Tag: Mount Gravatt

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.

Greek Orthodox
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.

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

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.

Read: Mt Gravatt Op-Shop Sparks Outrage Over Sanitary Pad Pricing

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.

Photo Credit: BCC

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.

Read: Brazil Preps Begin: Matildas Welcome Fans to QSAC

Published 11-December-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.

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.

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

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

Mount Gravatt Football Club’s Kate Guy will be recognized with a Service to Queensland Sport Award at this month’s Queensland Sport Awards, recognizing almost four decades of contribution to Australian rules football.

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

Kate will receive the honour at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on 21 November, joining a celebration that includes eleven Queensland AFL nominations across various categories—a banner year for the code.

Kate Guy, a pioneer in women’s football

Kate’s journey in football began at age 14 when she joined Mount Gravatt’s first women’s team in the 1970s. As a player, coach, team manager, football director, and committee member, she has dedicated herself to advancing women’s participation in the sport.

Her leadership has revolutionised Mount Gravatt AFC’s landscape, growing female membership from those pioneering days to the hundreds across age groups from under-11s to senior women’s. Her vision for inclusive sport was recently celebrated with a 2024 AFL Merit Award.

Kate’s influence extends beyond local boundaries. In 2022, she was selected as one of seven national AFLW community ambassadors, representing Queensland at the AFLW grand final in Adelaide. This role included participating in official events and the on-field presentation of the AFLW Premiership Cup.

Read: Street Spotlight: Amega Street, Mt Gravatt East

The Vultures have immortalised Kate’s pioneering spirit through their women’s best and fairest medal that bears her name. As she prepares to accept the Service to Queensland Sport Award, Kate’s legacy stands as a testament to how one person’s dedication can open doors for generations of athletes to come.

Published 11-November-2024

Griffith Professor Awarded Prestigious TeachX Recognition for Educational Leadership

Beryl Exley, Professor at Griffith University has been honoured as one of Queensland’s most influential teachers at the prestigious Queensland College of Teachers 2024 TeachX awards. 

Read: Griffith University and PsiQuantum to Open Quantum Computing Test Lab

Professor Exley received the Excellence in Teacher Education award, recognising her significant impact on shaping the next generation of educators.

With a career spanning over three decades, her journey in education began in 1987. She dedicated her first 12 years to teaching in both state and independent schools, where her passion for literacy education flourished. This passion led her to pursue higher education, completing a Master of Education Honours and a PhD.

Photo credit: qct.edu.au

Professor Exley’s commitment to advancing education extended beyond the classroom. She spent 17 years at the Queensland University of Technology and seven years at Griffith University, where she has been instrumental in developing Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programs. Her expertise and dedication have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by her securing over $2.25 million in research funding throughout her career.

A prolific researcher, Professor Exley has published more than 100 research articles and reports focusing on literacy education and working with preservice teachers in ITE programs. Her influence in the field is further exemplified by her past role as the National President of the Australian Literacy Educators’ Association, where she continues to be a respected life member.

Photo credit: Griffith University

Professor Exley’s adaptability and leadership were particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. When professional experience placements were disrupted in 2020, she collaborated with other universities and the Department of Education to implement an innovative online professional experience program for soon-to-be graduating preservice teachers. This initiative not only allowed students to graduate on time but also equipped them with valuable skills for the evolving educational landscape.

From 2018 to 2022, she held the position of Deputy Head of School of Education and Professional Studies at Griffith University, overseeing the academic and teaching and learning portfolio. Her leadership in this role further solidified her reputation as a driving force in educational innovation and excellence.

2024 TeachX Awards

Photo credit: Queensland College of Teachers

Professor Exley’s recognition at the TeachX awards, where she was selected from 349 nominations and 80 shortlisted candidates, underscores the significant impact she has had on education in Queensland. 

As one of the 31 teachers honoured this year, her award celebrates not only her individual achievements but also her outstanding contributions to the school community and the teaching profession as a whole.

Read: Griffith University Secures Funding to Expand AI Koala Tracking System

Through her tireless efforts in research, teacher education, and leadership, Professor Beryl Exley continues to shape the future of education in Queensland and beyond, inspiring both current and future generations of educators.

Published 10-October-2024

Powerline Explosion Leaves Hundreds Without Electricity

Photo Credit: Energex

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

Read: Mt Gravatt Mourns Loss of Local Business Icon John Zupp

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.

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

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.

Photo Credit: Zupp Property Group

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.

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

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.

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

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.

“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. 

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.

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.

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.

Read: Veteran Jacob Whetton Aims for Gold in Third Olympic Appearance

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.

Read: Griffith University Swimming Champ Kaylee McKeown Eyes Gold at Paris 2024

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