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Veteran Corinda Principal Resigns Unexpectedly Mid-Term

Helen Jamieson, the long-serving principal of Corinda State High School, unexpectedly resigns halfway through the third term of the academic year. Jamieson, who has led the school for nearly two decades, informed staff, students, and parents of her decision via email on Monday, July 29, 2024.

Jamieson, known for being one of Queensland’s first principals to implement a comprehensive mobile phone ban in schools, stated that her last day would be August 23. She cited a new career opportunity as the reason for her departure, revealing that she will be taking up the position of chief executive/director at International House at the University of Queensland.

In her email, Jamieson expressed mixed emotions about leaving, writing, “It is with a heavy heart that after 18 years at Corinda, I have made the decision to move on. This has been a difficult decision as I am so invested in this amazing school and the direction we are heading.”

The principal assured the school community that she believes the institution is in “an exciting place” and expressed confidence in continued strong student outcomes. She also mentioned that her position is being advertised for a permanent replacement.

Jamieson’s tenure at Corinda State High School has been marked by innovative policies, most notably the introduction of a blanket mobile phone ban. She humorously referenced this in her farewell message, stating that she didn’t want to be carried out with “a Yondr magnet on her chest” — alluding to the lockable devices used to secure students’ phones during school hours.

The departing principal emphasised her commitment to ensuring a smooth transition, stating that she would “remain on task and committed” until her last day, aiming to leave the school “well positioned and ready for new leadership to take it next level.”

This unexpected resignation has caught the school community by surprise, coming in the middle of the academic term. As Corinda State High School prepares for this significant change in leadership, the search for Jamieson’s successor is already underway.

Published 2-August-2024

End of an Era: Beloved Oxley Nursery to Close After 30 Years

For over 30 years, Oxley Nursery has been a cornerstone of the Brisbane gardening community, offering rare plants at competitive prices. Did you know that this beloved destination of local plant enthusiasts will soon be closing for good?

Read: Get Rare and Unusual Plants at Oxley Nursery

Owner Andy Roy recently announced the nursery’s impending closure through a heartfelt video posted on the business’s Facebook page. The primary reason for this decision is Mr Roy’s retirement, as he approaches his 60th birthday next year.

“I’m truly sorry for any upset that this might cause,” Mr Roy said in the video, acknowledging the impact this news may have on the community.

Oxley Nursery owner Andy Roy explaining the reason for closure in a Facebook video (Photo credit: Oxley Nursery/Facebook)

He explained that his parents’ increasing need for care and attention, coupled with his desire for more “family-focused” time, influenced his decision to retire. Mr Roy is looking forward to welcoming grandchildren and relocating to the Sunshine Coast after three decades of living on Dowding Street.

The nursery is set to close on or before the end of October 2024. However, Mr Roy hasn’t ruled out the possibility of continuing the business at a different location and is open to suggestions from the community.

Reflecting on his time at Oxley Nursery, Mr Roy expressed gratitude for the relationships built with customers over the years, from garden consultation clients to passionate plant collectors who frequently visited the nursery. “It really has been an amazing time,” he said, thanking customers for their support and describing the experience as “a joy.”

Oxley Nursery has long been renowned as one of Brisbane’s go-to destinations for rare plants at excellent prices. The expansive garden centre boasts a diverse selection of cacti, succulents, fruit trees, palm trees, and exotic flowers.

As the nursery prepares to wind down operations, they announced plans for a closing down sale, with plants offered at 30-50 percent off. Customers are encouraged to “grab a bargain or two” before the final closure. More detailed plans for the wrap-up at Dowding Street will be announced in the coming days.

The news of the closure has elicited an outpouring of sentiment from loyal customers on social media. One customer wrote, “We always say you are the best nursery on the south side. Very sad to know you are closing down soon.” Another added, “Sobbing. I’ve bought so many of my plants from this beautiful place over the years.”

While the nursery’s closure marks the end of an era, some customers have chosen to focus on the positive, with one commenting, “Congratulations on your retirement but very sad to see the end of an era. Love the amazing oasis that you have created.”

As for the future of the site, it has been sold and is reportedly slated to become a new residential housing project, further underscoring the changes coming to the area.

Read: Sherwood Arboretum: A Look Back at Brisbane’s Living Heritage

The closure of Oxley Nursery serves as a poignant reminder of the impact small businesses can have on their communities. As Brisbane loses one of its most beloved plant havens, gardeners and plant enthusiasts will undoubtedly cherish the memories and the green treasures they have acquired over the years from this local institution.

Published 1-August-2024

Elijah Winnington Wins Silver in 400m Freestyle

Elijah Winnington kicked off the Australian Medal tally in the pool, going down by half a body length to Lukas Maertens of Germany, who led from start to finish and was under world record pace for half the race in the 400m freestyle.

GOLD Lukas Maertens 3.41.78
SILVER Elijah Winnington 3.42.21
BRONZE Kim Woomin 3.42.50

Determined to overcome the disappointment of his 7th-place finish in the 400m freestyle at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, a mentally prepared Winnington was 3rd for the first half of the race, recording 1.49.18 for the first 200m, with a lap to go he was fourth but came home like a train with a 27.33 final 50m.

Published 28-July-2024

St Aidan’s Tops Brisbane Schools with Stellar ATAR Performance

St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School in Corinda has emerged as the leading performer among Greater Brisbane schools based on academic performance and 2023 ATAR results, according to a recent analysis by Art of Smart.

Read: 3 Corinda State High School Staff Recognised at Australian Education Awards

Students at the all-girls school demonstrated exceptional academic prowess, outperforming the state average by an impressive 251 percent.

The data, which compared each school’s cohort to the QTAC ATAR distribution report, revealed St Aidan’s significant achievement in academic excellence. Following closely behind was Brisbane Girls Grammar School, which recorded a 244 percent outperformance score, further highlighting the strong performance of girls’ schools in the region.

Photo credit: St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School/Google Maps

Principal Toni Riordan expressed pride in the achievements of the 2023 graduating class and the dedication of the teaching staff. However, she emphasised that ATAR results are just one measure of student success.

Ms Riordan attributed the students’ strong performance in traditional STEM subjects to the safe and supportive environment at the school, as well as the deep sense of self-belief and confidence instilled in all their students.

St Aidan’s, a non-selective school, attributes its success to a holistic approach to education. The school’s website emphasises a balance between academic focus and extensive extracurricular activities, offering students over 50 specialised interest groups and clubs, nearly 20 sports, and more than 20 music ensembles.

It states that these diverse opportunities help create a connected community where students are encouraged and empowered to be whoever they want to be.

The school’s philosophy of empowering students to explore their potential seems to be paying dividends in both academic and personal development spheres. While the outstanding ATAR results showcase the school’s academic strength, St Aidan’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment and building confidence in its students appears to be a key factor in their success.

Read: Is Problem-Solving A Problem For Your Child?

As schools and parents alike analyse these results, St Aidan’s achievement serves as a testament to the potential of tailored, supportive educational environments in nurturing academic excellence and personal growth.

Published 24-July-2024

Sherwood Arboretum: A Look Back at Brisbane’s Living Heritage

As Sherwood Arboretum nears its 100th anniversary in 2025, it stands as a living testament to Brisbane’s commitment to preserving native Australian flora.

Read: New Nature Play Area Coming to Sherwood Arboretum

This 15-hectare botanic treasure, established in 1925, has grown from a modest collection of native trees to a beloved community space and an officially recognised botanic garden.

The arboretum’s story began with William Hodgson, appointed as the Council’s first caretaker, and Ernest Walter Bick, who became its first curator in March 1925. Their pioneering efforts laid the foundation for what would become a cherished green space in Brisbane.

William Hodgson, the Arboretum’s first Council caretaker, pictured with his wife Olive (nee Berry) and son Billy (Photo credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook)

Community involvement has been a hallmark of the arboretum since its inception. In March 1925, two members of the Berry family planted Queensland Kauri trees in what would become the arboretum’s iconic avenue.

A 1930 view of the arboretum northwest from Jolimont Street, with Mt Coot-tha visible to the right in the distance (Photo credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook)

In August, just months after its establishment, students from Sherwood State School planted 100 trees, marking the beginning of a long-standing tradition of community support.

Josie Condie of Melbourne planted a tree in 2017 in honour of her parents, William and Olive Hodgson and her late sisters, Margaret and Betty and late brother, Billy (Photo credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook)

Josie Condie, during a tree planting event organised by the Friends of Sherwood Arboretum (FOSA) in 2017, provided a vivid personal connection to the arboretum’s early days. As the daughter of William Hodgson, she recalled the childhood memories of playing on the iron gate at the main entry and witnessing her father and Mr Bick planting new trees.

Descendants of the Hodgson and Berry families attended the planting in 2017 (Photo credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook)

Her recollections painted a picture of a simpler time, with Council horses Punch and Blossom sheltered on the grounds, and the excitement of rowing boats over the flooded arboretum during the great flood of February 1931.

Over the decades, Sherwood Arboretum has evolved and garnered increasing recognition. In 1986, FOSA was formed, playing a crucial role in tree and habitat care, enhancing visitor experiences, and advocacy. The arboretum’s significance was further acknowledged in 2007 when it was listed on the Queensland Government’s State Heritage Register.

A major milestone came on 29 May 2020, when Cr Adrian Schrinner announced Sherwood Arboretum’s designation as an official Botanic Garden for Brisbane. This recognition underscores its importance as both a recreational space and a site of botanical significance.

Photo credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook

Today, Sherwood Arboretum boasts a diverse collection of botanical specimens, including riverine, dry rainforest, dry sclerophyll, and freshwater wetland areas. Its grand avenue of 72 kauri pines serves as a majestic centrepiece, while plans for a new nature play area promise to engage future generations.

As it nears its 100th birthday, Sherwood Arboretum continues to fulfil its original purpose while adapting to modern needs. It remains an inviting green space for relaxation and enjoyment, as well as a vital site for discovery, learning, conservation, and protection of Australia’s native flora.

Read: Oxley and Sherwood Lead the Way as Brisbane Reclaims Flood Zones for Public Use

The arboretum’s centenary will not only celebrate its rich history but also look forward to its future role in Brisbane’s botanical landscape. From William Hodgson’s careful stewardship to the ongoing efforts of FOSA and the local community, Sherwood Arboretum stands as a living monument to the power of conservation and community involvement in preserving natural heritage for generations to come.

Published 18-July-2024

Market Debut: Historic Chelmer Home Attracts Premium Offers After Initial Auction

A riverfront home in Chelmer, known for its vintage-modern charm and stunning water views, is now inviting offers over $3,400,000 following an enthusiastic auction turnout.

Architectural Heritage

Built in 1982, this mid-century modern residence claims the highest point on Hargreaves Avenue in Chelmer, showcasing a pristine tribute to past design principles through its raked ceilings, parquetry flooring, exposed brickwork, skylights, and floor-to-ceiling glass.

The house was a labour of love for its owner, former academic and centenarian Dr. Elizabeth Campbell, who has held the property for over four decades. Her son, Murray Campbell, shared that his mother’s passion for architecture drove her to design the home as her family residence after acquiring the land in the early 1980s.

Design and Views

The four-bedroom home spans two levels, featuring formal and informal living areas and indoor and outdoor spaces for entertaining. A garden deck with a pavilion overlooks the river, accompanied by a boat pontoon.

The property sits on a 902-square metre block with 20 metres of water frontage, offering breathtaking views of the Brisbane River and beyond.

Murray explained that the home is uniquely positioned to offer views of nearly 2km of the river, stretching from Indooroopilly Bridge on one side to Oxley Creek on the other. The untouched riverfront preserves an abundance of birdlife, enhancing the serene setting.

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A post shared by Ray White New Farm (@rwnewfarm)

A Home of Academia and Celebrations

The property has not only been a home but also a hub for academic and social gatherings. The Campbells, both esteemed academics, utilised dual studies within the home. Numerous gatherings with colleagues and friends have taken place here, including Murray ‘s wedding reception in 1994, which was held on the deck overlooking the river with about 80 guests.

After more than forty years as a cherished family home, Murray’s mum, now 100 years old, feels it is time to pass this beloved residence on to new owners. Prospective buyers have the opportunity to view this architectural gem during scheduled inspections.

View the Listing

Published 16-July-2024

Cheap Fruit and Veg Draw Crowds to Oxley Greengrocer

Locals are flocking to Blunder Road Country Market in Oxley, where fresh produce is selling for a fraction of major supermarket prices, offering relief to budget-conscious shoppers amid rising living costs.

The family-owned business, operating for two decades, has become a local sensation in recent weeks. Store manager Ravi Singh attributes their competitive pricing to bulk purchasing from nearby Brisbane Markets Ltd.

Mr Singh explained that this approach helps them market prices lower, and it’s their way of giving back to the community who have supported them for 20 years. He added that with the current cost of living and expenses, they love to play a small part in giving back and allowing customers to buy good produce at great prices.

Bargain Bonanza

Shoppers can find astonishing deals, including:

– Hass avocados for 9 cents each

– Kale for 79 cents

– Passionfruit for 49 cents

– 10kg bag of brown onions for $11.99

– 750g of green beans for $2.99

– Watermelon for $1.69 per kg

These prices significantly undercut major supermarkets. For instance, 10kg of brown onions at Coles would cost $36, while 500g of green beans at Woolworths is priced at $3.90.

Community Impact

One resident splits her shopping between Blunder Road and larger supermarkets. She expressed appreciation for having the choice of markets offering good, cheap, quality produce. She also noted that her friend in Ascot pays nearly double, having no choice but to shop at Woolworths or Coles due to a lack of independent stores.

Another Oxley local highlighted both the affordability and quality of the produce. She was initially drawn in by the market’s coriander, which she found cheaper and longer-lasting than supermarket varieties. She recounted an instance where she filled a Woolworths grocery bag for only $25, which surprised her.

As inquiries into the supermarket duopoly continue, Blunder Road Country Market in Oxley offers Brisbane residents an alternative option for affordable groceries amid rising living costs.

Published 9-July-2024

RetireAustralia Buys Former Beth Eden Village in Graceville for $16.65M

RetireAustralia has purchased the former Beth Eden Village in Graceville for $16.65 million, with plans to redevelop the historic riverfront property into a high-quality retirement living and integrated care facility.

According to CoreLogic, RetireAustralia acquired the 2.48-hectare site at 19 Bell Terrace, Graceville, which had been vacant for a year. For 19 years, Bethany Christian Care owned the property, which housed an aged care facility and retirement village known as Beth Eden.

The site features Verney House, a heritage-listed building constructed in 1888, converted into offices, aged care accommodation, and other structures, including stables.

RetireAustralia Beth Eden Village Graceville — *Photo Credit: DA A006540381*

Redevelopment Plans

RetireAustralia’s development proposal (DA A006540381) includes refurbishing Verney House and the old stables. The plans also involve constructing three four-storey residential buildings, providing 101 independent living units and a 10-suite Care Hub.

This Care Hub will offer a boutique, home-like environment with a higher level of care from a nurse-led team. Communal spaces for social and wellness activities, including a pool and a residents’ pocket park, are also planned.

RetireAustralia’s Chief Executive Brett Robinson highlighted the area’s shortfall in seniors’ living supply compared to the broader South East Queensland region. He expressed excitement about creating a thriving community for older Australians to live the life they choose in their own homes.

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“There is a shortfall of seniors living supply in this area compared more broadly to South East Queensland. We have worked closely with an expert design team, including Marchese Partners | Life 3A and CUSP, and are excited to propose a place that will support a thriving community of older Australians able to live the life they choose in their own home,” said Dr. Brett Robinson, RetireAustralia’s Chief Executive Officer.

“We will be the only seniors living provider in the catchment offering independent living with the continuum of care services.”

Published 1-July-2024

New Nature Play Area Coming to Sherwood Arboretum

As Sherwood Arboretum approaches its centenary in March 2025, a series of upgrades are underway to enhance this beloved green space.

Read: Oxley Creek Common To Host Massive Tree Planting Event

The improvements will focus on completing a new nature play area, installing interpretive signage, and refurbishing the iconic Kauri Pine Avenue.

Cr Nicole Johnston recently announced a significant $590,000 investment from Council for these enhancements. This funding will be used to finish the new nature play area, produce and install interpretive signage, and undertake work on the Kauri Pine Ave. Additionally, a new shade sail will provide extra coverage for the playground.

The centrepiece of these renovations is the playground upgrade, designed to create an enriched and more accessible play environment. Plans include replacing existing decking, installing new equipment and furniture, and adding a second pathway.

The enhanced space will feature sensory and interactive elements that complement the arboretum’s botanical theme, while also ensuring compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

Established in 1925 on World Forestry Day, Sherwood Arboretum has grown from a sparse collection of native Australian trees to a diverse 15-hectare haven boasting approximately 1,100 trees across 250 species. Its varied botanical collections include riverine, dry rainforest, dry sclerophyll, and freshwater wetland areas, with the grand avenue of 72 kauri pines serving as its crown jewel.

As the centenary approaches, the Friends of Sherwood Arboretum are gearing up for a busy year of celebrations. The group recently held its annual meeting to elect new executive members, demonstrating the continued community involvement that has been crucial to the arboretum’s success.

The upgrades, expected to be completed by mid-2024, will ensure that the arboretum enters its second century as a revitalised space for relaxation, discovery, and conservation. As part of the Brisbane Botanic Gardens collection, it stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving green spaces and fostering environmental education.

Read: Sherwood Mounts Annual Crusade Against Cane Toads at the Sherwood Arboretum

With these improvements, Sherwood Arboretum is set to continue its dual role as both a serene retreat for visitors and a vital resource for botanical research and education. As it prepares to mark 100 years of growth, the arboretum looks forward to welcoming new generations of nature enthusiasts, ensuring its legacy flourishes for centuries to come.

Published 27-June-2024

Wacol Ceremony Heralds New Recruits in Community Safety

The Queensland Corrective Services (QCS) celebrated the graduation of 70 new Custodial Corrections Officers and six service dogs at a ceremony in Wacol.

The occassion is the culmination of extensive training programs created to strengthen the frontline defence of Queensland’s correctional facilities.

Among the recruits are Harvey, Shadow, Shaq, Jet, Forest, and Derek, a dedicated team of canines who have completed 12 weeks of rigorous General-Purpose and Passive Alert Drug Detection training. Alongside them, two Dog Squad instructors have also graduated, ready to deploy their expertise across the state.

The ceremony highlighted the transition of former mine workers, restaurant managers, and real estate agents into roles within the QCS. These individuals have undergone comprehensive training in conflict management, tactical skills, intensive operational deployment, and prisoner rehabilitation.

In the upcoming days, the new Custodial Corrections Officers will begin their postings at various correctional centres, including Arthur Gorrie, Brisbane, Brisbane’s Women’s, Maryborough, Southern, Wolston, Woodford, Borallon Training, and the Escort and Security Branch.

Additionally, the newly graduated dogs and their handlers will be assigned to Arthur Gorrie, Brisbane, Woodford, Lotus Glen, and Townsville, ready to enhance security measures and drug detection capabilities within these facilities.

Member for Mount Ommaney, Jess Pugh, emphasised the importance of these roles, noting that the intensive training maximises the long-standing bond between dogs and their handlers. Pugh underscored the critical nature of these jobs in ensuring community safety through innovative, effective, and evidence-based correctional services.

Corrective Services Minister Nikki Boyd highlighted the strategic importance of these graduates, noting that they joined over 700 new QCS officers trained in the past year. This increase in personnel is part of a larger strategy to improve community safety and lower reoffending rates, which has the support of over $1.8 billion in government investment.

QCS Commissioner Paul Stewart APM praised the commitment of the new officers and the dedication of their trainers. He emphasised the crucial role these officers play in addressing offending behaviour and aiding prisoner rehabilitation, which ultimately contributes to safer communities.

David Hurikino, Acting Dog Squad State Manager, welcomed the new handlers and their canine partners to the QCS Dog Squad. He highlighted the depth of the bond formed through their rigorous training, which equips handlers with the necessary skills to handle security incidents effectively.

The recruits, both human and canine, are set to provide enhanced security and response capabilities, ensuring the safety of Queensland’s correctional facilities and, by extension, the broader community. Their graduation is a testament to the ongoing efforts and investments in Queensland’s correctional services, aimed at fostering a safer and more secure environment for all.

Published Date 26-June-2024