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‘Bay Cats’ Could Ease Bruce Highway Congestion and Boost Tourism in Moreton Bay

Commuters and tourists alike could soon sail the sparkling waters of Moreton Bay through Bay Cats, which are a modern ferry service that aims to alleviate traffic on the Bruce Highway whilst showcasing the region’s beauty.

Read: Approval Granted: Caboolture West Takes Off with First Development

The Moreton Bay Regional Council announced it will fund a demand study investigating the viability of a ferry service in Moreton Bay, which could create an aquatic public transport network linking Bribie Island to Brisbane.

Mayor Peter Flannery emphasised that all options, even bold ones, must be considered to address the shortage of major transport infrastructure in one of Australia’s fastest growing areas.

Bay Cat ferry stops (Photo credit: www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au)

He stated that the council can’t keep doing things the same way and expect different outcomes. Mayor Flannery noted that whilst a ferry system may seem like unconventional thinking, the region needs to consider innovative solutions like this.

Bruce Hwy (Photo credit: Herbert von Sauerkraut/Google Maps)

“Our population is growing, the Bruce is grinding to a halt, congestion consistently rates as one of the highest stress factors for locals in their lives – and yet we have this stunning expanse of sheltered waters just to the east of us that we’re not using to help people get around,” said Mayor Flannery.

“So we’re daring to ask, why not investigate Bay Cats as an aquatic alternative?”

Moreton Maritime Alliance Director Brad Flynn said the region needs public transport options that showcase Moreton Bay and take people directly to key destinations.

“Not since the 60s and 70s has SEQ seen major investment in public boat harbours, when Scarborough Harbour, Cabbage Tree Creek Harbour and Manly Harbour were built. So all these decades later it’s time for us to get creative again,” he said.

Mr Flynn highlighted that there is an abundance of tourism, industry, research and education, and of course transport and marine infrastructure opportunities that Moreton Bay is missing out on right now.

Bay Cats — Woorim Beach, Bribie Island (Photo credit: CC BY-SA 3.0/Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons)

“Our current public transport system only accounts for roughly 2% of commutes from outside Moreton Bay into our region, which is a statistic so shockingly close to zero that it speaks for itself.

“We have an opportunity to create a service that leaves a lasting impression on the people who visit our city so they’ll go home and tell their friends and family what a great place Moreton Bay and South East Queensland was to see.”

Read: New Social Housing Complex to Welcome Residents in Caboolture

If the demand is there, Council would then need to upgrade existing jetties and invest in new ones to ideally link Bongaree, Sandstone Point, Scarborough Harbour, Redcliffe, Woody Point, Shorncliffe, and the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal.

Published 17-August-2023

Vietnam Veterans Remembered in Burpengary on 50th Anniversary of Australian Withdrawal

Veterans of the Vietnam War will gather in Burpengary to mark Vietnam Veterans Day, honouring the service and sacrifices made by those who participated in the conflict.

The event, set for Friday, 18 Aug 2023, is being organized by the Caboolture Sub-Branch of the Vietnam Veterans Association of Australia. This year’s gathering holds added significance, as it marks the 50th anniversary of the Australian forces’ withdrawal from the Vietnam War.

The day will also pay tribute to the Battle of Long Tan, one of the most intense and memorable conflicts of the entire war.

On 18 Aug 1966, the battle saw approximately 100 soldiers of Delta Company facing off against a massive force of around 2,500 North Vietnamese soldiers and Viet Cong fighters. Despite the odds stacked against them, the members of Delta Company exhibited immense courage and determination.

Tragically, 18 soldiers from Delta Company lost their lives during the battle. The following morning, the battlefield was a sombre scene with 245 enemy bodies strewn across the area. Charlie Company, which included (Retired) Major Geoff Jones as the Company medic, arrived the next morning to conduct the solemn task of burying the fallen enemy soldiers.

In 1987, the significance of Long Tan Day was formally recognized when then Prime Minister Bob Hawke declared it Vietnam Veterans Day. This day now stands as a testament to the valour and sacrifices of Australian service members during the Vietnam War.

The commemoration will begin with a short march, kicking off at 10:45 a.m. from Remembrance House on Progress Rd. It will be followed by a solemn service scheduled for 11:00 a.m. at the memorial located within Buchanan Park.

Having served two tours in Vietnam, Major Jones brings a deep understanding of the challenges and experiences faced by those on the front lines. He will serve as the event’s guest speaker.

Around 60,000 Australians participated in the Vietnam War, with approximately 3,000 wounded and 521 who lost their lives.

Published 16-Aug-2023

New Distillery in Caboolture Proposed

Did you know that Caboolture could soon have its very own “Temple of Juniper,” a distillery that could potentially churn out up to a staggering 12,000 bottles of gin, vodka and whisky annually?

Temple Distillery has officially lodged a development application to bring its vision to life. This vision encompasses the creation of a top-notch whisky, gin, and vodka distillery, coupled with an ancillary shop. The exciting hub is slated to grace the landscape of 4/23 Evans Drive, Caboolture.

The plan involves crafting a diverse range of spirits to cater to the varying preferences of the locals. The figures proposed for production are impressive, with a projected range spanning from 2,000 to 8,000 bottles of both vodka and gin annually. Moreover, whisky enthusiasts can anticipate a yearly output ranging from 2,400 to 4,800 bottles.

New Distillery in Caboolture Proposed — Overall Site Plan | Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council / moretonbay.qld.gov.au

The distillery’s home would be within an existing tenancy, and the intricate processes of distillation and manufacturing would find their stage on the expansive 125 sqm ground floor.

The proposed plans also include a small yet inviting shop and cellar door area. This space will serve as a haven for customers eager to not only sample the Temple Distillery’s creations but also unravel the secrets behind their making.

The cellar door tasting area is ingeniously designed, occupying no more than half of the mezzanine floor space, amounting to 25 sqm. This allocation is projected to accommodate around 20 customers daily on weekends, whilst weekdays will see around 16 curious individuals indulging in this sensorial journey.

Notably, the development proposal will confine the in-store sales of the products to under 10%, whilst the remaining stock would be made available online, at external events, at market stalls, and through a network of distributors. This strategy, the proposal states, will not hinder the operation of other industrial activities in the area, given the minor nature of the intended non-industrial use (the shop).

For those eagerly awaiting their chance to partake in this spirited adventure, the proposed shop’s operating hours are set from 10 am to 9 pm on Thursdays through Sundays. Behind the scenes, the dedicated staff are slated to be in action every single day of the week.

Moreover, the proposed development intends to maximise the use of existing car parking spaces, manoeuvring areas, and established site access within the industrial premises.

Interestingly, the busiest periods of the shop are anticipated to fall outside the traditional 9 am to 5 pm timeframe, tapping into the times when shared car spaces are minimally occupied. Additionally, the surrounding locales of Evans Drive and Alta Road offer abundant unrestricted street parking, ensuring convenience for all patrons.

Published 12-August-2023

“Headsplitter” Issac Hardman Batters Foe Over Six Rounds, Ends With TKO

Caboolture-born Issac “Headsplitter” Hardman fought his way back into title contention with a dominant performance in Sydney, stopping Japan’s Kazuki Kyohara in the sixth round.

After two defeats in his last three fights, the 27-year-old Hardman added another win to his now 14-2-0 record. Twelve of his 14 victories came via knockout.

Read: Caboolture Satellite Hospital Opens & Welcomes First Patients

Issac Hardman Defeats Kazuki Kyohara

A big right hand from Hardman in the opening round set the tone for the fight. It looked like an early night for Hardman but Kyohara refused to go down.

After stinging Kyohara in the opening round, Hardman dominated the action. He continued to land right uppercuts, leaving the Japanese fighter a bloody mess by the fourth round. Despite the punishment, Kyohara was never knocked down, forcing the referee to step in and stop the fight in the sixth round.

Hardman praised his opponent’s resilience. “This is a man. He’s tough as nails.

Read: New Regional City to Rise in Caboolture West

The Headsplitter Back on Top

The win ends a difficult run for Hardman, who lost an Australian title fight to Michael Zerafa last year and a split decision defeat to Rohan Murdoch in March.

Hardman will now look to build on this win and earn another shot at the big time. His devastating performance put the division on notice: the Headsplitter is back.

Published 12 August 2023

Featured Image Photo Credit: Facebook/Issac ‘Headsplitter’ Hardman

Caboolture Satellite Hospital Opens & Welcomes First Patients

The Caboolture Satellite Hospital, the first satellite hospital in Australia, has finally opened, marking a significant milestone for the Australian healthcare system.

Providing urgent care for minor illnesses and injuries, the Caboolture Satellite Hospital will help reduce the strain on overcrowded emergency departments in the area.

The Minor Illness and Injury Clinic, operating from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily, is fully equipped to treat simple fractures, sprains, strains, head injuries without loss of consciousness, and other urgent conditions. The clinic also boasts state-of-the-art medical imaging capabilities for accurate diagnoses.

Beyond the Minor Illness and Injury Clinic, the facility offers a range of outpatient and community health services to cater to the diverse healthcare needs of the growing community. These services include oral and mental health clinics for both adults and children, a sleep studies unit, and an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Hub providing maternal and infant health care, perinatal wellbeing, diabetes education, child health nurse, and allied health services.

Caboolture Satellite Hospital — Photo Credit: SteveMilesMP/Facebook

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, alongside local officials and community members, participated in the grand opening ceremony held on 3 Aug 2023, expressing excitement about the facility’s potential to enhance healthcare accessibility in the region.

“Our government has led the way in creating a place for Queenslanders to access the health care they need, closer to home, which will help to reduce pressure on our busy emergency departments,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

“Rapidly growing communities, like Caboolture, need free healthcare services that keep pace with their needs and through the Satellite Hospitals Program, we are demonstrating again that we are listening and delivering on services that matter to Queenslanders.

Disruption at Queensland Health

While the opening of the Caboolture Satellite Hospital brought hope and excitement to the community, recent events within Queensland Health have raised concerns about the stability of the state’s healthcare leadership. Chief Operating Officer (COO) David Rosengren’s sudden departure from his position after less than two years added to the list of recent high-profile resignations within the department.

The resignation of COO Rosengren came as a surprise to many, leaving the health department without a crucial leadership position. The timing of his departure could not have been worse, as Health Minister Shannon Fentiman faced her first major estimates hearings with an acting director-general who had only assumed the role a week prior.

This upheaval in the health bureaucracy has prompted questions about the continuity of ongoing health reforms, including the establishment of a central hotline for health workers to report patient safety concerns. The hotline was a promise made by former Health Minister Yvette D’Ath in response to a damning report on patient care at the Mackay Base Hospital’s maternity department.

As the state government continues to promote its Satellite Hospital program as a key achievement, the disruption at Queensland Health serves as a reminder that effective healthcare delivery requires a stable and competent leadership team. With the 2024 elections looming, the government’s ability to address these concerns and provide consistent healthcare services will be closely scrutinized by the public.

Published 4-Aug-2023

Burpengary Besties Win $100,000 in Lucky Draw

A pair of Burpengary besties won $100,000 in a lucky draw. Their friendship proved to be a golden thread as they shared the incredible news.

One of the lucky winners couldn’t believe her ears as she exclaimed, “Oh my goodness! Are you telling me we’ve won $100,000?!”

The bond between the two friends led them to share the prize equally. With $50,000 each, they are now eagerly looking forward to a celebratory dinner to mark their good fortune.

Timing couldn’t have been better for one of the winners, who joyfully revealed, “I’ve been planning some home improvements! I can finally have a new laundry!” She can be sure that receiving the $50,000 prize will transform her home greatly.

The duo is thrilled to have the means to finally embark on their dream vacation. “We’re also going on holidays soon, so this will come in handy,” they shared.

Their winning entry of three random numbers was purchased online at thelott.com.

Published 27-July-2023

Unitywater Increases Water Prices Below-CPI

Unitywater increases water prices from July 1. Caboolture residents and those from the surrounding communities will experience a 5.9% rise in water and sewerage charges.

Unitywater announced a below-CPI (Consumer Price Index) increase in water prices. On average, this equates to an increase of $22.50 per quarter on typical residential customer bills.

The decision to raise water prices is a response to the growing operational costs faced by Unitywater. Anna Jackson, the Chief Executive Officer of Unitywater, explains that the increase is necessary to cover the impact of inflation on the essential services provided.

While recognizing the cost-of-living pressures experienced by customers, Unitywater aims to maintain essential services that protect public health and support wider economic growth.

Unitywater’s investment plans in the Caboolture area extend beyond water and sewerage networks. They also play a vital role in collecting State Government bulk water charges, which contribute to maintaining catchments and ensuring the delivery of safe, clean drinking water.

Read: New Social Housing Complex to Welcome Residents in Caboolture

To address the increasing needs of the Caboolture area and its surrounding communities, Unitywater has planned a comprehensive investment of $1.8 billion over the next five years. This investment will focus on network renewal and expansion, including upgrades to sewerage treatment plants and the development of new infrastructure, particularly in areas such as Caboolture West.

Unitywater is also committed to enhancing waterways and implementing sustainable wastewater management projects like the Wamuran Irrigation Scheme, which will provide long-term water security for the agricultural community.

Read: Approval Granted: Caboolture West Takes Off with First Development

Recognizing that the price increase may present financial challenges for some residents, Unitywater is offering various measures to support customers in managing their bills. These measures include flexible payment options, extended payment deadlines, and personalized payment plans.

Residents in the Caboolture area seeking assistance can contact Unitywater’s local contact center or visit their website for more information.

Residents in the Caboolture area should note that Unitywater’s revised prices, reflecting the below-CPI increase, will be reflected in bills issued from July 1, 2023.

Published 9-July-2023

Maroons Prepare for State of Origin III, Eyeing Origin Series Sweep

The Queensland Maroons are gearing up for State of Origin III with the aim of completing a historic series sweep against the New South Wales Blues. The highly-anticipated clash is a chance for Queensland to write their name into the annals of rugby league history, while the Blues will be looking to redeem themselves.

Read: New Social Housing Complex to Welcome Residents in Caboolture

The Maroons sealed the series in State of Origin II at Suncorp Stadium. As they hammered the Blues, it was their resolute defence that laid the foundations for their 32-6 triumph.

The build-up to the final has been intense for the Queensland side. Their training sessions have been characterised by high intensity and a relentless drive to excel. With new combinations to develop, the team focuses on maintaining its winning formula while adapting to the changes.

Tom Flegler’s injury and Reece Walsh’s suspension will force the Maroons to make changes to their pack.

Lock Corey ‘Big Red’ Horsburgh is set to debut in the finale. Playing his first Origin game since 2021, fullback AJ Brimson will start in Walsh’s place.

Read: Coles Deception Bay Opens in Market Square

For the finale, hooker Harry Grant joins AJ Brimson in the starting lineup. His running game and service from dummy half has seen him contribute off the bench in the first two games.

Centre Valentine Holmes will be looking to continue his try-scoring prowess. He became only the fourth player in Origin history to pass 100 points in game two.

Queensland Maroons Prepare for State of Origin III, Eyeing Series Sweep — Cameron Munster and AJ Brimson
Photo Credit: QRL

Five-eighth Cameron Munster has been a key part of the Maroons’ attacking game and will be looking to secure a coveted clean sweep.

Queensland looks to complete the first Origin series sweep since 2010. The players’ shared Queensland pride is a driving force, ensuring they do not let this opportunity go to waste. The team understands that representing Queensland goes beyond the outcome of the series.

Published 12 July 2023

Featured Image Photo Credit: QRL

New Social Housing Complex to Welcome Residents in Caboolture

A social housing complex in Caboolture is getting ready to welcome 20 individuals and their families. The complex includes 15 single-bedroom apartments and five two-bedroom apartments.

The new build is conveniently close to shops, services, Caboolture State School, and the local train station. The three-storey building has a lift, so greater accessibility.

The homes also have gated entry spaces, adding privacy and serving as handy spots for clotheslines or storing bikes and other big things. This way, the private patios can be used as extra living space.

The entire project costs $7.04 million and created over 23 full-time construction jobs. There are around 176 more social homes planned for the region in the next couple of years.

The Livable Housing Design

The Livable Housing Design Guidelines offer two levels of accessibility: Gold Level and Platinum Level.

At the Gold Level, you can find level showers and thresholds, along with a provision for grab rails. The hallways and doorways are wider, and there are extra clearance spaces. Moreover, these units include features like wall ovens.

On the other hand, Platinum Level goes beyond Gold Level features. In addition to level showers, thresholds, and wider hallways and doorways, Platinum Level units provide extra clearance spaces and wall ovens.

They also come with removable kitchen cabinets. These added features make Platinum Level units exceptionally well-suited for people who use wheelchairs.

Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said, “Morayfield, Caboolture, and other areas in the Moreton Bay Region have seen lots of people moving in. It’s important to have social housing available for those who need it, like seniors, younger people, and families.”

She also mentioned the record $5-billion investment in social and affordable housing across Queensland.

“It’s great to see another social housing complex opening up in our community. This will help the most vulnerable, including those with disabilities and seniors who need more accessibility. Being close to parks, shops, services, and public transport is crucial for social housing,” Morayfield MP Mark Ryan

For those in need of housing assistance, reaching out to the local Housing Service Centre during business hours is a good option. Alternatively, there’s the 24/7 Homeless Hotline at 1800 474 753 that individuals can call for help.

Published 1-July-2023

‘Grace Pineapples’ Impresses Judges at FIRST LEGO League

The Grace Pineapples, the talented team from Grace Lutheran College’s Caboolture and Rothwell campuses, have made their mark on the international stage at the FIRST LEGO League Long Beach Californian Open.

What makes this achievement even sweeter is the brilliant dedication, passion, and genius in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) displayed by the students through their participation in the globally acclaimed FIRST LEGO League.

Read: Young Girl’s Visit to Caboolture Station Honours Officers’ Life-Saving Efforts

The FIRST LEGO League encourages kids to think critically, solve real-world problems, and work as a team, moulding them into future innovators and problem solvers.

The Grace Pineapples exhibited their skills in designing and programming autonomous robots using LEGO MINDSTORMS technology. They’ve also tackled a research project focused on hydropower generation. Their brilliant ideas and commitment to making a positive impact left a lasting impression on the judges in the competition.

**Grace Lutheran College, Caboolture**
Photo Credit: Grace Lutheran College

The local heroes, led by the team captains from the Grace Lutheran College Caboolture campus, blew away the competition with the stellar performance of their LEGO robot, their strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Read: VR Goggles for Sick Caboolture Kids, Other Programs at Children’s Hospitals Across Australia Get Funding Boost

The group also brought home the Peer Award for Best Overall Team, proving that they’re not just exceptional but also the coolest bunch around! Aside from conquering the FIRST LEGO League in Australia, the team also has its eyes set on an even bigger prize — winning the the FIRST Tech Challenge!

For the Grace Pineapples, anything is possible.

Published 1-July-2023