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Officers Praised After Baby Delivered In Deception Bay Police Station Car Park

In a moment no one expected, a Queensland couple welcomed their baby boy into the world with the help of two police officers, right outside Deception Bay police station.

Officers Step In As Labour Begins

On the morning of 1 March 2025, Constables Jacob Pennisi and Philippe Stigner were returning from callouts when Nathaniel Pedler flagged them down outside the station, his wife Julie was in labour and couldn’t make it to hospital.

*Photo Credit: Queensland Police Service*

As Constable Stigner called Triple Zero, Constable Pennisi grabbed a towel. With the operator’s help, the officers delivered baby Blake in the car park just minutes before paramedics arrived.

Station CCTV shows the officers jumping into action, with baby Blake’s first cries echoing moments later. The whole delivery unfolded in under five minutes.

Family Returns To Say Thanks

In the days that followed, the Pedler family returned to Deception Bay police station to personally thank the officers who helped deliver their child. Julie said everything happened so fast that there was little time to think, but she was grateful for how calmly the officers responded.

The Queensland Police Service also acknowledged the moment in a Mother’s Day message, sharing the story publicly to recognise Julie’s strength and the officers’ actions during an unexpected and high-pressure situation.

A Unique Day On The Job

Constable Pennisi later said the day had started like any other, and the last thing they expected was to be delivering a baby. He added that police never really know what the next job will bring, but moments like this stand out as memorable and meaningful.

Both officers were praised by their colleagues and the wider community for staying composed and acting quickly in a situation far outside the usual scope of police duties. The response highlighted the wide range of roles officers sometimes play, especially in local communities.

A Moment That Brought The Community Closer

The moment showed how local police support goes beyond crime and emergencies. Deception Bay locals praised the officers for their care and quick response.

For one family, a routine morning took an unexpected turn. But with help from two police officers at the right place and time, a new life began safely.

Published 14-May-2025

North Lakes Teen Max Cunningham Makes National Splash

North Lakes teenager Max Cunningham has surged to national attention after a standout performance at the Australian Age Swimming Championships, securing his place among the country’s most promising young athletes.

Read: North Lakes Teen Max Cunningham Dominates State Swim Championships with Five Golds

At just 15 years old, Max delivered an impressive five-medal haul at the national event in Brisbane. His efforts included gold in the 50m backstroke, silver medals in the 100m backstroke and both 50m and 100m butterfly, and a bronze in the 100m butterfly.

He narrowly missed the podium in the 50m freestyle, finishing fourth. These results have earned him a coveted spot in Swimming Australia’s Next Wave Competition Camp, a key part of the pathway to the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.

Max, who began his swimming journey with Grace Swim Club in nearby Rothwell, now represents Brisbane Grammar School under the guidance of coach Bobby Javanovich. His steady climb through Queensland’s competitive swimming ranks has been marked by dedication, consistency, and a willingness to embrace challenges—traits that continue to set him apart.

The Next Wave camp, held in Canberra from 6 to 12 July, brings together 64 of the nation’s top junior swimmers. Participants were selected based on their top-three finishes at the national age titles, with the program designed to simulate high-pressure racing environments and build resilience through repeated competition.

Max’s selection places him alongside the most elite youth talent in the country and marks a major milestone in his athletic development. It also affirms the strength of swimming in the Moreton Bay region, where grassroots clubs like Grace Swim Club continue to nurture future stars.

Read: Moreton Bay Aquatic Centres Offer Summer Fun and Fitness

With an eye on future national championships and the long-term goal of Olympic competition, Max remains focused on refining his technique and learning from Australia’s top coaches. His journey is one to watch—not just for local pride in North Lakes, but as part of a broader national push to develop the next generation of champions.

Published 12-May-2025

Street Spotlight: McGahey St, Rothwell

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

In the heart of Rothwell, McGahey St tells a quiet story of suburban growth and family life shaped by its proximity to one of the region’s most prominent educational institutions. Just a short distance from Mueller College—a major P–12 independent Christian school that serves as a local anchor for families—McGahey Street has become a sought-after address for households prioritising schooling convenience and community connection.

The street’s appeal is evident in its transaction history. A notable sale in 2023 saw a 607 m² house change hands, reflecting the kind of family-oriented properties that line this residential pocket. Local estate agents often point to Mueller College’s presence as a key driver of buyer interest on smaller residential streets like McGahey, where the combination of proximity to quality education and established suburban amenities creates steady demand.

Over the past three decades, McGahey Street has witnessed remarkable value appreciation. Properties that sold for modest sums in the 1990s and early 2000s have seen substantial growth, mirroring the broader transformation of Rothwell from a quieter outer suburb into a thriving residential hub. The street’s character remains family-focused, with owner-occupiers forming the backbone of the community and many households choosing to put down roots for the long term.

McGahey St, Rothwell Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 36 houses, 8 others
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 85%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 7 years and 10 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 19%

McGahey St, Rothwell – As It Looked in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON MCGAHEY ST, ROTHWELL

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
52 McGahey Street, Rothwell	$711,000	Jul 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON MCGAHEY ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
50 McGahey Street, Rothwell	$175,000	Jun 2006
3 McGahey Street, Rothwell	$65,000	May 1999
5 McGahey Street, Rothwell	$135,000	May 1993

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Rothwell in 2025 was $770,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Rothwell in 2021 was $428,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ROTHWELL SINCE 2021: $342,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Rothwell in 2025 was $840,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Rothwell in 2021 was $496,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ROTHWELL SINCE 2021: $344,000

If you know Wattle Rd, Rothwell well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Published 11-May-2025

Mango Hill Urban Village to Bring 23 Towers and Thousands of Homes to North Lakes

Photo Credit: DA/2025/1375

A major transformation is on the horizon for Mango Hill as the Pace family, who have transitioned to property development, lodges plans for a 10.4-hectare urban precinct featuring 23 towers and over 2,300 apartments.

The proposal (DA/2025/1375) envisions a dense, transit-oriented urban village at 1785–1813 Anzac Avenue, directly linked to Mango Hill train station and Westfield North Lakes.

From Egg Producers to City Builders

Pace Farm, formerly Australia’s second-largest egg producer based in Sydney, was sold to investment firm Roc Partners in 2023 for approximately $350 million. The Mango Hill site, once a pine plantation cleared in the 1990s, forms part of the Mango Hill Infrastructure Development Control Plan (DCP), adopted in 2011, which earmarked the area for intensive urbanisation with up to 25,000 new homes.

The family’s latest move reflects a broader national trend—repurposing strategic inner-suburban sites into high-density, mixed-use communities.

The project is set to function as a major employment hub and catalyst for regional economic growth by combining residential and commercial components within the towers.

Project Snapshot

Developer: The Pace family (former owners of Pace Farm)/Mango Hill Property Pty Ltd
Architect: Archipelago
Towers: 23 (ranging from 8 to 30 storeys)
Residential Units: 2,329 apartments
Commercial Space: 118,023 sqm
Retail & Dining: 6,600 sqm
Green Space: 1.23 hectares including pedestrian corridors
Job Creation: Estimated 12,000

Planning History and Evolution

An earlier version of the plan, approved in 2018, included 13 towers and 715 dwellings. The current proposal more than triples residential capacity, in line with upgraded transport connectivity and regional growth targets.

Located just 400 metres from the Mango Hill train station, the proposal integrates a “green spine” pedestrian and cycling network that will link key commercial, retail and residential zones. The project also includes intersection upgrades and improved public access to Anzac Avenue.

Environment and Community

While 14 trees—including 11 mango trees—are slated for removal to facilitate road upgrades, the developer has pledged comprehensive landscaping and replanting efforts across more than 12,000 square metres of open space.

Community consultation is expected to begin mid-year, with stakeholders calling for a balance between growth and livability.

Urban planning experts say the Mango Hill proposal mirrors other successful mixed-use hubs across southeast Queensland, such as Springfield and Coomera.

What Happens Next

Moreton Bay’s population has surged in recent years, and Council predicts the area will need thousands of new homes. The urban village aims to ease pressure by placing high-density housing close to trains, shops and jobs, aligning with a long-term plan set in 2011.

The application is under review by Moreton Bay Regional Council. If approved, the village could house 5,000 people and help locals stay closer to home for work and services.

Published 11-May-2025

Petrie to Host Olympic Boxing as $205M Sports Centre Project Kicks Off

Photo Credit: Councillor Sandra Ruck/Facebook

A brand-new indoor sports centre in Petrie is set to host boxing for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, placing the fast-growing Moreton Bay suburb squarely on the international sporting stage.

Construction Timeline and Cost

A $205 million Indoor Sports Centre will be built at The Mill in Petrie, near the University of the Sunshine Coast. Site work begins by June 2025, with major construction completing by 2028 to ensure readiness for the Games.

*Photo Credit: Chris Whiting MP/Facebook*

The project is being funded jointly by the Queensland and federal governments through the $1.87 billion Minor Venues Program, which supports Olympic infrastructure in suburban and regional areas.

Facilities and Features

When finished, the indoor sports centre will feature 12 multi-use courts across two large halls. These will be suitable for basketball, netball, volleyball, futsal, badminton, pickleball and wheelchair rugby. It will also include player change rooms, a café, meeting rooms, and more than 300 car spaces.

During the 2032 Olympic Games, the venue will transform into a boxing arena with a seating capacity of up to 10,000. After the Games, the space will revert to a community facility for local sports, events, and other large-scale activities.

Local Impact and Community Focus

The centre is being developed with the surrounding population in mind. Nearly 700,000 people live within a 30-minute drive of Petrie, and demand for modern indoor sporting venues in the Moreton Bay region has been rising.

Games officials stress the facility is designed for both the Olympics and long-term community use, serving local schools, clubs, and events year-round. It will be fully accessible for people of all abilities.

Sustainability Goals and Broader Legacy

The indoor centre aims for a 6-Star Green Star rating, highlighting its strong focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, and environmental performance, making it one of Queensland’s most ambitious Olympic venues.

It forms part of a broader state plan to use the Brisbane 2032 Games as a springboard for long-term benefits, with facilities like the Petrie centre supporting lasting improvements alongside transport and tourism upgrades.

Published 11-May-2025

LASSÙ Adult Cabaret Brings Risqué Circus to North Lakes

Photo Credit: Lassù The Show/Instagram

LASSÙ, an adults-only circus-cabaret show blending burlesque, dance, and traditional circus, is now touring Queensland with a stop in North Lakes.

Cosmic Cabaret Experience Lands in Queensland

North Lakes has been confirmed as one of the Queensland stops for LASSÙ, an adults-only cabaret show created by Ashton Legacy Productions. The show will run from 20 June to 6 July at Prospect Street, North Lakes. Featuring a cosmic saloon theme with space cowboys, alien drifters, and circus performers, LASSÙ combines modern choreography with traditional circus arts in an immersive production aimed at adult audiences.

*Photo Credit: Lassù The Show/Instagram*

The production is led by Merrik Ashton, a seventh-generation performer with nearly 30 years in the circus industry. Mr Ashton has taken LASSÙ to cities including Mackay, Townsville and the Sunshine Coast, with North Lakes added to the east coast tour.

Behind the Production

LASSÙ presents a narrative-driven show set on the edge of the galaxy. Audiences follow the story of Rodeo Clown Rusty as he attempts to restore the golden age of the saloon. The performance includes risqué acts, fire effects, and strobe lighting, making it strictly for audiences aged 18 and over.

The creative direction of the show is helmed by Mitchell Woodcock, a Helpmann Award-winning choreographer whose credits span work with national and international artists as well as productions such as The Voice and Australian Idol.

LASSÙ cabaret — *Photo Credit: Lassù The Show/Instagram*

Seating and Ticketing

Tickets are priced between $73 and $155, with several seating categories available. General admission starts at $88.71, while premium options such as Cabaret Tables—priced at $155.01 per person—offer bottle service and front-row proximity to the stage.

Other options include booth seating for groups, second-row ringside at $114.20, and front-row ringside at $134.61. A complimentary Companion Card option is also available, requiring presentation at entry alongside a valid paid ticket.

Performer Origins and Artistic Intent

Mr Ashton, who debuted in circus performance at age two, formed Ashton Legacy Productions with the aim of blending spectacle with intimate storytelling. LASSÙ reflects this goal by combining traditional showmanship with modern visual storytelling, aiming to give audiences close-range access to every detail of the performance.

Each performance is staged under a purpose-built big top designed to immerse viewers in a setting where live music, circus stunts and burlesque blend into a single visual experience.

risqué circus show — *Photo Credit: Lassù The Show/Instagram*

Next Steps for the Tour

With North Lakes now included in the itinerary, the production continues its Queensland run through regional and metropolitan locations. Mr Ashton has described the show as a high-energy production that pushes boundaries in live entertainment, supported by a strong visual and performance framework.

Seating options and show details for LASSÙ’s Queensland tour, including North Lakes, are available through official ticketing outlets.

Published 10-May-2025

Urban Village Proposal Unveiled for Mango Hill

Photo Credit: DA/2025/1375

Plans have been lodged for a large-scale urban village in Mango Hill, featuring 23 new towers and housing for approximately 5000 residents.

Large-Scale Urban Village Proposed for Mango Hill

A development application (DA/2025/1375) has been submitted for a mixed-use precinct in Mango Hill, set to transform more than 10 hectares of land into a dense residential and commercial hub. Known as the Mango Hill Urban Village (MHUV), the proposal includes 23 urban towers, retail tenancies, commercial workspaces, and public open space.

Mango Hill development — *Photo Credit: DA/2025/1375*

Project Scope and Design

The proposed site spans 10.36 hectares between Anzac Avenue and both sides of Mango Hill Boulevard. If approved, the village would deliver around 2329 high-density dwellings across residential towers ranging from eight to 30 storeys.

Commercial components would include multiple towers of eight to 10 storeys, offering a total of 118,000 square metres of floor space. The precinct is expected to support about 12,000 jobs through workplace campuses, retail, and food outlets. A “green spine” linking the site to Mango Hill Station, located 400 metres away, is also part of the design.

Ground-floor uses across the development will be allocated to food and beverage venues and small-format retail spaces. Approximately 1.23 hectares of the area is designated as open space for public use.

Mango Hill Urban Village — *Photo Credit: DA/2025/1375*

Site Background and Previous Approvals

The site was previously occupied by Pace Farm, formerly one of Australia’s largest egg producers, which was sold in 2023. In 2018, Moreton Bay Regional Council had approved a separate plan for 13 towers up to six storeys, comprising 715 dwellings and commercial facilities. Those plans remain current but have since been re-evaluated.

The new application reflects a shift towards higher density living, with the developer’s revised vision aiming to better leverage existing transport and infrastructure.

Environmental and Transport Considerations

To enable site access via a new intersection on Anzac Avenue, 14 trees—11 of which are mango trees—would be removed. The development application notes a commitment to replacing these with younger mango trees, aimed at enhancing the streetscape with longer-lasting vegetation.

The proximity of Mango Hill Station is central to the project’s transit-oriented design, with a dedicated pedestrian corridor intended to connect key areas within the site to public transport.

Mango Hill Urban Village plans — *Photo Credit: DA/2025/1375*

Planning Process and Intent

The development application seeks a preliminary approval for a material change of use, which would modify the Moreton Bay Regional Council Planning Scheme 2016. This change is aimed at facilitating the delivery of the mixed-use precinct as envisioned.

According to the application, the existing 2018 approval would not provide the same level of economic or lifestyle benefits, with the updated plan considered more suited to the area’s evolving urban landscape.

Published 6-May-2025

Art, Awareness, and Action: Deception Bay Doctors Unite Community Against Violence

Deception Bay Doctors is hosting a vibrant fundraising event on Sunday, June 1, to support the Centre Against Domestic Abuse (CADA)—an award-winning service dedicated to helping those impacted by domestic and family violence.

Read: New First Nations Mental Health Hub Opens in Deception Bay

The event, titled Violets Not Violence, will take place from 10:00 a.m. at 25 Zammit Street, Deception Bay, transforming the clinic’s grounds into a hub of creativity, compassion, and community connection.

At the heart of the event is a powerful art exhibition by Dr Subrat Mishra, a local GP and accomplished artist whose works have been submitted to the prestigious Archibald Prize. In a deeply personal response to the issue, Dr Mishra’s artwork reflects themes of hope, resilience, and healing. All pieces will be available for purchase, with proceeds supporting CADA’s vital services.

Deception Bay Doctors — Photo credit: Subrat Mishra/Facebook

However, the event isn’t just about art—it’s about amplifying voices, especially those of the youngest in our community. As part of the lead-up to the day, Deception Bay Doctors launched an innovative children’s art competition, inviting local students to share their visions of a world free from violence. The winning entries will take pride of place alongside Dr Mishra’s work, offering a poignant and hopeful glimpse into the minds of the next generation.

CADA, the event’s beneficiary, is known for its inclusive and impactful work across the region. The service supports all people experiencing domestic and family violence, regardless of gender or sexuality, and offers crisis intervention, counselling, court support, and community education programs. Their mission is not only to respond to violence but to prevent it, and initiatives like Violets Not Violence play an important role in shifting community attitudes.

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

The day promises something for everyone—with craft stalls, a baked goods table, sausage sizzle, lucky prize draw, and more. Entry is $5 for adults, while children under 10 enter free.

Whether you’re an art lover, a family looking for a meaningful day out, or someone passionate about supporting social change, Violets Not Violence offers a way to stand together—and imagine a safer, kinder future for all.

Published 5-May-2025

North Lakes Man Becomes Millionaire After Surprise Windfall On The Go

Photo Credit: deeznutz1/Pixabay

A young man from North Lakes has joined the ranks of Australia’s newest millionaires, landing more than $1.25 million in prize money after a digital ticket he bought on his phone turned out to be a winner, right as he was heading out the door.

Quiet Windfall Surprises Local On The Move

While heading to an appointment, the North Lakes man got a call telling him he’d just won $1,259,119.90 in the April 26 draw. His System 7 entry, bought through The Lott app, gave him extra number combinations, enough to match all six winning numbers.

The winning numbers were 38, 42, 32, 1, 21 and 7, with supplementary numbers 24 and 13. He told officials the news hadn’t sunk in yet and said he’d be taking his time before making any big decisions.

Local Focus: Planning For Tomorrow, Not Today

The North Lakes resident said he wanted to be smart about how the money would be used. Rather than splurging, he shared his intention to plan carefully and think about the future. His focus is long-term: stability, sensible choices and avoiding sudden changes to his day-to-day life.

He also mentioned keeping the news relatively private. For him, the moment wasn’t about big celebrations or attention, it was about being grateful and practical.

Moreton Bay’s Million-dollar Momentum

This win is part of a streak in Moreton Bay, where four division one prizes have already been claimed in 2025, totalling over $61 million.

North Lakes is emerging as a hotspot, with locals welcoming the good news as the suburb grows into a thriving, family-friendly community.

A Digital Age For Playing And Winning

The win highlights how more Australians are turning to digital platforms to play, with the North Lakes man using The Lott app to enter with a System ticket that boosted his chances.

Despite the life-changing prize, he’s kept the news quiet and plans to use it to build a secure future, adding another quiet success to the region’s growing list.

Published 1-May-2025

Strong Results for Deception Bay Competitors at ALAC 2025

Photo Credit: Deception Bay Little Athletics/Facebook

Deception Bay athletes delivered standout performances at the Australian Little Athletics Championships in Adelaide from 26 to 27 April, contributing to Queensland’s overall success.

Deception Bay’s Road to Nationals

A group of five young athletes from Moreton Bay, three of whom are from Deception Bay Little Athletics, earned selection to represent Queensland at the 2025 Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships (ALAC) in Adelaide. The championships, held on 26 to 27 April at SA Athletics Stadium, brought together more than 500 athletes from across Australia. Jessica Heap, Eliza Kelly, and Kiara Waterman from Deception Bay Little Athletics competed alongside representatives from Strathpine Little Athletics.

2025 Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships — *Photo Credit: Deception Bay Little Athletics/Facebook*

Individual Achievements Highlight Deception Bay Talent

Jessica Heap competed in the Girls Under 14 Shot Put (3kg) and secured first place with a personal best throw of 12.70 metres, breaking the meet record by 12 centimetres. Eliza Kelly placed third in the Girls Under 15 1500m Race Walk, recording a time of 7:51.80. Kiara Waterman finished fifth in the Girls Under 14 1500m Race Walk with a time of 8:38.49.

All three athletes had long-standing histories with Deception Bay Little Athletics, with Jessica and Kiara both having represented the club for more than seven years. Eliza found her passion for race walking after joining at the Under 8 level.

Queensland Team Success at ALAC 2025

The performances of Deception Bay athletes contributed to Queensland’s dominance in the national team results. Queensland secured first place in multiple categories, winning the Alan Triscott Trophy (Under 13 Handicap), Dick Healey Trophy (Under 14), Maxine Boyd Trophy (Under 15), and Life Members Trophy (Under 15 Combined Events). Queensland placed second overall in the Trevor Billingham Trophy (Under 13 Overall).

These results reflect the strength of the Queensland Little Athletics program, with Deception Bay athletes playing a part in the final outcomes.

Community Pride in Deception Bay

Deception Bay Little Athletics expressed pride in the achievements of Jessica, Eliza, and Kiara. The club highlighted the athletes’ dedication, consistent improvement, and significant contribution to Queensland’s team performance.

The success is seen as a positive reflection of the development opportunities available through local athletics programs and the broader Queensland team environment.

Future Prospects for Deception Bay Athletes

Following their achievements at the national championships, the Deception Bay athletes are expected to continue progressing in their chosen events. Their performances at ALAC 2025 not only marked individual milestones but also contributed to Queensland’s broader success, showcasing the depth of talent from Deception Bay.

Published 28-Apr-2025