Kallangur Archives - Page 2 of 3

Oyster Reef Trial Aims to Boost Water Quality in Lawnton and Kallangur

Shellfish reefs, made from recycled oyster shells, are being trialled in the North Pine River at Lawnton and Kallangur to improve local water quality.

Community Benefits and Environmental Goals

Oyster Reef Trial Aims to Boost Water Quality in Lawnton and Kallangur — *Photo Credit:* *OzFish*

Unitywater has applied to Moreton Bay City Council to install two new oyster reefs in the North Pine River, adding to an existing trial launched in 2023. These new reefs, planned for Lawnton Pocket Road in Lawnton and Brickle Road in Kallangur, form part of Unitywater’s commitment to achieving net-zero nutrient discharge into waterways by 2040.

The initiative reflects a collaborative effort between Unitywater, OzFish, the University of the Sunshine Coast, and Healthy Land and Water, combining resources and expertise to improve local waterways. The project aims to improve water quality for the community and the environment.

The Science Behind Shellfish Reefs

The “reefs” are constructed using triangular baskets filled with recycled oyster shells sourced from Brisbane restaurants and commercial shucking operations. These baskets are pre-seeded and then “soaked” in Moreton Bay for approximately one year before being placed in the river.

This process allows the shellfish to grow and mature. As the shellfish grow, their natural filtering process helps remove nutrients from the water. The trial rigorously tests various factors, including reef structure, water depth, and salinity levels, to determine the optimal conditions for shellfish growth and nutrient reduction. Preliminary findings from the initial trial, which began in September 2023, are expected soon.

A Collaborative Approach to Water Management

The broader project, which began with installing 40 baskets near the Murrumba Downs Wastewater Treatment Plant, is a five-year initiative supported by $464,000 in funding from Unitywater. This initial stage is already recognised as a nutrient offset method under the Queensland Water Quality Offset Policy. The partners believe this project represents a significant step forward in exploring the potential of shellfish reefs to improve water quality and contribute to more sustainable wastewater management practices.

They emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving positive environmental outcomes and see this project as a model for future restoration efforts. The project also highlights the potential for shellfish reef restoration as a legitimate method for offsetting nutrient discharge into waterways.

Published Date 20-Feb-2025

Kallangur Dad Shares Story to Raise Mental Health Awareness

Photo Credit: GoFundMe

A Kallangur family is urging parents to be vigilant about their children’s mental health after their 12-year-old daughter, Grace, attempted to take her own life by overdosing on prescription medication.

The Incident

The incident occurred at the family’s Kallangur home. Grace’s parents became concerned when she began acting strangely. They called for an ambulance after noticing her interacting with something unseen in the corner of the room. While paramedics assessed Grace, another daughter alerted them to suicidal messages on Grace’s TikTok account and the discovery of the medication.

The family also found journal entries and suicide notes written to each family member, indicating the attempt was pre-planned.

A Silent Struggle

Grace’s father, Joe Saunders, described her as a kind, empathetic, and talented young girl who had always seemed happy. He said the family had no idea she was struggling despite having a close relationship with her.

He expressed the family’s devastation at the discovery of Grace’s pain and her planned suicide attempt. He noted that Grace’s notes to her family expressed love and a desire for them to live happy lives, not anger or resentment.

Call for Awareness and Support

Mr Saunders is now advocating for parents to be more aware of the potential signs of mental health struggles in their children. He emphasised the importance of seeking professional help if there are any concerns, as parents are not equipped to handle complex mental health issues on their own. The family shares their experience to raise awareness in the Kallangur community and beyond.

Financial Strain and Recovery

Mr Saunders also spoke about the financial burden the situation has placed on the family. With four children, elderly parents living with them, and only one income, the costs associated with Grace’s ongoing care, including hospital visits and future therapy, are significant.

The family has established a GoFundMe page to help cover these expenses and support Grace’s recovery. He said that Grace is currently in an inpatient facility receiving 24/7 care and is considered at high risk of re-attempting suicide. The family faces a long road to recovery and is focused on providing Grace with the support she needs.

Published Date 05-Feb-2025

Kallangur Emergency: 110-Year-Old Explosive Substance Discovered on Glenmore Street

Emergency teams, including hazardous materials specialists, have carefully secured and removed a 110-year-old first aid kit containing picric acid, an early 20th-century antiseptic that was also used in explosives and can become highly unstable and detonate in a dried, crystallised state.

On Sunday, 29 December 2024, Queensland Fire and Emergency Services crews were called to Glenmore Street following the detection of the substance, believed to date back more than a century. The bright yellow chemical, known for its use in explosives during World War I, was reportedly part of a first aid kit from the 1910s.

To ensure community safety, authorities established a 100-metre exclusion zone while scientific teams identified the material.

What Is Picric Acid?

In the early 1900s, picric acid was often included in burn dressings and other medical supplies or first aid kits. It was also used during wartime in bombs and grenades due to its similarity to TNT. Over time, the compound can become increasingly volatile, especially if stored improperly.

Picric acid is highly sensitive when crystallised. Experts warn that dried picric acid can detonate under heat, impact, or friction, making it a significant hazard if mishandled.

According to Queensland Fire and Emergency Services, the substance found in Kallangur had not spilled, and no immediate injuries were reported. However, the discovery highlights the ongoing risks of ageing chemicals in everyday environments.

Community Safety and Response

Emergency teams, including hazardous materials specialists, carefully secured and removed the 110-year-old explosive. Queensland Police confirmed that the picric acid was safely disposed of with no threat to the public.

Residents in the area expressed relief at the swift action of emergency responders. A fire department representative stated that discoveries like this underscore the importance of immediate reporting and professional disposal of hazardous materials.

Similar discoveries have been reported in Australia, including an incident a decade ago when an elderly woman brought a dried-out bottle of picric acid to a police station in Brisbane. In these cases, emergency teams typically detonates the materials in controlled environments to prevent accidents.

Authorities Urge Caution

Officials urge anyone who discovers suspicious or potentially hazardous materials to leave them untouched and immediately contact emergency services. Authorities emphasised that handling such materials requires extreme caution, noting past incidents where picric acid was mishandled, leading to evacuations and injuries.

Published 31-Dec-2024

Renaming Kallangur and Queensland’s Satellite Hospitals: What’s Next?

Kallangur Satellite Hospital and six others across Queensland are set for a name change as part of a state-wide effort to reduce confusion and better reflect the services they provide.

Read: New Kallangur Satellite Hospital Leads Way with Dialysis and Rehab Gym

Renaming the Satellite Hospitals: Addressing Public Confusion

The move to rename Queensland’s seven satellite hospitals, including Kallangur, follows extensive feedback from health professionals and community members. A survey conducted in November gathered insights from over 2,780 Queensland Health staff and primary care providers.

Less than 5 percent of respondents supported retaining the current name, with many highlighting that the term ‘satellite hospital’ often caused confusion about the scope of services offered.

Queensland, as part of its 100-Day Plan, launched the survey to explore alternative names. The options presented included terms such as “community health hub,” “urgent care centre,” and “healthcare service,” among others. The feedback will now be reviewed by a clinical advisory group, which will deliver its recommendations by 17 January 2024.

Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Tim Nicholls emphasized that the renaming initiative aims to ensure the community clearly understands the services available at these facilities. “The name ‘satellite hospital’ has led to confusion in the community about what services are available at these facilities,” said Minister Nicholls.

The Minister also reassured the public that the renaming process would not affect the level of care provided. “The community will still receive the same level of care currently delivered by our dedicated nurses, medical officers, and allied health professionals,” he stated.

Services Offered at Satellite Hospitals

Satellite hospitals have already made a significant impact on the local community, offering a diverse range of services designed to meet various healthcare needs.

Kallangur Satellite Hospital, which opened in December 2023 adjacent to the Kallangur Train Station, provides an impressive array of services, including:

Minor Injury and Illness Clinic: A convenient option for non-emergency care.
Oral Health Services: Comprehensive dental care for the community.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Hub: Offering specialised services such as Ngarrama Maternal Health and Perinatal Mental Health support.
Kidney Health Services: Supporting patients with renal concerns.
Healthy Ageing Assessment and Rehabilitation Team (HAART): Promoting wellness and rehabilitation for older adults.
Medical Imaging: State-of-the-art diagnostic imaging services.

Since its inauguration, the Kallangur Satellite Hospital has been a vital healthcare hub for the region, ensuring timely and accessible medical attention for patients. Its strategic location and comprehensive services have been particularly beneficial for families, seniors, and Indigenous communities.

Looking Ahead

As the renaming process moves forward, the Kallangur Satellite Hospital and its counterparts in Caboolture, Redland, Ripley, Tugun, Eight Mile Plains, and Bribie Island will continue to deliver the high-quality care that has made them indispensable to their communities. The final decision on the new name will reflect the feedback from health professionals and ensure the facilities are easily identifiable to the public.

Read: Kallangur Resident Celebrates Life-Changing Win

The initiative represents a step toward better communication and accessibility in healthcare, ensuring every Queenslander knows where to turn for the care they need. Whether it’s minor injury treatment, maternal health services, or senior rehabilitation programs, facilities like the Kallangur Satellite Hospital will remain pivotal in providing accessible, community-focused healthcare.

Published 30-December-2024

Street Spotlight: Brickworks Rd, Kallangur

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Brickworks Rd carries literal history in its name, recalling the area’s brickworks past when clay quarries and kilns dotted the landscape. Long before townhouses and family homes lined the street, this stretch of Kallangur was part of the industrial fabric that helped build Southeast Queensland. That legacy has given way to a different kind of construction: residential growth that has transformed Brickworks Road into a diverse street of houses, units, and townhouses serving families and investors alike.

The street’s evolution mirrors the broader story of Kallangur’s transition from rural outpost to suburban connector. As North Lakes and surrounding suburbs densified in the 2000s and 2010s, buyers who worked at or near North Lakes—including school staff and retail workers—increasingly looked to nearby Kallangur streets like Brickworks Road as more affordable alternatives. That steady influx has driven consistent price growth, turning what was once a quiet rural road into a sought-after address for families seeking value without sacrificing proximity to schools, shopping centres, and transport links.

Today, Brickworks Road is home to a mix of property types that reflect different eras of development. Early sales from the 1970s and 1990s—when blocks changed hands for five-figure sums—now seem like artifacts from another age. Recent transactions tell a very different story, with properties trading well into six figures, and in some cases crossing the million-dollar mark. It’s a shift that speaks to the area’s rising demand and the enduring appeal of streets that balance accessibility with suburban character.

Brickworks Rd, Kallangur Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 11 units, 12 townhouses, 87 houses, 36 others
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 9 years and 3 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 31%

Brickworks Rd, Kallangur – As It Looked in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON BRICKWORKS RD, KALLANGUR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
7/100 Brickworks Road, Kallangur	$690,000	Oct 2025
2/67 Brickworks Road, Kallangur	$821,500	Sep 2025
63 Brickworks Road, Kallangur	$1,050,000	Jul 2025
15/100 Brickworks Road, Kallangur	$645,000	Jun 2025
23 Brickworks Road, Kallangur	$826,500	Jun 2025

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON BRICKWORKS RD FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
40 Brickworks Road, Kallangur	$85,000	Mar 1997
70 Brickworks Road, Kallangur	$79,000	Feb 1996
32 Brickworks Road, Kallangur	$13,900	Nov 1975

If you know Brickworks Rd, Kallangur well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Published 22-December-2024

Assault and Robbery at Lillybrook Shopping Village Carpark

A 63-year-old man was reportedly a victim of assault and robbery in the carpark of Lillybrook Shopping Village on Friday, August 30, prompting an investigation by local police.

The incident occurred around 8:30 PM in the parking area of Lillybrook Shopping Village overlooking Brickworks Road.

According to the victim’s statement, two men approached him in the carpark, where they allegedly assaulted him and stole his phone and watch before fleeing the scene.

Authorities have released descriptions of two individuals they believe may be able to assist with their investigation:

The first suspect is described as a male teenager with a solid build, approximately 175 cm tall. He has short, straight brown hair and was wearing a polo shirt and shorts at the time of the incident.
The second person of interest is described as a male with a slim build and short brown hair, also wearing a polo shirt and shorts.

The police investigation is ongoing, and authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could aid in solving this case of assault and robbery in Lillybrook Shopping Village.

Residents and visitors to the area are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the local police.

Published 6-September-2024

Major Childcare Centre Proposed for Kallangur Business District

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay / DA/2024/3293

Children First Property Pty Ltd has submitted a development application for a major childcare centre capable of accommodating over 130 children in Kallangur.

The proposed facility, to be located at 2/8 Cotterell Road and 105 School Road, would involve the demolition of three existing houses. The plan outlines a one-storey structure with a gross floor area of 1,008 square meters, designed to cater for 132 children up to four years old.

**The proposed facility is designed to cater for 132 children up to four years old.**
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay / DA/2024/3293

The proposed childcare centre would feature seven separate internal rooms for different age groups and large outdoor play areas. It would operate from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and provide 27 car parking spaces for parents and staff.

The site, which boasts frontages on both School and Cotterell roads, is strategically located within Kallangur’s business periphery. Access to the centre is proposed from Cotterell Road.

According to the application, the location is ideal due to its proximity to local shopping, convenience stores, and various community facilities. The developers argue that the site is well-suited for a childcare centre, supporting both the surrounding residential neighbourhoods and the local activity centre.

The application also emphasises the architectural merit of the proposed building, noting that it will present well to both street frontages and neighbouring residential areas. A notable design feature includes an awning structure along the School Road frontage, extending around to Cotterell Road.

As Kallangur continues to grow, this development could provide much-needed childcare services to the area. The application is currently under review by local authorities, and community feedback may play a role in the final decision.

Published 7-August-2024

Lawnton Resident Among Victims of Phone and Courier Scam

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A Lawnton resident has fallen victim to a sophisticated phone and courier scam that has recently targeted elderly individuals across Moreton Bay, prompting local police to issue an urgent warning to the community.

On June 18, an 81-year-old woman from Lawnton became the latest victim of this scam, losing $11,000 to fraudsters. This incident is part of a larger scheme that has cost Moreton Bay seniors a total of $30,900 over the past two months.

The Petrie Criminal Investigation Branch, which is investigating the cases, reports that the scam involves phone calls from individuals claiming to represent banks or government anti-fraud departments. Victims are told their accounts have been compromised and are asked to assist in an investigation of alleged employee fraud.

In the Lawnton case, as with others, the victim was convinced to withdraw a significant amount of cash from her bank account. She was then instructed to hand the money over to a courier who arrived at her home, under the pretence that the funds would be used to trace serial numbers or collect fingerprints to identify supposedly fraudulent bank employees.

Two other similar incidents occurred in neighbouring suburbs:

On May 8, a 73-year-old Kallangur woman lost $9,500 to the scam.
On June 13, an 84-year-old Bray Park resident was defrauded of $10,400.

Local law enforcement is actively working to educate banks in Lawnton and surrounding areas about these scams. They are urging residents, particularly seniors, to be cautious when receiving unsolicited phone calls or requests for financial information.

Police emphasise that while this exact scenario may not be repeated, scams are constantly evolving. Lawnton residents are advised to verify any suspicious calls by contacting their bank directly using official contact information and to report potential scam attempts to the police immediately.

Lawnton residents seeking more information or wishing to report suspicious activity are encouraged to contact the Petrie Criminal Investigation Branch or their local police station.

Published 8-July-2024

Kallangur Mother’s Terminal Cancer Diagnosis Sparks Heartfelt Wedding

Photo Credit: Go Fund Me

A week after welcoming her newborn son into the world, Kallangur mother Belinda Rahe received a devastating diagnosis of terminal cancer.

However, Ms Rahe and her partner, Wayne Skelton have chosen to transform this tragedy into a celebration of love, exchanging vows in an intimate ceremony after five years together.

The couple’s journey, who fell in love for the first time in 2018, has been filled with both great joy and deep sorrow. Ms Rahe, a dedicated employee at UnitingCare Queensland, sought medical attention for severe abdominal pain following the birth of their son George last year.

In November, she received the heartbreaking news of stage four metastatic pancreatic neuroendocrine cancer, and this week was given a devastating prognosis of only three months to live.

Despite the grim news, Ms Rahe and Mr Skelton have found solace in their “beautiful blended family” of eight, which includes Ms Rahe’s children aged 19 and 10, Mr Skelton’s daughters aged 12 and 10, their sons Henry, 2, and George, born last year. Adding to their happiness, Ms Rahe’s eldest daughter Charlotte recently welcomed her first child, Theodore, making Ms Rahe a grandmother.

The couple’s initial hope of overcoming the illness through chemotherapy was dashed when recent scans revealed the cancer had progressed significantly. Faced with the devastating reality of limited time, Ms Rahe and Mr Skelton have shifted their focus to alternative therapies that may offer a few more precious months together.

“There are different types of therapy I will be starting in the coming days to give me more time with my family,” Ms Rahe shared. “I want to keep fighting and would like to see my sons go to school and hopefully I can make it to George’s first birthday.”

Together, they have crafted a bucket list of 40 cherished experiences, including a cruise around Western Australia, a romantic date night, a Gold Class cinema outing, and witnessing their sons learn to swim.

As the family navigates this challenging time, a close friend, Kate Smith, has initiated a GoFundMe campaign to alleviate their financial burdens. Ms Rahe’s inability to work, coupled with Mr Skelton’s dedication to caring for their family, has left them in a precarious situation.

“We are desperately trying to secure our home so that our family has some stability in such an unstable situation,” Ms Rahe expressed. “We need help, without it this is impossible.”

Published Date 11-June-2024

Kallangur Tradie’s Tragedy Ignites Wave of Community Support

Brad Stapleton, a homeless tradesman, has sparked significant community support after revealing the severe vandalism of his makeshift tent home in Kallangur, highlighting the escalating issue of homelessness in the state.

A forklift operator with over two decades of experience, Brad has been forced to live in a tent at Leis Park since October 2023 due to an inability to secure permanent housing.

This period of rough living was marred by repeated vandal attacks by local youths, leaving his few possessions—including clothing, a barbecue, and a cherished guitar—severely damaged.

The destruction of Brad’s tent and belongings led him to share his plight on a local Facebook group, which quickly rallied community support.

Community Response and Support

His story resonated deeply, leading to an outpouring of sympathy and assistance, including a generous offer from a retired couple in Lawnton, providing him with a room rent-free.

Lisa Holt from Kallangur also opened a fundraiser page.

The region has seen a worrying increase in the number of homeless individuals setting up tents as more residents struggle with the ongoing rental crisis.

Local charity workers, including Beau Haywood, the founder of Nourish Street, have noted a significant rise in homelessness, with the charity now supporting a hundred individuals daily, a stark increase from two years ago.

Charity Spotlight: Nourish Street

Beau and his charity have played a crucial role in addressing the needs of the homeless in Moreton Bay. Operating seven days a week, Beau and his team distribute food, mattresses, and other essentials to those impacted by the housing shortage.

Despite personal hardships, including his own experience with homelessness, Beau continues to drive support for this vulnerable population with limited resources and increasing demand.

As the homelessness crisis deepens, Nourish Street faces growing challenges. Each week, the number of new tents rises, signalling a continuous increase in the homeless population. The organisation’s reach has expanded, but so has the need for resources, particularly food and camping essentials.

Nourish Street’s efforts are funded through personal savings and sporadic donations, highlighting a critical gap in governmental support for grassroots charity initiatives. Community contributions, whether through donations of essentials or financial support, are crucial to sustaining and expanding these much-needed services.

Published 24-April-2o24