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Tent Cities Expand in Rothwell, Deception Bay and Surrounding Areas

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

Deception Bay, Moreton Bay Homes Face Land Value Surge Amid Migration Boom

The median land value in Deception Bay has soared by 60.4 per cent, with nearby areas like North Lakes and Burpengary also experiencing significant increases, with nearby areas like North Lakes and Burpengary also experiencing significant increases, as part of a wider trend affecting over 675,000 properties across Queensland due to heightened migration and demand.

The 2024 valuation cycle unveils a substantial rise in land values across Queensland, impacting around 675,000 properties in 20 local government areas. This adjustment, triggered by migration and demand spikes, has seen homeowners across regions like Deception Bay, the Gold Coast, Moreton Bay, and the Sunshine Coast brace for possible rate and tax hikes.

Detailed Regional Impact

Deception Bay witnessed a remarkable jump, with median land values climbing by 60.4 per cent, affecting 6,011 properties. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $227,500 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $365,000

North Lakes saw a 29.9 per cent increase in median land values, impacting 6,805 properties. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $335,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $435,000

Burpengary reported a 35.3 per cent rise, with 3,630 properties affected. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $255,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $365,000

Burpengary East experienced a 37.8 per cent increase, affecting 1,837 properties. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $225,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $310,000

Narangba observed a 32.1 per cent surge in median land values, with 6,739 properties impacted. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $280,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $370,000

Rothwell saw a 25.8 per cent rise, affecting 2,249 properties. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $310,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $390,000

These figures underscore the widespread nature of the land value increase phenomenon, particularly pronounced in areas surrounding Deception Bay.

FIND YOUR LAND VALUATION

North Lakes — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Valuer-General Insights

Valuer-General Laura Dietrich highlights the significant drivers behind these valuation increases: robust population growth and infrastructure development, particularly in areas like Moreton Bay and Gold Coast.

Despite potential concerns over rising rates and taxes, Dietrich reassures that councils consider various factors when setting rates, underlining the multifaceted approach to valuation and taxation.

With the new valuations set to effect on June 30, 2024, the Queensland government’s upcoming decisions on proposed changes to valuation laws are eagerly anticipated.

Amid warnings from the property sector about potential rate and tax increases, the community and industry stakeholders are keenly awaiting the Resources Minister Scott Stewart’s announcement, hoping for measures to mitigate the impact on homeowners, especially in rapidly appreciating areas like Deception Bay and its surrounds.

Published 3-April-2024

Narangba Koala Stops Traffic, Man’s Patient Gestures Save the Day

A koala brought traffic to a standstill one afternoon during the school pick-up rush in Narangba recently. The marsupial had wandered onto Boundary Road and plopped itself down on the asphalt, refusing to budge despite cars lining up in both directions.

Read: Narangba Nursery Hits the Market as Owners Embark on New Chapter

With dozens of drivers stuck and growing frustrated, one young man decided to take matters into his own hands. Barefoot and springing into action from his nearby ute, he approached the koala cautiously and tried gesturing for it to leave the road. Initially his efforts were unsuccessful as the apparently terrified animal stayed put.

But the Good Samaritan didn’t give up. He continued encouraging the koala from a safe distance until finally, after many attempts, the marsupial made its way off the busy street to safety on the roadside. His perseverance paid off and prevented what could have been a tragic situation.

Narangba — Photo credit: Valeriia Miller/Pexels

One of the backed-up drivers told reporters the koala was “very lucky” not to have been struck by a vehicle given the heavy traffic at the time.

Koalas finding themselves in precarious situations on roads and in populated areas is not unheard of in the region. Just last month, another of the tree-dwelling marsupials was spotted sitting in Logan, requiring a brave passerby to physically remove it from harm’s way.

They are known for living in trees, but koalas actually spend a good amount of time traveling on the ground. Though these tree-dwelling animals sleep for over 20 hours a day in the branches, they have to come down to the ground and walk when moving between trees since they can’t swing through the treetops like monkeys.

Whilst their adventures sometimes make for amusing viral videos, experts warn that hectic development has put koala populations at risk as their habitats shrink. Simple acts of compassion like this young man’s can go a long way in preserving the iconic species for future generations.

Read: Rothwell Armed Robber Apprehended by Diligent Police Dog

Published 29-March-2024

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

Following a comprehensive review of the Olympic venues, it has been recommended that the new Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre at The Mill in Petrie should proceed with construction.

According to the review panel, there is a demonstrated need for an indoor sports centre to serve the northern Brisbane community based on resident demand.

Thus, establishing a community and high-performance para-sport facility is deemed crucial for creating a lasting legacy both leading up to and following the Games.

“Proceed with the Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre project and increase the size of the centre to allow for greater crowd capacity and increase flexibility of sports that could be allocated for the Games and attracting future events to the venue,” the panel stated.

Set to become a significant addition to the region’s sporting infrastructure, the centre will offer nine courts, supporting amenities, and functional spaces catering to various indoor sports and community events. It is part of a broader initiative to address the deficiency in community indoor courts across South East Queensland.

Once home to the Petrie Paper Mill, the site is now slated to become Moreton Bay’s Olympic Park. It will feature a purpose-built indoor stadium with at least 7,000 seats for hosting Olympic boxing events in 2032 and beyond.

Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre — *Photo Credit: q2032.au*

The project has received favourable recommendations and is proceeding with further investigations to increase the venue’s size. A Project Validation Report is underway to ensure the centre’s thriving design and functionality implementation.

Mayor Peter Flannery envisions the facility as a venue for the 2032 Olympics and a long-term asset for the region. Post-Olympics, the centre will continue to host major sporting events, concerts, and community gatherings, ensuring the enduring legacy of the Olympic spirit in Moreton Bay.

Situated within The Mill, a 65-hectare mixed-use space, the centre aligns with the council’s vision to transform the area into a cultural hub supporting various community activities.

Formerly the site of the Petrie Paper Mill, this site has undergone significant redevelopment since its acquisition by the Moreton Bay Regional Council in 2015. With the establishment of USC Moreton Bay and the opening of a multi-million-dollar water park, the area has already begun to flourish. The addition of the Olympic Park further solidifies The Mill’s role as a focal point for community engagement and economic growth.

The announcement of the Olympics is anticipated to spur the development of supporting infrastructure, including roads and public transport, to accommodate the region’s growing population and enhance connectivity.

Published 25-March-2024

Closed for Good: Blue Diamond Hair Co Shutters North Lakes, Other Brisbane Locations

Blue Diamond Hair Co, a salon with locations in Brisbane including one in North Lakes, has abruptly closed its doors, leaving customers in the lurch.

Read: North Lakes Pool Company Plunges into Liquidation Amidst Economic Challenges

The business, which branded itself as “redefining luxury,” first opened at Logan Hyperdome in 2021 and expanded to the Westfield Garden City and Westfield North Lakes in 2022.

Blue Diamond offered not just hair services but also spray tanning, beauty treatments, and even teeth whitening. However, both the North Lakes and Garden City salons closed in January 2024 without any notice to customers. The closures extended to the other Brisbane locations as well, with the Logan Hyperdome salon’s final day being February 21.

Photo credit: Blue Diamond Hair Co/Facebook

The shutdown was a surprise to loyal customers, some of whom had deposits with the North Lakes salon. One frustrated regular said so many people have paid a deposit and it isn’t being returned.

Another customer had just begun looking into Blue Diamond’s services, booking her first appointment last month complete with an online deposit. However, she got a text that the booking was cancelled, but they wouldn’t answer any calls or emails. She explained that she had no response at all from the owners.

Whilst the North Lakes shopping centre has acknowledged Blue Diamond’s departure, they claim to have been given no reason for why the tenants vacated. The company’s website remains active, but their social media pages are silent on the closures. However, the business is listed as “permanently closed” on Google.

Read: Dakabin Gym Faces Financial Woes, Enters Voluntary Liquidation

As news of the shutdown spreads, more and more customers with unused deposits and pre-paid packages are realising they may never get refunded by the Blue Diamond Hair Co business they once frequented.

Published 14-March-2024

$3.1 Billion Housing Plan Unveiled, Mango Hill Integral to Key Initiative

A landmark $3.1-billion housing initiative has been unveiled, encompassing Mango Hill as one of the prominent places to figure into this strategy to address the housing shortage and enhance affordability.

The Homes for Queenslanders package covers various strategies, including leasing public land to developers and piloting innovative development models. The plan has been created to accelerate housing construction and meet the needs of Queensland’s rapidly growing population.

In conjunction with the land leasing initiative, the government will invest $350 million to establish an Infrastructure Infill Fund, specifically targeting private infill developments. Premier Steven Miles emphasised the importance of these developments being well-located and close to essential amenities like schools and healthcare facilities.

Furthermore, the government will pilot a ground lease model to facilitate the creation of social and affordable housing on surplus government land. This initiative aims to unlock housing opportunities and promote housing diversity in urban areas. An inclusionary planning pilot program will also be implemented to educate developers on adopting inclusive planning models, targeting suburbs such as Varsity Lakes, Pimlico, and Mango Hill.

The Homes for Queenslanders plan also allocates $160 million to support the rental market and $390 million for homelessness services, including establishing eight new youth foyers to assist young people at risk of homelessness.

Mango Hill — *Photo Credit: StevenMiles/Facebook*

“A key pillar of the Homes for Queenslanders plan is building more homes faster,” Mr Miles said.

“The Infrastructure Infill Fund, combined with initiatives like the Ground Lease Delivery Model, will deliver more housing options in demand areas – close to schools, transport and healthcare.

“This funding is in direct response to the feedback we’ve received from industry.

“My government is listening, and we want to work together to get the job done.

“As Queensland grows, so must our approach to partnering with industry players to unlock more social and affordable homes.”

Minister for Housing Meaghan Scanlon highlighted the government’s commitment to partnering with the private sector to enhance housing supply and affordability. The ground lease model is expected to attract new investors into the housing market, fostering increased supply, including social and affordable housing options.

Industry stakeholders welcomed the government’s initiatives, recognising the potential to expedite housing delivery and reduce costs. The Queensland Property Council and the Planning Institute of Australia commended the government’s efforts to promote housing diversity and support urban infill development.

Published 11-March-2024

Kallangur Resident Celebrates Life-Changing Win

Photo Credit: Unsplash

It was a life-altering moment for a Kallangur woman when news of an unexpected windfall of nearly half a million dollars arrived on an ordinary Sunday.

On 4 February 2024, the woman from Kallangur experienced the shock of her life when she discovered she had won the jackpot prize amounting to a staggering $442,606.90.

The call from an official confirming her win prompted an ecstatic reaction, highlighting the surreal nature of her newfound fortune.

The winner’s immediate response was one of sheer astonishment. Recounting the moment, she described how a casual afternoon turned into a pivotal life event.

Initially thinking she had matched eight out of nine numbers, she was overwhelmed upon realising the actual extent of her win. The news was met with joy and plans for the future, emphasising the life-changing impact of her win.

With a significant sum now at her disposal, the Kallangur local looks forward to enjoying some “serious fun” and embarking on a holiday, enhancing her travel with extra spending money. Beyond leisure, she sees this win as an opportunity to secure a prosperous future for herself and her family, encapsulating the essence of her incredible luck.

The winning ticket was purchased at Kallangur Tavern, a venue that has witnessed its fair share of wins. Sarah Lewis, a spokesperson for the tavern, shared the communal excitement such wins bring, fostering a positive atmosphere and making it a topic of conversation for many. Familiar with celebrating wins, the tavern extends its best wishes to the lucky winner.

In 2023, Keno players in Queensland celebrated wins totalling over $1 billion, with 21 individuals becoming millionaires or multi-millionaires. This broader context underscores the widespread appeal and potentially life-changing impact of participating in Keno, now more accessible than ever through mobile apps in selected regions.

Published 25-February-2024