Northgate Archives - Wavell Heights News

Northgate Road Verge Upgraded After Asbestos Fragments Found

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

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

Why the Work Was Needed

Northgate — *Photo Credits; Google Maps*

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

Safety Measures in Place

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

Community Impact

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

Published Date 21-May-2025

Northgate Tech Hub Launches Accelerator and Banana Automation Project

Photo Credit: Future Food Sytems/ Facebook

Northgate is now at the centre of a push to transform Australian manufacturing, having launched a new accelerator program and a robotics project to automate banana harvesting.

New Program for Tech Founders

The Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Hub (ARM Hub) held an Industry Day in Northgate to mark five years since its establishment. The event brought together industry leaders and researchers to discuss the future of advanced manufacturing. A key announcement was the launch of Exit 2030, a program designed to help deep tech and advanced manufacturing founders plan their business exit strategies.

The ARM Hub CEO, Professor Cori Stewart, explained that selling a deep tech company is more complex than a typical business. Investors look at intellectual property, how easily the company can grow, its market position, and its long-term value. The Exit 2030 program will provide a group of 14 founders with advice and support to navigate these challenges. The program is designed for those planning to sell or merge their businesses within three to five years.

Automating Banana Harvesting

Another significant project announced at the Northgate event is the Banana Dehanding Project. This project aims to automate the labour-intensive process of separating bananas from their bunches. The Australian Banana Growers Council (ABGC) identified this area where Industry 4.0 technology could make a significant difference. Professor Stewart expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, stating it will help transform Australia’s horticulture industry.

The project is a collaboration between the ABGC, Hort Innovation, Queensland University of Technology (QUT), Future Food Systems CRC, and BNL Industrial Solutions. ARM Hub experts, including Dr Chris Lehnert, Designer Anthony Franze, and Robotics Engineer Troy Cordie, have been working with banana farmers in North Queensland to understand the production process and identify opportunities for automation.

Dr Lehnert emphasised the importance of addressing the challenges faced by farmers to support the National Manufacturing Priorities for Food and Beverages. The project aims to develop a new robotic tool for banana farmers, particularly in Tully.

Published Date 01-April-2025

Sherlock Holmes Play Brings Mystery and Laughs to Northgate Stage

Photo Credit: UpStage Theatre QLD

Something curious is happening at Northgate Hall — and it involves a ghostly hound, a few quick costume changes and a lot of laughs. A classic Sherlock Holmes mystery is coming to life in the suburb, with a quirky, fast-paced performance of The Hound of the Baskervilles set to take the stage at the local site.

Mystery at Northgate Hall

UpStage Theatre, a Brisbane-based community group known for lively and accessible performances, will present The Hound of the Baskervilles at Northgate Hall until the 12th of April 2025. Tickets are available online through TryBooking.

The show offers a humorous and fast-paced spin on the original Sherlock Holmes tale, as Holmes and Watson investigate the eerie legend of a ghostly hound on the moors. With creative staging and an energetic approach, the performance is designed to keep audiences engaged while adding a fun twist to the well-known mystery. The Northgate venue provides an intimate setting, making it an ideal space for community members to enjoy live theatre close to home.

Sherlock Holmes in Northgate — *Photo Credit: UpStage Theatre QLD*

Theatre With a Local Focus

UpStage Theatre continues to build connections across Brisbane by bringing their productions to a range of community venues. Their debut show, Murder on Record, was staged at the Banyo Bowls Club in August 2024, where audiences joined in to solve a musical-themed mystery.

Since then, the group has expanded from just six members to more than 150, welcoming performers and volunteers from all walks of life. Their inclusive approach encourages participation from anyone interested in theatre, regardless of experience.

Founder Virginia Gray has focused on creating welcoming and low-pressure performance opportunities, aiming to make theatre something everyone can be a part of.

Growing Local Arts Scene

UpStage Theatre’s Northgate show is part of its broader mission to support local arts and make live theatre more accessible. Future plans include a musical production and a platform for showcasing Queensland writers.

The Northgate staging of The Hound of the Baskervilles offers residents a chance to experience this energy up close. Whether you’re familiar with Sherlock Holmes or just looking for a fun night out, this local performance brings creativity, humour and connection to the neighbourhood stage.

Get Tickets

Published 1-April-2025

Northgate Dream Home of Food Influencer Hits the Market

Photo Credit: Facebook / Janelle McKenna Real Estate Professional

A Northgate property transformation has resulted in a custom-built home now available for purchase after food influencer Shannon Cooper converted what she called “the most expensive shed in Northgate” into her dream residence.

The property at 107 Gympie Street represents one of two adjacent properties Ms. Cooper purchased from the same owner before subdividing the land into three plots. The original structure on this particular plot was an older house being used as a shed, which the local council had determined was unsafe for habitation.

The unsafe conditions included “massive cracks all through the ceiling” and floors that were “sunken in places,” according to Ms. Cooper, who runs the Instagram account My Food Religion.

Rather than attempting to renovate the dangerous structure, Cooper opted for a complete rebuild while residing in the neighbouring home. She collaborated with RedDoor Architects to design a house that would meet council requirements while complementing the character of other buildings in the Northgate streetscape.

The new design focused on maximising space on the small Northgate lot while maintaining attractive outdoor areas. This approach has proven successful, with Place Ascot agent Janelle McKenna noting that many potential buyers mistake the new construction for a renovation, believing it to be seamlessly integrated with the neighbourhood’s aesthetic.

The Northgate home features architectural elements designed to enhance spaciousness, including high ceilings and large voids, plus significant glass openings connecting to the backyard. This design allowed Cooper to monitor her daughter in the backyard pool from various vantage points inside the home.

Cooper and her family have now decided to relocate to the Sunshine Coast, though she expressed that she’ll particularly miss the kitchen, which served as an ideal space for her content creation and recipe development work.

The Northgate property is scheduled for auction on Saturday, March 29.

Published 15-March-2025

Two Men Detained at Northgate Home in Police Investigation

Police have detained two men at a Northgate home following an incident where shots were allegedly fired at an unoccupied vehicle in Bald Hills yesterday.

Emergency services responded to reports of gunfire on Gladdon Street in Bald Hills around 10:30am Sunday. Upon arrival, officers discovered a parked car that had been shot at in what police believe was a targeted attack. No injuries were reported.

Following the incident, officers attended a residence on Nudgee Road in Northgate where they took two men into custody. During their search of the Northgate property, police allegedly located a shotgun.

The 20-year-old man now faces 11 charges, including:

Discharging a weapon in a public place
Wilful damage
Unlawful possession of a category A weapon
Possession of a shortened firearm
Using a vehicle without required number plates
Driving without a license
Unlawful stalking
Assault occasioning harm (domestic violence offence)
Wilful damage (domestic violence offence)
Deprivation of liberty
Unlawful possession of explosives

The accused is scheduled to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court today. Authorities have confirmed investigations are continuing, with particular focus on the Northgate connection.

Police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or Policelink on 131 444.

Published 17-February-2025

Northgate State School Principal Brings Fun to Reading with Library Reveal

The newly refurbished library at Northgate State School has become the talk of the town, thanks to a creative video by Principal Zac Branford that perfectly blends humor, Gen Z slang, and school pride.

Read: Northgate BotBuilders Shine in First Tech Challenge

The video, which has racked up widespread attention on social media, features Mr Branford showcasing the school’s revamped library while dropping popular terms like rizz, ghost, squad, and GOAT (Greatest of All Time).

At one point, he even joins in on the viral “mewing” trend, humorously emphasizing his jawline—a move that seems to have charmed students and parents alike.

The project, which took over a year to complete, involved gathering input from students, conducting research on contemporary library designs, and carefully planning and executing the vision, according to Mr Branford.

“We began by asking our students what they wanted, then we researched to get a feel for what was out there, and then we planned and delivered this great space,” he shared.

The result? A modern library featuring cozy soft furnishings, shelves stocked with captivating reads, and a welcoming vibe. The upgrade got its first round of rave reviews last October, when students from the Queensland Virtual STEM Academy gave the new setup a trial run, diving into books while enjoying the library’s updated comforts.

Northgate State School’ — Photo credit: Zan Branford/LinkedIn

Mr Branford, an avid book enthusiast himself, is passionate about the impact of reading. “Books and reading are absolutely pivotal, and the power of stories and learning through narrative is invaluable,” he said.

While his aim was to celebrate the library’s opening, Mr Branford didn’t expect his video to resonate so widely. “When I created a video for our school community to celebrate our new library, I certainly didn’t expect this. Nonetheless, I’m glad to see our school’s awesomeness being celebrated,” he shared in a social media post.

The video’s success has put a spotlight on the positive changes happening at Northgate State School. It’s also a reminder of how humor, creativity, and a touch of “rizz” can bring attention to important educational milestones.

Read: Golden Circle: A Sweet Legacy Rooted in Northgate

As the school community gathers to enjoy the library’s new chapter, Mr Branford’s video has shown that being relatable and fun is an excellent way to engage and inspire.

Published 10-December-2024

Northgate Development Rises Above Flood Risk with Innovative Design

Photo Credit: DA A006614227

Northgate is set to welcome a new residential building at 27-29 Dethridge Street, featuring an innovative design that addresses the area’s susceptibility to flooding.

The development application, submitted by Angelo Patrick Architects, proposes a five-storey structure with 20 units, minorly adjusting a plan previously approved in 2021.

This contemporary building will offer various living options, including one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units. A key feature of the design is the incorporation of towers at the rear of the building.

This architectural choice directly responds to the site’s proximity to a creek known to overflow and flood the neighbouring parkland during periods of heavy rainfall. The elevated ground floor further enhances the building’s resilience to floodwaters.

This contemporary building will offer various living options, including one, two, and three-bedroom units. A key feature of the design is the incorporation of towers at the rear of the building. This architectural choice directly responds to the site’s proximity to a creek known to overflow and flood the neighbouring parkland during periods of heavy rainfall. The elevated ground floor further enhances the building’s resilience to floodwaters.

Residents will also enjoy a communal rooftop garden, which provides a dedicated space for dining, relaxation, and socialising. With 42 parking spaces, including visitor parking, the development ensures ample parking for residents and guests. Landscaping and deep planting will enhance the development’s visual appeal and environmental sustainability.

The development incorporates a suspended car park at the rear to ensure minimal environmental impact, allowing for natural water flow across the site. Mecone, the planning firm involved in the project, assured that the construction will not significantly affect neighbouring properties or the adjacent waterway. The building is strategically removed from the waterway centre line and avoids unnecessary vegetation removal.

The proposed development efficiently uses the 1,523sqm site, which covers 954.92sqm (62.7%). The building will be accessible from Dethridge Street, with separate entry points for vehicles and pedestrians.

The development also includes a road dedication for a cul-de-sac, further improving accessibility and traffic flow in the area.

Published Date 01-November-2024

Arrest Made After Break-In at Northgate State School

In recent weeks, offenders have targeted several schools across North Brisbane, including Northgate State School, for unlawful entry, theft, and property damage.

According to local police, a specific technique has been identified in these incidents. Offenders gain access to school grounds by cutting and peeling back metal panels on groundskeeping sheds. This allows them to steal valuable equipment such as ride-on mowers, power tools, air compressors, plumbing equipment, and other items. Additionally, scrap metal has also been reported missing from the school premises.

Beyond stealing, offenders have trespassed onto school grounds and caused significant damage. Some incidents include graffiti on walls, the trashing of classrooms, and pouring an unknown substance over sporting courts, which now require resurfacing.

On 28 August at around 4:00 a.m., a Protective Service Officer patrolling Northgate State School caught a male suspect breaking into the school. Police arrived shortly after and arrested the 47-year-old Northgate man at the scene.

He has been charged with Enter Premises and Commit Indictable Offence and is scheduled to appear in Brisbane Magistrates Court on 25 September.

In response to these incidents, police have urged residents to remain vigilant for any suspicious activity near schools and to report any concerns. The School Watch program, a partnership between the Department of Education, the Queensland Police Service, and Protective Services Group, encourages community members to report any suspicious behaviour around school premises, particularly after hours.

The program highlights the importance of protecting school properties, which are at increased risk during school holidays when buildings are unoccupied. Damage caused by unlawful entry, arson, theft, and vandalism comes at a significant cost to the community, both financially and in terms of safety.

Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity by calling School Watch on 13 17 88.

Schools are central to local communities, so these offences extend beyond the cost of repairs. The damage affects students, teachers, and local families who rely on these institutions for education and extracurricular activities. Police emphasise that community vigilance is crucial in preventing further incidents and safeguarding school properties for the benefit of everyone.

Local authorities continue to monitor the situation and are urging anyone with information regarding these offences to come forward.

Published 10-Sept-2024

Northgate Robotics Team Clinches Victory at Melbourne Tournament

Congratulations to BotBuilders, a Northgate-based robotics team that captured the top spot at the Melbourne Robotics Tournament, showcasing the skills and creativity of local youths in a challenging competition!

Unexpected Triumph

On their first outing to the Melbourne Robotics Tournament held from the 5th to 7th July 2024, the BotBuilders, comprised of teenagers and young adults aged between 15 and 21, impressed seasoned competitors by winning the event.

The team participated in the FIRST Robotics Competition, an off-season event that allows teams to test and refine their robots and strategies between official seasons.

Northgate BotBuilders — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Team Dynamics and Preparation

The BotBuilders team, which gathers at a studio in Northgate, consists of members from across Greater Brisbane, extending as far as Rochedale and up to the Sunshine Coast. Guided by adult mentors, these youths take on various roles, from mechanical and electrical design to programming and strategy.

Their collaborative efforts over nine weeks are focused on designing and building a robot capable of competing under strict game rules.

Despite being new to this level of competition, the BotBuilders used two off-season competitions—the Melbourne Robotics Tournament and Duel Down Under in Sydney—to hone their design, manufacturing, and coding skills. Their robot, noted for its compact design and agile performance, excelled in the 2.5-minute matches by navigating a basketball-sized field and scoring points efficiently.

Future Aspirations

Mrs. Pollard, a coach of the BotBuilders, remarked on the importance of robotics in fostering confidence and resilience among youths, especially those who might feel out of place in other settings. The team is now focused on developing their skills further for their official competition season starting in January 2025, with aspirations to qualify for the FIRST Robotics World Championships in Houston, USA.

The BotBuilders are actively engaging in community activities to raise funds for their upcoming competitions. They will showcase their robotics talents at several local events, including the RoboRave Australia World Championships, The Pine Rivers Show, and The Ekka, where they aim to promote STEM and their team’s achievements.

Northgate Outlet Affected as Flour& Chocolate Closes Sandwich Sections

Beloved Flour&Chocolate bakery will terminate its sandwich section at its Morningside, Northgate, and Redcliffe stores in a significant shift driven by soaring operational costs.

Flour&Chocolate announced the discontinuation of its sandwich offerings after admitting that the relentless rise in operating expenses has been making maintaining this part of their business unsustainable.

As the last toasted sandwiches will be served on the 22nd of June, the bakery aims to focus on its more profitable items to navigate the current economic challenges.

*Photo Credit: Flour&Chocolate Northgate/Facebook*

Industry-Wide Struggles

The bakery sector in Brisbane has faced severe disruptions, highlighted by the recent collapse of the BCN Events Group and the shutdowns of Brewbakers in Albion and Cake and Bake in Newstead.

Bakery owners have reported dramatic increases in the cost of essentials like sugar, milk, eggs, and butter—some noting price jumps of up to 77 per cent post-COVID—which have significantly squeezed profit margins.

Lachlan Scott, co-owner of Flour&Chocolate, made a public statement expressing the difficulties faced by the bakery. He noted the sharp increases in ingredients, rent, electricity, insurance, and other significant operating expenses as key factors in their decision.

Mr Scott noted that discontinuing the sandwich section was among the most difficult decisions faced by the owners throughout their tenure as small business operators. The focus will now shift to their primary products, including croissants, breads, pastries, cakes, and biscuits, which have been their specialty since opening in 2012.

Flour&Chocolate Pastries — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Future Focus and Staff Retention

Despite the cuts, Flour&Chocolate is committed to retaining its staff and continuing to produce other popular items like filled croissants, quiches, pies, and sausage rolls.

Mr Scott emphasised their commitment to minimising the impact on their team members during these challenging times, ensuring that affected staff would be offered positions elsewhere within their operations. The bakery also thanked its customers for their loyalty and understanding during these challenging times.

Flour&Chocolate remains determined to uphold quality and service amidst these hardships, hoping their strategic changes will allow them to thrive in a challenging market.

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Published 20-June-2024