mt gravatt Archives - Mount Gravatt News

QAFL Colts Talent Highlights Emerging Players in Mt Gravatt

Several Mt Gravatt footballers have been recognised for their performance in the QAFL Colts competition, with four players named among the early standouts.

Local Recognition in QAFL Colts

Mt Gravatt’s representation in the 2025 QAFL Colts competition has gained attention, with four players from the club highlighted among the early-season performers. Despite a slow start to the season, the club’s emerging talents have shown signs of strong individual development.

Mt Gravatt QAFL — *Photo Credit: QAFL/Instagram*

Four Young Talents Making an Impact

Max Hoffmann has impressed early in the season. The Cairns recruit, who previously earned a Rising Star Award, has transitioned into Mt Gravatt’s line-up as a ruckman and forward. Standing at 190cm, Hoffmann has been reliable in the air and has contributed in general play with his ability to function like an additional midfielder around the contest.

In defence, Lachlan Newberry has played a dependable role. Rarely beaten in one-on-one situations, he has also added an attacking element to his game, showcasing his capacity to intercept and move the ball forward.

Utility player Luke Kirkman has brought flexibility to the team. Capable of playing in several positions, Kirkman has shown clean left-foot skills and a readiness to take the game on when possession opens up. His ability to fill gaps across the field has been valuable in a side still working to find rhythm.

Midfielder Lachlan Lovell, another arrival from Cairns, has started to settle into the club’s game plan. With strong running and dual-foot kicking, he offers a dynamic option through the middle and is gaining confidence in his new environment.

Mt Gravatt colts — *Photo Credit: QAFL/Instagram*

Building Towards Competitiveness

Although Mt Gravatt remain winless after four rounds, signs of improvement are evident. The team’s structure is beginning to form around these developing players, each showing flashes of capability that could benefit the club as the season progresses.

The focus now turns to how Mt Gravatt can convert individual promise into team results as they continue their campaign in the QAFL Colts competition.

Published 10-May-2025

Koala Deaths Spark Fox Control Calls in Mt Gravatt

Photo Credit: Queensland Koala Society/Facebook

Six koalas have died in Mt Gravatt following reported fox attacks, prompting renewed calls from local groups for city officials’ intervention.

Ongoing Koala Deaths Raise Alarm in Mt Gravatt

The Queensland Koala Society has confirmed six koala deaths caused by fox attacks in the Mt Gravatt area, including one incident involving a joey. The fatalities have occurred across the forested zone near the TAFE Mount Gravatt campus and adjoining council-owned bushland.

Mt Gravatt koala deaths — *Photo Credit: Queensland Koala Society/Facebook*

Mounting Concerns from Local Representatives

Local official Steve Griffiths has raised concerns over the lack of BCC response to repeated incident reports from koala groups. Despite requests for assistance, local volunteers say no effective council action has been taken to address fox-related threats in the area.

BCC stated that Mr Griffiths had not previously contacted them and confirmed that pest management officers have now reached out to the TAFE campus. However, Mr Griffiths said he had written to the city authorities and raised the issue directly.

Ongoing Habitat Challenges in Mt Gravatt

The population affected is part of a group of approximately 30 koalas in Mt Gravatt. Queensland Koala Society has used monitoring cameras to capture fox movement and the aftermath of attacks. The group has also highlighted that koalas are most vulnerable when moving between trees, especially in fragmented habitats.

Fox activity has been reported across the broader Brisbane area, including suburban streets and riverbanks. Mr Griffiths noted that officers are capable and willing to respond, but reductions in council staff have affected overall capacity to manage such incidents effectively.

Previous Mitigation Measures at TAFE Campus

In 2022, koala exclusion fencing was installed at the front of the TAFE Mt Gravatt campus through a collaborative effort involving the Queensland Koala Society, TAFE Queensland, QBuild, the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, the Mount Gravatt East Townhouse Development Action Group, and local official Corrine McMillan. The fencing was designed to keep koalas away from high-risk road corridors, such as Cavendish Road.

The fencing was designed to keep koalas away from high-risk road corridors, such as Cavendish Road.

This measure is believed to have contributed to the stability of the koala population within the campus. Recent spotter reports included sightings of up to 17 koalas in a short span, even following adverse weather conditions. These gains are now threatened by increased fox activity in surrounding bushland.

Community Frustration Builds Over Delayed Response

Community volunteers have expressed frustration at the pace of action on what they view as an urgent issue. Despite repeated communications with council representatives, including written appeals, advocates say the matter remains unresolved.

Mr Griffiths has reiterated these concerns and called on council leadership to meet with koala groups and support coordinated fox control efforts across Mt Gravatt and nearby areas.

Path Forward and Ongoing Risks

Queensland Koala Society seeks immediate BCC intervention to manage fox populations in and around Mt Gravatt. The group maintains that coordinated pest control is vital to prevent further losses within this vulnerable urban koala colony.

Published 11-Apr-2025

Koala Survival Rates Highlight Gaps in Mt Gravatt Strategy

Photo Credit: Queensland Koala Society/Facebook

Koala conservation efforts in Mt Gravatt are showing mixed results, with exclusion fencing helping to reduce road deaths but threats from predators and traffic remaining a concern.

Background on Conservation Efforts

In 2022, exclusion fencing was installed at the front of TAFE Queensland’s Mount Gravatt campus. This initiative was spearheaded by the Mount Gravatt East Townhouse Development Action Group (MGETDAG), with the support of Queensland Koala Society Inc., TAFE Queensland, QBUILD, the Department of Employment, Small Business and Training, and Ms Corrine McMillan for Mansfield.

It was aimed at preventing koalas from accessing the high-risk corridor along Cavendish Road. The fencing includes unclimbable sheeting to deter koalas from entering dangerous traffic areas. Koalas can jump as high as 1.2 metres.

Mt Gravatt wildlife — *Photo Credit: Queensland Koala Society/Facebook*

Regular monitoring of the area has been successful. Spotters from the Queensland Koala Society, who would typically see up to 12 koalas in a day, recently recorded 17 in just 1.5 hours, despite adverse weather conditions.

MGETDAG also provided funding for the Koala Kindergarten tree nursery at QKS Chandler, with its volunteers actively participating in planting the seedlings.

Ongoing Threats to Local Wildlife

Despite the progress, Mt Gravatt remains a high-risk area for koalas. The 2024 Koala Report Card recorded 168 incidents of injured or sick koalas across Brisbane South-East, with 113 deaths. Within Mt Gravatt East, 27 incidents were reported, including 21 fatalities. Nearby, Upper Mt Gravatt had 14 incidents and 12 deaths recorded.

At Mt Gravatt TAFE, four incidents occurred. All four were confirmed koala deaths. However, the recent death of a five-year-old female koala and her six-week-old joey due to a fox attack has brought attention to a rising threat from predators on campus grounds.

Speed and Visibility Risks

Data from the region shows that 62% of vehicle strikes occurred in 60 km/h zones, where the koala survival rate is around 55%. In 70 km/h zones, the survival rate drops to 20%, and at speeds of 80 km/h or higher, survival is nil. Mt Gravatt Outlook, where eight incidents occurred and five koalas died, continues to face risks due to poor visibility, unresolved gate management issues, and narrow verge conditions.

Public Awareness and Local Engagement

Community reporting and active involvement remain vital. Reports from local volunteers and spotters have been crucial in identifying patterns, especially during peak breeding months from August to November. Multiple posts on social media from conservation groups and residents have called for improved habitat connectivity and immediate action on predator management.

A local report noted that conjunctivitis and cystitis remain prevalent among koalas during breeding season, increasing vulnerability. Tristania Way and Edwards Parks reported 15 koala deaths in 2024, mostly linked to disease.

Conclusion and Next Steps

While exclusion fencing has improved koala safety in targeted parts of Mt Gravatt, comprehensive habitat protection, predator control, and road safety upgrades are still required. Conservation groups are urging BCC to prioritise these next steps.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Mt Gravatt Roads Among Slowest as SEQ Traffic Worsens, RACQ Reports

Photo Credit: RACQ

Peak-hour commuters in South East Queensland, especially those navigating roads near Mt Gravatt, are now enduring dramatically slower journeys. A stark RACQ analysis of the region’s worsening traffic gridlock shows that average speeds on the worst-hit sections plummet to just 20 kilometres per hour.

Worsening Gridlock Across SEQ

The latest Travel Speeds Report from Queensland’s peak motoring body, the RACQ, paints a grim picture of traffic flow across the South East. Based on data analysed from Transport and Main Roads covering travel last year, the report reveals a steady decline in traffic speeds compared to five years ago in 2019.

On weekdays last year, average morning rush hour speeds were found to be slower on 65 out of 98 major road sections studied across Brisbane, representing 66 per cent of those corridors. The situation was slightly worse in the afternoon peak, with 67 sections (68 per cent) experiencing slower speeds than in 2019. Overall, peak-hour speeds on some major routes have slowed by as much as 39 per cent since 2019.

Hotspots Hit Hardest

Certain areas are feeling the squeeze more than others. The Logan Road section between Padstow Road and Kessels Road, impacting suburbs like Mount Gravatt, Upper Mount Gravatt, and Macgregor, recorded the worst inbound morning peak congestion. Average speeds dropped dramatically from 31 kilometres per hour in 2019 to just 20 kilometres per hour last year. For the afternoon peak, Sandgate Road between Braun Street/Roghan Road and Depot Road saw average speeds fall sharply by 38.6 per cent, from 44 kilometres per hour in 2019 down to 27 kilometres per hour.

Other significant bottlenecks include the Centenary Motorway between the Ipswich Motorway and Dandenong Road, where morning traffic crawled at an average of 31.7 kilometres per hour – a staggering 63 kilometres per hour slower than speeds during free-flowing conditions. Heading outbound from the city, the Pacific Motorway section between North Quay and O’Keefe Street was the most congested, slowing to an average of just 28 kilometres per hour.

On the Gold Coast, the Pacific Motorway stretch from Nielsens Road to the Nerang River at Carrara showed the largest difference between peak and free-flow times in the afternoon, averaging 40.7 kilometres per hour, which is 48.9 kilometres per hour slower than unimpeded travel. Commuters using the Centenary Motorway from the Ipswich Motorway to Fig Tree Pocket Road during the morning peak last year faced an average journey speed of only 35.9 kilometres per hour, adding almost seven minutes to their drive each way.

RACQ calculates this equates to motorists losing more than 28 hours stuck in traffic over a standard working year. Gympie Road users travelling outbound between Kedron Park Road and Albany Creek Road also suffered, crawling at an average of 24.8 kilometres per hour during weekday afternoon peaks, over 18 kilometres per hour slower than free-flow speeds.

Call for Long-Term Plan

In response to these findings, the RACQ urgently calls for a comprehensive, long-term transport plan for South East Queensland. RACQ Head of Public Policy, Dr Michael Kane, stated that such a strategy is desperately needed to tackle the chronic congestion, which is harming the region’s productivity and the lifestyle residents value.

He noted that with the 2032 Olympic Games approaching and continued population growth, addressing transport infrastructure is critical. Dr Kane suggested public support for the Games would increase if people saw clear legacy benefits, particularly better transport options.

Proposed Road and Motorway Upgrades

Dr Kane highlighted critical gaps in the region’s outer ring road system, currently formed by the Gateway, Logan, and Centenary Motorways. He explained that these missing links unnecessarily funnel excessive traffic into and near the Brisbane CBD, causing significant stress on the network. The RACQ believes governments must seriously consider delivering an upgrade for the Centenary Motorway between the Ipswich Motorway and Legacy Way in Toowong. Furthermore, planning for a new north-west corridor connecting the Centenary Motorway with the Bruce Highway must divert through-traffic away from local roads.

Progress is also needed on previously announced projects. Dr Kane pointed out that $1 billion was allocated in 2019 for Gateway North Motorway upgrades, a stretch where motorists faced average afternoon peak delays of three and a half minutes last year just between the Deagon Deviation and Pine Rivers Bridge. He urged that this work and the proposed Bruce Highway upgrades from Pine Rivers Bridge to Anzac Avenue should proceed.

Public Transport and Cycling Solutions

Beyond road infrastructure, the RACQ advocates for significant improvements to public and active transport to give commuters viable alternatives to driving. Dr Kane identified the severe congestion on Gympie Road as requiring urgent planning, suggesting solutions could include expanding Brisbane Metro services north to Carseldine. He also proposed extending Metro services south to Loganholme and east to Capalaba, potentially using smaller electric ‘Metro Glider’ buses on other key routes into central Brisbane.

Certainty regarding future public transport connections to the Brisbane Airport precinct is also necessary. Complementing these public transport investments, the RACQ supports the expansion of cycling paths across the region to encourage more people to leave their cars at home for their daily commute. The motoring body affirmed it will continue to work with all levels of government to push for better transport planning that delivers lasting benefits for Queenslanders.

Published Date 09-April-2025

Ballet Prodigy from Mt Gravatt East Takes the Stage in Romeo & Juliet

Photo Credit: QLD Ballet/Instagram

Eighteen-year-old Ruby Day from Mt Gravatt East is set to perform with the Queensland Ballet in the upcoming production of Romeo & Juliet. Her inclusion in the company follows an impressive rise through the ranks, culminating in an official contract in November of last year, after earning the Rudolph Nureyev Foundation’s Best Young Talent Award at the Prix de Lausanne.

A Rapid Rise in Ballet

Ms Day’s journey through the Queensland Ballet Academy has been marked by rapid progression. She started in the Associate Program before advancing through its levels. She bypassed the Jette Parker Young Artist Program to transition directly from the Pre-Professional Program (PPP) to Company Artist.

Ms Day’s career gained momentum in 2024 when she performed in The Nutcracker. Now, she prepares to step onto the stage in Romeo & Juliet, a production she has long admired for its intricate choreography and artistic depth.

From Academy to Professional Stage

Transitioning from student to professional has been exciting and challenging for Ms Day. Training at the academy involved years of rigorous preparation. Stepping into the role of Company Artist has been a milestone for her too.

Her preparation for Romeo & Juliet has involved working closely with experienced coaches and répétiteurs. The opportunity to perform in this ballet is a significant career highlight, solidifying her place in the company’s 2025 season.

Ruby Day — *Photo Credit: QLD Ballet/Instagram*

An Unexpected Journey into Ballet

Ms Day’s path to professional ballet was not conventional. She initially trained in jazz, tap, and musical theatre. Only after focused training in ballet and acceptance into the Queensland Ballet Academy did she find her true passion for the art form.

Ms Day focused on continuous improvement. She frequently sought guidance from instructors and mentors. The support of the Queensland Ballet Academy faculty, particularly Paul Boyd, played a key role in shaping her artistic development.

Romeo and Juliet — *Photo Credit: QLD Ballet/Instagram*

A Milestone Moment and Future Aspirations

Ms Day received her Queensland Ballet contract on her birthday. It added a personal significance to the milestone. The moment marked the beginning of an exciting new phase. She looks forward to refining her artistry and learning from the company’s experienced dancers.

Queensland Ballet celebrates its 65th anniversary. Ms Day’s presence in the ensemble highlights the company’s dedication to nurturing young talent.

Published 21-Mar-2025

Mt Gravatt Suburban Renewal Precinct to Boost Homes, Shops, and Transport

Photo Credit: BCC/Google Maps

Plans to revitalise Mt Gravatt as a Suburban Renewal Precinct have been announced. The new design increases housing, attracts new businesses, and enhances public transport connectivity. The plan focuses on the Logan Road corridor, incorporating Mt Gravatt Plaza and surrounding commercial areas to support population growth and economic development.

Mt Gravatt has long been a key suburban centre in Brisbane’s south, known for its commercial hubs, strong transport links, and proximity to major shopping centres like Westfield Mt Gravatt. However, local businesses and residents ave expressed concerns about the suburb’s underutilised potential.

BCC’s Suburban Renewal Precinct initiative, first introduced in 2022, aims to modernise selected suburbs through targeted planning, rather than implementing a citywide development update. The approach has already been rolled out in suburbs such as Moorooka, Salisbury, Wynnum, and Stones Corner, with Mt Gravatt now next in line.

Mt Gravatt Suburban Renewal Precinct — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

The renewal plan intends to address Brisbane’s growing housing demand while boosting local business activity. Similar strategies in Stones Corner have included rezoning for high-density apartments, a move expected to double the suburb’s population by 2046.

What the Mt Gravatt Precinct Plan Covers

The Mt Gravatt Centre Suburban Renewal Precinct will focus on key areas along Logan Road, stretching from Glindemann Park in Holland Park to the Mt Gravatt Showgrounds. The plan aims to:

Allow for higher-density residential development to increase housing supply.
Support mixed-use zoning, encouraging new businesses such as cafés, restaurants, and retail spaces.
Enhance public transport accessibility by prioritising high-frequency bus services.
Improve infrastructure and public spaces, making the suburb more pedestrian-friendly.

A BCC spokesperson stated that the precinct plan will be based on technical investigations, community feedback, and State reviews. Once finalised, it will be adopted into Brisbane City Plan 2014 to guide future developments.

Community Reactions: Optimism and Concerns

The Mt Gravatt Central Business Hub and local business owners have welcomed the renewal initiative, highlighting the need for a stronger economic centre. Business Hub president Louise Papas expressed optimism, stating that the plan would help unlock the area’s potential and bring in more customers and investment opportunities.

Similarly, Mt Gravatt Show Society president Greg Goebel noted that many families were drawn to the area due to its strong schools and convenient transport but felt the suburb had not reached its full potential.

Mt Gravatt Precinct Plan — *Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View*

However, some residents and opposition leaders have voiced concerns about the lack of urgency in implementing the changes. City official Jared Cassidy criticised the authorities for its slow progress since the initial 2022 announcement, urging for a more precise timeline and greater public consultation.

Project Timeline and Next Steps

The BCC has outlined the following timeline for the Mt Gravatt Centre Suburban Renewal Precinct:

Early 2025 – Background and technical investigations.
Mid-Late 2025 – Draft plan released for community consultation.
Late 2025 – Mid 2026 – Public feedback reviewed, final plan prepared, and approval process with the Queensland Government.

Community members are encouraged to provide feedback once the draft is released.

Updated 14-March-2025

Clairvaux MacKillop College Graduates Shine in Mt Gravatt

Graduates from Clairvaux MacKillop College in Upper Mount Gravatt have achieved outstanding academic success with 15 individual subject scores surpassing 98. Their achievements have been recognised as part of Brisbane Catholic Education’s (BCE) inaugural Student Excellence Awards.

High ATAR Scores and Vocational Achievements

The 2024 cohort demonstrated strong academic performance. 30 per cent of ATAR students attained a score of 90 or above. Alongside these academic successes, 109 students completed vocational education and training (VET) qualifications. Meanwhile, nine students earned Diplomas of Business. Many students also participated in school-based apprenticeships and traineeships. This reinforces the College’s commitment to a diverse range of educational pathways.

Clairvaux MacKillop College Principal Wayne Chapman highlighted the significance of these results. He noted that they provide students with greater academic and professional opportunities.

Recognising Dedication and Hard Work

Among the high-achieving graduates, David Mackenroth expressed pride in being recognised by BCE. He stated that the efforts of his cohort had been acknowledged. He emphasised teachers’ vital role in his success. Mr Mackenroth commends the exceptional support provided by educators throughout his studies. He plans to pursue a double degree in Education (Secondary) and Arts at Queensland University of Technology.

Commitment to Excellence and Innovation

The College attributes its success to careful planning, innovative teaching methods, and the dedication of its educators. A strong focus on student growth has been central to the school’s approach. The efforts of middle leaders and teachers have been instrumental in motivating and supporting students. The recent results reflect student perseverance and the ongoing dedication of the entire school community.

Four graduates received special recognition from the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority. Their outstanding performance in general subjects further solidifies the College’s reputation for academic excellence.

Mt Gravatt education — *Photo Credit: Clairvaux Mackillop College*

A Thriving Learning Environment

Clairvaux MacKillop College is widely recognised for fostering a supportive and dynamic learning community. The school encourages students to embrace new opportunities. With high expectations and a commitment to diverse learning pathways, the College upholds its reputation as a leading educational institution in Mt Gravatt.

Published 28-Feb-2025

Mt Gravatt Students to See Major Bus Route Changes This Year

Photo Credit: Translink/YouTube

Students in Mt Gravatt will experience significant changes to their school bus services this year, with Translink introducing new routes, modifying existing services, and removing select routes to improve efficiency and safety.

Translink bus routes — *Photo Credit: Translink/YouTube*

Bus Network Overhaul to Improve Safety and Accessibility

Translink, in collaboration with 11 bus operators across South East Queensland, has implemented extensive changes to school bus routes, including 33 new routes, 833 modifications, and 11 route removals. These adjustments aim to enhance coverage in growth areas, reduce overcrowding, and improve travel times for students.

Mt Gravatt is among the suburbs affected, with 15 route changes, one new route, and one removed route under the Mt Gravatt Bus Service network. The adjustments respond to community feedback and school schedule changes, ensuring safer and more reliable transport options for students.

Key Changes for Mt Gravatt Students

New Route 8019: Introduced to reduce overcrowding on existing 8016 and 8017 services for Villanova College and Loreto College Coorparoo students.
Extended Services: Routes now reach Mabel Park State High School, improving access for students.
Punctuality Improvements: Six school routes have been adjusted to improve on-time running and minimise delays.

*Photo Caption: Route 8019*
*Photo Credit: Translink*

These changes reflect broader updates across the region, addressing safety concerns, congestion issues, and the need for more efficient travel routes for students.

Why the Changes Were Made

Some bus route changes were made due to shifts in school bell times, while others were influenced by feedback from students, parents, and schools. Growth in new estates also played a role, as Translink expanded services to meet increasing demand.

Additionally, timetable adjustments across multiple services ensure better reliability and reduced travel delays, improving the overall student transport experience.

Community Response and Next Steps

Translink has urged students, parents, and guardians in Mt Gravatt to familiarise themselves with the updated services by using Translink’s School Service Finder or Journey Planner. To ensure a smooth transition, students are advised to:

Mt Gravatt bus routes — *Photo Credit: Translink/YouTube*

Check go card validity and consider auto top-up.
Plan routes in advance using Translink’s online tools.
Claim School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS) if eligible.
Review Translink’s safe school travel tips.

plan your journey

More information is available on the Translink website, Translink app, or by calling 13 12 30.

Published 7-Feb-2025

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

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