Around $35 millionhas been earmarked towards a detailed investment proposal for building a Kedron to Carseldine toll tunnel that is widely expected to alleviate traffic congestion.
The congestion-busting project has the potential to seamlessly link the Bruce Highway to Legacy Way, Clem 7, M1, and the Centenary Highway.
“Forecast population growth on the Sunshine Coast and in the Moreton Bay region will increase traffic into Brisbane, so now is the right time to do this work,” Treasurer and Minister for Trade and Investment Cameron Dick said.
“Based on Brisbane’s most recent road tunnel projects, from this point the tunnel could potentially be built within about eight years if it stacks up,” he added.
The Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC) will oversee a feasibility study for the project, focusing on its viability, adherence to set standards, and taking into account the needs of public and active transportation, including provisions for bicycle lanes.
As part of the detailed investment proposal, potential benefits will be examined. These include shorter commuting times, enhanced connections between the Bruce Highway and the Sunshine Coast, improved links to the west of the city via Legacy Way, and southern connectivity through the Clem 7 to the M1.
To ensure the successful execution of the study, QIC will establish a new entity called North Brisbane Infrastructure, which will be responsible for performing comprehensive transportation modelling, conducting technical evaluations, and carrying out financial analyses.
Photo credit: Trouts Rd, Aspley/Google Maps
“This is the simplest, most effective and least disruptive solution to Gympie Road gridlock,” Member for Aspley Bart Mellish said, explaining that locals tell him they don’t want to see a new road constructed on the Trouts Road corridor, which would effectively cut the northside community in two.
“I’ve been pushing for a fix to Gympie Road Gridlock for a long time – and I’m thrilled that we’ve now got a real solution on the table,” he added.
The tunnel, when built, also spells good news for suburbs impacted by the Kedron to Carseldine route.
“More and more people are recognising Pine Rivers as a great area to raise a family, but the lack of an efficient corridor to the city and beyond can make the commute unsustainable. A new tunnel under Gympie Road would unblock across Brisbane’s north,” Member for Pine Rivers Nikki Boyd said.
Additionally, the project aims to enhance the local residents’ quality of life by diverting through traffic from Gympie Road.
Member for Stafford Jimmy Sullivan made the observation that Gympie Road is being forced to function as both a highway and a local road at the same time.
“It can’t continue to do both,” he said. “By taking through-traffic underground, Gympie Road could go back to its original purpose of connecting locals to local destinations.”
Given the significance of the project, any tunnel that’s built as an outcome of the feasibility study will need to be tolled.
Community consultation to allow local residents, businesses and other key stakeholders to have their say on the Kedron to Carseldine toll tunnel will be undertaken in late 2023.
Fulfill your European winter dreams whilst sipping a glass of traditional Glühwein (mulled wine) at the pop-up bar at the Carseldine European Wintertide Wonderland, where an array of delicious seasonal eats, artisan wares, live music and other entertainment are sure to warm your spirits.
The Carseldine Markets, in collaboration with Goodwill Projects, is bringing the European Wintertide Wonderland, with 250 unique stalls filled with handmade, local artisan treasures, to Brisbane on Saturday, 15th July.
Grab a cup of steaming Glühwein or pick up your favourite Stone & Wood craft brew at the first-ever Alps Bar and do winter the European way.
As the sun sets, bask in the warm glow of the bonfires while enjoying sensational live music across two stages with tunes to keep you grooving all night long! Be sure to keep an eye out for all the wintery entertainment that will be roaming through the event, from stilt walkers to fire twirlers, there’s no shortage of surprises waiting to be discovered.
Mark your calendars and get ready to walk through a winter wonderland.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Over 250 Artisan Vendors
Over 40 Food Trucks
Alps Pop-up Bar with Traditional Glühwein
Live Music on 2 Stages
2 Foodie Areas
Lots of Roving Entertainment & Kids Activities
Carseldine Wintertide Wonderland Saturday 15th of July | 4pm to 10pm 133 Dorville Road, Carseldine $3 Entry and Free Parking Facebook Event Page
About Carseldine Markets and Goodwill Projects:
The Carseldine Markets are North Brisbane’s premiere farmers and artisan Markets, with over 5000 customers every Saturday morning and an exciting calendar of Twilight Markets and themed pop- ups.
Goodwill Projects is one of Queensland’s most dynamic markets, events and venue companies. Curating flawless events and memorable experiences.
Heads up, Disney fans in Brisbane! Disney On Ice presents 100 Years of Wonder at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. It’s gonna be an epic adventure – and the perfect school holiday treat!
This action-packed show, running from July 6 to 9, features beloved Disney characters from Moana, Toy Story, Frozen, and more.
Mickey Mouse and his mates embark on a treasure hunt with Captain Hook, sail the seas with Moana, and sing along with Elsa in the icy world of Frozen.
But that’s not all! Expect high-flying acrobatics, unexpected stunts, and wow-moments both on the ice and in the air. It’s a show that families and kids of all ages will love.
In the Moana segment, you’ll see Moana and Maui journey across the ocean to save their island from the fiery wrath of Te Ka. You’ll also get to see the colourful spirit realm of Disney●Pixar’s Coco, where you’ll meet Miguel, Hector, and the other spirits of the dead.
And of course, no Disney On Ice show would be complete without Frozen. You’ll see Elsa and Anna battle the Snow Queen, sing along to “Let It Go,” and experience the magic of Arendelle.
This is a show that the whole family will love. So what are you waiting for? Get your tickets today!
With a long-standing sporting history dating back to the 1940s, the Nudgee Recreation Reserve has witnessed countless cricket and football matches over the years. Construction works on upcoming improvements promise to deliver much-needed sporting and recreation facilities upgrades for the local community.
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr
Designed to accommodate a range of sports, including touch football, cricket, and soccer, the precinct will feature new professional-grade sporting fields. The following key features will enhance the experience for residents and visitors:
shared use sporting fields that will cater to multiple sports including touch football, cricket and soccer
sports field lighting to improve night-time visibility and safety for park users
a new 223-space car park and pathway connections to Nudgee Train Station and Railway Street for easy access
a new clubhouse with change rooms, canteen, storage, meeting rooms and public toilets.
a dog off leash area
BMX track
playground, picnic settings with shelters and barbeque facility
walking/running/cycling path.
Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr
The project is scheduled for completion in late 2023, weather and site conditions permitting. During the construction period, the reserve will be temporarily closed to ensure the safety of visitors. However, access around the worksite will be maintained to minimise inconvenience.
“It’s a big project and you get an understanding of how expansive this project is when you see all of the elements including the sporting fields, starting to take shape,” said Councillor for Northgate Ward Adam Allan.
“It’s exciting to see works now started on the Fitness path and the BMX track, now that the remediation stage has been completed,” Cr Allan said.
For more information and updates on the project, residents are encouraged to stay connected with local council communications and announcements. Locals may contact Cr Allan’s office at northgate.ward@bcc.qld.gov.au or visit Brisbane City Council’s website.
Aspley Special School has taken proactive steps to ensure road safety for its students. In line with National Road Safety Week, the school organised a special event aimed at teaching students about road safety in a fun and practical manner.
Held on Friday, 20 May 2022, the event was joined by officers from the bike squad, the Highway Patrol, and the Transport and Main Roads team.
Sergeant Jodie Murray took the initiative to arrange a morning of engaging activities that would help students understand the importance of road safety. Sergeant Jodie and her colleagues aimed to raise awareness about road safety issues and promote a safer environment for all road users.
Photo Credit: AspleySpecialSchool/Facebook
The day started off on a positive note, as the sun shone brightly. The school’s newly refurbished bike track area, known as The Chesway, provided the perfect setting for the event. Equipped with bicycles and safety gear, the students eagerly gathered to participate in the practical learning activities.
The students learned about wearing appropriate safety gear, understanding traffic signs and signals, and practising good road manners. The officers and transport professionals demonstrated proper techniques for crossing roads, navigating intersections, and maintaining a safe distance from vehicles.
One special guest, Charlie the Dog, also made an appearance at Aspley Special School. Charlie, known for his friendly demeanour, made sure to provide cuddles and pats to everyone, further fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere.
National Road Safety Week served as a catalyst for highlighting the impact of road trauma and discussing effective strategies to reduce accidents. The event emphasized the fundamental principle of “safety first.”
Following successful trials conducted in four southeast Queensland intersections, including Aspley, local officials have announced the extension of the implementation of the Hold the Red trial.
Transport Minister Mark Bailey announced that 15 intersections have been selected for the expanded rollout and they were specifically chosen due to their ‘poor safety records’ concerning drivers running red lights.
Although the government has not disclosed the exact locations where the technology will be deployed, one intersection guaranteed to receive the system is the junction of Finucane and Windermere roads at Alexandra Hills.
Photo credit: Maria Orlova/Pexels
This particular intersection has tragically witnessed several fatal crashes in the past, prompting officials to prioritise its inclusion in the expanded rollout.
Photo credit: National Road Safety Week/Facebook
This announcement coincided with the commencement of National Road Safety Week (14 to 21 May 2023), which aims to raise awareness about safe driving practices and prevent accidents on the roads.
“This National Road Safety Week, Queenslanders are being asked to ‘drive so that others survive,” Mr Bailey said.
“It’s an important message that reminds us that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.”
How it Works
Photo credit: Queensland Government
The implementation of the Hold the Red (HTR) system involves integrating it into the Traffic Controller Cabinet at signalised intersections through the use of a virtual loop card.
Using radar technology, the system effectively monitors and tracks every vehicle approaching an intersection, providing coverage up to a distance of 150 metres from the stop line.
When the radar detects a potential red light violation during the all-red phase, the HTR system takes immediate action by extending the duration of the opposing red lights.
Photo credit: Aayush Srivastava/Pexels
This proactive measure significantly reduces the likelihood of another vehicle entering the intersection simultaneously with the offending vehicle, thereby enhancing safety and preventing potential collisions.
According to a comprehensive evaluation conducted by the Centre for Accident Research and Road Safety Queensland, the trial of the HTR system showcased remarkable potential in reducing crashes related to red light violations by 33.47 percent at intersections where it was implemented.
Furthermore, the evaluation revealed that the HTR system had minimal effects on traffic flow, causing only slight delays at intersections. On weekdays, the maximum delay observed was 10 seconds, while on weekends, it amounted to just 8.5 seconds.
Three major Australian banks have announced the closure of several of their branches, including CBA’s Aspley branch. The move prompted the Finance Sector Union to call for the cessation of branch closures whilst a Senate inquiry is ongoing.
Three of Australia’s major banks, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ), and National Australia Bank (NAB), have announced that they will be closing down a total of nine more branches over the next few months, putting 27 jobs at risk.
CBA is scheduled to shut down branches located in Bull Creek, WA, and Aspley, Qld, in June, while ANZ will be closing down branches located in Clarkson, WA, Patterson Lakes, Victoria, and Lane Cove, NSW. In addition, NAB has announced the closure of branches in Jeparit and Inverloch, Victoria, Boonah, Qld, and Queanbeyan, NSW, all of which are expected to shut down in July.
A CBA spokesperson has explained that the decision to permanently close the Bull Creek and Aspley branches was made after a review and taking a range of factors into account. In particular, customer demand at these branches had progressively declined. The bank ensures that customers will continue to have access to banking services and that the majority of staff are redeployed with no job losses resulting from the closures.
NAB, on the other hand, stated that over 93 per cent of customer transactions now take place online, leading to a decrease in branch visits. The bank has had to make difficult decisions to reshape its branch network, considering various factors, including the number of customers visiting lower-traffic branches. NAB, however, reassured that there will be no job losses, and alternative roles will be offered within the bank.
Meanwhile, an ANZ spokesperson said that the bank has experienced a decrease of more than fifty per cent in in-branch transactions over the past four years, and only eight per cent of customers rely solely on branches for everyday banking.
Customers at the affected branches have been informed of the changes and provided with alternative services, such as mobile lenders and small business specialists, which can assist them at their convenience.
Amid the ongoing Senate Inquiry into Regional Branch Closures, the Finance Sector Union (FSU) has urged the major banks to stop closing bank branches in both metropolitan and regional areas.
FSU National Secretary, Julia Angrisano, criticised the National Australia Bank (NAB) for its refusal to halt regional branch closures despite community concerns. According to Angrisano, NAB’s conduct is “outrageous and completely at odds with community expectations, and is a violation of its social license.”
CBA and ANZ have agreed to halt their regional closures whilst the inquiry is ongoing.
Angrisano, however, argues that the major banks’ massive profits should enable them to keep all their branches open, as they do not seem to care about customers and businesses that are impacted by these closures.
Angrisano added that the morale of bank workers is at an all-time low, as they wait to find out if their job and branch are on the list of closures.
“The major banks are making massive profits and yet they continue to shut down branches and they don’t care about customers and businesses who are impacted by these closures,” Ms Angrisano said.
“The morale of bank workers is at rock bottom as they wait to hear if their branch and their job is on the hit list.”
The FSU believes that all Australians deserve access to the full range of financial services, no matter where they live. The banks should be compelled to pause all closures in metropolitan and regional areas while the Senate Inquiry is underway.
Whether you’re a book lover, a tech enthusiast, or a seeker of new experiences, Bracken Ridge Library has an exciting lineup of free events in May 2023. From engaging storytime sessions and interactive workshops to lively group activities and thought-provoking discussions, here are activities coming to the library this month.
Experience the joy of collaborating with like-minded fibre crafters, forging new friendships, and being inspired by a wealth of fresh ideas. Join Brisbane crafters in this free event and don’t forget to bring your knitting, weaving, spinning, and crochet projects along.
Dates:
May 2
May 9
May 16
May 23
May 30
First 5 Forever toddler time
Photo credit: Lina Kivaka/Pexels
Connect with fellow parents and toddlers in an enjoyable session filled with singing, clapping, and dancing. Engage in action rhymes and songs that nurture your child’s pre-literacy, communication, language, and social skills.
This event is perfect for babies and toddlers aged 1-2 years, providing an ideal environment for their growth and development.
Dates:
May 3
May 10
May 17
May 24
May 31
Teddy bear’s picnic
Photo credit: Karolina Grabowska/Pexels
Join Council ‘on the green’ on 4 May 2023, just outside Bracken Ridge Library for a delightful morning packed with fun, dedicated to your child’s beloved stuffed toy! Immerse yourselves in a world of captivating stories, enchanting songs, and exciting games to play.
This event is intended for children aged 2-6 years, along with their caring adults, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone involved.
First 5 forever babies, books and rhymes
Photo credit: Singkham/Pexels
Connect with other parents and their babies in a joyous session of singing, clapping, and dancing. Explore a repertoire of songs and action rhymes that foster your baby’s pre-literacy, communication, language, and social skills. This event is specifically designed for babies aged up to one year, providing an ideal environment for their growth and development.
Dates:
May 5
May 12
May 19
May 26
First 5 Forever Jarjum stories
Photo credit: Yan Krukau/Pexels
This event, to be held on 6 May 2023, is specifically designed for children aged five years and younger, offering a wonderful opportunity for them to learn, appreciate, and celebrate the traditions and wisdom of Indigenous cultures, through stories, songs, rhymes, and engaging interactive play activities.
First 5 Forever children’s storytime
Photo credit: Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels
Created specifically for children aged 2-5 years, this session is ideal for fostering their love for reading, encouraging creativity, and nurturing early literacy skills.
Dates:
May 6
May 13
May 20
May 27
Bracken boredom busters
Photo credit: Ketut Subiyanto/Pexels
Embark on a thrilling adventure every Saturday afternoon as you uncover a new and exciting activity. Each week, Council offers a diverse range of options, from brick building to crafting, board games, and even robotics. This event is ideal for families of all ages, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Dates:
May 13
May 20
May 27
One-on-one tech help
Photo credit: Christina Morillo/Pexels
This one-on-one tech assistance program is organised by the Brisbane Libraries Tech Connect, providing participants with valuable support and guidance to ensure they make the most of technology. It aims to help participants troubleshoot any technical issues they may be facing, enhance their digital skills, and boost their confidence when navigating the online world.
Dates:
May 5
May 12
May 19
May 26
Tea and trivia
Photo credit: Samson Katt/Pexels
On 11 May 2023, indulge in a delightful morning tea experience whilst immersing yourself in a world of fun, friendship, and trivia challenges. Here, you can socialise, forge new connections, and put your knowledge to the test with exciting trivia questions. Whether you come alone or as part of a group, everyone is welcome to join.
Under Eights Week: Parachute play
Photo credit: Bruna Saito/Pexels
On 16 May 2023, children will have an enchanting experience as they engage with the lycra/parachute and each other, fostering the development of their social, gross motor, and language skills.
Hour of Code for families: Minecraft
Photo credit: Kaboompics.com
Come together as a family on 17 May for an exciting opportunity to learn basic coding concepts and conquer Minecraft-themed in-game obstacles. This interactive session is developed for participants with no prior programming experience, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Undercover games
Photo credit: Kampus Production/Pexels
Take a moment to relax and enjoy a cuppa whilst joining this lively group for fun-filled social interaction. Engage in a variety of board games, ranging from Rummikub to Sequence, where the focus is on enjoyment rather than competition. This inclusive gathering warmly welcomes new seniors, providing a welcoming and friendly environment.
Dates:
May 11
May 25
Ridge Readers book club
Photo credit: Rahul Shah/Pexels
Are you passionate about reading? On 24 May 2023, the Council will be hosting a discussion on “The Promise” by Damon Galgut. Whether you’re a long-time book enthusiast or new to the world of literature, they warmly welcome new members to join the conversation.
National Simultaneous Storytime: The Speedy Sloth
Photo credit: Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels
Celebrating its 23rd year of success, the National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) is a cherished annual event organised by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA).
Each year, participants across the country, including libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, homes, and bookshops, come together to read a picture book by an Australian author and illustrator simultaneously.
This year, on May 24, libraries throughout Brisbane will be reading “The Speedy Sloth” by Rebecca Young and Heath McKenzie. This uplifting tale serves as an inspiration to celebrate all winners, particularly those who may not come first.
Social media basics
Photo credit: Tracy Le Blanc/Pexels
Expand your knowledge of popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. This informative session on May 25 is designed for individuals with basic computer and internet skills.
On 30 May 2023, join Council for an entertaining afternoon filled with captivating stories and engaging literacy-themed activities. This event is perfect for children aged 3-8 years, providing a wonderful opportunity for them to explore the magic of storytelling and enhance their literacy skills.
For more details about the upcoming events, visit Brisbane City Council’s website.
Bracken ridge local and cake designer Daniel Greensill impressed the audience at the International Cake Show with his life-size replica of the Transformer Bumblebee.
Crafted entirely out of edible materials, this remarkable masterpiece stood proudly in the shape of a Chevrolet Camaro, adorned with 150 kg of fondant and featuring a chocolate mud cake bonnet. Boasting sound, lights, and a moving chassis, Mr Greensill’s creation showcased his artistic prowess and passion for his craft.
It was among the finalists at the International Cake Show’s Special Class 1 – Battle of the Sugar Giants.
Photo credit: Dan’s Creative Cakes/Facebook
Mr Greensill’s path to the cake show was a long and arduous one. Over the course of six months, he poured his heart and soul into the creation of Bumblebee. Beginning with sketches and meticulous planning, he embarked on the formidable task of building a sturdy base to support his vision.
Hours upon hours were spent shaping and molding fondant, ensuring every detail was captured with precision. This project demanded relentless dedication, but it was a challenge that Mr Greensill was willing to embrace.
Life, however, had other plans for him during this time. As a devoted husband and father of five, his world was turned upside down when his wife suffered a heart attack, requiring triple bypass surgery.
Photo credit: Dan’s Creative Cakes/Facebook
The weight of the situation threatened to derail Mr Greensill’s creative journey, and he contemplated abandoning his dream. Yet, in the face of adversity, his wife became his pillar of strength. Recognising the importance of this project to her husband, she encouraged him to persevere.
With the recognition garnered from his Bumblebee masterpiece at the International Cake Show, Mr Greensill now sets his sights on reigniting his custom design business, aptly named Dan’s Creative Cakes.
The family-owned business in Aspley, Apollo’s Barbershop, has recently declared that it will undergo voluntary liquidation. The shop was well-known in the area for its excellent services and had gained popularity among the locals.
Rebecca Kennard, who ran the business alongside partner Jessie Kennard, revealed that despite the shop’s reputation for providing affordable prices, quality cuts, and exceptional customer service, they struggled to maintain their operations due to increasing rental expenses.
The shop, located at 1374 Gympie Rd, had gained a devoted clientele within the area, but various factors, especially the rising costs, compelled the owners to make the arduous decision of closing it down.
Apollo’s Barbershop has taken pride in being an all-encompassing and comfortable space that caters to everyone, including individuals with mobility difficulties. The team’s extensive experience in the hairdressing and barbering industry has been a source of pride for the business.
The business was known for its laid-back and friendly ambience, welcoming people from all walks of life, including those with mobility challenges. The shop’s easy wheelchair access and ample parking space have made it an inclusive environment.
“Staff are always welcoming. Service is great, Shop is clean AND their tools are well maintained too – unlike a previous joint in Zillmere i went to 🤢🤢can’t doubt the skillset of these Ppl at Apollo’s. Gave the Haircut I actually wanted, def recommend,” writes RapidFire Muzik™ (DVK).
“I’ve had the pleasure of dealing with this business for months now, Im very fussy with how my beard and hair looks and I have a particularly thick curly and hard beard to handle, all the staff here handle it with absolutely professionalism and have never let me down! I highly recommend any of them,” Ricky King’s Google review reads.
The closure of Apollo’s Barbershop is not just a setback for the local community, but it also underscores the need for more extensive aid to small businesses trying to sustain themselves in a post-pandemic economic landscape.
