Homepage Latest News Archives - Mount Gravatt News

Firefighter-Founded Sandwich Giant Sparks Fast Food Shake-Up In Mt Gravatt

Photo Credit: Firehouse Subs Australia/ Facebook

Shoppers in Mt Gravatt are getting the very first taste of a major sandwich market shake-up as a global chain built by firefighters brings its signature steamed meats to a former Subway site.

The Australian debut is scheduled for early July at Westfield Mt Gravatt in Brisbane. The location, currently hidden behind construction hoardings, is the very first step in an ambitious national expansion plan. Retail Food Group, an ASX-listed company, is leading the local charge to introduce the brand across the country throughout the rest of the year.

A New Style of Sandwich

Firehouse Subs takes a completely different approach to the usual cold cut deli sandwich. Chefs have designed a specific cooking method that relies on exclusive ovens to steam high-quality meats and cheeses. This technique locks in the moisture and creates authentic flavours, resulting in a hot sub served on bread that is toasted to be crispy on the outside while staying soft on the inside.

Deep Community Roots

Despite its massive scale of more than 1,300 locations around the world, the brand started with humble beginnings. Brothers Chris and Robin Sorensen, both former firefighters, founded the company in Florida back in 1994. They built their business on three simple ideas: serving generous portions of tasty food, delivering friendly customer service, and actively supporting the local communities where they operate.

Changing the Local Landscape

The decision to launch in Brisbane highlights the city’s growing reputation for dining. Brand managers noted that the Mt Gravatt shopping centre was selected specifically because of its high foot traffic and a local community that is passionate about trying fresh food concepts. They explained that everything is sliced fresh in the store and steamed to order, aiming to deliver a much bigger flavour profile than Australians are used to.

Backed by Global Giants

While the name might be new to local shoppers, Firehouse Subs comes with serious corporate backing. The sandwich chain is owned by Restaurant Brands International, the same global hospitality heavyweight that operates household names like Burger King, Popeyes, and Tim Hortons. As competition in the Australian fast-food market heats up, the Florida-born brand is ready to carve out its own unique space against established local independents and massive multinational competitors alike.

Published Date 16-June-2026

Powerful Australian Documentary Screening in Mount Gravatt

Southside audiences can experience the new documentary Conquering Breast Cancer when it arrives at Event Cinemas Garden City in Upper Mount Gravatt. The film explores the progress being made in breast cancer research while sharing deeply personal stories from Australians affected by the disease.

Presented beginning 10 June by filmmaker Sue Collins and produced by impact filmmakers Mike Hill and Sue Collins, the feature-length documentary combines expert medical insight with the personal experiences of survivors, advocates and researchers working to reduce the impact of breast cancer in Australia.

Among those featured are Olympic legend and breast cancer advocate Raelene Boyle AM, MBE, First Nations survivor and mountaineer Kristal Kinsela, male breast cancer survivor and former professional basketballer Paul Maley, and podcaster Dr Charlotte Tottman. The film also includes insights from leading experts including Professor Bruce Mann, Professor Kelly-Anne Phillips and Associate Professor Christine Chaffer.

conquering breast cancer documentary — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

More Than 20,000 Australians Diagnosed Every Year

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Australian women and the second most commonly diagnosed cancer overall.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, more than 20,000 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Around 56 people receive a diagnosis every day, while more than 3,300 Australians lose their lives to the disease annually — the equivalent of approximately nine deaths every day.

While the majority of cases occur in women over 50, breast cancer also affects younger Australians. Around 1,000 women under the age of 40 are diagnosed each year, highlighting the importance of awareness and early detection across all age groups.

The Survivors, Advocates and Experts Behind the Film

Rather than focusing solely on statistics, Conquering Breast Cancer tells the stories of Australians whose lives have been changed by the disease.

The documentary follows survivors, patient advocates and researchers from across the country, exploring everything from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship, recurrence, genetic risk and the emotional impact breast cancer can have on individuals and families.

breast cancer patient — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The film also highlights the experiences of people living with metastatic breast cancer, as well as Australians making difficult decisions around preventative treatment after discovering they are at high genetic risk of developing the disease.

Early Detection Remains One of the Strongest Defences

A central theme throughout the documentary is the importance of prevention and early detection.

Medical experts featured in the film discuss advances in screening technologies, personalised risk assessment, targeted therapies and clinical trials that are helping improve outcomes for patients.

While Australia has achieved five-year survival rates of more than 90 per cent, the filmmakers argue that breast cancer is far from solved and that ongoing investment in research, screening programs and access to treatment remains essential.

The documentary also examines how researchers are working towards reducing recurrence rates and improving long-term outcomes for those who have already undergone treatment.

researchers working on breast cancer improvements — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The Growing Impact on Australian Families and Communities

Beyond the personal toll, breast cancer continues to have a significant impact on communities across Australia.

More than 160,000 Australians are currently living after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis within the past decade. Research has also shown the disease carries substantial social and economic costs, affecting workforce participation, family wellbeing and quality of life.

breast cancer warriors and supporters — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The filmmakers hope the documentary will encourage more Australians to understand their personal risk, participate in recommended screening programs and support ongoing efforts to improve prevention, treatment and research.

As the third instalment in the Conquering Cancer documentary series, Conquering Breast Cancer aims to start conversations, challenge complacency and highlight both the progress that has been made and the work that still lies ahead.

For more information and session times, visit ConqueringBreastCancer.com.au.

Published 9-June-2026

A Mount Gravatt East Woman Was Among 16 People Allegedly Charged in a Major Brisbane Drug Trafficking Investigation

QPS

A 38-year-old woman was arrested at a Hathaway Street address in Mount Gravatt East during a search warrant on 3 May, as part of a months-long investigation into alleged methamphetamine trafficking that has resulted in 16 people being charged across Brisbane.

The investigation, known as Operation Yankee Rend, was conducted by Brisbane City Criminal Investigation Branch and wrapped up in May after commencing in January. The investigation’s closure resulted in 16 people being charged with more than 90 offences, including trafficking in dangerous drugs, supplying dangerous drugs, possessing proceeds from trafficking and supply, possessing dangerous drugs, and possession of weapons.

The Mount Gravatt East arrest was one of a series of search warrants and interceptions carried out across Brisbane and surrounding areas throughout the operation.

What police allegedly seized

Throughout the investigation, police seized 1.6kg of methamphetamine, 111g of cocaine, a revolver handgun and more than $16,000 of alleged drug cash, in addition to other drugs and drug-related items.

The seizures took place across multiple locations and dates during the five-month investigation. On 7 March, police located a 36-year-old Redbank Plains man on Cedar Road in Redbank Plains.

It will be alleged the man attempted to run from investigators and hide a bag of methamphetamine before he was intercepted and arrested. Investigators further allege a search warrant at a Wivenhoe-Somerset Road address in Somerset on 8 March resulted in the location of a revolver handgun.

The investigation that drove it

Operation Yankee Rend commenced in January following intelligence of methamphetamine being trafficked in Brisbane’s inner north. Brisbane City Criminal Investigation Branch ran the operation, with the City Valley Crime Group coordinating the arrest phase.

North Brisbane District City Valley Crime Group Acting Detective Inspector Sean Webster said the operation had a meaningful impact on local drug supply. “The investigations resulted in the disruption of significant local trafficking and supply of methamphetamine,” he said.

What happens next

The 16 people charged are expected to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court at various future dates. All charges are alleged and none of the accused have been convicted. Investigations are continuing.

Anyone with information about drug activity in the area can contact Policelink via the online form or by calling 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 9-June-2026

Near 50-Percent of Westfield Mt Gravatt Could Change Hands for $850M

Westfield Mt Gravatt Shopping Centre, Brisbane’s second largest mall, could be at the centre of one of the largest shopping centre asset deals to come into play nationally this year, with reports emerging that a near 50 per cent stake in the complex is being explored for sale at around $850 million.

Read: Holey Moley and Hijinx Hotel Open at Westfield Mt Gravatt

The Scentre Group, which owns and operates the Westfield brand across Australia, is believed to be in talks with Australian Retirement Trust (ART), one of the country’s largest superannuation funds, as the potential buyer. Funds manager QIC is understood to be advising on the deal. While neither party has commented publicly, the potential transaction has been reported by industry media.

For locals who shop, work or spend their weekends at the Mt Gravatt complex, the news might come as a surprise. But it fits a clear pattern playing out across the country’s biggest retail assets right now.

Sitting 12 kilometres south of the Brisbane CBD in a growth corridor served by major arterial roads and a Queensland government-owned bus terminal connecting Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Westfield Mt Gravatt is no small asset.

The 141,699 square metre complex serves a trade area population of more than 1.2 million residents and generated approximately $1 billion in sales last year. Major tenants include Myer, BIG W, Kmart, Target, Coles, Woolworths and Aldi, alongside an Event Cinemas complex and around 365 specialty stores. The centre carries a book value of $1.69 billion and is held on a 5.5 per cent capitalisation rate.

The centre has been part of the local community since it first opened in 1971. It has undergone major redevelopments in 1980, 2000, 2004 and 2014, with further works completed in 2018 and again in 2024. The most recent upgrade saw the former David Jones space reconfigured following the department store’s closure, with Uniqlo, Harris Scarfe, additional fashion brands and a new entertainment precinct moving in.

The potential deal would not be ART’s first Westfield move. In late December, the super fund entered into an agreement to acquire a 19.9 per cent stake in Westfield Sydney for $864 million, in what has been described as the largest single-asset CBD retail transaction in Australia. A successful bid at Mt Gravatt would further deepen ties between ART and Scentre Group, with QIC also named as investment manager for ART’s Westfield Sydney interest.

The Mt Gravatt deal sits alongside several other major retail transactions currently in play nationally. Private group JY Group is reportedly in advanced negotiations for a stake in Westfield Marion in Adelaide at a price understood to be in excess of $650 million, while Fawkner Property completed its acquisition of Erina Fair shopping centre on the NSW Central Coast earlier this year for $895 million, a deal described as the largest ever 100 per cent trade of an Australian shopping centre.

Big shopping centres fell out of favour with investors during the Covid-19 pandemic but have been staging a steady comeback. Landlords have adapted by pulling back on exposure to department stores and leaning into services, entertainment and experiences to attract foot traffic, with Scentre reporting record visitation numbers as a result.

Read: Haigh’s Chocolates to Open Its First Queensland Store at Westfield Mt Gravatt

The total retail spend across Westfield Mt Gravatt’s broader trade area was estimated at $20.6 billion in 2025, with the main trade area accounting for $4.8 billion of that figure, underlining the centre’s economic significance to Brisbane’s south side.

Published 6-June-2026

Mount Gravatt Records Second-Highest Number of Illegal Dumping Notices in Brisbane

Photo Credit: BCC

More than 200 AI-assisted cameras are now operating across Brisbane, helping investigators identify offenders at known dumping hotspots. Among the suburbs attracting significant enforcement attention is Mount Gravatt, which recorded 125 infringement notices and warnings, placing it among the city’s busiest locations for illegal dumping investigations.

The expanded surveillance effort comes as several East Brisbane suburbs appeared on Brisbane’s latest illegal dumping rankings, highlighting the ongoing challenge facing communities across the city’s eastern and south-eastern suburbs.

More Than 200 Cameras Watching Known Hotspots

Motion-activated cameras are now operating across Brisbane at locations identified as dumping hotspots or high-risk areas. The devices can capture information including vehicles, number plates, people and discarded items, helping investigators gather evidence and identify repeat offenders.

Around 25 additional cameras were installed during the past year, bringing the total network to more than 200 devices across the city. The increased monitoring coincides with a sharp rise in enforcement activity. More than 850 infringement notices and warnings have been issued so far in 2026, generating more than $525,000 in penalties.

Authorities estimate illegal dumping costs ratepayers about $500,000 each year in clean-up expenses, separate from any environmental damage caused by dumped materials.

Suburbs With Illegal Dumping Offences

Coorparoo ranked fourth among Brisbane suburbs for illegal dumping complaints, while Morningside ranked sixth and Carina ranked seventh.

Mount Gravatt appeared second on the list of suburbs where infringement notices and warnings were issued, recording 125 notices. Cannon Hill ranked fifth with 38 notices, while Chandler recorded 19 notices.

The figures reflect two different measures. Complaint rankings show where incidents are being reported, while infringement and warning notices indicate where offenders have been identified and enforcement action has occurred.

2026	Most Illegal Dumping Complaints	Most Infringement & Warning Notices	Notices Issued
1	Moorooka	Mount Coot-tha	318
2	Sunnybank Hills	Mount Gravatt	125
3	New Farm	Richlands	49
4	Coorparoo	Bald Hills	45
5	Forest Lake	Cannon Hill	38
6	Morningside	Bulwer	35
7	Carina	Doolandella	25
8	Runcorn	Willawong	22
9	Sunnybank	Chandler	19
10	Annerley	Nathan	19

Charity Bin Dumping Creates Problems for Volunteers

Illegal dumping is not always large-scale. At Cannon Hill, concerns have been raised about people leaving bags, boxes and household items outside charity collection bins.

According to Cr Lisa Atwood in March, volunteers and staff from Link Vision have regularly been forced to deal with piles of donations left beside collection bins at 1177 Wynnum Road.

While many people appear to have good intentions, items left outside bins can quickly become damaged by weather, dirt or vandalism. Once that happens, many donations can no longer be reused and must be disposed of as waste.

The problem can also attract further dumping, with broken furniture and unwanted household items sometimes left near collection points. To address ongoing issues, anti-dumping cameras have been installed at the site. Residents caught leaving items outside collection bins can face penalties for illegal dumping.

Legal Disposal Options Available

Illegal dumping can involve a wide range of materials. Mattresses, furniture, whitegoods, tyres, green waste and construction materials are among the items commonly collected during clean-up operations.

Dumped materials can damage bushland, affect waterways, create safety hazards and increase maintenance costs for public spaces. In suburban areas, even relatively small piles of rubbish can quickly grow when additional items are added by other people.

Residents have several legal options for disposing of unwanted items. Household waste and recycling can be managed through regular collection services, while larger items can be taken to resource recovery centres and transfer stations.

Waste vouchers, designated hazardous waste disposal events and charitable donations provide alternatives to leaving unwanted items in public places.

Anyone who witnesses illegal dumping can report incidents by phoning Council on 07 3403 8888, providing details such as location, photographs and descriptions where possible.

ILLEGAL DUMPING INFO

Published 3-June-2026

Big Changes Proposed for Abbeville Street Park as Community Feedback Opens

BCC

A draft concept plan for the upgrade of Abbeville Street Park in Upper Mt Gravatt is now open for community feedback, with proposals including a new amenities block, fitness station, multi-use sports court and improved access throughout the park’s popular dog off-leash area.

The plan has been developed following community input gathered in November 2025, when residents were asked to share their thoughts on what the park needed most. The feedback was clear: this is a park people use daily, and they want it to stay leafy and relaxed while becoming more comfortable and functional.

Feedback on the draft plan closes at 11.59pm on Sunday 14 June 2026.

A closer look at the proposed upgrades

The draft concept proposes a range of upgrades across the park’s 41 Abbeville Street site. A new amenities block would address the park’s most consistent gap, as the absence of public toilets has been a longstanding frustration for families and dog owners who spend extended time here.

A multi-use sports court and rebound wall would complement the existing basketball half-court. A new fitness station would join the outdoor exercise equipment already on site, and accessible circuit and connecting pathways would improve movement throughout the park, including better links to and within the dog off-leash area.

Viewing areas, seating nodes and a picnic shelter round out the social spaces, while parallel parking along Abbeville Street would ease the pressure on street parking that builds during busy weekend mornings.

The upgrade will revitalise the existing playground, blending new equipment and nature play elements into the space families already love.

The plan also makes clear what will stay. The community garden, a well-used feature of the park, will not be affected by the upgrades. The plan leaves the vacant scout hall untouched, keeping it completely separate from the new recreational layout.

A park that already punches above its weight

Abbeville Street Park is one of Upper Mt Gravatt’s most genuinely multi-use green spaces. Its fenced dog off-leash area, with a separate enclosure for smaller dogs, draws regulars from across the southern suburbs and has a reputation as one of the better dog parks in Brisbane’s south.

On any weekend morning the park fills with families at the playground, dog owners at the fence line and walkers doing laps of the bike and walking paths.

The community garden adds another layer of regular activity, and the basketball half-court sees use from older kids and teenagers who have few other spaces nearby. What the park has always lacked is a toilet block, which limits how long families can comfortably stay and makes the space less accessible for older residents and parents with young children.

Two chances to see the plan in person

Two information kiosks are running at the park itself for residents who want to see the concept plan in person and ask questions. The first runs tomorrow, Saturday 30 May, from 9am to 11am. The second session runs on Wednesday 3 June from 2.30pm to 4.30pm.

The draft concept plan is available to download and the online feedback survey can be completed here. For phone enquiries, the project team is available on 07 3178 5413 from 8.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Published 1-June-2026

Haigh’s Chocolates Picks Mt Gravatt for First Brisbane Store

South Australian chocolate maker Haigh’s Chocolates has confirmed Westfield Mt Gravatt will be home to its first Brisbane store, marking the company’s long-awaited move into Queensland retail.

The family-owned business, founded in 1915, announced it will launch three stores across Brisbane in 2026, with locations also planned for Chermside and Carindale later in the year. The Mt Gravatt site is scheduled to begin trading in August and will become the first permanent Haigh’s store in Queensland.

For decades, Queensland customers have mainly relied on online shopping or interstate travel to buy the company’s products. Haigh’s said strong support from Brisbane customers helped drive the decision to expand into the state, with Queensland now accounting for 18 per cent of its online sales.

*Photo Credit:* Haigh’s Chocolates/Instagram

Queensland Demand Pushes Haigh’s Into Brisbane

The Brisbane rollout is part of a larger growth plan for the company as it increases its presence along Australia’s eastern seaboard. Chief executive Peter Millard said the company had seen growing interest from Queensland customers for years, making Brisbane the next logical step for expansion.

Haigh’s has built a loyal customer base through its bean-to-bar process, where the company manages every stage of chocolate production from sourcing cocoa beans through to manufacturing. The business also focuses on ethical sourcing and small-batch production, helping it stand apart from larger commercial chocolate brands.

While Haigh’s is widely recognised in cities such as Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra, Brisbane has remained one of the few major capitals without a physical store until now.

*Photo Credit:* *Haigh’s Chocolate/ Facebook*

Production Growth Supports New Brisbane Stores

To prepare for the Brisbane expansion, Haigh’s has significantly increased its manufacturing capacity in South Australia. The company recently lifted production from 1,100 tonnes to 2,000 tonnes each year following the completion of a new production, warehouse and fulfilment facility.

Former managing director Alister Haigh, a fourth-generation member of the founding family, described the expansion as an important milestone as the business continues growing nationally while remaining family-owned.

Once the Brisbane stores are operating, Haigh’s retail network will increase to 26 stores across Australia.

New Jobs Expected Ahead of Mt Gravatt Launch

The Brisbane expansion is also expected to create around 75 jobs during the first stage of operations. Recruitment for retail positions has started in April 2026 as the company prepares for the Mt Gravatt launch and the later openings in Chermside and Carindale.

The Mt Gravatt location is expected to stock the company’s full chocolate range, giving local shoppers easier access to products that were previously harder to find in Queensland.

Published 29-May-2026

Upper Mount Gravatt School Puts Brisbane on the National STEM Map with Double Win at 2026 Australian Education Awards

A local school has put Upper Mount Gravatt on the national education map, with Clairvaux MacKillop College taking home two of the four major prizes won by Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) at the 2026 Australian Education Awards.

Read: Clairvaux MacKillop College in Mt Gravatt Celebrated for STEM and Co-Curricular Success

STEM and Academic Excellence Coordinator Dr Maynard Victor Erece was named Secondary School Teacher of the Year (Non-Government), while the College also claimed the Street Science Best STEM Program award.

Dr Erece credited the entire STEM team for the result. “This recognition reflects the strength of the collaborative culture fostered within the Clairvaux MacKillop College STEM Team,” he said.

“The program has been shaped through the collective expertise, creativity, and commitment of staff who continually work together to provide meaningful and future-focused learning experiences for students. Their contribution is central to the success and ongoing growth of the STEM program, and this achievement belongs to the entire team.”

Clairvaux MacKillop College Curriculum Leader Science, Katrina Dalglish (Photo credit:Brisbane Catholic Education)

Curriculum Leader Science Katrina Dalglish was also awarded Department Head of the Year, recognised for her work building pathways for young women into STEM fields. That includes partnerships with the Queensland University of Technology STEM Ambassadors program and Griffith University’s SuperGEMS Girls in Motorsports initiative, both aimed at helping young women build confidence in traditionally underrepresented industries.

The College also runs a Space Program that connects students with industry partners on real-world aerospace projects.

Principal Wayne Chapman said the results reflect a shared commitment across the College community.

“Our achievements are a testament to the passion, dedication and purpose that every teacher, student and staff member brings to our community daily,” he said.

A big week for Brisbane Catholic Education

Clairvaux MacKillop College’s wins were part of a broader sweep for BCE, which claimed four awards in total at this year’s ceremony. Trinity College Beenleigh’s Head of Design Technologies Belinda Vlasenko also took out the Department Head of the Year award alongside Dalglish, both recognised in the highly competitive Department Head of the Year category.

BCE Acting Executive Director Ross Tarlinton said the recognition reflects what is happening across the system’s 146 schools in South East Queensland.

“This national recognition is a significant affirmation of the innovation, teamwork and commitment to student learning that is clearly alive within our 146 schools across South East Queensland,” he said.

“While awards never capture the full story of a school, they do shine a light on the spirit behind the work, such as educators who serve with purpose, create opportunities for young people to thrive, and build a culture where curiosity and excellence are nurtured.”

Read: 2026 College Captains Named At Upper Mount Gravatt School

About the Australian Education Awards 2026

The Australian Education Awards are presented by The Educator and are described as Australia’s leading independent education awards. The awards recognise educators and leaders who make an outstanding impact on their students, schools and communities, celebrating excellence across schools, principals, department heads and teachers throughout Australia.

Published 28-May-2026

Ambulance Wish Shines at 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards

A palliative care organisation in Mt Gravatt is being celebrated on the stage after Ambulance Wish Queensland was named a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Volunteering Awards.

Read: Upper Mt Gravatt Volunteer Denise Lewis Celebrates 25-Year Milestone at Mater

Palliative Care Queensland, which operates its Brisbane southside office from Mt Gravatt, was recognised as a finalist in the Queensland Volunteering Impact Award, one of six categories at this year’s awards ceremony held to honour the contributions of volunteers across the state.

Photo credit: Facebook/Ambulance Wish Queensland

The annual awards, sponsored this year by Queensland and organised by Volunteering Queensland, recognised 49,722 volunteers through 275 nominations, with 21 finalists and eight recipients celebrated across all categories.

What Is Ambulance Wish Queensland?

Ambulance Wish Queensland exists to give Queenslanders living with a life-limiting condition the planning, coordination, specialist transport and clinical care they need to fulfil a last wish and create lasting memories.

The organisation relies on the commitment of volunteers who give their time in emotionally demanding circumstances to make those wishes a reality.

In a Facebook post following the awards, Ambulance Wish Queensland said the finalist recognition belonged to its volunteers.

“Their compassion, generosity and commitment make every wish possible, giving their time to help create meaningful moments for Queenslanders when they matter most,” the organisation wrote.

Celebrating Volunteers Across Queensland

The Queensland Volunteering Impact Award’s community category was taken out by Foodbank Queensland for its Food Distribution and Community Food Relief Program, with The Older Men’s Network (TOMNET) and its Seniors Volunteering Program also named as a finalist alongside Ambulance Wish.

Across the other award categories, volunteers were recognised from a wide range of backgrounds. Carolyn Robinson from Beyond DV took out Queensland Volunteer of the Year, while Jaylyn Rongo from DonateLife Queensland claimed the Youth Volunteer of the Year title. Roger Whyte, recognised for his contribution to Queensland Rugby League, received the Lifetime Contribution to Volunteering Award.

Volunteering Queensland CEO Jane Hedger noted the particular significance of this year’s event, pointing out that 2026 is the United Nations International Year of Volunteers.

“The Queensland Volunteering Awards offer a special moment to honour and value every person who is contributing through volunteering to growing a thriving Queensland,” Ms Hedger said.

She also acknowledged the broader context in which Queensland’s volunteers are operating right now. “At a time when cost of living pressures and increasing demand for support are placing strain on Queenslanders, volunteers continue to step up and be the steady hands helping to hold our communities together.”

Read: Mt Gravatt Road Safety Leader Recognised In Australia Day 2026 Honours

The finalist recognition is an acknowledgement of the volunteers who make Ambulance Wish Queensland’s work possible.

The Queensland Volunteering Awards have run since 2016, providing an annual platform to recognise meaningful contributions to Queensland communities.

Published 20-May-2026

A New Chapter for a Southside Landmark: Brookland Robertson Hits Full House

For decades, the familiar brick homes of Mt Gravatt, Sunnybank, and Robertson have been the backdrop for thousands of Brisbane families. But as the kids grow up and those big backyards become more of a chore than a sanctuary, many locals are looking for a way to stay in the neighborhood they love—just with a little less lawn to mow.

That shift has reached a major milestone on 11 May. Brookland Robertson, a fixture on the southside since 1984, has officially welcomed its final residents, marking the end of a massive six-year transformation.

The project, which began in 2018, wasn’t just a facelift. It was a $50 million bet that Southsiders didn’t want to move to the coast or the city fringes to retire; they wanted to stay right here, near their grandkids and their favorite local cafes.

Staying Put, Just Scaling Down

For Neil and Judy Cahill, the move wasn’t about leaving their community—it was about securing their future in it. After 50 years in their Sunnybank family home, the couple decided it was time to trade the old family house for something more manageable.

With eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren scattered across the southeast, staying central was a non-negotiable. Like many of their neighbors, the Cahills found that the biggest hurdle wasn’t the desire to downsize, but the fear of being pushed out of the area they’ve called home for half a century.

What’s New Behind the Gates?

The redevelopment has significantly changed the village’s footprint, adding 92 modern apartments across two new stages, The Waratah and The Banksia. But it’s the communal spaces that are getting the most talk among the residents:

Active Living: A new indoor pool, gym, and health club.
Social Hubs: An on-site cinema, library, and lounge spaces for Friday night drinks.
Location: Staying within five kilometers of Westfield Mt Gravatt means residents are still in the heart of the action.

The project hasn’t gone unnoticed by the industry, either, recently being named a finalist for Best Redevelopment at the Property Council of Australia awards.

A Changing Southside

The “full house” sign at Brookland Robertson reflects a broader trend across Brisbane’s southern suburbs. We are seeing a quiet evolution of our streets. As long-time residents move into these community-centric hubs, it opens up the traditional family homes for a new generation of young families, keeping the cycle of the neighborhood moving.

For the final residents moving in this month, the boxes are unpacked and the kettle is on. They may have a new floor plan, but their view of the southside remains exactly as they like it: home.

Published 11-May-2026