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Graceville Collector’s Rare Bottles on Display at the Museum of Brisbane

A unique exhibition at the Museum of Brisbane showcases the rare and historic bottle collection of Graceville resident Barry Walker alongside thousands of eclectic items from collectors across southeast Queensland.

Graceville Collector Showcases Rare Bottles

Barry Walker, a long-time resident of Graceville and an avid collector of glass and stoneware bottles, is sharing his passion with the public through the Museum of Brisbane’s latest exhibition, Precious. The display, running daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., highlights more than 3500 items from over 30 collections, celebrating the stories behind each piece.

Mr Walker’s fascination with bottles began in the early 1960s when, as a child in Rockhampton, he discovered two unique bottles behind his school. Intrigued by their history, he began collecting, restoring, and selling glass and stoneware bottles. His collection, which has grown significantly over the decades, is renowned for its Queensland-made historic bottles and other unique items.

Glass bottle, Helidon Spa — *Caption: A Helidon Spa glass bottle similar to Barry Walker’s collections. (For Illustration Purposes Only)*
*Photo Credit: Queensland Historical Atlas*

The Exhibition and Its Eclectic Collections

Precious is one of the largest exhibitions held at the Museum of Brisbane, featuring objects ranging from antique beaded purses and vintage dental tools to model ships and Queensland Rugby League memorabilia. The show offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of dedicated collectors and the stories behind their treasures.

Among the highlights of Mr Walker’s contribution is a pink glass soda siphon from the Helidon Spa Company Brisbane, dating back approximately 100 years. Mr Walker’s dedication to authenticity also extends to his involvement in film and television productions, where he lends his bottles as historically accurate props. Notably, his collection was featured in The Great Gatsby and Boy Swallows Universe.

A Legacy of Bottling History

Beyond the exhibition, Mr Walker continues his passion from his Graceville home, where he meticulously cleans bottles in a backyard shed using a specialised machine. As a leading figure in the Queensland Historical Bottle Club, he also engages with buyers and collectors worldwide, often fulfilling requests for specific bottles that hold sentimental value.

Mr Walker’s commitment to the craft has brought him unexpected opportunities, including international connections and local community engagement. The exhibition not only highlights his impressive collection but also celebrates the personal stories and connections formed through his hobby.

*Caption: Mechanical toys on display at the Precious exhibition.*
*Photo Credit: Museum of Brisbane*

Exploring Brisbane’s Collecting Culture

Precious is not limited to bottle collections; it features contributions from various Brisbane collectors, including vinyl records, matchbooks, and rare band posters. The show, curated with a focus on authentic, non-plastic items, represents the city’s diverse and unique collecting culture.

Museum curator Dr Sarah Engledow emphasised that collecting is a personal journey. It reflects the collector’s life and experiences.

Running until autumn 2026, the Precious exhibition at the Museum of Brisbane offers an immersive experience into the world of collectors like Barry Walker. Graceville’s own bottle enthusiast preserves Queensland’s history and continues to inspire with his dedication and passion for his craft.

Published 5-Apr-2025

Confirmed: Queensland Tennis Centre Set for Major Upgrade for 2032 Olympics

Authorities have confirmed that Tennis Queensland has secured the critical funding it needs, as part of the State’s 2032 Delivery Plan. This investment will support a range of upgrades designed to enhance both player and spectator experiences while leaving a lasting sporting legacy.

Read: Queensland Tennis Centre Needs Upgrades or Risks Losing Olympics

Queensland Tennis Centre Upgrades

The highlight of the expansion is a brand-new 3,000-seat roofed arena, offering an enhanced viewing experience and all-weather capabilities. Additionally, 12 new International Tennis Federation (ITF) specification courts will be constructed to meet the minimum requirements for Olympic and Paralympic competition.

Player facilities will also be upgraded to accommodate the large influx of athletes, support personnel, and spectators expected during the Games.

Tennis Queensland CEO, Cameron Pearson, expressed his enthusiasm for the announcement, emphasising the importance of these upgrades in ensuring the QTC remains a premier venue.

“While the QTC initially met community and event needs when it opened in 2009, it requires essential upgrades to be fit for purpose for the Olympic and Paralympic tennis events – this funding is critical to deliver that,” Pearson stated.

Tennis Australia CEO, Craig Tiley, also welcomed the funding, highlighting the centre’s vital role in the success of the Games.

“The Queensland Tennis Centre is integral to the success of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032, and we are delighted to be able to host this major event in what will be a world-class venue,” Tiley said.

“This project will deliver significant economic benefits for Queensland, and at the same time inspire future generations of tennis players and fans, ensuring a lasting legacy that stays within the state for years to come.”

A Lasting Sporting Legacy

Beyond the 2032 Olympics, the Queensland Tennis Centre enhancements will offer long-term benefits by addressing the growing community demand for tennis court access. The upgraded facility will also serve as a premier venue for future major events, including the prestigious Brisbane International.

Read: Ash Barty Comparisons Abound as Emerson Jones Rises from Tennyson Courts

The 2032 Delivery Plan outlines a total of 14 new and existing venue upgrades across Queensland, reflecting the State’s commitment to delivering world-class sporting infrastructure. The Queensland Tennis Centre expansion marks a significant step forward in ensuring Brisbane is well-prepared to host the world’s best athletes while fostering a strong sporting culture for future generations.

Published 26-March-2025

Sherwood Arboretum Marked 100 Years with Community Celebration

Photo Credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook

Sherwood marked a milestone as locals gathered to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the Sherwood Arboretum, Brisbane’s only native tree botanic garden.

Historical Roots Celebrated

The Sherwood Arboretum, officially opened on 21 March 1925, commemorated its centenary with a series of celebrations held over the past week. Established on World Forestry Day, the 15-hectare site began with the planting of 72 Queensland Kauri Pines and has become a heritage-listed landmark dedicated to Australian native trees.

Originally used for growing bananas, cotton, and sugarcane, the Arboretum evolved into one of Brisbane’s most significant green spaces and remains the city’s only dedicated arboretum.

Centenary Picnic Brings Community Together

The Sherwood Arboretum Centenary Picnic took place on Sunday, 23 March 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., drawing families, long-time residents, and visitors. Attendees brought picnic rugs and enjoyed live music, wildlife displays, vintage car exhibitions, and giant lawn games. Children engaged in nature-based activities, while guided walks and archery added to the day’s festivities.

Public were encouraged to arrive by public transport or active travel, with no vehicle parking available onsite. Despite recent weather conditions caused by Cyclone Alfred, the celebrations proceeded as planned.

Tree Plantings Honour a Century of Growth

Ahead of Sunday’s event, centenary commemorations included official ceremonies and tree plantings. City official Adrian Schrinner joined community representatives and the Friends of Sherwood Arboretum in planting two Black Kauri trees — one of three Queensland-native Kauri species — to mark the milestone.

Several other trees were added to the new Arbor Walk, a centenary project developed by Brisbane Botanic Gardens to enhance the site’s entry pathway.

Environmental Legacy Maintained

The Arboretum now features more than 1,350 trees representing around 250 native Australian species. It is home to over 124 known bird species, including ducks, owls, and parrots, alongside gliders and bats. In recent years, BCC added nesting boxes, a nature-inspired playground beneath the site’s fig trees, and new signage to label native flora.

According to Mr Schrinner, the Arboretum remains one of the city’s most important conservation areas, thanks in part to contributions by local school students and community volunteers.

Tree Planting — *Photo Credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook*

Generations Joined the Celebration

Guests included students from Sherwood and Graceville State Schools and St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School, along with residents who travelled from as far as Tasmania. Local city officials and civic leaders attended, including Ms Tracy Davis, Ms Nicole Johnston, and Ms Penny Wolff.

The event highlighted the Arboretum’s role as a place for generations of families to relax, exercise and connect with nature.

Looking Forward

BCC reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Sherwood Arboretum for future generations. Local leaders acknowledged the vision of those who established the site in 1925 and praised the community’s ongoing dedication to its care and protection.

Published 25-Mar-2025

Australian Team Announced for Billie Jean King Cup in Tennyson

Photo Credit: Tennis Australia/ Facebook

Five Australian women, including debutant Maya Joint, will battle Kazakhstan and Colombia at Pat Rafter Arena in Tennyson for a spot in the Billie Jean King Cup Finals.

The Australian Billie Jean King Cup team, led by captain Sam Stosur, is set to compete in Brisbane next month. The team includes Kimberly Birrell, Ajla Tomljanovic, Ellen Perez, and Storm Hunter, alongside 18-year-old Maya Joint, who will make her international debut.

Sixteen-year-old Emerson Jones will join the team as the Orange Girl and gain experience training with the senior players. The competition will occur at Pat Rafter Arena in Tennyson from 10 to 12 April, 2025.

Team Selection and Expectations

Australian Team Announced for Billie Jean King Cup in Tennyson — *Photo Credit:* *Billie Jean King Cup/ Facebook*

Stosur expressed her excitement about the team, highlighting Birrell’s recent form, achieving a career-high world ranking. She also emphasised Tomljanovic’s experience, competitive spirit, and the strength that Perez and Hunter bring to the doubles matches, especially following Hunter’s return from injury.

Stosur believes that Joint has earned her place in the team after a successful 12 months and is confident that she will perform well in her debut. The captain also spoke about the importance of including Jones as the Orange Girl, recognising her as a promising young player who will benefit from the experience.

BUY TICKETS

Competition Details and Opponents

Australia will face Kazakhstan and Colombia in a series of ties, each consisting of two singles and one doubles match. The winners of each group will advance to the Billie Jean King Cup Finals in Shenzhen, China, in November. Kazakhstan will be led by top-10 player Elena Rybakina and three-time major quarterfinalist Yulia Putintseva, while Colombia will feature former world No.33 Camila Osorio.

The matches will be played on hard courts at Pat Rafter Arena. The first match will see Australia play Kazakhstan on Thursday, 10 April, at 12:00 p.m AEST. Colombia versus Kazakhstan will follow on Friday, 11 April, at 12:00 p.m. AEST, and Australia versus Colombia will follow on Saturday, 12 April, at 12:00 p.m. AEST.

Community and Ticket Information

The event aims to be accessible to the community, with kids entering free across all three days and adult tickets starting from $20. Two-day ticket packages for the Australian sessions are available from $30. Tickets are available for purchase through Ticketmaster. The event is expected to draw a large crowd, with local support for the Australian team.

Published Date 18-March-2025

Push to Reopen Tennyson Rail Line Ahead of Brisbane 2032 Olympics

There are renewed calls to reopen the Tennyson rail line to help reduce road congestion and improve public transport in the area, particularly with the 2032 Olympic Games on the horizon.

Read: Could Reopening the Tennyson Line Solve Brisbane’s Suburban Transport Issues?

Michael Berkman, Member for Maiwar, has renewed his 2021 push to reinstate passenger services on the Tennyson line, arguing that improved cross-suburban transport links are crucial for the city’s future.

“With the Olympics in 2032, including tennis events at the Tennyson Centre, now is the time to begin planning these cross-suburban links,” Berkman stated.

Tennyson Trail Line Map (Photo credit: michaelberkman.com.au)

He highlighted the potential benefits of reopening the line, stating that residents near Indooroopilly or Toowong stations could reach the southside more efficiently without having to travel through the city. Additionally, commuters from suburbs such as Annerley, Moorooka, and Yeerongpilly could opt for public transport instead of contributing to congestion on Brisbane’s roads.

“Longer trips, such as Ipswich to the Gold Coast or Logan to Springfield, would also become much easier,” he added.

A Better Alternative to Bridge Duplication?

Berkman also criticised past proposals for a costly $100 million duplication of the Walter Taylor Bridge. He pointed out that council modelling showed it would not ease congestion but instead create new bottlenecks at Indooroopilly and further south at Oxley and Sherwood Roads.

“I think there’s a better solution: improving local public transport,” he said. “As well as better buses and bike lanes in Sherwood and Corinda, we should investigate reopening the old Tennyson train line between Corinda and Yeerongpilly.”

Read: Preventing Bridge Strikes: Chelmer, Corinda Among Blitz Locations

The History and Future of the Tennyson Line

Photo credit: Darth Caligula/Google Maps

The Tennyson rail line, which historically connected Corinda to Yeerongpilly, was closed to passenger services in 2011, though it remains in use for freight transport. Since then, population growth in the surrounding suburbs has increased the demand for better transport options.

Translink introduced bus routes 104 and 105 to replace the train service, but they have been criticised for being slow, infrequent, and unreliable. Brisbane’s public transport system has long been noted for its lack of effective cross-suburban connections, forcing many residents to travel into the CBD before transferring to reach nearby suburbs.

Queensland Rail has previously acknowledged the potential of reopening the Tennyson line but stated that significant funding and public demand would be required. Authorities continue to monitor population trends and community interest before making any final decisions on the line’s future.

Published 19-March-2025

Graceville and Chelmer Offer Affordable Access to Top Brisbane School Catchments

Photo Credit: QASMT

Families aiming to secure a place in elite Brisbane school catchments without spending millions on a house may find opportunity in Graceville and Chelmer. These suburbs offer some of the most affordable unit options within the catchment areas of two of Queensland’s highest-ranked secondary schools—the Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) and Indooroopilly State High School.

*Photo Credit: Indooroopilly State High School*

Property Prices in Elite School Catchments

New data from PRD highlights the growing financial challenge of buying property in Brisbane’s top-performing school zones. Most high-ranked catchments require house prices above $1 million, with some surpassing $2 million. However, Graceville and Chelmer remain entry points for families prioritising education, especially for those considering units.

Both suburbs fall within the catchments for QASMT—ranked Queensland’s top secondary school based on 2024 NAPLAN results—and Indooroopilly State High School, another highly sought-after school. While house prices in these areas are relatively high, unit prices offer a more accessible entry point into these competitive catchments.

Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology — *Photo Credit: QASMT*

Cost of Buying Into Graceville and Chelmer’s Best Schools

For house buyers, Graceville’s median house price is $1.4 million, while Chelmer’s is $1.58 million. These figures remain lower than other QASMT and Indooroopilly State High School catchment suburbs, such as Toowong ($1.71 million), Indooroopilly ($1.65 million), and St Lucia ($2.05 million).

Unit buyers, however, can access these catchments at a significantly lower cost. A $550,000 unit in Chelmer requires a $110,000 deposit, while a $670,000 unit in Graceville needs a $134,000 deposit. Both prices fall below Brisbane’s median unit price of $690,000, making these suburbs some of the most affordable within these top school zones.

For those unable to afford multi-million-dollar homes in Indooroopilly, Toowong, or St Lucia, the cheaper unit options in Graceville and Chelmer provide a practical alternative.

school catchment Brisbane — *Photo Credit: Indooroopilly State High School*

Affordability Trends in Brisbane’s Best School Zones

PRD research indicates that nearly all suburbs in Brisbane’s top 10 school catchments now have median house prices above $1 million. As housing supply remains limited and demand for school catchment properties continues to rise, affordability is expected to decline further.

However, unit prices in Graceville and Chelmer continue to provide cost-effective alternatives for those prioritising school access. Families struggling to afford houses in top primary school catchments may find greater flexibility in secondary school zones, which cover a wider geographic area and offer more property choices at varying price points.

Top Brisbane School Catchments — *Photo Credit: QASMT*

Future Considerations for Buyers

With growing demand and limited availability, affordable units in Graceville and Chelmer may not remain accessible for long. Families looking to secure a place in QASMT or Indooroopilly State High School may need to act quickly before price pressures increase.

For those committed to accessing a top-ranked school, the $550,000 units in Chelmer and $670,000 units in Graceville present a cost-effective alternative to Brisbane’s multi-million-dollar house market in elite school zones.

Published 18-Mar-2025

Queensland Tennis Centre Needs Upgrades or Risks Losing Olympics

Brisbane may lose the opportunity to host tennis matches for the 2032 Olympics at the Queensland Tennis Centre in Tennyson if its facilities are not upgraded, Tennis Australia has warned.

Read: Ace Your Game with Team Brisbane Tennis in Tennyson

Tennis Queensland has proposed a $113 million upgrade to the arena, but securing funding remains a challenge. Under the proposed upgrade plan, QTC would gain a new 3,000-seat arena, eight additional courts, and temporary seating for the event. However, Tennis Australia has stressed that Brisbane’s current tennis facilities do not meet the necessary international standards.

A Tennis Australia spokesperson explained that the current facilities do not meet the required standards, which is why Tennis Queensland is seeking additional government funding as part of the Olympic review process. The spokesperson added that if the funding is not secured, Melbourne would be considered as an alternative host city.

The proposal was submitted as part of the 100-day review into infrastructure requirements for the 2032 Games. The Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority completed its report on March 8, and Queensland is expected to announce its final delivery plan on March 25.

Photo credit: Rodrigo Correa/Google Maps

Tennis Queensland chief executive Cameron Pearson highlighted the importance of the upgrades, noting that the state does not have enough courts, sufficient seating, or large enough player facilities to meet international standards.

Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell reaffirmed that the state would announce its infrastructure plans soon, emphasising the importance of making the most of the upcoming Olympic period to create a lasting legacy for the state.

Meanwhile, Nick Staikos, minister of Victoria, acknowledged that Melbourne is an attractive option for hosting the Olympics. He remarked that it was not surprising people would consider Melbourne, given its reputation for having some of the best sporting facilities in Australia.

Read: Kimberly Birrell to Lead Australia in Billie Jean King Cup Qualifier at Tennyson

Opposition Labor Shadow Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Grace Grace, called on Queensland Premier David Crisafulli to ensure the event remains in Brisbane. She argued that the investment would provide generational infrastructure for Queenslanders and questioned why future talents, such as the next Ash Barty, should not have access to world-class facilities in their home state.

The upcoming announcement on March 25 will determine whether Brisbane can secure the necessary funding or risk losing one of its Olympic events to Melbourne.

Published 17-March-2025

Cyclone Alfred Relief: Financial Assistance Available for Oxley, Corinda, and Sherwood Residents

Photo Credit: CrSarahHutton/ Facebook

Oxley, Corinda, and Sherwood residents, who suffered losses from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, can now access various financial assistance programs. Some homeowners are eligible for up to $80,000 to repair severely damaged properties.

Income Loss Support

Cyclone Alfred Relief: Financial Assistance Available for Oxley, Corinda, and Sherwood Residents — *Photo Credit:* *CrSarahHutton/ Facebook*

Australia has initiated the Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA) to provide crucial financial support to individuals who experienced income loss due to the cyclone’s impact. This short-term assistance, available for a maximum of 13 weeks, aims to help those whose earnings have fallen below the average Australian weekly income of $1,924.60.

To be eligible, individuals must be 16 years or older, Australian residents, and residents or workers within a designated Local Government Area. Individual circumstances determine the payment amount, which mirrors either the JobSeeker Payment or Youth Allowance rates. A maximum of $1,007 is paid fortnightly.

It was confirmed that individuals receiving other income support payments, such as the Age Pension or JobSeeker Payment, are not eligible for the DRA. Claims for the DRA must be submitted by 8 September 2025.

Queensland Grants: Home and Essential Needs

Queensland has established a series of financial assistance grants specifically for impacted communities, including those in Oxley, Corinda, and Sherwood. These grants address many needs, from immediate hardship to structural repairs. Emergency hardship assistance is available for essential items like food and medication, providing $180 for individuals and up to $900 for families.

Essential services hardship assistance supports those who have lost essential services for more than five days, with payments of $150 for individuals and up to $750 for families. Grants are also available to replace essential household contents, with payments up to $5,300 for families, and to assist with the safety inspection and reconnection of essential services, with up to $4,200 available for repairs.

The most substantial structural assistance grant provides up to $80,000 for uninsured, low-income owner-occupiers to repair homes rendered unsafe by the cyclone. To be eligible for these grants, residents must live in a designated affected area and meet specific income limits.

Assistance Details

Residents in Oxley, Corinda, and Sherwood seeking federal government assistance can apply through their myGov account or by contacting the Australian government emergency information line on 180 22 66.

The provided online forms can access Queensland grant applications, and assistance is available by calling the community recovery hotline at 1800 173 349. New South Wales residents can apply through their MyServiceNSW account.

Published Date 12-March-2025

Roads Near Oxley Creek Safer with Automated Flood Alerts

Photo Credit: BCC/Facebook

The Automated Flooded Road Warning System (AFRWS) installed near Oxley Creek has been critical in preventing motorists from driving into floodwaters following heavy rainfall from Ex-Cyclone Alfred. Designed to enhance road safety, the system ensures real-time alerts and road closures at flood-prone locations.

Oxley Creek Flood Warning — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

Enhancing Road Safety During Flood Events

BCC has implemented the ARFWS across several flood-prone locations, including Oxley Creek. The initiative is part of its commitment to road safety. These systems automatically detect rising floodwaters and activate LED warning signs, alerting motorists to road closures before they reach dangerous areas.

flood warning system — *Photo Credit: Chalky Hill/Facebook*

How the System Works

The AFRWS operates through solar-powered LED signage triggered when water levels exceed a predetermined safety threshold. These signs display clear “ROAD CLOSED AHEAD” and “ROAD CLOSED – NO ENTRY” messages, ensuring high visibility during both day and night. Some locations also feature remote monitoring cameras, allowing authorities to assess conditions in real-time.

The solar and battery-operated system is particularly beneficial in semi-rural areas where mains power may not be available. Its self-sufficient power source also ensures continued operation during extreme weather events, even when power outages occur.

road closure — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

AFRWS Locations Near Oxley Creek

Several key locations in the Oxley Creek area have AFRWS in place, including:

Cliveden Avenue, Corinda
Oxley Road/Oxley Station Road, Oxley
Paradise Road, Willawong/Larapinta
Pratten Street, Corinda
Sherwood Road, Rocklea

These locations were selected due to their history of flooding and potential risk to motorists during heavy rainfall.

oxley creek flood — *Photo Credit: Remah Naji/Facebook*

A Proven Flood Safety Measure

The AFRWS is part of BCC’s broader road safety initiatives. In addition to the flood warning systems, the Council has installed Wildlife Awareness Monitors (WAMs) and Speed Awareness Monitors (SAMs) in various locations to improve overall road safety.

Future expansion of the AFRWS is being considered. BCC continues to assess additional installation sites to enhance motorist safety during extreme weather events.

Looking Forward

The reliable solar-powered design and warning system’s real-time alerts are crucial in preventing drivers from entering floodwaters. As BCC continues to expand its flood safety measures, AFRWS remains essential in ensuring safer roads across the region.

Published 12-Mar-2025

Ute Army Joins Oxley Locals in Massive Post-Flood Recovery Effort

Photo Credit: Julie-AnnCampbell/Facebook

The Oxley community has mobilised in an extensive clean-up operation following the severe flooding caused by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. As floodwaters receded, residents and volunteers, including members of the Ute Army and Mud Army, wasted no time taking to the streets with brooms, pressure hoses, and utes, determined to clear away the thick mud and debris left behind.

The locals joined forces with affected homeowners to restore their properties and assist neighbours still dealing with the aftermath. Many residents with significant flood damage have deeply appreciated the swift community response.

Some families were forced to evacuate as water levels rose rapidly, while others remained in their homes, only to return to waterlogged rooms and mud-covered belongings. Local businesses and support hubs have also stepped up, offering much-needed relief to those impacted.

Residents working together on post-flood clean-up — *Photo Credit: Julie-AnnCampbell/Facebook*

Floodwaters Engulf Oxley, Prompting Emergency Response

The flooding struck Oxley suddenly, with Oxley Rd and surrounding streets submerged under fast-rising waters. Some areas were cut off, leaving residents stranded overnight as roads became impassable. While the damage was not as severe as the catastrophic 2011 and 2022 floods, many homes still suffered extensive water ingress, particularly in low-lying streets.

Floodwaters submerging Oxley Rd during Cyclone Alfred — *Photo Credit: CrSarahHutton/Facebook*

With the floodwaters now receded, the clean-up effort is in full swing. Authorities have confirmed that Oxley Rd and Oxley Station Rd are now clear and open to traffic. Street sweepers have been deployed across the area to ensure roads are safe for travel, while volunteers continue working on the hardest-hit properties.

Ute Army, Volunteers, and Community Groups Take Charge

Local leaders and community organisations have taken decisive action to assist in the recovery. The Ute Army, responding to the BCC’s call for help, has been instrumental in removing flood-damaged items and clearing debris. Residents with utes and trailers have been driving through Oxley and Corinda, offering their services to anyone in need.

Among the volunteers is a student from Brisbane Boys College, many of whom have personally experienced past floods. Their involvement reflects a strong commitment to helping fellow residents during difficult times. City officials, including Ms Julie-Ann Campbell, have also been seen in the clean-up efforts, reinforcing the importance of community solidarity.

For those still struggling with the clean-up, volunteer opportunities remain open. Community organisers urge anyone with time, a ute, or a trailer to assist. Residents can register for support through local government channels or through city official Sarah Hutton’s sign-up page.

Volunteers clearing flood debris in Oxley — *Photo Credit: Julie-AnnCampbell/Facebook*

Waste Collection and Community Support Services

To ease the burden on flood-affected households, BCC has announced a kerbside hard waste collection for damaged household goods. Green waste disposal is free at all Resource Recovery Centres, including the recently reopened Willawong facility. Additionally, temporary drop-off sites have been set up at Mt Coot-tha Carpark and Whites Hill Reserve to accommodate excess vegetation debris.

Oxley flood clean-up — *Photo Credit: CrNicoleJohnston/Facebook*

Local businesses and community hubs also play a key role in relief efforts. Riverlife has opened its doors as a support centre, providing food, phone charging, and a space for residents to rest.

Meanwhile, Casa Della Pizza has organised a free pizza giveaway at the Oxley Bowls Club carpark on Wednesday, starting from 4:30 p.m. to thank volunteers and offer meals to affected families.

The Road to Recovery: What’s Next for Oxley?

While progress is being made, the recovery process in Oxley is far from over. Residents continue to remove mud from their homes, and many are still in need of support. Authorities are encouraging those impacted to reach out for assistance and use the available waste collection services.

Despite the devastation, the overwhelming community response has demonstrated Oxley’s resilience. With neighbours supporting one another and volunteers still on the ground, the suburb is steadily rebuilding. As the clean-up continues, Oxley residents remain determined to restore their homes and businesses, proving that their community spirit is more potent than any flood.

Published 11-Mar-2025