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The Golden Hope of Albany Creek: Sam Short Eyes More World Championship Glory

Former Albany Creek student Sam Short is among five Moreton Bay swimmers preparing to carry Australia’s hopes at the upcoming World Championships in Singapore.

The global swimming event is set to take place from July 27 to August 3. Sam Short will join superstar Kaylee McKeown in spearheading Australia’s challenge on the world stage.

Moreton Bay’s Olympic Hope

Short, who lives in Bunya and previously attended school in Everton Hills, is aiming to defend his 400m freestyle world title won in Japan. He will also compete in the 800m and 1500m freestyle events.

His recent performances at the Australian trials in Adelaide were strong, securing victory in the 400m freestyle with a time of 3:41.03, the 800m in 7:40.95, and the 1500m in 14:52.43. To prepare for the championships, Short has been undertaking significant mileage in the pool and altitude training, hoping these efforts will pay off.

A Rapid Rise to Prominence

Sam Short, now 21 years old and with Rackley Swimming, has quickly established himself as one of Australia’s top middle and long-distance swimming talents over the past two years. He was a standout performer at the World Championships in Fukuoka, Japan, in July 2023. There, he made history by becoming the first Australian since Grant Hackett in 2005 to earn medals in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m freestyle events at a single world championship.

In Fukuoka, Short impressively claimed gold in the 400m with a time of 3:40.68, coming within six-tenths of a second of breaking Ian Thorpe’s long-standing Australian record. This was the fourth-fastest time recorded in history at that point. He also secured a silver medal in the 800m and a bronze in the 1500m, moving up to second place in Australian rankings for the longest pool event, surpassing swimming greats Kieren Perkins and Mack Horton.

His international success began even earlier, helping Australia’s 4x200m freestyle relay team win a silver medal at the World Championships in Budapest in 2022. That same year, at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, he took home gold in the 1500m freestyle and silver in the 400m.

His coach, Damien Jones, has often remarked on Short’s immense dedication to training, noting that the young swimmer embraces every challenge with enthusiasm. Jones has expressed confidence that Short possesses the potential to break the 400m freestyle world record, currently held by Germany’s Paul Biedermann.

Beyond the Pool

Outside of his rigorous training schedule, Sam is pursuing a science and law degree. He also serves as an ambassador for Melanoma Institute Australia, a cause close to his heart after undergoing surgery for skin cancer on his back in 2022. Furthermore, following in the footsteps of his father Danny and uncle Stephen, Sam is an accomplished surf swimmer with the Maroochydore Surf Club.

Despite a challenging year in 2024, which included a fourth-place finish at the Paris Olympics, a result he described as a “failure”, Short has dedicated himself to regaining his top form both mentally and physically. He credits his support system, including his parents and coaches, for his current resurgence and determination. His personal best in the 400m freestyle is remarkably close to the world record, and he, along with his Australian competitors, continues to push boundaries in the sport.

Published Date 25-Jun-2025

Albany Creek Mourns Passing of Founding Parish Priest Fr Ron Mollison

Photo Credit: Archdiocese of Brisbane

The Albany Creek community is deeply saddened by the death of Fr Ron Mollison, who served as their much-loved founding parish priest for over three decades.

Fr Mollison passed away on Wednesday morning after a long illness. He had been receiving palliative care at St Vincent’s, Carseldine, since suffering a major stroke in January 2020.

A Life of Dedicated Service

Fr Ron Mollison dedicated his life to the Church and its people, becoming a central figure in the spiritual lives of many across Brisbane. His service to the Archdiocese of Brisbane included roles as an Assistant Priest in Inala, Gatton, Moorooka-Salisbury, and Lutwyche. He also held a significant position as the Archbishop’s Secretary at the Cathedral of St Stephen from 1985 to 1986, showcasing his commitment at various levels within the Church.

Building the Albany Creek Community

A pivotal part of Fr Mollison’s ministry was his profound connection with the Albany Creek parish. He was the first Parish Priest for the community, taking up his role on the very day the parish was opened and blessed, January 5, 1986. For 34 years, until his stroke in 2020, he nurtured and guided the Albany Creek community, leaving an incredible and enduring legacy that includes the parish and its school.

Heartfelt Tributes Pour In

The announcement of Fr Mollison’s passing, shared by his family through the Albany Creek parish Facebook page, prompted an outpouring of tributes from those whose lives he touched. His family expressed deep gratitude for the love and care he received, especially during his challenging last five and a half years.

Parishioners and friends remembered him for his extraordinary life of generous service, his love, support, and compassion. Many highlighted the strong community he built, describing him as a true “missionary disciple” to whom they were deeply indebted.

Funeral Details to Come

Fr Ron Mollison is affectionately remembered in the communities he served and was greatly loved by his family and many friends. Funeral details will be announced by the Archdiocese of Brisbane in the coming days. The community is invited to keep Fr Mollison and his loved ones in their thoughts and prayers, wishing him eternal peace.

Published Date 19-Jun-2025

Petrie and Joyner Receive Major Budget Allocations in 2025–26

Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay

Petrie and Joyner have been identified for major infrastructure investment under Moreton Bay’s 2025–26 Budget, with projects targeting economic development, flood resilience, and transport efficiency.

Petrie: The Mill Development and Olympic Venue Preparation

The Mill at Moreton Bay remains a cornerstone of the region’s long-term planning, with $100.3 million allocated over five years to continue its staged development. Situated in Petrie and connected by two train lines, the precinct combines a university campus, public recreation space, and land designated for mixed-use investment.

Budget and Operational Plan 2025-26 — *Photo Credit: The Mill at Moreton Bay*

Designed as South East Queensland’s newest landmark destination, The Mill offers extensive opportunity for development in education, employment, and lifestyle. At its core is a vision to support the future growth of the city through inclusive, transformative public and commercial spaces.

Current activity includes road and bridge upgrades to enhance access and readiness for future development. The precinct also features the Moreton Bay water park and adventure playground—an accessible, free-entry facility with aquatic play elements, climbing structures, and interactive lighting displays.

Site preparation has also begun for the Moreton Bay Indoor Sports Centre, which is planned to serve as a venue during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. The broader precinct is being positioned as a long-term generator of local jobs, investment, and knowledge-based industry partnerships.

Joyner: Youngs Crossing Corridor Project Underway

The Youngs Crossing Road upgrade in Joyner is progressing as one of the city’s most significant infrastructure undertakings, with a total budget of $120 million over two years. The project is co-funded by the Australian Government ($51.6 million) and Queensland Government ($15 million), with the remaining investment from Moreton Bay City Council.

This upgrade spans over one kilometre from Protheroe Road to Dayboro Road and includes construction of a new 200-metre bridge over the North Pine River, road realignments, and intersection enhancements. Key aims include improving flood immunity, traffic flow, and emergency access.

Petrie and Joyner — *Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay*

Seymour Whyte Constructions Pty Ltd was appointed as principal contractor, with on-ground works confirmed to commence in June 2025. Pre-construction activity has involved relocating services such as sewer, telecommunications, and electricity infrastructure, with power conduit installations ongoing since early 2025.

Youngs Crossing Road — *Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay*

Additional features include koala exclusion fencing, fauna refuge infrastructure, new signalised intersections, and upgrades to access points including Pine Rivers Pony Club and Youngs Crossing Park. Pedestrian and cyclist connectivity will be preserved with a new shared path linking to Merv Ewart Reserve.

Youngs Crossing Road upgrade — *Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay*

By locating the new bridge to the west of the existing roadway, the majority of works will occur offline to minimise disruptions. Landscaping and environmental design features have also been incorporated to reduce ecological impact, including preserving large fig trees and improving aquatic passage through Sideling Creek.

Strategic Planning and Financial Framework

These major projects are part of Moreton Bay City Council’s $1 billion 2025–26 Budget, the largest in its history. The council allocated nearly $400 million towards capital works to meet population growth and infrastructure demands.

The developments in Petrie and Joyner form part of multi-year programs, with financial backing from state and federal partners in key transport corridors. The projects are designed to address long-term connectivity, flood risk, and employment generation across the region.

Published 18-June-2025

Woman Sentenced Over Fatal Crash in Boondall

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

A woman has been sentenced to jail following a crash in Boondall that caused the death of an elderly passenger she considered a close personal friend.

Background to the Incident

Barbara Lee Gordon, 66, was sentenced in the Brisbane District Court after pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing death. The incident occurred on 6 April 2024, when Ms Gordon drove through a red light at the intersection of Sandgate Road and Roghan Road in Boondall.

The crash led to the death of 91-year-old Irene Holdway, who had been travelling as a passenger in Ms Gordon’s vehicle. The women had just finished grocery shopping before the collision.

Boondall fatal crash — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Details of the Collision

The court heard Ms Gordon attempted to turn onto Sandgate Road but failed to stop at a red light that had been active for 47 seconds. Her vehicle, a White Toyota Scarlet, passed between two rows of stationary cars and entered the intersection, where it collided with a Ford Ranger and a Toyota Hiace.

While the other drivers were unharmed, Ms Gordon sustained a fractured spine. Ms Holdway died five days later from injuries to her neck and chest.

Sentencing and Circumstances

Judge Vicki Loury imposed a two-year prison sentence, to be suspended after Ms Gordon serves three months in actual custody. The court acknowledged Ms Gordon’s lack of prior criminal or traffic history and noted that she was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash.

Prosecutors described the incident as a brief lapse in judgment with severe consequences. Ms Gordon, who met Ms Holdway through lawn bowls, had referred to her as a maternal figure and has since given up driving.

dangerous driving — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Community Response

During sentencing, the court acknowledged that Ms Holdway’s family requested leniency. They recognised Ms Gordon’s long-standing friendship and loyalty to the deceased, referring to her as the most consistent companion in Ms Holdway’s life.

Judge Loury noted that Ms Gordon had been a respected member of the community and would carry the burden of the incident for the rest of her life.

Final Orders

In addition to the custodial sentence, Ms Gordon’s driver’s licence has been disqualified for two years. The judge acknowledged the emotional toll and lasting remorse that Ms Gordon expressed during sentencing.

Published 14-June-2025

Bray Park Witness Callout Seeks Information on Past Child Abuse Claims

A legal investigation is underway into claims of historical child abuse alleged to have occurred at Bray Park State High School and Holy Spirit Catholic Church Pine Rivers.

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Shine Lawyers initiated the inquiry after a man came forward alleging he was sexually abused as a student by a person in a position of authority at the high school. The incidents are reported to have taken place between 2009 and 2013.

The firm has issued a witness callout, stating:

“If you were a former student or staff member at Bray Park State High School, or were involved with the Holy Spirit Catholic Church Pine Rivers, from between 2009–2013, we would like to speak with you confidentially about our investigation.”

Shine Lawyers is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.

A spokesperson for the Education Department emphasised that student safety remains its highest priority. They noted that any claims made against the department are handled through the Queensland Government Insurance Fund in line with government guidelines. The department declined to comment on individual matters.

A Queensland Police spokeswoman confirmed that there are currently no active police investigations into historical child abuse at Bray Park educational facilities. She urged anyone with relevant information or concerns to contact police directly. At this stage, no criminal charges have been laid. All individuals named remain entitled to the presumption of innocence.

Read: Reclaiming the Streets: How Pack Australia is Empowering Women to Walk Without Fear

Those who would like to assist may contact Law Clerk Melissa Roberson on 07 3490 1362 or email mroberson@shine.com.au. Support services and counselling are also available for anyone affected by the allegations. Those seeking support can contact Lifeline (13 11 14).

Published 8-June-2025

Bridgeman Downs Local Joins Cast of Acclaimed Musical ‘Parade’

Photo Credit: Lucy Ross

Bridgeman Downs performer Lucy Ross has been cast in the Brisbane season of “Parade,” a Tony Award-winning musical opening at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills.

Lucy Ross Represents Bridgeman Downs in Acclaimed Musical

Lucy Ross, a music theatre graduate and performer based in Bridgeman Downs, will appear as Monteen in the Queensland debut of “Parade.” The production, staged by Bump In Productions, officially opens to the public on 19 July at the Ron Hurley Theatre, with a special preview on 18 July presented as a dental industry event.

Ms Ross, who studied at the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts, has built a career across major stage works including “Heathers,” “Anyone Can Whistle,” “Firebringer,” and “We Will Rock You.” Alongside performing, she works as a vocal coach and emerging music director, with credits including “The Wizard of Oz” and “Seussical.”

Professional Ensemble Assembles Across Brisbane

The “Parade” cast includes professional actors from a wide range of suburbs such as Bulimba, West End, Woolloongabba, and Slacks Creek. Ms Ross is one of several northside locals involved in the production, which also features performers from Robina, Redland Bay, and the Sunshine Coast.

Director Johnny Peek (Cleveland), musical director Michael Keen (Wynnum), and choreographer Maureen Bowra (Taigum) lead the creative team, with design contributions from David Lawrence and Kate Campbell-Westerway.

*Photo Credit: Bump In Productions/Instagram*

Musical Recounts Real-World Events

“Parade,” written by Jason Robert Brown and Alfred Uhry, is based on the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish factory manager wrongfully convicted of murder in Georgia, USA, in 1913. The case, which triggered national attention and social division, forms the basis of a musical known for its emotional score and social relevance.

The production has won multiple awards, including the Tony for Best Score and Best Book in 1999, and Best Revival in 2023. It is presented in Brisbane by not-for-profit company Bump In Productions, which specialises in lesser-known musical works and independent professional casting.

Bridgeman Downs performer — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Performance Schedule and Bookings

The season runs from 19 July to 3 August at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills, with a special preview performance scheduled for 18 July from 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. as part of a dental industry event. Performances run Thursday to Sunday each week. Tickets are priced between $49.00 and $69.00 and are available through trybooking.com.

Published 7-June-2025

Community Parks in Albany Creek and Brendale Get Major Upgrades

Bleakley Park in Albany Creek is getting a major upgrade as the Moreton Bay Regional Council adds a new dog off-leash area and several improvements to help locals and their pets enjoy the outdoors.

Big Changes Coming for Albany Creek

Bleakley Park is set to receive an 830-square-metre dog off-leash area with pathways, seating, shade, water bubblers, signs and bins. The upgrade is part of a wider plan to improve parks across the region and give locals more space to gather and relax.

Already popular for its playground, picnic tables and outdoor gym, the park sits near Sandy Creek in a quiet, leafy area. The new dog zone will provide a safe space for pets without changing how the rest of the park is used.

Nearby Suburbs to Benefit Too

Alongside Bleakley Park, Brendale Street Park is also set to get a fenced dog off-leash area with similar features like gates, water stations, paths and shaded seating. Landscaping will help make the Brendale space greener and more inviting.

The two parks are only a few kilometres apart, giving nearby suburbs more shared outdoor options. These improvements will strengthen their role as gathering spots for local families and pet owners.

Part of a Larger Plan

The upgrades at Bleakley and Brendale parks are part of a broader push to improve how locals use outdoor spaces. Council works also include footpath upgrades and a new shade sail at John Leitch Memorial Park.

These changes aim to make parks more comfortable, safer and better suited for everyday use. Feedback shows locals want more spots to walk dogs, stay active and catch up with friends. By adding simple, useful features, the council hopes to create spaces people will actually use.

Easy Access for Residents

Bleakley Park sits at 34 Old Northern Road and is easy to reach by car or on foot. It connects well to nearby paths, making it handy for locals out walking or visiting with kids and pets. The upgrades will make it more comfortable and better suited for everyday use.

Brendale Street Park is getting similar improvements, just a short distance away. Together, the two parks are set to become key community spots for wellbeing and outdoor fun.

Published 6-June-2025

Sebastian Bach to Perform Skid Row Album Live in Eatons Hill

Photo Credit: Sebastian Bach/Instagram

Eatons Hill will feature as the Queensland stop for Sebastian Bach’s upcoming tour, where he will perform Skid Row’s debut album in full for the first time on Australian soil.

Tour Overview

Former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach is set to return to Australian stages in November 2025, performing the band’s 1989 self-titled debut album in its entirety. As part of a five-city national tour, Mr Bach will appear at Eatons Hill Hotel on Saturday, 29 November.

The show will mark the first time Australian audiences experience the full album live, including tracks such as “Youth Gone Wild”, “18 and Life”, “Big Guns”, and “I Remember You”. The Eatons Hill performance will also include encore songs drawn from Mr Bach’s solo career and Skid Row’s later releases.

Sebastian Bach Eatons Hill — *Photo Credit: Sebastian Bach/Instagram*

Background and Rescheduled Plans

This tour acts as a delayed celebration of the 31st anniversary of the album, originally planned for 2020 but cancelled due to the global pandemic. The 2025 tour now commemorates the 36th anniversary of Skid Row’s breakthrough release, bringing it back to Australian venues five years later than initially intended.

Mr Bach, who fronted Skid Row from 1987 to 1996, helped propel the band’s early albums to multi-platinum status. He was born in the Bahamas, raised in Ontario, and continues to tour globally as a solo artist.

Reception and Set Expectations

Mr Bach’s recent performances of the Skid Row album have been met with strong reviews internationally. Media outlets have highlighted his vocal consistency and stage presence, with reviewers noting the shows’ high energy and close replication of the original recordings. The Eatons Hill concert is presented by DRW Entertainment and Metropolis Touring.

Ticket Details

Pre-sale access for tickets opened on Wednesday, 4 June at 11 a.m. local time and concluded at 10 a.m. the following day. General public sales commenced on Thursday, 5 June at 11 a.m. Tickets are available via Ticketek.

*Photo Credit: Sebastian Bach/Instagram*

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Looking Ahead

The Eatons Hill appearance forms part of a broader national tour that also includes stops in Fremantle, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. Each performance is expected to deliver a complete showcase of one of hard rock’s defining records, led by the voice that brought it global attention.

Published 6-June-2025

University Study Hub Launches in Strathpine

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A new University Study Hub has opened in Strathpine, providing local students with dedicated learning facilities and support services closer to home.

Suburban Education Access Expands in Strathpine

Strathpine is now home to Queensland’s first Suburban University Study Hub, part of a national initiative designed to increase tertiary education access for students in outer metropolitan areas.

Located on Gympie Road, the hub supports students enrolled in university or TAFE by offering a study environment within their local community. The project is one of 15 new hubs opening in 2025 across 17 outer metro locations.

Addressing the Participation Gap

National data shows that while nearly half of Australians aged in their 20s and 30s hold a university degree, outer suburbs like Strathpine have significantly lower participation—around 15 per cent. The new hub aims to help bridge this gap by removing practical barriers to study.

The hub provides workstations, quiet rooms, meeting areas with video conferencing, high-speed internet, and academic support services including tutoring and mentoring. Staffed access is available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays, with extended unstaffed access from 6 a.m. to midnight daily.

Strathpine University Study Hub — *Photo Credit: JasonClarkeMP/Facebook*

First Local Student Registers

The first student to register, a Bachelor of Science candidate named Robert, shared that the facility offers a safe and supportive study space for those without access to reliable equipment or quiet areas at home. He highlighted the benefit of being able to study locally without needing to commute.

First student of the study hub — *Photo Credit: Aus Gov Department of Education/Facebook*

National Strategy and Local Impact

The Strathpine hub is part of the Federal Government’s $66.9 million plan to expand University Study Hubs from 34 to 69 sites nationally. The local site is expected to support up to 80 students in its first year and up to 200 within two years.

Operated by The BUSY Group, the same organisation will also establish a second site in Beenleigh later in 2025.

Looking Ahead

With facilities now operational, the Strathpine University Study Hub is positioned to increase participation in tertiary education across Moreton Bay and north Brisbane. The Department of Education continues to monitor outcomes as part of its broader access and equity agenda.

Published 31-May-2025

Hanos Car Care: A 30-Year Local Legacy in Albany Creek

In Albany Creek, one family-run business has quietly earned a reputation as a pillar of trust, quality, and community spirit. For three decades, Hanos Car Care has been more than just a place to service your vehicle—it’s been a constant presence in the lives of local families, providing genuine care and reliable expertise.

Read: Brendale Industrial Land Snapped Up by Toyota Dealership Affiliates

Established in 1995, Hanos began as a modest operation at the corner of Ferguson Street and Albany Creek Road. It quickly became known for its personal touch and competitive prices—traits that set it apart in an industry often dominated by impersonal dealership chains. The business grew, not just from its skilled servicing and repairs, but from the connections it fostered with its customers.

When the lease on the original site ended in 2004, rather than lose the momentum they had built, the Hanifin family made the pivotal decision to invest in their future by securing a new location in nearby Everton Park. That bold move marked the beginning of a new era for Hanos Car Care, allowing it to expand while staying true to its community-focused values.

Today, Hanos is still proudly run by the Hanifin family, who live locally and remain deeply embedded in the Albany Creek community. Their commitment to consistency—offering great service at fair prices—has seen generations of customers return time and again, many of whom have supported the business from the very beginning.

Recognition hasn’t gone unnoticed either. Hanos Car Care has been celebrated in local business awards and inducted into the council’s Hall of Fame—testaments to its lasting impact and outstanding customer service.

What truly sets Hanos apart, however, is its family ethos. From the friendly faces at the front desk to the expertly trained mechanics in the workshop, there’s a shared pride in the work they do and the relationships they’ve built. It’s a place where people know your name, where service feels personal, and where commitment to the community runs deep.

Read: Gwen Bell of The Nest Community Recognised for Excellence in Volunteer Management

Now operating from two locations, Hanos Car Care continues to thrive while staying rooted in its founding values. As Albany Creek grows and changes, Hanos remains a constant—trusted by locals, cherished by families, and driven by a passion for helping people get back on the road with confidence.

For those yet to discover it, Hanos Car Care isn’t just a workshop—it’s a local legacy.

Published 29-May-2025