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Olympians and Paralympians Challenge Venue Decision on QSAC in Mt Gravatt

Several prominent Olympians and Paralympians have written an open letter requesting a review of the decision to select the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) in Mt Gravatt as the main venue for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics.

They have criticised the decision, calling it “embarrassing” and insufficient for creating a lasting legacy.

The elite athletes, including Curtis McGrath, Sally Pearson, Grant Hackett, Curtis McGrath, Karni Liddell, Sally Pearson, Geoff Huegill, Leisel Jones, and Brenton Rickard, publicly voiced their dissatisfaction by highlighting the QSAC’s capacity limitations and lack of a sustainable legacy post-2032.

Olympians and Paralympians Challenge Venue Decision on QSAC in Mt Gravatt — *Photo Credit: SkyNews*

Despite their strong opposition, Premier Steven Miles remains firm on not revisiting the decision. The athletes stressed how this would impact their training regimes and the broader athletic community.

Premier Miles justified his decision by prioritising other state needs such as healthcare and education over more substantial investments in sporting infrastructure. Infrastructure Minister Grace Grace acknowledged the challenges, particularly concerning transport to QSAC, with potential costs running as high as $1 billion.

Senate Inquiry Insights

A Senate inquiry into the 2032 Games’ legacy criticised the choice of QSAC, echoing athletes’ concerns about the venue’s inadequacies. The inquiry, led by figures like Senator Anne Ruston and former Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, examined alternatives and highlighted the dismissal of a proposed $3.4bn stadium at Victoria Park that promised a more robust legacy.

Graham Quirk’s review had recommended the Victoria Park venue over QSAC, citing it as a superior option for its potential to deliver a lasting community legacy and better value for money. However, the government opted to upgrade QSAC instead, which had been initially built for the 1982 Commonwealth Games, citing lower immediate costs.

Community and Expert Reactions

Community leaders and various sports figures have criticised the decision for neglecting long-term benefits. The Senate inquiry also highlighted missed opportunities for building a more inclusive sporting infrastructure, particularly for Paralympic athletes who face significant accessibility issues.

Critics say the decision to renovate QSAC could lead to higher operational costs due to its location and the lack of necessary facilities for a world-class event. There’s also concern about the displacement of athletes and the environmental impact of upgrading the site.

Published 17-April-2024

Mount Gravatt Experiences Staggering $206k House Price Growth Amidst Booming Market

Mount Gravatt has witnessed an unprecedented surge in house prices, ballooning by $206,605 in the 12 months leading to March 2024, according to the latest CoreLogic report.

Nationwide Boom

The Australian housing market has experienced a robust growth of 8.8% over the past year, a significant indicator of the country’s economic resilience and the real estate sector’s buoyancy. CoreLogic’s monthly housing report, examining the period up to March 2024, has revealed 10 areas that have seen the most considerable increase in house prices by dollar value, highlighting the diversity and potential of the Australian real estate landscape.

The Top 10 Surge

Mount Gravatt in Queensland leads this exceptional growth, marking a pivotal moment for the Brisbane housing market. Below is a table showcasing the top 10 suburbs nationwide, experiencing the highest increase in house prices:

Rank	Area	Location	Price Increase
1	Warringah	Sydney	$254,195
2	Carindale	Brisbane	$236,277
3	Mount Gravatt	Brisbane	$206,605
4	Eastern Suburbs – South	Sydney	$204,715
5	Pennant Hills and Epping	Sydney	$202,600
6	Burnside	Adelaide	$186,868
7	Marrickville, Sydenham and Petersham	Sydney	$186,264
8	Nathan	Brisbane	$179,013
9	Sunnybank	Brisbane	$178,222
10	Canada Bay	Sydney	$174,588

Market Insights

CoreLogic’s Head of Research, Eliza Owen, shared insights into the housing market’s performance, noting significant value growth across various suburbs.

“Some of the best value markets have floated to the top of the league tables when it comes to percentage capital growth,” Ms Owen stated.

Property Market — *Photo Credit: Unsplash*

Percentage growth vs. dollar value growth provides a new perspective on markets. Warringah in Sydney saw a 14% increase, resulting in a $254,000 rise in home value. Even small percentage gains can lead to significant dollar gains in high-value areas.

Ms. Owen emphasised the potential of lower-priced markets, which have shown higher rates of capital growth. The “lower quartile” home value index rose by 3.1% in the March quarter, showcasing the vibrancy of more affordable markets.

Market Conditions and Outlook

The real estate market in Australia is constantly changing, which affects investors, homeowners, and analysts. With interest rates rising rapidly, borrowing capacities are adjusting, and demographic shifts are influencing market demand.

Over the past year, the real estate sector in Australia has realized the significance of strategic investment and market awareness. Suburbs like Mount Gravatt in Brisbane have emerged as leaders in this regard. Going forward, the adaptability and resilience of this sector will be tested as economic conditions and consumer preferences evolve.

Published 11-April-2024

Scorched Wishart Property Creates Heat, Interests Renovators

Photo Credit: Ray White

A scorched and fire-damaged Wishart property is set to go under the hammer this weekend, presenting an enticing opportunity for budding renovators and first-home buyers.

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom house at 340 Mount Gravatt Capalaba Road sustained significant fire damage to its upper level caused by an electrical fault, leaving ceilings charred and walls coated in soot.

Despite its dilapidated state, the listing has sparked heated interest from prospective buyers eager to tackle a renovation project in the supply-constrained Wishart market. Ray White Marsden AKG agent Aidan Knox reports receiving a staggering 12 offers within just a week of listing, with 8 parties pre-registered for Saturday’s auction conducted by Apollo Auctions.

**Walls are coated in soot from the fire.**
Photo Credit: Ray White

“It’s a case of what you see is what you get — the top floor has significant fire damage, but with its prime location and ever-growing demand in the area, this property represents either a knockdown opportunity, or potential to recreate what was once a beautifully kept home,” said Knox.

“The appeal here is the prospect of a cheap property in a demographically diverse marketplace, and there are a lot of first-home buyers and builders, renovators alike out there who have been missing out on other properties and are ready to have a go at the auction and get hands-on to make this their own.”

House prices in Wishart soared to 13.5 percent over the past 12 months, to a median of $1.225m, according to PropTrack data.

**A bedroom remains unscathed.**
Photo Credit: Ray White

**This bathroom survived the fire with no damages in sight.**
Photo Credit: Ray White

Situated on a generous 546 square meter lot, the lower level escaped the blaze largely unscathed, offering a separate rumpus room and kitchenette as a starting point for renovations. However, Knox notes the sellers prefer not to discuss further details surrounding the “unfortunate circumstances” of the fire.

**Damages are not seen outside as well.**
Photo Credit: Ray White

In the heated Wishart market, where just 28 houses were listed over the past month despite over 1,800 prospective buyers per property, the auction of this charred residence is shaping up to be a hotly-contested affair. First-home buyers and ambitious renovators alike are lining up for a chance to breathe new life into one of Brisbane’s smouldering investment opportunities.

Published 29-March-2024

QAS in Nathan Overhaul: Olympic Hopefuls Confront Training Centre Upheaval

Photo Credit: QAS/Facebook

Queensland’s Olympic athletes could lose their state-of-the-art $10-million training centre, the Queensland Academy of Sports (QAS) in Nathan, if plans for a redevelopment push through.

This looming demolition is part of Queenland’s broader $1.6 billion plan to revamp the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC), which houses the QAS. It raises alarms about the potential derailment of the athletes’ gold medal ambitions.

Esteemed Olympic athletes, including four-time Olympian Cate Campbell and Olympic Gold Medallist Glynis Nunn, have voiced their concerns, suggesting the move could severely impact Queensland’s prospects at the Brisbane Olympics

Ms Campbell and Ms Nunn, among others, fear that the demolition could force athletes to seek training facilities interstate, potentially sabotaging Queensland’s medal chances at upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Despite the potential changes, concrete plans have yet to be unveiled to accommodate the displaced athletes, leading to a chorus of opposition from the sports community.

The Centre for Athletic Excellence

Opened two years ago by former Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, the QAS in Nathan is a high-performance centre touted as Queensland’s “secret weapon” for Olympic and Paralympic preparation.

Designed to provide athletes with a competitive edge, its potential demolition has sparked widespread criticism, including former Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, who recommended ditching the QSAC upgrades and questioned its financial rationale.

Olympic hockey gold medallist Renita Garard and the QAS’s former chief executive, Chelsea Warr have also expressed their opposition to the State Government’s plans.

Athletes and officials alike warn that even a temporary disruption in training could significantly affect performance outcomes. The uncertainty surrounding training facilities poses a challenge not just for current athletes but also for identifying and developing future talents for the 2032 Games.

Government’s Stance

In response to the backlash, State Development Minister Grace Grace has indicated that a detailed business case will outline the full scope and timeline of the QSAC upgrades. The government promises minimal disruption and pledges to work closely with stakeholders to mitigate the impact on athletes, especially in the lead-up to the Paris Games.

Upgrades Foreseen at the QSAC in Nathan for the 2032 Olympics

Photo Credit: QSAC/Facebook

Queensland intends to transform the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) in Nathan into the main stadium for the 2032 Olympic Games. This decision marks a significant change in direction, sidelining the proposed redevelopment of The Gabba and a new stadium at Victoria Park, despite recommendations for these venues.

Instead, QSAC, a legacy of the 1982 Commonwealth Games, could undergo a comprehensive $1.6 billion upgrade, heralding a new era for the historic site and its surrounding community.

Background and Controversy

After a $450,000 taxpayer-funded review of the Olympic venues led by former Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk advocated for a new stadium at Victoria Park, Premier Steven Miles announced the cabinet’s endorsement for QSAC’s redevelopment. This comes despite the review’s critique of QSAC’s suitability due to transport challenges and limited legacy benefits.

“QSAC Stadium should not be used as an Olympic and Paralympic Games venue to host the track and field events,” Mr Quirk’s panel recommended.

“Transport and access to the QSAC Stadium during the Games will be extremely challenging and costly to facilitate.

“Site topography makes this challenge even harder, noting significant Games operational requirements to safely support the number of spectators, athletes and officials.

“Griffith University would need to be used for bus access, so bushland would need to be cleared and the pathway to the QSAC Stadium widened,” the panel’s findings further cited.

Financial Implications and Alternatives

The decision to invest $1.6 billion in QSAC, defying the independent review’s suggestions, has sparked debate.

With an initial budget to overhaul QSAC and additional funds allocated for Suncorp Stadium and the Gabba upgrades, questions about fiscal responsibility and the best use of public resources have emerged.

Consequently, rejecting a new $3.4 billion Victoria Park stadium highlights the prioritisation of existing infrastructure over new constructions.

A New Vision for QSAC

The proposed redevelopment involves demolishing and rebuilding significant portions of QSAC, including constructing an 8,000-seat western grandstand and additional permanent seating. This plan aims to elevate QSAC to Olympic standards whilst considering the site’s challenging topography and access issues.

The ultimate goal is a versatile 14,000-capacity stadium that serves both the Olympics and the community post-Games.

Griffith University, located next door to the QSAC, endorses investigating the upgrades.

“Brisbane has benefitted vastly from the facility since it opened in time for the Commonwealth Games in 1982,” Griffith Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Carolyn Evans said in a statement.

QSAC Commonwealth Games in the 1980s — Commonwealth Games 1982
Photo Credit: QSAC/Facebook

“It has been home to major sporting fixtures and teams and as a venue for international musical acts such as Madonna and Billy Joel.

“The uses for QSAC will only grow as we approach the Olympics and well after they are finished.

“Additionally, improved transport connections to the area will benefit many thousands of people living in Brisbane’s southern suburbs.”

The decision to focus on QSAC for the 2032 Olympics represents a bold commitment to utilising existing infrastructure, fostering community legacy, and managing financial resources wisely. Whilst the move has its critics, particularly concerning the review’s recommendations, it sets the stage for an Olympic transformation that could redefine Brisbane and its approach to major sporting events.

Published 19-March-2024

BWH Hotels Expands Value Offerings with SureStay Properties, Including Mt Gravatt Location

Leading global hotel group BWH Hotels is capitalising on demand from value-conscious travellers with the signing of three new economy hotels under their SureStay Hotels brand. The wave of new additions includes the launch of the extended stay SureStay Studio brand in Mt Gravatt.

Read: 226-Space Childcare Centre Lodged for Approval in Mt Gravatt East

One of the many brands under Best Western Hotels & Resorts, SureStay Hotels cater to travellers preferring simple and casual accommodations, marking the company’s initial venture into the economy segment when it launched years ago.

The Mt Gravatt property will convert an existing residential apartment complex into 2-bedroom accommodations tailored for business and leisure guests seeking longer stays.

Photo credit: Best Western Hotels & Resorts/Facebook

It’s poised to welcome its first guests by the end of 2024, introducing SureStay Studio’s affordable extended stay offering to the Brisbane market.

According to Rod Munro, BWH Hotels Australasia Managing Director, the SureStay brand is striking a chord with investors navigating the present economic situation. He expressed confidence in the brand’s continued regional growth given the strong development pipeline and interest from new developers.

Mr Munro said SureStay Hotels has experienced remarkable growth in recent years and the milestones prove that their premium economy products have quickly become one of their fastest growing brands in the hotel industry.

In addition to Mt Gravatt, BWH is adding two more SureStay hotels in Sydney’s CBD and St Leonards through property conversions slated for completion later this year. The brand caters to travellers seeking simple, casual accommodations with free WiFi, continental breakfast and basic amenities at an economical price point.

Read: Residential Towers to Tackle Population Growth in Brisbane Suburbs

The three new hotels will grow BWH’s SureStay footprint to 11 properties across Australia and Thailand, including eight in Sydney and five in Brisbane. The expansion into the economy segment represents a new area of opportunity for the hotel group’s portfolio of brands.

Published 15-March-2024

Violent Assault Outside World Gym in Mt Gravatt

Photo Credit: World Gym

A local resident fell victim to a violent assault outside the World Gym in Mt Gravatt. The incident took place on the evening of 12 March 2024, leaving the community in shock.

The assailant had a calculated plan. After a workout session, he stepped out of the gym and waited for an hour. When his target, a 21-year-old from Spring Mountain, left the gym, the assailant struck him without warning, landing a forceful punch to the victim’s face.

The young man was rushed to Princess Alexandra Hospital with his nose severely broken. The assailant, however, made a swift exit in a car, disappearing before he could be apprehended.

The police have reason to believe that the two men were not strangers. They have identified the assailant, but he remains at large, yet to be charged.

Published 13-March-2024

Community Unites to Preserve Undeveloped Bushland Corridor Next to Toohey Forest

The 26-acre property adjacent to Toohey Forest in Upper Mount Gravatt is an unassuming patch of land. To the untrained eye, it’s just another overgrown lot dotted with relics of its farming heritage. But to environmental experts, it represents something far more significant – a rare opportunity to expand critical habitat for Brisbane’s native flora and fauna.

Read: Koala’s Nighttime Adventure in Upper Mt Gravatt Captivates Southside Brisbane

The potential sale of the parcel of land, located at 139 Klumpp Road in Upper Mount Gravatt, represents a unique chance to safeguard and grow the habitat for native plants and animals, according to Michael Fox, co-President of the Mt Gravatt Environment Group (MGEG).

Mr Fox notes that since 2007, the group has documented an impressive 280 different species of native plants thriving in the area. Living nearby, Mr Fox is intimately familiar with the forest’s wildlife, including two families of squirrel gliders and a population of koalas that call Toohey Forest their home.

Photo credit: Michael Fox/Mt Gravatt Environment Group

Dr Carla Catterall, Emeritus Professor of Environmental Sciences at Griffith University, noted in a letter to Brisbane City Council that securing the land comes with several benefits, including avoiding compromising the longer-term ecological integrity, flora and fauna of Toohey forest; and enabling preservation and enhancement of the riparian and aquatic habitats, and water quality, in Mimosa Creek.

Dr Catterall and local environmental groups like MGEG are urging Council to seize this chance to purchase and restore the Klumpp Road site through an online petition, transforming it into a strategic wildlife corridor linking Toohey Forest to the nearby Roly Chapman Bushland Reserve.

“If the council purchases this land they could build a koala-safe fence. Volunteers from schools and community groups could assist with planting native plants and trees, including suitable koala food sources. The reserve is home to over a hundred species of birds as well as koalas, wallabies and echidnas. It is worth investing in,” the petition reads.

Toohey Forest — Photo credit: realestate.com.au

Their calls come amidst growing concerns over the relentless destruction of koala habitat across southeast Queensland, prompting the Australian government to recently reclassify the iconic marsupial as an endangered species.

Read: Griffith University Secures Funding to Expand AI Koala Tracking System

The land is believed to have once been owned by the Williams family – among Brisbane’s pioneering settler families. The Williams are said to have introduced irrigation techniques to grow pineapples, lettuce and celery to the region, cementing their legacy as farming trailblazers.

Whilst the e-petition has already ended earlier this month, the race is still on for Council to submit an expression of interest for the coveted Klumpp Road property before 30 March 2024, securing the critical biodiversity corridor before developers potentially move in.

Published 12-March-2024

Miracle Mum from Alexandra Hills Overcomes Cancer to Welcome Baby Parker

Mum Dani Donne’s journey from joy to despair and back to joy began with the discovery of her pregnancy, swiftly followed by a breast cancer diagnosis. Living in Alexandra Hills, Dani’s world seemed to crumble seven days after the initial excitement. The lump in her breast, initially dismissed as a minor concern, turned out to be a tumour, plunging Dani and her husband Mark into a whirlwind of fear and uncertainty.

At 36, Dani had already faced the heartbreak of a miscarriage in her attempts to conceive their first child. Now, with her second pregnancy overshadowed by cancer, the future seemed bleak. Yet, Dani’s resilience shone through with the support of Mater cancer specialists and obstetricians.

“I was just five weeks pregnant when I was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2022,” Dani recalled, her voice tinged with the memory of fear. “I was in total shock. There was no history of breast cancer in my family. I was scared for my unborn bub and scared for myself.”

The journey ahead was daunting. Dani had HER2-positive breast cancer, a condition requiring delicate handling, especially in pregnancy. Mater Cancer Care Centre Senior Medical Oncologist, Dr Catherine Shannon, explained the challenges posed by Dani’s condition.

“She was only seven weeks pregnant when I first met her,” Dr Shannon recalled. “You can’t safely give chemotherapy in pregnancy until the second trimester, so she had the surgery first as this is a safer approach early in pregnancy. Dani then had chemotherapy through her second and third trimesters, when it can be delivered safely.”

Dani Donne Mater — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Navigating cancer treatment during pregnancy wasn’t easy, but Dani’s determination never wavered. She faced chemotherapy while carrying her precious Parker, who arrived four weeks early at Mater Mothers’ Hospital. Holding her newborn daughter, Dani’s fears melted away, replaced by overwhelming love and gratitude.

“I think I stressed the entire pregnancy that something would go wrong,” Dani admitted. Yet, with the support of Mater’s dedicated team, she found solace and strength throughout her cancer journey.

Reflecting on her experience, Dani praised Mater for their exceptional care and support. Mater Cancer Care Clinical Nurse Consultant, Esther White, highlighted Dani’s engagement with her treating team, emphasizing the importance of holistic care during such challenging times.

Despite the trials Dani faced, her spirit remained unbroken. She found comfort and courage with her husband, family, and friends by her side. In the arms of her miracle baby, Parker, Dani found healing and hope. Sharing her journey with fellow mothers, Dani discovered the power of community in overcoming adversity.

Mater Cancer Care Clinical Nurse Consultant Esther White said Mrs Donne had been incredibly engaged with her treating team.

“This collaboration across specialist teams ensured we were able to offer holistic antenatal care that empowered Dani throughout her pregnancy and cancer treatment,” Ms White said.

“There continues to be ongoing advances in cancer research that offer hope and reassurance – and Mater ensures our patients have access to world-class treatments including those within the clinical trial space.

“Despite a heartbreaking diagnosis of breast cancer during early pregnancy, Dani and her husband Mark were able to access evidence-based specialist care that not only offered hope but supported them in their dreams of having a family with the safe arrival of their beautiful little girl, Parker.”

Published 11-March-2024

Local Teen Arrested Over Property Crimes in Mt Gravatt

Photo Credit: YouTube / @QueenslandPolice

A local teen has been apprehended by the police, following a series of alleged property crimes that have been plaguing Brisbane since mid-February.

The 17-year-old lad has been accused of a string of offences. Allegations link him to property crimes committed in Mt Gravatt, as well as Camp Hill, in the early morning of 26 February.

He also allegedly nicked a Lexus from a Newport residence in the wee hours of 23 February. He’s also implicated in the theft of a Ford Ranger and an Audi from Carina Heights, which reportedly took place close to midnight on 24 February.

The Upper Mount Gravatt Criminal Investigation Branch and Tactical Crime Squad led to the boy’s location at a Chermside unit on 26 February.

The charges against him are serious and numerous, totalling 18. These include seven instances of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, nine instances of entering a dwelling with criminal intent, and two attempts at the same.

The lad was denied police bail and is due to appear at the Brisbane Children’s Court today, 27 February.

The police are now investigating potential connections between these crimes and similar ones reported in Hawthorn and Ascot over the past weekend. The investigation continues.

If you have any information that could assist the police, you can contact Policelink online at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444, 24 hours a day.

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

When providing information, please quote these reference numbers: QP2400314411, QP2400327710, QP2400327223, QP2400325754, QP2400327052.

Published 27-February-2024