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Sherwood Barbecue Fire Leaves Brisbane Family Without Home

A family barbecue in Sherwood turned into a fast-moving house fire that tore through a two-storey Brisbane home, forcing residents to flee as thick smoke and loud explosions spread across the neighbourhood. Fire crews arrived to find the property heavily engulfed, while nearby residents gathered on the street watching firefighters battle flames that could be seen above surrounding homes.

The fire broke out on Lance Street in Sherwood on 9 May, shortly after 1:30 p.m. Queensland Fire Department crews responded after a barbecue on an outdoor deck was believed to have caught alight before the flames spread into the house.

Emergency responders worked for about an hour to bring the blaze under control as smoke poured through the suburb’s residential streets. Video footage showed firefighters using aerial hoses while parts of the roof collapsed into the building.

Neighbours Heard Explosions as Fire Spread

Residents living nearby reported hearing shouting and several explosions as the fire intensified. Some neighbours rushed outside after seeing smoke rise above the property, while others watched emergency crews move quickly to stop the flames from spreading to nearby homes.

Early updates posted on a local community Facebook page stated firefighters were responding to reports of a barbecue fire that had spread from the back deck into the house. The property, described in multiple reports as a Queenslander-style home, suffered severe structural damage during the blaze.

Sherwood Community Watches After Family Loses Home

Several reports stated six people were displaced by the fire as the home was left heavily damaged. Images from the scene showed blackened walls, collapsed sections of roofing and debris scattered around the property after crews extinguished the flames.

While investigators continue examining the exact cause, emergency services believe the barbecue may have been left running before the fire started. Authorities have not reported any serious injuries linked to the incident.

Published 13-May-2026

Liam Paro Chases Two-Division Glory at Pat Rafter Arena

Photo Credit: No Limit Boxing

The Pat Rafter Arena in Tennyson is set to host Liam Paro’s IBF welterweight title fight against Lewis Crocker, with the Queensland boxer trying to become Australia’s first male two-division world champion since Jeff Fenech.

Paro will fight unbeaten Northern Irish champion Lewis Crocker for the IBF welterweight world title on 24 June. The bout comes after months of negotiations between promoters and follows a successful purse bid by Australian promotion company No Limit Boxing, which secured the rights to stage the title fight in Queensland.

The Pat Rafter Arena also staged a Paro win over French fighter David Papot last year during the venue’s first major boxing card.

Liam Paro steps up to welterweight after Puerto Rico title win

Paro enters the fight after a major overseas win in 2024. In June that year, the Mackay-born southpaw travelled to Puerto Rico and defeated Subriel Matias to claim the IBF super lightweight world title, handing Matias a loss in front of his home crowd.

Since then, Paro has moved from super lightweight to welterweight and now faces another major test against Crocker, who remains unbeaten in 22 professional fights. Paro viewed the chance to fight for another world title in Australia as an important moment for both his career and local boxing supporters.

If Paro defeats Crocker, he will become the first Australian male boxer since Jeff Fenech to win recognised world titles in two weight divisions.

Lewis Crocker brings unbeaten record into Brisbane title defence

Crocker arrives in Australia carrying both the IBF welterweight belt and an undefeated professional record. Reports describe the Belfast fighter as a dangerous puncher, particularly with his left hand.

Paro has already won a world title overseas, while Crocker is making his first defence as IBF welterweight champion. Crocker will defend the IBF world welterweight title against Paro in Brisbane as part of a major international event for both fighters.

Paro’s side has pointed to his world-title experience, including the win over Matias, as a key part of his case against Crocker.

Pat Rafter Arena lands another major boxing event

The bout gives Pat Rafter Arena another major boxing card after hosting Paro’s win over Papot last year. Better known as a tennis venue, the arena hosted boxing last year and will now stage an IBF world-title bout in Brisbane.

No Limit Boxing won the rights to host the title fight after submitting a purse bid worth more than $1.15 million, narrowly beating Matchroom Boxing.

No Limit boss Matt Rose reportedly described Paro as one of Australia’s leading boxing talents and viewed the event as another opportunity to bring major international fights back to local fans instead of sending Australian fighters overseas.

The event will mark Brisbane’s first world-title boxing contest since Jeff Horn defeated Manny Pacquiao at Suncorp Stadium in 2017, which drew over 51,000 spectators.

Published 13-May-2026

Family Dream Becomes Reality at New Graceville Vietnamese Cafe

Photo Credit: Oli Sandwich/ Instagram

Graceville residents are set to welcome a new family-run eatery on Honour Avenue that transforms a mother’s long-term dream into a fresh destination for authentic Vietnamese street food.

A Dream Realised on Honour Avenue

vietnamese — *Photo Credit:* *Oli Sandwich/ Instagram*

The upcoming launch of Oli’s Banh Mi marks a significant milestone for local resident Stephanie Tran, who developed the business as a way to contribute to the neighbourhood she loves. Inspired by her son, the shop serves as a bridge between her heritage and the local community, offering a space that feels both personal and welcoming.

The design of the shop focuses on a calm atmosphere, using soft green colours, curved walls, and plenty of indoor plants to create a peaceful environment for customers to visit.

Fresh Flavours and Traditional Techniques

The menu focuses on simple, high-quality ingredients that highlight the bold tastes of Vietnam. Located within walking distance of the Graceville train station, the kitchen prepares classic baguettes daily, ensuring every sandwich has the perfect crunch. Customers can choose from several traditional fillings, such as crispy roast pork with crackling, lemongrass-marinated chicken, or cold cuts served with rich pâté.

Every order is put together on the spot, allowing people to choose their preferred level of fresh chilli alongside the standard mix of pickled carrots, daikon, cucumber, and coriander.

More Than Just Sandwiches

While the signature baguettes are the main draw, the shop also offers a variety of other traditional meals and specialty drinks. For those looking for lighter options, the menu includes fresh rice paper rolls and vermicelli bowls topped with grilled meats.

Traditional snacks like skewers and seasoned fries are also available for a quick bite. To wash it down, the cafe serves a wide range of drinks, from modern iced matcha and hojicha lattes to traditional Vietnamese coffee made with condensed milk or a unique salted-cream topping.

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Serving the Graceville Community

Although the business is designed for quick service to suit busy commuters and locals on the move, there is a small area for those who wish to sit and eat. The shop typically operates from mid-morning through the afternoon, but the kitchen stays open only as long as the fresh bread lasts for the day. As the business grows, there are future goals to expand the seating area and add even more variety to the food selection.

Published Date 12-May-2026

Graceville Bungalow Draws Four-Way Contest Before $2.525 Million Sale

Photo Credit: Ray White Sherwood

An unrenovated 1920s bungalow in Graceville has shown the pull of large inner-west blocks, selling for $2.525 million after four bidders competed for the chance to reshape a character home on 810sqm.

A Graceville Auction Built Around Land And Potential

The two-bedroom home at 27 Verney Road West drew interest from both local and interstate buyers, with its value tied closely to its land size, position and future possibilities.

Bidding opened at $1.7 million before moving quickly to $2 million, setting up a contest that continued through a mix of $100,000 rises and smaller increases of $5000 and $1000.

The final stage narrowed to a local family and a Sydney couple after bidding paused at $2.5 million. Negotiations followed before the interstate buyers secured the property.

The buyers have ties to the suburb and plan to transform the bungalow into a retirement home.

Graceville bungalow — Photo Credit: Ray White Sherwood

Character Home On A Double Lot

The house was marketed as a 1920s bungalow with two bedrooms, one bathroom, a central living and dining area, a kitchen and single car accommodation.

Set on an elevated, flood-free 810sqm double lot with a 20-metre frontage, the property retains original character details including VJ walls, high ceilings and traditional decorative features.

Its current condition left clear scope for work, with the listing identifying potential to renovate, raise, extend or subdivide, subject to approval.

The block also has a wide, level front lawn, leafy outlooks and river glimpses to the rear, adding to the appeal of a site positioned among established homes.

Brisbane property — Photo Credit: Ray White Sherwood

A Strong Return Since 2021

The property last sold in 2021 for $1.8 million after being bought as a renovation project. Its owners later kept it as a rental before choosing to sell.

The $2.525 million auction result delivered a 40 per cent gain and was recorded as the highest auction sale across south-east Queensland for the week.

The campaign was handled by Ray White Sherwood, with Cameron Crouch and Shay Watene listed on the sale.

Why The Graceville Address Stood Out

The Graceville address placed the home close to local amenities, including cafes, restaurants and Regent Cinemas. Indooroopilly Shopping Centre is 2.5km away, while the Brisbane CBD is 9.5km from the property.

Graceville train station is about 600m away. The home is also near parks and playgrounds, 900m from Christ the King Primary School, and within the Sherwood State School and Indooroopilly State High School catchments.

For buyers weighing up older homes with renovation demands, the Graceville sale showed how strongly land, location and future use can shape value. In this case, the home’s unrenovated state did not stop four bidders from competing for a large block in a tightly held inner-west street.

Published 7-May-2026

La Vaca Brings Slow-Cooked Traditions to Sherwood

Photo Credit: La Vaca

Sherwood residents now have a dedicated home for Latin-style barbecue following the arrival of La Vaca, a premium casual eatery specialising in traditional fire-grilled meats and slow-cooked ribs.

The restaurant recently began welcoming guests for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Local diners can visit the new venue to experience a menu built around the ritual of the hearth, where patience and high heat are used to transform quality ingredients. While the establishment is now fully operational, the owners are focusing on building a steady presence within the local community.

A Focus on Fire and Tradition

The culinary team at La Vaca describes their approach as an obsession with taking meat seriously. They aim to move beyond standard steakhouse offerings by honouring the traditions of the grill.

By combining the smoky techniques common in American barbecue with vibrant Latin American flavours, the kitchen has developed a unique style of cooking. The menu focuses on the depth of flavour found in slow-cooked meats and ribs, alongside a selection of spirits like bourbon and whisky.

Quality Over Formality

The dining experience is designed to be high-quality without the need for a formal atmosphere. The creators of the brand believe that a premium meal is defined by the quality of the food and the drinks provided rather than white tablecloths. Every dish served is intended for sharing, encouraging a social environment for families and friends. They view their cooking as a language that connects with people through shared meals and intentional preparation.

Supporting the Local Scene

While the food has received high praise from early visitors, some community members have noted that the dining room remains quiet during several shifts. Regular patrons have reported that the quality of the meals has remained high across multiple visits, expressing a desire for more locals to discover the spot. There is a growing sentiment among Sherwood residents that supporting new businesses is essential to ensure the diverse dining scene in the area continues to thrive.

Published Date 05-May-2026

From Graceville State School to Neighbouring Aged Care Homes: A Friendship Finds Its Way Back

Decades ago, Ula and Elizabeth’s daughters attended Graceville State School together, and the two mothers formed a close friendship along the way. From that shared corner of suburban Brisbane, they forged a bond that would stretch across the years and, as it turns out, prove remarkably difficult to extinguish.

Read: Graceville State School Joins Active School Travel Program

The pair lost touch nearly a decade ago, as life so often dictates. But recently, an unexpected discovery in an aged care home newsletter quietly undid all that lost time.

Ula, a resident at Regis Chelmer, was flicking through her home’s monthly resident newsletter when a familiar face stopped her cold. There, in print, was her long-lost friend Elizabeth, living at Regis Holland Park, just a 20-minute drive away.

It is the kind of coincidence that feels almost engineered. Two women, whose friendship was forged in a Graceville schoolyard, had each found their way to neighbouring Regis aged care homes, and neither had known it.

Once Ula flagged her discovery with staff at Regis Chelmer, the wheels were set in motion. Employees at Regis Chelmer arranged a reunion, and the two friends were brought back together for what, by all accounts, was an emotional morning.

For Elizabeth, the moment of seeing her friend again carried a weight that is hard to put into words.

“It was just wonderful, seeing my lovely friend Ula again,” she said. “When we said goodbye, I didn’t want to let her go.”

Ula felt it too, that rare and quietly astonishing sensation of a friendship simply resuming, as though the intervening years were little more than a long weekend.

“Our friendship has truly been a happy story,” she said. “It feels like no time has passed at all, we just picked up right where we left off.”

There is something particular about the friendships formed in the parenthood years, standing at school fences, sharing the quiet pride of watching your children find their footing in the world. Those bonds, built on the ordinary rhythms of school drop-offs and afternoon pickups, can run surprisingly deep. For Ula and Elizabeth, a friendship born in Graceville clearly did.

Regis, the proudly Australian-owned aged care provider that operates both Chelmer and Holland Park homes, has facilities across the country and has built its reputation on person-centred care, shaping services around the individual rather than the other way around. In this case, that ethos extended to recognising the importance of a resident’s social and emotional world, and acting on it.

The reunion, it turns out, is just the beginning. The geographical closeness of the two homes has opened the door to regular inter-home visits, and the next catch-up is already in the diary. Ula and Elizabeth are set to attend a high tea together on 19 May, a fitting occasion for two women whose friendship has endured the test of time.

For families with elderly loved ones, stories like this one carry a gentle but important reminder: meaningful connection does not have an expiry date. The simple act of reconnecting a resident with a lost friend, sparked here by nothing more than a newsletter photograph, can make an outsized difference to a person’s sense of belonging and joy.

Read: Graceville Volunteer Katie McCord Recognised as Youth Award Finalist

In Graceville and its surrounding suburbs, community ties can run long and deep. Perhaps it is not so surprising that a school friendship from years gone by found its way back to the surface. Some connections, it seems, simply wait.

Published 30-April-2026

Works to Begin on Graceville Riverside Parklands Transformation

Photo Credit: Sustainable Brisbane

A well-used stretch of riverside in Graceville is set for a major overhaul, with a multi-million-dollar upgrade to Graceville Riverside Parklands expected to reshape how locals use the space — from weekend picnics to community events and nature play.

Construction is scheduled to begin at the end of April 2026, with works expected to wrap up by late 2026, weather permitting, according to Sustainable Brisbane.

From local park to key gateway along Oxley Creek

The upgrade forms part of the long-term Oxley Creek Transformation, a major project led by Brisbane City Council and delivered by the Brisbane Sustainability Agency to improve access to green space and restore the creek corridor.

Planning documents show the Graceville site is intended to act as a key entry point where the Brisbane River meets Oxley Creek, linking locals and visitors to a wider network of trails and recreation areas. The concept has been in development for several years, following community consultation and planning work captured in the Graceville Riverside Parklands Precinct Plan.

This outlines a shift from a traditional neighbourhood park to a larger destination space designed to support a wider range of activities.

New play areas, gathering spaces and picnic facilities

Stage 1 works will focus on updating ageing infrastructure while adding new features designed for everyday use.

Plans include a nature-based play space built around the existing boat-themed playground, alongside a larger open lawn designed to host local events and informal recreation. Picnic areas will also be upgraded with new shelters, seating and electric barbecues.

The project will replace older equipment and structures, while adding new amenities such as bike racks, water bubblers and improved pathways to make the park easier to access.

Environmental work to strengthen river and creek habitat

Alongside recreation upgrades, the project includes environmental works aimed at improving the health of the riverbank.

This involves planting native vegetation and managing weeds to widen the riparian corridor along both the Brisbane River and Oxley Creek. These changes are intended to stabilise the banks and improve habitat for local wildlife while keeping views and access for park users.

The broader transformation project has been described as a long-term effort to restore the environmental condition of Oxley Creek and open up areas that were previously less accessible to the public.

Temporary closures expected during construction

Parts of the park will be closed at different stages while construction is underway, affecting access to some paths, playground areas and picnic spots.

Project updates shared via Facebook note that nearby green spaces such as Sherwood Arboretum and Ken Fletcher Park can be used while work continues.

Brisbane Sustainability Agency has stated it will aim to limit disruption where possible and provide clear signage around work zones to maintain safe access.

Joint funding supports $3 million upgrade

The project is jointly funded, with support from the Australian Government through the Thriving Suburbs Program alongside investment from the Brisbane Sustainability Agency under the Oxley Creek Transformation.

Funding contributions include $1.47 million from the federal government, forming part of an overall project value of about $3 million.

Graceville Netball Leader Paula Sale Earns Top Queensland Honour

Photo Credit: Netball Queensland

A long-time netball leader from Graceville has been recognised among Queensland’s most dedicated community volunteers, with Western Districts Netball Association official Paula Sale awarded Honorary Life Membership by Netball Queensland for her decades of work supporting grassroots sport at Faulkner Park.

The honour was announced at Netball Queensland’s annual general meeting, where Sale was recognised alongside Downey Park’s Diana Moore for their lasting contributions to the sport across Brisbane, as outlined in the official announcement.

From family involvement to long-term leadership at Faulkner Park

Ms Sale’s connection to netball began in 2002 when her daughters joined Western Districts Netball Association, based in Graceville. What started as helping at games soon grew into a long-term role across coaching, umpiring and administration.

Over the years, she took on leadership roles within the association, helping guide its direction while supporting players, coaches and volunteers. Her work has remained closely tied to Faulkner Park, where generations of local players have come through the ranks.

Helping rebuild after floods and keep sport running through change

Sale’s contribution has extended beyond competition seasons, particularly during times of disruption. She was involved in efforts to support the association through COVID-19, helping competitions return while managing changing health requirements.

When flooding affected facilities in Graceville, she played a role in recovery work, helping the association restore operations and secure funding for upgrades. Her involvement in grants and planning contributed to improvements that continue to benefit the local netball community.

These efforts were reflected in a community discussion on disaster recovery, which outlined how leadership at Western Districts helped the club respond and rebuild.

Supporting local players and strengthening community pathways

In her roles as community liaison officer and grant coordinator, as listed on the association’s committee page, Sale has helped connect players and families with opportunities in the sport.

Her work has included supporting participation programs and ensuring pathways remain available for players at different levels, from juniors starting out to those aiming for higher competition.

This behind-the-scenes work has helped maintain strong participation at Western Districts and kept netball accessible to families across Graceville and surrounding suburbs.

Recognition built on years of service to the local game

The Honorary Life Membership awarded by Netball Queensland recognises Sale’s long-standing involvement across multiple areas of the sport, including leadership, development and community support.

While the honour is given at a state level, much of Sale’s impact has been felt locally at Faulkner Park, where she has spent years helping the association grow and adapt.

Her recognition reflects the role of volunteers in sustaining community sport, with much of the work happening away from the spotlight but shaping the experience for players each week.

Published 29-April-2026

Sherwood’s Beloved Festival Is Back After a Year Away, and It Needs Your Hands to Make It Happen

Sherwood Festival

The Sherwood Community Festival returns to the Arboretum on Saturday 16 May 2026, marking its 30th year, and the all-volunteer committee is calling on locals to give an hour or two of their time to help bring the 4075’s biggest free community day back to life.

After the 2025 festival was cancelled due to poor ground conditions at the Arboretum, the return this May carries extra significance for a community that has rallied around this event for three decades. The festival draws up to 10,000 visitors to Sherwood Arboretum each year and runs entirely on volunteer effort, from the committee that spends twelve months planning it down to the people who set up gazebos at dawn and pack the last chair away at the end of the day.

Without enough hands on deck, an event of this scale simply cannot happen, and with 16 May now just weeks away, the team is actively looking for day-of volunteers across a range of roles.

Find Your Role on the Day

There are five volunteer roles, each suited to different interests and energy levels.

Sherwood Festival returns on 16th May — Photo Credit: Cr Nicole Johnston/Facebook

The Production Team is the crew that transforms an empty arboretum into a festival. They arrive early, put up gazebos, set out chairs, hang signage and get the whole site ready before the gates open. If you like being active and want to see an event come together from the ground up, this one is for you.

The Info Tent is the community’s first point of contact during the day. Volunteers there hand out programs, help visitors find food stalls and stages, and keep people informed about what’s on next. It is a prime viewing spot, and it suits anyone who enjoys a conversation and wants to make visitors feel genuinely welcome.

Workshop Helpers work in the Arts Hub, setting out materials for painting and hands-on crafts, giving a hand to anyone who needs it, and keeping tables tidy between sessions. It is a relaxed role well suited to anyone who enjoys a creative atmosphere and wants to help local families get into making things together.

Stage Runners are the link between performers and the stage, making sure musicians and speakers get where they need to be on time. The Arbor Green and Fig Tree stages both host local bands, schools and performing arts groups across the day, and this role puts you right in the middle of that energy.

Stewards move around the full festival site, helping people find their way and making sure the grounds stay safe and tidy for the thousands of families, children and visitors coming through. It lets you experience the whole festival atmosphere while playing a genuinely useful role.

Thirty Years of Showing Up for Each Other

The Sherwood Community Festival traces its origins to 1995, when a small group of Sherwood Road traders organised a pavement event to bring people to the shopping strip as banks and businesses began to close. That first event had a handful of stalls and a straightforward purpose: keep the community connected to its local street.

Over the following three decades it grew into a full street festival with road closures, then shifted to its current home at Sherwood Arboretum where it has expanded to more than 100 stalls, four performance spaces, free rides and face painting, an Arts Hub, food trucks and a sausage sizzle, all free to attend.

The festival has always run off the same foundation: the generosity of people willing to give a bit of their Saturday to something bigger than themselves. The committee is made up entirely of volunteers, many of whom give a few hours a week across the year to handle everything from grant applications and sponsor relationships to site logistics and entertainment programming.

On the day itself, those roles multiply and the event lives or dies on how many extra pairs of hands show up.

How to Put Your Hand Up

Volunteer registration for the Sherwood Community Festival on Saturday 16 May 2026 is open now. You can sign up for as little as an hour or two, in whichever role suits you best. To register, click here and fill out the expression of interest form. The committee will be in touch to confirm details.

The Sherwood Arboretum is at 87 Jolimont Street, Sherwood. The train station sits at the end of the street, making it easy to get to without a car.

Published 24-April-2026

More Boots on the Ground for Queensland as Oxley Academy Milestone Met

Photo Credit: Queensland Police

A major surge in police presence is set to change the face of Queensland neighbourhoods following the graduation of dozens of new officers at the Oxley police academy.

This recent ceremony at Oxley marked the final step for 61 recruits who are now moving into active duty across the state. Their entry into the force signifies the completion of a massive recruitment push that has added more than 1,600 new staff to the frontline in less than a year and a half.

These officers represent a diverse group of people, with ages ranging from 24 to 52. Many of them are starting second careers, bringing their previous life experience from jobs in teaching, the military, and prison security to their new roles in law enforcement.

Diverse Backgrounds Supporting Local Needs

oxley — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police*

The new officers come from many different walks of life and include people who have moved to Queensland from countries like Wales, Scotland, and England. Acting Commissioner Brett Pointing noted that this variety is a strength for the service because it reflects the different types of people living in the communities where these officers will work.

By having a workforce with varied skills and cultural backgrounds, the police service aims to better understand and support residents in both busy coastal cities and smaller outback towns.

Boosting Resources Across the State

These additional resources are being spread out to ensure every corner of Queensland feels the benefit of the increased numbers. Large groups have been sent to the Far North and both the north and south sides of Brisbane to address local safety concerns.

Regional areas like Townsville and the Gold Coast are also seeing significant increases in their local police numbers. Premier David Crisafulli stated that providing these extra boots on the ground is part of a wider goal to give the police service the tools they need to protect residents more effectively.

A Long-Term Plan for Community Security

The arrival of these 1625 recruits is intended to help ease the pressure on existing staff and improve response times for local families. Minister for Police Dan Purdie explained that these new officers are already starting work in areas where they are needed most. The government plans to continue this growth by combining the increase in staff with updated laws and better support programmes for young people. This multi-layered approach is designed to create a more stable and secure environment for all Queenslanders as the new graduates begin their careers.

Published Date 31-March-2026