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Will a 4-Day School Week Work? Corinda State High Proposes Changes in Schedule

Did you know that Corinda State High School is considering a bold move to a 4-day school week for senior students beginning Term 1 of 2024?

Read: Corinda State High School One of the First QLD State Schools to Ban Mobile Phones in School

The proposal would have senior students attend classes for four days per week, with one day for independent study at home.

The school has held three parent forums to explain the proposal and gather feedback. The four-day schedule would apply only to senior students, who would be expected to complete schoolwork at home one day per week.

4-day school week — Photo credit: Corinda State High School/Google Maps

Corinda State High School currently has school days running Monday to Friday from 8:40 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. Students participating in extracurricular activities and sports excellence programs often arrive early or stay later, until around 4:00 p.m.

Proponents argue the change could provide benefits for both students and teachers. A shortened week allows more time for lesson planning and professional development for teachers. Students may also see improvements in grades, attendance, and discipline with the adjusted schedule.

Some Queensland schools trialled shortened weeks, including The Gap State High School. Parents at The Gap reported students receiving better grades in the shortened week model. The 4-day school week provided flexibility – students could study on campus, participate in activities, or leave early.

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

The Department of Education stated any changes to school hours must involve consultation with all stakeholders. Schools must still meet curriculum requirements and not disadvantage any students.

The debate highlights the complex considerations around changing traditional school schedules. Corinda State High will need to weigh both the potential academic benefits and concerns from parents if it moves forward with the bold four-day plan. The school community’s feedback will likely play a key role in determining if the proposal becomes reality in 2024.

Published 24-October-2023

Brisbane International 2024 Returns to the Pat Rafter Arena

After last taking place in its entirety in 2019, the Brisbane International tennis tournament will make a much-anticipated return to welcome 2024 at the Pat Rafter Arena.

Brisbane International tournament details

To be held from December 31, 2023 to January 7, 2024, the Brisbane International will feature a 32-player draw for both men’s and women’s singles. This marks an expansion of the women’s field from previous years. Top-ranked players will compete for a total prize pool of $3.1 million AUD.

There’s more than 1️⃣ reason that we’re BACK!@Queensland @visitbrisbane #BrisbaneTennis pic.twitter.com/MDtbPMwHQE
— Brisbane International (@BrisbaneTennis) September 18, 2023

The tournament is sanctioned by the Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) and the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP). It serves as a prelude to the Australian Open Grand Slam in Melbourne.

Supported by the government

“It’s terrific to see the much-anticipated return of the Brisbane International tournament to reignite Australia’s summer of tennis,” said Tourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe. “Tennis fans love this block-buster event, as much as the players love playing at Pat Rafter Arena.”

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the tournament was a “Grand Slam win for the city” and would benefit local businesses. “Our city continues to be the number one choice for international sporting events,” he added.

Former world no.1 Ashleigh Barty endorsed the move to reinstate the event. “The players love to come here, love the atmosphere,” she said. The stadium’s namesake and fellow former world no.1 Pat Rafter also welcomed the tournament’s return.

Australian Summer of Tennis 2024 — Photo Credit: Instagram/Tennis Australia

Together with the United Cup and the Canberra International, the Brisbane International kicks off the Australian Summer of Tennis in 2024. The summer culminates with the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.

Published 17 October 2023

Chelmer Riverfront Mansion Sets New Real Estate Record

Photo Credit: Properstar

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.