Moreton Bay Archives - Albany Creek News

Millions Flow to Moreton Bay Communities, Boosting Albany Creek and Other Suburbs

The city of Moreton Bay has secured $13.6 million in funding, including $3.7 million for projects in Albany Creek and Lawnton, through the South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program. This funding promises significant upgrades to local parks, libraries, and community facilities.

Infrastructure Investment Across the Region

Mayor Peter Flannery announced the funding boost, which will support 13 projects across the region. $4.3 million was secured through a competitive process, and $9.3 million was allocated directly to the council. He stated that this substantial investment shows the Council’s dedication to improving the region for residents and visitors.

The projects range from park upgrades and library improvements to crucial infrastructure enhancements. Queensland Minister for Local Government and Water, Ann Leahy, emphasised the importance of these projects for local communities, noting that they will improve services and liveability. She confirmed that the Queensland Government has already released half of the funding and will closely monitor the progress of these projects.

Focus on Community Spaces in Albany Creek and Lawnton

Albany Creek residents can look forward to a $600,000 upgrade to the library courtyard, creating a more modern and inviting outdoor space. Lawnton will benefit significantly, with $3.1 million allocated for the construction of Akers Road Park, $415,000 for building remediation at the Lawnton Aquatic Centre, and $550,000 for new amenities at Leis Park.

These projects will provide improved recreational facilities for families and individuals in the area. Councillor Brooke Savige commented on the importance of the Bribie Island Library courtyard upgrade, explaining it will create a vibrant community hub.

Improving Connectivity and Accessibility

Other key projects include $3 million for the Alma Road Bend Upgrade in Dakabin and $1.3 million for Stage 2a of the Hornibrook Esplanade Cycleway in Clontarf. These projects focus on improving road safety and active transport options for residents. Deputy Mayor Jodie Shipway highlighted the importance of the $1.685 million Capestone Lake Pedestrian Ramp in Mango Hill for enhancing safety and accessibility.

Councillor Karl Winchester spoke about the Hornibrook Esplanade Cycleway upgrade, explaining that it supports active transport and healthier lifestyles. He also mentioned improvements to Langdon Park lighting, Margate Beach Park amenities, and new Redcliffe wayfinding signage as enhancing liveability and supporting recreation and tourism.

The council highlighted the Bongaree Caravan Park Water Reticulation Upgrade, ensuring the park remains a high-quality destination for tourists.

The City of Moreton Bay is working closely with the Queensland Government to deliver these projects efficiently. The funding will not only improve infrastructure but also contribute to building a stronger, safer, and more connected community for all residents.

Published Date 11-Feb-2025

Stay Cool and Active: Explore Moreton Bay’s Aquatic Facilities

Photo Credit: Albany Creek Leisure Centre

Beat the heat and dive into fun this summer! Moreton Bay’s awesome aquatic centres offer something for everyone, from tiny tots to seasoned swimmers.

Mayor Peter Flannery stressed the importance of swimming as a recreational activity, a vital life skill, and a fantastic form of exercise. He emphasised the council’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable aquatic facilities for the entire community.

A Look at the Region’s Premier Aquatic Centres

Stay Cool and Active: Explore Moreton Bay's Aquatic Facilities — *Photo Credit: Google Map*

Albany Creek Leisure Centre: This comprehensive facility offers a 24-hour health club, a large-scale learn-to-swim program, and a variety of water sports, including water polo and synchronised swimming. It caters to the whole family with three heated pools and an on-site café.

Lawnton Aquatic Centre: This multi-activity hub boasts a 50-meter outdoor pool, a 25-meter indoor pool, and a toddler splash pool. Its 1,000-seat grandstand and expansive grounds make it popular for school carnivals and community events. The centre also offers many programs, from learn-to-swim lessons to aqua aerobics.

Murrumba Downs Swimming Pool: This family-friendly centre features a heated, partially covered 25m pool and a spacious lawn. It offers swimming lessons, aqua aerobics, and birthday party packages.

With summer in full swing, Moreton Bay Regional Council is reminding residents to stay cool, have fun, and prioritise water safety by exploring the many benefits of swimming at their local aquatic centre.

Published Date 16-Jan-2025

Griffin Residents Set to Benefit from Road Safety Upgrades

Construction has begun in Griffin on critical upgrades to Brays Road and the new Arcadia Drive, a project designed to improve traffic flow and safety for the rapidly growing community.

Wattle Run Developments Pty Ltd, the project developer, has confirmed that Hall Contracting Pty Ltd is spearheading the construction, which began in late December 2024. The upgrades include expanding a section of Brays Road to four lanes, adding a signalised intersection near the Freshwater Hub, and building Arcadia Drive to connect Brays Road with Wesley Road. These enhancements aim to streamline access to the Freshwater Village shopping centre and improve traffic near Griffin State School.

The project will also feature safety improvements for pedestrians and cyclists, including wider pathways, dedicated cycle lanes where feasible, and safer crossings. Two new bus stops, one in each direction, will also be installed to provide convenient access to local amenities.

Timeline and Community Impact

Construction is expected to take 12 to 18 months, with ongoing traffic management in place to minimise disruptions. Wattle Run Developments has urged residents to stay informed through the Freshwater Hub newsletter and social media channels, helping locals plan their commutes around changing traffic conditions.

Jenny Fisher, Director of Wattle Run Developments, stated that the project represents years of planning and collaboration with the City of Moreton Bay Council. She expressed optimism about the benefits the infrastructure will bring to Griffin residents and emphasised the importance of community engagement throughout the project.

Economic Benefits and Local Jobs

The upgrades, fully funded by Wattle Run Developments, are expected to create approximately 30 local jobs over the course of construction. Hall Contracting Pty Ltd, recognised for its expertise in civil works, is preparing to expand its presence in Griffin, marking the company’s first collaboration with Wattle Run.

Cameron Hall, CEO of Hall Contracting, highlighted the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure projects that support local growth and meet the needs of residents. Hall added that the upgrades to Brays Road and Arcadia Drive will provide safer, more efficient transport options for Griffin’s growing population.

Staying Connected

Community members are encouraged to stay updated on the project’s progress and traffic changes. Wattle Run Developments has committed to regular communication to ensure the construction process remains as seamless as possible for residents and road users.

Further details about the project and updates are available on the Freshwater Hub website.

Published 9-January-2025

Excitement Builds as Moreton Bay Welcomes Back Beloved Hills Festival

Moreton Bay’s ‘The Hills Festival’ returns for its seventh spectacular year, shaping up to be the biggest and most diverse yet, with something for everyone to enjoy.

Read: Pandemonium Tour Rocks On Despite Line-Up Shake-Up and Venue Changes, Moves Brisbane Show to Eatons Hill

Here are the free activities to look forward to each week at the 2024 Hills Festival:

Week 1

3 May 2024

The Hills Festival will kick off on May 3 with a “Movie in the Park” event at Eatons Hill, where attendees can enjoy an outdoor screening of the 2023 animated film Trolls Band Together.

In the movie, Poppy discovers that her friend Branch was once part of a popular boy band called “BroZone” with his brothers Floyd, John Dory, Spruce, and Clay. When Floyd is kidnapped, Branch and Poppy embark on a journey to reunite the band and rescue him.

Please note that closed captions will be provided during the film to ensure accessibility for all attendees.

Week 2

12 May 2024

The following weekend, on Mother’s Day, the Ferny Hills community will host a “Jazz & Shiraz” celebration, pairing smooth sounds with delicious local wines.

Spread out a picnic blanket and sample delectable bites from food trucks as you soak up the musical atmosphere. The Jazz & Shiraz event will feature a licensed bar offering an excellent selection of regional wines, local craft beers, and gourmet cheese platters.

Week 3

18 May 2024

Mark your calendars for May 18, from 1pm-5pm as Music in the Valley Samford promises an unforgettable experience at the Samford Showgrounds. Featuring a delightful lineup of local artists, food trucks, and festive face painting activities, this captivating event ensures an afternoon filled with joy, harmony, and a strong sense of community spirit.

What to Bring:

Picnic rug
Chairs
Hat
Sunscreen
Refillable water bottle

Week 4

25 May 2024

The Hills Festival culminates in the annual Hills Carnivale, a free, family-friendly event on May 25 at George Willmore Park. This one-day celebration features an action-packed program across two stages, with one area dedicated solely to activities for kids.

Little ones will delight in amusement rides, workshops, games, and roving entertainers in the designated Kids Zone. Meanwhile, parents can explore the numerous lifestyle markets and multicultural food stalls while enjoying live music from local artists.

Read: Echoes of Pink Floyd to Recreate Historic Pink Floyd Tour at Eatons Hill Grand Ballroom

For a full schedule of events and ticket information, be sure to visit the festival’s website at www.hillsfestival.com.au. With so much on offer, this year’s Hills Festival is shaping up to be the best one yet.

Published 17-April-2024

Back-To-School Vaccination to be Conducted at these Moreton Bay Schools

Three schools in the Moreton Bay region have set up pop-up back-to-school vaccination clinics before the start of the new school term as part of the program to improve the vaccination rates of school-aged kids in Queensland.

Albany Creek State School, Eatons Hill State School, and Norris Road State School in Bracken Ridge (Brisbane) will open the clinics on campus from Saturday, 29 January until Sunday, 6 February.

“With the start of the school year locked in for Monday 7 February to avoid the peak of the Omicron wave, parents can take advantage of the opportunity to get their kids vaccinated,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said in announcing the Back-to-School vaccination blitz.

“There is widespread community transmission of the virus reaching all corners of this state. Adding a vaccination to the back-to-school list for your child is the best defence.”

Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said that the first dose would add a layer of protection for the children against the virus that could land them in hospitals if they were unvaccinated.

Back-to-school vaccination — Photo Credit: 14995841/Pixabay

“We have already seen an excellent uptake of the vaccination for our kids aged 5 and over, but with school going back in February we want to see every child have the opportunity to get vaccinated,” Ms D’Ath said.

“Whether you are heading to a pop-up vaccination clinic at your local school, a Queensland Health hub, your GP or local pharmacy – please come forward and get yourself and your kids vaccinated if you haven’t already.

Albany Creek State School, Eatons Hill State School, and Norris Road State School join 47 other schools across the Queensland region participating in the program. To check for more Queensland Health vaccination locations visit the official site.

Albany Creek Property Growth Driven By Investors Looking For Affordability and Space

Young interstate families are finding their dream homes in Albany Creek, charging up another property boom in this south Moreton Bay area. Due to its affordability and space, the former “retirement” suburb has been attracting professionals who were once tied to work in the inner-cities but now see the benefits of acreage properties.

House Price Growth

Property growth in Albany Creek between July 2020 to June 2021 continued its stable upward trend by 10.35 per cent, putting the house median price at $685,000, per data from Property Market Updates.

Buyer activity was definitely competitive and energetic in the 12-month period with 258 houses sold within an astonishing 24 days on the market. Most of the houses sold were four-bedroom homes but the fastest sales to close in less than 10 to 18 days of negotiations, have been three-bedroom properties.

A six-bedroom private haven on Havenwood Court, which has its own secured oasis surrounded by bushlands, sold at the highest price for the period. With a breezy indoor to outdoor layout, this house has a large family lounge that offers ample space for entertaining and relaxation.

Unit Price Growth

While house price growth has been strong, Apartment property sales in Albany Creek had minimal growth at 2.94 per cent in the period ending June 2021.

Sales remained stable, with 59 units sold during this time period, with inventory staying on market for 45 days. Most four-bedroom units remained listed for 261 days, indicating an oversupply.

About Albany Creek

Established on a hilly section near the South Pine River, Albany Creek is a quiet, family-friendly northern suburb some 17 kilometres off Brisbane CBD. Home to many professionals who work in the city, nearly half of the residents fully own their three to four-bedroom homes to raise a family. Most houses have their own pools and are situated in a cul-de-sac block.

A former rural area, Albany Creek’s development as a suburban town began in the 1960s primarily featuring brick homes, when the metropolis expanded to open more schools in the north, such as the Albany Hills State School, the Albany Creek State High School, and the All Saints Primary School. Though the closes train to the city is a few kilometres drive to the neighbouring suburb of Strathpine, there are plenty of buses servicing commuters regularly that takes residents to shopping centres in Chermside or Aspley.

For leisure and recreation, this town has the Albany Creek Leisure Centre hosting various sports clubs and community activities. Families enjoy plenty of green spaces at the Tom Simpson Park and the Jaracanda Park. Tight-knit community engagements are high in this peaceful suburban locale and there are limited high-rise developments.

“We’ve lived here for 15 years now and absolutely love it, It’s superb for kids of all ages, great state school and 3 excellent primary schools. Virtually no crime at all, we thoroughly enjoy life here.”
Markj13

“Having lived in the Albany Creek area for 16 years and had our children grow up in the area we would find it hard to move to anywhere else. There are all the local type shops that are necessary but not the impersonal hype of the city or other central locales. Being anywhere in 10 minutes is a great bonus, as you can go to larger shopping centers and then leave the hustle and bustle behind. Our street is filled with caring neighbors in a wide range of ages, which is great for family living. We have a total of 5 primary schools within 2 minutes of us, both private and public and the High school is 1 minute away.”
HappyinAC

“Quiet, clean suburb with leafy streets and lovely locals. We hunted around the whole of Brisbane looking for a place to settle and came across Albany Creek on the off chance. The suburb gives you that Quiet, Safe and Clean feel for your family to live happily.”
Taff