A 37-year-old man remains hospitalised and in police custody after allegedly stealing and crashing a police van on Anzac Avenue at Mango Hill early Tuesday morning.
Police respond to knife call, then overpowered by suspect
Police were called to Boundary Rd in Narangba at 3:21 a.m. on reports of a man brandishing a knife.
When officers arrived on the scene, the man allegedly overpowered them and stole their marked police van before driving away from the area.
Chase ends in crash on Anzac Avenue
The man then allegedly led police on a five-kilometre chase in the stolen vehicle before crashing on Anzac Avenue at Mango Hill, about 10 kilometres from the initial incident.
After the crash, the man reportedly fled the damaged police van on foot towards a nearby McDonald’s restaurant. He was then pursued by officers and taken into custody.
Hospitalised with non-life threatening injuries
The suspect was taken to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital with serious but non-life threatening injuries. He remains in hospital under police guard pending possible charges.
Hey Caddy North Lakes and X Golf offers golf enthusiasts distinct experiences to challenge their skills and spark their imaginations, witha unique golfing paradise transporting players across the globe without ever leaving the Moreton Bay Region.
X Golf provides advanced golf simulators with industry-leading technology, whilst Hey Caddy North Lakes offers a relaxed, welcoming environment suitable for players of all ages and abilities.
Hey Caddy’s expansive mini-golf course features holes inspired by renowned destinations worldwide. Putt through New York’s iconic skyline, traverse China’s formidable Great Wall, and meander through Egyptian pyramids. The imaginative course even includes intergalactic holes set on Mars.
Photo credit: Hey Caddy/Facebook
The venue’s ambition took on special significance during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. With travel restricted, Hey Caddy offered a safe, engaging opportunity to explore the world from home. They strived to help people create lasting memories, even during difficult times.
How It Works
Photo credit: Max C/Google Maps
The venue utilises specialised impact-absorbing screens to withstand the force of powerfully struck golf balls. With 56 courses currently available and four more on the way, Hey Caddy and X Golf accommodates all skill levels – from beginners to expert golfers.
Photo credit: Taylah Douglas/Google Maps
X Golf’s high-tech simulators utilise impact sensors, infrared lasers, multi-camera systems, and sophisticated gaming software to deliver unparalleled accuracy and realism.
The cutting-edge simulator technology precisely tracks swings with 98 percent accuracy compared to real courses. The automated system eliminates retrieving balls whilst adjustable tee heights customise each shot. Smart balls interact with cameras to collect playing data.
An upcoming app, which will be launched soon, will let golfers review stats at home and participate in online tournaments.
For local golf lovers, Hey Caddy North Lakes and X Golf brings the vibrancy of worldwide destinations to their neighbourhood. It’s a place to challenge skills, spark imagination, and create unforgettable moments, without even needing a passport.
A sweeping effort dubbed Operation Victor Surface is underway in the suburbs north of Brisbane and in Moreton Bay, as part of efforts to curb the rampant theft of copper wire across those areas.
The operation is enlisting the support of the public in reporting similar crimes in order to assist ongoing investigations.
On 4 Aug 2023, a targeted search warrant was executed at a property on Kinsellas Road in Mango Hill. During the operation, a substantial cache of allegedly stolen copper wire was uncovered. Notably, police also seized a variety of tools, a firearm, and registration plates from a shed on the premises.
A 47-year-old resident of Mango Hill was apprehended and subsequently charged with multiple offences. These include two counts each of copper theft, receiving stolen copper and tools, and possession of dangerous drugs (cannabis and diazepam).
Additionally, the suspect faces charges of possessing a Category A weapon (rifle), explosives (ammunition), and drug paraphernalia (pipe and scales), as well as three counts of stealing registration plates. The accused appeared at the Pine Rivers Magistrates Court on 15 Sept 2023.
In the wake of this apprehension, law enforcement also executed search warrants at addresses in Camira and South Brisbane on 12 and 15 August. During these operations, investigators uncovered stripped insulation materials and documents indicating the sale of over 1.9 tonnes of copper wire to metal recyclers over a six-week period.
A 39-year-old Camira resident has also found himself facing a litany of charges, including entering premises and committing an indictable offence, fraud, stealing, possessing dangerous drugs and drug paraphernalia, as well as various traffic-related matters. The accused remains in police custody, with his next court appearance set for 16 October in Brisbane Magistrates Court.
Similarly, a 38-year-old Karalee man found himself in custody, facing charges of four counts of entering premises and committing an indictable offence, possessing dangerous drugs and drug paraphernalia, and various driving offences. He appeared at the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 15 September.
Furthermore, a 35-year-old South Brisbane resident has been charged with six counts of entering premises to commit an indictable offence, stealing, and fraud on 28 August.
Operation Victor Surface investigators assert that the suspects apprehended in these operations have caused over $320,000 in damages and significant delays in various infrastructure projects across the greater Brisbane region. The theft of copper wire and other metals not only jeopardizes the safety of the thieves themselves but also poses substantial risks to legitimate workers and the wider community.
Law enforcement agencies are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any information related to copper thefts. They emphasize the importance of reporting anything that appears suspicious or out of place.
In a statement, Energex underscored the dangerous consequences of stealing copper and other equipment from the electricity network. Thieves have not only suffered injuries and fatalities but have also endangered innocent bystanders by leaving live sections of the high-voltage electricity network exposed.
Additionally, the community has borne the financial burden of the necessary repairs following such thefts. Energex expressed their gratitude to the Queensland Police Service for their dedicated efforts in apprehending copper thieves.
Energex encourages the public to immediately report any suspicious activities around or damage to the electricity network, emphasizing the paramount importance of public safety and community well-being.
Operation Victor Surface represents an ongoing commitment to combat copper theft in the region, with authorities determined to address this perilous and costly criminal activity head-on.
As the school holidays approach, Westfield North Lakes is gearing up to host a week of exciting and educational activities for families to enjoy, beginning with the “Little Dreamers” program.
The “Little Dreamers” program is designed to provide a range of daily activities that cater to children’s creativity and self-expression. Each day brings a new and exciting DIY project, including the creation of dream jars, friendship bracelets, and more.
The program runs from Monday to Sunday, 18 to 24 Sept 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The children will be given a chance to engage in various DIY activities aimed at developing fine motor skills and promoting mindfulness. It will also encourage the children to unleash their creativity and develop essential skills while having a great time.
Photo Credit: Supplied
The activities are not only entertaining but also serve as an opportunity for kids to bond with their peers and make new friends. Parents can rest assured that their children are engaged in safe and supervised activities while enjoying their time at Westfield North Lakes.
In addition to the “Little Dreamers” program, Westfield North Lakes is also participating in a “Waste and Recycling Education Program” in partnership with Moreton Bay Council. This initiative runs from Saturday to Friday, 16 to 22 Sept 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Families visiting the pop-up will have the chance to learn more about waste and recycling in the Moreton Bay region, and children can play problem-solving games to enhance their understanding of recyclable materials.
Westfield North Lakes continues to be a hub for family-friendly activities and events, providing a diverse range of experiences for its local community. For the school holidays, families can look forward to a week filled with creativity, learning, and fun!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo credit: Sparc Architects
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.
Photo credit: Sparc Architects
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.
Photo credit: Azure
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.
Photo credit: Azure
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: Supplied
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.
Photo Credit: Baby Love Massage
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.
Photo Credit: Baby Love Massage
“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.”
Photo Credit: Naomi Westerman
The AusMumpreneur Conference and Awards will be held on 22-24 Aug 2023 at Darling Harbour in Sydney.
