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Burpengary East Christmas Lights Display Faces $984 Permit Fee

A popular Christmas lights display in Burpengary East, known online as “Merry Strickland Christmas,” faces a $984 permit fee from the City of Moreton Bay and is now seeking community support to continue this year’s event.

Background and Context

A well-known Burpengary East household has become recognised for creating one of Queensland’s most elaborate Christmas light displays. The setup, featuring thousands of lights and large festive inflatables, has attracted strong community attention both locally and online, with more than 200 million social media views and international coverage.

What began as a family tradition has grown into a major seasonal attraction within the North Harbour estate. The display was paused in 2023 following online abuse but had been planned to return this year in a smaller format.

*Photo Credit: Merry Strickland Christmas/Instagram*

Permit Requirement and Costs

The City of Moreton Bay has advised that a $984 local event permit is required for the display to proceed this season. The permit ensures compliance with local event laws and includes conditions for safety measures such as traffic management.

Complaints in previous years about crowding, traffic delays, and blocked driveways have led to the council applying the same requirements even for this year’s scaled-down version. Similar community events across the region are subject to the same permit and planning processes.

Community Impact and Response

The festive display has been celebrated for bringing people together but has also created logistical challenges due to its popularity. In earlier seasons, traffic congestion reportedly turned short local trips into lengthy delays, with additional complaints about crowd behaviour.

Despite these issues, the organisers say the project remains focused on spreading community spirit and joy during the festive period. They have expressed hope that the display can continue in a safe and sustainable way for both residents and visitors.

Burpengary East Christmas lights — *Photo Credit: Merry Strickland Christmas/Instagram*

Seeking Community and Not-for-Profit Support

In light of the permit cost, the organisers have reached out publicly to local not-for-profit organisations for support. If a registered not-for-profit group assists with the application, the $984 permit fee may be waived under council provisions.

The organisers said they are open to partnerships that would help sustain the display, which has become an anticipated highlight for families across the region. They continue to share progress updates and festive advice through their social media platform, reinforcing their focus on community engagement.

Council’s Position

The City of Moreton Bay confirmed that large-scale community displays require event permits and traffic management plans to ensure public safety. The council acknowledged the popularity of the Burpengary East lights and stated it is working with organisers to manage community impacts while maintaining access for residents.

The council added that previous displays at the same location had caused significant delays and congestion, which led to updated event management requirements for this year.

What Comes Next

The organisers are proceeding with the application process while exploring ways to meet council requirements and reduce costs. Their goal is to ensure the display can return for the 2025 festive season without disrupting the local area.

The City of Moreton Bay has reiterated its support for community celebrations that comply with safety standards and confirmed it will continue working with organisers to achieve a safe and enjoyable outcome.

Published 6-Nov-2025

Photo Credit: Merry Strickland Christmas/Instagram

Elimbah Development: Feedback Sought on Long-Term Future

The rural community of Elimbah has been earmarked to support South East Queensland’s future growth, as the City of Moreton Bay invites residents to share their views on how the 1,500-hectare Elimbah SEQ Development Area should evolve in the coming decades. Locals are being asked what this area means to them, what they value about Elimbah and their aspirations for its future, as planners begin early work on the region’s next growth phase.

The consultation period runs from 3 November to 28 November 2025, giving residents several weeks to provide input while council is still at the early planning stage.

Planning for Elimbah’s Future Growth

The project sits within Queensland’s ShapingSEQ 2023 Regional Plan, which identifies the Elimbah SEQ Development Area for future residential and employment growth. The goal is to build a “well-designed, inclusive and complete community” that balances new neighbourhoods, workplaces, parks and transport improvements while protecting the region’s natural corridors.

Before any development takes place, Council will work with the state through a detailed planning process to ensure essential infrastructure and environmental protections are in place. The community’s feedback will help shape the decisions that guide planning and infrastructure for the area.

Locals Encouraged to Take Part

Residents are encouraged to complete the community survey, which asks what the area means to them, their values and aspirations for Elimbah, and how they want council to consult in future. Locals can also read the project FAQs or arrange a meeting with a planner via yoursay@moretonbay.qld.gov.au.

The City of Moreton Bay states this is the first phase of consultation and that there will be more opportunities for community input as planning continues. Council plans to report back to the community on the results of this consultation and outline the next steps in early 2026.

Featured Image Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Published 6-Nov-2025

Baby’s Progress Supported by New Neonatal Unit in Caboolture

A premature baby has continued to progress after being moved into Caboolture Hospital’s new neonatal unit located near his family home.

Early Arrival and Initial Care

Finley Maximus was born at 29 weeks on 28 July 2025 at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital after his mother, Clare, went into early labour. His early arrival meant he required specialised neonatal support from the outset.

Following his birth, Finley spent more than six weeks receiving respiratory support through CPAP as his lungs developed. After that initial stage, he underwent a further three weeks on high-flow oxygen to help him continue stabilising while receiving care from clinical teams.

premature baby care — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Transfer to Caboolture’s New Facility

Finley was transferred last week to Caboolture Hospital’s new Neonatal Unit (NNU), where he and his parents are now based in rooming-in rooms close to their home. The move marked a significant shift for the family, who had previously been travelling daily between Caboolture and Brisbane.

The transfer occurred soon after 14 October 2025, when Caboolture Hospital officially opened its expanded neonatal unit. The new facility, which is four times larger than the previous one, was designed to support premature and unwell babies with a wider range of specialised care options.

Features of the Upgraded Unit in Caboolture

The expanded space includes three single isolation rooms built to improve infection control and provide privacy for families. A modern procedure room equipped with current technology supports clinical needs, while switchable privacy glass separates high-dependency bays from isolation areas.

The upgrade also includes a dedicated reception and waiting area for families, two rooming-in rooms for step-down care, and areas that promote family-centred care by allowing parents to remain close to their newborns throughout treatment.

Caboolture neonatal unit — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Progress Since the Transfer

Since arriving at Caboolture, Finley has started transitioning off high-flow oxygen and has begun breastfeeding. His parents have described feeding as challenging, and the support available in the new unit has helped them manage this stage more comfortably.

Reduced Strain on the Family

Prior to the transfer, Clare relied on public transport to travel between Caboolture and Brisbane every day due to problems with her car. Work commitments also limited Finley’s father’s ability to visit frequently. Having Finley cared for in Caboolture has eased those pressures, enabling the family to spend more time together while remaining close to home.

Preparing for Home

Finley is expected to be discharged in the coming days, where the family’s dog, Peanut, is waiting to welcome him home.

Published 4-Nov-2025

Photo Credit: Metro North Health

Bribie Island Marks Start of Turtle Nesting Season With Giant Beach Display

More than 300 people gathered on Woorim Beach to form a giant turtle shape, marking the start of Bribie Island’s turtle nesting season and raising awareness about endangered turtles that depend on the island’s dunes.

Organised by the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association (BIEPA), the fourth annual “Giant Turtle” event brought together families, volunteers, local leaders and conservationists to highlight the importance of protecting the nesting grounds of green and loggerhead turtles.

Local Conservation at the Forefront

While Unitywater supported the event through its Healthy and Thriving Community Grants Program, the focus remained on BIEPA’s work to maintain and enhance Bribie Island’s ecosystems. The organisation promotes responsible beach behaviour and carries out endangered species monitoring on the island’s remote northern beaches.

According to BIEPA President Richard Ogden, driving on the beach at night risks disturbing female turtles as they cross to nest, while driving above the high-tide line can damage unidentified nests. Ruts left in soft sand also create hazards for hatchlings trying to reach the sea.

BIEPA encourages drivers to avoid night-time driving and stay below the high-tide line during nesting season. Its volunteers continue to collect data and share information that helps reduce human disturbance and improve outcomes for turtles on Bribie Island.

Tread Lightly on Bribie: Tide Planning Tool for Responsible Beach Driving

One of BIEPA’s key initiatives is Tread Lightly on Bribie, a tide planning tool that helps drivers avoid sensitive times and vulnerable areas on the beach. The tool allows users to plan trips that reduce disturbance to nesting adults and newly emerged hatchlings. It provides tide and planning information to help visitors and residents drive responsibly and avoid soft sand areas where nests are often hidden.

Information associated with the tool emphasises avoiding driving at night and staying off the sand above the high-tide line, where turtles may nest. The Tread Lightly Learn and Protect sections explain how small changes in driving habits can prevent damage to nests and lower the risk of hatchling deaths.

By checking the tool before heading to the beach, drivers can plan their trips to minimise their impact on local wildlife.

Community Commitment to Bribie’s Wildlife

The annual Giant Turtle event not only marks the start of nesting season but also showcases local community involvement in protecting turtle nesting areas. Through public education, volunteer programs and tools like Tread Lightly, BIEPA continues to support marine conservation on Bribie Island.

Joshua Zugajev, Unitywater’s Executive Manager for Strategic Engagement, said the organisation backs community-led environmental programs through its Healthy and Thriving Community Grants initiative. He noted that Bribie Island, an important part of Moreton Bay and Unitywater’s service area, is home to endangered green and loggerhead turtles that depend on its ecosystems.

Unitywater and BIEPA mark beginning of nesting season at Giant Turtle event at Woorim Beach
Photo Credit: Supplied

Through the grant, Unitywater supported BIEPA’s Giant Turtle event, where locals gathered to form a large turtle shape on the beach to raise awareness about nesting season. The funding also helps BIEPA volunteers continue monitoring endangered species on Bribie’s northern beaches and promote more responsible behaviour among beachgoers.

With ongoing community participation, locals are working together to protect the island’s coastal turtle habitats and ensure these endangered species have a safe place to nest for years to come.

Published 4-Nov-2025
Featured Image Photo Credit: BEIPA

Facility Upgrades Support Growing Equestrian Community in Burpengary

Burpengary Pony Club has completed a series of upgrades to its long-standing equestrian venue, improving accessibility and amenities for its large membership and frequent visitors in Burpengary.

Background Of The Burpengary Venue

The Burpengary Pony Club, operating for more than 30 years, supports riders of all ages and skill levels. Its facilities include an indoor arena with lighting, an outdoor sand arena, a competition grass arena and a full cross-country course. The club hosts muster days and activities for beginners through to riders who compete at State and National levels.

*Photo Credit: Queensland Sports and Recreation*

Upgrades Delivered To The Ageing Facility

The club confirmed on 23 October 2025 that several major improvements had been completed. The leaking roof was replaced to prevent structural damage. External doors were added and the internal layout was redesigned to follow universal design principles, providing better access across the venue.

Accessibility upgrades were also introduced for older adults and people with disabilities, supporting the wide range of users who rely on the Burpengary equestrian facilities.

Burpengary Pony Club upgrades — *Photo Credit: Queensland Sports and Recreation*

Expanded Amenities For Members

With around 90 per cent of visitors being women, the club had experienced shortages in female toilets and showers. The layout was redesigned to create additional space for new bathrooms, improving convenience during busy events.

Burpengary equestrian — *Photo Credit: Queensland Sports and Recreation*

High Usage And Community Benefit

Events are held on 45 weekends each year, drawing participants and spectators from across the region. The club promotes a family-friendly environment focused on horsemanship, skill development and mentoring for riders at all levels. The recent upgrades are expected to support this work and strengthen community involvement.

Funding And Support

More than $300,000 was provided through the Minor Infrastructure and Inclusive Facilities Fund, allowing the club to carry out the building and accessibility works.

Community Sentiment

Members have noted improvements in comfort and accessibility, and recent event attendees highlighted the positive impact of the upgraded facilities, particularly the bathrooms.

Looking Ahead

The Burpengary Pony Club hopes the improvements will encourage more Queenslanders of different abilities and accessibility needs to take part in equestrian activities. The club continues to offer opportunities for riders to learn, train and progress in a supportive environment.

Published 3-Nov-2025

Photo Credit: Queensland Sports and Recreation

Caboolture State School Furniture Finds New Life Helping Students Overseas

Caboolture State School has offered it surplus classroom furniture to Rotary Australia’s Repurposing Equipment (RARE) program, giving the items a second life.

Read: AI Writing Program Lifts NAPLAN Results at Caboolture School

When the school had surplus desks and chairs, Business Manager Paula Connolly contacted the Rotary Club of Caboolture to seek a responsible disposal option. Rather than send the furniture to landfill, the school offered it for redistribution through RARE, a volunteer-run initiative that collects and repurposes surplus items for communities in need.

Rotary volunteers collected the school’s donation, and some of the furniture was shipped to the Solomon Islands within a fortnight. Those items will provide desks and chairs for classrooms where children otherwise sit and work on earth floors. Additional furniture from Caboolture State School is being prepared for distribution to other schools and community facilities in developing regions.

Caboolture Rotarian Leon Misfeld said the RARE program relies on community partnerships and on organisations willing to make the extra effort to prepare donations for reuse. The program aims to divert usable goods from landfill and redistribute them to places where they are needed.

School Officer Andrew Elton said the school community was pleased to assist. Staff and students were involved in making the donation available and supporting the collection process. The school’s offer resulted in equipment being readied for shipment to communities beyond the local area.

Rotary Australia’s RARE project is volunteer-based and accepts surplus and redundant equipment from hospitals, educational institutions and businesses. Collected items are sorted, prepared and sent to disadvantaged communities within Australia and overseas. The types of goods handled by the program include school furniture, computers and medical equipment. Each shipment is intended to put usable items to practical use instead of letting them become waste.

Caboolture State School’s participation illustrates one practical way a local organisation can support communities overseas while reducing waste. School leaders noted the value of finding a responsible alternative to disposal and of partnering with local volunteers to achieve that outcome.

Read: Planning Underway for Caboolture West and Burpengary East Schools

As RARE operations continue across Australia, volunteer teams and partner clubs work to identify, process and ship equipment to recipient communities. The project is structured to provide logistical support and to ensure donated items meet standards for reuse where they are sent.

For the classrooms in the Solomon Islands that will receive the first shipment, the delivery supplies furniture that those schools did not previously have. For Caboolture State School, the process demonstrates how repurposing surplus resources can extend their useful life and be of benefit beyond local borders.

Published 3-November-2025

Beachmere Property Market Snapshot

134 Bishop Road

3 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom. Property features are large living areas, with plenty of storage throughout. It also comes with an undercover parking for up to three cars and established easy-care gardens.

19 Trevor Street

3 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom. This renovated Queenslander includes a wrap-around verandah for enjoying the sunrise and sunset, double carport, combined kitchen/dining area complete with modern appliances.

3 Sandpiper Street

3 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom. Renovated with a coastal styling, this Beachmere property features a stunning new kitchen, large undercover entertaining area, fire pit area for relaxed evenings, and expansive rear backyard.

6-8 Bishop Road

4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms. This coastal home is located on a rare double block, just moments from the waterfront. It has a double car garage, covered outdoor entertaining area, and spacious open-plan kitchen.

10 Dorunda Avenue

4 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom. A walk to Beachmere foreshore, this property features a side access with a room for boat/caravan. Listing says property is fully fenced with a kitchen with plenty of storage, two living rooms, and a modern bathroom.

14 Apollo Crescent

4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms. One of the highlights is the stunning lake views, offering a piece of paradise in Beachmore. The property comes with a double garage, modern appliances, open-plan kitchen, and an ensuite with spa bath and shower cubicle.

35 Kunde Street

4 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms. A short walk from the lake and beachfront, this newly renovated home has airconditioning, private fencing, upgraded roof, expansive downstairs rumpus, and a generous block with side access.

7 Intrepid Court

3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms. Overlooking Moreton and Bribie Islands, the property features a main bedroom with ensuite, main bathroom walkthrough with separate toilet and powder room, large modern kitchen, and a separate lounge room.

79 Biggs Avenue

3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms. This waterfront property includes multiple living areas, large laundry, lawn areas, established plants and trees, security screens, double carport, and security alarm system.

68 Coronation Avenue

3 Bedrooms, 1 Bathroom. Just 200 metres to the foreshore, this property comes with a separate living room, open plan kitchen & dining room, bathroom featuring shower and bath, separate toilet, and air conditioning in the living area.

In Beachmere, recent property sales show how competitive and varied the market has become. Three-bedroom homes have sold between $765,000 and $1.6 million, while four-bedroom homes have ranged from $795,000 to $1.2 million. These figures reflect how property size, location, and features—paired with strong marketing strategies and skilled negotiation—can make a major difference in sale outcomes, especially when multiple offers are generated.

Published 3-November-2025

‘Half Are Homeless’: New Caboolture Health Hub Reveals Depth of Local Need

Hundreds of women and girls in Caboolture, particularly those facing homelessness or domestic violence, are finding a safe space and free medical care at the newly operating Wellspring Health Hub.

A Focus on Critical Need

The Wellspring Women and Girls Health Hub has quickly shown the high level of need in the region. In its first few months of operation, the service has assisted more than 450 local women. The figures highlight the serious challenges many are facing, with 49 per cent of these women experiencing homelessness and 40 per cent having experienced domestic and family violence.

Furthermore, 36 per cent of the clients identified as First Nations, and 11 per cent were in contact with the justice system. The hub, operated by Micah Projects and supported by $8.94 million in government funding, is one of two pilot integrated health centres in the state.

What the Hub Provides

The centre offers a holistic and flexible approach to wellbeing, prioritising a non-judgemental and confidential environment. Women can walk in without an appointment to receive a wide range of free services. This includes general medical care, minor injury treatment, health screenings, and immunisations.

The hub also provides specialised care covering maternal, sexual, and reproductive health, gynaecological services, and support for women from preconception through to pregnancy. Crucially, it offers direct support for those dealing with chronic pain, domestic violence, or being at risk of homelessness.

More Than Medical Care

The hub is staffed by a multidisciplinary team, including nurse practitioners, registered nurses, health workers, and visiting specialists. This team helps women navigate the healthcare system and connect with social supports. To foster a sense of community, the centre also holds a free Community Lunch for all.

This weekly event provides a welcoming space for people to connect and support one another. The hub works in partnership with other local organisations, including True Relationships and Reproductive Health, Respect Inc., and Women’s Health and Equality Queensland, to provide comprehensive, wraparound care.

How to Access Support

Support is available without a referral or appointment, though bookings can be made. The hub is located at Level 1, 23–25 George Street, Caboolture, with free parking and public transport nearby. It is open Monday from 8 am to 7 pm, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 am to 5 pm, and Thursday from 8 am to 3 pm. The community lunch is held every Wednesday from 11.30 am to 1 pm.

Published Date 31-October-2025

Caboolture Pool And Fitness Centre Sparks Community Support For Locals In Need

Caboolture Pool and Fitness Centre has become a drop-off point for urgent community aid, collecting blankets, toiletries and non-perishable food to support local residents facing financial hardship.

Community Response Grows Quickly

The donation drive began in October and grew faster than expected as members and visiting families quickly filled multiple vehicle loads with supplies. Staff delivered donations to Caboolture Community Action, Caboolture Living Hope Church and Moreton Bay Community Matters.

*Photo Credit: Caboolture Pool and Fitness Centre*

The drive started with basic essentials, but the response far exceeded plans, with donations arriving within days, including a young boy giving an unopened prize toy. Caboolture Community Action is volunteer-run and not government funded, while Moreton Bay Community Matters prepares free food hampers for more than 50 families each week. All three groups said demand remains high and more supplies are still needed.

Local Organisations Receive Vital Support

Staff said the priority was to direct donations to groups that had immediate access to residents in crisis. All three recipient organisations assist locals dealing with food insecurity, family hardship or housing instability.

Donations are still being accepted at Caboolture Pool and Fitness Centre. Staff have seen firsthand how many families rely on local networks to get through unexpected financial stress.

Youth Engagement A Growing Focus

In addition to the donation effort, Access and Inclusion Coordinator Toni Miller represented Belgravia Leisure’s Moreton Bay venues at the recent Youth Job Meet. Her focus was on connecting disadvantaged young people to employment pathways in sport, recreation and fitness facilities.

Venue representatives said youth engagement and social inclusion are now ongoing priorities, alongside frontline community support.

Ongoing Commitment From The Venue

Caboolture Pool and Fitness Centre confirmed that its role goes beyond health and recreation, aiming to stay closely involved with community needs. Staff said that local partnerships will continue to grow, and they are already considering future projects with nearby aid networks.

The collection drive remains open, and residents are encouraged to drop off essential items during the centre’s opening hours.

Published 28-October-2025

Caboolture Choir Searches for New Leader to Guide 30-Year Legacy

Fresh from a string of successful “booked out” concerts, the Caboolture Community Choir is now launching an important search for a permanent musical director to lead the group into its next chapter.

A Community Staple in Transition

caboolture choir — *Photo Credit:* *Caboolture Community Choir/ Facebook*

The choir is currently being guided by acting musical director June Willoughby. A dedicated and long-serving member, Ms Willoughby has been with the choir since its beginning in 1995 and brings a wide knowledge of music to the role. While the choir is grateful for her leadership, the group is actively seeking a permanent director to fill the position and continue its traditions.

The choir prides itself on being a true community group. It has no political or religious affiliations and operates as a non-competitive organisation, inviting any resident over the age of 18 who simply likes to sing.

Active in the Community

Despite the leadership search, the choir remains a busy and active part of the Caboolture community. The group already has ten bookings for performances at local aged care homes, shopping centres, and various civic functions. It performs regularly for public events and is also available to sing for private organisations in exchange for a small donation.

Two special concerts recently highlighted this community focus. The choir staged a free 30th Anniversary Concert and afternoon tea to raise public awareness, which was fully booked. It also held a joint “Back to ’50s” concert with the Bribe Gallery Singers, raising over $1200 for Rural Aid.

How to Get Involved

The group performs a wide variety of music, including contemporary songs, show tunes, movie themes, jazz, spirituals, and familiar Australian songs.

The Caboolture Community Choir is encouraging anyone interested in the musical director position to apply. It is also extending an open invitation for new singers to join its ranks. More information for both applicants and new members can be found on the choir’s Facebook page or its official website.

Published Date 29-October-2025