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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

Measles Case Confirmed in Upper Mount Gravatt

A case of measles has been confirmed in Upper Mt Gravatt with Queensland Health warning the public to remain alert for symptoms. Measles, one of the most infectious communicable diseases, spreads through coughing and sneezing, causing symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive red rash with sore eyes.

Symptoms typically appear seven to 10 days after exposure. Anyone developing measles-like symptoms within the next fortnight should contact their GP for advice. Notably, the infected person visited specific locations, including Upper Mount Gravatt, while potentially infectious.

Potential Exposure Locations

Subway, The Village, 1932 Logan Road, Upper Mount Gravatt
- Thursday, January 18, 3:00 pm to 3:45 pm
Coles, The Village, 1932 Logan Road, Upper Mount Gravatt
- Thursday, January 18, 3:15 pm to 4:00 pm
Good Price Pharmacy Warehouse, 1290 Logan Road, Mount Gravatt
- Monday, January 22, 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm
Emergency Department, Princess Alexandra Hospital
- Monday, January 22, 3:15 pm to Tuesday, January 23, 6:45 am

Stay Alert and Vaccinated

Measles is highly contagious, primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets. Its symptoms can escalate rapidly, causing severe illness, hospitalization in approximately 30% of adults, and, although rare, life-threatening complications.

Metro South Health Public Health physician Dr Mark Stickley emphasises the importance of staying vigilant if you visited these locations during the specified times unless you meet certain vaccination criteria.

If you were born before 1966, received two doses of the Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) vaccine, or had a documented measles illness in the past, you may have lower risks. However, those unsure about their immunity should consult their doctor to verify their vaccination status. It’s crucial to call the medical practice first if you suspect you could have measles to prevent the potential spread of the disease to others.

Published 29-Jan-2024

Rochedale to Play Major Role in Brisbane Metro’s Green Leap to Electrify Transport

A new metro depot will be constructed in Rochedale, now emerging as a central hub in Brisbane Metro’s green transformation. The depot will house five flash chargers and 60 slow chargers, along with the necessary charging infrastructure.

This is in line with Brisbane’s vision of a state-of-the-art Brisbane Metro system, powered by electric vehicles (EVs), powered by a robust charging infrastructure in Rochedale and three other locations.

The Metros operate on battery electric power and require reliable charging systems to function optimally. The chosen charging strategy for Brisbane Metro incorporates two distinct methods: flash charging, utilizing the Grid-eMotion™ system, and CCS2 plug-in slow chargers.

Flash Charging Innovation

The flash charging system represents a groundbreaking development in Australia, capable of charging a metro in under six minutes at end-of-route locations. This technology uses overhead pantograph infrastructure, allowing seamless and rapid charging. A pantograph, which autonomously connects to a charging point from the metro roof, facilitates this process.

Optimizing Energy Consumption

Slow chargers will play a vital role in extending the lifespan of the metros’ batteries while optimizing energy consumption from Brisbane’s energy grid during off-peak periods. A Power Load Management system will control the slow charging process at the metro depot, ensuring efficient utilization and moderating peak loads.

Strategic Charging Infrastructure Locations

Aside from Rochedale, key charging infrastructure points have been identified in three other areas to facilitate the smooth operation of Brisbane Metro:

Herston: An end-of-route flash charging facility and metro layover area will be constructed at Ernie’s Roundabout within the existing bus layover area.
Petrie Terrace: An end-of-route flash charging facility for metros will be established in the Inner Northern Busway adjacent to Countess Street.
The University of Queensland: UQ Lakes station will undergo upgrades and provide end-of-route flash charging and layover areas for metros.

Cr Andrew Wines confirmed that EV charging facilities are being installed to power the Brisbane Metro in Rochedale.

“We are committed to having a modern and efficient transport system that will keep Brisbane moving,” he wrote.

“One way we are doing that is by having our new Metro system use electric vehicles. These purpose-built specialist Metro Vehicles can be charged at the depot overnight to improve battery life, while through the working day. They will use a series of fast charge points across the network, creating a new type of modern transport for Brisbane.”

Charging Station Rochedale — Photo Credit: CrAndrewWines/Facebook

The Evolution of Brisbane Metro

Following a successful trial of the pilot metro, the Brisbane City Council has placed an order for the initial fleet of 59 metros, a pivotal milestone in the project. These electric-powered vehicles are set to arrive progressively, gearing up for the anticipated commencement of operations by late 2024, pending necessary approvals.

The Brisbane Metro project is poised to usher in a new era of sustainable and accessible public transportation, setting an example for cities across Australia. As preparations continue, the Council’s commitment to creating a modern and efficient transport system remains unwavering, promising a brighter and greener future for the people of Brisbane.

Published 17-Jan-2024

Harmonious Generosity: Del and Basil Wood’s Gift of Music to Carinity Wishart Gardens

Locals Del and Basil Wood have made a significant contribution to the Carinity Wishart Gardens seniors community. The couple, deeply intertwined with the fabric of this aged care community, recently donated a piano and organ, adding a melodious touch to the lives of residents at the aged care facility.

Del’s mother, Mabel Grace, was among the first residents of Carinity Wishart Gardens and Del herself has been a dedicated volunteer there for years. Basil, a former chemist, had a pharmacy that supplied medication to aged care communities.

Their long-standing association with this community took a significant turn when they moved into the adjacent Wishart Gardens retirement village after waiting for more than 15 years.

Before relocating to the retirement village, the Woods had already known approximately 15 people who resided there, including their long-time friend, Jean Miller. Del and Jean’s friendship spans over half a century, and they once formed part of a Christian vocal trio called Celebration, which performed over 300 shows at aged care homes, retirement villages, and prisons.

Even today, they continue to share their musical talents at chapel services in Wishart, with Del playing the organ and Jean accompanying her on the piano—two instruments generously donated to the Wishart Gardens aged care community by the Woods.

Carinity Wishart Gardens - Basil and Del Wood — Photo Credit: Carinity Wishart Gardens

As part of their downsizing efforts in preparation for their move to a retirement villa, Del and Basil decided to part with their beloved Kawai grand piano and the American-made Gulbransen Rialto organ. Basil noted that this particular organ is rare in Australia. The suggestion to donate these instruments to the aged care home came from someone who believed that others could also enjoy and make use of them.

Now, these keyboards have found a new home in the Wishart Gardens aged care pavilion, where Del plays hymns during the weekly chapel services.

Solomon Shekede, the Residential Manager at Carinity Wishart Gardens, expressed his deep gratitude for the donated organ and piano. He praised the Woods’ “commitment to fostering the arts and enhancing the worship experience” for the residents.

“This thoughtful contribution will resonate through the halls of Carinity Wishart Gardens, bringing joy and inspiration to all who gather here. The piano and organ will serve as a constant reminder of Basil and Del’s kindness and dedication to the spiritual well-being of our community,” Mr Shekede said.

Published 3-Jan-2024

Little Black Pug Cafe Receives Toby’s Estate’s Local Legends Award for Queensland

Did you know that Mt Gravatt’s beloved Little Black Pug cafe has been named one of Toby’s Estate’s Local Legends in Queensland for 2023?

Read: Little Black Pug Cafe Elevates Your Pet’s Day Out to an Exact Science

This cosy corner cafe, tucked away on a quiet street, beat out hundreds of worthy contenders across Queensland to claim this prestigious honour.

The story of this cafe is as unique as the couple behind it. This cosy corner cafe is owned by Louise and Josh Daly, university sweethearts turned husband and wife who share a deep passion for food and coffee.

Josh and Louise (Photo credit: Little Black Pug Cafe/Instagram)

Louise earned her degree in food science and introduced Josh to all kinds of gastronomic adventures over the years, from frog legs to black fungus. This bred an appreciation that led the couple to eventually leave science behind to pursue the hospitality industry.

Photo credit: Little Black Pug Cafe/Instagram

The cafe’s name has an especially heartwarming origin story. Louise had been toying with the idea of starting a macaron stall when she found inspiration one day simply admiring their precious rescue pug pup Bowie. It was obvious he was destined to be the muse for their family venture – thus, “Little Black Pug” was born long before the cafe itself!

Now Little Black Pug has earned quite a following in Mount Gravatt for its scrumptious and diverse menu with options to satisfy gluten-free, vegan and all other dietary needs and preferences.

From the gluten-free donuts to the big vegan breakfast, it’s no wonder they took home this year’s Toby’s Estate Local Legends Award!

More than the seasonal menu that keeps people lining up every weekend, it’s the sense of extended family. Having watched many relationships blossom from first dates to marriage, Louise and Joshua have an almost parental pride. They have seen countless babies go from strollers, to toddling around, to full blown dancing on tables.

Read: Sugar Buns Bakery Cafe: Get Ready to Get Served With Mega-Sized Meals

So if you’re ever exploring Mount Gravatt, pop into Little Black Pug at 6/1297 Logan Rd. Sip Woolloomooloo blends from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday or 7:30-2:00 p.m. on Sundays. And if you spot Bowie or his new pal pug Mate roaming around for pats, consider your day made!

Follow them on Instagram for updates.

Published 15-December-2023

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

Photo Unsplash

Residents of Upper Mt Gravatt witnessed an unusual spectacle when a koala was spotted making its way across a busy road late at night.

The incident showed the marsupial deftly dodging traffic and then climbing a refuge island sign, much to the amazement of onlookers.

Tuan Nguyen, the owner of Alice Viet restaurant in Upper Mt Gravatt, was returning home from work when he witnessed the surprising sight.

“After work, we went home, I think very late, when we saw it crossing the road. It then climbed on a sign pole,” Mr Nguyen recalled.

Upper Mt Gravatt Koala — Photo Credit: Tuan Nguyen

This encounter marked a rare instance of wildlife venturing into urban settings, particularly in such a public and potentially hazardous environment.

The incident prompted calls to a local koala rescue group, who advised leaving the animal alone as it appeared unharmed. The next morning, the koala had moved on, indicating it possibly found its way back to its natural habitat.

This occurrence highlights the growing presence of koalas in the region, particularly around Whites Hill Nature Reserve and Toohey Forest.

In response to the increased sightings and the dangers posed by traffic, the State Government has erected a koala-proof fence along the M1 adjacent to Toohey Forest. Additionally, there are ongoing campaigns advocating for reduced speed limits on roads like Boundary Rd that cut through key koala habitats.

Published 8-Dec-2023