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

The 2024 International Women’s Day Fun Run was a resounding success, with a tidal wave of support sweeping across Brisbane and numerous regional communities in Queensland. This remarkable event rallied thousands of participants, united in their mission to combat breast cancer, raising an astonishing $1.78 million for the cause.

Read: Chelmer and Riverhills Mums Led Record-breaking Turnout for Brisbane Breast Cancer Fun Run

The streets of Brisbane’s CBD were awash with a “Sea of Pink” on March 10 as runners, walkers, and supporters donned pink outfits and accessories for the inspiring 5km and 10km events.

Thousands more joined in at 14 “virtual” fun run locations from Bowen to the Sunshine Coast organised by Mater Foundation.

Among the pink-clad masses were two incredibly inspiring women – Anna Finlayson and Anna Holland – both breast cancer survivors who embodied the event’s message of resilience, hope, and celebrating life.

Chelmer mother-of-two Ms Finlayson rallied her community from The Outdoor Club Graceville after receiving a shocking breast cancer diagnosis last year. Despite undergoing three surgeries including a mastectomy, her courage spurred them all to join the fun run.

Ms Holland, a teacher from Jamboree Heights State School, beamed with joy as she celebrated an incredible milestone – five years of being cancer-free after battling stage two HER2-positive breast cancer.

Her presence at this year’s Fun Run was a powerful testament to resilience in the face of adversity. Despite enduring a double mastectomy, gruelling rounds of chemotherapy, and radiation treatment, Ms Holland emerged as a true warrior, her spirit unbroken.

The record-smashing number of participants this year resulted in the event selling out within 25 days, despite organisers increasing the capacity by 3,000 spots to meet overwhelming demand.

Mater Foundation’s Chief Executive Andrew Thomas proclaimed this year’s International Women’s Day Fun Run as the largest in the event’s 33-year history.

“Queenslanders have supported this year’s fun run like never before – and we cannot thank them enough,” he said.

“Our supporters created a pink street party that stretched from South Bank to the Botanic Gardens – and beyond.

“It’s been a day of laughter and great memories – and a few tears too.

Read: New Fitness Opportunities in Sherwood Promote Health and Community

The $1.78 million raised through the fun run will bolster Mater’s efforts against breast cancer through funding critical medical research, procuring cutting-edge equipment, and offering more personalised patient services.

Published 14-March-2024

Chelmer and Riverhills Mums Led Record-breaking Turnout for Brisbane Breast Cancer Fun Run

The 2024 International Women’s Day Fun Run, presented by Queensland X-Ray, made history as the largest event yet, with a record-breaking 23,000 participants hitting the streets of Brisbane. Among the thousands of runners, breast cancer survivors Anna Finlayson and Anna Holland, hailing from Chelmer and Riverhills respectively, stood out as inspiring symbols of resilience and hope.

Ms Finlayson, a Chelmer mother-of-two, inspired her peers from The Outdoor Club Graceville to join the Sea of Pink after receiving a shocking breast cancer diagnosis last year. Despite facing three surgeries, including a mastectomy, Ms Finlayson’s courage and determination have rallied her community behind the cause.

Ms Holland, a teacher at Jamboree Heights State School, is marking her five-year milestone since being diagnosed with stage two HER2-positive breast cancer. Despite the challenges she has faced, including a double mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation, Mrs Holland remains an embodiment of resilience. Her participation in this year’s Fun Run symbolises not only her triumph but also a celebration of hope and survival for all affected by breast cancer.

Organised by Mater Foundation, the International Women’s Day Fun Run, held on Saturday 10 March 2024, garnered unprecedented demand, selling out in 25 days despite expanding its capacity by 3000 spots.

The overwhelming response to the 2024 Fun Run underscored the event’s significance in the hearts of Queenslanders. Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas emphasised the importance of community participation in supporting breast cancer research and patient care.

With the option for virtual participation, individuals across the state were also able to join the Sea of Pink and contribute to the cause from their neighbourhoods.

Funds from the event will be used for life-saving breast cancer research and vital support services for patients at Mater hospitals across Queensland.

From Brisbane to Bundaberg, every step taken in the Fun Run brings hope and support to those affected by breast cancer.

St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School Corinda Cleared on Possible Asbestos-Contaminated Compost

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Concerns about possible asbestos-contaminated compost at the site of the Sport Performance Centre of St Aidan’s Anglican Girls School in Corinda have been laid to rest, as test samples from Ambiwerra have tested negative for asbestos. The school, in accordance with Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, has resumed all activity at the site.

Prior to this development, Queensland’s environmental authority had unveiled a worrying find: a small amount of asbestos was detected in a compost stockpile at NuGrow’s Ipswich site, one of the state’s leading disposal and recycling companies.

Immediate Action and Precautionary Measures

This led to immediate action, with affected areas such as a construction site at St. Aidan’s Anglican Girls School and a dog park in Greenbank being cordoned off for testing. These were the first public spaces to confront the potential danger of asbestos-contaminated soil.

Upon discovery, authorities took swift action to mitigate the risk. Workplace Health and Safety Queensland advised St Aidan’s that the soil used for landscaping its Sport Performance Centre might contain asbestos from NuGrow. In response, the school and other impacted businesses were directed to halt all material movement, initiating a rigorous testing process to assess the contamination level.

Queensland’s environmental authority is taking a precautionary measure due to a crisis of contaminated mulch affecting New South Wales.

Since then, the school has released the results of the investigation, giving its Ambiwerra site the “All Clear.”

Community and Environmental Impact

The potential presence of asbestos in public spaces has understandably alarmed the community.

The spokeswoman for St Aidan’s reassured that the risk was very low, emphasising the school’s commitment to safety by notifying its community and taking immediate steps to isolate the affected area.

Queensland’s environment authority and Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding have emphasized the low risk of harm and the extensive testing underway to ensure public safety.

Ongoing Investigations and Collaborative Efforts

As the investigation unfolds, the focus has broadened beyond the immediate sites to include a more comprehensive inspection of waste facilities and compost suppliers across South East Queensland.

The Department of Environment & Workplace Health and Safety QLD are working to prevent further distribution of contaminated materials, addressing environmental health crises.

Published 3-March-2024. Updated 13-March-2024.

Push to Combat Red Imported Fire Ant Threat in Oxley, Other Suburbs

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Efforts are intensifying towards a half-billion-dollar program addressing a persistent fire ant infestation impacting lives and the beloved Australian outdoor way of life in suburbs like Oxley, Seventeen Mile Rocks and Corinda.

Nearly 23 years following the initial infestation of the red imported fire ant at the Port of Brisbane, these ants have now infiltrated various areas, extending their reach from Brisbane to other locations. Councils have raised concerns over the disruptions that have been happening due to infestations.

Per the Fire Ant Eradication map, here are just some of the reported fire ant infestations in the last 12 months:

Oxley 52

Seventeen Mile Rocks 49

Darra 35

Fig Tree Pocket 22

Corinda 18

Aside from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, isolated outbreaks have been detected in northern New South Wales, specifically in Murwillumbah and Wardell, which were likely propagated through the movement of infested topsoil from southeast Queensland.

Billions in Investment for Eradication

An additional half-billion-dollar investment is slated for the Queensland eradication effort by 2032, with a significant portion of federal funding allocated to nearly $300 million.

Ashley Bacon, the program director of the National Fire Ant Eradication Program, remains optimistic about containment efforts, noting Australia’s comparatively slower spread rate of approximately four kilometres per year, in contrast to the United States and China.

However, scepticism persists among experts like Georgia Tech professor Michael Goodisman, who highlights the challenges posed by the ants’ rapid reproduction and resilience. Despite ongoing efforts, concerns linger regarding the efficacy of containment strategies.

While the eradication program primarily employs baiting methods to render fire ants infertile, the process is arduous and resource-intensive, with meticulous treatment spanning extensive areas surrounding infested sites.

Without intervention, the potential spread of fire ants could extend as far north as Bowen in Queensland, west to Longreach, and south to Canberra, posing substantial agricultural and environmental threats.

The National Allergy Centre of Excellence warns of staggering health impacts should fire ants become endemic in Australia, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to mitigate risks.

Why Worry About Fire Ants?

Fire ants, originally from South America, first appeared in Brisbane in 2001, likely transported via ships docking at the Port of Brisbane. These tiny but aggressive insects, ranging from 2-6 mm, are known to swarm when disturbed and can hitch rides on various objects, including mulch and trucks. They’ve even been observed creating rafts from their bodies to navigate waterways.

Their copper-brown colouration with a darker abdomen makes them easily identifiable, with nests resembling mounds of dirt. Fire ants pose a significant threat to both humans and livestock, with encounters often resulting in painful stings. These stings can be particularly dangerous when multiple ants attack simultaneously, causing severe reactions and, in some cases, fatalities.

Fire ants can form super colonies with multiple queens and millions of ants. If you encounter a nest, it’s important not to spray it. Instead, photograph it from a safe distance and promptly alert the relevant authorities. For guidance on identifying nests and appropriate actions, visit https://www.fireants.org.au.

Safeguarding Chelmer: Residents Take Charge Against Youth Crime

Residents in the affluent Brisbane suburb of Chelmer, along with neighbouring suburbs like Graceville and Sherwood, have resorted to drastic measures to combat rising youth crime rates. They’ve employed the services of a private security guard and his highly-trained dogs, spending thousands of dollars weekly in their bid to protect their community.

Frustrated with what they perceive as a lacklustre response from the government and courts regarding youth crime, residents have initiated community efforts to enhance safety.

One local, a young father, spearheaded these actions after a disturbing incident involving juveniles allegedly armed with machetes breaking into a mother’s home in Sherwood. He expressed discontent with government inaction and emphasised the urgency of addressing the escalating problem.

Patrols and Surveillance

Under the guidance of ex-army reservist Dan Walker, Walker Security conducts patrols equipped with highly visible vehicles and trained protection dogs. Daily reports from these patrols keep residents informed of any suspicious activities.

The visible presence of security personnel and their vigilant monitoring have significantly deterred criminal activities, contributing to a notable decrease in reported offences, particularly in Chelmer, where property values are high.

When the locals took matters into their own hands in November 2023, the residents claimed that crime rates plummeted by as much as 80 per cent in their area.

Chelmer crime stats — Chelmer Crime Statistics Feb 2023 to Feb 2024
Photo Credit: QPS

Based on the Queensland Police Services statistics, the number of offences like robbery, unlawful entry, and theft have decreased in the suburbs.

Police Response and Strategies for 2024

While community-led initiatives strive to mitigate immediate concerns, law enforcement agencies still grapple with long-term solutions.

Queensland’s Acting Assistant Commissioner for Youth Crime, Andrew Massingham, outlines police strategies for 2024, emphasising the need for swift action against violent youth offenders. With a focus on early intervention and prevention, police aim to address the root causes of youth crime while utilising technologies such as GPS trackers to monitor offenders.

Amidst these efforts, academic voices like Associate Professor Troy Allard from Griffith University, advocate for a systemic rethink in approaching youth justice.

Criticising the current emphasis on deterrence, Dr Allard suggests a shift towards prevention-focused interventions, highlighting the need for holistic support systems involving therapy and family supervision. Such initiatives, he argues, could yield more meaningful and sustainable outcomes in addressing youth crime.

Police Commissioner Steps Down

Amidst growing tensions within police ranks and criticisms over the handling of recent incidents, Police Commisioner Katarina Carroll announced her decision to step down during a meeting with Police Minister Mark Ryan at Brisbane Airport on 20 February 2024. Her resignation follows heightened speculation and comes in the wake of concerns over the state’s response to youth crime.

Despite Premier Steven Miles’ previous support, Carroll emphasised the need to “clear the air” and allow the Queensland Police Service to focus on addressing critical issues. As discussions swirl around her departure, attention turns to the future leadership of the force and the ongoing challenges in tackling youth offending.

Commissioner Carroll’s last day will be on 1 March 2024, months out from when her contract was due to finish. She was appointed to the role in 2019, becoming the first woman in the position after serving as commissioner of the Queensland Fire and Emergency Service.

Published 20-Feb-2024

Veteran Officers Start New Tenure as First Year Constables at QPS

Eleven seasoned international and interstate police officers have commenced their tenure with the Queensland Police Service as the state’s newest First Year Constables. Their induction follows the successful completion of the Police Abridged Competency Education program, a rigorous 17-week training initiative held at the prestigious QPS Oxley Academy.

This initiative caters specifically to applicants with frontline policing experience outside of the QPS within the past five years. Hailing from policing jurisdictions across the globe, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, Victoria, New South Wales, and the Northern Territory, these officers contribute their experiences to the QPS.

Their collective expertise in frontline policing, coupled with relevant studies in law, investigation, and public safety, promises to enhance the effectiveness of the Service.

Training Ground at Oxley Academy

The Police Abridged Competency Education (PACE) program in Oxley offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills training. Geared towards augmenting the existing policing background of participants, it equips them with the necessary tools and expertise required for effective law enforcement.

To facilitate their transition into serving the Queensland community, successful graduates of the PACE program are offered a generous relocation incentive of $20,000. This financial aid helps with easing the officers’ integration into their new roles within the QPS.

Warm Welcome

Police Minister Mark Ryan extends a warm welcome to the 11 new officers, emphasising the value of their extensive policing experience in enriching the Service. He underscores the importance of investing in individuals and their skills to uphold the QPS’s commitment to community safety. Aspiring officers are encouraged to explore the diverse career pathways within the QPS and make a positive impact in their communities.

Assistant Commissioner Mark Kelly also extends heartfelt congratulations to the 11 new First Year Constables embarking on their policing careers with the QPS. He acknowledges the wealth of experience, core values, and skills they bring from their diverse policing backgrounds across Australia and overseas.

The newly inducted officers have been deployed to various regions across Queensland, ready to fulfil their commitment to ensuring community safety. From Mackay Northern Beaches to Cairns, Townsville to Brisbane City, they are strategically stationed to address diverse policing needs across the state.

A career within the Queensland Police Service offers a multitude of opportunities to make a meaningful difference. From protecting communities and responding to emergencies to investigating crimes and providing support, the possibilities are endless. Aspiring officers are urged to seize the opportunity to embark on a fulfilling journey in law enforcement by visiting PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au.

Published 15-Feb-2024

Rides, Games, and More! Oxley Community Festival Returns in 2024

Get ready for a day of family fun and entertainment at the Oxley Community Festival on 26 January 2024! This beloved community event is back and set to be even more exciting than previous years.

Read: Game Over Adventure Centre: A New Thrill Beckons in Oxley

Taking place from 1:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., the festival offers something for everyone. As always, entry and rides are completely free for all attendees. The evening will be capped off with a spectacular fireworks show at 7:15 p.m.

Some of the highlights at this year’s Oxley Community Festival include carnival rides, games, face painting, food trucks, live music, and more. New additions for 2024 include a petting zoo that is sure to delight children.

The event, to be hosted by Club Oxley (Oxley Bowls Club), is proudly supported by Brisbane City Council and local businesses like The Lion Richlands. As a premier hospitality venue in southeast Queensland, The Lion Richlands is a proud sponsor of community events like this.

Festivals require hard work and dedication behind-the-scenes. Volunteers are needed to help make the magic happen. If you’re interested in volunteering, be sure to sign up online.

Read: Meet the Sherwood Artist Behind the Brisbane Bin Chicken Trail

With free admission, activities, and entertainment, the Oxley Community Festival is the place to be on January 26th. Bring the whole family out for a memorable day celebrating community, capped off with stunning fireworks. It’s an event that keeps getting bigger and better every year!

Most importantly, the Oxley Community Festival is a family friendly event suitable for all ages. From carnival rides to face painting, there is plenty to keep the kids entertained. Parents can relax knowing this is a safe and fun environment for the entire family to enjoy.

You can find Club Oxley at 24A Englefield Rd, Oxley. Visit their website for more details.

Published 23-January-2024

Record Number of Police Recruits in Training at Oxley and Townsville

A staggering 143 new recruits have commenced their training at Queensland Police Academies in Oxley and Townsville, marking the first intake for the year. This development has propelled the total number of police recruits to a historic high of 681, breaking previous records.

The interest in joining the Queensland Police Service has surged, with nearly 2,000 registered recruit applicants hailing from Queensland, interstate, and overseas jurisdictions.

This surge comes on the heels of the Queensland Police Service’s largest-ever recruitment marketing campaign, “Challenging, Rewarding, Policing,” launched in 2023, alongside a series of enticing incentives.

The State Government has announced significant measures to attract potential recruits, including a special cost-of-living allowance, free accommodation for recruits residing at police academies, relocation assistance of $20,000 for interstate and overseas applicants with policing experience, and financial support of up to $20,000 for eligible HECS debts for successful police recruit graduates.

Oxley Queensland Police Academy — Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

Mark Ryan, the Police and Community Safety Minister, praised the Queensland Police Service’s recruitment efforts.

“The Queensland Police Service has intensified its recruitment drive, resulting in an unprecedented number of recruits. For the first time ever, close to 700 recruits are now undergoing training at Queensland Police Academies,” he said.

Assistant Commissioner of People Capability Command, Mark Kelly, expressed his astonishment at the strong interest in joining the Queensland Police Service, even in a highly competitive job market in Australia. He emphasized the importance of recruiting individuals who align with the organization’s values and are dedicated to ensuring Queensland’s safety.

Aspiring police officers are encouraged to visit PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au to begin their journey towards a fulfilling career and contribute positively to their communities.

Published 21-Jan-2024

Charlie Cameron Takes On Development Role for Sherwood Magpies

The Sherwood Magpies have secured a major coaching acquisition with the appointment of Brisbane Lions star Charlie Cameron as a development coach for the 2024 season.

The Magpies announced Cameron’s appointment on their social media channels earlier this week. “The Magpies are delighted to confirm the appointment of Charlie Cameron to the role of development coach for season 2024,” the club said in a statement.

Focus on youth and senior squads

In his role, Cameron will have a strong focus on guiding the Colts & U17s and assisting the senior QAFL squad.

The club said Cameron is “very keen to develop his coaching craft” and will be making regular appearances at training across the youth and senior programs.

The appointment comes after a difficult 2023 QAFL season for Sherwood, who finished bottom of the ladder with just one win from 18 matches.

Charlie Cameron, Lions star

Originally from Mount Isa, Cameron moved to Brisbane as a teenager to board at Marist College. In the 2013 rookie draft, Adelaide drafted him seventh after his impressive WAFL performances for Swan Districts.

Cameron has played the last 129 games of his AFL career with Brisbane, where he is a four-time leading goalkicker. He is coming off arguably his best season, having kicked 59 goals for the Lions in 2023.

The Magpies have secured a major coup with the acquisition of dual All-Australian.

Published 20-January-2024

Sherwood Mounts Annual Crusade Against Cane Toads at the Sherwood Arboretum

Photo Credit: Watergum/Facebook

The Sherwood Arboretum will once again host the annual Toad Bust, a key event in the Australian ecological calendar, aiming to tackle the growing problem of Cane Toads in the region.

This invasive species, the Rhinella marina, poses a serious threat to Australia’s native wildlife and ecosystems, making the Toad Bust not just an event, but a vital environmental mission.

The Sherwood Annual Toad Bust is scheduled for Saturday, 20 Jan 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at 87 Jolimont St.

The Sherwood Arboretum, part of the Brisbane Botanic Gardens collection, is a heritage-listed site officially opened on World Forestry Day in 1925. It spans 15 hectares and houses approximately 1100 trees from around 250 species, showcasing diverse botanical collections and a grand avenue of 72 kauri pines.

The Impact of Cane Toads

Cane Toads are known for devastatingly impacting Australian native wildlife, poisoning thousands of pets, and adversely affecting local agriculture. They have a lifespan of over 10 years in the wild, with a single female capable of producing up to 35,000 eggs per breeding cycle.

The Great Cane Toad Bust encourages community participation in tackling this environmental menace. People are urged to engage in toad busting, tadpole trapping, and humane euthanasia of the toads, contributing to the collective effort to control their population.

On the Ground: Toadbusters in Action

Simon Middap, a semi-retired IT engineer and enthusiastic “toadbuster” shares his experience of the overwhelming presence of Cane Toads on the Pacific Harbour golf estate in Queensland. He highlights the practical challenges they face, like the difficulty in finding a spot to place a golf ball due to the sheer number of toadlets.

Middap describes their catch-cry, “TTTT” (Terrorise toads every third Thursday), illustrating their consistent efforts in managing the toad population. This reflects the community’s commitment to environmental conservation.

Environmental and Scientific Perspectives

Due to recent weather patterns, Dr. Jodi Rowley, a frog biologist, emphasises the favourable breeding conditions for amphibians, including Cane Toads. She underscores the importance of local initiatives like toad busts in positively impacting local wildlife.

The introduction of Cane Toads in 1935 by Queensland’s sugar cane growers marks a critical point in Australia’s environmental history. Their intention to control beetle species affecting sugar cane crops backfired, leading to the widespread invasion of toads across the country.

The Sherwood Annual Toad Bust is more than an event; it’s proof of the power of community involvement in environmental conservation. With initiatives like this, Australians demonstrate their resilience and commitment to protecting their unique ecosystems and wildlife.

Published 19-Jan-2024