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New First Nations Mental Health Hub Opens in Deception Bay

Photo Credit: Brisbane North PHN/Facebook

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.

First Nations Mental Health Hub — *Photo Credit: Brisbane North PHN/Facebook*

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

Photo Credit: The Institute for Urban Indigenous Health/ Facebook

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

Elderly Man Charged with Attempted Rape of Young Girl in Deception Bay Park

A 78-year-old man using a mobility scooter has been charged with attempted rape after allegedly sexually assaulting a young girl in a public toilet block within a Deception Bay park.

The incident has shaken the Deception Bay community, with police urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The alleged assault took place on 15 February in Raymond Terrace Park. Colin Behan, the accused, was arrested the following day and faces charges of indecent treatment of a child under 12 years and attempted rape. He is scheduled to appear in Redcliffe Magistrates Court on March 5th.

Detective Inspector Phil Hurst expressed serious concern, stating that police believe more children may have experienced similar incidents. He emphasised the legal obligation to report any suspected sexual offences against children. “Anyone who witnessed suspicious behaviour in the park must come forward,” Inspector Hurst said.

Elderly Man Charged with Attempted Rape of Young Girl in Deception Bay Park — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

He also encouraged any child who may have been a victim to speak to their parents or police, assuring them of support. Police have confirmed that while the man and the girl were not directly known to each other, they were both regular visitors to the park.

In an interview, Behan conveyed feelings of shame regarding the charge of indecent treatment. He acknowledged touching the child but denied any rape attempt, stating he was “incapable of that sort of thing.”

He further stated that he “hates paedophilia” and had never been involved in such matters before. He was granted bail on the condition that he stay away from the park and the child.

The alleged assault has caused significant concern within the Deception Bay community, raising questions about child safety in public spaces. Residents are urged to be extra cautious and report suspicious activity to the police. Police are maintaining a strong presence in the area and continuing their investigation.

Published Date 21-Feb-2025

Michel’s Patisserie in Deception Bay Among Stores Closing Nationwide

Photo Credit: Michel’s Coffee/ Facebook

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