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Mt Gravatt Set to Host Brisbane’s Biggest Family Carnival

Thousands of thrill-seekers and families are expected to flock to Mt Gravatt as the Brisbane Thrill Festival transforms Westfield Mt Gravatt into a sprawling carnival ground, offering an unprecedented array of rides and attractions for just $5 entry.

The 10-day extravaganza is scheduled to run from 9th to 18th August 2024, promising an affordable and action-packed experience for visitors of all ages.

Festival organiser Avid Leisure has curated a diverse lineup of over a dozen rides, including crowd favourites such as the Ferris Wheel, Dodgem Cars, and the hair-raising Slingshot. For the younger attendees, gentler options like the Wacky Worm and Paw Patrol rides ensure no one misses out on the fun.

Brisbane Thrill Festival Mt Gravatt — *Photo Credit: BrisbaneThrillFestival/Facebook*

“We’re thrilled to bring this level of excitement to Mt Gravatt,” said an Avid Leisure spokesperson. “Our goal is to provide unforgettable memories for families without breaking the bank.”

Beyond the rides, the festival boasts an impressive array of attractions, including sideshow games, free entertainment, and a variety of food trucks serving up classic carnival treats. Showbag enthusiasts won’t be disappointed, with organisers promising “the biggest and best bags around.”

The Brisbane Thrill Festival will operate weekdays from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM, with extended hours on weekends and public holidays, running from 2:00 PM to 9:30 PM.

Local resident Sarah Thompson expressed her excitement: “It’s fantastic to see such a large-scale event coming to our community. I can’t wait to take my kids and experience all the rides and games together.”

Preparations for the Mt Gravatt festival are underway, and community leaders are proactively anticipating a positive impact on local businesses and increased foot traffic. The festival’s convenient location next to Westfield Mt Gravatt is expected to attract visitors from across Brisbane and beyond, providing a constructive boost to the area.

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The Mt Gravatt Lady Who’s Gone from World-Class Track Sprinter to Rugby Sevens Olympian

Former Clairvaux Mackillop College student, Kaitlin Shave, will represent Mt Gravatt and Australia in Paris and her story is fascinating.

At Runcorn State School, her primary years left her teachers in no doubt she could run fast. By the time she had moved to Clairvaux Mackillop, she was already considered a state-level spinter, but the next leg up to become considered one of the fastest women in Australia was when she dead-heated for the 100 metres in the Under 17s Australian Athletic Championships in Sydney in 12.07 seconds.

Intensive training followed to “shave” hundreds of a second under the 12-second mark as her coaches, Sharon and Chris Dale, pushed her down to an 11.92 PB. Her parents and grandparents were omnipresent at her meets.

She went on to have a brief stint playing University 7s for Bond Uni in 2018 and then played in the NRL touch premiership for the Brisbane Broncos, leading to a 2019 grand final win against the Paramatta Eels.

However, ironically, she only caught the eye of Australian coach, Tim Walsh, when playing for the Balkans Honet Badgers in a tournament in South Africa.

Initially, she travelled with the Australian team to a tournament in Vancouver as a 13th non-playing member of the squad.

Kaitlin’s confidence grew as she gained more big game experience and her game-winning try in Cape Town in 2023 took that to a new level.

Her Olympic campaign will kick off at midnight on Monday Brisbane time, 29 July, with a game against South Africa in Pool B.

Shave and the Aussie squad will then take on Great Britain at 3:30 a.m. Brisbane time later that morning and Ireland at 10:30 p.m. Brisbane time on the same day.

The results of the three pools will then determine the quarter finals – the top two from each group and two of the three third places advancing to the last eight. Fingers crossed that Kaitlin will be on the field for the final, scheduled for 3:45 a.m. on Wednesday 31 July Brisbane time.

Kaitlin Shave and the Australian Women's Sevens Rugby Team Schedule

Mt Gravatt Officers Honoured for Valour and Service in South Brisbane Ceremony

Photo Credit: MyPolice Bayside

The Queensland Police Service (QPS) paid tribute to officers and civilians in a ceremony in the South Brisbane District, acknowledging their dedicated service and remarkable valour, including the contributions of the Mt Gravatt officers.

Among those recognised were officers who demonstrated exceptional bravery during a knife attack in Upper Mount Gravatt in 2020.

The incident, which unfolded on August 5, 2020, saw Senior Constable Renae Plant and Constable Clinton Hooper confronted by a 25-year-old male wielding a knife as they attempted to serve documents at a residence in Upper Mount Gravatt. The offender lunged at Constable Hooper, inflicting multiple facial lacerations. Despite the immediate danger, Senior Constable Plant drew her firearm and neutralised the threat, safeguarding her colleague and herself.

For their extraordinary courage under duress, Senior Constable Plant and Constable Clinton Hooper were each awarded the prestigious QPS Valour Medal. Two bystanders, Mr Luke Roberts and Mr Christopher Pye, who rushed to Constable Hooper’s aid and provided crucial first aid in the face of imminent danger, were also commended with the Commissioner’s Certificate of Notable Action.

The ceremony further acknowledged the unwavering support provided to Senior Constable Plant by Acting Senior Sergeant Meagan Holley in the aftermath of the traumatic event. Acting Senior Sergeant Holley’s instrumental role in developing the Post Shooting Policy Advisor & Support Coordinator Programme, an initiative championing a victim-centric approach to officers involved in critical incidents, earned her the Assistant Commissioner’s Certificate.

In addition to the Valour Medals, the QPS Medal and clasps were bestowed upon Acting Senior Sergeant Holley, Senior Constable Plant, and Constable Hooper to recognise their years of diligent service.

Acting Deputy Commissioner Mark Kelly lauded the award recipients, emphasising their embodiment of the QPS core values of integrity, professionalism, and community. Acting Assistant Commissioner Rhys Wildman echoed this sentiment, highlighting the challenging nature of police work and the awardees’ profound commitment to ensuring their community’s safety.

Published Date 17-July-2024

Kelsey-Lee Barber: QAS Javelin Star Sets Sights on Paris Olympics

Olympic bronze medallist and two-time world champion Kelsey-Lee Barber, who trains at the Queensland Academy of Sports (QAS) in Nathan, is intensifying her preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympics, despite facing a recent injury challenge.

The 32-year-old javelin thrower has been working tirelessly behind the scenes, aiming to add to her impressive collection of medals. Barber, known for her clutch performances in major competitions, has consistently improved her results since her Olympic debut in Rio 2016.

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A post shared by Kelsey-Lee Barber (@kelseyleebarber)

Career Highlights

Barber’s journey in athletics began when she moved to Australia during the Sydney Olympics. She quickly rose through the ranks, winning her first international bronze medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Her career reached new heights in 2019 when she threw an impressive 67.70m in Luzern, placing her second in the world for the year. Later that year, she claimed the world title in Doha with a throw of 66.56m.

In 2022, Barber defended her world crown, becoming the first athlete ever to do so in javelin. She followed this up with a gold medal at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games, completing her collection of medals from the event.

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A post shared by World Athletics (@worldathletics)

Recent Challenges

Despite her success, Barber has faced recent setbacks. At the 2023 World Championships in Budapest, she placed seventh in the final with a throw of 61.19m. Shortly after, she announced the end of her season due to a small calf tear.

The start of 2024 has also presented challenges, with Barber battling an elbow issue. She competed in two major domestic competitions, placing seventh in Melbourne and third at the Nationals.

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A post shared by Kelsey-Lee Barber (@kelseyleebarber)

Team Support

Barber attributes much of her success to her Nathan QAS support team. Her husband, Mike Barber, also serves as her coach, creating a unique dynamic in their professional and personal lives.

Kelsey-Lee Barber and Mike Barber — *Photo Credit: Kelsey-Lee Barber/IG*

Patrick Castelli, Barber’s strength and conditioning coach, emphasises the importance of their tight-knit team. He notes that managing Barber’s body and its response to training is one of their biggest challenges.

Barber remains focused on her goal of competing at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her determination and history of performing under pressure make her a strong contender for adding to her Olympic medal tally.

As Barber continues her preparations, she aims for medals and values the relationships she’s built throughout her career. For her, these connections are an integral part of her sporting journey and will remain with her long after her competitive days are over.

Published 12-July-2024

Celebrating Over a Century of Fun at the 108th Annual Mt Gravatt Show

The much-anticipated 108th Annual Mt Gravatt Show is set to dazzle families and visitors with its array of attractions and events at the historic Mt Gravatt Showgrounds. A cherished tradition, this event promises a blend of nostalgia and thrilling new experiences, making it a perfect weekend outing for everyone.

A Glimpse into the Show’s Rich History

Mt Gravatt Show has been the venue for this spectacular event since 1918. It offers a vibrant showcase of local culture, arts, and community spirit. Over the decades, the show has evolved, incorporating more attractions and larger crowds while maintaining its community-focused ethos.

What to Expect at the 2024 Mt Gravatt Show

This year’s show is gearing up to be bigger and better than ever. Organizers are pulling out all the stops to ensure the 108th edition provides an unforgettable experience. Here’s what attendees can look forward to:

Family-Friendly Fun: From thrilling rides to engaging animal exhibits and live entertainment, the show has something to entertain visitors of all ages.
Diverse Attractions: The event will feature traditional favourites like sheepdog trials and equestrian shows, alongside modern additions such as freestyle motocross displays and a spectacular fireworks show to cap Saturday night off.
Local Exhibitions: Art, craft, and photography exhibitions will showcase the talents of local artists and provide a platform for community members to display their work.

A Day Out for the Whole Family

The Mt Gravatt Show remains one of the best value family days out in the region. With gates opening early, families are encouraged to arrive at the start to make the most of the day’s activities. Whether it’s exploring the animal nurseries, enjoying the amusement rides, or sampling delicious local food, there’s no shortage of things to do and see.

Event Details

Dates: Saturday, July 27th (9 AM – 9 PM) and Sunday, July 28th (9 AM – 4 PM)
Location: 1644 Logan Rd, Mount Gravatt, QLD 4122

COMPETITIONS

ENTERTAINMENT

Here’s a list of the competitions available at the Mt Gravatt Show:

1. Apiculture
2. Art Display (Painting, Drawing & Art)
3. Big Rig Spectacular
4. Box Of Produce
5. Cattle
6. Cooking (Cakes, Sweets, Preserves)
7. Cottage Crafts & Traditional Trades
8. Decorated Cakes
9. Dog High Jump
10. Lego Competition
11. Needlework
12. Photography
13. Quilts of Quality
14. Scarecrow Competition
15. Sheep
16. Show Horses
17. Show Jumping
18. Student Art
19. Ute Muster

Each competition includes a schedule and entry forms available online for participants interested in entering.

JOIN THE COMPETITION

Here’s a roundup of the entertainment offerings at the Mt Gravatt Show:

1. Amusement Rides: A variety of rides suitable for all ages.
2. Animal Nursery: Interaction with farm animals from piglets to alpacas.
3. Dinkum Dinosaurs: Display showcasing realistic dinosaur models.
4. Cottage Crafts Make & Take: Workshops on crafting items like those in the competition.
5. D’Aguilar Wildlife: Wildlife conservation experience.
6. Fireworks Display: A spectacular fireworks show on Saturday night.
7. FMX Freestyle Motocross: Displays of speed, skill, and agility by motorcyclists.
8. Flux Entertainment: High-impact, engaging performances.
9. Magical Ponies: Interaction with ponies, tailored for children.
10. Lego Display: Exhibitions of intricate Lego constructions.
11. Sheep Dog Trials: Demonstrations of dogs herding sheep through obstacles.
12. Walter Whip & The Flames: Whip cracking demonstrations and performances.

These activities promise a mix of thrilling, educational, and interactive experiences for all attendees.

CHECK OUT THE PROGRAM

Mark your calendars and prepare for a weekend filled with fun, laughter, and unforgettable memories!

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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

Olympians and Paralympians Challenge Venue Decision on QSAC in Mt Gravatt

Several prominent Olympians and Paralympians have written an open letter requesting a review of the decision to select the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) in Mt Gravatt as the main venue for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics.

They have criticised the decision, calling it “embarrassing” and insufficient for creating a lasting legacy.

The elite athletes, including Curtis McGrath, Sally Pearson, Grant Hackett, Curtis McGrath, Karni Liddell, Sally Pearson, Geoff Huegill, Leisel Jones, and Brenton Rickard, publicly voiced their dissatisfaction by highlighting the QSAC’s capacity limitations and lack of a sustainable legacy post-2032.

Olympians and Paralympians Challenge Venue Decision on QSAC in Mt Gravatt — *Photo Credit: SkyNews*

Despite their strong opposition, Premier Steven Miles remains firm on not revisiting the decision. The athletes stressed how this would impact their training regimes and the broader athletic community.

Premier Miles justified his decision by prioritising other state needs such as healthcare and education over more substantial investments in sporting infrastructure. Infrastructure Minister Grace Grace acknowledged the challenges, particularly concerning transport to QSAC, with potential costs running as high as $1 billion.

Senate Inquiry Insights

A Senate inquiry into the 2032 Games’ legacy criticised the choice of QSAC, echoing athletes’ concerns about the venue’s inadequacies. The inquiry, led by figures like Senator Anne Ruston and former Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk, examined alternatives and highlighted the dismissal of a proposed $3.4bn stadium at Victoria Park that promised a more robust legacy.

Graham Quirk’s review had recommended the Victoria Park venue over QSAC, citing it as a superior option for its potential to deliver a lasting community legacy and better value for money. However, the government opted to upgrade QSAC instead, which had been initially built for the 1982 Commonwealth Games, citing lower immediate costs.

Community and Expert Reactions

Community leaders and various sports figures have criticised the decision for neglecting long-term benefits. The Senate inquiry also highlighted missed opportunities for building a more inclusive sporting infrastructure, particularly for Paralympic athletes who face significant accessibility issues.

Critics say the decision to renovate QSAC could lead to higher operational costs due to its location and the lack of necessary facilities for a world-class event. There’s also concern about the displacement of athletes and the environmental impact of upgrading the site.

Published 17-April-2024

Upgrades Foreseen at the QSAC in Nathan for the 2032 Olympics

Photo Credit: QSAC/Facebook

Queensland intends to transform the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC) in Nathan into the main stadium for the 2032 Olympic Games. This decision marks a significant change in direction, sidelining the proposed redevelopment of The Gabba and a new stadium at Victoria Park, despite recommendations for these venues.

Instead, QSAC, a legacy of the 1982 Commonwealth Games, could undergo a comprehensive $1.6 billion upgrade, heralding a new era for the historic site and its surrounding community.

Background and Controversy

After a $450,000 taxpayer-funded review of the Olympic venues led by former Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk advocated for a new stadium at Victoria Park, Premier Steven Miles announced the cabinet’s endorsement for QSAC’s redevelopment. This comes despite the review’s critique of QSAC’s suitability due to transport challenges and limited legacy benefits.

“QSAC Stadium should not be used as an Olympic and Paralympic Games venue to host the track and field events,” Mr Quirk’s panel recommended.

“Transport and access to the QSAC Stadium during the Games will be extremely challenging and costly to facilitate.

“Site topography makes this challenge even harder, noting significant Games operational requirements to safely support the number of spectators, athletes and officials.

“Griffith University would need to be used for bus access, so bushland would need to be cleared and the pathway to the QSAC Stadium widened,” the panel’s findings further cited.

Financial Implications and Alternatives

The decision to invest $1.6 billion in QSAC, defying the independent review’s suggestions, has sparked debate.

With an initial budget to overhaul QSAC and additional funds allocated for Suncorp Stadium and the Gabba upgrades, questions about fiscal responsibility and the best use of public resources have emerged.

Consequently, rejecting a new $3.4 billion Victoria Park stadium highlights the prioritisation of existing infrastructure over new constructions.

A New Vision for QSAC

The proposed redevelopment involves demolishing and rebuilding significant portions of QSAC, including constructing an 8,000-seat western grandstand and additional permanent seating. This plan aims to elevate QSAC to Olympic standards whilst considering the site’s challenging topography and access issues.

The ultimate goal is a versatile 14,000-capacity stadium that serves both the Olympics and the community post-Games.

Griffith University, located next door to the QSAC, endorses investigating the upgrades.

“Brisbane has benefitted vastly from the facility since it opened in time for the Commonwealth Games in 1982,” Griffith Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Carolyn Evans said in a statement.

QSAC Commonwealth Games in the 1980s — Commonwealth Games 1982
Photo Credit: QSAC/Facebook

“It has been home to major sporting fixtures and teams and as a venue for international musical acts such as Madonna and Billy Joel.

“The uses for QSAC will only grow as we approach the Olympics and well after they are finished.

“Additionally, improved transport connections to the area will benefit many thousands of people living in Brisbane’s southern suburbs.”

The decision to focus on QSAC for the 2032 Olympics represents a bold commitment to utilising existing infrastructure, fostering community legacy, and managing financial resources wisely. Whilst the move has its critics, particularly concerning the review’s recommendations, it sets the stage for an Olympic transformation that could redefine Brisbane and its approach to major sporting events.

Published 19-March-2024

Mt Gravatt’s Lovewell Foundation Receives Prestigious Future2 Grant

Lauded for its efforts to provide a lifeline to women who have faced a spectrum of challenges such as domestic violence, addiction, and mental health issues, the Lovewell Foundation in Mt Gravatt has been recognised for its outstanding work with a significant grant from the Future2 Foundation.

The Lovewell Foundation stands among 15 other recipients, each playing a crucial role in their respective communities.

The foundation’s Better Futures program, deeply rooted in Mt Gravatt, has become a symbol of resilience and renewal, providing much-needed support to women from diverse and challenging backgrounds.

Empowerment Through Support

The grant awarded to the Lovewell Foundation marks a pivotal moment, allowing the organisation to extend its reach to an additional 50 to 60 women.

Annie Stonehouse from the Lovewell Foundation expressed her gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to expand their transformative program.

“In 2024, thanks to the Future 2 generous grant, we are excited to be able to extend our reach and assist another 50-60 remarkable women in embarking on their journey towards Better Futures,” she said. “Working with Future 2, we get to walk this inspiring journey with inspiring women whose potential is not just realized but celebrated as they develop a Better Future for themselves and their children.”

This grant not only acknowledges the foundation’s past efforts but also lays the groundwork for future endeavours, further solidifying their role in empowering women to overcome adversity and build brighter futures.

A Collective Effort for a Better Tomorrow

The Future2 Foundation, known for its unwavering commitment to addressing social, financial, and physical hardships across Australia, has awarded $148,500 in grants to various recipients through its annual Make the Difference program.

Supporting a myriad of causes from mental health initiatives to youth empowerment programs, these grants represent a beacon of hope and a step towards a more inclusive and supportive society.

The Future2 Foundation’s Make the Difference program, in partnership with strategic supporters like AIA Australia and Tangelo Advice Consulting, is more than just a funding initiative.

This year’s program saw an unprecedented number of over 100 applications, reflecting the growing need for community-based support and intervention.

As these programs continue to grow and impact lives, they remind us of the inherent strength and resilience within our communities, particularly in places like Mt Gravatt, where organisations like the Lovewell Foundation are making a real difference.

For more details, follow the Lovewell Foundation on Facebook.

Published 19-Nov-2023

Mt Gravatt Widow Reunited with Husband’s Ashes After Heartless Theft

Photo Credit: A Current Affair/YouTube

Nada French, an elderly Mt Gravatt widow, faced the unimaginable when thieves broke into her home. Utilising a crowbar to gain access, the culprits not only took valuable items including her engagement and eternity rings, but also a blue plastic container holding a priceless treasure: the ashes of her late husband, Neal French.

Mrs French, 87, had hoped to be interred alongside her husband of 60 years in the family plot at Nudgee Cemetery. Her daughter, Joan Hyams, expressed the family’s profound distress, likening the theft to “losing dad twice,” as Mr French’s memory was profoundly cherished by the family since his passing in 2016.

A Community’s Response and a Sudden Turn

In response to this despicable act, the family issued a public plea, which was amplified by local media coverage. The family’s appeal and the subsequent media attention resulted in a surprising turn of events.

Miraculously, Neal’s ashes were found abandoned on the steps of the Anglican Church of the Annunciation in Camp Hill. A member of the church’s gardening club, upon recognizing the significance of the container from the news, played a crucial role in their safe return. The police promptly returned the ashes to Mrs French, who was overwhelmed with relief and gratitude.

The return of the ashes brought immense solace to the family. Ms Hyams expressed her joy, stating that her father was back, “where he belongs.”

Mt Gravatt Widow — Photo Credit: A Current Affair/YouTube

The fact that the ashes were found at a church resonated deeply with the family, considering Mr French’s devout faith. The family’s ordeal, whilst harrowing, ended with a sense of peace and closure, as they could once again fulfil Mr French’s wish to be laid to rest alongside his beloved wife.

The Aftermath and Security Concerns

Despite the happy conclusion, the theft incident, which happened on 9 Nov 2023, left a lasting impact on the Mt Gravatt widow. The burglary, occurring in broad daylight, shattered her sense of security. The family is now considering measures to enhance the security of their home, with Mrs French’s son taking an active role in this endeavour.

The incident has highlighted the importance of community vigilance and support. The family expressed their heartfelt thanks to the police and the church community for their roles in the return of their beloved’s ashes.

Meanwhile, the police are appealing for information regarding the theft. Send a tip to Policelink.

Published 15-Nov-2023