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Hyundai Stolen in Daylight From Ascot Sports Club

Authorities have issued an urgent appeal to the public, requesting assistance tracking down a yellow 2016 Hyundai Accent, identified by its unique Queensland registration plate 525XJC. The vehicle was reported stolen from an Ascot sports club facility.

On Thursday, 28 March 2024, the owners of a yellow Hyundai Accent were at the Ascot facility and engaged in lawn bowls. Inadvertently, they left behind a bowls bag with the car keys inside. This oversight paved the way for a theft executed by a man and woman, who allegedly stole the bag and the vehicle, discarding the bag shortly thereafter.

The Queensland Police have released descriptions of the suspects in hopes of gathering leads from the public. The woman involved is described as Caucasian, in her mid-20s, with distinctive bleached blonde hair. She is seen donning a white sleeveless top and black skirt and carrying numerous shopping bags. The man is characterised by his short dark hair and sportive attire consisting of white sneakers, brightly coloured shorts, a light T-shirt, a black cap with a white motif, and a NIKE camo backpack.

The stolen Hyundai Accent stands out due to its distinct yellow colour and the Queensland registration plate 525XJC. It last sighted in Gotha Street, Fortitude Valley on Monday, 1 April 2024.

Crime Patterns in Ascot Evident in 1st Quarter Data

A total of 102 offences have been recorded in Ascot during the first quarter of 2024, as per the Queensland Police Service online crime map. The data highlights a surge in unlawful activities, casting a shadow on the suburb known for its prestigious racing events and serene residential areas.

Ascot Crime Jan to March 2024 — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Notable Offences

The crime statistics in Ascot have shown several concerning trends:

Unlawful Use of Motor Vehicle: 5 recorded offences, including the recent high-profile theft of a yellow Hyundai Accent bearing the registration plate 525XJC.
Unlawful Entry: A significant number of 22 offences suggest a spike in property-related crimes, urging residents to exercise increased vigilance and security measures.
Other Theft: With 32 offences, theft is the most common crime, underscoring the urgent need for community awareness and preventative action.

Police and Community Response

In light of these figures, the Queensland Police continue to encourage public assistance in reporting suspicious activities and sharing information that may lead to arrests and recovery of stolen property.

Information regarding the vehicle’s whereabouts, the identity of the suspects, or any related suspicious activity may be reported through Policelink’s online form www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au, with the reference number QP2400541804.

Published 3 April 2024

Brisbane Icon Threatened As Albion High-Rise Could Loom Over Breakfast Creek Hotel

Breakfast Creek Hotel, a historic landmark built in 1889, faces a significant threat as developers of an Albion high-rise propose a 17-storey residential tower.

Located at 4 Higgs Street and 11 Sandgate Road, the proposed 199-unit development (DA A006306280) surpasses the 10-storey limit outlined in the Albion Neighbourhood Plan.

The DA was filed in June 2023 and is still being assessed following a public notification between February and March 2024.

However, the heritage-listed Breakfast Creek Hotel owners and several other businesses oppose the development, citing concerns about its impact on the viability and aesthetics of the Brisbane landmark.

Albion High-rise Sandgate Road and Higgs St — *Photo Credit: DA A006306280*

Owners and Businesses Protest

The Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group, owner of the Breakfast Creek Hotel, vehemently opposes the residential tower. ALH’s parent company, Endeavour Group, highlights concerns about extreme shading of the patron seating area and beer garden during peak hours, potentially affecting customer experience and economic viability. ALH managing director Paul Walton underscores the hotel’s historical resilience and the need to preserve its heritage and amenities for future generations.

Similarly, the Queensland Hotels Association, represented by Bernie Hogan, voices concerns about noise attenuation and its historical impact on inner-city venues with significant heritage value.

Renowned chef Shannon Kellam and his wife Clare express fears about the impact of the proposed tower on their business, Mica Brasserie. They emphasise that any setback, especially after recent challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and 2022 floods, could lead to closure.

Developer’s Response

Despite objections, the developer, DRJ Investments Pty Ltd, remains silent. The company enlisted Sydney architect Jackson Teece to design the Albion high-rise, which boasts amenities such as a rooftop pool, ground-floor restaurant, and extensive basement car parking.

Published 25-March-2024

Troy Royal Remembered After Fatal Motorcycle Crash in Hendra

A tragic accident has claimed the life of a beloved family man, Troy Royal, who died after a fatal motorcycle crash on Southern Cross Way at Hendra around 3.20am on March 21.

Police investigations indicate that the motorcycle was headed north on Southern Cross Way, just north of the East West Arterial Rd, when the 49-year-old Albany Creek man lost control and fell from the bike. Paramedics treated Mr. Royal at the scene, but he died shortly after 3:20 a.m. on 21 March 2024.

Tributes have poured in for Mr. Royal, with his sister Kirsty Trusz saying, “Troy loved his family … he will be missed by so many people. May you RIP.”

His older brother Bradley, who lives in Townsville, added that Troy was “always loved and will never be forgotten”.

Family, friends, and the wider community have taken to social media to pay tribute to Mr Royal.

The Australian Motorcycle Safety Awareness group also posted a tribute, saying, “May he Rest in Peace flying high with his new angel wings. They came too soon. Condolences to all who knew and loved him.”

Mr Royal, an alumnus of Mitchelton State High School, had been working as a laboratory technician for the Brisbane City Council for the past 15 years.

The Forensic Crash Unit’s investigations are ongoing, and police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant footage to come forward.

If you’ve got any information that could help, you can get in touch with Policelink. They’ve got an online form you can fill out any time of the day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting, or you can give them a ring on 131 444.

And remember, if you’d prefer to stay anonymous, you can pass on what you know through Crime Stoppers. Just call 1800 333 000 or head to www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. When you get in touch, make sure you mention the reference number QP2400499365.

Published 22-March-2024

Albion to Welcome the Queensland Fire Department in 2025

The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services is gearing up to transition into the Queensland Fire Department in June 2024 and will relocate to a new headquarters in Albion in 2025.

Scheduled for completion in 2025, the new headquarters will consolidate more than 500 Queensland Fire Department (QFD) state-level executives and corporate staff, currently spread across four locations including Kedron, Albion, and Brisbane City. This strategic consolidation aims to foster greater efficiency, collaboration, and return on investment, ensuring that the QFD is positioned for future success.

This site is located at the former TAB building, now known as Hudson Common, along 240 Sandgate Road in Albion. This move signifies a fresh chapter for the department and promises a significant economic boost and urban renewal for the Albion community.

The decision to relocate responds to various internal and external reviews, including the Inspector General Emergency Management review and the necessity of accommodating organizational growth and improving operational efficiency.

Architectural and Environmental Vision

The Hudson Common building, undergoing extensive refurbishment by Alceon Queensland with Nettleton Tribe as project architects and Graystone as the construction contractor, is set to become a contemporary, 5-Star NABERS energy-rated green space. This transformation underscores a commitment to environmental sustainability and marks a significant upgrade from its original 1970s architecture.

Queensland Fire Department 240 Sandgate Road Albion — *Photo Credit: Hudsoncommon.com.au*

The project is part of a broader vision for urban renewal in Albion, aligning with the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games infrastructure developments.

Economic and Community Impact

The move is anticipated to inject a new lease of life into the Albion area, providing a massive economic boost and enhancing service delivery to the community. Minister for Fire and Disaster Recovery Nikki Boyd highlighted the significance of this move for both the QFD and the Albion community, noting the benefits of bringing over 500 personnel together in this vibrant location.

The development is seen as a key component of Albion’s urban renewal, promising to modernise the area and support its growth as a bustling community hub. It represents a significant investment in Brisbane’s social infrastructure, reflecting confidence in the region’s growth and the demand for high-quality, sustainable office spaces in suburban locations.

The comprehensive plan aims to establish a new focal point for Albion, contributing to its evolution as a critical urban precinct in Brisbane.

Published 18-March-2024

Opening New Horizons: Delta’s Seasonal Route from Brisbane Airport to Los Angeles

Delta has announced a new seasonal route between Los Angeles and Brisbane, set to begin in December 2024 and operate three times a week until March 2025.

Joe Esposito, Delta’s Senior vice president of Network Planning, revealed that this addition to their upcoming summer schedule will offer customers up to 17 weekly flights between Australia and the U.S., marking their most extensive schedule to the South Pacific to date.

Gert-Jan de Graaff, CEO of Brisbane Airport, expressed his pride in becoming Delta’s second destination in Australia. He highlighted Brisbane’s growing appeal to North American visitors, attributing it to factors such as the upcoming Olympics and the popularity of cultural icons like Bluey. De Graaff emphasized the significance of Delta’s move in strengthening ties between the United States and Queensland, boosting the local visitor economy, and opening doors to explore destinations like the Gold Coast, Noosa, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Outback.

Delta’s expansion to Brisbane provides U.S. customers ample opportunities to immerse themselves in Australia’s charm, from exploring Brisbane’s art galleries and scenic cycling trails to venturing to the world’s largest Koala sanctuary. The airline’s network also facilitates easy access to popular Queensland destinations such as the Gold Coast, Noosa, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Outback, enriching the travel experience for passengers.

The Brisbane-to-LAX route will operate on the Airbus A350-900, and offer four product experiences: Delta One Suites, Delta Premium Select, Delta Comfort+, and Main Cabin. Delta One passengers will enjoy enhanced privacy and luxury with fully reclining seats, plush bedding, artisan-made amenity kits, chef-curated meals, and additional comforts. Delta Premium Select will provide passengers with a wider seat, deeper recline, expanded space, and an enhanced dining experience, among other amenities, ensuring a premium travel experience for all passengers.

Delta’s expansion in the South Pacific region reflects its commitment to providing customers with enhanced travel options. The Brisbane-to-LAX route joins a series of investments in the region, including additional seasonal frequencies from Sydney to LAX introduced in summer 2022.

As the leading global carrier at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Delta continues to expand its footprint, offering customers greater connectivity and convenience in the South Pacific.

Published 8-March-2024

American Airlines Launches Longest Nonstop Flight to Brisbane

American Airlines is set to embark on a significant milestone with the launch of its longest nonstop flight to Brisbane.

Scheduled to commence in October, this new route from Dallas-Fort Worth underscores the airline’s commitment to offering travellers unparalleled access to one of Australia’s most vibrant cities.

The daily service, utilising American’s newly designed Boeing 787-9 aircraft, will provide passengers with enhanced comfort options, including 51 Flagship Suite seats and 32 premium economy seats.

“American is thrilled to grow our international network to give customers more ways to escape the cold next winter,” Brian Znotins, American Airline’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning, said. “Together with Qantas, customers can enjoy more ways to explore new destinations across one of the most comprehensive networks connecting the United States and the South Pacific.”

Tickets for these new routes will be available starting 5 Feb 2024 on American Airline’s mobile app and official site.

American Airlines to Brisbane — Photo Credit: American AirlinesThat’s great! PLease message Josh as well.

Moreover, Brisbane serves as an ideal gateway to explore Queensland’s natural wonders, including the Sunshine Coast and the Great Barrier Reef. Whether indulging in cultural delights at the Gallery of Modern Art or immersing oneself in the city’s vibrant music scene, visitors to Brisbane will surely find an array of experiences to captivate their senses.

American Airlines’ expansion to Brisbane not only provides travellers with convenient access to this dynamic destination but also strengthens the airline’s global network, further solidifying its position as a leader in international travel.

Published 22-February 2024

Hendra Residents Challenge Mega Childcare Centre on Flood-Prone Site

Residents of Hendra are mounting a legal challenge against the development of a childcare centre on a site formerly occupied by a lawn bowls club, known for its flood risk. The group is contesting the project, emphasising environmental concerns and the need for responsible land use in the community.

The project (DA A005894902), spanning 5,724 sqm along Lethem St, was approved by the Council on 27 October 2023 and has led to a formal appeal in the Planning and Environment Court.

The appellants argue that the 239-place childcare centre from Lethem Street Projects Pty Ltd represents an overdevelopment of the site, leaving no space for sports or recreational facilities and disrupting the character of the area

The development’s scale is expected to increase traffic significantly, affecting the local community’s quality of life and posing a risk due to the site’s flood-prone nature. With 91 objections lodged by residents, the case highlights a substantial community pushback against the council’s decision.

Lethem St Hendra — Photo Credit: DA A005894902

The development has been assessed under the Planning Act 2016, with changes to the application deemed minor by the Council, including the removal of outdoor sport and recreation land uses.

However, the community’s concerns extend beyond the scope of these adjustments, focusing on the broader impact on local amenities, flood risk, and traffic congestion.

Previously, the community had initially supported plans by property developer Kenlynn, the former owner of the 25 Lethem St site, for a low-density housing project, aligning with the area’s quiet residential nature. However, this plan was abandoned, and the offer to sell the land to the Council for public green space did not materialise.

One resident expressed that a large childcare centre contradicts the community’s expectations and needs, pointing out the existing surplus of childcare facilities and the lack of demand for another. Residents advocate for development that respects the area’s residential character and meets actual community needs.

As of press time, the developer has yet to submit its defence whilst the court has yet to set a date for the hearing.

Published 5-Feb-2024

Checking All the Boxes: A Look at the Requirements to Join Royal Queensland Golf Club

Earning membership in Brisbane’s most prestigious golf clubs can be an arduous process. But for dedicated golf enthusiasts who can navigate the demands, gaining access to these elite circles can make the effort worthwhile.

Read: Affordable Housing and Community Hub Proposed for Eagle Farm Racecourse

Take the Royal Queensland Golf Club in Eagle Farm for example – since 2019, there has been a waiting list for new male members, whilst opportunities for women and juniors remain limited.

According to the club’s website, “this aligns with the Golf Australia and R&A special measure to promote women’s golf.”

Photo credit: Janita Dal Cin/Google Maps

At $18,000, it also has one of the most expensive memberships in Queensland. The lengthy application process requires proof of good character with references, a non-refundable $1000 fee, and an interview with club representatives. If approved, the nomination is posted publicly at the club for two weeks before current members vote.

Once accepted, there is a $13,000 entrance fee and $5,035 in annual dues. A strict dress code mandates collared shirts, tailored pants, and white socks for men and similarly formal attire for women. No jeans or cargo pants allowed.

The Pot of Gold After the Rainbow

For golf enthusiasts who make it through, they gain access to the premier golfing experience in Queensland at the prestigious Eagle Farm course. The club also offers top-notch facilities and dining.

Their state-of-the-art coaching centre offers skilled instructors imparting their expertise whilst club repair services ensure equipment is in optimal condition. A well-stocked retail store features the latest golfing essentials. With all of these amenities, the club provides everything one needs for a fulfilling golfing experience.

They also boast a long and distinguished history. Royal Queensland traces its roots to 1920 in Hamilton before relocating. In 1921, it cemented its elite status by receiving its “Royal” title from King George V, with the official letter signed by Winston Churchill.

Read: Esteemed Brisbane Architect E.P. Trewern: the Man Behind Notable Homes in Ascot and Nearby Suburbs

For passionate golfers willing to persevere, gaining membership at Royal Queensland offers immense privileges and prestige. However, reaching the club’s elite circles requires navigating a long and demanding process filled with hurdles at every step. Only those with the dedication to complete the journey will find themselves numbered among some of Queensland’s most exclusive golfing circles.

Published 3-February-2024

Frigg Cafe Owners, With Store in Ascot, Announce Voluntary Liquidation

The twin sisters behind Frigg Cafe, a well-known eatery and catering business in Gold Coast and Brisbane, including one outlet in Ascot, have gone into voluntary liquidation “with a heavy heart.”

Maria Elita and Toula Scott of the Frigg Group opened their first cafe in Labrador on the Gold Coast in 2017. Over the years, they expanded their presence with cafes at Nerang, Ascot and Manly, and then relocated from Labrador to Southport in 2022.

Frigg Group was not just known for its exceptional food and beverages; it also had a special menu catering to customers who had undergone weight loss surgery. Moreover, the business actively collected donations for victims of the devastating 2020 bushfires, demonstrating its commitment to the community.

The pair successfully weathered the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, but they were unable to overcome the overwhelming financial burden of skyrocketing operational costs. These mounting costs not only stretched their business thin but also adversely affected customer spending.

But on 21 January 2024, Terry van der Velde of SV Partners was appointed to oversee three Frigg companies, marking the beginning of the liquidation process. Frigg Group, once a regular feature on the list of top cafes and brunch spots on the Gold Coast, faced an uncertain future.

In a heartfelt statement posted a few days later, the sisters expressed their gratitude towards their team, suppliers, and loyal customers who had supported the Frigg Brand throughout its seven-year journey. They acknowledged the adversities they faced but emphasised their love for what they had created and the Frigg family they built.

“It is beyond devastating especially since we gave it our all & then some, it is a sign of the times. We feel very sad for our staff as well, it’s been very tough for everyone,” Ms Elita wrote and official shared their statement on her social media.

Despite the closure, the twin sisters expressed their hope that the Frigg brand would find a new owner, ensuring its legacy lives on.

Published 24-Jan-2024

St Margaret’s Anglican Students Have Fewer School Days in 2024 Than Public School Students

Did you know that largely because of the school’s longer instructional hours in a day, students at St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot will be spending up to five and a half weeks less days in school than their Queensland public school counterparts this school year?

Read: New School Openings Prompt Catchment Changes Across Brisbane

The Christmas holiday for students at St Margaret’s will commence on 21 November 2024, giving them almost three weeks of extra vacation before public schools start break on December 13. Total school hours for the year, however, remain comparably similar to public school hours because of the longer days.

From Monday to Thursday, school hours at St Margaret’s run from 8:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. and Friday hours are 8:20 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. — that means students study for a total of 34 hours and 40 minutes in a standard week.

Photo credit: St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School/Google Maps

Students at St Margaret’s will spend 171 days in school this year. Students at other private schools such as Marist College Ashgrove or St Peters Lutheran in Indooroopilly will likewise spend less than 180 days in school, as independent schools traditionally align their schedules around the needs of their students, school communities, and activities calendar for the year.

A spokesperson from Independent Schools Queensland stated that historically, the shorter terms at some private schools were to accommodate boarding students travelling from afar. Whilst this is still the case for many institutions, the spokesman added that there are other factors like overall campus time and school activities that determine term length.

In contrast, Queensland public school students will spend 199 days in school this year.

The significantly shortened academic calendar at St Margaret’s and some other elite private schools is perceived to be creating an imbalance between public and private institutions and causing logistical challenges for some families.

There are parents who struggle to coordinate work leave, childcare help from relatives, and vacation plans with friends to accommodate the extra time off.

At the same time, numerous rural families purposefully send their children to prestigious Brisbane boarding schools so they can return home for holidays several weeks earlier than if they attended their local public schools.

Read: Student from St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Ascot Takes Top Prize at 2023 IEU-QNT Literary Competition

Although private schools maintain their abbreviated terms to serve the needs of their student population, the significant discrepancy continues to elicit mixed reactions from families.

Moving forward, communication and coordination between private and public sectors will be key to finding solutions that bridge divides and create more uniformity in scheduling where possible.

Published 10-January-2024