Bray Park Archives - Albany Creek News

Bray Park Pump Station Gets a Splash of Colour with New Wildlife Mural

A plain brick pump station on Francis Road in Bray Park has been given a colourful new look, with Unitywater unveiling a vivid mural that reflects the region’s local wildlife.

Read: Bray Park Rescue Group Saves Mount Isa Animals from Certain Death

The artwork, painted by local artist Daniel Krause, was created as part of Unitywater’s Community Art Program, which aims to turn essential infrastructure into works of art for the public to enjoy.

Unitywater Executive Manager Strategic Engagement, Joshua Zugajev, said the initiative was about more than just brightening up brick and concrete.

“Our Community Art Program provides local artists with a unique canvas to improve the aesthetic of concrete, brick, and metal water and wastewater assets for the community to enjoy,” Mr Zugajev said.

The mural’s design was shaped by the community, with 153 votes cast to decide which animals would be included. The final artwork features a green tree frog and butterfly on the front wall, and a koala and cockatoo on either side.

Krause said the design carries both visual and symbolic meaning. “The green tree frog is always a favourite, and an abstract blue swirl ties it all together to symbolise the way water connects all life on earth, and the essential role Unitywater plays in delivering it in our region,” he said.

The project took around 25 hours to complete, using a mix of acrylic house paint and aerosol before being sealed with a protective anti-graffiti coat.

The Bray Park mural is the second Unitywater site in Moreton Bay to receive an artistic makeover in recent months, following the transformation of a roadside cabinet on Bribie Island by local artist and wildlife scientist, Jayda Bruce.

Read: Bray Park District Park Nearing Completion With New Facilities and Green Spaces

For locals passing through Francis Road, the pump station now stands out as a burst of colour and a reminder of the wildlife that calls Moreton Bay home.

Published 11-September-2025

Bray Park District Park Nearing Completion With New Facilities and Green Spaces

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A new district park in Bray Park is close to completion, bringing expanded recreational facilities and green spaces for the community.

Background / Context

The redevelopment of John Bray Park on Walsham Street has been in planning for around two decades. Construction commenced in 2024, with completion now forecast for October 2025, weather permitting.

Bray Park district park — *Photo Credit: City of Moreton Bay*

Project Overview

The $3.4 million project is transforming the site into a district-level park with a wide range of facilities. Key features include an all-ages, nature-inspired playground, a multi-sport court suitable for basketball and futsal, courts for pickleball and badminton, gym equipment, picnic shelters, and an amenities block with accessible and ambulant stalls.

Additional elements include misting water play, a wet/dry creek bed, open space for casual ball games, car parking, and a footpath linking the park to Bray Park train station and Strathpine Centre.

More than 100 trees were initially planted, with an expanded replanting program adding a further 100 trees and over 2,500 predominantly native shrubs and groundcovers. Many of these plantings are koala food trees.

John Bray Park upgrade — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Community Input and Design Changes

Community consultation in 2021 led to key design revisions. The amenities block was repositioned centrally, about 90 metres from the nearest residence, while the multi-purpose court was set over 50 metres away near established trees. The playground was located among existing trees to maximise natural shade and reinforce the nature-based design.

Construction and Access

Construction is carried out Monday to Friday between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. For safety, access to parts of the site is limited, although John Bray Park remains open to the public during works. Residents can register online to receive weekly updates on construction progress.

What’s Next

With the project due for completion in October 2025, the upgraded district park is set to provide long-term recreational, sporting, and community benefits for Bray Park.

Published 1-Sep-2025

Feature Match in Bray Park Backs Bowls for Brisbane 2032

Photo Credit: Bowls Australia/YouTube

A global campaign to include bowls in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games has officially launched, with Bray Park set to host its first major event.

Background on Bowls for Brisbane 2032

A joint initiative between World Bowls and Bowls Australia has been launched to seek Olympic and Paralympic inclusion for the sport of bowls at the Brisbane 2032 Games. The campaign was formally announced on 28 July 2025, positioning bowls as a sport aligned with values of accessibility, legacy, and global representation. With over 60 member nations involved, the effort signals a unified international push.

Bowls Brisbane 2032 — Photo Credit: Bowls Australia/YouTube

Launch Event Set for Bray Park

The campaign’s first major activation will take place on 29 October 2025 during BPL22, a televised feature match to be held at Club Pine Rivers in Bray Park. The match will see the Australian Jackaroos compete against a Rest of the World team, showcasing both open and para-athletes in a shared competition format. The inclusion of para-athletes highlights the campaign’s emphasis on inclusivity across all levels of play.

Significance of the Venue

Club Pine Rivers, the established host of Bowls Premier League events, will again stage a nationally televised match during BPL22. The venue’s involvement aligns with the campaign’s rollout and positioning efforts ahead of Brisbane 2032.

Campaign Strategy and Global Coordination

The campaign will feature international showcase matches and ongoing collaboration with Olympic and Paralympic stakeholders. It brings together national and global organisations under a shared strategy to build the case for inclusion. Bowls has been played in Australia since 1845 and currently engages nearly 2 million participants annually through more than 1,800 clubs nationwide.

Olympic bowls bid — Photo Credit: Bowls Australia/YouTube

Public Engagement and Promotion

Public support is expected to grow through broadcast exposure and engagement from both grassroots and elite levels. The upcoming match aims to draw viewers and participants alike, with the campaign relying on visibility and community backing as it progresses toward the 2032 decision.

What’s Next for the Campaign

Following the Bray Park event, additional showcase matches and promotional activities are planned in the lead-up to 2032. The campaign will continue to work alongside major sporting committees to strengthen its submission and increase global awareness of the sport’s capabilities.

Published 18-Aug-2025

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

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

Bray Park Witness Callout Seeks Information on Past Child Abuse Claims

A legal investigation is underway into claims of historical child abuse alleged to have occurred at Bray Park State High School and Holy Spirit Catholic Church Pine Rivers.

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

Shine Lawyers initiated the inquiry after a man came forward alleging he was sexually abused as a student by a person in a position of authority at the high school. The incidents are reported to have taken place between 2009 and 2013.

The firm has issued a witness callout, stating:

“If you were a former student or staff member at Bray Park State High School, or were involved with the Holy Spirit Catholic Church Pine Rivers, from between 2009–2013, we would like to speak with you confidentially about our investigation.”

Shine Lawyers is urging anyone with information to come forward and assist with the ongoing investigation.

A spokesperson for the Education Department emphasised that student safety remains its highest priority. They noted that any claims made against the department are handled through the Queensland Government Insurance Fund in line with government guidelines. The department declined to comment on individual matters.

A Queensland Police spokeswoman confirmed that there are currently no active police investigations into historical child abuse at Bray Park educational facilities. She urged anyone with relevant information or concerns to contact police directly. At this stage, no criminal charges have been laid. All individuals named remain entitled to the presumption of innocence.

Read: Reclaiming the Streets: How Pack Australia is Empowering Women to Walk Without Fear

Those who would like to assist may contact Law Clerk Melissa Roberson on 07 3490 1362 or email mroberson@shine.com.au. Support services and counselling are also available for anyone affected by the allegations. Those seeking support can contact Lifeline (13 11 14).

Published 8-June-2025

Bray Park Church Plans Major Expansion, Morayfield Sees New Meeting Hall Proposal

Photo Credit: DA/2025/0816

Oasis Church in Bray Park, the same church that established Genesis Christian College, is planning a significant expansion, increasing its size by over 150 per cent. A separate proposal for a new gospel meeting hall in Morayfield has been lodged.

Bray Park Church Plans Major Expansion, Morayafield Sees New Meeting Hall Proposal — *Photo Credit:* *DA/2025/0816*

Oasis Church, located beside Genesis Christian College on Youngs Crossing Road, has submitted a development application to Moreton Bay City Council outlining a three-stage renovation and expansion. The initial stage will focus on constructing a new foyer, entry area, kitchen, and covered outdoor plaza.

The second stage involves enlarging and reorienting the auditorium to connect with the new entry and the site’s eastern side, which will also be landscaped. In the final stage, a new two-storey building will replace the existing church office and youth hall. This building will house a reception area, administrative offices, a hall, and spaces for children, youth, and meetings.

The northern side of the building will receive new car parking and service areas. Upon completion, the church’s gross floor area will increase from 1472 square metres to 3820 square metres. The church, originally known as the Reformed Church of Stafford, relocated to the Youngs Crossing Road site in 1989, became Oasis Church the same year, and subsequently established Genesis Christian College in 1991.

In Morayfield, a separate development application has been submitted for a new single-story “place of worship (gospel meeting hall)” at the corner of Elm Court and Oakey Flat Road. The proposed building is intended for “family prayer meetings.” The hall is expected to host services on Sundays from 6:00 a.m. to 7:30 am and on Mondays from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with an estimated attendance of 40 to 50 people. Attendees are expected to arrive and depart within 15 minutes of the service times.

The development application states that the venue will not be used for weddings, christenings, funerals, or large gatherings. These events will be held at existing venues in Bridges Road, Morayfield, and Rowley Road, Burpengary. The proposed building will have a gross floor area of 127.5 square metres, and on-site parking will be provided.

Published Date 20-March-2025

Bray Park Rescue Group Saves Mount Isa Animals from Certain Death

Photo Credit: Small Paws Animal Rescue QLD/ Facebook

Hundreds of animals from Mount Isa, facing possible elimination due to an overflowing pound, have been flown to Small Paws Animal Rescue Queensland in Bray Park to give them a second chance at finding loving homes.

Crisis in Mount Isa

Bray Park Rescue Group Saves Animals From Mount Isa — *Photo Credit:* *Small Paws Animal Rescue QLD/ Facebook*

Mount Isa city pound currently houses 114 animals, significantly exceeding its 73-animal capacity, creating a critical situation for local animal rescue organisations. They confirmed the high number of animals in their care and the pressure this places on their facilities.

From October to December of the previous year, 56 of the 188 impounded animals were euthanased. Representatives committed to working with foster groups to improve community and animal outcomes.

The recent influx of animals is described as unusually high, stretching the resources of local groups like Paws, Hoofs, and Claws, which have a network of approximately 30 carers. A representative from Paws, Hoofs, and Claws explained that Council approached them for assistance due to the pound reaching full capacity.

A Cross-State Rescue Effort

Paws, Hoofs and Claws has been collaborating with rescue groups in Brisbane to relocate the animals. They have sent 114 dogs and cats over 2,000 kilometres to Brisbane, hoping they will have a better chance of finding foster care and adoption in the larger city. The organisation has been overwhelmed by the sheer number of animals needing help. They explained that the limited number of foster carers in Mount Isa makes it impossible for them to take in such a large number of animals. They are grateful for the assistance from Brisbane-based rescue groups.

Amanda Sykes, who heads Small Paws Animal Rescue Queensland in Bray Park, coordinates the complex logistics of transporting the animals using planes and cars. She described the situation in Mount Isa as dire and emphasised the urgency of preventing certain deaths. She acknowledged that some animals may not pass temperament tests due to their behaviour after living in the bush for extended periods.

However, she stressed that many animals simply need love and a family. Small Paws Animal Rescue has raised $5,000 towards the estimated $25,000 needed for the operation, which covers release fees, transport, microchipping, and vaccinations. Sykes described the operation as a significant logistical challenge, requiring numerous methods of transport.

Seeking Long-Term Solutions

Sykes explained that relocating animals from regional pounds to cities is a solution that can be used on a case-by-case basis. She highlighted the transient population in Mount Isa and the need for more desexing programs as contributing factors to the pound’s ongoing struggles. She emphasised the importance of collaboration to alleviate pressure on the pound and give the animals a chance for a better life.

The council has invited local animal rescue groups to submit proposals for new desexing programs and has already provided $250 desexing vouchers for animals adopted from the pound.

Published Date 19-Feb-2025

Proposed Netball Clubhouse at Les Hughes Sporting Complex Promises to Redefine Local Sports Experience

Did you know that the Les Hughes Sporting Complex in Bray Park could soon have a new clubhouse to replace the existing playing courts?

Read: Netball Revamp On the Cards for Les Hughes Sports Complex in Bray Park

The proposed facility, designed by architects at Mode, promises to elevate the sporting experience for the local community and beyond.

Les Hughes Sporting Complex — Artist’s impression of new clubhouse (Photo credit: Mode)

Set to replace the existing clubhouse at 119 Francis Road, the new structure is poised to become the beating heart of netball activities in the area. With its strategic central location, the clubhouse will serve as a hub for the existing playing courts while maintaining the area’s low-density character.

The design boasts an impressive array of features tailored to meet the needs of players, officials, and spectators alike. Change rooms equipped with toilets and showers will provide comfort and convenience for athletes, while a dedicated timekeeper’s office and medical room ensure smooth game operations and player safety.

Spectators haven’t been forgotten in this thoughtful design. A club room and canteen will offer refreshments and a place to socialise, complemented by an external covered deck with seating. For those who prefer a closer view of the action, a tiered seating area will provide prime vantage points to cheer on their favourite teams.

The development goes beyond just the clubhouse itself. Plans include an extension to the existing car park, adding 74 new spaces, four accessible parking spots, and an ambulance bay, ensuring ample parking for events and emergencies. The landscaping around the facility will create an inviting atmosphere, with a barbecue area perfect for post-game celebrations or community gatherings.

Planners have emphasised the regional significance of this project, stating that it will “provide sporting and recreational infrastructure to support the growing residential population within the southern extent of the City of Moreton Bay area.” This forward-thinking approach underscores the importance of investing in community facilities that promote active lifestyles and social cohesion.

As the proposal moves through the approval process, netball enthusiasts and community members alike are eagerly anticipating the positive impact this new clubhouse will have on local sports culture.

Read: Strathpine to Showcase Young Artists in Moreton Bay Youth Art Awards

With its blend of functionality, comfort, and community focus, the Les Hughes Sporting Complex is set to become a premier destination for netball in the region, fostering talent and bringing people together through the love of the game.

Published 9-September-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