A video showing individuals styling hair in the food preparation area of O Chicken in Westfield Garden City, Mt Gravatt, has caused public outrage due to unsanitary practices in a food business.
The incident, captured in a TikTok video, showed two people in the restaurant’s kitchen, with one person brushing the other’s hair using a fine-toothed comb. The video zoomed in on the kitchen area from the front counter and was accompanied by shocked commentary from the person filming, who questioned the hygiene practices. The video quickly spread online, raising concerns among local residents about food safety and hygiene standards in their community.
Restaurant Management Responds
O Chicken’s master franchisor, Andy Zuo, expressed his dismay upon viewing the video, stating that such behaviour is strictly prohibited within O Chicken establishments and negatively affects the brand’s reputation. He indicated that a regional agent had been appointed in 2023 to manage the Queensland stores’ operations, marketing, and expansion.
Following the incident, Mr. Zuo intended to discuss the matter with the regional agent and consider withdrawing their agency. The O Chicken Garden City location was contacted for comment, but a response was not immediately available.
The local community is now calling for a thorough investigation into the matter, with many expressing concern about the potential health risks associated with such unsanitary practices. Local health authorities may investigate the matter to ensure all food safety regulations are followed.
The incident has prompted discussions about maintaining high hygiene standards in food preparation areas, particularly in busy takeaway restaurants. The future of the O Chicken Garden City branch and the regional agent are currently uncertain, pending further investigation and action from the master franchisor.
Eighteen-year-old Ruby Day from Mt Gravatt East is set to perform with the Queensland Ballet in the upcoming production of Romeo & Juliet. Her inclusion in the company follows an impressive rise through the ranks, culminating in an official contract in November of last year, after earning the Rudolph Nureyev Foundation’s Best Young Talent Award at the Prix de Lausanne.
Ms Day’s journey through the Queensland Ballet Academy has been marked by rapid progression. She started in the Associate Program before advancing through its levels. She bypassed the Jette Parker Young Artist Program to transition directly from the Pre-Professional Program (PPP) to Company Artist.
Ms Day’s career gained momentum in 2024 when she performed in The Nutcracker. Now, she prepares to step onto the stage in Romeo & Juliet, a production she has long admired for its intricate choreography and artistic depth.
From Academy to Professional Stage
Transitioning from student to professional has been exciting and challenging for Ms Day. Training at the academy involved years of rigorous preparation. Stepping into the role of Company Artist has been a milestone for her too.
Ms Day’s path to professional ballet was not conventional. She initially trained in jazz, tap, and musical theatre. Only after focused training in ballet and acceptance into the Queensland Ballet Academy did she find her true passion for the art form.
Ms Day focused on continuous improvement. She frequently sought guidance from instructors and mentors. The support of the Queensland Ballet Academy faculty, particularly Paul Boyd, played a key role in shaping her artistic development.
Photo Credit: QLD Ballet/Instagram
A Milestone Moment and Future Aspirations
Ms Day received her Queensland Ballet contract on her birthday. It added a personal significance to the milestone. The moment marked the beginning of an exciting new phase. She looks forward to refining her artistry and learning from the company’s experienced dancers.
Queensland Ballet celebrates its 65th anniversary. Ms Day’s presence in the ensemble highlights the company’s dedication to nurturing young talent.
Rising Australian sprint star Gout Gout continues to make waves in the athletics world after a stellar performance at the 128th Queensland Athletics Championships, held from 13 to 16 March at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) in Nathan.
The 17-year-old secured the under-20 100m title on Saturday, further cementing his status as one of the country’s most promising young athletes. He then delivered a stunning 200m run on Sunday, clocking an impressive 19.98 seconds.
Although the strong tailwind of 3.6 metres per second made the time ineligible for record purposes, his 20.05 seconds in the heats was officially the fastest legal time in the world this year.
Just three months ago, Gout broke the long-standing Australian 200m record, previously held by Peter Norman since the 1968 Olympics, by running 20.04 seconds at QSAC. His performances have drawn comparisons to legendary Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, as his running style and rapid progress indicate a bright future ahead.
Reflecting on his latest feat, Gout acknowledged that his start was unsteady, which initially made him feel less motivated to run. However, as he gained momentum, he focused on using the wind to his advantage and pushed forward.
He explained that as he came off the bend, he concentrated on maintaining his speed and took advantage of the conditions. When he saw the final time rounded down to 19.98 seconds, he expressed his excitement and satisfaction with the result.
Born to South Sudanese migrants, Gout has overcome immense challenges and has already set ambitious goals. He aims to become the first Australian to officially break the 20-second barrier in the 200m and the second to run under 10 seconds in the 100m, with his personal best currently at 10.17 seconds.
Despite being in his final year of high school in Ipswich, Gout competes against elite athletes, balancing his studies with a growing athletic career. His talent has also caught the attention of major brands, securing him a long-term sponsorship deal with Adidas.
With the Brisbane 2032 Olympics on the horizon, Gout is seen as one of Australia’s brightest prospects. As he continues to develop his skills and manage increasing public expectations, his journey to becoming a global sprinting star is only just beginning.
A section of the BMI Group-owned Mt Gravatt quarry suffered significant erosion following heavy rainfall from Cyclone Alfred, leading to concerns over potential environmental impacts. The company denies any contamination occurred, asserting that all water released from the site met safety standards.
The Mt Gravatt quarry, operated by BMI Group since 2013, has been the subject of environmental scrutiny in the past. Previously used for hard rock extraction by Boral from 1964 to 1991, the site has undergone remediation efforts over the years.
In 2020, BMI Group had to address concerns regarding toxic water accumulation within the quarry. The company implemented water treatment measures, constructed a discharge structure into Salvin Creek, and introduced ongoing environmental monitoring to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Cyclone Alfred brought over 400mm of rain to the Mt Gravatt area, overwhelming the quarry’s stormwater containment pond. The excessive water flow eroded part of the quarry wall, resulting in tree falls and sediment displacement.
BMI Group confirmed that while erosion had occurred, the quarry wall itself had not collapsed. Pine Mountain Road near Whites Hill Nature Reserve—a known koala habitat—was temporarily closed due to the debris.
A footpath along the nearby creek was also shut, restricting pedestrian access between Cavendish Road and Tristania Way.
BMI Group’s Response
BMI Group CEO David Evans stated that the stormwater pond’s water is routinely tested and was within safe release limits at the time of the incident. The company rejected claims circulating on social media that contamination had occurred.
BMI Group notified BCC immediately and is working with the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science, and Innovation to manage clean-up efforts, including sediment removal and stormwater containment pond wall repairs.
Photo Credit: Mount Gravatt East Community/Facebook
Community Concerns and Reactions
Residents in the area have expressed concerns about the long-term environmental impact of the incident, particularly on the local ecosystem. Some have questioned whether BMI Group had sufficient safeguards in place to prevent such an event.
Social media discussions have highlighted ongoing worries about potential contamination. In contrast, others have defended the company’s environmental management record, noting that BMI Group has maintained mandated site monitoring since 2020.
One community member raised concerns about water quality and potential contamination risks, while others questioned how the quarry wall failure could have occurred despite past mitigation efforts.
Next Steps
BMI Group has stated that site remediation efforts will begin once conditions allow for safe access. The company has committed to working with local authorities to address any potential environmental concerns resulting from the erosion.
Plans to revitalise Mt Gravatt as a Suburban Renewal Precinct have been announced. The new design increases housing, attracts new businesses, and enhances public transport connectivity. The plan focuses on the Logan Road corridor, incorporating Mt Gravatt Plaza and surrounding commercial areas to support population growth and economic development.
Mt Gravatt has long been a key suburban centre in Brisbane’s south, known for its commercial hubs, strong transport links, and proximity to major shopping centres like Westfield Mt Gravatt. However, local businesses and residents ave expressed concerns about the suburb’s underutilised potential.
BCC’s Suburban Renewal Precinct initiative, first introduced in 2022, aims to modernise selected suburbs through targeted planning, rather than implementing a citywide development update. The approach has already been rolled out in suburbs such as Moorooka, Salisbury, Wynnum, and Stones Corner, with Mt Gravatt now next in line.
The renewal plan intends to address Brisbane’s growing housing demand while boosting local business activity. Similar strategies in Stones Corner have included rezoning for high-density apartments, a move expected to double the suburb’s population by 2046.
What the Mt Gravatt Precinct Plan Covers
The Mt Gravatt Centre Suburban Renewal Precinct will focus on key areas along Logan Road, stretching from Glindemann Park in Holland Park to the Mt Gravatt Showgrounds. The plan aims to:
Allow for higher-density residential development to increase housing supply.
Enhance public transport accessibility by prioritising high-frequency bus services.
Improve infrastructure and public spaces, making the suburb more pedestrian-friendly.
A BCC spokesperson stated that the precinct plan will be based on technical investigations, community feedback, and State reviews. Once finalised, it will be adopted into Brisbane City Plan 2014 to guide future developments.
Community Reactions: Optimism and Concerns
The Mt Gravatt Central Business Hub and local business owners have welcomed the renewal initiative, highlighting the need for a stronger economic centre. Business Hub president Louise Papas expressed optimism, stating that the plan would help unlock the area’s potential and bring in more customers and investment opportunities.
Similarly, Mt Gravatt Show Society president Greg Goebel noted that many families were drawn to the area due to its strong schools and convenient transport but felt the suburb had not reached its full potential.
However, some residents and opposition leaders have voiced concerns about the lack of urgency in implementing the changes. City official Jared Cassidy criticised the authorities for its slow progress since the initial 2022 announcement, urging for a more precise timeline and greater public consultation.
Project Timeline and Next Steps
The BCC has outlined the following timeline for the Mt Gravatt Centre Suburban Renewal Precinct:
Early 2025 – Background and technical investigations.
Mid-Late 2025 – Draft plan released for community consultation.
Late 2025 – Mid 2026 – Public feedback reviewed, final plan prepared, and approval process with the Queensland Government.
Wishart residents are assessing the damage and counting their luck after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred swept through Brisbane, bringing down trees, cutting power, and disrupting services. While some homes narrowly avoided destruction, the aftermath has left streets blocked and essential services strained.
The storm’s strong winds caused widespread destruction, bringing down trees across Wishart and other parts of Brisbane. In one case, a large tree collapsed, dragging powerlines and street signs with it. The direction of its fall spared nearby homes from major damage, but it left the street blocked and residents without power.
Elsewhere, families sheltered as the winds roared, experiencing moments of fear as trees crashed down around them. Many had long feared that aging trees posed a risk, and for some, their concerns were realised when the storm hit.
Fallen Trees and Power Outages Disrupt Daily Life
The storm left thousands of homes in South East Queensland without electricity, with fallen powerlines making recovery efforts difficult. Energy crews have been working to restore power, but many households in affected areas are still waiting for full services to resume.
Across Wishart and surrounding suburbs, fallen trees have blocked roads, forcing drivers to take long detours or turn back. Emergency crews have been working to clear major routes, but the scale of the debris has made the task challenging.
Caption: Tree uprooted due to ex-Cyclone Alfred’s winds. Photo Credit: Energex/Facebook
Council Services Impacted by the Storm
BCC has announced disruptions across multiple services due to the storm’s impact:
Libraries: The Mount Gravatt Library remains open, but other locations are under assessment or remain closed.
Parks and Playgrounds: Water play areas are shut down, and all mountain bike tracks in the Mt Coot-tha Reserve are closed until further notice.
Public Transport: Limited bus services have resumed, but most ferries and some bus routes remain suspended due to road conditions.
Waste Collection: Regular bin collection is ongoing, but repair services for damaged bins are currently unavailable.
To assist residents with storm clean-up, Council has opened temporary green waste drop-off sites at Mt Coot-tha car park and White Hills Reserve.
Local Businesses Step Up Amid Power Outages
With much of the region left in the dark, a Redland Bay petrol station with a backup generator became a vital hub for the community. It remained open while others shut, offering fuel, ice, and hot coffee to those dealing with power loss.
The demand was so high that extra hands were needed to keep up with customers seeking basic supplies.
Emergency Services Work to Clear Roads
Emergency response teams have been deployed across the region to deal with fallen trees and road blockages. Crews have been using chainsaws to cut through large fallen branches, clearing debris where possible and cordoning off areas that remain unsafe.
The main road between Redland Bay and Victoria Point had to be closed in both directions at the height of the storm, with emergency workers focusing efforts on clearing vital transport routes first.
Despite the damage, some have found ways to make the best of the situation. With parks and beaches inaccessible due to debris and flooding, local children have turned flooded fields into makeshift play areas. In one instance, two teenagers took to the water with skimboards, making use of the storm’s impact in their own way.
Recovery efforts are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with BCC and emergency services working to clear blocked roads and restore services. Residents are advised to stay updated through official channels and take precautions while travelling through affected areas.
The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and while power is gradually being restored, some households may face ongoing disruptions. Authorities are urging the community to report any hazardous trees or debris that may still pose a risk.
Graduates from Clairvaux MacKillop College in Upper Mount Gravatt have achieved outstanding academic success with 15 individual subject scores surpassing 98. Their achievements have been recognised as part of Brisbane Catholic Education’s (BCE) inaugural Student Excellence Awards.Â
The 2024 cohort demonstrated strong academic performance. 30 per cent of ATAR students attained a score of 90 or above. Alongside these academic successes, 109 students completed vocational education and training (VET) qualifications. Meanwhile, nine students earned Diplomas of Business. Many students also participated in school-based apprenticeships and traineeships. This reinforces the College’s commitment to a diverse range of educational pathways.
Clairvaux MacKillop College Principal Wayne Chapman highlighted the significance of these results. He noted that they provide students with greater academic and professional opportunities.
Recognising Dedication and Hard Work
Among the high-achieving graduates, David Mackenroth expressed pride in being recognised by BCE. He stated that the efforts of his cohort had been acknowledged. He emphasised teachers’ vital role in his success. Mr Mackenroth commends the exceptional support provided by educators throughout his studies. He plans to pursue a double degree in Education (Secondary) and Arts at Queensland University of Technology.
Commitment to Excellence and Innovation
The College attributes its success to careful planning, innovative teaching methods, and the dedication of its educators. A strong focus on student growth has been central to the school’s approach. The efforts of middle leaders and teachers have been instrumental in motivating and supporting students. The recent results reflect student perseverance and the ongoing dedication of the entire school community.
Four graduates received special recognition from the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority. Their outstanding performance in general subjects further solidifies the College’s reputation for academic excellence.
Clairvaux MacKillop College is widely recognised for fostering a supportive and dynamic learning community. The school encourages students to embrace new opportunities. With high expectations and a commitment to diverse learning pathways, the College upholds its reputation as a leading educational institution in Mt Gravatt.
A paediatric dental clinic in Mt Gravatt provides safe and appropriate baby tooth extractions. Brisbane Paediatric Dentist follows careful assessment guidelines to determine when extractions are required. They ensure that young patients receive expert care suited to their needs.
Baby teeth play an essential role in early childhood development. They aid in speech and guiding adult teeth into place. However, certain situations may require their removal. These include severe decay that cannot be addressed with a filling or damage from trauma. Some cases involve a baby tooth remaining in place despite an emerging adult tooth.
Each case is assessed individually. The child’s overall dental development will be considered before any extraction is recommended.
Managing Dental Anxiety and Sedation Options
Dental procedures can be stressful for children. There are sedation options available to make the experience more comfortable, including:
Nitrous oxide (happy gas) helps children relax.
General anaesthesia (sleep dentistry), which is used in more complex cases.
The choice of sedation varies. It’s based on factors such as the child’s age, anxiety levels, and medical history.
Recovery and Long-Term Oral Health
Parents receive detailed guidance on aftercare, after instruction, including:
Foods that are safe to eat and those best avoided during healing
Proper cleaning techniques for the extraction site
Signs of normal healing and when to seek further advice
If a baby tooth is lost earlier than expected, a space maintainer may be recommended. This is to prevent shifting of nearby teeth and ensure enough room for the adult tooth to come through correctly.
While extractions are sometimes necessary, maintaining baby teeth for as long as possible is ideal. Regular dental care can help prevent early tooth loss through:
Routine check-ups and professional cleaning
Fluoride treatments to protect against decay
Early orthodontic assessments to monitor dental development
Education for children and parents on effective oral hygiene
Paediatric dental services in Mt Gravatt support the long-term oral health of young patients. They focus on prevention and providing appropriate care when extractions are needed.
For enquiries or to book an appointment, Brisbane Paediatric Dentist is at The Village Shopping Centre, Shop 7/1932 Logan Rd. They can be contacted at (07) 3343 4880 or via email at manager@puredentistry.com.au.
Klumpp Rd in Upper Mt Gravatt is one of the 14 major roads set for extended clearway hours in an effort to ease congestion across the city. The initiative, part of the Brisbane Clearway Action Plan – Keeping Brisbane Moving, aims to improve traffic flow by removing parked vehicles during peak hours.
The clearway expansion is designed to alleviate congestion on key roads where parked cars force motorists to weave between lanes, contributing to delays. The plan mirrors Sydney’s clearway strategy, which has reportedly reduced weekday travel times by up to 46 per cent on some roads.
Kicking off with a review of Musgrave Rd-Waterworks Rd between Red Hill and The Gap, the authorities will assess existing clearway times and consider extending no-parking hours to better accommodate increasing traffic volumes. Currently, clearways in this corridor operate from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. inbound and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. outbound, Monday to Friday.
As part of this wider review, Klumpp Rd in Upper Mt Gravatt has been listed for future clearway extensions, alongside other key roads such as Bowen Bridge Rd–Lutwyche Rd, Wynnum Rd, and Vulture St.
The BCC’s proposal to extend clearways aligns with Brisbane’s growing population and increasing traffic demands. In 2024 alone, more than 9,650 motorists were caught blocking clearways, leading to over 1,660 vehicle tows. Currently, parking in a clearway during restricted hours incurs a fine of three penalty units, or approximately $480.
City official Adrian Schrinner described the clearway expansion as a low-cost but effective congestion-busting measure. He noted that while intersection upgrades could cost millions, and road widening is often unfeasible in areas with established properties, expanding clearway hours can maximise existing road space without major infrastructure costs.
Additionally, public transport efficiency is expected to improve by keeping clearways free of parked cars, allowing buses to move more smoothly through high-traffic corridors.
Community Consultation and Public Concerns
Public consultation will determine the best sites for clearway extensions, with business owners and residents given the opportunity to provide feedback in the coming weeks.
In past years, clearway changes have faced opposition from businesses relying on street parking, particularly in the CBD. Concerns have been raised about customer accessibility, with some business owners arguing that removing parking could reduce foot traffic.
Infrastructure Chair Andrew Wines assured that community input would be considered before finalising any changes. The authorities have committed to balancing traffic efficiency with local business needs, and no-parking hours may be adjusted based on demand and feedback.
However, while the initiative may provide short-term relief, it does not address the city’s larger congestion problems.
The upcoming consultation period will commence this February and will run for six weeks, after which feedback will be reviewed before implementing changes. Adjustments to clearway hours are expected by mid-year, with further reviews planned for additional corridors, including Klumpp Rd in Upper Mt Gravatt.
Students in Mt Gravatt will experience significant changes to their school bus services this year, with Translink introducing new routes, modifying existing services, and removing select routes to improve efficiency and safety.
Bus Network Overhaul to Improve Safety and Accessibility
Translink, in collaboration with 11 bus operators across South East Queensland, has implemented extensive changes to school bus routes, including 33 new routes, 833 modifications, and 11 route removals. These adjustments aim to enhance coverage in growth areas, reduce overcrowding, and improve travel times for students.
Mt Gravatt is among the suburbs affected, with 15 route changes, one new route, and one removed route under the Mt Gravatt Bus Service network. The adjustments respond to community feedback and school schedule changes, ensuring safer and more reliable transport options for students.
Key Changes for Mt Gravatt Students
New Route 8019: Introduced to reduce overcrowding on existing 8016 and 8017 services for Villanova College and Loreto College Coorparoo students.
Extended Services: Routes now reach Mabel Park State High School, improving access for students.
Punctuality Improvements: Six school routes have been adjusted to improve on-time running and minimise delays.
These changes reflect broader updates across the region, addressing safety concerns, congestion issues, and the need for more efficient travel routes for students.
Why the Changes Were Made
Some bus route changes were made due to shifts in school bell times, while others were influenced by feedback from students, parents, and schools. Growth in new estates also played a role, as Translink expanded services to meet increasing demand.
Additionally, timetable adjustments across multiple services ensure better reliability and reduced travel delays, improving the overall student transport experience.
Community Response and Next Steps
Translink has urged students, parents, and guardians in Mt Gravatt to familiarise themselves with the updated services by using Translink’s School Service Finder or Journey Planner. To ensure a smooth transition, students are advised to:
Photo Credit: Translink/YouTube
Check go card validity and consider auto top-up.
Plan routes in advance using Translink’s online tools.
Claim School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS) if eligible.
