Caboolture’s Liam Wilson heads back to Arizona in March with hopes of becoming a world champion. The All Star Boxing Academy trainee takes on Mexican boxer Oscar Valdez on the 29th in Glendale.
The 10-round junior lightweight fight has no titles on the line, at least currently.
Potential for title vacancy
There are rumours that the current World Boxing Organization (WBO) champion, Emanuel Navarrete, may move up a weight class and vacate his title. Both Liam Wilson and Valdez lost to the three-weight world champion Navarrete last year.
Navarrete controversially went down in the fourth round but was given a 27-second count rather than 10 seconds to recover. Navarrete stopped Wilson in the ninth round.
Liam Wilson seeks redemption
With two victories under his belt since that loss, a confident Wilson said: “Valdez is a good fighter, a tough man, but after what I’ve been through already and what I plan on bringing, I believe he’s going to regret taking this fight.”
Currently ranked #2 by the WBO, Wilson (13-2-0) trains in Thailand and plans a seven-week training camp in the US before the March 29 showdown at the Desert Diamond Arena.
He has a 10cm height and reach advantage over Valdez, who has a record of 31-2-0.
“Headsplitter” Isaac Hardman (15-2-0) will also be in action on March 13. He will face Endry Saavedra (15-1-0) of Venezuela for the WBO Inter-Continental middleweight title in Wollongong.
South East Queensland is set to witness the birth of a monumental new city project as the first sod has been turned on a sprawling Waraba development: Lilywood Landings. This ambitious endeavour, in the area formerly known as Caboolture West, aims to alleviate the pressing housing crisis, offering land prices starting below $300,000.
Lilywood Landings is heralded as the largest new residential community in the inaugural suburb of Lilywood in the new city of Waraba. Lennium Group, the driving force behind this initiative, is committed to addressing the region’s rapid growth by providing much-needed, affordable housing options.
The historic sod-turning ceremony was graced by key dignitaries including Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Planning, Meaghan Scanlon, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Jarrod Bleiije, and Mayor of the City of Moreton Bay, Peter Flannery.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Ian Worthington, Development Manager at Lennium Group, expressed enthusiasm for the 40-year Waraba project, anticipating it to accommodate approximately 70,000 residents in around 30,000 homes, rivalling the size of Mackay.
“Lilywood Landings marks the inaugural phase of this promising development,” stated Mr Worthington. “Covering approximately 70 hectares, Lilywood Landings will offer 705 lots intertwined with parklands, trails, and conservation areas along the picturesque Caboolture River.”
He further announced the affordability of the land, with prices starting below $300,000, ensuring accessibility for prospective buyers seeking 3-4 bedroom family homes.
Lennium Group’s groundbreaking endeavour is the first among several developers poised to contribute to Waraba’s initial precinct. With over two decades of experience in creating residential communities, the Australian-owned family company is primed to deliver quality housing solutions for southeast Queensland.
Lilywood Landings represents Lennium’s most extensive project yet, featuring Waraba’s inaugural display village in collaboration with Master Builders Queensland.
Nicholas Lennon, Director of Lennium Group, emphasised the significance of Lilywood Landings, reflecting on the company’s long-standing commitment to the Caboolture West vision.
Photo Credit: Supplied
“Our dedication to planning Lilywood Landings spans nearly two decades,” Lennon affirmed. “We are proud to witness the fruition of our efforts as we embark on the development of a brand-new city, poised to address the housing challenge with affordable solutions for Queensland families.”
The community is strategically located, boasting riverfront access, expansive parklands, and essential amenities such as convenience stores and childcare centres. Positioned adjacent to existing housing, Lilywood Landings offers convenient access to education, shopping, recreation, and transportation links.
Developer Cedar Woods Properties has completed civil works and settled land sales for 49 home sites in stage one of the masterplanned community.
Stage two sold out quickly as well, with 54 lots to settle in March. Just launched, stage three is expected to see first settlements in May.
Photo credit: cedarwoods.com.au
The completed Sage development will offer 329 residential lots centred around an 8,000 square metre park and traversed by a seven-hectare green spine.
In keeping with its environmental principles, Cedar Woods is preserving roughly 30 percent of the Sage Burpengary site as a naturalised green corridor. The developer is making a significant investment to rehabilitate and connect the ecological reserve to wider regional conservation areas.
This environmental focus aligns with Cedar Woods’ commitment to sustainability across its masterplanned communities.
Photo credit: Emma Fletcher/Google Maps
Through retention and enhancement of vegetated spaces, the Sage development aims to support local biodiversity and create natural amenity within the neighbourhood.
The planned 7-hectare green spine will provide recreational trails linking homes to the open space network. Cedar Woods’ approach balances residential growth with protection of ecologically sensitive lands.
Photo credit: Emma Fletcher/Google Maps
Moreton Bay Regional Council Mayor Peter Flannery welcomed the development, saying it will help provide much-needed new housing for the area.
Mayor Flannery highlighted that the city is thriving with around 240 new residents arriving each week, drawn by affordable living, lifestyle, jobs, education and transport options.
Cedar Woods Queensland Development Director Blair Britton said the strong buyer response to stages one and two shows demand for affordable new homes in Burpengary.
He noted that Urbis’ research shows population and house price growth in this area is outpacing Greater Brisbane due to employment, lifestyle and housing affordability.
Andrew Swift, an esteemed figure in the Australian music scene, has been officially appointed as the ambassador for the upcoming 2024 Gympie Music Muster.
This significant announcement was released through a video message from Swift himself, expressing his deep-rooted connection to the region and the festival.
Swift, whose affinity for Gympie and the Music Muster runs deep, warmly acknowledged the honour bestowed upon him.
“It’s truly an honour to be the ambassador for something that I love,” he conveyed.
Swift’s enthusiasm for the festival is evident as he passionately encourages others to experience Gympie.
“I’m always telling people to go to Gympie and put it on their bucket lists.”
Moreover, Swift spoke about his personal connection to the event.
“To be an ambassador for something I’m already passionate about is an exciting moment… I’ve got friends who do the rope-off the month before and then commute to Brisbane for work.”
He emphasized that the Gympie Music Muster caters to diverse audiences, accommodating families and those seeking a vibrant social experience. Swift believes that the festival seamlessly checks all the boxes for a memorable time.
“Whenever I come up, I make sure I camp because I love the whole vibe of it; camping means immersing yourself in it all.”
Greg Cavanagh, the CEO of the Gympie Music Muster, reciprocated the excitement surrounding Swift’s appointment.
In a statement, he expressed his delight at having an artist of Andrew’s stature represent the festival. Cavanagh highlighted Swift’s authentic passion for the event and his dedication to sharing it with others, making him a perfect fit for the role.
The 2024 Gympie Music Muster is scheduled to take place from 22 to 25 August 2024 in the picturesque Amamoor Creek State Forest, promising a vibrant celebration of music and culture.
The Gympie Music Muster proudly enjoys the support of the Gympie Regional Council and the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, embodying the spirit of unity and collaboration.
At the heart of an ambitious initiative for the Bruce Highway Western Alternative (BHWA) lies Stage 4 of the project, a stretch between Beerburrum and Moodlu near Caboolture, holds the potential to significantly impact the region’s transportation landscape.
The BHWA project has a dual mission: to provide an alternative route to the Bruce Highway, a vital artery connecting communities, and to address persistent congestion issues while preparing for future growth, including the Elimbah future development area.
Community Involvement
Transport and Main Roads is urging the community to actively participate in shaping the future of this critical transport corridor. Residents are encouraged to share their insights and opinions on various corridor options proposed for Stage 4. The consultation period is set to conclude on Friday, 9th February 2024, with the deadline for submissions at 5:00 PM.
The importance of community involvement cannot be overstated. Since the consultation’s launch on November 30, 2023, TMR has engaged with over 500 community members through informative sessions in Elimbah, Wamuran, and Beerburrum. Moreover, the project has received over 200 individual feedback submissions.
Photo Credit: TMR
A Phased Approach to Planning and Protection
The BHWA project operates under a four-stage approach to identify and safeguard the land necessary for the future motorway. Stages 1 and 2, spanning from Moodlu to Narangba, have already successfully protected more than 22 kilometers for a future state-controlled road.
Investigations are currently underway for Stage 3, which encompasses the stretch between Narangba and north Brisbane. Early feedback for this area continues to be sought, and TMR remains dedicated to keeping the community informed as the planning process unfolds.
“This once-in-a-generation infrastructure project is being planned in response to our rapidly growing region. With the forecast growth across South East Queensland, a new, alternative road west of the Bruce Highway will boost the capacity of the transport network, reduce congestion and future-proof the enviable lifestyle enjoyed by residents in the area. Community consultation is an important part of major projects like this, to make sure we are delivering the best outcome for the community,” Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Catherine King said.
“The future Moreton Motorway will become a key route linking north Brisbane with Beerburrum. It will help connect existing, emerging, and future communities across the region, without having to get on the Bruce Highway. Our region’s forecast growth will result in inevitable change, and we are planning ahead to meet the travel needs and expectations of locals and visitors,” Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish said.
In light of South East Queensland’s projected growth of almost 2.2 million people over the next 25 years, it is evident that this new motorway project holds far-reaching implications. Even with substantial upgrades to the Bruce Highway, an additional and separate transport corridor is imperative to connect existing and emerging communities identified in the South East Queensland Regional Plan (SEQRP). Communities such as Waraba, Morayfield South, Pine Valley, Petrie, and Elimbah stand to benefit significantly from this forward-looking initiative.
As the consultation deadline approaches, the BHWA project represents an opportunity for the community to actively contribute to shaping the future of transportation in the region. Your insights and opinions matter, and TMR is eager to hear them.
Queensland Police are investigating an incident at a Caboolture pub last November where a terminally ill pensioner’s jackpot ticket was allegedly taken by a woman after he collapsed.
Thomas Purtill, 80, was on his way to collect his $300 pokies win at the pub when he suddenly collapsed from a medical episode around 11:30 a.m. In the chaos, he dropped the winning ticket on the ground nearby.
CCTV footage shows that a woman witnessed Mr Purtill’s collapse, picked up the winning ticket, and proceeded to cash it in for herself; all these, whilst pub staff tended to Mr Purtill. He was subsequently taken to the hospital where he spent two days recuperating.
Screenshot from CCTV footage (Photo credit: Queensland Police)
Earlier in January, just a couple of months after the incident, Mr Purtill returned to the hospital and was diagnosed with late-stage cancer. Sadly, he was given only six months left to live. The stolen $300 would have represented a significant amount for the pensioner to help with his medical needs.
Queensland Police have obtained the CCTV footage of the incident and are seeking public assistance to identify the woman.
Photo credit: Queensland Police
“It is alleged that a woman who witnessed him collapse, located the ticket and cashed it shortly after, while the man was being treated to by staff,” said Senior Constable Jo Arthur.
“Police have obtained video footage of the incident and are seeking public assistance to identify the woman in the video, who may be able to assist police with their investigations,” said S/Con Arthur.
Anyone with information about the woman’s identity or details about the incident is urged to contact Policelink online or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.
The heartbreaking incident has marred what should have been a bright spot for the Caboolture man amidst grave health challenges. Police hope identifying the woman will bring some justice to Mr Purtill’s loss.
Featured Image credit: Screenshot from CCTV footage (Queensland Police)
Commuters are being asked to use alternative transport from late January as Burpengary train station closes for almost a year to undergo a major accessibility upgrade.
From Monday 22 January 2024, the station will be closed for works including the construction of lifts, overpasses and raised platforms. It means services on the Caboolture and Sunshine Coast lines will not stop at Burpengary until the station reopens in late 2024.
The closure will impact thousands of commuters who use Burpengary station daily. However, a new route 661 shuttle bus service will run between Narangba station and Burpengary station every 10-15 minutes during peak hours. Outside of peak times, the shuttle will match the Caboolture line frequency at Narangba station.
Photo credit: R V/Google Maps
The route 661 service is a temporary shuttle running for the duration of the Burpengary station closure. Transport authorities are advising customers to use the shuttle buses or make other travel arrangements whilst the upgrade project is completed.
About the Burpengary Station Upgrades
Concept design of bus interchange and station from Burpengary Road (Photo credit: Queensland Rail)
Burpengary station will be closed so lifts, an overpass, and raised platforms can be constructed to improve accessibility and safety when boarding trains. The station will also receive a new building, hearing loops, tactile indicators, signage, information screens, CCTV, and lighting upgrades.
Other accessibility focused additions will include accessible toilets, a disability-compliant ticket window, more seating, and extended platform shelters.
Transport Minister Bart Mellish acknowledged the disruption but said the end result will benefit commuters.
“By closing the stations temporarily we’re able to get the job done safely and efficiently, meaning we’ll be reopening the upgraded stations sooner, complete with lifts, raised platforms, overpasses and other accessibility features,” he said.
Queensland Rail CEO Kat Stapleton acknowledged that the station closure would cause some inconvenience for customers, but said she is committed to keeping people moving during the construction period.
Stapleton noted that closing the station completely is the safest and most efficient approach to enable major upgrades. She said that whilst disruptive in the short term, closing the station will ensure customers can return to an excellent, fully accessible facility once works are completed and the station reopens.
If Lieutenant David Thompson Seymour were still alive today, 160 years after he became the first Commissioner of the Queensland Police Force, he would most certainly be amazed at how the Service has evolved to include state-of-the-art facilities like the Caboolture Watchhouse, which opened in 2021; the Cyber Crime Group; Police Air Operations; Forensic Crash Unit; along with the Dog Squad, the Dive Squad, and the Mounted Unit.
In its early days, the QPS had 287 officers entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding a population of approximately 61,467.
Lt David Thompson Seymour, a distinguished former British Army officer, assumed the role of the inaugural commissioner in 1864.
Born in Ireland and educated at Ennis College, he joined the British Army as an ensign in 1856 and was promoted to lieutenant in 1858. He arrived in Brisbane in January 1861, commanding the first detachment in Queensland after its separation. He served as aide-de-camp and private secretary to the governor before retiring from the army to become the acting commissioner of police under the Police Act of 1863. His official appointment as Commissioner came in July 1864.
Photo Credit: QPS
Commissioner Seymour played a pivotal role in the establishment of a detective force in 1864 and the incorporation of the Water Police in 1893. His era was marked by a resolute commitment to law enforcement, evident in his handling of events like the Brisbane riot of 1866 and the dispatch of Indigenous trackers to assist in the hunt for Ned Kelly’s gang in 1880. Beyond his policing duties, Seymour advocated for various social causes, including improvements in immigrant ship routes and reformatories for girls under fourteen years of age.
Under his leadership, the QPS grew to 907 officers by his retirement in 1895.
Photo Credit: QPS
Modern Evolution of the QPS
Over time, the QPS has undergone significant evolution. In the 2000s, pivotal legislative changes occurred, consolidating police powers under the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 and redefining the Service’s responsibilities through the Crime and Misconduct Act 2001. Technological advancements, such as introducing Tasers, have played a vital role in enhancing officers’ capabilities.
The QPS has demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, allowing officers and staff to participate in events like the Brisbane Pride Festival since 2015, reflecting the Service’s evolving approach to community engagement.
QPS Impact in Caboolture
The Caboolture Police Station serves as a crucial hub for law enforcement in Moreton Bay, ensuring the safety and security of its surrounding communities. The Caboolture Watchhouse, a state-of-the-art facility opened in 2021, further bolsters the QPS’s presence in the region.
In a notable development, 129 recruits were inducted into the QPS, with four first-year constables assigned to the Caboolture Station. This initiative reflects the QPS’s dedication to strengthening its presence in the area, aligned with the region’s growth.
The Queensland Police Service has actively engaged with the Caboolture community through programs like SupportLink, resulting in over 530 referrals addressing diverse support needs, including road trauma, substance misuse, youth and parenting support, domestic violence, and victim support services.
Over a thousand residents of Elimbah are facing an uphill battle to preserve their homes and cherished way of life following the unveiling of two options for a Bruce Highway Western Alternative, a development that could spell disaster for this tight-knit community.
Option 1 proposes the construction of the Stage 4 path of the Bruce Highway Western Alternative, which would run west of the North Coast rail line. Option 2, on the other hand, suggests an eastern route adjacent to the rail line.
Unfortunately, both options loom ominously for the residents of Elimbah, who fear the imminent resumption of hundreds of properties.
In response to a letter received on 1 Dec 2023, warning of the potential impact on their properties, homeowner Jason Smith leaped into action. In less than two weeks, he initiated an E-Petition, formed a Facebook group, and held a Community Town Hall meeting with fellow landowners.
Their resounding message: whilst the community recognises the need for a Western Alternative to the Bruce Highway, it should not come at the grave expense of their homes and properties.
For many residents like Rod Brady, who has called Elimbah home for 24 years, the prospect of losing their beloved homes is a heart-wrenching reality.
Tanya Balashova, a resident for five years, faces an uncertain future as well. Although her property may not be directly impacted, any option chosen will disrupt her way of life. The years of effort and love invested in her property cannot easily be replaced.
Scott Moore, who moved into his Elimbah home at the start of the Covid pandemic, will see half of his backyard disappear under either option, replacing a peaceful view with the sight and sound of a highway.
Cara Macpherson, who has only lived in her “dream home” for over a year, faces a similar fate. She and her partner had sold their previous homes to build a future for their family. The thought of starting anew, if forced to leave, is a daunting prospect.
Gilda Cowell, a resident of over 70 years, worries about the potential impact on the local flora and fauna. Her property is designated as a Land for Wildlife site, and any alteration to the area could disrupt the delicate balance of wallum frogs, grey kangaroos, and bird species that inhabit the region.
Even the local economy stands to suffer. James Francis, a pineapple farmer in Elimbah who supplies fruit Australia-wide, could see his farm divided in half, rendering continued business operations unsustainable. He employs more than 20 individuals, highlighting the ripple effect of this proposed development.
The Bruce Highway Western Alternative
The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) defends the new transport corridor, describing it as a “long-term alternative to the Bruce Highway” aimed at addressing traffic congestion over time.
According to a TMR spokesman, the project promises improved travel time, reliability, access, connectivity, safety, and travel options for both existing and emerging communities. The TMR remains committed to minimising property impacts and pledges to engage with potentially affected property owners to understand their unique circumstances. As of now, no property impacts for Stage 4 have been confirmed, with resumptions only considered if construction becomes imminent.
The Bruce Highway Western Alternative is a long-term planning endeavour, and specific timelines for planning, design, and construction remain uncertain, contingent on government priorities and future funding commitments.
Eligible residents have until 9 Feb 2024 to submit their feedback on the TMR website, providing them with a valuable opportunity to influence the outcome of this critical decision that could forever change the landscape of Elimbah.
The Bruce Highway upgrade, stretching from Caboolture-Bribie Island Road to Steve Irwin Way (Exit 163) in Elimbah, continues to make substantial progress towards completion, with a significant announcement just in time for the festive season.
As of press time, three lanes on the northbound section of this vital roadway are now operational, promising a smoother traffic flow for travellers during the upcoming holiday rush. The eagerly awaited third lane on the southbound carriageway is expected to open its lanes to commuters in early 2024.
The completion of this transformative project is anticipated early next year, contingent on favourable weather conditions and construction progress. Some minor lane adjustments in both directions will be required in the new year to put the finishing touches in place.
Shared Investment and Economic Impact
Funding for this $662.5 million project is a collaborative effort, with $530 million contributed by the Australian Government and $132.5 million provided by the Queensland Government. This substantial investment is poised to generate an estimated 664 direct job opportunities throughout the project’s lifespan.
Photo Credit: TMR
The heightened speed limit of 110 km/h on this upgraded 11-kilometre stretch aims to optimise travel efficiency and enhance the overall commuting experience, benefitting a multitude of travellers along the route.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Catherine King underscored the Australian Government’s dedication to bolstering the safety, flood resilience, and capacity of vital Bruce Highway infrastructure. This project aligns with the broader Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, which promises to revolutionize travel between Brisbane and Cairns.
Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said the reduction in congestion and improved travel times that this extra lane expansion towards the southern end of Steve Irwin Way will bring, particularly for those heading to the picturesque Sunshine Coast.
Queensland’s continued attraction for interstate migrants necessitates infrastructure development like this. The Queensland Government has allocated $96.2 billion for infrastructure over the next four years and remains steadfast in its commitment to the 15-year Bruce Highway Upgrade.
Crucial Infrastructure for a Thriving Queensland
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish applauded the hard work of the crews, who persevered through recent wet weather to ensure the third northbound lane’s opening before Christmas.
This achievement translates to increased capacity and upgraded flood resilience, coinciding with a busy time on the roads. The vital importance of building and upgrading roads and infrastructure to support Queensland’s growth remains a top priority for the government.
Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm expressed the relief the Caboolture-Bribie Island Road brings to the multitude of daily commuters on this section of the Bruce Highway. The widening of this portion of the Bruce Highway is aligned with the commitment of the Albanese Government to enhance travel times and road safety on Queensland’s longest and busiest highway.
Member for Caloundra, Jason Hunt, underscored the significance of the additional lanes on the Bruce Highway, particularly in conjunction with the new Bells Creek Arterial Road. He believes that this combined infrastructure investment will significantly expedite travel to Caloundra this summer, providing a notable boost to regional accessibility and tourism.
