Homepage Latest News Archives - Page 16 of 39

Empowering Abilities: Anthony Flourishes in Project SEARCH, Spreading Joy in the Day Treatment Unit

Anthony, a 23-year-old with vision impairment, has found new hope and confidence through his internship with Project SEARCH at the Wesley Hospital’s Day Treatment Unit in Auchenflower.

The program aims to provide workplace skills and secure pathways into stable and rewarding employment for young adults with disabilities. Anthony’s journey to find suitable employment had its challenges due to his disability.

Previous opportunities seemed to fall through, leaving him feeling disheartened. However, when he learned about Project SEARCH, he saw it as a chance to gain the skills and self-assurance he needed to enter the workforce.

The internship began with classroom learning, where Anthony studied workplace health and safety policies, hospital procedures, and risk identification. He was then assigned to the Day Treatment Unit, a role he thoroughly enjoyed.

As a patient companion, he assisted with cleaning equipment and preparing chairs for the next patients. But what brought him the most joy was interacting with the patients, making him feel like a natural people person.

Annelise Oosthuizen, the Manager of the Day Treatment Unit, praised Anthony’s exceptional contributions to the team. He quickly learned the ropes and consistently exuded happiness and helpfulness. Anthony’s impact on the patients was immeasurable, brightening their days and providing a friendly ear to listen to their stories.

Reflecting on his experience, Anthony expressed his love for customer service roles and his passion for helping others and interacting with the public. Apart from his dedication to work, he is also an accomplished musician and singer, being a member of the Voices of Birralee Choir. Additionally, he is trained to read Braille and enjoys personal training.

As his internship at the Day Treatment Unit comes to a close, Anthony remains optimistic about his future in the workforce. He believes that Project SEARCH has been a wonderful opportunity and enthusiastically encourages others to consider joining the program.

Project SEARCH continues to provide invaluable opportunities for young adults with disabilities, empowering them with essential skills and experiences to thrive in the professional world. To learn more about Project SEARCH and its impact on young lives, please visit their website.

Fitstop Brings Own Brand of Fitness to Toowong

Photo Credit: Fitstop Toowong/Facebook

Fitstop, a popular functional fitness franchise with over 100 locations across Australia, has officially opened in Toowong.

Fitstop’s new tenancy, specially constructed to meet their needs, officially opened on 27 May 2023.

The fitness guru’s long-term lease commitment adds to the growing list of tenants at the commercial building owned by Helmsman Invest on 530 Milton Rd.

“This site offers us superb exposure and superior car parking for our members. We were attracted to the building as the car parking is located right beside the club, providing our customers with the most convenient access,” Luke Beauchamp, a representative from Fitstop, said.

Mr Beauchamp also highlighted the added convenience for Fitstop’s members due to the nearby Cat and Fiddle Deli Café and other retail shops directly opposite Milton Road.

In addition to the prime location and convenience factors, Fitstop is also looking forward to the building refurbishment undertaken by Helmsman Invest, which will ensure members have a classy building to visit.

Helmsman Invest purchased the building in September 2022 and immediately began planning a comprehensive revitalisation project. The refurbishment aims to transform the property into a modern and attractive space for its tenants and visitors alike.

Bernie McKeering, the Managing Director of Helmsman Invest, expressed his delight at securing Fitstop on a long-term lease.

“Fitstop has become a serious brand in the fitness industry, and we are delighted to have secured them for our property,” he said.

Mr McKeering also highlighted the ongoing success of Arthur Conias Real Estate, which operates a successful agency over part levels one and two of the building, and has also signed a new long-term lease.

The refurbishment plans for the building are well underway, with landscaping improvements, a fresh paint job, new tenant signage, and enhanced shopfronts being part of the renovation project. The iconic awning structure at the front of the property will be retained but undergo a remodel to enhance its appeal.

The 530 Milton Rd property already boasts other popular tenants, including the Bangkok Milton Restaurant and the Toowong Fish Market.

Published 19-June-2023

Silent Waters, Silent Secrets: The Tragic Fate of Elizabeth Dale at Toowong Cemetery

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

On one fateful day in February 1905, grieving widow Elizabeth Dale was found lifeless, floating in a creek at the Toowong Cemetery.

Before the ill-fated day, the creek in the cemetery had been dammed to provide water for the beautiful flowers and grapes in Portion 10. The installation of taps to control the dam’s water level was in progress when destiny intervened.

Every day, Elizabeth would faithfully pay a visit to her late husband’s grave, following a familiar routine. Clad in a heavy black mourning gown and a veil, she walked along a path now referred to as Elizabeth Dale Walk.

Making her way across the walkway spanning the dam wall, she eventually reached the vicinity of the Blackall Monument. From there, it was a short distance to her brother’s burial site.

Her brother, Henry Harris Dodd, rests in Portion 11. One day in early 1898, Henry, who worked as a warder at St. Helena switched shifts with another warder, William James Downie. As fate would have it, while unlocking a cell door, a prisoner named William Archer mistakenly stabbed him, causing his untimely death. The prisoner had actually intended to harm the other warder.

During the summer, Elizabeth would occasionally pause at the water’s edge, leaning over to scoop up a handful and refreshingly splash it across her face before proceeding uphill to her brother’s final resting place.

Tragically, on one fateful day, it is believed that Elizabeth met her demise. Unable to swim, especially burdened by the weighty attire she wore, she met an untimely end after inadvertently falling into the water.

Elizabeth Dale, a resident of Rosalie’s Baroona Road, was born in Dublin. She was forty years old when she died.

Although the newspapers neglected to mention Elizabeth’s husband’s first name, they did disclose the anniversary of his passing. They recounted that Elizabeth visited the cemetery to commemorate the eleventh anniversary of her husband’s demise.

Interestingly, within the grounds of Toowong Cemetery, two individuals by the surname of Dale were buried in 1894. Among them was Thomas Dale, laid to rest on 2 February. It was on this very date, eleven years later, that Elizabeth would also be interred, sharing the same grave with her husband.

Eyewitnesses shared the chilling discovery of Elizabeth’s lifeless body. Constable Walsh, along with visitors John Littlechild and Kenneth Cooper from New South Wales, noticed her floating in a pool. They quickly alerted the cemetery attendants, who promptly arrived at the scene.

Thomas Francis Dodd, Elizabeth’s grief-stricken brother, identified her body.

As the investigation unfolded, peculiar details emerged. Grace Thomson, a trusted friend from the Salvation Army, revealed that Elizabeth’s departure that morning seemed unremarkable. However, she had experienced unconsciousness just two nights before, hinting at a hidden fragility beneath her brave facade.

Subsequent enquiries into her life and death revealed that Elizabeth had a frail disposition. She had delicate health, poor eyesight and was prone to fainting spells. An official report revealed traces of morphine in her system, likely from her dependence on Kay’s Compound, a medicinal tonic containing morphine.

Thomas Henry Brown, an assistant overseer at Toowong Cemetery, recounted the eerie moment he discovered Elizabeth’s body. After receiving reports of something amiss in the pool, he retrieved her lifeless form. The cold, stiff body lay approximately twenty feet from the pathway, adding to the enigmatic circumstances surrounding her demise.

In the annals of Toowong Cemetery’s history, Elizabeth Dale’s story stands as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the eternal bonds that connect us to our loved ones, even in death.

Published 14-June-2023

Toowong’s Coronation Drive Welcomes the Start of Construction of Monarch Residences

Works have officially started for Monarch Residences, located at the coveted 600 Coronation Drive, which is considered as the last remaining parcel of prime riverfront land in Toowong.

Read: Could Toowong Soon Witness the Rise of Higher Density and Taller Skyscrapers?

Monarch Residences is the brainchild of renowned Brisbane developer Consolidated Properties Group which joined forces with Hutchinson Builders, one of the nation’s leading construction companies, to bring this architectural masterpiece to life.

The new residential project showcases the brilliance of leading experts in their fields, with John Wardle Architects and Cottee Parker teaming up to craft a unique concept. The extraordinary design of the building seamlessly combines the timeless allure of the quintessential Queenslander with the vibrant energy of a sub-tropical cosmopolitan lifestyle.

Prospective residents can expect an exceptional range of living options within the two 15-level towers aptly named River 1 and River 2. The development will feature 224 meticulously designed apartments, thoughtfully curated to cater to a diverse range of needs and desires.

From cosy one-bedroom sanctuaries to opulent four-bedroom penthouses, each residence promises a haven of comfort and elegance.

The historic Middenbury House, nestled within the Monarch precinct, is undergoing a contemporary restoration. Once complete, this architectural gem will transform into a landmark riverfront restaurant and café, infusing the area with even more vibrancy and charm.

The new Toowong-to-West End Green Bridge, a Riverfront Park, a cycle path, and walkway access are all part of the Monarch precinct.

Read: Proposed Toowong Tower Gets Upsized and Reimagined for Build-To-Rent Development

The estimated completion date for Consolidated Property Group’s Monarch Residences project is in late 2026. With the clock ticking towards completion, the development is set to capture the imaginations of those seeking an extraordinary lifestyle experience.

Published 12-June-2023

Could Toowong Soon Witness the Rise of Higher Density and Taller Skyscrapers?

Photo Credit: Tom from Pixabay

Toowong is poised for significant changes as the city prepares to address its growing population through higher density and taller towers.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner recently unveiled his plans which prioritise higher density and taller towers in well-connected suburbs like Toowong, as Brisbane aims to construct over 115,000 new homes, units, or apartments to accommodate its growing population. This visionary strategy aims to address the projected population increase from 1.26 million to 1.5 million by 2041.

Meanwhile, the community’s curiosity is piqued as the largest development project in Toowong, The Aviary, experiences a temporary halt, leaving residents questioning the reasons behind the delay and the lack of demolition work at a neighbouring riverfront unit site.

But despite some delays, Hutchinson Builders continue to actively promote units and conduct groundwork at the adjacent Monarch twin tower site, bringing a sense of progress to the area.

Additionally, the developer behind the residential high-rise at Ebor St, near The Aviary, has submitted revised plans to the council. Recognising the demand in the tight rental market, the developer intends to introduce a build-to-rent scheme, which involves collectively renting all units instead of individual sales.

Amidst these developments, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner’s housing strategy emphasises higher density and taller towers in established suburbs with excellent public transportation connections. This approach, part of Brisbane’s efforts to accommodate the projected population increase, aims to repurpose underused commercial and industrial land, turning them into thriving residential areas.

Cr Schrinner highlights the benefits of setting higher height limits in exchange for sustainable developments, minimising the impact on green spaces and creating vibrant communities.

Whilst the proposed changes bring excitement, they also spark debate among residents. Concerns have been raised regarding the lack of meaningful consultation and the potential disregard for community input. The state member for South Brisbane, Amy MacMahon, challenges the assumption that increasing supply will lower demand and rents, highlighting the need to consider the impact on housing affordability.

As the community eagerly awaits updates on the progress of these developments, the future of Toowong and its neighbouring suburbs remains both promising and uncertain. The proposed high-rise projects, once resumed, have the potential to reshape the skyline and accommodate the city’s growing population, all whilst striving for sustainable and inclusive urban growth.

Published 7-June-2023

BBC Rowing Team Aims for Another Historic Henley Royal Regatta Win

Photo Credit: Facebook / Brisbane Boys' College (BBC)

The Brisbane Boys’ College rowing team is on the cusp of making history once again as they set their sights on repeating a 30-year-old victory at the prestigious Henley Royal Regatta in England.

Established in 1916, the BBC Rowing Club has a long-standing tradition of excellence in rowing, with its first Head of the River win in 1919. In 1993, BBC achieved an unprecedented feat by becoming the first Australian school to secure the coveted Princess Elizabeth Cup at the Henley Royal Regatta. Today, the team aims to etch their names in the annals of rowing history once more as they prepare for the 2023 event.

The 2023 Henley Royal Regatta will be raced over six days from 27 June to 2 July 2023.

racing Schedule

The remarkable journey of the BBC rowing team is a testament to the transformative power of dedication and teamwork. Merely five years ago, the team found themselves struggling but under the guidance of Director of Rowing, Zoltan Shepherd, the team underwent a significant cultural shift that paved the way for their resurgence.

As the team sets their sights on Henley, they have demonstrated its dedication by intensifying its training regimen. The chosen crew, comprising eight Year 12 boys, has been training rigorously, including nine weekly sessions, five of which take place on the river.

Although BBC stands as the strongest representative, the crew will have to wait for the final confirmation in June. Plans are already in motion, with boat rentals arranged from Oxford University and training facilities secured at a rowing club in Maidenhead.

However, the journey to Henley does not come without its challenges. The financial burden of participating in such a prestigious event necessitates significant fundraising efforts. The BBC rowing team, with the support of parents, staff, and Old Collegians, organised a fundraising carwash to alleviate some of the costs.

Furthermore, the school, families, and alumni have contributed, but additional sponsors are still needed to ensure a smooth and successful campaign.

Those who wish to donate and support the BBC Rowing 2023 Season Fundraising, may visit the Australian Sports Foundation website here.

Published 30-May-2023

Toowong Creek: The Last Jewel of Crescent Reach

Have you ever heard about the Crescent Reach? It’s fascinating that Brisbane was once graced by the presence of four remarkable creeks: Western Creek, Boundary Creek, Langsville Creek, and Toowong Creek.

Read: Reviving History: Monarch Residences to Bring New Life to Middenbury House with 224 Luxurious Apartments

However, as time passed by, only one of these watercourses, Toowong Creek, managed to endure the test of time, standing as a reminder of Crescent Reach’s former glory.

In 1824, explorer John Oxley’s expedition arrived at a location he referred to as the ‘Crescent Reach’, which corresponds to what we now know as the Milton reach.

It stretches from the point where Toowong Creek meets the river to North Quay. Oxley’s purpose in reaching this area was to locate a source of freshwater, where he planned to set up camp for the night.

Toowong Creek is at the base of Crescent Reach, followed by Langsville Creek, Western Creek, and ultimately Boundary Creek, which once served as the western boundary of Brisbane Town.

The existence of Crescent Reach is not merely a tale told through faded maps, but a testament to the captivating mysteries of Brisbane’s past.

Close inspection of these aged cartographic relics, including a precious artefact from 1884, reveals the intricate pathways of these waterways. However, the precision of the boundaries is undeniably constrained by the data available at the time.

A mere glance reveals that Boundary Creek, in all its charm, claims the title of the smallest watercourse. On the other hand, Toowong Creek emerged as one of the biggest ones.

Fishing from the northern bank of the Brisbane River at Toowong, along Milton Reach, Brisbane, 1948 (Photo credit: Brisbane John Oxley Library, State Library of Queensland)

Remarkably, all four catchments proudly shared their uppermost boundaries with Ithaca Creek, a testament to the interconnectedness of these natural wonders.

Originating from the slopes of Mount Coot-tha, Ithaca Creek gracefully meanders through the neighbourhoods of Bardon, Ashgrove, and Red Hill, ultimately converging with its esteemed source, the Enoggera Creek.

Read: Toowong To West End Green Bridge To Utilise Portion Of Former ABC Site

Currently, only Toowong Creek has survived within the Crescent Reach. Originating from the eastern side of Mt Coot-tha, Toowong Creek encompasses an area spanning 3.9 square kilometres. It meanders through the Botanic Gardens and the suburb of Toowong before eventually merging with the Brisbane River near Perrin Park.

Published 13-May-2023

Legends Lunch in Toowong: Laughter, Secrets, and Bucket List Dreams Come True

The Legends Lunch hosted by Triple M Brisbane was certainly one for the books. With NRL greats such as Gorden Tallis and Wendell Sailor, football and TV legend Paul “Fatty” Vautin, and the King himself, Wally Lewis, all in attendance, it was a capacity crowd at the Regatta Hotel in Toowong.

Hosted by Dan Anstey and Liam Flanagan, the lunch was a riot of laughter and inside stories, with Margaux Parker and Greg “Marto” Martin also holding court. Even phones were confiscated before the lunch, with Mr Sailor being caught shedding a tear as his was taken away.

But it wasn’t just all laughs and legends. The event also had a special bucket list surprise for one lucky attendee. Jo Boon, a big footy fan and acute care nurse who is fighting motor neuron disease (MND), had always dreamed of meeting Mr Vautin. That became a reality at the Legends Lunch.

Following her MND diagnosis in October 2019, Ms. Boon’s life shifted within a matter of weeks. She quickly became unable to speak and then developed muscle aches and cramps that impacted her mobility. Despite battling MND, she managed to raise money for MND Queensland for three years and counting, and has been an inspiration to others.

It was a heartwarming moment that reminded everyone of the power of sport and the importance of making someone’s day a little bit brighter. Plus, to top off an already unforgettable event, the musical guest was none other than ARIA Music Hall of Famer Ian Moss.

It’s safe to say that the Legends Lunch is now on the bucket list of every Triple M listener in Brisbane, and who knows what surprises they’ll have in store next year.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Triple M Brisbane 104.5 (@triplembrisbane)

Published 6-May-2023

Plans to Revamp The Summit in Mt Coot-tha Now Underway

The iconic hospitality venue, The Summit at Mt Coot-tha in Brisbane, is set for a major redevelopment. The Mantle Group, which subleases the site, has lodged plans to revamp the cafe and restaurant, and offer an elevated dining experience to its patrons.

The renovation project, under DA A006264092, will see the construction of a new two-level pavilion to replace the existing cafe, a mountaintop gin distillery, a casual bar, and a theatre for showcases and presentations.

The top floor of the new building will be dedicated to dining and drinking, while the bottom level will have a theatre for performances. Additionally, a rooftop garden will be added, which will feature First Nations’ herbs and ingredients.

Photo Credit: Artist’s impression/The Mantle Group

The heritage-listed restaurant will also be refurbished with modern fittings, and a new deck and platform will be added to take advantage of Mt Coot-tha’s spectacular views.

According to Mantle Group owner Godfrey Mantle, the project will transform The Summit into a “more appealing environment” that will be a major tourism boost for Brisbane, especially for the upcoming 2032 Olympics.

The Mantle Group has been planning this project since 2019, and it hopes to open the revamped venue in the first half of 2024. Each year, over 1.5 million visitors come to Mt Coot-tha, making it one of Brisbane’s most iconic sites.

The Mantle Group’s redevelopment plans, once approved, will reinforce Mt Coot-tha’s position as one of Brisbane’s top attractions for both locals and tourists alike. The redevelopment is also expected to support a wide range of environmental, social, cultural, and economic benefits to the city and the SEQ region.

Published 5-May-2023

Champions In The Making: Toowong Harriers’ Inspiring Little Athletics 2022/23 Season

The Little Athletics 2022/23 season proved to be an extraordinary one for the Toowong Harriers, as they celebrated a remarkable number of outstanding athletes.

Read: Stuartholme School To Represent Australia In First Rugby Heritage Cup In France

The club’s Outstanding Athlete award recognises those who achieve exceptional performances across all available events within their respective age groups. Amongst the standout performers were Tara Ryan, representing the under 9 category for girls, and Anton Mugaba, competing in the under 9 boys’ division.

The recipients of the Most Improved Athlete award for the 2022/23 season in the club are Emma Sheehan in the Under 14 category and Cooper Leske and Lachlan Gordon in the Under 11 category.

These talented athletes have shown remarkable progress by achieving multiple personal bests throughout the season. Additionally, Sheehan and Leske have also been honoured with the Commitment Award, recognising their dedication and hard work.

About the Toowong Harriers

The Toowong Harriers Athletics Club holds the prestigious distinction of being Queensland’s first athletics club, established back in 1894.

It stands as one of the oldest athletics clubs in Australia, with an illustrious history of producing exceptional athletes who have proudly represented both the state and the nation at various levels of competition.

The 2022/23 Season marks a significant milestone for Toowong Harriers as it celebrates its 40th year of competing as a Little Athletics Centre.

Photo credit: Darshan Pandya/Google Maps

Little Athletics is a sport specifically tailored for children between the ages of five and seventeen. It encourages participation in various disciplines, including running, jumping, and throwing, with each centre meet offering a well-rounded mix of events.

This approach prioritises full engagement, enabling young athletes to develop essential skills such as balance, stamina, strength, coordination, and self-control.

Read: Australian Unity Set to Build $100M Retirement Village in Auchenflower Following Approval

Little Athletics serves as a fantastic platform for children to cultivate their overall fitness in a safe and healthy sport. It encompasses training sessions, warm-ups, coaching clinics, and, importantly, abundant encouragement and guidance from dedicated and nurturing parents.

Published 3-May-2023