North Lakes Archives - Page 8 of 13

North Lakes Home Invasion: Teen Faces Heinous Murder Sentencing for Emma Lovell’s Death

The teenage offender who murdered Emma Lovell during a North Lakes home invasion faces a life sentence, as the court weighs whether the crime was “particularly heinous.”

The teenage offender responsible for the brutal murder of Emma Lovell broke into the Lovell residence on Boxing Day 2022, ignoring a car parked in the driveway that signalled the family was home. He found the door unlocked, returned with a companion, and entered the home.

Lovell and her husband, Lee, were awakened by their barking dogs and confronted the intruders. The teens then brutally attacked the couple, stabbing Lee in the back twice and Emma in the heart.

CCTV footage captured the violent struggle that ensued, moving from the doorway to the driveway, where Emma fell to her knees, clutching her chest, while Lee lay on the ground injured. The teen fled the scene, leaving Emma mortally wounded, and was later found hiding nearby with blood on his clothes.

Legal Proceedings

The Crown prosecutor, David Nardone, emphasised that the murder was “particularly heinous,” highlighting the offender’s premeditation and moral culpability. The judge must decide if the crime qualifies as particularly heinous, which would allow for a sentence exceeding 10 years; otherwise, the maximum is capped at 10 years.

The youth pleaded guilty to four charges, including murder, admitting he wielded the 11cm knife that killed Lovell. The offender’s prior criminal history includes 16 other home invasions and parole violations. He was on probation for a prior offence at the time of the murder and had undergone a rehabilitation program.

Family Impact and Sentencing

In court, Lee Lovell described the lasting impact of his wife’s murder on their family.

He expressed fear for his daughters and described how he constantly checks the security cameras, fearing further intrusion. He has advocated for a life sentence for his wife’s killer.

Justice Tom Sullivan will deliver the sentence in this North Lakes home invasion case, pending determining the crime’s heinous nature. The offender, who cannot be identified due to his age, sat emotionless during the hearing, where his chaotic upbringing, marred by violence and substance abuse, was detailed by his defence.

Published 5-May-2024

Deception Bay, Moreton Bay Homes Face Land Value Surge Amid Migration Boom

The median land value in Deception Bay has soared by 60.4 per cent, with nearby areas like North Lakes and Burpengary also experiencing significant increases, with nearby areas like North Lakes and Burpengary also experiencing significant increases, as part of a wider trend affecting over 675,000 properties across Queensland due to heightened migration and demand.

The 2024 valuation cycle unveils a substantial rise in land values across Queensland, impacting around 675,000 properties in 20 local government areas. This adjustment, triggered by migration and demand spikes, has seen homeowners across regions like Deception Bay, the Gold Coast, Moreton Bay, and the Sunshine Coast brace for possible rate and tax hikes.

Detailed Regional Impact

Deception Bay witnessed a remarkable jump, with median land values climbing by 60.4 per cent, affecting 6,011 properties. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $227,500 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $365,000

North Lakes saw a 29.9 per cent increase in median land values, impacting 6,805 properties. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $335,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $435,000

Burpengary reported a 35.3 per cent rise, with 3,630 properties affected. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $255,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $365,000

Burpengary East experienced a 37.8 per cent increase, affecting 1,837 properties. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $225,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $310,000

Narangba observed a 32.1 per cent surge in median land values, with 6,739 properties impacted. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $280,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $370,000

Rothwell saw a 25.8 per cent rise, affecting 2,249 properties. OLD MEDIAN VALUE: $310,000 | NEW MEDIAN VALUE: $390,000

These figures underscore the widespread nature of the land value increase phenomenon, particularly pronounced in areas surrounding Deception Bay.

FIND YOUR LAND VALUATION

North Lakes — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Valuer-General Insights

Valuer-General Laura Dietrich highlights the significant drivers behind these valuation increases: robust population growth and infrastructure development, particularly in areas like Moreton Bay and Gold Coast.

Despite potential concerns over rising rates and taxes, Dietrich reassures that councils consider various factors when setting rates, underlining the multifaceted approach to valuation and taxation.

With the new valuations set to effect on June 30, 2024, the Queensland government’s upcoming decisions on proposed changes to valuation laws are eagerly anticipated.

Amid warnings from the property sector about potential rate and tax increases, the community and industry stakeholders are keenly awaiting the Resources Minister Scott Stewart’s announcement, hoping for measures to mitigate the impact on homeowners, especially in rapidly appreciating areas like Deception Bay and its surrounds.

Published 3-April-2024

Closed for Good: Blue Diamond Hair Co Shutters North Lakes, Other Brisbane Locations

Blue Diamond Hair Co, a salon with locations in Brisbane including one in North Lakes, has abruptly closed its doors, leaving customers in the lurch.

Read: North Lakes Pool Company Plunges into Liquidation Amidst Economic Challenges

The business, which branded itself as “redefining luxury,” first opened at Logan Hyperdome in 2021 and expanded to the Westfield Garden City and Westfield North Lakes in 2022.

Blue Diamond offered not just hair services but also spray tanning, beauty treatments, and even teeth whitening. However, both the North Lakes and Garden City salons closed in January 2024 without any notice to customers. The closures extended to the other Brisbane locations as well, with the Logan Hyperdome salon’s final day being February 21.

Photo credit: Blue Diamond Hair Co/Facebook

The shutdown was a surprise to loyal customers, some of whom had deposits with the North Lakes salon. One frustrated regular said so many people have paid a deposit and it isn’t being returned.

Another customer had just begun looking into Blue Diamond’s services, booking her first appointment last month complete with an online deposit. However, she got a text that the booking was cancelled, but they wouldn’t answer any calls or emails. She explained that she had no response at all from the owners.

Whilst the North Lakes shopping centre has acknowledged Blue Diamond’s departure, they claim to have been given no reason for why the tenants vacated. The company’s website remains active, but their social media pages are silent on the closures. However, the business is listed as “permanently closed” on Google.

Read: Dakabin Gym Faces Financial Woes, Enters Voluntary Liquidation

As news of the shutdown spreads, more and more customers with unused deposits and pre-paid packages are realising they may never get refunded by the Blue Diamond Hair Co business they once frequented.

Published 14-March-2024

North Lakes Teen Max Cunningham Dominates State Swim Championships with Five Golds

Max Cunningham, a 14-year-old from North Lakes, dominated the recent Queensland State Swimming Championships at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre.

Cunningham, who previously trained at Grace Swimming Club and now attends Churchie on a scholarship, won five gold medals in the 14-year-old age group. His events included the 100m butterfly, 50m freestyle, 100-m freestyle, 50-m backstroke and 200-m freestyle.

Max Cunningham sets state record

In the 100-m freestyle, Cunningham clocked an impressive time of 52.96 seconds to not only win gold but also set a new state record in the event for his age group.

Earlier in the meet, Cunningham won his age group’s 100m butterfly with the fourth-fastest time ever recorded in 56.38 seconds.

Gold medals in the 50-m freestyle, 50-m backstroke and 200-m freestyle took his tally to five.

In addition to his five gold medals, Cunningham also won two bronze medals in the 200-m freestyle and the club mixed freestyle relay.

Published 23-December-2023

Popular Burger Chain Closes Doors in North Lakes and Other Outlets

The popular Queensland burger chain, Getta Burger, has announced the closure of several of its stores, including the one in North Lakes, shocking local burger enthusiasts. This move comes as the company faces significant financial challenges.

Getta Burger, known for its mouth-watering burgers and unique dining experience, has unfortunately fallen into liquidation. The chain’s financial struggles have led to the abrupt closure of multiple outlets across Brisbane.

Sources have reported that the company is in a dire financial situation, leading to these drastic measures.

“Things are tough for everyone, and as much as I tried I couldn’t see a way to keep our great standards and keep the business going,” Company director Brent Poulter said.

“Small businesses nationwide are grappling with soaring rents, increased costs, and staffing hurdles — without any support at all.”

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A post shared by Getta Burger (@gettaburger)

The closure of the North Lakes outlet has left many customers and staff members disappointed and concerned. Regular patrons of Getta Burger have expressed their sadness over the loss of a favorite dining spot.

Furthermore, the closure has raised concerns about the impact on local employment. Staff members of the closed outlets are now facing uncertainty about their future. The suddenness of the closures has added to the anxiety and distress of those affected.

Published 14-Dec-2023

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.

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