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Bridgeman Downs Crash Leaves Teen Seriously Injured, Driver at Large

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

An allegedly stolen vehicle caused a severe crash on Saturday evening in Bridgeman Downs, leaving a 15-year-old boy seriously injured.

The incident occurred just before 8 PM on July 3 at the intersection of Beckett Road and Albany Creek Road. A black Hyundai I30, reportedly stolen from nearby Lawnton earlier in the week, collided with a sign at the intersection, causing catastrophic damage to the vehicle.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Brisbane Incidents Alert

Bridgeman Downs residents were among the first on the scene, describing it as “frightening,” “upsetting,” and “confronting.” One local witness reported seeing the car speeding north on Beckett Road moments before the crash, estimating its speed at an alarming “no less than 200kph.”

The impact of the collision was so severe that the teenager, allegedly the passenger of the stolen vehicle, was ejected from the vehicle, sustaining a serious head injury. He was rushed to the Queensland Children’s Hospital and is now reported to be in stable condition.

The driver, however, fled the scene on foot, leaving Bridgeman Downs community members concerned about safety in their neighbourhood. Police are currently seeking information on the driver’s whereabouts.

Footage of the aftermath, widely shared among local residents, shows the extent of the damage. The Hyundai lost all four wheels and came to rest on a traffic island, with its passenger side crumpled and front end severely damaged.

This incident has sparked discussions among Bridgeman Downs residents about road safety in their suburb, particularly along Beckett Road. Many expressed concern about speeding in the area, with one resident commenting that it was “a miracle” the boy wasn’t more seriously hurt “considering the speed and damage to the car.”

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

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

Quote this reference number: QP2401142245

Published 7-July-2024

Albany Creek Student’s Rare Cancer Battle Inspires Community Fundraiser

Albany Creek student Katie Jones’ life took a dramatic turn last year when what began as intermittent neuropathic nerve pain and back discomfort evolved into a devastating diagnosis.

Read: Brave Bald Hills Family Determined to Help Baby Haven Overcome Rare Schaaf Yang Syndrome

The 21-year-old’s journey to diagnosis was fraught with challenges. Despite consulting multiple GPs and even a physiologist who deemed her case the worst instance of neuropathy-related nerve pain, the true nature of her condition remained elusive.

It wasn’t until an MRI revealed a tumour that the gravity of her situation became apparent.

Rare Cancer — Photo credit: Mart Production/Pexels

The young student’s ordeal highlights the importance of persistence in seeking medical answers. After visiting several hospitals without a clear diagnosis, Katie’s current oncologist finally broke the news of a malignant tumour, though the specific type of cancer continues to puzzle medical professionals.

In the face of this uncertainty, Katie has undergone a gruelling treatment regimen. Her twin sister, Rebecca, who organised the fundraiser, shared that Katie has endured eight months of intensive chemotherapy, 31 radiation sessions, and multiple hospital admissions due to treatment complications. Most recently, she is recovering from major vascular surgery.

“We watched as she went from lifting weights at the gym to having paralysis in her leg and being unable to walk within a week,” she revealed. “Seeing her in excruciating pain was unbearable as a family.”

The road ahead for Katie is daunting. She faces a major surgery that will leave her permanently disabled and unable to walk, fundamentally altering her life. The procedure will require significant time in the hospital, including recovery in the ICU, followed by additional chemotherapy.

The financial strain on the family has been considerable. Katie’s mother has reduced her work hours, while Rebecca has quit her job entirely to support her sister during this challenging time.

A fundraiser has been laumched to help Katie and her family. The initiative aims to alleviate some of the financial burdens, covering costs such as medications, hospital parking, meals for the family, and essential mobility aids like a wheelchair, knee scooter, and crutches.

Those wishing to support Katie and her family in this difficult time are encouraged to contribute to the fundraiser via GoFundMe, helping to ease the financial burden of her ongoing treatment and recovery.

Read: Bray Park Family’s Selfless Efforts Nourish Homeless Community

Katie’s story is a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and the strength of the human spirit. It also underscores the critical role of community support in times of crisis. As Katie continues her fight against this rare cancer, her courage and determination serve as an inspiration to all who hear her story.

Published 6-July-2024

Eatons Hill Hospitality Group Dominates QHA Awards, Snagging Five Wins

Photo Credit: Queensland Hotel Association Awards/ Facebook

Eatons Hill and the broader Moreton Bay area are basking in the glow of success as the Comiskey Group clinched five prestigious awards at the annual Queensland Hotels Association (QHA) Awards. This remarkable achievement underscores the group’s commitment to excellence in hospitality and tourism.

The Comiskey Group, renowned for its development and management of Eatons Hill Hotel and Sandstone Point Hotel, achieved top honours in multiple categories, showcasing its diverse strengths.

The group proudly took home awards for Best Family Dining with The Doonan, Best Mid-Range Accommodation and Best Tourism Initiative for Sandstone Point Holiday Resort, Best Retail Liquor Outlet for Harry Brown Liquor at Eatons Hill Hotel, and the Hall of Fame for Best Entertainment Venue awarded to Sandstone Point Hotel.

The Doonan, a relatively new addition to the Comiskey Group’s portfolio, was honoured with Best Family Dining. Opened just last year, The Doonan marks the first collaboration where Comiskey Group partnered with Josj Jones and Neville Allen. The group’s pride in this achievement was palpable, particularly as it was the venue’s inaugural entry into any awards competition.

The Best Retail Liquor Outlet award for Harry Brown Liquor at Eatons Hill Hotel is a testament to the venue’s excellence, securing this title for the second consecutive year. Following a successful renovation, the store had previously earned the national title and is poised to compete for the Australian title again this year.

Sandstone Point Hotel’s induction into the Hall of Fame for Best Entertainment Venue is a notable highlight. Having won this category three years in a row, the hotel will now take a break from this nomination to allow other venues a chance to shine. Similarly, the Sandstone Point Holiday Resort’s recognition as Best Mid-Range Accommodation for the third year running means it too will be inducted into the Hall of Fame next year.

Director Rob Comiskey expressed immense pride in these accomplishments, highlighting the importance of the family-friendly environment that the Comiskey Group strives to create across all its venues. The dedication and hard work of the group’s 686 employees were also acknowledged as keys to their continued success.

*Photo Credit:* *Queensland Hotels Association*

The recognition of Eatons Hill Hotel’s Harry Brown Liquor store, coupled with the consistent accolades for Sandstone Point Hotel and Holiday Resort, underscores the Comiskey Group’s ongoing commitment to providing outstanding hospitality experiences. This year’s achievements not only celebrate past successes but also set a high bar for the future.

Published Date 19-June-2024

Skateaway: Albany Creek Celebrates the Enduring Legacy of Brisbane’s Last Roller Skating Rink

Photo Credit: Skateaway Albany Creek/ Facebook

Skateaway remains Brisbane’s last standing roller skating rink, preserving a cherished slice of the city’s recreational history. This legendary location has served as a gathering place for both families and skating enthusiasts, offering a distinctive blend of nostalgia and community spirit. Jodie and her committed team run it.

*Photo Credit: Screengrab from Google Map*

Opened in 1979, Skateaway Albany Creek has withstood the test of time, adapting to the evolving interests of Brisbane’s residents while maintaining the classic roller skating experience that has captivated generations. Its survival is a testament to the passion and resilience of its operators and the unwavering support from the local community.

*Photo Credit:* *Skateaway Albany Creek/ Facebook*

Jodie highlights the rink’s role in fostering a sense of belonging and joy among visitors. From birthday parties to themed skating nights, Skateaway has created countless memories for attendees of all ages. The rink’s retro charm, combined with modern amenities, ensures it remains a beloved destination in an era where digital entertainment often overshadows physical activity.

The rink’s enduring popularity is evident in its robust schedule, featuring sessions tailored to various skill levels and special events that draw crowds from across Brisbane. Its commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable environment has cemented its status as a local landmark.

As the city’s last roller skating rink, Skateaway Albany Creek not only offers a nostalgic escape but also promotes physical fitness and social interaction. The community’s ongoing support is crucial in preserving this historical gem, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the simple joy of roller skating.

In a rapidly changing world, Skateaway Albany Creek stands as a vibrant reminder of the enduring appeal of traditional pastimes, highlighting the importance of preserving local heritage and fostering communal ties through shared activities.

Published Date 19-June-2024

Early Works Begin on Linkfield Road Overpass Project in Bald Hills

The Linkfield Road Overpass upgrade at Bald Hills is moving forward with momentum, after an allocation of $10 million for its early works.

Read: Substantial Acreage on Bunya Now Preserved as a Koala Habitat

This project is a fraction of a broader initiative to enhance the Bruce Highway, with more than $10 billion dedicated to various improvements, including an additional $467 million from the recent Budget.

Linkfield Road Overpass — Photo credit: tmr.qld.gov.au

Key features of the design include:

Upgrade of Linkfield Road to 4 lanes (2 lanes in each direction) between Gympie Road and Lacey Road intersections, and removal of existing Linkfield Road overpass to create a new overpass
Increase in the overpass clearance height from 4.7m to 6m
Upgrade of northbound and southbound entry ramps, and extension of southbound exit ramp length
Signalisation of northbound and southbound ramp intersections
New separated pathway for eastbound pedestrians, riders and other users
New on road cycle lane for westbound bike riders.

Early Works and Preparations

The newly released $10 million will enable the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) to commence onsite activities shortly, including the relocation of approximately 350 metres of existing gas main. This initial phase is crucial for setting the stage for more extensive construction work.

This project is part of a larger commitment to provide $176 million from both the State and national levels. The overall project aims to significantly improve the transportation network in North Brisbane, enhancing connectivity and safety for commuters and freight vehicles.

Queensland Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish emphasised the project’s importance:

“The Linkfield Road Overpass is a critical piece of infrastructure for road users in North Brisbane. TMR has investigated options to reduce traffic congestion at the overpass, improve safety and freight access, and make more provision for active transport. To begin delivering on these benefits, the Queensland Government is releasing $10 million to support the start of early works within the next few months.”

Read: New 8-Storey Residential Development May Soon Rise on Gympie Road

Future Benefits

Once completed, the Linkfield Road Overpass upgrade will offer numerous benefits, including reduced traffic congestion, enhanced safety, and improved freight access. This project is a testament to the strategic investments being made to support the growing population and economic activity in Brisbane’s northern suburbs.

Published 7-June-2024

Students Banned from Albany Creek Woolies Spark Outrage

Woolworths Albany Creek caused quite a stir when it prohibited high school students from entering the store one Wednesday afternoon, citing concerns over alleged theft and disruptive behaviour.

According to a concerned parent’s account, around 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 22 May 2024, employees instructed every student from the nearby Albany Creek State High School to leave the premises.

The parent alleged an employee cited “sick of the theft” as the reason for expelling the teenagers, disregarding whether they had engaged in any misconduct.

The incident ignited a heated debate among community members. Some condemned the supermarket’s actions as discriminatory, arguing it unfairly targeted all students, including well-behaved individuals. Others sympathised with Woolworths, citing recurring issues with disruptive and stealing students that ultimately disrupted the shopping experience.

Albany Creek State High School to Woolworths — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

A former student’s parent revealed the longstanding tensions, stating students had been warned for years about being unwelcome at that particular Woolworths location. This sentiment was echoed by other parents who witnessed students stealing, harassing customers, and recklessly riding bikes and scooters within the shopping centre.

In a statement, a Woolworths spokesperson acknowledged the “isolated incident” and confirmed engaging with the local high school to address the underlying issues that prompted such a drastic measure.

As the Albany Creek community grapples with finding a resolution, discussions between parents, the school administration, and Woolworths representatives are expected to continue.

Published 27-May-2024

Brave Bald Hills Family Determined to Help Baby Haven Overcome Rare Schaaf Yang Syndrome

A Bald Hills family is set on their mission to help their third daughter Haven overcome a rare genetic disorder called Schaaf Yang Syndrome and its impacts on her development.

Read: Bray Park Family’s Selfless Efforts Nourish Homeless Community

Jamie-Lee Stanley, a resident of Bald Hills, explained that she became aware of the severity of Haven’s condition several days after her birth.

When she was pregnant at 35 weeks, doctors discovered there was too much fluid around Haven in Ms Stanley’s womb. After her waters broke, she was rushed to the hospital for an emergency C-section as the umbilical cord was near Haven’s head.

Haven (Photo credit: Sophie Johnson/GoFundMe)

Haven was born without a pulse and was purple on February 25, five weeks prematurely. Nurses worked tirelessly to resuscitate her and were left with no choice but to place Haven on a breathing tube in the neonatal intensive care unit.

According to Ms Stanley, Haven is facing severe respiratory problems, lacks a diaphragm, and has a gland in her brain that is not producing hormones properly, leading to fluctuations in her blood sugar levels.

She’s currently receiving care from various medical specialists, including an endocrinologist, neurologist, pediatricians, and physicians at the Queensland Children’s Hospital.

What is Schaaf Yang Syndrome?

Dr Christian Schaaf (Photo credit: ashg.org)

Schaaf-Yang syndrome (SYS) is a rare genetic disorder affecting developmental aspects such as intellectual ability, physical growth, and behaviour. Statistics say only 250 people worldwide are currently diagnosed with Schaaf Yang Syndrome.

Ms Stanley revealed that she is in contact with Dr Christian Schaaf in Germany, the researcher who discovered this syndrome in 2013.

She noted that there is a 33-year-old individual in Australia with a more severe strain of the disorder who has survived, giving them hope that Haven can also overcome this challenge.

Fundraiser for Haven

Sophie Johnson, a family friend, organised a fundraising campaign to help the family. Ms Johnson shared that Jamie-Lee and Trinity have not asked for this help, but as a friend and witness to their journey, she has seen the toll these long months have taken.

“The changes they have made to be close to the Hospital, juggling jobs, temporarily moving their little family in order to be by Havens side as much as possible whilst learning about their little girls condition and care moving forward, I just know this little family is very deserving of support and love.” wrote Ms Johnson.

Read: Albany Creek Unites for World’s Greatest Shave Against Blood Cancer

To help the family as they navigate Haven’s rare diagnosis and the associated challenges, see the fundraising campaign via GoFundMe.

Published 24-May-2024

Bray Park Family’s Selfless Efforts Nourish Homeless Community

A Bray Park family has been tirelessly volunteering their time and resources to provide daily meals, groceries, camping gear, and essential supplies to over 100 homeless individuals in the Moreton Bay and Pine Rivers area through their initiative called Nourish Street.

Beau Haywood, the driving force behind Nourish Street, has been self-funding this remarkable endeavour for over a month due to a lack of response from government agencies.

His selfless endeavor has been a true family affair. His partner, Jenny Ignacio, has been the backbone of the initiative, spending countless hours in the kitchen, preparing delicious meals like curried sausages and mashed potatoes, potato and egg salad, and her famous “creamy fruit salad.”

Beau’s three sons, Kane, Zion, and Isaac, have also rallied behind their father, lending a helping hand to support those in need.

The Haywood family has been working tirelessly, dedicating up to 16 hours daily to prepare and distribute nourishing meals, fresh bread, filled rolls, camping equipment, dog food, and even musical instruments to those in need.

Community Support

The initiative has garnered overwhelming support from the local community, with individuals and businesses rallying behind Haywood’s cause. Donations have poured in, including groceries, dog food, swags, sleeping bags, and essential items dropped off at the YMCA Op Shop, 130 Old Gympie Road, Strathpine, which serves as a secure drop-off point.

“We couldn’t do what we do without your support. This list would go on forever,” Haywood expressed, acknowledging the generosity of the community.

“The gratitude for all that is given is massive!” he added, highlighting the profound impact of their efforts on the lives of those experiencing homelessness.

Impact and Gratitude

In a recent update, Haywood shared the staggering scale of their efforts, which in just one week provided 350 meals, 300 cupcakes, countless loaves of bread, dozens of pies, boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables, and 60 bags of groceries to 115 individuals. The appreciation from the homeless community has been overwhelming.

While investigating ways to make his charitable role official and seek regular funding, Haywood has been funding these activities from his savings, which has its limits. He is now appealing to the community for support to continue his efforts and help as many people as possible during these challenging economic times.

“If you are interested in jumping aboard our initiative and helping those less fortunate in our community, please contact me,” he urged.

The selfless efforts of the Bray Park family and the overwhelming community support they have received serve as a testament to the power of compassion and unity in uplifting those in need.

Follow their updates on Facebook. Monetary donations may also be course through his GoFundMe page.

Published 23-May-2024

UB40 Bringing Red Red Wine Tour to Eatons Hill

Photo Credit: TEG Live

Get ready to revel! The world’s top-selling reggae group UB40 is headed to Eatons Hill Hotel on Sunday, October 13th as part of their massive Red Red Wine Tour celebrating 45 years of hits.

The iconic British band will be taking over the stage for what promises to be a night of pure reggae bliss. Fans can expect all the classics like “Red Red Wine,” “Can’t Help Falling In Love,” “Kingston Town” and fresh cuts from UB40’s 45th anniversary album “UB45”.

“We are always buzzing to come back to Australia. The welcome we get from the fans down there is special,” said founding member Robin Campbell.

UB40 has withstood the test of time, with the current lineup boasting all but one of the surviving original members, bolstered by the “re-energising presence” of vocalist Matt Doyle. The band has achieved remarkable milestones, including over 100 million albums sold globally, 10 UK Top 10 albums, and most recently their 51st hit single “Forever True.”

**UB40 feat. Ali Campbell, Astro & Mickey Virtue @ Rock the Ring 2018**
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Sven Mandel

Joining the reggae revolutionaries for this not-to-be-missed Brisbane show is special guest Eagle-Eye Cherry. The Grammy-nominated Swedish singer/songwriter will bring his unique blend of melodic alternative rock to the stage, including hits like the ubiquitous “Save Tonight.”

This is a true generational music event blending genres, decades of hits, and an unbreakable reggae spirit. Whether you’re a longtime UB40 rude boy or just looking for a night of good vibrations, don’t miss the Red Red Wine Tour taking over Eatons Hill on October 13th!

click here for the event details!

Published 15-May-2024

Charges Filed After Discovery Of A Suspicious Device in Brendale

Authorities have charged a 35-year-old man from West End in connection with the discovery of a suspicious device at a business premises in Brendale yesterday.

According to the Queensland Police Service, officers executed a search warrant around 10:30 AM on Monday at a business located on Leitchs Road. During the search, they uncovered a suspicious device, prompting the declaration of a crime scene.

The device was safely destroyed by police explosive technicians. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of the 35-year-old West End man, who now faces three counts of unlawful dealing with explosives or noxious substances.

The accused is scheduled to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court today, May 15th. Police have stated that investigations into the matter are ongoing.

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

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

Quote this reference number: QP2400820503

Published 15-May-2024