Petrie Archives - North Lakes Today

Olympians Back Moreton Bay Rowing Proposal as 850 Homes Planned

Olympic athletes Emily Seebohm and Curtis McGrath have joined the campaign for a purpose-built rowing venue in Moreton Bay for the Brisbane 2032 Games, as the city highlights plans for 850 homes within the broader precinct.

The proposal centres on the former Boral quarry site at Lawnton, near Petrie, which the City of Moreton Bay is promoting as a permanent flatwater venue for rowing and canoe sprint events. The site is being presented as an alternative to the preferred location on the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton.

Athlete support adds weight to the proposal

Seebohm and McGrath have appeared in promotional material backing the Moreton Bay bid.

McGrath has previously raised concerns about whether river conditions in Rockhampton would provide an even course for Olympic competition. In supporting the Moreton Bay plan, he pointed to the value of a purpose-built venue designed for consistent racing conditions.

Seebohm’s support focused on the long-term value of a permanent facility, including its potential use by future athletes and the wider community.

Their involvement gives the proposal added public profile as debate continues over where rowing and canoe sprint events should be staged in 2032.

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/YouTube

Housing and legacy plans brought into focus

City of Moreton Bay has now placed greater emphasis on the precinct’s housing component, saying the development could deliver 850 homes through a staged rollout.

The project would combine the sporting venue with residential areas, commercial space, recreation facilities and transport links connected to Petrie railway station. The planned housing mix includes family homes, smaller options for downsizers and medium-density dwellings.

Mayor Peter Flannery said the proposal was intended to leave a lasting benefit for the region rather than serve only as Games infrastructure.

Council has also identified the possibility of student accommodation linked to the nearby University of the Sunshine Coast campus, arguing that the project could support both housing supply and future workforce needs.

Partnership with Boral

The proposal is being advanced as a public-private partnership involving Boral, which owns the quarry land.

Boral executive general manager Kate Jackson said the project showed how a former quarry site could be repurposed through coordinated planning involving industry, housing and education uses.

Council says the approach would allow Games-related investment to be tied to infrastructure with an ongoing local use after 2032.

Still an alternative to Rockhampton

While support for the Moreton Bay option is growing, Rockhampton remains the state’s nominated venue for rowing and canoe sprint events.

That plan is still subject to review by the International Olympic Committee, World Rowing and the International Canoe Federation.

But with athlete support, a housing component now clearly defined, and council continuing to press the legacy case, the Lawnton-Petrie site is being positioned as more than just a sporting venue.

Published 19-March-2026

Pultron Composites to Base New HQ Next to UniSC Moreton Bay Campus

A New Zealand advanced manufacturer is set to build its Australian base beside the UniSC Moreton Bay campus in Petrie after winning the City of Moreton Bay’s $1 million Ultimate HQ competition, a prize package aimed at bringing more skilled jobs and investment into the local community.

Headquarters Set for Moreton Bay Central Near UniSC

On 4 March 2026, the City of Moreton Bay announced Pultron Composites as the winner of the Ultimate HQ headquarters package, with the new base to be established at Moreton Bay Central next to the UniSC Moreton Bay campus. The precinct has been described as a place built to connect businesses with researchers, students and facilities in a growing education-and-industry hub.

The prize includes five years of rent-free headquarters space, a $250,000 contribution towards a fit-out and professional support from partners including BDO, Constant Contact, K&L Gates, Telstra, Westpac and Innovate Moreton Bay.

Pultron Composites is an advanced manufacturer specialising in corrosion-resistant composite technologies. The company’s Mateenbar glass fibre reinforced polymer rebar is used in major infrastructure projects internationally and is promoted as supporting lower-carbon, longer-life construction solutions in the council material.

Global Contest, Local Pitch Week

Organisers said the competition attracted entries from six countries, reached more than six million people, and represented a group of applicants worth more than $500 million in potential capital investment, along with 1,000 prospective jobs.

Finalists spent five days in the City of Moreton Bay as part of an “Investor Safari” program, which included meetings with business and industry stakeholders, UniSC researchers and civic leaders, along with site visits and a live pitch. Council said the program included experiences such as the “Beach Boardroom” on Bribie Island, designed to give finalists a sense of the region and its business networks.

UniSC leadership said the headquarters location at Moreton Bay Central would place the company close to UniSC researchers, facilities and students across engineering, technology and business, creating scope for research partnerships and talent pathways.

Pultron’s spokesperson said the company valued the chance to build locally, work with UniSC and tap into the region’s strengths, based on statements included in the media release.

A Precinct Built on a Former Mill Site

Moreton Bay Central forms part of a major redevelopment of the former paper mill site in Petrie. The Economic Development Queensland project page for Moreton Bay Central describes plans for a mixed-use precinct that includes the UniSC Moreton Bay campus along with commercial and community infrastructure.

Published 5-March-2026

Boral Quarry at Lawnton Emerges as Alternative Rowing Venue Proposal for 2032 Games

Boral Quarries / Google Maps

A consortium led by City of Moreton Bay has been quietly developing plans to transform the Boral quarry at Lawnton into a purpose-built Olympic rowing facility, positioning the site as an alternative to Rockhampton’s Fitzroy River for the Brisbane 2032 Games.

The proposal would redevelop the Boral quarry on Lawnton Pocket Road, south of the North Pine River, into what proponents say could become one of the world’s best rowing venues. The site’s proximity to Brisbane Airport and connection through Petrie train station have been highlighted as major advantages compared to the 600-kilometer journey to Rockhampton.

Rowing advocates and South East Queensland business leaders have prepared high-level technical and financial analysis to present the Boral quarry proposal to authorities as an alternative venue. The plan mirrors the successful transformation of a quarry into Sydney’s Penrith International Regatta Centre, now regarded as one of the world’s premier rowing facilities.

Strategic Location Benefits

The Boral quarry is currently being decommissioned. It sits in the Moreton Bay region near the industrial area of Lawnton, close to Gympie Road and bordered by Petrie and Strathpine. The plan is to repurpose the area for lakeside recreational activities and housing. It is expected to provide easy access for athletes, officials and spectators compared to regional alternatives, with Petrie train station offering direct public transport connections.

Proposed flatwater centre with Moreton Bay International Sports Centre in the distance.
Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Boral is understood to be supportive of the quarry transformation proposal. Mayor Peter Flannery of Moreton Bay said that the facility would cost around $250 million. The cost to taxpayers would be about $150 million of that, with Boral’ contributing to the cost’s contribution recouped through the development of about 750 homes.

Lakeside homes are included in the plan. Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

The project will cost half of the planned upgrades along the Fitzroy River.

Uncertainty Around Rockhampton Venue

The 2032 Delivery Plan released in March 2025 confirmed Rockhampton as the site for rowing and canoe sprints. However, with technical field-of-play assessments still under review by international officials, the Lawnton Quarry remains a credible ‘Plan B’ for authorities looking to keep the events in the south-east.

The Boral quarry proposal emerged amid growing concerns about whether the Fitzroy River in Rockhampton can provide the flat, even conditions required for Olympic-level competition. World Rowing and International Canoe Federation standards require still water without current that could favour certain lanes or create an uneven playing field for competitors.

Proponents behind the Lawnton proposal argue that without a suitable Queensland alternative, Olympic rowing could be moved to Penrith in New South Wales, taking a marquee event away from the state. The Games Independent Infrastructure and Co-ordination Authority had previously recommended Penrith host rowing in 2032 due to wind and topographical challenges at Lake Wyaralong and Hinze Dam.

At the finish line. Artist’s perspective. Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Moreton Bay’s Olympic Role

Regardless of the rowing venue decision, City of Moreton Bay will play a significant role in the 2032 Games through the Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre. The 12-court facility at the revitalised Mill Precinct received endorsement from Australian and Queensland authorities in 2024, with procurement commencing for the $205.5 million project.

The indoor sports centre will host Olympic boxing events before becoming a legacy facility supporting basketball, netball, volleyball, gymnastics, futsal, pickleball and wheelchair rugby for the growing Moreton Bay population. With almost 700,000 people living within 30 minutes of the centre, the facility is designed to serve the community for decades beyond the Games.

Published 16-February-2026.

UniSC Talent Pipeline Fuels Jobs Growth in Caboolture and Petrie

University of the Sunshine Coast’s (UniSC) Moreton Bay campuses at Caboolture and Petrie are being positioned as a key driver of local industry growth, with more than 6,500 students studying close to 90 programs on campus, according to a new economic report card released by City of Moreton Bay.

The council’s 2025 Economic Strategy Report Card — covering the 2024–25 financial year — says the local economy is “outpacing expectations” with gains across jobs, investment and exports.

Among the headline figures cited are a $24.77 billion economy (gross regional product), up $830 million over the past 12 months, and 6,500 new jobs created, lifting local employment to 174,699.

Education and training were singled out as part of the growth story, with UniSC Vice Chancellor and President Helen Bartlett saying the economic data showed the value of universities, industry and community working together.

She said “targeted industry development, relevant research and strong education links” can support innovation, skills growth and sustainable jobs.

UniSC Caboolture
Photo Credit: Google Maps

The report card also shows that the city is tracking about a year ahead of where it was expected to be under the city’s long-term Economic Strategy 2020–2041. It points to “investment wins,” with the Council citing a projected $956 million in economic activity from secured projects.

International export growth has been led by advanced manufacturing and food and agribusiness, alongside growth in tourism, innovation, and skills development.

Hanlon Industries, a steel fabricator with operations in the City of Moreton Bay and Geelong, has expanded in Queensland. Managing director Tom Hanlon cited market opportunities, access to skilled employees and training facilities, and supply chains as factors in the move.

The company has added more than 60 jobs to its Narangba operations over the past two years and recently completed the Hope Island train station project.

Mayor Peter Flannery attributed the results to the strength of local industry and business activity, citing increases in economic output and job creation over the past year. The Council connected the latest results to a broader long-term ambition set out in its “Towards One Million” economic white paper, which highlights an opportunity to build “high-value local jobs” and lift the local economy to $78 billion by 2060.

The mayor added that Moreton Bay’s focus is on maintaining momentum as the city grows, including supporting businesses, attracting investment, and building skills and infrastructure.

Published 13-Feb-2026

Featured Image Credit: UniSC in Caboolture/Google Maps

Moreton Bay SES Petrie Member Honoured For Emergency Service Work

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

A volunteer with the Moreton Bay SES unit in Petrie has been recognised in the City of Moreton Bay 2026 Australia Day Awards for long-term service supporting emergency response and volunteer training.

Service Through The Moreton Bay SES Petrie Unit

Ronald Aquilina received a Mayor’s Community Spirit Award for his contribution to the State Emergency Service, with official material identifying him as part of the Moreton Bay SES Unit, Petrie.

His service spans more than a decade and includes operational roles before, during and after disaster events. The award material highlights his work coordinating and training SES members on flood boats, as well as his role in supporting volunteer readiness.

Training And Mentorship Focus

According to the award citations provided, Mr Aquilina developed a structured mentorship program to support new SES volunteers. The initiative focused on building practical skills and supporting volunteers as they progressed through operational roles.

The material states that these initiatives improved crew capability and safety through coordinated training and mentoring, contributing to more effective disaster response.

Australia Day Awards 202 — Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Experience Across Emergency Response

Mr Aquilina’s experience with Volunteer Marine Rescue is also referenced in the award material, informing his roles within the SES. His background across both organisations supported training and operational coordination.

Recognition for his service includes internal SES acknowledgements, reflecting his involvement in training, leadership and volunteer development.

Moreton Bay SES Petrie — Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Other Honourees Recognised

The same City of Moreton Bay 2026 Australia Day Awards also recognised Chris Paterson as Citizen of the Year for work through Bamboo Projects, which employs people living with disability or mental health challenges to remove marine debris from local waterways.

Mayor’s Community Spirit Awards were also presented to Jan Schutt and Alison Schutt for their work with Stationery Aid, an initiative redistributing unused school supplies to students facing resource barriers across the City of Moreton Bay.

Published 28-Jan-2026

Petrie Focuses on Safety as New Sensors Track Flying Fox Health

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Petrie is at the centre of a new wildlife protection initiative where innovative heat-tracking sensors are monitoring local flying fox colonies to prevent heat stress during hot weather.

High-Tech Help for Heatwaves

The City of Moreton Bay has joined forces with Queensland technology firm Kallipr to place 16 specialised sensors across eight known roosts. These devices track temperature and humidity in real-time. This data is vital as the region prepares for higher summer temperatures. The sensors are built to withstand harsh environments and can work even in areas with poor phone reception. This means council staff do not have to physically travel to the sites to check conditions.

When the temperature rises above a certain safety level, the system sends an immediate alarm. This alert allows council officers to notify wildlife rescue organisations quickly. Carers can then step in to help the animals before the heat causes serious harm. Mayor Peter Flannery noted that this technology helps researchers understand how heatwaves affect the animals and what can be done to protect them in the future.

Understanding the Locals

Moreton Bay is home to three types of flying foxes. The Black and Grey-headed flying foxes live in the area all year, while the Little Red flying fox visits during the summer. Although it might look like there is a sudden explosion in numbers when the Little Reds arrive, these animals only have one baby a year. They are intelligent, social creatures and play a critical role in pollinating native trees like Eucalypts over long distances.

Despite their importance, living near roosts can sometimes be difficult for residents. The council has started several projects to manage these impacts. In Petrie specifically, park furniture and a footpath at Sweeney Reserve were moved away from a roost to create distance between people and the bats. New signs were also added to keep the community informed.

Safety and Long-Term Plans

Health experts emphasise that residents should never touch a flying fox. While less than one per cent of the population carries Australian Bat Lyssavirus, the virus can be transmitted through bites or scratches. However, living or walking near a roost or coming into contact with droppings does not pose a risk. Mayor Flannery advised that anyone who sees an injured animal should call a professional wildlife carer immediately rather than trying to help it themselves.

Local authorities do not support trying to scare the bats away with noise or smoke, known as dispersal. This method is expensive and rarely works because the animals often return to their original home or split into smaller, more problematic groups nearby. Instead, the council is working on a ten-year regional plan with 12 other councils to manage roosts sustainably. This includes using DNA analysis to study what the bats eat, which will help with future landscape planning.

Published Date 10-December-2025

Bluey and Bingo Head to Petrie for the G’day Little Queenslanders Celebration

On Sunday, 26 October 2025, G’day Little Queenslanders will host a morning of celebration and community connection at The Mill at Petrie.

Read: Petrie May Host Brisbane 2032’s Largest Timber Venue

Proudly presented by Queensland, the free family event celebrates the state’s youngest residents, affectionately known as “Little Queenslanders,” while connecting parents, carers and community services in a welcoming setting.

A key highlight of the morning will be a Live Interactive Experience featuring Bluey and Bingo, giving children the chance to see the popular TV characters in person. Families can also enjoy children’s entertainment, food trucks serving local treats, and community stalls offering information and resources to support Queensland families.

Parents of babies and toddlers can register on the day to receive a personalised keepsake certificate, officially welcoming their child into Queensland’s growing story. The certificates are available for children aged 0–2 and serve as a memento for families marking those early years.

The event aims to celebrate families and strengthen connections between Queenslanders with young children. For many parents, especially those with newborns, opportunities to meet others and discover local services can be invaluable, and G’day Little Queenslanders provides just that.

The Mill at Petrie will host the celebration in its open community space, with plenty of room for families to relax, enjoy the entertainment and spend time together. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket and make the most of the morning’s activities.

The Petrie celebration is one of several stops on the G’day Little Queenslanders tour, which also includes Townsville, Redlands Coast and Cairns throughout October and November. Each event offers families across Queensland a chance to celebrate their newest members and learn more about local community resources.

Read: Plans Submitted for Major Student Accommodation in Petrie

Whether you are a parent, grandparent or carer, this free morning of family fun is an opportunity to enjoy time together, meet others and create a few happy memories.

For more details and to pre-register for your Little Queenslander’s certificate, visit qld.gov.au/littlequeenslanders.

Published 22-October-2025

Eco Fest Returns to UniSC Moreton Bay with Dr Karl Leading the Green Conversation

Photo Credit: What's On Moreton Bay/Facebook

Petrie’s UniSC Moreton Bay campus will transform into a sustainability hub as the Moreton Bay Eco Fest returns this November, bringing families, community groups, and experts together for a day of learning and action.

A Day for the Community

The free community festival runs on Sunday, 9 November 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at UniSC Moreton Bay, Petrie. It is presented by the City of Moreton Bay and delivered by Tourism and Events Moreton Bay.

The Eco Fest promotes simple, practical ways for locals to live more sustainably. Families will explore interactive activities, workshops, and live demonstrations covering topics from recycling to gardening and conservation.

The event invites everyone to take part, whether they are long-time environmental advocates or residents looking to start small changes at home.

Dr Karl Takes the Stage

Australia’s well-known science communicator Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM will headline the main stage, offering his signature mix of curiosity and clarity to help visitors understand environmental science in everyday terms.

His appearance is arranged through Claxton Speakers International and adds a strong educational highlight to the festival.

What to Expect

Festivalgoers will find community stalls, educational booths, and local food vendors throughout the venue. The main stage will feature a full lineup of entertainment and sustainability talks announced later in the year.

Entry is free, but organisers encourage early arrival to enjoy all scheduled activities. The campus’ status as a wildlife reserve means pets are not permitted, though service animals are welcome.

Supporting Local Action

Mayor Peter Flannery said Eco Fest gives locals a chance to connect, learn, and take small steps toward positive change. Stallholder registrations close on Friday, 5 September 2025. Businesses and community groups are encouraged to showcase sustainable ideas and products.

Partners like Belgravia Leisure, Australian Trade College North Brisbane, Epic Assist, Bishopp, and Akyra Strategy & Development support the shared goal of making sustainability part of daily life.

Published 13-October-2025

Site Secured for $60 Million TAFE Centre of Excellence in Petrie

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook

A $60 million TAFE Centre of Excellence will be developed in Petrie, following the completion of a land transfer that allows construction to begin in 2026 at the Moreton Bay Central site. The new facility will expand training opportunities across key industries while supporting the region’s growing workforce needs.

New Skills and Manufacturing Hub in Petrie

The planned Moreton Bay TAFE Centre of Excellence will feature an Advanced Manufacturing Hub to strengthen the region’s billion-dollar manufacturing sector. The hub will focus on providing hands-on, industry-aligned training in construction, engineering, electrotechnology, and advanced manufacturing. The project aims to give residents the opportunity to train and work locally, supporting workforce retention and regional development.

TAFE Centre Petrie — Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook

Land Transfer and Construction Timeline

Located within the Moreton Bay Central precinct, the site will be transferred from the City of Moreton Bay to the Queensland Government, marking an important step towards the project’s delivery. Construction is scheduled to commence in 2026. The facility’s location—next to the future Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre, a confirmed venue for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games—positions it as a key investment in long-term regional growth.

TAFE Centre of Excellence — Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook

Expanding Training Capacity Across Queensland

The Petrie facility is part of a $201.1 million initiative to establish four new TAFE Centres of Excellence across the state, alongside Caloundra, Rockhampton, and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands. The project will introduce modern training technologies such as augmented reality and smart learning hubs, providing students with access to real-world, job-ready experience. This initiative seeks to bridge skills gaps in high-demand sectors and strengthen the local labour market.

manufacturing hub — Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay/Facebook

Supporting Local Growth and Innovation

The Centre of Excellence is expected to enhance Moreton Bay’s reputation as an education and innovation hub. Local officials have welcomed the project, noting its proximity to the University of the Sunshine Coast’s Moreton Bay campus, which opens possibilities for collaboration between tertiary education and vocational training. The new facility is also anticipated to boost local employment, promote advanced manufacturing, and equip the region with a future-ready workforce.

Future Outlook for Petrie

Set to begin construction in 2026, the Moreton Bay TAFE Centre of Excellence will deliver a lasting contribution to Petrie and the surrounding region. Once complete, it will serve as a cornerstone for education, training, and economic growth, providing high-quality facilities that meet the evolving needs of local industries.

Published 12-Oct-2025

Petrie May Host Brisbane 2032’s Largest Timber Venue

Photo Credit: QLD Gov

Petrie is set to house what may become the largest mass timber venue of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, as plans progress for a major indoor sports facility.

Timber Venue Planned in Petrie for Brisbane 2032

A major indoor sports centre proposed for Petrie could become the largest mass timber venue built for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The facility, known as the Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre, has entered procurement with design tenders now open. If delivered as planned, it will stand out as a key example of sustainable stadium construction in South East Queensland.

Located within the Mill Precinct in Petrie, the project is being overseen by the Games Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) in collaboration with the Queensland and Australian governments, as well as the City of Moreton Bay. Early works have already started at the site, and the venue has been formally included in the 2032 Delivery Plan announced in March 2025.

Timber Olympic venue — Photo Credit: QLD Gov

Timber Design and Sporting Features

The venue will feature mass timber elements across its two-hall layout, accommodating 12 indoor courts for basketball, netball, volleyball, gymnastics, futsal, pickleball, badminton, and wheelchair rugby. It is expected to seat up to 10,000 spectators. During the Games, the centre is earmarked for boxing events and may be used for other indoor competitions.

Officials have been working on the timber-focused design for over a year, aligning the venue with broader sustainability goals for Olympic infrastructure. The City of Moreton Bay will retain ownership of the facility, which is also intended to address long-term community demand for indoor sports space.

The Mill Precinct — Photo Credit: QLD Gov

Timeline and Local Contribution

The project is moving into its detailed design phase, with procurement for the Principal Design Consultant underway. Major construction is scheduled to begin in 2026, with completion expected in 2029. Legacy operations for the local community will commence shortly after, with a transition to post-Games use in late 2032.

The City of Moreton Bay has contributed the land and enabling works, with the broader $7.1 billion Olympic infrastructure package receiving $3.4 billion in federal support. The facility’s construction within Petrie reinforces the suburb’s growing role as a regional hub and reflects a trend towards incorporating engineered timber in major venue designs.

Published 10-July-2025