Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 3 of 27

Wavell State High Students Shine in Robotics and Engineering

Photo Credit: Wavell State High Facebook

Wavell State High School is celebrating a milestone moment as its students make standout achievements across robotics and engineering, showcasing the strong STEM culture growing at the heart of the Wavell Heights community. From a robotics team heading to a national championship for the first time to Year 10 engineers building and racing their own 3D-printed creations, the school is proving that innovation is becoming one of its defining strengths.

WSHS Robotics Team Qualifies for National Championships

For the first time, students from Wavell State High School (WSHS) have earned a place at the FIRST Tech Challenge Australian Championships this December in Sydney. According to the school’s announcement, the team — Liam, Zahra and Kathrina — not only qualified for the national stage but also earned the Judges Award at regionals.

*Photo Credit: Wavell State High School/Facebook*

The FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is a high-level robotics competition where students design, build and program robots to complete engineering challenges. It draws teams from across Australia and internationally, with the Sydney championship serving as the gateway to the world titles.

The team’s success is supported by mentor Eli McMillan and BotBuilders, a group known for guiding robotics teams across Queensland and around the world. Their involvement has helped WSHS students strengthen their technical skills and gain experience in competitive STEM environments.

Year 10 Engineers Race Ahead

STEM achievement continued in the school’s engineering classrooms, where Year 10 students have been working through a hands-on mechanical engineering project built around mousetrap-powered cars.

Throughout the term, students researched successful designs, developed prototypes, produced detailed 3D models and brought their creations to life using the school’s 3D printers. The project culminated in the end-of-term race, where Callum Kearney took first place and secured his name on the Year 10 Perpetual Engineering Championship Plaque.

The task encouraged critical thinking, design refinement and practical problem-solving — essential skills that mirror real-world engineering processes.

A School Growing in Strength and Opportunity

Wavell State High School, located on Telopia Avenue, has long been known for its diverse curriculum and strong Programs of Excellence in areas like dance, drama, music, netball and rugby league. Now its achievements in robotics and engineering highlight an evolving focus on innovation, technology and future-ready skills.

Guided by the school motto Esse Quam Videri — “To be rather than to seem to be” — WSHS continues to build a learning environment where students are encouraged to explore, create and push themselves further.

The recent wins in robotics and engineering show that Wavell State High is not only honouring its long-standing traditions but also shaping a new reputation as a school where STEM pathways thrive.

Published 30-Nov-2025

Brisbane Plumbers Expands Services as Geebung Residents Look for Reliable Tradespeople

Photo Credit: Brisbane Plumbers

Many Geebung households are noticing that older pipes, hot-water systems and long-standing fixtures are starting to show their age, especially in post-war homes and classic brick properties scattered throughout the suburb. As locals look for reliable tradespeople who can respond quickly when something goes wrong, Brisbane Plumbers says it has expanded its services to support growing demand from areas like Geebung.

The business reports a steady increase in calls from Geebung residents seeking help with everyday plumbing issues, including blocked drains affected by tree roots, leaking taps in older kitchens and bathrooms, and hot-water units reaching the end of their lifespan. The suburb’s mix of older homes and renewed family dwellings often means plumbing systems vary widely, making trustworthy, experienced tradespeople particularly important.

Brisbane Plumbers highlights its same-day and after-hours availability for urgent work — something many Geebung locals value when unexpected issues interrupt daily routines. The company also uses modern diagnostic tools such as CCTV drain cameras and high-pressure jetters, allowing quicker identification of blockages and leaks. This helps avoid unnecessary digging, which is especially useful in Geebung’s larger backyards, many of which still retain established trees and older stormwater layouts.

The company notes that Geebung homeowners increasingly prefer plumbers who explain issues clearly, provide upfront pricing and offer long-term maintenance advice rather than short-term fixes. With ageing infrastructure meeting new home renovations and upgrades across the area, Brisbane Plumbers expects demand to stay strong.

For Geebung residents, the expanded service means more support when stormwater drains clog after heavy rain, when older pipes finally give way, or when a hot-water system fails without warning. Brisbane Plumbers encourages locals to contact them for routine maintenance, general repairs or urgent call-outs, reaffirming their commitment to Brisbane’s northside communities.

Published 20-Nov-2025

Pfingst Farmhouse in Wavell Heights: A Local Heritage Treasure

Photo Credit: Google Maps/Street View

Sitting quietly on Highcrest Avenue, the Pfingst Farmhouse is a well-loved link to the early days of Wavell Heights.

Built in 1936 by Friedrich George Pfingst, this classic Queenslander-style home has witnessed the suburb’s transformation over the years.

A Slice of Wavell Heights History

The Pfingst story starts with Hermann Pfingst, who arrived from Germany in 1863 aboard the Beausite. A few years later, in 1866, he bought 10 acres of crown land in what was then called German Station. The area was home to German settlers who had followed missionaries to Zion’s Hill back in 1838.

*Photo Credit: National Library of Australia*

Mr Pfingst’s land, known as Portion 580, stayed in the family. However, by July 1927 Mr Pfingst passed away and by 1932, Friedrich George Pfingst took ownership and built the farmhouse in 1936. It was positioned facing what was then Hillcrest Avenue (now Highcrest Avenue) and became the centre of the family’s smaller property.

*Photo Credit: Brisbane City/Local Heritage Places*

The Farmhouse’s Classic Design

The Pfingst Farmhouse ticks all the boxes of classic Queenslander architecture: elevated stumps for airflow, timber walls, and a corrugated iron roof. These weren’t just design choices—they were practical solutions for dealing with heat, humidity, and heavy rains.

The wide verandahs and weatherboard construction give the home its timeless character while keeping the space cool and breezy during Brisbane summers. It’s a design that’s both smart and charming, a reflection of early 20th-century craftsmanship.

Why It’s Heritage-Listed

In 2003, the Pfingst Farmhouse was officially listed as a Local Heritage Place. This recognition celebrates both its architectural value and its connection to one of Wavell Heights’ early pioneering families.

After World War II, the suburb saw major changes. In 1946, most of the original 10-acre farm was acquired by the Queensland Housing Commission for new residential development. The farmhouse and remaining land stayed with the Pfingst family until 1957.

More Than Just a House

The Pfingst Farmhouse isn’t just an old building—it’s a piece of Wavell Heights’ story. Its design speaks to a time when homes were built with care and intention, and its history highlights the resilience of one family who helped shape the suburb.

For locals, it’s more than just a landmark—it’s a reminder of where Wavell Heights came from. And for those who love history, it’s a rare example of the city’s interwar architecture still standing strong.

Pfingst Farmhouse renovation — *Photo Credit: RayWhite*

Pfingst Farmhouse blueprint — *Photo Credit: RayWhite*

The farmhouse recently changed hands, with the sale managed by real estate agent David Treloar of Ray White. As Wavell Heights continues to grow and change, the Pfingst Farmhouse remains a quiet connection to the suburb’s roots—a storybook in timber and tin for those who stop to notice.

Published 14-Nov-2025

Gateway Capital Completes $72.5-Million Purchase of Geebung Industrial Estate

Photo Credit: Gateway Capital

Gateway Capital has bought a recently completed industrial estate at 405 Newman Road in Geebung in a $72.5-million deal that reinforces the suburb’s position as one of Brisbane’s key industrial locations.

The property, which covers 3.5 hectares and features 12 high-quality units, is 91 per cent leased to nine tenants. It offers modern warehouse capabilities designed for today’s logistics and industrial users.

According to Gateway Capital’s co-founder Peter McDonald, the estate’s average tenancy size of about 2,400 square metres, its diversified tenant mix and its strong potential for rental uplift in the medium term made the asset a strong match for the firm’s investment strategy.

Why Geebung Matters in the Industrial Market

The estate is located about 12 kilometres north of the Brisbane CBD and is surrounded by major transport routes, including Sandgate Road, Gympie Road and the Gateway Motorway. These links provide direct access to Brisbane Airport, the Port of Brisbane and the wider metropolitan network, helping the suburb attract major national and global industrial operators. Companies such as Australia Post and Linfox Transport are already located in the broader Geebung area, supporting its status as one of Brisbane’s established logistics hubs.

Gateway Capital is continuing to expand its Industrial and Logistics Partnership, which it aims to grow into an $800 million portfolio focused on core logistics and industrial assets. With this purchase, the partnership’s assets have risen to $259 million.

Geebung’s Established Industrial Strength

The 405 Newman Road property’s modern build, high internal clearance design and strong leasing profile align with the types of assets Gateway Capital is seeking.

McDonald noted that the estate is less than two years old and largely leased, which the company sees as well-suited to current and future industrial demand. The facility’s high-clearance warehouse spaces were purpose-built for logistics, offering features that are positioned to support a range of industrial occupiers.

As Geebung continues to hold its place as one of Brisbane’s premier logistics locations, observers will watch how this newly acquired site fits into the suburb’s broader industrial precinct.

Published 5-Nov-2025

School Upgrade Completed in Wavell Heights as Part of Statewide Program

Photo Credit: Pexels

An upgrade to security fencing at Wavell Heights State School has been completed as part of a wider program delivering around 50 infrastructure projects across Queensland state schools. The fencing improvement in Wavell Heights forms part of the first group of works finalised under the program, which also includes upgrades at other campuses across the state.

Background of the Statewide Program

The current program covers more than 50 projects across 49 state schools. Eight projects have already been completed, including security fencing upgrades at Wavell Heights State School and a school in Townsville, along with new air-conditioning for a high school in the same region. These projects contribute to a broader effort aimed at improving safety, teaching spaces and general school amenities across Queensland.

The statewide program also involves new classrooms, school halls, sports courts, outdoor learning areas and playgrounds. These upgrades follow contracts exceeding $100 million for classroom-related projects across Cairns, the Gold Coast and Brisbane. The works reflect ongoing priorities to maintain and improve facilities needed by students in both metropolitan and regional areas.

school upgrades — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Details of the Wavell Heights Upgrade

The completed project at Wavell Heights State School focused on upgraded security fencing. This improvement forms part of the early projects delivered and contributes to enhanced on-site safety for students and staff. No additional works for Wavell Heights were listed in the program at this stage.

Wider Program Works Across Queensland

Beyond the completed projects, a large number of upgrades remain underway. These include various improvements to learning spaces and school facilities across multiple campuses. The program also aligns with a broader $1.09 billion investment supporting the construction of new schools in Caloundra South, Ripley Valley and Gracemere to meet future population growth.

Local Community Impact in Wavell Heights

The fencing upgrade is expected to support improved security and strengthen site safety for the school community in Wavell Heights. Similar upgrades across other schools are designed to improve learning environments and support day-to-day operations.

Wavell Heights school upgrade — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Next Steps

Additional projects across Queensland will continue to progress as part of the infrastructure rollout. Future works will remain focused on classrooms, outdoor spaces and essential school facilities.

Published 4-Nov-2025

Golden Circle: A Sweet Legacy Rooted in Northgate

Long before Golden Circle became a household name across Australia, its roots were firmly planted in Northgate. In 1947, the suburb welcomed the opening of the company’s first canning factory, an event that would forever etch Golden Circle’s name in the records of Queensland’s pineapple industry and the nation’s food heritage.

Read: Greet the Morning With Delectable Baked Goodies at Flour & Chocolate Northgate

The grand opening of the Northgate facility on 28 October 1947, was a significant event, attended by 1,500 people, including 500 fruit growers from the Sunshine Coast who arrived on a special train.

The then Premier of Queensland, the Hon Edward Hanlon, officially inaugurated the factory, which was initially named ‘Queensland Tropical Fruit Products,’ with ‘Golden Circle’ serving as their brand name.

Since its inception, the Northgate factory has been the heart of Golden Circle’s operations, processing and canning a wide range of fruits and vegetables, from iconic pineapples to an array of other produce.

Process workers at work at the Golden Circle cannery in Northgate (Photo credit: Brisbane John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)

Over the years, the company’s product line has diversified, now encompassing fruit cordials, juices, carbonated beverages, and baby food, but the Northgate facility remains the company’s main production hub.

Photo credit: Queensland State Archives, Digital Image ID 1076737

Golden Circle, once one of the few remaining Australian-owned food companies, was acquired by international corporations. In 2007, Coca-Cola Amatil made a conditional bid to acquire 100 percent of the company’s shares.

However, in 2008, Heinz launched a competing takeover bid, offering $1.65 per share, totaling $288 million. This bid was deemed attractive by Golden Circle’s chairman, Phillip Cave, especially given the challenging economic conditions at the time.

Photo credit: The Pineapple Pantry by Golden Circle/Google Maps

Ultimately, Heinz’s takeover bid succeeded, and the acquisition was finalised on 19 December 19 2008, marking Golden Circle’s transition from an Australian farmer-owned company to an international ownership.

Whilst Golden Circle’s ownership has changed hands over the years, most recently acquired by Heinz in 2008, the brand’s connection to Northgate remains a point of pride for the company and the local community. The factory’s presence has been a constant in the area, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the suburb’s identity.

Golden Circle factory at Northgate, 2008 (Photo credit: CC BY 3.0/Enya2008/Wikimedia Commons)

In 2023, Golden Circle revived its Pineapple Pantry at Earnshaw Road, offering locals a unique opportunity to purchase select products from the company’s extensive range at discounted prices. The in-store offerings vary weekly, featuring items nearing their best-before date, product lines discontinued from supermarkets, or surplus inventory.

Read: Massive Discounts as The Golden Circle Pineapple Pantry Re-Opens in Northgate

Today, Golden Circle’s Northgate facility stands as a testament to the company’s rich history and its deep-rooted ties to Brisbane. As the brand continues to evolve and expand its reach, the Northgate canning factory remains a cherished landmark, reminding Australians of the company’s humble beginnings and its commitment to quality and innovation.

Published 3-Nov-2025

Wavell Heights Clinic Expands Counselling Team to Meet Local Mental Health Needs

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Families and individuals in Wavell Heights now have greater access to mental health support, as the Brisbane Livewell Clinic expands its counselling services to meet a growing need in the local community. The clinic has strengthened its team with two new counsellors, bringing a broader range of therapeutic approaches and more flexible appointment options to residents in North Brisbane.

The expansion, announced on 22 October 2025, reflects an increasing awareness of mental health care and the demand for accessible counselling in suburban areas. Counsellors Alicia Kent-Rooney and Nathan Gurry have joined the Wavell Heights practice, each bringing distinct specialisations in emotional wellbeing, relationship support, and holistic mental health strategies.

Both professionals are based at 1/52 Jeffcott Street, Wavell Heights, where they offer individual, couples, and family counselling sessions. The clinic’s holistic approach includes attention to emotional, physical, and lifestyle factors, aligning with its broader wellness philosophy.

The team shared that expanding local services aims to make quality counselling more accessible to the surrounding community and provide ongoing care closer to home.

The Brisbane Livewell Clinic, established as a multidisciplinary wellness practice, continues to integrate counselling alongside its nutrition, naturopathy, and acupuncture services. The Wavell Heights expansion demonstrates its commitment to supporting residents through both mental and physical wellbeing programs — particularly as awareness grows around the value of professional counselling as part of everyday health care.

Residents can find more information or book appointments through the clinic’s official Wavell Heights counselling page.

Published 24-Oct-2025. Updated 1-Nov-2025

Wavell State High School Celebrates Excellence in Sport, Science, and Community

Students at Wavell Heights State High School are making headlines for all the right reasons, showing how dedication in classrooms, workshops, and sports fields can turn lessons into life-changing achievements. From building bridges that defy gravity to representing their country on the world stage, Wavell Heights students are proving that learning goes far beyond textbooks.

Academic and Leadership Success Shine Through

The school’s 67th Annual Speech Night brought the community together in a celebration of achievement and pride. Held at the end of October, the event recognised 251 awardees and the announcement of the 2026 School Captains and Prefects. Grace Langton, a Year 11 student, stood out for earning a senior subject award, while Sam Bryan took on hosting duties as Master of Ceremonies.

The evening highlighted not only the academic strength of the students but also the collaborative support of teachers, families, and local sponsors, including nearby universities and civic organisations.

*Photo Credit: Wavell Heights SHS/Facebook*

Innovation and Curiosity at the Core of Learning

STEM learning came alive when students William R. and Simon M. entered the Queensland Spaghetti Bridge Competition, crafting a bridge that weighed only 150 grams yet supported over two kilograms. Their ingenuity showcased how creative thinking and problem-solving remain cornerstones of the school’s science and engineering programs.

Similarly, Geography students Jinwoo Bang and Grace Langton were finalists in the Queensland Planning Institute of Australia Awards, where their research on urban challenges in Yarrabilba and Logan Reserve demonstrated the practical value of geography and community planning.

*Photo Credit: Wavell State HS/Facebook*

Building Futures in Health and Industry

During National Nutrition Week, students reflected on healthy habits and the importance of food education, applying classroom knowledge to everyday life.

This aligns with Wavell Heights’ broader focus on wellbeing and sustainability — values that guide both students and staff. Meanwhile, Leni McKenna represented the school as a Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) Student Ambassador, exploring pathways into the resources and energy industries while engaging directly with professionals across the state.

Local Pride Goes Global in Sport

Sporting excellence also took the spotlight with student-athlete Keira Rangi proudly representing the Cook Islands in international Girls Rugby League. Her participation marked a high point for Wavell’s growing focus on empowering young women in sport and encouraging diversity in representation.

Through these achievements, Wavell Heights State High School continues to reflect the best of its local community — resilient, driven, and full of emerging leaders. Whether through science innovation, athletic distinction, or community service, the school’s students are shaping futures that extend far beyond the classroom.

Published 3-Nov-2025

Longer Level-Crossing Closures Add to Congestion in Northgate and Geebung

Photo Credit: Queensland Rail

Extended level-crossing downtimes in Northgate and Geebung are contributing to growing congestion, with boom gates remaining closed for up to one hour and 40 minutes during weekday morning peaks across Brisbane’s northside.

Background and Context

Queensland Rail data shows a sharp rise in level-crossing closures across Greater Brisbane, with the number of sites shut for over an hour during morning peaks increasing from 13 in 2022 to 26 in the past financial year. Northgate Road in Northgate and Bilsen Road in Geebung recorded among the longest downtimes, averaging more than one hour and 40 minutes between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m.

These delays have coincided with the expansion of rail services across south-east Queensland, now totalling more than 8,500 weekly services. Increased passenger numbers, additional freight traffic, and longer dwell times have also contributed to longer gate closures.

Northside Congestion Patterns

Motorists travelling through Northgate and Geebung face heavier delays during weekday peaks as boom gate closures last longer and queues extend along connecting routes. Transport specialists have cautioned that as more services are introduced following the completion of major rail upgrades, boom gate downtimes are expected to increase further unless key crossings are removed.

Beams Road Overpass Nears Completion

Between Geebung and Carseldine, the Beams Road level crossing has been replaced by a new overpass, with westbound traffic now using the bridge. Eastbound lanes, along with pedestrian and cyclist access, will open later in the month. The site recorded 25 near misses in the past five years and is now permanently closed.

Construction on a second bridge north of the first is set to begin soon, creating a four-lane overpass to improve connectivity and safety along the corridor.

Beams Road overpass — *Photo Credit: Queensland Rail*

Part of Broader Upgrade Program

The Beams Road replacement forms part of a wider program targeting 13 level crossings across south-east Queensland for removal or upgrade. This marks the first crossing removal in Brisbane in more than a decade. The project, valued at $235 million, is jointly funded by transport authorities to enhance safety and reduce congestion.

Next Steps for Northgate and Geebung

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.
Read: Wavell Heights Rugby League Showcase Marks Homecoming Day
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.
Photo Credit: CMT Scanner
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.
Photo Credit: CMT Scanner
Program Framework and Requirements
The Go Global Export Program requires recipients to provide matched funding and complete their projects within 12 months of receiving funding approval. The program is designed to help businesses overcome export barriers and establish new sales channels. Participants must demonstrate proven export deals and report on job creation linked to their funded projects.
Looking Ahead
Read: Wavell Heights Junior Rugby Club Receives Boost for Equipment
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. Updated 20-Oct-2025