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Vend Market Place in Virginia Is Now Open

Vend Market Place in Virginia is the latest venue which opened last 8 September. The former warehouse at 1768 Sandgate Road is now home to about 90 stores featuring products from local designers and artists.

Vend director Amy Hinschen said that products featured range from hats to clothing, artworks and furniture, and skincare and beard oils. There are lots of handmade products including homewares and vintage decor under one roof.

Vend Market Place opening day crowd
Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook

At Vend Market Place, you will also find a small cafe serving healthy yummy treats and coffee. The foods are sourced from local produce of farmers, bakers, and chefs. The cafe sports a vintage look and feel, and you can even borrow a book from their library.

Apart from the cafe, Vend will also have food trucks and fresh food markets. On weekends, there will also be some live entertainment.

Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook

Ms Hinschen said that Vend serves as a platform for creators who have been selling their products online because they can’t afford to put up a physical store yet.

There is nothing like Vend in Australia, as far as concept is concerned, that is permanent, indoors, and open seven days a week. Ms Hinschen said she wanted to help out these local artists along with providing a gathering space for people to bring their family and friends.

Read: Proposed Townhouse Development In Wavell Heights Turned Down By Council

Hand-painted canvas holders

Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook

Clothes, bags, and hats

Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook

Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook
Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook
Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook
Handmade chokers

Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook

Vinyl and collectables

Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook

Bar stools
Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook
Amazing paintings by artist Chris Riley

Photo credit:VEND Market Place/Facebook

Read: Indoor Swim School In Wavell Heights Is Now Underway

She said that they tried to think of a way so that the designers won’t have to be physically present at the store all the time. Sales assistants, thus, will be employed to help in manning the store so that the artists can devote all their time in showcasing their products or expanding their business elsewhere.

Vend Market Place is Northside’s latest cultural hub where designers and artists meet and showcase their creations under one roof. They are open 7 days a week from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

1768 Sandgate Rd, Virginia QLD, Australia

Proposed Townhouse Development in Wavell Heights Turned Down by Council

A development application for the construction of 15 townhouses at 209 Rode Road and 27 Spence Road, Wavell Heights has been refused by the Council.

Prior to the decision, more than 100 submissions were received by the Council from local residents who were not happy about the development proposal.

As stated on the Council’s decision notice, “the proposed large-scale multiple dwelling is incongruous with the existing low  density, detached dwelling character of the locality, with no community or economic need demonstrated, that warrants a distinct and visible change in character of the locality within the life of the current planning scheme.”

Suitable Developments for Wavell Heights

Proposed development site Photo credit: Brisbane Planning and Development Online

The suburb of Wavell Heights is located between the suburbs of Chermside and Toombul. Such neighbourhoods are characterised by higher density residential development due to their proximity to Gympie Road and Northern Busway transport corridor, Brisbane North-east Rail transport corridor, Chermside Shopping Centre, and the Toombul Shopping Centre.

Since Wavell Heights is not situated near a transport corridor, a growth node, a Principal or a Major Centre, the Wavell Heights neighbourhood’s residential density and associated built form vary significantly from its neighbouring suburbs.

Photo credit: Brisbane Planning and Development Online

One of the reasons for the refusal of the proposed development is that it would result in a built form that is not suitable to the existing and intended built form character of the neighbourhood.

The Council cited that the built form of the development is more consistent with the type of development expected in the neighbouring suburbs of Chermside and Toombul.

Whilst the proposed development was refused, Wavell Heights is set to have a new Indoor Swim School as works for the development of the project has already begun.

Read: Indoor Swim School In Wavell Heights Is Now Underway

Downfall Creek Dog Park: One of the Best Dog off-Leash Parks in Brisbane Near Wavell Heights

Got a furry friend with lots of energy to burn?

There is a gem of a place that’s definitely one of the best off-leash dog parks in Brisbane that offers plenty of space where dogs of any size can enjoy exploring. A park that is just a few minutes away from Chermside Westfield and Virginia Train Station, the Downfall Creek Dog Park.

Photo credit: Gary Butler/Facebook
Photo credit: Gary Butler/Facebook

The Downfall Creek Dog Park is one of Brisbane’s largest off-leash parks covering about 4 hectares of land teeming with trees and beautiful flowers. The park features a wide grassy area that provides plenty of space to run, sniff, and play. As you stroll along the park, you will be greeted by a relaxing view of the creek and pathways adorned with lush trees.

The Downfall Creek Dog Park off-leash area is complete with agility equipment for your fur baby to romp around and burn up his excess energy. The off-leash area is partially fenced-off with markings to indicate boundaries of the area.

Photo credit: Lead On Dog Walking/Facebook
Photo credit: Lead On Dog Walking/Facebook

On the left side and about a three-minute walk from the off-leash area, if you are facing the adjacent Brickyard Road, is the Turquoise Place playground area. The playground offers a spacious area for kids to run and play, not to mention slides and swings, and gazebo for parents to sit out and relax.

Photo credit: BrisParks/brisparks.com.au
Photo credit: BrisParks/brisparks.com.au
Photo credit: BrisParks/brisparks.com.au

At the Downfall Creek Dog Park, you’ll also find the Downfall Creek Bikeway and fitness circuits for people looking for a place to engage in outdoor physical activities. Most of all, there’s plenty of spots where families can picnic and enjoy some bonding moments.

Indoor Swim School In Wavell Heights Is Now Underway

Development work for an Indoor Swim School in Wavell Heights has officially begun. Councillor Adam Allan is very happy to share this exciting piece news with residents and has posted it on his Facebook page.

The facility will be by Aquatic Achievers and is designed by RDO Designs. Located at the Northern Suburbs Bowls Club, the 2-storey building is proposed to be built on an existing soccer field.

Aside from an indoor swimming pool. there will be a children’s play zone and library, reception and lounge area, staff room, training area, and other amenities. Should the development come to fruition, the proposed hours of operation is at 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday and 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from Saturday and Sunday.

The new facility is subjected for completion in 2019.

Read: Swim School Wants To Build On Wavell Heights Bowling Green

Petition to Secure Funding for the Hamilton Road Shopping Precinct Upgrade in Wavell Heights Launched

A petition has been launched urging the Council to include Wavell Heights’ Hamilton Road shopping precinct on the Village Precinct Projects for 2018-2019.

With the hopes of securing government funding for the upgrades on Hamilton Road shopping strip, the petition was lodged by Councillor for Northgate Ward Adam Allan.

As part of the Council Annual Plan and Budget 2018-2019, Lord Mayor Graham Quirk has allocated $5.2 million for the Village Precinct Projects which aims to enhance and beautify local village precincts.

To help build the economy and support local businesses, the multi-million Village Precinct Projects may include precinct enhancements such as gardens, lighting, seating, footpath upgrades, street art, and more.

Photo credit: www.northgateward.com

Cr Allan is working to secure the funding for Wavell Heights shopping strip at Hamilton Road since improving suburban shopping strips is one of the key principles of “Brisbane’s Future Blueprint“. The blueprint is the outcome of the resident feedback from the Council’s “Plan Your Brisbane” consultation.

It might be time for the Wavell Heights shopping strip at 159 Hamilton Road to have some upgrades to support local businesses in the area. Read more about the online petition here.

 

Enjoy a Hearty Breakfast or Lunch at Wavell Heights’ Kid and Pet-friendly Cafe

Nestled in the midst of Wavell Heights, Cafe Noma is a great place for breakfast that’s both kid and pet-friendly.

Photo credit: Facebook/Cafe Noma

Whether you need a quick bite or hungry for a healthy breakfast, you are sure to get satisfied with Cafe Noma’s recently launched Winter Menu. The menu includes all-day breakfast meals that are served from 7:00 a.m. every day.

Photo credit: Facebook/Cafe Noma

Cafe Noma offers a selection of freshly squeezed juice, smoothies, milkshakes, iced drinks, and of course, the hot brews for your much-needed coffee fix.

Photo credit: Facebook/Cafe Noma

Need a big breakfast? Try out their Big Boy Bagel that comes with chicken, bacon, egg, avocado, cheese, lettuce, and aioli.

A post shared by Cafe Noma (@cafe_noma) on

The cafe also serves light, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free food like Cecil’s favourite smashed avocado on two slices of sourdough topped with dukkah, feta, and fresh lime.

Photo credit: Facebook/Cafe Noma

Kids also have their own set of meals on the menu. They even have their own Babycino and kids-sized milkshake, juice, or smoothie.

Photo credit: Facebook/Cafe Noma

Dogs are given a water bowl in case they are as thirsty as you are.

Cafe Noma have earned several positive reviews from their guests.

“Came for breakfast and oml, I got smashed avo on toasted Turkish bread and it had this spice that was to die for and the cafe is in such a cute area! Lovely staff and I will definitely be coming back soon.”

 

“We visited this cafe for breakfast. The coffee and food were very nice. Very generous size of food with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, eggs, haloumi, toasted Turkish bread, avocado, hash browns and grilled tomato. Staff were nice, attentive and service was good.”

Cafe Noma is open from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Mondays to Fridays and from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on weekends. For more information and updates, you may visit their website and Facebook page.

Lovelea Designs In Wavell Heights Turns Trash Into Treasure

Dive into the world of upcycling in Wavell Heights. Lovelea Designs offers a variety of workshops for locals who want to learn how to turn scrap into furniture pieces.

Owned by Lea, the workshop is located at the bottom floor of her home. All of the tools that you’re going to need are here – from chainsaws, to upholstery, to paint.

The owner’s mission is to find preloved furniture and turn it into a beautiful work of art. They scour city streets during the Brisbane City Council’s kerbside collection and pick up pieces of furniture.

There are so many things to do here. You can learn how to upcycle furniture, or if you wish to learn how to do upholstery, they have workshops for that as well. The workshops teach basic skills such as painting, stenciling and basic decoupage.

Photo credit: Lovelea Designs / Facebook

Lovelea Designs also conducts workshops for kids during the school holidays.

The workshops take three hours and happen during the weekends. You will be provided with everything that you need here. The items that will be used came from kerbside collections, council top shops, garage sales, and even from existing customers.

Photo credit: Lovelea Designs / Facebook

The place is also open for private events. So, if you feel like doing something different for your family gathering or birthday, this is a great spot.

They also offer repair or furniture refurbishing should you have any pieces of furniture you want to put to good use in your home.

The cost of the workshops is $60 for three hours.

Address: 16 Highlands Street, Wavell Heights

Child Care Services — Wavell Heights

Goodstart Early Learning Wavell Heights
Long Day Care
231 Hamilton Road
WAVELL HEIGHTS Q 4012
3359 4399
Email : wav@goodstart.org.au
Website : https://www.goodstart.org.au/centres/wavell-heights
See map here

Wavell Outside School Hours Care
Before School Care / After School Care / Vacation Care
Our Lady Of The Angels School, 30 Warraba Avenue
WAVELL HEIGHTS Q 4012
3359 2599
Email : wavellheightsoshc@bne.centacare.net.au
Website : https://centacarebrisbane.net.au/wavell-oshc-wavell-heights/
See map here

Building Futures Montessori Child Care
Before School Care / After School Care / Vacation Care
33 Brae Street
WAVELL HEIGHTS Q 4012
3630 5444
Email : wavellheights@buildingfutures.com.au
Website : https://buildingfutures.com.au/wavell-heights-montessori/
See map here

Penola Casa
Early Childhood Educatioon / Kindergarten
7 Sugarloaf Street
WAVELL HEIGHTS Q 4012
3256 7772
Email : letitia@penolacasa.com.au
Website : http://www.penolacasa.com.au/
See map here

Wavell Heights Kindergarten
175 Edinburgh Castle Road
WAVELL HEIGHTS Q 4012
3266 3896
Email : whkindy@bigpond.com
Website : http://wavellheightskindergarten.com.au
See map here

Wavell State High’s Brianna Thompson to Take On English Channel Swim

Brianna Thompson, a Year 12 student at Wavell State High School, is now preparing to swim the torturous English Channel.


Credit: Facebook/Brianna’s English Channel Swim 2018

The 16-year-old national open water swimming squad member from the Albany Creek Swim Club has been undergoing her 32 weeks of channel training before taking on what is considered by many as the ultimate long-distance swim challenge.

An English Channel swim is extra challenging for many swimmers because aside from the >32-kilometre distance, there are several variable conditions that face any swimmer attempting to complete it.

Photo credit: www.lib.utexas.edu/Wikimedia Commons

First, the distance may vary depending on the movement of the current. The water moves swimmers for a few kilometres from side to side as the tide ebbs and flows. The fastest recorded swim across the English Channel is a little over seven hours and the slowest took nearly 27 hours to finish.

Photo credit: www.channelswimmingassociation.com

Aside from the changing distance which depends on the conditions of the current, the water itself is cold with temperatures ranging from 14-18 degrees Celsius.

Despite knowing the challenges that she may encounter in the English Channel, the teenager is set to conquer the treacherous waters.

She had been training hard these days, swimming six to eight hours as she prepares to swim for the Channel. No big waves can stop this determined teenager from swimming in the open water.


Credit: Facebook/Brianna’s English Channel Swim 2018

While others take a year or two to prepare for the swim, the teen swimmer has little over four months more to train and prepare for her most awaited open-water swim.

Thompson is set to swim the Channel between the 15th and 24th of September 2018. She will be swimming beside the boat named the Viking Princess which will be piloted by Ray and Reg Brickell.

You can follow her journey in her blog dedicated to the English Channel Swim.

Community Urged to Register for Clean Up Australia Day in Wavell Heights

Photo Credit: Clean Up Australia Facebook

In 1989, Mr Ian Kiernan from the Sydney Harbour started a cleanup drive within his community. In the years that followed, his small initiative became Australia’s largest annual community-based environmental event, the Clean Up Australia Day.

Ian Kiernan
Credit: Clean Up Australia Facebook

Australians were estimated to have allotted more than 32 million hours cleaning the surrounding for the Clean Up Australia Day. They have collected more than 344 thousand tonnes of rubbish through the initiative.

Credit: Clean Up Australia Facebook
Credit: Clean Up Australia Facebook
Credit: Clean Up Australia Facebook
Credit: Clean Up Australia Facebook

But, the movement has no plans of stopping what it has started. Every year, Clean Up Australia opens its doors to new recruits and more sites to be registered for the cleanup drive.

On the 4th of March, Clean Up Australia is inviting everyone to clean up, fix, and conserve the environment. The meeting point is at the Girl Guide hut on Edinburgh Castle Road, next to the Bowls Club. Cleaning starts at 8:30 a.m. and ends at 11:30 a.m.

More about Clean Up Australia Day

By 1993, the rest of the world followed the initiative started by Australia. The replication compelled the United Nations to launch the Clean Up the World event. Its inaugural day saw an estimated 30 million people from 80 different countries participating.

To date, an estimated 40 million people across 130 countries have regularly participated in the movement.

This only goes to show that caring for the environment is a universal feeling shared by people across different cultures and diverse background.

Make sure to register or donate to take part in Clean Up Australia 2018. For more information, please click here.