The Hidden Homes of Walter Taylor Bridge in Chelmer

For decades, the Walter Taylor Bridge in Chelmer stood as more than just a transport link—it was a home. The bridge, which opened in 1936, remains the only habitable bridge in the Southern Hemisphere. While thousands of motorists cross it daily, few realise that generations once lived inside its towering pylons.



Walter Taylor Bridge construction
Caption: Walter Taylor Bridge construction (1930)
Photo Credit: Museum of Brisbane

A Bridge Like No Other in Chelmer

Walter Taylor Bridge opening
Caption: Walter Taylor Bridge opening (1936)
Photo Credit: Museum of Brisbane

The Walter Taylor Bridge, originally known as the Indooroopilly Toll Bridge, was completed in 1936, replacing a ferry service that previously connected Chelmer and Indooroopilly. Designed by local resident Walter Taylor, the bridge was privately funded through a toll system, with the initial charge set at one penny per crossing.

Walter Taylor Bridge Northern Tower interior
Caption: Walter Taylor Bridge Northern Tower interior (1997)
Photo Credit: Museum of Brisbane

The structure remains unique, with its cables sourced from surplus materials used in the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Its towering pylons housed the families of the tollkeeper and bridge supervisor, making it the only bridge in the Southern Hemisphere designed to be inhabited.

Life Inside the Walter Taylor Bridge

For 74 years, three generations of the Green family lived in the Indooroopilly pylon, beginning with Morton John Green, the bridge’s first tollkeeper. The apartment, accessible by a 52-step climb, featured high ceilings, a kitchen, bedrooms, a balcony, and a view overlooking the Brisbane River.

The Chelmer pylon of Walter Taylor Bridge.
Caption: Walter Taylor Bridge Northern Tower interior (1997)
Photo Credit: Museum of Brisbane

However, life inside the bridge came with unique challenges. The bedroom walls did not reach the ceiling, limiting privacy, and the thick stone structure meant that modern upgrades, such as installing an elevator, would be nearly impossible.

Chelmer’s historic bridge with habitable pylons.
Caption: Walter Taylor Bridge Northern Tower interior (1997)
Photo Credit: Museum of Brisbane

The Chelmer pylon had a very different history. It was initially home to the bridge’s second-in-command before being rented out over the decades, eventually housing university students. The space suffered significant damage due to parties and neglect, leading to its current uninhabitable state.

From Family Home to Historic Landmark

In 1965, BCC took over ownership of the bridge, and the toll system was removed. The last residents moved out in 2009, with one of the brothers requiring a crane-assisted evacuation due to medical reasons.

Inside the Walter Taylor Bridge apartment in Chelmer.
Caption: Walter Taylor Bridge Northern Tower interior (1997)
Photo Credit: Museum of Brisbane

The bridge remained empty until 2013, opened for guided tours. Thousands of visitors have since explored the Indooroopilly pylon, learning about the unique lifestyle of those who once called it home.



Some have suggested repurposing the space for commercial use. However, strict building codes and accessibility issues make this unlikely. For now, the Walter Taylor Bridge remains a heritage landmark, and its history has been preserved through tours and public interest.

Published 19-Feb-2025

Weemalla House In Corinda Stands As Symbol Of Brisbane’s Elite In The Early 20th Century

Step back in time to 1908, when Corinda was home to Brisbane’s wealthiest residents. At the heart of this history stands Weemalla, a meticulously designed residence that still embodies the elegance and craftsmanship of the era.



Built between 1908 and 1909, this heritage-listed home at 62 Ruthven Street remains largely unchanged, offering a direct link to the past in one of the city’s historically affluent suburbs. Designed by renowned architect Robin Dods, the residence reflects the distinctive approach of his work, blending functional Queensland housing with British Arts and Crafts influences.

The Evolution of Corinda and Its Elite Residents

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Corinda became a sought-after location for Brisbane’s upper class. The suburb’s elevated position and proximity to the river provided relief from the city’s noise and pollution, attracting successful business figures, pastoralists, and merchants. Among them was Robert Moore Steele, the first owner of Weemalla and Queensland’s manager for the Victoria Insurance Company Ltd.

Before settling in Corinda, Steele and his family lived in other middle-class suburbs like Toowong and Indooroopilly. In 1908, he acquired the land for Weemalla, commissioning Hall & Dods to design a home suitable for his growing family. The result was a low-set timber residence with generous verandahs and a carefully considered layout, characteristic of Dods’ work.

Architectural Significance and Design Excellence

Weemalla is a prime example of Robin Dods’ residential designs, which prioritised climate-responsive features and craftsmanship. His work drew inspiration from the British Arts and Crafts movement, favouring solid structures with wide porches, steeply pitched roofs, and well-proportioned forms. The home’s design incorporated natural ventilation, deep verandahs, and large windows to combat Brisbane’s subtropical heat.

The front facade, though appearing symmetrical, reveals a thoughtful asymmetry upon closer inspection. A central piazza and an entry hall with bay windows enhance airflow and natural light, while interior spaces balance formal and informal living areas. The home’s original materials and design choices were selected to develop a sense of permanence, allowing it to age gracefully over time.

Weemella House in Corinda
Photo Credit: Queensland Heritage Listing

Changes and Preservation Over the Years

Despite its long history, Weemalla has undergone only minor modifications since its construction. Ownership remained within the Steele family for decades before the house was sold in 1963. Subsequent owners preserved its key architectural elements, with changes including the enclosure of some verandahs, the addition of a carport, and the construction of a swimming pool. An extension in 1964, designed by Brisbane architects Job & Froud, introduced modernist influences while respecting the home’s original structure.

The property remains a private residence, a rare example of early 20th-century Brisbane architecture that has withstood the test of time. The Queensland Heritage Council recognises Weemalla’s historical and architectural importance, highlighting its role in shaping the region’s architectural identity.

Weemalla’s Place in Corinda’s History

Weemalla’s continued existence provides insight into the social and economic landscape of Brisbane in the early 1900s. It serves as a reminder of Corinda’s transformation from a sparsely populated suburb into a desirable location for the city’s elite. The home’s preservation allows locals and architecture enthusiasts to appreciate a period when craftsmanship and design were integral to residential construction.



While the modern Corinda landscape has changed significantly, Weemalla remains a visual and historical anchor to a bygone era. It tells the story of a suburb once favoured by Brisbane’s wealthiest residents and an architect whose influence helped shape Queensland’s built environment.

Originally Published 18-April-2018
Updated 25-February-2025

Vote Now: Corinda and Graceville Entries in the Running for Artforce Brisbane Awards

Voting for the 2024 Artforce Brisbane Awards People’s Choice Award is officially open, inviting residents to support their favourite public artworks. Among the standout entries this year are three striking submissions from Corinda and Graceville—“St Aidan’s Spirit” by Sarah Warburton and Kaylee Leo, “Little Critters” by Isabella Gawthorne, and “Love Letter” by Mia Slater. 



These pieces, alongside dozens of other artworks from across Brisbane, are now competing for the coveted People’s Choice Award.

Celebrating Public Art in Brisbane

The Artforce Brisbane Awards is an annual celebration of creative expression, recognising outstanding artworks displayed across the city’s traffic signal and Energex boxes. Open to artists of all ages, the awards celebrate the unique stories and perspectives of Brisbane’s communities. The 2023 awards, held on 8 May 2024, featured winning entries across multiple categories, including the highly regarded People’s Choice Award.

Past winners include Gabrielle Oliffe’s “Roll with It” from Hamilton (2023 People’s Choice) and Tara Hooppell’s “Our Ekka” from Windsor (2023 Overall Winner). This year, a fresh wave of artists from various suburbs, including South Brisbane, Indooroopilly, Stafford, and Mt Gravatt, have brought their creativity to the forefront.

Corinda and Graceville Entries Take Centre Stage

“St Aidan’s Spirit”  – Corinda

Corinda's entry for Artforce Brisbane - St Aidan's Spirit
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane

Created by Sarah Warburton and Kaylee Leo, this artwork at St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School captures the vibrant and creative spirit of its students. Featuring their handprints, the piece connects the present with the past, honouring the world’s earliest artists. The colours reflect the school’s identity and the unity of its school houses, making it a deeply meaningful addition to Corinda’s public art landscape.

“Love Letter” – Corinda

Love Letter by Mia Slater
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane

Artist Mia Slater brings a heartfelt tribute to Corinda with “Love Letter,” located at Oxley Rd and Nelson St. Inspired by vintage Valentine’s Day illustrations from the 1930s-60s, the artwork celebrates the charm of Corinda’s classic architecture and natural beauty. Featuring flowers, butterflies, and a nostalgic design, ‘Love Letter’ expresses gratitude for the city and aims to bring joy to all who pass by.

“Little Critters” – Graceville

Little Critters by Isabella Gawthorne
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane

Artist Isabella Gawthorne takes a playful approach with “Little Critters,” located at the intersection of Oxley Rd and Graceville Ave. This lively, abstract piece highlights the native wildlife and domestic animals found in Graceville and surrounding Brisbane suburbs. With bold colours and quirky forms, the artwork invites viewers into a whimsical world, reminding them to appreciate the animals that share their community.

Other Entries Across Brisbane

Beyond Corinda and Graceville, other remarkable entries in this year’s competition include:

  • “Polynesian Voyagers” by Loren Waith (Inala)
  • “Brisbane Birdsong” by Brisbane South State Secondary College Art Club (Dutton Park)
  • “Your Mountain Awaits!” by Kylie Smart & family (Mt Gravatt)
  • “The Brisbane Transbox(port)” by Tom Truong (Brisbane City)
  • “Cafe Dog” by Lucy Ruigrok (Indooroopilly)
  • “Jacaranda Lullaby” by Julia Pham (Auchenflower)

With a diverse range of themes, from community connections to nature and urban landscapes, Brisbane’s artists continue to enrich the city’s streetscape with creativity and storytelling.

How to Vote

Residents can support their favourite artwork by casting their votes online via the Artforce Brisbane website. Voting for the People’s Choice Award is open now and closes on 28 February 2025.



By participating, residents not only celebrate local artists but also contribute to fostering Brisbane’s vibrant public art scene.

Published 12-Feb-2025

100 Years of Sherwood Arboretum: Brisbane’s First Arboretum Marks a Milestone

When 72 Queensland kauri pines were planted at Sherwood Arboretum in 1925, few could have imagined the thriving botanical haven it would become. Now, a century later, this 15-hectare green space is marking its milestone with a celebration honouring its past and future.



A Century of Growth and Conservation

Founded on 21 March 1925, Sherwood Arboretum was designed to preserve Australian native trees at a time when much of Brisbane’s natural landscape was being reshaped by urban expansion. The first trees planted—72 Queensland kauri pines—lined what is now known as Sir Matthew Nathan Avenue, named after the Queensland Governor at the time. These towering trees remain a defining feature of the arboretum today.

The project brought together some of Queensland’s most influential figures of the era. Among them was William Jolly, Brisbane’s first mayor, alongside Archbishop James Duhig, Romeo Lahey, a leading conservationist, and W.D. Francis, a rainforest expert. Their shared vision helped create what would become one of Brisbane’s most significant botanical reserves.

Sherwood Arboretum in the 1940s
Sherwood Arboretum in the 1940s
Photo Credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook

Sherwood Arboretum’s importance was officially recognised in 2007, when it was listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. This ensured that its collection of over 1,100 trees, representing 250 species, would continue to be protected for future generations.

More Than Just Trees: A Community Space

Beyond its scientific and historical significance, Sherwood Arboretum has long been a place for community gatherings, family outings, and quiet escapes into nature. Its facilities include walking tracks, picnic areas, barbecues, and a river boardwalk, making it a well-loved spot for locals.

Recent upgrades have made it even more inviting. A nature-inspired playground, nestled under large fig trees, has given children a space to explore while learning about native flora. Interpretive signs now guide visitors through different tree collections, showcasing highlights like the Rainforest, Fig Tree Grove, and Bottle Tree Knoll.

Sherwood Arboretum
Photo Credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook

Centenary Celebrations on 23 March

To mark 100 years of Sherwood Arboretum, Brisbane residents are invited to a centenary picnic on Sunday, 23 March. The event will run from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and feature a historical photographic display, along with live music from the Mango Jam Big Band, bringing the sounds of the 1920s and 1930s back to the park.

Ahead of the picnic, a special tree planting ceremony will take place on Friday, 21 March. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner will join local students in planting trees along the Arbor Walk, continuing the arboretum’s legacy as a site for conservation and learning.

For those eager to explore the space, a free guided tree walk will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, 23 February. Bookings can be made through Eventbrite or by calling the Brisbane City Council’s Call Centre at 3403 8888.



Looking to the Future

Sherwood Arboretum’s journey over the past century reflects Brisbane’s deepening commitment to protecting native plant species. Thanks to the continued advocacy of Friends of Sherwood Arboretum (FOSA), the park remains a treasured green space for both scientific study and public enjoyment.

Published 12-February-2025

Boucher’s Culinary Excellence Shines in Graceville

Boucher, a beloved French bistro in Graceville, continues to attract foodies with its unique blend of modern and classic French dishes paired with an extensive wine list.



Under the expert leadership of Chef Peter Carter, Boucher French Bistro has cemented its reputation as a culinary destination in the western suburbs. 

With over two decades of experience in the hospitality industry, Chef Carter’s vision focuses on top-quality ingredients, meticulous attention to detail, and innovative culinary techniques.

Boucher French Bistro Graceville
Photo Credit: Boucher French Bistro/Instagram

Decadent Dishes & Divine Degustation

Boucher offers an à la carte menu with seasonal ingredients and a five-course degustation menu with wine pairings.

Popular starters include the twice-baked Roquefort cheese soufflé ($23), garlic butter tiger prawns ($26), and Bouillabaisse ($44). Diners also enjoy the escargot with garlic butter ($22) and steak tartare ($24).

For mains, the roast rump of spring lamb ($45), roasted fillet of black Angus beef ($47), and confit of duck ($44) are well-liked. Desserts include the Lindt chocolate soufflé with chocolate sauce and espresso ice cream ($18) and crème caramel with hazelnut praline ($12).

Boucher French Bistro dish
Photo Credit: Boucher French Bistro/Instagram

Rave Reviews from Happy Diners

Boucher consistently receives glowing reviews from both locals and visitors. Diners such as Molly Milksteak commend the escargot with garlic butter, king prawns, and steak tartare as exceptional entrees. 

Reviewer SteakIsLife highlights the twice-baked Roquefort cheese soufflé, paired with a walnut salad, as a personal favourite, while also recommending the Bouillabaisse for seafood lovers, noting its rich broth and generous portions of prawns, mussels, bugs, fish, and scallops.

The roast rump of spring lamb and the roast fillet of black Angus beef are frequently praised by patrons like Mark Smith and Smilanatine B for their tenderness and flavour.

Desserts, particularly the soufflé and crème brûlée, receive consistent acclaim from diners, with Molly Milksteak highlighting their exceptional taste and artistic presentation.

Wine-tasting events are also highly recommended, with diners like Melissa Bucknill suggesting them as the perfect way to experience Boucher’s culinary excellence.

Boucher French Bistro steak
Photo Credit: Curious-Amoeba_24/Reddit

Exciting Events & Easy Accessibility:

Boucher hosts a variety of special events, including the upcoming Boucher Wine Club on 7 February 2025 at 4:00 p.m., and a special Valentine’s Day dinner on 14 February 2025 at 5:30 p.m.

The restaurant is easily accessible and wheelchair-friendly, offering ample parking and proximity to public transport, ensuring a convenient experience for all guests. 

Lunch hours are Wednesday to Friday from 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Dinner hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Boucher is closed on Mondays but available for private events.



Boucher remains a key part of the Graceville dining scene by offering quality French cuisine and reliable service.

Published 23-Jan-2025

Ash Barty Comparisons Abound as Emerson Jones Rises from Tennyson Courts

Emerson Jones, the junior world No. 1 and Queensland Tennis Centre standout, saw her Australian Open dreams dashed in the girls’ singles semi-finals, where comparisons to Ash Barty only underscored the weight of expectations.



Emerson fell short in her quest for the Australian Open girls’ singles title, losing 6-3, 6-4 in the semi-finals to Japan’s Wakana Sonobe last 25 January 2025. Playing on the courts where she hoped to replicate Barty’s grand slam success, Emerson struggled to find her rhythm against the fourth seed, whose powerful first serve and consistent baseline play kept the young Queenslander on the defensive throughout the 74-minute match.

Nonetheless, Emerson showed flashes of brilliance, including saving a match point with a stunning backhand return, but ultimately couldn’t mount the comeback she managed in her quarter-final victory. Sonobe, who hit 25 winners to Jones’s 13, capitalised on an early break in both sets to maintain control and seal her spot in the final. While the loss marked a setback, Emerson remains in contention for the doubles title alongside Great Britain’s Hannah Klugman, providing her with an opportunity to end her Australian Open campaign on a high note.

Rising Star from Tennyson

At just 16 years old, Emerson is turning heads as Australia’s junior world No. 1, training at the Queensland Tennis Centre in Tennyson and drawing inevitable comparisons to Barty for her composure, versatility, and potential to redefine Australian tennis.

As the youngest Australian to claim the junior world No. 1 ranking since Jelena Dokic in 1998, Emerson has caught the attention of the international tennis community while staying grounded in her Gold Coast roots.

The Making of a Champion

For Emerson, tennis is more than a game—it’s a family commitment. Her parents, former AFL Queensland star Brad Jones and Olympic silver medallist triathlete Loretta Harrop, have shaped her journey with their shared ethos of discipline and resilience. The family built a townhouse in Brisbane, close to the Queensland Tennis Centre, to support her grueling training schedule, reducing the long commute from their Gold Coast home.

Her weekly routine at the Tennyson facility is a masterclass in dedication. Mornings begin with gym work, followed by hours of drilling her signature backhand and relentless baseline rallies. After school on-site, she’s back on the court for another 90 minutes of focused practice. The Queensland Tennis Centre, with its world-class infrastructure, has become a launchpad for Emerson’s budding career.

Her coach, David Taylor, who previously guided Sam Stosur to the 2011 US Open title, sees remarkable potential in Emerson. Mr Taylor’s experience has helped refine her aggressive style of play, making her a fierce competitor on the junior circuit.

From Junior Stardom to Professional Ambitions

Her 2024 season was a breakout year, marked by finals appearances at the Australian Open and Wimbledon junior tournaments. She achieved the world No. 1 junior ranking shortly after, a milestone that few Australians have reached. Despite the accolade, Emerson admitted that the ranking initially felt overshadowed by her third-round loss at the US Open. However, her family reminded her to celebrate the milestone, with a pistachio gelato outing arranged by her brother, Hayden, also a top-ranked junior player.

Entering 2025, Emerson has already made her mark on the professional stage. At the Adelaide International, she stunned world No. 37 Wang Xinyu in a straight-sets victory during her WTA main draw debut. Reflecting on the match, Emerson said she felt no pressure and simply aimed to play her best, a testament to her composed mindset.

Ash Barty Comments on Emerson Jones

While tennis remains her central focus, the teenager is deeply connected to her community. Her time at the Gold Coast is spent surfing and enjoying the company of her best friend who lives nearby. This balance, her mother believes, is crucial to her success. Loretta often draws on her own experiences as an elite athlete to guide her daughter, helping her navigate the mental challenges of competitive sport.

Emerson’s family plays an integral role in shielding her from the pressures of being labelled “the next Ash Barty.” While the comparisons are inevitable, Emerson prefers to focus on her own path. She has sought advice from Ms Barty herself, particularly ahead of her Wimbledon final last year. For the teen,  Ms Barty’s journey is inspiring, but she remains determined to forge her unique legacy.

Barty celebrated Emerson Jones’s rise in tennis but resisted comparisons to her own career. Speaking at Emirates’ Women in Sport day, the three-time Grand Slam champion said, “She won’t be the next me, she’ll be the first Emerson.”

Barty highlighted Jones’s exceptional potential as one of the finest emerging talents in tennis and shared how her own early experiences taught valuable lessons that shaped her future success.

What’s Next for Jones?

At the Australian Open, Emerson competed as a wildcard in the women’s main draw but faced a tough opening-round defeat against Elena Rybakina. However, in the junior competition, she has battled her way to the semifinals, showcasing the resilience that has defined her career so far. With the support of the Queensland Tennis Centre and her family, Emerson is poised to take her game to the next level.



For the young star, tennis is about winning and finding joy in the game and staying connected to her community. Whether she’s practicing on the Tennyson courts or representing Australia on the world stage, Emerson Jones embodies the promise of a bright future for Australian tennis.

Published 23-January-2025

Oxley Urgent Care Clinic Eases Pressure on Emergency Departments

The Oxley Medicare Urgent Care Clinic (UCC) is contributing to Queensland’s healthcare solution by providing free, bulk-billed urgent care services, averaging 17 patients per day and helping reduce pressure on public emergency departments.



The urgent care clinics in Queensland were introduced as a strategic response to the increasing demand on public hospital emergency departments. The Oxley Medicare UCC, one of several bulk-billed centres, opened on 26 November 2024. Located within the Canossa Hospital complex, it serves the south-west Brisbane community with accessible healthcare for non-life-threatening conditions.

Oxley Medicare Urgent Care Clinic
Photo Credit: Growlife Medical Centre & Doctors Oxley/Google Maps

Growing Demand Across Queensland

Urgent care clinics across Queensland are treating an average of 568 patients daily, with demand spiking by 15% over the Christmas and New Year period. These clinics aim to divert minor medical cases from emergency departments, where lacerations, respiratory infections, and ear issues often account for significant patient loads. Over a quarter of the clinic’s patients are children under 15, highlighting its role in addressing family healthcare needs.

Oxley Clinic’s Role

The Oxley clinic sees an average of 17 patients daily and operates from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., offering walk-in services without appointments. It provides treatment for minor injuries and illnesses, such as fractures, sprains, mild burns, gastroenteritis, and respiratory issues. This service alleviates strain on larger hospitals while ensuring timely care for residents.

Oxley Medicare UCC receiving at least 17 patients a day
Photo Credit: Growlife Medical Centre & Doctors Oxley/Google Maps

Community Sentiment and Benefits

The south-west Brisbane community has responded positively to the clinic’s accessibility. Local families have noted the convenience of bulk-billed walk-in care, which reduces waiting times and financial barriers for treatment. The clinic’s strategic location within the Canossa Hospital complex adds to its appeal, providing a trusted, convenient setting.

Broader Challenges and Future Outlook

While the Oxley clinic is effectively supporting its community, its average daily attendance of 17 patients suggests room for increased capacity or greater outreach. The broader success of Queensland’s urgent care clinic initiative will depend on sustained investment and adaptation to growing healthcare needs.

Closing Paragraph



The Oxley Medicare Urgent Care Clinic exemplifies how targeted healthcare services can address immediate community needs while alleviating pressure on emergency departments. Future adjustments to patient capacity and broader clinic networks will determine the long-term success of this initiative.

Published 17-Jan-2025

Two Pandemic Babies from Graceville Prepare to Attend School

Two young boys who entered the world amidst the chaos of the 2020 pandemic are preparing to take their first steps into school life at Graceville State School next Tuesday.



Graceville
Photo Credit: Supplied

Four-year-old Mack Finlayson and his friend Rohaan Ratnam-Elmore, born two months apart at Mater Mothers’ Hospital in South Brisbane, are among the thousands of Queensland children starting Prep this year.

Their journey to this milestone has been unique, marked by lockdowns and restrictions that shaped their early years.  Born in March 2020, Mack was almost twice the size of Rohaan, who arrived prematurely on Mother’s Day.  Their mothers, who first connected at a local library when their daughters were babies,  recall the difficulties of navigating parenthood during a global crisis.

Mack’s mother, Anna Finlayson, recounted the challenges of lockdown with a newborn, a toddler, and a husband working in construction. Hospital visits were restricted, making it impossible for Mack’s older sister, Billie, to meet him until he was brought home. Despite the hardships, she expressed gratitude for the extra time she could spend with her son.

Graceville
Photo Credit: Supplied

Rohaan’s father, Craig Elmore, also shared his experience as a second-time father to a premature baby.  With their daughter Isla unable to visit the hospital, the family relied on video calls to stay connected. He described the period as a challenging juggling act, compounded by the anxieties of the pandemic.

With the pandemic in the rearview mirror, the boys eagerly anticipate their first school day. Mack is excited about making new friends, exploring the classroom toys, and learning to read. Rohaan looks forward to wearing his new school shoes and joining his sister at “big school”.



Their story reminds us of the resilience of families and the enduring power of friendship, forged even in the most trying of times. As they embark on this new chapter, both boys carry the unique experience of being “pandemic babies,” a testament to the extraordinary times in which they were born.

Published Date 15-Jan-2025

Grace Harris: The Power-Hitting Phenomenon from Western Suburbs

Hailing from the Western Suburbs District Cricket Club, Grace Harris is one of cricket’s most electrifying talents. The Ipswich-born all-rounder continues to redefine women’s cricket with her explosive batting and crafty off-spin bowling, earning her a place among the sport’s elite.


Read: Australia Day Celebrations Highlight Community Spirit in Oxley


Grace Harris, record-breaker

Western Suburbs’ proudest export, Harris exemplifies the pathway for aspiring cricketers in Queensland. At 31, her return to the Australian squad for the T20 series underscores her ability to continually evolve as a player and overcome challenges.

Harris’s recent dominance over bowling attacks has left cricket statisticians scrambling to update the record books. Her unbeaten 136 at North Sydney Oval, marked by an unforgettable bat-breaking incident, remains the highest individual score in Women’s Big Bash League history. This innings perfectly captures her fearless and powerful approach to cricket.

Another remarkable feat is her 42-ball century in 2018, the fastest in WBBL history. Such performances have earned her prestigious accolades, including the WBBL Player of the Tournament award in 2021. These records are a testament to Harris’s unmatched ability to change games with her bat.

More than just numbers

Beyond the statistics lies a cricketer who brings infectious energy to every match. Harris’s right-arm off-spin provides crucial variety to any bowling attack, while her versatility with the bat allows her to adapt to any position in the order.


Read: Stumps and Yellow Booms in Graceville? The Answer Lies in Flood Resilience


Cricket runs deep in the Harris family, with sister Laura also representing Brisbane Heat. Together, they showcase the strength of Queensland’s cricket pathway, from Western Suburbs to the international arena.

Published 11-January-2025

Australia Day Celebrations Highlight Community Spirit in Oxley

The Oxley Bowls Club will host the upcoming Australia Day Family Fun Day, bringing the community together for a day of fun, recognition, and celebration.



The event, organised by the Brisbane Oxley-Sherwood Lions Club, will take place on Sunday, 26 January 2025, from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 24 Englefield Road.

Event Highlights

The Australia Day Family Fun Day at Oxley Bowls Club will offer a mix of traditional and multicultural elements to reflect the area’s diversity.

  • Australian Citizenship Ceremony: Up to forty people will officially become Australian citizens.
  • Local Heroes Awards: Volunteers who have helped build community resilience will be honoured.
  • Traditional Aussie Games: Classic Australian games will entertain both children and adults, creating an exciting, interactive environment.
  • Welcome to Country: Local Indigenous members will perform this ceremony.
  • Multicultural and Australian Food: Food vans will have a range of locally produced Australian favourites as well as multicultural cuisine.
  • Live Music and Entertainment: Local performers will set the tone for a cheerful atmosphere throughout the day.
  • Fireworks Display: The day will end with an amazing fireworks display, thus giving an exciting conclusion to the festivities.
Australia Day fireworks display at Oxley Bowls Club
Photo Credit: Oxley Bowls Club/Facebook

Family-Friendly Activities

With plenty of activities for all ages, the Family Fun Day promises to be an excellent outing for families. Guests are encouraged to bring picnic mats to relax on the serene grounds of the Oxley Bowls Club while enjoying the food, music, and games. There will also be raffle tickets available, offering exciting prizes and adding to the fun while supporting community initiatives.

Australia Day at Oxley Bowls Club
Photo Credit: Oxley Bowls Club/Facebook

Community Anticipation

Locals are already looking forward to the event, seeing it as a chance to connect with others and celebrate Australia Day in a welcoming and inclusive environment. The diverse range of activities ensures there’s something for everyone, making it an unmissable day for the Oxley community.



For more information, visit the event’s official social media page.

Published 11-Jan-2025