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Mount Gravatt Kookaburras Star Hoping To Bring Home Gold From Paris

Former Clairvaux MacKillop College student (Class of 2008), Jacob Whetton, will embark on what may be his final Olympics appearance in Paris this week.

Bringing home Silver in Tokyo 2021 but losing the final to Belgium in a shootout, the 33 year old forward will be part of a Kookaburras team with a genuine chance of going one better in Paris.

The bookies have Belgium as very slight favourites to repeat their Tokyo Gold medal over Australia and the Netherlands with Germany the best of the rest.

Whetton quipped that he was introduced to the sport of Hockey because his mum and dad both played and so it was easier bringing him and his sister to games than getting a babysitter.

He currently plays for Brisbane Blaze in the Hockey One League after a three-year stint in the Indian Hockey League with the Punjab Warriors. Though in 2020, he signed a contract to play for Oranje-Rood in the Dutch Hockey League but Covid caused that deal to collapse.

The 2024 Olympics Tournament will be played at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium. The Kookaburras opening match against Argentina will be at 9:15 p.m. Brisbane time on Saturday night, 27 July.

Their next match will be against Ireland at 6:00 p.m. Brisbane time on Monday, 29 July followed by a rematch of the Tokyo final when they take on Belgium at 3:45 a.m. Brisbane time on Wednesday 31 July. They then take on New Zealand at 6:30 p.m. Brisbane time on Thursday 1 August, with the final pool match against India at 9:15 p.m. on Friday 2 August.

The Top 4 from Pool and Pool B will then embark on the Quarter finals from Sunday 4 August.

Should the Kookaburras repeat their Tokyo 2021 achievement of making the final, it will be played at 3:00 a.m. Brisbane time on Friday 9 August.

Stan Sports will have a dedicated Hockey Channel showing the games live as part of their Olympics coverage.

Jacob and the Kookaburras Group Schedule

Major Office Building in Upper Mount Gravatt Sells for $64 Million

Photo Credit: Google Maps

Alceon Group has acquired a prominent office building at 28 McGregor Street for $64 million from Charter Hall in a deal that highlights the suburb’s growing appeal to large-scale investors.

The six-story building, a familiar landmark in Upper Mount Gravatt since its construction in 1992, has been home to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for over three decades. The ATO continues to be the majority tenant.

Spanning 14,286 square meters and offering 405 car parking spaces, the building is a substantial commercial asset for the suburb. The property’s last refurbishment in 2018 has helped maintain its appeal to both tenants and investors.

Approximately 3,200 square meters of the building is currently vacant, and there are existing permit-ready plans for 179 apartments in two towers. This mixed-use potential could significantly impact the local skyline and contribute to the evolving urban landscape of Upper Mount Gravatt.

The sale price of $64 million, which aligns with the property’s book value, reflects the strong commercial real estate market in Upper Mount Gravatt. It also indicates investor confidence in the suburb’s future growth and development potential.

Published 18-July-2024

Veteran Jacob Whetton Aims for Gold in Third Olympic Appearance

Photo Credit: Australian Olympic Committee

Australian men’s hockey player, Jacob “Whetty” Whetton, who studied at Clairvaux Mackillop College in Mt Gravatt, is set to make his third Olympic appearance at the Paris 2024 Games. At 33, Whetton brings a wealth of experience to the Kookaburras, having amassed over 200 caps for the national team since his debut in 2011.

Whetton’s Olympic journey began in Rio 2016, where he made his debut on the world’s biggest sporting stage. However, it was in Tokyo 2020 where he tasted his first Olympic success, securing a silver medal after a nail-biting penalty shootout loss to Belgium in the gold medal match.

Photo Credit: Australian Olympic Committee

Known for his trademark zinc cream – a nod to late Australian cricket star Andrew Symonds – Whetton has been a consistent force in the Kookaburras’ recent successes. He played a crucial role in Australia’s gold medal victories at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and again in Birmingham 2022, where he scored twice in a dominant 7-0 win over India in the final.

Whetton’s path to Paris included strong performances in the 2023 Hockey World Cup and the Oceania Cup, where he helped secure Australia’s Olympic qualification. His recent domestic success with the Brisbane Blaze in the Hockey One league further cements his status as a key player for the national team.

As the Kookaburras aim to improve on their silver medal performance from Tokyo, Whetton’s experience and scoring ability will be crucial. The team, under the guidance of coach Colin Batch, will be looking to claim Australia’s first Olympic gold in men’s hockey since 2004.

Whetton’s journey from the Eastern Suburbs Tigers junior club to potentially being a three-time Olympian is a testament to his dedication and skill. As the Paris Games approach, all eyes will be on this veteran player to see if he can help lead the Kookaburras to Olympic glory.

Published 18-July-2024

Griffith University Swimming Champ Kaylee McKeown Eyes Gold at Paris 2024

Expectations run high, as Griffith University swimming champion Kaylee McKeown seems poised to dominate the Paris 2024 Olympics, leveraging her world record-breaking prowess and extensive international experience.

Kaylee, who has been making waves in the swimming world, currently trains with the Griffith University swim group under the guidance of coach Michael Bohl.

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A post shared by Kaylee McKeown OAM (@kaylee_mckeown)

Kaylee’s Journey in Swimming

At just 15 years old, Kaylee joined her older sister Taylor on the Dolphins swim team, becoming one of its youngest members. Inspired by her sister, who she considers a hero, Kaylee made her international debut in 2017 at the World Championships, finishing fourth in the 200m backstroke. Her strong performances continued at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, where she placed fourth in both the 100m and 200m backstroke events.

In 2018, she shone at the Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires, securing gold in the 50m backstroke, silver in the 100m backstroke and 4x100m medley, and bronze in the 200m backstroke. Her success continued into 2019 when she won silver in both the women’s 200m backstroke and the women’s 4x100m medley relay at the World Championships.

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A post shared by Kaylee McKeown OAM (@kaylee_mckeown)

The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics due to COVID-19 appeared to benefit Kaylee. In 2021, she broke national backstroke records in the 50m, 100m, and 200m events at the Sydney Open. She then set a world record in the 100m backstroke at the Australian trials for the Tokyo Games. Opting to focus on backstroke events at the Olympics, she won gold in the 100m and 200m backstroke, as well as in the women’s medley relay, and also claimed bronze in the mixed medley relay.

In 2022, she continued to excel, winning the 200m backstroke world title in Budapest and dominating at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, where she won four gold medals and six medals in total. She ended the year with a victory in the 200m backstroke at the World Short Course Championships in Melbourne. Her momentum carried into 2023, where she set a new world record in the 200m backstroke at the NSW Championships.

Kaylee’s Olympic Prospects

Online sportsbooks have recognised Kaylee McKeown’s potential for the upcoming Olympics, placing her as a favourite for the 200m backstroke. Despite the competitive field, including American Regan Smith, McKeown’s consistent performances and current world record position her as a strong contender.

Professional gamblers and swimming analysts suggest that while McKeown is the favourite, the race will be highly competitive. McKeown’s odds reflect her dominance in the sport, but the competition from athletes like Smith ensures that the event will be exciting to watch.

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Griffith University’s Olympic Aspirations

Griffith University will be well-represented at the 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games with a team of 45 students, alumni, and team members. This includes debutants like sprinter Torrie Lewis and seasoned athletes such as Cameron McEvoy and Jessica Fox.

Duncan Free, Director of Sports Engagement at Griffith University and a former Olympian, expressed immense pride in the athletes. He highlighted the university’s tradition of nurturing champions and is optimistic about surpassing their best-ever medal haul from Tokyo.

The Paris 2024 Olympics, scheduled to take place from July 26 to August 11, 2024, are set to showcase the world’s top athletes across a range of disciplines, with high expectations for thrilling performances and record-breaking achievements. The event, anticipated to be one of the most watched in history, will feature a significant presence from Griffith University, including top contenders like Kaylee McKeown.

Published 18-July-2024

Mt Gravatt Officers Honoured for Valour and Service in South Brisbane Ceremony

Photo Credit: MyPolice Bayside

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) paid tribute to officers and civilians in a ceremony in the South Brisbane District, acknowledging their dedicated service and remarkable valour, including the contributions of the Mt Gravatt officers.

Among those recognised were officers who demonstrated exceptional bravery during a knife attack in Upper Mount Gravatt in 2020.

The incident, which unfolded on August 5, 2020, saw Senior Constable Renae Plant and Constable Clinton Hooper confronted by a 25-year-old male wielding a knife as they attempted to serve documents at a residence in Upper Mount Gravatt. The offender lunged at Constable Hooper, inflicting multiple facial lacerations. Despite the immediate danger, Senior Constable Plant drew her firearm and neutralised the threat, safeguarding her colleague and herself.

For their extraordinary courage under duress, Senior Constable Plant and Constable Clinton Hooper were each awarded the prestigious QPS Valour Medal. Two bystanders, Mr Luke Roberts and Mr Christopher Pye, who rushed to Constable Hooper’s aid and provided crucial first aid in the face of imminent danger, were also commended with the Commissioner’s Certificate of Notable Action.

The ceremony further acknowledged the unwavering support provided to Senior Constable Plant by Acting Senior Sergeant Meagan Holley in the aftermath of the traumatic event. Acting Senior Sergeant Holley’s instrumental role in developing the Post Shooting Policy Advisor & Support Coordinator Programme, an initiative championing a victim-centric approach to officers involved in critical incidents, earned her the Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate.

In addition to the Valour Medals, the QPS Medal and clasps were bestowed upon Acting Senior Sergeant Holley, Senior Constable Plant, and Constable Hooper to recognise their years of diligent service.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Kelly lauded the award recipients, emphasising their embodiment of the QPS core values of integrity, professionalism, and community. Acting Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman echoed this sentiment, highlighting the challenging nature of police work and the awardees’ profound commitment to ensuring their community’s safety.

Published Date 17-July-2024

Kelsey-Lee Barber: QAS Javelin Star Sets Sights on Paris Olympics

Olympic bronze medallist and two-time world champion Kelsey-Lee Barber, who trains at the Queensland Academy of Sports (QAS) in Nathan, is intensifying her preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympics, despite facing a recent injury challenge.

The 32-year-old javelin thrower has been working tirelessly behind the scenes, aiming to add to her impressive collection of medals. Barber, known for her clutch performances in major competitions, has consistently improved her results since her Olympic debut in Rio 2016.

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A post shared by Kelsey-Lee Barber (@kelseyleebarber)

Career Highlights

Barber’s journey in athletics began when she moved to Australia during the Sydney Olympics. She quickly rose through the ranks, winning her first international bronze medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Her career reached new heights in 2019 when she threw an impressive 67.70m in Luzern, placing her second in the world for the year. Later that year, she claimed the world title in Doha with a throw of 66.56m.

In 2022, Barber defended her world crown, becoming the first athlete ever to do so in javelin. She followed this up with a gold medal at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, completing her collection of medals from the event.

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Recent Challenges

Despite her success, Barber has faced recent setbacks. At the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, she placed seventh in the final with a throw of 61.19m. Shortly after, she announced the end of her season due to a small calf tear.

The start of 2024 has also presented challenges, with Barber battling an elbow issue. She competed in two major domestic competitions, placing seventh in Melbourne and third at the Nationals.

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Team Support

Barber attributes much of her success to her Nathan QAS support team. Her husband, Mike Barber, also serves as her coach, creating a unique dynamic in their professional and personal lives.

Kelsey-Lee Barber and Mike Barber — *Photo Credit: Kelsey-Lee Barber/IG*

Patrick Castelli, Barber’s strength and conditioning coach, emphasises the importance of their tight-knit team. He notes that managing Barber’s body and its response to training is one of their biggest challenges.

Barber remains focused on her goal of competing at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her determination and history of performing under pressure make her a strong contender for adding to her Olympic medal tally.

As Barber continues her preparations, she aims for medals and values the relationships she’s built throughout her career. For her, these connections are an integral part of her sporting journey and will remain with her long after her competitive days are over.

Published 12-July-2024

Nathan Star Zac Stubblety-Cook Aims for Second Olympic Triumph at Paris 2024

At 25, Zac Stubblety-Cook from Nathan is poised to make another splash on the global stage as he prepares for his second Olympic appearance at the Paris 2024 Games.

Read: Meet Jeff Dunne, The Teen Sensation Competing for Breaking at the Paris Olympics

The champion swimmer, who trains under the guidance of coach Vince Raleigh, has already etched his name in swimming history as an Olympic, World, and Commonwealth champion.

Stubblety-Cook’s journey began humbly at the Water Ratz learn-to-swim program in Wellers Hill. Little did anyone know that those early strokes would lead to Olympic gold. His rise through the ranks was meteoric, making his Dolphins debut at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.

Photo credit: Zac Stubblety-Cook OAM/Instagram

The Tokyo 2020 Olympics marked Stubblety-Cook’s arrival as a swimming superstar. In a performance that echoed Ian O’Brien’s 1964 triumph, he clinched gold in the 200m breaststroke with an Olympic record time of 2:06.38. This victory was particularly sweet as it was Australia’s sole swimming gold in the men’s events at those Games. He didn’t stop there, adding a bronze medal in the debut of the mixed 4x100m medley relay.

Stubblety-Cook was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the 2022 Australia Day Honours for his service to sport as a gold medallist at the Tokyo Olympic Games 2020, further cementing his status as one of Australia’s swimming elite.

Now, with Paris 2024 on the horizon, Stubblety-Cook is leaving no stone unturned in his preparation. He secured his spot on the Australian team by winning the 200m breaststroke at the Olympic trials in Brisbane. This followed his double victory in the 100m and 200m breaststroke events at the 2024 Australian championships on the Gold Coast, demonstrating his excellent form leading into the Olympics.

Training out of the Chandler Aquatic Centre, Stubblety-Cook balances his rigorous swimming schedule with academic pursuits. He’s currently working towards a double degree in psychological science and business at Griffith University, showcasing his commitment to personal growth both in and out of the pool.

Read: Mt Gravatt QSAC Eyes Metro Lifeline For 2032 Games Legacy

As the swimming world turns its eyes to Paris, Stubblety-Cook carries the hopes of a nation. With his track record of success and dedication to his craft, he’s not just aiming to participate – he’s gunning for gold. The next chapter in this remarkable swimmer’s story is about to unfold, and the world will be watching.

Published 8-July-2024

Celebrating Over a Century of Fun at the 108th Annual Mt Gravatt Show

The much-anticipated 108th Annual Mt Gravatt Show is set to dazzle families and visitors with its array of attractions and events at the historic Mt Gravatt Showgrounds. A cherished tradition, this event promises a blend of nostalgia and thrilling new experiences, making it a perfect weekend outing for everyone.

A Glimpse into the Show’s Rich History

Mt Gravatt Show has been the venue for this spectacular event since 1918. It offers a vibrant showcase of local culture, arts, and community spirit. Over the decades, the show has evolved, incorporating more attractions and larger crowds while maintaining its community-focused ethos.

What to Expect at the 2024 Mt Gravatt Show

This year’s show is gearing up to be bigger and better than ever. Organizers are pulling out all the stops to ensure the 108th edition provides an unforgettable experience. Here’s what attendees can look forward to:

Family-Friendly Fun: From thrilling rides to engaging animal exhibits and live entertainment, the show has something to entertain visitors of all ages.
Diverse Attractions: The event will feature traditional favourites like sheepdog trials and equestrian shows, alongside modern additions such as freestyle motocross displays and a spectacular fireworks show to cap Saturday night off.
Local Exhibitions: Art, craft, and photography exhibitions will showcase the talents of local artists and provide a platform for community members to display their work.

A Day Out for the Whole Family

The Mt Gravatt Show remains one of the best value family days out in the region. With gates opening early, families are encouraged to arrive at the start to make the most of the day’s activities. Whether it’s exploring the animal nurseries, enjoying the amusement rides, or sampling delicious local food, there’s no shortage of things to do and see.

Event Details

Dates: Saturday, July 27th (9 AM – 9 PM) and Sunday, July 28th (9 AM – 4 PM)
Location: 1644 Logan Rd, Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122

COMPETITIONS

ENTERTAINMENT

Here’s a list of the competitions available at the Mt Gravatt Show:

1. Apiculture
2. Art Display (Painting, Drawing & Art)
3. Big Rig Spectacular
4. Box Of Produce
5. Cattle
6. Cooking (Cakes, Sweets, Preserves)
7. Cottage Crafts & Traditional Trades
8. Decorated Cakes
9. Dog High Jump
10. Lego Competition
11. Needlework
12. Photography
13. Quilts of Quality
14. Scarecrow Competition
15. Sheep
16. Show Horses
17. Show Jumping
18. Student Art
19. Ute Muster

Each competition includes a schedule and entry forms available online for participants interested in entering.

JOIN THE COMPETITION

Here’s a roundup of the entertainment offerings at the Mt Gravatt Show:

1. Amusement Rides: A variety of rides suitable for all ages.
2. Animal Nursery: Interaction with farm animals from piglets to alpacas.
3. Dinkum Dinosaurs: Display showcasing realistic dinosaur models.
4. Cottage Crafts Make & Take: Workshops on crafting items like those in the competition.
5. D’Aguilar Wildlife: Wildlife conservation experience.
6. Fireworks Display: A spectacular fireworks show on Saturday night.
7. FMX Freestyle Motocross: Displays of speed, skill, and agility by motorcyclists.
8. Flux Entertainment: High-impact, engaging performances.
9. Magical Ponies: Interaction with ponies, tailored for children.
10. Lego Display: Exhibitions of intricate Lego constructions.
11. Sheep Dog Trials: Demonstrations of dogs herding sheep through obstacles.
12. Walter Whip & The Flames: Whip cracking demonstrations and performances.

These activities promise a mix of thrilling, educational, and interactive experiences for all attendees.

CHECK OUT THE PROGRAM

Mark your calendars and prepare for a weekend filled with fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories!

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High-Speed Chase of Stolen BMW Passes Through Mount Gravatt

A high-speed chase that passed through Mount Gravatt has resulted in charges against four individuals after a stolen BMW allegedly reached speeds over 200 km/h on the M1.

The incident, which unfolded on Saturday, began when police first spotted the allegedly stolen vehicle in Logan. The chase then led through Mount Gravatt before continuing south along the M1 towards the Gold Coast.

Gold Coast Chief Superintendent Craig Hanlon reported that after passing through Mount Gravatt, the vehicle’s speed became too dangerous for direct police intervention on the motorway.

“It was too risky to interact with the vehicle,” Supt Hanlon stated, underscoring the potential danger to Mount Gravatt and surrounding communities had the pursuit continued in built-up areas.

The chase concluded on the Gold Coast when police successfully deployed a tyre deflation device near the Nerang Broadbeach Road exit.

Four suspects – two men aged 20 and 18, and two women aged 20 and 18 – were subsequently arrested and charged with various offences including unlawful use of a motor vehicle.

Published 1-July-2024

Meet Jeff Dunne, The Teen Sensation Competing for Breaking at the Paris Olympics

Jeff Dunne, a 16-year-old former resident of Mount Gravatt East, is set to represent Australia in breaking at the Paris Olympics.

Read: Olympians and Paralympians Challenge Venue Decision on QSAC in Mt Gravatt

This opportunity comes after Dunne’s stunning victory at the Oceania Breaking Championship held at the Sydney Town Hall last November, where he triumphed over 37 contenders from Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Fiji, and Australia.

Born in Davao City, Philippines, Dunne was adopted by an Australian family as a baby. His journey in dance began early in life and took a significant turn when his family moved from Mount Gravatt East to Casuarina, just south of the Queensland border, when he was seven.

Jeff Dunne — Photo credit: olympics.com.au

Dunne’s passion for breaking ignited when he was just five years old, sneaking into breaking classes while his older sister attended hip hop lessons at a Brisbane dance studio. Initially content to watch from the corner, Dunne soon began showcasing his moves, demonstrating a natural talent for the art form.

Jeff Dune back in 2018 (Photo credit: Jeff Dune/Instagram)

Dunne began private lessons on the Gold Coast with renowned local b-boys Gaz Griffiths and Liam Masters, eventually joining their dance crew, Team Cream. Together, they participated in numerous dynamic and energetic battles.

In 2019, Dunne, competing as “J Attack” claimed his first Australian Youth Championship and has since accumulated titles worldwide, with victories in China, Taiwan, Singapore, Slovenia, Slovakia, Holland, and the US.

By 2022, he was ranked ninth globally and finished within the top 16 at the world under-18 championships. His achievements in breaking were further recognised in 2023 when he became the first breaker to receive a Sport Australia Hall of Fame scholarship.

Breaking at the Paris Olympics

Breaking, a dance style rooted in 1970s hip hop culture in the United States, is distinguished by its acrobatic movements, stylized footwork, and the integral roles of the DJ and master of ceremonies during battles. Known also as breakdancing, it will make its Olympic debut at Paris 2024.

The Olympics will feature two breaking events: one for men (B-boys) and one for women (B-girls). In these events, athletes will compete in dance battles, judged on creativity, personality, technique, variety, performativity, and musicality. Success in breaking demands a blend of dance moves from three basic categories: top rock, down rock, and freeze.

At Paris 2024, 16 B-boys and 16 B-girls will compete in solo battles. Athletes will combine power moves and improvisation to the beat of the DJ’s tracks, striving to win the judges’ votes.

Read: Upgrades Foreseen at the QSAC in Nathan for the 2032 Olympics

As Jeff Dunne steps onto the Olympic stage, he brings with him not only his exceptional talent but also the dreams and support of a community that has watched him grow from a young boy sneaking into dance classes to a world-class athlete representing his country on the biggest stage in sports.

Published 19-June-2024