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Flamingos Ice Creamery in Beachmere Scoops Up Top Honours at Pumicestone Small Business Awards

Beloved Flamingos Ice Creamery in Beachmere has been crowned the Best Beachmere Business at the 2024 Pumicestone Small Business Awards.

Over 200 local business owners gathered at Bribie Island RSL for the awards ceremony, which State Member for Pumicestone Ali King hosted to honour the region’s thriving small business community.

The awards, now in their second year, have quickly gained momentum, with over 8400 community members casting votes for their favourite local businesses.

Pumicestone Awards — *Photo Credit: Facebook/ TharinaGillenStulting*

This year’s event featured a diverse range of categories, from Best Beauty and Hairdressing to Best Market and Microbusiness, reflecting the eclectic mix of enterprises in the Pumicestone region.

The Pumicestone Small Business Award winners were:

Best Beauty and Hairdressing – KBeauty

Best Health, Wellbeing and Fitness – Island Dance

Best Business and Professional Services – Our Wild Hearts Photography

Best Hospitality Business – Pigface Seafood

Best Trade Business – Hans Electrical Service

Best Retail Business – Ang&M

Best Business Newcomer – Ikigai Cafe and Workshop

Best Pet Business – Bribie Pets Supplies

Best Market and Microbusiness – Brooklyn’s Finest – American Hot Dog Company

Best Education and Childcare – Bribie Island Community Kindergarten

Outstanding Customer Service Award – Tyson from Bongaree Bubbles & Clips

Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Callum from Bribie Pets Supplies

Best Bribie Business – Island Dance

Best Sandstone Point Business – Steakout Pizzeria

Best Beachmere Business – Flamingos Ice Creamery

Best Caboolture Business – Gather and Feast

Pumicestone Small Business of the Year – Island Dance

Flamingos Ice Creamery: A Beachmere Delight

Flamingos Ice Creamery isn’t just a dessert destination; it’s a vibrant experience. With its prime location near Beachmere IGA, Beachmere Takeaway, and the alluring sea, it’s the perfect pitstop for locals and tourists alike.

Flamingos has transformed its new Beachmere Road abode into an ice cream haven. The eye-catching menu board showcases a tempting array of frozen treats, from classic scoops and creative ice cream cakes to refreshing milkshakes and delightful ice cream sandwiches.

Whether you’re seeking a post-beach treat, a family outing, or simply a moment of pure indulgence, Flamingos Ice Creamery promises a delightful escape. Come for the ice cream, stay for the experience, and leave with a smile as sweet as their signature flavours.

Ms King emphasised the importance of recognising the hard work and dedication of small business owners, stating, “I set up the Pumicestone Small Business Awards to spotlight the talent of our local small businesses in all industries.”

The awards also acknowledged outstanding businesses in each suburb, with Steakout Pizzeria taking the top spot for Sandstone Point, Gather and Feast for Caboolture, and Island Dance once again for Bribie.

Published Date 30-May-2024

Five Teens Arrested After Stolen Vehicle Chase in Mango Hill

Police have arrested five teenagers in connection with a stolen vehicle incident in Mango Hill after an extensive investigation aided by surveillance footage.

Read: Major Crackdown on Youth Crime in North Lakes and Surrounds

On May 22, a black BMW was reported stolen from a residence on Amaranthine Street in Mango Hill sometime between 8:00 p.m. the previous night and 3:30 a.m. that morning.

Because of Moreton Bay Council’s CCTV network, police were able to locate the stolen vehicle around 1:30 p.m. that same day near Anzac Avenue in Kippa Ring.

Three individuals were seen fleeing from the BMW, and police quickly apprehended two of them nearby. With the assistance of Police Dog Wolf and its handler, the third alleged offender was tracked down and arrested on Fleet Drive.

The suspects were identified as three boys and two girls ranging from 13 to 15 years old from the areas of Zillmere, Mango Hill, Kurwongbah, Griffin, and Strathpine. Charges filed include unlawful use of a motor vehicle, robbery, Enter Dwelling and Commit indictable offence, receiving tainted property, stealing, and fraud.

The 15-year-old Zillmere boy faces an additional robbery charge from an alleged incident on May 16 at a Maroochydore store. He was refused bail and is scheduled to appear in Brisbane Children’s Court on May 23.

The two girls, ages 15 from Griffin and 13 from Strathpine, were charged with crimes related to the alleged use of stolen banking cards from the Mango Hill residence. They have court dates set for June 7 in Redcliffe.

Read: Suspicious Fire in Mango Hill Destroy Homes

This case highlights the capabilities of law enforcement utilising modern surveillance technology and resources like K9 units to quickly track down suspects after a crime has been reported. The multi-jurisdictional coordination between different police departments was also crucial in making these arrests.

Published 27-May-2024

New Police Boost for Deception Bay and North Lakes

Photo Credit: myPolice Moreton

The growing communities of Deception Bay and North Lakes are set for a boost in police resources, with four new First Year Constables headed to their stations. This is part of a record intake of 137 new officers graduating from the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Academy in Brisbane today — the largest group in 26 years.

The Deception Bay station will receive two of the new constables, while the Mango Hill/North Lakes station will also welcome two recruits from this record graduating class. Their arrivals represent a substantial investment in frontline policing for the rapidly growing northern Brisbane corridor.

The Moreton District overall will receive an influx of 14 new constables from this latest recruitment course. In addition to Deception Bay and North Lakes, they will also join crews at Burpengary, Petrie, Caboolture, Redcliffe and Woodford stations.

The unprecedented intake of 137 new officers reflects the Queensland Government’s commitment to increasing police resources and ensuring community safety remains the top priority across the state, according to Police Minister Mark Ryan.

The latest QPS graduates completed an eight-month intensive training program covering physical skills, firearms, driving, and field operations. They will spend their first 12 months as Constables receiving further on-the-job skills development and field training as part of the First Year Constable program.

With 546 recruits currently in training and over 2,274 more in the recruiting pipeline, the Queensland Police Service is setting new staffing records. Officials are encouraging interested candidates to apply for the chance at a career in policing service at PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au.

Published 16-May-2024

Suspicious Fire in Mango Hill Destroy Homes

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Police are investigating a suspicious fire that broke out early Monday morning at a construction site on Deacon Crescent in Mango Hill, causing extensive damage to two houses that were being built.

Emergency crews were called to the scene around 2 a.m. on May 14th after reports of a fire at the building site. Though no injuries were reported, the two partially-constructed homes were significantly damaged by the blaze.

Authorities believe the fire may have been intentionally set and are now appealing to the public for any information that could aid their investigation.

They are particularly interested in any potential witnesses who were in the vicinity of Deacon Crescent between 1:30 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. on Monday morning. Anyone with relevant CCTV or dashcam vision is also urged to contact police.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote this reference number: QP2400816659

Published 14-May-2024

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