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Arrest Made After Break-In at Northgate State School

In recent weeks, offenders have targeted several schools across North Brisbane, including Northgate State School, for unlawful entry, theft, and property damage.

According to local police, a specific technique has been identified in these incidents. Offenders gain access to school grounds by cutting and peeling back metal panels on groundskeeping sheds. This allows them to steal valuable equipment such as ride-on mowers, power tools, air compressors, plumbing equipment, and other items. Additionally, scrap metal has also been reported missing from the school premises.

Beyond stealing, offenders have trespassed onto school grounds and caused significant damage. Some incidents include graffiti on walls, the trashing of classrooms, and pouring an unknown substance over sporting courts, which now require resurfacing.

On 28 August at around 4:00 a.m., a Protective Service Officer patrolling Northgate State School caught a male suspect breaking into the school. Police arrived shortly after and arrested the 47-year-old Northgate man at the scene.

He has been charged with Enter Premises and Commit Indictable Offence and is scheduled to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on 25 September.

In response to these incidents, police have urged residents to remain vigilant for any suspicious activity near schools and to report any concerns. The School Watch program, a partnership between the Department of Education, the Queensland Police Service, and Protective Services Group, encourages community members to report any suspicious behaviour around school premises, particularly after hours.

Northgate State School — *Photo Credit: QPS*

The program highlights the importance of protecting school properties, which are at increased risk during school holidays when buildings are unoccupied. Damage caused by unlawful entry, arson, theft, and vandalism comes at a significant cost to the community, both financially and in terms of safety.

Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity by calling School Watch on 13 17 88.

Schools are central to local communities, so these offences extend beyond the cost of repairs. The damage affects students, teachers, and local families who rely on these institutions for education and extracurricular activities. Police emphasise that community vigilance is crucial in preventing further incidents and safeguarding school properties for the benefit of everyone.

Local authorities continue to monitor the situation and are urging anyone with information regarding these offences to come forward.

Published 10-Sept-2024

Family Buys Wavell Heights Home with Just $50,000 Deposit

A family of four managed to buy a house in Wavell Heights with a deposit of just $50,000 after months of struggling to secure a home in Brisbane’s competitive property market.

The Mishra Family’s Journey

Kishore Mishra and his family migrated from Dubai to Australia, seeking a better education for their children. They quickly discovered the local housing market was more challenging than they had anticipated.

Despite their efforts, they faced constant setbacks, often losing out at auctions that far exceeded their budget.

Mr Mishra, a project manager in the energy sector, was able to migrate under a global talent visa. He noted that Australia’s auction culture vastly differed from what he had experienced in Dubai. His family had been renting an apartment in Clayfield but found restrictions, especially for their children, which made them eager to own a home.

After months of searching, they finally found a property in Wavell Heights. The $50,000 deposit, however, only covered 5 per cent of the purchase price.

In addition, to satisfy the lenders, they needed to show an additional 4 percent, or roughly $40,000, in their bank account. Mr Mishra and his wife, both engineers, were able to meet these financial requirements thanks to their dual incomes.

Housing Market and Financing Tips

While securing a home with a 5 per cent deposit may seem daunting, property experts say it’s still possible in parts of Brisbane. According to Canstar’s analysis, certain areas still offer homes where buyers can make a 10 per cent deposit of around $50,000. The analysis did include apartment units, but securing houses with smaller deposits is not unheard of.

LJ Hooker St Lucia agent Eddie Singh confirmed that Queensland government schemes allow for deposits as low as 2 per cent for first home buyers, with some lenders offering loans with deposits between 5 and 10 per cent. He added that some lenders may also waive Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) premiums, which can significantly reduce upfront costs for buyers.

Mr Singh suggested that first-time buyers focus on creating a budget and saving consistently.

“If your deposit is limited but your income is strong, a guarantor loan is another option,” he said. He also advised working with a mortgage broker to explore different loan packages and government schemes available to potential buyers.

A Long-Term Plan

Although the road ahead to pay off the mortgage will be long, the Mishra family are committed to making their new home in Wavell Heights a permanent one. They believe Australia offers better education opportunities for their children compared to the UAE, and they look forward to building a sense of community with their new neighbours.

The Mishra family’s journey highlights the importance of persistence and careful financial planning, showing that homeownership, even in competitive markets, is achievable with the right approach.

Published 10-Sept-2024

Safe Pl8 Event Aims to Curb Plate Thefts in Virginia

Photo Credit: myPolice Brisbane North

The North Brisbane District Police are partnering with Bunnings Virginia and the Wavell Heights Neighbourhood Watch to host a Safe Pl8 event to combat vehicle crime on Saturday, August 31, 2024.

The event, titled “Turning the Screws on Crime,” will provide community members with the opportunity to have anti-theft screws fitted to their vehicle’s number plates free of charge. These specialised screws are designed to deter thieves and prevent number plates from being stolen.

The event will take place at the Bunnings Virginia location, located at 1836 Sandgate Road, from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. Police officers will be on-site to perform the screw fittings and answer any questions community members may have.

For those unable to attend the event, an online form is available to order the anti-theft screws for their vehicles. Residents can access the form through the provided link.

“Vehicle-related crimes, such as number plate theft, can have a significant impact on the community,” said a spokesperson from the North Brisbane District Police. “By partnering with Bunnings and the local Neighbourhood Watch, we aim to empower residents to take proactive steps in protecting their property and deterring criminal activity.”

The police have also encouraged community members to report any suspicious activity or information related to vehicle crimes. Residents can contact Policelink through the online suspicious activity form or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

This initiative is part of the ongoing efforts by the North Brisbane District Police, Bunnings, and the Wavell Heights Neighbourhood Watch to enhance public safety and strengthen community engagement in Virginia.

Published 27-August-2024

Australia’s Most Accessible Passenger Trains Undergo Testing in Geebung

The first draft design of Australia’s most accessible passenger trains has undergone testing at a Low-Fidelity (Lo-Fi) train mock-up in Geebung, marking a significant step in the Queensland Train Manufacturing Program (QTMP).

This testing is part of an ongoing co-design process to ensure the new trains meet the highest standards of accessibility and inclusivity. Members of the disability sector, train passengers, drivers, and bike users were invited to interact with the mock-up and provide critical feedback. Their input will shape the final design of the 65 six-car trains being developed under the QTMP.

Accessibility Features and Local Impact

The new trains will be fully compliant with the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport (DSAPT) and are set to include 20 accessible spaces, 88 priority seats, two fully accessible toilets, hearing loops, USB-C charging ports at all seats, and four bicycle storage spaces on every train.

These features, along with wide accessible paths and electronic levelling control, aim to facilitate independent boarding for all passengers.

Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing, Glenn Butcher, highlighted the importance of this collaborative approach, stating, “The 65 QTMP trains will be the most accessible passenger trains ever in Australia, which is something I am very proud of.” He added that the trains will feature advanced technology to reduce the gap between the train and platform, making it easier for those using mobility devices, as well as passengers with luggage or prams.

Stephen Kakavas, Rail Chief Operating Officer at Downer, the company awarded the contract for the QTMP, expressed pride in the project, noting that it is “leaving a lasting legacy” by investing in local communities through the supply chain and employment. The project is expected to support 1,300 jobs throughout its duration, providing a significant boost to the local economy.

John Mayo, a disability advocate and spokesperson for the Passenger Rollingstock Accessibility Project Working Group, praised the co-design process as “as good as it gets” for a major project, underscoring the collaborative efforts between designers, project teams, and customer groups. The Low-Fidelity mock-up, built by Fraser Coast indigenous-owned business Allweld Manufacturing, has been instrumental in ensuring the train designs meet the needs of all passengers.

Future-Proofing Public Transport

The QTMP is focused on accessibility and future-proofing public transport in Queensland, particularly in the lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Minister for Transport and Main Roads, Bart Mellish, emphasised that these trains are being built by Queenslanders, for Queenslanders, and will play a key role in the region’s transport infrastructure for years to come.

The first of these new trains is expected to be manufactured and begin testing by late 2026, with all 65 trains scheduled to be in service by 2032. The project represents a substantial state investment, which has committed over $335 million to the initiative, further enhancing the entire New Generation Rollingstock fleet.

Published 22-Aug-2024

Shifting Faith in Northgate: Migrant Community Thrives Amidst Parish Changes

A tale of two congregations unfolds at a heritage-listed church in Northgate, where Indian migrant families belonging to the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church fill the pews of St Alphonsa, formerly known as St John’s, every Sunday. Unfortunately, as this community flourishes, another congregation faces the cancellation of its Sunday Mass.

*Photo Credit:* *St. Alphonsa Syro Malabar Parish Brisbane North/ Facebook*

Yet, as this community flourishes, another congregation faces the cancellation of their Sunday Mass.

This contrast highlights a broader demographic shift across Australia, where migrant communities gravitate towards affordable suburbs while established Catholic churches grapple with ageing and shrinking congregations. The Brisbane Catholic Archdiocese, overseeing the Northgate parish, recently informed the English-speaking congregation that their 7.30 a.m. Sunday Mass would be discontinued.

Northgate parish — *Photo Credit:* *St. Alphonsa Syro Malabar Parish Brisbane North/ Facebook*

Data from the National Catholic Census Project underscores this trend, showing an increase in Catholics identifying as such in the area, a rise in the median age and a decline in the proportion of “blue-collar” Catholics. Simultaneously, the number of Catholics born in non-English-speaking countries has risen.

Approximately 50 English-speaking worshippers are encouraged to attend Mass at the parish’s other churches in Hendra, Clayfield, and Hamilton. This leaves the Syro-Malabar Church, which offers daily Masses in Malayalam, as the sole congregation utilising the Nudgee Road space.

Father Michael Grace, in his newsletter, acknowledged the decision’s mixed reception and apologised for any hurt caused, particularly within the Northgate community. The Archdiocese stated that the changes were widely accepted and that priests were limited to three Sunday Masses according to canon law.

The future of the St John’s church building, an official war memorial, remains uncertain. Despite offers, the Archdiocese has no plans to sell the land, and the parish retains all rental income from the church grounds. Father Varghese Vithayathil, serving the Syro-Malabar community, expressed their uncertainty about the future.

The growth of migrant communities, like the Syro-Malabar Eastern Catholic Church, the second-largest Eastern Catholic church globally, has historically been a strength of the Catholic Church in Australia.

Associate Professor Joel Hodge from the Australian Catholic University emphasised this, noting that the trend is reflected in nationwide parishes, schools, and vocations.

Published Date 21-August-2024

MAFS Stars Kerry and Johnny Balbuziente List Renovated Wavell Heights Home

Photo Credit: Place

Married At First Sight (MAFS) fan favourites Kerry and Johnny Balbuziente list their renovated Wavell Heights home on the market as they prepare for the next chapter in their lives.

The couple, who met during MAFS Season 8 in 2021, welcomed their first child, Chloe, eight weeks ago and are now looking to move closer to family in Ascot.

The Balbuziantes purchased the character home on Barker Street two years ago and have since transformed it with a comprehensive renovation.

“We’ve kept the beautiful, original ceiling roses and the same windows, but we’ve gently brought her into a more modern era,” Kerry Balbuziente explained. The renovation features bright whites and colourful furnishings, creating what she describes as a “coastal chic” aesthetic.

One unique feature of the home is the iconic plaque from their MAFS hotel room, which Johnny famously removed with a butter knife during filming. The memento now hangs prominently above the kitchen entrance, though the couple plans to take it to their next home.

The property is being marketed by Drew Davies of Place Estate Agents, with an auction scheduled for September 11. The Balbuziantes hope to capitalise on what they perceive as a hot market, though they acknowledge the challenges of buying in the current climate. “Lucky we have in-laws with a spare bedroom, so we might be bunking in all together!” Kerry joked.

Since their time on MAFS, the couple has focused on building their life together. They became engaged during a sunset boat ride on Sydney Harbour and tied the knot at Ciao Pai restaurant in Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves in January 2023.

Professionally, Kerry juggles her work as an occupational therapist with co-ownership of Caxton Street Brewing Company, while Johnny continues his career as a theatre producer.

As they prepare for this next move, the Balbuziantes are already considering future renovation projects. “Johnny and I have loved flipping this home, and hope potentially to do it again,” Kerry said, adding, “I’m a weirdo. I love moving house and having a blank canvas to start again and decorate.”

Published 13-August-2024

Jaden Boon Brings Mind-Bending Comedy to Geebung RSL

Rising star Jaden Boon is set to captivate audiences with his unique blend of comedy and hypnosis in the upcoming “Beyond Reality Hypnosis Show” at Geebung RSL.

Read: Geebung’s Platypus Packaging Founder Leaves Legacy of Hard Work

This 18+ event, scheduled for Saturday, October 12 from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m, promises an evening of laughter, amazement, and perhaps a touch of scepticism.

Hailing from Redland Bay, Jaden Boon has quickly made a name for himself in the world of stage hypnosis. His show offers more than just entertainment; it’s an exploration of the human mind’s potential and the power of suggestion. Attendees can expect to witness incredible feats that blur the line between reality and illusion, all while doubling over with laughter.

What sets Boon’s performance apart is the interactive element. Audience members are given the tantalising choice to “See the Show or BE The Show,” allowing the brave (or perhaps the curious) to step into the spotlight and discover their own suggestibility. This participatory aspect adds an unpredictable and personal dimension to each performance, ensuring no two shows are exactly alike.

A Night of Scepticism and Wonder

For sceptics, the event presents an opportunity to challenge their beliefs about hypnosis. For believers, it’s a chance to delve deeper into the mysteries of the mind. Regardless of where one stands, Boon’s charismatic presence and skillful showmanship promise to leave all attendees thoroughly entertained and perhaps a little bewildered.

As the tagline suggests, this is not your average night out. Leave the kids at home, bring an open mind, and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the realm of hypnotic comedy. Whether you’re watching from the audience or finding yourself unexpectedly on stage, Jaden Boon’s “Beyond Reality Hypnosis Show” is poised to be a highlight of Geebung’s entertainment calendar.

Read: How Perides Art Foundry in Geebung is Transforming the Queen’s Wharf Development

Tickets are expected to sell quickly for this mind-bending experience. So, for those ready to question everything they thought they knew about the power of suggestion – and have a great laugh while doing so – Geebung RSL is the place to be on October 12.

Published 6-August-2024

Norths Rugby Fundraiser Supports Jordan Luke After Life-Changing Injury

The rugby community is coming together to support Jordan Luke, whose life was altered dramatically after suffering an injury that left him with permanent loss of function in his arm.

Read: GingerCloud Foundation Opens Modified Rugby Program in Wavell Heights

Luke’s life took an unexpected turn during a home game at Wavell Heights on June 15. Doctors informed Luke that he had damaged his brachial plexus, a network of nerves connecting the arm to the neck and torso.

Recounting the incident, Luke explained that he approached the player to tackle as he had done countless times before. Upon making contact and falling to the ground, he realised he couldn’t brace himself and was unable to move his right arm or leg.

Photo credit: Norths Rugby Club/Facebook

Norths Rugby has initiated a fundraising campaign for Luke and hosted a community event last Saturday, July 13, at the Norths’ homeground.

The fundraising event held for Luke at Norths Rugby Club proved to be a resounding success. The community turned out in force, demonstrating an overwhelming show of support and solidarity for Luke during this challenging time.

Meanwhile, the days following the injury were tumultuous for Luke. He initially thought it might be a severe case of a “stinger,” an injury involving stretched or compressed nerves in the neck or shoulder. However, he soon experienced intense nerve pain in his arm and shoulder.

Luke described the worsening pain, which became excruciating. Doctors struggled to find an effective pain medication, eventually resorting to ketamine. During this time, Luke grappled with worst-case scenarios, contemplating the possibility of never being able to pick up his niece or future children again.

Still, Luke expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support from his partner Mathison, family, close friends, and Norths Rugby during this challenging time. He acknowledged the significance of the fundraising efforts, offers of assistance, and messages of support.

Read: Norths Devils Assumes Lease on Warburton Park Sporting Field, Ensures It Stays With Rugby League

As the rugby community continues to rally around one of their own, the club’s message resonates clearly: “Together, we are making a real difference in Jordan’s life. Let’s keep this momentum going and help Jordan on his road to recovery!”

Those wishing to support Jordan Luke in his recovery journey can contribute to the GoFundMe campaign set up by Norths Rugby, which aims to assist with Luke’s medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.

Published 17-July-2024

Northgate Robotics Team Clinches Victory at Melbourne Tournament

Congratulations to BotBuilders, a Northgate-based robotics team that captured the top spot at the Melbourne Robotics Tournament, showcasing the skills and creativity of local youths in a challenging competition!

Unexpected Triumph

On their first outing to the Melbourne Robotics Tournament held from the 5th to 7th July 2024, the BotBuilders, comprised of teenagers and young adults aged between 15 and 21, impressed seasoned competitors by winning the event.

The team participated in the FIRST Robotics Competition, an off-season event that allows teams to test and refine their robots and strategies between official seasons.

Northgate BotBuilders — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Team Dynamics and Preparation

The BotBuilders team, which gathers at a studio in Northgate, consists of members from across Greater Brisbane, extending as far as Rochedale and up to the Sunshine Coast. Guided by adult mentors, these youths take on various roles, from mechanical and electrical design to programming and strategy.

Their collaborative efforts over nine weeks are focused on designing and building a robot capable of competing under strict game rules.

Despite being new to this level of competition, the BotBuilders used two off-season competitions—the Melbourne Robotics Tournament and Duel Down Under in Sydney—to hone their design, manufacturing, and coding skills. Their robot, noted for its compact design and agile performance, excelled in the 2.5-minute matches by navigating a basketball-sized field and scoring points efficiently.

Future Aspirations

Mrs. Pollard, a coach of the BotBuilders, remarked on the importance of robotics in fostering confidence and resilience among youths, especially those who might feel out of place in other settings. The team is now focused on developing their skills further for their official competition season starting in January 2025, with aspirations to qualify for the FIRST Robotics World Championships in Houston, USA.

The BotBuilders are actively engaging in community activities to raise funds for their upcoming competitions. They will showcase their robotics talents at several local events, including the RoboRave Australia World Championships, The Pine Rivers Show, and The Ekka, where they aim to promote STEM and their team’s achievements.

97% of QLD Classes Meet Targets: Wavell Heights State School Among Few Making Minor Adjustments

Wavell Heights State School has been identified as one of the few Brisbane schools exceeding recommended class sizes set by Queensland’s Department of Education.

Read: Wavell Heights Tops Brisbane Suburbs With Strongest Million-Dollar Home Growth in 10 Years

Education Queensland sets class-size targets of 25 students for Prep to Year 3. Wavell Heights State School reportedly has 26 students in these classes, just one over the recommended limit.

An Education Queensland spokeswoman addressed the issue, stating that most classes above target were only over by one or two students.

The spokeswoman clarified that while principals use class-size targets as guidelines when forming classes, these targets are not strict limits that must be enforced. She emphasised that the targets are meant to be flexible rather than absolute maximums.

On an encouraging note, Education Queensland reported that the vast majority of classes across the state are meeting or falling below the recommended targets, with an impressive 97 percent of classes at or under the prescribed size limits.

While Wavell Heights State School slightly exceeded the target, it’s not alone, as Salisbury State School and Mackenzie State Primary School also reported higher-than-recommended class sizes for Prep to Year 3, with average class sizes of 27 and 26 students respectively.

Interestingly, Wavell Heights State School’s Years 4 to 6 classes are within the target range, with 26 students per class against a target of 28.

Although some experts would say that smaller isn’t always better for class sizes, the Queensland Teachers’ Union (QTU) maintains that smaller classes lead to more individual attention and improved student outcomes.

QTU emphasizes the importance of class size targets on its website, highlighting that these guidelines contribute to improved teacher-student interactions and outcomes, help manage teacher workload, and promote better health and safety conditions for both educators and students.

Read: Wavell State High School Teacher Wins Excellence in Teaching Award

As schools navigate these challenges, the impact on student learning and teacher workload remains a topic of ongoing discussion.

Published 6-July-2024