North Lakes Archives - Page 8 of 12

North Lakes Residents Warned Of Mosquito Surge

Moreton Bay residents, particularly those living in North Lakes and Strathpine are being warned to brace for mosquitoes as the warmer weather approaches.

Read: North Lakes Mother Warns Others After Son’s Leg Stuck in Bike for Almost An Hour

The warning comes after ideal humid breeding conditions have led to an exponential explosion in mosquito numbers across South East Queensland. Mosquito season peaks in the region during the spring and summer months, typically from September through April when warmer weather allows the insects to thrive.

North Lakes and Strathpine have been previously identified as particularly severe hotspots showing intense mosquito activity. Residents in these areas have flooded officials with complaints as mosquitoes emerge in swarms.

Freshwater mosquitoes breed in water that has pooled beside roads, in reserves, parks, and yards (Photo credit: moretonbay.qld.gov.au)

Bloodsucking mosquitoes are already distressing many locals, swarming at unprecedented levels not seen in nearly two years, according to the Moreton Bay Regional Council.

“For the past 18 months, our weather conditions have resulted in fewer mosquitoes, which has been great for our residents. Unfortunately, our luck won’t last and we’re already seeing a higher visibility of these pests,” Mayor Peter Flannery said.

The council ramped up mitigation efforts including increased light trapping, on-ground insecticide treatments, and public awareness campaigns targeting these hard-hit neighbourhoods.

“Beyond taking to the skies, we’ve been installing light traps each week, starting barrier treatments around the Griffin and Mango Hill areas, and preparing fogging treatments in highly populated areas around Mango Hill, Griffin and North Lakes,” Mayor Flannery said.

Experts say it’s not just mosquitoes on the rise – termites, ants, and flies are also reaching pest levels across South East Queensland following the wet weather. The combo of warmth and moisture is causing spikes in native insects that typically don’t pose issues at normal levels.

Mosquito Prevention Tips

Photo credit: Michelangelo Buonarroti/Pexels

Use Repellent: Apply mosquito spray, especially at dusk/evening when mosquitoes are most active.
Dump Standing Water: Empty containers that allow mosquito breeding weekly, including plant dishes, buckets.
Set Up Fans: Position outdoor fans to blow air currents away, deterring mosquitoes from biting areas.
Apply Barrier Spray: Long lasting concentrates from hardware stores create mosquito-repelling barriers when professionally sprayed.
Take Multiple Precautions: Layer repellent, breeding prevention, air currents, and barrier sprays to minimise mosquito contact. Though difficult to fully avoid mosquito season, numbers will naturally fall as weather changes.

Read: $3 Million Wildlife Hospital Construction Project in Dakabin Addresses Urgent Wildlife Care Needs

Published 7-December-2023

North Lakes Development Proposal Withdrawn Amidst Strong Community Opposition

The controversial plan for a retirement village and aged care facility on the former North Lakes golf course land has been abruptly withdrawn.

This decision marks a significant chapter in the ongoing saga between The Village Retirement Group (TVRG), its subsidiary JH Northlakes Pty Ltd, and the Moreton Bay City Council, fueled by staunch community resistance.

The Proposed Development

TVRG aimed to transform the 67-hectare site into a mixed-use development, featuring up to 250 retirement homes and a 120-bed residential care home. The proposal (DA/2022/3732) included converting 46 hectares into public open space, with TVRG retaining a smaller portion for future plans.

Despite arguments that the project aligned with council planning and addressed senior housing needs, public reaction was overwhelmingly negative. The plan faced vehement opposition from local residents, notably led by the Save North Lakes Golf Course (SNLGC) group.

A record-breaking public consultation saw over 4,000 submissions, with a vast majority against the development. Concerns were raised about the project’s contradiction to existing planning rules and the potential impact on local amenities and the environment.

North Lakes — Photo Credit: SNLGC/Facebook

Council officers, echoing these concerns, recommended refusing the application. They found the proposal in direct conflict with the Development Control Plan (DCP), lacking sufficient planning grounds to override these conflicts.

The Eleventh-Hour Withdrawal

As the Moreton Bay City Council prepared to vote on the matter, TVRG unexpectedly pulled the proposal.

“Council have just informed us that the Developer has just withdrawn their DA so it will not be decided. Therefore no vote tomorrow!!!!” the SNLGC group posted on their Facebook page.

Future of the Site

Whilst the withdrawal has been a victory for the opposition, the future of the site remains uncertain. TVRG’s managing director Justin Harrison, whilst not commenting on the withdrawal reasons, hinted that they are leaving the door open for potential future developments. The community remains vigilant.

“It is disappointing, but we still hold the position that there is no better pathway that they can take if legislation changes, so let’s get a golf course back,” A spokesperson for SNLGC commented.

Published 27-Nov-2023

North Lakes Among Key Suburbs in Zonta Club’s Domestic Violence Initiative

The suburbs of North Lakes, Deception Bay, and Mango Hill have become focal points for a significant initiative led by the Zonta Club of Redcliffe. Aimed at supporting victims of domestic violence, this initiative involves the creation of safe rooms at local police stations, a move that resonates with the community’s dedication to social welfare and support.

These safe rooms, conceived as serene and supportive spaces, are being developed in police stations across the three suburbs. The primary goal is to offer a comforting environment for victims of domestic violence during their interactions with law enforcement. This initiative represents a deep understanding of the trauma and sensitivity associated with such circumstances.

Local businesses and residents have rallied together to support this cause. Contributions have been diverse and substantial: Bunnings Rothwell and Dulux have provided paint and equipment, while Costco has contributed towards children’s furniture. Carpet One has generously donated comfortable seating, and the community has chipped in with toys and educational materials for children. This array of donations reflects a heartening community spirit, underlining a collective commitment to social responsibility.

The Zonta Club of Redcliffe, renowned for its advocacy against domestic violence, has seamlessly integrated this project into its broader campaign. Echoing the sentiments of their international “Say No to Domestic Violence” campaign, the club’s activities in North Lakes, Deception Bay, and Mango Hill exemplify their dedication to the cause. Notable among these is their participation in the Orange Activism Breakfast and the 16 Days of Activism, during which they advocate for awareness and change.

Furthermore, the Zonta Club has historically undertaken impactful initiatives such as installing plaques with anti-domestic violence messages in public spaces. Their support extends to organizations like The Refuge at Clontarf, providing essentials to women in need, thereby weaving a safety net across the community.

As these safe rooms near completion, they symbolise not just a physical space of refuge, but also the community’s unwavering commitment to battling domestic violence. In these challenging times, such initiatives remind us of the strength found in unity and the enduring power of compassion.

Published 19-Nov-2023

Bounce Into Adventure at North Lakes’ Revolution Sports Park

Forget noisy arcades and tired playgrounds – the ultimate indoor adventure paradise for kids and adults alike can be found at Revolution Sports Park in North Lakes. With wall-to-wall trampolines, climbing walls, ninja courses and basketball hoops, this massive venue will leave you breathless and begging for more.

Read: Experience Mini Golf Like Never Before at Hey Caddy North Lakes

Since opening its doors in 2017, this massive trampoline and adventure park has become a go-to venue for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Set on over 2,000 sqm, Revolution Sports Park features over 70 interconnecting trampolines that allow you to literally bounce off the walls. There are 16 rock climbing walls with automatic belays that will get your heart pumping as you scale to the top. Test your ninja skills on the park’s massive ninja warrior course with obstacles at varying heights.

Photo credit: Alicja Opajdowska/Google Maps

With 4 party rooms and a fully decked out cafe serving the best coffee in town, Revolution Sports Park is the ultimate venue for birthday parties and group gatherings.

Photo credit: Revolution Sports Park – North Lakes

The entire venue is fully air-conditioned and can accommodate over 200 people seated on its mezzanine level. Disabled access bathrooms, a baby changing room, and plenty of private parking ensure that all guests are comfortable during their visit.

Revolution Sports Park — Photo credit: Carolyn Clairvoyant/Google Maps

But the main draw is the seemingly endless trampoline and adventure area. Kids and adults alike will have a blast bouncing between the different zones.

See how many consecutive front flips you can do on the trick trampolines or play a casual game of trampoline basketball. Charge down the tumble track and stick the landing. Little ones can safely play in the dedicated ‘Mini-Revolution’ area.

Those wanting to live out their NBA fantasies must try the dunk lanes, where you can jump as high as you want and slam dunk the ball. Sessions are available every day with extended hours during school holidays – advance booking is recommended.

Read: New $1.5-Million Skate Park in Deception Bay Officially Opens

With so much to see and do, a visit to Revolution Sports Park is a must for any family or thrill-seeker in Brisbane. Find them at 3 Flinders Parade, North Lakes or book your visit online.

Published 15-November-2023

North Lakes Pool Company Plunges into Liquidation Amidst Economic Challenges

Photo Credit: Unsplash

A well-established pool construction company in the suburban heart of North Lakes has been pushed into voluntary liquidation as it grapples with the increasingly challenging economic landscape.

Crown Pools & Spas, located at shop 4/25 Discovery Drive, North Lakes, took this difficult step after encountering insurmountable hurdles that ultimately led to its demise.

The company, which specialised in the creation of high-quality in-ground swimming pools, found itself unable to sustain its operations in the face of mounting financial difficulties. Ran by a husband and wife team, Crown Pools & Spas had a dedicated workforce of four employees, including the owners themselves.

The decision to cease trading was made between 16 and 20 Oct 2023, a pivotal period that marked the beginning of the end for the pool construction business. Following this, Hall Chadwick, a reputable accounting firm, was appointed as the liquidator to oversee the winding down of Crown Pools & Spas.

James Court, the representative from Hall Chadwick overseeing the liquidation, stated that the primary reason for the company’s downfall was its inability to meet the minimum financial requirements for a license with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission.

Mr Court confirmed that the company’s revenue “has decreased in the last year due to rising interest rates and people being cautious with their spending, particularly on luxuries like swimming pools.”

The costs of materials have increased as well.

As Crown Pools & Spas moves through the liquidation process, one of the crucial steps involves determining the exact amount owed to creditors. Mr Court affirmed that this is essential for the resolution of the company’s financial affairs. The director of Crown Pools & Spas has been given a deadline to provide the necessary financial records to assist in this assessment.

Crown Pools & Spas has yet to provide an official comment or statement.

Published 28-Oct-2023

North Lakes Little Warrior Races with ‘The Phantom’ at Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500

Leo Harrison, a 2.5-year-old cancer warrior from North Lakes, will take centre stage, alongside racing sensation Jimmy Vernon, also known as “The Phantom,” at the upcoming Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 in the V8 SuperUtes Series.

The event, scheduled for the 27 to 29 Oct 2023, will see Leo’s smiling face prominently featured on the helmet of The Phantom. Vernon’s participation in the race is dedicated to children like Leo, who are battling cancer.

The Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 is expected to be filled with exciting surprises for Leo and his family, as well as other kids.

A Weekend of Dreams Come True

Leo, along with his mum Jennifer and 12-year-old brother Kai, will be heading to the Gold Coast for a remarkable weekend of behind-the-scenes action at the races. They’ll have the unique opportunity to meet Mr Vernon and other drivers, take thrilling pit tours, explore the grid, and even sit in Vernon’s race car, “The Purple Rocket.”

Ten other families with children battling cancer will also join Leo, forming an unforgettable group that will share in the excitement of the race weekend.

Leo’s Remarkable Journey

Leo was a normal happy baby reaching all milestones until at just 6 months old his mum Jennifer noticed his abdomen was firm and distended. At first Leo’s GP thought it could have been because of his transition to solids, but an ultrasound was advised.

On Christmas Eve 2021 Leo had his ultrasound. A liver tumour was seen, and Leo was Leo rushed to the Queensland Children’s Hospital immediately. Further testing revealed Leo also had cancer throughout his lungs. No symptoms were outwardly seen, but his blood tests were showing signs of a problem. Leo and his mum Jennifer stayed in hospital over Christmas, New Years, and weeks after for Leo’s initial chemotherapy. The oncologist said the tumour could have grown in just one month.

Leo spent the next six months constantly having blood tests, blood transfusions, chemotherapy, emergency visits due to fevers/infections, nasogastric tubing to keep his nutrients up and constant isolation from community and most non-essential family.

As a veterinarian, Jennifer translated her skills with animals to helping Leo.

Leo and Jennifer were in hospital again over Christmas 2022 for Leo’s final round of chemo, as well as the removal of a small lung tumour. In Leo’s final remission scans, sepsis was seen and Leo’s central lines had to be removed.

After the tumour shrunk and Leo’s lungs cleared, the doctors realised that the primary tumour was positioned around major vessels, such that an entire liver transplant was required. The first waiting period for a liver required Leo to be off chemotherapy, and to wait three weeks. A liver was not available, and the cancer grew in that time. Horribly, Jennifer was told to start to prepare for palliative care.

After another round of chemotherapy, and another three-week waiting period, Jennifer received a phone call that gave Leo a lifeline. A donated liver was available for Leo, and with his test results good, his transplant would take place immediately.

Leo defied the odds and was out of ICU on day four, and home on day thirteen post the operation.

Leo has high frequency hearing loss from chemotherapy (which may or may not improve or worsen), a bit of kidney damage from chemotherapy which can resolve, but he is reaching his mobility, speech and listening milestones with therapy and hearing aids. He is on track to go to standard school and to speak just like his peers.

“Leo’s very smart and determined. His name suits him – Leo/Leonardo – brave-hearted and strong. To look at Leo, you would not know what his journey has been. He has a very strong body, a huge energy and zest for life and LOVES cars” said Jennifer, Leo’s mum.

“He has smiled and laughed his way through this journey despite feeling sick, tired and stuck in hospital. Leo’s big brother Kai, who is almost 12, is his bestie. Kai is the one who brought the first big smile to Leo’s face after his liver transplant. Kai is an amazing big brother to Leo” Jennifer added.

Jimmy Vernon’s Commitment to Kids with Cancer

Jimmy Vernon’s participation in the Boost Mobile Gold Coast 500 is not just about racing; it’s a heartfelt commitment to children battling cancer. Following his 2022 win in the Australian Production Car Championship, A1 class, Mr Vernon has dedicated the 2023 season to driving for the Kids with Cancer Foundation. His mission is to raise awareness and funds to support the nearly 800 children diagnosed with cancer each year in Australia.

At each race, Mr Vernon hosts children with cancer and their families, providing them with a memorable experience at the racetrack. Beyond his time and dedication, Mr Vernon has pledged to allocate 20% of his corporate sponsorship funding to the Kids with Cancer Foundation, which has been supporting children with cancer and their families for 25 years.

The foundation has provided over $30 million in funding nationwide, focusing on direct financial support, Care Packs, Wigs4Kids, funding critical hospital salaries and infrastructure, cancer research, and more. Jimmy Vernon’s remarkable commitment to children like Leo underscores the spirit of unity and compassion that the V8 SuperUtes Series represents.

Published 25-Oct-2023

North Lakes Mother Warns Others After Son’s Leg Stuck in Bike for Almost An Hour

A North Lakes mother has warned other parents following a biking mishap that left her son’s leg stuck in his bicycle for over 45 minutes, requiring firefighter tools to free him.

Read: North Lakes Mum Empowers Parents with the Magical Touch of Baby Love Massage

According to reports, local resident Halle Alex said her son Jed, 5, was biking outside their Cottonwood Circuit home when he unintentionally hit the doorframe. Jed allegedly collapsed sideways into the wall, squeezing his ankle between the bike’s frame and pedal.

Ms Alex explained that the bike scraped his son’s leg badly and they were puzzled how he got stuck in such a tiny opening. The family attempted freeing the young boy’s foot using bike lubricant and shifting his ankle, but failed to get him loose.

North Lakes mother — Image shown for illustrative purposes only (Photo credit: Julie Dalton/Pexels)

They immediately called emergency services, but two fire trucks came, with eight firefighters ready to help. Using three separate power tools, the fire crew finally pried open the bike frame after nearly an hour.

Ms Alex mentioned Jed was identified with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP), a blood disorder, so they must observe him closely should blood accumulate in his joints. However initial exams displayed only a sprained ankle, bruising, and inflammation.

The North Lakes mother portrayed Jed as a valiant boy eager to ride motorbikes when older like his dad. He was thrilled to see the firefighters and their gear, getting stickers before they departed. The team even repaired his bike before leaving.

Read: North Lakes Miracle Baby Saylor Born with Massive Tumour Makes Fantastic Recovery

Parents are recommended to oversee children on bikes and toys, and guarantee extremities can’t get trapped.

Bicycle riding can be an enjoyable activity and healthy form of exercise for children, but parents should be aware it also poses some risks.

Wearing a properly fitted helmet and elbow/knee pads can also help minimize injuries in a fall or collision. Taking these precautions can help reduce accidents and allow children to enjoy cycling as a fun, healthy activity.

Published 23-October-2023

Westfield North Lakes Hosts ‘Little Dreamers’ for School Holiday Fun

As the school holidays approach, Westfield North Lakes is gearing up to host a week of exciting and educational activities for families to enjoy, beginning with the “Little Dreamers” program.

The “Little Dreamers” program is designed to provide a range of daily activities that cater to children’s creativity and self-expression. Each day brings a new and exciting DIY project, including the creation of dream jars, friendship bracelets, and more.

The program runs from Monday to Sunday, 18 to 24 Sept 2023, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The children will be given a chance to engage in various DIY activities aimed at developing fine motor skills and promoting mindfulness. It will also encourage the children to unleash their creativity and develop essential skills while having a great time.

school holidays westfield North Lakes — Photo Credit: Supplied

The activities are not only entertaining but also serve as an opportunity for kids to bond with their peers and make new friends. Parents can rest assured that their children are engaged in safe and supervised activities while enjoying their time at Westfield North Lakes.

BOOK A SLOT

In addition to the “Little Dreamers” program, Westfield North Lakes is also participating in a “Waste and Recycling Education Program” in partnership with Moreton Bay Council. This initiative runs from Saturday to Friday, 16 to 22 Sept 2023, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Families visiting the pop-up will have the chance to learn more about waste and recycling in the Moreton Bay region, and children can play problem-solving games to enhance their understanding of recyclable materials.

LEARN MORE

Westfield North Lakes continues to be a hub for family-friendly activities and events, providing a diverse range of experiences for its local community. For the school holidays, families can look forward to a week filled with creativity, learning, and fun!

Published 14-Sept-2023

North Lakes Mum Empowers Parents with the Magical Touch of Baby Love Massage

North Lakes mother Naomi Westerman, founder of Baby Love Massage, is one of the finalists in the Children’s Wellness Business category of the AusMumpreneur Awards this year.

Her heartwarming mission to create a world where no cherubic infant endures unnecessary pain and every loving parent feels confidently connected and empowered, has earned her widespread adoration and support from all corners.

Being recognised as a finalist for the Children’s Wellness Business of the Year 2023 adds an extra sprinkle of fairy dust to Naomi’s journey. This recognition would elevate awareness of the critical issue of colic and reflux among newborns and strengthen her ability to reach out to more families in need of a healing touch.

Baby Love Naomi Westerman — Photo Credit: Naomi Westerman

Naomi’s Baby Love Massage Journey

Naomi’s journey into the realm of baby massage began as she embarked on parenthood, navigating the challenges of colic and reflux with her beloved son, Theodore.

Faced with a lack of accessible resources and the absence of a fairy godmother to help, Naomi and her supportive husband, Craig, embarked on a quest to find answers and bring comfort to their little prince’s discomfort. The transformative magic of baby massage not only enchanted them with relief for Theodore’s physical symptoms but also wove a powerful spell of love and connection between parent and child.

Fueled by the magical desire to share this experience with other parents facing similar challenges, Naomi conjured Baby Love Massage into existence in North Lakes.

This soothing sanctuary serves as a haven for parents seeking the captivating healing potential of touch, offering workshops and support for families facing colicky dragon roars, fiery reflux spells, and even the occasional dark clouds of post-natal depression.

At Baby Love, the focus is on providing a safe and mystical environment for adorable infants and their bewitched caregivers to explore the benefits of baby massage. Naomi’s unique approach blends ancient secrets with modern ideas, guiding the parents and soothing the babies.

“Baby Love Massage was founded with the intention of supporting new mothers within the community to learn, practice and fall in love with the beauty of baby massage,” Naomi said.

“I’m on a mission to create a world where no infant endures unnecessary pain and where every parent feels confident, connected, and empowered.”

“In the past few months, I have been able to support many families who have been left to navigate, colic and reflux diagnoses alone, once discharged from midwives and paediatricians. An overwhelmed mother in a recent workshop, opened up about her mental health struggles and how her crying, distressed newborn’s discomforts were taking their toll.”

Baby Love Massage’s Growth

Within a year, Baby Love Massage has achieved miraculous milestones, including a breathtaking 1400% increase in revenue. This extraordinary and magical growth not only showcases the effectiveness of Naomi’s business model but also highlights what she brings to countless families in need.

Beyond the financial rewards, Naomi’s most extraordinary achievement lies in the impact she has made on the lives of mums and their babies. Through her workshops, she has empowered mums and fostered a sense of confidence and unbreakable bonds.

“As a professional mother, I have firsthand experience in practising what I preach, and through my work with over 200 mothers and their babies in the last six months, I have witnessed the undeniable results of our simple yet powerful techniques.”

In 2028, Naomi envisions a national franchise empire that provides support to over one million babies and their families across Australia. Her ultimate goal is to ensure that no cherubic infant endures unnecessary pain and every parent can confidently embrace the journey of parenthood.

Her nomination under the Children’s Wellness Business category of the Emerging AusMumpreneur of the Year 2023 highlights her dedication to transforming the lives of parents and infants. Her vision of creating a world filled with love, care, and endless possibilities for every newborn reflects her commitment to this noble cause. As she continues to help families and weave bonds, Naomi’s impact on the community seems to be a fairy tale come true.

“Throughout my training, the profound phrase ‘love creates love’ resonated deeply within me, igniting an unwavering passion for ensuring our babies experience boundless love and grow with the ability to perpetuate that love. With unwavering determination, I strive to make this vision a reality, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless families.”

The Westmans — Photo Credit: Naomi Westerman

The AusMumpreneur Conference and Awards will be held on 22-24 Aug 2023 at Darling Harbour in Sydney.

Published 3-Aug-2023

North Lakes Leads Queensland’s Tech Job Boom As Fastest-Growing Tech Suburb

Did you know that North Lakes has been recognised as Queensland’s fastest-growing tech hub over the past decade after experiencing an astonishing surge of 2,900 per cent in tech job opportunities?

According to the Tech Council of Australia’s Queensland Tech Jobs Opportunity report, South East Queensland is leading the state in tech job growth.

The report sheds light on the remarkable impact of Queensland’s technology sector on the state’s economy, as it currently employs over 140,000 tech workers. Furthermore, this figure is projected to skyrocket to 185,000 by 2030, making the tech industry three times larger than Queensland’s agricultural sector.

The report also points out that the surge in tech jobs is primarily occurring beyond inner-city Brisbane. Areas such as Logan, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast have also witnessed impressive growth in tech job opportunities. However, it’s worth noting that Inner Brisbane has seen its tech workforce expand by 10,000 jobs over the last 10 years.

Following North Lakes, Jimboomba secured the second position, with Southport coming in third among the fastest-growing tech suburbs in Queensland.

The growth of tech jobs in the state has outpaced other occupations significantly since 1985, progressing through different phases. From the mid-’80s to the mid-’90s, tech jobs grew 1.3 times faster than overall job opportunities, entering their “Uptick” phase from 1995 to 2005, growing 1.6 times faster.

The “Tearaway” phase from 2005 to 2020 saw a four-fold increase, and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2023), the tech job market surged five times faster than other occupations, termed the “Going for Gold” phase.

The report also highlighted the overall strength of Australia’s tech job market, which has become the seventh-largest employing sector in the country, providing employment to 861,000 people.

“1 in 16 working Australians work in tech sector jobs, and there are more software engineers and developers in Australia than solicitors, plumbers, hairdressers,” Tech Council of Australia said.

The organisation also cited that tech jobs, regardless of their nature, offer lucrative salaries. At an hourly rate, entry-level positions in the tech sector pay 32 per cent more than the average wage across the economy. On a weekly basis, tech jobs provide a substantial 64 per cent higher pay compared to the overall average.

Workers in the tech sector perceive their jobs as more flexible compared to other industries. Moreover, tech jobs are known for their higher job security. The rate of people leaving the tech industry after eight years is 4.7 per cent lower than in high-paying industries and 6.2 per cent lower than in other sectors.

Published 31-July-2023