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Bull Riding Champion Determined to Compete Again Despite Serious Injuries

In a shocking incident at the Caboolture Show, 15-year-old bull riding champion Jacob Kellett was trampled, resulting in serious injuries. Despite the harrowing experience, Kellett is determined to get back in the saddle and compete again.

Read: Banjo’s Bakery Cafe Debuts in Burpengary

Medics Race to Aid Injured Teenager

The incident happened seconds into Kellett’s ride. Spectators watched in horror as the bull threw him off and stomped on his chest and abdomen. Medics and ring staff immediately rushed to the teenager’s aid.

Kellett suffered broken ribs and had blood drained from his lungs. After initial treatment, a specialist QAS crew transported him to the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

In the wake of what happened, Jacob’s mother, Karen Kellett, emphasised the importance of safety in bull riding and the stringent measures taken to protect riders. Jacob’s safety equipment, things that undoubtedly helped mitigate the injuries he sustained, included a special imported helmet, mouthguards, and vests.

In addition, Karen took comfort in the fact that her son received exceptional care from the first responders.

Read: New $1.5-Million Skate Park in Deception Bay Officially Opens

Bull Riding Champion’s Determination

Despite an estimated recovery time of eight to twelve weeks, Jacob’s passion for rodeo remains undiminished. He is particularly looking forward to competing in the saddle bronc and bareback events.

Karen said her son started riding a year ago, after having prior interest in motorcycles. He currently holds the 24th rank in the Australian National Rodeo Association U18 division. In the future, he even plans to pursue a career as a diesel mechanic in the mining or agricultural machinery industry.

Simon Robson, President of the Moreton Bay First Aid Volunteers, praised the newly recruited response team. On their first event, they admirably handled the situation, earning praise from both the public and the show society.

As Jacob Kellett continues on his road to recovery, his resilient, unwavering spirit and determination to ride again inspires those who have witnessed his passion.

Published 29 June 2023

Featured Image Photo Credit: Paul J Everett / Wikimedia Commons

New Regional City to Rise in Caboolture West

To address the population growth and housing demand in Moreton Bay, plans have been unveiled to facilitate the establishment of Caboolture West as a new regional city.

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

Over the next four decades, the Caboolture West growth area is expected to accommodate approximately 70,000 residents in 30,000 homes, transforming into a city comparable in size to Mackay. The development will include schools, housing, and other necessary infrastructure.

The future community of the new regional city will provide around 17,000 job opportunities in various sectors such as employment, industry, commerce, and other commercial activities.

Developers are committed to offering a diverse range of lot sizes and housing types in the new neighbourhoods, ensuring that consumers have choices to suit their lifestyle and budget requirements.

Major expansion area (Photo Credit: Queensland Government)

It is in response to the rapid population growth in the Moreton Bay Region, which also meant higher demand for housing.

According to the latest data from the Queensland Government Statistician’s Office for the year 2023, the population of Moreton Bay-North is projected to increase from 268,995 in 2021 to 489,869 by 2046.

On the other hand, Moreton Bay South’s population could rise from 221,611 to 315,310 during the same period.

Caboolture West spans around 3,156 hectares and is recognised as a major expansion area. Its boundaries include the D’Aguilar Highway to the north, Caboolture River Road to the south, and the low hills along Old North Road to the west.

James Brown, the Chair of Caboolture/Redcliffe at the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ), emphasised that Caboolture West and Morayfield will serve as long-term future sources of land supply for the area.

Read: Names of New Suburbs in Caboolture West Reflect Indigenous Culture & Local Environment

Mr Brown further highlighted the current opportunities available in Morayfield and Caboolture, which are considered infill suburbs but do not currently have infill prices.

Featured Image Credit: Queensland Government

Published 29-June-2023

Approval Granted: Caboolture West Takes Off with First Development

In a momentous decision, the Moreton Bay Regional Council has unanimously approved the first development application for Waraba, the name given to the Caboolture West project.

This development marks the initial step in the transformation of over 175 hectares of bushland into a vibrant 2,000-home neighbourhood.

Ultimately, Caboolture West is set to become a satellite city rivalling the size of Mackay, accommodating an estimated 70,000 residents. The approved development, spearheaded by Stockland, will encompass a 175.4-hectare area located at 60-172 Litherland Rd in Upper Caboolture.

The master plan includes the construction of 2,050 dwellings, seven local parks, extensive accessible parkland, and the preservation of land for conservation purposes, including the improvements to the Caboolture River Road.

Mayor Peter Flannery of Moreton Bay expressed his enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the preservation of greenspace as a priority. He emphasised that the developer has been conditioned to prioritise infrastructure works, ensuring that the community’s needs are met from the outset.

The development will feature six distinct residential villages and a centrally located Neighbourhood Hub, fostering a sense of community and providing residents with convenient access to amenities such as small-scale retail and commercial operations.

The development comes with an Infrastructure Agreement and includes:

The provision of seven local recreation parks, district open space and conservation areas totalling 52.7 hectares of public land.
Rehabilitation of 17.7 hectares of land to be part of a green network precinct.
Provision of all internal stormwater infrastructure necessitated by the development.
Financial contributions towards a future district sports park and future regional sports park.

Meanwhile, major improvements to Caboolture River Road are likewise provided under the Infrastructure Agreement, which includes:

Provision of land to eventually allow the duplication of Caboolture River Rd.
Upgrading the section between Walkers Rd and Grant Rd to four lanes.
Construction of a three-way signalised intersection at Cresthaven Dr.
Intersection upgrades to improve safety and efficiency at Virginia Rd, Forest Park Place and MacGinley Rd.
Creation of a hybrid 2-lane roundabout at Albert Circuit.
Decommissioning of the intersection at Litherland Rd.

The master-planned community will ensure housing diversity through a broad distribution of lot sizes, shapes, and residential types, including detached, semi-detached, and attached residences.

The Caboolture West Interim Structure Plan, released earlier this year, laid the foundation for this development, providing a comprehensive framework that balances residential needs with environmental preservation.

With the initial approval granted, Waraba is poised to undergo further expansions within the broader 3,156-hectare Caboolture West area, featuring approximately 30,000 dwellings.

Although the complete development of Waraba may take up to four decades, the approval of this first development application signifies an exciting milestone in the realisation of this ambitious project.

As construction commences, the project promises to enhance the region’s livability, intertwining sub-tropical design principles, aesthetics, and a network of green spaces. By prioritising safety, convenience, and environmental conservation, Caboolture West is poised to become a model community that embraces sustainable living and fosters a healthy and active lifestyle for its future residents.

BOUNCE Morayfield Indoor Entertainment Centre Set to Thrill Queenslanders

Brace yourselves, Queensland! Get ready to unleash your inner thrill-seeker as BOUNCE, the premier trampoline and adrenaline playground, is about to take Morayfield by storm.

BOUNCE Morayfield is thrilled to announce its highly-anticipated grand opening on Thursday, the 29th of June 2023, just in time for the school holidays. The brand-new 18,000 square-metre indoor entertainment centre, located at 170 Morayfield Rd, will offer an unforgettable experience for all ages.

Since its inception, BOUNCE has captured the hearts of both children and adults alike, providing an exhilarating and fun-filled environment that fosters the development of transferable skills. With its fifth centre in Queensland, BOUNCE continues to solidify its reputation as the go-to destination for sport, entertainment, and leisure. The Morayfield location joins the esteemed ranks of Tingalpa, Carindale, MacGregor, and the Gold Coast.

Co-founder Ant Morell expressed his excitement about the new centre as the facility cultivates essential skills that can be applied in various activities. BOUNCE guests are captivated by the adrenaline-fueled offered on site. Parents, schools, and community leaders appreciate BOUNCE because it encourages children to put down their screens, socialise, and engage in a healthy and inclusive environment.

BOUNCE Morayfield will feature a wide array of activities designed to challenge and entertain visitors of all abilities. From free jump trampolines that defy gravity to heart-pounding dodgeball matches, wall climbs that test your limits, and the thrilling X-Park ninja course, BOUNCE has something for everyone.

For younger guests, the miniBOUNCE Zone provides a safe and enjoyable experience. The centre is staffed with friendly and encouraging hosts who are dedicated to ensuring an unforgettable adventure for each visitor.

With the acquisition of the former Officeworks site, BOUNCE Morayfield stands tall as a beacon of excitement in the heart of Queensland. The decision to establish a centre in Morayfield was a strategic one.

“After a decade of experience, we’ve gained invaluable insights into identifying the perfect location to support a venue,” Mr Morell said.

Morayfield emerged as a prime choice, with its thriving population of families, young people, and the ideal age group for our activities. Our analysis of postcode data from Tingalpa revealed that many individuals from Morayfield were willing to embark on a 40-minute journey to enjoy our offerings.”

In addition to bringing joy and excitement to the community, BOUNCE Morayfield is proud to have created 60 employment opportunities for young people in the area.

Prepare to embark on an adrenaline-fueled journey like no other! To find out more about BOUNCE Morayfield and to be among the first to make bookings, visit the online site. Follow the entertainment site on Instagram as well.

Published 20-June-2023

‘Move for Mental Health’ at HIIT Station Morayfield

Popular local gym HIIT Station Morayfield is gearing up to host a transformative event called “Move for Mental Health” in support of Men’s Health Week.

Happening Sunday, 18 June 2023, at 7:00 a.m., the event aims to raise awareness about mental health and promote healthy habits for individuals of all genders and ages.

The founders of HIIT Station Morayfield, Gretel and Chris Vitnell, are passionate about promoting both physical fitness and mental well-being.

Gretel, a qualified Mental Health Social Worker, is eager to combine her expertise in mental health with her love for fitness. Together with Chris, they have organised this event as a means to encourage the Morayfield community to prioritise their overall well-being.

Move for Mental Health — Photo Credit: Supplied

Research has shown that regular physical activity can have a profound positive impact on mental well-being. With mental health issues being more openly discussed and addressed in Australia, people struggling with anxiety and depression talk about experiencing significant improvements in their mental health when exercise becomes a part of their routine.

To shed light on this important connection, “Move for Mental Health” will feature guest speakers who will share their insights on the benefits of exercise for mental health, particularly focusing on boys and men. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from these experts and gain a better understanding of how physical activity can contribute to wellness.

The event will kick off with inspiring talks by Gretel and Chris, providing attendees with valuable knowledge about the relationship between exercise, mental health, and overall well-being. Their shared experiences and expertise, personal training, nutrition, breathwork, and trauma-informed coaching will surely ignite a passion for personal growth among participants.

Following the enlightening speeches, attendees will have the chance to participate in a one-hour FREE group workout session. Designed to invigorate the body and uplift the spirits, this strength training session will allow participants to experience the transformative power of physical activity on their mental state firsthand.

To conclude the event on a delightful note, a BBQ breakfast and coffee will be provided, offering attendees an opportunity to socialise and connect with like-minded individuals in the Morayfield community.

The “Move for Mental Health” event promises to be an extraordinary experience for personal growth, empowerment, and connection.

For more information and event registration, please check the HIIT Station Morayfield page.

About HIIT Station Morayfield

HIIT Station Morayfield is a well-established gym in Morayfield that aims to promote physical fitness and mental well-being among its members and the wider community. With a focus on high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and expert guidance, HIIT Station Morayfield provides a supportive environment for individuals to achieve their fitness goals while prioritising their mental health.

Published 15-June-2023

Caboolture Satellite Hospital Prepares to Serve Community as Fit Out Begins

After the completion of its construction, works are currently underway to equip and prepare the Caboolture Satellite Hospital for the arrival of patients.

Read: Caboolture Infants Now Eligible for Free Type 1 Diabetes Screening

The hospital, which will finally open its doors to patients in August 2023, has been designed to cater to a wide range of healthcare needs. With its state-of-the-art infrastructure and dedicated staff, the hospital aims to provide exceptional care to the growing community of Caboolture.

The Caboolture Satellite Hospital will be capable of accommodating up to 600 outpatient appointments every week in its modern consult and treatment rooms.

Skilled clinicians from Queensland Health, including mental health specialists and Rapid Access Clinic staff, will be available to provide comprehensive care to patients. Moreover, the hospital is prepared to handle up to 490 walk-in patients per week, ensuring timely access to quality healthcare services.

One notable feature of the facility is the inclusion of a Minor Injury and Illness Clinic, offering free walk-ins seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m, with healthcare staff working until 11:30 pm. This clinic will serve as a crucial resource for the community, providing immediate care and treatment for minor injuries and illnesses.

In addition to the comprehensive services already mentioned, the Caboolture Satellite Hospital will provide various specialised healthcare offerings. These include oral health services encompassing prevention, promotion, and early intervention, as well as intra-oral radiology and specialist referral services.

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A sleep studies clinic will be available for patients with respiratory-related sleep disorders, offering home sleep testing and CPAP/non-invasive ventilation support.

Read: Look: Plans For Caboolture West Unveiled

The Caboolture Satellite Hospital is part of a network of seven satellite hospitals for South-East Queensland as part of the Satellite Hospitals program. These hospitals, situated in Tugun, Redlands, Eight Mile Plains, Bribie Island, Caboolture, Kallangur, and Ripley, will collectively enhance the region’s healthcare system, ensuring that residents have access to quality care when they need it most.

Featured image credit: Queensland Government

Published 13-June-2023

Names of New Suburbs in Caboolture West Reflect Indigenous Culture & Local Environment

The names of five new suburbs in the Caboolture West area have been unveiled, with each name reflecting the rich indigenous heritage and unique natural environment of the area.

The newly named suburbs are Waraba, Lilywood, Wagtail Grove, Greenstone, and Corymbia.

Waraba, which is likely to include the town centre, is derived from the Kabi Kabi word for “burn,” symbolizing the traditional land management practices of the Kabi Kabi People. The rest of the names celebrate the Indigenous language, local wildlife, plants and rocks.

The process of selecting these names involved extensive consultation with the community and various stakeholders. The Moreton Bay Regional Council initiated a place naming project in 2021 and received an impressive 572 name suggestions from the community. The council’s aim was to involve residents in shaping the identity of their region, ensuring a strong sense of ownership and pride.

“The names of the new Caboolture West suburbs celebrate the local wildlife, plants, and rocks found in the area, as well as the unique heritage and culture of our Traditional Custodians,” Mayor Peter Flannery said.

Marking a significant milestone in the region’s growth and development, the creation of these suburbs is part of the plan to accommodate the projected population increase of 70,000 residents over the next four decades.

The Queensland Government has committed $25 million to fast-track the development of water and sewer infrastructure for the initial stages of Caboolture West. This investment will support the creation of approximately 30,000 new homes and the establishment of four State primary schools, two state secondary schools, four neighbourhood hubs, 15 local parks, and other essential features and infrastructure.

“Place names are a way to recognize the valuable role our culture plays in the history and future of the area,” said Associate Professor Eve Fesl, a Gubbi Gubbi Senior Elder, who expressed the significance of place names for Indigenous culture.

Mr Fesl, along with Mr Norman Bond and Mr Kerry Jones representing the Kabi Kabi First Nation Traditional Owners Native Title Claim Group, highlighted the importance of the name Waraba, which represents the land management practices that have nurtured the area for centuries.

Resident Peter Zillman, a sixth-generation local whose family has a long history in the Caboolture West region, welcomed the new suburb names. Zillman participated in the Suburb Boundary Focus Groups established by the Moreton Bay Regional Council and expressed his satisfaction with the community consultation process.

“It’s reassuring to see real results from that consultation,” he said. “It was even more pleasing to see the name Greenstone, after my wife raised it as a suggestion. The Rocksberg greenstone is a relatively localized geological formation, and the name is a nice association with the future development.”

With the boundaries of existing suburbs like Wamuran, Bellmere, Rocksberg, and Upper Caboolture also being adjusted to accommodate the new suburbs, Caboolture West is set to become a sustainable and vibrant community that embraces its cultural and environmental heritage.

Published 9-June-2023

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

Georgia Winn, a brave young girl, along with her brothers, made a heartwarming visit to the officers at the Caboolture station in May 2023, expressing her heartfelt appreciation for their role in the recent rescue operation that saved her and her father’s lives.

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

Georgia, who regards the officers as her personal heroes, wanted to personally thank them for their invaluable contributions.

The incident occurred on 3 April 2023, when Georgia and her father were involved in a single-vehicle traffic crash on Caboolture River Road. As the accident unfolded, her father, unfortunately, suffered a medical episode, leading to the collision. The impact left both Georgia and her father with injuries, requiring immediate medical attention.

Caboolture station — Georgia and her brothers with the police officers (Photo credit: Queensland Police Service)

Reflecting on that day, Senior Constable Jo Arthur recounted the harrowing events, stating that both Georgia and her father were injured during the accident, with Mr Winn enduring a medical episode just before the crash.

They quickly responded to the scene, providing the necessary aid and ensuring the girl and her father received timely medical care. Georgia’s father, who had to be airlifted from the scene, was recently discharged from the hospital, whilst both continue their recovery journey.

During their visit, Georgia and her brothers personally conveyed their gratitude to the officers who played a crucial role in their rescue. The police officers at the Caboolture station, deeply moved by the gesture, expressed their sincere appreciation for Georgia’s thoughtful gesture and wished her and her father a speedy recovery.

“Police officers aren’t born, they’re made, with every challenge or adversity overcome, and their personal values, helping to shape them into great officers who can make a real difference,” said S/Con Arthur.

Read: Local Community Unites At The Launch Of The Red Bench Project At Caboolture Sports Club

As Georgia and her father continue their recovery journey, they remain thankful to all those who responded to their distress call on that fateful day.

Featured image photo credit: Google Street View

Published 16-May-2023

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

Coles has recently provided a funding boost to children’s hospitals all over Australia to assist in delivering essential and innovative programs, including the procurement of VR goggles for sick Caboolture children.

In 2022, The Common Good, a charity organization, utilized funds from the National Curing Homesickness initiative to procure virtual reality or VR goggles. These devices offer young patients an immersive and interactive experience while receiving treatment in the Paediatric Unit at Caboolture Hospital.

One brand of VR goggles has been subject to a study that proved its efficacy in diminishing a child’s pain by up to 60 per cent. This in turn helped reduce the need for restraint by 48 per cent whilst undergoing needle treatments like blood tests, vaccinations, and chemotherapy. These goggles further facilitate fast and sedation-free completion of procedures, decreasing the likelihood of prolonged hospital stays.

According to Michelle Hutch, the Nurse Unit Manager for the Paediatric Unit at Caboolture Hospital, the goggles served as a distraction for children while clinical teams administered treatment, taking them on virtual reality adventures.

Fundraiser to improve the lives of sick children and families

Last March 2023, Coles Curing Homesickness appeal was able to raise more than $1 million for nine children’s hospitals, foundations and paediatric services in Australia. The funds collected from the appeal will assist the Curing Homesickness hospital partners in carrying out crucial pediatric projects, including the purchase of virtual reality goggles for sick Caboolture kids.

According to Nicky Bowie, the General Manager of Curing Homesickness, the hospital beneficiaries and Curing Homesickness were amazed by the support provided by Coles and its customers.

“Curing Homesickness and our hospital partners are incredibly grateful and thankful for the support shown and given by Coles and its customers over the past two weeks,” she said.

“Funds raised will help make a real difference to the lives of sick children and their families across Australia and we can’t thank Coles team members and customers enough for their support.”

“We know that every cent raised will have a significant impact in communities right across Australia, be it to help buy virtual reality goggles in Caboolture or equipment and technology for children living with chronic health conditions in WA.”

Raised funds to go towards pediatric projects across Australia’s children’s hospitals

Coles has contributed more than $6 million to Curing Homesickness in the past four years Curing Homesickness Appeal Raises Funds for Pediatric Projects Across Australia’s Children’s Hospitals through donations cards, customer donations, store fundraising, and sales of Mum’s Sause pasta sauces and pizza sauce, with 50c from every product sold year-round going to the cause.

Coles Group’s General Manager of Corporate & Indigenous Affairs, Sally Fielke, expressed the company’s pride in their customers and team members for their involvement in the Curing Homesickness appeal.

Fielke stated, “Our customers and team members across Australia are continuing to take community fundraising and engagement to the next level, as demonstrated by the success of this year’s Coles Curing Homesickness appeal.”

She also highlighted the efforts of Coles team members in supporting the cause, such as visiting hospitals, donating toys, baking cakes, and discussing the important work of Curing Homesickness and their hospital partners with customers.

Shoppers rally to support Coles Curing Homesickness Appeal

Coles stores in NSW, Victoria, and Queensland raised a significant amount of funds for children’s hospitals through the Coles Curing Homesickness appeal. Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation and John Hunter Children’s Hospital in NSW received over $490,000, Monash Children’s Hospital in Victoria received $211,000, and The Common Good in Queensland received $169,000.

The top fundraising store was Coles Eastgardens whilst Coles Amaroo in the ACT and Coles Firle in South Australia were also among the top five most generous stores.

To support the causes and initiatives of Curing Homesickness hospital partners in each state, shoppers can purchase Mum’s Sause pasta or pizza sauce, with 50 cents from every sale going to the cause throughout the year.

Published 15-April-2023

Local Community Unites At The Launch Of The Red Bench Project At Caboolture Sports Club

The Red Bench Project received an added boost with the addition of a new red bench at the Caboolture Sports Club, helping to raise awareness within the local community on the issue of domestic violence and its harmful impact on people’s lives.

Read: Caboolture Connection Road Safety Project Wraps Up With Final Improvements

The Red Bench Project is a campaign set up by the Red Rose Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to addressing the harmful impact of domestic violence on our communities. According to the foundation, “the presence of a Red Bench in a public location aims to raise awareness of domestic violence and provide an opportunity for this important issue to remain visible.”

As of March 2023, the project already encompasses more than 20 benches throughout the Brisbane area and approximately 400 across the State.

Photo credit: Red Rose Foundation Australia/Facebook

The official launch of the red bench out the front of the Caboolture Sports Club on 24 March 2023 was attended by members of the community, including the Queensland Police Service, Moreton Bay Regional Council, Zonta Club of Caboolture, and Centre Against Domestic Abuse.

“The presence of a Red Bench in a public location aims to raise awareness and provide an opportunity for this important issue to remain visible. A place to sit and have a conversation about how we as a community can change the ending to domestic violence,” said the Caboolture Sports Club.

There are plans to introduce six more at various sports clubs in Caboolture, including Caboolture Cricket, Caboolture Dog Obedience, Caboolture Rugby, Caboolture Touch Football, Caboolture Softball, and Caboolture Sports Soccer.

Launched in 2019, The Red Bench Project encourages the installation of red benches in various public spaces. These red benches serve as a powerful reminder that domestic violence is an issue that affects our communities, but also as a symbol of hope that we have the capacity to make a positive change.

Read: Moreton Bay Waives Some Development and Infrastructure Fees To Boost Housing Sector

If you are interested in supporting The Red Bench Project, you can choose to become a sponsor, help to introduce a red bench in your community, donate to aid in covering the cost of plaques, or volunteer your time to assist with project administration. Feel free to contact Redbench@redrosefoundation.com.au for further information.

Featured image photo credit: Red Rose Foundation Australia/Facebook

Published 11-April-2023