North Lakes Archives - Page 9 of 12

Community Lodges Overwhelming Objections to Planned Development at Site of Former North Lakes Golf Course

Photo Credit: Save North Lakes Golf Course/Facebook

The fate of a development proposal covering the site of the North Lakes Golf Course hangs in the balance as the community lodges an incredible 3,700 objections against the development submission.

The Village Retirement Group (TVRG) acquired the closed golf course in 2018 and aimed to donate a portion of the land to the Moreton Bay Regional Council for a public park whilst developing another section into aged care and retirement facilities.

Public notification for this development ran from 20 April to 1 June 2023 after TVRG filed DA/2022/3732 in Sept 2022.

Despite TVRG’s emphasis on the community’s support for the transformation and the recreational activities already taking place on the property, a passionate group of local residents has emerged to defend the golf course.

Save North Lakes Golf Course, with over 4,200 members on Facebook, has rallied its supporters and organized fundraising events to bolster their objections during the public consultation phase. The group’s determination to preserve the golf course has led them to prepare formal objections, crafted by their town planner and solicitor, as the public consultation is set to begin.

Meanwhile, TVRG plans to launch a website to promote the proposed Eden Creek Parklands, highlighting its benefits and encouraging community members to express their support.

TVRG’s managing director, Justin Harrison, remains optimistic about the potential of the park to become the region’s premier green space. He stresses the significant financial advantage for the council, as obtaining land of similar quality would typically require millions of dollars.

The North Lakes Golf Course holds a special place in the heart of the community. The site is known for its scenic beauty and considered a vital component of the thriving suburb.

With a population of over 25,000 residents, the meticulously maintained course offers an irreplaceable green oasis in the midst of urban development. Moreover, it provides a sanctuary for numerous native animal species, safeguarding their habitats against encroaching urbanization.

The Moreton Bay Regional Council is expected to make a decision on the DA within the next two to three months. This decision will profoundly impact the character and future of North Lakes, a master-planned suburb built around the golf course and Lake Eden. Both these landmarks are deeply ingrained in the community’s identity and significantly contribute to residents’ quality of life.

Published 15-June-2023

Moreton Bay Implements Jack’s Law to Detect Knife Possession at North Lakes Train Stations

In a bid to combat knife crime and enforce Jack’s Law legislation, Moreton District police conducted a successful operation at North Lakes and Kippa-Ring train stations.

As part of the operation, 54 street checks were carried out, involving the scanning of 51 individuals using handheld devices on 11 May 2023.

Senior Sergeant John Cush, the Moreton Tactician, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the operation, particularly the efficient scanning of a significant number of individuals within a few hours.

“What was also good to see is that out of 51 people scanned, only one was in possession of a knife,” he stated.

According to reports, the police located a knife in the possession of a 17-year-old boy from Kippa-Ring. The individual will be dealt with under the provisions of the Juvenile Justice Act. The success in detecting this weapon highlights the effectiveness of the ongoing efforts to enforce Jack’s Law and ensure public safety.

Building on this achievement, the Moreton District Police have announced their plans to conduct similar operations in the coming months at various train stations, transport hubs, and safe night precincts. These operations aim to detect and deter the possession of weapons, primarily knives, which pose a serious threat to the community.

The public is encouraged to assist in these efforts by providing any information related to suspicious activities. Police have advised individuals with relevant information to contact Policelink through the online suspicious activity form available 24 hours a day at or through Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000.

Published 19-May-2023

Tributes Made for Beloved North Lakes Mum Emma Lovell After Tragic Home Invasion

Tributes have come pouring in for British wife and mum Emma Lovell, who died protecting her home and family from home invaders in North Lakes on Boxing Day. A petition has also been made for Emma’s Law, to make sure that she did not die in vain.

Emma, 41, was stabbed in the chest whilst her husband, Lee Lovell, 43, incurred non-threatening injuries on his back. According to the Queensland Police Service, an altercation happened inside the Lovell family’s home on the 26th of December 2022 at around 11:30 p.m. after reports of four young people, between the ages of 16 and 17, had been seen disturbing residents on Whitefield Ct and Dorrigo Ct.

The couple heard dogs barking and their home security system alerted them to the break-in. Lee said they were terrified and shocked when they saw people as they came out of their bedroom door.

He said that everything happened within seconds. Paramedics rushed to the scene in the aftermath. However, he never expected that his wife will not be coming home from the hospital.

A grief-stricken Lee, who has since been released from the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital for his wound’s treatment, had to break the sad news to his young daughters.

Emma Lovell, the Glue to the Family

Lee described his wife as a beautiful person who was the “glue” to the family.

The Lovells have been North Lakes residents since 2018 following their move from the United Kingdom. The family just came home from a Christmas holiday on the Sunshine Coast on the night of the attack.

Family friends Chris and Liz Jones were with the Lovell kids, Scarlett, 15, and Kassie, 13, when they returned home after the attack. Chris said that the Lovell couple was all about making sure that their daughters had the best life. The family has been comforted by a distraught North Lakes community with notes, flowers and food.

Neighbour Skye Fleming, 14, could not help but break down when she learned of Emma’s death. She came by Lovell’s house to comfort Scarlett and Kassie and said that Emma was like a second mum to her.

The North Lakes Community has also spearheaded a fundraiser for Emma’s loved ones, which so far has reached over $55,435.

“This money will provide financial support to Lee and his daughters as they navigate their grief following the loss of Emma, their wife and mother. The outpouring of support and generosity from our community during this difficult time has been truly remarkable,” said Naomi Sprudzans, the organiser.

“Emma will be missed terribly, she cared about her family so very much, and I will miss our weekly chats,” Bec Rose, a donor and friend of the family said.

“Emma was a beautiful person and will be missed,” said Simon Richardson.

Petition for Emma’s Law, Harsher Punishments for Young Offenders

Following investigations, two of the teens from Zillmere and Holland Park have been charged with murder, attempted murder, and breaking and entering. The other two in custody have been assisting the police as the investigation continues.

Lee is backing calls for a tougher crackdown on home invaders after the Jones’ opened a petition for Emma’s Law. As of press time, the petition is on its way to getting 35,000 signatures.

Meanwhile, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced harsher punishments for violent juveniles and young offenders.

“Violent criminals should receive harsher punishments,” Ms Palaszczuk said. “The community must be protected. We’ve announced one of the most comprehensive packages ever seen in Queensland.

“Violent juvenile car thieves will face 14 years’ jail. Extreme high visibility police patrols will be deployed, and two new youth detention centres built.

“Offenders who boast about these crimes on social media will face increased penalties. Young offenders will be in custody for longer to make sure they can complete rehabilitation programs.

“We’ll provide engine immobilisers for trials across parts of the state. The community has been heard. My government is listening and acting.”

Harcourts North Lakes Merges with Harcourts Unite, Expands Reach in Moreton Bay

Changes are afoot at Harcourt North Lakes after its merger and expansion with Harcourts Unite to widen its reach in areas covering the Redcliffe Peninsula, North Lakes and Burpengary.

The merged offices will be headed by three industry leaders, Steve Hawley, Tara Hawley and Ange Morris, who will ensure sustained success for the company’s next chapters.

Mr Hawley had his start at the North Lakes offices, whilst Ms Hawley has taken care of the business in Redcliffe. Ms Morris joined as a business partner in 2020.

As part of its expansion plans, the trio will open a new office to help the Moreton Bay community and attract more skilled and capable real estate professionals.

The expansion also comes at the right time, as the current market is enthusiastic about making changes.

“We have sellers on the Redcliffe Peninsula looking to make a ‘tree change’ to the Burpengary/Narangba regions, sellers from North Lakes looking at making a ‘sea change’ to the Redcliffe Peninsula, and so on,” Ms Hawley said of their network.

Harcourts Unite has grown from two agents and personal assistants to 25 people, with women making up the majority.

As a result of this merger, Harcourts Queensland chief executive Mitch Peereboom looks forward to witnessing the growth and supporting the firm.

The Handmade Expo Unveils New Store at Westfield North Lakes

After the runaway success of its pop-up outlet, The Handmade Expo will open a new store at Westfield North Lakes.

On Wednesday, 17 Aug 2022, at 9:00 a.m. look for the new store between Woolworths and Big W as The Handmade Expo holds its grand opening day. The pop-up kiosk near Target, however, will still be up so shoppers have two accessible choices to enjoy handmade heaven!

Here are some of the creative items you can expect at the new store:

Selvedge and Bias

Selvedge and Bias comes from expert needlewoman Debra Verrall, who makes lovely handbags, pouches, clutches, and other sewn items. She also runs an Etsy Australia store for online purchases.

Laser Art Australia

Laser Art Australia has a range of unique, ready-made home decorations featuring laser work and wood art in single or multi-layered creations. The artist also accepts personalised and bespoke orders. Check out her website for more.

Lily Grace Giftware

Lily Grace Giftware offers a huge range of gift items, homeware and kitchenware to choose from. She may also customised orders. Learn more from her official site.

Wild About Clay

Wild About Clay features beautiful pottery to add the perfect touch to the home or could be given as a gorgeous gift. The artist behind this store is Linda. Chat with her at the new Handmade Expo store.

The Handmade Expo Grand Opening Day — Photo Credit: TheHandmadeExpoPopUpShop/Facebook

Zyllion

Zyllion has been a regular at the VEND Marketplace for some years. The handmade shop offers brooches, earrings, hair accessories and home decorations in fun and quirky designs. Visit the official store online.

Bumble and Oshie

Bumble and Oshie makes beautiful handmade baby wraps, pram pegs, blankets, and bassinet liners in prints that mothers will love. Visit their website for more of their products.

Heavenly Designs

Heavenly Designs offers gorgeous tutus for kids, to funny tees, as well as a fabulous handmade range of reading cushions and so much more! Connect with the shop on Facebook.

Handmade Soaps from AnnieMac

Handmade Soaps from AnnieMac offer absolutely sweet-smelling handmade soaps that feel fabulous on the skin. Find her stall at the new location in Westfield North Lakes.

Love Slimes Co

Love Slimes Co makes quality handmade slime and sensory toys that will delight the children. These sensory toys are for anxiety release also and to aid the kids in discovering and thinking outside the box without using technology. Visit their official site.

Follow The Handmade Expo on Facebook for updates on what items are still coming to the store and the pop-up.

X-Golf Opens Hey Caddy, the First Mini Golf Recreational Site in North Lakes

Up for a round of putt and an unforgettable golfing experience? Hey Caddy, a new family-friendly recreational site, has opened its doors at Burke Crescent in North Lakes.

From X-Golf, Hey Caddy is an 18-hole immersive world experience. It’s the first of its kind in Australia, where families and groups of friends can try their hand at a new age in putt, with each hole boasting unique destination-based themes.

Hey Caddy officially launches with a celebration on Friday, 25 March 2022, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Guests will be treated to delicious complimentary food and drinks, plus an impressive host of entertainment and, of course, free rounds of mini golf.

The venue has something for everyone: dive deep into the boroughs of Melbourne’s Hosier Lane, putt over the bumpy surfaces of Mars, test your skills swinging between the Ferris wheels and cacti of Coachella, challenge yourself atop China’s lengthy Great Wall, tee off at the site of Nevada’s Area 51, or get freaky amongst the scenery of Mexico’s Day of the Dead.

“We’re pleased to offer somewhere aligned with the vibrant local demographic that is much more than a place to go out and eat or drink at, but a versatile immersive golfing experience suited to a wide array of guests whether you’re clever with a club not,” X-Golf Head of Marketing Amy Puglisi said, adding that the recreational site was envisioned as a unique indoor mini putt experience, aligning wit X-Golf’s objectives in providing a fun and inclusive entertainment golfing experience.

Franchisee and well-respected Moreton locals, Dr Anthony Mahler and Olga Mahler, are eager and pleased to welcome visitors to their new venue, which has been decked with impressive murals strewn across the walls are created by internationally-acclaimed Brisbane-based artist, Lee ‘LINZ’ Harnden.

Anthony, now retired as a GP, is a golfing enthusiast himself and believes it’s a great pastime for maintaining one’s general wellbeing. Olga migrated from Ukraine nine years ago and has also set up a shelter for Ukrainian refugees with her husband.

Donate to Help Us Shelter Ukraine

“We’re thrilled to open the doors to North Brisbane and beyond, with delicious fresh food, distinctive drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere whether you’re visiting during the day with the little ones or later at night with a large group of friends,” the Mahler couple said.

To explore Hey Caddy in more detail or to book your experience at North Lakes, visit Hey Caddy.

New Development Will Allow Public Access to Proposed North Lakes Aquatic Precinct

Photo credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council / moretonbay.qld.gov.au

A development application that will allow the public to access the planned North Lakes aquatic precinct at The Lakes College has been lodged.

On 28 June 2021, the Moreton Bay Regional Council approved the development of a new aquatic precinct at The Lakes College at 2 College Street in North Lakes.

The aquatic facility will contain a 25-metre lap pool, learn to swim and associated facilities. The development is planned to be constructed in two stages.

The Lakes College has decided to allow public access to the facilities as well. A new proposal was lodged to allow outdoor recreation land use with no changes to the development’s built form and proposed vehicle access.

Photo credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council / moretonbay.qld.gov.au

The proposed site spans approximately 15.35 hectares with frontages at Diamond Jubilee Way on its northern side, College Street on the north-west side, Memorial Drive on the south-eastern side, and Discovery Drive on the western side.

Stage 1 of the development will involve the construction of a 25-metre lap swimming pool, a single-storey building fronting the west side of the swimming pool; a pump house accommodating pool filtration; heating and pump equipment; and associated new footpaths around the school for access to the aquatic precinct.

Aquatic precinct plan — Photo credit: Moreton Bay Regional Council / moretonbay.qld.gov.au

Stage 2 will include the construction of a learn-to-swim pool, an elevated grandstand that can accommodate a maximum of 500 people at a time, and associated new footpaths including a ramp from the northern car park.

The Lakes College’s proposal will give the public access to the aquatic precinct who wish to participate in swim classes, squad and individual training, and quarterly and yearly swim competitions. The proposed hours of operation are from 6 am to 10 pm, seven days a week. Public use, however, is not allowed during school hours.

North Lakes Property Market Remains Strong with 15% Median Growth

Riding on Brisbane’s extraordinary growth, the North Lakes property market has shown strength, with a 14.29% median house price growth for the 12-month period ending September 2021, with no significant signs of cooling just yet.

Highlights

The North Lakes property market showed strong performance with a 14.29 per cent growth from October 2020 to September 2021.
The median house price for this suburb is past the half a million mark at $560,000 with sales closing at an average of 25 days on the market.
North Lakes’ unit market has also increased by 8.78 per cent despite apartment listings lasting for 61 days on the market.

House Price Growth

From October 2020 to September 2021, North Lakes’ home values grew by 14.29 per cent with the median house price settling at $560,000, per figures from Property Market Updates. Prices, however, remain fairly affordable and appealing, especially for first home buyers who want to live in a place where the CBD is still reasonably accessible.

Despite the increase, North Lakes’ performance in the market continues to demonstrate to investors that their money could go further in this liveable community. As a result, 595 houses were sold during this period in an average of 25 days on the market. Some 386 of these sales were for four-bedroom homes, ideal for couples with kids.

Since its master-planned development for the last 15 years, North Lakes has been ever-expanding as a family-focused location with some emerging draw cards like business parks and lifestyle hubs that give residents the option to never leave.

Unit Price Growth

The unit market in North Lakes takes up less than five per cent of the property market since most dwelling structures in this suburb consist of detached houses. However, apartments also performed well during this period as they grew by 8.78 per cent from last year with 111 units sold at a median price of $378,000.

Three-bedroom units were highly coveted but sales have been slower compared to houses, as listings took an average of 61 days on market. Most townhouses or apartments in North Lakes are built around the golf course, a location that instantly delivers a lifestyle home for the residents.

About North Lakes

While situated in a fairly new housing development, North Lakes’ population has rapidly grown to over 21,000, composed predominantly of families with children under 10 years old. Many professionals have chosen to build their lives in this fast-growing community because North Lakes provides long-term potential and a harmonious lifestyle where the children have plenty of green spaces to play.

A continuous stream of investments, from both businesses and the government, is expected to drive more growth for North Lakes.

Residents here not only have dozens of parks for their recreation but a number of shopping centres, like Westfield and IKEA, for their essentials. Parents also have heaps of options for private or public schools to send their children.

“Wonderful place to raise kids, family-friendly. Particularly love the prestigious Club North area with Kangaroos often found roaming in the many parks and gardens.”
Linda

“Mostly positive and the area has a lot of potential. Just needs more community events and employment opportunities. Too much reliance on the shopping centre as a community hub and it’s very hard to find professional work within the area (I have to commute to the city for my job).”
TP

“Everything you could possibly need. Costco, bunnings, Westfield, Myers , IKEA, Kmart , big w, target, rail at mango hill, major bus station. The Xmas fair that is held each year with fireworks is outstanding for families. Many trendy coffee shops and restaurants. Modern cinema complex and not far from Redcliffe. It’s also a bit cooler than Brisbane as it experiences the coastal breeZes.”
Mh6

North Lakes Property Market Hits Half-Million Dollar Median

Property prices may be soaring in a lot of areas but in some Brisbane and Moreton Bay suburbs like North Lakes, home buyers and investors can have the best of both worlds — a house in a family-friendly, upwardly mobile community located in a growth market, for a budget of a little above $500,000.

Since the establishment of North Lakes in 2006, home values have risen at a stable pace as new developments and construction meet the demands of an upwardly mobile community. From July 2020 to June 2021, the property market for houses grew by a modest but stable 1.52% despite lockdown challenges, per data from Property Market Updates.

Whilst the increase is quite modest compared to the performance of other suburbs in this region, North Lakes’ sales volume reached 558 properties within an average market 35 days on market.

A median house price of half a million dollars is still within reach for families or single-income first-home buyers. For this amount, buyers can have a house with spacious rooms in a pleasant community for a growing family or for retirement. Most homes in North Lakes are new designs, typical of many housing developments in Moreton Bay.

Unit Price Growth

North Lakes’ apartment market did better than the housing market for the period ending June 2021 with a growth of 6.41 percent. Though typically attractive to downsizers and retirees, the unit market has also lured professionals who are either owner-occupiers or renting out their properties to cash in on currently brisk demand. The current unit median price sits at $377,750, with 86 properties sold within an average of 60 days.

About North Lakes

A dynamic suburb like North Lakes has plenty of things going on, with cycle and walking tracks as well as parks for the children. It is a short drive to the local shops and a 13-km drive to Redcliffe for a weekend at the beach. This suburb has a countryside vibe but it’s close to essential facilities.

“I have lived in North Lakes for about 6 years and it has developed a lot in that time. Everything is here. Big Westfield and lots and lots of shops, swimming schools and pools, library, good schools and daycares and there are nice walking tracks. It’s very suburban.”
shhhm, Homely

“I have been here for 15 months and now building a home on the golf course. It is a great family area that has a diverse range of ‘localities’ although all sit under the North Lakes suburb. Yes, there are high-density pockets and units however these are just part of a well-planned diverse community.”
markm48, Homely

“I just moved to Sunjoy Pl North Lakes from Kootangal Cr Ferny Hills after 10 years and I cannot stress enough how sooner I wish I had moved here. There are parks and greenery everywhere and it’s all maintained daily. It has everything I could ever possibly need with the Westfield just in town and plethora of other big names.”
Caseytain, Homely

School Planned for North Lakes Common Development

The Village Retirement Group plans to build a school for Prep to Year 12 students in North Lakes Common, the site of the former North Lakes Golf Course, but a group of residents has expressed they won’t be supporting the proposal.

The developer said that they are preparing to submit a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID) application to the Queensland Government for its school plans following discussions with different educational institutions that expressed interest in a new school somewhere between Endeavour Blvd and Diamond Jubilee Way.

TVRG said that school enrolments in North Lakes and Mango Hill will increase in the next 15 years. Based on census data, the number of children in primary schools will increase between 1,550 to 1,790 students and 1,650 to 2,340 students in secondary schools. The developer said that while the golf course is in a sports and recreation zone, an educational facility may be allowed on the site per the planning scheme.

If approved, the school at North Lakes Common will have to incorporate the following plans:

Multiple classrooms and staff facilities of two and three storeys, and provision of sporting fields and car and bicycle parking
Catering for up to 1,700 students (800 primary and 900 secondary) and 132 staff (53 primary and 79 secondary)
Built on an 8.6 hectare site
Vehicles (cars, buses, and bicycles) will enter and exit the site from the Endeavour Boulevard and Archer Close roundabout
Making use of the existing bus network (routes 668, 684, 685, 687, 688, 689)
488 bicycle parks and 230 car parking spaces (114 short term) to be provided

Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning Deputy Premier Steven Miles will decide on the MID, after consultations with residents and Moreton Bay Regional Council. Mr Miles, however, said that he has yet to discuss with TVRG or see the proposal.

Members of the Mango Hill Progress Association met in August and elected three representatives who will challenge TVRG’s proposal.

Photo Credit: Mango Hill Progress Association/Facebook

“The Progress Association calls on Minister Miles to deny any application by the owners to re-zone a portion of the land on the North Lakes Golf Course for an educational facility,” the group declared.

Meanwhile, TVRG has yet to submit its development application to turn another section of the golf course into a retirement village. Residents who formed the Save North Lakes Golf Course group have also opposed this plan, which has the backing of the MHPA.

“The Mango Hill Progress Association fully supports the aims of the SNLGC representing North Lakes residents in their efforts to retain a quality of life that will be destroyed if commercial or educational structures are permitted in the centre of an existing compact residential community.”