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Dakabin Hotel and Shopping Precinct Construction to Commence, Provide More Job Opportunities

An expansive boutique village and retail destination will soon be available to Dakabin locals, as the construction of the Dakabin Hotel and Shopping Precinct prepares to commence construction.

The Comiskey Group has major plans to transform 3.75 hectares of land along Alma and Old Gympie roads into a shopping centre. Along with heaps of new stores and cafes, the shopping area will also have a gym, a Guzman Y Gomez outlet, a KFC drive-thru, and a Night Owl store with a service station.

On the other hand, the hotel will have something for every resident, including the children. It will feature a restaurant and bar, gaming room for the adults, playground and outdoor area for the children.

“We are focusing on the food, looking to support locally grown produce where possible and deliver the unexpected to diners. It’s going to be a unique hotel in offering and design, we’re meeting with architects to ensure it makes a statement,” Director Rob Comiskey said.

Dakabin Hotel and Shopping Precinct — Photo Credit: Comiskey Group

Construction is expected to start in early 2023, boosting employment opportunities in the area.

“Dakabin Hotel itself will employ over 50 staff across both full-time and casual positions, and the overall centre should see 250 job opportunities,” Mr Comiskey said.

The Comiskey Group had been keen on acquiring the property as it’s a corner land on two major roads leading to North Lakes.

“The high-volume location is a convenient place for the community to come, allowing for great exposure of our tenants. We are always on the hunt for opportunities in high growth areas and this was definitely one we couldn’t let pass us by,” Mr Comiskey said.

North Lakes Eco-Lifestyle Precinct Coming to Mango Hill

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

A $72-million North Lakes Eco-Lifestyle Precinct has been approved for development in Mango Hill and is expected to provide a much-needed addition to the tourist amenities of the Moreton Bay region, an area that had 4.3 million visitors in 2021 and now has roughly double the number of annual visitors that Noosa does.

Maple Development Group is set to develop the North Lakes Eco-Lifestyle Precinct which is projected to deliver more than 150 jobs to the region.

Once completed, a five-storey 112-room eco-hotel, the first in the region, will feature a day spa; organic grocer; garden-to-table dining venues; recreational events; food trucks; a naturopathy home; and a garden centre.

To be located on Anzac Avenue in Mango Hill, the North Lakes Eco-Lifestyle Precinct is dubbed as an “oasis” for guests who are looking for a destination where they can relax and unwind. It will offer indoor and outdoor spaces, natural lighting, breezeblock walls, a fire pit, outdoor yoga platform, and plenty of greenery.

New Eco-Hotel and Wellness Precinct Is Coming to Mango Hill — Photo credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council / moretonbay.qld.gov.au/

The eco-hotel and wellness development project is a welcome addition to the region. Given the growing tourism in the area, Moreton Bay needs up to eight hotels, four of them needed by 2026. A total of 1,035 hotel rooms are needed to be delivered by 2032.

“Moreton Bay is an opportunity not to be missed. We now see double the number of annual visitors that Noosa does, with 4.3 million visitors in 2021, and the fact is we don’t have enough accommodation to meet demand,” Mayor Peter Flannery said.

“We currently only have 204 full-service rooms which has been exposed by a growing number of major events, festivals and sporting events such as KiteFest, the NRLW Grand Final, Abbey Festival, Jetty-2-Jetty, Taste of Moreton Bay Food & Wine Festival, and many more.

“I applaud the team behind North Lakes Eco Lifestyle Precinct for being ahead of the pack, this investment marks another milestone on our goal of becoming Queensland’s $40-billion engine room.”

“Developments like this will help push Moreton Bay closer to being among the top Queensland tourist destinations.”

The eco-hotel project is also aligned with Moreton Bay’s s commitment to sustainability and “going green as we grow” with features including a naturopathy centre to cater to home, garden and health care, a farmer’s market, a wildlife rehabilitation shelter facility, community food gardens, a drive-through compost, and garden waste drop off point.

The North Lakes Eco-Lifestyle Precinct is set to be built on the corner of Anzac Avenue and Diamond Jubilee Way in Mango Hill. It is expected to be completed by mid-2026.

Published 18-January-2023

‘Secret Santa’ Mystery Shopper Paid off All Lay-Bys at Rothwell Toy Store Before the New Year

Photo credit: Facebook / Mr Toys Toyworld

‘Secret Santa’ went on to spread some New Year cheer as to several lucky customers of a Rothwell toy store by paying off all their lay-bys in full just before 2022 ended.

Read: Tributes Made for Beloved North Lakes Mum Emma Lovell After Tragic Home Invasion

Several shoppers at Mr Toys Toyworld in Rothwell were left pleasantly shocked upon learning that a mystery shopper had paid their lay-bys in full on 28 December 2022.

A Griffin local just couldn’t believe what she had heard over her voicemail. She said that she had to listen to it again. Her lay-by balance had been paid off by an anonymous shopper, saving her more than $600.

The lucky customer expressed her appreciation for the act of kindness her family received, promising to pay the good deed forward.

Mr Toys Toyworld in Rothwell — Photo credit: Mr Toys Toyworld / mrtoys.com.au/

Another customer who was happily surprised with the unexpected gift was a 46-year-old mum from Kippa-Ring who was able to get her daughter a Squish-mallows present, thanks to the mystery donor.

The woman said that she was very happy to be on the receiving end of someone’s good deed. She added that it will help them with the bills as there would be one less for her to worry about.

Another woman said that she almost cancelled the lay-by as they could no longer afford it given that this year has been difficult for the family. But thanks to the mystery shopper, her kids would have their dream toys to keep them busy whilst school is out.

Read: Feedback Sought on Proposed Deception Bay Road Upgrade

The first time “Secret Santa” visited Mr Toys Toyworld Rothwell was in 2020, when the good Samaritan also paid off all of the lay-bys, amounting to about $17,000.

Amazingly, several other stores across southeast Queensland experienced a similar gesture from a mystery shopper to the surprise of dozens of their lucky customers, with many brought to tears upon receiving the wonderful news.

Tributes Made for Beloved North Lakes Mum Emma Lovell After Tragic Home Invasion

Tributes have come pouring in for British wife and mum Emma Lovell, who died protecting her home and family from home invaders in North Lakes on Boxing Day. A petition has also been made for Emma’s Law, to make sure that she did not die in vain.

Emma, 41, was stabbed in the chest whilst her husband, Lee Lovell, 43, incurred non-threatening injuries on his back. According to the Queensland Police Service, an altercation happened inside the Lovell family’s home on the 26th of December 2022 at around 11:30 p.m. after reports of four young people, between the ages of 16 and 17, had been seen disturbing residents on Whitefield Ct and Dorrigo Ct.

The couple heard dogs barking and their home security system alerted them to the break-in. Lee said they were terrified and shocked when they saw people as they came out of their bedroom door.

He said that everything happened within seconds. Paramedics rushed to the scene in the aftermath. However, he never expected that his wife will not be coming home from the hospital.

A grief-stricken Lee, who has since been released from the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital for his wound’s treatment, had to break the sad news to his young daughters.

Emma Lovell, the Glue to the Family

Lee described his wife as a beautiful person who was the “glue” to the family.

The Lovells have been North Lakes residents since 2018 following their move from the United Kingdom. The family just came home from a Christmas holiday on the Sunshine Coast on the night of the attack.

Family friends Chris and Liz Jones were with the Lovell kids, Scarlett, 15, and Kassie, 13, when they returned home after the attack. Chris said that the Lovell couple was all about making sure that their daughters had the best life. The family has been comforted by a distraught North Lakes community with notes, flowers and food.

Neighbour Skye Fleming, 14, could not help but break down when she learned of Emma’s death. She came by Lovell’s house to comfort Scarlett and Kassie and said that Emma was like a second mum to her.

The North Lakes Community has also spearheaded a fundraiser for Emma’s loved ones, which so far has reached over $55,435.

“This money will provide financial support to Lee and his daughters as they navigate their grief following the loss of Emma, their wife and mother. The outpouring of support and generosity from our community during this difficult time has been truly remarkable,” said Naomi Sprudzans, the organiser.

“Emma will be missed terribly, she cared about her family so very much, and I will miss our weekly chats,” Bec Rose, a donor and friend of the family said.

“Emma was a beautiful person and will be missed,” said Simon Richardson.

Petition for Emma’s Law, Harsher Punishments for Young Offenders

Following investigations, two of the teens from Zillmere and Holland Park have been charged with murder, attempted murder, and breaking and entering. The other two in custody have been assisting the police as the investigation continues.

Lee is backing calls for a tougher crackdown on home invaders after the Jones’ opened a petition for Emma’s Law. As of press time, the petition is on its way to getting 35,000 signatures.

Meanwhile, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced harsher punishments for violent juveniles and young offenders.

“Violent criminals should receive harsher punishments,” Ms Palaszczuk said. “The community must be protected. We’ve announced one of the most comprehensive packages ever seen in Queensland.

“Violent juvenile car thieves will face 14 years’ jail. Extreme high visibility police patrols will be deployed, and two new youth detention centres built.

“Offenders who boast about these crimes on social media will face increased penalties. Young offenders will be in custody for longer to make sure they can complete rehabilitation programs.

“We’ll provide engine immobilisers for trials across parts of the state. The community has been heard. My government is listening and acting.”

Feedback Sought on Proposed Deception Bay Road Upgrade

Photo credit: Queensland Government / statements.qld.gov.au

Have you had your say? Transport and Main Roads recently released the design of the proposed Deception Bay Road upgrade, and the public has been invited to provide feedback on the proposal until 11 January 2023.

The proposed upgrade aims to reduce travel time and improve safety and efficiency for road users. It involves the final 3.3-kilometre, two-lane sections of the Deception Bay Road situated between Bruce Highway and Park Road/Lipscombe Road which currently caters to more than 20,000 vehicles daily.

The proposed improvements include widening of Deception Bay Road, providing a four-lane, median-divided arterial road; signalised and upgraded intersections; new service roads; off-road active transport pathways; a new signalised pedestrian crossing; and installation of eight bus stops.

“We know how important community consultation is to delivering a quality upgrade that meets the needs of the community, so I encourage locals to get involved,” Member for Bancroft Chris Whiting said.

“Up to 21,000 vehicles use this section of Deception Bay Road each day and we’re expecting traffic volumes to increase as the Moreton Bay region continues to prosper.

“I don’t want to see these people stuck in traffic so it’s important we get it right from the start.

“All feedback will be used to inform the final layout, before we move ahead design and construction down the track.”

Feedback Sought on Proposed Deception Bay Road Upgrade — *Photo Credit: Department of Transport and Main Roads / yoursay-projects.tmr.qld.gov.au*

The project will provide road users with a seamless transition from the Bruce Highway Upgrade-Deception Bay Road interchange which construction is currently underway.

Mr Whiting said the proposed upgrade and the $163.3 million Bruce Highway Upgrade-Deception Bay Road interchange project will not only benefit motorists but will also make a huge difference in the safety of the bike riders and pedestrians.

A fauna overpass will also be built to prevent animals from accessing the road. It will connect the northern and southern parts of Freshwater National Park and will be the largest delivered by the Transport and Mains Road to date.

“We already have strong fauna management measures in place on the Bruce Highway and this bridge will add to the safe passage of wildlife.

“It will be a significant piece of infrastructure, allowing native animals to move safely between these habitat areas and away from busy roads.”

To have your say on the proposed project, visit this page. Community consultation closes on 11 January 2023.

Harcourts North Lakes Merges with Harcourts Unite, Expands Reach in Moreton Bay

Changes are afoot at Harcourt North Lakes after its merger and expansion with Harcourts Unite to widen its reach in areas covering the Redcliffe Peninsula, North Lakes and Burpengary.

The merged offices will be headed by three industry leaders, Steve Hawley, Tara Hawley and Ange Morris, who will ensure sustained success for the company’s next chapters.

Mr Hawley had his start at the North Lakes offices, whilst Ms Hawley has taken care of the business in Redcliffe. Ms Morris joined as a business partner in 2020.

As part of its expansion plans, the trio will open a new office to help the Moreton Bay community and attract more skilled and capable real estate professionals.

The expansion also comes at the right time, as the current market is enthusiastic about making changes.

“We have sellers on the Redcliffe Peninsula looking to make a ‘tree change’ to the Burpengary/Narangba regions, sellers from North Lakes looking at making a ‘sea change’ to the Redcliffe Peninsula, and so on,” Ms Hawley said of their network.

Harcourts Unite has grown from two agents and personal assistants to 25 people, with women making up the majority.

As a result of this merger, Harcourts Queensland chief executive Mitch Peereboom looks forward to witnessing the growth and supporting the firm.

In Search of a Perfect Christmas Gift? Check Out Newly Opened Seema With Love

Photo credit: Facebook / Seema with Love

Are you still looking for the best gift items to give to your loved ones this Christmas? Recently opened Seema with Love in North Lakes may just have what you are looking for with its gorgeous array of handmade products from flowers and candles to fashion and skincare.

Read: Photo credit: Facebook / Seema with Love

Seema with Love opened its North Lakes shop in early November 2022, relocating from its Chermside location. The new shop takes pride in its carefully curated selection of scented, pure handmade and hand-poured soy candles, dried native floral arrangements, Australian organic skincare products, and designer fashion dresses.

Seema with Love dress collection | Photo credit: Facebook / Seema_with_Love

Along with their daughter Hannah, the shop is run by husband and wife, Chris and Seema Sajnendra, who put their Christian faith and love at the heart of their family business. They used to run a pharmacy business but decided to close shop after more than two decades.

Seema with Love is located at Shop 7, 1751 Anzac Avenue, Mango Hill. To get a sneak peek of what they offer or to order online, visit their website here.

Read: Mango King Sam Etri Opens 3rd Skippy’s Market Fresh at Rothwell Central

“Beautiful shop! Beautiful people. Will definitely be a regular customer going forward! Highly recommended. ❤️” – N. Davenport

“Amazing business 🤍💫
Beautiful people, beautiful products! Couldn’t fault Seema with love in any way.
10/10!! Won’t be going anywhere else for my home goods 😍” – K. Priestley

“Absolutely cannot recommend this place more than any other candle and home/gift shop. The lovely owner had closed for the day, saw me looking on a window (with plans to come back the next day) and the lovey owner saw me, recognized I was a repeat buyer and came and came back to the store -insisting that she open the store to help me out.” -C. Leming

Seema_With_Love | North Lakes Junction, Shop 7 / 1751 Anzac Avenue, Mango Hill, QLD 4509, Australia

Kallangur Husband Unconvinced of Wife’s $1.4 Million Win

A Kallangur husband remains unconvinced that his wife won a life-changing sum of $1.4 million despite receiving the official confirmation.

The wife received the official call of her division one winning entry the next day after the draw on Saturday, the 26th of November 2022. She was told that she was one of seven winners across the country and she will soon be getting $1,428,571.43 in her bank account.

The rest of the winners were two from New South Wales, two from Victoria, and one each for South Australia and Western Australia.

Her husband, however, is still in disbelief despite learning of her conversation with The Lott officials. The woman said that her husband thinks it’s all a scam.

“There’s no doubt that he’ll believe the winning news once it hits the bank account,” the Kallangur winner said.

The Kallangur woman bought her winning entry at News Extra Lillybrook inside the Brook Shopping Centre along Old Gympie Road. She and her husband plan to use their lucky win into buying a new family home. They are also going to have a great Christmas celebration.

Kallangur News Extra — Photo Credit: News Extra Lilly Brook/Facebook

The woman revealed that she makes it her routine to buy a ticket or the Instant Scratch-Its whenever she goes grocery shopping.

“Funnily enough, my husband always says to me, ‘You better bring home a winner!'”

“I’ve been playing on and off my entire life, but mainly the last 12 months. You have no idea how life-changing this is for us. It’s mind-blowing.”

Mango King Sam Etri Opens 3rd Skippy’s Market Fresh at Rothwell Central

Shoppers in Deception Bay now have more options when shopping for fresh fruits and vegetables, as Mango King Sam Etri opens his third Skippy’s Market Fresh at Rothwell Central.

The largest fruit and vegetable store in Brisbane’s northside at 1,500 square metres, Skippy’s Market Fresh has over 30 workers who can assist customers looking for quality but affordable fresh produce.

The store officially opened its doors on Thursday, the 17th of November 2022, but they will be going all out during the Grand Opening celebrations on the 19th and 20th of November.

Customers in Deception Bay and nearby areas may have the opportunity to meet Mr Etri himself during the store’s event. Delicious, locally grown mangoes will be on offer at the door.

Mr Etri, who also runs Skippy’s Fresh Frootz in Victoria Point and Skippy’s Farmhouse in Southport, sources his products at the Brisbane Markets in Rocklea. He buys the stocks at 4:00 a.m. every day to ensure the quality of the produce and to support Aussie farmers.

“I am dedicated to supporting my local community by employing staff from the area and sourcing the best local produce where I can,” the Mango King said.

Earlier, Mr Etri made a $20,000-bid for a tray of mangoes to support charity and was crowned this year’s Brisbane Markets Mango King.

“I am looking forward to offering great quality fruit and vegetables at competitive prices to the Moreton Bay community.”

Follow the store’s Facebook page for updates.

Mango Hill Station Upgrades Well Underway

Construction is progressing well for the expansion of the Mango Hill park ‘n’ ride facilities, which will also see the relocation of the kiss ‘n’ ride/taxi zone and bus facility on Meyers Circuit.

Read: Expansion of Mango Hill Station Park ‘N’ Ride Facilities Now Underway

Temporary route changes to accommodate construction work will begin on 21 November 2022. The bus stop at Mango Hill station will be temporarily closed until December 2022.

Meanwhile, a new bus stop will be located across the road on Meyers Circuit. The relocated bus stop will maintain its existing length to cater for four 12.5m-long buses, which will make it safer and more efficient for passenger drop offs.

Plans for Site 1 (Photo credit: tmr.qld.gov.au)

Commuters who use Bus Routes 681, 682, and 687 are advised to use the alternative stops on Halpine Drive near Talara Way, which 250 metres away, and the Freshwater Creek Road near Brushwood court, which is around 400m away.

The upgrades at the Mango Hill park ‘n’ ride facilities will mean more parking for commuters, as the site is expected to provide up to 150 new parking spaces.

The project also includes lighting and CCTV cameras for the safety of customers and better visibility in the area.

Plans for Site 2 (Photo credit: tmr.qld.gov.au)

Construction of Site 2 is for the informal parking area currently next to the station. A new parking facility will also be created on vacant land adjacent to this.

Once complete, the entire project will provide a total of 280 new free spaces and six accessible parking bays near the Mango Hill train station to improve access to public transport for customers with disabilities.

This project is jointly funded by the Queensland and Australian governments, with the Queensland Government allocating $6 million and the Australian Government, providing $4 million.

Read: Plans Finalised for $10-Million Mango Hill Station Upgrades

For further updates about the project, visit the Department of Transport and Main Roads’ website.