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Oyster Reef Trial Aims to Boost Water Quality in Lawnton and Kallangur

Shellfish reefs, made from recycled oyster shells, are being trialled in the North Pine River at Lawnton and Kallangur to improve local water quality.

Community Benefits and Environmental Goals

Oyster Reef Trial Aims to Boost Water Quality in Lawnton and Kallangur — *Photo Credit:* *OzFish*

Unitywater has applied to Moreton Bay City Council to install two new oyster reefs in the North Pine River, adding to an existing trial launched in 2023. These new reefs, planned for Lawnton Pocket Road in Lawnton and Brickle Road in Kallangur, form part of Unitywater’s commitment to achieving net-zero nutrient discharge into waterways by 2040.

The initiative reflects a collaborative effort between Unitywater, OzFish, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and Healthy Land and Water, combining resources and expertise to improve local waterways. The project aims to improve water quality for the community and the environment.

The Science Behind Shellfish Reefs

The “reefs” are constructed using triangular baskets filled with recycled oyster shells sourced from Brisbane restaurants and commercial shucking operations. These baskets are pre-seeded and then “soaked” in Moreton Bay for approximately one year before being placed in the river.

This process allows the shellfish to grow and mature. As the shellfish grow, their natural filtering process helps remove nutrients from the water. The trial rigorously tests various factors, including reef structure, water depth, and salinity levels, to determine the optimal conditions for shellfish growth and nutrient reduction. Preliminary findings from the initial trial, which began in September 2023, are expected soon.

A Collaborative Approach to Water Management

The broader project, which began with installing 40 baskets near the Murrumba Downs Wastewater Treatment Plant, is a five-year initiative supported by $464,000 in funding from Unitywater. This initial stage is already recognised as a nutrient offset method under the Queensland Water Quality Offset Policy. The partners believe this project represents a significant step forward in exploring the potential of shellfish reefs to improve water quality and contribute to more sustainable wastewater management practices.

They emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving positive environmental outcomes and see this project as a model for future restoration efforts. The project also highlights the potential for shellfish reef restoration as a legitimate method for offsetting nutrient discharge into waterways.

Published Date 20-Feb-2025

Michel’s Patisserie in Deception Bay Among Stores Closing Nationwide

Photo Credit: Michel’s Coffee/ Facebook

Deception Bay residents will soon have one less place to grab a sweet treat, as Michel’s Patisserie in Deception Bay Shopping Centre is among 19 stores across NSW, Queensland, and Victoria set to close.

Closure Announcement and Rationale

Retail Food Group (RFG), the parent company of Michel’s Patisserie, announced the decision to close the bakery chain due to challenges in growing the brand. RFG, which also owns other well-known food brands like Gloria Jean’s, Brumby’s Bakery, Donut King, and Crust Gourmet Pizza, will be working with Michel’s Patisserie franchisees to transition their businesses.

The company is offering franchisees the opportunity to convert their stores to Gloria Jean’s or Donut King, believing these brands offer better prospects for the future. RFG has stated that it will provide financial and other support to franchisees throughout this process.

Impact on Franchisees and the Community

The closure will impact the 19 Michel’s Patisserie franchisees and their employees. RFG has indicated it is committed to working collaboratively and transparently with each franchisee to find the best outcome for their circumstances. The company acknowledged the passion of Michel’s Patisserie franchisees and thanked them for their dedication to the brand. The closure will also mean a change for local communities who frequented the bakery.

Industry Insights and Background

A retail expert noted the highly competitive environment for cafes and coffee shops. The expert highlighted the challenges of high input costs for food, cakes, and coffee and significant wage costs, especially with penalty rates. The franchise model also presents additional financial burdens for owners, including franchising fees, marketing fees, and store fit-out costs. Michel’s Patisserie, founded by French pastry chef Michel Catteon in 1980, once boasted over 300 locations across Australia.

RFG recently reported a net profit of $5.8 million for the financial year ending June 2024, following a loss in the previous period. The company also faced legal action from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission in 2022 concerning allegations of selling franchises to owners, knowing they would operate at a loss. RFG settled the case without admitting wrongdoing and was ordered to repay affected franchisees or wipe their debts.

The Future of the Deception Bay Site

The future of the Michel’s Patisserie location in Deception Bay Shopping Centre remains uncertain. Further details about the conversion to either a Gloria Jean’s or Donut King, or another business are expected to be released in the coming months.

Published Date 19-Feb-2025

After Near-Fatal Crash, Racer Signs With Yamaha USA While Mentoring North Lakes Youth

Motorbike racer Drew De Boer is proving that setbacks don’t define a person. After a devastating crash left doctors doubting he’d ever walk again, he’s now preparing to race professionally in the 2026 MotoAmerica championship with Yamaha USA—all while mentoring young people in North Lakes to help them find positive paths in life.

A Career That Almost Ended Too Soon

Drew’s journey in the sport began with high expectations. At 17, he was offered a dream opportunity to race in the 125cc World Championship with Honda, a pathway to MotoGP success. However, distractions and inexperience cost him his contract before he could compete, forcing him to reassess his future.

Determined to stay connected to racing, he spent years as a test and development rider for Suzuki, playing a key role in their 2020 MotoGP World Championship victory. While he was no longer in the spotlight, his contributions helped shape championship-winning bikes, keeping him close to the sport he loved.

A Life-Changing Accident

In 2023, Drew’s career—and life—took a devastating turn when he crashed during a race at Japan’s Suzuka Circuit. The impact left him with a shattered pelvis, broken legs, and severe spinal and neck injuries. Emergency responders declared him clinically dead at the scene before reviving him and airlifting him to hospital.

Doctors feared he would never walk again, let alone race. The months that followed were filled with rehabilitation and uncertainty, but Drew refused to accept defeat. Within 10 months, he defied medical expectations, regaining his strength and returning to training.

A Second Chance on the Track

By November 2024, his perseverance paid off. Yamaha USA recognised his talent and resilience, offering him a contract to compete in MotoAmerica from 2026. The deal represents more than just a return to racing—it’s proof of his determination to reclaim his dream after years of setbacks.

Drew will start as a reserve rider in 2025 before making his full-time debut the following season. He is expected to race alongside some of the best competitors in the sport, backed by Yamaha and Monster Energy.

Drew De Boer MotoAmerica — *Photo Credit: MotoAmerica/Facebook*

Supporting Youth in North Lakes

Beyond racing, Drew is dedicated to giving back. While he is from the Sunshine Coast, he has been actively involved in mentoring young people in North Lakes. Through his work with YMCA North Lakes, he helps steer local youth away from crime and towards more positive opportunities.

He believes today’s generation faces unique challenges that require strong role models. His work with young people focuses on leadership, personal development, and providing guidance based on his own life experiences.

As he prepares for his professional racing comeback, Drew remains committed to both his MotoAmerica debut and his community efforts in North Lakes. His story is a reminder that setbacks do not define a person—it’s how they respond that truly matters.

Published 19-February-2025

Street Spotlight: Lakefield Dr, North Lakes

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Lakefield Dr sits on the eastern side of the town centre precinct and is now directly linked to big commercial and tourism plans for the area. The proposed high-end precinct sits adjacent to Lakefield Drive and The Corso, bringing a wave of development that includes cafés, hotels, and an improved public realm. That commercial uplift is the kind of catalyst that often pushes nearby residential values higher, especially for owner-occupier families who want short trips between school and leisure.

The street itself reflects North Lakes’ evolution from masterplanned greenfield to established suburb. With a mix of townhouses, houses, and other dwellings, Lakefield Drive has become home to a community that values proximity to Westfield North Lakes and The Lakes College. As the surrounding precinct matures, properties here continue to benefit from the suburb’s growing appeal as both a family destination and a lifestyle hub.

The transformation is evident in the sales data. Townhouses that traded in 2013 for around $495,000 to $499,000 have seen significant appreciation, with recent sales reaching the $1 million mark—a clear illustration of how North Lakes’ expansion has lifted values across streets like Lakefield Drive.

Lakefield Dr, North Lakes Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 14 townhouses, 7 houses, 11 others
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 6 years and 11 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 26%

Lakefield Dr, North Lakes – As It Looked in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON LAKEFIELD DR, NORTH LAKES

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
7/50 Lakefield Drive, North Lakes	$1,000,000	May 2025

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON LAKEFIELD DR FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
1/50 Lakefield Drive	$499,000	Jun 2013
3/50 Lakefield Drive	$495,000	Jun 2013
2/50 Lakefield Drive	$499,000	Jun 2013

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in North Lakes in 2025 was $770,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in North Lakes in 2021 was $455,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN NORTH LAKES SINCE 2021: $315,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in North Lakes in 2025 was $925,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in North Lakes in 2021 was $542,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN NORTH LAKES SINCE 2021: $383,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in North Lakes in 2025 was $1,161,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in North Lakes in 2021 was $778,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN NORTH LAKES SINCE 2021: $383,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in North Lakes in 2025 was $605,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in North Lakes in 2021 was $320,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN NORTH LAKES SINCE 2021: $285,000

If you know Lakefield Dr, North Lakes well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Published 16-February-2025

New Police Officers Deployed to North Lakes and other Suburbs

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Deception Bay, Mango Hill, and North Lakes are among the Queensland communities welcoming new police officers following the graduation of 136 recruits into the Queensland Police Service (QPS).

Graduation and Training

New Police Officers Deployed to North Lakes and other Suburbs — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police*

The 136 new officers recently graduated, marking the first graduation ceremony for 2025. These officers completed eight and a half months of training, equipping them with skills to serve their communities.

Their training covered a range of areas, including community safety, responding to mental health incidents, investigating and preventing domestic and family violence, and scenario-based exercises to prepare them for real-world situations.

The QPS highlighted the recruits’ diverse backgrounds, noting that they bring experience from various fields, such as the Australian Defence Force, Queensland Ambulance Service, international policing, and the finance industry.

Deployment Across Queensland

The newly graduated officers will be deployed to police stations across Queensland. In the Moreton District, which includes the focus areas for this story, new officers will be stationed at Deception Bay, Mango Hill, and North Lakes (within the Petrie police division).

This deployment is part of a broader allocation of officers across the state, with other officers heading to various locations within the Brisbane, South Eastern, Southern, North Coast, Central, Northern, and Far Northern regions. The QPS shared a detailed list of station deployments, demonstrating the distribution of the new officers across Queensland.

QPS Commitment to Recruitment

The Queensland Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong recruitment pipeline. They noted a significant increase in appointments to the service in 2024 compared to the previous year.

The QPS aims to attract suitable candidates who align with the service’s values. They emphasised the challenging yet rewarding nature of a career in the QPS.

Community Focus

The QPS emphasised the importance of community service and highlighted the dedication of the new officers. They stated that these officers are committed to serving their communities with honour. One officer, formerly working in finance, shared his inspiration to join the police after assisting at a car accident, demonstrating a desire to contribute to community safety.

Another officer with prior experience as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher expressed her eagerness to expand her community impact through policing, emphasising the value of interacting with people during vulnerable moments.

Published Date 10-Feb-2025

Kallangur Dad Shares Story to Raise Mental Health Awareness

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

A Kallangur family is urging parents to be vigilant about their children’s mental health after their 12-year-old daughter, Grace, attempted to take her own life by overdosing on prescription medication.

The Incident

The incident occurred at the family’s Kallangur home. Grace’s parents became concerned when she began acting strangely. They called for an ambulance after noticing her interacting with something unseen in the corner of the room. While paramedics assessed Grace, another daughter alerted them to suicidal messages on Grace’s TikTok account and the discovery of the medication.

The family also found journal entries and suicide notes written to each family member, indicating the attempt was pre-planned.

A Silent Struggle

Grace’s father, Joe Saunders, described her as a kind, empathetic, and talented young girl who had always seemed happy. He said the family had no idea she was struggling despite having a close relationship with her.

He expressed the family’s devastation at the discovery of Grace’s pain and her planned suicide attempt. He noted that Grace’s notes to her family expressed love and a desire for them to live happy lives, not anger or resentment.

Call for Awareness and Support

Mr Saunders is now advocating for parents to be more aware of the potential signs of mental health struggles in their children. He emphasised the importance of seeking professional help if there are any concerns, as parents are not equipped to handle complex mental health issues on their own. The family shares their experience to raise awareness in the Kallangur community and beyond.

Financial Strain and Recovery

Mr Saunders also spoke about the financial burden the situation has placed on the family. With four children, elderly parents living with them, and only one income, the costs associated with Grace’s ongoing care, including hospital visits and future therapy, are significant.

The family has established a GoFundMe page to help cover these expenses and support Grace’s recovery. He said that Grace is currently in an inpatient facility receiving 24/7 care and is considered at high risk of re-attempting suicide. The family faces a long road to recovery and is focused on providing Grace with the support she needs.

Published Date 05-Feb-2025

Street Spotlight: Memorial Dr, North Lakes

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Memorial Dr carries more than traffic—it carries the story of North Lakes’ transformation from masterplanned vision to thriving community hub. As one of the suburb’s key arterial roads, Memorial Drive hosts schools, including North Lakes State College, and larger community parcels that form part of the broader education precinct keeping family demand strong. The street’s name itself speaks to commemoration and community values, themes that have defined this address since the suburb’s early days.

The establishment of The Lakes College in 2005 marked a turning point for Memorial Drive and its surrounding streets. The college quickly became a focal point for families moving into the fast-growing North Lakes masterplanned area—a factor that helped lift residential demand and values on nearby streets. For homes and lots on Memorial Drive and its side streets, the benefits were immediate: school catchment appeal and easy access to the developing town centre became recurring themes in North Lakes’ value growth story.

By the mid-2000s, Memorial Drive was already establishing itself as a premium family address. Early sales data tells the story of confident buyers investing in the suburb’s future. The street’s mix of seven houses and twenty-one other properties reflects its dual character—part residential street, part community corridor—serving the families and institutions that make North Lakes work.

Memorial Dr, North Lakes Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 7 houses, 21 others
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 95%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 20 years and 3 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 100%

Memorial Dr, North Lakes – As It Looked in 1936

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON MEMORIAL DR FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
Lot 730 Memorial Drive, North Lakes	$799,370	Dec 2005

SUBURB PROFILE

If you know Memorial Dr, North Lakes well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Published 2-February-2025

Former Mango Hill Basketball Coach Charged with Sexual Assault

Photo Credit: myPolice South Brisbane

Queensland Police have arrested a 67-year-old former basketball coach from Mango Hill on multiple sexual assault charges following an investigation into alleged offences committed between 2013 and 2017.

The arrest, made yesterday by detectives from the Gateway Child Protection and Investigation Unit (CPIU), comes after police received an initial report on January 19, leading to the establishment of Operation Xray Modern.

According to police allegations, the accused used his position as a basketball coach to groom a child before they turned 16, followed by multiple offences in subsequent years. The man faces serious charges including seven counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of grooming a child under 16.

Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Lunney, Officer in Charge of Gateway CPIU, has issued a public appeal for additional information. “There may be someone out there with more information that could assist this investigation, and we encourage you to come forward,” he stated.

The accused was denied police bail and is scheduled to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court today, January 31.

Police are urging anyone with information about similar incidents or interactions to contact authorities. Multiple reporting options are available, including online reporting through the Queensland Police website and the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline at 1800 010 120.

The investigation remains ongoing under reference number QP2500111470.

Published 31-January-2025

Modern Development Proposed for North Lakes Town Centre

Photo Credit: DA/2024/3104

North Lakes is planning a new showroom and office development, and a development application has been lodged for a site on Stapylton Street.

Modern Development Proposed for North Lakes Town Centre — *Photo Credit:* *DA/2024/3104*

The proposal, designed by Elevation Architecture, promises to bring a modern and stylish addition to the area.

The two-storey commercial building will boast a mix of office spaces, a retail showroom, and a catering premises, all designed with customer experience in mind. This contemporary design by Elevation Architecture will provide 1,600 sqm of combined office and retail space, with dedicated catering premises and an inviting cafe with outdoor seating.

Plans also include a basement car park providing 55-61 vehicles, ensuring ample parking for staff and visitors. The development will be complemented by landscaped grounds, creating an attractive environment.

The development application emphasises the building’s architectural merit and its compliance with all relevant zoning requirements. Planners believe the project will enhance the North Lakes Town Centre and contribute positively to the local area.

The proposal also aims to improve pedestrian and vehicle access, with careful consideration given to landscaping to ensure an attractive streetscape.

Published Date 28-Jan-2025

Narangba Eagles FC: Redefining Community Through Football

Congratulations to Narangba Eagles FC for being Football Australia’s Club Changer of the Month. This volunteer club club’s growth from 500 to over 1,000 members in three years highlights their dedication, innovation, and community spirit.

Read: Moreton Bay Aquatic Centres Offer Summer Fun and Fitness

A Vision for Inclusive Football

At the heart of Harris Avenue Sports Complex, the Eagles have created more than just a sporting club – they’ve built a community where everyone belongs. The club’s motto, #EaglesAsOne, resonates through every aspect of their operations, from their groundbreaking women’s football programs to their comprehensive youth development pathways.

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Eagles women’s football coordinator Karen Steen explains that this motto guides every decision made at the club. “Eagles as one is more than just words and it’s more than a club motto—it’s what we live and breathe by at the club,” she says. This philosophy has driven the club’s remarkable expansion over the past three years.

Building on World Cup Legacy

Following the FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Eagles seized the moment to launch an innovative five-week Come and Try program. The initiative, led by their senior women’s team, attracted over 80 participants. Out of these, 51 registered for the 2024 season, showcasing the program’s success. This achievement has enabled the club to expand its all-girls MiniRoos teams from six to ten, contributing significantly to its growing membership.

From the Little Eagles Kick-Off Program for three-year-olds to competitive senior teams in the Football Queensland Premier League, the Eagles have created pathways for players of all ages and abilities. The club’s social divisions, including Over 30 Women and Over 45 Men’s leagues, ensure football remains accessible to all community members.

The Eagles have also embraced Football Australia’s safeguarding modules, implementing comprehensive protection frameworks for all members. “Having a member protection officer to support players has been a game changer for us,” Steen notes. Their commitment to safety and governance sets a shining example for community sports clubs.

Read: Little Scholars Opens $5M Early Learning Centre in Deception Bay

Narangba Eagles FC in 2025

The Eagles understand that a strong community is built on partnerships. They value the contribution of their sponsors, who play a crucial role in providing coaching opportunities, equipment, and maintaining the facilities. Local businesses like Burpengary Community Club, North Brisbane Real Estate, Ambient Projects Australia, Veto Sports, Kennedy Brothers Air Conditioning, Shane King MP, and Greenland Dental Burpengary all play a part in the Eagles’ success story.

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Recognition as Club Changer of the Month isn’t just an accolade—it validates the Eagles’ commitment to creating a sporting environment where everyone can thrive. For residents of Narangba and surrounds, the Eagles represent more than just a football club; they’re a cornerstone of community life, fostering connections and creating opportunities for generations to come.

Local families interested in joining the Eagles’ community can now register for the 2025 season and become part of a club that truly embodies the spirit of inclusive, community-focused sport.

Published 20-January-2025