Mount Gravatt Archives - Mount Gravatt News

Powerline Explosion Leaves Hundreds Without Electricity

The residents of Mount Gravatt are facing a power outage after a powerline explosion left over 100 customers without electricity.

The incident occurred on Howsan Street, where a Queensland Fire and Rescue crew responded to the scene just after 6:30 pm. A video shared on social media shows flames and thick smoke billowing from the live power line.

“Crews are there protecting any possible exposures, they are looking for Energex to come cut the power so we can put it out,” said a Queensland Fire Department spokesperson.

It’s understood that Howsan Street has been blocked off as the emergency services work to control the powerline explosion.

The power outage is currently affecting 124 customers on Clausen Street, Howsan Street, and Invermore Street in the Mount Gravatt area. Energex crews are on-site, working to repair the damaged lines and restore electricity to the affected homes and businesses.

This incident comes as a significant disruption to the local community, with residents and businesses left without power during the evening hours. Energex has assured that their teams are working diligently to resolve the issue and return normalcy to the area as soon as possible.

Published 30-August-2024

Mt Gravatt Mourns Loss of Local Business Icon John Zupp

Photo Credit: Facebook / Deluca

The local community is grieving the loss of John Zupp, a prominent figure in Queensland’s automotive industry and a former Mt Gravatt businessman, who passed away last Thursday at the age of 93.

Zupp, known for his larger-than-life personality and innovative approach to car dealership, died peacefully at his Sanctuary Cove home after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his wife of 60 years, Wendy, and his daughters Toni and Terri.

For decades, Zupp was a household name in Mt Gravatt and across Queensland, recognised for his catchy slogans “Big John Zupp” and “Any Old Iron” that resonated through radio and television advertisements. His Zupps of Mount Gravatt dealership became a landmark in our community, known for its distinctive yellow elephant logo.

Beyond his business acumen, Zupp played a significant role in Australian motorsport history. In the early 1970s, he provided crucial support to Dick Johnson, who would later become a multiple Australian Touring Car Champion and Bathurst 1000 winner. Johnson drove a yellow Torana for Zupps, competing in Series Production and Group C races, which helped launch his illustrious career.

Zupp’s contributions extended beyond the automotive world. His philanthropic efforts and support for various social welfare organisations earned him the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2006.

After selling his car business to Eagers in 2007, Zupp ventured into property development, founding the Zupp Property Group. His legacy in Mt Gravatt and Queensland’s business landscape remains indelible.

Photo Credit: Facebook / Zupp Property Group

John Zupp’s passing marks the end of an era for Mt Gravatt’s business community. He is survived by his wife Wendy, daughters Toni Mills and Terri McGuire, and his extended family. The funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Published 26-August-2024

Mount Gravatt Hawks’ Marquez Walters Powers Moreton City Excelsior to the Brink of History

Mount Gravatt Hawks product Marquez Walters’ outstanding form has propelled Moreton City Excelsior to the brink of a historic season as they gear up for their biggest challenge yet: the Australia Cup RO16 clash against giants Perth Glory.

Read: QSAC in Mt Gravatt Risks Embarrassing Australia on World Stage, Warns Olympic Great

The rise of ‘Sharky’ Marquez Walters

‘Sharky’ Marquez Walters, the 22-year-old striker known for his iconic goal celebration, has become the talisman for Moreton City Excelsior, rising from Mount Gravatt Hawks U11s under his father’s tutelage to the verge of national prominence.

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“I’m going to make the ‘Sharky’ go national,” Walters boldly declared to his teammates. His signature celebration, with Walters placing his right hand on his forehead like a shark fin, has become a visual staple of his goal-scoring exploits, aptly symbolising his predatory instinct on the field.

An inside joke turned trademark, his ‘Sharky’ celebration has become synonymous with his goal-scoring prowess. With 19 goals in 20 matches in the current NPL Queensland competition, he’s already surpassed his league-leading tally of 17 goals from the previous season.

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This consistent performance has been crucial in propelling Moreton City to consecutive second-place finishes in the league ladder and a grand final appearance in 2023—with immense hope for a better final series this year.

Walters’ impact was most evident during Moreton City’s Australia Cup Round of 32 triumph against Campbelltown City. His second-half brace, showcasing his ability to finish on his weaker foot, was instrumental in the team’s commanding 5-1 victory.

From childhood training to national stage

Walters’ success on the field is no accident. A childhood training session focused solely on left-foot play, insisted upon by his Jamaican-born father, laid the foundation for his current two-footedness.

“He said only the top-class strikers finish, dribble and pass with both of their feet,” Walters spoke about his father’s advice. “Next thing you know, I’m using my left foot like it’s nothing.”

Beyond his goal-scoring, Walters’ leadership, both on and off the field, has galvanised the team, turning previous close matches into dominant victories.

History lies ahead

As Moreton City Excelsior prepares to host two-time Australia Cup finalists Perth Glory, Walters is poised to lead his team to what could be the most significant victory in the club’s recent history.

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Lifting the Australia Cup would not only be historic but would also lead to participation in a continental tournament, the AFC Champions League Two.

Before their cup clash, Excelsior will face Rochedale Rovers away at Underwood Park in their final NPLQ game of the league season. Although this match won’t impact seeding, it presents Walters with an opportunity to leap into the top scorer position in the league.

Read: Mt Gravatt Welcomes Australia’s Top Children’s Author, Andy Griffiths

“What I hope to get out of this is to put the club’s name and my name out there to show that we aren’t a small club at all.”

Published 15-August-2024

Zac Stubblety-Cook Claims Silver in Olympic 200m Breaststroke Amidst COVID Challenge

Nathan star and Churchie old Boy Zac Stubblety-Cook secured a silver medal while battling COVID in a thrilling Olympic men’s 200m breaststroke final, narrowly missing out on defending his Olympic title.

Read: Nathan Star Zac Stubblety-Cook Aims for Second Olympic Triumph at Paris 2024

French swimming sensation Leon Marchand took the gold, completing a remarkable double victory. Marchand dominated the race, finishing in 2:05.85, nearly a second ahead of Stubblety-Cook’s 2:06.79. The Frenchman’s performance comes just two hours after his triumph in the 200-metre butterfly.

Zac Stubblety-Cook battles the virus

The celebration of Stubblety-Cook’s silver medal is tempered by the revelation of a growing COVID cluster within the Australian Olympic team. Stubblety-Cook disclosed that he competed while battling a coronavirus infection, having completed a five-day course of antivirals on the day of the race.

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A post shared by Zac Stubblety-Cook OAM (@zacstubblety)

This news follows the withdrawal of fellow Dolphin Lani Pallister from the 1500m frees due to coronavirus concerns.

The impact of the virus extends beyond the Australian team, with other nations, including Great Britain, reporting cases among their swimmers.

Read: QSAC in Nathan Set to Become Smallest Olympic Stadium in a Century

Stubblety-Cook’s resilience in the face of adversity and his sportsmanship shine through as he commends his rival, Marchand, for his historic performance.

Published 01-August-2024

Mount Gravatt Kookaburras Star Hoping To Bring Home Gold From Paris

Former Clairvaux MacKillop College student (Class of 2008), Jacob Whetton, will embark on what may be his final Olympics appearance in Paris this week.

Bringing home Silver in Tokyo 2021 but losing the final to Belgium in a shootout, the 33 year old forward will be part of a Kookaburras team with a genuine chance of going one better in Paris.

The bookies have Belgium as very slight favourites to repeat their Tokyo Gold medal over Australia and the Netherlands with Germany the best of the rest.

Whetton quipped that he was introduced to the sport of Hockey because his mum and dad both played and so it was easier bringing him and his sister to games than getting a babysitter.

He currently plays for Brisbane Blaze in the Hockey One League after a three-year stint in the Indian Hockey League with the Punjab Warriors. Though in 2020, he signed a contract to play for Oranje-Rood in the Dutch Hockey League but Covid caused that deal to collapse.

The 2024 Olympics Tournament will be played at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium. The Kookaburras opening match against Argentina will be at 9:15 p.m. Brisbane time on Saturday night, 27 July.

Their next match will be against Ireland at 6:00 p.m. Brisbane time on Monday, 29 July followed by a rematch of the Tokyo final when they take on Belgium at 3:45 a.m. Brisbane time on Wednesday 31 July. They then take on New Zealand at 6:30 p.m. Brisbane time on Thursday 1 August, with the final pool match against India at 9:15 p.m. on Friday 2 August.

The Top 4 from Pool and Pool B will then embark on the Quarter finals from Sunday 4 August.

Should the Kookaburras repeat their Tokyo 2021 achievement of making the final, it will be played at 3:00 a.m. Brisbane time on Friday 9 August.

Stan Sports will have a dedicated Hockey Channel showing the games live as part of their Olympics coverage.

Jacob and the Kookaburras Group Schedule

Vultures vs Cats: Broadbeach Overpower Determined Mt Gravatt in the QAFL

Saturday’s highly anticipated QAFL Match of the Round saw the Broadbeach Cats get the better of the Mt Gravatt Vultures in a high-scoring showdown. Vultures vs Cats kicked off last Saturday, June 1, at Southside Toyota Oval.

Read: Mount Gravatt Set to Score Hole-in-One with Holey Moley and Hijinx Hotel

Vultures vs Cats

The Cats seized control early, racing to a commanding lead in the first half. Tasmanian forward Thomas Reeves was unstoppable, booting five of his seven goals before halftime. It finished 1.3 (9) to 18.6 (114) in favour of Broadbeach at the break.

Despite trailing by a daunting 105 points at the halfway mark, Mt Gravatt refused to wave the white flag. Veteran Matthew Hardess and Kaeden Corboy led an inspired fightback after the break, with the Vultures’ pressure making it a more even contest after halftime (26 to 36 in favour of Broadbeach in the third).

While disappointed with the 28.18 (186) to 7.6 (48) loss, Vultures coach Hamish Mitchell took plenty of positives from his young team’s second-half resurgence against their more seasoned opponents. “When going up against a bigger and more experienced side, it’s challenging,” Mitchell said, “The second half was 10 goals to six, much more even than what we played in the first half.”

Read: Fashion Enthusiasts Flock to Westfield Mt Gravatt for Grand Opening of Uniqlo

Brisbane Lions stars visit training

In other news, Brisbane Lions players Kai Lohmann and Harry Sharp were special guests at Mt Gravatt training during the week. The duo shared valuable advice with the club’s players before dining with them after the session.

Published 07-June-2024

Mount Gravatt Set to Score Hole-in-One with Holey Moley and Hijinx Hotel

Photo Credit: Hijinx Hotel Mount Gravatt

Get ready to putt your way through pop culture and puzzle your way out of a quirky hotel—Mount Gravatt is about to unleash a one-of-a-kind entertainment wonderland!

Hijinx Hotel in Mount Gravatt — *Photo Credit:* *Hijinx Hotel Mount Gravatt*

Holey Moley and Hijinx Hotel, two popular entertainment venues, are set to open their doors at Westfield Mt Gravatt Shopping Centre on Friday, 26th of July, 2024.

This 350-person precinct will feature a unique blend of activities, including an 18-hole mini golf course with a pop culture theme, ten themed challenge rooms, karaoke facilities, and two bars serving cocktails and food. This will be Holey Moley’s fourth location in Brisbane and Hijinx Hotel’s second.

A Look at the Brands

Holey Moley is known for its nostalgic, pop-culture-themed mini golf courses and playful cocktails. The Mt Gravatt course promises to be no exception, with themes like 742 Evergreen TCE and Moon & Pars taking players on a trip down memory lane.

Hijinx Hotel, on the other hand, offers an immersive experience with its escape-room-style challenge rooms. Each room is uniquely themed, drawing inspiration from The Grand Budapest Hotel, The Shining’s Overlook Hotel, and Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. The Mt Gravatt location will feature games like Zig-a-Zag ah Ball Pool, Candy Ball Pit, and Poke-the-dot.

Funlab’s Growing Footprint

*Photo Credit:* *Hijinx Hotel Mount Gravatt*

Both Holey Moley and Hijinx Hotel are brands under Funlab, a company that specialises in creating entertainment venues. With existing locations across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Mt Gravatt precinct marks a continued expansion for both brands.

Funlab has been pairing putt with adult beverages since 2016, creating spaces that appeal to those looking for a fun night out with a touch of nostalgia.

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A New Entertainment Destination for Mt Gravatt

The opening of Holey Moley and Hijinx Hotel in Mt Gravatt is expected to add a new dimension to the area’s entertainment offerings.

With its unique combination of mini golf, challenge rooms, karaoke, and bars, the precinct promises to be a popular destination for groups, parties, and anyone looking for a fun and different night out.

Published Date 05-June-2024

Seton College in Mt Gravatt East Set to Close, Sparking Concern Among Parents and Students

Seton College, a cornerstone school in Mount Gravatt East for students with disabilities, is scheduled to close at the end of 2024, raising concerns about future educational provisions for its current students.

Established in 1964, Seton College has long been a sanctuary for students needing specialised education due to disabilities. However, a 2020 review initiated by Brisbane Catholic Education led to a decision to close the school, citing better outcomes for students with disabilities in inclusive learning environments.

Despite starting the year with 224 students, the school’s enrolment dwindled to just 23 students in its final year, all of whom are in Year 12.

Many parents are grappling with mixed feelings as the school year concludes. While one mum is grateful her son could complete his education at Seton, she is saddened by the loss of such a unique educational institution.

Reflecting on her son’s experiences, the mother highlighted Seton’s transformative impact on him, contrasting it with his challenging times in mainstream schooling.

Seton College to close — *Photo Credit: Seton College/Renae Droop/RDW Photography*

Another parent echoed these sentiments, praising the school’s tailored approach, which significantly aided her son’s development into a successful artist and soon-to-be-published author.

The closure has not been without controversy or challenge. Parents and advocates formed the Save Our Seton group, leading efforts to contest the decision. Their initiatives included petitions and protests, aiming to reverse the closure.

Frustrations were fueled by perceived shortcomings in the school’s final-year offerings, which some parents felt did not meet the educational needs or expectations of Brisbane Catholic Education. As the school prepares to close, the final batch of students will not receive traditional high school certificates due to insufficient credit points resulting from the reduced curriculum in the transition period, adding to the disappointment of parents.

A spokesperson for Brisbane Catholic Education reiterated that the closure is part of a planned five-year transition strategy to integrate students with disabilities into mainstream educational settings.

They assured that the current Year 12 students would experience a customary graduation, and that staff from Seton College would be offered redeployment within the network, aiming to preserve the community and expertise developed over the school’s long history.

Published 2-June-2024

Mercure Brisbane Garden City Hotel in Upper Mount Gravatt to be Demolished for New Apartments Project

Melbourne-based diversified investment group and property developer, Salter Brothers, is set to make its first development play in the Queensland capital with new apartments right in Upper Mount Gravatt.

The project involves the demolition of the Mercure Brisbane Garden City Hotel in Upper Mount Gravatt and the development of a new 17-level apartment building at 18 Macgregor Street, Upper Mount Gravatt. The 5,356 sqm site is ideally located a mere five-minute walk from Garden City Westfield, one of Brisbane’s largest shopping centres.

**Mercure Brisbane Garden City Hotel**
Photo Credit: Google Maps

The plans for the mixed-use building, created by Bates Smart, a firm with a rich history dating back to the mid-1850s, include 101 apartments above a four-level podium. This podium will house a 90-space childcare centre and parking for 107 cars.

The residential apartments, starting from level six and running through to level 17, are designed as “gently undulating petals,” according to Bates Smart’s submission to the Brisbane City Council. The design is inspired by the native indigenous Tea Tree Flower and Wallum Banksia, two species of flora endemic to the region. Each apartment is expressed as an individual ‘petal’ with a curved edge, spatially and visually separated from the adjacent apartment.

Each floor will house eight apartments, six two-bedrooms, and two three-bedrooms. The living rooms and balconies capitalise on the views and solar access.

A rooftop communal terrace, conceived as an extension of the nearby Toohey Forest Park, will span the entirety of level 18. The rooftop will feature a pool, mineral spa, and a landscaped seating area oriented to the north, offering a primary view outlook towards Mount Gravatt. Additional amenities include a resident gym, an amenity room, and a landscaped barbecue area.

Bates Smart drew inspiration from the local Turrbal and Jagera Peoples’ name for Mount Gravatt, ‘kaggur-madul’, meaning the ‘Place of the Echidna’, or ‘Where Echidnas Rest’, when designing the external shading system. The design mimics the delicate fine grain repetition of echidna spikes, reminiscent of traditional indigenous jewellery making.

Meanwhile, down in its native Melbourne, Salter is currently developing Candela Ivanhoe, a project comprising 62 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments in Melbourne’s northeast.

Published 26-April-2024

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

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

Nationwide Boom

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

The Top 10 Surge

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

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

Market Insights

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

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

Property Market — *Photo Credit: Unsplash*

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

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

Market Conditions and Outlook

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

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

Published 11-April-2024