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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

Open Day Pop-Up Market: Discover the World of Gem Crafting

Photo Credit: Deception Bay Gem & Allied Crafts Club / gemclubdeceptionbay.org

For those who missed the opportunity to attend Gemboree 2023 held in April but are intrigued by the world of gem crafting, the Deception Bay Gem and Allied Crafts Club Inc has organised an open day pop-up market on July 15. Celebrating their 60th anniversary, the event promises a range of captivating demonstrations, from cabbing and silverwork to casting and more.

Les Hathaway, a member of the Deception Bay Gem and Allied Crafts Club, exceeded all expectations at this year’s National Gem and Mineral Show in Dayboro. Surprising both himself and the judges, Les secured first and second place in the Tumbled Stones Natural Shape Novice category with an impressive score of 94 out of 100 for both pieces.

Gemboree 2023, also known as the National Gem and Mineral Show, was hosted by the Queensland Lapidary and Allied Craft Clubs Association Inc, of which Les is the President. The event, held at the Dayboro Showgrounds over the Easter long weekend, drew an impressive crowd of over 4000 attendees. With a remarkable total of 1011 entries, it was considered one of the most memorable Gem Shows to date.

Excitement filled the air as the event made its debut in the Moreton Bay Region, marking the first time Gemboree had come to Queensland in six years. Attendees raved about the show, hailing it as an exceptional experience unlike any other Gem Show they had visited.

Having previously crafted jewellery for his children and grandchildren using his own found gemstones, Les decided to enter his creations for judging at the Gemboree this year. It was an opportunity for him to explore the entry and judging processes, and he was pleasantly surprised by his success.

The judging panel, unaware of the origins or ownership of the gemstones and jewellery, evaluated each piece solely on its visual appeal. Les valued the feedback he received from the judges, who offered constructive criticism on areas where he could have made improvements. This feedback will serve as a guide for his future projects, enabling him to refine his skills even further.

Deception Bay Gem Club Inc will be hosting an open day pop-up market this coming 15 July 2023. The event promises a range of captivating demonstrations, from cabbing and silverwork to casting, faceting, enamelling, and chainmaille.

Attendees to the open day pop-up market event can browse various stalls selling tools and equipment, witness thunder egg-cutting demonstrations, participate in raffles, and even engage in a secret auction. Admission to the event, located at 52 Old Bay Road in Deception Bay, is free, ensuring that everyone can immerse themselves in the wonders of this unique craft.

Published 23-June-2023

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

Did you know that updates and improvements on the Burpengary railway station is now underway? The planned improvements will improve accessibility and enable all customers to access the train, station and platforms using ramps, lifts, or paths, without the need to use stairs.

Read: Moreton Bay Implements Jack’s Law to Detect Knife Possession at North Lakes Train Stations

The project is estimated to cost around $53 million. One of the key enhancements is the installation of full-length high-level platforms, which will allow passengers to board and alight trains more easily.

Additionally, a new footbridge equipped with lifts will be constructed, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can navigate the station effortlessly. To further enhance accessibility, the project includes improved parking facilities designed to accommodate those with disabilities.

Burpengary Railway — Station View (Photo credit: Queensland Rail)

The upgrade will also address the needs of individuals with hearing impairments by installing upgraded hearing loops and surface indicators. Furthermore, to ensure the safety of passengers, the project entails the installation of upgraded security cameras and lighting throughout the station.

To improve wayfinding for commuters, new platform signage and wayfinding features will be implemented. A new station office and facilities will also be constructed, providing a more comfortable and convenient experience for passengers.

Hutchinson Builders has been entrusted with the responsibility of delivering the main construction for this project. Early works, such as relocating overhead lines, were completed towards the end of last year and earlier in 2023.

Meanwhile, minor foundation work is scheduled to take place in June 2023, followed by the installation of masts for the overhead wires. Unfortunately, as part of the upgrade, four trees will need to be removed.

To facilitate the construction process, a site compound is being established from July 3 onwards. Consequently, a section of the car park will be closed to accommodate the compound and its operations. This particular area will remain inaccessible for parking until the upgrade work is completed.

Read: Mango Hill Station Upgrades Well Underway

These improvement efforts for Burpengary Railway Station are part of Queensland Rail’s Station Accessibility Upgrade Program, which aims to enhance station infrastructure across the region.

Published 21-June-2023

Community Lodges Overwhelming Objections to Planned Development at Site of Former North Lakes Golf Course

Photo Credit: Save North Lakes Golf Course/Facebook

The fate of a development proposal covering the site of the North Lakes Golf Course hangs in the balance as the community lodges an incredible 3,700 objections against the development submission.

The Village Retirement Group (TVRG) acquired the closed golf course in 2018 and aimed to donate a portion of the land to the Moreton Bay Regional Council for a public park whilst developing another section into aged care and retirement facilities.

Public notification for this development ran from 20 April to 1 June 2023 after TVRG filed DA/2022/3732 in Sept 2022.

Despite TVRG’s emphasis on the community’s support for the transformation and the recreational activities already taking place on the property, a passionate group of local residents has emerged to defend the golf course.

Save North Lakes Golf Course, with over 4,200 members on Facebook, has rallied its supporters and organized fundraising events to bolster their objections during the public consultation phase. The group’s determination to preserve the golf course has led them to prepare formal objections, crafted by their town planner and solicitor, as the public consultation is set to begin.

Meanwhile, TVRG plans to launch a website to promote the proposed Eden Creek Parklands, highlighting its benefits and encouraging community members to express their support.

TVRG’s managing director, Justin Harrison, remains optimistic about the potential of the park to become the region’s premier green space. He stresses the significant financial advantage for the council, as obtaining land of similar quality would typically require millions of dollars.

The North Lakes Golf Course holds a special place in the heart of the community. The site is known for its scenic beauty and considered a vital component of the thriving suburb.

With a population of over 25,000 residents, the meticulously maintained course offers an irreplaceable green oasis in the midst of urban development. Moreover, it provides a sanctuary for numerous native animal species, safeguarding their habitats against encroaching urbanization.

The Moreton Bay Regional Council is expected to make a decision on the DA within the next two to three months. This decision will profoundly impact the character and future of North Lakes, a master-planned suburb built around the golf course and Lake Eden. Both these landmarks are deeply ingrained in the community’s identity and significantly contribute to residents’ quality of life.

Published 15-June-2023

Banjo’s Bakery Cafe Debuts in Burpengary

Photo Credit: Banjo's Bakery Cafe / banjos.com.au

Burpengary welcomes the pleasing aromas and mouthwatering delights of Banjo’s Bakery Cafe, as the renowned franchise opens its doors this June 2023.

Nestled at 148E Station Rd, Banjo’s Bakery Cafe in Burpengary beckons pastry lovers with its irresistible array of gourmet pies, sausage rolls, and delectable baked goods.

Opening its doors on Wednesday, 14 June, the bakery has created up to 40 jobs as it marks the twelfth establishment in Queensland and the second in Moreton Bay, complementing the existing Redcliffe store.

With over 35 years of baking experience, Banjo’s Bakery Cafe is renowned for its Signature Pies. These include mouth-watering flavours such as Chicken Parmigiana (chicken breast schnitzel, cheese, traditional parmigiana sauce, Virginian ham & hollandaise encased inside their signature flaky pie pastry), Double Cheeseburger (double cheeseburger in a pie), and Potato and Beef Pie (delicious pastry crust filled with hearty beef in gravy, covered in potato and topped with tomato, diced bacon and cheese).

Potato and Beef Pie | Photo Credit: Banjo’s Bakery Cafe / banjos.com.au

Banjo’s Bakery Cafe franchise owner, Taimoor Ashraf, expressed immense enthusiasm about the opening of his third Banjo’s store, introducing the beloved franchise to Burpengary and creating a wonderful destination for locals to conveniently grab a delicious cup of coffee, a fresh sandwich, or a signature pastry.

He noted that all menu items are freshly baked on-site every day, highlighting the team’s dedication to offering customers the finest baked goods available. The breakfast and lunch menu offers a tempting range of freshly made sandwiches and salad rolls, among other tasty options.

Apple & Cinnamon Muffin *| Photo Credit: Banjo’s Bakery Cafe / banjos.com.au*

To provide added convenience, the Burpengary will also offer take-away dinner options plus a drive-through service to allow customers to enjoy their bakery and cafe delights from the comfort of their cars or in their homes.

And to celebrate the grand opening, Banjo’s Bakery Cafe is generously giving away 1,000 small savouries. Additionally, one lucky resident stands a chance to win a year’s supply of free coffee. All they need to do is download the Banjo’s App and select Burpengary as their favourite store.

Banjo’s has 45 franchise stores located across New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria, and Queensland.

Published 10-June-2023

Moreton Bay Implements Jack’s Law to Detect Knife Possession at North Lakes Train Stations

In a bid to combat knife crime and enforce Jack’s Law legislation, Moreton District police conducted a successful operation at North Lakes and Kippa-Ring train stations.

As part of the operation, 54 street checks were carried out, involving the scanning of 51 individuals using handheld devices on 11 May 2023.

Senior Sergeant John Cush, the Moreton Tactician, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the operation, particularly the efficient scanning of a significant number of individuals within a few hours.

“What was also good to see is that out of 51 people scanned, only one was in possession of a knife,” he stated.

According to reports, the police located a knife in the possession of a 17-year-old boy from Kippa-Ring. The individual will be dealt with under the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act. The success in detecting this weapon highlights the effectiveness of the ongoing efforts to enforce Jack’s Law and ensure public safety.

Building on this achievement, the Moreton District Police have announced their plans to conduct similar operations in the coming months at various train stations, transport hubs, and safe night precincts. These operations aim to detect and deter the possession of weapons, primarily knives, which pose a serious threat to the community.

The public is encouraged to assist in these efforts by providing any information related to suspicious activities. Police have advised individuals with relevant information to contact Policelink through the online suspicious activity form available 24 hours a day at or through Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000.

Published 19-May-2023

Moreton Bay Residents Invited to Provide Input on New Flight Path Changes

Residents in Moreton Bay are being given the opportunity to provide their input on six proposed flight paths that could impact the area via a public consultation process at the Deception Bay Community Hall.

Scheduled for Monday, 16 May 2023 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the main hall of the Deception Bay Community Hall in Raymond Tce, the public consultation forms part of a wider initiative by Airservices Australia to optimize airspace usage and improve air traffic management.

Currently, airplanes take off from both runways over water when the wind is coming from the north. The other route sends airplanes higher, nearly 5,000 feet above the existing crossing location, over Moreton Bay so they can acquire more altitude before crossing the coastline over greenery south of Thornlands.

Though there are efforts to make daylight use possible, Simultaneous Opposite Direction Runway Operations (SODPROPS) at night is now the preferred operating mode. Aircraft fly into the new runway over Moreton Bay and depart from the legacy runway over Moreton Bay in this mode’s arrival and departure operations over water.

The proposed flight paths would potentially affect residents in at least 23 communities across Brisbane. The changes aim to improve efficiency and safety for aircraft while minimizing the noise and environmental impacts on the surrounding communities.

VIEW THE DESIGN OPTIOS

Airservices Australia CEO Jason Harfield stated that the proposed flight path changes would be subject to community engagement prior to implementation.

“These community engagement sessions will help Airservices identify preferred options for further investigation and potential implementation,” said Mr Harfield.

“Airservices wants to ensure it is a transparent process, which demonstrates the organization’s commitment to improving noise outcomes for the Brisbane community, where safe and operationally feasible.”

The public consultation period has been running for several weeks across suburbs, and the final decision on the flight paths will be based on a range of factors, including safety, efficiency, and community impact.

Published 11-May-2023