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Wavell Heights Talent Steps Up for Queensland at Schoolboys Champs

Two students from Wavell Heights have earned their place in Queensland’s elite 16–18 years schoolboys rugby league squad, selected to represent the state at the national championships in Coffs Harbour.

Local Pride in a National Campaign

Wavell State High School is again proving to be a key nursery for Queensland rugby league talent. Senior players Jared Horne and Sangstar-Saulala Figota were selected in the final squad after strong showings during the state championships held in May.

Although Horne was later ruled out of the competition, his initial selection alongside Figota highlights the continued impact of Wavell SHS’s rugby league program.

Both players have been part of the high-performance Langer Trophy school competition, widely recognised as one of the most competitive rugby league school leagues in the country. Figota, now signed to the Dolphins after previously being in the Roosters academy, has been one of Wavell SHS’s standout leaders this year. Known for his footwork and composure, the 18-year-old continues to grow as a versatile outside back.

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Jared Horne, a highly regarded forward and Broncos-contracted player, was a core part of the Wavell SHS side during the Langer Trophy season and was also named in the initial Queensland squad. Despite being unavailable for this week’s tournament, his development through the Wavell system remains a talking point for school and club rugby circles.

Big Stage for the Next Generation

Wavell State High School’s rugby league program has a long tradition of developing players for the next level, with more than 40 former students progressing to the NRL or NRLW ranks. Its role in preparing students for representative honours, like the Australian Secondary Schools Rugby League (ASSRL) National Championships, reflects the sporting culture embedded in Wavell Heights.

Queensland’s squad — made up of the top-performing players from schools across the state — kicked off their ASSRL National Championship campaign on Saturday, July 12 at Coffs Harbour International Stadium. The tournament brought together the best schoolboy talent from across Australia, offering many players a springboard into future NRL careers.

With live matches streamed through KommunityTV, families and supporters in Brisbane were able to follow the action closely, including Wavell Heights locals eager to see homegrown talent compete on a national stage.

Published 14-July-2025

Double Success for Our Lady of the Angels’ at Rugby 7s

Our Lady of the Angels’ School in Wavell Heights has emerged as one of the top performers at the 2025 Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) Rugby 7s Carnival, finishing the season with strong results across two key divisions.

Read: Wavell Heights Junior Rugby Club Receives Boost for Equipment

The school claimed the Under 10 Boys Division 2 title, showcasing impressive skill and teamwork from its youngest players. In the Under 12 Girls Division 2, the Wavell Heights students secured a joint runner-up finish alongside St William’s School, Grovely, capping off a solid performance in this year’s expanded carnival.

Photo credit: Our Lady of the Angels’ School, Wavell Heights/Facebook

The annual BCE Rugby 7s Carnival, which wrapped up recently, was the biggest yet, with more than 1,600 students from across 146 Catholic schools participating in regional competitions throughout south-east Queensland.

“We’ve also seen a surge in female players bringing new energy and skill to the field,” said BCE School Operations and Programs Lead Greg Casey said.

“A huge congratulations to every school, student, and coach involved and we hope to see you all back on the field in 2026,” Mr Casey added.

Rugby 7s — Photo credit: Our Lady of the Angels’ School, Wavell Heights/Facebook

He adds “I would like to thank Queensland Rugby Union for their support”.

“None of this would be possible without the Queensland Rugby Union who have supported BCE to bring this carnival to life since 2019,” he said.

“I would also like to thank our five regional co-ordinators for the organisation of these events.”

The Brisbane North regional matches were hotly contested, and Our Lady of the Angels’ results reflect a growing culture of sport and school spirit at the Wavell Heights campus.

Read: Wavell State High’s New Breed Ready to Challenge for Langer Trophy Glory

The carnival, which has been running since 2019 with the support of Queensland Rugby Union, is set to return in 2026, continuing its mission to develop young talent and foster sportsmanship across Catholic schools.

Published 3-July-2025

CMT Scanner in Geebung Expands Export of AI Vehicle Technology

Photo Credit: CMT Scanner

A Geebung-based company is expanding internationally by exporting AI-powered vehicle damage scanners, with its first installation in the United Kingdom.

CMT Scanner’s Global Expansion from Geebung

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.

Background of CMT Scanner

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.

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.

Looking Ahead

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.

Published 1-July-2025

Wavell Heights Rugby League Showcase Marks Homecoming Day

Photo Credit: Wavell SHS/Instagram

Wavell Heights played host to a full day of school rugby league on 3 June 2025, as Wavell State High School faced Ipswich State High School in six matches during its annual Homecoming celebration.

Full Fixture List Brings Out School and Community

The event featured six matches across key schoolboy divisions: Brisbane Broncos Old Boys Shield (Year 7), Renouf Shield (Year 8), Hancock Cup (Year 9), Walters Cup (Year 10), Langer Reserves, and Langer Trophy. Students, families and alumni filled the sidelines at Wavell Heights to support the teams.

Each match provided a strong contest, with Ipswich SHS — the first Langer school to compete across all Broncos-backed divisions — offering a serious challenge.

Wavell Heights Rugby League — *Photo Credit: Wavell SHS/Instagram*

Mixed Results Across the Day

BBOB Shield (Year 7)

Wavell’s Year 7 side drew 10–10.

Kauri Pene was outstanding in defence and effort areas. Fullback Lachlan Duggan was a constant threat with darting runs. Roman Tetevano created a try and scored one himself. Ryda Roberts finished a clean backline movement. Noah Rawenata powered through a 15m effort to score. Elijah Unasa carried strongly before being met with a heavy front-on tackle. Strickland Rutene featured in the sweeping backline set that led to a try.

Renouf Shield (Year 8)

Wavell fell to Ipswich in a high-scoring contest.

Will Liku fought hard in the middle, especially late. Hudson Elliott helped steer the side from halfback. D Cherry and P Faafua both crossed for tries. M Shephard landed a goal.

Hancock Cup (Year 9)

Wavell secured a 22–4 win with a strong forward effort.

Kalani Ford-Stevens led with post-contact metres. Murphy Ballin and Hayden Watts were physical and consistent. Tala Lui scored a key try before halftime. J Bell crossed as well. J Hotere added three conversions. The back five — Lui, Nagas, Beazley, Martin and Soutar — supported through defence and carries. Martin and Soutar also stopped a late Ipswich try.

Walters Cup (Year 10)

Wavell dominated 30–6.

Cruz Molo was explosive through the ruck. Aki Tupouniua added structure and control at five-eighth. Lennox Fakatani delivered intensity and high involvement. Mikaere Cleave opened the scoring with a grubber kick try. Bensen Manu muscled over with a powerful run. Maihi Pene threw a well-timed pass to set up a try. Silas Tohilima-Gardner scored twice on the wing. Ruben Webb made a key break that helped shift momentum.

Langer Reserves

Wavell narrowed a 20-point deficit late in the match.

Jai Pattinson was effective in defence and contact. Hayden Madders guided the team’s attack and almost scored late before injury. Isaac Lui was consistent across both halves. Darius Andrews scored as part of Wavell’s second-half resurgence.

Langer Trophy

Wavell opened their campaign with a 36–18 win.

Fullback Timahna Tandy posted 20 points from two tries and six goals. Charlie Webb defended bravely on debut. Dallas Davidson made impact through the middle. Captain Sangstar Figota led the squad on the day.

Looking Ahead

Wavell SHS’s depth across all year levels was evident throughout Homecoming. With 50 players recognised for their individual efforts, the school demonstrated strong development across its rugby league program. The results and performances set a solid tone for the remainder of the Langer Trophy season.

Published 5-June-2025

Wavell Heights Junior Rugby Club Receives Boost for Equipment

Photo Credit: Norths Junior Rugby/ Facebook

Junior athletes in Wavell Heights are set to benefit directly from a significant boost to their sporting resources, with the North Brisbane Junior Rugby Club Inc receiving approximately $4,100.00 specifically for new equipment.

This local injection of funds is part of a larger, state-wide initiative that has seen junior sporting clubs across Queensland share in a treasure chest worth over $160,000 for uniforms and equipment.

This broader program, a partnership between The Dickinson Foundation and the Australian Sports Foundation, has provided an average of around $3,000 to more than 50 clubs from Cairns to Longreach to the Gold Coast.

Supporting Grassroots Sport

Junior Rugby Club — *Photo Credit:* *Norths Junior Rugby/ Facebook*

The funding aims to foster physical and mental well-being in children while easing financial pressures on families. David Dickinson, of The Dickinson Foundation, highlighted that their family’s donation, with about a third allocated to Queensland clubs, helps local clubs provide the necessary uniforms and equipment, ensuring young Australians feel included, stay active, and thrive in sport.

Sue Hunt, chief executive of the Australian Sports Foundation, emphasised the vital role of grassroots clubs in building healthier, happier communities.

She noted that these clubs are often under-resourced and expressed the foundation’s pride in working with partners and donors to offer practical support like uniforms and equipment, as well as tools for clubs to fundraise independently.

North Brisbane Junior Rugby Club’s Mission

The North Brisbane Junior Rugby Club Inc, whose main assets and clubhouse are at Hugh Courtney Sports Ground in Wooloowin, is a family-oriented club dedicated to growing junior boy and girl participation and skills in rugby union.

The club trains children aged six to 18, striving to instil virtues of Strength, Courage, and Respect. In 2019, the club experienced a successful year, with 575 registered players across 43 teams, and notably won all four Division 1 Junior premierships.

The club depends on various fundraising efforts, including the North Brisbane Rugby Club Foundation, and grants for capital upgrades and improvements to its facilities and coaching programs. The recent grant for equipment will directly support their mission to provide a strong foundation for young rugby players in the community.

Published Date 02-Jun-2025

Northgate Road Verge Upgraded After Asbestos Fragments Found

Photo Credit: CrAdamAllan/ Facebook

After a completed improvement project, Northgate residents can now enjoy a safer and more durable road verge on Cambage Road that addresses minor bonded asbestos fragments.

The project involved removing approximately 200mm of gravel and rocks from the verge that contained the asbestos material. The area has since been compacted and smoothed, and Council installed a new asphalt layer to enhance safety and durability.

Why the Work Was Needed

Northgate — *Photo Credits; Google Maps*

The upgrade was necessary to ensure the long-term safety and quality of the road verge, specifically due to the minor asbestos contamination found. The site was treated as Class B asbestos contaminated, and strict measures were taken to minimise potential health risks.

Safety Measures in Place

To ensure community and worker safety, a licensed asbestos contractor was on-site during the project’s first week to manage the asbestos material securely. Air quality monitors were also installed to check for any release of asbestos fibres during the work. Council has stated that the health risk to workers was considered extremely low, with no risk posed to nearby residents or anyone outside the designated work zone.

Community Impact

Completing these works means a significantly improved and safer road verge for the Northgate community. Council has thanked residents for their understanding and cooperation throughout the project. If the community has any further questions or concerns, they are encouraged to contact Council directly.

Published Date 21-May-2025

Top Marks for Wavell Heights in Brisbane Childcare Ratings

In Brisbane’s wealthiest postcodes, parents are learning that high property values and disposable income don’t always translate into high-quality early education. A recent review of 50 childcare centres across the city’s most affluent suburbs revealed a surprising disconnect between postcode prestige and childcare performance — but one suburb, Wavell Heights, is quietly setting a different standard.

Read: Wavell State High Educator Brett Dascombe Among Global Teacher Prize Finalists

Situated just north of Brisbane’s CBD, Wavell Heights has long been admired for its leafy streets, family-friendly vibe, and strong community spirit. Now, it’s making headlines for another reason: the exceptional quality of its childcare services.

While many high-income areas struggled to deliver top-tier ratings, Wavell Heights stood out, with three centres—Wavell Heights Kindergarten, Penola Casa, and Building Futures Montessori securing an Excellent rating — one of the highest possible under the KindiCare Quality Index.

Wavell Heights Kindergarten

Cnr Edinburgh Castle Rd and Cressey Street, Wavell Heights
KindiCare rating: 9.1

Our daughter spent her Kindy year at WHK and we couldn’t have made a better decision sending her to WHK. The staff is very friendly, open and extremely caring for the kids. The education and play they are doing was always enjoyable and well organized. The children in her class room bonded very nicely and we are still in touch with them. We can 100% recommend this Kindy
Janett G

Penola Casa

91 Rode Rd, Wavell Heights
KindiCare rating: 9.0

Of all the parenting decisions so far, putting our daughter into Penola has been the best one. It is an outstanding centre with a very big heart (and a HUGE new playground). The management and educators have been terrific, and they have very good staff longevity. It has been four wonderful years and we will greatly miss the Penola chapter in our lives!
Joanne Morgan

Building Futures Montessori

33 Brae Street, Wavell Heights
KindiCare rating: 8.9

A wonderful centre that has a ‘home away from home’ feel. The staff are very kind and nurturing, and deliver high quality Montessori educational programs. Our child is thriving at the centre and we are delighted to be part of the Building Futures Montessori community.
Samantha Dando

This independent national ranking draws on official government assessments and parent feedback, offering a snapshot of how well childcare providers are meeting the needs of young families.

In contrast to suburbs like Clayfield, where only one centre reached Excellent while others lagged behind, Wavell Heights is showing what’s possible when strong leadership, community engagement, and consistent quality standards come together.

Read: YMCA Wavell Heights Opens Enrolment for Care Programs

These ratings don’t just reflect compliance with regulations; they signal environments where children are thriving, staff are supported, and families feel confident in their choice of care. It’s a notable achievement in a city where even premium suburbs aren’t guaranteed top performance.

Still, the suburb isn’t without its challenges. One of its services did receive the lowest possible rating of Fair, underscoring that even in top-performing areas, there’s room for improvement and vigilance is required.

Overall, Wavell Heights’ strong showing serves as a quiet reminder that quality doesn’t always follow the money and that communities investing in early education can deliver real value for their youngest residents, regardless of postcode prestige.

As Brisbane families weigh up their childcare options, Wavell Heights is proving that excellence is less about affluence, and more about getting the fundamentals right.

Published 21-May-2025

Wavell Heights Teen Found With Knife As Police Sweep Brisbane’s North

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

A 20-year-old Wavell Heights man was caught carrying a steak knife at a Chermside bus stop during a targeted police operation last week, raising concern among locals about the rise in weapons offences across Brisbane’s northern suburbs.

Crackdown Targets Northside Hotspots

On Thursday, 8 May, Queensland Police ran Operation Xray Calculus, targeting property crime, weapons offences and antisocial behaviour across North Brisbane. Officers from multiple units patrolled busy spots like train stations and shopping centres.

*Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News*

Officers spoke with hundreds during the sweep, including a Wavell Heights man found with a concealed steak knife at a Chermside bus stop and he was charged. More than 500 vehicles were also checked at train stations to help prevent theft.

Stolen Goods Recovered In Stafford Heights

At a Stafford Heights home, police found $1,500 in stolen goods tied to retail thefts. An 18-year-old man and 19-year-old woman were charged over the shoplifting.

Police say operations like Xray Calculus keep pressure on offenders and maintain a strong presence in crime-prone areas. They aim to make public spaces safer and boost community confidence.

Brisbane Safe Patrols City Centre

The next night, 9 May, police hit the CBD with Operation Brisbane Safe. On Edward Street, foot and bike patrols found a Kangaroo Point man carrying a knife and a stolen bank card.

A total of seven people were charged during the city patrols, with offences ranging from possession of weapons to handling stolen property. Police said the initiative helped disrupt unwanted behaviour and reminded the public that high-visibility patrols are active across the city.

Police Say Visibility Helps Prevent Crime

Acting Chief Superintendent Simon Tayler said the recent operations reflect a broader effort to keep communities safe. He noted that police presence in public areas like shopping centres and train stations helps deter crime and gives residents reassurance.

He said local partnerships and community awareness help prevent repeat offences and spot at-risk individuals. More operations are planned based on crime trends and public feedback.

Published 16-May-2025

Wavell State High’s New Breed Ready to Challenge for Langer Trophy Glory

The 2025 Langer Trophy season is nearly here, and Wavell State High School is entering the competition with serious momentum. Known for producing top-tier rugby league talent, Wavell’s current crop is no exception—stacked with players who have thrived in elite junior systems and are ready to turn promise into performance.

Read: Wavell State High Educator Brett Dascombe Among Global Teacher Prize Finalists

With a blend of experience, emerging stars, and schoolboy rep pedigree, they are shaping up as one of the most well-rounded teams in the competition.

Photo credit: Wavell State High Rugby League/Facebook

Hayden Polson

A pillar of the Norths Devils Connell Cup side, Hayden Polson brings grunt and reliability to Wavell’s forward pack. Known for his high work rate and no-nonsense approach, Polson will be the Warriors’ go-to in the tough moments through the middle.

Timahna Tandy

The crafty half from the southern Darling Downs is one of Wavell’s most important players. After guiding Norths in the Connell Cup, Timahna Tandy returns as a composed playmaker with smart kicking, crisp passing, and outstanding goal-kicking accuracy.

Hayden Madders

Madders will partner Tandy in the halves, bringing speed, vision, and a calm head. Having developed alongside his older brother Fynn—now a Norths hooker and Wavell alumni—Hayden has quietly built a strong all-round game and will be central to linking Wavell’s forwards and backs.

Billo Wotton

Year 11 centre Billo Wotton is ready to break through. A product of Palm Island and a Charters Towers Miners junior, Wotton’s development at Wynnum Manly under coach Jon Buchanan has refined his power, fitness, and aggression. Expect explosive runs and big defensive plays from this exciting young gun.

Devine Timu

Quick-footed and agile, Devine Timu showed his class for Wynnum Manly in the Connell Cup. The Year 12 outside back offers reliable finishing on the edge and can break games open with his pace. He’ll be a valuable asset in Wavell’s attacking arsenal.

Saia Papani

A 2024 Walters Cup Team of the Season second-rower, Papani has impressed with his boundless energy and work rate. His stint with Redcliffe during the Connell Cup gave him valuable experience, and whether starting or off the bench, he’s guaranteed to bring impact.

Boston Nau

Only in Year 11, Boston Nau is already well known in rugby league circles. After a strong Connell Cup campaign with Norths and a Queensland schoolboys rep season in 2024, Nau enters the Langer Trophy with confidence and strong backing. Elusive, quick, and smart, he’s a handful for any defence and will light up the backline for Wavell.

Ruben Webb

Rounding out Wavell’s deep squad is Ruben Webb, another dependable contributor who adds balance and maturity. While others may grab headlines, Webb’s consistent presence will be crucial over the long haul of the season.

Read: Wavell State High School: Tracing Back its Rich History

With a balanced mix of flair, experience, and emerging talent, Wavell SHS looks well-equipped for a strong run in this year’s Langer Trophy. Keep an eye on the Warriors—there’s every chance they’ll be marching deep into finals territory.

Published 16-May-2025

The Former Iron Woman that Paddled Around Australia in 254 Days

Bonnie Hancock is an extraordinary lady.

She covered over 12,700 kilometres on a surf ski around Australia.

Over 254 days at sea.

In the modern world where resilience in children is under question, Bonnie is a wonderful example of the highest standards of mental strength and resilience.

She started nippers at Sawtel from the age of five, and dreamt from the age of 12 to become Karla Gilbert (she won the Kelloggs Ironwoman Series seven years in a row from 1995 to 2003) and at the age of 17, she became a professional Iron Woman competitor, as did her sister, Courtenay. She waitressed through uni and trained every day, 6.5 km in the pool every morning under the eye of legendary coach, Denis Cotterell. After uni each day she would do 10-20 km on the surf ski, and some running on the soft sand to complete her day that tended to be complete by 7:00 p.m., with competitions at the weekends. That gruelling schedule shaped her life daily until the age of 25.

She then evolved from Iron Woman competitions into a ski paddler on an 18 kg craft, typically racing over five-minute races, whilst embarking on a career as a dietician.

Her ultra endurance journey began at Broadbeach Library, reading a book about a lady who had written a biography about it. She had 25 rejections for sponsorship before she signed her first sponsor.

Her incredible journey paddling around Australia for over 254 days began when she paddled 73 km on her first day. Then, after about a week in, the daily target was scheduled to be 90 km on that day; but half way through a few hours, she was told it had to be increased to 120 km that day as it was decided she had to go around an island. After a month of constant paddling she had bulging discs and various other illnesses, but nothing would stop her, including the crocodiles encountered.

The mental hurdles she smashed through were endless. “Being prepared to adapt your plan” was front and centre in her amazing journey. Everytime a headwind came, she became stronger, and she would realise that when the headwinds dropped.

Lemons into Lemonade!

In the interview, Bonnie talks about a lot of the challenges along the way, including some good and bad decisions she made, how she developed her work ethic, and the joy of working to a plan.

This included a discussion around parenting and sport, managing finances, how she got into ultra endurance and many other fascinating anecdotes.

It’s an amazing story.

You can watch the interview with Barry Wilkinson of Milton based SW Brokerage here:

Barry’s podcast series is full of some great information about life and finances.
It covers many things including little-known tips and tricks around finance.

You can see the 25 previous episodes here.