Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 24 of 47

Major Crackdown on Youth Crime in North Lakes and Surrounds

A sweeping police operation targeting high-risk youth offenders in the North Lakes and surrounding areas has led to the arrest of 20 individuals, including 18 juveniles, on a staggering 64 charges over an intense 11-day period.

Taskforce Guardian, a rapid response unit dedicated to combating youth crime and enhancing community safety, joined forces with local police in the Moreton district to conduct a comprehensive crackdown.

From 22 April to 1 May 2024, the taskforce carried out strategic operations, including locating and apprehending alleged young offenders, monitoring bail compliance, and executing proactive patrols in identified high-risk locations.

The joint operation resulted in the arrest of 18 juveniles on 60 charges and two adults on four charges. The charges encompassed a wide range of offences, such as assault occasioning bodily harm, wilful damage, attempted robbery, stealing, and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. These arrests were made possible through targeted efforts and close collaboration between the taskforce and local law enforcement.

High-Visibility Patrols

To maintain a strong presence and deter criminal activities, high-visibility patrols were conducted at various public transport stations and shopping centres across suburbs like Kallangur, Petrie, Lawnton, Mango Hill, North Lakes, Deception Bay, and Strathpine. These strategic locations were identified as potential hotspots for youth-related offences.

In addition to enforcement efforts, Taskforce Guardian worked closely with key support services and local resources to engage at-risk young people in relevant programs and services. These initiatives focused on addressing underlying issues through health, education, disability services, and First Nations initiatives, aiming to provide comprehensive support and prevent future offending.

Community Safety Prioritised

Acting Chief Superintendent Adam Guild, the Moreton District Officer, emphasised that the operation’s ultimate goal was to ensure community safety. He stated that the taskforce’s presence bolstered frontline efforts, enabling targeted activities to disrupt and prevent youth offending.

Mr Guild also highlighted the importance of engaging with local youth, intervening early, referring those in need to appropriate support services, and seeking justice for victims by locating and arresting recidivist offenders.

The Moreton Bay police have assured the community that they are committed to addressing the challenging issue of youth crime through a comprehensive approach, combining enforcement efforts with proactive engagement and support services.

Published 14-May-2024

Free Event for Entrepreneurs: 2024 MySmallBiz Expo at North Lakes Community Centre

Here’s a special opportunity for small business owners looking to discover, learn, and connect. The annual MySmallBiz Expo, a FREE, community-focused event designed to support local entrepreneurs, self-employed individuals, and those aspiring to start their own ventures, will be held in North Lakes next month.

Read: Empowering Individuals with Disabilities: New Home Construction Underway in Petrie

On Wednesday, June 5 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., the MySmallBiz Expo, sponsored by ETC, will be held at the North Lakes Community Centre.

One of eight expos being held across QLD and NSW, the event will give attendees the chance to find a bustling marketplace of local small business exhibitors showcasing their products and services and people from the community supporting homegrown enterprises.

Photo credit: ETC – Employment and Training/Facebook

The real value of the MySmallBiz Expo lies in educational programming. Throughout the day, there will be a packed schedule of presentations and sessions led by business experts, self-employment ambassadors, and subject matter specialists.

So whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned small business owner, or simply someone who wants to champion local enterprises, be sure to mark your calendar for the MySmallBiz Expo in North Lakes. It’s a can’t-miss event for anyone invested in the success of small businesses in NSW and Queensland.

Visit Eventbrite to reserve your spot at the expo happening in North Lakes.

About ETC

ETC is a community-orientated, not-for-profit provider of employment, training and business services. It has been supporting people in starting and running their small businesses for over 30 years, and is dedicated to helping turn visions into thriving enterprises.

Workforce Australia’s Self-Employment Assistance program, delivered by ETC, offers comprehensive services tailored to aspiring and existing small business owners, including options like individual Business Advice Sessions and a 12-month Small Business Coaching package.

The Self-Employment Assistance program provides a range of support, from initial business planning to ongoing coaching, allowing small business owners to choose the level of help that fits their needs.

Read: North Lakes Development Proposal Withdrawn Amidst Strong Community Opposition

Established small business owners can also benefit from customised coaching and support to address specific challenges and achieve their goals.

Published 16-April-2024

Kinsellas Sports Complex Undergoes Tiered Seating Upgrade

The Kinsellas Sports Complex in North Lakes just finished a remarkable transformation with the inauguration of its new tiered seating project, enhancing the spectator experience to new heights.

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

The $1-million upgrade, a collaborative effort between the City of Moreton Bay and the State Government’s South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program, marks a significant milestone for the North Lakes United Football Club, amplifying their support base and engagement opportunities.

With the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics on the horizon, the revitalisation of Kinsellas Sports Complex underscores the city’s commitment to investing in sporting infrastructure, nurturing local talent, and fostering community engagement.

Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook

The new sheltered tiered seating and viewing deck offer enhanced comfort and accessibility for spectators, whilst the adjoining ramp facilitates safer and more efficient access for volunteers.

Local political personalities expressed pride in bolstering the growth and infrastructural enhancements for Moreton Bay’s sports enthusiasts, emphasising the community’s active lifestyle and the importance of rallying behind local teams.

“The Moreton Bay community thrives on an active lifestyle and cheering on our local teams is a key part of that,” Mayor Peter Flannery said.

“Whether you’re a family, friend or fan, the revitalisation of Kinsellas Sports Complex opens up more opportunity for everyone to participate.

Deputy Mayor Jodie Shipway (Div 4) echoed Mr Flannery’s sentiments, highlighting the profound impact the revamped complex will have on local sporting families, clubs, and volunteers.

“I’m a sport-loving mum of two boys who both play locally, so I know how important it is to have this kind of infrastructure,” she said.

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

The upgraded facility is poised to attract even more interest in local football, potentially paving the way for future champions like Cortnee Vine to emerge from the region and represent Australia on home soil.

Published 7-May-2024

Massive Fire Guts Businesses In A Small Shopping Centre In Petrie

Photo Credit: Facebook / Whiskey Mike Photography

A massive and devastating fire broke out overnight at a small shopping centre in Petrie, damaging as many as 10 businesses and prompting a criminal investigation by local authorities.

The blaze began around 12:30 am on Monday on the corner of Beeville and Frenchs Roads. An IGA supermarket, bakery, and seafood takeaway shop sustained major damage, with seven other surrounding businesses impacted by smoke.

Joseph Bijumon, owner of the French’s Forest IGA, was preparing for what is typically one of the busiest days of the year on the public holiday. But his busiest plans went up in smoke as the fire raged through his fully-stocked supermarket.

“This morning I got a security call and my cameras, they are always watching the temperatures of the fridges and freezer temperatures went up and they called me,” Bijumon recounted. He arrived to find police and fire crews outside trying to extinguish the flames.

With power cut to the entire precinct, Bijumon was forced to discard all frozen, refrigerated, and meat products from his ravaged store. “I’m okay, a bit upset, I was working hard last week for today only and the shop is fully stocked.

“There is no power at all, all my meat everything is gone.”

Fourteen fire crews managed to extinguish the flames within two hours, though the damage had been done. A spokeswoman for the impacted Bazza’s Bakehouse said the family business was devastated by the incident.

Photo Credit: Facebook / John Summerhayes

Nearby resident David Nicholson witnessed the fire’s escalation. “It gradually started spreading sideways … I think it started at the fish and chip shop and spread across to the bakehouse and onto the IGA.”

Queensland police have declared the site a crime scene as investigations continue into the cause of the destructive blaze that has left the Petrie community reeling. As Nicholson said, “People will be disappointed they can’t get their pies today.”

Published 6-May-2024

Expansive Townhouse Development Planned Near Grace Lutheran College

Photo Credit: Facebook/ AzureDevelopment

A sprawling new community of townhouses next door to Grace Lutheran College has been proposed, with a seasoned property developer setting its sights on Rothwell.

Azure Development Group, boasting a successful track record of over 1400 residential projects since 2014, has lodged plans for a masterplanned development featuring 240 townhouses. The project, situated at 499-507 Anzac Avenue, would neighbour Grace Lutheran College.

High-Quality Living

*Photo Credit: Facebook/ AzureDevelopment*

The development envisions a collection of three and four-bedroom terrace-style townhouses, each designed to provide a luxurious living experience.

Residents can expect spacious open-plan living areas on the ground floor, along with a master bedroom with an ensuite. Private outdoor areas are also a key feature, with generous courtyards ranging from 25 to 45 square metres included in each unit. Parking for two vehicles per townhouse is also incorporated in the plans.

Aesthetic Appeal and Resort-Style Amenities

Azure Development near Grace Lutheran College — *Photo Credit: Facebook/ AzureDevelopment*

Azure has placed a strong emphasis on creating visually appealing development. The application details plans for a high-quality architectural style, with the townhouses broken up into distinct “villages” to add variety. Themed facades and strategically planted trees will further enhance the aesthetics and create a sense of place within the community.

Beyond the individual residences, the development promises a resort-style atmosphere with over 3,460 square metres of communal open space and recreational facilities.

A sparkling 25-metre swimming pool with a pool deck and pavillion will be a central attraction. Additional amenities include a multi-purpose lawn, a gymnasium, designated seating areas with shade protection, barbeque spaces, and even a dedicated work-from-home area with a manager’s office.

Ideal Location

near Grace Lutheran College — *Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

The chosen site offers a convenient location for residents. Azure paid $20.1 million for the vacant 4.5-hectare block in 2023, which is right next to Grace Lutheran College. Additionally, the well-established Village Redcliffe retirement community lies to the south, while Rothwell Railway Station is situated less than 800 metres away, providing easy access to public transport.

With its focus on high-quality design, generous open spaces, and a plethora of amenities, Azure’s proposed townhouse development promises to transform the Rothwell landscape and offer an attractive living option for Brisbane residents.

Published Date 06-May-2024

North Lakes Home Invasion: Teen Faces Heinous Murder Sentencing for Emma Lovell’s Death

The teenage offender who murdered Emma Lovell during a North Lakes home invasion faces a life sentence, as the court weighs whether the crime was “particularly heinous.”

The teenage offender responsible for the brutal murder of Emma Lovell broke into the Lovell residence on Boxing Day 2022, ignoring a car parked in the driveway that signalled the family was home. He found the door unlocked, returned with a companion, and entered the home.

Lovell and her husband, Lee, were awakened by their barking dogs and confronted the intruders. The teens then brutally attacked the couple, stabbing Lee in the back twice and Emma in the heart.

CCTV footage captured the violent struggle that ensued, moving from the doorway to the driveway, where Emma fell to her knees, clutching her chest, while Lee lay on the ground injured. The teen fled the scene, leaving Emma mortally wounded, and was later found hiding nearby with blood on his clothes.

Legal Proceedings

The Crown prosecutor, David Nardone, emphasised that the murder was “particularly heinous,” highlighting the offender’s premeditation and moral culpability. The judge must decide if the crime qualifies as particularly heinous, which would allow for a sentence exceeding 10 years; otherwise, the maximum is capped at 10 years.

The youth pleaded guilty to four charges, including murder, admitting he wielded the 11cm knife that killed Lovell. The offender’s prior criminal history includes 16 other home invasions and parole violations. He was on probation for a prior offence at the time of the murder and had undergone a rehabilitation program.

Family Impact and Sentencing

In court, Lee Lovell described the lasting impact of his wife’s murder on their family.

He expressed fear for his daughters and described how he constantly checks the security cameras, fearing further intrusion. He has advocated for a life sentence for his wife’s killer.

Justice Tom Sullivan will deliver the sentence in this North Lakes home invasion case, pending determining the crime’s heinous nature. The offender, who cannot be identified due to his age, sat emotionless during the hearing, where his chaotic upbringing, marred by violence and substance abuse, was detailed by his defence.

Published 5-May-2024

Tent Cities Expand in Rothwell, Deception Bay and Surrounding Areas

Photo Credit: New Hope Care

As makeshift campsites and tent cities proliferate across South East Queensland, the plight of homelessness intensifies, with Rothwell emerging as a focal point of the growing crisis, alongside Deception Bay, Eagleby, Shorncliffe, Beenleigh, Redcliffe and Woody Point.

The situation has reached a critical point, with families, individuals, and even full-time workers finding themselves without stable accommodation.

Rising Desperation Amidst a Housing Crunch

Among these, a family of eight with six children, now living in tents at Mckillop Park in Rothwell, recounted their struggles since losing their rental property in August 2023. The parents resorted to paying exorbitant fees for powered campsites and enduring lengthy commutes to ensure their children attended school.

Reports indicate that some rough sleepers are declining crisis accommodation provided by homelessness services, citing concerns over safety and suitability.

The tent cities present unique challenges and concerns. Volunteers and support workers highlight the shifting demographics of homelessness, with single mothers, workers, veterans, and individuals facing housing insecurity seeking refuge in these makeshift shelters.

However, instances of violence and insecurity underscore the precarious nature of life within these tent cities, amplifying the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address Queensland’s housing crisis.

Response Amidst Lingering Challenges

Despite the Queensland government’s initiatives to tackle the crisis, such as promising the construction of 53,500 more social homes by 2046, the situation remains dire.

The Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works has assisted over 500 individuals at risk of homelessness in inner-city Brisbane over the past year. Housing Minister Meghan Scanlon has emphasised the government’s commitment to ramping up construction efforts, with nearly 1000 homes under construction and plans to exceed 2000 homes per year on average.

Housing Accomodation — *Photo Credit: QLDGovt*

Additionally, expressions of interest have been invited for a new streamlined approvals process aimed at fast-tracking affordable housing developments.

However, with more than 43,000 Queenslanders on the social housing waitlist, the scale of the problem continues to outpace available solutions. Statewide data highlights the magnitude of the housing crisis, with wait times for social housing stretching to an average of 28 months.

Published 1-May-2024

Kallangur Tradie’s Tragedy Ignites Wave of Community Support

Brad Stapleton, a homeless tradesman, has sparked significant community support after revealing the severe vandalism of his makeshift tent home in Kallangur, highlighting the escalating issue of homelessness in the state.

A forklift operator with over two decades of experience, Brad has been forced to live in a tent at Leis Park since October 2023 due to an inability to secure permanent housing.

This period of rough living was marred by repeated vandal attacks by local youths, leaving his few possessions—including clothing, a barbecue, and a cherished guitar—severely damaged.

The destruction of Brad’s tent and belongings led him to share his plight on a local Facebook group, which quickly rallied community support.

Community Response and Support

His story resonated deeply, leading to an outpouring of sympathy and assistance, including a generous offer from a retired couple in Lawnton, providing him with a room rent-free.

Lisa Holt from Kallangur also opened a fundraiser page.

The region has seen a worrying increase in the number of homeless individuals setting up tents as more residents struggle with the ongoing rental crisis.

Local charity workers, including Beau Haywood, the founder of Nourish Street, have noted a significant rise in homelessness, with the charity now supporting a hundred individuals daily, a stark increase from two years ago.

Charity Spotlight: Nourish Street

Beau and his charity have played a crucial role in addressing the needs of the homeless in Moreton Bay. Operating seven days a week, Beau and his team distribute food, mattresses, and other essentials to those impacted by the housing shortage.

Despite personal hardships, including his own experience with homelessness, Beau continues to drive support for this vulnerable population with limited resources and increasing demand.

As the homelessness crisis deepens, Nourish Street faces growing challenges. Each week, the number of new tents rises, signalling a continuous increase in the homeless population. The organisation’s reach has expanded, but so has the need for resources, particularly food and camping essentials.

Nourish Street’s efforts are funded through personal savings and sporadic donations, highlighting a critical gap in governmental support for grassroots charity initiatives. Community contributions, whether through donations of essentials or financial support, are crucial to sustaining and expanding these much-needed services.

Published 24-April-2o24

A Star Wars Adventure: Galactic Excitement Lands In North Lakes

Are you a big Star Wars fan? Prepare to be transported to a galaxy far, far away as Westfield North Lakes prepares to become mecca for Jedi enthusiasts and Sith aficionados alike.

The ‘Spark Excitement’ with Star Wars programme will come to North Lakes from April 8th to April 28th, sparking the imaginations of both new and old Jedi. This cosmic trip is sure to be exciting for everyone who goes, from new apprentices to experienced force mentors.

Training With Lightsabers

At the centre of the celebrations is a once-in-a-lifetime chance: training with lightsabers.

Aspiring Jedis can improve their skills with the help of experienced teachers. They will feel the pulse of the force guiding their every move as they get better at the old art of the lightsaber with each swing and flourish.

A Star Wars Experience

Fans will be able to explore the world of Star Wars more deeply through a variety of exciting activities. One of these is ‘A Star Wars Experience’, which is very intense.

People can take this amazing trip to the faraway planet Batuu, which is a remote outpost on the edge of the universe. People are welcome to get lost in a world of busy cantinas, strange scenery and unfamiliar landscapes.

Win 1 of 10 family trips to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

People who want to go on a trip through space can enter to win one of 10 family vacations to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at the Disneyland Resort in California.

Because Westfield, Disney, and Flight Centre have worked together to make this amazing spectacle possible, the lucky winners will be able to follow in the footsteps of their favourite heroes and explore the famous galaxy far, far away. Don’t miss this chance to go on a trip through space!

What’s included:

3 nights’ accommodation at a Disneyland Resort hotel property (or Disneyland Resort area hotel)
3-day Park Hopper Ticket to Disneyland Resort for a family of 4
Return economy flights* to Los Angeles (incl. taxes) for 2 adults & 2 children**
Return airport-to-hotel transfers

As families rush to Westfield North Lakes to escape the abyss of school vacation boredom, Spark Stations will have a wide range of activities based on Star Wars. All of the stations, from arts and crafts to face painting, show how creative and imaginative the Star Wars world is.

‘We are thrilled to provide Star Wars-themed activities for fans and customers of all ages, thanks to our exceptional partnership with Disney,” says Jacqui Waine, the General Manager of Marketing and Community for Westfield, sharing her enthusiasm and expressing how thrilled Westfield is to bring a piece of the Star Wars universe to Westfield North Lakes with ‘Spark Excitement.’

Vice President and General Manager of Consumer Products at The Walt Disney Company Australia & New Zealand, Tim Everett, agrees.

“We are so thrilled to continue our collaboration with Westfield, sparking excitement, adventure, and bringing the Disney magic to their customers and our fans throughout 2024,” he said.

As the campaign goes on, people’s excitement grows and spreads to their friends, families, and groups in North Lakes and beyond. The Star Wars world is getting closer all the time, inviting fans to go on an adventure they’ll never forget that will be talked about across the galaxy for years to come.

Published Date 11-April-2024

Stabbing Outside McDonald’s Deception Bay

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A 16-year-old boy has been charged in court following a stabbing incident outside a McDonald’s restaurant on Deception Bay Rd, Deception Bay.

A 17-year-old youth from Carseldine in Brisbane was transported to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital by critical-care paramedics. He sustained non-life-threatening wounds to his face, neck, and chest from an implement.

The incident occurred on Saturday, 6 April 2024, at 9:30 p.m. The police took several people into custody.

The 16-year-old from Deception Bay was charged with one count of acts intended to cause grievous bodily harm. He appeared at Redcliffe Children’s Court on Monday, 8 April whilst further investigations are ongoing.

A spokeswoman for McDonald’s Australia confirmed that the restaurant was temporarily closed while police attended the scene and reopened just before midnight. She emphasised that the safety and wellbeing of their people and customers is their top priority. The company will continue to provide full support to all employees who were working at the time.

In a related development, a 13-year-old boy from North Lakes has also been charged with one count of unauthorised dealing with shop goods. He appeared at the Redcliffe Children’s Court on the same day.

Published 8-April-2023