Families and individuals in Wavell Heights now have greater access to mental health support, as the Brisbane Livewell Clinic expands its counselling services to meet a growing need in the local community. The clinic has strengthened its team with two new counsellors, bringing a broader range of therapeutic approaches and more flexible appointment options to residents in North Brisbane.
The expansion, announced on 22 October 2025, reflects an increasing awareness of mental health care and the demand for accessible counselling in suburban areas. Counsellors Alicia Kent-Rooney and Nathan Gurry have joined the Wavell Heights practice, each bringing distinct specialisations in emotional wellbeing, relationship support, and holistic mental health strategies.
Both professionals are based at 1/52 Jeffcott Street, Wavell Heights, where they offer individual, couples, and family counselling sessions. The clinic’s holistic approach includes attention to emotional, physical, and lifestyle factors, aligning with its broader wellness philosophy.
The team shared that expanding local services aims to make quality counselling more accessible to the surrounding community and provide ongoing care closer to home.
The Brisbane Livewell Clinic, established as a multidisciplinary wellness practice, continues to integrate counselling alongside its nutrition, naturopathy, and acupuncture services. The Wavell Heights expansion demonstrates its commitment to supporting residents through both mental and physical wellbeing programs — particularly as awareness grows around the value of professional counselling as part of everyday health care.
Students at Wavell Heights State High School are making headlines for all the right reasons, showing how dedication in classrooms, workshops, and sports fields can turn lessons into life-changing achievements. From building bridges that defy gravity to representing their country on the world stage, Wavell Heights students are proving that learning goes far beyond textbooks.
Academic and Leadership Success Shine Through
The school’s 67th Annual Speech Night brought the community together in a celebration of achievement and pride. Held at the end of October, the event recognised 251 awardees and the announcement of the 2026 School Captains and Prefects. Grace Langton, a Year 11 student, stood out for earning a senior subject award, while Sam Bryan took on hosting duties as Master of Ceremonies.
The evening highlighted not only the academic strength of the students but also the collaborative support of teachers, families, and local sponsors, including nearby universities and civic organisations.
STEM learning came alive when students William R. and Simon M. entered the Queensland Spaghetti Bridge Competition, crafting a bridge that weighed only 150 grams yet supported over two kilograms. Their ingenuity showcased how creative thinking and problem-solving remain cornerstones of the school’s science and engineering programs.
Similarly, Geography students Jinwoo Bang and Grace Langton were finalists in the Queensland Planning Institute of Australia Awards, where their research on urban challenges in Yarrabilba and Logan Reserve demonstrated the practical value of geography and community planning.
During National Nutrition Week, students reflected on healthy habits and the importance of food education, applying classroom knowledge to everyday life.
This aligns with Wavell Heights’ broader focus on wellbeing and sustainability — values that guide both students and staff. Meanwhile, Leni McKenna represented the school as a Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) Student Ambassador, exploring pathways into the resources and energy industries while engaging directly with professionals across the state.
Local Pride Goes Global in Sport
Sporting excellence also took the spotlight with student-athlete Keira Rangi proudly representing the Cook Islands in international Girls Rugby League. Her participation marked a high point for Wavell’s growing focus on empowering young women in sport and encouraging diversity in representation.
Through these achievements, Wavell Heights State High School continues to reflect the best of its local community — resilient, driven, and full of emerging leaders. Whether through science innovation, athletic distinction, or community service, the school’s students are shaping futures that extend far beyond the classroom.
Extended level-crossing downtimes in Northgate and Geebung are contributing to growing congestion, with boom gates remaining closed for up to one hour and 40 minutes during weekday morning peaks across Brisbane’s northside.
Queensland Rail data shows a sharp rise in level-crossing closures across Greater Brisbane, with the number of sites shut for over an hour during morning peaks increasing from 13 in 2022 to 26 in the past financial year. Northgate Road in Northgate and Bilsen Road in Geebung recorded among the longest downtimes, averaging more than one hour and 40 minutes between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m.
These delays have coincided with the expansion of rail services across south-east Queensland, now totalling more than 8,500 weekly services. Increased passenger numbers, additional freight traffic, and longer dwell times have also contributed to longer gate closures.
Photo Credit: Queensland Rail
Northside Congestion Patterns
Motorists travelling through Northgate and Geebung face heavier delays during weekday peaks as boom gate closures last longer and queues extend along connecting routes. Transport specialists have cautioned that as more services are introduced following the completion of major rail upgrades, boom gate downtimes are expected to increase further unless key crossings are removed.
Beams Road Overpass Nears Completion
Between Geebung and Carseldine, the Beams Road level crossing has been replaced by a new overpass, with westbound traffic now using the bridge. Eastbound lanes, along with pedestrian and cyclist access, will open later in the month. The site recorded 25 near misses in the past five years and is now permanently closed.
Construction on a second bridge north of the first is set to begin soon, creating a four-lane overpass to improve connectivity and safety along the corridor.
Photo Credit: Queensland Rail
Part of Broader Upgrade Program
The Beams Road replacement forms part of a wider program targeting 13 level crossings across south-east Queensland for removal or upgrade. This marks the first crossing removal in Brisbane in more than a decade. The project, valued at $235 million, is jointly funded by transport authorities to enhance safety and reduce congestion.
A Geebung-based company is expanding internationally by exporting AI-powered vehicle damage scanners, with its first installation in the United Kingdom.
CMT Scanner, operating from Geebung, is among 35 Queensland businesses supported by the Go Global Export Program, receiving a total of $25,000. The company is delivering AI vehicle damage scanning technology to the United Kingdom. Its first major installation is at a Mercedes-Benz dealership in Stockport.
The program, managed by Trade and Investment Queensland, provides matched funding of between $10,000 and $25,000 to small and medium-sized businesses to help finalise export sales in new international markets.
CMT Scanner was founded and developed in Australia to address the need for consistent and efficient vehicle damage assessment. The technology was initially designed to assist insurance companies during hail events by providing fast and transparent evaluations. Since 2020, the application of this technology has expanded to include automotive groups, dealerships, and service centres.
The company has its roots in the vehicle repair industry and has also been involved in training through related ventures. The system was developed to improve accuracy, reduce reliance on individual assessors, and enhance customer service in the automotive sector.
Role of Geebung in Export Efforts
Geebung serves as the base for CMT Scanner’s operations, contributing to Queensland’s export growth through innovative technology. The company’s success under the Go Global Export Program highlights how local businesses are entering competitive international markets with scalable solutions.
Photo Credit: CMT Scanner
Program Framework and Requirements
The Go Global Export Program requires recipients to provide matched funding and complete their projects within 12 months of receiving funding approval. The program is designed to help businesses overcome export barriers and establish new sales channels. Participants must demonstrate proven export deals and report on job creation linked to their funded projects.
CMT Scanner’s expansion into the UK market marks a step forward for Geebung’s presence in the international automotive technology sector. The company’s growth reflects the wider aim of the Go Global Export Program to support Queensland businesses in securing export success.
The Gerns Factory Residence in Geebung highlights Brisbane’s industrial heritage, blending German craftsmanship with Queensland’s cultural history. Built in 1914 by German immigrant Heinrich (Harry) Christian Gerns, it reflects the contributions of German settlers to Geebung’s industrial foundation and Brisbane’s development
The timber Queenslander-style home at 39 Buhot Street East was constructed by Gerns after he relocated to Geebung in 1895. The move aligned with the area’s German farming community and countered anti-German sentiment during World War I. The house, designed for Queensland’s subtropical climate, became the centre of Gerns’ family and business activities.
Adjacent to the residence, Gerns established a smallgoods factory that produced premium hams, sausages, and continental smallgoods. The business gained a stellar reputation across Brisbane, providing jobs and fostering Geebung’s economic growth.
Today, the Gerns Factory Residence is listed on Brisbane’s heritage register, protecting its architectural and cultural value. While privately owned, the residence is a notable historical site, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience of Brisbane’s early settlers.
The legacy continues through Gerns Continental Smallgoods, a family-owned business still operating from its Geebung location. Known for traditional recipes and gluten-free options, the factory outlet on Buhot Street serves both wholesale and retail customers, maintaining the high standards set by Heinrich Gerns.
The Gerns Factory Residence is part of Geebung’s broader narrative of German heritage, which has shaped the area’s social and economic landscape. Nearby suburbs like Wavell Heights share similar stories of German settlers contributing to Queensland’s development.
Visitors can explore the legacy of the Gerns family and other historical sites in Geebung, gaining insight into the industrious spirit that helped build Brisbane’s early economy.
Located on Spence Road in Brisbane’s northern suburb of Wavell Heights, the brick Wavell Heights Presbyterian Church—also known as St Luke’s—was formally entered into theQueensland Heritage Register on 9 September 2022. The listing recognises its Modernist design and its place in the story of post-war suburban growth and worship in Queensland.
Before the housing boom of the 1940s and 1950s, the area now known as Wavell Heights lay on the traditional lands of the Turrbal people and was largely rural, known for small farms and dairies. As Brisbane expanded northward, families moved in, and in 1948 the Presbyterian Church of Queensland purchased about ten acres along Spence Road for a proposed War Memorial Hospital. By January 1949, a small congregation had begun meeting under the care of the Nundah charge.
Within a few years, the growing congregation needed a more permanent meeting place. A timber church hall was built in 1951 and dedicated in 1952. The hall hosted worship services and an expanding Sunday School that by 1957 had 341 children and about 200 families involved. The growing membership reflected both the suburb’s post-war development and the sense of connection forming among its residents.
Designing a Modern Church for a Changing Time
By 1961, plans were underway for a larger brick church that would reflect modern ideas about faith and space. The architectural firm Cross & Bain, with James William Gibson as project architect, was appointed on 4 November 1964 to design the new building. Construction proceeded in 1966 after the lowest tender from Macquarie Constructions was accepted, and the church was dedicated on 19 November 1966.
The resulting building stands as a strong example of post-war Modernist church design in Queensland. Departing from the long nave of traditional churches, Gibson used a pentagonal plan so that no worshipper sat far from the pulpit or communion table. The folded, metal-clad roof and amber-glazed windows create an interior filtered with warm light, while the use of face brick emphasises simplicity and honesty of materials.
The interior arrangement reflected the liturgical renewal of the 1950s and 1960s, which encouraged a more gathered form of worship. The pulpit and communion table share a single platform, symbolising the equality of Word and Sacrament. A central skylight above the baptismal font anchors the plan, drawing focus to light and inclusion. Red-cedar furnishings designed for the space complete the interior’s unified style.
Recognition and Protection
When Wavell Heights News reported the nomination in 2022, local leaders noted that the building had remained largely unchanged since its dedication. The Queensland Heritage Council later confirmed the church’s entry in the state register for its architectural innovation and for illustrating the evolution of Presbyterian church design in the mid-twentieth century.
Under the Queensland Heritage Act 1992, the 1966 church building and its immediate grounds are now protected. Earlier structures and the later manse are excluded from the listing, but the recognition secures the main church’s architectural and cultural values for the future.
Photo Credit: Queensland Heritage Register
Continuity and Community
The church remains highly intact. Recent works—such as air-conditioning in 2019 and a new PWD toilet block in 2020—have supported ongoing use without altering the original structure. Today, St Luke’s continues to function as a place of worship and gathering for Wavell Heights residents.
Its continued presence tells a broader story of how Brisbane’s suburbs evolved after World War II. As new communities formed, buildings like St Luke’s gave shape to shared faith and civic life. Now recognised on the Queensland Heritage Register, the church stands as both a physical and historical marker of that suburban transformation.
From cozy local gems to buzzworthy hotspots, Nundah and Wavell Heights are serving up some seriously impressive dining. We sifted through the rave reviews to find the places people can’t stop talking about—whether it’s the flavors, the vibe, or that one dish they dream about. Here are the standouts you need to try!
Gab Garde ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Everything we had was delicious and fresh. It was very exciting to taste regional dishes that aren’t very common to find in Australia. I particularly loved the tigelle with the guanciale spread! The pastas were excellent. Can also recommend the light and fluffy crescentine. The homemade almond biscuits and Vin Santo dessert wine were the perfect end to the meal. Service was attentive and friendly, too.
Andrea Martel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We had lunch at Rustichella and everything was delicious. We had the Burrata on Heirloom Tomatoes, Tomato Bruschetta, Potato Gnocchi with Free Range Chicken Ragù Bianco, Spaghetti Carbonara, Infused Pappardelle with Polleo Beef Ragù, and the Affogato. Dishes were fresh with good portions and service was excellent. Looking forward to going back and trying other dishes.
Belinda Anstey ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The food and service is always fantastic. Can’t fault it. Would highly recommend if you love authentic Italian and pasta. For Entree, we had the Tigelle with Modena Pork Pesto and Crescentine with Prosciutto and Parmesan. I had a special for my Main. I can’t recall the name but it was fantastic. Their Limoncello cocktails were also great. A more expensive option, but absolutely worth it. I’ve seen some reviews saying portions are small, but I disagree. Pasta is very filling so it was enough and I didn’t feel overstuffed 🙂
Ranjana Bhandari ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Just wow🤤 . I really enjoyed and amazed by the food and services of the restaurant especially dumplings which I really can’t explain about it. Thank you google for the genuine reviews on the site which help for incredible experience at Nundha today. Very satisfied
Pravalika uppala ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
This spot is fantastic for veg fried rice and chilli momos. The service is commendable, and the atmosphere is excellent. However, the prices are slightly on the higher side compared to other places.
Pichook ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I have been to this place multiple times. The food is amazing and staff are friendly and helpful. Out of all the food I definitely recommend the chicken momo platter, Chow main and fried rice. They also serve drinks including alcoholic drinks.
Nokkie Chaya ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Papaya salad with soft shell crab Whole fish with sweet & sour sauce Whole fish with green apple salad good quality and so delicious
Rich A ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The best Thai food we’ve had in Brisbane. We enjoyed the Phuket style Fried Rice, Pad See Ew and a Red Curry. The Pad See Ew had that proper wok charred flavour to it and the ingredients in all dishes were fresh and of high quality. You can really tell that the chef takes pride in their cooking. Lychee iced tea was also really nice and refreshing. We’ll be back!
Arianna Freeman ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We have been ordering from Siam Sensations for a few years and it has NEVER disappointed. Last night we had the BEST Yellow Curry and Cashew Nut Stirfry. Absolutely delicious! Thank you!
Patrick Saure ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I’ve visited this place is extremely amazing a Japanese cuisine,really enjoyed the food is flavourful,fresh and the quality is excellent. The staff are accomodating with a smile,food service is on time delivered on the table,and the price is affordable.I especially love the sizzling wagyu teryaki sauce it was perfect and impressed.Highly recommend this japanese cuisine sushi Honke.👌thanks.
Lia Eungyeong Song ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ You shouldn’t go there thinking about Korean sushi, but it’s the best in Brisbane! The staff are all friendly, the food comes out quickly, and best of all, it’s a great ice cream restaurant 🥰 They also have gluten free options.
K Bell ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Hands down my favorite sushi train restaurant. dishes are always fresh and they will always make things fresh for you if you ask. wide range of entrees, small sushi rolls, large sushi rolls, a aburi, nigiri, hand rolls, noodle dishes, platters, drinks, and desserts. My go-tos are always the California rolls, the gyoza and anything with fresh salmon. Star for always very, very friendly and helpful and provide great and quick service. sometimes there’s a line but it isn’t too much of a a white until there is availability. ordering through an iPad with pictures so you can see what you get. take away also available. parking is not quite that easy. atmosphere is lively and friendly.
Karlee McNamara ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ Always good service from staff here! We got two steaks, unfortunately only had pepper sauce or gravy options but the salad that came with had a very tasty dressing. My steak was a little chewy but my partners seem done well. They also have guava cruiser on tap which is random but definitely a thirst quencher. Very prices here. We’d only come down for specials or if we get $ off in the app
Lola Chin ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Great food and service. We had pan fried barramundi and parpadelle marinara with Morten bug. It’s super yummy and we will definitely be back again!
C D ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We got the chicken parma and sirloin steak. Both chips and salad and was top notch. About time a salad doesn’t come with raw onion. We loved how it came pickled. The chips both had good crunch and texture. I had the parma and I like to think I’m a parma connoisseur, I will definitely be back for it. I mean the cheese, the chicken wasn’t dry and all round good meal 🤤 The size of it was fantastic too! My partners steak was cooked to exactly how a med rare should be cooked. Had great char flavour and came with bone marrow butter 🤤 we also got the garlic bread and salt and pepper squid to start. Yum yum yum. We will definitely be back. Not sure before the renovations what the establishment looked like, but I definitely think it’s a great feel.
Originally established in 2011 to repurpose donations from the Brisbane floods, this warehouse-turned-community hub now offers a vast selection of affordable pre-loved clothing, furniture, homewares, and essentials. Even better, those in need can access items free of charge or at subsidised rates, ensuring that everyone has access to the basics they require.
Photo credit: Connected Inc/Facebook
The shop is run by a dedicated team of volunteers and a few paid staff members who work diligently to sort, price, and display donations, making sure the store remains organised and welcoming. The increase in visitors due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis has highlighted the importance of the Op Shop, with Connected Inc. continuously seeking more volunteers to keep up with demand.
Beyond the Op Shop: Community Support and Services
Photo credit: Connected Inc/Facebook
Connected Inc extends its impact beyond retail by partnering with various organisations, such as Micah Projects, to assist individuals and families transitioning into new or temporary accommodations. Through these collaborations, they provide essential items like furniture, bedding, kitchenware, and clothing to those who need them most.
Photo credit: Connected Inc/Facebook
Additionally, they supply donated goods—including clothing, toys, craft supplies, and household essentials—to a range of community groups, such as prison support networks, nursing homes, special schools, Aboriginal communities, and churches. This broader network ensures that essential resources reach those who require them, fostering dignity and stability.
In addition to their Op Shop and community support initiatives, Connected Inc offers services under the National Disability Insurance Scheme. These services include assistance with household tasks and community access, further reinforcing the charity’s commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities.
How You Can Help
As Connected Inc continues to expand its reach, community support is more vital than ever. Whether through volunteering at the Op Shop, donating goods, or spreading awareness, every effort contributes to the charity’s mission of bringing hope and stability to those who need it most.
For more information or to get involved, visit Connected Inc and be part of a movement dedicated to making a real difference in people’s lives. They operate Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. at Shed 4a, 143 St Vincents Road, Virginia.
Published 21-February-2025. Updated 7-October-2025
Brisbane Livewell Clinic in Wavell Heights is celebrating 46 years of holistic healthcare, continuing its focus on natural therapies and allied health services for the Brisbane community.
Established in 1979, Brisbane Livewell Clinic is recognised as Brisbane’s longest-running naturopath and wellness centre. In September 2025, the clinic marked its 46th year of operation, highlighting its continued role in providing holistic healthcare to local patients.
Serving Patients North And South
The clinic operates from two sites, at Jeffcott Street in Wavell Heights and Pickwick Street in Cannon Hill. Both locations include off-street parking, disabled access, and offer online consultations to extend services across Brisbane and throughout Australia.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Therapies For Every Stage Of Health
Brisbane Livewell Clinic offers a wide range of therapies including naturopathy, clinical nutrition, dietetics, osteopathy, massage therapy, hypnotherapy, acupuncture, counselling, kinesiology, Bowen therapy and mindset therapy. Its team of 17 practitioners works with patients to create individualised “Wellness Plans” designed to address underlying causes of illness rather than symptoms alone.
Tackling Complex Conditions
The clinic’s services cater to patients managing conditions such as thyroid disorders, menopause and perimenopause symptoms, digestive issues, chronic pain, hormonal imbalances, musculoskeletal conditions, mental health challenges, reproductive health concerns, addictions, fatigue, stress, migraines and skin conditions. This broad approach reflects its commitment to integrated care.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Patient Stories Reflect Success
Brisbane Livewell Clinic has received more than 230 patient reviews, reporting a 4.9-star satisfaction rating. Feedback includes improvements in energy, gut health, pain management, smoking cessation and anxiety reduction, with massage, hypnotherapy and naturopathy services often highlighted.
As it passes the 46-year milestone, Brisbane Livewell Clinic has stated its focus will remain on evolving services to meet community needs. Its approach combines evidence-based natural therapies with lifestyle support, aiming to provide long-term health outcomes for patients.
It was 1992 when the Brisbane Broncos won their first Premiership, led by Alfie Langer who had taken over as skipper when Gene Miles retired. Going back-to-back in 1993 and winning the Super League in 1997. Following up again with a Premiership in 1998 and another at the turn of the millenium in 2000 and again in 2006.
That’s 18 seasons ago. Time flies. Let’s not forget Kevvie put together the majority of the current Broncos side including bringing Reece Walsh from the Warriors, and Walters led them to a Grand Final in 2023.
Then he passed the baton to Madge.
Madge, aka “enemy numero uno” having led the Blues in a massive comeback win against the Maroons, in the 2024 Origin Series. Plenty of locals could not forget that and surely Madge kept his head down for that very reason.
The decision to appoint Maguire was brilliant! A masterclass move by the Broncos Board.
So now after quite a rollercoaster season, where at times the Broncos looked dire yet have far more often looked unbeatable. It’s only in recent weeks though that we have fully understood the resilience and sheer determination of this group.
The Broncos beat the Storm in the final game of the regular season to make the 4, 30-14, at Suncorp and after the game, skipper Paddy Carrigan spoke about the deluge of goal-line defence they had practiced in training.
That’s where their backbone has been developed, the layers of determination, and now the belief that no matter how high the mountain, it can always be climbed.
The “Mission Impossible” of coming back from 14-0 against the 4 time Premiers, now seems a walk in the park compared to the hole the Broncos were in against the Minor Premiers, but in reality both comebacks were miracles of belief and determination.
How much was Paddy Carrigan missed last week (and Billy Walters), and how much fresher will he be as a result? At the same time Payne Haas desperately needs a week off, but give us one more big one, Payne!
King & Loiero vs Carrigan & Haas – Broncos win.
In that final regular season game at Suncorp, Jahrome Hughes was coming off an injury break, and it would be fair to assume he’s now back to full capacity.
Warbrick + Coates vs Karapani + Mariner – Broncos win
Grant Atkins did a great job of the Broncos-Panthers last week and is given the honours in the middle for the Grand Final.
18 seasons is a long time. It’s time to put that to bed, boys!
The Grand Final of the NRL Telstra Premiership kicks off at 6.30pm Brisbane Time, this Sunday, October 5. BE VERY CAREFUL AS DAYLIGHT SAVING STARTS ON SUNDAY! The game will be broadcast live on Nine, Foxtel and Kayo.
