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.
Artificial intelligence and drone technology are now being used to identify and protect vital koala corridors, as part of a groundbreaking conservation effort by leading environmental organisations, centred on Albany Creek and surrounding areas in Moreton Bay.
The Koala Corridors, hailed as the solution to these challenges, serve as pathways connecting isolated koala populations. These corridors facilitate movement, feeding, breeding, and genetic diversity, all critical for the long-term survival of the species.
Known for their tree-dwelling nature and reliance on eucalyptus trees for food and shelter, Austalia’s most iconic marsupials have faced increasing challenges as urbanisation and deforestation have encroached upon their habitats. Fragmented populations and a reduction in genetic diversity have put koalas at significant risk.
According to Bhavik Patel of Greenfrog Sec, the AI and drone project aims to identify and protect vital Koala Corridors to mitigate the threats posed by habitat loss, disease, and other environmental factors.
The innovative approach lies in the integration of artificial intelligence and drone mapping technology. AI-driven drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors capture detailed aerial imagery, which is then processed by advanced algorithms to create highly accurate maps and models of the environment.
The process involves data collection through drones, AI analysis to identify vegetation types suitable for koala habitat, and mapping that highlights areas requiring protection and restoration efforts.
Once identified, these Koala Corridors are prioritised for protection measures, including physical barriers to prevent Koalas from entering dangerous areas like roads. Corridors that have been degraded can be rejuvenated with the help of AI drone mapping.
A key aspect of this project is community involvement. The detailed and accurate maps created by AI drone mapping are shared with the public, increasing awareness and mobilising support. Local communities, government agencies, conservation organisations, and landowners all play a crucial role in the success of this conservation effort.
Stationery Aid, based in Bunya, has secured a place among the top contenders for the esteemed 2023 WasteSMART People’s Choice Award, with residents rallying behind their local environmental champion in the voting process.
The WasteSMART People’s Choice Award is a prestigious recognition that honours individuals, community groups, and businesses for their dedication to waste-smart activities.
The award comes with a $350 prize, celebrating those who tirelessly work towards diverting various waste types from landfills, including food, clothing, textiles, and medical waste.
Stationery Aid has made remarkable strides in diverting used and unused school stationery and office supplies from landfills and giving them new life and use locally and abroad.
With the support of over 80 volunteers, they sort, clean, and renew these items, which are then distributed to vulnerable and disadvantaged school students in Brisbane and across Queensland. Any supplies that cannot be used are donated to other charities that provide educational resources to children overseas.
In addition to these efforts, Stationery Aid also runs a repurposing program, turning old pencils into earrings, paper into wastepaper bins, and reusable supermarket bags into pencil cases. Over the past 2.5 years, the charity has diverted approximately 46,000 litres of school stationery waste from landfills, equivalent to a 7×6 metre pool. Their work has benefited approximately 900 disadvantaged school students, mainly in Brisbane, by providing them with full yearly booklist and stationery packs.
Stationery Aid was founded in 2020 by Alison and Jan Schutt, who recognised the need to collect excess school stationery to prevent it from going to landfills. Their mission expanded to help students and families facing hardship, and they established partnerships with local community groups, schools, and volunteers to make Stationery Aid a reality.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner lauded the WasteSMART Awards as a means to encourage all residents to embrace sustainable practices. He also highlighted the various initiatives undertaken by the city to promote sustainability, including food waste recycling trials, compost and worm farm rebates, and reduced green waste disposal costs.
Public voting for the WasteSMART People’s Choice Award opened on Tuesday, 3 October, and will remain open until Monday, 16 October. Residents are encouraged to visit the WasteSMART Awards website to learn more about the 2023 finalists and cast their votes.
The WasteSMART Awards, managed by the Brisbane Sustainability Agency on behalf of the Brisbane City Council, are proudly sponsored by Containers for Change Queensland, Cleanaway, and The University of Queensland. A ceremony announcing the winners in the 12 WasteSMART Award categories, with a combined prize pool of over $4000, is scheduled to be held at Brisbane City Hall in November.
For more information about the awards and to cast your vote, visit WasteSMART Awards.
A promising young swimmer from Albany Creek Swim Club has recently made headlines with his exemplary finish at the World Deaf Swimming Championships in Buenos Aires. The 14-year-old athlete took home two Bronze medals, competing in events with no age groups or divisions.
Tobi Ambrose Rinaldi proved himself as a promising young talent in the sport with his recent accomplishments which came in the form of Bronze medals in relay events – the 4 x 100m Medley Relay and the 4 x 200m Freestyle Relay – along with a personal best time for Breaststroke leg.
Photo Credit: Facebook/ Albany Creek Swim Club
Tobi further showed his swimming prowess by securing a place in the Top 20 in several of the fiercely contested events including the 50m, 100m, and 200m Breaststroke, as well as the 200m Freestyle race.
Photo Credit: Facebook/ Albany Creek Swim Club
Tobi’s journey into the world of swimming began when he joined the learn-to-swim program at the tender age of six months. He then gradually advanced through different squads. By the age of 11, Tobi became a member of Albany Creek Swim Club, marking his competitive swimming journey.
For Tobi’s coach and mentor, Brendan Dowling, who has been coaching the rising talent for the past two years, qualifying for the championship is a testament to Tobi’s dedication and commitment to the sport.
Tesla owners from the Queensland sector of the Tesla Owners Club of Australia recently explored an innovative approach to alternative energy: tip mining. This unique visit took them to the Bunya Biogas to Renewable Power Project, shedding light on a lesser-known form of sustainable energy generation.
Tip mining, or landfill gas capture, aims to harness methane emissions from landfill sites across Australia. These sites, often located in regional areas without emission control systems, are rich sources of harmful methane. The goal is to reduce emissions and generate electricity profitably by capturing and destroying methane.
LGI (Landfill Gas Industries) is at the forefront of this green initiative. As explained by Katrina Nelson, LGI’s Business Development Manager, their mission is to save the planet one landfill at a time.
The Tesla owners learned about LGI’s innovative methods during their visit to Bunya in early September 2023.
Tesla Megapack Integration
LGI’s Bunya Biogas site is set to incorporate a Tesla Megapack, providing rapid response to market needs. The battery responds to price fluctuations in the National Electricity Market, optimizing power generation based on pricing.
Despite landfill sites’ unpleasant odour, the Tesla owners showed keen interest in LGI’s work. LGI’s biogas management systems effectively capture and convert harmful methane into renewable power, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
At the Bunya site, LGI also employs modular equipment housed in shipping containers for scalability. This modular approach allows LGI to easily adjust capacity as needed.
Photo Credit: Laurence Walsh/Google Maps
ASX Listing Boosts Expansion
LGI is now listed on the ASX, the Australian Securities Exchange, providing the capital needed to expand their projects, per Matthew Tap, LGI’s project manager. This listing reflects confidence in LGI’s business plan and its potential to help local government authorities generate income from landfill sites.
Mr Tap highlighted several ongoing projects, including the expansion of the Canberra Mugga Lane Facility and a new site in Nowra, New South Wales. LGI is continually assessing gas generation rates, network connections, and investment optimization.
Toowoomba’s LGI project stands out as it powers the Wetalla Water Reclamation Facility. LGI’s innovation involved drilling under a railway line to connect the landfill gas pipeline to the water treatment plant, significantly reducing grid dependence.
Whilst there are currently no plans for EV chargers at the Bunya site, LGI is open to the idea as more councils electrify their vehicle fleets. These initiatives aim to increase the availability of renewable energy in the grid.
LGI’s pipeline of projects in collaboration with local governments promises emissions reduction, cost savings, and income streams for communities. The Tesla owners’ visit underscores the potential of alternative energy sources beyond the conventional solar and wind options. Alternative energy is truly beneficial for all.
With the storm season arriving sooner than expected, RACQ and Suncorp have issued their list of suburbs that could be impacted by the extreme weather conditions, including Albany Creek, Ashgrove, and The Gap.
The Bureau of Meteorology has attributed this unexpected commencement to above-average temperatures and the looming El Nino weather pattern. Queenslanders are now being urged to prepare for an active storm season ahead.
The Bureau added that the state recorded its warmest winter in more than a century, prompting a warning that Queensland could experience more storms across the Southeastern region.
RACQ and Suncorp insurance groups have taken proactive steps to inform residents about potential storm hotspots in the state. RACQ Insurance analysed three years’ worth of data, reporting nearly 57,000 home and motor claims related to severe weather conditions, including storms, floods, and hail damage during the La Nina period.
Notable areas with high claim frequencies according to RACQ include postcodes 4340 (includes Ashwell and Calvert), and 4300 (includes Augustine Heights, Bellbird Park, Brookwater, Springfield, Springfield Central and Springfield Lakes).
On the other hand, Suncorp Insurance collated data from the past 2021-22 financial years. Their list of suburbs that could potentially be impacted by severe weather includes postcodes 4061 (The Gap, Brisbane North), 4017 (Brighton, Brisbane North), 4035 (Albany Creek, Brisbane North), 4556 (Buderim, Sunshine Coast), 4017 (Bracken Ridge, Brisbane North) and 4060 (Ashgrove, Brisbane North).
Melissa McGrath, spokesperson for RACQ Insurance advised homeowners to undertake property maintenance, including checking for loose tiles, clearing gutters, trimming trees and removing debris from yards. Queensland, she added, typically experiences storm season from September to March. And even though a drier season is predicted, there is still that risk of severe storms, hail, and cyclones.
Senior forecaster Felim Hanniffy, meanwhile, stated the warmer temperatures have set the stage for these early storms. These weather events can intensify very quickly, he added, so it’s important to undertake important home maintenance as early as possible.
