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Lock It or Lose It: A Simple Message for Northgate Car Owners

Northgate residents are being shown how small, everyday habits—from locking a gate to joining a Facebook group—can make a significant difference in the fight against local car crime.

This proactive community engagement took place recently, with officers speaking directly to residents about simple but effective security measures. For those not at home, police left behind crucial information to help locals secure their vehicles and property against criminals.

Understanding the Local Threat

According to police, the majority of vehicle thefts in Queensland are not the work of master criminals but are often for joyriding or to be used in other offences. However, they also warned of professional thieves who target vehicles for profit, either by giving them a new identity for resale or by stripping them down for parts. The initiative aims to disrupt both types of crime by removing easy opportunities for offenders.

Simple Habits for a Safer Suburb

Northgate — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police News*

Police emphasised that making a vehicle a less tempting target is the most effective defence. Residents are reminded that parking on the street significantly increases the risk of theft. Using off-street parking, especially a locked garage or a spot behind secure gates, is one of the best deterrents.

Officers also shared key advice, stressing the importance of always locking doors and closing windows, even when a vehicle is left unattended for a short time. Any valuables, such as electronics, bags, or cash, should be kept completely out of sight. While a professionally installed engine immobiliser that meets Australian standards provides excellent protection, its effectiveness is cancelled out if thieves can easily get their hands on the car keys.

The message also extends to home security, with a reminder to lock and secure garages at all times to protect not only cars but also valuable equipment like tools and mowers.

Neighbours Watching Out for Neighbours

A key part of the strategy is strengthening community ties through the local Neighbourhood Watch Group. Police are encouraging all Northgate residents to get involved with the program, which serves as a vital communication link between the community and the Queensland Police Service. By working together, neighbours can enhance engagement, improve communication, and create a safer environment for everyone.

Published Date 10-September-2025

Alby’s Opens on Bilsen Road, Serving Comfort Food and Specialty Coffee

Wavell Heights has a new go-to for coffee and casual eats, and locals are already flocking in. Just two weeks after opening at Bilsen Road, Alby’s has settled in as the neighbourhood’s newest café, blending relaxed vibes, standout toasties, and plenty of community spirit.

Read: Wavell Heights Rises as Brisbane’s Newest Blue-chip Suburb

The 30-seat café is the latest project from Daniel Bowles and Tiger Hsu – the team behind Hawthorne’s Sister and Gaythorne’s Butter Café – and much like its siblings, Alby’s is designed to be welcoming and community-focused.

bilsen road — Photo credit: Luke Devere/Google Maps

The owners recently shared their gratitude on Instagram, saying they were “truly overwhelmed” by the support and warmth shown by Wavell Heights residents since opening day.

Operating under the cheerful mantra of “messy hands, happy hearts,” Alby’s has quickly built a reputation for crave-worthy toasties and quality coffee. Early favourites include the chicken melt toastie and a vibrant matcha latte, while the beef rendang toastie is shaping up to be a must-try for those after something hearty.

Other standouts on the menu include crumpets with cinnamon butter and honey, and a fresh take on the brunch staple, avo on toast. Single O coffee anchors the drinks list, ensuring caffeine seekers are well looked after.

Inside, the venue has been given a lighter, brighter look than the espresso bar that once occupied the site, complete with eye-catching murals and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for lingering. With seating for 30, it strikes that sweet spot between cosy and lively – ideal for both solo coffee runs and weekend brunch catch-ups.

Read: Million-Dollar Windfall Transforms Wavell Heights Resident’s Future

For now, Alby’s is keeping things simple with clear trading hours: Monday to Friday from 6:00 am to 2:00 pm, and weekends from 6:30 am to 2:00 pm. You’ll find them on the corner of Bilsen and Goss roads at 199 Bilsen Road, Wavell Heights – a new favourite spot already winning hearts.

Published 5-September-2025

Wavell Heights Rises as Brisbane’s Newest Blue-chip Suburb

Wavell Heights, once regarded as a quiet, middle-tier pocket of Brisbane’s northside, is now being recognised as one of the city’s fastest-emerging blue-chip suburbs.

Read: Buyers Battle It Out as Brisbane Prices Hold Strong

Recent property market analysis by SuburbData has placed the suburb alongside Morningside, Holland Park, Kedron, and Mitchelton as part of a new wave of prestige locations. Traditionally, buyers looked to Ascot, Hamilton or Bulimba for luxury homes, but rising prices have seen many turn their attention to Wavell Heights, where leafy streets, family-friendly amenities and lifestyle appeal offer an attractive alternative.

Property experts point out that price gaps of more than $1 million exist between Wavell Heights and nearby long-established prestige suburbs. This has sparked growing demand from two distinct groups: value-seekers leaving traditional blue-chip areas for more space at a lower price, and local families upsizing into their “forever homes.” Knockdown-rebuild projects are also on the rise, with buyers keen to create modern residences while retaining the suburb’s character.

Beyond market figures, what sets Wavell Heights apart is its strong sense of community and lifestyle advantages. Locals describe the neighbourhood as a place with friendly neighbours, tree-lined streets and a welcoming atmosphere for raising families.

The suburb also offers small cafés, leafy parks, and a mix of renovated post-war houses and architect-designed homes that add to its appeal.

One resident who has lived in the area for more than two years praised the quiet environment, green spaces and the quality of local schools. They noted the availability of extracurricular activities such as drama, chess and sport, which allow families to stay close to home without sacrificing opportunities for their children. Wavell Heights’ proximity to Westfield Chermside, one of Brisbane’s largest shopping centres, as well as nearby medical facilities, adds further convenience.

Read: 2025 Queensland SPASA Awards: Wavell Heights Pool Store Named Best in Queensland at Industry Awards

As Brisbane’s property market evolves, Wavell Heights appears to be perfectly positioned. It combines affordability compared with its prestige neighbours, excellent liveability, and the potential for significant long-term capital growth. With its mix of lifestyle, community spirit and increasing buyer interest, Wavell Heights is no longer just a northern suburb – it is fast becoming one of Brisbane’s most sought-after addresses.

Published 25-August-2025

Wavell Heights Mourns Beloved Healthcare Worker After Two Decades of Service

Photo Credit: Facebook / Tammy Copley QNMU Councillor 2021-2025 - retired.

The Wavell Heights community is reeling from the tragic loss of a dedicated healthcare worker who had served local families for two decades.

Carra Samantha Luke, 48, was discovered deceased at a residence in nearby Taigum during the early hours of Saturday morning. Queensland Police were called to the scene at approximately 12.30am.

Ms Luke’s husband, Shane Scheikowski, 52, has since been charged with murder (domestic violence offence) and entering a dwelling with intent. He appeared before Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday, 25 August. Police have confirmed there is no ongoing threat to public safety.

The loss has deeply affected staff and patients at Nundah Doctors Surgery in Wavell Heights, where Ms Luke had worked as a nurse for the past 20 years. The medical practice, located on Bilsen Road, has served the local community with personalised patient care and a holistic approach to healthcare.

In a heartfelt statement posted on their website, the medical practice described Ms Luke as an exceptional colleague and caregiver. The tribute highlighted her empathetic nature and professional dedication, noting she had been integral to the practice’s operations and patient care throughout her lengthy tenure.

Local residents have also expressed their shock and sadness at the news. Neighbour Jackson Hughesman described Ms Luke as someone who would go to great lengths to help others, reflecting the sentiment shared throughout the close-knit community.

The investigation involved multiple crime scenes, with Queensland Police establishing cordoned areas at the Taigum residence and a separate location in McDowall, approximately 11 kilometres away. The State Emergency Service also assisted with searching a nearby aged care facility, which became a third crime scene during the investigation.

For residents affected by this tragedy, support services are available through Queensland Health and various community organisations. The medical practice has thanked the community for their support during this difficult time.

Ms Luke is remembered as a devoted mother, respected healthcare professional, and generous neighbour who made a lasting impact on all who knew her.

If you or someone you know needs support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline (13 11 14).

Published 24-August-2025

Million-Dollar Windfall Transforms Wavell Heights Resident’s Future

Photo credit: Unsplash

The life of a Wavell Heights resident has changed dramatically after receiving more than $1.6 million in prize money from a recent weekend draw. She was one of four people nationwide to claim a division one share in the 9 August 2025 game, taking home exactly $1,668,614.99.

Read: Wavell Heights’ Own Jacob Elordi Takes Hollywood by Storm

The woman purchased her winning entry at Nextra Aspley Village in Robinson Road Marketplace. She initially doubted the result when told by staff that she had won a significant sum, but later confirmed it online.

“I checked the ticket at the newsagent and they looked at it like, ‘we think you’ve won a fair bit of money’.

“So, I came home and checked the ticket online. I thought, ‘Oh! This is exciting!’.

The Wavell Heights resident explained that the windfall would completely pay off her mortgage, which she described as the ultimate reward, and she looked forward to celebrating once the home loan was gone.

The store’s owner welcomed the news, noting it was their fourth division one winner in 23 years of business and the first since late 2023. He said the achievement would be celebrated among the local community, many of whom are familiar customers.

The winning numbers for draw 4597 were 45, 4, 10, 40, 41 and 14, with supplementary numbers 3 and 6. The other winning entries came from Queensland and Victoria.

Read: Pfingst Farmhouse in Wavell Heights: A Local Heritage Treasure

According to The Lott, 267 division one prizes have been awarded across the country so far in 2025, with 64 going to Golden Casket customers in Queensland. In 2024, the Saturday game produced 149 new millionaires and distributed more than $400 million in division one winnings from 316 entries nationwide.

For the Wavell Heights resident, the payout marks the start of a new chapter—one free from mortgage repayments and full of fresh possibilities.

Published 13-August-2025

New Green Bins Heading to Wavell Heights Homes

Kerbside collections in Wavell Heights will soon look a little greener, with new green bins set to join red and yellow bins at hundreds of local homes. The delivery is part of the citywide expansion of the green waste recycling service, which will reach every eligible standalone house over the next four months.

Early Deliveries for the Northside

Wavell Heights is among several northside suburbs included in the first month of the program, along with Zillmere and others. Crews will drop off 240-litre green-lidded bins to homes that don’t already have one, with collections starting two weeks later. The service will run every second week, alternating with yellow-lid recycling.

Week	Dates	Suburbs

Week 1

4 August to 15 August 2025

Wakerley, Chandler, Mackenzie, Bardon, Manly West, Rochedale, Auchenflower, Wynnum, Wynnum West, Manly, Lota

Week 2

11 August to 22 August 2025

Algester, Calamvale, Virginia, Gaythorne, Gordon Park, Acacia Ridge, Archerfield, Nudgee, Nudgee Beach, Northgate, Milton, Kelvin Grove

Week 3

18 August to 29 August 2025

Boondall, Geebung, Grange, Holland Park West, Anstead, Brookfield, Karana Downs, Mount Crosby, Lake Manchester, Chuwar, Moggill, Bellbowrie, Kholo, Pinjarra Hills, Pullenvale, Upper Brookfield, Kenmore Hills, Fig Tree Pocket, Lytton

Week 4

25 August to 5 September 2025

Zillmere, Fortitude Valley, Holland Park, Tarragindi, Moorooka, Annerley, Wavell Heights, Fairfield, Yeerongpilly, Yeronga, Tennyson

The rollout brings the previously optional green waste service into the standard bin collection system. Renters will now receive a bin automatically, while residents in apartments and townhouses can request one without charge. Anyone who composts or manages garden waste another way can opt out before their delivery date.

Reducing Costs and Landfill Wastes

Council estimates that once the program is fully in place, it could prevent 65,000 to 80,000 tonnes of green waste from ending up in landfill each year. Instead, garden clippings and trimmings collected in the bins will be processed into compost and mulch. By sending less to landfill, the city expects to save between $2 million and $3 million annually on the state’s landfill waste levy, and as much as $32 million over five years.

Under Queensland’s current levy, councils are charged about $115 for every tonne of general waste sent to landfill, with that figure increasing by $10 annually until 2028.

Charges and Funding

The green bin service is funded in part through the Grow FOGO program, which provides a $65 grant for each household taking part. While households already using a green bin will not see a change to their bill, others will pay an extra $49.52 under the new annual Universal Waste Charge of $512.96.

For residents who prefer to handle their garden waste at home, the council’s rebate scheme offers up to $100 for composting gear and $200 for food waste recycling equipment.

Residents who do not want a green bin can notify Council before their scheduled delivery.

CHECK YOUR SUBURB’s SCHEDULE

Published 8-Aug-2025

2025 Queensland SPASA Awards: Wavell Heights Pool Store Named Best in Queensland at Industry Awards

Photo Credit: Poolwerx Wavell Heights/ Facebook

Setting a new benchmark for the entire industry, Wavell Heights business Poolwerx has secured the coveted title of Best Pool Store at the 2025 Queensland SPASA Awards, cementing its position as a leader in the state.

2025 Queensland SPASA — *Photo Credit:* *Poolwerx Wavell Heights/ Facebook*

For years, residents have relied on the team at Poolwerx Wavell Heights to tackle jobs that seemed impossible. The business has built a strong community reputation for being the go-to problem solvers, whether it’s identifying and fixing a persistent leak in an apartment complex or taking on the monumental task of restoring a 65,000-litre pool that had been left dormant for 15 years.

This dedication to finding solutions where others could not has made them a trusted name in the area, with customers consistently praising their professional and honest approach.

Industry Recognises Local Excellence

This local reputation for quality was celebrated on a state-wide stage at the recent 2025 Queensland SPASA Awards of Excellence. Hosted by the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Australia (SPASA), the industry’s peak body, the annual awards recognise the highest level of achievement in the field.

After a rigorous assessment by independent industry experts, Poolwerx Wavell Heights was named the Best Pool Store, confirming that their local standing is matched by premier industry standards. The win places them among the elite in the Queensland pool and spa sector and allows them to proceed to the national competition.

What Award-Winning Service Means for Residents

The award reflects the comprehensive and reliable services the business provides to the community daily. They offer everything from customised regular maintenance plans to complex equipment repairs and installations of pumps, filters, and chlorinators. Their expertise also extends to detailed pre-purchase inspections for prospective home buyers and specialised green pool clean-ups that restore murky water to pristine condition.

According to community feedback, the team is highly regarded for its knowledgeable advice and efficient service, ensuring that customers receive necessary and effective solutions without pressure to buy unnecessary products. This commitment to service is the foundation of their award-winning status and provides total peace of mind for their clients.

Published Date 28-July-2025

Man Hospitalised After Early Morning Crash at Wavell Heights Intersection

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A local man in his twenties was taken to hospital following a dramatic single-vehicle crash that left a car engulfed in flames at a busy Wavell Heights intersection early Saturday morning.
Read: Eileen Green Crossing Officially Unveiled in Wavell Heights
Emergency crews were called to the corner of Bilsen Road and Edinburgh Castle Road just before 6:30am on 26 July, where they discovered a vehicle that had rolled over and caught fire after colliding with a parked car.
Queensland Fire and Emergency Services worked to extinguish the blaze while paramedics assessed the driver, who sustained minor injuries in the incident. The man was transported to Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in a stable condition.
The early morning timing meant fewer people were around to witness the dramatic scene, though the vehicle fire would have been visible to residents in the surrounding streets.
Queensland Ambulance Service confirmed they responded to the incident along with fire crews, ensuring the injured driver received prompt medical attention despite the challenging circumstances presented by the vehicle fire.
The crash serves as a reminder for local motorists to exercise caution, particularly during the quieter early morning hours when visibility may be reduced and roads less busy.
Read: Wavell Heights Talent Steps Up for Queensland at Schoolboys Champs
No other vehicles were involved in the incident beyond the parked car that was struck before the rollover occurred.
Published 26-July-2025

Eileen Green Crossing Officially Unveiled in Wavell Heights

Photo Credit: CrAdamAllan/Facebook

A pedestrian bridge on Cressey Street in Wavell Heights has been officially named the Eileen Green Crossing, following Brisbane City officials’ approval and strong community support.
Read: Wavell Heights Talent Steps Up for Queensland at Schoolboys Champs
Persistent Local Advocacy Leads to Infrastructure
In the early 1970s, Eileen Jean Green began advocating for a pedestrian bridge to connect the two sections of Cressey Street in Wavell Heights. Despite being initially declined, she continued her efforts with different officials until the authorities approved and built a wooden footbridge in 1973.
This bridge served the community for over four decades before being replaced with a steel and concrete structure in 2017, now regularly used by local residents.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Approval and Community Petition
A petition was launched in 2025 to officially name the bridge after Eileen Green, recognising her role in its creation and her contributions to the Wavell Heights community over 60 years. BCC approved the request on 12 June 2025, with installation of the new signage scheduled to be completed within two months. The petition, supported by 171 signatures, highlighted Eileen’s lasting legacy and community involvement.
Ceremony Held to Unveil Signage
On 5 July 2025, a naming ceremony was held on the western side of the bridge. The event was attended by family, friends, residents, and local representatives. The official signage reading Eileen Green Crossing was unveiled by her husband, Alan Green, and son, Daryl Green, in front of attendees.
Lasting Community Tribute
The crossing now bears the name of a long-standing Wavell Heights resident who passed away in August 2016 at age 81. Eileen Green is remembered for her active role in local community matters and is survived by her husband, two sons, and grandchildren.
Read: Double Success for Our Lady of the Angels’ at Rugby 7s
The renamed crossing stands as a physical reminder of local advocacy and community-driven improvements in suburban infrastructure.
Published 22-July-2025

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.
Read: Wavell Heights Rugby League Showcase Marks Homecoming Day
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.
Read: Double Success for Our Lady of the Angels’ at Rugby 7s
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