Two paramedics and one civilian were hospitalised after a car collided with an ambulance at the intersection of Albany Creek Rd and Beckett Rd in Bridgeman Downs on Tuesday morning, causing the emergency vehicle to flip onto its side.
The crash occurred at 7:36 AM when a Queensland Ambulance Service vehicle, responding to a code one emergency, was struck by a car.
Two paramedics sustained shoulder injuries in the rollover. They were transported to St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital in stable condition.
The occupant of the other vehicle involved suffered shoulder and knee pain and was also taken to St Andrew’s War Memorial Hospital in stable condition.
The collision temporarily blocked a lane at the intersection of Bridgeman and Graham Roads.
The Queensland International Elvis Festival is set to make its highly anticipated debut at Eatons Hill Hotel, bringing a weekend packed with Elvis Presley-themed entertainment to the Australian community.
This three-day festival will feature internationally acclaimed performers who will pay tribute to the legendary King of Rock ‘n’ Roll in a series of concerts designed to capture different moments of his iconic career.
Scheduled to take place from 25 to 27 October 2024, the festival will highlight five unique shows over three days. Each performance will offer a different perspective on Elvis’s life and music, ensuring that there is something for every fan of the King.
The venue, Eatons Hill Hotel, known for its top-tier facilities, will host the festival. Attendees will have the convenience of accommodation, cafes, and restaurants, making the event a full weekend experience for fans travelling from near and far.
International Line-up of Elvis Tribute Artists
Despite having never performed in Australia, Elvis Presley’s popularity remains immense. His music continues to captivate generations of fans, keeping his legacy alive nearly five decades after his death. Australian fans have embraced his films, music, and style, with tribute artists and festivals like the Queensland Elvis Festival playing a key role in maintaining his influence. This enduring fascination with Elvis demonstrates the lasting impact of his cultural presence, even in places he never visited.
One of the key attractions of the Queensland International Elvis Festival is the impressive line-up of tribute artists. Heading the bill is Emilio Santoro, a rising star in the Elvis Tribute Artist (ETA) world. Hailing from the UK, Santoro began gaining widespread attention in 2019 when he won the Images of the King World Championship Non-Pro Division at just 17 years of age. Since then, his career has soared, with victories across Europe and the United States. He has established himself as a premier young Elvis tribute artist, captivating audiences with his authentic and electrifying performances.
Joining him are Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE) champions, including Jay Dupuis, Cote Deonath, and Ted Torres, all travelling from the United States for the event. Each of these performers has earned recognition for their portrayals of Elvis, bringing to life different stages of his career—from his early rockabilly days to his famous Las Vegas performances. Fans can expect an authentic and dynamic representation of Elvis’s music and personality, with these seasoned tribute artists delivering some of the King’s most beloved hits.
Photo Credit: Eatons Hill Hotel/Facebook
Five Unique Concerts Celebrating Elvis’s Legacy
The festival will feature five distinct concerts, each focusing on a different aspect of Elvis Presley’s career.
“All Out Elvis”will kick things off, taking the audience on a journey through the most iconic moments of Elvis’s life. It will showcase his rise to stardom and his influence on the music industry.
“From Tupelo to Vegas” will follow, tracing Elvis’s evolution from his humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, to his glitzy Las Vegas performances.
For those interested in the global reach of Elvis’s music, “Elvis On Tour” will provide a snapshot of his life on the road and the impact his live shows had around the world.
A special performance of “Elvis: The Story” will offer an in-depth exploration of the King’s life, bringing together music, history, and storytelling in a concert that Australian audiences have never seen before.
The final event, “It’s Carnival Time,” will celebrate Elvis’s film career, highlighting the songs that made him a pop culture icon on-screen and off.
The Queensland International Elvis Festival is organised by Dom Arpa Productions, one of Australia’s leading concert promoters. With a reputation for bringing large-scale musical events to life, Arpa’s team aims to make this festival an annual tradition that will attract both local and international visitors.
In “Boy Swallows Universe,” author Trent Dalton paints a vivid picture of life in Bracken Ridge, where the novel’s young protagonists face their toughest challenges.
“Boy Swallows Universe” has captured the hearts of readers nationwide with its gripping narrative and deep, emotional resonance. Set predominantly in Bracken Ridge, the novel explores the tumultuous life of its protagonist, Eli Bell, as he navigates a world of crime and adversity.
Since its release in 2019, the book has not only become a bestseller but has also been acclaimed for its authentic portrayal of the struggles faced by those living on the fringes of society.
Impact of Bracken Ridge on the Story
Bracken Ridge plays a significant role in Mr Dalton’s narrative beyond just being a setting; it is essential to the story’s foundation and significantly influences the lives and choices of its characters.
The novel’s depiction of the suburb mirrors genuine socioeconomic difficulties such as poverty and domestic abuse, which deeply impact the characters.
Key events in the narrative, such as Eli’s confrontations with local criminals and his experiences of family turmoil, are deeply intertwined with the setting, highlighting how the environment can impact personal growth and resilience.
Mr Dalton weaves significant themes through the fabric of “Boy Swallows Universe.” Resilience, hope, and the quest for a brighter future stand out against the harsh realities of Bracken Ridge. The suburb’s gritty reality tests the characters, especially Eli and his brother Augustus, pushing them toward emotional and moral growth.
“Boy Swallows Universe” is more than just a story about growing up; it is a cultural commentary on the struggles and triumphs of life in Bracken Ridge. Through Eli and Augustus’s eyes, readers experience the harsh realities and hopeful aspirations of those living in this Brisbane suburb.
Born and raised in Brisbane, Mr Dalton’s upbringing in the outer suburbs of Brisbane significantly influenced his literary work. Mr Dalton, who attended Bracken Ridge State High School, began his career in journalism, gaining recognition as a skilled feature writer for the Weekend Australian Magazine, where his ability to tell captivating stories about everyday Australians won him national acclaim.
Dalton’s breakthrough as a novelist came with his debut novel. “Boy Swallows Universe” received widespread critical acclaim and multiple awards, including the 2019 Indie Book of the Year and the UTS Glenda Adams Award for New Writing. The novel was also adapted into a Netflix series.
Following this success, Dalton continued to explore deep and varied themes in subsequent novels such as “All Our Shimmering Skies” and “Love Stories.” His writing often intertwines personal history with fiction, characterized by a poignant and evocative style that resonates with a broad audience. Mr Dalton remains a prominent figure in Australian literature, admired for his ability to blend profound emotional depth with distinctly Australian settings and stories.
Plans for a new service station along the Bunya Highway have taken a significant step forward, as local authorities approved modifications to the existing development permit.
The project, set to be constructed at 4 Scott St, Wondai will introduce a third fuel option to the town. SJS Fuels Pty Ltd, through Project Urban, successfully sought amendments to their original permit, granted in August 2021.
The updated plans include the addition of a 1.8m high acoustic fence designed to shield neighbouring residential properties from excessive noise. This fence will be enhanced with trees and shrubs, improving its visual appeal while serving its functional purpose.
Render of approved service station for Bunya Highway (Photo credit: SBRC)
The revised proposal features some adjustments to the original design. The service station shop’s size has been slightly reduced from 300 sqm to 270 sqm, with a marginal decrease in roof height. Other changes include an enlarged bin enclosure and the addition of two pylon signs along with illuminated fascia signage.
During the approval process, some concerns were raised about potential light pollution from the illuminated signage affecting nearby residents. However, these were addressed by noting the site’s location on the town’s outskirts and its predominantly commercial surroundings.
Photo credit: Google Street View
Crr Jane Erkens emphasised the importance of balancing community concerns with regional growth, stating, “If we are going to take into consideration every light that goes into people’s windows, we’re really holding our community back. I don’t think it’s much of an inconvenience to promote additional growth of our region.”
The service station will be built on vacant blocks between Edward St and Ivory St, with vehicle access provided from the Bunya Highway. Once completed, it will join Dan’s Diner on Haly St and the unmanned United Petroleum bowser on East St as Wondai’s fuel options.
While this approval marks a significant milestone for the project, a construction start date has yet to be announced. The development represents Wondai’s ongoing evolution, as the town prepares to welcome its newest commercial venture.
British pop-punk band Busted will perform at Eatons Hill Hotel in Brisbane for the first time ever, as part of their highly anticipated Australian tour.
The band, formed in Essex in 2000, rose to fame in the early 2000s with hits such as *What I Go to School For* and *Crashed the Wedding*. Despite their success in the UK and worldwide, the group has never performed live in Australia until now.
Their debut Australian tour includes stops in Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney, giving long-time fans an opportunity they’ve been waiting over two decades for.
They will perform in Brisbane on Friday, 1st November.
Busted’s popularity soared after their debut single, “What I Go to School For,” reached #3 on the UK charts. This was quickly followed by chart-topping hits like “Year 3000,” “Crashed the Wedding,” and “Thunderbirds Are Go.” Over the years, the band has sold over five million records worldwide, earned two BRIT Awards, and maintained its status as one of the UK’s most beloved pop-punk acts.
After a 20-year career, the band recently marked its anniversary by releasing its Greatest Hits 2.0 album, which topped the UK charts in 2023. This album brought collaborations with notable acts such as Simple Plan and All Time Low.
Busted expressed their excitement for their long-awaited Australian tour, noting their surprise that they had taken so long to perform in the country. They have promised an energetic show, inviting fans to “jump around and lose their minds” as they relive the hits that made them famous.
Support from Australian Talent
Melbourne-based pop-punk band Between You & Me is joining Busted on their Australian tour. This rising local band is set to open all three of Busted’s Australian shows, bringing their flavour of high-energy music to the stage.
Tickets for the Brisbane show at Eatons Hill Hotel and the other tour dates went on sale on 9th July, with pre-sales happening earlier for eager fans.
This marks a milestone in Australian pop-punk culture, with long-time listeners finally able to experience the iconic UK band live on their home soil.
The show at Eatons Hill Hotel promises to be a highlight of Busted’s tour, as Brisbane fans prepare for what will likely be a night filled with nostalgia and fan favourites from the band’s extensive catalogue.
Charlotte Crago, Grace Bell, and Simrat Gill impressed the company’s founders with their innovative marketing ideas, leading to their immediate hiring.
The opportunity arose through a competition organised by Queensland University of Technology’s (QUT) Business School, which challenged over 120 high school students to develop strategies for building a tea culture among Generation Z. The Bracken Ridge trio’s “spill the tea” campaign caught the eye of Origin Tea’s founders, brothers Chris and Lawrence Seaton.
Their creative concept revolves around fostering connections and sharing news over a cup of tea, embodied in the tagline “there’s a juicy conversation brewing in every cup of Origin Tea.” This fresh approach is now being rolled out across Origin Tea’s Instagram and TikTok channels, aiming to resonate with younger consumers.
For Chris Seaton, this collaboration represents a full-circle moment. He initially conceptualised the tea business during his own marketing studies at QUT. Twelve years later, Origin Tea has become one of Australia’s fastest-growing consumer tea brands, with a presence in over 1,000 cafés, international markets, and Woolworths supermarkets.
The experience has been equally rewarding for the students. Grace Bell expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The opportunity to work with Origin Tea was an enriching experience because I got to work with a real-world business and gain valuable insight into the field.”
Looking ahead, both Grace and Simrat are considering studying business and law at QUT after completing high school. Charlotte is also interested in pursuing a business degree, potentially majoring in entrepreneurship, international business, or marketing.
Albany Creek State High School made their mark on the national dance scene after competing as a finalist in the prestigious Sydney Eisteddfod’s 2024 Dance of Champions.
Held last Sunday, 8 September, the high school represented Queensland alongside 14 other elite dance groups across Australia in a dazzling display of talent, creativity, and teamwork at The Concourse Concert Hall in Chatswood.
The competition was fierce, with each group vying for the top spot and a share of the $8,000 prise pool. The Jury Vote Winner was Dance North Academy, which was celebrated for their moving performance of “Hallelujah.” The People’s Choice Winner went to Ravenswood School for Girls, captivating the audience with their performance of “Phantom.”
Adjudicator Danielle Evrat emphasised the high standards of the competition, noting the adjudicators were searching for the complete package: outstanding technique, seamless teamwork, captivating storytelling, exceptional performance quality, and above all, a group that could evoke a powerful emotional response. The diverse range of dance styles, from ballet to contemporary, and the elaborate costumes added to the spectacle of the event.
Sydney Eisteddfod CEO Annette Brown highlighted the collaborative spirit of the event, stating that the focus was on supporting each other and ensuring everyone was prepared to give their best performance. She remarked on the refreshing sight of so many young people fully engaged in the moment, without the distraction of mobile phones or screens.
Now in its seventh year, The Dance of Champions continues highlighting the Sydney Eisteddfod calendar. Esteemed dance professionals Danielle Evrat and Ryan Sheppard judged the event, which Shaun Parker hosted.
The afternoon we also featured guest performances by Ev & Bow Youth Company and Burns Bay Dance Studio’s Special Olympics, further showcasing the depth and breadth of young dance talent in Australia.
While Albany Creek State High School may not have won the top prize, its participation in this esteemed competition is a testament to its dedication, skill, and passion for dance. It has undoubtedly made its school and community proud, and its experience at the Dance of Champions will inspire future endeavours.
The proposed facility, designed by architects at Mode, promises to elevate the sporting experience for the local community and beyond.
Artist’s impression of new clubhouse (Photo credit: Mode)
Set to replace the existing clubhouse at 119 Francis Road, the new structure is poised to become the beating heart of netball activities in the area. With its strategic central location, the clubhouse will serve as a hub for the existing playing courts while maintaining the area’s low-density character.
The design boasts an impressive array of features tailored to meet the needs of players, officials, and spectators alike. Change rooms equipped with toilets and showers will provide comfort and convenience for athletes, while a dedicated timekeeper’s office and medical room ensure smooth game operations and player safety.
Spectators haven’t been forgotten in this thoughtful design. A club room and canteen will offer refreshments and a place to socialise, complemented by an external covered deck with seating. For those who prefer a closer view of the action, a tiered seating area will provide prime vantage points to cheer on their favourite teams.
Photo credit: Mode
The development goes beyond just the clubhouse itself. Plans include an extension to the existing car park, adding 74 new spaces, four accessible parking spots, and an ambulance bay, ensuring ample parking for events and emergencies. The landscaping around the facility will create an inviting atmosphere, with a barbecue area perfect for post-game celebrations or community gatherings.
Planners have emphasised the regional significance of this project, stating that it will “provide sporting and recreational infrastructure to support the growing residential population within the southern extent of the City of Moreton Bay area.” This forward-thinking approach underscores the importance of investing in community facilities that promote active lifestyles and social cohesion.
As the proposal moves through the approval process, netball enthusiasts and community members alike are eagerly anticipating the positive impact this new clubhouse will have on local sports culture.
With its blend of functionality, comfort, and community focus, the Les Hughes Sporting Complex is set to become a premier destination for netball in the region, fostering talent and bringing people together through the love of the game.
Queensland’s rising track and field stars descended upon Adelaide in late August for the Australian Little Athletics Championships, with a strong contingent hailing from Strathpine.
The young athletes, representing various corners of the state, showcased their talents against the nation’s finest. The action was broadcast live and exclusively on KommunityTV. While the squad boasted a strong presence from the South East, regional athletes, including those from Strathpine, made up a significant portion of the team.
The athletes expressed their excitement about representing Queensland and highlighted the role of their local clubs in shaping their athletic journeys and personal development.
The Queensland team consisted of athletes with varying backgrounds and experiences. Some, like Eziah Ferguson-Salkic, were first-time representatives, while others, like Xanthee Watts, had competed nationally for several years. Each athlete brought unique skills and talents to the team.
The athletes emphasised their clubs’ supportive and encouraging atmosphere, fostering individual and team success. They also highlighted the opportunities that little athletics provides for personal growth and development.
After nearly a year of construction, the new Lawnton Ambulance Station has officially opened its doors, marking a significant milestone in healthcare services for the local community.
Located at 870 Gympie Road, Lawnton, this state-of-the-art facility is set to improve emergency response times and enhance health outcomes for residents in the area.
Photo credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook
The $7.8 million station boasts a range of features designed to support the hardworking paramedics and staff who will call it home. These include:
Multi-function rest/study/training rooms
Office space
Change rooms and locker rooms
A patient care storeroom
Photo credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook
This fit-for-purpose facility will be staffed by an officer-in-charge, 16 paramedics, and four patient transport officers, ensuring round-the-clock ambulance service to the community.
Community Celebration
Photo credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook
To commemorate the opening, a community open day was held on Saturday, August 31. Residents had the opportunity to meet local paramedics, tour the new facility, and get a close-up look at Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) vehicles, both old and new.
The event also showcased historical equipment and provided CPR awareness demonstrations, highlighting the service’s commitment to community engagement and education.
Photo credit: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS)/Facebook
The new Lawnton station is a welcome addition to the Metro North Region, one of the busiest areas served by QAS in the state. It complements existing ambulance stations in Narangba, Petrie, Deception Bay, North Lakes, and Caboolture, as well as the recently opened station in Morayfield.
This expansion comes at a crucial time, as Queensland Ambulance Service is recognized as the busiest ambulance service in Australia, responding to almost 1.2 million calls annually, according to Queensland Health.
The Lawnton Ambulance Station is a key component of the Queensland Government’s Queensland Health and Hospitals Plan, which aims to strengthen the state’s ambulance service.
The government is investing $148.9 million to increase the capacity of QAS to meet future demand across the state. Importantly, this investment ensures that ambulance services remain free for all Queenslanders, maintaining the state’s commitment to accessible healthcare.
