deception bay Archives - Page 3 of 6

Michel’s Patisserie in Deception Bay Among Stores Closing Nationwide

Deception Bay residents will soon have one less place to grab a sweet treat, as Michel’s Patisserie in Deception Bay Shopping Centre is among 19 stores across NSW, Queensland, and Victoria set to close.

Closure Announcement and Rationale

Retail Food Group (RFG), the parent company of Michel’s Patisserie, announced the decision to close the bakery chain due to challenges in growing the brand. RFG, which also owns other well-known food brands like Gloria Jean’s, Brumby’s Bakery, Donut King, and Crust Gourmet Pizza, will be working with Michel’s Patisserie franchisees to transition their businesses.

The company is offering franchisees the opportunity to convert their stores to Gloria Jean’s or Donut King, believing these brands offer better prospects for the future. RFG has stated that it will provide financial and other support to franchisees throughout this process.

Impact on Franchisees and the Community

The closure will impact the 19 Michel’s Patisserie franchisees and their employees. RFG has indicated it is committed to working collaboratively and transparently with each franchisee to find the best outcome for their circumstances. The company acknowledged the passion of Michel’s Patisserie franchisees and thanked them for their dedication to the brand. The closure will also mean a change for local communities who frequented the bakery.

Industry Insights and Background

A retail expert noted the highly competitive environment for cafes and coffee shops. The expert highlighted the challenges of high input costs for food, cakes, and coffee and significant wage costs, especially with penalty rates. The franchise model also presents additional financial burdens for owners, including franchising fees, marketing fees, and store fit-out costs. Michel’s Patisserie, founded by French pastry chef Michel Catteon in 1980, once boasted over 300 locations across Australia.

RFG recently reported a net profit of $5.8 million for the financial year ending June 2024, following a loss in the previous period. The company also faced legal action from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission in 2022 concerning allegations of selling franchises to owners, knowing they would operate at a loss. RFG settled the case without admitting wrongdoing and was ordered to repay affected franchisees or wipe their debts.

The Future of the Deception Bay Site

The future of the Michel’s Patisserie location in Deception Bay Shopping Centre remains uncertain. Further details about the conversion to either a Gloria Jean’s or Donut King, or another business are expected to be released in the coming months.

Published Date 19-Feb-2025

New Police Officers Deployed to North Lakes and other Suburbs

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

Deception Bay, Mango Hill, and North Lakes are among the Queensland communities welcoming new police officers following the graduation of 136 recruits into the Queensland Police Service (QPS).

Graduation and Training

New Police Officers Deployed to North Lakes and other Suburbs — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police*

The 136 new officers recently graduated, marking the first graduation ceremony for 2025. These officers completed eight and a half months of training, equipping them with skills to serve their communities.

Their training covered a range of areas, including community safety, responding to mental health incidents, investigating and preventing domestic and family violence, and scenario-based exercises to prepare them for real-world situations.

The QPS highlighted the recruits’ diverse backgrounds, noting that they bring experience from various fields, such as the Australian Defence Force, Queensland Ambulance Service, international policing, and the finance industry.

Deployment Across Queensland

The newly graduated officers will be deployed to police stations across Queensland. In the Moreton District, which includes the focus areas for this story, new officers will be stationed at Deception Bay, Mango Hill, and North Lakes (within the Petrie police division).

This deployment is part of a broader allocation of officers across the state, with other officers heading to various locations within the Brisbane, South Eastern, Southern, North Coast, Central, Northern, and Far Northern regions. The QPS shared a detailed list of station deployments, demonstrating the distribution of the new officers across Queensland.

QPS Commitment to Recruitment

The Queensland Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong recruitment pipeline. They noted a significant increase in appointments to the service in 2024 compared to the previous year.

The QPS aims to attract suitable candidates who align with the service’s values. They emphasised the challenging yet rewarding nature of a career in the QPS.

Community Focus

The QPS emphasised the importance of community service and highlighted the dedication of the new officers. They stated that these officers are committed to serving their communities with honour. One officer, formerly working in finance, shared his inspiration to join the police after assisting at a car accident, demonstrating a desire to contribute to community safety.

Another officer with prior experience as an Emergency Medical Dispatcher expressed her eagerness to expand her community impact through policing, emphasising the value of interacting with people during vulnerable moments.

Published Date 10-Feb-2025

Moreton Bay Aquatic Centres Offer Summer Fun and Fitness

Photo Credit: Pexels

As temperatures soar, the aquatic centres in North Lakes and Deception Bay are providing an ideal escape for families and fitness enthusiasts alike.

These well-equipped facilities promote water safety, recreation, and fitness, making them popular destinations for the local community.

A History of Supporting Water Safety and Recreation

The aquatic centres in North Lakes and Deception Bay have long served as vital resources for families and individuals seeking summer relief and year-round swimming opportunities.

Features at North Lakes Aquatic Centre include heated indoor and outdoor pools, a children’s play pool with water features, and swimming programs designed for all ages.

The Rackley Swimming Learn to Swim program, a key feature of the centre, offers lessons for children from as young as two months old, including free sessions for infants aged 2-6 months.

Similarly, Deception Bay Aquatic Centre offers a wide range of recreational amenities, including a 50m outdoor pool, a heated learn-to-swim pool, a toddler splash zone, and shaded seating areas. These features ensure its popularity among residents for leisure and water safety training.

Comprehensive Amenities for All Ages

Moreton Bay aquatic centres — *Photo Credit: North Lakes Aquatic Centre/Facebook*

North Lakes Aquatic Centre

North Lakes Aquatic Centre offers several features to cater to diverse needs:

A 25m heated outdoor pool for lap swimming
A heated indoor pool for Learn to Swim programs and hydrotherapy
A children’s play pool with water features
Accessible bathrooms, change rooms, and wheelchair parking

Additionally, North Lakes Aquatic Centre hosts aqua aerobics sessions, providing fitness opportunities for the local community.

Deception Bay Aquatic Centre

Deception Bay Aquatic Centre boasts an expansive 50m outdoor pool with shaded seating for families, a heated learn-to-swim pool, and a splash zone for toddlers. Other amenities include:

Open grass areas for picnics
An undercover BBQ space for events and celebrations
Inclusive features such as disability access and a water wheelchair

Both centres ensure their facilities are accessible and welcoming for swimmers of all skill levels and physical abilities.

North Lakes and Deception Bay aquatic centres — *Photo Credit: Deception Bay Swimming Pool*

Focusing on Community Recreation and Fitness

These aquatic facilities promote leisure as well as health and fitness. Deception Bay offers a suitable environment for swimming lessons and leisure swims; North Lakes Aquatic Centre offers aqua aerobics and lap swimming for those who enjoy fitness.

Water safety is top priority for both facilities, which guarantees that adults and children acquire necessary swimming abilities.

Looking Ahead

The North Lakes and Deception Bay Aquatic Centres remain vital destinations for the community as summer continues. From recreational swimmers to fitness enthusiasts and families seeking fun, their extensive range of features and programs caters to all.

Published 15-Jan-2025

Little Scholars Opens $5M Early Learning Centre in Deception Bay

Deception Bay residents have a new option for early childhood education with the opening of Little Scholars School of Early Learning’s newest campus.

Read: 165-Metre Flying Fox Among Highlights at Jungle Adventure Play North Lakes

Modern Learning Facilities

Photo credit: Little Scholars School of Early Learning/Facebook

The $5 million centre at 54 Old Bay Road offers a purpose-built environment for children. The 2,500 square meter campus features classrooms designed for optimal learning, natural outdoor play areas, a technology hub, and dedicated before and after school care spaces. The facility is designed to accommodate up to 171 children, providing ample space for early learning.

Focus on Quality Education and Care

Founder Jae Fraser expressed excitement about the new location, emphasizing Deception Bay’s rapid growth and the centre’s commitment to high-quality education. Fraser highlighted that Deception Bay is one of Queensland’s fastest-growing areas for young families, and that they are thrilled to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment for the children in the area.

Enrolment and Play Dates

Enrolments are now open for families, and Little Scholars is offering playdates for children once they are enrolled. These play dates are designed to help children feel comfortable in their new surroundings and give families the opportunity to meet educators and explore the learning spaces before the official start of their child’s educational journey.

Job Creation for the Local Community

The new campus is expected to create more than 50 local jobs, including positions for educators, support staff, and administrators. This move will contribute to the growth of Deception Bay, supporting both its young families and the wider economy.

A Bright Future for Deception Bay Families

With its modern facilities, strong focus on education, and commitment to the community, Little Scholars School of Early Learning is set to become an integral part of the Deception Bay area. Families can look forward to a safe, supportive, and enriching environment for their children as the centre continues to serve the needs of this growing community.

Read: Community Unites After Child Hit by Car in Mango Hill – Boy Expected to Recover

Published 10-January-2025

Queensland Caravan Dealer Ordered to Pay $7,000 After Major Vehicle Failure

Photo Credit: Unsplash/ Carolina Pimenta

A Queensland caravan dealer has been ordered to pay $7,000 in compensation after a second-hand vehicle sold in Deception Bay failed catastrophically just hours after purchase, highlighting the critical importance of consumer rights and product safety in Australia’s booming recreational vehicle market.

In a recent decision, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) ordered HA Caravans Pty Ltd, trading as Home and Away RVs, to reimburse a customer $7,000 for repairs after a caravan sold by the Deception Bay dealer suffered a significant mechanical failure just hours after purchase.

The Incident

On 10 January 2023, Suzanne Nowlan purchased a second-hand “sport poptop” caravan for $16,000 from Home and Away RVs. Intending to travel and live in the van, Ms Nowlan set off on a journey to Rockhampton, approximately 600 kilometres away.

During the trip, she began noticing mechanical issues, including unusual vibrations. Seeking assistance, she contacted a mobile mechanic who serviced the wheel hub. However, the following day, while travelling further north, a wheel detached from the caravan, causing significant damage to the vehicle.

Tribunal Findings

QCAT member Noel Jensen determined that the caravan was in an unsafe condition at the time of sale, which constituted a major failure under Australian Consumer Law. Mr Jensen emphasised that a reasonable consumer would not expect a newly purchased caravan to be in such poor condition.

As a result, the tribunal ordered Home and Away RVs to reimburse Ms Nowlan $7,000 for repair costs, with the payment required by 13 January 2023.

Kane Wiseman, the owner of Home and Away RVs, argued that the caravan’s price had been reduced from $18,999 to $16,000 because Ms Nowlan had agreed to organise her own roadworthy certificate, gas certificate, and registration. He also noted that the caravan had been sold on consignment.

Consumer Rights and Dealer Responsibilities

This case highlights the importance of consumer rights and the obligations of dealers under Australian Consumer Law. Goods sold must be of acceptable quality, fit for their intended purpose, and align with their description.

A “major failure” is defined as a problem that would have deterred a reasonable consumer from purchasing the product had they known about it. It also applies when goods are unsafe or significantly different from their description.

In situations of major failure, consumers are entitled to seek remedies, including a refund, replacement, or compensation for any associated loss in value.

Home and Away RVs specialises in the sale of affordable caravans, campers, motorhomes, cabins, and cars. They also provide vehicle storage services.

Community Impact

Deception Bay, a growing suburb near North Lakes, is home to a mix of residential and commercial developments. Incidents like this can affect local businesses and consumer confidence. For dealers, maintaining the safety and quality of their products is essential to ensuring trust within the community.

This tribunal ruling serves as a stark reminder for both buyers and sellers. Consumers should thoroughly inspect second-hand vehicles and seek professional assessments before purchase. Meanwhile, sellers must ensure that their goods meet acceptable safety standards and legal requirements to avoid legal repercussions and maintain trust in the marketplace.

Published 27-Dec-2024

Landmark Housing Project for First Nations Elders in Deception Bay

Photo Credit: DA 10383265

Construction on a 75-unit development is set to commence in Deception Bay, for completion in mid-2026. One of the largest First Nations housing projects in QLD, the project aims to address the disproportionate rate of homelessness among First Nations people in the state.

First Nations Elders — *Photo Credit:* *DA 10383265*

The project, a joint initiative between the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Community Health Service Brisbane and the Queensland Department of Housing and Public Works, is one of the state’s largest First Nations housing projects. It aims to provide culturally appropriate and affordable housing for Indigenous Australians aged 55 and over.

The development will feature a mix of one—and two-bedroom units, focusing on sustainability and community. Each unit will include spacious outdoor areas and access to communal facilities, fostering residents’ sense of belonging and connection.

Queensland Housing Minister Sam O’Connor highlighted the importance of addressing the disproportionate rate of homelessness among First Nations people in Queensland. He emphasised the government’s commitment to providing secure housing and improving the lives of Indigenous communities.

ATSICHS Brisbane CEO Renee Blackman expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating that it represents a significant step forward in providing essential services and support to First Nations Elders. She noted the critical role of affordable housing in addressing the current housing crisis and ensuring that all Australians have a safe and secure place to live.

The project is expected to be completed in mid-2026. It will provide much-needed housing and set a new standard for future housing developments designed for First Nations communities.

This initiative aims to create a thriving and inclusive community for Indigenous Elders by prioritising cultural values and social well-being.

Published Date 23-December-2024

Deception Bay Christmas Display Stolen By A Grinch

A Deception Bay family has been devastated after waking to find their Christmas display destroyed and stolen.

Resident Andrew Tett reported the incident, describing his shock at discovering his Christmas decorations had been stolen from his home. “I came out first thing in the morning and everything was destroyed. Someone had pinched all the lights,” Tett said.

Tett expressed confusion about the motive, stating, “Everyone around here love the lights, so I have no idea why they would do that.” He noted the extensive damage, saying, “There were decorations all over the footpath and out on the street. Anything they couldn’t take off, they ripped down.”

The financial impact is significant. Tett estimates the stolen and damaged decorations are worth at least $1,500 – a collection accumulated over several years. “I can’t afford to put that back together, so I’ll just have to build that up again over a few years,” he said.

In response to the theft, Tett has left a sign outside his home reading, “Whoever stole my lights, karma will come, Merry Xmas.” He added, “I was pretty cranky, I could’ve written a few things on there. But karma works, karma will get them.”

A Queensland Police spokeswoman confirmed that CCTV footage of the area is being sought as part of the investigation.

Published 3-December-2024

GemLife Moreton Bay: A Green Oasis Takes Root in Deception Bay

Photo Credit: GemLife Moreton Bay/ Facebook

What if you could downsize without compromising your lifestyle or the environment? In Deception Bay, GemLife Moreton Bay is proving it’s possible with its award-winning, eco-friendly community designed for a vibrant over-50s lifestyle.

This prestigious accolade highlights the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility and innovative design, setting a new benchmark for residential developments in Queensland and Australia.

GemLife is an Australian company specialising in creating vibrant communities for people over 50 seeking an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Focusing on providing high-quality homes, resort-style amenities, and a strong sense of community, GemLife has established a reputation for excellence in the sector.

The GemLife Moreton Bay project, located adjacent to the Deception Bay Conservation Park, spans almost 150 hectares. 60% of this land is dedicated to green spaces and protecting vital koala habitats. This commitment to preserving the natural environment is a key feature of the development’s sustainability strategy.

One of the project’s most innovative aspects is incorporating a virtual power plant. This system will generate and store nearly 80% of the community’s energy needs through rooftop solar panels and community batteries. This approach reduces reliance on external energy sources and minimises the development’s carbon footprint.

Adrian Puljich, Director and CEO of GemLife, emphasised the company’s dedication to social and environmental responsibility. He explained that the development goes beyond financial considerations to make a genuine positive impact on the community and the environment.

This includes initiatives to enhance the local ecosystem through planting and regeneration programmes, with a focus on protecting the habitats of native wildlife and migratory birds.

Upon completion in 2027, GemLife Moreton Bay will provide 553 homes, including premium residences with lakefront views. The project is part of a growing trend in Australia towards sustainable living, driven by increasing consumer demand and new government regulations that mandate higher energy efficiency standards in residential buildings.

Michelle Wooldridge, CEO of Pikos Group, noted that sustainability is no longer an afterthought but an integral part of the design process from the initial stages to construction, with careful consideration given to material selection and waste reduction.

Published Date 30-October-2024

Pokemon Go Resurgence Brings Crowds Back to Deception Bay

The skatepark in Deception Bay has become a hotspot for dozens of Pokémon GO players who gather every Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. to defeat raid bosses, signalling a resurgence of the popular mobile game in South East Queensland.

A New Wave of Players in Deception Bay

Eight years after its 2016 launch, Pokémon GO is regaining popularity in Queensland, particularly in areas like Deception Bay and the Redcliffe peninsula.

Local players, many of whom have been part of the community since day one, spend hours building and maintaining local Pokémon GO hubs. These hubs are often tied to real-world landmarks, with every mural, plaque, and even cafes in the area offering potential Pokémon-catching opportunities.

Pokemon Go Deception Bay — *Photo Credit: Reddit*

Brisbane-based player Stephen Eisenhauer, a community ambassador for Pokémon GO, said the game’s ability to evolve with new events and features constantly has kept long-term players engaged. He explained that while local sites may not have hosted the major international events, the community of enthusiasts has been steadily growing, with more players joining every month. There are over 840 members in the community group in Deception Bay, according to one player.

Some 10 kilometeres from Deception Bay, players from across South East Queensland frequently point to Redcliffe as one of the best places to play Pokémon GO. The Redcliffe peninsula offers around 140 Pokémon GO gyms within its 38 square kilometre boundary, making it a prime spot for collaborative gameplay. Redcliffe’s layout, with its well-spaced points of interest and beachfront access, adds to its appeal.

Building a Stronger Community

The dedicated local community is a big part of Pokémon GO’s resurgence in Queensland. Players have taken advantage of the Niantic Wayfarer website to submit new points of interest for the game, contributing to the region’s growing number of locations for catching Pokémon. Eisenhauer and other community leaders are working on growing this network further. Niantic, the game’s developer, still recognises Brisbane’s enthusiasm and may bring an official event to the region in the future.

Published 6-Sept-2024

Equipping Deception Bay Youth for Success: A Community Grant in Action

Equipping for Life Limited, a well-recognized charity with its main operation in Deception Bay, was one of the awardees of the Good for Good Community Grants Program from Queensland Country Bank. This funding went to purchasing a secure storage trailer, vital for transporting and storing various sporting and outdoor equipment.

The $10,000 grant, which was given in 2023, was primarily intended to increase the accessibility of outdoor activities for underprivileged and vulnerable students enrolled in the Equipping for Life educational initiative at Arethusa College, also in Deception Bay.

The goal was to address the logistical obstacles associated with transporting and storing equipment, thus enabling a wider variety of physical activities to take place more regularly. Participation in these activities is essential for the well-being of young people, both physically and mentally, and serves as a crucial support system, particularly for those at risk of social exclusion or behavioral challenges.

Arethusa College Equipping for Life — *Photo Credit: Arethusa College/Facebook*

Arethusa College: A Unique Educational Approach

Arethusa College provides alternative educational and vocational pathways for students from Years 7-12 who struggle in mainstream school environments. The college operates seven campuses throughout South East Queensland, each tailored to its local context.

Notably, the Deception Bay campus, spread over 75 acres, offers a serene, semi-rural setting that enhances student learning through outdoor activities, sports facilities, and various vocational training opportunities.

Beneficiaries of the Project

Equipping for Life Limited’s project supports a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, children and youth aged 6 to under 25, financially disadvantaged individuals, people at risk of homelessness, those with disabilities, pre/post-release offenders and their families, victims of crime, and both female and male groups across different age brackets. Providing accessible outdoor activities via the storage trailer will significantly enhance the engagement and well-being of these groups.

Arethusa College’s philosophy is anchored in Christian principles that emphasise respect, morality, and valuable life lessons. Although the college does not impart religious education, these principles are embedded in its culture and programs, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. This approach is particularly beneficial for students who have experienced prolonged absences from school or social challenges, helping them to achieve a sense of belonging and accomplishment.

Queensland Country Bank’s commitment to reinvesting profits into local communities has led to the Good for Good Community Grants Program supporting not-for-profit entities across the state since 2005. Another round of grants will be distributed in 2024.

Published 3-Sept-2024