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Five Teenagers Charged After Bray Park Car Theft

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

Five teenagers, including two 13-year-old girls, are facing charges following the alleged theft of a car from a Bray Park home last week.

The group was apprehended by officers from the Boondall Tactical Crime Squad on Station Street at Morayfield just before 11pm on Saturday night, when police intercepted what they allege was a stolen black Mazda.

According to police reports, the teenagers attempted to flee on foot after being stopped but were quickly located by officers. Police footage shows at least one of the young people hiding in nearby bushes before being taken into custody.

The vehicle is alleged to have been stolen from a Kentwood Drive address in Bray Park on 18 July, three days before the arrest.

The charges laid against the five young people reflect the seriousness of the alleged offences. The most serious charges have been laid against a 14-year-old Burpengary boy, who faces counts of entering a dwelling and committing an indictable offence, receiving tainted property, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and driving without a licence.

The two 13-year-old girls – one from Rothwell and another from Burpengary – have each been charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle.

A 14-year-old Griffin boy faces charges of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, fraud relating to dishonestly obtaining fuel without payment, and possessing cannabis.

The oldest of the group, a 15-year-old Caboolture boy, has been charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle and obstructing a police officer.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about youth crime in the region. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the youth offender rate nationally decreased to 1,764 offenders per 100,000 persons aged between 10 and 17 years in the 2023-24 financial year.

All five teenagers are scheduled to appear before Caboolture Children’s Court, with the 14-year-old Burpengary boy appearing earlier this week, and the remaining four young people due to appear on 23 July.

The case serves as a reminder to local residents about vehicle security, particularly given the allegations that the car was taken from a residential address in the heart of Bray Park’s suburban area.

Published 21-July-2025

New Flight Path Options on the Table for Albany Creek Locals

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Residents in Albany Creek will soon have the chance to speak directly with aviation specialists about proposed changes to Brisbane’s flight paths, as part of a growing effort to reduce aircraft noise across the region.

A Quiet Change in the Skies

Community engagement sessions will be held across Greater Brisbane from 19 to 31 July 2025, with Albany Creek’s session scheduled for Monday, 21 July at the Albany Creek Community Centre from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

This is part of Phase 6 of the Noise Action Plan for Brisbane, a long-term program led by Airservices Australia to minimise the impact of air traffic on residential areas.

The Albany Creek session offers 20-minute, one-on-one meetings with flight path designers. Locals can raise concerns, ask questions, and give direct feedback that will be recorded by Airservices’ engagement team.

For those unable to attend in person, online appointments are also available. Appointments must be booked in advance via the Humanitix platform.

Why Flight Paths Are Being Reviewed

The push to adjust flight paths comes in response to mounting feedback from Brisbane communities since the introduction of the second parallel runway at Brisbane Airport in 2020. Many suburbs, including Albany Creek, have experienced more frequent and concentrated aircraft noise as a result. In 2024, Airservices conducted early consultation with both the public and the aviation industry to discuss flight path concepts.

Based on that feedback and additional technical assessments, flight path and airspace design firm Trax International has worked with Airservices to develop a set of preferred options aimed at redistributing and reducing noise over high-impact areas. These proposed routes are now being shared with the public for further input before any final decisions are made.

Overview: Package 3 flight path change options

What to Expect at the Albany Creek Session

Unlike general town halls, these meetings are personalised. Residents can bring up to three people with them per appointment and discuss the specific flight path options affecting their area. Maps, videos and information sheets will be available to support the conversation. A pre-recorded webinar will also be made available online for those who prefer to learn more at their own pace.

Airservices Australia has advertised the community sessions through local media, social media platforms and radio. They encourage locals to get involved early, whether by attending in person or booking an online appointment.

The Bigger Picture

The current engagement round covers multiple suburbs including Brisbane City, Samford Village, Greenbank, North Lakes, Richlands, Wynnum, Shailer Park, Ashgrove and Amity Point. Each location is being treated as part of a wider strategy to ensure Brisbane’s airspace supports both safety and liveability.

Airservices emphasises that this phase is critical. It marks the first time the public will see refined, preferred options rather than just initial concepts. The feedback collected will help shape the final design of the departure and arrival routes used across Greater Brisbane.

Published 15-July-2025

Strathpine Welcomes Revival of Iconic Country Club Hotel

Earthworks are set to ramp up next week on a major new hospitality and entertainment venue in Strathpine, with the Comiskey Group progressing construction of its $50 million Country Club Hotel.

Read: University Study Hub Launches in Strathpine

Situated on a five-hectare site along Gympie Road—directly opposite Pine Rivers Park—the development is expected to open next year and will serve as both a hotel and indoor recreation hub. The large-scale project is being constructed just 500 metres from the site of the original Country Club Hotel, which once stood as a popular local landmark before being demolished in the early 2000s.

First established in the late 1950s, the original Country Club Hotel earned a strong local following as a popular pub and a well-known spot for weddings.

“My first job back in the day was at the old Country Club, working at the liquor barn! The original Country Club Hotel was demolished about 15 to 20 years ago, but it stood for around 20 to 25 years before that. Anyone from the area would know of it. We wanted to honour one of Strathpine’s most beloved past locals, which is why we’ve named the new venue The Country Club Hotel. It really is a full circle moment for me; from stocking shelves at the old Country Club to owning the hotel that commemorates it.”
-Comiskey Director David Comiskey

Site preparation has already begun, with significant earthmoving planned in the coming weeks. The scope of the project includes extensive groundworks to support infrastructure on what is understood to be a flood-prone area. Around 1000 concrete piers will be installed to hold up a suspended car park above the flood line, a task expected to take several months with the help of two specialised piling rigs.

Once completed, the new Country Club Hotel will offer a broad range of attractions, blending traditional pub amenities with family-friendly and active lifestyle features. Plans include indoor and outdoor dining areas, bars, live music spaces, a gaming room, a beer garden, and an arcade.

In addition, the venue will house modern leisure facilities such as an eight-lane bowling alley, two pickleball courts, two virtual baseball simulators, four karaoke rooms, and a pair of half-sized basketball courts.

Food lovers can also look forward to a steakhouse and an American-style barbecue pit, further enhancing the venue’s appeal as a casual dining and social destination.

Read: New Free Walk-In Mental Health Centre Coming to Strathpine

The Comiskey Group, a family-run business with a track record of entertainment and hospitality projects, has positioned this development as a tribute to Strathpine’s history. Naming the venue after the original hotel, the developers hope to reignite a sense of community nostalgia while delivering a fresh entertainment precinct for locals and visitors alike.

Published 15-July-2025

Netball Clubhouse Development Confirmed in Bray Park

Photo Credit: DA/2024/1551

A new netball clubhouse has been confirmed for construction in Bray Park, with recent funding finalised to support the upgrade alongside an earlier financial commitment aimed at modernising community sport infrastructure.

New Facility Planned at Les Hughes Sports Complex

Bray Park is set to receive a new netball clubhouse, with $4.1 million in funding recently confirmed. The project, located at Les Hughes Sports Complex, will serve the Pine Rivers Netball Association and includes a range of new amenities designed to improve usability, safety, and accessibility for players, staff, and visitors.

Background and Context

The current facility, which has supported the local netball community for more than four decades, is set to be replaced. Planning for the upgrade was announced in early 2024, along with an initial $1.5 million funding commitment to support construction during the 2024–26 financial years. This redevelopment is part of ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance active recreation sites across the region.

Project Details and Funding Breakdown

The planned facility will include two change rooms with showers, a timekeeper’s area, office space, a canteen, a clubroom, a barbecue area, a covered deck, and tiered seating. A new car park with 74 spaces will be constructed, featuring accessible bays and an ambulance bay. An existing storage shed will be relocated as part of the works.

Detailed design and procurement are underway. Construction is expected to begin next year, following the completion of the current preparation phase.

Pine Rivers Netball — Photo Credit: DA/2024/1551

Supporting Local Sport in Bray Park

The upgraded clubhouse is designed to meet regional netball standards and accommodate large numbers of players and spectators each week. The project is expected to help support continued participation in the sport, particularly among younger players and their families, while also improving event capacity and scheduling flexibility for competitions and training sessions.

Outlook

With design and funding now in place, the new netball clubhouse in Bray Park is progressing toward construction, aiming to deliver modern facilities that meet the needs of the growing netball community and enhance the overall sporting experience at the complex.

Published 14-July-2025

McDonald’s Development Proposal Progresses in Bridgeman Downs

Photo Credit: DA/A006795238

A proposal to establish a McDonald’s restaurant with a dual-lane drive-through has been lodged for a corner site in Bridgeman Downs.

Development Plans Lodged for Bridgeman Downs Site

A new application (DA/A006795238) has been submitted for the development of a McDonald’s restaurant at 347 Albany Creek Road, Bridgeman Downs. The proposed development would sit on the corner of Bridgeman Road and Albany Creek Road and form part of an integrated site that includes an already approved service station.

The material change of use application was lodged by Citimark Properties Pty Ltd on 17 June 2025 and is currently under code assessment. The application is being handled by consultant firm Therefor Group, with designs prepared by i2C Architects and landscaping by LAUD ink.

Project Overview and Site Details

The site measures approximately 2,763 square metres. The proposed development includes a standalone McDonald’s outlet with a gross floor area of 380 square metres and a building height of 4.9 metres (single-storey). It will feature a dual-lane drive-through accommodating up to 12 vehicles, two waiting bays, and dedicated loading and service areas.

Vehicle access will be provided via a new internal road and a left-out-only connection, as referenced in planning documents. The site also retains approved access points from Bridgeman Road and Albany Creek Road. A total of 61 on-site parking spaces will be provided, including general, motorcycle, and accessible bays. Landscaped areas will occupy 783 square metres.

The McDonald’s is proposed to operate 24 hours a day, consistent with the approved service station.

Bridgeman Downs McDonald’s — Photo Credit: DA/A006795238

Integrated Development Context

The new McDonald’s restaurant is intended to form part of a wider convenience retail development at the site. According to the planning documents, the proposal seeks to address local community needs while preserving residential amenity. To reduce potential noise impacts, the development includes acoustic barriers ranging in height from 2.2 to 3 metres.

McDonald’s development — Photo Credit: DA/A006795238

Planning Status and Next Steps

As of July 2025, BCC records list the application as “In Progress.” A confirmation notice has been issued, and the development is currently undergoing code assessment.

Published 10-July-2025

Vacant Strathpine Home Destroyed in Suspicious Early-Morning Blaze

A vacant house on Rosewood Drive, Strathpine was completely destroyed in a blaze that authorities are treating as suspicious, following an emergency response in the early hours of Monday morning.

Queensland Fire Department crews were dispatched to the scene at approximately 2.15am after reports of the blaze. Two fire crews worked swiftly to contain the flames, successfully extinguishing the fire within 30 minutes of their arrival at 2.45am.

The property, which was reportedly listed for sale at the time of the incident, sustained complete destruction from the fire. No injuries were reported as the house was unoccupied.

Queensland Police have established a crime scene at the location and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fire. The suspicious nature of the blaze has prompted authorities to examine all potential causes and circumstances.

The incident adds to ongoing concerns about property security in the area, particularly for vacant homes. Local residents may notice increased police activity in the vicinity as investigators continue their work.

Emergency services responded efficiently to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to neighbouring properties, minimising the potential impact on the broader Strathpine community.

Police are continuing their investigation and anyone with information about the fire is encouraged to contact Policelink on 131 444 or provide information through the online reporting system at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The investigation remains ongoing, with police examining all available evidence to determine how the fire started.

Published 8-July-2025

Subdivision Proposed for Former Albany Links Golf Course in Brendale

The former Albany Links Golf Course in Brendale could be subdivided into three lots, with the largest portion of the site to be auctioned off by Moreton Bay City Council.

Read: Community Parks in Albany Creek and Brendale Get Major Upgrades

Plans (DA/2025/2639) lodged on behalf of the council proposed dividing the 10-hectare site on South Pine Road into a main block of just under 8 hectares, which borders Eatons Hill Hotel, local shops, and Cribb Road leading to the South Pine Sports Centre.

Albany Links Golf Course — Photo credit: City of Moreton Bay DA Tracker – DA/2025/2639

The land has been identified as surplus to council requirements and will be sold with its current “Recreation and Open Space” zoning intact.

Two smaller parcels, each around 1 hectare and located near the South Pine Sports Complex and South Pine River, will be retained by council to safeguard 2.15 hectares of green space for public access and ecological restoration.

“These retained lots will be used for ongoing public benefit, with intended uses including sport and recreation and/or environmental protection. It is important to note that no changes to the premises or infrastructure is proposed under this development application,” planners stated.

“Access to the site will be obtained through an easement over the adjoining lot owned by Council located at 620 South Pine Road. This lot is included in the proposed development only for this purpose.”

A council spokesperson said the auction date is yet to be confirmed but added that proceeds from the sale will be reinvested into vital community services and programs.

Read: Brendale Retail Centre Sold for $13.2M

Albany Links Golf Course closed in January 2019 after its operator declared the 10-hole course financially unviable. Council was unable to secure a replacement operator, and the clubhouse has since been removed. Any future development on the land will remain subject to existing planning regulations.

Published 7-July-2025

Eatons Hill Student Presents at National Economists Conference

Photo Credit: Pixabay

An Eatons Hill student has become the first Queensland school student to present at the Australian Conference of Economists. This marks a national milestone in economic education.

Local Teen Breaks New Ground

Joel Pallikunnel, aged 17, from Eatons Hill, has set a national precedent by being the first Queensland student to present at the Australian Conference of Economists. The conference, which took place in Sydney, is a key event run by the Economic Society of Australia and draws participation from economists, academics, and senior policymakers across the country.

Australian Conference of Economists — Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pixabay

Focus on Multicultural Migration

Joel delivered a TED Talk-style address focusing on the economic benefits linked to multicultural migration in Australia. His presentation was based on his published report and offered analysis on how migration contributes to economic strength and inclusivity. The topic drew interest from conference attendees. Many of whom are active in shaping national economic policy.

Esteemed Audience and Support

Joel’s presentation was heard by senior figures including Professor Amanda Pallais of Harvard University, Federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers, and the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, Andrew Hauser. His attendance was supported by sponsorship that covered travel and accommodation. This enabled him to share his work on a national stage.

Economic Society of Australia — *Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Pixabay*

Broader Recognition

In addition to his appearance at the conference, Joel’s achievement was acknowledged at the 7NEWS Queensland Young Achiever Awards Gala. The event celebrated outstanding contributions from young people across Queensland. Joel was recognised as part of this group for his efforts in economic research and advocacy.

Conference Context

The Australian Conference of Economists is coordinated by the Economic Society of Australia. It is a federation that promotes the use of economics nationwide. The Society supports public debate, economic education, and professional development through events such as this annual conference.

Published 28-June-2025

From Boondall to the Big League: Rocco Zikarsky’s Journey to the NBA

Photo Credit: Screen capture from ESPN video

From Boondall to the big league, former Northside Wizards defensive centre Rocco Zikarsky has officially joined the NBA ranks—taken at pick No. 45 in the 2025 Draft and now bound for the Minnesota Timberwolves after a trade from the Chicago Bulls.

Boondall Beginnings

Long before draft night lights, Zikarsky was the lanky kid whose 220-cm frame barely fit through the doors of the Brisbane Entertainment Centre, home court of the Northside Wizards.

Boondall parents still remember seeing the Sunshine Coast-born teenager swat shots at junior fixtures, already standing head-and-shoulders above scoreboard signage. His sporting pedigree runs as deep as his sterling genetic pedigree: Dad Björn collected Olympic swimming bronze for Germany, while Mum Kylie conquered Australian surf-ironwoman circuits. Yet, basketball won his heart early.

He rose through Queensland South representative squads, listed proudly as “Centre – Northside Wizards” on state team sheets, before earning a scholarship to the NBA Global Academy in Canberra. Watch Rocco’s junior Wizards highlights on TikTok

Next-Stars Development

In July 2023, the Brisbane Bullets signed Zikarsky as the youngest recruit in the NBL’s Next Stars program. His debut—six points and four blocks in just ten minutes against Sydney—hinted at what a 17-year-old, 117-kilogram rim protector could become. The 2023-24 campaign delivered steady minutes (27 games, 3.2 points, 2.1 rebounds, 1.0 block on nearly 60 percent shooting); but the real breakout arrived on 29 November 2024 when, promoted to the starting five, he dropped 13 points, eight boards and three blocks on Perth.

Coaches lauded his timing and unusual mobility for someone with a 9-foot-7 standing reach.

Between seasons he added bulk—an extra 13 kilograms, according to league reports—to handle the bruising screens of pro paint battles, all while fine-tuning a soft shooting touch that occasionally stretches to the arc.

Scouts began pencilling him into mid-second-round mock drafts as a classic high-upside project: raw offence, stellar defence, plus a work ethic shaped by elite-sport parents.

Draft-Night Moment

Chicago’s Combine confirmed the whispers: at 7-foot-3 without shoes, Zikarsky measured as the tallest athlete in the 2025 class. On 26 June, Minnesota used pick 45—acquired via a pair of trade-downs—to secure him on a two-way deal with G-League affiliate Iowa Wolves.

Analysts framed the selection as a “swing for size”; when he eventually debuts, only Zach Edey and Victor Wembanyama will stand taller on an NBA floor.

Minnesota staff have signalled a patient plan—summer league, weight-room time, and G-League reps—banking on his shot-blocking instincts to translate while his footwork and foul discipline catch up.

For Zikarsky, the destination matters less than the journey: “Boondall to the big time” has a nice ring, but the real milestone is proving Australian pathways can carry teens from suburban clubs straight to basketball’s summit.

Hometown Legacy

Back in Boondall, Wizards juniors now practise post moves under banners bearing the name of their most famous alumnus. Coaches replay clips of his high-school dunks to show that rim protection and hustle still trump highlight-reel flair. Parents who once queued for sausage-sizzle fund-raisers now tune in to watch Timberwolves summer league games, certain they’ll spot a familiar jersey number lurking under the basket.

Whether Zikarsky becomes a franchise cornerstone or a specialist role-player, he’s already etched himself into Brisbane sporting folklore: the kid who out-grew every local gym yet never forgot where the journey started. His next chapter begins in Minneapolis, but every block, board and baby-hook will carry a little echo of Boondall.

Published 27-06-2025

Eatons Hill State School Secures Half-Million for Car Park Upgrade

Photo Credit: Eatons Hill State School/ Facebook

A significant boost to daily school routines is on the horizon for the Eatons Hill community, with $500,000 allocated to upgrade the drop-off, pick-up area, and car park at Eatons Hill State School.

This crucial funding has been committed by the Queensland Government in its 2025-26 Budget. The upgrade is expected to enhance safety and improve traffic flow during peak school hours, directly addressing long-standing community concerns about congestion around the school grounds.

Enhancing Safety and Flow

Eatons Hill State School — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

The primary purpose of the $500,000 investment is to significantly improve the functionality of the school’s entry and exit points. For many parents, the daily school run can be a challenging experience, often marked by bottlenecks and limited parking.

This upgrade aims to alleviate those pressures, creating a smoother and safer environment for students, parents, and staff alike. The focus is specifically on improving traffic management within the drop-off and pick-up zones and expanding available parking.

A Wider Community Investment

The project at Eatons Hill State School is not an isolated initiative but forms part of a broader commitment by the Queensland Government to invest in education infrastructure and community safety across the Moreton Bay region.

Other schools, such as McDowall State School, are also slated for similar upgrades, demonstrating a concerted effort to improve conditions at educational facilities throughout the area. This regional approach highlights the government’s strategy to deliver a “fresh start” for Queensland, with improvements in key public services.

Funding Details

The half-a-million-dollar allocation for Eatons Hill State School originates directly from the Queensland State Budget for the 2025-26 financial year. While specific design changes and precise completion timelines within the financial year are not yet fully detailed in public summaries, the commitment of funds underscores the government’s intention to move forward with these vital improvements.

The project is a direct response to the need for better infrastructure to support growing school communities and enhance daily safety for all involved.

Published Date 26-Jun-2025