Wastewater Blockages Rising in Narangba and Deception Bay

Narangba and Deception Bay have been named in Unitywater’s latest list of top ten wastewater blockage hotspots, prompting a call for residents to avoid flushing or rinsing unsuitable items.



Background

Unitywater recorded 4,395 wastewater blockages across its service areas of Moreton Bay, Sunshine Coast and Noosa during 2024–25. Almost one quarter of these occurred in just ten suburbs, which included five in Moreton Bay: Caboolture, Redcliffe, Clontarf, Narangba and Deception Bay.

Unitywater
Photo Credit: Unitywater

Causes of Blockages

Common causes included items not designed to break down in water, such as wet wipes, paper towels, tissues, nappies, tampons, and cotton buds. These products can combine with fats, oils and food scraps to create larger blockages. The problem extends from household pipes to street mains and pumping systems that move wastewater to treatment plants, increasing maintenance costs and community inconvenience.

Narangba and Deception Bay Among Hotspots

Narangba recorded 89 blockages, while Deception Bay had 82 over the 12-month period. Other Moreton Bay suburbs on the list included Caboolture with 134, Redcliffe with 92, and Clontarf with 90. These figures highlight an ongoing need for community awareness around household waste disposal practices.

Wastewater blockages
Photo Credit: Unitywater

Community Impact

Large blockages can cause wastewater to back up through household drains or overflow into streets. These incidents carry public health risks and may also affect the natural environment. Residents are being encouraged to use small bins in bathrooms, wipe pans before washing, and collect cooking oils in containers for disposal in household bins. Simple habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of damage and disruption.

Looking Ahead



Unitywater has highlighted ongoing education campaigns to reduce the impact of non-flushable and non-drainable items. The organisation continues to remind households across Narangba, Deception Bay and other suburbs that only the “three Ps” — pee, poo and paper — should go down the toilet. Continued messaging aims to lower blockages, improve system reliability, and protect waterways in the region.

Published 27-Aug-2025

Deception Bay School Awarded $10K for Percussion Expansion

Deception Bay State High School has received a $10,000 grant to strengthen its percussion music program, becoming one of five schools nationwide to be awarded in 2025.



Background and Context

Deception Bay State High School has been awarded a 2025 Yamaha Great Start Grant, joining four other schools across Australia. The grant, announced by Yamaha Music Australia on 30 May 2025, is part of a national initiative aimed at supporting school drum and percussion programs.

Deception Bay State High School
Photo Credit: Yamaha

Equipment and Program Details

The school plans to use the $10,000 funding to purchase timpani and snare drums. These additions are expected to enhance the school’s percussion studio, which already supports a marching drumline alongside other ensembles. Currently, around 70 students from Years 7 to 12 are involved in the school’s instrumental music program, with 20 participating in percussion.

Grant Objectives and Rationale

Yamaha’s Great Start Grant focuses on supplying schools with Yamaha drum kits, percussion instruments, Paiste cymbals, and other accessories to enrich music education. Deception Bay’s application, led by percussion specialist Bec Quain during her first term, was selected based on its potential to transform the school’s music offerings and increase student engagement.

Yamaha Great Start Grant
Photo Credit: Yamaha

Community Support and Vision

According to the school’s acting Head of Arts, the grant represents a significant opportunity for students and helps reduce financial barriers to participation. The school absorbs most program costs to ensure accessibility. There are also plans to grow the program further, strengthen partnerships with local primary schools, and increase real-world performance opportunities.

Outlook



The Yamaha grant is expected to play a key role in expanding music access and enhancing student experience at Deception Bay State High School. As part of a broader commitment to inclusive education, the initiative may set the foundation for further growth in arts engagement across the region.

Published 8-Aug-2025

Stabbing Leaves One Seriously Injured in Deception Bay Street Clash

A 54-year-old man has been hospitalised with serious injuries after a violent fight involving a machete and knife broke out in Deception Bay.



What Police Found at the Scene

The altercation unfolded just after 6 p.m. on Saturday, 28 June, on Bailey Road, Deception Bay. A 54-year-old man was allegedly stabbed in the abdomen while trying to break up a family dispute and was taken to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in critical condition. 

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Police also found a 33-year-old man with a head injury, who has been accused of carrying out the stabbing. A 20-year-old man was reportedly involved and later found with dangerous drugs and drug utensils. Witnesses told police they saw someone run toward the property with a crowbar around the time of the incident.

Charges and Court Dates

The 33-year-old man has been charged with acts intended to maim, disfigure or disable and is currently in custody after treatment for a minor head injury. He is due to appear in Caboolture Magistrates Court on 22 August. The 20-year-old man was charged with assault, drug possession, and possession of drug utensils. 

He remains in custody and is set to face Redcliffe Magistrates Court on 23 July. Police say the individuals involved are known to each other, and the attack was not random.

Public Asked to Assist

Detectives are asking anyone who may have dashcam or CCTV footage from Bailey Road between 6:00 and 6:30 p.m. that evening to contact them. Footage or information from the public could help investigators understand exactly what led to the violent escalation.

Authorities are continuing to piece together the moments before and during the fight, and further updates are expected once court proceedings begin.

Community Impact

The stabbing has stirred fresh concern in Deception Bay, adding to a growing list of violent incidents reported in the past year. While police say the people involved knew each other, locals are unsettled by the rise in public fights involving weapons. 



Officers have stepped up patrols in response, targeting drug activity and knife-related crime. Community leaders are now calling on residents to stay alert and speak up. They say stronger neighbourhood awareness is key to preventing further violence.

Published 10-July-2025

Infrastructure and Services Expansion in North Lakes, Dakabin and Deception Bay

North Lakes, Dakabin and Deception Bay are set to receive targeted investments in health, education, policing, and infrastructure under the 2025–26 Queensland Budget.



Investments Target Key Growth Corridors

The 2025–26 Queensland Budget allocates funding to major infrastructure, education and community projects in North Lakes, Dakabin and Deception Bay, aligning with broader development plans across Moreton Bay. The Redcliffe Hospital, which services residents in these suburbs, will undergo a significant expansion, while additional upgrades to police and transport services are also included.

Queensland Budget
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Hospital and Healthcare Upgrades

A key investment includes the expansion of Redcliffe Hospital, adding at least 210 new overnight beds as part of the Hospital Rescue Plan. The project is intended to improve healthcare access for suburbs such as North Lakes and Deception Bay. Additional parking facilities are also planned to support patients, carers and staff.

Caboolture Hospital will undergo a $367.7 million redevelopment, with a further $15 million allocated for a new paediatric outpatients area.

Community Safety Measures in Place

To enhance law enforcement capabilities in the region, the POLAIR aerial police operations will be extended to include Moreton Bay. This initiative is supported by a broader $100 million expansion. A new State Emergency Service depot will also be delivered in Deception Bay, backed by a $3.75 million commitment.

Statewide policing resources will grow with the addition of 1,600 new recruits and upgrades in equipment, which will support local units operating in suburbs such as Dakabin and North Lakes.

Bruce Highway upgrade
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Road and Rail Improvements

Residents of Deception Bay and North Lakes are expected to benefit from upgrades to the Bruce Highway, which forms a major commuter route through the region. These works are part of a $9 billion program aimed at improving traffic flow and safety.

Planning for the Wave Project — a proposed passenger rail connection between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast — has received an additional $40 million. This project is expected to improve future connectivity for Dakabin and North Lakes as part of the Moreton Bay corridor.

Education and Skills Development

A new special school is planned for Moreton Bay South, which is expected to serve families in Dakabin and North Lakes. Pine Rivers State High School will receive $9.6 million to deliver new specialist classrooms.

Young residents across the region will benefit from statewide education support programs, including the $100 Back to School Boost and $200 Play On! vouchers. Free apprenticeships across 130 priority courses will also be available for locals under 25.

Moreton Bay Budget
Photo Credit: Google Maps

Environmental and Housing Commitments

The “Zero Litter to the Bay by 2030” initiative will receive $35 million to upgrade stormwater infrastructure, aiming to reduce litter entering Moreton Bay. The region is also targeted in the broader $5.6 billion social and community housing program, with 487 homes under construction and funding flowing through the $2 billion Residential Activation Fund.

Regional Training Hub and Support Services



Dakabin will host the new $15 million Moreton Bay Wildlife Hospital and Education Hub. Additionally, the Moreton Bay TAFE Centre of Excellence will receive $60 million to strengthen trade and skills training for local residents, including those in Deception Bay and North Lakes.

Published 27-June-2025

New Dog Parks Planned for Mango Hill, Deception Bay, and Rothwell

Residents of North Lakes, Mango Hill, Deception Bay, Rothwell, and surrounding areas will soon have more places to exercise their furry friends, with several new off-leash dog parks planned. 



More Off-Leash Areas Coming

dog parks
Photo Credit: Moreton Bay

Council is adding twenty-one new off-leash dog areas to the region’s parks and the 68 already available. After reviewing the city, the council added more areas because people wanted more places to take their dogs.

Peter Flannery said they were planning for the future. He said the Council knew people wanted places to walk and play with their dogs and was listening to what they wanted.

Where Will the New Parks Be?

dog parks
Photo Credit: Moreton Bay

The new parks will be in different suburbs across Moreton Bay. Some of the places being looked at are:

  • Fauna Way Park (Ningi)
  • Bribie Pines Reserve (Ningi)
  • Henry Bishop Park (Caboolture)
  • Van Der Meer Drive Park (Burpengary East)
  • Marlene Street (Bellmere)
  • Central Springs Parade Park (Caboolture)
  • 731 Memorial Drive (North Lakes)
  • Elderflower Circuit Reserve (Griffin)
  • Halpine Lake Reserve (Mango Hill)
  • Oxley Street Park (North Lakes)
  • Kindred Court (Mango Hill)
  • Tysoe Street Park (Deception Bay)
  • Tacoma Park (Rothwell)
  • Apex Park (Woody Point)
  • Pineapple Farm Park (Strathpine)
  • McCullagh Park (Narangba)
  • Morris Park (Elimbah)
  • Delaneys Creek Pony Club (Delaneys Creek)
  • Mulligan Crescent Park (Elimbah)
  • Trinity Way Park (Morayfield)
  • Cash Street Park (D’Aguilar).

What Happens Next?

Before any parks are built, the Council will check each site carefully. They will make sure it meets Council rules and talk to people in the local area. This ensures the parks are good for everyone and don’t harm the environment.



Pet Owners: Remember to Register Your Pets

Council also wants to remind people to register their pets. It’s important to keep your pet’s details up to date. This includes your address, phone number, and whether your pet has been desexed, rehomed, or died. You can get your renewal notices by email. Pensioners can get a discount on pet registration. You can register and update your details on Council’s website: moretonbay.qld.gov.au/animals

Keeping Pets Safe

Council has some tips for keeping your pets safe:

  • Register your pet: All cats and dogs must be registered within 14 days of moving to Moreton Bay or by 12 weeks of age.
  • Microchipping: Cats and dogs aged between 8 and 12 weeks must be microchipped.
  • Identification: Pets must wear a tag with your contact details when they leave home.
  • Secure your yard: Make sure your yard is secure so your pet can’t escape.
  • Desex your pet: Desexing can improve your pet’s health and behaviour. Council offers cheaper registration for desexed pets.

Published Date 20-May-2025

Six-Year Jail Term for Machete Attack in Deception Bay

A machete-wielding man from Deception Bay has been sentenced to six years in prison after attacking another man at a local shopping centre, leaving him with serious injuries to his head and hand.



Prior Threats Spark Concern

The attack on 11 January 2024 stemmed from a growing dispute between Travis William Donald Crowther, 31, and a 41-year-old man he knew. It shocked locals and triggered a fast police response that uncovered troubling events in the days prior.

Two days earlier, Crowther poured petrol on the same man and threatened to set him alight. Though not charged over that, the court accepted it showed an ongoing threat. The machete attack at a Deception Bay shopping centre was deliberate, with Crowther striking multiple times. The victim was injured while trying to shield himself, suffering a serious hand wound that required hospital treatment.

Arrest and Drug Possession

Police tracked Crowther to a hiding spot under a house shortly after the attack. Alongside the arrest, they uncovered meth, cannabis, a glass pipe, and noted he was driving while disqualified.

He later pleaded guilty to several charges, including wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, possessing dangerous drugs, disqualified driving, and possessing drug utensils. The court proceedings took into account both the physical impact on the victim and the broader danger to the community.

Judge Notes Troubled Past

Judge John Allen called the attack “terrifying” but also noted Crowther’s troubled background, drug issues, and steps toward rehabilitation in custody. His past and family support were weighed against the need to protect the public.

With time already served, Crowther will be eligible for parole in December 2026. He was also disqualified from holding a driver’s licence for two years.

Community Reaction and Safety

The attack has raised concerns among Deception Bay locals about safety in public spaces. While authorities have not released additional details about security changes at the shopping centre, the incident has highlighted the importance of swift police response and public vigilance.



Residents expressed relief that the attacker was quickly taken into custody, but some have called for greater visibility of police in high-traffic community areas.

Published 19-May-2025

Strong Results for Deception Bay Competitors at ALAC 2025

Deception Bay athletes delivered standout performances at the Australian Little Athletics Championships in Adelaide from 26 to 27 April, contributing to Queensland’s overall success.



Deception Bay’s Road to Nationals

A group of five young athletes from Moreton Bay, three of whom are from Deception Bay Little Athletics, earned selection to represent Queensland at the 2025 Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships (ALAC) in Adelaide. The championships, held on 26 to 27 April at SA Athletics Stadium, brought together more than 500 athletes from across Australia. Jessica Heap, Eliza Kelly, and Kiara Waterman from Deception Bay Little Athletics competed alongside representatives from Strathpine Little Athletics.

Individual Achievements Highlight Deception Bay Talent

Jessica Heap competed in the Girls Under 14 Shot Put (3kg) and secured first place with a personal best throw of 12.70 metres, breaking the meet record by 12 centimetres. Eliza Kelly placed third in the Girls Under 15 1500m Race Walk, recording a time of 7:51.80. Kiara Waterman finished fifth in the Girls Under 14 1500m Race Walk with a time of 8:38.49.

Deception Bay Little Athletics
Photo Credit: Deception Bay Little Athletics/Facebook

All three athletes had long-standing histories with Deception Bay Little Athletics, with Jessica and Kiara both having represented the club for more than seven years. Eliza found her passion for race walking after joining at the Under 8 level.

ALAC 2025
Photo Credit: Deception Bay Little Athletics/Facebook

Queensland Team Success at ALAC 2025

The performances of Deception Bay athletes contributed to Queensland’s dominance in the national team results. Queensland secured first place in multiple categories, winning the Alan Triscott Trophy (Under 13 Handicap), Dick Healey Trophy (Under 14), Maxine Boyd Trophy (Under 15), and Life Members Trophy (Under 15 Combined Events). Queensland placed second overall in the Trevor Billingham Trophy (Under 13 Overall).

These results reflect the strength of the Queensland Little Athletics program, with Deception Bay athletes playing a part in the final outcomes.

Community Pride in Deception Bay

Deception Bay Little Athletics expressed pride in the achievements of Jessica, Eliza, and Kiara. The club highlighted the athletes’ dedication, consistent improvement, and significant contribution to Queensland’s team performance.

The success is seen as a positive reflection of the development opportunities available through local athletics programs and the broader Queensland team environment.

Future Prospects for Deception Bay Athletes



Following their achievements at the national championships, the Deception Bay athletes are expected to continue progressing in their chosen events. Their performances at ALAC 2025 not only marked individual milestones but also contributed to Queensland’s broader success, showcasing the depth of talent from Deception Bay.

Published 28-Apr-2025

Deception Bay Pump Track Part of $2.1M Moreton Bay Recreation Upgrade

Deception Bay residents will soon enjoy a new pump track, as part of over $2.1 million worth of improvements outdoor recreation projects for various wheeled sports  in Burpengary, North Lakes, and Deception Bay. 



Major Recreation Investment Underway

Council is delivering three significant projects in Burpengary, North Lakes, and Deception Bay to enhance outdoor activity options for the community. The combined investment exceeds $2.1 million, and the aim is to provide quality facilities for various wheeled sports.

Depending on weather and construction progress, all three projects are anticipated to be finished and open to the public around the middle of 2025.

Deception Bay Gains New Pump Track

pump track
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

A brand-new $530,000 pump track is set for Deception Bay. This marks the second such facility delivered by the Council in the region, with plans for more in the future.

It will provide a dedicated and safe area for children, teenagers, and adults to enjoy sports like bike riding, scootering, and skating, helping users build confidence and skills. Construction is planned to begin in mid-March 2025.

Burpengary Welcomes Mountain Bike Trails

Lagoon Road Mountain Bike Trail
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Construction begins this April 2025 on Burpengary’s first Council-owned mountain bike trail system: the $700,000 Lagoon Road Mountain Bike Trails. A professional trail company has been engaged to design and build the 3-kilometre facility. Designed by experts, the trail system will feature different levels of difficulty, making it enjoyable for riders of all skill levels.

The new mountain bike trails will include:

  • Wooden berms
  • Boardwalks
  • Rollers
  • Dirt jumps and tabletops.

North Lakes Skate Park Upgrade

North Lakes Skate Park
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

In North Lakes, Aurora Boulevard Skate Park is undergoing a major $900,000 upgrade. Construction is already underway to transform the park into a modern, inclusive facility designed to enhance everyone’s experience.

The skate park upgrade aims to create more opportunities for healthy and active lifestyles and encourage social interaction and connection within the local community.

Reflecting feedback gathered during community consultation, the new skate park design includes:

  • An increased size to cater for local users.
  • An open-flow layout providing riders with a variety of trick lines.
  • Beginner-friendly elements alongside more challenging obstacles to accommodate skill progression.
  • Specific skate elements such as: a lower curved spine, a flatbank hip, 3-5 foot (0.9-1.5 metre) quarter pipes, and a quarter-to-kerb feature for grinding and sliding.


This significant investment in community recreation is jointly funded by City of Moreton Bay and the Australian Government, through the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

Published Date 10-April-2025

New First Nations Mental Health Hub Opens in Deception Bay

A new headspace centre designed specifically for First Nations youth is set to open in Deception Bay, providing culturally safe mental health support for young people in the Moreton Bay region.



A Groundbreaking Initiative for First Nations Youth

A new headspace centre, named Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay, is set to open in Deception Bay, aiming to address the mental health needs of First Nations youth in the Moreton Bay region. As an Australia-first initiative, it will provide culturally safe support, care, and connection tailored specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.

The new service, located on the lands of the Kabi Kabi people at 665 Deception Bay Road, will be operated by the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health (IUIH). Expected to open during the 2025-26 financial year, it will be the first headspace in the country designed specifically for First Nations young people.

Addressing Mental Health Challenges in the Community

The suicide rate among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is more than double that of the general community, highlighting the urgent need for culturally appropriate support. The Deception Bay service will offer a range of mental health support, focusing on increasing literacy, boosting help-seeking behaviours, and reducing suicidal and psychological distress.

To achieve this, the centre will employ care coordinators with lived experience, specialist mental health clinicians, and other health practitioners. The aim is to walk alongside the community, offering holistic support and guidance to help young people achieve their goals.

According to IUIH CEO Wayne Ah Boo, the Staying Deadly approach prioritises mental health “our way,” ensuring services reflect community goals and support healthy, resilient young people.

Community and Government Support

Local officials Malarndirri McCarthy and Emma McBride both emphasised the importance of having accessible, culturally safe mental health care for First Nations youth. They highlighted that the funding is part of a broader commitment to expanding headspace services nationwide.

The government have invested over $300 million to increase the number of headspace centres to 174 by 2026, including 91 in regional areas. The Deception Bay hub will join existing First Nations-focused headspace services in Mt Isa, Broome, and Alice Springs.

Deception Bay mental health
Photo Credit: Brisbane North PHN/Facebook

A Community-Driven Approach

Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay was shaped by community feedback, emphasising the need for a service that aligns with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values. It will also be part of the IUIH network’s integrated care system, aiming to foster strong, healthy children, families, and communities.

Next Steps for the New Service

The centre’s opening is slated for the 2025-26 financial year. It is expected to significantly impact the well-being of young First Nations people in the Deception Bay area. It aims to be a welcoming, supportive environment where youth can access mental, physical, and sexual health services, work and study support, and guidance on alcohol—and drug-related issues.



Online support will remain available through eheadspace for those who prefer remote assistance.

Published 2-Apr-2025

Deception Bay Gains New First Nations Youth Mental Health Service

A new mental health service designed to support First Nations youth has opened in Deception Bay. This addresses the critical need for culturally appropriate care in the north Brisbane and Moreton Bay regions.



Addressing Community Needs

The “Staying Deadly | headspace Deception Bay” facility, located on Kabi Kabi land at 665 Deception Bay Road, aims to assist young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 12 to 25. The service responds to the heightened demand for mental health support in the area, specifically tailored to the unique needs of First Nations individuals.

Officials stated that the service intends to enhance mental health awareness, encourage help-seeking behaviours, and alleviate suicidal and psychological distress through culturally sensitive support delivered on Country. The service will address mental health, physical and sexual health, employment and education, and substance use.

Service Delivery and Funding

The Albanese Labor Government funds the new headspace service through the Brisbane North Primary Health Network, which the Institute for Urban Indigenous Health manages. This is the fourth headspace in Australia operated by an Indigenous provider, joining existing services in Mt Isa, Broome, and Alice Springs.

The government has committed over $300 million to expanding the headspace network to 174 locations nationwide by 2026, including 91 in regional areas, to meet the rising demand for youth mental health services. A further $27.1 million has been allocated to grow the Early Career Program at Headspace, supporting graduate placements and student internships to boost service capacity and reduce wait times.



Focus on Cultural Safety

Government representatives stressed the importance of culturally safe and welcoming environments for Indigenous youth. They noted that the suicide rate among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is more than double that of the wider community, making targeted support essential.

The new facility will offer a supportive atmosphere for First Nations young people. Young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders should know that assistance is always available. For those who prefer online support, Headspace remains accessible via phone or website.

Published Date 04-March-2025