A vacant house on Rosewood Drive, Strathpine was completely destroyed in a blaze that authorities are treating as suspicious, following an emergency response in the early hours of Monday morning.
Queensland Fire Department crews were dispatched to the scene at approximately 2.15am after reports of the blaze. Two fire crews worked swiftly to contain the flames, successfully extinguishing the fire within 30 minutes of their arrival at 2.45am.
The property, which was reportedly listed for sale at the time of the incident, sustained complete destruction from the fire. No injuries were reported as the house was unoccupied.
Queensland Police have established a crime scene at the location and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire. The suspicious nature of the blaze has prompted authorities to examine all potential causes and circumstances.
The incident adds to ongoing concerns about property security in the area, particularly for vacant homes. Local residents may notice increased police activity in the vicinity as investigators continue their work.
Emergency services responded efficiently to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring properties, minimising the potential impact on the broader Strathpine community.
Police are continuing their investigation and anyone with information about the fire is encouraged to contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information through the online reporting system at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The former Albany Links Golf Course in Brendale could be subdivided into three lots, with the largest portion of the site to be auctioned off by Moreton Bay City Council.
Plans (DA/2025/2639) lodged on behalf of the council proposed dividing the 10-hectare site on South Pine Road into a main block of just under 8 hectares, which borders Eatons Hill Hotel, local shops, and Cribb Road leading to the South Pine Sports Centre.
Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay DA Tracker – DA/2025/2639
The land has been identified as surplus to council requirements and will be sold with its current “Recreation and Open Space” zoning intact.
Two smaller parcels, each around 1 hectare and located near the South Pine Sports Complex and South Pine River, will be retained by council to safeguard 2.15 hectares of green space for public access and ecological restoration.
Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay DA Tracker – DA/2025/2639
“These retained lots will be used for ongoing public benefit, with intended uses including sport and recreation and/or environmental protection. It is important to note that no changes to the premises or infrastructure is proposed under this development application,” planners stated.
“Access to the site will be obtained through an easement over the adjoining lot owned by Council located at 620 South Pine Road. This lot is included in the proposed development only for this purpose.”
A council spokesperson said the auction date is yet to be confirmed but added that proceeds from the sale will be reinvested into vital community services and programs.
Albany Links Golf Course closed in January 2019 after its operator declared the 10-hole course financially unviable. Council was unable to secure a replacement operator, and the clubhouse has since been removed. Any future development on the land will remain subject to existing planning regulations.
An Eatons Hill student has become the first Queensland school student to present at the Australian Conference of Economists. This marks a national milestone in economic education.
Joel Pallikunnel, aged 17, from Eatons Hill, has set a national precedent by being the first Queensland student to present at the Australian Conference of Economists. The conference, which took place in Sydney, is a key event run by the Economic Society of Australia and draws participation from economists, academics, and senior policymakers across the country.
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only Photo Credit: Pixabay
Focus on Multicultural Migration
Joel delivered a TED Talk-style address focusing on the economic benefits linked to multicultural migration in Australia. His presentation was based on his published report and offered analysis on how migration contributes to economic strength and inclusivity. The topic drew interest from conference attendees. Many of whom are active in shaping national economic policy.
Esteemed Audience and Support
Joel’s presentation was heard by senior figures including Professor Amanda Pallais of Harvard University, Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers, and the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, Andrew Hauser. His attendance was supported by sponsorship that covered travel and accommodation. This enabled him to share his work on a national stage.
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only Photo Credit: Pixabay
Broader Recognition
In addition to his appearance at the conference, Joel’s achievement was acknowledged at the 7NEWS Queensland Young Achiever Awards Gala. The event celebrated outstanding contributions from young people across Queensland. Joel was recognised as part of this group for his efforts in economic research and advocacy.
The Australian Conference of Economists is coordinated by the Economic Society of Australia. It is a federation that promotes the use of economics nationwide. The Society supports public debate, economic education, and professional development through events such as this annual conference.
From Boondall to the big league, former Northside Wizards defensive centre Rocco Zikarsky has officially joined the NBA ranks—taken at pick No. 45 in the 2025 Draft and now bound for the Minnesota Timberwolves after a trade from the Chicago Bulls.
Boondall Beginnings
Long before draft night lights, Zikarsky was the lanky kid whose 220-cm frame barely fit through the doors of the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, home court of the Northside Wizards.
Boondall parents still remember seeing the Sunshine Coast-born teenager swat shots at junior fixtures, already standing head-and-shoulders above scoreboard signage. His sporting pedigree runs as deep as his sterling genetic pedigree: Dad Björn collected Olympic swimming bronze for Germany, while Mum Kylie conquered Australian surf-ironwoman circuits. Yet, basketball won his heart early.
He rose through Queensland South representative squads, listed proudly as “Centre – Northside Wizards” on state team sheets, before earning a scholarship to the NBA Global Academy in Canberra. Watch Rocco’s junior Wizards highlights on TikTok
Next-Stars Development
In July 2023, the Brisbane Bullets signed Zikarsky as the youngest recruit in the NBL’s Next Stars program. His debut—six points and four blocks in just ten minutes against Sydney—hinted at what a 17-year-old, 117-kilogram rim protector could become. The 2023-24 campaign delivered steady minutes (27 games, 3.2 points, 2.1 rebounds, 1.0 block on nearly 60 percent shooting); but the real breakout arrived on 29 November 2024 when, promoted to the starting five, he dropped 13 points, eight boards and three blocks on Perth.
Coaches lauded his timing and unusual mobility for someone with a 9-foot-7 standing reach.
Between seasons he added bulk—an extra 13 kilograms, according to league reports—to handle the bruising screens of pro paint battles, all while fine-tuning a soft shooting touch that occasionally stretches to the arc.
Scouts began pencilling him into mid-second-round mock drafts as a classic high-upside project: raw offence, stellar defence, plus a work ethic shaped by elite-sport parents.
Draft-Night Moment
Chicago’s Combine confirmed the whispers: at 7-foot-3 without shoes, Zikarsky measured as the tallest athlete in the 2025 class. On 26 June, Minnesota used pick 45—acquired via a pair of trade-downs—to secure him on a two-way deal with G-League affiliate Iowa Wolves.
Analysts framed the selection as a “swing for size”; when he eventually debuts, only Zach Edey and Victor Wembanyama will stand taller on an NBA floor.
Minnesota staff have signalled a patient plan—summer league, weight-room time, and G-League reps—banking on his shot-blocking instincts to translate while his footwork and foul discipline catch up.
For Zikarsky, the destination matters less than the journey: “Boondall to the big time” has a nice ring, but the real milestone is proving Australian pathways can carry teens from suburban clubs straight to basketball’s summit.
Hometown Legacy
Back in Boondall, Wizards juniors now practise post moves under banners bearing the name of their most famous alumnus. Coaches replay clips of his high-school dunks to show that rim protection and hustle still trump highlight-reel flair. Parents who once queued for sausage-sizzle fund-raisers now tune in to watch Timberwolves summer league games, certain they’ll spot a familiar jersey number lurking under the basket.
Whether Zikarsky becomes a franchise cornerstone or a specialist role-player, he’s already etched himself into Brisbane sporting folklore: the kid who out-grew every local gym yet never forgot where the journey started. His next chapter begins in Minneapolis, but every block, board and baby-hook will carry a little echo of Boondall.
A significant boost to daily school routines is on the horizon for the Eatons Hill community, with $500,000 allocated to upgrade the drop-off, pick-up area, and car park at Eatons Hill State School.
This crucial funding has been committed by the Queensland Government in its 2025-26 Budget. The upgrade is expected to enhance safety and improve traffic flow during peak school hours, directly addressing long-standing community concerns about congestion around the school grounds.
Enhancing Safety and Flow
Photo Credit: Google Maps
The primary purpose of the $500,000 investment is to significantly improve the functionality of the school’s entry and exit points. For many parents, the daily school run can be a challenging experience, often marked by bottlenecks and limited parking.
This upgrade aims to alleviate those pressures, creating a smoother and safer environment for students, parents, and staff alike. The focus is specifically on improving traffic management within the drop-off and pick-up zones and expanding available parking.
The project at Eatons Hill State School is not an isolated initiative but forms part of a broader commitment by the Queensland Government to invest in education infrastructure and community safety across the Moreton Bay region.
Other schools, such as McDowall State School, are also slated for similar upgrades, demonstrating a concerted effort to improve conditions at educational facilities throughout the area. This regional approach highlights the government’s strategy to deliver a “fresh start” for Queensland, with improvements in key public services.
The half-a-million-dollar allocation for Eatons Hill State School originates directly from the Queensland State Budget for the 2025-26 financial year. While specific design changes and precise completion timelines within the financial year are not yet fully detailed in public summaries, the commitment of funds underscores the government’s intention to move forward with these vital improvements.
The project is a direct response to the need for better infrastructure to support growing school communities and enhance daily safety for all involved.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photo Credit: The Mill at Moreton Bay
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.
Photo Credit: The Mill at Moreton Bay
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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).
