Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 12 of 27

Virginia’s Real Estate Market Heats Up With Lightning-Fast Home Sale in 12 Hours

Drew and Larissa Ezzy, a dynamic property renovating duo, have achieved an astonishing feat — the cash unconditional sale of their newly constructed home in Virginia within 12 hours of putting it on the market.

The couple’s strategic decision to wait until spring to list their latest project paid off significantly, setting a new suburb record in the process.

The Ezzys recently sealed the deal on their stunning five-bedroom, three-bathroom house located at 61 Prince St, Virginia, for an impressive $2.45 million. This sale eclipsed the previous suburb record set in December 2021 when a residence in Royal Street sold for $2.285 million.

In 2021, the Ezzys purchased the original home for $1.05 million. Over the past two years, they embarked on a substantial rebuild, transforming the property into a highly desirable residence.

“We thought Virginia was just an industrial estate, but a block came up for sale at the back of Wavell Heights, north to the rear, and the perfect corner block, so we just thought building on it would attract a decent figure,” Drew said.

Selling agent Tyson Clarke of Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty reported that the property was swiftly snatched up by a local buyer who didn’t hesitate to make a cash unconditional offer. The listing went live on a Wednesday afternoon and was officially sold by lunchtime the following day.

A prospective buyer from Canberra had intended to fly in to secure the property but was outpaced by the local buyer’s rapid decision.

These extraordinary events have unfolded amidst a broader trend in Brisbane’s real estate market, where new listings have seen a decline of more than 10 percent compared to the same period last year. The scarcity of available listings has intensified competition among buyers, making properties like the Ezzys’ home even more sought after.

The Ezzys, who have been buying, renovating, and selling properties for profit over the past eight years, briefly contemplated retaining this particular property as their forever home. Mr. Ezzy described it as a “very liveable, nice house” with a classic Queenslander feel. However, the allure of property development and a desire for financial freedom ultimately led them to list the property for sale.

Published 18-Sept-2023

Owners of Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats Opens Second Location

Whilst many small, independently owned butcher shops have closed in recent years, Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats owner Pat Saumani, aka the Grinning Butcher, has defied the odds by opening a second store in Paddington.

Read: Step into Cafe Lacuna, A Food Lover’s Paradise in Wavell Heights

Mr Saumani and his family have owned and operated the original Wavell Heights shop since 2016. Building on their success, they have now fully renovated and opened a space in Paddington Central Shopping Village.

Like the Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats, the new shop in Paddington will focus on supporting local producers and providing high-quality natural and organic meats. This includes an extensive range of grass-fed, free range options as well as a huge selection of gluten-free items.

Photo credit: Paddington Gourmet Meats/Facebook

They are also the exclusive seller of award-winning Wagyu beef from Stockyard Beef, which has taken out top Queensland branded beef titles since 2017.

Owner Pat Saumani and family (Photo credit: Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats/Facebook)

In addition to premium fresh meats, Paddington Gourmet Meats will also offer deli items and a wide array of low and slow barbecue meats. Pre-prepared meals will also be available for quick and easy dinners. The original Wavell Heights location has built a loyal following thanks to its fantastic ready-made options alongside high-quality steaks, sausages and more.

To celebrate the new Paddington opening this week, Mr Saumani has offered specials and giveaways at both shops. The Paddington location also features a great selection of rubs, sauces, marinades and other home barbecue delights to complement the top-notch meats.

Read: Northgate Starbucks With Drive-thru Gets the Green Light

By expanding to a second location whilst staying dedicated to quality, local products, Saumani has found a recipe for success in an increasingly challenging market for independent butchers.

Paddington Gourmet Meats is located at Paddington Central Shopping Village (Shop 3B/107 Latrobe Terrace). They are open Monday to Friday 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Saturday to Sunday 6:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Published 7-September-2023

Work Begins at Mercer Park Pump Track and Family Hub in Wavell Heights

A pump track. Flying fox. New scooter and bike elements. Family hub area and more. A series of dynamic park improvements are expected to transform Shaw Estate Park and Mercer Park in Wavell Heights.

Pending favourable weather and site conditions, the plans to transform Shaw Estate Park and Mercer Park will be moving forward to the construction phase, with work on the projects at Mercer Park scheduled to commence in mid-August 2023.

This initiative is part of an overarching Council strategy to enhance and maintain over 2,100 parks across the city.

The addition of a BMX/pump track is part of the Brisbane Off-Road Cycling Strategy, developed through extensive community consultation and was released to the public in late 2021. This track will provide an exciting venue for cyclists of all skill levels. It is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.

The new features will be integrated along the unique path connecting Mercer Park and Wavell Park, parallel to Benelong Street. This scenic route will be enriched with additional amenities, and the Benelong Bushcare Group, an integral part of the area’s natural landscape, can also be found along this path.

Mercer Park Pump Track — Photo Credit: BCC

The Shaw Estate Park upgrades, set to start construction in late October 2023 and completed in early 2024, will feature a range of enhancements to various sections of the park, such as improved seating, landscaping, picnic nodes, and unique scooter and bike trick nodes. These additions aim to create a more engaging and dynamic recreational space.

Speaking about the projects, Cr Adam Allan expressed his satisfaction at the initiation of the works. He acknowledged the community’s desire for a BMX facility and the importance of addressing it through the Shaw Estate Park Family Hub and Mercer Park Pump Track project.

He said that the venture comes as a response to young enthusiasts creating makeshift BMX facilities in the Shaw Park bushland, inadvertently causing habitat destruction.

The Family Hub will complement the existing amenities near the BMX Pump Track, enriching the play options available.

Those interested in learning more about the project can contact the dedicated project team during business hours or the Council outside business hours.

Published 9-Aug-2023

Northern Suburbs Bowls Club in Wavell Heights Receives Community Grant for Green Initiatives

Did you know that the Northern Suburbs Bowls Club in Wavell Heights is going green through the help of Queensland’s Community Sustainability Action grants?

Read: Northern Suburbs Bowls Club Celebrates 10th Anniversary

The Northern Suburbs Bowls Club has received a grant for $83,500 that will be used to purchase and install a solar system, inverter, and battery storage; and to implement a switchboard upgrade, all in an effort to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.

The funds have been made possible through the Community Sustainability Action grants, a program that provides assistance to community groups and not-for-profit organisations for projects that address climate change and environmental conservation.

TheClub is one of 68 groups to receive a share of $3.4 million in the latest round of Community Sustainability Action grants.

The most recent funding allocation is offering grants of up to $100,000 to help community organisations buy and set up renewable energy systems, like solar panels and batteries, as well as energy-efficient replacements like lighting, appliances, and hot water heaters.

Minister for Environment and the Great Barrier Reef Leanne Linard said the overwhelming interest shown by community groups in this grant round points to the priority Queenslanders now place on taking climate change action.

“Our community groups do such incredible work on the ground and it’s great to see funding go towards projects that can help them reduce their costs as well as their emissions,” Ms Linard said.

About NSBC

The Northern Suburbs Bowls Club has become one of the most active sporting clubs north of Brisbane since its formation over 10 years ago through the merger of the Wavell Heights and Clayfield clubs.

Welcoming bowlers of all ages and experience levels, the NSBC allows anyone to become a member. In the decade since its establishment, the club has hosted various community events like fundraisers, social club gatherings, and sports awards nights.

Read: NRL Schoolboy Signings: Wavell SHS Prospects John-Paul Donevski and Lauloto Salei Join Dolphins and Raiders

The bowls club also offers its Edinburgh Castle Road venue in Wavell Heights for rental for birthdays, weddings, corporate functions, and other special occasions.

Published 24-July-2023

NRL Schoolboy Signings: Wavell SHS Prospects John-Paul Donevski and Lauloto Salei Join Dolphins and Raiders

From the ranks of Wavell State High School’s Rugby League Excellence Program, John-Paul Donevski and Lauloto Salei are stepping up to the National Rugby League stage. These young talents embody the school program’s commitment to identifying and developing diverse talent.

John-Paul Donevski: The Athletic Outside Back

Coming from Blacktown, John-Paul Donevski is an athletic and imposing outside back. The Dolphins have secured his signature, recognising his versatility, speed and skill.

Lauloto Salei: A Natural Leader

NRL Schoolboy Signings: Wavell State High School Prospects John-Paul Donevski and Lauloto Salei Join Dolphins and Raiders — Photo Credit: Instagram/Norths Devils RLFC

Lauloto Salei is a mobile outside centre with the ability to play on the edges. His journey from Alice Springs to North QLD and finally to Brisbane exemplifies his dedication towards making the league. As well as his skill, Salei’s leadership and commitment have made him a Canberra Raider.

Wavell State High School: A Model Program

Central to the success of Wavell State High School is its Rugby League Excellence Program. The program provides aspiring rugby league players with the opportunity to receive exceptional coaching while studying the sport as a subject. As well as developing NRL stars, the program places a strong emphasis on personal development, teamwork and academic achievement.

The program’s framework has inspired others, yet the original remains unmatched. Students in the program develop essential life skills that transcend the rugby league field. Every player donning the iconic Wavell jersey embodies these high standards.

The Brisbane Broncos, Norths Devils, and many local clubs and sponsors contribute to the program’s success. They provide coaching workshops, financial assistance, player mentoring and various other benefits.

2023 Dolphins Season

The Dolphins marked their inaugural NRL campaign this season. Led by head coach Wayne Bennett and captain Jesse Bromwich, the Dolphins are in pursuit of a playoff spot in the halfway point of the season. Embracing the challenges of being a new club, they aim to grow and establish a solid foundation for future success.

2023 Canberra Raiders Season

The Canberra Raiders entered the year looking to build on last season’s turnaround, which culminated in a devastating loss in the semi-finals. Led by head coach Ricky Stuart and co-captains Jarrod Croker and Elliot Whitehead, the Raiders are targeting a top-four finish this season.

The NRL community anticipates the future impact of John-Paul Donevski and Lauloto Salei on the league.

Published 12 July 2023

Cases of Number Plate Theft on the Rise

Photo Credit: myPolice Brisbane North

Did you know that number plate theft in Wavell Heights has been on the rise in recent weeks?

In four separate incidents recently, registration plates were pinched from vehicles parked in Allworth Street, Northgate; Sandgate Road, Nundah; Curtin Avenue East, Eagle Farm; and Bryden Street, Windsor.

In one case, the nicked plates were later found attached to an allegedly stolen vehicle in East Brisbane.

Police are urging residents to be vigilant and to take steps to prevent their number plates from being pinched.

Here’s some tips to help you protect your vehicle:

Fit anti-theft screws to your number plates. These screws are harder to remove, making it less likely that your plates will be pinched.
Park in well-lit areas. This will make it harder for thieves to operate under the cover of darkness.
Don’t leave your vehicle unattended for long periods of time. If you have to leave your car, take your number plates with you.
Report any suspicious activity to police. If you see someone tampering with a vehicle’s number plates, or if you see a vehicle with obviously pinched plates, report it to police immediately.

By following these tips, you can help protect your vehicle from number plate theft.

Don’t let your number plates become a liability. Take steps today to protect your vehicle from theft.

Order your free set of anti-theft screws by clicking on this link.

Published 28-June-2023

Let Your Creativity Blossom at The Flower School

Photo Credit: Facebook / The Flower Schoo

The Flower School, located at Northlink Place in Virginia, has been offering professional floral training since 2004. They provide a range of courses, workshops, and masterclasses for floral enthusiasts.

Whether you’re interested in Certificates II, III & IV in Floristry or courses like Introduction to Floristry, Event Styling, and Professional Wedding, The Flower School has something for everyone.

Floristry has a rich history, dating back thousands of years. The Egyptians were known for crafting bouquets, funeral flowers, and temple arrangements. The Flower School carries on this tradition by training the next generation of florists.

At The Flower School, they prioritise hands-on learning. With tutor-led demonstrations and active student participation, they ensure high-quality, personalised training. Their qualified trainers guide students through both traditional and contemporary floristry techniques, covering hand-tying, wiring, and more.

To succeed in floristry, you need creativity and a love for flowers. The Flower School’s experienced floristry tutors are dedicated to helping students start or advance their careers in the retail or creative floristry industries. From mastering techniques to understanding design, they provide comprehensive instruction.

Classes at The Flower School have a small-group setting, fostering a modern and industry-like atmosphere. They believe in equipping students with a solid understanding of the trade, whether for business or pleasure.

If you’re considering a career in floristry, their introductory course, Certificate II in Floristry, is perfect. It prepares you for an assistant-level position and covers the basics of creating bouquets, arrangements, and table centrepieces. Wiring techniques for corsages, boutonnières, and flower crowns are also taught.

In this course, you’ll learn about caring for floral stock, proper storage, and preparation. You’ll also develop retail skills and gain industry knowledge through visits to flower markets, growers, and events.

To excel, you’ll need to dedicate at least 10-12 hours per week to studying. The Flower School believes that commitment and passion are essential for success in floristry.

Whether you want to work in a flower shop, style events, or create stunning wedding arrangements, The Flower School is the place to start.

Click here to Join their community and let your creativity blossom.

Published 26-June-2023

Step into Cafe Lacuna, A Food Lover’s Paradise in Wavell Heights

Cafe Lacuna has become a beloved local haunt in Wavell Heights. With its diverse offerings, the cafe effortlessly transitions from a cosy breakfast spot to an Asian fusion dinner destination on weekends, capturing the hearts and palates of its patrons.

Read: Northgate Starbucks With Drive-thru Gets the Green Light

For the early risers and breakfast enthusiasts, Cafe Lacuna offers a mouthwatering array of options that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

The eggs benedict, with its perfectly poached eggs smothered in rich hollandaise sauce, is a perennial favourite among the regulars. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, the Big Lacuna provides a delightful combination of crispy bacon, fluffy eggs, baby spinach, sausage, potato, feta pancake, and tomato relish.

Photo credit: Daniel Campbell/Google Maps

For those seeking a lighter start to the day, the sweet corn fritters, served with chipotle cream, avocado and a poached egg, offer a wholesome treat.

Yet the culinary delights of Cafe Lacuna don’t end with breakfast. On Fridays and Saturdays, the cafe undergoes a transformation, preparing to serve a mouth-watering Asian fusion dinner menu.

Start your culinary journey with the chicken and chive dumplings, delicate parcels of flavour that burst with every bite. The prawn and crab toast is a must-try, featuring a tempting combination of seafood and crispy bread, perfectly balanced with tangy sauces.

For those craving something more substantial, the Banh Mi Skewers, with their tender meat and vibrant Vietnamese flavours, are sure to satisfy. If you want something rich and indulgent, the rendang lamb cutlets offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

To complement the flavours of the meal, Cafe Lacuna boasts a well-stocked bar with a selection of beers and other beverages. As a licensed venue, it ensures that guests can sip on their favourite brews or indulge in a refreshing drink whilst enjoying their dining experience.

The popularity of Cafe Lacuna is evident from its nomination as the Best Cafe in Brisbane’s Small Business Awards in 2022. This recognition speaks volumes about the quality of the food and the exceptional service provided by the cafe’s dedicated team.

Cafe Lacuna is also an ideal venue for private functions, offering a charming space that can accommodate up to 35 standing or 22 seated guests.

Read: Check Out the Newly Renovated ‘Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats’ Shop

It’s important to note that bookings are essential for dinner at Cafe Lacuna. For breakfast and lunch, visit them at 2/264 Rode Rd, Wavell Heights. They are open daily, except on Tuesdays. Follow them on Instagram @cafelacunawavellheights for updates.

Published 19-May-2023

What’s On at Wavell State High School

At Wavell State High School, a highly rated school for Years 7 to 12, the focus is not just on academics but on developing multi-faceted individuals. Check out this line-up of activities from May to June 2023 that will help its Years 7 to 12 students become just that.

Here are just some of the latest on-goings in the school community:

Multicultural and House Spirit Week

From 8 to 12 May 2023, Wavell State High School is running its annual Multicultural and House Spirit Week, where the students learn about different cultures, muster teamwork to earn house points, and have fun with the different activities lined up.

Wavell State High School Multicultural Week — Photo Credit: WavellSHS/Facebook

Wavell State High School House Spirit Week — Photo Credit: WavellSHS/Facebook

Open Day

The Open Day is where parents and kids can attend two sessions with Executive Principal Liz Foster on Friday, 19 May from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. to learn about the school. Visitors may also check out the faculty displays and join a school tour to learn more about the school’s extensive opportunities.

Wavell Warriors Rugby League Program of Excellence

With a terrific training session in April 2023, the Wavell Warriors Rugby League Program of Excellence officially launched the 2023 Broncos Competitions season! Second-tier teams got the amazing opportunity to improve their talents by working with knowledgeable personnel from the Brisbane Broncos Elite Player Development Academy. The players had the perfect opportunity to engage in a match simulation environment against teams from various year levels because of the positive and uplifting atmosphere.

Wavell SHS Warriors Rugby League — Photo Credit: WavellSHS/Facebook

Someone who embodies the spirit of the students and the Wavell Warriors is Karl Oloapu, who graduated in 2022 as the Player of the Year. Karl recently made his NRL debut for the Canterbury Bulldogs and won his first game! A committed player and teammate, Karl has been a shining example for young people who want to be athletes.

After the Bulldogs defeated the St. George Dragons, Dragons player Michael Molo (Wavell Warrior #876) went to see Karl (Wavell Warrior #867) to congratulate him on his debut game.

The Push-Up Challenge

The Wavell SHS community will take part in the Push-Up Challenge in June 2023 to raise awareness for mental health and the lives lost to suicide. A community page has been set up for participants taking part in the challenge to complete 3144 push-ups.

Those in the Rugby League or Netball excellence programs have the option of joining their team or one of the school’s house groups to earn points. Parents and alumni, as well as the rest of the Wavell Heights neighbourhood may also join the challenge by creating their own community page or becoming part of the existing team.

Published 9-May-2023

Gone Too Soon: Remembering Former QRL Player Jerome Joel Leedy

The Wavell Heights community mourns the passing of former rugby league prodigy Jerome Joel Leedy. Leedy, who attended both Wavell Heights State School and Wavell State High School, was widely recognised as one of the best young talents in the sport.

On 13 April 2023, former rugby league phenom Jerome Joel Leedy passed away, plunging the Brisbane rugby league community into sadness. Family and friends of Leedy, paid heartfelt tributes to him, remembering him fondly as one of Brisbane’s top young talents.

Raised in the northern suburbs of Brisbane, Leedy’s educational journey began at Wavell Heights State School and later at Wavell State High School, where his passion for rugby league took root. He excelled as a player, earning the privilege of representing both Queensland and Australia.

He also had the chance to compete on the pitch in 2010 against the renowned James Tedesco. Throughout his career, he was a member of several clubs, such as Norths Devils, Aspley, Natives, the Stingers, and Brothers. He also had a stint with the Brisbane Broncos, where he played for their under-20s team.

Leedy was remembered by his niece, Ceferina Leedy-Villarin, as “the life of the party” and “a loving father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and mate” who loved unconditionally. He was also a devoted father to his four children, Kanara-Lee, Nakkiyra, Taneisha, and Jermaine.

“I remember one game some years ago when Jerome was playing for Brisbane Natives (who took the field with only 11 players) vs Valley’s,” a post from Simo’s Rugby League Brisbane Wrap Up reads.

“Natives were getting a touch-up by the younger full-strength Diehards side; however, two players kept rallying their troops in captain Ricky Bird and Jerome. Natives were bruised and battered, but they never gave up.

“By the end of the game, Jerome was limping off the ground with not an inch of energy left, but he didn’t complain once.

“His loyalty to his teammates and his fun-loving outlook on life made him one of the more popular players in the local competition.

“But however you may remember Jerome, nothing can ever take away the invaluable service he gave to the greatest game of all. Rest in peace brother….🙏🏻❤️”

Leedy’s former coach, Tony Lopez, said that “Jerome was one most damaging runners and could whack as well.”

“Was lucky to have coached him over the past 5plus years,” he said.

The Brisbane rugby league community, as well as Leedy’s family and friends, are very saddened by his passing. He will be remembered as a talented athlete and a lovely person with a positive outlook on life.

Published 28-April-2023