Hendra Archives - Ascot News

Hendra Residents ‘Priced Out’ of Legal Fight Against McDonald’s

A Hendra community group has been forced to abandon its legal challenge against a new McDonald’s drive-through on Nudgee Rd, stating the overwhelming cost of a court battle against the multinational corporation made their fight impossible to continue.

Community Abandons Appeal

The group, Hendra Locals Against McDonald’s (HLAM), recently dropped its Planning and Environment Court appeal over the restaurant proposed for 330 Nudgee Rd.

A spokesman for the group, Bill Moore, said it should not be up to local “mums and dads” to find money for expensive legal battles during an affordability crisis. He expressed frustration that residents had to withdraw their appeal in August after lodging it in March, simply because they ran out of money.

Mr Moore suggested the case shows the need for an independent planning tribunal, similar to one used in Sydney. He argued that local councils often lack the financial and human resources to fight large corporations and that new exclusion zones are needed to protect communities.

‘Unrealistic’ Traffic Claims at Centre of Dispute

The residents’ core concern centred on traffic safety, specifically the risk of cars queuing on Gerler Rd and backing up onto the busy Nudgee Rd intersection.

The developer’s application included a traffic report claiming the drive-through would be highly efficient, assuming an average service time of just 25 seconds per vehicle. This, the report claimed, would allow for 144 vehicles an hour and prevent queuing, noting the site has space for 13 cars.

However, Mr Moore challenged this figure as unrealistic. He said he timed patrons at the nearby Albion McDonald’s during an evening peak period and found the actual time from ordering to exiting was closer to 2.5 minutes. He noted that US studies put average wait times at four minutes.

The article noted that the developer’s traffic report conceded the data was “provided by the client” and was based on a desktop investigation conducted in January of last year.

Council Approved Scaled-Down Plan

The council approved the project in January despite receiving 436 formal objections from the community. Residents believe this decision set a dangerous precedent, fearing it could allow more fast-food outlets to be built in residential zones.

According to town planners for the site’s owner, the 2120-square-metre property had been used for non-residential businesses, such as a car rental storage area, since the 1960s.

The developer’s initial proposal in July 2022 was for a full-scale restaurant. After meetings with the council, the owner agreed to scale back the project. The approved plan is for a drive-through-only facility on one lot, which is about 65 per cent of the standard restaurant size, and has all vehicle access limited to Gerler Rd.

Published Date 30-October-2025

Whimsical Hendra Home Comes with One of Australia’s Largest Private Dr Seuss Collections

Did you know that one of the largest personal Dr Seuss collections in the country can be found in a property in Hendra? Behind the doors of 28 Blaikie Street lies more than just a five-bedroom, three-bathroom entertainer’s dream—it’s a gallery of imagination and nostalgia, lovingly curated by renowned Ascot dance teacher Marilyn Culpitt.

Read: 24/7 Maccas at Nudgee Road in Hendra Gets Green Light, Locals Push Back

Culpitt, who bought the home in 2009, began her unexpected journey into the world of Dr Seuss art during a visit to San Francisco, where she stumbled across a gallery print. As a mother of four, she was familiar with the author’s stories but hadn’t realised the breadth of his visual art. Her first purchase, however, was made back in Australia when she saw a ‘Green Eggs and Ham’ piece on display in a Sydney gallery, and from there, the collection grew.

Now, the walls of her spacious home display 29 original works, from limited edition prints to quirky Seussian taxidermy. But Dr Seuss isn’t the only artist to feature. Culpitt has also long admired and collected pieces by Gerard Manion, creating a vibrant and eclectic art display throughout the house.

She admits her children may have questioned her passion at times, but she finds joy in the colour and hidden meaning of Seuss’s artworks. The home provided ample room for her collection, as well as space to host her large extended family, including 12 grandchildren, for frequent gatherings and meals.

The house has become well-known in the area, with locals recognising it as “Marilyn’s house” following her decades at the helm of the Ascot School of Dance. According to Place Ascot agent Tanya Mitchell, the property has been maintained meticulously since Culpitt purchased it directly from the builder. She says it’s ideal for a buyer seeking a low-maintenance executive home, with a bit of creative flair.

With downsizing now on the horizon, Culpitt is facing the difficult task of letting go of some pieces from her treasured collection. She’s open to selling several artworks and says prospective buyers have already shown interest in acquiring them along with the house.

Still, a few favourites, such as ‘Green Eggs and Ham’, ‘Yawning Cat’, ‘Ted’s Cat’, and ‘Wisdom of the Orient Cat,’ remain close to her heart and unlikely to be parted with easily.

Read: Ascot Joins Elite List of Brisbane’s Richest Neighbourhoods

For the right buyer, this property offers not just a beautiful home, but the chance to own a piece of one woman’s vibrant artistic journey—one that blends imagination, family, and a lifelong love of creativity.

Published 16-June-2025

Residents Appeal Against Approved 24/7 McDonald’s Development in Hendra

The battle against a proposed 24/7 McDonald’s in Hendra is far from over, as residents have officially lodged an appeal against the decision to approve the development.

Read: 24/7 Maccas at Nudgee Road in Hendra Gets Green Light, Locals Push Back

The latest legal challenge, submitted earlier this month to the Planning and Environment Court, argued that the development application (A006543699) should be refused because of several reasons. One of these is the fact that the site falls within a character residential zone primarily occupied by detached houses. Petitioners claim that approving a commercial development in such a setting contradicts local planning regulations and community expectations.

In January 2025, Brisbane approved plans for the fast-food outlet, which will be located at 330 Nudgee Road. The single-storey building will offer drive-thru services, counter takeaway, and meal order collection for delivery drivers. While the approved hours of operation would be 24/7, the counter takeaway services would be limited from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Artist’s impression of proposed development (Photo credit: Brisbane PD Online)

However, despite receiving the green light, the proposed 24/7 McDonald’s has faced strong opposition from the local community, with over 400 submissions lodged against the proposal. Residents have raised several concerns, including the site’s proximity to schools, increased traffic congestion, safety risks, and potential environmental pollution. Additionally, many fear that the presence of a 24/7 fast-food outlet will negatively impact property values in the area.

Locals even launched an online campaign through GoFundMe, in hopes of raising funds to engage a lawyer and independent experts to contest the development. As of writing, they have raised over $21,000.

Read: Local Groups Mobilise Over Hendra McDonald’s Proposal

“Your contribution will support the costs needed to draft and file a notice of appeal, engage the required independent experts, hold a mediation meeting with the applicable parties and if necessary take this to trial,” Jackie, the fundraising organiser wrote.

“Together, we can work to protect Hendra and prevent this disruptive development from moving forward.”

As the appeal process unfolds, the dispute over the McDonald’s development in Hendra continues, with residents determined to have their concerns heard in court.

Published 24-March-2025

Car Fire in Hendra: Emergency Crews Rush to the Scene as Traffic is Diverted

Photo Credit: Pexels

A car fire in Hendra caused significant traffic delays, forcing authorities to redirect vehicles in Brisbane’s north. Thick smoke filled the air as emergency services rushed to Gellibrand Street.

Emergency Services Act Quickly

On 6 February, fire crews and police arrived at the scene just after 5 p.m. following reports of a car emitting smoke. A Queensland Police Service spokesperson confirmed that the driver was behind the wheel when they noticed the smoke.

To ensure public safety, police quickly put traffic diversions in place while firefighters worked to extinguish the fire.

Driver Escapes Without Injury

Fortunately, the driver was unharmed and did not require medical assistance. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but emergency crews ensured the area was safe before reopening the road.

Community Reacts to Incident on Facebook, Many Expect EV Involvement

The incident sparked significant discussion on Facebook, with many users sharing their thoughts in the comment section. While some expressed concern over the situation, the conversation revolved around the assumption that it was an electric vehicle (EV).

Chris Cross Platz said, “Wouldn’t be surprised if (it) was a Tesla.” Another one commented, “Bloody Tezzlas mate.”

A few were shocked that a petrol car was involved and not an EV. “Petrol car on fire. Wowee,” Andy Grun said.

Meanwhile, James Fraser noticed that “Another petrol car going up in flames, so many recently.”

Similar Incident in Kenmore

In May 2022, a luxury Audi caught fire outside Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Kenmore. The blaze started around 11:30 a.m. on Kenmore Rd, with firefighters quickly on the scene.

While the driver was unharmed, the car was completely beyond saving.

The fire also attracted the attention of passersby, including those attending a nearby Mother’s Day morning tea, who were drawn outside by the smell of smoke.

These incidents serve as a reminder of how quickly a car fire can escalate. Which caused both significant disruption and safety concerns for drivers and bystanders alike.

Published 7-Feb-2025

24/7 Maccas at Nudgee Road in Hendra Gets Green Light, Locals Push Back

The approval of a 24/7 McDonald’s to be located at 330 Nudgee Road in Hendra has drawn strong opposition from local residents.

Read: Local Groups Mobilise Over Hendra McDonald’s Proposal

The proposed fast-food outlet (A006543699) would be smaller than a standard McDonald’s, with a floor area 65 percent of the usual size. However, concerns over its impact on the community remain a point of contention.

A group of residents has launched a GoFundMe campaign to challenge the development, citing issues such as increased traffic congestion, safety risks, pollution, and potential negative effects on property values. With the restaurant’s location near primary schools, opponents argue that it could have significant threats to the community’s well-being and quality of life.

330 Nudgee Road, Hendra (Photo credit: Google Street View)

To fund their legal efforts, the group started a fundraiser with a goal of $100,000, which they say would be used to hire a lawyer and independent experts to contest the development. As of writing, they have raised just over $12,000. Despite the financial shortfall, residents remain determined to appeal the decision within the 20-day timeframe allowed after approval.

“Local residents have voiced numerous concerns about this project, including its close proximity to schools, the potential for increased traffic chaos, heightened safety risks, the likelihood of more pollution in our neighbourhood, and the potential negative impact on house prices,” wrote Jackie, a resident leading the campaign.

A Facebook group, ‘Hendra Locals Against McDonald’s,’ has also been established, attracting 369 members so far.

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

On the other hand, developers argue that the restaurant’s impact will be minimal, as it is primarily designed for drive-through service rather than dine-in customers. According to planning documents, they believe this will reduce congestion and parking issues in the area.

While the project has been approved, the debate is far from over. With residents preparing to appeal, the future of the Hendra McDonald’s remains uncertain.

Published 6-February-2025

Street Spotlight: Pring St, Hendra

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

Pring Street in Hendra stands as a testament to Brisbane’s enduring residential appeal, with its rich history dating back to 1936 when it was already a developed thoroughfare terminating at Brock Street.

The street’s strong sense of community is evident in its impressive 80% owner-occupier rate, with residents calling Pring Street home for an average of nearly 13 years. Historical property transactions, such as the 1978 sale of 110 Pring Street for $20,100, provide fascinating insights into the area’s property evolution. Today, with 175 properties and 44% of residents maintaining residency beyond a decade, Pring Street continues to exemplify Hendra’s reputation as one of Brisbane’s most stable and sought-after neighbourhoods. Below, you will find an aerial image taken in 1936, capturing the street’s early development when it featured established properties interspersed with vacant lots awaiting future homes.

Pring St, Hendra Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 175
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 80%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 12 years and 8 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 44%

Pring St, Hendra – As It Looked in 1936

Pring St, Hendra in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON PRING ST, HENDRA

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
120 Pring Street, Hendra	NA	Nov 2024
36 Pring Street, Hendra	NA	Oct 2024
15 Pring Street, Hendra	$2,450,000	Jun 2024
42/139 Pring Street, Hendra	$821,500	May 2024
63/139 Pring Street, Hendra	$840,000	Apr 2024
21/139 Pring Street, Hendra	$840,000	Mar 2024
50/139 Pring Street, Hendra	$775,000	Feb 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON PRING ST FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
110 Pring Street, Hendra	$20,100	Dec 1978
51 Pring Street, Hendra	$92,750	Apr 1985
99 Pring Street, Hendra	$68,000	Dec 1985

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2024 was $1,275,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2020 was $848,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN HENDRA SINCE 2020 : $427,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2024 was $1,920,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2020 was $1,138,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN HENDRA SINCE 2020 : $782,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2024 was $2,400,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Hendra in 2020 was $1,465,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN HENDRA SINCE 2020 : $935,000

If you know Pring St, Hendra well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

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

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

Hendra Residents on Alert as Secure Carpark Break-ins Continue

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Residents of Hendra and surrounding suburbs are being urged to remain vigilant following a series of break-ins targeting secure carparks in unit complexes across Brisbane’s north. The string of incidents, occurring in late September, has prompted local police to issue a warning and safety recommendations to the community.

While the most recent reported incidents took place in neighbouring Ascot and Hamilton, Hendra residents are not immune to this trend. The proximity of these crimes to Hendra has raised concerns among local apartment dwellers and property managers.

On the night of September 24-25, thieves targeted a unit complex on Racecourse Road in Ascot, forcing open a resident’s storage cage and making off with valuable items including a toolbox, paintings, and sports memorabilia. The same night, another incident occurred in Hamilton, where perpetrators broke into a vehicle parked in a unit complex on Hercules Street, stealing a wallet after smashing the car’s window.

These events follow an earlier theft on August 30, where an electric mobility scooter was stolen from an aged care facility in Hamilton after intruders accessed the secure carpark.

North Brisbane police are actively investigating these cases and have released images of persons of interest related to the Ascot break-in. Authorities are calling on the public to assist with any information that could lead to identifying these individuals.

In response to these incidents, law enforcement officials are emphasising the importance of community vigilance and proper security measures. Hendra residents, particularly those living in apartment complexes with secure carparks, are advised to:

Remain alert and report any suspicious activity in communal areas.
Ensure all shared doors and access points are securely closed.
Avoid storing valuable items in garage areas or storage cages when possible.
Implement additional security measures for bicycles and motorcycles.
Remove all valuables from vehicles or keep them out of sight.
Double-check that garage doors close completely when entering or exiting.

Local police stress that maintaining and monitoring building rules around parking, storage, and common areas can significantly reduce the risk of these crimes.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote these reference numbers: QP2401637275, QP2401634973, QP2401636425

Published 26-September-2024

Hendra State School Enrolment Shrinks to 31 Students

Hendra State School, the smallest state school in Brisbane, has only 31 students enrolled across two multi-age classes for 2024, reflecting a significant decline in numbers for the 160-year-old institution.

The sharp decrease in enrolment contrasts starkly with the school figures last year, when it had 65 students. Principal Clare Williams describes the school as having a “country in the city” atmosphere, emphasising its strong sense of community despite dwindling numbers.

School’s Unique Character

Despite its small size, Hendra State School maintains a vibrant educational environment. Its structure allows for a more personalised learning experience, with teachers able to offer tailored activities to students based on their individual progress.

Ms Williams notes that the school’s compact nature has transformed the typical sense of community into something more akin to a family. This close-knit environment is reflected in the school’s 2023 opinion survey, where every student agreed they liked their school, felt safe, and were motivated by teachers to learn.

Enrolment Trends and Projections

The decline in student numbers at Hendra is part of a broader trend affecting some Brisbane schools. Projections suggest this number could fall to as low as six by 2028, despite 138 potential students living within the school’s catchment area.

In contrast, some of Brisbane’s largest schools are experiencing significant growth. Kelvin Grove State College, the city’s biggest school, has 3706 students and added 138 in just two years. Indooroopilly State High School saw a 13 per cent increase in enrolments since 2021, while Stretton State College grew by more than 6 per cent.

Department of Education Response

A spokesperson for the Department of Education stated that catchment sizes are regularly reviewed to manage changing student numbers. These reviews consider factors such as in-catchment student numbers and trends, distance to the nearest school, transport availability, and potential for future enrolment growth.

While some regional and remote schools have closed recently due to lack of students, the last school closures in Brisbane occurred in 2013. At that time, three schools with low enrolments were shut down.

Despite its small size, Hendra State School continues offering various programs and facilities. The school provides Japanese language classes and coding and robotics instruction from Prep to Grade 6. It also strongly emphasizes community engagement, with events such as a six-week horse riding program in Term 4 and regular family fun afternoons.

The school continues to welcome new students, hoping to maintain its unique character despite changing enrolment patterns across Brisbane.

Published 15-July-2024