Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 28 of 47

$3 Million Wildlife Hospital Construction Project in Dakabin Addresses Urgent Wildlife Care Needs

Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Wildlife Hospital

To safeguard the region’s unique biodiversity and provide crucial care to native wildlife, a substantial parcel of land in Dakabin has been established for a dedicated wildlife hospital.

The move comes as a response to the escalating impacts of human population growth on local ecosystems and the urgent need for a specialised care centre for injured and sick animals. The initiative is being spearheaded by the Moreton Bay Wildlife Hospital Foundation, which has already secured $1.5 million for the construction of the facility.

A comprehensive business case has been meticulously prepared and submitted to the State Government, underlining the pressing requirement for such a facility in the region.

Presently, the absence of a dedicated wildlife hospital, between the RSPCA facility at Wacol and Australia Zoo at Beerwah, has resulted in animals having to endure up to two hours of travel time to receive critical medical care. Mayor Peter Flannery expressed deep concern over this situation, highlighting that Moreton Bay is the primary source of admissions for injured koalas to both RSPCA Wacol and Australia Zoo.

Mayor Flannery underscored the community’s obligation to protect native wildlife and emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to conservation.

“Council is as serious about providing housing and infrastructure to accommodate a booming human population, as we are about the need to support our wildlife and wildlife carers,” he said.

He further urged the State Government to provide sustained funding to wildlife rescuers and carers in addition to the efforts being made to map koala habitats.

“This is a moment for tangible action rather than rhetoric. Protecting our natural assets requires financial commitment.”

The Moreton Bay Wildlife Hospital Foundation, driven by a group of dedicated volunteers, has worked diligently to raise the necessary funds for the facility. Council’s provision of the land for the hospital serves as a crucial milestone in their journey to establish this vital institution.

The hospital’s establishment will considerably reduce travel times for injured animals, enhancing their survival rates while alleviating pressure on carers and rescuers grappling with rising costs. Furthermore, the initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the mental health of those on the front lines of wildlife rescue.

Christine West, a representative from the Moreton Bay Wildlife Hospital, expressed gratitude for the council’s support, calling it a significant step toward providing essential care and rehabilitation for injured wildlife. West emphasized the hospital’s role in ensuring a brighter future for the region’s diverse fauna.

With the establishment of the Moreton Bay Wildlife Hospital on the horizon, the region is taking a significant stride toward safeguarding its wildlife and nurturing a sustainable coexistence between humans and the diverse fauna that call Moreton Bay home.

Published 29-Aug-2023

Dakabin Gym Faces Financial Woes, Enters Voluntary Liquidation

Photo Credit: HIIT ZONE DAKABIN / hiitzonefitness.com.au/dakabin

Movefit Dakabin Pty Ltd, known for its gym franchise HIITzone Dakabin, has entered voluntary liquidation, leaving behind a trail of financial obligations and unanswered questions.

The gym’s closure has left the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) owed at least $25,000, and the extent of its debt to the Dakabin Shopping Centre’s landlord remains unconfirmed.

Adam Ward, an official from Worrells, has been appointed as the liquidator to oversee the process.

Dakabin Gym Faces Financial Woes, Enters Voluntary Liquidation — *Photo Credit: HIIT ZONE DAKABIN /* hiitzonefitness.com.au/dakabin

He said that the business still has a year left on its lease but the owner opted to shut down as it didn’t have any more financial resources to remain afloat and meet its obligations. Whilst the physical location of the gym stays vacant, Mr Ward said that there have been no instances reported of members who haven’t fulfilled their gym membership payments.

HITTzone Dakabin, once a thriving gym, attracted fitness enthusiasts through its round-the-clock high-intensity interval training and guided coaching sessions plus personalised nutrition plans prepared by its expert trainers.

What is voluntary liquidation?

Liquidation finalises a company’s affairs, commonly through creditors’ voluntary liquidation for insolvency, initiated by directors and shareholders after events like voluntary administration. Solvent companies opt for member’s voluntary liquidation to distribute capital to shareholders.

Governed by the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), liquidation involves appointing a qualified liquidator to manage asset collection, investigations, and fund distribution to creditors and shareholders, ensuring an orderly conclusion of the company’s operations.

The closure of HIITzone Dakabin has raised questions about the stability of the fitness industry in the wake of the ongoing economic uncertainties. As the pandemic continues to reshape business landscapes, gyms and fitness centres have faced unique challenges, including fluctuating membership numbers and evolving health and safety regulations.

Published 21-August-2023

New Medical Centre and Shops Planned for Morayfield Road, Burpengary

Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council / moretonbay.qld.gov.au

An expansion project by Austwide Property Medical Pty Ltd is awaiting council approval. The plans comprising a comprehensive healthcare centre, a retail pharmacy, a café, and new stores have been recently proposed for 658 Morayfield Road.

Apart from the medical centre, a pharmacy, and a cafe, the proposal includes two available spaces designated to house allied health services and/or establishments related to medical products. The proposed site spans an expansive 10,117 square metres and finds its location on the northern outskirts of the Burpengary Town Centre, conveniently close to the Bruce Highway.

Access to the proposed medical centre from Morayfield Road will be facilitated through the creation of a vehicle crossover. This will be accompanied by the establishment of an internal concrete driveway and a hardstand area.

The comprehensive facility, inclusive of the medical centre and accompanying shops, will also include a total of 108 parking spaces for vehicles and 22 designated spaces for bicycles.

New Medical Centre and Shops Planned for Morayfield Road, Burpengary — Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council / moretonbay.qld.gov.au

The design of the proposed construction features a distinctive crescent configuration that has been adapted to the site’s triangular configuration. This method not only makes the most of the available space but also produces a structure that is “visually pleasing” when viewed on Morayfield Road.

According to the Landscape Plans included in the assessment document, landscaping components have been strategically included in the design to lessen the influence of the built environment on the streetscape.

The intended access point is strategically positioned on the southern side of the frontage, thoughtfully accommodating all service vehicles and vehicular movements. The access arrangement will permit exclusively left-in and left-out manoeuvres, ensuring efficient traffic flow.

As for the proposed development’s footprint, it spans 2,727 square metres, constituting 26 per cent of the total site area. This allocation is characterised as neither excessive nor contributing to a bulky architectural form across the property. The application document emphasises that the proposal remains conscious of not overdeveloping the subject site.

Published 15-August-2023

‘Willow’ to Bring More Light Industry and Housing Options to Growing North Lakes

Local services and housing options in North Lakes is set to grow even more, with the approval of ‘Willow,’ a new mixed-use development that will consist of light industry and residential units.

Read: North Lakes Leads Queensland’s Tech Job Boom As Fastest-Growing Tech Suburb

Designed by Sparc Architects, the approval is for 33 light industry units and 76 townhouses on a 5.58-hectare site at 14 Kerr Road East, North Lakes.

Willow will feature numerous lounging zones, a 20-metre pool and a yoga lawn, along with over 100 parking spaces for the townhouse residents. The site borders the Bruce Highway, providing easy access around the region.

Property developer Azure has received the go-ahead from the Moreton Bay City Council to build the mixed-use building, which aims to meet the demand for more local services and housing in the rapidly growing northern suburbs of Brisbane.

The ‘low impact’ industry units, ranging from 80 to 250 sqm, will provide opportunities for small businesses and startups to set up shop close to home. Meanwhile, the two-storey townhouses will add much-needed housing to the area.

The development has been designed with the community in mind, according to Azure Sales Manager Allyce Kluver, who also said that their plans for combining industry and residential uses have been very well received.

Construction is set to commence in late 2023, with completion expected by the second quarter of 2025. This fits with the rapid pace of development in North Lakes, identified as a major growth corridor by Council.

Read: Works to Begin for Burpengary Railway Station’s $53-M Accessibility Upgrade

With demand high according to Ms Kluver, the new units and townhouses are anticipated to sell quickly. The project follows on the success of Azure’s previous development in nearby Mango Hill.

The North Lakes development will bring more economic opportunities and housing diversity to the area. For locals, it means more amenities close to home, and for businesses, a chance to join a thriving community.

Published 9-August-2023

Leisel Jones Drive Unveiling in Rothwell Accompanied by Grand Festivities

She’s a dead set legend – Leisel Jones OAM, a four time Olympian, three time Olympic Gold Medalist and one of the world’s greatest ever female swimmers. With seven World Championships titles, nine Olympic medals, 10 Commonwealth Games gold medals, 14 individual world records and 23 National titles, she had nothing named after her in Brisbane … until now.

On Saturday, 5 Aug 2023, in Rothwell, Leisel Jones Drive will be finally and officially named – because her Triple M co-hosts and her fans wouldn’t take no for an answer!

AND Leisel is going to give away all of her state swimming medals (because that’s what legends do)!

The naming day will start with a free breakfast at 7:45 a.m. behind Bunnings at Rothwell. A motorcade will follow at 9:45 a.m. whilst Triple M’s RUSH HOUR with Leisel Jones, Laim and Dobbo will air live from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Prepare for an extraordinary procession of cars and a lively marching band, fit for a legend. The lineup includes:

Gene from Main Beach, arriving with a Mahindra Scorpio that holds the Guinness World Record for the Fastest Crossing by a production vehicle of the Simpson Desert.
Ash from Eagleby, showcasing his beloved 2017 Ford Mustang.
Peter from Wakerley, presenting a 2000 Sydney Olympics Edition Commodore, even though it is no longer in his possession.
Shane, the esteemed President of the FX-FJ Holden Club of Qld, joining with his impressive 1954 Holden Special Hotrod, complete with eye-catching go-faster flames.

Adding to the excitement, the purple Cadillac from the Elvis Film will be making an appearance. For context, Leisel previously interviewed and developed an admiration for Austin Butler just before the release of the Elvis movie.

Leisel Jones Drive — Photo Credit: Supplied

About Leisel Jones

The former competition swimmer and Olympic gold medallist made a splash in the sports world at the age of 15 during the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. Known for her classic breaststroke technique and remarkable achievements in the Olympics, Leisel has been an inspiration to aspiring swimmers worldwide.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Leisel Jones (@leisel_jones)

After an illustrious career in the pool, Leisel took on new challenge as she transitioned from being an athlete to being a media personality in 2014. Being one of the most renowned and prominent sports icons in Australia, she has made a name for herself as an outstanding media personality with vast expertise in commentating, conducting interviews, hosting, and engaging in light entertainment.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Leisel Jones (@leisel_jones)

Having surmounted personal challenges, Leisel is a vocal champion for mental health assistance and promoting a positive body image. She actively supports these charitable causes by collaborating with organizations that hold special significance to her, such as Beyond Blue.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Leisel Jones (@leisel_jones)

Published 4-Aug-2023

North Lakes Mum Empowers Parents with the Magical Touch of Baby Love Massage

North Lakes mother Naomi Westerman, founder of Baby Love Massage, is one of the finalists in the Children’s Wellness Business category of the AusMumpreneur Awards this year.

Her heartwarming mission to create a world where no cherubic infant endures unnecessary pain and every loving parent feels confidently connected and empowered, has earned her widespread adoration and support from all corners.

Being recognised as a finalist for the Children’s Wellness Business of the Year 2023 adds an extra sprinkle of fairy dust to Naomi’s journey. This recognition would elevate awareness of the critical issue of colic and reflux among newborns and strengthen her ability to reach out to more families in need of a healing touch.

Baby Love Naomi Westerman — Photo Credit: Naomi Westerman

Naomi’s Baby Love Massage Journey

Naomi’s journey into the realm of baby massage began as she embarked on parenthood, navigating the challenges of colic and reflux with her beloved son, Theodore.

Faced with a lack of accessible resources and the absence of a fairy godmother to help, Naomi and her supportive husband, Craig, embarked on a quest to find answers and bring comfort to their little prince’s discomfort. The transformative magic of baby massage not only enchanted them with relief for Theodore’s physical symptoms but also wove a powerful spell of love and connection between parent and child.

Fueled by the magical desire to share this experience with other parents facing similar challenges, Naomi conjured Baby Love Massage into existence in North Lakes.

This soothing sanctuary serves as a haven for parents seeking the captivating healing potential of touch, offering workshops and support for families facing colicky dragon roars, fiery reflux spells, and even the occasional dark clouds of post-natal depression.

At Baby Love, the focus is on providing a safe and mystical environment for adorable infants and their bewitched caregivers to explore the benefits of baby massage. Naomi’s unique approach blends ancient secrets with modern ideas, guiding the parents and soothing the babies.

“Baby Love Massage was founded with the intention of supporting new mothers within the community to learn, practice and fall in love with the beauty of baby massage,” Naomi said.

“I’m on a mission to create a world where no infant endures unnecessary pain and where every parent feels confident, connected, and empowered.”

“In the past few months, I have been able to support many families who have been left to navigate, colic and reflux diagnoses alone, once discharged from midwives and paediatricians. An overwhelmed mother in a recent workshop, opened up about her mental health struggles and how her crying, distressed newborn’s discomforts were taking their toll.”

Baby Love Massage’s Growth

Within a year, Baby Love Massage has achieved miraculous milestones, including a breathtaking 1400% increase in revenue. This extraordinary and magical growth not only showcases the effectiveness of Naomi’s business model but also highlights what she brings to countless families in need.

Beyond the financial rewards, Naomi’s most extraordinary achievement lies in the impact she has made on the lives of mums and their babies. Through her workshops, she has empowered mums and fostered a sense of confidence and unbreakable bonds.

“As a professional mother, I have firsthand experience in practising what I preach, and through my work with over 200 mothers and their babies in the last six months, I have witnessed the undeniable results of our simple yet powerful techniques.”

In 2028, Naomi envisions a national franchise empire that provides support to over one million babies and their families across Australia. Her ultimate goal is to ensure that no cherubic infant endures unnecessary pain and every parent can confidently embrace the journey of parenthood.

Her nomination under the Children’s Wellness Business category of the Emerging AusMumpreneur of the Year 2023 highlights her dedication to transforming the lives of parents and infants. Her vision of creating a world filled with love, care, and endless possibilities for every newborn reflects her commitment to this noble cause. As she continues to help families and weave bonds, Naomi’s impact on the community seems to be a fairy tale come true.

“Throughout my training, the profound phrase ‘love creates love’ resonated deeply within me, igniting an unwavering passion for ensuring our babies experience boundless love and grow with the ability to perpetuate that love. With unwavering determination, I strive to make this vision a reality, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless families.”

The Westmans — Photo Credit: Naomi Westerman

The AusMumpreneur Conference and Awards will be held on 22-24 Aug 2023 at Darling Harbour in Sydney.

Published 3-Aug-2023

North Lakes Leads Queensland’s Tech Job Boom As Fastest-Growing Tech Suburb

Did you know that North Lakes has been recognised as Queensland’s fastest-growing tech hub over the past decade after experiencing an astonishing surge of 2,900 per cent in tech job opportunities?

According to the Tech Council of Australia’s Queensland Tech Jobs Opportunity report, South East Queensland is leading the state in tech job growth.

The report sheds light on the remarkable impact of Queensland’s technology sector on the state’s economy, as it currently employs over 140,000 tech workers. Furthermore, this figure is projected to skyrocket to 185,000 by 2030, making the tech industry three times larger than Queensland’s agricultural sector.

The report also points out that the surge in tech jobs is primarily occurring beyond inner-city Brisbane. Areas such as Logan, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast have also witnessed impressive growth in tech job opportunities. However, it’s worth noting that Inner Brisbane has seen its tech workforce expand by 10,000 jobs over the last 10 years.

Following North Lakes, Jimboomba secured the second position, with Southport coming in third among the fastest-growing tech suburbs in Queensland.

The growth of tech jobs in the state has outpaced other occupations significantly since 1985, progressing through different phases. From the mid-’80s to the mid-’90s, tech jobs grew 1.3 times faster than overall job opportunities, entering their “Uptick” phase from 1995 to 2005, growing 1.6 times faster.

The “Tearaway” phase from 2005 to 2020 saw a four-fold increase, and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2023), the tech job market surged five times faster than other occupations, termed the “Going for Gold” phase.

The report also highlighted the overall strength of Australia’s tech job market, which has become the seventh-largest employing sector in the country, providing employment to 861,000 people.

“1 in 16 working Australians work in tech sector jobs, and there are more software engineers and developers in Australia than solicitors, plumbers, hairdressers,” Tech Council of Australia said.

The organisation also cited that tech jobs, regardless of their nature, offer lucrative salaries. At an hourly rate, entry-level positions in the tech sector pay 32 per cent more than the average wage across the economy. On a weekly basis, tech jobs provide a substantial 64 per cent higher pay compared to the overall average.

Workers in the tech sector perceive their jobs as more flexible compared to other industries. Moreover, tech jobs are known for their higher job security. The rate of people leaving the tech industry after eight years is 4.7 per cent lower than in high-paying industries and 6.2 per cent lower than in other sectors.

Published 31-July-2023

Nambucca Close Emergency Declaration Revoked After Fire, But Public Urged To Stay Away

Authorities have revoked the emergency declaration for Nambucca Close in Murrumba Downs following the massive explosion that rocked a residential neighbourhood last week. However, police are still urging people to avoid the area if possible as the investigation continues.

Read: Calls for Building North Lakes Fire Station Renewed After Tragic Death of 75-Year-Old Resident

The blast occurred around 1:00 p.m. on 12 July 2023 at a home on Nambucca Close. Neighbours reported hearing an incredibly loud explosion that sounded like something landed on their roofs. The subsequent fire engulfed the residence.

Earlier in the week, authorities had declared an exclusion zone around the site whilst streets were closed, including Nambucca Cl, Yaraki Ct, Pine River Dr and Drysdale Ct. Hastings St and Evans Ct were also shut down for several hours after the incident.

Photo credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook

The burned down house was owned by Garry William Maidment, according to public records. Unidentified human remains were discovered on the property prior to the fire, based on a statement from local authorities.

Mr Maidment allegedly had difficulty making mortgage payments on the home, causing him to post on his social media account about planning to seek revenge against his body corporate and bank days before the incident. The medical examiner’s office has not yet released the identity of the human remains found at the scene.

A fundraiser has been launched for a neighbouring family, whose property sustained significant damage from the explosion and fire. During the incident, a 19-year-old resident of the property was home when the roof suddenly caved in on the lounge room where she was sitting. Thankfully, the victim was able to free herself from the rubble physically unharmed, but the traumatic experience has left her shaken.

The family’s dog and their guinea pigs were able to be rescued by a helpful neighbour. Sadly, the family’s beloved cats remain missing after likely running away during the chaos.

Read: New Fire Station to Be Built on Steel Street

The cause of the blast remains under investigation. Whilst the emergency declaration has been lifted, police say the area remains an active investigation site. Residents are encouraged to avoid the location if possible to allow investigators to complete their work as the forensic investigations will take several days.

Published 17-July-2023

Moreton Bay Kitchen Has Recipe for Success, Award-Winning Chef Champions Local Produce

Photo Credit: Moreton Bay Kitchen/Facebook

Moreton Bay Kitchen, a culinary haven nestled in the heart of Deception Bay, has been making waves in the food industry with its delectable creations sourced from the abundant produce of the region.

The restaurant’s commitment to using local ingredients not only resulted in a thriving business but also earned them the prestigious Award for Food & Agribusiness Excellence at the 2023 Moreton Bay Business and Innovation Awards held on 7 July 2023.

Founded in 2019 by the visionary and globally acclaimed chef, Suzie Albu, Moreton Bay Kitchen has carved a niche in the region’s food scene. Suzie’s culinary journey took her across continents and garnered several accolades for her innovative use of locally sourced produce while living in the countryside of the UK.

The secret to Suzie’s success lies in her unwavering dedication to supporting local farmers and small-scale suppliers. Through her extensive network, she utilizes resources like the Open Food Network and Reko Ring to find unique and healthy ingredients.

Whether it’s crafting Moreton Bay Bug tortellini for a romantic Valentine’s Day menu or serving up a simple yet delightful plate of fish and chips, Suzie’s dishes have gained a loyal following due to their authentic flavors and the knowledge that they are made using fresh ingredients straight from the bay.

Suzie’s passion for championing lesser-known produce is evident in every aspect of Moreton Bay Kitchen’s operation and it’s motivated by her desire to provide “fantastic food for all sorts of people.”

But the restaurant’s dedication to supporting local businesses extends beyond their own kitchen. Moreton Bay Kitchen is actively involved in the Reko crew, a network that promotes and strengthens local businesses. Suzie firmly believes that using local produce not only benefits her establishment but also contributes to the prosperity of the entire community.

The recognition for Food & Agribusiness Excellence at the Moreton Bay Business and Innovation Awards has left Suzie and her team ecstatic. Moreton Bay Kitchen’s commitment to sustainability, passion for elevating local produce, and the artistry of its talented chef have combined to create a recipe for success that continues to captivate the palates of food enthusiasts and critics alike.

Follow them on Facebook for more updates.

Published 16-July-2023

Coles Deception Bay Opens in Market Square

The grand opening of Coles Deception Bay has brought excitement to the local community, creating up to 130 new job opportunities and introducing a range of convenient features to enhance the shopping experience.

Read: Stage 2 of MKT Square Transformation Nearing Completion

Located in the bustling Market Square Deception Bay precinct, Coles Deception Bay is a full-line supermarket spanning an impressive 3,850 sqm. Its grand opening signifies a significant investment in the area, providing residents with a one-stop shopping destination.

The new store offers a multitude of features designed to cater to customer needs and preferences. A grab-n-go station awaits shoppers, providing ready-made meals for those on the go.

A fresh bakery section tempts customers with an array of delectable baked goods. The self-serve bread slicer allows for personalised bread preferences, whilst a donut machine promises freshly made treats.

Coles Deception Bay also has frozen dessert and pet treat bars, catering to the needs of both sweet-toothed shoppers and pet owners. The addition of these specialty sections expands the range of products available and adds a touch of excitement to the shopping experience.

For the convenience of online shoppers, the store offers six dedicated Click&Collect bays, allowing customers to easily pick up their online orders. Additionally, a home delivery service is available for customers within the Market Square Shopping Centre area, ensuring a hassle-free shopping experience.

Photo credit: Deception Bay State School/Facebook

Beyond the retail offerings, the new Coles store is committed to community support. In collaboration with Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden, the store has contributed $5000 to Deception Bay State School to establish a Kitchen Garden Program.

This program aims to encourage healthy eating habits among students by teaching them about growing, harvesting, preparing, and sharing fresh, seasonal, and delicious food.

Furthermore, Coles Deception Bay is dedicated to reducing food waste and addressing food insecurity. Unsold edible food is donated to SecondBite, an organisation that helps feed those facing food insecurity through the Lighthouse program.

The supermarket has also shown support for Guide Dogs Australia by hosting an in-store Collection Dog, raising funds for individuals with low vision or blindness.

The store’s operating hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sundays.

Read: Banjo’s Bakery Cafe Debuts in Burpengary

Alongside Coles, Liquorland, Choice The Discount Store and H Cafe & Bar have also recently opened in the new precinct at Market Square Deception Bay.

Published 14-July-2023