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Taylor McKeown Returns Home: Olympic Lessons from Swimming Star

Taylor McKeown, the celebrated Olympic swimmer, has returned to her roots in Moreton Bay, where her remarkable journey in the world of swimming began.

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

Known for her dedication and resilience, Ms McKeown’s story is now inspiring the next generation as she travels through schools in South-East Queensland with the Australian Olympic Committee’s Olympics Unleashed program.

Last week, Ms McKeown visited the Southern Cross Catholic College in Woody Point, where she shared her journey filled with dreams, determination, and the highs and lows of competing at the world’s most prestigious sporting events.

Photo credit: Southern Cross Catholic College – Official/Facebook

Her narrative includes the heart-wrenching moment she missed qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics by just 0.01 seconds and the subsequent triumphs that followed: winning Commonwealth gold and Pan Pacific bronze in the 200m breaststroke.

Ms McKeown’s perseverance shone brightly at the Rio 2016 Olympics, where she entered the 200m breaststroke final as the fastest qualifier. Despite finishing fifth, she bounced back to win silver in the 4x100m medley relay alongside Emily Seebohm, Emma McKeon, and Cate Campbell.

Now 29, Ms McKeown is focused on inspiring young minds through Olympics Unleashed, a free educational program that brings Olympians and aspiring athletes into schools to share their personal stories.

Ms McKeown, who attended St Paul’s Lutheran Primary School and Grace Lutheran College in Caboolture, said that for her, “it’s about resilience, overcoming obstacles, and continuing to push through, doing your best and enjoying the journey.”

Reflecting on her 10-year international career, which ended in 2022, she admits she misses the camaraderie and competition, though not the stress of racing. Her fond memories include meeting tennis legend Rafael Nadal and sitting with Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, on a bus back to the athlete’s village in Rio.

As the countdown to the Paris 2024 Olympics intensifies, she remains a passionate advocate for dreaming big and setting goals. She sees a bright future for the Australian swim team, with her younger sister Kaylee, poised to be a key figure.

Ms McKeown’s return to Moreton Bay and her ongoing work with Olympics Unleashed underline her commitment to giving back to the community that launched her into the international spotlight.

Her message to students is clear: “Dream big and have things you can tick off along the way to achieving those goals.”

Read: Caboolture Boxer Liam Wilson Eyes Title Shot Once Again

By sharing her journey and the lessons learned along the way, Taylor McKeown continues to inspire and motivate, proving that with resilience and determination, the dreams nurtured in places like Moreton Bay can lead to the world stage.

Featured image credit: Southern Cross Catholic College – Official/Facebook

Published 5-June-2024

Waraba Development: New Brisbane Satellite City Confronts Soaring Infrastructure Costs

Two additional major developers have publicly highlighted the severe impact of skyrocketing infrastructure costs on Waraba, a new satellite city north of Brisbane anticipated to rival the size of Mackay.

This follows a recent withdrawal by developer AVJennings, which abandoned plans for 3,500 affordable housing lots in the area, citing excessive costs and lengthy approval delays.

Developers Call for Government Intervention

Brent Hailey, Managing Director of Orchard Property Group, urged the government to assist with substantial infrastructure projects, deeming them too costly for individual developers. He explained that developers in Waraba face dual financial burdens: local council charges and state government fees, as the area is designated a Priority Development Area (PDA).

Mr Hailey noted that PDA charges surpass local government fees, adding significant expense.

The pandemic brought unexpected hikes in costs, further complicating infrastructure development. Mr Hailey detailed how Orchard invests heavily in essential utilities like water and sewerage for its $43 million Lilywood estate in Waraba.

*Photo Credit: Lilywood Landings in Waraba*

Despite these challenges, he affirmed Orchard’s commitment to its projects, which contrasted with AVJennings’ decision to exit.

Meanwhile, Lennium Group remains optimistic about its Waraba ventures, having commenced significant earthworks earlier this year. Ian Worthington, Lennium’s Development Manager, reported substantial progress on their largest community, Lilywood Landings, which will offer 228 affordable housing lots. He acknowledged the hurdles faced due to escalating infrastructure costs but confirmed that these would not deter their ongoing developments.

Local Government and State Responses

The City of Moreton’s Mayor, Peter Flannery, criticised the State Government for the infrastructure cost escalations. In response, Local Government Minister Meaghan Scanlon pointed to a forthcoming $100-million infrastructure support package for Councils to alleviate some financial pressures.

As Waraba’s development continues, the dialogue between developers, local councils, and the state government remains pivotal in addressing the affordability and feasibility of expanding Brisbane’s northern corridor.

Published 2-June-2024

Burpengary Man Charged with 75 Offences Following Motorcycle Seizures

A 24-year-old man from Burpengary has been charged with 75 offences, and three motorcycles were seized after a police operation targeting hooning in Moreton.

In a major crackdown against motor vehicle offences, Senior Constable Jo Arthur from Moreton Highway Patrol detailed that the charges resulted from a targeted search operation.

The police action on the 27th of May 2024 was prompted by ongoing community complaints about dangerous hooning behaviour. Officers executed a search warrant at a Phillip Street residence early on the 23rd of May, seizing three motorcycles found at the location.

The Burpengary man faces multiple charges, including 15 counts each of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, unlicensed driving, driving an unregistered and uninsured vehicle, and driving a defective vehicle.

Additionally, he has been charged with two counts of hooning-related offences, wilful damage, public nuisance, and using a mobile phone while driving. Two of the motorcycles involved in the incident are set to be forfeited, while the third has been impounded for 90 days.

Authorities continue to urge the public to report any suspicious or illegal activities. Information can be safely submitted to Policelink using the online suspicious activity form available at any time or by contacting Crime Stoppers anonymously to report any crime-related information.

Published 1-June-2024

Gather and Feast Wins Best Caboolture Business at Pumicestone Awards

Gather and Feast in Caboolture took home the Best Caboolture Business award at the second annual 2024 Pumicestone Small Business Awards.

The gala ceremony, held at Bribie Island RSL, celebrated the region’s entrepreneurial spirit, with over 200 business owners and employees in attendance.

Gather & Feast: A Haven for Foodies and the Health-Conscious in Caboolture

Gather & Feast is a vibrant oasis where food enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike can gather to savour delectable dishes and unwind in a welcoming ambience. This modern Australian café has garnered a loyal following for its innovative brunch menu, commitment to catering to diverse dietary needs, and eco-conscious practices.

Beyond Brunch: A Commitment to Wellness

Gather & Feast’s commitment to health and wellness extends beyond its menu. The café sources organic and locally-sourced produce whenever possible, supporting sustainable agriculture and minimising its environmental impact. Additionally, the café offers a selection of nourishing smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and speciality coffee to complement its food offerings.

The Pumicestone Awards

With over 8,400 community votes, the awards highlighted the strong support for local businesses.

Ali King, the State Member for Pumicestone, hosted the event, which saw numerous local businesses honoured in various categories. King, a former small business owner herself, emphasised the awards’ role in showcasing the region’s diverse talent, from hospitality to childcare.

Pumicestone Awards — *Photo Credit: Facebook/ TharinaGillenStulting*

Island Dance emerged as a major winner, securing not only the Best Health, Wellbeing, and Fitness category, but also the overall Pumicestone Small Business of the Year award.

Additional awardees included KBeauty for Best Beauty and Hairdressing, Pigface Seafood for Best Hospitality Business, and Hans Electrical Service for Best Trade Business.

The Pumicestone Small Business Award winners were:

Best Beauty and Hairdressing – KBeauty

Best Health, Wellbeing and Fitness – Island Dance

Best Business and Professional Services – Our Wild Hearts Photography

Best Hospitality Business – Pigface Seafood

Best Trade Business – Hans Electrical Service

Best Retail Business – Ang&M

Best Business Newcomer – Ikigai Cafe and Workshop

Best Pet Business – Bribie Pets Supplies

Best Market and Microbusiness – Brooklyn’s Finest – American Hot Dog Company

Best Education and Childcare – Bribie Island Community Kindergarten

Outstanding Customer Service Award – Tyson from Bongaree Bubbles & Clips

Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Callum from Bribie Pets Supplies

Best Bribie Business – Island Dance

Best Sandstone Point Business – Steakout Pizzeria

Best Beachmere Business – Flamingos Ice Creamery

Best Caboolture Business – Gather and Feast

Pumicestone Small Business of the Year – Island Dance

This year’s awards expanded to include new categories like Best Pet Business, Best Education and Childcare, and Young Entrepreneur of the Year, reflecting the region’s evolving business landscape. The event also acknowledged businesses in specific locales, with accolades like Best Bribie Business going to Island Dance, Best Sandstone Point Business to Steakout Pizzeria, and Best Beachmere Business to Flamingos Ice Creamery.

The awards served as a testament to the camaraderie within Pumicestone’s business community, as entrepreneurs united to cheer on each other’s successes.

Published Date 30-May-2024

Photo Credit: Gather and Feast

Local Alicia Melton Lauded at 25th Queensland Ladies Classic

The 25th anniversary edition of the Queensland Ladies Classic (QLC) bowling tournament celebrated a hometown hero this past weekend at Caboolture Bowl.

Read: Youth Foyer Coming to Caboolture: Housing and Education Support for At-Risk Young People

Alicia Melton, a longtime force on the Tenpin Bowling Australia (TBA) women’s circuit, emerged victorious from a talented field that included defending champion Bek Martin and six-time winner Bec Whiting.

Melton’s impressive performance ensured the coveted trophy remained in Caboolture, where she will now set her sights on an even bigger stage – her debut for the Australian national team at September’s Asian Tenpin Bowling Championships.

TBA Interim CEO Ryan Edgar with Champion Alicia Melton (Photo credit: tenpin.org.au)

Melton quickly stamped her authority on the competition, firing off a blistering 977 over her first four games in the opening squad to seize an early lead. She maintained her momentum through the first eight-game block, posting a 1,758 series and 219.8 average to top the standings. Hot on her heels were Bek Martin just 11 pins back and legendary bowler Bec Whiting trailing by 27.

Day two kicked off in dramatic fashion, with six-time champion Whiting rolling a perfect 300 game to vault into the lead. But the local favourite refused to be denied her moment, battling back over the final six games.

When the pins settled, it was Melton celebrating her second QLC crown, posting a combined 12-game score of 2,987 (249 average) to edge out Whiting (3,043) and third-place Dena Buxton.

Read: Emergency Preparedness Workshop Comes to Caboolture, Offering Crucial Weather Safety Training

For the tenpin bowling community in Caboolture, Melton’s stirring triumph on home lanes serves as a fitting celebration of the Queensland Ladies Classic’s impressive 25-year legacy. With their hometown hero leading the charge, the future looks bright for women’s bowling both locally and on the national stage.

Featured Image credit: tenpin.org.au

Published 30-May-2024

High-Priority Arrest at Burpengary Shopping Centre

Police have charged a 19-year-old Deception Bay man with multiple offences following a high-priority arrest at a Burpengary shopping centre, marking a significant step in Operation Whiskey Legion.

During a routine surveillance operation on Sunday, the 26th of May 2024, police officers spotted the suspect, who was already wanted for several offences, at a busy shopping centre in Burpengary. The sighting triggered a swift response, leading to a foot chase after the man and an accompanying woman attempted to flee the scene.

The pursuit, captured on police body cameras, ended shortly thereafter with the arrest of both individuals near the shopping centre.

The man faces three counts each of driving a motor vehicle without a licence—disqualified by court order, and using or permitting the use of a vehicle with a number plate not assigned to it.

Additional charges against him include one count each of wilful damage and obstructing a police officer. He has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Caboolture Magistrates Court on the 28th of May. Meanwhile, the 19-year-old woman from Deception Bay was issued an infringement notice for obstructing police.

*Photo Credit: Queensland Police Services*

Authorities are urging anyone with further information about the incident to come forward. Information can be reported confidentially to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au, quoting reference number QP2400667224.

Alternatively, suspicious activities can be reported directly to the police through their online form available at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

This arrest is part of the broader Operation Whiskey Legion, aimed at addressing high-priority criminal activities in the region, underscoring the ongoing commitment of local law enforcement to maintain public safety and order.

Published 30-May-2024

Women Charged With Murder Of A Police Officer

Two women have been charged with the murder of police officer Senior Constable David Masters, who was struck and killed while attempting to stop an allegedly stolen vehicle on Bruce Highway in June 2021.

Skye Anne Wallis and Kari O’Brien appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday for a committal hearing. Prosecutors allege that Wallis was driving the stolen car at speeds between 147-153 km/h when she struck and killed the 53-year-old police officer around 3am on June 27th, 2021.

O’Brien was allegedly a passenger in the stolen vehicle. The Crown will argue that the two women were engaged in evading police for hours before the incident, constituting felony murder.

Detective Sergeant Troy Weston testified that while Senior Constable Masters’ body camera was not activated, footage from another officer’s camera helped investigators calculate the vehicle’s speed at the time of the collision.

A witness, Leif Haas, recounted seeing “a hell of a lot of debris” as the vehicle struck Masters and sped away rapidly from the scene.

In addition to murder charges, Wallis and O’Brien face counts of arson and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. O’Brien’s lawyer indicated he would apply to dismiss her murder charge on Tuesday.

O’Brien was recently granted bail after three years in custody, while Wallis remains in jail. Senior Constable Masters, a father, and husband, had served with the Queensland mounted police before his death.

The committal hearing is expected to continue Tuesday. If committed to stand trial, Wallis and O’Brien could face life sentences if convicted of Masters’ murder.

Published 27-May-2024

Soaring Expenses Force Developer to Abandon 3,500 Affordable Housing Lots in Waraba

Plans for around 3,500 affordable housing lots at Waraba (formerly Caboolture West) have been scrapped by a major developer, citing rapidly escalating infrastructure and development costs.

Read: $1.8B Unitywater Project Preps Underground for Waraba

Developer AVJennings announced it will drop the plans for its project in Rocksberg, which were slated to accommodate around 7,000 residents. The figures make up roughly one-tenth of the anticipated 70,000-person population for Caboolture West over the next 40 years.

The company informed the Australian Securities Exchange last week that escalating infrastructure and development expenses could not be covered by expected increases in sales revenue from the project.

“In line with an enhanced focus on prudent capital management, and subsequent to other options being exhausted, management worked closely with the landowner and other key stakeholders recently to negotiate a restructure of the agreement to the satisfaction of all parties,” AVJennings stated.

“Unfortunately, agreement has not been able to be reached prior to the next Option payment date in May 2024, and as a result the Company has decided to terminate its Option. Whilst the decision to terminate the Option was a difficult one, the Board believes it is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders.”

Whilst the Rocksberg development had not yet received the green light from local authorities nor had any home sales or deposits been accepted, AVJennings’ CEO Phil Kearns had just last week criticised the excessive fees and charges imposed by federal, state, and local governments that add around $200,000 to the cost of constructing a new home.

The company’s choice to abandon the project will also result in a $17.2 million write-off of capitalised development costs, whilst also reducing its inventory of available lots by 3,500 units.

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

Housing advocacy groups quickly responded, decrying the decision and calling on all levels of government to urgently address escalating development costs putting affordable projects at risk. With the housing crisis continuing to worsen, the market failure at Rocksberg highlights the challenges in delivering new affordable housing.

Featured image: Caboolture West (Photo credit: AVJennings/Facebook)

Published 27-May-2024

Youth Foyer Coming to Caboolture: Housing and Education Support for At-Risk Young People

The Foyer Foundation has big plans to support young people at risk of homelessness in the Caboolture region. The organisation is spearheading efforts to establish a new Youth Foyer in the area, providing integrated housing and education opportunities for vulnerable youth.

Read: Narangba Set for New Faith-Based School Amidst Community Consultation

Youth Foyers are more than just accommodation facilities – they adopt an “Advantaged Thinking” approach that taps into young people’s goals and talents whilst building essential life skills.

The proposed Caboolture Foyer, intended for youth aged 16-24, would be strategically located alongside the local TAFE, giving residents access to vocational training, childcare services, transportation, and additional student support resources.

This innovative model has already proven successful at the Foyer Logan, run by Wesley Mission Queensland, who are leading the charge for the Caboolture project.

The Foyer Foundation highlights the urgency, with at least six potential sites in Queensland alone – including Caboolture, Mango Hill, Cairns, Hervey Bay, Toowoomba and Brisbane – ready for development within the next three years.

Foyer Foundation CEO Liz Cameron Smith emphasises the wide-ranging benefits of expanding the Youth Foyers network.

“Building more Youth Foyers will directly address some of Australia’s biggest problems across three fronts — the housing crisis, cost-of-living crisis and domestic violence crisis,” she stated.

With over 33 communities vying for investment to meet young people’s critical housing and education needs, Smith stresses the immense potential of nurturing this future workforce amid growing national skills shortages.

A consortium called FoyerInvest, comprising 13 community organisations, is advocating for $184 million in funding to construct 10 new 40-unit Youth Foyers over the next three years, with an ambitious target of 50 centres nationwide by 2030. These facilities could provide housing and support pathways for over 40,000 homeless or at-risk youth across Australia.

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

Established in 2008, the Foyer Foundation aims to facilitate the growth of Australia’s Foyer Movement, modelled after the successful UK initiative. As the demand for youth-centric services continues rising, the proposed Caboolture Foyer represents a beacon of hope – offering young people a solid foundation to build brighter, more secure futures.

Featured image credit: Foyer Foundation/Facebook

Published 24-May-2024

Investor Snaps Up Carl’s Jr in Caboolture for $5.1M

A new Carl’s Jr restaurant that only opened its doors last March in the fast-growing Caboolture region has sold for a hefty $5.1 million under the hammer.

Read: Caboolture South Servo with 3 Fast Food Stores Approved

The transaction involving the global fast-food chain’s brand new, state-of-the-art freestanding dual drive-thru facility was part of a portfolio auction conducted by Burgess Rawson earlier this month in Sydney.

The successful sale of Carl’s Jr Morayfield highlighted the robust investor appetite for prime fast-food real estate assets. Nearly 120 bids were received across six properties auctioned, with all of them finding new owners and generating over $20 million in total sales.

Developed by the Fortitude Valley-based Belmonde Property Group, the Carl’s Jr restaurant was secured by a buyer on a 5.1 percent yield after being offered with a 15-year lease.

Its strategic position adjacent to major shopping centres like the Woolworths-anchored Market Plaza and Leda Property’s Morayfield Shopping Centre, which attract over 6 million annual visitors combined, was a key selling point.

The location offers high exposure to the busy Morayfield arterial road with over 33,000 vehicles per day and direct access. Other fast-food titans like McDonald’s, Hungry Jack’s, and Pizza Hut were also among the auctioned properties.

In a separate transaction, Belmonde Property Group pocketed another $7.985 million through the sale of an EG petrol station with an Oporto restaurant next door to the Carl’s Jr site. That asset changed hands on a 6.1 percent yield.

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

The strong investor interest and record prices demonstrated the premium pricing for fast-food outlets with long leases from major tenants in growth corridors across Southeast Queensland.

Featured image credit: belmonde.com.au

Published 23-May-2024