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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

Taylor Gosens: From Sound Engineering to Paralympic Judo

Photo Credit: Paralympics Australia

Taylor Gosens, a former student of St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School in Corinda, is set to make history as only the second woman to represent Australia in Para-judo at the upcoming 2024 Paris Paralympics.

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A post shared by Taylor Gosens (@taylor_gos)

Gosens, who was born with a congenital eyesight condition leaving her with just four percent vision, initially pursued her passion for music while at St Aidan’s. Her time at the school saw her delve into sound engineering studies and take up drumming, showcasing her diverse talents and determination to overcome challenges.

The 26-year-old’s journey from music enthusiast to elite athlete is nothing short of inspirational. After leaving Brisbane to study Entertainment Management at the Australian Institute of Music in Sydney, Gosens discovered judo as a stress management tool during her studies. What began as a coping mechanism soon blossomed into a competitive career.

Gosens’ rapid rise in the sport is evident from her recent achievements. In September, she secured her first international victory against Great Britain at the IBSA Judo Grand Prix in Baku, Azerbaijan, finishing in the top 8. This success followed her impressive performance at the 2022 Australian Nationals, where she clinched gold in the VI (visually impaired) competition and silver in the able-bodied 78 kg class.

As Gosens prepares for the Paris Paralympics under the guidance of coach Ivica Pavlinic, she carries with her the support of her hometown and the legacy of her father, Gerrard Gosens, a three-time Paralympian. Taylor’s participation in the Games marks not just a personal achievement, but a continuation of a family tradition of excellence in Paralympic sport.

The Corinda community eagerly awaits Gosens’ performance in Paris, where she will not only represent Australia but also serve as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes with visual impairments everywhere.

Published 12-August-2024

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

Walter Taylor Bridge, a crucial link between the suburbs of Indooroopilly and Chelmer, is set for a complete closure lasting two weeks.

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

The shutdown, announced with only one month’s notice, is scheduled to begin at 9:00 p.m. on September 13 and continue until 5:00 a.m. on 30 September 2024. This closure is part of essential maintenance work on the 90-year-old structure.

About the Walter Taylor Bridge Road Resurfacing

The maintenance project is comprehensive, involving full removal and replacement of road asphalt, concrete repairs to the bridge deck, waterproofing, and steel node maintenance. The work will require the use of heavy machinery and power tools, which is likely to cause noise, dust, and increased vehicle movements in the area.

The heritage-listed bridge, which serves over 35,000 users daily, plays a critical role in Brisbane’s traffic flow. Its closure is expected to cause significant disruption, forcing motorists to take substantial detours or switch to public transportation. The only vehicles permitted to cross during this period will be emergency vehicles under six tonnes and those no wider than 2m, using the adjacent Jack Pesch cycle and pedestrian link.

Local road closures

Road detour map – Walter Taylor Bridge resurfacing works (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council)

Local road closures will accompany the bridge shutdown. In Chelmer, Wharf Street between Rosebury Terrace and Honour Avenue will be closed, as will the northbound lane of Honour Avenue from Bridge Street onwards. The official detour route will direct traffic via Oxley Road, Seventeen Mile Rocks Road, and Centenary Highway.

Brisbane City Council has assured residents that measures will be in place to manage the changed traffic conditions, including police presence, traffic control, and signage. However, the short notice and extensive nature of the closure have raised concerns among local residents and businesses about potential disruptions.

Commuters are advised to plan their journeys in advance using the QLDTraffic app or website, or by calling 13 19 40 for up-to-date information. While the closure will undoubtedly cause inconvenience, the maintenance work is crucial for ensuring the longevity and safety of this important piece of Brisbane’s infrastructure.

Read: Uncharted Waters: The Top 10 Moments of John Oxley’s Historic 1823 Expedition to the Brisbane River

As the Walter Taylor Bridge approaches its centenary, this maintenance project underscores the ongoing challenges of maintaining ageing infrastructure in growing urban areas. The temporary pain of closure is balanced against the long-term gain of preserving a vital transport link for future generations of Brisbane residents.

Published 12-August-2024

Little Aladdin Brings A Taste of Turkey in Graceville

Little Aladdin, a Turkish Restaurant in Graceville, has been making waves with its authentic flavours and, in particular, its mouthwatering array of housemade dips. This charming eatery has quickly become a local favourite, offering a genuine taste of Turkish cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

Read: Cheap Fruit and Veg Draw Crowds to Oxley Greengrocer

At the heart of Little Aladdin’s appeal are its incredible dips, perfectly paired with freshly baked Turkish bread. The restaurant boasts a variety of gluten-free options that will leave diners craving more.

From the smoky Baba Ghanoush to the refreshing Cacik (yoghourt and cucumber), the zesty Acili Ezme (chilli, tomato, capsicum, and parsley), classic Hummus, and rich Creamy Garlic spread, there’s a dip to satisfy every palate.

Beyond the Dips

While the dips are stars in their own right, Little Aladdin’s menu extends far beyond these appetising starters. Guests can indulge in Pides, often described as Turkish pizza, each served with complementary Acili Ezme and Cacik dips.

For those seeking hearty main courses, the restaurant offers a range of traditional Turkish dishes. The Moussaka features layers of eggplant and spiced ground lamb, oven-baked to perfection.

Adana Iskender presents spiced ground lamb served over Turkish bread with char-grilled capsicum. For seafood lovers, the Ottoman Karides offers a royal treat of Turkish-style king prawns with feta, accompanied by fresh Turkish bread and lemon.

Little Aladdin also caters to younger palates as well, with kid-friendly options like Chicken Shish served with rice and chips. For a change, lamb can be substituted for chicken, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

The restaurant prides itself on crafting its menu from fresh, authentic Turkish ingredients, promising a genuine culinary experience with every visit.

Read: Locals Raise Concerns on Proposed New Gym and Wellness Centre on Graceville Avenue

Located at 320 Oxley Rd, Graceville, Little Aladdin welcomes diners daily from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m, with extended hours until 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick dip and bread or a full Turkish feast, Little Aladdin promises a flavorful journey through the tastes of Turkey, right in the heart of Graceville. Visit their website to book a table.

Published 8-August-2024