Mount Gravatt Shoppers Lead The Way In Kmart’s National Makeover

Photo Credit: Prime Build/Instagram

Shoppers at Mount Gravatt are the first in Australia to experience Kmart’s bold new store makeover, as the retail giant shifts its focus to younger customers and battles growing competition from online sellers.

A New Way To Shop

Kmart’s Mount Gravatt store was quietly transformed in late 2024 as the first trial site for a new layout that could reshape stores nationwide. Fashion and beauty now feature prominently at the front, while bulky goods like bikes and car seats have moved to back-of-house storage, available via click-and-collect.

Photo Credit: Westfield

The change targets younger shoppers, especially Gen Z and Gen Alpha, who increasingly turn to online retailers like Temu and Shein. Managing director Aleks Spaseska said Kmart hopes the updated layout and stronger fashion offering will keep this group coming through the doors. Early results show increased sales in clothing and beauty, prompting the company to trial the layout in four more stores.

Local Store At The Centre Of A Big Shift

Mount Gravatt locals are the first to experience Kmart’s new store format, placing the suburb at the centre of a national retail trial. Known for its busy shopping precinct and family-friendly vibe, the area was chosen for its strong performance.

Photo Credit: Prime Build/Instagram

Shoppers will find a fresher layout with easy access to fashion and electronics, while bulky items are now available through online order and in-store pickup. The move highlights Kmart’s confidence in Mount Gravatt as a key testing ground.

A Bigger Plan For Growth

Kmart’s Mount Gravatt trial is part of a broader push to nearly double its annual sales from $10 billion to $20 billion. The company is expanding its low-cost home brand, Anko, with plans for stand-alone stores in Southeast Asia, starting in the Philippines.

Photo Credit: Westfield

At the same time, it’s building a new online marketplace and improving its app, which now has over 1.3 million monthly users. These efforts aim to grow Kmart’s reach both at home and overseas.

Behind The Scenes Investments

To keep up with these changes, Kmart is building a major $200 million distribution centre in western Sydney. This new facility will serve both Kmart and sister brand Target, making it easier to move stock and handle online orders.

The company says all of these moves are designed to help it stay competitive and make everyday goods more accessible to families. While rivals like Big W and traditional department stores face tough times, Kmart sees an opportunity to adapt, and it’s starting with Mount Gravatt.

Published 3-June-2025

Kokoda Challenge: Mt Gravatt Teenager Takes on Australia’s Toughest Endurance Event

Photo Credit: Kokoda Challenge

A 13-year-old from Mt Gravatt is preparing to undertake Australia’s toughest team endurance event, the 96 km Kokoda Challenge, to raise money for youth in the community.

Lincoln Brown will embark on the gruelling 96-kilometre trail run and hike across the Gold Coast hinterland on 19 and 20 July. This demanding event requires participants to cover the entire distance without sleeping, conquering 4,000 metres of elevation through mountainous terrain.

A Commitment to Community

Lincoln’s motivation for taking on such a significant physical and mental test is to support the Kokoda Youth Foundation. This charity runs programmes designed to help young people discover their potential, find purpose, and achieve their goals in life. He has set a fundraising target of $5,000 to contribute to these vital community initiatives.

A Seasoned Challenger

Despite his young age, Lincoln is no stranger to the Kokoda Challenge. He first participated in the 48-kilometre Gold Coast event in Year 7 (2023) with his school. Last year, he completed the same distance three hours faster, finishing in a remarkable 11 hours and 52 minutes, demonstrating his determination to break the 12-hour mark. This year, with special approval due to being underage, he is stepping up to the ultimate 96-kilometre distance.

Lincoln has been diligently training since late last year, typically running around 30 kilometres each week across various forest trails. He expressed his readiness for the physical demands of the event, stating that he can handle the hard yards on the track, but he needs the community’s support to reach his fundraising goal. Donations are tax-deductible and directly contribute to providing life-changing opportunities for Australian youth.

donate here

Understanding The Kokoda Challenge

The Kokoda Challenge is not merely an athletic event; it is a profound experience that offers participants a glimpse into the hardships faced by Australian soldiers defending the country on the Kokoda Track in 1942.

It emphasises community connection and highlights the strength individuals can find when working together as a team. As Australia’s toughest team endurance event, it pushes competitors to discover capabilities they may not have known they possessed.

Published Date 29-May-2025

Kerbside Collection Returns to Mt Gravatt: Think Twice Before You Throw

As Brisbane’s kerbside collection rolls into Mt Gravatt, Upper Mt Gravatt, and Mt Gravatt East the week commencing Monday, 2 June 2025, locals are urged to take a thoughtful approach before sending household items to the footpath.

Read: Mt Gravatt Kerbside Collection: 4 Simple Ways to Stay Clutter-Free

Kerbside collection is a valuable service—but it’s also an opportunity to rehome, recycle and reduce waste before simply tossing things out. Many items destined for landfill can still serve a purpose in someone else’s home or be repurposed through community reuse networks.

Declutter the Smart Way

Before dragging that old lounge chair or forgotten appliance to the kerb, ask yourself: Could this still be of use to someone else? Many household items, even those gathering dust, could find new life in another home. Brisbane has several reputable organisations that accept donations and put them to good use, supporting individuals and communities in need, and helping reduce landfill in the process.

GIVIT

GIVIT is a not-for-profit that connects generous donors with people and communities who need specific items. Through its online platform, you can browse real-time requests from charities across the country and match your unwanted items with someone in need—ensuring your donation is useful and appreciated.

Whether it’s a working microwave, a cot, or a set of drawers, your donation goes directly to someone experiencing hardship, including those recovering from natural disasters, domestic violence, or financial stress. Visit givit.org.au to see what’s currently needed.

Charitable Reuse Australia (NACRO)

As the national voice for charitable reuse and recycling, Charitable Reuse Australia (formerly NACRO) represents over 3,000 op shops and reuse centres across the country—including well-known names like Vinnies, Lifeline, and the Salvos.

These organisations accept pre-loved clothing, furniture, books, kitchenware, and more, then sell them through their retail outlets to fund essential community programs. Every item donated helps provide employment opportunities, reduce waste, and support Australians facing disadvantage. Learn more and find your closest drop-off point at charitablereuse.org.au

Brisbane Treasure Troves (Endeavour Foundation)

Run by the Endeavour Foundation, Brisbane’s two Treasure Troves in Geebung and Acacia Ridge are tip shops with a purpose. They sell quality second-hand goods recovered from Council’s resource recovery centres.

From furniture and sporting gear to toys and tools, Treasure Troves offer affordable options for bargain hunters while funding Endeavour Foundation’s disability services and job programs. Items in good condition—especially those still functional and safe—are welcomed. Shopping or donating here helps support inclusive workplaces and a more sustainable Brisbane.

Resource Recovery Centres

Kerbside Collection — Photo credit: BCC/Facebook

Brisbane operates several resource recovery centres around the city, providing a responsible alternative to landfill for a wide range of materials. These centres accept recyclable and reusable goods like bikes, books, tools, working appliances, and household items—many of which are then sold through the Treasure Troves.

They also offer safe disposal points for hazardous materials that cannot go into kerbside collection, such as gas bottles, paint, batteries, and e-waste. Using these facilities helps keep harmful materials out of the environment and allows others to benefit from your pre-loved goods.

Read: With The Kerbside Collection Coming Up in Mt Gravatt, Have You Thought of Upcycling?

Let’s Keep Brisbane Tidy

By donating first and dumping last, residents can help reduce landfill and support Brisbane’s move towards a more sustainable future. Start sorting now, keep the kerb tidy, and think twice before you toss.

For more details on what’s accepted and your closest donation centres, visit brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Council on 07 3403 8888.

Published 27-May-2025

Cosplay and Cuisine Combine at Mt Gravatt’s Anime Street Food Night

Photo Credit: Mt Gravatt Street Food/Facebook

Anime fans, food truck lovers and cosplay communities across Brisbane are gearing up for a high-energy evening at the Mt Gravatt Showgrounds, where Mt Gravatt Street Food will bring pop culture and street eats together in one of the city’s most colourful community events this winter.

Community Spirit and Cosplay Culture

The Anime Cosplay Brisbane – Food Truck Festival is set to take place on Saturday, 7 June, from 4pm to 9pm. With an entry fee of $4 for adults and free admission for kids 16 and under, the event promises to be an affordable, family-friendly night out. Pets are not permitted.

*Photo Credit: Mt Gravatt Street Food/Facebook*

Hundreds are expected to arrive in costume for the cosplay parade and best-dressed prizes, with the event bringing together Brisbane’s anime and gaming fans in the friendly, local atmosphere Mt Gravatt markets are known for. The night will feature live J-pop, themed performances and a focus on connecting fans, families and local creatives.

Food Trucks and International Flavours

The festival’s food trucks will serve Japanese favourites like ramen and takoyaki, alongside international options including Korean fried chicken, churros and bubble tea. The line-up is curated to suit all ages and tastes, from comfort food to more adventurous bites.

Vendors will be spaced out to help reduce wait times, with covered areas available in case of rain. Last year’s anime night drew large crowds despite wet weather, showing strong local interest in these themed events.

Shopping, Soundtracks and Support for Locals

Beyond food and cosplay, the Otaku Market will feature fan art, anime merch and collectibles, giving local artists and small retailers a space to showcase their work. The market is known for supporting creative talent and small businesses in a relaxed, community setting.

Soundtracks from popular anime series will play throughout the night, enhancing the immersive experience. Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive early to beat the crowds and secure parking.

A Local Favourite Returns

Mt Gravatt Street Food has built a loyal following with its community-first weekend events, and this themed night continues that tradition. With a focus on accessibility, culture and local flavour, it’s shaping up as a standout event this season.

For updates and full vendor lists, attendees are encouraged to follow the Mt Gravatt Markets Facebook page.

Published 23-May-2025

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

Photo Credit: Clairvaux MacKillop College/ Facebook

A teacher from Mt Gravatt’s Clairvaux MacKillop College and the college have been recognised as top performers nationally, receiving excellence awards for their outstanding STEM and co-curricular programs.

Dr Maynard Victor Erece, a respected secondary school teacher at Clairvaux MacKillop College, has been named an Excellence Awardee for Secondary School Teacher of the Year (Non-Government) for the prestigious Australian Education Awards 2025.

Now in their eighth year, these national awards acknowledge and celebrate the best schools, principals, department heads, and teachers nationwide. Award recipients will be formally recognised at a black-tie gala at the Star Event Centre in Sydney on Friday, 8 August 2025. The awards cover 29 categories, including Australian School of the Year and Best Student Wellbeing Program.

STEM Program Leads the Way

Clairvaux MacKillop College, a Catholic co-educational secondary school for students in Years 7 to 12 located in Upper Mt Gravatt, Queensland, is notably recognised for its Best STEM Program. The college strongly focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education, aiming to give students exciting chances to learn in these areas.

A key part of their success comes from their commitment to robotics and space technology, including a special “STEM Space Program.” Dr. Erece is particularly involved in these robotics programs, helping students explore and develop practical skills.

The college’s STEM teams have also achieved remarkable success in competitions. In 2024, their Year 9 STEM team came in as runners-up in Division 2 of the Opti-Minds Creative and Sustainability Challenge, a major science and technology competition.

Even more impressively, their Year 10 STEM team won the State Championships in Division 3 of the same competition. The college includes STEM learning throughout its curriculum, helping students think deeply and offering a wide range of challenging subjects.

Comprehensive Co-Curricular Opportunities

Beyond its strong academic achievements, Clairvaux MacKillop College is also celebrated for its Best Co-Curricular Program. The college believes in developing the “whole person” and offers many activities beyond classroom learning. These programs aim to boost students’ interests and encourage positive values.

Students have diverse opportunities in sports, including participation in SECA sports and pathways that lead to district, regional, and national levels in activities like swimming, cross country, athletics, and various football codes. The performing arts are also a major part of college life, with music, dance, and drama options, including annual musical productions, variety nights, and involvement in competitions.

The college provides in-school instrument tuition, bands, dance groups, drama clubs, and choirs. Furthermore, the co-curricular program encourages community involvement. It fosters a sense of community spirit, promotes positive values that align with the college’s goals, helps students build strong friendships, and encourages personal growth and leadership through the Student Representative Council and various clubs.

Published Date 21-May-2025

56 New Apartments Included in Mt Gravatt East Development Application

Photo Credit: DA A006752237

A new development application has been lodged for two new residential buildings in Mt Gravatt East that could bring 56 new apartments to Whitley Street.

The proposal, submitted for 15-25 Whitley Street, outlines plans for medium-density living across two buildings reaching up to six storeys.

Development Details

Mt Gravatt East — *Photo Credit:* *DA A006752237*

The submitted plans, crafted by Ide Architecture, detail two separate buildings. One building is designed to be five storeys tall, reaching a height of 17 metres, while the other will be six storeys, standing at 20 metres. Together, they will house 56 two-bedroom apartments, including a specific allocation for Specialist Disability Accommodation.

Ten of the units are designated as SDA Community Residence Units, and two are designed as Onsite Overnight Assistance (OOA) units. To accommodate residents, a basement level is planned to include 98 parking spaces.

Green Space and Open Areas

The development aims to incorporate green spaces within the site. Plans indicate that 10 per cent of the total land area, which spans 2,588 square metres, will be dedicated to deep planting. Additionally, the proposal includes 205.5 square metres of communal open space for residents.

Each apartment will also feature private open space from 12 to 18 square metres. The buildings will be situated on a site containing a building and associated carpark previously used for community purposes, which will be removed to make way for the new development.

The new buildings’ site coverage is estimated to be 1,701 square metres, representing 66 per cent of the total area. Access to the development will be via Whitley Street.

Planning Perspectives

According to Plan A Town Planning, which prepared documentation for the application, the design featuring two buildings with staggered heights is intended to minimise the perceived bulk of the development and provide a gradual transition to the streetscape and neighbouring properties.

Shadow diagrams in the proposal reportedly demonstrate that the proposed building height will not cause significant overshadowing. The planning assessment further suggests that landscaping and building design have been carefully considered to ensure visual and acoustic privacy for future residents and surrounding areas.

Plan A Town Planning also stated that the proposal incorporates building articulation to further reduce the visual bulk, ensuring the buildings are proportionate to the site size and street frontage, thus avoiding an overbearing presence. The two-building layout is mentioned explicitly as a design choice to further mitigate the appearance of bulk.

In their assessment, the proposal is expected to positively contribute to the street’s character, with the building heights generally aligning with community expectations for the area. The proposed setbacks from the front, side, and rear boundaries are generally consistent with existing development in the vicinity, which is intended to maintain a uniform building line that reflects the streetscape’s character.

Published Date 14-May-2025

90-Year-Old Baptised in Wishart Seniors Community

A 90-year-old resident of a seniors community in Wishart has undergone baptism, marking a significant personal milestone in his Christian faith journey.

Personal Commitment Realised in Wishart

A longstanding member of the Carinity Wishart Gardens retirement village has chosen to publicly confirm his Christian faith through baptism. The ceremony drew close to 70 attendees, including friends, family members, and fellow residents.

Wishart seniors baptism — Caption: Alvin McHugh was baptised at the Carinity Wishart Gardens seniors’ community in Brisbane by Pastor Tracey Valentine and Reverend Tim Winslade
Photo Credit: Supplied

Life Experiences Shaped Faith Journey

The resident, Alvin McHugh, reflected on his personal experiences and how they shaped his relationship with faith. He recalled facing difficulties in his youth, including the death of his father—a Baptist pastor—when he was 17. This loss led to a period of spiritual distance, which later shifted after recommitting to his beliefs in his 40s.

Over time, he faced mental health challenges following the breakdown of his first marriage and later became a carer for his second wife, Elaine, who lived with depression and dementia. Mr McHugh attributed his ability to cope during these periods to his continued faith and prayer.

Ceremony Held at Wishart Gardens

The baptism took place at the Wishart Gardens pavilion and was conducted by Pastor Tracey Valentine alongside Reverend Tim Winslade. Both are involved in faith services within the Carinity seniors’ community.

Pastor Valentine described the experience of preparing for the baptism as joyful and reflected on Mr McHugh’s life journey, including hardships following the war, meeting his wife, and navigating difficult seasons with faith.

*Caption: Alvin McHugh pictured with Chaplain Warren Prescott, Pastor Tracey Valentine, and Carinity Wishart Gardens residents Marie Withers and Eve Campbell following his baptism.*
*Photo Credit: Supplied*

The ceremony was described as a collaborative and supportive moment within the community, where the resident acknowledged the role of prayer and religious guidance in his decision.

Community Support After Loss

Mr McHugh expressed appreciation for the community at Carinity Wishart Gardens, particularly following the recent passing of his wife in September. He said that the local church services at the village played a key role in his renewed connection to faith.

A Life Review and Resolution

In addressing those present, he noted that although he had not previously undergone baptism, reflection on his life led him to take this step as an act of obedience and resolve.

Published 13-May-2025

Griffith Swim Squad Dive into Olympic Dreams with National Scholarships

Griffith University is once again making waves in Australian sport, with five student-athletes from its elite swim squad awarded prestigious Swimming Australia Scholarships to help propel their academic and athletic journeys.

Read: How the HELP Loan Reform Will Benefit Millions of Australians, Including Griffith Students

The scholarships—each worth $5,000—are designed to support swimmers through the critical phase between junior competition and senior elite levels, a time when athletes aim to qualify for the national Dolphins team.

This stage of development is widely regarded as pivotal, and for these Griffith students, it marks a fresh push towards competing on the world stage, including the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Photo credit: Griffith University Swim Club/Facebook

Among the recipients are standout performers from diverse academic backgrounds. Bachelor of Education student Phoebe Bentley, known for her strong backstroke performances, combines her training with a future in teaching. Business student Thomas Booth, who has consistently delivered in freestyle events, balances pool sessions with case studies and lectures.

Sienna Harben (Photo credit: Griffith University)

Psychological Science student Haig Buckingham brings discipline both in and out of the water, while Communication student Sienna Harben showcases her sprinting prowess and media savvy. Completing the lineup is Thomas Nankervis, studying Clinical Exercise Physiology, whose analytical approach extends from biomechanics to race strategy.

All five are integral members of the Griffith Swim Squad, training under the watchful eye of renowned coaches Mel Marshall, Janelle Pallister, and Tom Fraser-Holmes. Their leadership provides a high-performance environment that is producing some of Australia’s most promising aquatic talent.

Read: Mount Gravatt State High Student’s Success Celebrated at QCE Awards

The scholarships are part of a renewed four-year partnership between Griffith University and Swimming Australia, a joint initiative that underscores both institutions’ commitment to nurturing the next generation of elite swimmers. With LA 2028 on the horizon, this investment in emerging talent is a powerful signal of Australia’s long-term ambitions in the pool.

For these young athletes, the recognition is not just financial support—it’s a vote of confidence in their potential to represent their country on the biggest sporting stage of all.

Published 10-May-2025

QAFL Colts Talent Highlights Emerging Players in Mt Gravatt

Photo Credit: QAFL/Instagram

Several Mt Gravatt footballers have been recognised for their performance in the QAFL Colts competition, with four players named among the early standouts.

Local Recognition in QAFL Colts

Mt Gravatt’s representation in the 2025 QAFL Colts competition has gained attention, with four players from the club highlighted among the early-season performers. Despite a slow start to the season, the club’s emerging talents have shown signs of strong individual development.

Mt Gravatt QAFL — *Photo Credit: QAFL/Instagram*

Four Young Talents Making an Impact

Max Hoffmann has impressed early in the season. The Cairns recruit, who previously earned a Rising Star Award, has transitioned into Mt Gravatt’s line-up as a ruckman and forward. Standing at 190cm, Hoffmann has been reliable in the air and has contributed in general play with his ability to function like an additional midfielder around the contest.

In defence, Lachlan Newberry has played a dependable role. Rarely beaten in one-on-one situations, he has also added an attacking element to his game, showcasing his capacity to intercept and move the ball forward.

Utility player Luke Kirkman has brought flexibility to the team. Capable of playing in several positions, Kirkman has shown clean left-foot skills and a readiness to take the game on when possession opens up. His ability to fill gaps across the field has been valuable in a side still working to find rhythm.

Midfielder Lachlan Lovell, another arrival from Cairns, has started to settle into the club’s game plan. With strong running and dual-foot kicking, he offers a dynamic option through the middle and is gaining confidence in his new environment.

Mt Gravatt colts — *Photo Credit: QAFL/Instagram*

Building Towards Competitiveness

Although Mt Gravatt remain winless after four rounds, signs of improvement are evident. The team’s structure is beginning to form around these developing players, each showing flashes of capability that could benefit the club as the season progresses.

The focus now turns to how Mt Gravatt can convert individual promise into team results as they continue their campaign in the QAFL Colts competition.

Published 10-May-2025

Mt Gravatt Outlook Reserve Gets New Fixed CCTV in City Safety Push

New fixed safety cameras have been installed at Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve as 26 additional mobile CCTV units are being deployed across all Brisbane suburbs to improve community safety.

City-Wide Mobile Camera Deployment

Brisbane neighbourhoods are set to see an increase in safety monitoring with 26 new mobile safety cameras. This rollout is part of the Lord Mayor’s Safer Suburbs initiative, an action linked to commitments made during the recent local elections. Each of the city’s 26 wards is receiving one mobile camera.

These units will not stay in one place; instead, they will be moved to areas identified as crime hotspots based on information from residents and the Queensland Police Service (QPS). As an example of this rotation, the first location for the camera in the Central Ward will be New Farm Park.

The new mobile cameras are designed to operate independently, using solar power and can run for up to six days without sunlight. They feed live video directly into the Council’s 24/7 security monitoring centre. The system is set up to notify security staff about unusual activities, such as groups gathering in suburban parks during the early morning hours.

Fixed Cameras Enhance Key Locations

Alongside the mobile units, Council has also boosted safety surveillance by installing new permanent, fixed CCTV cameras at several key locations. Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve on Mount Gravatt Outlook Drive is one of the sites where these new fixed cameras are installed.

Other locations where new fixed cameras are now operational include Luxworth Place in Moorooka, Milton Common Park, Tinchi Tamba Reserve in Bald Hills, Musgrave Park in West End, Caxton Street in Petrie Terrace, Minnippi Parklands in Murarrie, the Forest Lake Bus Stop (serving routes 100 and 110), and the Inala Plaza bus station.

These installations add to Brisbane’s extensive network, which already includes over 3800 fixed safety cameras across the city. This financial year’s final fixed camera installation is planned for Boundary Street in West End.

The Safer Suburbs Initiative also supported local communities through 69 grants awarded to sports and community clubs. Officials note that CCTV cameras have successfully deter crime and catch offenders involved in antisocial behaviour, theft, illegal dumping, and vandalism.

Official Support and Community Input

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner stated that the initiative aims to make Brisbane’s suburbs safer and ensure issues like youth crime are taken seriously. He emphasised that suburbs are where people live, work, and relax, and keeping them safe and clean is important for maintaining Brisbane’s high-quality lifestyle. He described the investment in the new mobile cameras as a way to help keep the community safe.

The Queensland Police Service also supports the expansion. QPS spokesperson Inspector Michelle Piket indicated that police welcome the increased reach of the mobile camera network across the broader Brisbane region. She noted that Council’s camera network has been essential during major event operations and in daily monitoring of hotspots, helping to ensure community safety and allowing for quick detection and response to offences.

Inspector Piket added that CCTV is a critical investigation tool for police and acts as a deterrent to potential lawbreakers. The placement of the mobile cameras will rely significantly on ongoing feedback from both the police and residents.

How Residents Can Contribute

Council advises that residents with suggestions for where the new rotating mobile safety cameras should be located in their area can provide input directly to their local Councillor. This community feedback mechanism ensures the mobile cameras are deployed where they are most needed to enhance safety across Brisbane’s diverse neighbourhoods.

Published Date 05-May-2025