A ticket holder in Moreton Bay has won a life-changing million-dollar windfall from lucky ticket bought in Lawnton, but the question on everyone’s minds is — does he know it? Somewhere in Lawnton, someone is carrying around a golden ticket worth a staggering seven-figure fortune and has not claimed it yet.
Officials are now urging all recent game players in the area to carefully check their numbers, because one unsuspecting resident or visitor has just become a millionaire.
The winning ticket was recently purchased at the Spar Lawnton shop on Gympie Road in Lawnton. However, the golden entry was not registered with a player loyalty account, meaning officials have no direct way to inform the ticket holder of their amazing luck.
Photo credit: Spar Lawnton/Google Maps
Kashyap and Chetna Patel, who just took over ownership of Spar Lawnton last month, received the shocking call about selling the fortunate ticket drawn Wednesday, 20 December 2023.
“We will be celebrating this momentous moment in our outlet with balloons and streamers, as well as encouraging customers to check their Monday & Wednesday Gold Lotto tickets,” said the new owners of the outlet.
Anna Hobdell, spokesperson for The Lott, eagerly hopes to meet the region’s newest million-dollar winner. She said it’s very possible the latest person to win does not realise they are now a millionaire from last week’s draw. She strongly advised everyone who bought tickets at the Spar Lawnton store to quickly check their numbers.
Since 2016, some $18 million in Division One and major lottery prize money has been left unclaimed by 20 winners. Records show that seven of these winners are from Queensland and NSW; two are from WA and ACT; and one each from Victoria and SA.
Hobdell let people know all they need to do is visit the lottery’s website, use their phone app, or go to a store to see if they won. She said she cannot wait for the unaware winner to find out and claim their life-changing prize money.
The winning numbers were 14, 7, 20, 34, 41 and 23, whilst the supplementary numbers were 42 and 26.
So far this year, the astonishing amount of 397 million-dollar jackpots have been awarded through the game – 102 of those going to lucky Golden Casket players. Now the thrilling hunt continues for Moreton Bay’s newest millionaire to uncover their golden ticket and claim the $1 million destiny awaiting them.
Bray Park State High School is ushering in a new chapter of interschool sports with the launch of a groundbreaking competition slated for 2024. This initiative will involve six local high schools, including Bray Park, Albany Creek, Ferny Grove, Pine Rivers, Mitchelton, and Everton Park.
The competition, to be held at Brendale, promises weekly opportunities for students to engage in healthy competition and foster friendships across different schools. Additional details about this event will be unveiled at a later date.
Bray Park SHS: A Hub of Sporting Excellence
Amidst this exciting development, Bray Park SHS remains committed to its robust sports program, under the guidance of Principal Peter Turner. The school provides a spectrum of sports activities, ranging from competitive teams to fitness sessions, all aimed at accommodating every student’s interest.
Photo Credit: BrayParkSHS/Facebook
At the core of Bray Park’s sports agenda is the Future Athlete Specialist Training program. This program offers a balanced approach to academic and sporting aspirations, helping students manage the pressures of both. It incorporates high-performance coaching, best practice training programs, and structured support systems, based on the Long Term Athlete Development framework. This ensures comprehensive development for sport participants of all ages and abilities.
Inclusive Sports Environment
In line with its inclusive approach, Bray Park SHS offers the Blue Edge program for students less confident in specific sports but eager to explore various activities. Led by School-Based Police Liaison Officer Rohin Power and sponsored by the Blue Light Association, the program blends fitness sessions with social activities, emphasizing overall well-being.
Photo Credit: BrayParkSHS/Facebook
The school’s sports program also thrives on the sense of community it builds. Teachers and coaches, including the likes of Emily Baldry of the Queensland Pirates volleyball team, are deeply invested in the students’ growth, not just as athletes but as individuals. Their dedication goes beyond the field, shaping the students’ discipline, resilience, and social skills.
Facilities and Future Prospects
To support these extensive programs, Bray Park SHS has equipped itself with a new 12-seater bus, funded by grants from Ausbuild and the Queensland Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund. This strategic move will facilitate the participation of students in various sporting events and competitions.
With the launch of the new interschool sports competition in 2024, Bray Park SHS is setting a precedent for sports excellence in education. Their commitment to fostering athletic skills, building community, and nurturing future talents positions them as a leader in school-based sports programs.
Counting House Investments Pty Ltd lodged the proposal to develop the properties at 446 Gympie Road and 89-91 Railway Avenue.
The single-storey childcare centre would feature seven childminding rooms cared for by 20 full-time staff. The childcare centre would also have 825 sqm of outdoor play areas.
Artist’s impression of proposed childcare centre in Strathpine (Photo credit: Raunik Design Group)
Designed by Raunik Design Group, the layout aims to be functional, compliant and meet community needs. The architectural design intends to contribute positively to the streetscape.
Site plan (Photo credit: Raunik Design Group)
“The proposed uses have been co-located and are intended to provide a highly accessible child-minding and convenience service that complements the existing ‘centre activities’ and residential uses that exist in the immediate local area,” planners noted in the development application.
Meanwhile, the attached cafe would provide seating and a pedestrian awning facing Gympie Road.
There would be 15 parking spaces provided, whilst the proposed design places strong emphasis on linking the childcare centre and cafe to pedestrian access ways.
Clear connections to surrounding footpaths aim to allow safe, permeable movement between Gympie Road, Railway Avenue, the parking area, and the entrance. Planners said an “active frontage” facing Gympie Road provides clear sightlines between the street and the interior space.
Photo credit: Raunik Design Group
“The Gympie Road frontage has been designed to feature a high-set parapet façade that has been specifically included to give the effect of a second building storey to align with the intent of the Centre zone code (Strathpine centre precinct),” planners stated.
The properties are strategically located within Strathpine’s centre precinct near other services. The surrounding area features a mix of commercial and light industrial uses, with low-density residential further west. Bray Park train station is 400m north on Railway Avenue.
The development aims to provide an accessible, modern and well-designed childcare and cafe facility to aid the local community.
The site currently holds a single-storey commercial building and parking lot set back on Railway Ave. The adjacent property at 89-91 Railway Avenue stands vacant. The existing structures are slated for demolition to make way for the new childcare centre and cafe.
If approved, the childcare centre would be open 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. on weekdays whilst the food and drink outlet would operate seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Residents of Eatons Hill are eagerly anticipating the 7th Annual Santa Parade and Family Movie Night. Spearheaded by local resident David Williams, this event promises to be a highlight of the holiday season, uniting the community in festive cheer.
Starting at 4:45 pm on Friday, December 15th, the unmistakable sounds of Santa’s sleigh bells and joyful “ho-ho-ho” will echo through the streets. Emergency vehicles will escort Santa along Bunya Park Drive and Saraband Drive, spreading not only merriment but also crucial safety messages for the holiday season.
David Williams, the driving force behind this annual extravaganza, acknowledges the invaluable support of local emergency services, volunteers, and businesses in making this event a success. Their collaboration ensures that each year surpasses the last, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
“The community looks forward to the event each year,” expresses Williams, emphasising the sense of togetherness it fosters among neighbours and friends.
Adding to the festivities, the Wantima Country Club will host the Family Movie Night, starting from 5pm. Attendees can indulge in entertainment, food trucks, a Christmas movie screening, and an awe-inspiring fireworks display, courtesy of the event’s major sponsor, Gorilla Rush. Santa’s final appearance is expected around 6.15pm, marking the culmination of his tour through the local area.
With over 25 years of experience in organising community events, David Williams underscores the event’s significance in creating cherished memories and reinforcing a spirit of community unity.
The 7th Eatons Hill Annual Santa Parade and Family Movie Night epitomise the essence of the holiday season, combining festive jubilance with vital safety messages, ensuring a delightful experience for all attendees.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated on the event’s details and route via the Eatons Hill Santa Facebook page as the community eagerly awaits this joyous celebration. Mark your calendars for December 15th and join in the festivities, as Eatons Hill comes alive with the magic of the season!
A Year 11 student of Albany Creek State High School allegedly became the latest victim of a dangerous TikTok challenge when he was choked until he lost consciousness in class last week.
It has been widely believed that the incident as part of a growing list of youth seriously injured, and even killed by the “Blackout Challenge,” a viral stunt encouraging participants to choke themselves until they lose consciousness.
However, there have been statements that this may have been the result of what may have been a prank gone horribly awry and not due to participation in the Challenge at all.
According to students, the victim lost consciousness after being choked by one of his classmates, who did not release his hold until the victim hit his head on a desk before falling to the floor and beginning to have seizures. An ambulance was immediately called to transport the student to the hospital.
Photo credit: Snapchat
The Department of Education confirmed the Albany Creek incident has been reviewed and disciplinary action was taken per the school’s conduct code. Police say they will continue investigating the disturbance.
The student even posted a selfie on Snapchat whilst still being treated in the hospital with the caption “Ty to everyone who’s asked abt me,” saying he appreciated the concern.
What is the Blackout Challenge?
The blackout challenge intends to restrict oxygen to the brain for a period of time, resulting in a temporary loss of consciousness. The stunt has been linked to the deaths of between 15 and 20 children since gaining traction online.
In 2021, a mother from NSW warned other parents to look after their children’s social media activity after her 14-year-old son died whilst allegedly attempting the challenge due to pressure from social media.
The blackout challenge has sparked several legal battles seeking to hold the social media platform accountable. In 2022, a parent from Pennsylvania sued TikTok and its parent company ByteDance after her 10-year-old daughter died attempting the challenge.
Court documents showed the dangerous dare appeared on the girl’s TikTok “For You Page,” which recommends content based on user activity. However, a federal judge dismissed the case, ruling the platform is shielded by the United State’s Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which protects internet companies from liability for content posted by third-party users. The distraught mother vowed to continue fighting to change the controversial law.
Following multiple deaths of teens who participated in this challenge, TikTok has since blocked search results associated with the game.
Whether this choking incident in Albany Creek was the result of a dangerous schoolboy prank or participation in the Blackout Challenge, parental oversight of social media activity and school action on risky pranks and similar activities are crucial to prevent similar tragedies.
The first residents will soon be calling the eco-friendly gated community of Riverfront Estate home as they move into the 39 newly finished townhouses in the first stage of the development located in Albany Creek.
Riverfront Estate offers two-storey homes near 18 acres of private creekfront land, creating a peaceful place for families. Another 41 deluxe houses are coming in stage two, each with open living areas and terraces for natural light, double garages, designer kitchens and landscaped yards.
Residents also get amenities like a 20-metre pool, fire pits, sports areas, walking trails and more. The development runs on renewable power, has spots to charge electric vehicles and planted over 26,000 native trees to help local nature and air quality.
Riverfront by Lucindale (Photo credit: riverfrontalbanycreek.com.au)
According to Lucindale Holdings managing director Marcel Russ, they have integrated innovative sustainable design principles throughout the project to make positive, productive, and sustainable contributions to both their residents and the local community.
Photo credit: riverfrontalbanycreek.com.au
Mr Russ added that this focus has been recognised by the respected sustainable tourism company EarthCheck based on sustainable initiatives in each home that equate to quantifiable emissions savings. He also said Riverfront’s design excellence has been rewarded with a Special Mention in the Architizer A+ Awards, the world’s largest global awards platform for architecture.
Furthermore, the managing director stated that this combination of great design and industry-leading sustainability has been a big drawcard for buyers, who have also been surprised at the affordability of purchasing a home at Riverfront.
Around 20 percent of the next batch have sold already. People can visit the new display suite and furnished homes at 13 Stewart Road, Albany Creek, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday to explore the townhouses.
Well done to the students of Albany Creek State High School who are lighting the way for rural communities in Papua New Guinea by building solar-powered lights for them, guided by the Origin Energy Foundation and Australian charity SolarBuddy.
Around 270 Year 7 students at the school built about 100 solar lights as part of the Lights for Learning Program and to provide new opportunities for children living in energy poverty in Papua New Guinea.
Access to electricity in Papua New Guinea is dire, with only 13 percent of the population having reliable power, according to SolarBuddy.
Participants of Lights for Learning Program (Photo supplied)
This severe lack of lighting after dark makes it difficult for children to study or read at night. As a result, an estimated 38 percent of Papua New Guinean children under eight years old cannot read or write.
Albany Creek State High School Principal Janelle Amos said the program offers a myriad of benefits for both students involved in the assembly of the solar-powered lights as well as those disadvantaged children living in light poverty.
“The learning aspect of this program aligns with science and geography curriculum as it involves students learning about the importance of renewable energy, which is critical at a time when the country is transitioning to cleaner energy technologies.
“This project also allows students to acknowledge that not all citizens have equal access to resources and, by participating in building a solar light with the intention of giving it to someone less fortunate, provides students with an opportunity to think of others.”
Head of the Origin Energy Foundation Michelle Zahra said, “Since this initiative began five years ago, more than 9,000 Australian students and their teachers, like those at Albany Creek State High School, have helped deliver more than 10,000 lights.
“With the introduction of SolarBuddy lights, children in PNG are studying 78 percent longer and reliance on kerosene and other dangerous fuels has been reduced by 8 percent,” said Ms Zahra.
“Since these fuels are also the single biggest expenditure for households, that money can now be spent on food, health and education.
Ms Zahra added that origin volunteers who take part in these workshops find it incredibly rewarding to see the impact STEM education has on school students as they become global citizens for a day, discovering how simple renewable energy technologies can make a real difference to energy poverty.
As Australia commemorates Remembrance Day, the spotlight turns to Albany Creek to honour Jack Leggo, a remarkable war hero who made this suburb his home in his final years.
Squadron Leader Jack Frederick Leggo, known for his pivotal role in the famed Dambusters Raid, moved to Queensland after the war and became a successful businessman. Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1982, he eventually passed away in Albany Creek in 1983, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire.
On 11 Nov 2023, Australia will commemorate and honour those who served in the war for Remembrance Day. Here’s what you should never forget about Jack Leggo and the Dambusters.
The Dambusters Legacy
Jack Leggo was a bank clerk before he found himself catapulted into the role of a Squadron Leader in one of the most daring and critical missions of World War II: Operation Chastise, or the Dambusters Raid. This operation, led by Wing Commander Guy Gibson, involved 19 Lancaster bombers and 133 airmen from various Allied nations, including 13 Australians. Their mission was to strike four dams in Germany’s industrial heartland, the Ruhr Valley.
Photo Credit: Virtual War Memorial of Australia
The operation’s main objective was to breach the German dams using “bouncing bombs,” ingeniously designed by British aircraft designer Barnes Wallis. These depth charges were crafted to skip along the water’s surface before sinking and exploding against the dam walls.
Dropping these bombs with the precision required a height of 18 meters and a speed of 370 kilometres per hour, demanding exceptional skill and unwavering bravery.
From left to right: 414740 Flying Officer (FO) E. W. Weaver DFC of Brisbane, Queensland; 427426 FO R. P. Barry of Fremantle, WA; 414844 Flight Lieutenant J. L. Sayers DFC of Brisbane, Qld; FO V. L. Johnson RAF and 400896 FO F. E. Wittmer DFC of Melbourne, Victoria. Photo Credit: Australia War Memorial
Jack Leggo’s Heroic Journey
Mr Leggo stood out among the brave Australians who participated in the Dambusters Raid His wartime achievements were recognised with a knighthood, an honour that he shared with another Australian hero of the raid, Harold ‘Mick’ Martin. He and Mr Martin served as the captain and observer of a remarkably efficient crew, consistently hitting their bombing targets from low altitudes and returning with exceptional photographs.
In one notable instance, their crew spent thirty minutes locating a target despite facing intense opposition. Their aircraft sustained multiple hits, with one engine catching fire. Nevertheless, they pressed on with their attack in an unwavering and determined manner.
In another mission during the same month, which required exceptional navigation and crew cooperation, Mr Leggo and Mr Martin displayed exceptional courage in the face of the enemy.
The Mohne Damn Photo Credit: Virtual War Memorial of Australia
On the night of 16 May 1943, the Dambusters set off in three waves. The Mohne and Eder dams were successfully struck and eventually collapsed under the assault. Although the Sorpe Dam was hit three times but remained unbreached, and the Bever Dam sustained only minor damage, the operation was considered a resounding success.
Nonetheless, the successful breach of the Mohne and Eder dams struck a decisive blow against the enemy. This outstanding achievement showcased the dedication and efforts of all those who played their roles in this operation, demonstrating great credit for their skills and bravery.
Tragically, not all Australians returned home. The operation came at a great cost, with only 11 of the 19 Lancasters and 77 aircrew returning. Robert Barlow and Charles Williams lost their lives during the mission, while Tony Burcher became a prisoner of war in a German camp until the war’s end. Fred Spafford, Robert Hay, and Les Knight would later lose their lives in the war.
Unveiling a Piece of History
In May 2023, Australians marked the 80th anniversary of Operation Chastise. The Australian War Memorial has unveiled a piece of history from this remarkable air raid — the original Sorpe Dam model used for training purposes. The 3D models will feature in the redeveloped galleries in the new Anzac Hall, which will open in late 2025.
Australian War Memorial Director Matt Anderson praised the audacity of the “bouncing bombs” and the exceptional courage and skill displayed by the crews during the daring raid. The models, used by pilots and aircrew for familiarisation, have been preserved impeccably, ensuring that the stories of heroes like Jack Leggo continue to be told and remembered for generations to come.
The Dambusters Raid remains a symbol of courage and sacrifice, boosting morale during a challenging period in World War II. For the Australians who served in Bomber Command, the statistics tell a story of extreme danger, with over 4,100 out of 10,000 servicemen listed on the Memorial’s Roll of Honour.
Through the initiative, Cancer Council Queensland provides referrals to qualified solicitors who can help create or update an existing Will free of charge, with the client leaving a gift to the cancer charity.
The service has been operating in Queensland since 2009 and has formally launched its new partnership with Lockett McCullough at the firm’s Albany Creek office on October 31.
Photo credit: Lockett McCullough Lawyers/Facebook
Through one’s Will, there is the power to help create a cancer free future and save lives. After family and friends, one may consider naming Cancer Council in the will. Such a gift, no matter how large or small, can help make a difference.
Principal Lawyer Courtney Lockett said the firm was proud to partner with such a worthy cause.
“The service provides people with a free Will, while assisting to generate much-needed funds for Cancer Council Queensland, and at the same time allows our firm to be a part of a charitable service that we feel fondly about supporting,” said Ms Lockett.
“Everyone knows someone who has been impacted by cancer, if they haven’t been impacted themselves.”
“We are passionate about giving back to our community, and grateful that the Free Will Service allows us to make a tangible difference,” said Ms Lockett.
Cancer Council Queensland CEO Andrew Donne said gifts in Wills are vital to funding cancer research, prevention and support services.
They provide daily support for those affected by cancer during the most challenging times. The organisation advocates on behalf of the cancer community on important issues, works to educate people on reducing cancer risk, and funds research to improve cancer detection and treatment.
The Dickson Community Men’s Shed is seeking a permanent home to support the mental health and well-being of local men around the Dickson catchment between Brisbane and Moreton Bay.
The movement, established after the lockdown periods, has become a vital source of companionship and purpose for hundreds of men, as they grapple with the challenges of social isolation. This group encourages men to gather, volunteer, teach, learn, and seek fellowship with like-minded individuals.
Dickson encompasses suburbs like Albany Creek, Arana Hills, Bray Park, Brendale, Cashmere, Dayboro, Eatons Hill, Everton Hills, Ferny Hills, Joyner, Kallangur, Lawnton, Mount Glorious, Mount Nebo, Petrie, Samford Valley, Strathpine and Warner.
Challenges in Finding a Permanent Location
Unfortunately, the group is currently facing a considerable challenge in securing a permanent home to operate from. Doug Gaw and Paul Holstein approached the local council over a year ago to claim a piece of land for the community group, but they have yet to receive approval.
For now, the members meet twice a month at the Four Mile Creek Hotel, and they have recently secured a timeslot at the Albany Creek Community Centre in October. These gatherings have provided a sense of community and camaraderie, but they are eager for a permanent space.
Photo Credit: Four Mile Creek Hotel/Facebook
Since its founding, the men’s shed has already attracted 24 members, and it has seen a recent increase in expressions of interest from the local community. With Brendale, Albany Creek, Eatons Hill, and Strathpine all within their catchment area, the potential for membership growth is substantial, considering the region’s rapid population increase.
Once they secure a permanent home, the men plan to offer a wide range of activities, including metalwork and woodwork, cooking classes, arts and crafts classes, and hosting guest speakers. These activities will not only enrich the lives of its members but also contribute positively to the local community.
For those interested in learning more about The Dickson Community Men’s Shed or wishing to support this community initiative, you can contact Secretary Des Leonard at dicksonmensshed@gmail.com.
