The Caboolture Crime Stoppers is inviting the local community to help turn a plain shipping container, located at the back of the Caboolture Police Station, into a captivating piece of public art.
Previously used only for storage, the container will symbolise unity and creativity in the Moreton Bay area.
The shipping container measures 5.9 meters in length and 2.39 meters in height. Those interested in contributing their artistic vision to this project can submit their designs via email to Moreton.media@police.qld.gov.au, with entries closing on 5 May 2024.
Photo Credit: Caboolture Police
Residents of the Moreton Police District are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild and submit mural designs. The focus is on the side of the container facing the new Caboolture PCYC, which is currently under construction.
The winning design, chosen by a panel of judges, will earn its creator recognition and bragging rights and prizes.
Bunnings Caboolture and Dulux will contribute to this communal project by providing the necessary materials to bring the winning mural to life. This gesture underscores the community spirit and the collaborative effort to enhance the local landscape.
The mural’s theme, “Making our community safer,” reflects the aspirations of the Caboolture community. Participants are encouraged to draw inspiration from the PCYC ethos and its commitment to building safer, healthier communities. Additionally, the roles of Crime Stoppers in crime prevention and community safety are suggested as potential sources of inspiration.
A man was sentenced to six years in prison for reckless driving that resulted in a catastrophic collision with a police van in Caboolture, severely injuring three officers and underscoring the perilous risks law enforcement faces alongside the dire outcomes of hazardous driving behaviours.
On March 18, 2024, David James Nichols, a 30-year-old driver, was sentenced to six years in prison by DC Judge Ian Dearden in Brisbane District Court. Nichols pleaded guilty to several charges, including dangerous driving that caused grievous bodily harm.
His history of assaulting authority figures and his actions leading up to the collision painted a troubling picture of his disregard for law and order.
On the afternoon of 12 March 2022, the tranquillity of a residential area in Caboolture was shattered when Mr Nichols, driving a ute at alarming speeds, collided head-on with a police van. The dashcam footage, capturing this harrowing moment, depicted Nichols’s vehicle hurtling down the wrong side of the road, showing no signs of braking or attempting to avoid the impending disaster.
The Aftermath: Injuries and Consequences
The collision left a male officer trapped within the wreckage for an excruciating thirty minutes, subsequently spending weeks in intensive care. He sustained kidney damage and extensive injuries to his limbs.
A female officer sustained sternum injuries, whilst another male officer was left with a concussion and facial wounds. These injuries had physical ramifications and deeply affected their personal and professional lives.
Mr Nichols himself did not emerge unscathed; he also suffered grievous injuries from the crash, now facing a lifetime reminder of his actions through the constant use of crutches or a wheelchair. His defence barrister, Colin Reid, highlighted Nichols’ remorse and the unwavering support of his family, noting Nichols’ heartfelt apology to the victims during his court appearance, expressing a wish to undo his reckless actions.
The Bigger Picture: Safety and Respect for Authority
As Mr Nichols serves his sentence, he will be eligible for parole in July 2025. This case has had a profound impact on the victims, their families, and the wider community. It serves as a stark reminder of the risks that police officers face and the dire consequences of dangerous driving.
The incident highlights the need for respect towards those in authority and the critical importance of adhering to traffic laws to ensure the safety of all members of the community.
A concerning incident involving a white 2015 Holden Colorado travelling southbound on the Bruce Highway from Gympie to Caboolture, with a 4-year-old girl seated in the rear passenger seat, has the Queensland Police asking for the public’s help.
Near the on-ramp from the Sunshine Motorway at Sippy Downs, the driver of the Colorado encountered a light workman’s truck carrying concreting equipment in the right lane, including a wheelbarrow and cement mixer.
Attempting to merge into the right lane, the Colorado driver signalled his intentions to the truck driver. However, upon merging, the truck allegedly collided with the rear end of the Colorado, forcing the driver back into the left lane to avoid further danger.
The situation escalated when the truck driver purportedly accelerated and cut off the Colorado, preventing them from passing. Subsequently, the Colorado driver decided to pull over into what he believed was an emergency stopping bay north of the Palmview exit just before reaching Caloundra. The truck followed suit, pulling over in front of them.
Photo Credit: QPS
The truck driver reportedly brandished weapons and vandalised the Colorado, damaging the headlights and bonnet, and subsequently shattering the rear passenger window where the driver’s daughter was seated.
Authorities urge anyone with information or who may have witnessed the incident to come forward. Whether you spotted the vehicles involved or possess dash cam footage, your assistance is invaluable in resolving this matter.
Please contact Policelink on 131 444 if you can provide any details. Any information, no matter how small, could prove crucial.
To report information anonymously, you can also contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated in helping ensure the safety of our community.
Did you know that the Community Recovery Hub have in Caboolture is ready to support residents impacted by Tropical Cyclone Kirrily through various personal hardship assistance grants?
The Caboolture Community Recovery Hub is operating out of the Caboolture Neighbourhood Centre at 9 George Street. The hub is open weekday afternoons on Monday to Wednesday from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM, and on Thursdays and Fridays from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
The hubs offer face-to-face emotional support, assistance applying for grants, and referrals to other organisations.
Grants for residents affected by of Cyclone Kirrily
A number of personal hardship assistance grants are available to Caboolture residents affected by Cyclone Kirrily.
The Emergency Hardship Assistance grant provides up to $900 per family for immediate essential needs like food, clothing, or medical supplies.
The Essential Services Hardship Assistance grant offers up to $750 per family to help with urgent needs after losing essential home services for over 5 days.
The Essential Household Contents Grant provides up to $5,300 to replace destroyed essential household items.
For uninsured owner-occupiers, the Structural Assistance Grant offers up to $50,000 for repairs to make a damaged home safe and habitable again.
Can I access support and apply for grants outside the Community Recovery Hub?
Residents can contact the 24/7 Community Recovery Hotline at 1800 173 349 to get support and apply for grants. The Queensland Government’s disaster help website also provides information on accessing support and grants here.
Free counselling and support are available through a dedicated Lifeline support line. Call Lifeline via 1800 116 671 8:00 am to 8:00 pm daily, or via 13 11 14 after hours.
Caboolture’s Liam Wilson heads back to Arizona in March with hopes of becoming a world champion. The All Star Boxing Academy trainee takes on Mexican boxer Oscar Valdez on the 29th in Glendale.
The 10-round junior lightweight fight has no titles on the line, at least currently.
Potential for title vacancy
There are rumours that the current World Boxing Organization (WBO) champion, Emanuel Navarrete, may move up a weight class and vacate his title. Both Liam Wilson and Valdez lost to the three-weight world champion Navarrete last year.
Navarrete controversially went down in the fourth round but was given a 27-second count rather than 10 seconds to recover. Navarrete stopped Wilson in the ninth round.
Liam Wilson seeks redemption
With two victories under his belt since that loss, a confident Wilson said: “Valdez is a good fighter, a tough man, but after what I’ve been through already and what I plan on bringing, I believe he’s going to regret taking this fight.”
Currently ranked #2 by the WBO, Wilson (13-2-0) trains in Thailand and plans a seven-week training camp in the US before the March 29 showdown at the Desert Diamond Arena.
He has a 10cm height and reach advantage over Valdez, who has a record of 31-2-0.
“Headsplitter” Isaac Hardman (15-2-0) will also be in action on March 13. He will face Endry Saavedra (15-1-0) of Venezuela for the WBO Inter-Continental middleweight title in Wollongong.
If Lieutenant David Thompson Seymour were still alive today, 160 years after he became the first Commissioner of the Queensland Police Force, he would most certainly be amazed at how the Service has evolved to include state-of-the-art facilities like the Caboolture Watchhouse, which opened in 2021; the Cyber Crime Group; Police Air Operations; Forensic Crash Unit; along with the Dog Squad, the Dive Squad, and the Mounted Unit.
In its early days, the QPS had 287 officers entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding a population of approximately 61,467.
Lt David Thompson Seymour, a distinguished former British Army officer, assumed the role of the inaugural commissioner in 1864.
Born in Ireland and educated at Ennis College, he joined the British Army as an ensign in 1856 and was promoted to lieutenant in 1858. He arrived in Brisbane in January 1861, commanding the first detachment in Queensland after its separation. He served as aide-de-camp and private secretary to the governor before retiring from the army to become the acting commissioner of police under the Police Act of 1863. His official appointment as Commissioner came in July 1864.
Photo Credit: QPS
Commissioner Seymour played a pivotal role in the establishment of a detective force in 1864 and the incorporation of the Water Police in 1893. His era was marked by a resolute commitment to law enforcement, evident in his handling of events like the Brisbane riot of 1866 and the dispatch of Indigenous trackers to assist in the hunt for Ned Kelly’s gang in 1880. Beyond his policing duties, Seymour advocated for various social causes, including improvements in immigrant ship routes and reformatories for girls under fourteen years of age.
Under his leadership, the QPS grew to 907 officers by his retirement in 1895.
Photo Credit: QPS
Modern Evolution of the QPS
Over time, the QPS has undergone significant evolution. In the 2000s, pivotal legislative changes occurred, consolidating police powers under the Police Powers and Responsibilities Act 2000 and redefining the Service’s responsibilities through the Crime and Misconduct Act 2001. Technological advancements, such as introducing Tasers, have played a vital role in enhancing officers’ capabilities.
The QPS has demonstrated a commitment to diversity and inclusivity, allowing officers and staff to participate in events like the Brisbane Pride Festival since 2015, reflecting the Service’s evolving approach to community engagement.
QPS Impact in Caboolture
The Caboolture Police Station serves as a crucial hub for law enforcement in Moreton Bay, ensuring the safety and security of its surrounding communities. The Caboolture Watchhouse, a state-of-the-art facility opened in 2021, further bolsters the QPS’s presence in the region.
In a notable development, 129 recruits were inducted into the QPS, with four first-year constables assigned to the Caboolture Station. This initiative reflects the QPS’s dedication to strengthening its presence in the area, aligned with the region’s growth.
The Queensland Police Service has actively engaged with the Caboolture community through programs like SupportLink, resulting in over 530 referrals addressing diverse support needs, including road trauma, substance misuse, youth and parenting support, domestic violence, and victim support services.
The Bruce Highway upgrade, stretching from Caboolture-Bribie Island Road to Steve Irwin Way (Exit 163) in Elimbah, continues to make substantial progress towards completion, with a significant announcement just in time for the festive season.
As of press time, three lanes on the northbound section of this vital roadway are now operational, promising a smoother traffic flow for travellers during the upcoming holiday rush. The eagerly awaited third lane on the southbound carriageway is expected to open its lanes to commuters in early 2024.
The completion of this transformative project is anticipated early next year, contingent on favourable weather conditions and construction progress. Some minor lane adjustments in both directions will be required in the new year to put the finishing touches in place.
Shared Investment and Economic Impact
Funding for this $662.5 million project is a collaborative effort, with $530 million contributed by the Australian Government and $132.5 million provided by the Queensland Government. This substantial investment is poised to generate an estimated 664 direct job opportunities throughout the project’s lifespan.
Photo Credit: TMR
The heightened speed limit of 110 km/h on this upgraded 11-kilometre stretch aims to optimise travel efficiency and enhance the overall commuting experience, benefitting a multitude of travellers along the route.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government Catherine King underscored the Australian Government’s dedication to bolstering the safety, flood resilience, and capacity of vital Bruce Highway infrastructure. This project aligns with the broader Bruce Highway Upgrade Program, which promises to revolutionize travel between Brisbane and Cairns.
Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said the reduction in congestion and improved travel times that this extra lane expansion towards the southern end of Steve Irwin Way will bring, particularly for those heading to the picturesque Sunshine Coast.
Queensland’s continued attraction for interstate migrants necessitates infrastructure development like this. The Queensland Government has allocated $96.2 billion for infrastructure over the next four years and remains steadfast in its commitment to the 15-year Bruce Highway Upgrade.
Crucial Infrastructure for a Thriving Queensland
Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish applauded the hard work of the crews, who persevered through recent wet weather to ensure the third northbound lane’s opening before Christmas.
This achievement translates to increased capacity and upgraded flood resilience, coinciding with a busy time on the roads. The vital importance of building and upgrading roads and infrastructure to support Queensland’s growth remains a top priority for the government.
Federal Assistant Minister for Regional Development and Senator for Queensland Anthony Chisholm expressed the relief the Caboolture-Bribie Island Road brings to the multitude of daily commuters on this section of the Bruce Highway. The widening of this portion of the Bruce Highway is aligned with the commitment of the Albanese Government to enhance travel times and road safety on Queensland’s longest and busiest highway.
Member for Caloundra, Jason Hunt, underscored the significance of the additional lanes on the Bruce Highway, particularly in conjunction with the new Bells Creek Arterial Road. He believes that this combined infrastructure investment will significantly expedite travel to Caloundra this summer, providing a notable boost to regional accessibility and tourism.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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.
