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Street Spotlight: Coman St S, Rothwell

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

In the early 1990s, a modest house at 100 Coman St S changed hands for just $51,000. Around the same time, neighbouring properties were selling for similarly humble sums—$53,500 here, $129,900 there. These figures paint a picture of Rothwell as it once was: an affordable suburb where young families could establish themselves without stretching their budgets to breaking point. Fast forward three decades, and the transformation has been remarkable. Today, homes on Coman Street South routinely fetch upwards of $800,000, a testament to the area’s steady evolution from sleepy outpost to sought-after family precinct.

Much of this growth can be traced to the suburb’s educational anchor. Mueller College, the large P–12 independent Christian school on Morris Road, has become a significant drawcard for families seeking both quality schooling and community connection. Coman Street South sits within comfortable reach of the college, and that proximity has not gone unnoticed by buyers. Local agents report that “school-driven demand” is a recurring theme in negotiations, with parents willing to pay a premium for the convenience of a short commute to campus. The street’s recent sales history reflects this appetite: properties with four and five bedrooms—ideal for growing families—have consistently changed hands in the $795,000 to $825,000 range throughout 2025.

The street itself tells a broader story about how Rothwell has matured. Where once there were modest fibro cottages on generous blocks, today’s Coman Street South is a mix of renovated family homes and newer builds, many designed with modern families in mind. The residents here are committed: 80 per cent are owner-occupiers, and the average tenure stretches beyond 12 years. That kind of stability speaks to a street where people aren’t just passing through—they’re putting down roots, investing in extensions, and watching their children walk to school each morning.

Coman St S, Rothwell Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 5 units, 67 houses, 2 others
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 80%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years and 4 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 40%

Coman St S, Rothwell – As It Looked in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON COMAN ST S, ROTHWELL

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
30 Coman St S, Rothwell	$825,000	Jun 2025
2 Coman St S, Rothwell	$822,500	May 2025
4 Coman St S, Rothwell	$795,000	May 2025

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON COMAN ST S FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
74 Coman St S, Rothwell	$129,900	Jan 1993
112 Coman St S, Rothwell	$53,500	Jan 1993
100 Coman St S, Rothwell	$51,000	Nov 1992

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 Coman St S, Rothwell well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Published 27-April-2025

National Win for North Lakes Favourite Rapunzel Rapunzel

Photo Credit: Rapunzel Rapunzel/Facebook

North Lakes salon Rapunzel Rapunzel has been named the best hairdresser in the country at the 2025 Australian Small Business Champion Awards, standing out from thousands of businesses across Australia.

A Win on the National Stage

The award was announced during a gala evening at The Star in Sydney, where finalists from across the country gathered to celebrate the strength of small businesses. Rapunzel Rapunzel took out the top spot in the Hairdressers category, selected from over 5,500 entries nationwide. It marked a standout moment for the salon, which has served the North Lakes community for more than six years.

*Photo Credit: Rapunzel Rapunzel/Facebook*

Salon owner Ashleigh Armstrong said the win reflects the effort and consistency of the team, which includes both experienced stylists and apprentices. She credited the award to their passion for hairdressing and the loyalty of clients who return time and again.

Community at the Core

More than just a hair salon, Rapunzel Rapunzel has become a familiar fixture in the North Lakes area. The team places a strong emphasis on building lasting relationships with their clients, many of whom have been with the salon for years. Armstrong said their success is deeply connected to the support they receive from the local community.

Their Instagram post after the awards described the win as one shared with everyone who supports the salon, saying it wouldn’t be possible without the people who trust them with their hair and cheer them on.

Behind the Judging

The Australian Small Business Champion Awards are known for recognising businesses that go beyond their core service. Organisers look at leadership, innovation and the ability to make a positive impact within the community. According to managing director Steve Loe of Precedent Productions, they showed all of these qualities.

The panel of independent judges praised the salon for its creative approach, team-driven culture and client-first attitude. The ability to maintain high standards while training new talent was also considered a major factor in the win.

Looking Ahead

For the salon team, the award is both a proud milestone and a motivator to keep improving. Armstrong said the team plans to continue doing what they love, delivering great service and creating a positive space for every client who walks through the door.

The national spotlight may be new, but their focus remains on their clients, their craft and their community.

Published 25-April-2025

Final Arrest Made in North Lakes Hotel Shooting Case

A fourth and final arrest has been made in connection with last month’s shooting at the North Lakes Hotel parking lot, as 42-year-old Mathew McPherson Baldwin appeared in court yesterday facing attempted murder charges.

Baldwin, appearing via video link at Pine Rivers Magistrates Court on Monday, declined legal representation and refused to apply for bail when prompted by Magistrate Gary Finger.

The court heard allegations that Baldwin attempted to kill Anthony Michael O’Sullivan at the North Lakes Hotel car park on March 24. He also faces charges of possessing a shortened firearm connected to the incident.

Baldwin’s arrest follows the release of CCTV footage on April 9 by police seeking to identify a person of interest in their investigation.

Additionally, Baldwin faces separate charges from April 19 at a Carina address, where he allegedly possessed over 2 grams of methamphetamine, ammunition, and a stolen vehicle.

The North Lakes shooting victim, a 42-year-old man whose identity has not been confirmed by authorities, sustained arm and chest injuries during the incident, which occurred around 9:40 PM on March 24 following an interaction with a group allegedly including three men and a teenage girl.

Baldwin’s North Lakes-related charges have been adjourned to April 29 at Pine Rivers Magistrates Court, while his remaining matters will be heard on April 30 in Brisbane. He remains in custody.

Three other suspects were previously arrested in connection with the case:

A 43-year-old Victoria Point man charged with attempted murder, due to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on April 28
A 17-year-old girl charged with attempted murder and various weapons and drug offences
A 40-year-old man facing multiple drug and property-related charges, scheduled to appear in Redcliffe Magistrates Court on May 16

Police have indicated no further arrests are anticipated in relation to the March shooting.

Published 21-April-2025

Young Archie Becomes Junior Officer for a Day in Narangba

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Moreton District police organised a special community afternoon, making 11-year-old Archie, who is undergoing medical treatment, a junior officer for the day at the Narangba Demons Baseball Club.

A Special Afternoon

The event took place on Friday, 4 April, offering a welcome break for young Archie, currently receiving treatment at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. The afternoon was designed to bring joy to Archie and demonstrate support from local police and the wider community during a challenging time.

Police Units Join the Fun

Hosted at the baseball club facilities in Narangba, the gathering saw Archie interact closely with officers from the Moreton district. Several specialist police units also attended to make the day memorable.

These included visitors from Polair (the police air wing), the Dog Squad, the Mounted Unit, Highway Patrol, and the Queensland Police Pipes & Drums. Archie had the chance to meet police dogs and horses, enjoy a ride in a Highway Patrol vehicle, try playing the bagpipes, and get a close look at the Polair helicopter.

Community Connection and Support

Moreton District Officer Acting Chief Superintendent Adam Guild stated that it was a privilege to brighten Archie’s day and show support to his family and community. He thanked all the police units that contributed to the event’s success and remarked on the obvious enjoyment Archie experienced during the activities.

Acting Chief Superintendent Guild also acknowledged Sergeant John Evans, who knows Archie and his family through the baseball club. Sergeant Evans was credited with initiating the event out of a desire to show support. The Acting Chief Superintendent emphasised that Moreton District police see themselves as part of the community and are dedicated to serving it.

He extended best wishes to Archie for his ongoing treatment and expressed his hope to potentially welcome Archie into the police service in the years to come.

Published Date 18-April-2025

Hai Tea Eatery & Café Opens Doors at Burpengary Plaza

Local chef James Zhao and his wife Lin have introduced Hai Tea Eatery & Café, inside the Burpengary Plaza food court. The restaurant serves a mix of modern Australian and Asian-inspired food.

New Local Owners

Chef James Zhao brings extensive experience to the new venture, with over 20 years in the hospitality industry, including ten years working as a chef in cafes and restaurants across New South Wales and Queensland.

He and his wife Lin relocated to Burpengary two years before opening the café. Mr Zhao stated that observing the suburb’s rapid growth inspired him to bring his distinct style, which combines modern Asian elements with Australian cuisine, to the Burpengary community.

Unique Menu Offerings

Hai Tea Eatery & Café’s diverse menu aims to provide options for everyone. According to Mr Zhao, a standout breakfast item is their Eggs Benedict, which features a house-made potato rosti base instead of bread, finished with freshly prepared hollandaise sauce and poached eggs. He recommends the Bao selection for lighter appetites, and the Gluten-Free Pad Thai is offered for a quick lunch.

Another feature is the seven-hour slow-cooked Beef Toasted Sandwich, served with fries. The menu includes Slow-Cooked Pork Eggs Benny, Chicken Bao, Smashed Avocado with Pistachio Nut Dukkah, and Chicken Karaage Burgers. Drinks range from fresh juices and smoothies to shakes and coffees.

Café Atmosphere and Name

The café is designed to have a modern and cosy feel, providing a relaxing space for customers. Mr Zhao shared the reasoning behind the name “Hai Tea.” He explained that “Hai” translates to “Yes,” signifying a positive attitude, while “Tea” helps create the image of a happy, relaxed place. The name intentionally sounds similar to the English term “High Tea.”

Mr Zhao also mentioned his and his wife’s focus on quality products and service, expressing enthusiasm about collaborating with skilled local baristas to serve Burpengary Plaza customers well.

Plaza Welcomes Addition

The shopping centre management has positively received the arrival of the new eatery. Burpengary Plaza Marketing Director Donna O’Neill described Hai Tea as a welcome and warm addition to the centre’s food court, which already hosts 18 other food retailers. She stated that the management looks forward to customers enjoying the fresh mix of Australian and Asian flavours offered by Mr Zhao.

Hai Tea Eatery & Café is open seven days a week. Operating hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Sunday.

Published Date 17-April-2025

Street Spotlight: College St, North Lakes

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

The Lakes College sits on College St, so this short road reads like the school’s front yard — parents, staff and local hire-ups use it every school day. College St is a natural “first choice” for families wanting a short school run, and appeared early in the suburb’s growth story when the college opened in 2005.

The street’s character was shaped from the outset by its proximity to education. When The Lakes College opened in 2005, it 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. College Street itself became synonymous with convenience, offering families the rare luxury of a five-minute walk to school gates.

The street’s early sales tell the story of a greenfield suburb finding its feet. In mid-2003, townhouses along College Street were changing hands for between $76,000 and $82,000 — modest entry points for young families and investors drawn to the promise of a brand-new community. These were the days when North Lakes was still more vision than reality, with Westfield North Lakes only newly opened and much of the surrounding area still under construction.

Over the following two decades, College Street evolved alongside the suburb. The completion of the town centre, improved transport links, and the growing reputation of The Lakes College transformed the street from an affordable starter address into a sought-after family precinct. By 2024 and 2025, those same townhouses that sold for under $85,000 in 2003 were fetching between $610,000 and $850,000 — a dramatic illustration of North Lakes’ maturation from masterplanned estate to established suburb.

College St, North Lakes Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 60 townhouses, 16 houses, 18 others
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 70%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 7 years and 4 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 31%

College St, North Lakes – As It Looked in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON COLLEGE ST, NORTH LAKES

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
36/15 College Street, North Lakes	$850,000	Oct 2025
19/15 College Street, North Lakes	$770,000	Oct 2025
73/15 College Street, North Lakes	$735,000	Dec 2024
53/15 College Street, North Lakes	$610,000	Dec 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON COLLEGE ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
57/15 College Street, North Lakes	$82,000	Jul 2003
58/15 College Street, North Lakes	$81,000	Jun 2003
52/15 College Street, North Lakes	$76,000	Jun 2003

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 College St, North Lakes well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Published 13-April-2025

Deception Bay Pump Track Part of $2.1M Moreton Bay Recreation Upgrade

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Deception Bay residents will soon enjoy a new pump track, as part of over $2.1 million worth of improvements outdoor recreation projects for various wheeled sports in Burpengary, North Lakes, and Deception Bay.

Major Recreation Investment Underway

Council is delivering three significant projects in Burpengary, North Lakes, and Deception Bay to enhance outdoor activity options for the community. The combined investment exceeds $2.1 million, and the aim is to provide quality facilities for various wheeled sports.

Depending on weather and construction progress, all three projects are anticipated to be finished and open to the public around the middle of 2025.

Deception Bay Gains New Pump Track

A brand-new $530,000 pump track is set for Deception Bay. This marks the second such facility delivered by the Council in the region, with plans for more in the future.

It will provide a dedicated and safe area for children, teenagers, and adults to enjoy sports like bike riding, scootering, and skating, helping users build confidence and skills. Construction is planned to begin in mid-March 2025.

Burpengary Welcomes Mountain Bike Trails

*Lagoon Road Mountain Bike Trail*
*Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay*

Construction begins this April 2025 on Burpengary’s first Council-owned mountain bike trail system: the $700,000 Lagoon Road Mountain Bike Trails. A professional trail company has been engaged to design and build the 3-kilometre facility. Designed by experts, the trail system will feature different levels of difficulty, making it enjoyable for riders of all skill levels.

The new mountain bike trails will include:

Wooden berms
Boardwalks
Rollers
Dirt jumps and tabletops.

North Lakes Skate Park Upgrade

*North Lakes Skate Park*
*Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay*

In North Lakes, Aurora Boulevard Skate Park is undergoing a major $900,000 upgrade. Construction is already underway to transform the park into a modern, inclusive facility designed to enhance everyone’s experience.

The skate park upgrade aims to create more opportunities for healthy and active lifestyles and encourage social interaction and connection within the local community.

Reflecting feedback gathered during community consultation, the new skate park design includes:

An increased size to cater for local users.
An open-flow layout providing riders with a variety of trick lines.
Beginner-friendly elements alongside more challenging obstacles to accommodate skill progression.
Specific skate elements such as: a lower curved spine, a flatbank hip, 3-5 foot (0.9-1.5 metre) quarter pipes, and a quarter-to-kerb feature for grinding and sliding.

This significant investment in community recreation is jointly funded by City of Moreton Bay and the Australian Government, through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Published Date 10-April-2025

Red Lock Escape Rooms Cast a Spell on North Lakes

Photo Credit: redlocknorthlakes/Instagram

Grab your wand and round up your mates, Red Lock Escape Rooms in North Lakes is now home to a spell-filled escape experience for wannabe witches and wizards.

A Spellbinding Local Experience

Red Lock Escape Rooms in North Lakes has launched The Wizard’s Apprentice, a family-friendly escape room for ages 8 and up. Set in a magical academy, players solve puzzles and cast spells to earn full wizard status and unlock the FELMAS 2000 broom.

*Photo Credit: redlocknorthlakes/Instagram*

Located in Westfield North Lakes, the escape room offers private sessions for 2–6 players, combining fun with teamwork and problem-solving, perfect for families and young adventurers.

Designed for the Community

With moderate difficulty, the escape room suits both newcomers and return players. Blending classic puzzles with interactive tech, it offers a fun, cooperative challenge for families, friends, and schools alike.

While the experience draws clear inspiration from the Harry Potter universe, Red Lock Escape Rooms does not use any licensed names or characters. Instead, it builds its own magical world with familiar themes to spark the imagination of fans without directly copying the source material.

The activity has become a drawcard in the area, offering something unique for Brisbane’s northern suburbs. With school holidays and weekend bookings filling fast, organisers recommend planning ahead to secure a spot. Sessions are available throughout the week, with flexible time slots to suit different group sizes and needs.

Access and Booking

Red Lock Escape Rooms is located at 1 North Lakes Drive, opposite Grill’d in Westfield North Lakes. Bookings can be made online through the venue’s official website. While the experience is not wheelchair accessible, the venue can accommodate various group requirements upon request.

BOOK HERE

As interest grows among Brisbane locals looking for new ways to connect and spend time together, experiences like The Wizard’s Apprentice offer more than entertainment. They help create shared memories rooted in teamwork and imagination.

Published 7-April-2025

North Lakes Shooting Update: Police Release Footage of Two Suspects

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

In the aftermath of a shooting incident at a North Lakes car park last month, police have released CCTV footage of two male suspects believed to be connected to the investigation.

The shooting occurred on Monday, March 24, at approximately 9:40pm in a car park on Lakefield Drive, where a 42-year-old man was shot in the arm with the bullet also impacting his chest. The victim was transported to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in serious but stable condition following an altercation with a group allegedly consisting of three men and a teenage girl.

Authorities have already made two arrests in connection with the case. On March 25, a 17-year-old girl was taken into custody and charged with attempted murder, possessing dangerous drugs, unlawful possession of weapons, and authority required to possess explosives. She has already appeared in Ipswich Children’s Court.

Additionally, police arrested a 40-year-old man on March 27, who faces multiple charges including possession of dangerous drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of property suspected of being proceeds of an offence, possession of items used in the commission of a crime, and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. He remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in Redcliffe Magistrates Court on May 16.

Despite these arrests, two suspects remain at large. Police have released descriptions of both men:

The first suspect, seen wearing a white T-shirt in the footage, is described as approximately 180 cm tall with a Pacific Islander appearance, black short hair, and brown eyes. He has distinctive tattoos on his neck and face, including a crown above one eyebrow and wording above the other eyebrow and across his cheeks and nose.

The second suspect, pictured in a black T-shirt, stands around 165 cm tall with a solid build, brown eyes, and brown shaved/short hair. He has extensive tattoos covering both arms, his neck, and right leg, including a prominent cross across the front of his neck.

Both men are believed to be in the Logan area. Although the investigation is ongoing, police have indicated there is no current threat to public safety.

Authorities are urging anyone who recognises these individuals or has information regarding their whereabouts since March 24 to contact police immediately.

Published 2-April-2025

New First Nations Mental Health Hub Opens in Deception Bay

Photo Credit: Brisbane North PHN/Facebook

A new headspace centre designed specifically for First Nations youth is set to open in Deception Bay, providing culturally safe mental health support for young people in the Moreton Bay region.

A Groundbreaking Initiative for First Nations Youth

A new headspace centre, named Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay, is set to open in Deception Bay, aiming to address the mental health needs of First Nations youth in the Moreton Bay region. As an Australia-first initiative, it will provide culturally safe support, care, and connection tailored specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

The new service, located on the lands of the Kabi Kabi people at 665 Deception Bay Road, will be operated by the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH). Expected to open during the 2025-26 financial year, it will be the first headspace in the country designed specifically for First Nations young people.

First Nations Mental Health Hub — *Photo Credit: Brisbane North PHN/Facebook*

Addressing Mental Health Challenges in the Community

The suicide rate among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is more than double that of the general community, highlighting the urgent need for culturally appropriate support. The Deception Bay service will offer a range of mental health support, focusing on increasing literacy, boosting help-seeking behaviours, and reducing suicidal and psychological distress.

To achieve this, the centre will employ care coordinators with lived experience, specialist mental health clinicians, and other health practitioners. The aim is to walk alongside the community, offering holistic support and guidance to help young people achieve their goals.

According to IUIH CEO Wayne Ah Boo, the Staying Deadly approach prioritises mental health “our way,” ensuring services reflect community goals and support healthy, resilient young people.

Community and Government Support

Local officials Malarndirri McCarthy and Emma McBride both emphasised the importance of having accessible, culturally safe mental health care for First Nations youth. They highlighted that the funding is part of a broader commitment to expanding headspace services nationwide.

The government have invested over $300 million to increase the number of headspace centres to 174 by 2026, including 91 in regional areas. The Deception Bay hub will join existing First Nations-focused headspace services in Mt Isa, Broome, and Alice Springs.

Deception Bay mental health — *Photo Credit: Brisbane North PHN/Facebook*

A Community-Driven Approach

Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay was shaped by community feedback, emphasising the need for a service that aligns with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values. It will also be part of the IUIH network’s integrated care system, aiming to foster strong, healthy children, families, and communities.

Next Steps for the New Service

The centre’s opening is slated for the 2025-26 financial year. It is expected to significantly impact the well-being of young First Nations people in the Deception Bay area. It aims to be a welcoming, supportive environment where youth can access mental, physical, and sexual health services, work and study support, and guidance on alcohol—and drug-related issues.

Online support will remain available through eheadspace for those who prefer remote assistance.

Published 2-Apr-2025