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

Moreton Bay is pleading for infrastructure investment from Queensland authorities as it grapples with booming population growth.

Read: New Development in Caboolture: A Modern Motel Experience

This comes as the region expects to add 240 new residents per week over the next 25 years. As one of the fastest growing areas in Australia, Moreton Bay urgently requires upgraded roads, public transport, water facilities and other infrastructure to meet the needs of new residents.

Currently ranked the fifth fastest growing local government, the population influx is placing strain on existing infrastructure.

Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook

Mayor Peter Flannery highlighted that the pressure on Bruce Highway from this growth has spilled over, resulting in unbearable east-west delays across the region. He added that infrastructure west of Bruce Highway will be particularly important, as it will contain 70 percent of future development.

population growth — Mayor Peter Flannery (Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook)

Affordable housing is also an issue, with rents consuming 38 percent of incomes for renters in northern Moreton Bay. Mayor Flannery suspects the region has been short-changed on infrastructure funding from the state government across the board.

The Moreton Bay Regional Council estimates approximately 92 new homes must be constructed weekly to house the anticipated population. This year, the council already approved a massive development in Waraba (formerly Caboolture West) that will eventually accommodate 70,000 residents.

Residents have also complained about rapidly declining mobility, with some trips now taking 15 minutes longer even outside of peak times. The lack of public transport is also resulting in increased traffic congestion, according to the council.

As Moreton Bay continues on its population growth trajectory, the council will continue appealing to the state government for a fair share of infrastructure investment. Upgrades to transport, utilities, and community facilities are urgently required to maintain livability and mobility for new and existing residents alike.

Read: Caboolture West Growth Continues with Proposed 24/7 Service Station, Shops in Lillywood

Moreton Bay hopes the needs of Queensland’s fastest growing area will not be overlooked during this period of rapid expansion.

Featured image credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council

Published 18-December-2023

New Development in Caboolture: A Modern Motel Experience

Caboolture is set to welcome a new addition to its growing landscape. A development application has been submitted for a two-storey motel at 24 Edward Street, promising a contemporary accommodation experience for both locals and visitors.

This proposed motel (DA 2023/4681), presented by Santoshi Development Consultants Pty Ltd, is planned to feature 21 rooms, including a caretaker’s accommodation. Emphasising family-friendly amenities, the design includes four rooms tailored for families and children, two two-bedroom units with a shared bathroom, and standard one-bedroom rooms with private bathrooms.

Notably, two rooms will boast luxurious spas, enhancing the comfort level for guests.

Accessibility and Outdoor Leisure

Inclusivity is key in this design, with Rooms 3 and 4 being wheelchair accessible. The motel’s architecture includes balconies, staircases, and a storage area.

A highlight of the project is the spacious open area at the rear of the property, designed as a relaxation and social zone for guests. This area is set to feature a gazebo for casual gatherings and a barbecue space for outdoor dining, surrounded by suitable landscaping.

Convenient Location and Services

Located within easy reach of essential amenities like supermarkets, restaurants, and service stations, the motel promises convenience. It’s positioned just 400 meters from a central hub and 800 meters from a train station, ensuring easy access for travellers.

The motel plans to manage waste efficiently with dedicated cleaning staff responsible for maintaining cleanliness and disposing of rubbish in on-site bins.

The development aims to blend seamlessly with the neighbourhood while adhering to council regulations and standards. This project aims to provide quality accommodation but it’s also about enhancing the living experience for guests and positively contributing to the community.

Published 12-Dec-2023

Caboolture Community Rallies After Theft at Charity Drive

Norah Louise Abraham, a Caboolture resident, had been collecting donations to create Christmas hampers for the homeless and disadvantaged in the local community when a significant quantity of donations intended for the charity drive was stolen. Now she’s determined to make up for the loss, with the help of kindhearted donors and friends.

The late November theft occurred in a secured storeroom of the Burpengary Community Association headquarters, resulting not only in a considerable loss of goods but has also cast a shadow over the community’s charitable spirit.

In the wake of the theft, Ms Abraham refused to be deterred. She posted on the Caboolture Community Notice Board, expressing her determination to continue her charitable efforts.

“To say I am shattered would be an absolute understatement,” she wrote in the Caboolture community page.

“As some of you will know, I have been frantically collecting donations for Christmas hampers for our homeless and disadvantaged since August.

“This year I was offered the use of locked storeroom at the burpengary community association by the wonderful Ed, as I did not have enough room at home.

“Me and hubby have just gotten home from picking everything up, and it absolutely sickens me that some greedy, putrid thief has somehow gained access and rifled through absolutely everything, taking hundreds of dollars worth of stuff. Full tubs, boxes and bags have come home half full.

“To put it in perspective, 4 carloads went down, 2 came back.

Despite the setback, she managed to start assembling another set of hampers, delivering a batch to Caboolture Community Action.

“I need to get my head around this, but at this stage given what has been stolen my hampers will not be the beautiful support hampers that we had planned on and that everyone who donated had strived for, I am thinking I will take what I have left to Caboolture community action so they can put with their hampers donations.”

With the police investigation pending further action from Ed Nixon of the Burpengary Community Association, Ms Abraham’s resolve remains strong. The community has rallied around her, with donations and support pouring in to help replenish the stolen items.

In a subsequent update, Ms Abraham mentioned the need for more hamper bags, as funds initially allocated for them were used to replace the stolen groceries.

Caboolture Hamper for the Homeless — Photo Credit: Norah Louise Abraham/Facebook

Despite the challenges, the community’s response has been proof of their resilience and compassion.

Ms Abraham’s leadership and the community’s support exemplify the strong community spirit in Caboolture, showcasing their commitment to helping those in need, even in the face of adversity.

Join the Kegel Queensland Open 2024 at Caboolture Bowl

Tenpin Bowling Australia (TBA) has announced entry details for the upcoming Kegel Queensland Open 2024 to be held at Caboolture Bowl from March 1 to 3. This scratch event will be the first TBA Open Division ranked tournament for 2024.

Read: Caboolture Snakes U-17 Coach Zeke Field Named QRL Community Coach of the Year

Kegel Queensland Open 2024 tournament conditions

Entry details:

The entry fee is $280, consisting of a $100 deposit due at registration.
Deadline for the remaining balance is at February 11, 2024.
2024 TBA player cards are required at check-in.

To maintain a fair and respectful environment, participants must adhere to the following guidelines:

Smoking, alcohol consumption, and mobile phone use are strictly prohibited during the competition.
Participants must wear appropriate bowling attire that meets the dress code requirements outlined in the tournament guidelines.
Any matters not explicitly in the conditions found at this document is at the discretion of the tournament directors.

Read: Caboolture’s Cultural Milestone: Abbey Museum Undergoes Major Expansion

The Kegel Queensland Open 2024 promises to be the premier event to kick off the 2024 TBA tournament circuit. The state-of-the-art lanes at Caboolture Bowl and the ranking status of the event make it an unmissable opportunity for bowlers looking to compete at the highest level.

Book your place here.

Published 23-November-2023

Featured Image Photo Credit: Tenpin Bowling Australia

Caboolture Snakes U-17 Coach Zeke Field Named QRL Community Coach of the Year

Zeke Field, coach of the Caboolture Snakes Junior Rugby League Club’s under-17 boys team, has been named Queensland Rugby League’s (QRL) 2023 Community Coach of the Year. This award recognises Field’s dedication to guiding young athletes both on and off the field.

Read: Caboolture Man Implicated in Queensland Cemetery Vandalism

Coaching beyond the sport

In an interview, Field stresses the importance of supporting young athletes at a critical time in their lives. “Having that connection with the club is really important, especially at the age of 16, 17, when there’s a lot of distractions out there,” says Field.

He aims to provide an inclusive environment: “They can come here and know that they’re welcome. There’s a place for them, and we’ll embrace them, whoever or whatever they are.”

Field makes it a priority to instil positive values in his players. “He expects them to be decent people and decent young men, and the football ability is kind of secondary to that,” they explain. By holding the team to high standards, Field helps them develop discipline and respect.

Zeke Field, a passionate coach

For Field, coaching is a labour of love. “I just love it. I love football, I live and breathe it,” he says. He is motivated by the coaches who supported him as a young player. “I had plenty of great coaches that gave so much time to me, put plenty of effort into me. And I think it sort of helped shape me as a man I am today. So I just want to give back.”

Read: Caboolture’s Cultural Milestone: Abbey Museum Undergoes Major Expansion

For Field, the award is confirmation that he is on the right track. “It just gave me that affirmation that you’re on the right path, you’re doing the right thing,” he reflects.

Through his passion and dedication, Field makes a real difference in the lives of young athletes.

Published 20 November 2023

Featured Image Photo Credit: QRL

Caboolture Christmas Carols To Bring Festive Joy At Centenary Lakes

The holiday season is shining brighter as the Caboolture Christmas Carols return to Centenary Lakes Park from 4-8 pm on Saturday, December 9, 2023.

**Caboolture Christmas Carols 2023 Event Details**
Photo Credit: Facebook / What’s on Morton Bay

As the sun sets, the park illuminates with twinkling festoon lights, guiding visitors through charming twilight markets. Local artisans showcase their crafts, offering a variety of unique gifts. Meanwhile, food trucks stand ready to cater to every culinary craving, ensuring no one goes hungry.

Santa’s Village beckons, a hub of excitement for children. Here, little ones eagerly await their moment with Santa, sharing their Christmas wishes and capturing cherished photos. The North Pole Express Letterbox awaits children’s letters, promising replies from Santa himself.

*Photo Credit:* Faceb o ok / Christmas City of Moreton Bay

Sesame Lane presents Santa’s Workshop, a creative haven offering holiday-themed crafts and complimentary face painting, inviting children to unleash their creativity.

At 8 pm, a dazzling fireworks display presented by Ray White Wamuran lights up the sky, marking the grand finale of the evening.

**Fireworks display from Caboolture Christmas Carols 2022**
Photo Credit: Facebook / Christmas City of Moreton Bay

Residents are encouraged to join the Ausbuild Main Stage Program, where local artists and community groups will serenade attendees with beloved Christmas carols, inviting everyone to partake in the joyous melodies.

Parking is available onsite, but early arrival is advised as spaces are limited. Overflow parking at Caboolture Town Square multi-story carpark ensures access for all.

Supported by sponsors like Moreton Bay Regional Council, Ausbuild, Sesame Lane, and others, the Caboolture Christmas Carols at Centenary Lakes Park promises an unforgettable evening, fostering community spirit.

Caboolture residents, mark your calendars! This event, filled with music, laughter, and holiday warmth, aims to create lasting memories for families and friends, celebrating the true essence of Christmas in Moreton Bay.

Published 16-November-2023

Caboolture Man Implicated in Queensland Cemetery Vandalism

In a case that extends beyond the quiet streets of Caboolture, authorities have arrested a local man and another individual from Peachester for allegedly stealing and defacing brass plaques from cemeteries in Queensland.

The culprits, a 38-year-old from Peachester and a 45-year-old from Caboolture, face multiple charges, including possessing tainted property, entering premises to commit an indictable offence, dishonestly obtaining property, and fraud.

In early November 2023, the duo reportedly pilfered 16 brass plaques from Beerwah and Peachester cemeteries. Investigations have revealed that the men used grinders to erase the names from the plaques, eradicating the last physical memories of many loved ones. Subsequently, these plaques were sold to second-hand metal dealers for their brass value

The police are actively investigating to determine the full extent of the vandalism across Queensland’s burial grounds. The community’s assistance is being sought to identify other possibly affected cemeteries.

The Queensland Police are urging the public to report any missing plaques or similar incidents.

Meanwhile, both accused are in custody and are scheduled to appear at the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on 14 Dec 2023.

Published 16-Nov-2023

Caboolture’s Cultural Milestone: Abbey Museum Undergoes Major Expansion

A new art gallery and cafe will soon be added to the Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology in Caboolture, part of a $1.7-million expansion project that aims to elevate the museum’s status as a cultural hub in the region.

The upcoming Abbey Art Gallery and Museum Cafe is designed to showcase pivotal artworks, some unseen before, including Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. A highlight of this collection includes artworks dating back to the 1400s, featuring pieces from Rubens and a fresco fragment from Milan Cathedral.

Plans for the museum — Photo Credit: Abbey Museum

Edith Cuffe, the Chair of the Abbey Museum Board, anticipates that this extension will attract an additional 7,000 visitors in its first year, thus enhancing the museum’s appeal and offering a unique blend of historical and contemporary experiences.

Abbey Museum Cafe — Photo Credit: Abbey Museum

Enhancing the Abbey Medieval Festival Experience

In addition to the art gallery and cafe, the project includes a $400,000 allocation for infrastructure improvements.

This is particularly significant for the Abbey Medieval Festival, the southern hemisphere’s largest celebration of medieval Europe, which annually attracts over 20,000 visitors.

The festival’s growth and development are expected to benefit immensely from these upgrades, which may include grandstand-style seating, lighting, and a power network.

Community and Economic Impacts

Abbey Museum render — Photo Credit: Abbey Museum

Known for its rich collection spanning from the medieval to the Renaissance periods, the museum is the beneficiary of funds from a $2.1-million commitment from the State that aims to elevate the museum’s status as a cultural hub in the Moreton Bay Region.

The project is expected to be an economic catalyst for the region. MP for Pumicestone Ali King highlighted the Abbey’s iconic status and its role in attracting families, school groups, and medieval enthusiasts.

This development is seen as a critical step in boosting tourism, creating construction jobs, and supporting local businesses, thereby strengthening Caboolture’s identity as a prominent destination.

The art gallery and cafe, along with the enhanced festival infrastructure, are anticipated to be completed by June 2024. This ambitious project marks a significant milestone for the Abbey Museum and Caboolture, setting the stage for a bright future filled with cultural richness and historical depth.

Published 14-Nov-2023

Zero-Tolerance Policy Over Dog Attack in Morayfield That Left Four People Injured

A zero-tolerance policy for dangerous dogs and a drive to promote responsible pet ownership to protect community safety are behind the decision to seize a dog responsible for a recent attack that left a 31-year-old man in Morayfield with significant open wounds on his right forearm.

Read: Suspicious Fire Investigation on Grant Road

The Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed the man was treated at the scene on Grothe St around 11:00 a.m. on November 2, before being transported in stable condition to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.

Three other victims were also injured in the attack. A 41-year-old woman suffered punctures and abrasions and was taken to Caboolture Hospital. Two others, a 25-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman, sustained abrasions and were also brought to Caboolture Hospital for treatment.

Paramedics said the disturbing incident occurred on a quiet suburban street. Police were called to the scene as well.

The dog responsible has been seized by Moreton Bay Regional Council for investigation. Council spokesperson said the dog was not previously known to Council. During the investigation, the animal will be held at the pound.

Dog owners in Queensland can face hefty fines and penalties if their pet attacks someone under the state’s Animal Management (Cats and Dogs) Act 2008. The law requires owners to take reasonable precautions to ensure their dogs do not harm people or other animals.

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

Section 194 of the Act makes it illegal for owners to fail to restrain their dogs from attacking or causing fear. Fines scale based on the severity of injury.

Queensland authorities take dog attacks seriously. Owners found in violation of the law can expect harsh legal and financial consequences. The legislation underscores the responsibility pet owners have to protect community safety.

Featured image credit: Tima Miroshnichenko/Pexels

Published 6-November-2023

Caboolture Feasts and Beats Returns to James St Precinct for a Vibrant Evening

The vibrant suburb of Caboolture is gearing up to host the much-anticipated Caboolture Feasts and Beats event, set to transform the James St Precinct into a lively hub and it’s free for all ages!

Happening Saturday, 4 Nov 2023, this annual extravaganza promises a feast for the senses, featuring delicious food, live entertainment, and a family-friendly atmosphere that’s free for all to enjoy.

A Musical Extravaganza

This year’s Caboolture Feasts and Beats boasts an impressive line-up of local musicians set to grace the Ray White Wamuran Main Stage.

The musical journey begins at 4:30 p.m. with the soulful tunes of Tayiha, followed by the mesmerising melodies of Ander Harlem at 5:45 p.m., and concluding with the rhythmic beats of J-Funk at 7:00 p.m.

These talented artists promise to keep the crowd entertained with their unique sounds.

A Culinary Delight

One of the highlights of this event is the array of food trucks, offering a diverse range of cuisines to tantalize your taste buds.

From delicious plant-based burgers by GrassfedVegan, to tasty Brazilian BBQ by Brazzo Boys, flavorsome lemonade by Lightbulb Lemonade, and yummy soft-serve by Ice Cream 4 Me, make sure to check out the delicious food and drink options available at the event. Whether you’re craving international flavours, classic comfort food, or gourmet treats, there will be a meal to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

It’s the perfect opportunity to explore a world of culinary delights right in the heart of Caboolture.

Fun for All Ages

Caboolture Feasts and Beats is designed to be a family-friendly event, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. For the little ones, there’s free face painting to bring out their creativity and imagination, making it a memorable experience for the entire family.

This event is made possible through the support of various strategic sponsors and organisations:

City of Moreton Bay
Ray White Wamuran
Moreton Alert
Ausbuild
UniSC
Brisbane Whale Watching
Village Motors
Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club
Richardson & Wrench Caboolture

It’s a celebration that promises to unite the community and create lasting memories for all who attend.

Published 31-Oct-2023