Wavell Heights Archives - Page 2 of 5

Check It Out! Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats Butcher Offers Unique Australia Day Sausages

Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats Butcher is making waves this Australia Day with its innovative approach to sausage-making. Led by head butcher Patrick, this independently-owned store with a cult following has rolled out an exciting range of Australia-themed sausages that are bound to delight meat enthusiasts.

Here’s a closer look at what they have to offer for the long weekend leading up to the annual celebration:

Gourmet Lamb Cheese & Vegemite Sausages
Gourmet Pork Bundy Rum & Stanthorpe Apple Sausages
Gourmet Jack Daniels Beef Sausages
Gourmet XXXX Gold Beef Sausages
Gourmet Wagyu Stanthorpe Apple & Ginger Sausages
Gourmet Bowen Mango Chicken Sausages
Gourmet Chilli Chocolate Brisket Sausages
Gourmet Lamb Rosemary & Sweet Potato Sausages
Gourmet Beef & VB Sausages
Gourmet Nannas Pork Belly Sausages

Their unique sausages, such as the Wagyu with ginger and apple combination, demonstrate their commitment to pushing culinary boundaries. Furthermore, they’ve concocted a one-of-a-kind sausage featuring XXXX beer, caramelized onion, and garlic, showcasing their dedication to creating original and flavourful meat products.

Beyond their special Australia Day sausages, Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats Butcher has a reputation for crafting imaginative creations like the Ballot Banger, a smoky chorizo, honey pork, and beef sausage, during the previous elections. These offerings not only reflect their innovative spirit but also capture the essence of local culture and events.

As a family-owned business, Wavell Heights Gourmet Meats Butcher takes pride in offering a diverse range of locally sourced and ethically raised meat products. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to provide valuable tips on preparing, cooking, and serving meats.

Follow their Facebook page for updates on deals and other specials.

Published 21-Jan-2024

Wavell Heights Says Farewell to Beanbag Espresso After 8 Years

Photo Credit: Beanbag Espresso/Facebook

A beloved café in Wavell Heights is bidding farewell to its loyal customers after over eight years of service. Deanna Lean, the owner of Beanbag Espresso, located on Rode Rd, announced the closure on the cafe’s Facebook page, citing a combination of factors, including health concerns and lease expiration.

Beanbag Espresso has been a beloved institution in the community, serving coffee and creating lasting memories for its patrons. In a heartfelt message to its customers, Ms Lean expressed her gratitude for the support and love they have received over the years. She acknowledged the strong sense of community that has developed around the café, making it much more than just a place to grab a cup of coffee.

The café’s last day of operation is scheduled for 28 Nov 2023. Customers are encouraged to use any vouchers or credits they may have before this date.

The Reasons Behind the Closure

In an interview, Ms Lean revealed the factors that led to the difficult decision to close Beanbag Espresso. She mentioned that the café’s lease was coming to an end, and she was experiencing burnout.

When she initially started the coffee shop eight years ago, her children were young, and the café provided her with a way to do what she loved on her terms. However, as her kids have grown into adulthood and become more independent, she no longer faces the same level of responsibility.

The most challenging part of the decision, she confessed, was her ongoing battle with a chronic pain problem known as complex regional pain syndrome. Despite having a supportive medical team, the cycle of working to pay for medical expenses and needing medical support to continue working had become extremely challenging for Ms Lean. She hopes that with adequate rest and recuperation, she can regain control of her health and enjoy her free time.

A Journey of Community and Friendship

Beanbag Espresso had a profound impact on the local community, with many customers who have been visiting for the past 11 years. Ms Lean and her team have not only served coffee but also forged deep connections with their patrons.

The café has been a place where people have shared life’s joys, supported each other through difficult times, and celebrated milestones together. The owner emphasized that the highlight of her time at Beanbag Espresso has been the people who have made the café a welcoming and inclusive space.

As Beanbag Espresso prepares to close its doors, Ms Lean is looking forward to some much-needed rest and a focus on her health. She believes that her journey with the café has been a profound learning experience for her and her children. She is excited for the future, even as she bids a bittersweet farewell to the café that has become a second home to many in the community.

Published 6-Nov-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

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

Fence Dispute Between Wavell Heights Neighbours Highlights Steps Needed to Resolve Similar Boundary Issues

Photo Credit: Archie Binara/Pexels

For five years, two Wavell Heights neighbours have been at odds over the fence on their properties, a dispute that has intensified to include the police and even the RSPCA. The case has shone a light on the necessary steps to take when dealing with a boundary line issue between neighbours.

In October 2022, Wavell Heights residents were alerted to the screams of Reshael Sirputh who was trying to stop Mitch McKee, the guy who lives next door, from taking down the fence between their properties. The police were alerted to the disruption but Mr McKee claimed he simply wanted to build a new fence because he was concerned about his neighbour’s dog. He also said that the new fence will cost his neighbours nothing.

However, Ms Sirputh said that there was already a chain wire fence when McKee moved in years ago and she has also complied with Council’s orders to add a bamboo fence on her side since there’s a dog on her property. Contrary to what Mr McKee said, her neighbour apparently wanted Ms Sirputh to pay for the new fence he planned to build himself. She said that he quoted $14,000 for the fence.

When she declined the cost, Mr McKee, a tradie, took out his power tools and proceeded to cut the chain wires and remove her bamboo fence. Ms Sirputh took videos of her neighbour as she screamed and attempted to stop him from destroying property. Her dog also got in the way of Mr McKee, who swung a hammer at the animal. The RSPCA issued him a warning.

Ms Sirputh hurt her hand when she tried to stop Mr McKee but he was not arrested nor charged. The police said this was a civil matter that must be heard before the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).

The dispute between the Wavell Heights neighbours could have been avoided if one of the homeowners immediately filed for an order with the QCAT to prevent the other party from demolishing the fence on their boundary line, under Section 38(1) of the Neighbourhood Disputes (Dividing Fences and Trees) Act 2011.

Before filing, however, the neighbours should have had a proper conversation and investigation into why they needed to knock back the boundary line fence. If an agreement has been reached, it should be done in writing but if the neighbours continued to disagree, the QCAT could recommend a mediation.

The QCAT has nationally-accredited mediators who can walk both sides of the process with impartiality. This service is free. However, if the mediation fails, then the disputing neighbours can elevate and take legal action by filing a civil court case. A court case, however, may be costlier and more time-consuming than installing a new fence.

Published 25 March 2022

Dental Practice to Open on Edinburgh Castle Road

A corner lot along Edinburgh Castle Road in Wavell Heights could soon become a dental practice and a future health services site if plans are approved.

Murray Bell Planning Co filed DA A006143614 in November 2022, which seeks to build a two-storey building for the dental practice. The site will have two consultation rooms, six surgery rooms, a waiting lounge and administration areas. The property will also have 16 car spaces and an emergency vehicle bay.

“The Applicant has found an ideal location within the suburb of Wavell Heights to cater for their existing clientele base, as well those who are elderly and/or disabled,” the proposal stated.

Dental Practice Ediburgh Castle Road Wavell Heights — Photo Credit: DA A006143614/BCC

However, residents in the surrounding areas of Edinburgh Castle Road and Pfingst Road have expressed their objection to the plans.

“This not consistent with current residential zoning or use,” one resident wrote in the submissions. “The proposal provides little utility given similar business is reasonable proximity as well as the health centre being built on Gympie Rd. This should not be approved.”

“It will turn a residential area into a business area which will negatively impact house prices,” another local wrote. “It will also set a precedent for other businesses to be allowed to build in the area.”

“I oppose as this a residential area, this is already a high traffic area. Having a dental surgery will only increase traffic load and harm to an area where kids play across the road which is a park.”

As of press time, the DA is still under assessment and Council has asked for more information and amendments from the applicant.

Police Urge Wavell Heights Community To Secure Cars, Homes Due To Thefts

Wavell Heights residents are being reminded by authorities about the importance of securing their homes and vehicles following cases of recent theft from vehicles and burglary in the suburb.

Read: North Brisbane Police Unit Receives First Fuel Cell Propelled Vehicle in Southern Hemisphere

Between 1 July and 31 August 2022, there were 33 property-related offences reported in Wavell Heights, which included 11 burglaries and 10 steal-from-vehicle offences.

A review of these burglary offences revealed the majority occurred during the overnight period from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., with six out of the 11 offences involving access via unlocked or unsecured doors. Three offences involved the offender forcing, jemmying or smashing their way in.

According to North Brisbane District Crime Prevention Coordinator Sergeant Jodie Murray, main items targeted during the burglary offences were wallets and vehicle keys.

wavell heights — Photo credit: Bich Tran/Pexels

“In all cases where vehicle keys were stolen (four), vehicles were also stolen from the address. In all cases where jewellery was stolen (two), the entry was forced,” Sgt Murray stated.

Authorities have reminded residents to keep their keys safe, such as keeping them out of sight, and more importantly, keeping their homes safe, by keeping their doors and windows locked.

“No matter who’s home or what time of the day it is, it’s important to continue these security measures when it comes to your keys,” Sgt Murray added.

“Thieves stealing cars aren’t always those with hot-wiring skills. Opportunistic thieves will take any opportunity to steal cars, including walking into your home and grabbing them right off your bench.”

Read: Amid the Summer Heat, Wavell Heights Residents Encouraged to Review Home Security

Police have greatly increased their marked and covert patrols at the peak times, and have called in specialist units such as tactical crime squad, specialist property crime squads, and police dog squads.

Residents can report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers, or by calling 1800 333 000 and reporting online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Wavell Heights Intersection To Receive Black Spot Upgrades

Four intersections in Brisbane, including one in Wavell Heights, have been earmarked for improvement to reduce the number of incidents in the area.

Read: Locals Welcome Proposed Cannery Creek Sewer Upgrade

Upgrades have been confirmed for the Hamilton Road and Bilsen Road in Wavell Heights, which is considered as one of the accident-prone intersections in the suburb.

Between 2015 and 2021 there were nine reported crashes at the Hamilton Rd and Bilsen Rd intersection, all of which resulted in medical treatment or hospitalisation.

Works, which are set to commence in late 2022, involves the creation of new red arrows to control movements through the intersection, and upgrading crossings to better protect pedestrians.

Authorities will also update the signal phasing, signage and line marking to suit new signals, and relocate bus stops to the departure side of the intersection.

The Australian Government has committed $1.1 million for the project, under the Black Spot program.

Hamilton Road and Bilsen Road Black Spot Project plan (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council)

Other Brisbane roads set to benefit from the program this year include:

Adelaide Street and Creek Street, Brisbane City
Rosemary Street and Biota Street, Inala
Forest Lake Boulevard and Rudyard Street, Forest Lake

The Black Spot program is a road safety program run by the Australian Government to fix dangerous roads by treating road locations where a large number of motor vehicle accidents have occurred.

Black Spot sites are those with a proven history of crashes. An intersection will be eligible for upgrades if it has recorded at least three casualty crashes over a five-year period.

Since 2010, Brisbane City Council has completed improvements in over 50 locations across the city.

Gaza Rd, Holland Park West (Photo credit: Google Street View)

One of the city’s successful upgrades is the one at Fison Ave and Southern Cross Way off-ramp in Eagle Farm back in 2015. Prior to the upgrades, it recorded 34 recorded crashes for five years but not one has occurred since the upgrade.

In Holland Park, there’s only one recorded incident to date, from 24 crashes at the Gaza Rd and Messines Ridge Rd prior to the works done in 2016.

Meanwhile, upgrades at the Wavell Heights intersection are expected to be complete by May 2023, weather and site conditions permitting.

GingerCloud Foundation Opens Modified Rugby Program in Wavell Heights

The world’s first touch-only Modified Rugby Program from the GingerCloud Foundation will open a new season at the home of the Norths Ruby Union in Wavell Heights.

The Modified Rugby Program (MRP) is specially designed to support young people with Autism and other learning, and perceptual disabilities need. The Season starts in the week of 18th April 2021, which comprises one-hour training session and Saturday morning games.

As Rugby clubs across Brisbane support the inclusion of our young people (MRP Players) into the club community, this program is a chance for the kids to experience the sheer joy of being in a team sport, often for the first time.

Brisbane Rugby Union Clubs are powering disability inclusion for our young people with Autism or other learning and perceptual disabilities out on the rugby field.

The MRP, which begins in April 2022, is divided into specific structural, Allied Health, and coaching modifications based on the varying needs of MRP Players both on and off the field.

MRP Juniors (7-13 years) and MRP Colts (16-25) years) Players are individually matched with a PlayerMentor for support, guidance and friendship on the rugby field and beyond.

MRP 7s and MRP 7s Plus division (assessed by on-field skill ability) Players are higher skilled and are supported by PlayerMentors as a team, with no specific MRP Player having their own PlayerMentor.

The MRP’s PlayerMentors are young adults from local schools who provide guidance and friendship both on and off the field. They are credited for the success of the MRP as they encourage the MRP players to have fun, feel safe and secure, and be part of a club.

Other venues participating in the MRP include:

Brothers Rugby Union Club
Wests Bulldogs Rugby Union Club
UQ Bullsharks Rugby Union Club
Souths Rugby Union Club
Easts Rugby Union Club
Caboolture Snakes Rugby Union Club

To learn more about GingerCloud MRP email GCSupport@gingercloud.org

Starting Soon! Wavell Heights and Geebung FOGO Pilot Collection Rolling Out

Brisbane’s pilot Food Organics Garden Organics (FOGO) program is set to roll out in selected streets across the city, including Wavell Heights and Geebung, with the first collection service taking place on 8 March 2022.

The FOGO pilot will cover a total of 6,000 households in an effort to reduce the impact of food wastes in landfills. Wastes collected for this initiative will be processed and transformed into compost for various farms, urban gardens, and public spaces in Brisbane.

Residents who will join the pilot will receive their FOGO caddy in mid-February. Contents of this caddy should be emptied out in their green waste bin every one to three days. However, those who are already composting may also use the contents for their own gardens.

The below streets in Wavell Heights and Geebung will be included in the pilot phase. Participating in the FOGO program is free and separate from the existing green waste recycling service.

FOGO pilot participants, however, must take note to exclude food wastes like dairy products (yoghurt, cheese, ice cream, all milk types), meat products (bones, red and white meat), and seafood in the FOGO bin.

Acceptable food wastes include fruit and vegetable scraps, leftover food scraps (cooked and uncooked except meat), tea leaves, tea bags, coffee grounds, eggshells, and mouldy bread, cereal, pasta, rice or grains.

Residents are encouraged to clean their caddy with every use as it’s dishwasher safe and made from recyclable materials designed to be rinsed and reused.

For more information about the FOGO pilot, phone Council via 07 3403 8888.