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Oxley Road Bridge Among Queensland’s Frequent Strike Locations

In a concerning trend that has caught the attention of Queensland’s transport authorities, the Oxley Road bridge in Corinda has emerged as one of the most frequently struck bridges in the 2023/24 financial year.

Read: Bridge Strike Causes Major Delays for Corinda Rail and Bus Commuters

This revelation comes as part of a broader issue plaguing the state’s road and rail infrastructure, prompting the Department of Transport and Main Roads to launch a new campaign aimed at curbing the alarming frequency of bridge strikes.

Bridge strike at Oxley Rd, Corinda (Photo credit: Queensland Rail/Facebook)

The “Truckload of Trouble” campaign, unveiled recently, seeks to address a problem that has been consistently troubling Queensland’s transport network. With an average of one bridge or protection beam strike occurring daily over the past two years, the campaign aims to increase driver awareness about the severe consequences of these incidents.

Most frequently struck bridges in the 2023/24 financial year:

Logan Road, Buranda
North Street, Willowburn
Bergin Street, Booval
Oxley Road, Corinda
William Berry Drive / Visentin Road connection, Morayfield

Joanna Robinson, General Manager of Land Transport Safety and Regulation at the Department of Transport and Main Roads, emphasises the gravity of the situation.

“Bridge strikes are dangerous,” she states, highlighting the risks not only to the drivers of over-height vehicles but also to train drivers, passengers, and other road users. The potential for falling debris to damage other vehicles or cause serious injury adds another layer of concern to this ongoing issue.

The statistics paint a sobering picture. In the 2023/24 financial year alone, Queensland recorded 369 rail bridge or protection beam strikes, barely down from 360 the previous year. These incidents not only pose immediate safety risks but also result in significant disruptions to rail services and potential financial penalties for offending motorists.

Oxley Road Bridge — Low rail bridge at Allan Terrace (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Rob Hill, Acting Head of South East Queensland at Queensland Rail, shared a stark example of the disruption caused by these strikes. A recent incident at Allan Terrace, Corinda, resulted in 103 train delays and 35 cancellations, underscoring the far-reaching impacts of these seemingly isolated events.

The consequences for drivers responsible for bridge strikes are severe. Fines range from $1,290 and four demerit points to a hefty $12,904 penalty if the matter goes to court. Moreover, Queensland Rail actively pursues motorists to recover repair costs, which would otherwise be borne by taxpayers.

Gary Mahon, CEO of the Queensland Trucking Association, stresses the importance of education and awareness within the trucking industry.

“Trucking companies, truck rental companies, and businesses using trucks for deliveries in and around the city have a responsibility to educate drivers,” Mahon asserts. He advocates for including awareness about truck and bridge heights in pre-start checklists, toolbox talks, and trip planning.

The “Truckload of Trouble” campaign focuses on practical solutions, encouraging drivers to know their load and vehicle height, plan their routes carefully, and avoid low clearance bridges. It’s a multi-faceted approach to a problem that authorities insist is entirely preventable with proper attention and planning.

Read: Oxley Motorist Fined for Stopping ‘Too Far Back’ from Stop Sign

As Queensland grapples with this ongoing challenge, the spotlight on Oxley Road bridge in Corinda serves as a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead. With continued efforts to raise awareness and educate drivers, authorities hope to see a significant reduction in bridge strikes, ensuring safer roads and more reliable rail services for all Queenslanders.

Published 11-September-2024

Paralympic Preview: Taylor Gosens Breaks Barriers in Para-Judo

Taylor Gosens, an alumna of St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’School in Corinda, is set to break new ground when she enters the mat in Paris 2024. The 26-year-old judoka is poised to become just the second woman ever to represent the green and gold in Paralympic judo.

Read: Taylor Gosens: From Sound Engineering to Paralympic Judo

Taylor Gosens takes the mat in Paris

Despite the challenge, Gosens is prepared and confident in her ability to perform at her best against the sport’s elite.

Gosens will face a tough field of competitors, including reigning Tokyo Paralympics champion Dursadaf Karimova of Azerbaijan and the current world number one Rebeca de Souza Silva of Brazil.

She is scheduled to compete on 7 September, starting at 6:00 p.m., in the women’s +70 kg J2 classification for judo at the Champ-de-Mars Arena.

Read: Family Home of Olympic Champion Ariarne Titmus Makes a Golden Sale in Chelmer

Gosens is also looking ahead to the LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games, with a long-term ambition to establish herself as a consistent force in para-judo.

With the Paralympics in full swing, schedule changes remain possible. For the latest updates and information, check out the official Paralympics website.

Published 07-September-2024

Family Home of Olympic Champion Ariarne Titmus Makes a Golden Sale in Chelmer

Photo Credit: Domain

The Chelmer residence once owned by the family of Olympic gold medalist Ariarne Titmus has recently sold for a remarkable $2.41 million, a month after her triumphant performance in the Paris pool.

The sale price, secured on August 16th, falls comfortably within the initial asking range of $2.35 million to $2.55 million, proving the enduring appeal of this prestigious property.

Lindona’s expertly constructed weatherboard home displays the builder’s distinctive Hamptons style. It boasts a range of luxurious amenities, including a sparkling in-ground pool with app-controlled waterfall features, spa jets, and coloured lighting. An accompanying gazebo provides the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the Queensland sunshine.

The ground floor is designed for entertaining, seamlessly connecting to a spacious deck and manicured garden, while the second level houses the bedrooms and a second living area. The main bedroom has a private balcony, a walk-in robe leading to the ensuite bathroom, and a luxurious soaking tub.

The property’s location in Chelmer undoubtedly contributed to its appeal. Chelmer offers a desirable blend of excellent schools, convenient transport links, and proximity to the Indooroopilly Shopping Centre. The suburb’s median house price has increased 24.6% over the past 12 months, reaching $1,825,000, underscoring its growing popularity.

Ann-Karyn Fraser of Place New Farm handled the sale and expressed her delight at the outcome, stating it was a privilege to market the beautiful property for the Titmus family.

*Photo Credit: Ariarne Titmus/ Instagram*

She noted that the home attracted considerable interest from families drawn to the area’s top-tier schools, including Indooroopilly State High and St Peter’s Lutheran College, which Ariarne attended. The property was sold to a family relocating from interstate for work opportunities.

Ariarne Titmus, though narrowly missing out on gold in the women’s 200-metre freestyle final in Paris, brought home an impressive haul of one gold and two silver medals. Her achievements have solidified her status as a national sporting hero, and selling her family home marks another chapter in her inspiring journey.

Published Date 03-September-2024

Bridging Opinions: Walter Taylor Temporary Closure Reveals Divided Vision for Brisbane’s Future

The Walter Taylor Bridge, a crucial link between Chelmer and Indooroopilly, is set for a temporary closure this month, reigniting discussions about its future.

Read: Walter Taylor Bridge Closes for Maintenance: Chelmer Commuters To Face Detours

As the structure prepares to shut down from September 13 to 30 for maintenance, stakeholders are divided on how to address the growing traffic demands in this bustling corridor.

Michael Kane, head of public policy at RACQ, suggested that traffic modelling indicates a need for bridge duplication by 2041, if not sooner.

Walter Taylor — Photo credit: Peter Kaye/Google Maps

Mr Kane acknowledged that such a project would be complex and costly for the council, and given its local nature and competing priorities, substantial state or federal funding seems unlikely. He advocates for more detailed modelling to refine traffic forecasts and potential upgrade timelines.

Former transport minister Mark Bailey argued for a more urgent approach. He contends that a replacement bridge is needed much sooner than 2041, describing the current structure as one of Brisbane’s worst bottlenecks due to its single lane connecting the inner city to the Centenary suburbs.

Despite these calls for action, plans for duplication have stalled. Cr Andrew Wines, the council’s civic cabinet chair for infrastructure, attributes this to a lack of support from state and federal governments. In response, Transport Minister Bart Mellish stated that the responsibility for the bridge’s future lies with the local government, as it is a council asset.

Alternative solutions are also being proposed. Greens MP Michael Berkman suggests reopening the Tennyson rail line as a potential alternative to a new river crossing.

Meanwhile, Cr Nicole Johnston advocates for a more comprehensive approach, proposing an extension of the City Cat ferry service further upriver to provide an alternative transport option for university students and others.

Read: Bridge Strike Causes Major Delays for Corinda Rail and Bus Commuters

With stakeholders divided and funding uncertain, the future of this vital river crossing remains unclear. As the city evolves, finding a solution that satisfies all parties while meeting the area’s long-term needs will be crucial to keeping Brisbane moving forward.

Published 3-September-2024

Sherwood Residents Fuming Over Abandoned Park

Photo Credit: CrNicoleJohnston

Frustrations are running high in Sherwood following a controversial decision to abandon Cactoblastis Corner, a small but ecologically valuable riverside park. The park was severely damaged during the 2022 floods, and despite passionate community efforts to restore it, the site was deemed “too complex and costly” to repair.

Cactoblastis Corner was created after a community campaign on the old Alan Fletcher Research Station site. It was home to significant mature native trees and served as beautiful parkland and a vital part of the local drainage system.

After the floods, the park experienced a significant landslip, which left it neglected. Despite the Queensland Reconstruction Authority approving $17 million for repairs in April 2023, the council abandoned the park, allowing it to revert to unallocated state land.

This decision sparked outrage among residents. Cr Nicole Johnston has criticised the lack of transparency and its decision to hand the problem back to the state.

Ms Johnston has contrasted the council’s inaction on Cactoblastis Corner with its efforts to restore flood-damaged Kedron Brook on the northside. She has described the decision as “appalling” and “a disservice to the local community.”

To find a solution, Johnston has written to Major General Jake Ellwood, CEO of the QRA, and state member Mark Bailey, seeking assistance in delivering a remediation plan. However, the future of Cactoblastis Corner remains uncertain, and the site may continue to sit in a derelict state for years to come.

The decision to abandon has raised questions about its commitment to managing and maintaining parklands, particularly those affected by natural disasters. It has also highlighted the challenges of balancing repair and remediation costs with the community’s needs.

Published Date 29-August-2024

Heart of Australia Expands Fleet with New Mobile Health Trucks

Heart of Australia, based in Chelmer, has announced ambitious expansion plans. The healthcare company is set to add five new trucks to its fleet, dramatically increasing its capacity to deliver vital health services to underserved communities.

Read: Brisbane and QLD Communities Raise $1.78M at Women’s Day Fun Run

At the heart of this expansion are the world’s first battery-powered mobile CT scanners. These state-of-the-art devices will be integrated into the new trucks, allowing Heart of Australia to bring advanced diagnostic capabilities directly to remote areas. This innovation promises to revolutionise healthcare delivery in rural settings, particularly in the realm of lung cancer screening.

The HEART 5 Model

The new trucks will be modelled after the organisation’s existing HEART 5, which has been successfully providing respiratory health checks and radiology services throughout Queensland since 2022. HEART 5 is equipped with:

A battery-powered mobile CT scanner
X-ray machine
Specialised testing equipment for comprehensive lung health screening

This model has proven its effectiveness in delivering mobile radiology services and conducting lung health screenings, regardless of location.

The expansion is made possible by a substantial $45 million federal investment, complemented by additional corporate funding. This financial backing underscores the importance of the project and its potential impact on national health outcomes.

Dr Rolf Gomes (Photo credit: heartofaustralia.com.au)

Dr Rolf Gomes, founder and cardiologist of Heart of Australia, announced the expansion at the organisation’s 10th anniversary gala dinner last week. While the routes for the new trucks are yet to be determined, the first of the new fleet, HEART 7, is expected to be operational by August 2025.

This expansion not only increases the organisation’s capacity to provide lung cancer screening but also opens the door to implementing other specialist services nationwide.

Read: Corinda Mums Band Together for Layla Nolan and Childhood Cancer Warriors

As Heart of Australia embarks on this new chapter, its mobile health clinics stand poised to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of Australians living in rural, remote, and First Nations communities. By bringing advanced medical technology and expertise directly to those who need it most, Heart of Australia is setting a new standard in mobile healthcare delivery.

Published 29-August-2024

Oxley-Trained Kaos: A Legacy of Service and Canine Camaraderie

Featured Image Attribution Photo Credit: Queensland Police Services

The Queensland Police Service is mourning the passing of retired Police Dog Kaos. The highly decorated canine officer, who received his initial training in Oxley, died peacefully at the age of 12 and will be forever remembered.

Kaos, a beloved member of the Brisbane Dog Squad, served alongside his handler, Senior Constable Jim Griffiths, from 2014 to 2021, leaving an indelible mark on the force and the community he protected.

A Decorated Career

*Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police Services*

Kaos’s dedication and bravery were recognised just last month when he was awarded the Canine Service Medal for his outstanding service and countless contributions to apprehending offenders.

One particularly harrowing incident occurred in February 2020 during an arrest in Gordon Park, where Kaos sustained a 12-centimetre stab wound to the chest. Despite this serious injury, Kaos made a remarkable recovery and courageously returned to duty a month later.

His courage also earned him the prestigious German Shepherd Dog Council of Australia (GSDCA) Outstanding Canine Service Award in 2021 – the highest honour bestowed upon a German Shepherd in the country.

A Gentle Giant in Retirement

Following his retirement in July 2021, Kaos enjoyed a well-deserved life of leisure with Senior Constable Griffiths and his family in Dayboro. Known for his fierce determination on the job, Kaos was a gentle soul off-duty.

He became a familiar face at the local cafe, basking in the sun and earning the affection of patrons. Additionally, he continued his heartwarming visits to the Queensland Children’s Hospital, bringing comfort and smiles to young patients.

A Heartfelt Farewell

Kaos’s unexpected passing on Saturday, 10 August, has left a void in the hearts of many. Senior Constable Griffiths remembers Kaos as a loyal partner and a cherished friend. “With honour he served, and it was an honour to serve with him,” Griffiths shared, reflecting on their unbreakable bond.

The Queensland Police Service extends its deepest condolences to Senior Constable Griffiths and his family. Kaos’s legacy of courage, loyalty, and unwavering service will forever be remembered.

Published Date 22-August-2024

Oxley to Welcome New Three-Storey Office Building

Photo Credit: DA A006476743

Oxley is set to see a new landmark on its skyline with a development application submitted for a striking three-storey office building at 121 Oxley Station Road.

The architectural firm Red Door Architecture has designed a building that promises to be an eye-catching addition to the area. It features an expressive timber structure and a facade that blends glazing, metal cladding, and perforated screens.

The proposed development will encompass a gross floor area of 1,414.6 square metres, utilising 93.8% of the 1,012 square metres development site. It will incorporate 25 car parking spaces, including one disabled visitor space and 11 bicycle spaces, promoting sustainable commuting options.

The building’s interior will be designed to accommodate a range of functions. The ground floor will feature a 56-square-metre retail space, contributing to the vibrancy of the street level.

A welcoming reception lobby will lead to two levels of office space, providing modern and flexible work environments. The development will also include landscaped areas, enhancing the visual appeal of the building and its surroundings.

This project reflects a growing trend towards innovative and sustainable design in commercial architecture. With its unique blend of materials and thoughtful use of space, the proposed office building is poised to become a distinctive feature of the Oxley landscape.

Published Date 21-August-2024

Oxley Motorist Fined for Stopping ‘Too Far Back’ from Stop Sign

A driver has been left reeling after receiving a hefty $483 fine for what he believes was an unjust interpretation of a lesser-known road rule in the southwestern suburb of Oxley.

The motorist claims he came to a complete stop “nearly a car length” behind the stop line but was still pulled over and fined by a police officer who allegedly didn’t witness the halt.

The driver expressed frustration, stating he had thoroughly checked both directions before proceeding and found the officer’s actions and the subsequent fine unwarranted.

A Queensland Transport and Main Roads spokesperson clarified that while drivers must come to a complete stop “just behind the line” at a stop sign, there is no prescribed distance. The ideal stopping point depends on various factors, such as road layout, obstructions, vehicle size, and visibility.

Drivers, including pedestrians and cyclists, must position their vehicles to have a clear view of the intersection. Stopping too far back can impede visibility and create a hazardous situation.

The incident sparked a debate on social media, with some questioning the driver’s decision to stop so far from the line. One commenter pointed out that stopping a car length back would likely obstruct the view of oncoming traffic. Another recommended investing in a dashcam for added protection.

A driving instructor weighed in, emphasising that students are taught to stop just before the line to ensure a clear view of traffic from both directions.

Published Date 20-August-2024

Grand Plans in Graceville Encounter Community and Heritage Hurdles

Photo Credit: DA A006540381

A RetireAustralia project to revitalise the historic Graceville landscape with a luxury retirement facility has met resistance from the local community and heritage authorities.

The proposal, which includes three buildings up to five storeys high, has sparked objections from over 50 residents concerned about the scale of the development and its impact on the neighbourhood’s character.

A significant point of contention is removing many trees, some potentially over a century old, to accommodate the project.

Cr Nicole Johnston’s attempt to address this issue through an urgency motion was unsuccessful, as the majority LNP administration voted against it.

Adding to the complexity, the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) has raised concerns about the development’s potential impact on the cultural heritage significance of Beth Eden, the grand 140-year-old villa adjacent to the proposed site. SARA specifically highlighted the proximity and design of one new building, stating it did not adequately reflect the ornate architecture of the heritage-listed homestead.

RetireAustralia, one of the nation’s leading retirement village developers, maintains that its project aligns with council expectations and will bring much-needed contemporary retirement accommodation to Graceville. The company has also emphasised its commitment to environmental sustainability, outlining plans to revegetate gully and waterway areas and replace removed trees with new stock.

Despite RetireAustralia’s assurances, Councillor Johnston remains critical of the proposal, stating that it is “too big and does not integrate well with the character and amenity of the surrounding neighbourhood”. The community’s concerns and SARA’s reservations highlight the challenges developers face in balancing the need for new housing with preserving local heritage and environmental values.

As the project progresses, RetireAustralia will be required to address the issues raised by SARA and the community, demonstrating how it plans to mitigate the development’s impact on the surrounding environment and heritage structures. The outcome of this process will shape the future of this significant Graceville site and set a precedent for future developments in the area.

Published Date 15-August-2024