HomepageNews Archives - Page 5 of 50

Red-Bellied Black Snake Hitches Ride from Caboolture to Sunshine Coast

A night at the Caboolture rodeo took an unexpected turn for Sunshine Coast resident Mark Emsden when he discovered a two-metre red-bellied black snake clinging to his vehicle’s bonnet as he travelled home along the Bruce Highway.

Emsden spotted the reptile whilst driving at 110 kilometres per hour on the highway. The snake had apparently hitched a ride from Caboolture and crawled along the bonnet before appearing at the windscreen.

“It was a fantastic night but this was definitely unexpected on the way home,” Emsden said, describing how the snake stretched the entire length of the bonnet with its head at the windscreen while its tail remained wrapped over the bull bar.

Despite the shock of seeing a venomous snake on their moving vehicle, Emsden and his passengers were struck by the sight of the reptile’s distinctive bright red belly scales.

In an effort to avoid harming the animal, Emsden reduced his speed to approximately 40 kilometres per hour and maintained this pace for between five and 10 kilometres, hoping the snake would safely depart from the vehicle.

The reptile remained on the bonnet for about five kilometres before the driver was able to pull over at a McDonald’s restaurant. However, by the time the vehicle stopped, the snake had vanished, presumably into the engine bay.

“There’s obviously quite a few little nooks and crannies for it to have got into, but we couldn’t believe such a big snake just disappeared,” Emsden explained.

The family opted to leave the vehicle parked on the street overnight rather than in their garage and conducted further checks the following day, though the snake’s whereabouts remained unknown.

For Emsden’s passengers, who are new residents to the Sunshine Coast, the encounter served as an eye-opening introduction to local wildlife.

Red-bellied black snakes are commonly found throughout eastern Australia and typically inhabit areas near water sources such as rivers, creeks and wetlands. The species generally grows to between 1.5 and 2 metres in length and is distinguished by its glossy black upperparts and characteristic red or pink belly.

While the species is venomous, it is not typically aggressive and usually retreats when approached by humans. According to Australian Geographic, there have been no recorded human fatalities from red-bellied black snake bites in Australia.

Published 26-January-2026

Citizenship Ceremony Welcomes 450 New Australians In Moreton Bay

A citizenship ceremony in the City of Moreton Bay saw 450 residents formally become Australian citizens, representing almost 50 nations.

Citizenship Ceremony Held On Australia Day

The ceremony was held on Australia Day and formed part of local celebrations recognising new Australian citizens across the City of Moreton Bay. The 450 participants came from a wide range of countries, including Montenegro, Venezuela, Rwanda and Nepal.

The event marked a formal milestone for residents who have chosen to make their lives in the region, joining one of the country’s fastest-growing and most diverse urban areas.

Cultural Diversity Across Moreton Bay

The City of Moreton Bay was described as having a significant overseas-born population, with approximately one in five residents born outside Australia. The area was also described as encompassing at least 118 nationalities and more than 88 languages.

This diversity was reflected in the backgrounds of those sworn in, highlighting the broad cultural mix now present across the region.

Countries Of Origin Represented

Information released with the ceremony identified the top five countries of origin for new citizens in Moreton Bay as New Zealand, the United Kingdom, India, the Philippines and Nepal.

New Zealand accounted for the largest number of new citizens, followed by the United Kingdom and India. Smaller but notable numbers were recorded from the Philippines and Nepal.

Moreton Bay citizenship — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Local Areas And Attractions Highlighted

New citizens were encouraged to explore Moreton Bay’s natural and cultural attractions. References were made to the region’s waterways, hinterland areas and beaches, as well as the Moreton Bay Marine Park.

The marine park was described as home to wildlife including humpback whales, dugongs and turtles. Cultural destinations such as art galleries, museums, historical walks and community markets were also highlighted as part of the local experience.

Australia Day Awards

Australia Day awards were also scheduled to be announced in connection with the ceremony, including Citizen of the Year and the Mayor’s Community Spirit Award.

Published 24-Jan-2026

Photo Credit: ChrisWhitingMP/Facebook

Moreton Bay Boy in Glass House Mountains Emergency Acknowledged by QAS

An 11-year-old Moreton Bay boy is being recognised for extraordinary bravery after stepping in to help during a medical emergency on a hiking track in the Glass House Mountains, where his calm actions supported others in a moment that stunned experienced adults.

The incident occurred during a bushwalk in the Glass House Mountains on 12 October 12 2025. Izak was hiking with his father, Karl, when they came across a man who was unconscious on the trail. The man was not part of their group.

Karl contacted Triple Zero (000), while Izak remained with the patient and began CPR, drawing on his Scouts training. Other hikers, including members of the DC Hikers group and a fellow walker named John, arrived shortly after. Those present later described Izak as calm, focused and steady as he helped guide bystanders through chest compressions while waiting for paramedics to arrive.

Despite the efforts of everyone on scene, the man sadly did not survive. Hikers said the man was not alone in his final moments and was surrounded by people who acted quickly and with care.

Recognition from Paramedics

Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics who attended the scene later acknowledged Izak’s actions, saying his confidence and willingness to step forward stood out in a high-pressure situation.

Izak was formally presented with a Certificate of Bravery and a Queensland Ambulance Service teddy bear at Narangba Ambulance Station. His family attended the presentation, which recognised his leadership and composure during the emergency.

Community Praise and Support

Members of the DC Hikers community later shared their reflections, saying Izak’s behaviour showed maturity beyond his years and left a strong impression on everyone present. They also expressed ongoing sympathy for the man who passed away and his family, noting the compassion shown by those who responded on the track and by emergency crews.

The Glass House Mountains are a popular destination for bushwalkers from Moreton Bay and surrounding regions.

Featured Image Credit: QAS/Facebook

Published 16-Jan-2026

What’s Next for Caboolture Warplane Museum’s Precious Collection?

Photo credit: Simon Hoby/Google Maps

As the dust settles on the closure of Caboolture Warplane Museum, questions are emerging about the fate of the precious artefacts, medals, and memorabilia that told three decades of Australia’s aviation history.

Read: End of an Era: Caboolture Warplane Museum Closes Doors After 30 Years

The museum’s collection, which included everything from WWII-era aircraft to personal effects of legendary aviators, will be redistributed to museum partners and historical organisations. But for some community members, concerns linger about whether these items will remain accessible to the public or disappear into storage vaults.

In their closure statement last month, the museum announced that “our collection, memorabilia, and the stories entrusted to us will live on through carefully selected museum partners and historical organisations.” Initial steps are now being taken to fulfill that promise.

Items Finding Their Way to National Institutions

The Australian War Memorial has reportedly expressed interest in acquiring items from the collection, including memorabilia belonging to Leonard Waters. The Waters family has been contacted about where his display items and medals will be relocated, with decisions still being made about the final destination of these historically significant pieces.

The consultation with the Waters family reflects the museum’s commitment to handling these personally and culturally significant items with care and respect, ensuring that families have input into where their loved ones’ legacies will be preserved.

The Story of Len Waters

Caboolture Warplane — RAAF pilot Len Waters (Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons/Waters, Patrick (2005-07-08)

Among the museum’s most significant exhibits was the tribute to Leonard Waters, Queensland’s first Aboriginal fighter pilot and the only Indigenous Australian to serve as a fighter pilot in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II.

According to community discussions following the museum’s closure, Waters’ family has been contacted and a decision will be made regarding where his display items and medals will go. The Australian War Memorial is interested in obtaining his collection, and it appears most likely it will be transferred there.

Among Waters’ honours was the Oorlogsherinneringskruis (Netherlands War Cross). His story at the Caboolture museum introduced many visitors to his groundbreaking achievements as Australia’s first Aboriginal military aviator.

Read: Caboolture Watchhouse Murals Reflect Local Culture

A Collection Built on Volunteers and Donations

The Caboolture Warplane Museum’s collection represented 30 years of volunteer labour, donations, and community support. As a non-government institution, every item was acquired and maintained through the dedication of members who believed in preserving Australia’s aviation heritage for future generations.

The museum’s holdings included iconic aircraft such as the North American T-6 Texan, a Gipsy Moth, and a Huey helicopter, alongside the DC-47 Dakota that once served dignitaries including Sir Winston Churchill and King George VI. Beyond the aircraft, artefacts from WWI, WWII, and the Vietnam era told the human stories behind Australia’s aviation history.

The museum closed on December 19 after its hangar was sold and lease extension options expired, despite a petition by Federal Member for Longman Terry Young to save the institution.

Legacy Takes Flight

While the physical museum has closed, the careful distribution of its collection aims to ensure that the stories it preserved continue to educate and inspire. The museum’s commitment to selecting partners carefully offers hope that Australia’s aviation heritage will remain accessible to future generations.

For families like the Waters family, the transition represents both an ending and a continuation—ensuring that the sacrifices and achievements of their loved ones are preserved in institutions equipped to protect them for decades to come.

Published 15-January-2026

Bribie Island Boaties Warned as Biosecurity Campaign Targets Giant Invasive Oyster

Photo credit: Facebook/Biosecurity Queensland

Boaties launching from Bribie Island and across Moreton Bay are being met with stark biosecurity warnings this summer as authorities ramp up efforts to contain an invasive oyster species that first appeared in local canal systems 18 months ago.

Read: Kangaroo Rescued from Bribie Island Canal After Seven-Hour Ordeal

Large billboards have been erected at boat ramps and marinas throughout the region, urging vessel owners to clean their boats, trailers and fishing gear to prevent the spread of the Suminoe oyster during the peak summer boating season.

Photo credit: Facebook/Biosecurity Queensland

The signage campaign comes as a marine biosecurity alert remains active for waters where the pest has already been detected, including Bribie Island’s canal network, Boggy Creek near Pinkenba, and Kedron Brook in Brisbane.

While no confirmed sightings have been reported in the bay’s southern reaches, biosecurity officials are particularly concerned that increased vessel movements over the summer holidays could carry the species into new locations around Redland and other previously unaffected areas.

Legal Obligations for Boaties

Under the Queensland Biosecurity Act 2014, waterway users face legal obligations to prevent the oyster’s spread. The Suminoe oyster is classified as a biosecurity matter, placing a legal duty on boaties to take reasonable and practical steps to stop its movement between waterways.

The signage rollout is designed to reinforce legal compliance at a time when boat ramps, marinas and anchorages across Moreton Bay are experiencing their busiest period of the year.

Boat hulls, anchors, ropes, fishing equipment and trailers have been identified as the most likely pathways for the oyster to spread, particularly when vessels move between different locations without thorough cleaning between trips.

What is the Suminoe Oyster?

The invasive oyster also known as Suminoe Oyster (Photo credit: Facebook/Biosecurity Queensland)

The Suminoe oyster, scientifically known as Magallana ariakensis and also called the Chinese river oyster, is a large invasive oyster that can grow up to 240mm in length. The species may be difficult to distinguish from native oysters until it reaches maturity.

First detected in Australian waters in June 2023 in the Bribie Island canal system, the oyster has since been confirmed in several waterways including the Brisbane River, Kedron Brook and Boggy Creek. The discoveries prompted a coordinated response from state and federal biosecurity authorities.

The species is illegal to take, consume or use as bait in Queensland. Biosecurity officials warn the oyster can accumulate heavy metals and other pollutants as it filters water, particularly in urban waterways.

Biosecurity Queensland has determined the oyster cannot be eradicated from affected areas and is instead pursuing a containment and monitoring strategy that relies heavily on boatie cooperation and compliance with biosecurity protocols.

Federal Support and Research

The federal government is supporting Queensland’s response through the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, which oversees the National Introduced Marine Pest Information System. CSIRO is conducting genetic sequencing of the Suminoe oyster through the National Biodiversity DNA Library, work designed to improve detection capabilities using environmental DNA surveillance methods.

National guidance on managing invasive marine bivalves has been published by the department in conjunction with the Marine Pest Sectoral Committee. The Consultative Committee on Introduced Marine Pest Emergencies has provided technical advice to Queensland authorities throughout the response.

Federal officials acknowledge that while Queensland has not reported any observed commercial impacts to date, marine pests can have wide-ranging consequences for Australia’s unique marine ecosystems, the blue economy including aquaculture and fisheries, and social amenities.

The department has emphasised that although the full impacts of the Suminoe oyster are not well understood, further spread should be minimised to mitigate potential environmental, economic and social consequences.

Read: Bribie Island Erosion Project Moves Forward with Key Milestone Achieved

What Boaties Should Do

Anyone who spots a suspected Suminoe oyster should report it to Biosecurity Queensland. The agency is asking all waterway users to thoroughly clean boats, trailers and equipment between trips, particularly when moving between different waterways.

With summer in full swing and boat ramps across the region experiencing peak activity, the containment strategy relies on the local boating community taking biosecurity precautions.

Published 14-January-2026

Caboolture Police Officers Transform Family’s Garden After Father’s Life-Changing Accident

Photo credit: Facebook/myPolice Moreton

A simple garden project between a father and son has become a symbol of hope and community spirit in Caboolture, thanks to the extraordinary kindness of local police officers.

Read: PCYC Caboolture ‘After Dark’ Program Celebrates 10,000 Attendances Milestone

When Ayden Ryan and his young son transformed their front yard with plants and fresh mulch following a trip to Bunnings, neither could have imagined the heartbreak that lay ahead. Just months later, in February 2024, a motorcycle accident would change everything for the Caboolture family.

The 34-year-old father of two was riding home from a job interview—elated at landing a position as a realtor—when his motorcycle was hit by a car. The collision left him with severe leg injuries that have fundamentally altered his life. Now reliant on a cane and unable to run or play with his eight-year-old and two-year-old children, Ayden describes losing the sense of life he once had.

But from tragedy emerged a friendship that would help restore the family’s faith in humanity.

Sergeant Amanda Bourne was the first officer to arrive at the accident scene. While Ayden has no memory of that day, Sgt Bourne stayed beside him as paramedics delivered life-saving treatment on the roadway. She also broke the devastating news to Ayden’s wife, Simone.

Sgt Bourne recalled that those first interactions made it clear the Ryans were an exceptionally close family. The connection she felt with them that day sparked a lasting relationship built on genuine care and support.

Six months after the accident, the families met again, and Sgt Bourne has remained a pillar of strength for the Ryans ever since.

In the weeks before Christmas, Sgt Bourne and 11 officers from Caboolture Station decided to give the family an unforgettable gift. The garden that Ayden and his son had once lovingly created together had deteriorated during his recovery—a physical representation of the family’s struggles.

According to the Queensland Police Service Moreton Bay Facebook page, the team spent just over an hour transforming the space with help from a local nursery. They mowed lawns, trimmed edges, replanted flora and spread fresh mulch. The officers also brought Christmas gifts for the family.

Ayden reflected that the garden had become a representation of the family’s state of mind. The restoration has given the family renewed hope heading into the festive season.

For Sgt Bourne, who has served as a police officer for over two decades, the experience was profoundly meaningful. She described it as the most rewarding day of her entire career, calling it a privilege to be part of something so positive.

Read: Caboolture Watchhouse Murals Reflect Local Culture

The gesture exemplifies the deep connections that can form between police and the communities they serve. For Ayden, who admits he’s not someone who readily asks for help, Sgt Bourne has become an unexpected guardian angel during his darkest hours.

As the renovated garden blooms again in their front yard, it stands as a testament to resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of community kindness in Caboolture.

Published 12-January-2026

Caboolture Watchhouse Murals Reflect Local Culture

Publicly visible murals and a sculpture at the Caboolture Watchhouse in Caboolture have transformed the King Street building into a site of cultural storytelling and community learning.

How The Artworks Came To King Street

The Caboolture Watchhouse, located on King Street, became a visual landmark in August 2021 following the completion of large-scale artworks on its exterior walls. The artworks were designed to be viewed from the street and form part of the public environment in Caboolture.

Two murals were installed on opposite sides of the building, complemented by a stainless-steel sculpture positioned along the top of the wall.

King Street Caboolture — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Indigenous Stories Along The Western Wall

The western wall features First Nations artwork created by Indigenous artist James Doyle, who lives locally. The mural incorporates native wildlife and cultural symbols connected to Indigenous lore and shared values within the region.

Imagery includes cranes, black cockatoos, water, vegetation and meeting places, representing stories passed between generations. The artwork was designed to support cultural understanding and identity, with a focus on education and respect across communities.

Caboolture Watchhouse murals — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Working Dogs Honoured In Mural

On the eastern wall, a separate mural depicts five serving police dogs from the Moreton district. The artwork captures the dogs’ individual characteristics and presents them as working partners within the local policing environment.

One of the dogs featured is Police Dog Reaper, known for his focused and reliable working style. Reaper is depicted as “Mr Serious” in the mural, reflecting his reputation during active service.

Moreton region art — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Police Dog Reaper’s Retirement

Police Dog Reaper retired from duty in May 2025 after serving with the Moreton Dog Squad since July 2017. Now aged 10, Reaper concluded a career marked by the successful tracking and detention of offenders, as well as locating missing people.

Although not bred as a police dog, Reaper displayed traits that, with development, led to his long service record. Following his retirement, Reaper remains with his handler and family. Of the dogs featured in the Caboolture Watchhouse mural, his retirement leaves Police Dog Gator as the only one still actively serving.

Karbul-Ture And The Name Caboolture

Mounted above the murals is a stainless-steel carpet snake sculpture titled Karbul-Ture. The name reflects the origin of Caboolture, meaning “home of the carpet snake” in local First Nations language.

The sculpture acknowledges the cultural connection between the area and the carpet snake, a symbol long associated with Caboolture and widely recognised within the local community.

public art Caboolture — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Educational Resource Released In 2022

In July 2022, an additional Indigenous mural and the carpet snake sculpture were formally unveiled during NAIDOC Week. An accompanying educational booklet titled Stories of the Lore and the Law was released later that year.

The publication explains five interconnected stories depicted in the mural and includes language elements from Gubbi Gubbi, Gungarri and Widi. A digital version featuring illustrations and videos was also made available for community and school use.

Outlook

Since their installation, the murals and sculpture at the Caboolture Watchhouse have remained a prominent public feature along King Street. Despite changes to how the building is used, the artworks continue to present local stories, cultural identity and history to the Caboolture community.

Published 6-Jan-2026

Photo Credit: QPS

PCYC Caboolture ‘After Dark’ Program Celebrates 10,000 Attendances Milestone

Photo credit: pcyc.org.au

PCYC Caboolture has reached a significant milestone, recording 10,000 attendances at its After Dark program since launching in 2023. The achievement represents 10,000 occasions where young people have chosen to spend their evenings playing sport, building friendships, and connecting with mentors in a safe, supervised environment.

Read: $17.5M PCYC Caboolture Project Brings Sport And Support Together

The milestone comes as PCYC Caboolture prepares for another major development, with a new facility on King Street set to open early next year. However, the successful After Dark program will continue operating from its current location at Dickson Park, directly across from Morayfield Shopping Centre.

Program manager Sergeant Mark Haestier says the numbers reflect the trust young people have placed in PCYC as a consistent, supportive space. While the program targets 12 to 19-year-olds, it’s not unusual for older participants to drop by simply to maintain connections and stay involved with the community they have built.

They come here for connection, Sgt Haestier notes, emphasising that there’s no typical attendee. The program attracts sporty kids playing touch footy, music lovers, and many young people who haven’t found their place elsewhere but feel they belong at PCYC.

The program has been supported by five Queensland Police Service officers who patrol the shopping precinct and surrounding areas. These officers have developed positive relationships with young people whilst helping to prevent incidents, contributing to what Sgt Haestier describes as a significant cultural and behavioural shift towards positive change.

PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz has commended the program’s success, highlighting how After Dark creates an inclusive space where young people can genuinely belong. The community’s support has been instrumental in making the program what Sgt Haestier calls the most safe space for young people.

About the After Dark Program

After Dark was established in 2023 in direct response to concerns from police and the community regarding youth anti-social behaviour at Morayfield Shopping Centre. Rather than simply moving young people along, the program offers them somewhere constructive to go.

The free, weekly program is designed for young people aged 12 to 18 who may be experiencing some level of disengagement from community, family, or school. It uses sport as a tool to empower participants by improving their physical health and wellbeing, emotional resilience, self-esteem, and confidence.

After Dark operates after hours at PCYC facilities, offering basketball, boxing, touch footy, and six other endorsed sports in a safe, structured peer environment. Young people can participate in activities, make friends, and engage with program mentors under Queensland Police Officer supervision.

The program’s impact extends beyond just providing activities. Since its launch, there has been a significant reduction in incidents at the shopping centre, demonstrating the positive impact of creating opportunities for young people.

The success of After Dark at PCYC Caboolture shows what’s possible when community, police, and youth services work together to create genuine solutions. With consistent program delivery and a commitment to always being there for young people, PCYC has built something that clearly resonates with local youth.

Read: Regional Reset Program Brings New Opportunities for At‑Risk Youth in Caboolture

As PCYC Caboolture moves most of its operations, including youth programs, gymnastics, and a 24/7 gym, to the new King Street facility in the new year, the decision to keep After Dark at Dickson Park reflects the program’s mission. Accessibility matters, and staying close to where young people gather ensures the program can continue serving those who need it most.

Published 31-December-2025

End of an Era: Caboolture Warplane Museum Closes Doors After 30 Years

Did you know that after three decades of preserving Australia’s aviation heritage, the Caboolture Warplane Museum, which until last month was Queensland’s only operational warplane museum, closed a week before Christmas?

Read: Caboolture Students Take Top Honours at Queensland Aerospace Awards

The museum’s final day was on 19 December, giving visitors one last chance to walk through the hangar, hear the stories behind the aircraft, and experience the history shared by dedicated volunteers. Used books from their library and DVDs were also made available for purchase—many of them for the very last time, with all merchandise offered at half price.

In a post-closure message posted on their Facebook page, the museum expressed gratitude to everyone who supported their mission over the years. “Although our doors have now closed, our story does not end,” the museum stated.

“Like the cycle of life—what has been cherished continues to offer new purpose—our collection, memorabilia, and the stories entrusted to us will live on. Through carefully selected museum partners and historical organisations, the artefacts and knowledge we have protected will continue to educate, inspire, and enrich future generations. In this way, the legacy of our museum takes flight once more, carried forward by institutions equipped to share it with the world.”

The museum thanked visitors, volunteers, donors, veterans, families, and friends for ensuring that the achievements, sacrifices, and innovations of those who came before would never be forgotten.

Petition to Save the Museum

Federal Member for Longman Terry Young launched a petition to save the museum after its hangar was sold and the lease extension was set to expire in March 2026.

“Without help the museum could be forced to close its doors forever,” Mr Young warned at the time, calling for community support to preserve this piece of local and national heritage.

The campaign highlighted the museum’s precarious position at Caboolture Airfield, where the privately owned lease had ended. According to a media release from Mr Young’s office, the museum faced the difficult choice of relocating, seeking a short-term extension, or finding alternative premises. The museum was ultimately unable to secure a long-term solution to remain operational.

Three Decades of Aviation History

Since opening its doors in 1995, Caboolture Warplane Museum was envisaged as a living institution where restored warplanes would actually fly, setting it apart from traditional static displays. The museum offered visitors immersive experiences, such as sitting in the pilot’s seat of a Huey helicopter and viewing the DC-47 Dakota that once served dignitaries.

As a non-government museum, it relied on money earned from activities, gate takings, sales, donations, and grants—all derived predominantly through the voluntary labour of its members. As a non-government institution, every dollar earned went directly back into preserving the aircraft and educational programs for future generations.

The museum’s collection included iconic aircraft such as the North American T-6 Texan and Gipsy Moth, alongside a Huey helicopter. One of its prized exhibits was the DC-47 Dakota that once served dignitaries including Sir Winston Churchill and King George VI. Beyond the aircraft, the museum featured displays depicting Australia’s flight heritage, with artefacts from WWI, WWII, and the Vietnam era. The museum also told the stories of legendary figures like Leonard Waters, Queensland’s first Aboriginal fighter pilot.

The museum’s impact on the community was recognised through numerous awards, including Tourism Events Queensland’s Best-of-Experiences 2024 and being named Most Popular Kids Activity in Caboolture for five consecutive years from 2020 to 2024.

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

While the physical museum has closed, its legacy will continue through the careful distribution of its collection to museum partners and historical organisations committed to preserving Australia’s aviation history for future generations.

Published 29-December-2025

Young Morayfield Student Wins Two National Medals in Canberra

A Year 5 student from Morayfield has returned from Canberra with two national medals after competing at the 2025 School Sport Track and Field National Championships.

Read: Caboolture Students Take Top Honours at Queensland Aerospace Awards

Bella Samson, aged 10 and a student at Carmichael College, represented Queensland at the national competition held in late 2025. She finished second in the 10-12 years girls’ discus and third in the shot put, earning silver and bronze medals for Queensland.

Bella began participating in athletics two years ago. Since then, she has won state titles in both the discus and shot put through Little Athletics Queensland.

Photo credit: Facebook/Carmichael College

At the national championships, Bella competed against other top junior athletes from around Australia and achieved podium finishes in her age category. Her performance contributed to Queensland’s team at the event.

Bella’s participation in the national championships followed her results at the Queensland School Sport state titles in Townsville. There, she recorded a discus throw of 35.18 metres, and she won the shot put with a personal best of 10.32 metres on her final attempt.

In addition to her success in throwing events, Bella has also competed in race walking with Deception Bay Little Athletics, winning at the state level in both the 1100-metre and 2-kilometre race walk events.

Earlier in her athletics involvement, Bella won every event she competed in at her school sports carnival. She collected multiple first-place ribbons and the age champion award at that event, which led to her joining Deception Bay Little Athletics.

Read: Sydney Investor Backs Morayfield Growth with $24m Purchase

While training with Deception Bay Little Athletics, Bella was noticed by throwing coaches and invited to join a specialised training squad. She continues to compete in shot put, discus and race walk events.

Bella’s medals at the 2025 national championships represent her first national podium finishes in inter-school competition.

Featured image credit: Facebook/Carmichael College

Published 22-December-2025