Rothwell Archives - Page 2 of 2

Rothwell Welcomes New Homemaker Centre After Approval

Photo Credit: DA/2023/4319

Following the approval of construction plans, a new homemaker centre on a prominent 3.7-hectare site on Anzac Avenue is set to revitalise the retail scene in Rothwell.

The development, brought forward by Norhart Developments, will introduce an expansive 8539 sqm showroom, a service station, and nine tenancies ranging in size from 238 sqm to 1967 sqm.

Two drive-through restaurants and a 2500 sq m storage warehouse will be part of the development, which Norhart Developments is in charge of. Ample parking will be provided, with 365 spaces planned for the site, which boasts a 122-metre frontage onto both Anzac Ave and Buchanan St.

The plans carefully consider traffic flow. They incorporate a U-turn bay on Anzac Ave and a future connection to the Leisel Jones Dr roundabout adjacent to Bunnings. This connectivity aims to ensure smooth traffic movement within the area and accommodate the anticipated increase in vehicle activity.

The project has been met with mixed reactions from the community. While acknowledging the potential economic benefits of the development, some residents have voiced concerns about adding another service station to the area. Councillor Sandra Ruck, representing Division 5, addressed these concerns, stating that the development aligns with the town plan and must be accepted based on existing service stations.

The construction will be rolled out in two stages. The initial phase will focus on the homemaker tenancies, service stations, food outlets, and car parking. The warehouse construction will follow in the subsequent stage. This phased approach is expected to minimise disruption to the surrounding area and allow for a more manageable construction process.

With its diverse retail offerings and convenient location, the new homemaker centre is anticipated to become a hub for shoppers and a significant contributor to the local economy.

Published Date 03-October-2024

Expansive Townhouse Development Planned Near Grace Lutheran College

Photo Credit: Facebook/ AzureDevelopment

A sprawling new community of townhouses next door to Grace Lutheran College has been proposed, with a seasoned property developer setting its sights on Rothwell.

Azure Development Group, boasting a successful track record of over 1400 residential projects since 2014, has lodged plans for a masterplanned development featuring 240 townhouses. The project, situated at 499-507 Anzac Avenue, would neighbour Grace Lutheran College.

High-Quality Living

*Photo Credit: Facebook/ AzureDevelopment*

The development envisions a collection of three and four-bedroom terrace-style townhouses, each designed to provide a luxurious living experience.

Residents can expect spacious open-plan living areas on the ground floor, along with a master bedroom with an ensuite. Private outdoor areas are also a key feature, with generous courtyards ranging from 25 to 45 square metres included in each unit. Parking for two vehicles per townhouse is also incorporated in the plans.

Aesthetic Appeal and Resort-Style Amenities

Azure Development near Grace Lutheran College — *Photo Credit: Facebook/ AzureDevelopment*

Azure has placed a strong emphasis on creating visually appealing development. The application details plans for a high-quality architectural style, with the townhouses broken up into distinct “villages” to add variety. Themed facades and strategically planted trees will further enhance the aesthetics and create a sense of place within the community.

Beyond the individual residences, the development promises a resort-style atmosphere with over 3,460 square metres of communal open space and recreational facilities.

A sparkling 25-metre swimming pool with a pool deck and pavillion will be a central attraction. Additional amenities include a multi-purpose lawn, a gymnasium, designated seating areas with shade protection, barbeque spaces, and even a dedicated work-from-home area with a manager’s office.

Ideal Location

near Grace Lutheran College — *Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

The chosen site offers a convenient location for residents. Azure paid $20.1 million for the vacant 4.5-hectare block in 2023, which is right next to Grace Lutheran College. Additionally, the well-established Village Redcliffe retirement community lies to the south, while Rothwell Railway Station is situated less than 800 metres away, providing easy access to public transport.

With its focus on high-quality design, generous open spaces, and a plethora of amenities, Azure’s proposed townhouse development promises to transform the Rothwell landscape and offer an attractive living option for Brisbane residents.

Published Date 06-May-2024

Tent Cities Expand in Rothwell, Deception Bay and Surrounding Areas

Photo Credit: New Hope Care

As makeshift campsites and tent cities proliferate across South East Queensland, the plight of homelessness intensifies, with Rothwell emerging as a focal point of the growing crisis, alongside Deception Bay, Eagleby, Shorncliffe, Beenleigh, Redcliffe and Woody Point.

The situation has reached a critical point, with families, individuals, and even full-time workers finding themselves without stable accommodation.

Rising Desperation Amidst a Housing Crunch

Among these, a family of eight with six children, now living in tents at Mckillop Park in Rothwell, recounted their struggles since losing their rental property in August 2023. The parents resorted to paying exorbitant fees for powered campsites and enduring lengthy commutes to ensure their children attended school.

Reports indicate that some rough sleepers are declining crisis accommodation provided by homelessness services, citing concerns over safety and suitability.

The tent cities present unique challenges and concerns. Volunteers and support workers highlight the shifting demographics of homelessness, with single mothers, workers, veterans, and individuals facing housing insecurity seeking refuge in these makeshift shelters.

However, instances of violence and insecurity underscore the precarious nature of life within these tent cities, amplifying the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address Queensland’s housing crisis.

Response Amidst Lingering Challenges

Despite the Queensland government’s initiatives to tackle the crisis, such as promising the construction of 53,500 more social homes by 2046, the situation remains dire.

The Department of Housing, Local Government, Planning and Public Works has assisted over 500 individuals at risk of homelessness in inner-city Brisbane over the past year. Housing Minister Meghan Scanlon has emphasised the government’s commitment to ramping up construction efforts, with nearly 1000 homes under construction and plans to exceed 2000 homes per year on average.

Housing Accomodation — *Photo Credit: QLDGovt*

Additionally, expressions of interest have been invited for a new streamlined approvals process aimed at fast-tracking affordable housing developments.

However, with more than 43,000 Queenslanders on the social housing waitlist, the scale of the problem continues to outpace available solutions. Statewide data highlights the magnitude of the housing crisis, with wait times for social housing stretching to an average of 28 months.

Published 1-May-2024

Rothwell Armed Robber Apprehended by Diligent Police Dog

Photo Credit: QPS

An alleged armed robber was apprehended in Rothwell, thanks to the keen instincts of a Queensland police dog named Gator.

The incident unfolded when a 26-year-old Riverview man threatened staff at a local business with scissors and attempted to make a hasty escape.

On the evening of 15 Dec 2023, the accused entered a Rothwell business and reportedly attempted to leave without paying for several items. As he tried to exit, he allegedly brandished a pair of scissors, raising concerns among the store’s staff. Undeterred, the man fled through a nearby carpark, clutching the stolen items.

Local law enforcement officers promptly responded to the incident. Notably, they managed to locate the stolen property along with a backpack belonging to the suspect in the vicinity. The backpack held an unexpected discovery—an amount of cannabis.

The key to resolving this incident came in the form of a diligent police dog, Gator, and his handler, Senior Constable Leybourne. With their unwavering determination and tracking skills, they led officers to a Wattle Rd address in Rothwell, where the alleged robber had sought refuge.

Following his capture, the 26-year-old Riverview man was charged with armed robbery, possession of a dangerous drug, possession of a drug utensil, and eight unrelated stealing offences.

He appeared at the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 20 Dec 2023, facing the consequences of his alleged actions.

Published 22-Dec-2023

Leisel Jones Drive Unveiling in Rothwell Accompanied by Grand Festivities

She’s a dead set legend – Leisel Jones OAM, a four time Olympian, three time Olympic Gold Medalist and one of the world’s greatest ever female swimmers. With seven World Championships titles, nine Olympic medals, 10 Commonwealth Games gold medals, 14 individual world records and 23 National titles, she had nothing named after her in Brisbane … until now.

On Saturday, 5 Aug 2023, in Rothwell, Leisel Jones Drive will be finally and officially named – because her Triple M co-hosts and her fans wouldn’t take no for an answer!

AND Leisel is going to give away all of her state swimming medals (because that’s what legends do)!

The naming day will start with a free breakfast at 7:45 a.m. behind Bunnings at Rothwell. A motorcade will follow at 9:45 a.m. whilst Triple M’s RUSH HOUR with Leisel Jones, Laim and Dobbo will air live from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Prepare for an extraordinary procession of cars and a lively marching band, fit for a legend. The lineup includes:

Gene from Main Beach, arriving with a Mahindra Scorpio that holds the Guinness World Record for the Fastest Crossing by a production vehicle of the Simpson Desert.
Ash from Eagleby, showcasing his beloved 2017 Ford Mustang.
Peter from Wakerley, presenting a 2000 Sydney Olympics Edition Commodore, even though it is no longer in his possession.
Shane, the esteemed President of the FX-FJ Holden Club of Qld, joining with his impressive 1954 Holden Special Hotrod, complete with eye-catching go-faster flames.

Adding to the excitement, the purple Cadillac from the Elvis Film will be making an appearance. For context, Leisel previously interviewed and developed an admiration for Austin Butler just before the release of the Elvis movie.

Leisel Jones Drive — Photo Credit: Supplied

About Leisel Jones

The former competition swimmer and Olympic gold medallist made a splash in the sports world at the age of 15 during the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. Known for her classic breaststroke technique and remarkable achievements in the Olympics, Leisel has been an inspiration to aspiring swimmers worldwide.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Leisel Jones (@leisel_jones)

After an illustrious career in the pool, Leisel took on new challenge as she transitioned from being an athlete to being a media personality in 2014. Being one of the most renowned and prominent sports icons in Australia, she has made a name for herself as an outstanding media personality with vast expertise in commentating, conducting interviews, hosting, and engaging in light entertainment.

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A post shared by Leisel Jones (@leisel_jones)

Having surmounted personal challenges, Leisel is a vocal champion for mental health assistance and promoting a positive body image. She actively supports these charitable causes by collaborating with organizations that hold special significance to her, such as Beyond Blue.

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A post shared by Leisel Jones (@leisel_jones)

Published 4-Aug-2023

Plans Unveiled For Major Expansion Of Vehicle Showroom In Rothwell

Plans have been submitted for a significant expansion of a vehicle showroom at 731-737 Deception Bay Road in Rothwell.

Read: Community Calls to Save Old Bribie Island Bridge From Demolition Amid Plans to Build a New Bridge

The proposed development at Deception Bay Rd in Rothwell, designed by WIM Architects, is set to be a two-storey building that will provide showrooms for five vehicle brands: Kia, Subaru, Jeep, Isuzu, and Volkswagen.

The ground floor will be designated for vehicle space, with office space located on the first floor.

The existing showroom at the subject site will be removed to pave the way for the proposed redevelopment, with no modifications planned for the workshop or access to the road.

According to the planners at Tam Dang Planning, the proposed Vehicle Showroom has been designed with a focus on creating visual interest along the Deception Bay Road frontage.

This will be achieved by incorporating architectural elements such as increased use of openings, contrasting solid and textured materials, and varied colors to reduce bulk and scale while also differentiating between the different tenancies within the building.

The showrooms will span 2,275 sqm, with an existing workshop covering 1,003 sqm. There will be 24 customer car park spaces, 20 staff parking spaces, and 78 service/stock car park spaces, along with a landscaped area.

The hours of operation for the vehicle showroom will remain the same, with no modifications proposed as part of the redevelopment.

The proposed upgrade to the vehicle showroom in Rothwell will maintain the two existing access points, allowing for convenient and efficient customer and staff access to the site.

Read: New Jungle Adventure Play Sister Facility at North Lakes Proposed

To learn more about the development application, visit Moreton Bay Regional Council’s DA Tracker, with the number DA/2022/1899.

Published 11-April-2023