Mount Gravatt Archives - Mount Gravatt News

High-Density Zones Approved for Upper Mount Gravatt Shopping Centre Precinct

Upper Mount Gravatt’s Westfield shopping centre precinct will see new high-density zones allowing apartment buildings under plans approved this week, with proximity to the Brisbane Metro line cited as a key factor in the decision.

The precinct plan passed with broad support and will now proceed to Queensland authorities for approval before returning for final details including specific rezoning areas and building height limits. The Upper Mount Gravatt precinct was selected because of its location next to the new Brisbane Metro line, providing public transport connectivity for future residents.

The high-density zones around the shopping centre aim to concentrate housing near established retail, services and transport infrastructure. Upper Mount Gravatt already features the Westfield Garden City shopping complex, multiple bus routes and the upcoming Metro service, making it well-positioned to accommodate additional residential density.

Community Perspectives on High-Density Development

Brisbane residents have shared mixed views on the high-density zones proposal for Upper Mount Gravatt. Some community members expressed strong support for building apartments near high-frequency public transport, arguing these are exactly the sort of locations that should accommodate denser housing.

Community members have suggested expanding the Mount Gravatt precinct beyond its current boundaries, pointing to strong potential for increased density in areas directly bordering the designated zone. Several residents called for broader upzoning around all train stations and busway stations across Brisbane, rather than isolated precinct-by-precinct changes.

Some community feedback emphasized the need for comprehensive transport infrastructure to support high-density corridors, warning against creating pockets of apartments separated by areas with limited public transport options. The sentiment reflected concerns about distributing transport capacity alongside housing density.

Urban Densification Near Public Transport

The precinct plan forms part of Brisbane’s urban densification approach, intended to build taller apartments near public transport to reduce car dependency. Recent changes include reducing minimum block sizes to 120 square metres and cutting parking requirements for new buildings.

High-density zones approved for Upper Mt Gravatt — Photo Credit: BBC

Other precinct plans under development include Stones Corner, Wynnum Central, Salisbury, Moorooka and Alderley. Each precinct focuses on areas with existing or planned public transport infrastructure and established commercial centers.

The Upper Mount Gravatt high-density zones will complement the shopping centre’s role as a major retail and service hub for Brisbane’s southern suburbs. The precinct acts as a central hub for the wider Southside community, drawing residents from across the surrounding residential suburbs to its retail and transport core.

Authorities will determine the final details following approval, including which areas will be rezoned and the maximum building heights permitted. Once planners finalise the framework, market demand and private investment will drive how quickly new developments get underway.

Published 13-February-2026.

Young Owner Quadruples Sales at Mt Gravatt Chicken Shop with Father’s Recipe

Photo Credit: Sizzling Birds/ Facebook

An unforgettable charcoal chicken, seasoned with a secret family recipe and cooked over smoky mangrove charcoal, is drawing diners from all over Southeast Queensland to a small, bustling shop in Mt Gravatt.

Five years ago, Kesra Sefian took a leap of faith. He used savings from his shisha delivery business to buy the charcoal chicken shop his parents had been running for just over a year. While they had experience from a similar venture in Sydney decades earlier, they found the Brisbane market much tougher. Sefian saw the potential and decided to purchase the business from them, repaying their initial investment and setting out to build on their foundation.

A Modern Twist on Tradition

The heart of Sizzling Birds remains its food, which is deeply rooted in family history. The signature chicken is based on one of his father’s Lebanese-inspired recipes. Sefian explained that his father experimented with about five different marinades, but when he landed on the current one, his son knew it was a winner. He insisted on keeping that specific recipe when he took over the business.

While he honours his father’s creation of Middle Eastern herbs, sea salt, and fresh lemon, Sefian has adapted processes to keep up with overwhelming demand. He no longer brines the halal-sourced birds, a step his father used to take, noting that the difference in flavour is minimal compared to the time saved. The chicken is cooked over mangrove charcoal, which Sefian says provides a perfect smoky flavour. The family connection continues at the front counter, where cookie pies from his mother’s business, Get Stuffed Cookie Pies, are sold.

Building a Community Hub

Sefian credits much of the shop’s explosive growth to his focus on digital marketing, using platforms like Instagram to build a following and attract new customers. This modern approach has turned the small shop in the Civic Fair shopping complex into a well-known name in Brisbane’s food scene.

The strategy has paid off, creating a diverse and loyal customer base. On any given night, the shop is bustling with a mix of longtime locals and families who have driven from as far as Ipswich and the Gold Coast. Sefian noted the strong support from the area’s large Greek community, alongside other migrant families and local Aussies. The menu has also expanded to include hugely popular halal snack packs, grilled chicken burgers, and wings.

The success of Sizzling Birds is a story of generational change, where a son’s belief in a family recipe, paired with a modern business mindset, has created a thriving community hub. After years of hard work, Sefian remarked that the business is finally doing well enough for him to pay himself a wage.

Published Date 15-September-2025

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

Photo Credit: Prime Build/Instagram

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

A New Way To Shop

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

Photo Credit: Westfield

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

Local Store At The Centre Of A Big Shift

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

Photo Credit: Prime Build/Instagram

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

A Bigger Plan For Growth

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

Photo Credit: Westfield

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

Behind The Scenes Investments

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

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

Published 3-June-2025

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

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

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

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

Declutter the Smart Way

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

GIVIT

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

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

Charitable Reuse Australia (NACRO)

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

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

Brisbane Treasure Troves (Endeavour Foundation)

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

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

Resource Recovery Centres

Kerbside Collection — Photo credit: BCC/Facebook

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

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

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

Let’s Keep Brisbane Tidy

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

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

Published 27-May-2025

Griffith Swim Squad Dive into Olympic Dreams with National Scholarships

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

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

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

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

Photo credit: Griffith University Swim Club/Facebook

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

Sienna Harben (Photo credit: Griffith University)

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

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

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

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

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

Published 10-May-2025

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

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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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

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.

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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.

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.

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