Nautipunk: A Unique Fusion Unveiled in Bellmere

Nautipunk, the brainchild of visionary Brian Schist, has recently opened its doors in Bellmere, offering an enchanting fusion of creativity and craftsmanship that promises to captivate imaginations.



Brian Schist, the owner of Nautipunk, was sparked by a desire to explore new horizons, driven by a unique circumstance—a disability that prompted him to seek alternative avenues for self-expression. Approximately two years ago, he embarked on the fascinating pursuit of crafting steampunk hats. Over this relatively short period, Brian’s creative endeavour has flourished, resulting in the birth of more than 700 distinctive steampunk hats, each a testament to his dedication and ingenuity.

A Flourishing Passion: From Creation to Commerce

What initially began as a personal activity soon evolved into a flourishing business after his unique creations found homes with enthusiasts and collectors. So, Brian found himself contemplating new horizons. It was this spirit of innovation and the quest for the unconventional that led him to the world of steampunk costumes, masquerade masks, and accessories.

The decision to introduce these elements into Nautipunk’s repertoire was driven by the belief that this creative fusion would bring something entirely novel to the Bellmere community.

Nautipunk Brian
Photo Credit: Nautipunk/Facebook

A Place of Astonishment: Nautipunk Unveiled

When you step into the realm of Nautipunk, you will be greeted by a treasure trove of curiosities and wonders that beckon the soul of the explorer. 

Every visitor has been utterly astounded by the diverse range of items that grace our shelves. Whether you are an avid collector, an aficionado of steampunk aesthetics, or simply curious about the unique amalgamation of nautical and industrial elements, Nautipunk is a place where your curiosity will find its well-deserved satisfaction.

This is a world where the whimsical meets the practical, and the ordinary gives way to the extraordinary.

The Visionaries Behind Nautipunk: A Tale of Love and Creativity

Helping out Brian is Didry, his wife. Hailing from the Philippines, she not only ran a thriving online chocolate business but also managed a successful internet café overseas. Her entrepreneurial spirit and global exposure prepared her for the challenges of the business world. 

Nautipunk Bellmere
Photo Credit: Nautipunk/Facebook


After exploring the world, Didry’s path intersected with Brian’s, and their shared dreams led them to Australia, where they united in marriage. Brian, on the other hand, had an early fascination with craftsmanship. As a child, he was captivated by his great-grandfather’s artistry in whittling plum tree branches into exquisite walking sticks. 

However, it was the unique circumstances of COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions that prompted Brian to embark on new creative pursuits. Starting with hat decoration and assisting Didry in her online business, his journey ultimately led to the establishment of Nautipunk.



Nautipunk invites you to explore this unique blend of steampunk aesthetics and maritime allure. It is a place where the past and future converge, where creativity knows no bounds, and where Bellmere’s cultural tapestry is enriched by the vision and talent of its newest establishment.

Follow them on Facebook

Fake Physiotherapist Gets Six-Year Sentence for Fraud and Money Laundering

A man who pretended to be a physiotherapist, Carlos Adelino Henrique Ferreira, 59, has also been handed a six-year sentence for orchestrating a complex scheme involving a staggering $400,000 involving fraud and money laundering.

His actions, revealed in a Brisbane court, unveiled a meticulous plan to manipulate cash systems during his four-year tenure as a manager at a BP station in Brisbane’s BP Milton. During this time, Ferreira directed staff to sidestep reconciling tills, disregarding established company protocols.



Instead, he opted to avoid securing money in the designated safe, instructing employees to deposit funds into a secondary safe accessible only by him and another manager. False reports were fabricated to camouflage the unaccounted funds and portray a misleading sense of balance in the tills.

Aside from the station fraud, Ferreira engaged in a separate deceitful practice, deliberately recording lower sales amounts for cigarette transactions, pocketing over $10,000. These ill-gotten gains found their way into his personal bank accounts via an ATM near the service station.

Laundering nearly $200,000 over five years, Ferreira’s scheme included siphoning funds from the Brisbane Athletic Football Club, where he held the position of president. The discovery of discrepancies in the service station’s financial records occurred during Ferreira’s absence on leave, leading to his subsequent arrest.

Shockingly, investigations uncovered that he falsely presented himself as a qualified physiotherapist, attempting to secure a lease at a Burpengary health clinic and promoting services online using fraudulent documents. Thankfully, authorities intervened before any patient consultations took place.

Ferreira’s tumultuous past, fleeing Portugal with his family at 18, was cited as a contributing factor to his actions. Personal hardships, including the breakdown of his marriage and financial strain, compounded his difficulties.



Despite lacking a criminal history before his arrest, the judge expressed doubt about Ferreira’s prospects for rehabilitation, given the gravity of his actions and breach of trust. Judge Jennifer Rosengren handed down a stern sentence of six years in prison, with parole eligibility in September 2025, following a minimum of 20 months served.

Published 21-December-2023

Plans Lodged for 88-Place Childcare Centre Behind Burpengary Meadows State School

A new childcare centre has been proposed for 364 Hauton Road in Burpengary, directly behind Burpengary Meadows State School.


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


Plans were recently lodged for the one-storey, 88-place centre which has been designed by ON Architecture. If given the green light, it would be the fourth childcare facility surrounding the primary school.

The proposed centre on the currently vacant land would feature five activity rooms, a large outdoor play area, amenities, staff facilities, and parking for up to 29 cars. 

Photo credit: ON Architecture

It would operate weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., caring for children aged 0-5 years. Specifically, there would be spaces for 24 children aged 0-2 years, 20 aged 2-3 years, and 44 aged 3-5 years. A total of 14 staff would be employed to care for the children.

Site (Photo credit: ON Architecture)

According to documents filed by Place Design Group on behalf of the applicant, the childcare centre would provide an essential service for local parents, caregivers, and those who live, work or study nearby. They argue it would support both the adjoining Burpengary Meadows State School community, as well as the surrounding residential area which is experiencing ongoing population growth.

Photo credit: ON Architecture

The proposed centre’s five activity rooms are designed to cater to the needs of different age groups. Its large outdoor play area also aims to complement the learning spaces to facilitate age-appropriate games and activities. Meanwhile, the car parking area accounts for accessibility to and from the centre throughout the busy weekday.

Planners view the addition of a fourth childcare centre in the area as a positive thing though, as it would provide an accessible service to meet the needs of families in the continuously developing community. 


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


With the school benefiting from having childcare close by too, the centre is considered essential to support parents, children, and education in the Burpengary locality.

Featured Image credit: ON Architecture

Published 19-December-2023 

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

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


Read: New Development in Caboolture: A Modern Motel Experience


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

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

Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook

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

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

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

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

population growth
First development in Waraba (Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook)

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

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


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


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

Featured image credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council

Published 18-December-2023

New Development in Caboolture: A Modern Motel Experience

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



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

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

Caboolture
Photo Credit: DA 2023/4681

Accessibility and Outdoor Leisure

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

Caboolture
Photo Credit: DA 2023/4681

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

Caboolture
Photo Credit: DA 2023/4681

Convenient Location and Services

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

Caboolture
Photo Credit: DA 2023/4681

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



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

Published 12-Dec-2023

Caboolture Community Rallies After Theft at Charity Drive

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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



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

Join the Kegel Queensland Open 2024 at Caboolture Bowl

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

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

Kegel Queensland Open 2024 tournament conditions

Kegel Queensland Open 2024
Photo Credit: Facebook/Kegel Qld Open

Entry details:

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

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

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

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

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

Book your place here.

Published 23-November-2023

Featured Image Photo Credit: Tenpin Bowling Australia

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

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

Read: Caboolture Man Implicated in Queensland Cemetery Vandalism

Coaching beyond the sport

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

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

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

Zeke Field, a passionate coach

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

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

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

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

Published 20 November 2023

Featured Image Photo Credit: QRL

Caboolture Christmas Carols To Bring Festive Joy At Centenary Lakes

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



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

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

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

Photo Credit: Facebook / Christmas City of Moreton Bay

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

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

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

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

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



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

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

Published 16-November-2023

Caboolture Man Implicated in Queensland Cemetery Vandalism

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



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

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

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

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



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

Published 16-Nov-2023