Police Charge Former Zillmere Basketball Coach in Sexual Assault Case

A former Northside Wizards Basketball coach from Zillmere is at the centre of controversy after being charged with several counts of rape and grooming, raising concerns in the community.


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Detectives from the Gateway Child Protection and Investigation Unit (CPIU) arrested the 67-year-old Mango Hill resident last week as part of Operation Xray Modern. He has been charged with seven counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of grooming a child under 16.

According to police, the man allegedly took advantage of his role as a basketball coach to groom a child before they turned 16, committing offences against them between 2013 and 2017. After being refused police bail, he appeared in Brisbane Magistrates Court on January 31.

Photo credit: John Xue Wei/Google Maps

Detective Senior Sergeant Peter Lunney has called for anyone with further details to step forward.

“There may be someone out there with more information that could assist this investigation, and we encourage you to come forward,” Detective Senior Sergeant Lunney said.

“If you have experience sexual violence, it is not your fault and you are not alone, there are multiple reporting and support options available to you.”

Northside Wizards Basketball CEO Mark Wrobel released a statement acknowledging the legal proceedings involving a former club employee.

Mr Wrobel stated that the club was informed about the legal case involving a former staff member on 30 January 2025. He mentioned that the individual had been employed by the club from 2013 to 2024 and had coached several teams during that period.


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Authorities continue their investigation and urge anyone with relevant information to contact Crime Stoppers or their local police station. If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). Police also urged to call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help for confidential information, counselling and support.

Published 3-February-2025

Retirees Attend QPS Session on Avoiding Online Scams at Geebung RSL

A group of retirees from the northside recently gained more knowledge in avoiding online scams through the information session conducted by the Queensland Police Service (QPS) at the Geebung RSL. 



Attended by the members of the North Brisbane Association of Independent Retirees, the session took place on 18 March and covered topics relating to email scams and cybersecurity. 

According to QPS, it’s always wise to never open emails or click on documents and attachments from senders that they are not familiar with. If unsure, retirees can always call up the bank or the agency supposedly sending the email, and verify if it’s legitimate.

Scamwatch Australia said that older people are more vulnerable to scams because of their accumulated wealth. These scammers usually target social media and dating sites, where there are many vulnerable divorcees, widows and widowers. Retirees are also often less savvy when it comes to computers or the internet, hence they are easy targets of scams. 

Another indication of a potential scam is “poor spelling or grammar.” The tone of the message also sounds urgent, often asking the person to “act now.” 

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Some of the most common scams include unexpected lottery wins, rebates and inheritance. In this pandemic, at least 6,120 online scams were reported with over $8.4 million in losses in the country.



Meanwhile, Geebung RSL was recently recognised as Best Licensed Club – 3rd Place – at the Keno and Club Queensland Awards for 2021.

Geebung RSL Board, Management & Staff are proud to advise our 14,000 service and social members of the recognition the Club received last night at the Clubs Queensland Awards for Excellence,” the management said.

“The Award is a tribute to our amazing staff and loyal club members who support the club from week to week and during challenging times such as the numerous COVID business closures over the past 12 months.

“The Award importantly, pays recognition to our hardworking Sub Branch administration and volunteer welfare and support advocates who take care of the needs of our local veterans each and every day.”