Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 20 of 43

Starlight Drive-In in Aspley: A Cinematic Icon Fades to Black, Now Replaced by Housing

Aspley residents may remember a time when the hum of engines and the crackling of speakers filled the night air on Albany Creek Road. That era belonged to the Starlight Drive-In Theatre, a beloved entertainment hub that merged cinema and community across the suburb’s nightscape for over four decades.

Opened in 1957 by the Sourris Brothers in Aspley, the Starlight Drive-In originally accommodated 359 cars, offering moviegoers a unique under-the-stars cinematic experience. Under the subsequent ownership of Birch Carroll & Coyle, a prominent Australian cinema chain, the drive-in flourished, adding a second screen in 1969 to become the Starlight Twin Drive-In and expanding its capacity to 650 cars by 1981.

Starligh Drive-In — *Photo Credit: Chermside District*

For years, the Starlight Twin Drive-In served as a social gathering spot, a family outing destination, and a cherished part of Aspley’s cultural landscape. It was known for its double features, playground for children, and a popular snack bar that offered classic drive-in fare.

However, the curtain fell abruptly on the Starlight Twin Drive-In in 2001 under circumstances that remain unclear. While reasons such as declining attendance due to the rise of multiplex cinemas and video rentals were speculated, the sudden closure sparked public outcry and even made headlines, highlighting the community’s attachment to this iconic landmark.

Today, the site of the former drive-in is home to residential housing. While the drive-in’s physical presence is gone, its memory lives on in the hearts of those who experienced the magic of outdoor cinema under the Aspley night sky, and it remains a nostalgic symbol of a bygone era in Brisbane’s entertainment history.

The Starlight Drive-In may have vanished from the physical landscape of Aspley, but its legacy as a community landmark and cultural icon will not be forgotten. As new residents make their homes on the former drive-in site, they become part of a story that intertwines cinema, community, and the ever-evolving nature of urban development.

Published Date 22-May-2024

Carseldine Police Crack Down on Major Drug Ring in Operation Victor Ludacris

The Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) in Carseldine has dismantled a significant drug operation in northern Brisbane, seizing illicit substances worth over $2.5 million and arresting five individuals.

Key drug trafficking organisations for methylamphetamine, GHB, and firearms were the focus of Operation Victor Ludacris, a seven-month investigation by Carseldine CIB with assistance from the Synthetic Drug Operations Unit and the Australian Border Force (ABF).

The operation involved 14 search warrants across the North Brisbane region, uncovering a large-scale drug laboratory and resulting in the seizure of a vast array of illegal drugs, including 450 kilogrammes of GHB, 168 litres of 1-4 butanediol, 84 litres of hypophosphorous acid, 2.75 kilogrammes of MDMA, and 300 grammes of methylamphetamine.

The police also confiscated $100,000 in cash, commercial-grade drug manufacturing equipment, and precursor chemicals with the potential to yield over 70 kilogrammes of methylamphetamine.

Additionally, three firearms, three remote improvised explosive devices, and 30 kilogrammes of assorted ammunition were recovered during the raids.

Since December 2023, five individuals have been apprehended and face a total of 74 charges. These charges include trafficking in dangerous drugs, unlawful possession of weapons, unlawful dealing with explosives, conspiracy to commit crime, and receiving property obtained from trafficking. All five individuals are currently in custody, awaiting court appearances.

Detective Inspector Ken Rogers emphasised the operation’s success in disrupting drug distribution networks and removing dangerous substances from the community.

He stated that illicit drugs have a devastating impact on lives and their removal contributes to reducing drug-related violence and overdoses. Rogers assured the public that the police remain committed to targeting criminal syndicates and ensuring the safety of the community.

Investigations are ongoing, with further arrests anticipated. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact Policelink or Crime Stoppers.

Published Date 20-May-2024

PBR Monster Energy Tour Set to Ignite Brisbane with State vs State Showdown at Boondall

Did you know Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Boondall will host the Professional Bull Riders PBR Monster Energy Tour – Origin I, featuring a thrilling head-to-head showdown between the Maroons and Blues, a highlight of Australia’s sporting calendar?

The Brisbane Entertainment Centre, located at Melaleuca Drive in Boondall, will open its doors for the event with a special “VIP On The Dirt” session on the 8th of June 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m., exclusively for VIP ticket holders.

The main event will kick off at 7:00 p.m. and is expected to conclude around 10:00 p.m.

VIP Experience and Prohibited Items

VIP ticket holders will enjoy a unique “Dirt Experience,” including an exclusive meet-and-greet with champion riders and protection athletes, a Q&A session, and opportunities for autographs and photos with the PBR’s all-star bulls.

Attendees are reminded that DSLR cameras, outside food and beverages, umbrellas, alcohol, chairs, and large coolers (YETIs/Eskies) are prohibited at the venue.

Background of PBR Australia

Founded in 2005, PBR Australia has developed bull riding as a stand-alone sport. Led by 1998 PBR World Champion Troy Dunn and his wife Jackie, the organisation runs about 20 sanctioned events annually across the country.

The bull rider who earns the most money throughout the season will be crowned the PBR Australia National Champion. Moreover, the top-ranked rider qualifies to represent Australia at the PBR Built Ford Tough World Finals.

PBR Monster Energy — *Photo Credit: PBR Australa*

Since its inception in 1992 by 20 bull riders, PBR has expanded globally, opening offices in Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Australia, and launching major events in these regions. With over 1,200 members worldwide, PBR offers a lucrative career pathway for bull riders, with annual competitions including the prestigious PBR World Finals in Las Vegas.

Fans looking to experience the thrill of bull riding can purchase tickets through Ticketek by calling 13 28 49.

BUY TICKETS

Our Lady and St Dympna in Aspley Marks 50 Years of Faith and Community

In a heartwarming celebration of faith and community, the parishioners of the Church of Our Lady and St Dympna in Aspley recently marked a significant milestone – the golden jubilee of their beloved church.

Read: Aerial View Shows Progress of Hawera Court Pedestrian Bridge in Aspley

The occasion was graced by the presence of Brisbane Archbishop Mark Coleridge, who joined the festivities and blessed the newly unveiled Golden Jubilee Prayer Garden.

The church, which has stood as a beacon of hope and spiritual nourishment for the Aspley community for the past 50 years, was dedicated in the same year that Archbishop Coleridge was ordained. This serendipitous coincidence added an extra layer of significance to the celebrations, as Archbishop Coleridge himself celebrated his own 50-year anniversary of ordination on May 18.

During the Mass, Archbishop Coleridge reflected on the profound journey of the Church of Our Lady and St Dympna, emphasising that a church is much more than just a physical structure.

“We’re not just celebrating a building, bricks and mortar,” he said. “It is a spiritual space where God chooses to take flesh, in a most mysterious and wonderful way.”

After the Mass, Archbishop Coleridge and parish priest Fr Biju Thomas unveiled the Golden Jubilee Prayer Garden, a serene sanctuary designed by the parishioners as a place of peace and a symbol of their gratitude and dedication. The garden’s blessing by the Archbishop was a poignant moment, further consecrating the space as a haven for spiritual reflection and communion.

The Aspley church’s golden jubilee celebration is just one of many milestones being observed by the Brisbane Archdiocese this year. In addition to Archbishop Coleridge’s own golden jubilee, the archdiocese is also commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Cathedral of St Stephen, a landmark that has stood at the heart of Brisbane’s CBD for over a century and a half.

Read: Resilience and Reverence: The Sandgate Baptist Church

As the Aspley community basks in the glow of this momentous occasion, the Church of Our Lady and St Dympna stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith, the strength of community, and the resilience of a spiritual refuge that has welcomed generations of worshippers through its doors.

Published 20-May-2024

Aspley Residents Warned After Trailer Thefts

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Aspley residents are being urged to secure their trailers and remain vigilant after a recent spate of trailer thefts across the North Brisbane area, including one incident on Albany Creek Road.

Queensland Police are investigating seven trailer thefts reported over the past week, with the stolen items ranging from box trailers and pig trailers to a Drake Quad trailer and a rented skip trailer.

In the Aspley incident, a box trailer with the registration FL1821 was reported stolen from the street front on Albany Creek Road on May 15th (reference QP2400825703).

Other thefts occurred in nearby suburbs like Deagon, Geebung, Brighton, Pinkenba, and Stafford Heights between May 7th and May 14th.

According to police, the trailers were largely stolen during the night, with many left unsecured on streets or in front yards, making them easy targets for opportunistic thieves.

Offenders take advantage of easily accessible items, such as trailers left unsecured, which can be easily attached to a vehicle for towing and then used to commit further offences, including theft of motorcycles and other goods.

Residents, especially those who own box trailers, horse floats, camper trailers or similar items, are being advised to take extra precautions:

Use off-street parking or locked garages/gates when possible
Secure trailers with high-quality wheel locks, coupling locks and chains
Avoid leaving valuables in or on trailers
Consider using engine immobilisers that meet Australian Standards for maximum protection

The police urges the Aspley community to lock up possessions and report any suspicious behaviour or vehicles to police immediately.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Policelink on www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000, quoting the relevant theft reference numbers.

Published 17-May-2024

Aerial View Shows Progress of Hawera Court Pedestrian Bridge in Aspley

Recent drone footage captures the significant progress on the construction of the Hawera Court pedestrian bridge in Aspley, hinting at a community link that’s both relevant to the times and future-proof.

The pedestrian bridge that links Hawera Court and Hawera Crescent Park is undergoing a transformative rebuild. Initially compromised by severe weather in February 2022 and dismantled in 2023 for safety, the replacement project is designed to strengthen this vital community connection.

The new bridge design incorporates a 4.3-metre-wide span, engineered to resist future flooding. The construction plan includes 3-metre-wide shared paths at both bridge ends, a kerb ramp from Hawera Court, and newly landscaped surrounds. The fabrication of the bridge is proceeding offsite, with the foundational work on site paving the way for a resilient structure.

Hawera Court Pedestrian Bridge — *Photo Credit: BCC*

Drone footage has documented the initial construction stages, providing the community with a unique glimpse into the ongoing transformation.

Full bridge installation is targeted for mid-2024, with public access anticipated by mid-year. Residents may experience temporary disturbances from noise, dust, and vibration, alongside traffic rerouting around the construction zones.

An approved Environmental Management Plan guides the project, ensuring that local wildlife and vegetation are considered. An arborist oversees the ecological aspects. An alternative route via Horn Road has been established, with clear signage directing pedestrians and cyclists around the construction site for their safety.

Once completed, the new Hawera Court pedestrian bridge will restore and significantly improve access to Hawera Crescent Park and Little Cabbage Tree Creek Bikeway, enriching Aspley’s landscape and community life.

Published 17-May-2024

Brighton Hotel Completes Major Renovation with New Beer Garden, Bistro and Sports Bar

Brighton Hotel, a popular northern coastal pub, has undergone a five-month renovation, launching a revamped beer garden, bistro, sports bar and modern accommodation.

The hotel’s interior has been modernised with the new-look bistro featuring two large skylights and lush greenery. The redesigned sports bar boasts a booth and high-table seating with big-screen LED TVs for catching live games. A new beer garden with picnic-style seating, festoon lighting, and heaters promises a cosy outdoor experience.

The revamped Brighton Hotel — *Photo Credit: BrightonHotel/Facebook*

The revamp also includes an exciting new seasonal menu catering to all dietary preferences, with pub classics and “produce-driven” dishes. Highlights include chargrilled king prawns, wagyu beef burgers, classic chicken parmies, and weekly specials.

King Prawns — *Photo Credit: BrightonHotel/Facebook*

CHECK THE MENU

Weekday Specials

Enjoy happy hour specials on Monday-Thursday with $6 schooners and house wines. Daily lunch specials, locals’ night specials, and themed nights like Tuesday steak and trivia nights are also available. Children eat free on Sundays accompanied by entertainment.

Children's corner — *Photo Credit: BrightonHotel/Facebook*

Located just a 20-minute drive from Brisbane’s city centre, the hotel offers upgraded accommodation for visitors seeking an overnight stay in addition to its new dining and entertainment amenities.

Venue manager Jerrad Athey expressed excitement about “this new chapter” as the pub welcomes back patrons.

Welcome Weekend

To celebrate its reopening, the Brighton Hotel is hosting a ‘Welcome Weekend’ from Friday to Sunday, the 17th to 19th of May 2024, with specials and activities like prawn peeling sessions, face painting, a petting zoo, meat raffles, and a Cash Cube.

Day	Starting Time	Activities
Friday, May 17th	3:00 p.m.	The Ultimate Tradie Club BBQ
		Meat Raffle
	4:30 p.m.	Kids Face Painting
	6:00 p.m.	Live Music
Saturday, May 18th		TAB Activation
	2:30 p.m.	Kids Face Painting
		Prawn Peeling Competition! Show us your prawn peeling skills for the chance to win a $500 voucher
	5:30 p.m.	Live Music
Sunday, May 19th	12 to 3:00 p.m.	Kids Entertainment
		Kids Eat Free all day, plus kids meals come with a complimentary show bag
	2:00 p.m.	Live Music

With a fresh design, diverse dining options, and lively ambience, the renovated Brighton Hotel aims to re-establish itself as a bustling community centre for both locals and tourists.

Follow them on Facebook for updates.

Published 10-May-2024

Tails Wag Supreme in Bracken Ridge

Bracken Ridge residents aren’t barking mad; they’re simply head over paws for their four-legged companions. This northern suburb boasts the highest number of registered dogs in Brisbane, with a whopping 2320 furry residents.

From tiny chihuahuas to sturdy bull arabs, Bracken Ridge showcases Brisbane’s diverse canine community. But there’s one breed that reigns supreme across the city: the ever-popular Labrador retriever.

Brisbane is home to an impressive 9605 labs, with The Gap proving a particular hotspot for these playful pups.

According to Brisbane City Council animal registration data, compiled by Ray White data analyst Jemima White, suburbs with younger families and more affordable housing tend to attract the most dog lovers. Bracken Ridge, Forest Lake, The Gap, Carindale, and Wynnum all earn top marks for their canine-friendly vibes.

“These leafy suburbs offer easy city access, great schools and parks, plus the larger house blocks that dogs adore,” Ms White explained.

The type of dog also reflects the housing style in each postcode. Inner-city apartments in areas like Brisbane City, New Farm, and Fortitude Valley see more compact breeds like Maltese and Dachshunds, while sprawling properties in Pullenvale and Anstead are ideal for energetic labs and border collies.

Breed	Count
Labrador Retriever	9605
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	7019
Border Collie	6995
Maltese	6712
Staffordshire Bull Terrier	5534
Poodle	4760
Golden Retriever	4223
Dachshund	4127
Australian Kelpie	4016
Jack Russell Terrier	3365
Cocker Spaniel	3205
Australian Cattle Dog	3029
German Shepherd Dog	2698
Shih Tzu	2409
American Staffordshire Terrier	2345
Fox Terrier	2027
Poodle (Toy)	2003
Beagle	1760
French Bulldog	1616
Poodle (Miniature)	1592
Chihuahua	1553
Greyhound	1388
Pug	1353

Source: Ray White / Brisbane City Council

The importance of a pet-friendly home doesn’t go unnoticed by house hunters. Ray White Sherwood agent Lisette Schults-Rand confirms that buyers often consider the needs of their furry companions when searching for a new property. A large, fenced yard is high on the wish list for those wanting happy and active pets.

The connection between puppies and property isn’t limited to buyers. Ms Schults-Rand has even seen sellers relocate to better suit their elderly dogs who struggle with stairs. Her own rescue greyhound, Steve, is a beloved fixture at the Sherwood office, boosting morale and providing cuddly stress relief.

*Photo Credit: Pexel/ Michael Tuszynski*

Unfortunately, Brisbane’s housing crisis is taking a toll on both people and their pets. Animal Welfare League Queensland CEO Katie Garrett reports a surge in surrender rates as pet owners struggle with rising costs and the difficulty of securing pet-friendly rentals. The AWLQ provides a vital lifeline, caring for thousands of animals each year through their shelters and community vet clinics.

Published Date 08-May-2024

Carseldine Markets Celebrates a Decade of Delicious Saturdays

Brisbane’s beloved Carseldine Markets is gearing up for a sensational 10th Birthday Party, commemorating a fantastic decade of serving delectable delights and fostering a vibrant community spirit as a staple in locals’ weekend plans.

Market coordinator Mark Power invites everyone to join in the festivities, complete with themed decorations, roaming entertainment, face painting, live music, a jumping castle, and a chance to score awesome birthday prizes.

“It’s an opportunity to celebrate and support the local farmers, growers, and small businesses who dedicate their Saturdays to making the farmers market a thriving community hub,” he said.

Visitors can load up on farm-fresh, seasonal produce from stalls like Huey’s Fruit & Veg and Linda’s Fresh Produce. Those seeking unique artisan goods can discover special finds at stalls such as Judash & Co, Sacred Pet Boutique, and Stone Tree Collection.

Huey's Fruit and Vegetable Carseldine Markets — Huey’s Fruit and Veg

No birthday celebration is complete without cake, and Carseldine Markets promises nothing less than the best for attendees to enjoy. Additionally, live music will fill the air, encouraging visitors to dance between the stalls.

Saturday, 25th May 6am – 12pm
Free Entry
Plenty of free parking
133 Dorville Road, Carseldine

Follow the event on Facebook

The Carseldine Markets, run by Goodwill Projects, is North Brisbane’s premier farmers and artisan market, attracting over 5,000 customers every Saturday morning. Goodwill Projects is one of Queensland’s most dynamic markets, events, and venues companies, curating flawless events and memorable experiences.

Published 7-May-2024

Bridgeman Downs Reveals New Commercial Centre with a Conservation Twist

Bridgeman Downs residents can soon enjoy a new commercial hub, Beckett Place, spearheaded by developer Adpen. This much-needed facility will include a childcare centre, service station, and various restaurants.

In addition to serving the community, the project, DA A005226738, approved in 2020, also plays a significant role in wildlife conservation with a $1 million privately funded koala crossing over busy Beckett Road.

This crucial addition aims to reconnect a previously disconnected wildlife corridor, ensuring safe passage for local animals and contributing to the area’s ecological health.

Beckett Place prioritises environmental responsibility alongside its commercial offerings.

Plans include:

Retaining and rehabilitating one hectare of existing native vegetation.
Planting over 1,500 new trees on the site.
Creating a 25-metre-wide green corridor linked to the fauna overpass, further facilitates animal movement.
Implementing a 2.4-metre-high fauna exclusion fence to prevent wildlife from entering traffic areas.

“We realised this site could play a more important environmental role,” said Adam Pennisi, the young developer behind the project. He highlighted the importance of the project’s location for wildlife movement due to its proximity to Cabbage Tree Creek and Albany Creek.

Director and Principal Ecologist Wayne Moffitt, provided expert advice on the project. He emphasises the long-term benefits of the fauna corridor, stating it “will be a showcase of environmentally sustainable development.”

Whilst prioritising the environment, Beckett Place also addresses the growing community’s needs for essential services and housing. The project aims to alleviate the current housing crisis in Brisbane.

Adpen, with its focus on thoughtful development and community well-being, positions Beckett Place as a model for future projects that balance progress with environmental responsibility.

Construction is expected to begin within a few months.

Published Date 17-April-2024