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Local Groups Mobilise Over Hendra McDonald’s Proposal

Community action is gaining momentum in Hendra as residents organise against a proposed McDonald’s drive-through, with a dedicated opposition group already attracting hundreds of members.

Read: Last Undeveloped Site in Hendra Earmarked for Major Housing Project

The development application for 330 Nudgee Road details plans for a compact outlet featuring dual-lane drive-through service but no dine-in facilities. According to planning documents, the proposed restaurant would occupy a smaller footprint than typical McDonald’s locations, with a floor area 65 percent the size of standard outlets.

Artist’s impression of proposed 24/7 fast-food restaurant development at Nudgee Road (Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online)

“The design of the proposed development is consistent with the branding, architectural style and materiality of the McDonald’s franchise. However, unlike a typical McDonald’s restaurant which features a 450-sqm floor plate with inside dining, takeaway and drive-through options, the scale of the proposed development has been significantly reduced,” planners stated.

Local opposition has gained momentum through social media, with the Facebook group “Hendra Locals Against McDonalds” attracting approximately 260 members. The group expresses concerns about the development’s proximity to Hendra State School, located just 200 metres away, and potential litter issues at nearby TC Beirne Park.

The proposal has drawn criticism from across the political spectrum, with both LNP State Member Tim Nicholls and federal Greens MP Stephen Bates submitting formal objections.

However, community sentiment remains divided. While some residents welcome the addition of a new food outlet to the area, others question the necessity of another fast-food restaurant, citing existing options within driving distance.

The development marks the second controversial McDonald’s proposal in Brisbane’s inner suburbs, following the recent approval of an Ashgrove outlet despite traffic concerns on a major arterial road.

Key aspects of the proposed development include:

– Location: Corner of Gerler and Nudgee roads

– Operating hours: 24/7

– Format: Drive-through and takeaway only

– Size: Reduced footprint compared to standard McDonald’s restaurants

– Current site use: Hertz car rental depot

Read: Albion Reaches New Heights with Proposed Twin Tower Development

BCC is currently reviewing the application following the closure of the public submission period earlier this month.

Published 20-November-2024

Street Spotlight: Crosby Rd, Ascot

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Crosby Road in Ascot has changed dramatically since 1936 when it had only a few houses. By 1985, apartments were selling for as little as $51,500, highlighting its journey from modest beginnings to becoming a vibrant part of the suburb’s evolution.

Crosby Rd, Ascot Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 55
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 75%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years, 5 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 46%

Crosby Rd, Ascot Residents – As It Looked in 1936

Crosby Rd, Ascot 1936 — *Crosby Rd, Ascot in 1936*

SOME RECENT SALES ON CROSBY RD, ASCOT

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
114 Crosby Rd, Ascot	$3.250M	Feb 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON CROSBY ROAD FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
3/110 Crosby Rd, Ascot	$51,500	Dec 1985
126 Crosby Rd, Ascot	$204,000	Dec 1989
154 Crosby Rd, Ascot	$216,000	Dec 1998

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $1,910,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $1.045,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $865,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $2,400.000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $1,450,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $950,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2024 was $3.250,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Ascot in 2020 was $2,445,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $805,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2024 was $647,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2020 was $400,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $267,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2024 was $1,107,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Ascot in 2020 was $679,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN Ascot SINCE 2020 : $428,000

If you know Crosby Rd, Ascot well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Ascot Leads Queensland Suburbs with the Worst Mortgage Debt

Ascot has landed at the top of Queensland’s worst-mortgaged suburbs, with residents shouldering the heaviest mortgage debt in the state.

Read: Luxury Shoptop Apartments Set to Transform Ascot Landscape

According to Digital Finance Analytics, the blue-chip suburb has emerged as the state’s mortgage heavyweight, with residents carrying an average home loan of $1.38 million. This figure comes as little surprise, given the suburb’s median property price of $2.725 million, which has surged 17.7 percent in the past year alone.

The analysis shows that even by national standards, Ascot’s mortgage debt stands out.

While New South Wales homeowners carry an average mortgage of $523,905 and Victorians shoulder $342,081, Ascot’s figures are nearly triple these amounts, highlighting its position as one of Australia’s most prestigious suburbs.

More Than Just Numbers

mortgage debt — Photo credit: Google Street View

While the price of entry to this prestigious northside enclave might make some eyes water, its magnificent heritage homes and grand tree-lined boulevards continue to draw Brisbane’s most discerning buyers. “It is ‘old Brisbane’,” explained one long-term resident. “I say that because it’s ‘old money’ that owns the homes in this area and some of the properties are in second generation. The houses are magnificent and the blocks quite large which is always desirable.”

The suburb’s allure extends beyond its grand homes and prestigious reputation. Regular race meetings at Eagle Farm and Doomben racecourses add a dash of excitement to the neighbourhood’s genteel character, while excellent transport connections – including two train stations – keep residents well-connected to the city.

“I love it here,” shares another local. “They have the horse racing once or twice a month… good restaurants, shops, parks, walkways, perfect location. There’s two train stations, Ascot and Doomben, and buses are easily accessible.”

Read: The Beginnings of Collins Estate, the ‘Most Cheerful’ Address in Annerley

Despite the eye-watering mortgages, Ascot’s blend of heritage charm, modern amenities, and blue-chip investment potential continues to attract Brisbane’s most discerning homebuyers. As property values climb, this prestigious pocket of Brisbane’s northside stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional luxury living.

Published 15-November-2024

Jason Day’s Homecoming Headlines Star-Studded 2024 BMW Australian PGA Championship

The BMW Australian PGA Championship returns to Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm from 21 to 24 November, launching the 2024–25 DP World Tour with a prestigious $2 million purse.

Read: Last Undeveloped Site in Hendra Earmarked for Major Housing Project

International stars join local heroes

Defending champion Min Woo Lee headlines a powerful Australian contingent, following his dramatic 2023 victory highlighted by a spectacular hole-out eagle in the final round.

The home nation’s chances are further strengthened by former world No.1 Jason Day, who makes an emotional return to Australia after a seven-year absence. Day, who developed his game just an hour west in Beaudesert, seeks his first Joe Kirkwood Cup since 2011.

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“I can’t believe it’s been seven years; it’s gone by too quick,” Day told Australian Golf Digest. “It’d be nice to be able to take my whole family and show them where I’m from.”

“I’ll take the family to ‘Beau-ey’.”

The pair are joined by Australian stars Cam Smith, Cam Davis, Lucas Herbert, and Marc Leishman in a bid to keep the trophy on home soil.

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The tournament’s international appeal continues to grow, with PGA TOUR member Victor Perez leading a strong European contingent. Notable challengers include Jordan Smith, Yannick Paul, Rafa Cabrera-Bello, and Nico Colsaerts. Adding to the global flavour, rising Chinese professional Wenyi Ding makes his anticipated DP World Tour debut at the tournament.

Enhanced spectator experience

The championship’s signature entertainment hub returns at the 17th Dabble Party Hole. Spectators can enjoy a unique golf atmosphere featuring a resident DJ, hospitality suites, food vendors, and public bars—making the tournament accessible to families and casual fans alike.

The tournament is projected to generate $17 million for Queensland’s visitor economy, providing a significant boost to local businesses as golf enthusiasts and tourists converge on Eagle Farm.

Read: Street Spotlight: Kidston Street, Ascot

How to watch the BMW Australian PGA Championship

Comprehensive broadcast coverage is available on Fox Sports, Kayo, and the NINE Network; however, organisers encourage local attendance to experience the full tournament atmosphere and the opportunity to witness elite professional golf in their own backyard.

Visit the Ticketek website for more details regarding hospitality and admission.

Published 14-November-2024

Last Undeveloped Site in Hendra Earmarked for Major Housing Project

Photo Credit: DA A006638252

A significant development proposal has been submitted that could dramatically alter Hendra’s landscape. The application focuses on a substantial site on Raceview Avenue, with plans for a large-scale residential project.

The proposal outlines plans for a 5.578 hectare site to be subdivided into 69 residential lots, accompanied by new roads, a substantial park, and a dedicated drainage area.

This project, designed by Wolter Consulting Group, aims to establish a new residential community seamlessly integrating with the existing neighbourhood. The proposed lots will vary in size, ranging from 400 to 708 square metres, catering to various housing needs. The development will connect to the established road network, ensuring easy access for future residents.

Existing structures on the site will be removed to make way for the new subdivision. Importantly, the plan also addresses environmental considerations. A drainage reserve along the site’s eastern edge, adjacent to the Southern Cross Way, will link with existing drainage corridors leading to Kedron Brook. This measure aims to manage water flow and mitigate potential flooding risks.

Wolter Consulting Group highlights that the project aligns with the area’s Emerging Community Zone designation. This zoning aims to guide the transition of non-urban land to urban purposes while ensuring compatibility with the surrounding environment. The developers believe this project achieves that goal by providing much-needed housing while dedicating a significant portion of the land to public green space and drainage.

This development application signals a new chapter for Hendra, potentially bringing a significant influx of new residents to the area. The proposal now awaits review and approval from the relevant authorities.

Published Date 01-November-2024

Street Spotlight: Kidston Street, Ascot

Kidston Street, Ascot – Some Numbers

28 properties, 70% are owner occupied.
Average owner occupier has been living there for 22 years and 9 months.
70% of residents have lived there for 10+ years and 11 months.

Kidston Street in 1936

Some Recent Sales on Kidston Street, Ascot

7 Kidston Street	Sold July 2024	$9.125m	on 1,457 m²
11 Kidston Street	Sold July 2024	$9.125m	on 1,458 m²
10 Kidston Street	Sold Sept 2023	$2,500m	on 620 m²

In 2001, #23, a 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom house sold for $345,000. The same house today would likely fetch between $3m and $4m.

Bentong at 5 Kidston St is heritage-listed.

Architectural Design: Designed in 1916 by Alexander Brown Wilson, a prominent Brisbane architect, in a composite style with terracotta tile roofing and timber walls.
Historical Figure: The house was built for Roger William Hercules Hawken, a civil engineering professor at the University of Queensland, who later became a key figure in Queensland’s engineering community.
Name Origin: The house was named “Bentong” after a town in the Malay States, reflecting Hawken’s previous work experience there.
Location: Situated in Ascot, Queensland, on Kidston Street, which became a prestigious residential area for academics and professionals in the early 20th century.
Elevated Position: The property is located on Albion Heights (now part of Ascot), offering scenic views of Brisbane’s bay, river, and mountains, which added to its appeal.
Distinct Features: The house is notable for its multi-gabled bungalow design, incorporating features like silky oak paneling, leadlight fanlights, and spacious arched bay windows.
Professional Influence: Hawken was a founding member of the Institute of Engineers, Australia, and contributed significantly to public infrastructure discussions in Brisbane.
Community Landmark: It is recognized for its elegant aesthetic, with a triple-gabled roof, verandahs, and a large garden that reflect sophisticated suburban living.
Family Residence: Hawken and his family lived in Bentong from 1917, making it a significant location in both his personal and professional life.
Heritage Recognition: The property has been listed as a local heritage place since January 1, 2004, for its historical, aesthetic, and associative significance.

Arden at 11 Kidston St is heritage-listed.

Architectural Design: “Arden” was designed in 1912 by Alexander Brown Wilson, a renowned Brisbane architect, showcasing a Federation style with brick walls, a tiled roof, and a stone base.
Original Owner: Built for Percy Leonard Weston, an electrical engineer and lecturer at the University of Queensland, who played a role in early electrical engineering projects in Brisbane.
Elite Location: Situated on Kidston Street, Ascot, a fashionable area known as Albion Heights at the time, which attracted Brisbane’s professional class due to its scenic views and proximity to the city.
Historical Value: The property reflects Ascot’s development as a prestigious residential area in the early 20th century, popular among academics and business professionals.
Federation Style Elements: The two-storey brick residence includes multiple gables, restrained timber detailing, and a prominent chimney, making it a prime example of Federation architecture.
Prominent Residents: Owned by the Hemsley family from 1924 to 1993, who named it “Arden” and frequently hosted social gatherings, adding to its historical social significance.
Contrasting Aesthetics: The house features a striking contrast between its red brick exterior and cream render, enhancing its architectural charm and visibility in the neighborhood.
Engineering Milestones: Weston was instrumental in early electrical installations around Brisbane, including projects for the General Post Office and the Botanic Gardens.
Heritage Listing: Recognized as a place of local heritage significance since 2004 due to its historical, representative, and aesthetic value.
Community Legacy: The property remains an enduring symbol of Brisbane’s early 20th-century architectural and cultural development, linked with influential figures in engineering and architecture.

If you know Kidston Street, Ascot well and you have some anecdotes or details to add please email: editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au

Ascot Property Market Oct 2024

The median price of a 3-bedroom house in Ascot in 2024 was $1.91m.
The median price of a 3-bedroom house in Ascot in 2020 was $1.045m.
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $865,000

The median price of a 4-bedroom house in Ascot in 2024 was $2.4m.
The median price of a 4-bedroom house in Ascot in 2020 was $1.45m.
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $950,000

The median price of a 5-bedroom house in Ascot in 2024 was $3.25m.
The median price of a 5-bedroom house in Ascot in 2020 was $2.445m.
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $805,000

The median price of a 2-bedroom unit in Ascot in 2024 was $647,000.
The median price of a 2-bedroom unit in Ascot in 2020 was $400,000.
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $247,000

The median price of a 3-bedroom unit in Ascot in 2024 was $1,107,000.
The median price of a 3-bedroom unit in Ascot in 2020 was $679,000.
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN ASCOT SINCE 2020 : $428,000

Published 4-Nov-2024

Hydraulink Supports Youth Sports and Cultural Exchange

Eagle Farm-based Hydraulink Brisbane North has partnered with its Gold Coast counterpart to support a sports and cultural exchange program between Queensland and Fiji.

Operating from their 1130 Kingsford Smith Drive location, Hydraulink Brisbane North co-owners Martin Smith and Andrew Schuler joined with Hydraulink Gold Coast to sponsor jerseys for Palm Beach Currumbin State High School‘s rugby league tour to Fiji.

The eight-day cultural exchange program, led by former NRL champion Petero Civoniceva, saw 34 students engage in rugby league clinics, environmental initiatives, and cultural activities across Fiji. The tour culminated in matches against the Under-18 Fiji Bati representative teams.

Martin Smith, a pioneer of the Hydraulink brand in Brisbane, has demonstrated significant business growth in the Eagle Farm area, having tripled his distributorship’s size over the past nine years. The recent expansion with business partner Andrew Schuler extends their services to Bayside businesses, focusing on safety standards and operational efficiency.

The Eagle Farm operation continues to support community initiatives while maintaining hydraulic services for various industries. The sponsorship aligns with Hydraulink’s broader community engagement strategy, supporting self-funded initiatives that foster international goodwill and youth development.

Published 30-October-2024

Unfinished Business: Brisbane Heat Eye WBBL Glory in Landmark 10th Season

After falling three runs short in last season’s Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) final and suffering a recent last-ball defeat in the Spring Challenge decider, the Brisbane Heat enter their tenth WBBL campaign with redemption firmly in their sights. The Heat’s journey begins this Saturday, 27 October, where last season ended—against the defending champion Adelaide Strikers.

Read: Ascot Girls Swap Cityscape for Saddle Up Success at Pittsworth Campdraft

Spring Challenge Final sets tone for season rivalry

The Brisbane Heat’s path to WBBL10 was marked by a dramatic last-ball defeat in the inaugural T20 Spring Challenge final against the Hobart Hurricanes. After electing to bat, the Heat found themselves restricted to 133, with Sianna Ginger leading the scoring with a determined 24. The Hurricanes’ duo of Ruth Johnston (4-20) and Molly Strano (3-31) proved particularly challenging for the Heat’s usually potent batting lineup.

With the Heat bowling and the Hurricanes needing three runs in the final over, Ginger’s tight start—two dot balls—almost pulled off an improbable win for Brisbane. However, with one run needed off the final delivery, Emma Manix-Geeves pierced the gap at backward point, sealing a five-wicket victory for Hobart.

Key matches for the Brisbane Heat

The Brisbane Heat schedule includes three home fixtures at Allan Border Field and one at The Gabba, offering fans multiple opportunities to support the team.

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Here are the key matchups to watch:
• Opening day finals rematch against the Adelaide Strikers (27 October)
• Home opener at Allan Border Field with a night clash against the Melbourne Renegades (30 October)
• A highly anticipated Hurricanes rematch at CitiPower Centre (2 November), reigniting the Spring Challenge rivalry
• The historic Gabba return against the Strikers (9 November), marking the first WBBL match at the venue in six years
• Western swing featuring back-to-back matches at WACA Ground against the Perth Scorchers (5 November) and the Sydney Thunder (7 November)
• Season finale against the Sydney Sixers at Allan Border Field (24 November)

For the full schedule and match details, visit the Brisbane Heat Women’s official schedule.

Read: Eagle Farm Racecourse Enhances Accessibility with Stylish New Lift

With the tournament condensed to 43 matches including knockouts, every game carries increased significance in the race for the title. The Heat’s campaign could extend to 1 December, should they qualify for the final, as they aim to capture their third WBBL title and go one better than their runner-up finish in WBBL09.

Published 23-October-2024

St Margaret’s Principal Named One of Queensland’s Most Influential Educators

Roslyn Curtis, principal at St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot has been recognised as one of Queensland’s most influential teachers at the annual Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) TEACHX Awards. Among the 31 educators honoured this year, Ms Curtis stands out as the sole recipient from Ascot.

Read: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot Unveils Ambitious Expansion Plans

A Career Dedicated to Education

Photo credit: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School/Facebook

Ms Roslyn “Ros” Curtis AM’s journey in education spans decades and multiple prestigious institutions. Beginning her career as a History and Drama teacher, she has held various roles from classroom educator to senior leader across six schools.

Her path has taken her through Shailer Park State High, Moreton Bay College, Brisbane Girls Grammar School, St Hilda’s School, St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School, and finally to St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School, where she was appointed Principal in 2011.

Transformative Leadership at St Margaret’s

In her nearly 14-year tenure as Principal of St Margaret’s, Ms Curtis has orchestrated a remarkable transformation. Under her guidance, the school has seen a staggering 78 percent increase in enrolments.

This impressive growth is attributed to her strategic focus on refining teaching methods, attracting top-tier staff, and fostering a strong sense of community cohesion. These efforts have not only bolstered the school’s reputation but also enabled significant investments in facilities and fundraising initiatives.

Ms Curtis’s impact extends far beyond enrollment numbers. Her leadership has garnered multiple accolades for both herself and the institution. St Margaret’s has earned four Five Star Employer of Choice Awards, highlighting its commitment to staff development and satisfaction. The school’s dedication to reconciliation was also recognised with the Queensland Reconciliation Award, celebrating its positive impact on First Nations students.

Personally, Ms Curtis has been honoured with a Most Influential Educator award, and in 2024, she was appointed as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her significant services to education and professional associations. This latest recognition at the TEACHX Awards further cements her status as a pivotal figure in Queensland’s educational landscape.

The TEACHX Awards: Celebrating Educational Excellence

The QCT TEACHX Awards, now in their 16th year, have recognised over 120 teachers for their exceptional contributions to education.

This year’s ceremony, to be held in Brisbane on Thursday 24 October on the eve of World Teachers’ Day in Queensland, will officially recognise the 31 educators whose accomplishments range from improving at-risk students’ attendance rates to implementing innovative digital lessons that pair robotics with dance moves.

Emeritus Professor Wendy Patton, QCT Board Chair, praised the award recipients, stating, “This year’s recipients continue a proud tradition of exemplifying the extraordinary work teachers do to improve their students’ education and inspire their colleagues.

“Their enthusiasm, innovation, and unwavering commitment to education have set a remarkable standard for excellence within our community.”

Read: St Margaret’s in Ascot Declared Boarding School of the Year

As Ms Curtis joins the ranks of Queensland’s most influential educators, her story serves as an inspiration to teachers across the state and a reminder of the profound impact dedicated educators can have on their students, schools, and communities.

Published 7-October-2024

Eagle Farm Racecourse Enhances Accessibility with Stylish New Lift

The Eagle Farm Racecourse has taken a significant step towards improving accessibility for all visitors with the installation of a sleek new lift in its top-level hospitality area.

Read: Did You Know that the Eagle Farm Racecourse Was a Military Camp in WW2?

The addition of this state-of-the-art elevator not only enhances the venue’s functionality but also complements its elegant atmosphere.

The two-stop Linea DDA lift, made by Direct Lifts Australia features a sophisticated black finish and framed sliding doors. Its design adds a touch of modern chic to the historic racecourse, demonstrating that accessibility solutions can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Eagle Farm — Photo credit: Direct Lifts Australia/Facebook

Equipped with cutting-edge hydraulic motor technology, the lift ensures a smooth and whisper-quiet ride for patrons. This feature is particularly valuable in maintaining the refined ambiance of the hospitality area, allowing guests to move between levels without disruption.

The Linea DDA lift is not just about looks and comfort; it’s built for longevity and efficiency. Designed for easy use and maintenance, it promises years of reliable service. Its low power consumption aligns with modern sustainability practices, making it an environmentally conscious choice for the racecourse.

This upgrade at Eagle Farm Racecourse reflects a growing trend in the events and hospitality industry to prioritise inclusive design. By ensuring that all areas are easily accessible, the venue is opening its doors wider to patrons of all abilities, allowing everyone to enjoy the thrills and excitement of race day.

Read: Historic John Power Grandstand Faces Demolition in Eagle Farm Racecourse Revamp

The installation of this lift is more than just an addition of infrastructure; it’s a statement of Eagle Farm’s commitment to providing a premier experience for all its visitors. As the racecourse continues to blend its rich history with modern amenities, this new lift stands as a symbol of progress, ensuring that the venue remains at the forefront of accessibility and guest comfort in Brisbane’s vibrant sporting and social scene.

Published 9-October-2024