News and other stories about real people, places, and events in Bracken Ridge and nearby suburbs.
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A young wordsmith from Ormiston College has accomplished a remarkable feat, mastering two distinct literary forms to win top honours in both the poetry and short story categories at Queensland’s most historic writing competition.
Derrick Chen, a student in the Years 5 and 6 division, stood out among a field of more than 1,500 entrants from across the state. His exceptional ability to craft both compelling narratives and moving poetry earned him two first-place awards, a rare achievement in the prestigious Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) and English Teachers’ Association of Queensland’s (ETAQ) annual Literary Competition.
The competition, now in its 66th year, is the oldest continuing contest of its kind in Queensland, celebrating the creative talents of students and staff in both state and non-government schools. The judges noted the exceptional quality and diverse range of entries submitted this year, highlighting the impressive skill on display from young writers.
The winners were celebrated at a special presentation evening held at the Queensland Multicultural Centre. During the event, which took place on the evening of Wednesday, 6 August, first-place recipients were invited to read their winning pieces to an engaged audience of peers, teachers, and community members.
IEU-QNT Branch Secretary Terry Burke praised the competition as a vital opportunity for students to develop their creativity and writing skills. He remarked that the union’s forerunner established the competition to champion literary development and the freedom of expression in young people. Similarly, ETAQ President Carley Elliott commended the high standard of entries from all participating schools.
Attendees were also treated to an inspiring talk by guest speaker Brian Falkner, an award-winning international author and writing coach, who shared insights from his career. Event sponsor Penguin Random House Australia generously provided book prizes for the award recipients.
Published Date 12-August-2025
Photo Credit: Independent Education Union
In a plan that has divided a bayside community, Ormiston College argues it must first destroy a koala habitat to save it, proposing to clear 650 mature trees to make way for a greener, stronger ecosystem.
At the heart of the heated debate is Ormiston College’s plan for a major campus expansion, which includes a 50-metre Olympic swimming pool, a boarding house, an indoor sports complex, and new junior sporting fields. To build this, the college intends to clear a significant portion of its land, much of which is mapped as core koala habitat within a designated Koala Priority Area.
However, the school’s leadership insists the project is being undertaken with environmental sensitivity. The college’s principal, Michael Hornby, has stated that the works will ultimately strengthen the ecological value of the site. According to the school, there will be no net loss of koala habitat. Their plan, guided by ecologists, involves a massive rehabilitation effort that includes planting nine times more preferred koala food trees than are originally present, with the goal of improving a vital wildlife corridor in the long term.
This vision of creating a better habitat through clearing has been met with widespread community concern and disbelief. For many residents and conservationists, the logic is flawed. The local Koala Action Group argues that the proposal will remove nearly a third of the on-site koala habitat. A spokesperson for the group, Debbie Pointing, has stated that newly planted saplings cannot replace the value of decades-old trees that form an established core habitat.
This sentiment is echoed across community social media pages, where residents have voiced strong opposition. The prevailing feeling is that the area has enough sporting facilities, but not enough protected habitat for its dwindling koala population. The recent road death of a beloved local koala named Jacki near the site has only amplified fears that the region’s natural heritage is disappearing. For these residents, preservation of what exists is paramount, not replacement.
The college’s previous attempt to have a similar project approved was rejected by the Redland City Council due to its impact on protected koala corridors. This time, the school is using a state-level planning process known as a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation, or MID.
This process allows the state’s Planning Minister to have the final say, overriding the local council’s decision. While the public can submit comments on the project until August 11, the MID process removes the right for third parties to appeal the decision once it is made. This has left many in the community feeling that their voice may be heard, but that they lack the power to stop the bulldozers if the project is ultimately approved. For critics, the central question is whether environmental laws hold up when large institutions decide to build.
Published Date 29-July-2025
A Wellington Point woman who beat breast cancer says she was shocked to find out she no longer qualified for free mammograms, despite being at higher risk of the disease returning.
After finishing breast cancer treatment in 2022, Wellington Point’s Debbie Swain expected her yearly follow-up scans to be free under Queensland’s mammogram program for women over 40. Instead, she was charged nearly $400 per visit and later discovered survivors like her are excluded unless referred through a public hospital.
BreastScreen Queensland only covers women with no current or past diagnosis, meaning survivors must wait five years to rejoin, unless they stay in the public system. Swain now sees a private specialist and said the cost caught her off guard.
She assumed follow-up care would be supported, but her scans are classed as “diagnostic imaging,” which isn’t free. For many women in her position, the out-of-pocket cost can reach nearly $500 per appointment.
Swain said the current rules feel unfair to women who have already been through cancer. She believes many don’t realise the scans aren’t free until the bill arrives, and worries the cost could stop women from attending important follow-up checks.
In local media interviews, she pointed out that the system seems to favour those with no cancer history while leaving survivors to manage extra costs. Queensland Health stated that free scans are offered in public hospitals, but only if the patient stays within the public system. Many, like Swain, are discharged and continue care privately, which makes them ineligible.
More than 17,000 breast cancer survivors in Queensland are excluded from BreastScreen services due to strict eligibility rules. Many are unaware of the gap until they’re billed for follow-up scans they expected to be free.
While the state advertises free screening for women over 40, it doesn’t apply to those with a past diagnosis. Survivors say it feels like they’re being penalised, while those without cancer continue to get free checks.
Swain’s story has sparked discussion across the Redlands, with locals concerned the system isn’t supporting women after treatment. She’s urging the Queensland Government to review how survivors are treated and consider easing the cost of follow-up care.
While some imaging is available through public hospitals, many survivors fall outside that pathway. They say clearer information, better access, and funding for private care are urgently needed.
Published 11-July-2025
Featured Photo Credit: Thea Hunter/Facebook
A major transformation is underway for the Birkdale Community Precinct, with more than $238 million in government and council funding committed to reshaping the 62-hectare site into a hub for sport, environment, culture and education in Brisbane’s east.
The Redland Whitewater Centre at Birkdale has been confirmed to host canoe slalom events for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. In response, the Queensland Government has committed $235 million to infrastructure delivery, while Redland City Council has allocated over $3.8 million for design and planning.
The Birkdale Community Precinct has become a priority site in both 2025–2026 budgets. Since 2021, more than 6,000 residents have shaped the precinct’s direction through public consultation. The resulting plan balances future growth with environmental conservation and community access to green space.
The Birkdale Community Precinct will feature seven themed hubs focused on green space, culture, sport, innovation and learning. Plans include an Olympic-standard whitewater centre, shared community spaces, and multi-use parklands.
Design work is underway for an access road, North Road upgrades, eastern carpark, and stormwater systems, along with electrical infrastructure to support events. Environmental and heritage values remain a priority throughout the project. Around two-thirds of the site will be preserved, with an EPBC referral in progress to meet national standards.
The whitewater centre is a key part of the precinct’s pre-2032 works and is expected to be ready by 2028. After the Games, it will offer recreational activities like tubing, paddling and community sport. It will also support emergency services training for swift-water rescues.
Other parts of the precinct will continue to develop after 2032, with a focus on recreation and education. Council’s planning highlights sustainable design and flexibility to meet future community needs.
Redland City Council will continue detailed design and planning for the precinct, with project costs kept confidential until tenders are finalised. The state will lead Olympic-related infrastructure, while council manages local works and approvals.
Both levels of government are working together to balance national goals with local needs. Council has emphasised the importance of improving access and protecting natural areas. Economic opportunity is also a key focus as the precinct progresses.
Published 02-July-2025
Featured Photo Credit: Redland City Council
Birkdale has become one of Brisbane’s strongest growth suburbs, with house prices jumping 28.3% over the past year, placing it well above the metro median and sparking local discussion around who can still afford to live in this coastal neighbourhood.
Between January 2024 and March 2025, Birkdale’s median house price climbed from $865,000 to $1.11 million, according to PRD’s Smart Moves report. The suburb outpaced others in Brisbane’s east, including some inner-city areas.
This strong growth highlights Birkdale’s appeal to families, professionals and locals drawn to its blend of quiet living and city access. With a train station, schools, parks and coastal proximity, it remains highly sought-after.
Unlike similar suburbs that remain under Brisbane’s median of $989,818, Birkdale has surged past it. Analysts point to a limited supply of detached houses and a city-wide shift toward unit developments as key reasons for the suburb’s rising demand.
Birkdale was not listed among PRD’s top affordable and liveable suburbs, mainly because its prices now sit above Brisbane’s median. However, it meets nearly all other liveability criteria, including low crime, strong transport links and access to key services. The suburb offers schools, parks, health care and shopping within easy reach.
Redland City has ongoing infrastructure and housing projects that support the area’s long-term stability. While only $2.4 million in new development is planned for Birkdale, its consistent appeal suggests locals favour its existing community over large-scale changes.
Rising property prices usually mean higher rental pressure, but Birkdale’s rental market appears to be holding steady. In early 2025, Brisbane’s average weekly rent for a 3-bedroom house reached $650, with low vacancy rates across the city.
While Birkdale’s rental yield wasn’t listed separately, Brisbane Metro recorded a 3.2% yield and just 0.9% vacancy. These figures suggest a tight, stable market that favours both investors and tenants. For families seeking long-term rentals in a well-established suburb, Birkdale remains a strong option.
Birkdale’s price growth has likely increased equity for long-time residents, but it may limit access for younger buyers and renters. With just 186 new standalone houses planned across Brisbane and most new builds being high-density units, the housing mix is shifting.
This could reduce availability of traditional family homes, which define suburbs like Birkdale. As values rise, it raises questions about whether these community-focused areas can stay inclusive.
Published 02-July-2025
Featured Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only
A living shoreline trial is underway at Three Paddocks Park in Birkdale, aiming to reduce erosion and protect local habitat using natural infrastructure.
A pilot initiative is underway at Three Paddocks Park in Birkdale, aiming to reduce coastal erosion through a living shoreline design. Redland City officials are leading the project as part of its Coastal Hazard Adaptation Strategy, adopted in 2021. The QCoast2100 program, a state-wide initiative, backs the project.
The park was prioritised for the trial due to its ecological sensitivity and increasing erosion that risks encroaching on adjacent recreational areas. The upcoming trial is one of several nature-based projects flagged for Redland City under this strategy.
Construction began in June 2025 and is expected to finish in July, subject to weather conditions. Work includes reshaping erosion scarps to safeguard assets like footpaths and exercise stations. Natural elements such as timber log breakwaters and seed trapping devices are being installed to help stabilise the area and promote mangrove recolonisation.
Coastal vegetation including saltmarsh and dune species will be planted to support long-term erosion control. Reef walls will also be used to reduce wave energy and trap sediment. The project will assess the feasibility of this method for future use across the region.
No construction will take place in the adjacent creek, and the project is not expected to affect marine fauna such as turtles. It has been reviewed by specialists in coastal science, including a sea turtle expert from Griffith University. Relevant state departments have approved the plans, including the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
Unlike traditional coastal defences such as seawalls or bulkheads, the living shoreline approach relies on natural systems. Species like fish, frogs, crabs and turtles are expected to continue using the area without disruption.
While works are ongoing, a fenced site compound will store materials and equipment. Temporary access changes may occur near Bath Street to accommodate machinery, with alternate pedestrian routes in place. The rest of the park will remain open for public use.
No permanent concrete features are being built. A temporary gravel track will be used to allow machinery access without affecting the site’s stormwater flow.
The trial will provide insight into maintenance needs and construction techniques for similar projects. Another shoreline trial is already funded for rollout later in the year. Redland Bay and Russell Island have also been identified as potential future locations based on the results of this pilot.
The initiative is designed to address long-term environmental risks while supporting community use of coastal spaces in Birkdale.
Published 20-June-2025
Photo Credit: Redland City Council
As young koalas begin their critical journeys away from their mothers, three new Koala Safe Neighbourhoods in Birkdale, Thornlands, and Mount Cotton are now operational, offering vital protection during this vulnerable period.
The expansion follows the proven success of the initial program in Ormiston, which launched in late 2018.
Redland City Council is urging residents to be vigilant as the annual koala dispersal season commences this month. During this period, young koalas, typically around 18 months old and weighing between three to five kilograms, leave the safety of their mothers to seek new habitats. This dispersal often occurs from June to July, though it can extend into the breeding season, which runs from August to December.
Mayor Jos Mitchell highlighted that koalas are known to travel considerable distances and may appear in unexpected urban locations, including car parks and central business districts.
Council also noted that these young koalas frequently cross roads, making it crucial for all motorists to drive cautiously, especially at night and within signed koala zones. Dog attacks and vehicle strikes remain two of the most significant threats to koala populations.
The Koala Safe Neighbourhoods initiative is a collaborative effort between Redland City Council and local communities, designed to minimise dangers to urban koala populations and create environments where they can thrive. These neighbourhoods are an integral part of Council’s broader city-wide Koala Conservation Program 2022-2027.
When urban koalas travel through these areas, they utilise “stepping stone” trees – including both shade and food trees – found along streets, in backyards, and within parks and reserves. This travel makes them particularly vulnerable to threats such as vehicle accidents, dog attacks, habitat loss, and disease.
Ormiston was the first designated Koala Safe Neighbourhood in late 2018. Its success led to the recent addition of Birkdale, Thornlands, and Mount Cotton, which were selected based on specific criteria: the presence of an identified resident koala population, evidence of koala road accidents, and suitable habitat featuring interconnected parks, reserves, or wildlife corridors.
Each Koala Safe Neighbourhood features two to six ambassador koalas. These koalas are tagged, tracked, and monitored by research partners from the University of the Sunshine Coast Detection Dogs for Conservation, providing essential data that enhances understanding and protection efforts for all urban koalas across Redlands Coast.
The research team conducts checks every two weeks to monitor the health and movement patterns of these ambassador koalas. If health concerns arise, they collaborate closely with local rescue groups and animal welfare hospitals to ensure prompt treatment. The researchers employ best practice technology and high ethical standards for animal care, utilising highly-trained koala tracking dogs to locate new koalas for the program.
Council is also actively involved through various departments. The environmental partnerships team works with properties under koala conservation agreements within these neighbourhood catchments. The school education team offers koala conservation sessions, and the bushcare team organises community koala-friendly tree plantings.
Furthermore, the wildlife team provides local knowledge and supports rescue efforts, while the parks and conservation team focuses on habitat rehabilitation. The roads, drainage, and marine unit has assisted with smart sign trials designed to encourage drivers to be more vigilant, a measure that has proven effective in reducing koala road fatalities.
Residents living in or regularly travelling through these koala safe neighbourhoods can play a vital role. This includes slowing down when driving, particularly at dawn and dusk, and making backyards “koala safe” with poolside wildlife escape ramps or posts against fences.
Ensuring dogs are trained and secured inside at night, especially from June to December, is also crucial. Planting koala-friendly trees and sharing koala sightings with family, neighbours, or through Redlands Coast Koala Watch further aids conservation. Any sick or injured koala should be reported immediately to the Redlands 24-hour Wildlife Rescue Service on 07 3833 4031.
Published Date 17-Jun-2025
Photo Credit: Redland City Council
We’ve combed Ormiston and Wellington Point for the best reviewed restaurants in the area where people waxed lyrical about their dining experience and what they love most about it. Here’s our list!
2/623 Main Rd, Wellington Point QLD 4160
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alexy0385
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First time here, was a wonderful afternoon. All staff were attentive and friendly. The food was divine!! And the whole atmosphere was perfect. Nice hum in the air. Not too noisy, even though the place was packed! Will be returning
Chris T
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The staff were very accommodating to our puppies. We had items from the lunch menu which were delicious and came out quickly. The pork belly was nice but I wasn’t a fan of the big chunks of radish. However the burger and steak frites were great. Definitely a lovely local spot with a great deli next door and beautiful views. We will back back to sample the breakfast menu. Thanks to the team for making our experience really lovely!
Jane L
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Our first time here for Sunday breakfast and can highly recommend. The cafe staff were welcoming and the food was excellent. The cafe itself is very well thought out and portrays class alongside the country vibe.
354 Main Rd, Wellington Point QLD 4160
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Emma K
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Delicious food, friendly staff, and chilled beautiful venue!! Amazing, well done team, definitely our new fav x
Alira B
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Friendly staff with wonderful food and amazing drinks!
Dee H
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Quiet chilled place food well prepared, great service from Jack!
3/354 Main Rd, Wellington Point QLD 4160
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Shona Taylor
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Absolutely delicious food, very friendly service from Annie. Highly recommended!
Jake
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New local for sure, great service and even better food !
Shan B
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Delicious! We ordered 4 x different meals to try and all were just beautiful. Thanks to team for the quality meal!
116 Wellington St, Ormiston QLD 4160
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Aaronn C
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What a great local gem, incredible authentic Italian food served in a lovely setting with friendly welcoming service. We couldn’t have been happier with this our latest experience here.
Tonight, we had the Pappardelle with Osso Buco and Conchiglioni Pasta Alla Calabrese. Both were incredible and highly recommended. So, so good! Look forward to coming back soon!
Ricky M
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Absolutely wonderful place. The staff are super friendly and are very welcoming. Everything is hand made and it shows in their food, sure sometimes you might have to wait a little longer but it’s totally worth it when it comes and it shows in their food, full of flavour and they love what they do you can tell.
Gino D
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Outstanding authentic high quality Italian food, easily the best in the Redlands. A must try for all seeking a fantastic dining experience.
22/24 Bainbridge St, Ormiston QLD 4160
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Bill P
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Best meal in many years. Excellent food, service music and decor. I have no hesitation in recommending Heart of Europe. Will comeback again.
Blake W
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This restaurant is fantastic! I’ve been approximately a dozen times in the last 12 months and it is consistently awesome. The service is friendly and wholesome, and the menu is small, but they nail it, and they always have a special or two as well. It is quite reasonably priced, and they offer 2 and 3 course options which is very well-priced. It’s our favourite in the area, and we are stoked to have a friendly little restaurant nearby focused on good service and great flavour. Keep doing what you’re doing guys! Especially those garlic prawns!
Krystal T
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Delicious food, great portion sizes and a beautiful ambience. What a hidden gem! Highly recommend!
Police searching a Birkdale home found a shortened firearm bolt and methamphetamine beneath a woman’s bed, leading to serious court charges.
A Birkdale woman has avoided jail after police discovered illegal weapon parts and drugs hidden under her bed during a home search, raising concern among locals about safety in the quiet bayside suburb.
The search was carried out on 24 February, when officers found a bolt for a shortened firearm and a pistol barrel stashed beneath the woman’s bed. They also located used syringes, methamphetamine, cannabis and drug utensils during the raid at her home.
Tara-Lee Beryl McTackett, 30, returned to court after being found with drugs and syringes in her car on 29 March in Cleveland. She had previously received a suspended sentence for similar offences.
McTackett pleaded guilty to possessing dangerous drugs, drug utensils, weapon parts and failing to dispose of syringes. Magistrate Deborah Vasta told the court she had “exhausted her chances” after breaching the earlier court order so soon.
McTackett avoided jail and was instead given 15 months’ probation, along with mandatory therapy and drug testing. The court also activated four months of a prior suspended sentence, which she will serve on parole.
Her lawyer said trauma, untreated PTSD and a period of homelessness had contributed to her drug use. The magistrate ordered all drugs, utensils and weapon parts to be permanently forfeited.
Birkdale locals have voiced concern over crimes like this happening in their usually quiet suburb. The case has prompted discussion about the need for better support for people facing addiction and mental health issues.
Police found no evidence the weapon parts were assembled or that McTackett intended to sell drugs. The court stressed her rehabilitation would be monitored closely, warning that further breaches could lead to jail.
Published 2-June-2025
Featured Photo Credit: Canva / For Illustration Purpose Only
