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Deception Bay Christmas Display Stolen By A Grinch

A Deception Bay family has been devastated after waking to find their Christmas display destroyed and stolen.

Resident Andrew Tett reported the incident, describing his shock at discovering his Christmas decorations had been stolen from his home. “I came out first thing in the morning and everything was destroyed. Someone had pinched all the lights,” Tett said.

Tett expressed confusion about the motive, stating, “Everyone around here love the lights, so I have no idea why they would do that.” He noted the extensive damage, saying, “There were decorations all over the footpath and out on the street. Anything they couldn’t take off, they ripped down.”

The financial impact is significant. Tett estimates the stolen and damaged decorations are worth at least $1,500 – a collection accumulated over several years. “I can’t afford to put that back together, so I’ll just have to build that up again over a few years,” he said.

In response to the theft, Tett has left a sign outside his home reading, “Whoever stole my lights, karma will come, Merry Xmas.” He added, “I was pretty cranky, I could’ve written a few things on there. But karma works, karma will get them.”

A Queensland Police spokeswoman confirmed that CCTV footage of the area is being sought as part of the investigation.

Published 3-December-2024

New Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre in Petrie Moves Closer to Reality

Preparations for the new Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre are rapidly progressing, with the $205 million Olympic and Paralympic venue moving closer to reality.

Read: Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre in Petrie Validated as Olympic Venue

Located at The Mill precinct near Petrie station, the facility is set to be a significant addition to the region’s sporting infrastructure.

The centre will boast an impressive 10,000-person capacity and feature 12 multi-sport courts spread across two halls. These courts will accommodate a diverse range of sports, including basketball, netball, boxing, volleyball, badminton, futsal, and wheelchair rugby.

Indoor Sports Centre — Photo credit: q2032.au

A spokesperson from the Games Venue and Legacy Delivery Authority shared insights into the project’s current status: “The Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre Project Validation Report has been completed and procurement activities for the managing contractor with an integrated design team are under way.”

However, the project timeline remains fluid. The spokesperson noted that “Construction timelines will be dependent on the terms of reference and resulting recommendations of the Queensland Government’s foreshadowed 100-day review.”

Originally planned as a nine-court, 7,000-capacity centre primarily for boxing during the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, the venue has since been expanded. The current plans call for a larger facility with two halls, reflecting an enhanced vision for the project.

Current projections suggest the managing contractor will be announced in November 2024, with construction expected to commence early next year and conclude in 2028. The centre is anticipated to be available for community use ahead of the 2032 Games, though this remains subject to confirmation following recent changes in State Government.

Read: Proposed Moreton Bay Indoor Sport Centre in Petrie to Proceed for the Olympics

The City of Moreton Bay is playing a crucial role, providing the land and supporting precinct work and site connections.

The project represents a significant investment in local sporting infrastructure and promises to be a valuable legacy of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Published 29-November-2024

165-Metre Flying Fox Among Highlights at Jungle Adventure Play North Lakes

A 165-metre flying fox, the longest in the Southern Hemisphere, is one of the standout attractions at Jungle Adventure Play, a massive new $20-million indoor play centre now open in North Lakes.

A Hub for Family Fun in North Lakes

The new facility, located at 2 McLennan Court, boasts an impressive array of activities, including climbing walls, a high ropes course, ninja courses for both children and adults, and expansive indoor playgrounds. Adding to the entertainment, there’s a licensed restaurant, an indoor and outdoor café, and a Tiki bar, ensuring something for all ages. Future plans include a mini golf course, set to open in 2025.

One of the standout features is “The Hawk,” a flying fox that stretches 165 metres, making it the longest in the Southern Hemisphere. Visitors can zip at speeds of up to 22 km/h, soaring nearly 10 metres above the ground both indoors and outdoors.

Supporting the Local Community

The project was driven by local entrepreneurs Lachlan and Jana Walker, who aimed to create a family-focused space that promotes physical activity and social connection. The couple chose North Lakes for its community appeal, where nearly half of households include children. They described the venue as a place where kids can build confidence and strength while having fun away from screens.

This second location builds on the success of their first Jungle Adventure Play centre in Tingalpa, which has welcomed over 1.1 million visitors in four years. The North Lakes venue is expected to have a similar impact, contributing $4.3 million annually to the local economy and creating over 90 jobs.

A Space for All Occasions

The centre is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays until 8 pm, making it an accessible option for both families and corporate events. With the festive season approaching, the venue is preparing to host functions and gatherings, further connecting with the local community.

Published 20-Nov-2024

Delicious Offers for North Lakes: Macca’s 30 Days 30 Deals Returns This Month!

Macca’s fans are in for a treat this month with the return of the much-anticipated “30 Days 30 Deals” promotion. Starting November 1, customers can enjoy daily offers on popular menu items at participating locations nationwide, including Deception Bay, North Lakes, Mango Hill, Dakabin, and Kallangur.

Read: McDonald’s Begins Construction on New Rothwell Restaurant, Hiring Soon

The promotion kicked off with a fan-favourite: the Big Mac for just $2. Throughout the month, each day will feature a different deal, including $2 Large Fries, $1.50 Apple Pies, and meal bundles like the Small Double Cheeseburger Meal and Small McChicken Meal for $11.50.

These deals are designed to provide affordable options for families and individuals looking to satisfy their cravings without breaking the bank.

Local residents can take advantage of the following participating McDonald’s locations:

– Deception Bay: 362-376 Deception Bay Road, open 24 hours with drive-thru service.

– North Lakes Business Park: 144 Flinders Parade, also 24 hours with drive-thru.

– North Lakes Westfield: McDelivery available at Westfield Shopping Centre, Northlakes Drive.

– Mango Hill: 1 Discovery Drive, 24 hours with drive-thru.

– Dakabin: 1 Alma Road, 24 hours with drive-thru.

– Kallangur: 82 Duffield Road, 24 hours with drive-thru.

As an added incentive, each purchase made through the MyMacca’s App qualifies customers for a chance to win a brand-new Chery TIGGO 4 PRO SUV valued at over $23,000. Every week, participants who redeem a deal will enter a draw, making it possible to drive away in a new set of wheels simply by enjoying their favourite meals.

Photo credit: Matthew Donnelly/Google Maps

Tobi Fukushima, Marketing Manager for McDonald’s Australia, commented on the promotion’s aim to provide value in challenging economic times, stating, “We’re making sure Aussies are getting the best bang for their buck when they choose to spend their money with us.”

Lewis Lu, CEO for Chery Australia said, “We are excited to collaborate with McDonald’s on this special car giveaway program, a partnership that brings together two great brands committed to creating positive experiences for customers.

Read: Local Family Business Success: Kallangur’s Pizza Workz Sets Sights on Dakabin

With so many options and the potential for big wins, November is shaping up to be an exciting month for Macca’s enthusiasts in North Lakes and surrounding suburbs. Be sure to check the MyMacca’s App daily to make the most of these limited-time offers.

Published 11-November-2024

From $16M to $114M: North Lakes Industrial Site’s Dramatic Value Leap

A North Lakes industrial site has sold for $114 million, marking a dramatic value increase from its $16 million purchase price in 2021. The sale highlights the remarkable growth in the city’s outer northern suburbs’ industrial land values, which have more than doubled over the past three years.

Read: McDonald’s Begins Construction on New Rothwell Restaurant, Hiring Soon

The 25-hectare site at 109-135 Boundary Road was purchased by logistics giant ESR from Garda Property Group, which had secured development approval in 2022 for a 100,000-square-metre industrial estate.

Render of Garda’s plans for North Lakes industrial site (Photo credit: gardaproperty.com.au)

As part of the sale agreement, Garda will invest an additional $11.2 million to complete remaining civil works, intersection improvements, and road construction. The property group had already initiated earthworks and begun civil development before the sale.

For this project, Garda expected construction to commence early 2023 and completed by 2024. However, rising construction costs have prompted the real estate group to focus more on buying existing assets, despite maintaining its strategy of developing and holding industrial properties.

ESR Australia and New Zealand CEO Phil Pearce said the acquisition would allow the company to expand its presence in Brisbane’s supply-constrained market, which is benefiting from strong population growth in South East Queensland.

“North Lakes is perfectly positioned to provide seamless connectivity to major business centres and national road, air and rail networks. Situated alongside the Bruce Highway / M1 and near the Gateway Motorway, the subject site sits 32km north of Brisbane’s CBD, 40 minutes drive from the Sunshine Coast and only 22 minutes from both Brisbane domestic and international airports,” Garda stated in its website.

The logistics company has announced plans to transform the North Lakes site into a premium industrial estate, continuing the original vision for a master-planned development that would accommodate businesses of varying sizes.

Read: North Lakes Joins Queensland’s Pioneering Solar Panel Recycling Program

This transaction highlights the robust demand for industrial land in Brisbane’s northern corridor and demonstrates the significant value appreciation in the region’s industrial property sector.

Published 7-November-2024

GemLife Moreton Bay: A Green Oasis Takes Root in Deception Bay

Photo Credit: GemLife Moreton Bay/ Facebook

What if you could downsize without compromising your lifestyle or the environment? In Deception Bay, GemLife Moreton Bay is proving it’s possible with its award-winning, eco-friendly community designed for a vibrant over-50s lifestyle.

This prestigious accolade highlights the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility and innovative design, setting a new benchmark for residential developments in Queensland and Australia.

GemLife is an Australian company specialising in creating vibrant communities for people over 50 seeking an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Focusing on providing high-quality homes, resort-style amenities, and a strong sense of community, GemLife has established a reputation for excellence in the sector.

The GemLife Moreton Bay project, located adjacent to the Deception Bay Conservation Park, spans almost 150 hectares. 60% of this land is dedicated to green spaces and protecting vital koala habitats. This commitment to preserving the natural environment is a key feature of the development’s sustainability strategy.

One of the project’s most innovative aspects is incorporating a virtual power plant. This system will generate and store nearly 80% of the community’s energy needs through rooftop solar panels and community batteries. This approach reduces reliance on external energy sources and minimises the development’s carbon footprint.

Adrian Puljich, Director and CEO of GemLife, emphasised the company’s dedication to social and environmental responsibility. He explained that the development goes beyond financial considerations to make a genuine positive impact on the community and the environment.

This includes initiatives to enhance the local ecosystem through planting and regeneration programmes, with a focus on protecting the habitats of native wildlife and migratory birds.

Upon completion in 2027, GemLife Moreton Bay will provide 553 homes, including premium residences with lakefront views. The project is part of a growing trend in Australia towards sustainable living, driven by increasing consumer demand and new government regulations that mandate higher energy efficiency standards in residential buildings.

Michelle Wooldridge, CEO of Pikos Group, noted that sustainability is no longer an afterthought but an integral part of the design process from the initial stages to construction, with careful consideration given to material selection and waste reduction.

Published Date 30-October-2024

Petrie Parish Celebrates 60th Anniversary of Community Spirit

Photo Credit: Facebook / Petrie Catholic Parish

Our Lady of the Way Parish Petrie marked its 60th anniversary on October 20, 2024, with hundreds of parishioners gathering for Mass and community celebrations.

Margaret Plackowski, who has been with the parish since its early days, described the mid-1960s as an exciting time for the community. “It was reasonably well established, with the locals very keen to have a church here,” she said. She noted that 1966 brought significant changes as Second Vatican Council reforms began reaching local churches.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Petrie Catholic Parish

The parish’s emphasis on community has remained constant throughout its history. Plackowski recalled how prayer and rosary groups, scripture readings, and parish events were common in the formative years. “We were encouraged to always be a welcoming community, to welcome new parishioners and anybody who felt interested in learning about our Church,” she said.

Michael Marlow, baptised in the parish in 1974, became actively involved after leaving school. His participation grew from joining the youth group to eventually leading it. He highlighted the parish’s Mercy Nights during Pope Francis’ year of mercy in 2016, which featured community scripture readings and worship music on Friday nights. These events, according to Marlow, helped bridge the gap between charismatic groups and traditional parishioners.

Brisbane Archbishop Mark Coleridge attended the anniversary celebration alongside past and present parish priests, including current parish priest Fr Geo Francis. In the parish newsletter, Fr Francis expressed gratitude to the community, describing the church’s history as “a tapestry laced with devotion, love and sacrifice.” He acknowledged the commitment of clergy, volunteers, and parishioners both past and present.

The anniversary celebrations included special recognition of the Parish’s programs and ministries, along with the editorial team that produced a commemorative history.

Looking to the future, Marlow expressed hope that the parish would become “one big family” well integrated with local schools, working together for the common good.

Published 29-October-2024

Serious Traffic Accident at Rothwell Causes Delays and Involves School Staff Member

A serious traffic accident occurred in Rothwell near Grace Lutheran College on Anzac Avenue, causing major disruptions and the involvement of a staff member from the college community.

The accident took place on the morning of 25 October 2024, near the intersection of Anzac Avenue and Mewes Road, leading to significant traffic delays as emergency services responded.

Queensland Police reported that the crash reduced the road to two lanes and urged motorists to follow traffic directions or seek alternative routes due to expected delays.

ROTHWELL (Moreton Bay): Anzac Avenue near Mewes Road is down to two lanes due to a traffic crash. Delays are expected.

Motorists are urged to follow traffic direction or seek alternative routes. #qldtraffic pic.twitter.com/wSKzyu3C8o
— Queensland Police (@QldPolice) October 24, 2024

Community Response and School Involvement

Grace Lutheran College confirmed that one of their staff members was involved in the multi-vehicle collision. The school immediately activated its critical response plan to ensure the well-being of its students and staff.

In a social media statement, the college expressed concern for all involved, assuring the community that “everyone is receiving the care they need” and that the situation is being closely monitored.

“We ask for your graciousness and respect for the privacy of those involved, while keeping them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” the school posted on its official page. The safety of their staff and students remains a priority as they continue to provide support.

Eyewitness Accounts and Traffic Impact

Community members have expressed their concerns and shared their eyewitness accounts online. One individual commented, “I witnessed it just after drop-off. It was absolutely horrendous. Thank goodness for airbags!” Other locals extended their thoughts and prayers for the recovery of everyone involved, with many acknowledging the stress the incident has caused within the school community.

Queensland Police and emergency services remained on the scene for several hours to assist those involved and manage traffic. They are investigating the crash, and further updates will be provided as more details emerge.

Queensland Police have yet to release a detailed report on the cause of the accident. The school and police are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage of the accident to come forward to aid the investigation.

Published 25-Oct-2024

North Lakes Man Wins $100,000, Bringing Joy After Difficult Period

A local man from North Lakes is celebrating a much-needed stroke of luck after winning $100,000 in a recent draw.

The winner, who prefers to keep his identity private, ran errands when he received the surprising news of his win. He was overjoyed and described it as a welcome bright spot amidst recent challenges. The timely win gave him relief and a reason to celebrate.

He purchased his winning entry, which consisted of 10 randomly generated numbers, through the app. While he hasn’t yet decided how to use the prize money, he plans to put his feet up and relax for the rest of the day.

This win contributes to the impressive successes in the past financial year. Across Australia, 147 individuals have won over $53.4 million in 1st Prize and Jackpot wins. The Super Jackpot is a raffle-style game with a predetermined number of tickets, ensuring winners don’t have to share prizes.

As this North Lakes resident enjoys good fortune, the jackpots continue growing. The Mega Jackpot prise for draw 1690 is now $2.92 million, while the Super Jackpot prize for draw 10886 stands at $5.96 million.

Anyone hoping to emulate the North Lakes winner can purchase tickets at any licensed outlet, online at thelott.com, or through TheLott mobile app.

Published Date 22-October-2024

Witches Night Market Brings Christmas Enchantment to Petrie

As the holiday season approaches, the Witches Night Market is casting its festive spell over Petrie next month, transforming the historic School of Arts into a magical Christmas shopping destination.

Read: Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre in Petrie Validated as Olympic Venue

The event, running from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on November 30, promises to be an enchanted evening under the summer stars.

Since its inception in 2021, the Witches Night Market has become a treasured fixture in Southeast Queensland’s cultural landscape, weaving its magic throughout Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast, and Toowoomba regions. This special Christmas edition offers a bewitching alternative to conventional holiday shopping centres.

A Treasury of Magical Gifts and Festive Delights

Visitors can expect to discover an eclectic array of handcrafted wonders perfect for those hard-to-please individuals on their gift lists. From mystical potions and handcrafted amulets to unique artisanal creations, each stall promises something extraordinary. Local artisans and craftspeople will showcase their magical wares, ensuring every gift carries a touch of enchantment.

The market isn’t just about shopping – it’s a full sensory experience. Food vendors will be serving up delectable treats, while the festive atmosphere promises to transport visitors to a realm where Christmas magic meets mystical charm.

The evening’s ambiance will be enhanced by the presence of four-legged companions, as familiar spirits (pets) are welcome to join the festivities, provided they remain leashed and under their owners’ watchful eyes.

For those seeking to escape the conventional Christmas shopping rush, the Night Market offers a unique opportunity to support local creators while immersing themselves in a magical shopping experience.

Whether you’re a believer in magic or simply looking for something different this holiday season, the market promises to cast a spell that will leave both gift-givers and recipients spellbound.

Read: Local Family Business Success: Kallangur’s Pizza Workz Sets Sights on Dakabin

Remember to mark your calendars for this enchanting event that combines the mystical with the festive, creating a truly magical Christmas shopping experience. For the latest updates and vendor announcements, visit the Witches Night Market Facebook events page.

Published 22-October-2024