, Jason Hunt, underscored the significance of the additional lanes on the Bruce Highway, particularly in conjunction with the new Bells Creek Arterial Road. He believes that this combined infrastructure investment will significantly expedite travel to Caloundra this summer, providing a notable boost to regional accessibility and tourism.

Nautipunk: A Unique Fusion Unveiled in Bellmere

Nautipunk, the brainchild of visionary Brian Schist, has recently opened its doors in Bellmere, offering an enchanting fusion of creativity and craftsmanship that promises to captivate imaginations.

Brian Schist, the owner of Nautipunk, was sparked by a desire to explore new horizons, driven by a unique circumstance—a disability that prompted him to seek alternative avenues for self-expression. Approximately two years ago, he embarked on the fascinating pursuit of crafting steampunk hats. Over this relatively short period, Brian’s creative endeavour has flourished, resulting in the birth of more than 700 distinctive steampunk hats, each a testament to his dedication and ingenuity.

A Flourishing Passion: From Creation to Commerce

What initially began as a personal activity soon evolved into a flourishing business after his unique creations found homes with enthusiasts and collectors. So, Brian found himself contemplating new horizons. It was this spirit of innovation and the quest for the unconventional that led him to the world of steampunk costumes, masquerade masks, and accessories.

The decision to introduce these elements into Nautipunk’s repertoire was driven by the belief that this creative fusion would bring something entirely novel to the Bellmere community.

Nautipunk Brian — Photo Credit: Nautipunk/Facebook

A Place of Astonishment: Nautipunk Unveiled

When you step into the realm of Nautipunk, you will be greeted by a treasure trove of curiosities and wonders that beckon the soul of the explorer.

Every visitor has been utterly astounded by the diverse range of items that grace our shelves. Whether you are an avid collector, an aficionado of steampunk aesthetics, or simply curious about the unique amalgamation of nautical and industrial elements, Nautipunk is a place where your curiosity will find its well-deserved satisfaction.

This is a world where the whimsical meets the practical, and the ordinary gives way to the extraordinary.

The Visionaries Behind Nautipunk: A Tale of Love and Creativity

Helping out Brian is Didry, his wife. Hailing from the Philippines, she not only ran a thriving online chocolate business but also managed a successful internet café overseas. Her entrepreneurial spirit and global exposure prepared her for the challenges of the business world.

Nautipunk Bellmere — *Photo Credit: Nautipunk/Facebook*

After exploring the world, Didry’s path intersected with Brian’s, and their shared dreams led them to Australia, where they united in marriage. Brian, on the other hand, had an early fascination with craftsmanship. As a child, he was captivated by his great-grandfather’s artistry in whittling plum tree branches into exquisite walking sticks.

However, it was the unique circumstances of COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions that prompted Brian to embark on new creative pursuits. Starting with hat decoration and assisting Didry in her online business, his journey ultimately led to the establishment of Nautipunk.

Nautipunk invites you to explore this unique blend of steampunk aesthetics and maritime allure. It is a place where the past and future converge, where creativity knows no bounds, and where Bellmere’s cultural tapestry is enriched by the vision and talent of its newest establishment.

Follow them on Facebook.

Fake Physiotherapist Gets Six-Year Sentence for Fraud and Money Laundering

A man who pretended to be a physiotherapist, Carlos Adelino Henrique Ferreira, 59, has also been handed a six-year sentence for orchestrating a complex scheme involving a staggering $400,000 involving fraud and money laundering.

His actions, revealed in a Brisbane court, unveiled a meticulous plan to manipulate cash systems during his four-year tenure as a manager at a BP station in Brisbane’s BP Milton. During this time, Ferreira directed staff to sidestep reconciling tills, disregarding established company protocols.

Instead, he opted to avoid securing money in the designated safe, instructing employees to deposit funds into a secondary safe accessible only by him and another manager. False reports were fabricated to camouflage the unaccounted funds and portray a misleading sense of balance in the tills.

Aside from the station fraud, Ferreira engaged in a separate deceitful practice, deliberately recording lower sales amounts for cigarette transactions, pocketing over $10,000. These ill-gotten gains found their way into his personal bank accounts via an ATM near the service station.

Laundering nearly $200,000 over five years, Ferreira’s scheme included siphoning funds from the Brisbane Athletic Football Club, where he held the position of president. The discovery of discrepancies in the service station’s financial records occurred during Ferreira’s absence on leave, leading to his subsequent arrest.

Shockingly, investigations uncovered that he falsely presented himself as a qualified physiotherapist, attempting to secure a lease at a Burpengary health clinic and promoting services online using fraudulent documents. Thankfully, authorities intervened before any patient consultations took place.

Ferreira’s tumultuous past, fleeing Portugal with his family at 18, was cited as a contributing factor to his actions. Personal hardships, including the breakdown of his marriage and financial strain, compounded his difficulties.

Despite lacking a criminal history before his arrest, the judge expressed doubt about Ferreira’s prospects for rehabilitation, given the gravity of his actions and breach of trust. Judge Jennifer Rosengren handed down a stern sentence of six years in prison, with parole eligibility in September 2025, following a minimum of 20 months served.

Published 21-December-2023

Plans Lodged for 88-Place Childcare Centre Behind Burpengary Meadows State School

A new childcare centre has been proposed for 364 Hauton Road in Burpengary, directly behind Burpengary Meadows State School.

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

Plans were recently lodged for the one-storey, 88-place centre which has been designed by ON Architecture. If given the green light, it would be the fourth childcare facility surrounding the primary school.

The proposed centre on the currently vacant land would feature five activity rooms, a large outdoor play area, amenities, staff facilities, and parking for up to 29 cars.

It would operate weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., caring for children aged 0-5 years. Specifically, there would be spaces for 24 children aged 0-2 years, 20 aged 2-3 years, and 44 aged 3-5 years. A total of 14 staff would be employed to care for the children.

According to documents filed by Place Design Group on behalf of the applicant, the childcare centre would provide an essential service for local parents, caregivers, and those who live, work or study nearby. They argue it would support both the adjoining Burpengary Meadows State School community, as well as the surrounding residential area which is experiencing ongoing population growth.

The proposed centre’s five activity rooms are designed to cater to the needs of different age groups. Its large outdoor play area also aims to complement the learning spaces to facilitate age-appropriate games and activities. Meanwhile, the car parking area accounts for accessibility to and from the centre throughout the busy weekday.

Planners view the addition of a fourth childcare centre in the area as a positive thing though, as it would provide an accessible service to meet the needs of families in the continuously developing community.

Read: Veterans’ and Families’ Wellbeing Hub Comes to Caboolture

With the school benefiting from having childcare close by too, the centre is considered essential to support parents, children, and education in the Burpengary locality.

Featured Image credit: ON Architecture

Published 19-December-2023