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Parents Demand Action: Inclusive Deaf Program Needed in High Schools

Toowong State School, the only primary school in Queensland offering a unique bilingual-bicultural program for deaf students, has become the centre of a growing push for similar programs to be implemented in high schools.

Impressed by the program’s success, parents have called for its expansion to ensure their children receive an inclusive and effective education as they transition to secondary education.

The program at Toowong State School involves students learning the Australian curriculum in both English and Auslan. This immersive approach benefits deaf students and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of deaf culture among hearing students.

Vanessa Alford, a mother of three deaf sons, was so impressed by the program that she relocated her family from Perth to Brisbane. She highlights the positive impact the program has had on her children’s academic performance and overall well-being. Her sons are more engaged and eager to learn, a stark contrast to her experiences in primary school.

However, when one of her sons is about to enter high school, Ms Alford faces a difficult situation. High schools in Queensland currently need to offer a comparable program. Concerned about the lack of support and potential isolation her son might face in a mainstream environment, Ms Alford has opted for a combination of one-on-one tutoring and distance education with interpreters. While addressing some educational needs, this solution still raises concerns about her son’s social development and interaction with peers.

Another parent, Kate O’Keeffe, echoes Ms Alford’s concerns. She emphasises the importance of a fully inclusive environment where Auslan is readily used and understood. She fears that the lack of qualified interpreters and a signing environment in mainstream high schools could lead to isolation and limited access to the curriculum for deaf students.

Both parents have advocated for the Queensland Education Department to introduce the bilingual-bicultural program in high schools. While the department has expressed its commitment to inclusivity and is considering different educational models for deaf students, parents argue that the process is moving too slowly.

Deaf Australia has also addressed the issue, highlighting the scarcity of genuinely bilingual and bicultural programs across the country. They stress the importance of direct communication and culturally relevant teaching for deaf students, which is often lacking in mainstream settings.

With time running out for Ms Alford’s son and many other deaf students approaching high school age, the pressure is mounting on the Queensland Education Department to provide a solution that ensures these students receive the quality education they deserve.

Published Date 12-December-2024

Street Spotlight: Victoria Cres, Toowong

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Victoria Crescent in Toowong tells a fascinating story of Brisbane’s suburban evolution, with historical aerial photographs from 1936 revealing only a handful of houses dotting what would become a sought-after residential enclave.

Today, this established street comprises 39 properties and boasts a remarkable 85% owner-occupier rate, with residents staying an average of 13 years and 10 months – a testament to the area’s enduring appeal. The street’s property history reflects Brisbane’s dramatic growth, exemplified by the sale of 14 Victoria Crescent for $97,500 in July 1988, a figure that provides an intriguing snapshot of the market during that era. Below, you’ll find an aerial image from 1946 that captures the street’s humble beginnings, offering a stark contrast to the thriving residential community it has become, where over a third of residents have called Victoria Crescent home for more than a decade.

Victoria Cres, Toowong Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 39
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 85%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 13 years, 10 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 36%

Victoria Cres, Toowong – As It Looked in 1946

Victoria Cres, Toowong in 1946

SOME RECENT SALES ON VICTORIA CRES, TOOWONG

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
17 Victoria Cr, Toowong	$1,655,000	Sep 2024
13 Victoria Cr, Toowong	$3,025,000	Jun 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON VICTORIA CRES FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
14 Victoria Cr, Toowong	$97,500	Jul 1988
49 Victoria Cr, Toowong	$257,500	Jan 1991
39 Victoria Cr, Toowong	$345,000	Mar 1994

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2024 was $1,349,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2020 was $790,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $559,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2024 was $1,940,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2020 was $1,210,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $730,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2024 was $2,160,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Toowong in 2020 was $1,451,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $709,000

The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2024 was $473,000
The median price of a 1 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2020 was $324,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 1 BEDROOM UNIT IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $149,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2024 was $688,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2020 was $435,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $253,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2024 was $995,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Toowong in 2020 was $665,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN TOOWONG SINCE 2020 : $330,000

If you know Victoria Cres, Toowong well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Queensland Academy in Toowong Tops State NAPLAN Rankings

Photo Credit: QASMT

The Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology in Toowong has once again secured the top position in the state for NAPLAN results, solidifying its reputation as a leading academic institution.

This year, the selective entry school achieved an impressive average score of 699 across all five NAPLAN subjects for Year 9 students. This remarkable achievement places them ahead of other prestigious Queensland schools, including Brisbane Girls Grammar School and Brisbane Grammar School, which also consistently perform well.

Why Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology Excels

The Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) in Toowong stands out for its strong academic focus. As a selective entry school, it attracts high-achieving students who create a motivating learning environment. The school offers a rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) programme known for its international recognition and university preparation.

QASMT also provides specialised STEM education with facilities like university-standard labs and a dedicated STEM precinct, giving students unique opportunities. Beyond academics, QASMT encourages holistic development through extracurricular activities and provides a supportive learning environment with resources like quiet study spaces and a contemporary refectory.

Top Schools Across Australia

The release of the 2024 NAPLAN results has provided valuable insights into the performance of schools across different states and territories. In Tasmania, Fahan School emerged as the top performer for both primary and secondary levels. Meanwhile, in the Northern Territory, Haileybury Rendall School and The Essington School led the rankings for primary and secondary schools, respectively.

Methodology

The rankings were determined by combining the scores of all five NAPLAN test subjects (reading, writing, spelling, grammar, and numeracy) for the Year 5 or Year 9 student cohort and calculating the average. This method comprehensively overviews each school’s performance across key literacy and numeracy areas.

Published Date 03-December-2024

BBC Parents Question Rising Fees as Toowong Campus Vision Unveiled

Parents at Brisbane Boys’ College in Toowong are questioning the value of significant fee increases, citing concerns about existing facilities even as the school unveils a long-term Campus Vision Master Plan.

Fee Increases and Parent Reactions

For 2025, the school has announced that domestic day student fees for Years 7–12 will rise to $34,500, with boarding families paying over $69,000 annually. Fees for international students who board will climb to $94,110.

Parents have voiced concerns about the steep rise in costs, with the fee increase now totalling more than $10,000 in just three years.

Several parents have described the timing of the fee hikes, announced late in the school year, as problematic. They argue it leaves them little time to consider alternative schools without disrupting their children’s education.

Brisbane Boys’ College Toowong — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Boys’ College/YouTube*

Complaints also extend to the state of the school’s facilities, particularly its sporting amenities, which some families have labelled “embarrassing” compared to other Greater Public Schools institutions.

One parent remarked that the fee hikes feel unjustified given the condition of the facilities, adding that while the school excels in academics and music, other areas lack the resources expected for such fees.

Master Plan Campus Vision

In late Sept 2024, the school introduced its Master Plan Campus Vision, a comprehensive roadmap for campus development that looks ahead to 2035 and even 2050. The plan promises state-of-the-art classrooms, new co-curricular spaces, extensive refurbishments, and improved campus connectivity.

Central to the vision is a thoroughfare linking Goldicott House, a heritage-listed building on the northern edge of campus, to Toowong Creek to the south. The plan aims to foster greater connectivity across the school grounds, creating spaces that encourage interaction and reinforce a sense of community and mateship.

BBC Toowong — *Photo Credit: Brisbane Boys’ College*

BBC also highlighted its consultation process, stating that extensive engagement with students, staff, families, and alumni informed the plan. This collaborative approach was intended to ensure that the Campus Vision reflects the needs and aspirations of the entire school community.

Balancing Long-Term Vision with Current Concerns

While some families recognise the potential of the long-term Master Plan to enhance the school’s offerings, others remain focused on the current state of facilities. Critics have pointed out that while the plan looks promising, it may take years before students see tangible benefits.

In the meantime, families are left paying higher fees for what they perceive as underwhelming facilities. Some have expressed frustration that the plan does not address immediate shortcomings, particularly in areas like sporting infrastructure.

The debate around fees reflects broader concerns about the affordability of private education in Queensland. While some argue that private schooling offers unparalleled opportunities, others believe the rising costs are becoming unsustainable for many families.

The question of value—whether the facilities, programs, and opportunities justify the investment—is central to these discussions. Parents at Brisbane Boys’ College say they are committed to their children’s education but hope for greater transparency and more immediate improvements as the school implements its long-term vision.

Published 5-Dec-2024

Australia Day Policy Reversal Puts Regatta Hotel in Focus

Photo Credit: Regatta Hotel/Facebook

The Regatta Hotel in Toowong, along with other establishments under Australian Venue Co (AVC) nationwide, has been the subject of discussion and controversy for AVC’s decision to ban (and then reverse the ban) on Australia Day celebrations across its 200 venues nationwide.

Initial Ban and Public Outcry

Australian Venue Co (AVC), which operates the Regatta Hotel and many other prominent Queensland venues, initially announced it would not allow specific Australia Day celebrations in 2025. The company cited the day’s divisive nature and its potential to cause sadness for some patrons. However, the decision sparked a wave of criticism, with many accusing the hospitality giant of overstepping its role.

The backlash was swift, with community members and political figures expressing frustration. Calls to boycott AVC venues began circulating on social media, highlighting dissatisfaction with what many saw as an unnecessary politicisation of the holiday.

Community and Local Businesses React

For residents of Toowong, the Regatta Hotel holds a special place as a historic venue and community hub. Locals voiced strong opinions on the matter, with some supporting the company’s sensitivity toward Indigenous Australians and others criticising the decision as out of touch with the public.

Nearby pubs in Brisbane announced they would continue traditional Australia Day celebrations, including barbecues and games. This provided an alternative for those who felt AVC’s policy did not reflect their views.

State leaders and local business owners in Toowong emphasised the importance of keeping celebrations accessible to everyone, noting that such events bring people together in a spirit of unity and pride.

Australian Day The Regatta Hotel Toowong — *Photo Credit: Tatters/Flicker*

Cultural Significance of the Day

Australia Day, celebrated on January 26, has long been a point of contention. While many Australians use the day to celebrate the nation’s achievements and multicultural society, others see it as a reminder of the impact of colonisation on Indigenous communities. The debate over whether to maintain, change, or reinterpret the date has grown in recent years.

AVC’s decision placed venues like the Regatta Hotel at the heart of this conversation. Critics questioned whether a pub should take a stance on a polarising issue, while supporters praised the company for addressing the broader cultural sensitivities of the day.

AVC’s Apology and Future Plans

In response to the backlash, AVC issued an apology and reversed its ban. The company stated that its intention was not to dictate how patrons should celebrate but to ensure inclusivity. It reaffirmed that the Regatta Hotel and other venues would remain open on 26 January, welcoming all guests regardless of their stance on the holiday.

This move has eased some tensions, but for others, the damage to public perception remains.

Local commentators have argued that the incident reflects broader cultural divides within Australia and the ongoing challenge of balancing tradition with evolving social awareness.

Published 3-Dec-2024

Toowong Resident Marks 25 Years at St John’s Home for Men

Eugene, a Toowong resident, has been honoured for living 25 years at St John’s Home for Men, a milestone celebrated by Anglicare Southern Queensland on International Men’s Day.

Honouring Eugene’s 25-Year Journey

On International Men’s Day 2024, St John’s Home for Men in Toowong became the centre of celebrations for Eugene, who has been a Toowong resident of the facility for 25 years. Staff and fellow residents organised a morning tea to mark the occasion, complete with Eugene’s favourite treats, including milkshakes and a personalised crossword puzzle themed around his life at St John’s.

The day also featured music by Elvis Presley, creating a joyful atmosphere as Eugene, seated in his favourite chair, was surrounded by cherished photos from his time at the home. Staff presented him with a keepsake marking “This Day in History,” alongside other thoughtful gifts. Facility Manager Christina Lynch commended Eugene’s resilience and contributions to the community, noting that his presence brings joy to residents and staff.

Eugene Toowong resident St John's — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Focus on Men’s Health and Wellbeing

The event aligned with this year’s International Men’s Day theme, “Men’s Health Champions,” which celebrates the positive contributions of men and promotes their overall wellbeing. Anglicare Southern Queensland used the occasion to highlight the importance of fostering community and meaningful connections for residents like Eugene, ensuring they live with dignity and respect.

Christina Lynch emphasised that care at St John’s is more than just providing accommodation. It is about cultivating an environment where residents can thrive socially, emotionally, and physically. Eugene’s quarter-century at the home exemplifies the significance of continuity in care and building lasting relationships.

Anglicare’s Commitment to Community

Anglicare Southern Queensland, which oversees St John’s Home for Men, has a long history of supporting vulnerable communities. Founded in 1870, the organisation provides a range of services, including aged care, foster care, mental health counselling, and homelessness support. Each year, Anglicare serves over 50,000 Queenslanders, ensuring tailored and compassionate care.

Through Eugene’s story, Anglicare seeks to remind the community of the value of recognising and supporting individuals in their unique journeys. The organisation also aims to encourage discussions around men’s health and wellbeing, spotlighting the role of community in improving quality of life.

Published 20-Nov-2021

43-Unit Mixed-Use Development Lodged for Prime Toowong Location

An application has been lodged for a new mixed-use development at the intersection of Josling Street and Brisbane Street in Toowong, marking another step in the suburb’s ongoing urban transformation.

Read: Darra to Toowong Tunnel: Queensland’s Tunnel Plan Sparks Infrastructure Debate

The proposed six-storey development, designed by Red Door Architecture, will deliver 43 residential units to Brisbane’s western inner city corridor, combining both permanent residences and short-term accommodation options.

Project Highlights

– 43 residential units featuring a diverse mix of configurations:

– 37 two-bedroom units

– 4 three-bedroom units

– 1 one-bedroom unit with multi-purpose room

– 1 two-bedroom unit with multi-purpose room

Mixed-use development — Site plan (Photo credit: Red Door Architecture)

The development will feature extensive resident amenities including a rooftop swimming pool and communal dining area. The design incorporates 75 car parking spaces across two levels, with the ground floor dedicated to loading and servicing areas.

Strategic Location

The development site, located at 6 Josling Street and 73 Brisbane Street, Toowong, currently houses two residential dwellings slated for removal. It is strategically positioned within Toowong’s growing urban precinct. Planning documents highlight its prime location, situated within:

500m of Toowong Village shopping centre and major public transport hub
1.5km of the University of Queensland
Close proximity to the Regatta Ferry Terminal
Easy access to major road networks and active transport infrastructure

Design Features

The architectural design emphasises connectivity with the streetscape through strategic glazing placement, multiple building openings, and private balconies offering casual surveillance opportunities.

“The proposal aims to maximise the locational advantages of the site by providing a high-density residential development that will diversify and improve the residential capacity in the City’s Western inner city corridor,” according to planning documents.

The development will feature a vertical progression of spaces, with residential units spanning from Level 1 through Level 5, crowned by luxury amenities on Level 6. This arrangement aims to create an engaging living environment that capitalises on Brisbane’s subtropical climate while contributing to the area’s growing urban density.

Read: Petition Launched to Halt Auction of Sylvan Road Greenspace

The application for the mixed-use development is currently under review by local planning authorities, with community feedback expected to play a role in the approval process.

Published 15-November-2024

National Under-16s Squad Welcomes Brisbane Boys’ College Duo

Brisbane Boys’ College has further cemented its reputation in Queensland rugby, with two standout players earning spots in the prestigious Australian under-16s squad.

Outside centre Taione Taka and prop Harrison Asi will join six other Queensland players in the 25-man national squad assembling in Blacktown this December.

Read: Petition Launched to Halt Auction of Sylvan Road Greenspace

Brisbane Boys’ College player profiles

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A post shared by Queensland Reds (@redsrugby)

Taione Taka’s selection follows a stellar season that saw him named Queensland Reds’ player of the series, despite a heart-breaking grand final loss to the Waratahs.

The talented centre has already secured his future, signing with the Reds Academy after impressing in both First XV and under-16s campaigns. His defensive prowess and attacking capabilities have marked him as one of Queensland’s most promising young talents.

*Harrison Asi. Photo Credit: QLD Reds Rugby*

Harrison Asi has earned his position through dominant performances in the front row. His scrummaging ability and effectiveness in pick-and-drive situations have caught the selectors’ attention, demonstrating BBC’s strength in developing forward talent.

Queensland’s strong representation

Alongside the duo, the full Queensland contingent in the national squad includes:
Agapetos Lote-Felo (no. 8)
Alfie Bowman (halfback)
Sio Kite (prop)
Jack Calleja (lock)
William Adrian De Klerk (hooker)
Hemi Rakuita (outside back)

Read: Toowong Village Hosts Star-Studded Bra Art Exhibition and $500 Shopping Spree

The squad will gather for a week-long camp beginning 7 December, culminating in a match against the New South Wales Waratahs under-17s. This opportunity represents a significant step forward for these young athletes, particularly for the BBC players who continue to uphold the school’s strong rugby tradition.

Published 13-November-2024

Petition Launched to Halt Auction of Sylvan Road Greenspace

Local residents have launched a petition urging officials to reconsider plans to auction off a 450-sqm parcel of greenspace on the corner of Sylvan Road and Land Street in Toowong.

Read: Cyclist Safety at Risk on Sylvan Road in Toowong, Awaiting Promised Upgrades

The site, which is classified as High Density Residential and falls within the Regatta Hotel Precinct, is set to be auctioned off on November 6. However, local resident Harry Smithers and other concerned citizens argue that this greenspace is crucial for the vibrant, dense Toowong community.

“This part of Toowong is vibrant and dense. In areas like this, we need to maintain our communal greenspaces to mitigate the urban heat island effect and provide habitat for native birds and bees,” said Mr Smithers.

The site, located at 21 Sylvan Road, currently houses seven well-established eucalyptus trees, which studies show can boost mood and increase feelings of happiness through exposure to nature. Mr Smithers also noted the area’s vulnerability to flooding, and how the greenspace plays a key role in managing stormwater.

“Greenspaces play a crucial role in managing stormwater and reducing the impacts of flooding. This part of Sylvan Road is flood prone,” he said.

The petition, which has garnered nearly 400 signatures toward a goal of 500, calls on local officials to reconsider the auction and instead explore ways to revitalise and preserve the site as a community greenspace.

“This tiny site is being marketed as a multi-level development opportunity – how given the size? The last thing this area needs is more million-dollar units on this remnant of green space,” one supported noted.

“We need more green space in our cities plus Land Street goes under every time it floods,” another resident stated.

Read: Toowong to West End Bridge: Brisbane’s Stalled Project Seeks New Momentum

Those wishing to sign the petition can do so via the Change.org platform. Residents hope the show of community support will prompt a reassessment of the plans for this valuable pocket of greenery in urban Toowong.

Published 30-October-2024

Toowong Village Hosts Star-Studded Bra Art Exhibition and $500 Shopping Spree

Get ready for a dazzling display of creativity and compassion this October in Toowong!

Toowong Village shopping centre is hosting “Bras By The Stars,” a captivating display of bras creatively adorned by well-known Brisbane personalities from the entertainment, sports, and media worlds.

This initiative, reminiscent of a similar event held in 2004, aims to raise funds and awareness for breast cancer research and patient care through The Wesley Hospital Choices Cancer Support Centre. Celebrities such as Christian Hull, Susie O’Neill, Alastair McLeod, and Melissa Downes have contributed their artistic talents to the project, transforming ordinary bras into unique works of art.

Triumph Lingerie, a key partner in the original 2004 exhibition, has again supplied the bras for this worthy cause. The exhibition is free and runs throughout October at Toowong Village.

But that’s not all! Toowong Village also offers shoppers the chance to win a $500 gift voucher at the centre. After enjoying the “Bras By The Stars” exhibition, visitors can try their luck in the draw and potentially indulge in a shopping spree.

This exciting event offers a wonderful opportunity to appreciate creative expression, contribute to a vital cause, and enjoy some retail therapy, all in the heart of Toowong.

Published Date 14-October-2024