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Strathpine Prepares for Major LGBTIQA+ Celebration with PrideFest in June

Moreton Bay PrideFest will bring a vibrant celebration of the LGBTIQA+ community to Strathpine, featuring a star-studded line-up of performers and community activities.

Event Details and Timing

The much-anticipated event is scheduled to take place at Pine Rivers Park in Strathpine on Saturday, 14 June 2025. Community members can join the festivities from 1:00 p.m. through to 9:00 p.m. Tickets for the celebration are currently available for purchase.

Stellar Entertainment Program

PrideFest — *Photo Credit:* *Moreton Bay*

Attendees can look forward to an exciting entertainment program headlined by powerhouse Australian performer Natalie Bassingthwaighte, who will take to the Ausbuild Main Stage. The stage will also showcase the talents of Drag Race Down Under Season 4 stars, including winner Lazy Susan, Mandy Moobs, and Freya Armani.

The entertainment continues with dazzling burlesque shows by Kim Schotte, Magnolia Knife, and Fortuna Maxima. Jaw-dropping drag performances are also on the agenda, featuring All Stars Lulu Lemans, Kora Kurvachious (also referred to as Kora Kurvacious in one source), Helen Wheels, and Luna Thicc. Keeping the energy high, the Moreton Bay Pride Dancers will perform, and DJs Harry K, DJ DC Davide, and DJ Raul will be spinning beats throughout the day. Live music vibes will be delivered by The Geminiis (or The Geminiis Live), Garret Lyon, and James Alexander featuring Penelope.

Community Spirit and Purpose

Moreton Bay PrideFest aims to make the Moreton Bay area a happier, healthier, safer, and more culturally rich and diverse place for the LGBTIQA+ community.

The event is designed to empower current and future generations to be their true selves and feel accepted and proud, regardless of gender identity or sexuality. Adding to the community focus, a One Love Zone will feature various community and service organisations. The festival promises an atmosphere of love, diversity, delicious food, and plenty of glitter for all who attend.

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Organisers and Support

Moreton Bay PrideFest is presented by City of Moreton Bay and is delivered by Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism. These organisations are working together to bring this significant community event to life.

Published Date 06-May-2025

Strathpine Clinic Offers Lifeline for Elders with Culturally Safe Ageing Care

Photo Credit: Moreton Atsichs/Facebook

A new health clinic in Strathpine is helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders stay healthier for longer, with access to specialist ageing care that puts cultural respect at its centre.

Culturally Safe Health Services Come to the Northside

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healthy Ageing Clinic (HAC) now runs weekly in Strathpine and Caboolture, alternating Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It is a partnership between Metro North Health and MATSICHS, supported by the Queensland Dementia and Frailty Network.

*Photo Credit: Better Together – Our Health, Our Way/Facebook*

Strathpine’s clinic helps close long-standing health gaps for older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by offering specialist geriatric care in a trusted, culturally safe setting.

*Photo Credit: Moreton Atsichs/Facebook*

The clinic supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and over, as well as their immediate family members, promoting community and family wellbeing.

A Focus on Ageing, Frailty and Dementia

The clinic helps Elders manage ageing-related health issues with assessments for memory, mobility, fall risks, and medication use.

Dementia care is a key focus, along with support for age-related frailty and disability. Geriatric specialists deliver care in a culturally safe setting where patients feel respected and understood.

Community-Led and Clinically Backed

Metro North Health, through its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Leadership Team, has played a guiding role in setting up the clinics. Their work with MATSICHS ensures services are not only clinically sound but also embedded in community values and trust.

While many mainstream services fail to reach older Indigenous patients in ways that feel safe or welcoming, this model aims to change that. Staff at the clinic work closely with patients to offer care that reflects both medical needs and cultural identity.

How to Access the Clinic

To attend the clinic, patients need a GP referral to Metro North’s Geriatric Service. It runs Tuesdays, alternating between MATSICHS Caboolture and Strathpine.

The Strathpine site is located at 496–498 Gympie Road, and the Caboolture site is at 5 James Street. For those seeking more information, the Caboolture Satellite Hospital can be contacted on (07) 3049 9755.

Published 6-May-2025

Strathpine Athletes Help Queensland Sweep National Athletics Titles

Photo Credit: Strathpine Spitfires Little Athletics Centre/Facebook

Strathpine athletes played a key role in Queensland’s dominant performance at the Australian Little Athletics Championships held in Adelaide from 26 to 27 April.

Strathpine Athletes Contribute to Queensland’s National Sweep

Three athletes from Strathpine Little Athletics Centre were part of the Queensland team at the 2025 Coles Australian Little Athletics Championships, with two delivering podium finishes and one ruled out due to injury.

Brock Miller and Tiarni Bitossi returned with multiple medals, while Ned Amorsen was unable to compete despite being selected.

Brock Miller Adds Gold and Bronze to Queensland’s Tally

Little Athletics Queensland — *Photo Credit: Strathpine Spitfires Little Athletics Centre/Facebook*

Brock Miller took bronze in the Under 15 Combined Events Heptathlon, where he recorded personal bests in five of the seven events: 100m hurdles, 100m, 800m, long jump, and high jump. He significantly improved his discus mark, extending it from 41.24m to 50.50m.

Miller contributed to Queensland’s victory in the Under 15 4x100m mixed relay, which was completed in 47.44 seconds. He was part of the group that earned Queensland the Life Members Trophy, which recognises the top-scoring team in the U15 Combined Events.

Tiarni Bitossi Earns Double Silver in National Debut

Strathpine Little Athletics — *Photo Credit: Strathpine Spitfires Little Athletics Centre/Facebook*

In her first year of competition, Tiarni Bitossi claimed two silver medals. She placed second in the Under 15 Girls 300m hurdles with a time of 46.24 seconds and also ran in the Under 15 Girls 4x100m relay team, which clocked 50.81 seconds to secure silver.

Amorsen Withdraws Due to Injury

Strathpine’s Ned Amorsen was selected to represent Queensland in the Under 15 Boys category but withdrew ahead of the championships due to a pre-existing injury sustained earlier in the year.

Queensland’s Strong National Standing

Queensland achieved a standout overall result at the championships, taking out four national team titles:

Under 15 Combined: Champions
Under 15 Individuals: Champions
Under 14: Champions
Under 13 Adjusted: Champions
Under 13 Overall Points: 2nd Place

The performances from athletes such as Miller and Bitossi were instrumental in Queensland’s multi-category success.

Published 6-May-2025

Lee Kernaghan Announces Eatons Hill Show for Final ‘Boys From The Bush’ Tour

Photo Credit: Lee Kernaghan/ Facebook

Australian country music favourite Lee Kernaghan will bring the concluding run of his famous Boys From The Bush concert tour to Eatons Hill. The event will celebrate decades of music and mark ten years since the release of his significant Spirit of the Anzacs album.

Eatons Hill Concert Details

Following sell-out shows during his 2024 run, Kernaghan has added a performance at the Eatons Hill Hotel’s Grand Ballroom scheduled for Saturday, 25 October 2025, beginning at 5:00 pm. Tickets for the Eatons Hill concert are available from $59.

The show promises to be a major production, described as his biggest touring show yet, and will feature special guests Robby Kernaghan, Tori Darke, and Matt Cornell supporting the main act.

Final Tour Chapter Across Australia

This concert is part of Kernaghan’s extensive 40-date national tour, promoted as ‘Boys from the Bush: The Final Chapter’. The singer indicated the show is being revamped and amplified for this farewell run. He explained that the setlist will draw from his decades-long career, including rarely performed tracks like ‘Electric Rodeo’ alongside major hits.

Kernaghan noted that fan requests submitted via social media have helped shape the song selection. He aimed to include tracks that resonate deeply with his audience, even if they weren’t radio singles. He emphasised his passion for writing about Australian life and people, stating that many audience members connect strongly because they have lived the stories in his songs, which keeps them returning.

He also observed how fans who attended his shows in the 1990s now bring their children and grandchildren, creating a multi-generational connection through his music.

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Spirit Of The Anzacs Milestone

2025 holds further significance as it marks the tenth anniversary of Kernaghan’s landmark album, Spirit of the Anzacs. He recalled the powerful inspiration for the title track came during a visit to the Australian War Memorial, specifically citing the inscription “He is all of them, and he is one of us” at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier as the genesis for the song.

Kernaghan described the songwriting process for the album, which drew heavily from letters, diaries, and recollections in the War Memorial archives, as happening very organically. He stated he could almost hear the music while reading the soldiers’ words. The album involved numerous collaborators, including Guy Sebastian, Jessica Mauboy, and Sheppard, who Kernaghan noted all donated their time and talents.

He stressed that all proceeds from the song went directly to support service personnel through groups like Legacy and Soldier On, making the song truly belong to Australia. He expressed satisfaction that the song continues to be performed at school assemblies and memorial services on ANZAC Day.

Enduring Career and New Music

Lee Kernaghan’s career spans over three decades, during which he developed a unique style blending traditional country themes with contemporary Australian experiences, particularly those from regional areas. His live shows are known for combining arena-rock energy with country music’s heartfelt storytelling.

His influence is widely recognised, with 13 chart-topping albums, 40 number one singles, 38 Golden Guitar awards, and 4 ARIAs. His contribution to communities, especially during times of drought, fire, and flood, led to him being named Australian Of The Year in 2008.

Kernaghan mentioned his early musical influences included outlaw country artists like Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. While the ‘Boys From The Bush’ tour era is concluding, he confirmed he is actively working on a new album and hopes to release new music soon, aiming for songs that he can be proud of and that will endure over time.

Published Date 28-April-2025

Eatons Hill Welcomes The Fray for 20th Anniversary Tour

Photo Credit: The Fray/Instagram

The Fray will bring their sold-out ‘How to Save a Life’ 20th anniversary tour to Eatons Hill Hotel on Friday, 5 December 2025, performing in the standing-only Grand Ballroom.

The Fray’s Return to Eatons Hill

American pop rock band The Fray will visit Eatons Hill Hotel on 5 December as part of their 20th anniversary tour celebrating the release of “How to Save a Life”. The Eatons Hill event has sold out, with no further allocations available to the public.

The Fray Eatons Hill — *Photo Credit: The Fray/Instagram*

‘How to Save a Life’ and Global Success

Formed in Denver, Colorado in 2002, The Fray rose to international fame with the 2005 release of “How to Save a Life”. The album, which achieved quadruple Platinum certification in the United States and Platinum status in Australia, featured hit singles such as “Over My Head (Cable Car)” and the title track “How to Save a Life”. The album’s success propelled the band to global recognition, including four Grammy nominations and multiple Billboard Music Awards.

Eatons Hill Show Details

Presented by TEG MJR, The Fray’s Eatons Hill Hotel performance will be a standing-only, 18+ event held in the Grand Ballroom. Fans attending can expect a setlist featuring major tracks from “How to Save a Life”, alongside fan favourites such as “You Found Me”, “Never Say Never”, and a cover of The Cranberries’ “Dreams”. The concert may close with the signature song “How to Save a Life”.

The Fray tour — *Photo Credit: The Fray/Instagram*

Due to strong pre-sale demand, the general public ticket allocation for Eatons Hill has been exhausted, with resale options available through the Ticketek Marketplace.

Expansion of Australian Tour

Following overwhelming ticket demand, The Fray added additional shows in Melbourne and Sydney to the Australian leg of the anniversary tour. Originally scheduled for Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, the updated schedule now includes two performances each in Sydney and Melbourne. The Eatons Hill Hotel show remains the sole Queensland stop.

The Fray comeback tour — *Photo Credit: The Fray/Instagram*

Community Interest in Eatons Hill

Interest in the Eatons Hill event reflects the band’s enduring fanbase in Brisbane’s northern suburbs, including Albany Creek and surrounding areas. With general allocation exhausted, local excitement has increased around the upcoming performance.

Future Prospects

The Fray’s 2025 Australian tour forms part of their broader international return following the release of their 2024 EP, The Fray Is Back. With Joe King now leading vocals, the band continues to tour and perform new material alongside career-defining hits.

Published 28-Apr-2025

Josiah Lea Jailed Over Strathpine Burger Shop Arson Plot

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

Josiah Lea has been jailed after recruiting a teenager to attempt to burn down a burger restaurant in Strathpine, resulting in extensive damage.

Background and Context

The Strathpine community has been impacted by an attempted arson attack on a local Grubbies Burgers & Hawaiian BBQ restaurant. On 2 September 2023, fires broke out at Grubbies Burgers & Hawaiian BBQ stores in Strathpine and Redbank Plains within minutes of each other.

Josiah Lea, 22, later faced Brisbane District Court after being charged with recruiting a 17-year-old to carry out the Strathpine attack.

Mr Lea, the brother of professional rugby league player Viliami Lea, turned to crime after struggling with drug use. His criminal history included a previous jail term for armed burglary.

Both fires caused significant damage, with no occupants inside the stores at the time. Grubbies Burgers & Hawaiian BBQ owner Ben Niumata described it as a difficult period for the business, which had only been operating since 2022.

Strathpine arson — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Details of the Incident

Mr Lea instructed the teenager through text messages to steal a car, drive it to the Strathpine restaurant, and ignite the building. Specific directions included smashing windows and spraying petrol extensively. The teenager later purchased matches at a nearby 7-Eleven before carrying out the act.

The Strathpine fire caused $92,500 in damage. As the building’s structure was not destroyed, the offence was classified as attempted arson. The teenager involved was later identified when he sought hospital treatment for burns, and analysis of his phone linked the crime back to Lea.

The first attack occurred at Redbank Plains around 1:20 a.m. on 2 September 2023, with the Strathpine fire following roughly ten minutes afterward.

Charges and Court Proceedings

Josiah Lea was arrested and charged on 13 September 2023 in Beenleigh Magistrates Court. Charges included two counts of attempted arson, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, possessing explosives, contravening an order about electronic access information, and possession of used pipes.

Mr Lea entered a guilty plea at Brisbane District Court to charges of attempted arson and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. Chief Judge Brian Devereaux acknowledged the seriousness of involving a younger person in the crime.

Despite completing a drug rehabilitation program while in custody, Mr Lea’s prior criminal history and the fact that he offended while on parole impacted sentencing.

Impact on the Community

The attacks caused major disruptions for Grubbies Burgers & Hawaiian BBQ, the business established by Ben Niumata. Mr Niumata, who had launched the restaurants after starting a small burger business in Ipswich, expressed uncertainty about why the stores were targeted.

Despite the significant damage and challenges with insurance claims, Grubbies Burgers & Hawaiian BBQ in Strathpine successfully reopened in January 2024, months after the attack. The restaurant continues to thrive today.

*Photo Credit:* *Dmitry S.*/*Google Maps*

Sentencing Outcome

Mr Lea was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for attempted arson and unlawful use of a motor vehicle, reduced from four years to reflect the 588 days he had already spent in custody since his arrest on 13 September 2023.

However, because he committed the offence while on parole, the time served was not formally declared as part of this sentence. Mr Lea will be eligible for parole on 24 July 2025.

Chief Judge Devereaux warned Mr Lea that if he truly valued the support shown by his family, he must not put them through having to attend court for him again.

Published 26-Apr-2025

Murrumba Downs Sisters Bag $100k Windfall While Running Errands

Two sisters from Murrumba Downs were stunned to discover they’d picked up a $100,000 cash prize, and they only found out while out doing the shopping.

From Disbelief To Excitement

The winning ticket came from a Lucky Lotteries Super Jackpot draw, but the sisters had no idea they were holding a winner until they dropped into a local outlet during a routine day of errands. One of them described their reaction as sheer disbelief, initially assuming the result couldn’t be real.

According to The Lott, the pair had secured a guaranteed first prize, and their reaction said it all. They stared at the screen in silence before the news sank in. One of them reportedly exclaimed “Holy crap!” when they realised the truth, a moment now shared widely online.

The sisters later confirmed they’d double-checked the results several times before celebrating. Even then, they admitted it still felt “a bit unreal.”

Local Sisters Plan To Ease Life Pressures

For the Murrumba Downs locals, the prize means more than just a lucky break. They said their first priority is paying down debts and giving themselves some financial breathing room. A relaxing holiday is also on the cards, something they haven’t been able to do in years.

They made it clear the windfall wouldn’t change them. Instead, they viewed it as a moment of relief and a chance to step back from some of life’s daily pressures. One of the sisters noted the timing “couldn’t have been better.”

Just Another Normal Day — Until It Wasn’t

It all started like any other day, the women explained. While out and about, they decided to check their ticket on the off chance it had won something. That quick decision turned into the surprise of a lifetime.

The Lucky Lotteries draw had been held earlier in the week, but the women only realised their win later when scanning the ticket. The win wasn’t just about the money, it was about the sense of unexpected joy and release it brought to their day.

Community Reaction Full Of Good Vibes

Murrumba Downs locals have welcomed the news, with many saying it’s great to see the prize go to people from their own area.

While the sisters chose to stay anonymous, they said they were grateful not just for the money, but for the kind words and support from the community, a moment they’ll always remember.

Published 25-April-2025

What’s On at This Year’s Hills Festival: Movies, Music, and More

This May, Albany Creek and surrounding suburbs will be buzzing with energy as the Hills Festival returns—bigger, brighter, and more community-focused than ever. Over four weeks, locals can look forward to live entertainment, outdoor events, and laid-back days in the park, all designed to celebrate what makes this part of Brisbane special.

Read: PrideFest Moreton Bay 2025 Brings Colour and Celebration to Strathpine

Now in its eighth year, the festival brings together the Hills District—stretching from Arana Hills to Albany Creek—for a diverse line-up of activities that embrace local talent, family fun, and good old-fashioned community connection.

Something for Everyone

The Hills Festival isn’t about just one big event—it’s a collection of experiences spread throughout the month. You might find yourself watching a movie under the stars, listening to live jazz with a drink in hand, or browsing market stalls on a sunny afternoon. Many events are free, making it easy for families and friends to join in without breaking the bank. Highlights this year include:

Movie in the Park – 3 May

Enjoy an open-air screening of Trolls Band Together at Sargents Reserve in Eatons Hill. A perfect evening for families, complete with that classic under-the-stars magic.

Jazz & Shiraz – 11 May

Unwind at George Willmore Park in Ferny Hills with an afternoon of smooth jazz, good company, and a glass of wine in hand.

Music in the Valley – 18 May

Head to Samford Showgrounds for an afternoon of local live music, food trucks, and a relaxed country atmosphere.

Hills Carnivale – 31 May

Don’t miss the grand finale at George Willmore Park. Expect rides, market stalls, a kids’ stage, live entertainment—and a fireworks display to close out the festival in style.

The festival offers a chance to enjoy the best of the region without having to travel far. From live music and food trucks to fireworks and face painting, there are plenty of reasons to step out and be part of the festivities.

A Festival with Heart

What really sets the Hills Festival apart is its focus on community. It’s not just about entertainment—it’s about bringing people together, supporting local artists and businesses, and making memories with those around us.

Read: Albany Creek Seniors Embrace Active Lifestyle with JOY Exercise Program

Whether you’re heading out with kids, meeting friends, or just looking for something new to do on the weekend, there’s a little bit of magic waiting this May. The full program, including dates, times, and locations, is available online at www.hillsfestival.com.au.

Published 21-April-2025

Construction Commences on $92M Brendale Adventure Home HQ

Construction has officially commenced on Brendale Adventure Home HQ, a $92 million large-format retail and lifestyle precinct that promises to reshape the commercial landscape of Brisbane’s northern corridor.

Read: Brendale Retail Centre Sold for $13.2M

Located at a prominent site in Brendale, the development offers 504 metres of frontage to Old North Road and 250 metres to South Pine Road, capturing the attention of over 17,000 passing vehicles each day. Its strategic position places it within reach of a wide customer base, including residents of Petrie, Albany Creek, Carseldine and surrounding areas.

Brendale Adventure Home — Photo credit: brendalehq.com.au

Stage one of the project will deliver 17,000 square metres of retail showroom space and 450 on-site parking spaces. A future second stage will add another 15,000 square metres, taking the total footprint to 32,000 square metres across the two phases.

Anchoring the precinct is the Anaconda Adventure HQ, which is set to become the largest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Designed to offer more than a standard retail experience, the store will feature interactive elements including a 40-foot lure casting tank, fishing simulators, a cold room for trialling down jackets, and a range of boats on display—all under one roof.

The broader development will include well-known retailers such as Spotlight and Harris Scarfe Home, as well as a gym, café, medical services and commercial tenancies. The mix of offerings is designed to appeal to a wide range of visitors, creating a destination where shopping, lifestyle and convenience intersect.

The construction phase is expected to generate over 400 full-time jobs, with nearly 300 permanent roles anticipated once the precinct is operational.

Brendale Adventure Home HQ is being developed by Spotlight Group and is supported by Moreton Bay. The project is part of a broader push to activate economic development and increase amenity in one of South East Queensland’s fastest-growing regions.

Read: Griffin’s Bray Farm Park: A Harry Potter-Inspired Escape While You Wait for the ‘Forbidden Forest’

Completion is expected by September or October 2026, marking the arrival of a significant new player in the region’s retail scene. With its scale, high-profile location and experience-led design, Brendale Adventure Home HQ is positioned to become a landmark destination for both locals and visitors alike.

Published 18-April-2025

New Free Walk-In Mental Health Centre Coming to Strathpine

Photo Credit: Brisbane North PHN/ Facebook

A new Medicare Mental Health Centre offering free, walk-in support without appointments or referrals is set to open in Strathpine. This will provide easier access to care for residents needing mental health assistance.

New Centres Opening Soon

The Strathpine centre is one of three new facilities planned for the Moreton Bay region, with others opening in Caboolture and Redcliffe. A fourth centre is also planned for Inner-North Brisbane at Lutwyche. These centres are expected to begin welcoming people from July. While exact locations are still being finalised, Brisbane North Primary Health Network (PHN) has confirmed the operators for each site.

Neami National will run the Strathpine centre, Stride will operate the Caboolture facility, and Communify will manage both the Redcliffe and Lutwyche locations. For Caboolture, Strathpine, and Inner-North Brisbane, existing Integrated Mental Health Hubs will transition to this new model, while the Redcliffe service will be completely new.

Accessible Support for All

A key feature of these Medicare Mental Health Centres is their ease of access. Anyone can walk off the street to seek help during the centres’ extended operating hours. There is no need to make an appointment beforehand, obtain a referral from a GP, have a previous mental health diagnosis, or even hold a Medicare card. The service is designed to be free for everyone, including those reaching out for mental health support for the first time.

Services and Staffing

Inside the centres, visitors will find a team of highly qualified mental health professionals working alongside people who have personal experience with mental health challenges. This multidisciplinary team, including mental health social workers and nurses, will listen to individuals and work with them to provide their needed care.

The centres offer immediate help for people in distress and short-term and medium-term care plans. They also aim to connect people with other helpful services in the community, such as housing or employment support, to assist them into the future.

Meeting Community Needs

Mental Health Centre — *Photo Credit:* *Brisbane North PHN/ Facebook*

These new centres are being established partly to support communities facing significant challenges, including higher levels of socio-economic disadvantage, unemployment, and homelessness. Brisbane North PHN CEO Libby Dunstan indicated that assessments show a clear need for more mental health support across the North Brisbane and Moreton Bay regions, and these centres will be a valuable addition to local services.

Furthermore, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Emma McBride stated that the facilities will help residents get the support they need closer to where they live.

National Mental Health Initiative

The opening of these centres is part of a wider Australian Government programme, undertaken in partnership with state and territory governments and Primary Health Networks. The goal is to establish 61 Medicare Mental Health Centres nationwide by the middle of 2026. This initiative builds upon the existing Head to Health network, aiming to make quality mental health care more equitable and accessible nationwide.

How to Access Help

People seeking support can walk into any centre when it opens. A trained professional will talk with them to understand their immediate needs and may arrange a follow-up visit if necessary. Alternatively, individuals can call 1800 595 212 during weekday business hours (8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) for information about local mental health supports or to book an appointment at their nearest centre. In an emergency, people should always call triple zero (000) or visit the nearest hospital emergency department.

Published Date 11-April-2025