Queensland Police Archives - Wavell Heights News

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

Wavell Heights Teen Found With Knife As Police Sweep Brisbane’s North

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

A 20-year-old Wavell Heights man was caught carrying a steak knife at a Chermside bus stop during a targeted police operation last week, raising concern among locals about the rise in weapons offences across Brisbane’s northern suburbs.

Crackdown Targets Northside Hotspots

On Thursday, 8 May, Queensland Police ran Operation Xray Calculus, targeting property crime, weapons offences and antisocial behaviour across North Brisbane. Officers from multiple units patrolled busy spots like train stations and shopping centres.

*Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News*

Officers spoke with hundreds during the sweep, including a Wavell Heights man found with a concealed steak knife at a Chermside bus stop and he was charged. More than 500 vehicles were also checked at train stations to help prevent theft.

Stolen Goods Recovered In Stafford Heights

At a Stafford Heights home, police found $1,500 in stolen goods tied to retail thefts. An 18-year-old man and 19-year-old woman were charged over the shoplifting.

Police say operations like Xray Calculus keep pressure on offenders and maintain a strong presence in crime-prone areas. They aim to make public spaces safer and boost community confidence.

Brisbane Safe Patrols City Centre

The next night, 9 May, police hit the CBD with Operation Brisbane Safe. On Edward Street, foot and bike patrols found a Kangaroo Point man carrying a knife and a stolen bank card.

A total of seven people were charged during the city patrols, with offences ranging from possession of weapons to handling stolen property. Police said the initiative helped disrupt unwanted behaviour and reminded the public that high-visibility patrols are active across the city.

Police Say Visibility Helps Prevent Crime

Acting Chief Superintendent Simon Tayler said the recent operations reflect a broader effort to keep communities safe. He noted that police presence in public areas like shopping centres and train stations helps deter crime and gives residents reassurance.

He said local partnerships and community awareness help prevent repeat offences and spot at-risk individuals. More operations are planned based on crime trends and public feedback.

Published 16-May-2025

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

Warning Issued as Trailer Thefts Rise in Wavell Heights, North Brisbane

Wavell Heights trailer owners need to implement extra security amidst a rising number of trailer thefts in North Brisbane, the Queensland Police Service (QPS) has warned.

According to the authorities, the following areas were targeted by thieves in the last three weeks, stealing from trailers parked on the streets by unhooking the attachment and running off with the bounty from tradesmen or residents who store their tools and other equipment in the box.

SUBURB	STREET NAME
Ascot	Ascot Street
Bardon	Fletcher Parade
Boondall	Aberdeen Parade
Bowen Hills	Cintra Road
Chermside	Kingsmill Street
Keperra	Marble Street
Paddington	Great George Street
Toowong	Frederick Street
Wavell Heights	Parkham Avenue
Zillmere	Jennings Street

The police said that the trailer owners should make it “as hard as possible” to unhook the attachment with a lock and chain, a wheel clap, or by parking the trailer inside a locked gate or garage to keep it out of sight from the thieves.

Owners should also remove any items inside the trailer so it won’t be an easy target. If possible, owners are also encouraged to invest in anti-theft alarms for storage and boxes or CCTV on their property. It would be wise to have a photograph of serial numbers of the tools and equipment for purposes of identification if lost.

Wavell Heights and North Brisbane locals can help prevent this crime by reporting suspicious activities with QPS Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or at the official site.