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St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School in Corinda Celebrates NAPLAN Success

Photo Credit: St Aidan's Anglican Girls' School

St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School in Corinda has stood out among Queensland’s best. The 2024 NAPLAN results show consistent achievement among public and private institutions across the state.

Among Corinda’s notable educational institutions, St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School continues to achieve outstanding academic outcomes. Their students frequently rank among the top in Queensland for NAPLAN scores, reflecting the school’s strong emphasis on academic excellence.

Personalised Learning in a Close-Knit Community

NAPLAN — *Photo Credit:* *St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School*

With around 1,000 students from Kindergarten to Year 12, St Aidan’s provides an environment where individualised learning flourishes. The school’s smaller size allows for personalised attention and fosters strong teacher-student relationships. This tailored approach helps nurture each student’s aspirations and ensures they receive the support needed to succeed academically and personally.

Exceptional Teaching Staff and Support

St Aidan’s is known for its highly qualified teaching staff, many of whom hold doctorates or are certified as Highly Accomplished and Lead Teachers (HALT). This professional expertise ensures students receive quality instruction and guidance throughout their educational journey. The dedication of the staff contributes significantly to the school’s consistent academic success and supportive learning environment.

Diverse Extracurricular Opportunities

Beyond academics, St Aidan’s offers a wide array of extracurricular activities. Students can participate in 17 music ensembles, over 30 clubs — including coding, robotics, and debating — and various sports competitions through associations like QGSSSA. These programs help students develop diverse skills, build friendships, and foster a well-rounded education that supports their interests and talents.

Strong Values and Community Support

Founded by the Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Advent, St Aidan’s promotes core Christian values, inclusivity, and holistic education. The school emphasises compassion, resilience, and responsibility, preparing students to become leaders and engaged community members. This values-driven approach ensures students excel academically and become responsible and caring individuals.

Community Engagement and Instructional Focus

In the broader Corinda community, educational leaders and families credit the success of their schools to strong collaboration between parents, teachers, and students. Schools like Sunnybank Hills State School highlighted the importance of explicit instruction and differentiated learning, which help boost NAPLAN performance.

These successes mirror broader trends in Queensland, where independent and selective schools frequently dominate rankings. However, the achievements of public schools in Corinda reflect the strength of community-focused education and consistent instructional strategies.

Looking Ahead

The 2024 NAPLAN results provide insight into educational strengths and areas for growth. For Corinda and schools like St Aidan’s, these outcomes underscore the value of personalised learning, exceptional teaching, and strong community support. As these schools prioritise academic excellence and holistic education, they remain committed to helping students reach their full potential.

Published Date 09-December-2024

Preventing Bridge Strikes: Chelmer, Corinda Among Blitz Locations

A major enforcement and education campaign is being rolled out across South East Queensland to combat bridge strikes by over-height vehicles.

Read: Oxley Road Bridge Among Queensland’s Frequent Strike Locations

Spearheaded by Queensland Rail in partnership with the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) and Queensland Police Service (QPS), the blitz aims to address the 386 bridge and protection beam strikes recorded over the past year.

bridge strike — Photo credit: Queensland Rail

From 1 October 2023 to 10 October 2024, rail bridges and protection beams were struck 386 times, with 101 incidents involving bridges and 285 impacting protection beams. Among the affected areas are Long Street in Chelmer, which recorded 12 strikes, and Oxley Road in Corinda, which saw nine incidents during this period.

Queensland Rail senior manager Travis Cooper highlighted a recent incident in Corinda where a car narrowly escaped being crushed after a truck became stuck, cautioning that future incidents might not have such a fortunate outcome.

Targeting High-Risk Zones

The campaign focuses on high-risk locations, including Wynnum, Yeronga, Dutton Park, Rocklea, Corinda, and Chelmer. Enforcement officers will be stationed at these hotspots over the coming weeks to monitor compliance and educate drivers. Drivers of heavy vehicles will be stopped and questioned about their vehicle heights and route planning to ensure they are following the rules.

Mr Cooper highlighted the dangers posed by bridge strikes. “Thankfully, no one has been seriously injured, but every strike carries that potential. Each incident can cause extensive delays and disrupt rail operations,” he said.

Preventable Incidents

NHVR operations manager Jarrod Wilson described bridge strikes as entirely preventable. “Drivers need to accurately measure their loads, know their vehicle height, and use tools like the NHVR’s National Network Map to plan their journeys,” he explained.

Penalties for non-compliance are severe. Fines start at $1,290 and can escalate to $12,904 in court cases involving significant damage. Additional penalties may apply for violating clearance signs or careless driving, making it imperative for drivers to adhere to regulations.

Education and Awareness

The blitz also includes public education efforts, such as high-visibility message boards placed at key locations and a social media campaign titled Truck Load of Trouble. These initiatives aim to raise awareness about the consequences of bridge strikes and encourage safer practices.

Senior Sergeant David Wheatley from the QPS Railway Squad emphasized the importance of route planning. “We’re engaging with drivers to ensure they understand the risks and know their vehicle and load heights,” he said.

Transport and Main Roads general manager Joanna Robinson echoed this sentiment, urging drivers to prioritize safety. “Bridge strikes are dangerous and disruptive. By knowing their load height and planning their routes, drivers can help prevent these incidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the roads and rails.”

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

The campaign will continue throughout December, aiming to reduce the frequency of bridge strikes and improve safety for road and rail users alike.

Published 10-December-2024

Oxley Medicare Urgent Care Clinic Opens, Offering Free Walk-In Services

The Oxley Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) has officially opened along Seventeen Mile Rocks Rd, providing free, high-quality healthcare to local residents.

Read: Heart of Australia Expands Fleet with New Mobile Health Trucks

The new clinic aims to address urgent but non-life-threatening medical needs, offering an alternative to long waits in hospital emergency departments.

Oxley Medicare — Photo credit: Growlife Medical Centre & Doctors Oxley/Google Maps

Open seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m, the clinic welcomes walk-in patients with no appointment required. Staffed by highly trained doctors and nurses, the clinic offers bulk-billed services, ensuring patients can access care at no cost by simply presenting their Medicare card.

Conditions treated at the Oxley UCC include cuts, viral infections, rashes, and sprained ankles. By providing accessible care, the clinic aims to reduce the burden on nearby hospitals, including Ipswich Hospital and Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Hospital, where 23 percent of presentations in 2022-23 were for semi-urgent or non-urgent matters.

Expansion of UCCs Across the Region

A similar clinic has also opened on Smith Road in Goodna, marking an expansion of the Medicare UCC initiative in Queensland. These two new clinics join 13 others across the state, located in areas such as Bundaberg, Cairns South, Gold Coast, and Townsville.

Since their inception, the Medicare UCCs in Queensland have served over 158,000 patients, with more than one in four visits involving children under the age of 15. The clinics have been particularly busy outside regular working hours, with over a quarter of visits occurring after 5 pm on weekdays or during weekends.

Supporting Community Health

Commissioned by Brisbane South Primary Health Network (PHN) and funded by the Australian Government, the Oxley clinic is operated by Growlife Medical Oxley. It opened on November 26, following an independent selection process that identified practices capable of meeting the program’s goals.

These clinics not only enhance access to urgent care for local residents but also play a critical role in easing demand on hospital emergency departments, ensuring resources are reserved for life-threatening cases.

Read: Oxley Creek to Undergo Major Transformation

The Oxley Medicare UCC is located at Growlife Medical Oxley, 169 Seventeen Mile Rocks Rd, Oxley. For more information or to seek care, residents can visit during the clinic’s operating hours.

Published 7-December-2024

Brisbane International 2025: Djokovic and World No.1 Sabalenka Lead Lineup at Queensland Tennis Centre

Tennyson is preparing for an unprecedented tennis spectacle as the Brisbane International 2025 approaches, bringing with it one of the strongest player fields in the tournament’s history. From 29 December to 5 January, the Queensland Tennis Centre will transform into a battleground for tennis elite, headlined by 24-time Grand Slam champion Novak Djokovic.

Read: Why the Australia Day Ban Sparked Backlash: Spotlight on Inala Hotel

Djokovic leads all-star lineup at the Queensland Tennis Centre

For local tennis enthusiasts, Djokovic’s return to Brisbane carries special significance. The Serbian superstar, who last graced Pat Rafter Arena during the tournament’s inaugural year in 2009, enters the competition on the brink of an extraordinary milestone—his potential 100th career title.

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The tournament line-up reads like a who’s who of tennis excellence. In the men’s ATP 250 event, Djokovic leads a field featuring defending champion Grigor Dimitrov, rising star Holger Rune, and the charismatic Frances Tiafoe. Australian fans will also cheer for the homegrown favourites: Canberra’s Nick Kyrgios and Sydney’s Alexei Popyrin and Jordan Thompson.

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The women’s WTA 500 event promises equally thrilling matchups. World No.1 Aryna Sabalenka headlines a formidable group that includes Jessica Pegula, Emma Navarro, and Daria Kasatkina. Two-time Brisbane International champion Victoria Azarenka has also added her name to the mix, while Brisbane’s Ajla Tomljanovic receives a wild card entry.

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Brisbane’s vibrant tennis and lifestyle festival

Tournament director Cam Pearson shared his enthusiasm for the event’s strong player field: “This is by far the strongest field the tournament has seen, with fifteen of the top-20 men and women players confirmed.” Mayor Adrian Schrinner highlighted its significance for Brisbane, saying: “Fans can watch the world’s best tennis stars live and then relive all the action after the match with their friends and family at our vibrant lifestyle precincts.”

Tournament schedule and information

The action begins with qualifying rounds on 27–28 December, followed by the main draw from 29 December to 5 January. The provisional schedule is available on the tournament’s website, offering a detailed guide to key match times.

The official draw ceremony on 28 December will reveal the eagerly awaited matchups. Spectators can access the order of play each evening for the following day’s matches. This dynamic schedule accounts for weather, player recovery periods, and coordination between singles and doubles events, ensuring each day delivers new, exciting matchups.

Read: Oxley Creek to Undergo Major Transformation

For residents of Tennyson and surrounds, Brisbane International 2025 offers unparalleled access to world-class tennis right at their backyard. Tickets start from $30 for adults, with family passes available from $60, making it an affordable outing for local families.

Get your tickets here.

Published 05-December-2024

Why the Australia Day Ban Sparked Backlash: Spotlight on Inala Hotel

The Inala Hotel has been entangled in a national debate after Australian Venue Co, which operates the hotel, announced and later reversed a ban on Australia Day celebrations across its venues.

A Controversial Decision

The backlash began when Australian Venue Co (AVC), one of the nation’s largest pub groups, directed its 200-plus venues, including the Inala Hotel, not to host Australia Day-specific events in 2025. The company explained the decision as an effort to avoid alienating patrons who find the day, marking the First Fleet’s arrival in 1788, to be a source of historical pain.

The move immediately drew criticism from local patrons, businesses, and political leaders. Soon after, patrons started calling for a boycott of the AVC venues on social media.

Residents of Inala, a diverse and tight-knit community, expressed frustration. Many saw the policy as dismissive of Australia Day’s role as a unifying celebration. Others supported the intention to respect Indigenous perspectives but questioned whether a blanket ban was the right approach.

Why the Inala Hotel Matters

As a local favourite, the Inala Hotel has long been a gathering place for celebrations and social events. The venue is synonymous with shared experiences and traditions for many in the community. Australia Day, often marked with barbecues, live music, and family-friendly activities, is when locals come together at establishments like the Inala Hotel to celebrate the country’s multicultural identity.

Some perceived the initial decision to cancel celebrations as an unwanted disruption to these traditions. Critics argued that the hotel, as a community hub, should focus on inclusion rather than imposing a corporate policy that could alienate patrons.

However, other community members emphasised that any frustration should not be directed at the staff of venues like the Inala Hotel. They urged patrons to treat employees fairly, pointing out that the policy was a corporate decision and not the fault of those working on the ground.

Inala Hotel Australia Day — *Photo Credit:* *Tatters/Flicker*

The Bigger Picture: Australia Day’s Divisive Legacy

The controversy reflects broader tensions over Australia Day. While many Australians see 26 January as a day to celebrate national pride, others view it as a “day of mourning” due to its association with colonisation and its impact on Indigenous peoples.

This divide has led organisations, councils, and businesses to reconsider how—or if—they should mark the day. More than 80 councils nationwide have moved citizenship ceremonies away from 26 January, and major retailers like Woolworths and Aldi have stopped promoting Australia Day-themed merchandise.

A Corporate Apology and Policy Reversal

Faced with intense backlash, AVC reversed its directive and issued an apology, stating it never intended to dictate how Australians should celebrate. The company confirmed that its venues, including the Inala Hotel, would remain open on Australia Day and that patrons were welcome to celebrate in any way they chose.

In a statement, AVC emphasised its commitment to fostering community and inclusivity, adding that it would continue to book events as usual. While this reversal appeased some critics, others remain sceptical, questioning the company’s initial decision and its potential impact on patron trust.

Published 3-Dec-2024

Two-Year-Old Boy Killed in Durack State School Car Park Accident

Photo Credit: gofundme.com

A two-year-old Somali boy died on Thursday afternoon, November 28, in an accident at the car park of Durack State School. The tragic incident occurred around 3:34 PM with the child’s mother and sibling reportedly witnessing the event during school pick-up time.

Police Commissioner Steve Golleschewski confirmed an investigation is underway. “It’s early days on that investigation,” he said. “That’s just the worst thing for any family, to think a young one is lost so tragically … a life that will never be realised, so huge sympathy to that family.”

No charges have been laid, and police stated that a woman is assisting with inquiries.

The school community has been deeply affected. Durack State School’s Facebook statement expressed profound sadness, offering condolences to the family and confirming counselling support would be available. The pre-prep program was cancelled due to the incident.

Beny Bol from the Queensland African Communities Council offered condolences, saying, “It will be so forever. We need to be together and put yourself in the same situation.”

Safety concerns were raised by parents. One unidentified parent told media, “There is no fencing to stop kids from running onto the road,” while another described it as “an accident waiting to happen.”

The Department of Education issued a statement: “A tragic incident took place at Durack State School yesterday afternoon, and investigations are currently underway. Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the affected family and to our entire school community.”

The investigation continues as the community mourns the loss of the young boy, with flowers, notes, and toys surrounding the school as a memorial.

Published 29-November-2024

Oxley Creek to Undergo Major Transformation

Photo Credit: Oxley Creek Transformation Masterplan

An ambitious plan to revitalise four key leisure and lifestyle destinations, including Oxley Creek, was announced in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

LM Adrian Schrinner has outlined a vision to create “Brisbane’s parks of the future,” with significant investments planned for Victoria Park, Oxley Creek, Kedron Brook, and the Wynnum, Manly, and Lota foreshores.

Oxley Creek Transformation

A key focus of the Council’s plans is the transformation, an ambitious project to convert hundreds of hectares of underutilised land into a thriving lifestyle destination. The next phase, Oxley Creek Common, will transform a former farm and wetland area into a 120-hectare parkland, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage and diverse wildlife.

The Council is collaborating with the State Government to advance the next stage of the transformation, with community consultation expected to commence in the coming year.

Brisbane’s ‘Parks of the Future’

The Council’s broader vision for Brisbane’s parks is to create world-class spaces that cater to the needs of residents and visitors alike. Investing in these projects will enhance Brisbane’s reputation as a vibrant and livable city.

Other Key Projects

Victoria Park: This 64-hectare park is being major overhauled, including an all-abilities playground, walking and cycling paths, and a treetop adventure course.
Kedron Brook: A 20-year master plan to revitalise the 110-square-kilometre catchment, improving flood resilience and creating new recreational opportunities.
Wynnum, Manly, and Lota Foreshore: A 20-year master plan to rejuvenate the coastline, building on existing infrastructure and adding new amenities.

As Brisbane prepares to host the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, these significant investments in public spaces will enhance the city’s appeal and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Published Date 21-November-2024

Fresh Players in Chelmer’s Food Scene: Fair Play Kitchen Opens at Sherwood Magpies AFC

Chelmer has welcomed its latest culinary destination – Fair Play Kitchen, a gastropub that’s already creating buzz since opening its doors last week at the Sherwood Magpies AFC.

Read: Starts at 60: Brewing Connections One Meetup at a Time

Behind this exciting venture are familiar faces Reagan Nongkhlaw and Urvik Bhalani, the dynamic duo known for their success at Method to the Madness in Kenmore. Their latest project at 41 Chelmer St East brings their signature blend of creativity and hospitality to a new community, with a sophisticated dining destination at a local sporting club.

Photo credit: Fair Play Kitchen/Facebook

The menu is where Fair Play Kitchen truly shines, offering clever twists on pub classics and breakfast favourites. Their golden mushroom croquettes have already become a talking point – crispy on the outside, impossibly creamy within, and elevated by a house-made tomato relish and generous shavings of parmesan.

Breakfast pushes boundaries with their standout okonomiyaki, a Japanese-inspired creation featuring sweet potato and crispy cabbage, dressed with the traditional trio of kewpie mayo, tonkatsu sauce, and nori flakes, all crowned with a perfectly fried egg.

For those seeking a morning pick-me-up with a twist, their breakfast tacos strike an innovative balance between savoury and sweet, combining smoky bacon and creamy avocado with an unexpected hero – house-made pineapple jam.

The beverage program holds its own with an impressive lineup of craft beers on tap and a carefully curated wine list showcasing premium Australian labels. Health-conscious patrons haven’t been forgotten, with a selection of fresh, unfussy smoothies completing the offering.

Read: Cheap Fruit and Veg Draw Crowds to Oxley Greengrocer

Fair Play Kitchen seems poised to become more than just another venue – it’s shaping up as Chelmer’s new community hub, where morning coffee runs seamlessly transition into afternoon drinks and everything in between. As the owners settle into their new neighbourhood, they’re not just serving meals; they’re creating a space where good food, great drinks, and local connections flourish under one roof.

Follow them on Facebook for updates.

Published 18-November-2024

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

Local advocates and officials are urging the reopening of the Tennyson rail line to improve the limited transport options for suburban commuters. Many of them currently endure long, indirect routes into the city centre to reach nearby destinations like Corinda and Yeerongpilly.

History and Role of the Tennyson Line

The Tennyson line, officially connecting Corinda to Yeerongpilly, has historically served as a vital connector for Brisbane’s southern suburbs. Before passenger services ended in 2011, the line provided an essential cross-suburban link for students, workers, and residents needing efficient travel without routing through Brisbane’s CBD.

*Photo Credit: Corinda Railway Station/Wikimedia Commons*

Since its closure, the line has been used solely for freight and occasional maintenance purposes, leaving these southern areas disconnected by rail. Community advocates and local officials believe reopening the line could reduce suburban congestion and enhance Brisbane’s transport network, especially as the city prepares for rapid growth and the 2032 Olympics.

Yeerongpilly Railway — *Photo Credit: Yeerongpilly railway station/Wikimedia Commons*

Transport Challenges for Brisbane’s Commuters

Brisbane’s public transport network has long been critiqued for its limited cross-suburban options, unlike cities such as Perth, which operates frequent, well-connected suburban services despite having a smaller network. Brisbane’s radial system, primarily focused on routes in and out of the CBD, often means that residents traveling within southern suburbs must enter the city and transfer to other lines or buses to reach nearby destinations.

Reopening the Tennyson line would create a much-needed cross-suburban connection, saving time and offering a direct rail route through Brisbane’s south.

Community Support for Reopening

Advocacy groups like RAIL Back On Track, led by spokesperson Robert Dow, argue that reopening the Tennyson line would significantly benefit Brisbane’s commuters. Mr Dow highlights that, after the line’s closure, the replacement 104 bus service has struggled to meet the demand once satisfied by the train.

LM Adrian Schrinner supports exploring the option, noting that while constructing new rail lines is costly, repurposing existing infrastructure like the Tennyson line could be a feasible way to meet growing public transport needs. Mr Schrinner emphasises that Brisbane’s expanding population will need better connectivity.

Technical and Financial Factors

According to experts like Professor Mark Hickman of the University of Queensland, the Tennyson line remains technically operable for passenger services, though it would need station and accessibility upgrades. Mr Hickman estimates these upgrades would require significant investment, likely in the millions.

Queensland Rail has acknowledged the line’s potential for passenger use but states that any reopening would demand substantial funding and clear evidence of demand. Queensland Rail and local government are monitoring public interest and population trends to determine future requirements.

The potential reopening of the Tennyson line aligns with the city’s preparations for the 2032 Olympic Games. Local advocates believe the line could offer a convenient suburban transit option for residents and visitors, easing pressure on other routes.

Mr Dow suggests the line could connect suburbs like Ipswich and Springfield with southern areas and the Gold Coast, creating an innovative and timely solution to Brisbane’s transport challenges.

Published 13-Nov-2024

Hidden Gem in Graceville: Noodle Craft

Photo Credit: Noodle Craft/ Facebook

Who would’ve thought that beneath a railway bridge in sleepy Graceville lies a culinary gem? Noodle Craft, a tiny noodle house, is the best-kept secret for those craving authentic Chinese cuisine.

Noodle Craft is renowned for its authentic knife-cut noodles, which are handmade daily on-site. These delicate noodles are the star ingredient in various Chinese dishes, from hearty soups to flavorful stir-fries.

The cozy interior, adorned with Chinese parasols, offers a welcoming ambience. A spacious outdoor area with Cafe 63 provides ample seating for those who prefer alfresco dining.

The menu is an irresistible blend of classic Chinese dishes and innovative creations. Appetisers range from crispy pork wontons to delectable homemade dumplings. For the main course, diners can choose from various noodle dishes, including the signature knife-cut noodles in laksa soup or the comforting braised beef banh mi.

For something more substantial, the Chef’s Specials offer enticing options like slow-cooked pork belly and roasted duck. A selection of Chinese iced teas, soft drinks, wine, and beer is available to complete the meal.

Noodle Craft is a hidden gem in Graceville. It offers a unique, delicious, and affordable dining experience.

Published Date 05-November-2024