Westfield North Lakes Archives

North Lakes Local Heroes Finalists Support Inclusion, Education and Recovery

Care at home, help for children struggling at school and support for women rebuilding after domestic violence are among the services represented by Westfield North Lakes’ 2026 Local Heroes finalists.

Christine Neiland of Rainbow Care Home Services, Diana Green of Hope Ventures and Mimi’s House, and Lou Feltham Smith of Miracle Mums Movement are the three finalists for Westfield North Lakes. Voting closed on 20 September, with the successful Local Hero due to be announced on 20 October.

The successful finalist will receive a $20,000 grant for their organisation, while the other two finalists will each receive $5,000.

Christine Neiland makes care more inclusive

Christine Neiland leads Rainbow Care Home Services, which provides aged care and disability support with a focus on inclusion and individual choice. The organisation was established in 2020 and provides in-home aged care, NDIS services, support coordination and plan management, alongside specialist services for LGBTQI+ clients.

Its Rainbow Support services include personal care, help with daily living, transport, respite, community access and domestic assistance. Staff delivering the service are either members of the LGBTQI+ community or allies. Neiland’s work focuses on people who may have experienced discrimination or isolation and who want care that respects their identity, relationships and independence.

Rainbow Care Home Services is also a registered NDIS provider, with its registration listed through to May 2028.

Diana Green helps children reconnect with school

Diana Green works with primary school-aged children who are at risk of disengaging from education through Mimi’s House. The program supports children from Prep to Grade 5 who face barriers to learning, using a small-group, home-like environment to build confidence, social skills, resilience and stronger engagement with school.

Children attend on the same day each week across a full school year, giving them continuity and regular contact with staff and volunteers. Mimi’s House operates in Logan and Moreton Bay, including a site at Rothwell, and works with schools, families and local communities.

Hope Ventures, which supports the program, says more than 500 children have taken part in Mimi’s House since it began.

Lou Feltham Smith supports life after abuse

Lou Feltham Smith founded Miracle Mums Movement after her own experience of domestic and family violence. The Redcliffe-based charity focuses on women who have moved beyond the immediate crisis stage and are trying to rebuild confidence, identity and independence after abuse.

Feltham Smith developed the organisation around survivor-led and trauma-informed support, including workshops, peer connection and programs intended to help women regain a sense of control over their lives. Her own experience shaped the direction of the charity. After leaving an abusive relationship, she identified what she saw as a gap in support for women after separation, when practical safety concerns can remain alongside longer-term emotional and financial pressures.

Feltham Smith has also contributed to public discussion around coercive control and post-separation abuse. In a Queensland parliamentary submission, she described her experience as a survivor and mentor to women leaving abusive relationships through Miracle Mums Movement.

Different needs, practical support

Neiland’s work centres on inclusive care, Green focuses on children at risk of disengaging from education, while Feltham Smith supports women rebuilding after abuse. Their organisations operate across different parts of the Moreton Bay community, but each finalist has developed practical services around people who can face isolation, disruption or reduced access to support.

The successful 2026 Westfield North Lakes Local Hero will be announced on 20 October.

Published 21-Sept-2026

Marvel Crafts and Plush Giveaways Head to Westfield North Lakes

Spider-Man bookmarks, Hulk slime and personalised tote bags are among the free activities heading to Westfield North Lakes, with a small daily giveaway adding another reason for Marvel fans to stop by during the school holidays.

The program runs from 28 September to 3 October, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. each day, between Concierge and Boost Juice. A different activity is scheduled across the six-day run.

Start with Spider-Man

The week opens with Spider-Man bookmark-making on Monday before switching to Marvel door signs on Tuesday.

From Wednesday to Friday, children can customise their own tote bags, while Hulk slime takes over the final session on Saturday.

The sessions are free and sit within a broader school holiday program at the centre, which also includes other family activities and entertainment.

Plush toys while stocks last

Westfield members can also redeem a reversible Marvel plush at the activity station while stocks last.

The giveaway is available from 28 September to 3 October, with 30 plush toys available each day and a total allocation of 180. Members must also enter the Hong Kong Disneyland competition to redeem one, with a maximum of two plush toys per member per day.

Hong Kong prize runs separately

A second promotion gives Westfield members the chance to win a Marvel-themed family holiday to Hong Kong Disneyland.

Entries are open from 17 September to 11 October, with one Australian winner to receive a trip valued at up to $9,245 for two adults and two children aged two to 11.

The prize includes return flights, accommodation and park tickets, while the North Lakes craft program finishes earlier, on Saturday, 3 October.

Saturday ends with Hulk

The final day shifts away from bookmarks and tote bags and ends the week with Hulk slime. Activities run from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., with the plush giveaway also continuing while daily stocks last.

Published 20-Sept-2026

World-Class Circus and FMX Stunts Head to North Lakes This September

Photo Credit: Circus Rio Official/ Facebook

Who would expect a Guinness World Record motorcycle daredevil to launch through a suburban big top? Families in North Lakes are about to find out when the Circus Rio Spectacular arrives.

Aerialists will dance through the air on silks and straps while a cloudswing artist demonstrates fearless agility overhead. Down on the ground, a contemporary juggler manipulates balls, rings, and up to seven clubs simultaneously—a feat rarely seen anywhere else across the country.

Handbalancing acts, Rou Cyr wheel routines, and grand illusions fill the programme alongside family-friendly comedy.

A three-time Guinness World Record holder, FMX stunt rider Brodie Carmichael, headlines the grand finale with death-defying jumps above the crowd. The Big Top operates as an alcohol-free, family-oriented venue featuring complete wheelchair accessibility, companion card acceptance, and designated ringside seating.

An on-site canteen remains open throughout each performance to serve hot food, snacks, and beverages for local families looking to enjoy a full day out.

The production runs from 18 September through 4 October, bringing international and Australian performers straight to the local community for the spring school holidays. Audiences can secure tickets online or catch the action across two action-packed halves separated by a brief intermission.

Updated 8-September-2026

North Lakes Cinema to Screen New Breast Cancer Documentary

Moreton Bay residents can attend screenings of Conquering Breast Cancer at Event Cinemas North Lakes. Featuring survivor stories, medical experts and advocates, the documentary aims to raise awareness and encourage greater support for breast cancer prevention, detection and research.

Presented beginning 10 June by filmmaker Sue Collins and produced by impact filmmakers Mike Hill and Sue Collins, the feature-length documentary combines expert medical insight with the personal experiences of survivors, advocates and researchers working to reduce the impact of breast cancer in Australia.

Among those featured are Olympic legend and breast cancer advocate Raelene Boyle AM, MBE, First Nations survivor and mountaineer Kristal Kinsela, male breast cancer survivor and former professional basketballer Paul Maley, and podcaster Dr Charlotte Tottman. The film also includes insights from leading experts including Professor Bruce Mann, Professor Kelly-Anne Phillips and Associate Professor Christine Chaffer.

conquering breast cancer documentary — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

More Than 20,000 Australians Diagnosed Every Year

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Australian women and the second most commonly diagnosed cancer overall.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, more than 20,000 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Around 56 people receive a diagnosis every day, while more than 3,300 Australians lose their lives to the disease annually — the equivalent of approximately nine deaths every day.

While the majority of cases occur in women over 50, breast cancer also affects younger Australians. Around 1,000 women under the age of 40 are diagnosed each year, highlighting the importance of awareness and early detection across all age groups.

The Survivors, Advocates and Experts Behind the Film

Rather than focusing solely on statistics, Conquering Breast Cancer tells the stories of Australians whose lives have been changed by the disease.

The documentary follows survivors, patient advocates and researchers from across the country, exploring everything from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship, recurrence, genetic risk and the emotional impact breast cancer can have on individuals and families.

breast cancer patient — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The film also highlights the experiences of people living with metastatic breast cancer, as well as Australians making difficult decisions around preventative treatment after discovering they are at high genetic risk of developing the disease.

Early Detection Remains One of the Strongest Defences

A central theme throughout the documentary is the importance of prevention and early detection.

Medical experts featured in the film discuss advances in screening technologies, personalised risk assessment, targeted therapies and clinical trials that are helping improve outcomes for patients.

While Australia has achieved five-year survival rates of more than 90 per cent, the filmmakers argue that breast cancer is far from solved and that ongoing investment in research, screening programs and access to treatment remains essential.

The documentary also examines how researchers are working towards reducing recurrence rates and improving long-term outcomes for those who have already undergone treatment.

researchers working on breast cancer improvements — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The Growing Impact on Australian Families and Communities

Beyond the personal toll, breast cancer continues to have a significant impact on communities across Australia.

More than 160,000 Australians are currently living after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis within the past decade. Research has also shown the disease carries substantial social and economic costs, affecting workforce participation, family wellbeing and quality of life.

breast cancer warriors and supporters — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The filmmakers hope the documentary will encourage more Australians to understand their personal risk, participate in recommended screening programs and support ongoing efforts to improve prevention, treatment and research.

As the third instalment in the Conquering Cancer documentary series, Conquering Breast Cancer aims to start conversations, challenge complacency and highlight both the progress that has been made and the work that still lies ahead.

For more information and session times, visit ConqueringBreastCancer.com.au.

Published 9-June-2026

Disney Cars Take Over Westfield North Lakes These School Holidays

Photo Credit: westfieldnorthlakes/instagram

Westfield North Lakes is bringing Disney and Pixar’s Cars to life with a week-long craft zone, giving families a chance to create keepsakes inspired by Lightning McQueen and friends.

Daily Creative Fun for Kids

The Disney Cars Craft Zone runs from Saturday, 20 September to Friday, 26 September at Centre Court near Concierge. Activities are open daily between 10 am and 1 pm, with new projects featured across the week. Entry is free and open to children and families.

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Each day of the program offers a different craft activity linked to the Cars theme. Children can customise tote bags, decorate pencil cases, or paint their own Cars plasters. The variety means families returning on multiple days can experience something new each visit.

More Than Crafts

The Craft Zone is part of a wider school holiday line-up at Westfield North Lakes. Alongside the Cars activities, children can join a paid LUSH workshop from 1 to 3 October, where participants create their own bath bomb or bubble bar.

*Photo Credit: westfieldnorthlakes/instagram*

Event Cinemas, Planet Arcade, and nearby dining options add further entertainment for families spending the day at the centre.

Added Bonus for Members

Along with the craft activities, Westfield members are eligible to enter a competition running until 13 October. The prize is a three-night family trip to Disneyland Resort in California, including access to Cars Land. The package covers return flights for two adults and two children, provided in partnership with Flight Centre.

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In partnership with Disney, Westfield is offering members a chance to win a 3-night family holiday to Disneyland Resort in California, including Cars Land, thanks to Flight Centre. Enter daily via the Westfield app from 18 September to 13 October

Community-Focused School Holiday Activities

Westfield highlights the program as a family-friendly way to keep children engaged during the break. The North Lakes page also points out quieter hours in the centre for visitors who prefer a calmer environment.

By mixing free events with bookable activities, the centre aims to provide options for all families across the holiday period.

Published 24-September-2025

Magical Disney Princess Adventure Comes to Westfield North Lakes

Westfield North Lakes is set to transform into an enchanted realm of Disney Princess magic! From Monday, September 16 to Sunday, September 22, families can immerse themselves in a world of wonder and creativity with the ‘Spark Magic’ Disney Princess collaboration.

Read: The Reject Shop to Open New North Lakes Outlet at Westfield

The centrepiece of this magical event is the Disney Princess Adventure, an immersive viewing experience that promises to captivate visitors of all ages. Each day from 10am to 2pm, the shopping centre will come alive with a variety of princess-themed activities designed to spark imagination and create lasting memories.

Young royal enthusiasts can channel their inner Fairy Godmother at wand-making sessions, craft colourful bead bracelets fit for a princess, and decorate their own crowns to wear proudly throughout the kingdom of North Lakes. These ‘Spark Magic’ Stations offer a perfect blend of creativity and Disney charm, ensuring fun for children of all ages.

The magic doesn’t stop there. Westfield is offering guests the chance to make their dreams come true with an extraordinary competition. Visitors can enter a draw to win a fairy tale holiday for six to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, including a once-in-a-lifetime stay in the exclusive Cinderella Castle Suite – an opportunity that’s truly fit for royalty.

Disney World in Florida (Photo credit: Walt Disney World Resort/Google Maps)

Jacqui Waine, Westfield General Manager of Marketing and Community, expressed excitement about bringing the beloved Disney Princesses to life at their destinations. “We’re delighted to ignite imaginations and create unforgettable memories for families and Disney fans,” Waine said. “We know fandom for Disney Princesses runs deep, and we’ll make dreams come true with the wonderful experiences on offer.”

This event is part of a larger collaboration between Westfield and Disney, designed to celebrate courage, kindness, and the power of dreams throughout 2024. Tim Everett, Vice President and General Manager of Consumer Products at The Walt Disney Company Australia & New Zealand, emphasised the goal of creating special moments for Westfield customers that will resonate with Disney Princess enthusiasts of all ages.

Read: North Lakes Joins Growing Queensland Youth Partnership Initiative

The ‘Spark Magic’ event at Westfield North Lakes is a must-visit destination for families looking to add a touch of Disney enchantment to their school holiday plans. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Disney Princesses or new to the magic, this week-long celebration promises to offer something special for everyone.

Published 16-September-2024

The Reject Shop to Open New North Lakes Outlet at Westfield

Discount retailer The Reject Shop is set to expand its presence in southeast Queensland with the opening of a new outlet in North Lakes later this month.

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

The store will be located at Westfield North Lakes, directly opposite Woolworths, and is scheduled to open on June 27. This new addition is part of The Reject Shop’s broader expansion plan, which includes another new store in Park Ridge.

The North Lakes store is currently undergoing its final fit-out stages, with a spokesperson confirming that it will match the size and extensive product range of the chain’s other 380-plus locations across Australia.

This store’s launch will also coincide with the introduction of The Reject Shop’s new homewares line, Secret Garden, promising customers fresh and exciting products.

Regional Manager Nick Barker highlighted the significant role the North Lakes store will play in the local community, particularly during a period marked by rising cost-of-living pressures. He said they are looking forward to their new store assisting the local community in reducing their weekly shopping bill.

The new North Lakes store will offer substantial savings on a wide variety of products and create dozens of jobs for local residents. The Reject Shop’s extensive product range includes well-known brands such as Cadbury, Tresemme, Pepsi, Omo, Finish, Scrub Daddy, and Schmackos.

In addition to these household names, the store will feature a broad selection of cleaning and household necessities, a new pet range that has become popular among pet owners, and unique items for various occasions and holidays, from parties to Halloween, Easter, Mother’s Day, and Christmas.

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

At The Reject Shop, customers can find everything they need for any room in the house, from storage solutions to kitchenware, garden supplies, hardware, and toys. This comprehensive offering is designed to cater to the diverse needs of everyday shoppers, making it a go-to destination for budget-conscious consumers.

Published 5-June-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

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

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.