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56 New Townhouses to Redefine Taigum Living

Substantial housing development is in the pipeline for Taigum, with plans lodged for 56 new townhouses at 321 Rogan Road. The ambitious project, designed by Linear 56 Design, aims to construct three two-storey buildings, offering a mix of detached and attached four-bedroom dwellings.

The proposal outlines a low-medium density development, ensuring each townhouse benefits from private outdoor space in a 35sqm courtyard. In addition, residents will have access to generous communal areas, including a swimming pool, sun lounge, pavilion, and lawn. The development will also feature ample parking, with 154 car spaces and dedicated bicycle parking for residents and visitors.

JFP Urban Consultants, the project’s planners, emphasise the development’s efficient use of existing urban land and infrastructure and compliance with all relevant planning regulations. The proposed buildings will occupy 13,540 sqm of the 28,534 sqm site, ensuring a significant portion of the open space remains.

Access to the development will be via a new private road off Rogan Road, and extensive landscaping, including deep planting and creating a drainage reserve, is planned. The project will be developed in two stages, with the first incorporating the communal open space amenities.

This development represents a considerable addition to Taigum’s housing stock, catering to the growing demand for family-friendly accommodation in the area. The focus on providing private and communal outdoor areas, convenient locations, and ample parking will likely make this development highly attractive to prospective buyers.

The development application is currently under review, and if approved, construction is expected to commence shortly.

Published Date 27-August-2024

Aspley Mum Wins $100 Million After Leaving Winning Ticket in Glovebox

A lucky mum from Aspley absentmindedly left her Division 1 ticket in her car’s glovebox, then remembered to check on it after her morning run a couple of days later, and made a life-changing, $100-million discovery!

The massive prize, drawn on Thursday night, 22 August 2024, had eluded officials as the ticket was unregistered, preventing them from identifying the winner.

The search for the lucky individual became increasingly urgent as the jackpot was the only division one winning entry in the draw. The winning numbers, drawn at 9:00 p.m., were 16, 24, 11, 4, 10, 18, 23

A Life-Changing Discovery

The winner, who purchased the ticket at a local Westfield, remained unaware of her newfound wealth until Friday morning. After returning from her morning run, she finally checked the ticket that had been sitting in her car’s glovebox.

“I was shopping the other day, and it’s coming up to my birthday, so I thought ‘why not?’ and purchased a Powerball ticket.

“The funny thing is too, I almost lost it. I had to pull over on the way home from the shops because I thought I had left it there.

“After that, I put it in my glovebox, and I completely forgot about it until this morning.

“I’m scared to breathe in case this isn’t real. We’re in complete shock.”

The woman promptly contacted officials to confirm her win, becoming the third-biggest lottery winner in Australian history.

While the identity of the Aspley mum remains private, the impact on the local area is already being felt, with businesses and residents buzzing with the news.

The Uncertainty of the Unregistered Ticket

Spokeswoman Anna Hobdell noted the anticipation surrounding the draw, especially since the jackpot is the biggest prize any Australian lottery game has offered in nearly three months. Ms Hobdell also highlighted the importance of registering tickets to ensure winners can be notified immediately after a draw.

The unregistered winner’s ticket added to the suspense, as officials were unable to contact the winner directly. This situation has prompted officials to encourage all players to register their tickets in the future to avoid any delay in receiving life-changing news.

Luckiest Store in Australia

The ticket was sold at Nextra Chermside Newsagency at Westfield Chermside. Shannon Hickey, who owns the Nextra Chermside Newsagency, expressed his amazement at having another major division one prize claimed through his store, describing the situation as “crazy.”

“It’s so exciting! We’ve had so many division one wins over the years. We counted up the other day and realised we’d sold division one winning tickets worth more than $64 million. Now we’ve sold over $164 million!” Mr Hickey said.

“Funnily enough, about a decade ago, we sold a $40 million Oz Lotto prize and at the time, that was the third biggest win in Australia. Now, this $100 million Powerball prize is the third-biggest win in Australia and the biggest in Queensland.

“It’s just fantastic and means we are the luckiest store in Australia!

“Congratulations to our winners. We wish them all the very best with their prize.”

Published 23-Aug-2024

Bruce Highway Safety Crisis: New Data Reveals Alarming Crash Rates

New data from RACQ has exposed the Bruce Highway’s alarming safety record, with Fatal and Serious Injury (FSI) crash rates three to five times higher than comparable major highways in NSW and Victoria.

Read: Gympie Arterial Road & Webster Road In Aspley Ranks Sixth Among Ten Most Dangerous Intersections In Queensland

The findings have prompted a coalition of leading Queensland organisations to demand urgent action.

According to RACQ, around 1,398 kilometres of the Bruce Highway, which passes through the Gympie Arterial Road (M3) in Carseldine and M1 in Bald Hills remains single-lane and undivided.

This leads to an average ‘per kilometre travelled’ FSI crash rate three times higher than rural sections of the Pacific Highway and five times higher than rural sections of the Hume Highway.

crash rates — Crash rates (Photo credit: RACQ)

RACQ Managing Director and CEO David Carter emphasised the highway’s substandard condition compared to interstate counterparts.

“The Bruce Highway is the backbone of this State, it’s supposed to be a national highway but when you compare it to the Pacific or Hume, it’s substandard,” Mr Carter said.

“Those interstate highways have rightfully been upgraded to three, four and five stars out of five for infrastructure safety, yet around half of the Bruce is still a poor two-star rating. In 2024, there is no way Queensland should have any two-star sections on the Bruce Highway.

The coalition is advocating for comprehensive upgrades, including widening, more overtaking lanes, and progressive duplication to dual carriageway standards. They believe there’s a need for a 10-year funding commitment from the State and Federal Governments to continue upgrading the Bruce Highway.

Alison Smith, CEO of Local Government Association of Queensland, highlighted the emotional and economic toll of crashes on local communities, stressing the critical need for improved road safety across Queensland.

“As the level of government closest to their communities, councils see the huge emotional toll that crash deaths and injuries create, even before you come to the economic cost,” Ms Smith said.

“Ensuring more funding flows to improve road safety across our decentralised state is critical to Queensland councils because it is critical to improving the liveability of their local communities.

“This includes crucial funding to improve local and state roads and support jobs throughout regional, rural and remote Queensland under key programs like the Transport Infrastructure Development Scheme (TIDs), as well as major transportation links like the Bruce Highway, which serves as a vitally important economic and social artery for so many local communities.”

Read: Beams Road Upgrade in Carseldine Prioritised in SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024

The “Fix the Bruce” campaign continues to gain traction, underlining the urgent need for significant infrastructure improvements to Queensland’s vital transport artery.

Published 13-August-2024

Carseldine Mates Strike Gold with $1.25 Million Windfall

Photo Credit: thelott.com

Two lifelong mates from Carseldine have struck gold after two decades of persistence, claiming a staggering $1.25 million prize. The pair’s unwavering commitment to their weekly ritual finally paid off, turning a ordinary Sunday morning into a life-changing event.

The windfall came as a complete surprise to the friends, despite their meticulous record-keeping. One of the winners recounted the moment of discovery: “I got an email on Sunday morning from The Lott about a win, but it didn’t specify how much we had won. I immediately started to think to myself, ‘Holy dooley! What is the prize amount?’.

“I rang up my friend straight away and I asked him to give me the ticket number so I could look up the results of our ticket.

“I looked it up straight away and I was in complete shock.“

The revelation led to an emotional phone call between the friends, with “a few colourful words” exchanged in their excitement. The winner admitted to a sleepless night following the news, his mind racing with the possibilities their newfound fortune brought.

True to Australian tradition, the pair celebrated their windfall in quintessential Aussie style. “My mate and his wife came over last night and we enjoyed a bottle of red to celebrate!” one winner shared. The evening was spent not only toasting their good fortune but also reminiscing about their long-standing tradition and discussing potential plans for their prize money.

The winning numbers for the draw were 42, 37, 4, 45, 10 and 38, with supplementary numbers 36 and 15. The Carseldine friends’ ticket was one of four division one entries, with two other winners in Queensland and one in Western Australia sharing in the prize pool.

Published 12-August-2024

Iron Maiden Set to Rock Brisbane Entertainment Centre with ‘The Future Past Tour’

Legendary British heavy metal band Iron Maiden is gearing up to electrify Australian fans with their highly anticipated “The Future Past Tour” at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Tuesday, 10 September 2024.

Read: Brisbane Bullets Back to Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Aim for New Heights with Major Move

This marks the band’s first return to Australian shores since their 2016-17 “The Book of Souls Tour,” which saw them arrive in spectacular fashion aboard their custom Boeing 747, Ed Force One.

The upcoming Brisbane show follows a string of triumphant performances across Europe, Western Canada, and a recent headline-grabbing set at California’s PowerTrip Festival. Iron Maiden’s enduring appeal is evident in the tour’s success, having already played to over 750,000 fans in more than 30 sold-out European shows during the summer of 2023.

“The Future Past Tour” promises a setlist that spans the band’s illustrious career, featuring tracks from their latest studio album “Senjutsu” alongside classics from their 1986 masterpiece “Somewhere In Time.” Fans can also expect a selection of other beloved hits from the band’s extensive catalogue.

Photo credit: Brisbane Entertainment Centre

Steve Harris, Iron Maiden’s founder and bassist, expressed his enthusiasm for the band’s return to Australia, acknowledging the patience of their loyal fanbase who have eagerly awaited their return.

Iron Maiden: Architects of Heavy Metal

Formed in East London in 1975, Iron Maiden has become synonymous with the heavy metal genre, influencing countless musicians and amassing a dedicated global following. The current lineup, consisting of Steve Harris, Dave Murray, Adrian Smith, Bruce Dickinson, Nicko McBrain, and Janick Gers, continues to push boundaries and deliver high-energy performances that have become their trademark.

Critics have hailed the European leg of “The Future Past World Tour” as a resounding success, with the band reportedly in top form. The tour has not only broken attendance records but has also reaffirmed Iron Maiden’s status as one of metal’s most enduring and vital acts.

Read: Jerry Seinfeld Headed to Brisbane in 2024 as Part of Massive Australian Tour

As the countdown to their Brisbane show begins, fans across Australia are eagerly anticipating the chance to witness Iron Maiden’s legendary live performance. With their combination of intricate musicianship, theatrical stage presence, and a setlist spanning decades of metal mastery, Iron Maiden’s upcoming concert promises to be an unforgettable night for metal enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

Visit Brisbane Entertainment Centre’s website to get your tickets.

Published 10-August-2024

Beams Road Upgrade in Carseldine Prioritised in SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024

Residents and motorists in Carseldine will soon experience significant changes as the Beams Road upgrade takes centre stage as part of an initiative to address problematic level crossings in South East Queensland, aimed at improving safety and easing congestion across the region’s transport network.

This project is one of 14 priority level crossings identified for improvement or removal under the new South East Queensland (SEQ) Level Crossing Program 2024.

Traffic Changes and Construction Details

From early August until late 2024, traffic conditions will change along Beams Road between Cowie Road and Dorville Road in Carseldine. The works will focus on upgrading the road pavement on the southern side of this stretch, with several key construction activities planned.

Key aspects of the construction include:

– Upgrading underground infrastructure and services
– Kerb demolition and road profiling works
– Installing new kerb and channel
– Asphalting and line marking

Night works will be conducted for crucial sections, and updates will be provided as the project progresses. All works are subject to weather and site conditions, and notifications will be issued if dates change.

Impact on Local Residents

Local access will be intermittently affected for residents facing Beams Road and Tullamore Street. Traffic controllers will be on-site during the day to assist with property access, ensuring minimal disruption to daily routines.

A significant change for Tullamore Street residents is the permanent shift to left-in and left-out only access, as part of the project’s design. This alteration aims to improve traffic flow and safety in the area.

Beams Road Carseldine — *Photo Credit: BCC*

SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024 Overview

The Beams Road upgrade is a cornerstone project within the SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024. This coordinated approach aims to find cost-effective solutions to some of South East Queensland’s most problematic level crossings, with a focus on reducing congestion and enhancing the performance, safety, and reliability of the transport network.

“The SEQ Level Crossing Program demonstrates our commitment to improving and removing priority level crossings across the South-East. The program is aimed at improving safety, traffic flows and public transport reliability at and around level crossings. It also allows us to prepare for increased rail services when Cross River Rail and Logan Gold Coast Faster Rail are finished.”
Bart Mellish, Transport and Main Roads

The program has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) and the Queensland Trucking Association, highlighting its significance for multiple sectors of the community.

“This is a terrific announcement which will make communities safer. We want to make level crossings history. Removing level crossings is transformational for communities. It means trains don’t have to blast their horn every time they approach the crossing. It makes for safer streets. It makes the jobs of our members safer. Everyone wins,” RTBU Queensland Branch Secretary Peter Allen commented

Future Outlook and Funding

The SEQ Level Crossing Program 2024 represents a significant step towards improving Queensland’s transport infrastructure.

With a commitment of $10 million for planning studies on priority level crossings and a focus on creating better-connected communities, the program aims to deliver long-term benefits for residents and commuters alike.

Published 5-Aug-2024

Carseldine Train Station to Offer Parcel Pickup in Queensland Rail’s Latest Initiative

Queensland Rail customers at Carseldine train station will soon be able to collect their parcels during their daily commute, thanks to a new partnership with Australia Post.

Read: Work Starts on Long-Awaited Beams Road Upgrade Project in Carseldine

This innovative service is part of a broader 12-month trial bringing Australia Post’s free 24/7 Parcel Lockers to select train stations across South East Queensland.

The trial will see Parcel Lockers installed at five train stations in the region, with the installation at the Carseldine train station scheduled for the coming months. Eagle Junction station has already launched its operational locker, paving the way for the expansion of this convenient service.

This new amenity offers a practical solution for time-pressed commuters, allowing them to collect parcels within 48 hours at a time that fits their schedule. The secure lockers will be accessible around the clock, catering to those with varying work hours or commitments.

Drew Brock, Queensland Rail’s Acting General Manager of Station Customer Service, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative.

“We are excited to partner with Australia Post to offer customers an easy way to collect their parcels as part of their journey with us,” Mr Brock stated. He also highlighted the dual benefit of enhancing customer convenience while providing a commercial return to support operational costs.

Australia Post’s Executive General Manager of Retail, Josh Bannister, emphasised the user-friendly nature of the service. Customers can easily sign up by downloading the Australia Post app, creating a MyPost account, and registering their preferred Parcel Locker location. The app also provides real-time tracking and estimated delivery dates.

“With over 750 Australia Post Parcel Locker locations across the country, customers have the option to register at multiple locations, making it easy to receive online orders in their local area or away from home,” Mr Bannister added.

To access this new service, customers can sign up through the Australia Post website or by downloading the AusPost app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store.

Read: Shorncliffe Commuters Warned of Fines for Parking Near Bayside Train Station

As the trial unfolds, both Queensland Rail and Australia Post are optimistic about the potential for expanding this customer-focused initiative. If successful, this collaboration could lead to similar services at more stations, further integrating public transportation with everyday tasks and enhancing the overall commuter experience in Queensland.

Published 1-August-2024

From Nudgee to Paris: Will Magnay to Compete in Olympics Basketball Team

Will Magnay, a former Nudgee College student, has been selected for the Australian basketball team to compete in the Paris Olympics.

Rise to Prominence

Magnay’s path to the Olympics is a reflection of his resilience and dedication.The 208cm centre played a crucial role in the Tasmanian JackJumpers’ triumphant NBL season, where they clinched the championship in just their third year.

Magnay averaged 10.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game, marking his best season as a professional player. His efforts were noticed, earning him a spot on the Boomers squad for the upcoming Olympics.

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A post shared by NBL (@nbl)

Overcoming Adversity

Despite facing significant injury setbacks in recent years, Magnay’s determination never wavered. Upon receiving his selection letter, he expressed his emotional reaction, acknowledging the rarity and honour of representing Australia on such a prestigious stage.

Growing up in Brisbane, Magnay’s talent was evident early on. He shone as a junior player and spent a year at the Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence in 2016. He then moved to the United States to play college basketball for the University of Tulsa during the 2016-17 season, where he averaged 3.9 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game.

Professional Career

After his stint in college basketball, Magnay returned to Australia to play for the Brisbane Bullets. His impressive performance in the 2019-20 season, where he averaged 8.1 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, earned him the title of the league’s most improved player and an opportunity with the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans. Although his NBA career was brief, with only one appearance, he gained valuable experience playing in the G League before returning to the NBL with the Perth Wildcats.

Magnay joined the JackJumpers in their inaugural season in 2021-22. Despite being limited to 33 games due to injuries in his first two seasons, he bounced back in the 2023-24 season, solidifying his reputation as the best rim protector in the NBL. Boomers coach Brian Goorjian recognised his defensive prowess, likening his physicality to that of Aron Baynes and Andrew Bogut.

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A post shared by Will Magnay (@willmagnay)

Looking Ahead to Paris

In addition to Magnay, the Australian team includes notable players such as Josh Giddey, Patty Mills, Joe Ingles, Dante Exum, and Josh Green. The Boomers will face tough competition in Group A, with games against Canada, Greece, and Spain in the opening stage.

Magnay’s recent performances, including a standout game against the Illawarra Hawks where he recorded 25 points, 10 rebounds, four blocks, and two steals, have bolstered his case for a significant role in the national team. His season stats, including an average of 11.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, highlight his impact on the court.

The Paris Olympics will take place from 26 July to 11 August 2024, bringing together athletes from around the world to compete in various sports, including basketball, where Will Magnay will represent Australia.

Published 17-July-2024

PCYC Zillmere and Sandgate to Host Community Open Days

Residents of Zillmere and Sandgate will have the opportunity to explore their local Police Citizens Youth Clubs (PCYC) during upcoming open days, offering a range of free activities and the chance to win gym memberships.

The events are scheduled for Saturday, 6 July 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at both PCYC Zillmere and PCYC Sandgate locations.

Community Engagement

PCYC Queensland aims to strengthen community ties through these open days. The events are designed to welcome both long-time members and newcomers, providing a glimpse into the clubs’ contributions to local neighbourhoods.

“This is a perfect opportunity to see what PCYC is all about and how we contribute to the community with your help,” said a PCYC spokesperson.

PCYC Sandgate — Photo Credit: *PCYCSandgate and Zillmere*

Activities and Attractions

Both locations will feature a variety of family-friendly activities:

– Free trial classes
– Sausage sizzle
– Face painting
– Jumping castle
– Meet and greet with PCYC staff

Zillmere-specific offerings:	Sandgate-specific offerings:
– Chance to win a 12-month gym and fitness membership – Fitness challenges – Interactive sports and games – Soft play area – Key ring making – Photo opportunities with a police car	– Gymnastics, trampoline, and freeG (ninja/parkour) classes – Little n active program for children under 5

*Photo Credit: PCYCSandgate and Zillmere*

How to Participate

Interested community members can RSVP through the respective Facebook event pages. Attendees are encouraged to invite friends and family to join the festivities.

For more information, visitors can check the PCYC Queensland website or contact the clubs directly:

Zillmere: zillmere@pcyc.org.au or (07) 3633 0244 the Facebook event page.

Sandgate: Contact details available on their Facebook page.

The PCYC open days promise to be an engaging start to the school holiday weekend, fostering community spirit and showcasing the clubs’ commitment to youth development and local engagement.

Published 5-July-2024

Tenacious D to Rock Brisbane Entertainment Centre on Spicy Meatball Tour

Get ready, music fans! The Brisbane Entertainment Centre has just revealed some exciting news. Brace yourselves for the arrival of Tenacious D, the dynamic GRAMMY®-winning duo consisting of Jack Black and Kyle Gass.

*Photo Credit: Facebook/* ***Tenacious D***

They will be gracing the stage as part of their highly anticipated Spicy Meatball Tour in 18 July 2024. After captivating audiences with a string of fully booked shows in Europe, the UK, and the USA throughout 2023, the iconic duo is set to grace Australian stages for the first time in more than ten years.

A Legendary Journey

Formed in the late 1990s in Los Angeles, Tenacious D quickly rose from their humble beginnings as former theatre students to becoming one of the most beloved rock bands globally. Numerous significant events have occurred along their journey, such as a popular HBO variety series in 1999, a platinum-certified debut album in 2001, and the cult classic movie Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny in 2006.

Acclaim and Evolution

The band’s 2012 release, Rize of the Fenix, earned them a GRAMMY® nomination for ‘Best Comedy Album,’ and in 2014, they clinched their first win for ‘Best Metal Performance.’ Demonstrating their versatility, Black and Gass launched Los Angeles’ Festival Supreme in 2013, featuring a mix of music and comedy with big names like Adam Sandler and Sarah Silverman.

In 2018, Tenacious D showcased their creative prowess with the animated film Tenacious D in Post-Apocalypto, with Black hand-drawing each frame and the band providing voices and an accompanying soundtrack. In 2020, a graphic novel will further enhance this project.

Recent Ventures

The past few years have seen Tenacious D continue to innovate. In 2021/22, they covered songs for charity, launched a line of fibre bars, and released an Audible Original, Words + Music | Vol. 29 | Tenacious D’s The Road To Redunktion. Last year, they ignited stages with The Spicy Meatball Tour, performing in 24 cities and selling out London’s O2 arena within a week of the announcement.

Their latest musical offerings include the single ‘Video Games,’ their first new track in five years, and a viral cover of Chris Isaak’s ‘Wicked Game.’ Jack Black also enjoyed solo success with the hit ballad ‘Peaches’ from the Super Mario Bros. Movie in December 2023.

A Must-See Event

As Tenacious D prepares to return to Australia and New Zealand, fans can expect an electrifying performance that reaffirms their status as the Greatest Band That Ever Played on Planet Earth. Their tour promises to be a spectacular event, with seven massive arena shows lined up, culminating in an unforgettable night at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre.

BUY TICKETS

This tour marks a significant moment for Australian fans, providing a rare opportunity to witness the unparalleled energy and humour that Tenacious D brings to the stage. With a history of sold-out shows and critically acclaimed performances, the Spicy Meatball Tour is set to be one of the standout events of 2024.

Don’t miss the chance to see Tenacious D live, delivering their unique blend of rock and comedy that has captivated audiences worldwide. Secure your tickets now and prepare for an extraordinary night with the dynamic duo.

Published Date 27-June-2024