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Equipping Deception Bay Youth for Success: A Community Grant in Action

Equipping for Life Limited, a well-recognized charity with its main operation in Deception Bay, was one of the awardees of the Good for Good Community Grants Program from Queensland Country Bank. This funding went to purchasing a secure storage trailer, vital for transporting and storing various sporting and outdoor equipment.

The $10,000 grant, which was given in 2023, was primarily intended to increase the accessibility of outdoor activities for underprivileged and vulnerable students enrolled in the Equipping for Life educational initiative at Arethusa College, also in Deception Bay.

The goal was to address the logistical obstacles associated with transporting and storing equipment, thus enabling a wider variety of physical activities to take place more regularly. Participation in these activities is essential for the well-being of young people, both physically and mentally, and serves as a crucial support system, particularly for those at risk of social exclusion or behavioral challenges.

Arethusa College Equipping for Life — *Photo Credit: Arethusa College/Facebook*

Arethusa College: A Unique Educational Approach

Arethusa College provides alternative educational and vocational pathways for students from Years 7-12 who struggle in mainstream school environments. The college operates seven campuses throughout South East Queensland, each tailored to its local context.

Notably, the Deception Bay campus, spread over 75 acres, offers a serene, semi-rural setting that enhances student learning through outdoor activities, sports facilities, and various vocational training opportunities.

Beneficiaries of the Project

Equipping for Life Limited’s project supports a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, children and youth aged 6 to under 25, financially disadvantaged individuals, people at risk of homelessness, those with disabilities, pre/post-release offenders and their families, victims of crime, and both female and male groups across different age brackets. Providing accessible outdoor activities via the storage trailer will significantly enhance the engagement and well-being of these groups.

Arethusa College’s philosophy is anchored in Christian principles that emphasise respect, morality, and valuable life lessons. Although the college does not impart religious education, these principles are embedded in its culture and programs, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. This approach is particularly beneficial for students who have experienced prolonged absences from school or social challenges, helping them to achieve a sense of belonging and accomplishment.

Queensland Country Bank’s commitment to reinvesting profits into local communities has led to the Good for Good Community Grants Program supporting not-for-profit entities across the state since 2005. Another round of grants will be distributed in 2024.

Published 3-Sept-2024

Robbery in North Lakes: Police Appeal for Witnesses

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

North Lakes police are seeking public assistance following a violent robbery that occurred on Thursday, August 29. The incident involved a 17-year-old boy who was threatened with a knife and had his bicycle stolen.

Details of the Incident

Date and Time: Thursday, August 29, at approximately 5:35 PM
Location: Memorial Drive, near the intersection of Diamond Jubilee, North Lakes
Victims: Two boys — one riding a bicycle, the other walking alongside
Perpetrators: Two unknown males on bicycles

According to initial investigations, the victims were approached from behind by the offenders. One of the assailants brandished a knife and demanded the victim’s bicycle, which was then taken. The offenders were last seen riding westbound along Memorial Drive, heading towards Discovery Drive.

Appeal for Witnesses

Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with a male witness who assisted the victim after the incident. This individual is described as:

Wearing a green hi-visibility shirt and work pants
Riding a bicycle past the victims and offenders at the time of the robbery

Police are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage from the area around the time of the incident to come forward.

How to Provide Information

If you have any information that could assist the investigation of this North Lakes robbery:

Contact Policelink: www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444
Report anonymously to Crime Stoppers: Call 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersqld.com.au

Please quote the reference number: QP2401486554 when providing information.

Published 2-September-2024

North Lakes Community Shocked by Another Brazen Break-in Next to Murdered Mum’s Home

The house adjacent to where Emma Lovell was brutally murdered on Boxing Day 2022 has been invaded by a group of masked youths in North Lakes.

Late Thursday evening, 22 August, masked intruders were captured on CCTV forcefully entering the home right next to where the tragic incident involving Emma occurred less than two years ago. The distressing footage revealed several young offenders at the scene, though it remains unclear if they managed to steal anything.

Resident Sarah Brown expressed her dismay and anger over the incident, highlighting the youths’ audacity in targeting their community. Lee Lovell, Emma’s widower, shared his disbelief that such an event could recur so near their home, noting it brought back harrowing memories and fears. He reflected on his response to such threats and the perpetual caution that now marks his daily life.

North Lakes youth crime — *Photo Credit: QPS*

The intrusion has had a strong impact on the community, with neighbors and locals clearly showing significant discomfort. There is a tangible sense of fear that their homes might be targeted next, or even worse, that their families could be directly endangered.

Lee voiced his frustration over the current youth crime measures, suggesting that the system’s leniency only perpetuates the cycle of crime. He advocated for more vital legislation to deter young offenders effectively, pointing out the frequent and seemingly consequence-free nature of youth offenses.

The local police have intensified their efforts in response to the break-in, investigating whether this incident is connected to other recent crimes in the area.

There have been multiple attempts by groups of youths to break into properties in North Lakes and the nearby Mango Hill area. Detectives are also considering links to other aggressive break-ins across Brisbane, including a violent home invasion in Bridgeman Downs where suspects brandished a mallet and a butcher’s knife.

Published 28-Aug-2024

Deception Bay in the Crosshairs as New Flight Paths Proposed for Brisbane

Photo Credit: AirServices Australia/Facebook

Deception Bay and several other suburbs in the north and south may soon find themselves under new flight paths as Airservices Australia announces five proposed changes aimed at redistributing aircraft noise.

The national airways safety provider is seeking public feedback on the plan, which has sparked mixed reactions from residents and community groups following the opening of the city’s new runway four years ago. While Airservices Australia believes noise sharing is a fair solution, many residents, particularly those represented by the Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance (BFPCA), strongly oppose it, labelling it a “divide and conquer” tactic.

The complex proposals include changes to both departures and arrivals, impacting various suburbs across Brisbane, Logan, Moreton Bay, and Redland council areas.

*Photo Credit:* *Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance/ Facebook*

Departures over land to the west and north west: This would reduce noise in parts of Brisbane’s inner-west and outer north west, potentially affecting suburbs like Samford Village, The Gap, Ashgrove, Chermside, Albany Creek, Tennyson, West End, Kangaroo Point, and areas in Moreton Bay.

Arrivals overland from the north and west: This aims to decrease flight frequency and concentration over Brisbane’s outer North West and Moreton Bay, potentially affecting suburbs from Upper Brookfield to Bellbowrie, Forest Lake, Wacol, Sunnybank, and Carindale.

Departures over land to the south and east: This would limit flights over Brisbane’s South East, including Wynnum, Capalaba, Sunnybank, and areas in Redland and Logan.

Simultaneous arrivals using both runways: This could benefit residents in parts of Brisbane, Logan, and Moreton, potentially including Bribie Island, Springfield, Calamvale, and Sunnybank.

Changes to turboprop plane arrivals: This would reduce their frequency and concentration over Brisbane’s North East and parts of Moreton, potentially affecting Redcliffe, Caboolture, Deception Bay, and Beachmere.

Airservices Australia acknowledges the community’s concerns and is working to provide more detailed information, including scalable maps showing current flight frequency and concentration. However, BFPCA criticises the proposals’ complexity and the lack of genuine noise reduction measures, such as curfews and flight caps, which they believe should be prioritised over noise sharing.

The debate over Brisbane’s flight paths continues, with residents and community groups urging more meaningful noise control action. The public comment period is open until September 15, and it remains to be seen how Airservices Australia will address the community’s concerns and find a balance between noise sharing and genuine noise reduction.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Published Date 20-August-2024

North Lakes Tradies to Compete in National Indoor Golf Event

Three North Lakes tradies are swapping their work boots for golf shoes as they prepare to compete in the prestigious Australia and New Zealand Indoor Golf Championship later this month.

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

Joshua Govan, Dominic Jenkins, and Matthew Lowe, high school friends turned indoor golf enthusiasts, have qualified as finalists among 58 other teams from South East Queensland.

“We’ve all worked really hard to make it to nationals, constantly getting lessons and putting work in,” Matthew shared, his excitement palpable.

“We’ve never had the opportunity to travel for our sport, so we’re super excited to head down to Geelong and compete against the best golfers in the League – maybe we’ll even bring the title home!”

The 12th annual X-League Championship, hosted by X-Golf, will take place in Geelong, Victoria. The North Lakes trio will face off against teams from Western Australia, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria, and New Zealand, showcasing the growing popularity of indoor golf across the Pacific region.

Indoor golf’s rise to prominence is evident in the numbers. With 3.5 million Australians engaging in some form of golf last year, the sport’s indoor variant has seen a significant surge in interest. X-League itself has experienced remarkable growth, now boasting over 1,000 competitors across the Pacific since its inception in 2012.

For Matthew, the appeal of indoor golf lies in its ability to enhance real-world performance. “You can pretty much anticipate the shape of a shot outside based on how you’re refining your skills on the sims,” he explained, highlighting the transferable skills developed through simulator technology.

The championship not only reflects the growing trend of indoor golf but also taps into the booming eSports market in Australia, which is expected to reach a staggering value of $294 billion this year. This convergence of traditional sport and technology has created a new breed of golfers, honing their skills in the controlled environment of simulators at venues like X-Golf North Lakes.

The X-League Championships, set for Saturday, August 24, in Geelong, will host eight finalist teams competing for major prizes. These include a coveted golf trip to Barnbougle Dunes in Tasmania and high-end Ping golfing equipment.

As these North Lakes tradies prepare to represent North Lakes on the national stage, their journey from local tradies to potential indoor golf champions serves as an inspiring tale of passion, dedication, and the evolving landscape of modern sports.

Read: Deception Bay Brothers Claim Dream Home Crown in Thrilling Final

For those interested in following the championship results and potentially witnessing the crowning of new indoor golf champions, updates will be available at xgolf.com.au.

Published 16-August-2024

Veteran Narangba Paramedic Hailed an Everyday Hero

Narangba paramedic Murray Tulloch has been nominated for a prestigious QBANK Everyday Heroes Award for his outstanding service and dedication to supporting the next generation of paramedics in the community.

Mr Tulloch, an Advanced Care Paramedic with the Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) for 13 years, previously served over 30 years with the Australian Defence Force. He has been a resident of Narangba for 22 years and feels a deep connection to the community, which he now serves in a different but equally impactful capacity.

“I was seeking a new career path that would provide both challenges and fulfilment when I discovered the Ambulance Service,” said Mr Tulloch. “This job felt like a great way to give back.”

Narangba Paramedic Everyday Heroes — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

A Day in the Life of a Paramedic

As an Advanced Care Paramedic, Mr Tulloch’s role involves responding to a wide range of emergencies, often within minutes of starting his shift. He emphasised the unpredictability and variety of cases he encounters daily, which keeps the job engaging and challenging.

“My role as an on-road paramedic often kicks off within minutes of the shift. The diversity of cases we attend ensures no two days are the same, keeping us engaged and ready for any situation,” he explained. “What I find most rewarding is the sense of relief and trust people show when we arrive on the scene. It’s a powerful reminder of our impact on the community and the trust they place in us to care for them and their loved ones.”

Mentorship and Recognition

In addition to his on-road duties, the Narangba paramedic plays a vital role in mentoring and training new paramedics, helping them develop the skills necessary to excel in their roles. He finds great satisfaction in watching early career paramedics grow in confidence and capability.

“Part of my role is helping train the next group of paramedics, which involves hands-on experience, classroom learning, and regular assessments,” said Mr Tulloch. “I gain a lot of satisfaction from seeing those nervous faces at the beginning grow into confident and capable paramedics as they progress through their training.”

Despite his extensive service and dedication, Mr Tulloch expressed surprise and humility at being nominated for the QBANK Everyday Heroes Award.

“We have so many wonderful people working for QAS, and it is a privilege to be selected,” he said. “The nomination is a testament to the paramedics’ hard work and dedication at QAS, and I am immensely proud to be a part of this team.”

Looking Ahead

The QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards, now in their 10th year, recognise the exceptional achievements of Queensland’s frontline workers and volunteers across various sectors, including Police, Fire, Ambulance, Health, Corrections, Education, and the Public Service.

Nominations for the 2024 awards are open until 31 August, with winners to be announced at a ceremony in October. Each winner will receive $2000, with an additional $2000 donated to a charity of their choice.

Finalists for the awards will be announced in September, with the awards dinner set to take place on 11 October at the W Hotel Brisbane. For more information on the awards and nomination criteria, visit the QBANK website.

Published 14-Aug-2024

Nature’s Warning: Scientists Race to Protect Moreton Bay Against Lyngbya Bloom

Moreton Bay faces a potential ecological crisis as experts warn of the risk of another massive Lyngbya majuscula bloom.

Read: Narangba Koala Stops Traffic, Man’s Patient Gestures Save the Day

This toxic cyanobacteria, colloquially known as “snot grass” or “mermaid’s hair,” has a history of wreaking havoc on the bay’s delicate ecosystem and poses significant health risks to humans.

Photo credit: The Moreton Bay Foundation/Facebook

While Lyngbya majuscula occurs naturally in Moreton Bay’s waters, its explosive growth is largely attributed to human activities. Sediment and nutrient runoff from farming, mining, and housing developments in the region have created ideal conditions for these harmful algal blooms.

In 2001, a Lyngbya bloom spanning 40 kilometres blanketed Deception and Moreton Bays, serving as a stark reminder of the potential scale of the problem.

Environmental and Economic Impacts

The consequences of Lyngbya blooms extend far beyond their unsightly appearance. Fish tend to avoid affected areas, potentially reducing catches for both commercial and recreational fishers.

Even more concerning is the possible impact on endangered sea turtles, with significant blooms associated with reduced reproductive success, possibly due to food shortages as turtles avoid contaminated seagrass beds.

Health Risks and Public Precautions

Human health is also at stake. Past blooms have resulted in fishermen experiencing dermatitis and asthma-like symptoms after contact with the algae. Health authorities strongly advise against swimming or wading in areas where Lyngbya is present and recommend avoiding direct contact with any material washed up on beaches.

Fighting Back: Current Research and Future Solutions

Lyngbya collected from seagrass beds with a rake (Photo credit: Stephen Faggoter/moretonbayfoundation.org)

While long-term solutions focus on reducing nutrient loads entering the bay through catchment remediation, these efforts may take years to show substantial results. In response, researchers are exploring more immediate interventions.

Professor Burford and her team are at the forefront of these efforts, developing advanced monitoring techniques using drone technology to detect Lyngbya-affected areas early.

“The focus of environmental management in recent years has been to undertake remediation actions in catchments that reduce the nutrients entering Moreton Bay, such as tree planting to stabilise the banks of rivers. However, these actions will take many years to see substantial reductions in nutrient loads to the Bay so other approaches might offer more immediate hope,” Dr Burford said.

Despite ongoing research and mitigation efforts, Lyngbya majuscula remains a persistent threat to Moreton Bay.

“So the current status is that this smelly, costly and concerning problem will be with us for a while. However, we are aware of it and we are keen to find solutions that enhance our ability to detect and mitigate blooms while we await impacts the important work taking place in Moreton Bay’s catchment to reduce nutrient loads,” Dr Burford added.

Read: Deception Bay, Moreton Bay Homes Face Land Value Surge Amid Migration Boom

The battle against Lyngbya majuscula serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate interplay between human activity and natural ecosystems, underscoring the need for sustainable practices and innovative environmental management strategies.

Published 12-August-2024

Major Childcare Centre Proposed for Kallangur Business District

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay / DA/2024/3293

Children First Property Pty Ltd has submitted a development application for a major childcare centre capable of accommodating over 130 children in Kallangur.

The proposed facility, to be located at 2/8 Cotterell Road and 105 School Road, would involve the demolition of three existing houses. The plan outlines a one-storey structure with a gross floor area of 1,008 square meters, designed to cater for 132 children up to four years old.

**The proposed facility is designed to cater for 132 children up to four years old.**
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay / DA/2024/3293

The proposed childcare centre would feature seven separate internal rooms for different age groups and large outdoor play areas. It would operate from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and provide 27 car parking spaces for parents and staff.

The site, which boasts frontages on both School and Cotterell roads, is strategically located within Kallangur’s business periphery. Access to the centre is proposed from Cotterell Road.

According to the application, the location is ideal due to its proximity to local shopping, convenience stores, and various community facilities. The developers argue that the site is well-suited for a childcare centre, supporting both the surrounding residential neighbourhoods and the local activity centre.

The application also emphasises the architectural merit of the proposed building, noting that it will present well to both street frontages and neighbouring residential areas. A notable design feature includes an awning structure along the School Road frontage, extending around to Cotterell Road.

As Kallangur continues to grow, this development could provide much-needed childcare services to the area. The application is currently under review by local authorities, and community feedback may play a role in the final decision.

Published 7-August-2024

Bridge of Honour: Senior Constable Dave Masters’ Legacy Lives On

The Deception Bay Road overpass has been officially renamed the Dave Masters Memorial Bridge, honouring the life and sacrifice of Senior Constable Dave Masters.

Read: Puppy ‘Davey’ Named for Late Deception Bay Officer Nears Completion of Guide Dog Training

Senior Constable Masters tragically lost his life in the line of duty on 26 June 2021. While attempting to stop a speeding stolen vehicle on the Bruce Highway at Burpengary, Masters deployed road spikes but was fatally struck when the driver swerved.

The incident, occurring in the early hours of that fateful Saturday, sent shockwaves through the Queensland Police Service and the wider community.

Senior Constable Masters (Photo credit: National Police Memorial Australia)

The dedication ceremony, held last month at Deception Bay police station, marked a bittersweet moment for family, colleagues, and the community he served.

The Queensland Police Service announced the tribute, stating, “Just over three years since we lost Dave, this tribute to his life is a testament to his unwavering commitment to both the Queensland community and the Queensland Police Service.”

They added, “Dave’s legacy, including his sacrifice and the remarkable impact he had, will live on through this memorial bridge.”

Moreton District Officer A/Chief Superintendent Adam Guild emphasised the bridge’s significance as a place of reflection.

“We will always remember him as a well-loved colleague and mate who was dedicated to keeping others safe,” Guild stated. He expressed hope that the community would be reminded of Masters’ sacrifice each time they pass the newly named overpass.

The unveiling ceremony at Deception Bay station was attended by Masters’ wife Sharon and son Jack, along with other family members and former colleagues. The event served as a poignant reminder of the station Masters once called home.

Legal Proceedings and Family’s Wait for Justice

The case took a significant turn in April 2024 when two women were charged with Masters’ murder – the driver and a passenger. However, one of the accused was released on bail after three years in custody, a decision that left the Masters family grappling with disappointment and a sense of prolonged limbo as they await justice.

Court proceedings revealed the horrifying details of that night, with a forensic crash investigator estimating the vehicle’s speed between 147 and 153 kilometres per hour at the moment of impact.

Read: Deception Bay Overpass Renamed to Honour Fallen Officer

As motorists now travel along the Dave Masters Memorial Bridge, the signage installed at each end of the overpass stands as a permanent reminder of a life dedicated to public service and safety. It’s a fitting tribute to a man who made the ultimate sacrifice in his commitment to protect and serve his community.

Published 7-August-2024

North Lakes Pizza Temptations Closes, Marking End of the South East Queensland Franchise

North Lakes residents are reeling from the unexpected closure of Pizza Temptations, a beloved local pizzeria and the last remaining vestige of a once-thriving South East Queensland franchise.

The announcement came this week via a heartfelt social media post from owner-operators Kylie and Craig Oldfield, who expressed gratitude for the community’s support over the past seven years.

The Oldfields’ decision to close marks the final chapter for Pizza Temptations, which began its journey a decade ago in Upper Coomera under the helm of founders Daniel Pirrone-Cook and Belinda Ann Karcoushkas. The original location closed in August of last year, leaving the North Lakes store as the sole remaining outpost of the franchise.

News of the closure has sparked an outpouring of support and reminiscing from loyal customers on social media. Many expressed sadness at losing a local favourite, with some sharing fond memories of the Oldfields and their staff. One commenter even thanked the couple for providing their children with valuable work experience.

While the reasons behind the closure remain undisclosed, it is clear that Pizza Temptations has left a lasting impression on the North Lakes community. As the last embers of the franchise fade, the memories of delicious pizzas and warm service will undoubtedly continue to linger.

Published Date 06-August-2024