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Playtime Revolution: Area 51 Garden City Opens in Mt Gravatt

Photo Credit: Area 51 Garden City/Google Maps

Area 51 Garden City, a state-of-the-art indoor play centre, is set to open in Westfield Mt Gravatt.

The grand opening will take place on 18 January 2025, promising a variety of engaging activities for children and families.

Bridging the Indoor Entertainment Gap

Long awaited by the Mt Gravatt community, Area 51 Garden City addresses the need for a substantial, modern indoor venue. Unlike smaller, older centres in the area, it promises a diverse range of entertainment options packaged within a contemporary and spacious setting.

Diverse Attractions for Young Explorers

From the sprawling soft play expanse of Gizmo’s Odyssey to the heights of the Super Climber, this family entertainment centre serves up activities for children of all ages.

Younger guests can safely play in the Astro Explorer toddler zone, while older children can compete in interactive basketball and soccer games, or bounce around on trampolines. Adding to the excitement are eight thrilling slides, ensuring that the fun never stops.

Area 51 Garden City play areas — *Photo Credit: Area 51 Garden City*

Operational Hours: Designed for Convenience

Open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, the venue caters to busy family schedules, while the on-site café, closing slightly earlier at 8:30 p.m., allows parents to unwind as their children play.

Ticketing: Flexible Options for Every Family

Astrotots (1-2 years): $15 for full-day access to the Toddler Zone.
Mini Rovers (3-4 years): Ranging from $16 to $28, with access to the entire venue except the Super Climber.
Moonwalk (5-12 years): Priced between $16 and $28, offering full access to the venue, excluding the Toddler Zone.

BUY TICKETS

Celebrating in Style: Party Packages

Area 51 Garden City isn’t just about play. It also hosts birthday celebrations with several package options:

Cosmic Celebration: $40 per person includes playtime, party room access, food, and essentials.
Intergalactic Bash: At $50 per person, this package ups the ante with additional treats.
Big Bang Blowout: For $60 per person, this top-tier option includes comprehensive party features plus extras for both kids and parents.

BOOK A PARTY

Convenient Parking

Visitors can easily reach the venue via the Macgregor Street entrance, with ample free parking ensuring a stress-free visit.

Visitor FAQs

The centre caters exclusively to children aged 12 and under, with a firm policy against outside food to manage allergy risks—although nut-free cakes are permitted for a small fee.

The venue encourages online ticket booking, especially during peak times, to secure entry.

Local Buzz and Future Visions

Children enjoying at Area 51 Underwood. — *Photo Credit: Area 51/Facebook*

The Mt Gravatt community has shown high interest in the new venue.

While some members expressed disappointment that Area 51 Garden City caters only to children aged 12 and under, it still offers a fun and engaging experience for younger visitors. In contrast, Area 51 Underwood caters to a broader age range, with additional attractions for older children and adults. Both venues provide distinct experiences suitable for their respective audiences.

Area 51 Garden City plans to evolve based on community feedback and emerging trends in family entertainment.

Published 10-Jan-2025

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

Louise Zhong, a student from Mount Gravatt State High School, has been recognised as one of Queensland’s Distinguished Academic Achievers at the 11th annual Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) Achievement Awards.

Read: Mount Gravatt State High School Tops its own Record

These prestigious awards highlight the exceptional academic accomplishments of Year 12 graduates who completed their QCE in 2024.

Celebrating Excellence

Photo credit: Mount Gravatt State High School/Facebook

The Distinguished Academic Achievers category honours students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and dedication to their studies. Louise Zhong’s inclusion in this elite group is a testament to her incredible achievements.

Her school proudly celebrated her victory with a social media post:
“We are thrilled to celebrate Louise Zhong, one of 35 students from across Queensland who received a Distinguished Academic Achievers Award for 2024. Of the 35 students, only two were from state schools. Louise also achieved 100% for both Specialist Mathematics and Mathematical Methods.”

Louise’s exceptional performance in advanced mathematics courses underscores her talent, perseverance, and passion for learning.

A Future in Medical Sciences

Looking ahead, Louise plans to pursue a Bachelor of Medical Sciences at Griffith University. Her ultimate career goal is to specialize as a doctor in the field of chemical pathology—a vital branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and managing diseases through the analysis of biochemical processes in the body.

Louise’s inspiration for this career path came from a family friend who works in pathology. “I was inspired by a family friend specializing in pathology, who encouraged me to pursue my passion for the field,” she shared.

The Impact of the QCE Awards

The QCE Achievement Awards, organized by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA), celebrate the academic excellence of students while highlighting the breadth and depth of Queensland’s senior schooling system. QCAA CEO Jacqueline Wilton commended this year’s recipients, noting that the QCE provides students with diverse pathways to excel in their chosen fields.

With only two of the 35 Distinguished Academic Achievers coming from state schools, Louise’s accomplishment is an inspiring example of what is possible through hard work and determination.

The formal awards ceremony, sponsored by Griffith University, The University of Queensland, and the University of Southern Queensland, will be held on 15 February 2025, at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Read: ‘Ant You Hungry?’: Young Artist’s Street Art Puts Mt Gravatt’s Flavours on Display

A Bright Future Ahead

As Louise Zhong embarks on her journey into medical sciences, her passion for chemical pathology and her remarkable academic achievements position her for a promising career in medicine. Her story serves as a source of inspiration for students across Queensland, proving that dedication and determination can pave the way to extraordinary success.

Published 2-January-2025

Upper Mt Gravatt Twinkles This Christmas with Dazzling Light Displays

Photo Credit: Kempsie Road ChrissieLights/ Facebook

Upper Mt Gravatt dazzles residents and visitors alike this Christmas with a series of spectacular light displays that will capture the festive spirit.

As the balmy Brisbane nights descend, homes across the suburb transform into shimmering wonderlands, offering a magical experience for all ages.

101 Kempsie Road, Upper Mt Gravatt

Christmas — *Photo Credit:* *Kempsie Road ChrissieLights/ Facebook*

This display, known as “Kempsie Road Chrissie Lights,” is among the best in Brisbane for 2024. The display is open nightly from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Visitors can enjoy an open garage display featuring a large Christmas village even in rainy weather.

31 Lindwall Street, Upper Mt Gravatt

This medium-sized display is confirmed for 2024, from November 28 to December 28, between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM.

Features include music, moving elements, interactive displays, inflatables, walk-in areas, lasers/projections, and Christmas statues. The organisers have created Christmas light displays for over 20 years and highlight attractions like two “Shakin’ Snowman” photo opportunities, dancing penguins, and interactive rope light designs. They also offer treats to visitors and encourage community engagement.

The festive season in Queensland is a unique experience, with warm evenings providing the perfect backdrop for these dazzling displays. Residents across Brisbane are embracing the tradition of decorating their homes with elaborate Christmas lights, creating a city-wide spectacle that spreads holiday cheer.

Locals and visitors are encouraged to gather their loved ones, put on their favourite Christmas tunes, and embark on a self-guided tour of these illuminated streets. Whether you’re seeking the charm of neighbourhood displays or the grandeur of large-scale installations, Upper Mt Gravatt offers a festive experience for everyone. So, drive through Upper Mt Gravatt this Christmas and immerse yourself in the season’s magic.

Published Date 24-April-2024

Mt Gravatt Lookout Faces Closure Calls After Koala Deaths

Photo Credit: WWF Australia

The tragic deaths of two koala mothers who left behind orphaned joeys have ignited calls for the closure of Mt Gravatt Lookout Reserve road at night.

The deaths, which occurred on consecutive days in November, have galvanised residents and koala advocates who argue that vehicle strikes are a significant threat to the area’s koala population.

The Queensland Koala Society is caring for both joeys orphaned by the incidents. One, affectionately named Monty, symbolises the campaign to restrict vehicle access after dark. Advocates point to the success of similar measures at other southside reserves, such as Whites Hill Reserve and Minnippi Parklands, where nighttime closures have been implemented to protect koalas.

Campaigners allege inconsistencies in the lookout’s current closing times. While Brisbane City Council maintains the road has been closed daily from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. for 15 years, residents claim to have observed variations in the closure times. Apparently, a private waste contractor had mistakenly left the gate open on several occasions but assured the public that the issue had been resolved.

However, residents argue that the current arrangement needs to be revised to protect the vulnerable koala population even with consistent closure times. Since June of last year, there have been ten reported incidents involving koalas in the area, six of them fatal. While not all incidents were attributed to vehicles, concerns remain about the risks posed by speeding cars, particularly given the presence of mothers with joeys who are more likely to be on the move.

Despite reducing the speed limit from 50km/h to 40km/h in 2022 and recommending 30km/h on sharp bends, residents insist speeding remains a problem. The council has rejected calls for traffic calming measures and improved lighting due to the steepness of the road and its classification as a “no-through” road.

Council’s Position

Current gate closure times are deemed sufficient.
Earlier closure would negatively impact the Lovewell cafe, a social enterprise supporting survivors of domestic violence.
Hooning and speeding are a police matter.

While the council has resisted calls for earlier closures, Lovewell cafe’s management is willing to collaborate with koala advocates and the council to find a solution that addresses everyone’s needs. Deputy Mayor Adams has also requested increased police patrols to address concerns about speeding and hooning.

With a small but growing koala population estimated at 40 to 60 individuals, Mt Gravatt Outlook Reserve represents a crucial habitat for these iconic marsupials. As the debate continues, the fate of Mt Gravatt’s koalas hangs in the balance.

Published Date 16-December-2024

Brisbane Metro: Service’s Permanent Launch Anticipated to Bring Fast, Reliable Transit to Mount Gravatt

Brisbane Metro is gearing up for its permanent rollout, starting January 2025. This $1.55 billion fully electric bus rapid transit system promises to revolutionize public transport in the city, providing faster, more reliable, and sustainable transit options.

Read: The Hidden History of Mount Gravatt Cave: A Local Secret Sealed in Time

The rollout will be implemented in phases, with the “M2” service launching first to replace the high-demand Route 66, connecting the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) to UQ Lakes at five-minute peak intervals. By mid-2025, the “M1” service will replace Routes 111 and 160, connecting Eight Mile Plains, Upper Mount Gravatt, and Roma Street.

Brisbane Metro — Photo credit: brisbane.qld.gov.au

In addition to Metro services, the project includes the introduction of five new bus routes, the redesign of 12 suburban routes, and major infrastructure upgrades, such as the transition to the Adelaide Street tunnel by late 2025, enabling services to operate every three minutes during peak times.

Impact on Mount Gravatt and Griffith University Commuters

Photo credit: Sherly Rahmawati/Google Maps

For commuters in Mount Gravatt and Griffith University, the Brisbane Metro rollout is set to bring transformative changes, addressing long-standing issues like overcrowding, limited bus capacity, and inconsistent travel times.

Direct Metro Connections:
With the introduction of “M1,” Mount Gravatt residents will benefit from high-frequency services between Eight Mile Plains, Upper Mount Gravatt, and Brisbane’s CBD. This means shorter waiting times and more reliable options for daily commutes.
New Bus Routes:
The new Route 182 will provide a convenient connection from Upper Mount Gravatt station (Garden City) to Holland Park West via Wishart and Mansfield. This is expected to improve access for local residents and students traveling to the area.
Redesigned Suburban Routes:
Several redesigned routes will prioritize Griffith University and its surrounding suburbs:
- Routes 115, 135, 155, and 161 will directly connect Griffith University station with key residential areas like Calamvale, Parkinson, Sunnybank, and Wishart.
- Routes 113 and 172 will enhance connectivity between Mount Gravatt Central, Upper Mount Gravatt, and the PA Hospital station, supporting local and student commuters.
Increased Capacity for Students:
The Brisbane Metro rollout is designed to cater to Brisbane’s growing student population, particularly those traveling to Griffith University. The redesigned network will accommodate an additional 55,000 students across Griffith University, UQ, and QUT, ensuring a smoother commute during peak hours.
Enhanced Frequency and Accessibility:
By late 2025, the transition to the Adelaide Street tunnel will increase Metro service frequency to every three minutes, drastically improving travel times for commuters in Mount Gravatt and Griffith University. This ensures that buses arrive more frequently and reduce the need for long waits.

What This Means for the Community

Whether you’re a student rushing to lectures, a worker commuting to the CBD, or a local resident heading to Garden City, the Metro promises to deliver faster, easier, and more reliable travel.

Read: Queensland’s Top Crash Hotspots Revealed: Logan Road in Mt Gravatt Makes the List

This project underscores Brisbane’s commitment to modernizing its transport infrastructure, setting the stage for a more connected and accessible future for Mount Gravatt, Griffith University, and the broader Brisbane community.

Published 3-December-2024

Mt Gravatt Study Highlights Link Between Early Childhood Support and Crime Reduction

A groundbreaking study in Mt Gravatt revealed that early childhood interventions can significantly reduce youth crime rates. Professor Ross Homel from Griffith University led the research involving seven primary schools and early childhood centres in disadvantaged communities in the Mt Gravatt area.

The study, which spanned over 20 years, found that children who participated in communication training and received family support were less likely to engage in criminal behaviour as they grew older. Professor Homel highlighted that only 3% of the children who received communication training received court appearances for criminal offences by the age of 17. This is less than half the rate compared to children from the same schools who still need to receive the training.

Youth Crime on the Rise

This research concerns youth crime, a growing concern in Queensland. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the number of young offenders in Queensland increased by 6% in 2023, with a further 5.2% increase in early 2024. This upward trend highlights the urgent need for effective solutions to address the issue.

Closing the Gap

Professor Homel explained that children from lower socio-economic backgrounds often start school less prepared than their middle-class peers. He believes closing this gap through early intervention programs can improve school engagement and significantly reduce crime rates. The study, published by the Australian Institute of Criminology, emphasises the importance of supporting all aspects of a child’s development, including their home environment and communication skills.

A Call for Early Intervention

Professor Homel stressed the need for a broader program across Queensland, stating that a concerted effort in 20 disadvantaged communities could transform the state’s social landscape within a decade. He believes that early intervention is not only more effective but also more cost-effective than addressing criminal behaviour later in life.

Challenges and Opportunities

Professor Karen Thorpe from the University of Queensland, who also participated in the study, highlighted the importance of building on existing community services rather than imposing external systems. She acknowledged the positive impact of early intervention and pointed out the challenges posed by the current shortage of skilled early childhood educators. Professor Thorpe stressed the need for better pay and working conditions to attract and retain qualified educators who deliver high-quality education and social skills training.

Government Response

The Queensland government is currently debating the “Making Queensland Safer” laws, which include tougher penalties and a commitment to early intervention. However, Professor Homel believes more needs to be done to address the issue effectively. He argues that focusing on early childhood interventions within a social justice framework is crucial for long-term success.

While the government has committed funding to develop the early childhood workforce, it remains to be seen how these resources will support early intervention strategies specifically designed to reduce youth crime.

Published Date 10-December-2024

Greek Orthodox Youth Gather in Mt Gravatt to Celebrate Faith and Community

The Holy Diocese of Brisbane launched its signature Youth Conference this past weekend at the Dormition Parish in Mt Gravatt. The two-day event brought together over 250 young Greek Orthodox Christians, aged 15 to 30, to explore what it means to live and share their faith.

Read: Lifetime of Service: Mount Gravatt AFC’s Kate Guy to Receive State Recognition

In his keynote address, Archbishop Makarios called on the youth to be active and visible in their faith. “We cannot be invisible disciples,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of connecting with the local Church and engaging with the wider Australian community. “Being a Christian is much more than simply attending church on Sunday mornings. Christians must be torchbearers in a dark world. Our goal is to inspire others and draw them to the source of life.”

Photo credit: Greek Orthodox Church of the Dormition of Our Lady, Mt Gravatt/Facebook

Archbishop Makarios also outlined his vision for the Holy Archdiocese of Australia as it enters its second century, stressing the need to avoid introversion and isolation. Instead, he encouraged the faithful to embrace outreach and inclusivity, fostering a vibrant Orthodox presence in Australian society.

Photo credit: Greek Orthodox Church of the Dormition of Our Lady, Mt Gravatt/Facebook

The conference opened on Saturday morning, December 7, with an official ceremony where Archbishop Makarios reflected on the history of the Greek Orthodox Church in Australia. He paid tribute to the pioneering Greek migrants who laid the foundation for preserving their faith and traditions in a new homeland. Special mention was made of the recent visit by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, during which the new Constitution of the Holy Archdiocese was promulgated.

Throughout the weekend, attendees participated in open discussions, workshops, and speeches led by spiritual leaders, including Bishops Bartholomew of Brisbane and Silouan of Adelaide. These sessions provided an opportunity to reflect on the challenges and opportunities of living as young Orthodox Christians in a modern, multicultural environment.

A highlight of the event was the announcement by George Mastrokostas, Honorary Consul of Greece in Brisbane, of a new annual scholarship. This initiative will support young Queenslanders who wish to pursue theological studies at the Theological School of Apostle Andrew in Sydney, further fostering the education and growth of future Orthodox leaders.

Read: ‘Ant You Hungry?’: Young Artist’s Street Art Puts Mt Gravatt’s Flavours on Display

The conference proved to be a meaningful platform for youth to connect with their peers, deepen their faith, and prepare to carry forward the rich traditions and values of the Orthodox Church in an ever-evolving world.

Published 16-December-2024

Mt Gravatt Cemetery Maintenance Sparks Concerns

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Matthew Somers had difficulty finding his nan’s gravesite and ended up using his first-aid scissors to cut the grass that had grown up to a metre high in places. Apparently, after record November rainfall levels and rainy December days, local cemetery maintenance badly needs to catch up.

Mt Gravatt Cemetery spans nearly 80 hectares and operates as a lawn facility. November’s rainfall in Brisbane totaled over 214mm—three times the normal levels—prompting 67 mowing-related calls from the Mt Gravatt East area.

Council noted that mowing is conducted only when conditions are dry enough to avoid damage to graves and grounds, with Mt Gravatt Cemetery scheduled for nine mows during peak season.

Meteorological data confirms significant precipitation: Brisbane experienced over 214 mm of rain in November, approximately three times normal levels. October also recorded nearly 110 mm of rainfall.

Cr Steve Griffiths raised concerns about cemetery maintenance, suggesting it should be treated similarly to park maintenance.

Council regularly maintains cemetery and crematorium grounds, handling tasks like mowing, whipper-snipping, tree care, grave dirt topping, plaque levelling, and clearing old flowers. Families are responsible for maintaining and restoring headstones and plaques.

Maintenance requests can be made by calling 07 3403 8888.

This issue isn’t isolated to Mt Gravatt Cemetery. Last month, an anonymous post on the Friends of Nundah Historic Cemetery page raised similar concerns about cemetery maintenance.

Published 11-December-2024

Mt Gravatt Op-Shop Sparks Outrage Over Sanitary Pad Pricing

Photo Credit: Lauren Terese/Tiktok

A recent incident at a Salvation Army op-shop in Mt Gravatt has ignited widespread public anger. Shoppers were shocked to discover a single sanitary pad on sale for $2.

A video shared on TikTok captured the moment two women found the item, expressing their disbelief. The pad was believed to be part of a larger stolen pack, leaving the single item behind with the original price tag.

A spokesperson for the Salvation Army addressed the incident, explaining that the item was intended to be part of a discounted pack. They apologised for the oversight and assured the public that such mistakes would be avoided in the future.

Social media users reacted strongly to the news, criticising the pricing of essential hygiene products. Some argued that such items should be provided for free, particularly in op-shops and charitable organisations. Others questioned the store’s decision to sell a single, used sanitary pad.

The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the affordability and accessibility of menstrual products, highlighting the need for greater support for those in need.

Published Date 26-November-2024

Brazil Preps Begin: Matildas Welcome Fans to QSAC

The Matildas are inviting fans to Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) in Nathan as they prepare for their highly anticipated match against Brazil at Suncorp Stadium on 28 November.

Read: Mt Gravatt Retirement Village Promotes Christmas Cheer to Combat Loneliness

The national women’s team will hold a free public training session at QSAC’s Main Stadium on Tuesday, 26 November. Gates open at 3:30 p.m., with training scheduled to start at 4:00 p.m. and run for 90 minutes. Fans will be seated in the Eastern Stand, with a capacity limit of 6,500 spectators on a first-come, first-served basis.

No pre-registration or ticket is required, but early arrival is recommended due to limited space. Visit the Matildas’ official website for more details.

Matildas squad updates

The Matildas’ preparations for the November and December international window have been affected by several player withdrawals. Katrina Gorry and Clare Wheeler, both midfielders in the Women’s Super League, have been medically withdrawn from the extended squad. Gorry sustained a shoulder injury during West Ham’s match against Brighton, while Wheeler suffered a lower leg injury in Everton’s victory in the Merseyside derby.

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A post shared by CommBank Matildas (@matildas)

World Cup hero Cortnee Vine, who clinched the quarter-final victory against France with a decisive penalty, remains absent from the national team, having taken an indefinite break to prioritise her mental health.

However, the squad welcomes back experienced players Alex Chidiac, Emily Gielnik, and Chloe Logarzo. Fresh faces include Morgan Aquino, Leah Davidson, Isabel Gomez, Hana Lowry, and Natasha Prior. The 34-player squad maintains a strong domestic presence, featuring 16 players from the A-League Women competition.

Milestone victory over the Germans

The Matildas head into this international window buoyed by their historic 2-1 victory over Germany in October—their first triumph against the European powerhouse in 19 years.

Despite an early goal from Germany’s Selina Cerci, the Matildas showcased resilience and tactical evolution under interim coach Tom Sermanni. Kyra Cooney-Cross delivered a stunning 35-yard strike to equalise before halftime. At the 77th minute, Clare Hunt’s first international goal—a thumping header—secured the historic triumph.

Read: ‘Ant You Hungry?’: Young Artist’s Street Art Puts Mt Gravatt’s Flavours on Display

Upcoming fixtures

Following the training session, the Matildas will face Brazil at Suncorp Stadium on 28 November, before heading to the Gold Coast for a rematch on 1 December. The team will then travel south for two matches against Chinese Taipei in Melbourne and Geelong on 4 and 7 December, respectively.

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A post shared by CommBank Matildas (@matildas)

The opening match will also be a celebration of Matilda’s most-capped player, Brisbane’s very own Clare Polkinghorne. Vice-captain Emily van Egmond is set to earn her 150th cap, becoming just the fourth Australian to achieve this milestone.

Published 21-November-2024