Caboolture Archives - Page 9 of 12

Caboolture-Bribie Island Road Upgrade Nears Completion

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.

Bruce Highway Caboolture-Bribie Island Road — 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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

Caboolture’s Cultural Milestone: Abbey Museum Undergoes Major Expansion

A new art gallery and cafe will soon be added to the Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology in Caboolture, part of a $1.7-million expansion project that aims to elevate the museum’s status as a cultural hub in the region.

The upcoming Abbey Art Gallery and Museum Cafe is designed to showcase pivotal artworks, some unseen before, including Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces. A highlight of this collection includes artworks dating back to the 1400s, featuring pieces from Rubens and a fresco fragment from Milan Cathedral.

Plans for the museum — Photo Credit: Abbey Museum

Edith Cuffe, the Chair of the Abbey Museum Board, anticipates that this extension will attract an additional 7,000 visitors in its first year, thus enhancing the museum’s appeal and offering a unique blend of historical and contemporary experiences.

Abbey Museum Cafe — Photo Credit: Abbey Museum

Enhancing the Abbey Medieval Festival Experience

In addition to the art gallery and cafe, the project includes a $400,000 allocation for infrastructure improvements.

This is particularly significant for the Abbey Medieval Festival, the southern hemisphere’s largest celebration of medieval Europe, which annually attracts over 20,000 visitors.

The festival’s growth and development are expected to benefit immensely from these upgrades, which may include grandstand-style seating, lighting, and a power network.

Community and Economic Impacts

Abbey Museum render — Photo Credit: Abbey Museum

Known for its rich collection spanning from the medieval to the Renaissance periods, the museum is the beneficiary of funds from a $2.1-million commitment from the State that aims to elevate the museum’s status as a cultural hub in the Moreton Bay Region.

The project is expected to be an economic catalyst for the region. MP for Pumicestone Ali King highlighted the Abbey’s iconic status and its role in attracting families, school groups, and medieval enthusiasts.

This development is seen as a critical step in boosting tourism, creating construction jobs, and supporting local businesses, thereby strengthening Caboolture’s identity as a prominent destination.

The art gallery and cafe, along with the enhanced festival infrastructure, are anticipated to be completed by June 2024. This ambitious project marks a significant milestone for the Abbey Museum and Caboolture, setting the stage for a bright future filled with cultural richness and historical depth.

Published 14-Nov-2023

Caboolture Feasts and Beats Returns to James St Precinct for a Vibrant Evening

The vibrant suburb of Caboolture is gearing up to host the much-anticipated Caboolture Feasts and Beats event, set to transform the James St Precinct into a lively hub and it’s free for all ages!

Happening Saturday, 4 Nov 2023, this annual extravaganza promises a feast for the senses, featuring delicious food, live entertainment, and a family-friendly atmosphere that’s free for all to enjoy.

A Musical Extravaganza

This year’s Caboolture Feasts and Beats boasts an impressive line-up of local musicians set to grace the Ray White Wamuran Main Stage.

The musical journey begins at 4:30 p.m. with the soulful tunes of Tayiha, followed by the mesmerising melodies of Ander Harlem at 5:45 p.m., and concluding with the rhythmic beats of J-Funk at 7:00 p.m.

These talented artists promise to keep the crowd entertained with their unique sounds.

A Culinary Delight

One of the highlights of this event is the array of food trucks, offering a diverse range of cuisines to tantalize your taste buds.

From delicious plant-based burgers by GrassfedVegan, to tasty Brazilian BBQ by Brazzo Boys, flavorsome lemonade by Lightbulb Lemonade, and yummy soft-serve by Ice Cream 4 Me, make sure to check out the delicious food and drink options available at the event. Whether you’re craving international flavours, classic comfort food, or gourmet treats, there will be a meal to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

It’s the perfect opportunity to explore a world of culinary delights right in the heart of Caboolture.

Fun for All Ages

Caboolture Feasts and Beats is designed to be a family-friendly event, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. For the little ones, there’s free face painting to bring out their creativity and imagination, making it a memorable experience for the entire family.

This event is made possible through the support of various strategic sponsors and organisations:

City of Moreton Bay
Ray White Wamuran
Moreton Alert
Ausbuild
UniSC
Brisbane Whale Watching
Village Motors
Pacific Harbour Golf and Country Club
Richardson & Wrench Caboolture

It’s a celebration that promises to unite the community and create lasting memories for all who attend.

Published 31-Oct-2023

Caboolture Hospital Multi-Storey Car Park Opens With a Two-Week Free Parking Period

Caboolture Hospital is all set to unveil its eagerly awaited six-level multi-storey car park, known as P2. This launch heralds a significant improvement in parking accessibility for patients, visitors, and staff, boasting around 1000 parking spaces, complete with designated accessible parking, motorcycle bays, and electric vehicle charging stations.

Enhancing Access at Caboolture Hospital

On Monday, 16 Oct 2023, the car park gates will open promptly at 6:00 a.m. and will provide a two-week free parking period, allowing everyone to familiarise themselves with the new multi-storey car park. The introduction of this car park brings the total number of parking spaces on the Caboolture Hospital campus to approximately 1,500, ensuring improved access for all.

However, paid parking at Caboolture Hospital will commence on Monday, 30 Oct 2023. The cost of parking will vary, ranging from $3 for one hour to a maximum daily rate capped at $13. It’s essential to note that patient drop-off and pick-up zones at the hospital will remain free of charge.

The Caboolture Hospital multi-storey car park is owned and operated by Metro North Health, ensuring that all revenue collected from parking rates will be reinvested into the hospital for capital repayments, operations, maintenance, and further enhancements. The goal is to facilitate cost recovery, and the hospital does not intend to generate profits from parking fees.

To support individuals experiencing financial hardship, frequent hospital visits, extended stays, or other special circumstances, a concession program will provide discounted parking rates.

A Part of the Caboolture Hospital Redevelopment

The multi-storey car park is a significant milestone in the Caboolture Hospital Redevelopment project, aimed at increasing capacity with an additional 130 beds and enhancing the hospital’s ability to provide specialized care and high-level services tailored to the local community’s health needs.

Navigating Parking at Caboolture Hospital

Access to P2 is available from both McKean Street and the All Weather Access Road. When entering the hospital campus, follow the clearly marked signs directing you to P2. Several car parking options are available for patients and visitors:

P1: Temporary drop-off zone for the Emergency Department and the Main Hospital.

P2: Best access for the Emergency Department and Caboolture Hospital Main Entry.

P3: Ideal for Outpatient Services appointments.

P8: Convenient for Community and Oral Health and Mental Health services.

P9: Designed for drop-off, pick-up, and accessible parking for Mental Health services.

Convenient Payment Options

Starting 30 October, visitors will need to press for a paper ticket upon entering the car park, which will raise the entry boom gate. Payment for parking is required upon exit and can be done at the pay stations, where you can pay with either cash or credit/debit card. At the exit gate, credit/debit card payments are accepted, while cash payments will not be available.

Pay stations are strategically located in the multi-storey car park (P2) and near the Main Hospital, Outpatient Services, Community and Oral Health, and Mental Health buildings. This approach is expected to streamline the parking experience for all visitors to Caboolture Hospital.

Published 13-Oct-2023

Petersen Road Sports Ground and Rob Akers Reserve Upgrades: How Moreton Bay Leads the Way for Women in Sport

Following the opening of the Petersen Road Sports Ground in Caboolture last July, the Rob Akers Reserve has also been upgraded. The Pine Rivers Swans Australian Football Club unveiled a $3.1-million upgrade at the reserve, a move that will hopefully increase women’s participation in the sport, particularly in light of the success of the Matildas on the international stage.

Read: Local Boxer and ‘Hunted Australia’ Contestant Taylah Robertson to Fight Back-to-Back Matches

Supporting women in sport

In a move that local officials said will bring “… a 50-year-old club into the 21st century,” the upgrades at Rob Akers Reserve, which include a new clubhouse and change rooms, have been made possible thanks to joint funding from the council, the State Government and AFL Queensland.

“We want to be able to give everyone a go, no matter what your ability or background, and we’re doing that by providing the best possible community sports facilities for our residents to enjoy,” Mayor Peter Flannery said.

Mr Flannery highlighted the Council’s commitment to supporting women’s sport, noting that Moreton Bay has been delivering vital infrastructure to support women’s sports for year.

He noted that the city has opened nine sports facilities with unisex changing facilities in the last 18 months. This includes hosting the 2022 NRLW Grand Final and building a new home for the Brisbane Roar Women.

Petersen Road Sports Ground launched in July

Together with the Caboolture Sports Club, Council also provided support for a $6.4-million upgrade of Petersen Road Sports Ground in the second quarter of 2023.

The new clubhouse, tiered seating and viewing decks will benefit the nearly 2,000 local players who use the ground.

Sports Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the upgrade would encourage more women and girls to play rugby and touch football.

“Right now, Queensland is witnessing phenomenal growth in the number of females getting involved in sport, including traditionally male-dominated codes.”

Read: Long Wait Times and Staffing Concerns Plague Caboolture Satellite Hospital

The upgrades will provide modern, inclusive facilities to support the region’s growing demand for sporting participation. Taken together, the new facilities represent a major boost for women’s sport in Moreton Bay.

“We want to see more Queenslanders staying active and healthy as part of a lasting community sport legacy from the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he said.

Published 30 August 2023

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Local Boxer and ‘Hunted Australia’ Contestant Taylah Robertson to Fight Back-to-Back Matches

St Columban’s College graduate Taylah Robertson, 25, is preparing for her next fight on the undercard of the IBO World Cruiserweight title fight between Floyd Masson and Yves Ngabu. Robertson, an orthodox fighter standing at 164cm, will take on Harma Yesti in a super flyweight bout. The fight follows her recent appearance on reality show Hunted Australia, where she went into hiding with Glenn Azar but was eventually captured.

Read: Local Boxer Ben Hussain Beats Koen Mazoudier in Thrilling ‘Fight of the Year’ Contest

Taylah Robertson, bronze medallist

Robertson is no stranger to high-profile matches. In 2018, she represented Australia at the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast. Though she lost her lone bout to England’s Lisa Whiteside, a series of events led to Robertson claiming the bronze. With only seven entrants, Robertson received a first-round bye due to random selection. After her semi-final defeat, she still earned a bronze thanks to the rule awarding medals to both losing semi-finalists.

With a professional record of 8-1-0, including 2 KOs and 6 unanimous decision wins, Robertson will be looking to please her fans with a yet another decisive victory over Yesti.

Reality show appearance precedes back-to-back fights

Boxer duo Taylah Robertson and Glenn Azar. Photo Credit: Instagram/Taylah Robertson

Robertson recently appeared as a contestant on Hunted Australia, a reality show in which fugitives have to evade expert hunters for 21 days. She teamed up with fellow boxer and military veteran Glenn Azar to test their survival skills against the hunters.

The duo used clever tactics such as planting decoy bags and swapping getaway vehicles to stay off the radar. But Azar’s friend Luke, an ex-Special Forces soldier nicknamed ‘Blue’, eventually tracked them down and eliminated them from the competition on Day 6.

Just over a month after this experience, Robertson is thrust back into competition with two fights booked a month apart.

On September 9, she takes on Harma Yesti on the undercard of the IBO Cruiserweight World Title match. Then, incredibly, Robertson has another fight lined up on October 7.

Read: Long Wait Times and Staffing Concerns Plague Caboolture Satellite Hospital

Prior to this busy schedule, Robertson had not fought since March when she took on Mexican Jaqueline Mucio Munoz, meaning she had been out of the ring for over 5 months. The back-to-back fights will test the 25-year-old’s conditioning and stamina.

With only a few weeks to recover and train between fights, Robertson will need to be at her best to take two wins and prove that her stint on the reality show has only sharpened her skills.

Published 26 August 2023

Photo Credit: Instagram/Taylah Robertson