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Toowong Recycling Hero Turns Trash into Treasure for a Cause

Nicholas Whiting was running a recycling program in Paddington whilst working at a bottle shop in Paddington Central. When their lease was not renewed, he almost lost his job which added pressure on his recycling program. Soon enough, they were able to find a new space in Toowong where the business as well as his initiative is now running smoothly.

Read: Local Community Split on Toowong to West End Green Bridge

The Gap resident Nicholas works at Embassy Cellars Toowong and currently runs a recycling program where he is able to raise funds for Doctors Without Borders.

His journey, however, began in May 2021 when he was employed at Spiros Bottle Shop in Paddington. He was at the time in pursuit of his BP Award, the pinnacle of recognition of the Rover section of scouting, and he was searching for a community development project.

It was then that he noticed the absence of recycling bins at Paddington Central, except for a lone cardboard bin. He thought that this oversight meant the Spiros Bottle Shop’s recyclables, including bottles and cans, were ending up in the garbage.

Toowong Recycling Hero Turns Trash into Treasure for a Cause

Photo Credit: supplied

With the help of his manager, Stuart, he started collecting wine bottles and other recyclables at their shop, and utilising the containers for change to raise funds from the bottles and cans he collected.

Nicholas also reached out to Paddington councillor, Peter Matic, and his team, who generously donated a recycling bin and several large recycling bags. He also attempted to secure a spot for the bin at Paddington Central but was unsuccessful.

Photo Credit: supplied

He, however, was able to find a new home for the recycling bin at the Brisbane Tramway Museum in Ferny Grove. The bin still sits there to this day and continues to serve the local community.

Read: The Curious Case of ‘The Temple of Peace’

Nicholas did earn his BP Award, but his passion and commitment to the cause didn’t wane, even after the Spiros Paddington closed in late 2022. When Mr Spero Conias, the owner of Spiros Paddington, decided to open Embassy Cellars Toowong, Nicholas found a fresh opportunity to collect containers and promote sustainable practices within his workplace.

Photo Credit: supplied

Since 2021, Nicholas has managed to raise an impressive $828.50 for Doctors Without Border through his recycling initiative that not only benefits the environment but also supports a noble cause.

His recycling program has indeed been successful, but he said that he owes much of its success to the people that he works with at Embassy Cellars Toowong, particularly his manager, Stuart, who has been supporting his initiative since day one.

His recycling initiatives and charitable work serve as an inspiration and testament to positive change that an individual could make with determination and passion coupled with support from the community.

Published 22-September-2023

Local Community Split on Toowong to West End Green Bridge

The proposed Toowong to West End green bridge has received mixed reactions since plans were announced to move forward with the design phase by the end of the year.

Read: Toowong to West End Green Bridge Design Phase to Start Soon

The bridge, aimed at improving cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, would span the Brisbane River connecting Toowong and West End.

Conflicting Views

Although there is robust support on the Toowong side of the river and from cycling advocacy groups, some local organisations have expressed doubts. ParK It, a Toowong community group seeking to preserve riverfront park space, said they were disappointed with the lack of action so far.

West End Green Bridge — Aerial view of the concept design for Toowong to West End bridge (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr)

The group said the community urges the Brisbane City Council to promptly proceed with this vital infrastructure through an inclusive process involving the community at each phase. This will help maximise the small remaining greenspace in Toowong and minimise damage to greenspace in West End, the group stated.

On the other side of the river, the West End Community Association has concerns about potential impacts to Cranbrook Place. The association believes that a bridge may not be the best use of funds.

For active transport, infrastructure on Vulture Street should be prioritised first in their view. Solutions are needed that alleviate bottlenecks and save people time, the association stated.

Funding Concerns

Meanwhile, details about funding for the next design phase remain uncertain, despite officials announcing plans to move forward.

Read: Cyclist Sought for Questioning in Five-Year Car Scratching Spree along Sylvan Rd in Toowong

The bridge has an estimated price tag of $190 million. Whilst the Queensland Government has committed $10 million towards planning and development, additional sources for the remaining costs have not been finalised.

Around one third of the funding required for the Toowong to West End bridge, as well as other proposed green bridges, will need to be secured from state and federal government

However, the council said that undertaking detailed design work is crucial before requesting funding from the state and federal governments. They added that completing detailed design work is necessary before seeking funding from the state and federal governments.

Published 20-September-2023

The Curious Case of ‘The Temple of Peace’

In the heart of Toowong Cemetery, a grand and enigmatic mausoleum stands, occasionally referred to as the “Temple of Peace,” defying the Australian tradition of modest gravesites.

Read: Toowong to West End Green Bridge Design Phase to Start Soon

It is a truly imposing sight, characterised by a towering structure adorned with a concrete urn and its walls adorned with stained glass. The heritage-listed memorial, located at the corner of Frederick Street and Mt Coot-tha Road was designed and built by Richard Paul Carl Ramo.

Upon initial inspection, the Temple of Peace appears to be a heartfelt homage to a father’s departed sons and a beloved pet. Welcoming visitors is a lintel bearing the same title, along with marble plaques inscribed with the names Fred, Gordon, Victor, Henry, and “I.”

Inside the chamber, one encounters marble tablets, whilst the ceiling bears the names and places of death of two of Richard Ramo’s sons. A statue of a little dog guards the entry, signifying a painful loss brought on by deliberate poisoning, and stained glass panels at the back honour Victor’s passing.

Recent investigations, however, have uncovered a complicated history for this extraordinary mausoleum. Although Richard Ramo did not leave any writings behind, it is now thought that many claims made about the monument are either untrue or misleading.

The absence of their real names from the tomb suggests that Ramo may have made up the existence of three of his alleged sons who died in World War I. He did have two other sons, Percy and Cecil. The latter enlisted whilst the former did not; however, neither died during the War.

Intriguingly, there are hints of a connection between Ramo and the Industrial Workers of the World and the Rationalist Society, suggested by references to the Red Flag and other inscriptions.

Read: St Ignatius School Unveils Two New Murals, Celebrates 120 Years

On December 6, 1924, the Temple of Peace was dedicated in a ceremony attended by thousands, primarily from socialist and pacifist communities. A casket said to contain the remains of Ramo’s “adopted son” Fred, who had tragically taken his own life, was placed inside the mausoleum. The dedication was presided over by the president of the Rationalist Association.

The question of how Ramo, who was not considered wealthy, financed this grand monument remains a puzzle. Ramo’s story concluded with his death in 1951, and his ashes were interred alongside the ”alleged” sons he had honoured.

Published 9-September-2023

Toowong to West End Green Bridge Design Phase to Start Soon

After being paused to prioritise Brisbane’s flood recovery last year, the proposed Toowong to West End green bridge is set to move into the detailed design phase by the end of 2023.

Read: Steps Taken to Acquire Toowong Green Bridge Landing Site

The Toowong to West End pedestrian and cycle bridge, which would span the Brisbane River connecting the two suburbs, is one of four green bridges proposed by Brisbane City Council. It could support over 5,000 trips per day by 2041 if built.

Toowong to West End Green Bridge rest point with seating and viewing opportunities – Artist’s impression only (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr)

According to updates from Council, planning for the bridge had been paused to focus on the city’s flood recovery efforts. But with developers now moving on the former ABC Toowong site, securing the land for the bridge was identified as a priority.

Proposed riverside park and plaza at the Toowong landing (Photo credit: Brisbane City Council/Flickr)

The concept design for the bridge was unveiled in late 2021 and community consultations were undertaken until early 2022. Based on the outcome of the consultations, the concept design received generally positive feedback on the proposed bridge form.

Key features of the proposed bridge

a curved single-mast cable stay bridge form with a length of about 280m and mast height of 75m above water level
a single water-based pier on the Toowong side of the Brisbane River to minimise impacts on river users
dedicated pathways for walkers and riders, with a minimum width of 6m and accessible grades
a bridge clearance height of 11.4 metres, with provision for a 70m wide navigation channel
a rest point and widened pathway (up to 9m) adjacent to the bridge mast with seating and viewing opportunities
shade along the length of the walking path
a new riverside green space at the Toowong landing
a landing at Orleigh Park that minimises impacts on open space and provides a direct connection to the walking and cycling network.

An estimated one third of funding for the Toowong to West End bridge and other planned green bridges needs to come from state and federal governments. Council has yet to apply for state government funding for the Toowong to West End bridge project.

The Council is pushing forward with plans for the Toowong to West End bridge, saying detailed design work is essential before approaching the state and federal governments for funding.

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

So far, only the plans for the Kangaroo Point green bridge and the Breakfast Creek green bridge are progressing. Like the Toowong to West End bridge, The St Lucia to West End green bridge has also been paused to prioritise flood recovery.

Published 31-August-2023

St Ignatius School Unveils Two New Murals, Celebrates 120 Years

Artists Brenda Mau and Christian Griffiths painted two new murals at St Ignatius School, paying tribute to the history of the Turrbul and Yuggera peoples that occupied the land where the school stands, and honouring the legacy of the Jesuit Fathers and Mercy Sisters, as the school celebrates its 120th year.

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

The first mural, designed by acclaimed Indigenous artist Brenda Mau, depicts the history of the Turrbul and Yuggera peoples in the Toowong area where the school now stands.

Titled “Many Identities, One Community,” the mural follows the path of the Maiwar (Brisbane River) and uses elements and colours to represent the life of the land and waters over thousands of years.

Photo credit: St Ignatius Catholic Primary School Toowong/Facebook

At the unveiling, St Ignatius principal Duncan Maitland spoke of the school’s deep connection to the land and its First Nations history.

“For thousands of years, Toowong has been a gathering place for First Nations Peoples and is known as a place of wisdom where culture is shared,” said Mr Maitland.

“We are proud to say Toowong continues to be a place of community and of learning.”

Artist Brenda Mau, who is of Mandubarra, Kalkadoon, Wuthathi, Ngadjonjii and Torres Strait Islander descent, said she aimed to share her culture and art with the school community through thoughtful design details.

To commemorate its 120th anniversary, St Ignatius School also unveiled a second mural, this one by artist Christian Griffiths.

The mural pays tribute to the legacy of the Jesuit Fathers and Mercy Sisters who contributed to the school over the years.

A focal point of the artwork is Goldicott House. Goldicott, built in 1885 for Brisbane engineer Charles Lambert Depre. In 1903, Goldicott was renamed Mount St Mary’s Convent after Sisters of Mercy purchased the property and was used as a boarding house for students and the Mercy Sisters.

About St Ignatius School Toowong

Over the years, the school now known as St Ignatius Parish School has undergone several name changes, but its dedication to growth and excellence has remained constant.

Originally called St Michael and Holy Souls, then renamed Toowong Convent School, the institution’s rich history is one of continuous improvement as it educates new generations. The school is named after St Ignacius, the Founder of the religious order known as the Society of Jesus, more commonly called the Jesuits.

During the laying of the foundation stone for the school on 2 November 2 1902, Archbishop Robert Dunne passionately encouraged the people to embrace the new school wholeheartedly. His wishes came to fruition when the school was blessed and opened in 1903, becoming a cherished part of the community.

Read: Check Out These Brilliantly Painted Fiberglass Hearts at The Heart Gallery Exhibition In Toowong

Now, nearly 120 years since its founding, St Ignatius Parish School continues to thrive as an exceptional learning community where students are nurtured to reach and surpass their potential.

Published 24-August-2023

Cyclist Sought for Questioning in Five-Year Car Scratching Spree along Sylvan Rd in Toowong

Police are intensifying efforts to identify and locate a cyclist believed to be a person of interest in a series of car-scratching incidents that have plagued Sylvan Road in Toowong for the past five years.

The picturesque road, a favourite among cyclists as it connects two significant bikeways, has been marred by over 20 cases of vehicular damage.

Authorities are urging residents and car owners who have parked their vehicles on Sylvan Road since 2018 to come forward if their cars have been scratched. This plea for information comes as investigators strive to gather any and all leads related to the case.

“Initial information indicates vehicles parked along Sylvan Road have been scratched along the side in a series of incidents since 2018,” shared the police in a recent statement. The deliberate act of scratching vehicles has led to numerous wilful damage reports, leaving car owners both perplexed and frustrated by the ongoing issue.

In a potential breakthrough, law enforcement officials have released photographs of an individual they seek to question regarding the spate of car scratching occurrences. The man, who is often seen cycling in the vicinity, is deemed a person of interest who “may be able to assist with ongoing investigations,” according to the police statement.

Authorities are actively seeking assistance from the public to identify the individual in question. Anyone who recognizes the cyclist or possesses any relevant information is urged to come forward to aid in the ongoing investigation.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 22-Aug-2023

IJ Capital Buys The Aviary Toowong Site for $53 Million, Plans to Build Billion-Dollar Town Centre

Photo Credit: The Aviary Toowong / aviarytoowong.com.au

The Aviary development in Toowong, idle some time, is now getting a fresh start as investment company IJ Capital prepares to build a $1-billion town centre at 9,000-sqm site that they acquired for $53 million.

IJ Capital has big plans for the area. They aim to work with the owner of the nearby property at 80-88 Jephson Street on a joint project with the vision of a massive complex covering 1.3 hectares of land with shops, offices, and homes.

Located at the corner of Sherwood Road and High Street, the future site of a new, billion-dollar town centre was purchased from Ray White Capital (RW Capital) and State Development Corporation.

The Aviary Toowong Site Acquired by IJ Capital for $53 Million — Photo Credit: The Aviary Toowong / aviarytoowong.com.au

For the previous owners, the decision to sell the Aviary Toowong site was influenced by the challenges caused by COVID-19, increasing building costs, and higher interest rates.

Ross McKinnon, the managing director of State Development Corporation, emphasised this and mentioned that the sale will help RW Capital pay back its investors after a time of uncertainty.

“We are delighted that the purchaser will look to develop the property,” said Ross McKinnon, expressing optimism about the project’s potential to benefit the Toowong community.

“Since launching the development in 2020, we have received overwhelming support from council, local residents, and retail tenants, and we have no doubt that once built, the project will provide fantastic amenity to the Toowong community.”

Negotiated by Christian Sandstrom of Knight Frank, the deal was something that took an extended period to put together.

“This property is in a prime site in the heart of Toowong, and will follow other recent developments including the Monarch development on the old ABC site and Mosaic developments on Sylvan Road and Archer Street.”

The Aviary Toowong development comprises 150-residential units, 30 curated retail spaces, a 20-level office tower, and a cinema. The town centre draws inspiration from the iconic Grove Shopping Centre in Los Angeles.

Published 2-August-2023

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