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Chelmer Riverfront Mansion Sets New Real Estate Record

The Chelmer real estate market has made headlines with a breathtaking sale. Within mere days of being listed, a riverfront mansion at 116 Queenscroft St, Chelmer, has fetched an astounding $8.45 million, smashing records and setting a new real estate record for the suburb.

The sale now stands as the second-largest residential transaction in the history of Chelmer, showcasing the undeniable appeal of this picturesque riverside community.

**Dramatic entryway to the property**
Photo Credit: Properstar

The property, a spacious family home nestled on a sprawling 1923-square-meter parcel of land, has been part of Chelmer’s landscape since its acquisition in July 2010 for $5.35 million by the previous owners. Their decision to downsize has sparked this incredible sale, which underscores the vibrancy of Chelmer’s real estate market.

**One of the 5 bedrooms inside the property**
*Photo Credit:* Properstar

Local real estate agents Heath Williams and Ann-Karyn Fraser collaborated to market this property, and the results were nothing short of astonishing. A local family from the Chelmer area emerged as the successful buyer, securing the property just 12 hours after it was listed. Such swift action underscores the intense competition in the market, as two eager buyers submitted offers within days.

**The luxurious living room overlooking the view of a lake**
*Photo Credit:* Properstar

What makes this mansion truly exceptional are its features—a luxurious five-bedroom, five-bathroom layout, complete with an inviting infinity pool and lounge deck, a private pontoon, a wine cellar, and roomy garaging for four vehicles. Its north-facing orientation, immunity to flooding, and idyllic riverfront location undoubtedly contributed to its allure.

**View of the relaxing infinity pool and lounge deck**
*Photo Credit:* Properstar

According to Heath Williams, the limited availability of comparable properties in Chelmer, coupled with economic stability and stagnant interest rates, has motivated buyers to seize opportunities. “There’s limited stock, and I think everyone’s gotten tired of waiting for the world to collapse and are just getting on with it. There’s a lot of activity suddenly. Interest rates have been on hold for a while now, so people are seeing it as safe to wade back into the water.”

**The infinity pool and lounge deck at daytime overlooking the Brisbane River**
*Photo Credit:* Properstar

This record-breaking sale follows Mr. Williams’ previous success in the Chelmer market when he brokered the $8.8 million sale of 37 Morley Street two years ago. Additionally, a historic home at 44 Moreton St, New Farm, recently sold for a sum higher than its asking price of over $4.1 million.

**Floor plan of the whole property**
*Photo Credit:* Properstar

The ongoing success of Chelmer’s property market continues to captivate its residents and reaffirms the enduring appeal of this charming riverside community.

Published 08-October-2023

Corinda Mums Band Together for Layla Nolan and Childhood Cancer Warriors

Photo Credit: Lina Trochez/Unsplash

A determined group of mothers from Corinda are coming together to embark on a journey of compassion and support. Their mission: to walk hundreds of kilometres to raise funds for children battling cancer, like nine-year-old Layla Nolan, who endured a year-long battle with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL).

Layla’s journey began with a seemingly innocuous sore elbow, leading to a diagnosis that has touched the hearts of her community. The diagnosis came as a shock, as what appeared to be a minor ailment escalated into a life-changing ordeal.

“At first, we thought it was a bit of bursitis,” said Kaylah Nolan, Layla’s mother. “She got antibiotics, and to me, it seemed to get better, but it came back so we presented to the hospital.”

After some blood tests, doctors told the family that Layla has ALL. Despite the heart-wrenching diagnosis, Layla faced her treatment with admirable courage. She underwent weekly blood tests and endured gruelling chemotherapy, resulting in losing her hair. Layla had to put her education on hold for an entire year and has only recently been able to return to school about 70% of the time.

To show their support, mums from Layla’s Prep class, now affectionately known as “Layla’s Legends,” have volunteered to participate in this year’s Camp Quality Big Walk for Little Kids fundraiser. Now in its fourth year, the event has already raised more than $5.5 million, providing assistance to approximately 10,000 Australian families dealing with childhood cancer.

Each member of Layla’s Legends has committed to walking 100 kilometres this September 2023, with pairs or groups tackling the challenge together whenever possible. The early morning walks and weekend efforts are a testament to their determination and unwavering support for the cause.

Meanwhile, Camp Quality has named six-time Paralympic gold medallist and childhood cancer survivor, Ellie Cole, as this year’s Big Walk for Little Kids champion. This virtual event invites participants to walk, run, or roll 50km, 100km, or 150km throughout the month, raising funds for Camp Quality’s vital programs and services that benefit children and families facing the challenges of cancer.

Participants can easily register online and seek sponsorship from friends, family members, schoolmates, or colleagues to support their efforts. Virtual teams can be formed, and participants can track their kilometres online using Fitbit or Strava.

“Everyone knows someone impacted by cancer. For children, this is a particularly terrifying experience,” said Deborah Thomas, CEO of Camp Quality. “Big Walk for Little Kids raises money to give those kids and their families a break from cancer on our Kids’ Camps and Family Camps.”

To contribute to this noble cause or to sign up for the Big Walk for Little Kids, visit www.bigwalk.org.au.. Together, the Corinda mums and Layla’s Legends are making a difference in the lives of children and families battling cancer, offering hope, strength, and a brighter future.

Published 20-Sept-2023

Developer Plans Upgrades for Ageing Sherwood Central Woolworths

Did you know that the ageing Woolworths supermarket that anchors Sherwood Central could soon be extended and upgraded, as part of a planned renovation of the retail centre?

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

The long-time owners of the retail complex have applied for a material change of use in order to facilitate renovations aimed at modernising facilities and improving offerings for shoppers.

Headlining the plans are extensions to the Woolworths tenancy, including new direct-to-boot delivery options. Additionally, nine new specialty retail spaces are to be added during the renovation process.

Significant improvements to parking availability, site facilities and visual aesthetics have also been put forth. In total, the proposed upgrades are set to increase the centre’s gross floor area to 6,058 square metres.

To accommodate the refreshed layout prepared by architectural firm Cottee Parker, seven existing retail tenancies and part of the childcare centre will need to be demolished. The exterior facade is slated for a full upgrade as well, which developers say will greatly improve the aesthetic appeal of the core Sherwood commercial district.

“The proposal involves upgrades and extensions to the existing Woolworths supermarket which is necessary to cater for increasing demand. The overall upgrades will also provide a high standard of visual amenity and will represent a significant improvement to the core commercial area of Sherwood,” planning reports indicate.

Read: Green Endeavour HQ: The Future of Fruit and Veg Distribution and Education

The proposed extensions to the shopping centre are not expected to significantly impact the amenity of nearby sensitive areas, as the hours of operation will remain consistent with current hours. The shopping centre will continue its existing hours of operation even after the upgrades and extensions are completed.

The proposed renovations and extensions are currently under assessment by local authorities. If approved, the upgrades are positioned to bring Sherwood Central into the modern retail era and provide an improved shopping experience for patrons. Centre management aims for the redevelopment to act as an anchor for further growth in the surrounding community.

Published 18-September-2023

Queensland Police Launches Largest Ever Recruitment Campaign

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has launched its largest ever recruitment campaign in an effort to significantly boost the number of police recruited and trained at its academy in Oxley.

Read: To Build or Not to Build: The Debate Over a New Bridge from Chelmer to Indooroopilly

With $87.5 million in funding from the state government over five years, the campaign aims to support the force’s ambitious recruitment drive.

Months in the making, the marketing targets both new recruits and experienced officers nationally and abroad who may be interested in a policing career with QPS.

According to Police Minister Mark Ryan, the campaign showcases the diversity of roles available within the service to attract passionate applicants ready for the challenges and rewards.

“As a police officer, you can have one career that has endless possibilities,” Minister Ryan said.

The campaign reveals the dynamic range of environments across the state, from urban Brisbane to rural and remote towns. Queensland Police Union President Ian Leavers said their organisation’s research showed applicants want meaningful work with good pay and work-life balance.

“When we highlighted the fact first year Constables could take home a package of $100,000 in their first twelve months for a 38 hour week it proved highly attractive, something they would consider and try,” Mr Leavers said.

“The Premier, Police Minister and Treasurer listened to our advocacy and didn’t hesitate to fund our initiatives. I’m confident Queensland will be a first option employer for people wanting a career in policing,” he added.

Commissioner Katarina Carroll said the QPS wants to recruit people from all backgrounds who want to make a difference. She believes the campaign will generate significant interest in what is the largest recruitment drive in the organisation’s history.

Read: Understanding Inferential Comprehension

Incentives like no application fees, cost of living allowances, free accommodation, and up to $20,000 towards HECS or relocation continue to be offered.

Published 13-September-2023

Englefield Road Dog Park Gets A Pawsome Upgrade!

Photo Credit: Facebook / Cr Sarah Hutton

The Englefield Road Dog Park in Oxley has undergone a paw-some transformation, and its grand reopening on Saturday, September 2, was the talk of the town.

Both small and large dogs can now revel in the park’s extensive facelift and upgraded amenities. It’s now more paw-some than ever, providing a haven for dogs and their human companions.

With free coffee, sizzling sausages, and fantastic face painting, the 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. event had something for everyone. Local police were on hand, distributing personalised dog tags that had tails wagging all around.

And the real star of the show? Two dog washer pros were on-site, giving 30 furry friends the VIP treatment of a hydrobath wash and leaving them fresher than a daisy!

Cr Sarah Hutton enthusiastically welcomed everyone to this paw-sitively thrilling event.

The local community turned out in droves to celebrate . Families had a blast and the dogs couldn’t stop wagging their tails! It’s not just a park; it’s a community hub!

As the event wrapped up, the verdict was clear: Oxley’s Englefield Road Dog Park upgrade was a howling success!

So, if you haven’t already, grab your fur-baby and head down to Englefield Road Dog Park for a play date like no other.

Published 11-September-2023

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

Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

Have you had your say on Total Fusion’s new gym and wellness centre on Graceville Avenue? The proposed development is for a 4-storey building that will contain an indoor sport and recreation, health care services and a cafe.

If approved, the development at 164 Graceville Avenue will include two levels of fitness and recreational facilities and a rooftop level which will contain an allied health and day spa. The existing Goodlife Health Clubs will be demolished to make way for the development.

The proposal also includes a basement level and ground level car parking that will contain a total of 166 car parking spaces, and a food and drink outlet to be located on the corner of Graceville Avenue and Luke Street.

Locals Raise Concerns on Proposed New Gym and Wellness Centre on Graceville Avenue — Photo Credit: Brisbane City Council / developmenti.brisbane.qld.gov.au

“The proposed development provides a unique architectural response to a flood constrained site whilst incorporating best practice design outcomes that respond to Brisbane’s subtropical climate. The design of the proposed development incorporates a predominantly 3 storey built form and limited rooftop level that is a continuation of the established building height of existing development, such as the Graceville Village located adjoining the site,” the assessment report states.

The proposal was lodged in March 2023 and has so far attracted more than 200 submissions. Some of the concerns raised include increased noise, traffic congestion, existing homes that would be subjected to visual impacts, and loss of character of the suburb.

“The proposed building towers over its neighbours, creating a severe invasion of privacy. It poses an immediate threat to child safety, with a park and playground directly across the street. The BCC has already taken steps to erect additional fencing to prevent accidents, but the proposed development only compounds the danger” – Anonymous

“The proposed development exceeds the current local building height limit, the side streets are too narrow to support the additional traffic, the building is in a flood zone and the proposed basement car park will flood. Increased traffic on Graceville Ave will also be problematic – there are already frequent accidents and damage to parked cars.”- Anonymous

“…Moreover, the proposed development will cause significant pain for existing local businesses in the fitness, allied health, wellness, and hospitality industries. These businesses have already been severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the introduction of a large conglomerate in the same space will only lead to further financial strain and hardship.” – Anonymous

“The area is not equipped to handle the volume of traffic that a gym of this size would generate. This could lead to obstructed views, unsafe driving conditions and significant delays for local residents. This is an unprecedented commercial scale development in our suburb, and I fear that it could negatively impact the integrity and beauty of our community.” – Anonymous

Submissions are due by 20 September. To have your say, visit the Council’s website here.

Published 5-September-2023

Understanding Inferential Comprehension

A lot of children struggle at school with inferential comprehension, says an Indooroopilly educator, but what is it exactly?

Inferential comprehension is a vital aspect of effective reading and critical thinking. It goes beyond merely understanding the literal meaning of a text and involves the reader’s ability to make connections, draw conclusions, and infer information that may not be explicitly stated.

NumberWorks'nWords Indooroopilly Byline Inferential comprehension Mark Behr

This higher-order cognitive skill enables readers to delve deeper into the text, grasp underlying themes, and discern the author’s implicit messages.

Using Tone and Context for Better Understanding

Many of our students are quite successful when answering literal comprehension questions, but when faced with inference, they freeze as they have to find something in the passage that is not directly reported. Training students to use clues in the tone of the passage and the choice of vocabulary to infer meaning is a really important skill.

One of the key elements of inferential comprehension is the reader’s ability to make inferences based on the context, prior knowledge, and textual cues. By combining these factors, readers can fill in the gaps and deduce information that is not explicitly provided.

This skill is particularly valuable when dealing with complex and abstract texts, as it allows readers to navigate ambiguity and uncover hidden meanings.

Critical Thinking and Academic Performance

Inferential comprehension is also closely linked to critical thinking. When readers engage in inferential reasoning, they are encouraged to question, evaluate, and interpret the text from multiple perspectives.

This active engagement with the material promotes a deeper understanding of the content and encourages readers to consider alternative viewpoints and possible implications.

In conclusion, inferential comprehension is an essential skill that enhances reading comprehension and fosters critical thinking.

By going beyond the surface level of a text and drawing upon their prior knowledge and contextual clues, readers can extract deeper meanings and uncover implicit messages.

This skill not only improves academic performance but also equips individuals to think critically in various aspects of their lives, enabling them to make informed decisions and engage with information more thoughtfully.

Published 4 September 2023 on Over The Walter Taylor Bridge

NumberWorks’nWords English Competition for Children

THIS COMPETITION IS NOW CLOSED.

Every entrant will receive a $65 voucher for a free evaluation and a free lesson. All entrants will go into a draw and the winner will receive a whole term’s tuition worth $650.

Fill out my online form.

First Prize and Runner-Up prizes are only redeemable at Number Works n Words Indooroopilly. If the First Prize is unclaimed within 48 hours of the draw, there will be a re-draw. Only one $65 voucher may be used per child.

Tis the Season for Brisbane Rotary’s Christmas Cash Grab Raffle

The holiday season is fast approaching, and the Rotary Club of Brisbane Taylor Bridge is making spirits bright with their Christmas Cash Grab raffle.

Read: To Build or Not to Build: The Debate Over a New Bridge from Chelmer to Indooroopilly

With over $6,000 in cash prizes up for grabs, this limited entry raffle is sure to bring some extra cheer this year. Only 300 tickets are available for the Christmas Cash Grab, so competition is high to win the grand prizes of $3,000, $2,000 or $1,000 in cash.

Individual tickets can be purchased for $50, or savvy entrants can increase their odds by grabbing discounted bundles of 5 tickets for $225 or 10 for $450.

The winning ticket will be drawn on December 16 at the Sherwood Indooroopilly RSL Sub Branch. Winners will be notified by phone and announced on the Rotary Club’s Facebook page on December 17.

Proceeds from the raffle support the Rotary Club of Brisbane Taylor Bridge’s service initiatives both locally and abroad.

About the Rotary Club of Brisbane Taylor Bridge

Photo credit: Rotary Club of Brisbane Taylor Bridge/Facebook

The Rotary Club of Brisbane Taylor Bridge dynamic group supports youth initiatives and cares deeply about the environment through recycling efforts. Their Rotate committee spearheads new ways to be eco-friendly.

The club was established in 2012, to fill a gap in the service organisation representation in the leafy corridor of the western suburbs of Oxley, Sherwood, Corinda, Graceville, and Tennyson.

Locally and globally, the Taylor Bridge Rotarians are dedicated to making a positive impact. Their enthusiasm and progressive spirit enable them to take on meaningful projects that create lasting change. Visit the club’s website to learn more about the upcoming Christmas raffle and their projects.

Read: Chelmer Mum’s Wake-Up Call: Son’s Experience with Respiratory Syncytial Virus Sparks Awareness Campaign

Published 24-August-2023

To Build or Not to Build: The Debate Over a New Bridge from Chelmer to Indooroopilly

To build or not to build a new bridge from Chelmer to Indooroopilly: the question has been the subject of much discussion and debate since the idea was floated and particularly in recent months.

Read: Walter Taylor Bridge: Revisiting the History of Southern Hemisphere’s Only Habitable Bridge

Earlier this year, Brisbane City Council presented six options for a potential new bridge aimed at alleviating severe congestion on the existing Walter Taylor Bridge. Here are the potential solutions:

A four-lane downstream bridge and overpass near the rail line
A four-lane downstream bridge with a short under rail tunnel on Coonan St
A new four-lane bridge going upstream
Shifting Walter Taylor Bridge to two lanes northbound, whilst building another two-lane southbound bridge
Shifting Walter Taylor Bridge to two lanes southbound and then adding a new two-lane bridge northbound
No action despite the severe congestion at Walter Taylor Bridge

Community Feedback

New Bridge from Chelmer — Photo credit: Brisbane City Council

Although most residents agree something must be done to address congestion around the Walter Taylor Bridge, some have presented their own ideas for improving transportation in the area that don’t involve constructing another bridge.

BCC has summarised the insights identified through community consultation, based on data gathered from the pre-feasibility study conducted:

There is a high level of community support for infrastructure solutions, with 85% of respondents suggesting a need for infrastructure upgrade and a want to see improvements to the district and river crossing.
More than 70% of respondents suggested upgrading infrastructure by building another bridge or increasing capacity of the existing Walter Taylor Bridge, by making traffic improvements north and south of the river to reduce congestion and improve travel time reliability of road users.
63% of respondents cross the river three or more days in a week and 79% of respondents said congestion, travel time or reliability are the main challenges when crossing the river.
18% of respondents outlined a need for direct and more frequent bus and train services, including more connections servicing the northern and southern suburbs and better access to parking in and around the train stations.
12% of respondents wanted more active transport links to local paths and cycleways.
Only 1% of respondents don’t want any changes.
Brisbane City Council

Detailed findings are presented in the Outcome from Consultations and Key Findings Report.

Alternative Ideas

Meanwhile Cr Nicole Johnston (Tennyson Ward) argues that a new bridge will simply dump more cars onto already congested roads like Coonan Street and turn residential streets into thoroughfares. She advocates for improving public transportation as a preferable alternative.

Cr Johnston suggested making public transport for students free during school and university terms. She also called for more local bus loops connecting to train stations, extending the CityCat network, building new bike paths where they were lacking, and upgrading problematic intersections.

The opponents of a new bridge from Chelmer to Indro argue proper investigation is needed to determine the optimal location for improved river crossings in Brisbane’s western suburbs. They contend projects improving transportation options apart from private vehicles deserve priority consideration.

Read: Rocklea to Darra Upgrade Moves Forward With Oxley Creek Bridges Update

The debate seems guaranteed to continue as officials weigh the costs and benefits of relieving congestion on the bridge so vital for connectivity between Brisbane’s inner west and southwest. For now, the outcome remains uncertain.

Published 18-August-2023