Preparations for a statewide strike are underway, with educational institutions such as Seton College in Mt Gravatt East and St Bernard’s School in Upper Mt Gravatt joining forces with over 100 other Catholic schools across Queensland.
The impending strike, driven by concerns over work conditions and compensation, is garnering attention as the Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) and the Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC) find themselves in a negotiation dispute.
With an estimated 4,000 staff members from these Catholic schools expected to participate, the walkout is scheduled for one hour on 23 Aug 2023. This coordinated effort seeks to address issues surrounding increased workloads, proper recognition for school officers and ancillary staff, and equitable wage increments.
Photo Credit: Google Maps
Highlighting that the decision to strike is a last resort after failed negotiations, Terry Burke, the Secretary of IEU-QNT, emphasizes the goal of urging Catholic school employers to reconsider their stance and return to negotiations with comprehensive solutions for employee concerns.
However, a spokesperson from QCEC recently stated that during a Fair Work Commission conference on 15 July 2023, union representatives collectively agreed that formal negotiations had concluded.
Adding complexity to the situation is an upcoming staff vote on the current Enterprise Bargaining Agreement (EBA) offer. The QCEC spokesperson reveals that employees are eager to accept the presented benefits without delay, leading to plans for an employee vote in early September.
Educators, students, parents, and the broader community are closely watching this significant event, recognising its potential to reshape the education landscape in Queensland.
International beauty brand Sephora is continuing its Australian expansion, announcing it will open its latest Queensland store at Westfield Mt Gravatt.
Sephora has seen great success domestically, rapidly growing its national footprint in major cities across the country.
The new outlet, which will open on August 31 on level 1 of the shopping centre, will be the brand’s sixth in Queensland, since entering the Australian market with its first Sydney store back in 2014.
Photo credit: Westfield Mt Gravatt/Facebook
The Mt Gravatt opening marks the next step in Sephora’s Queensland growth strategy, following Chermside, Indooroopilly, Pacific Fair, Robina and Carindale. The new store will bring Sephora’s luxurious cosmetics and skincare products to south-east Brisbane.
Photo credit: Sephora/Facebook
Founded in 1969, Sephora has grown into an international beauty powerhouse with a devoted global following. The French brand offers an unrivalled selection of exclusive, high-end beauty labels.
Sephora’s extensive product range features coveted names like FENTY BEAUTY by Rihanna and Huda Beauty, along with beloved favourites such as tarte and Fresh. Customers can explore makeup, skincare, haircare and wellness essentials from both niche brands and leading makers.
By curating the most sought-after and buzzworthy products in one exceptional shopping experience, Sephora has become the go-to destination for beauty enthusiasts seeking the latest and greatest items on the market.
Grand Opening
Photo credit: Westfield Mt Gravatt/Google Maps
To celebrate the launch, Sephora has planned a day of festivities on August 31 including free gifts, live music, makeup tutorials and more. The event is tipped to attract crowds of makeup aficionados and those curious to explore Sephora’s extensive product range.
For Sephora fans, August 31st can’t come soon enough. The new Mt Gravatt store is set to satisfy Brisbane’s growing appetite for innovative beauty products and services.
Over the years, I have met with countless students who at first believed they were ‘no good at maths’. Imagine their delight when we helped them discover their inner ‘problem solver’.
Many would describe maths as ‘logical, black and white, right or wrong’; for there can only ever be one correct answer. While this may be true, there can often be several ways to solve the same problem, suggesting that mathematics is perhaps a far more creative endeavour than we have previously given it credit for.
The ability to solve problems, mathematical or otherwise, often requires us to think outside the box, to be original and to identify a way forward that others may not have considered.
It engages a creativity that is often not normally associated with the logic inherent in finding a solution, particularly as it applies to numbers.
However, some would argue that Mathematical problem solving is in the same realm as writing music or playing an instrument, in that while it is bound by laws and limitations, it is also a natural expression of our mind’s unique and infinite capacity to form patterns and ideas.
Everyone of us is a problem solver, in a multitude of ways and in a vast array of daily contexts.
When children see themselves as problems solvers and see maths as a way to ‘create’ solutions, it can help to break down the barriers that prevent them from trying in the first place.
Problem solving involves three key things:
What is the problem asking for? i.e. be sure to identify the unit of measurement and record this near the bottom of the working out page before you have even done the calculations.
What operation/ operations will be required? i.e. look for language in the text that indicates whether you will be adding, or dividing and think of a reasonable estimate.
What strategy is going to be most efficient?
When it comes to Problem Solving of more complex worded problems, it is important that children are adept at using a range of strategies, as it will enable them to discern what will be the best approach to use for any given problem.
For example, if a problem involves finding the area of a compound shape, ‘drawing a picture’ and writing measurements as described, will allow the child to visually understand the task and keep track of each step.
In another instance, it may be more efficient to ‘work backwards’ and in another, perhaps a ‘guess and check’ approach.
Below is a list of effective Problem Solving strategies that you and your child can explore when presented with a mathematical problem.
1. Read the problem aloud – By reading the problem aloud, they can help to clarify any confusion and better understand what’s being asked.
2. Summarise the information – Using dot points or a short sentence, list out all the information given in the problem.
3. Create a picture or diagram – By drawing a picture, can better understand what’s being asked and identify any information that’s missing.
4. Act it out – It can enable students to see the problem in a different way and develop a more intuitive understanding of it.
5. Use keyword analysis – Keyword analysis involves asking questions about the words in a problem in order to work out what needs to be done.
6. Look for a pattern – This could be a number, a shape pattern or even just a general trend that you can see in the information given.
7. Guess and check – Simply make a guess at the answer and then check to see if it works. If it doesn’t, you make another systematic guess and keep going until you find a solution that works.
8. Working backwards – Regressive reasoning, or working backwards, involves starting with a potential answer and working your way back to figure out how you would get there.
9. Use a formula – There will be some problems where a specific formula needs to be used in order to solve it.
10. Use direct reasoning – By breaking the problem down into smaller chunks, you can start to see how the different pieces fit together and eventually work out a solution.
12. Solve a simpler problem – Or if you’re struggling with the addition of algebraic fractions, go back to solving regular fraction addition first.
In a surprising turn of events, the plan to convert an unused student housing complex at Griffith University in Mt Gravatt into crisis accommodations has been abandoned.
Despite spending $2 million for its preparatory works, concerns have been raised about the area’s fire safety standards because it is close to bushland, hence the decision to discontinue the project.
The abandoned initiative at Griffith University was part of the government’s efforts to address the state’s pressing crisis. However, detailed assessments revealed that significant renovations would be necessary to bring the vacant student accommodation up to current fire safety standards. With this in mind, the decision was made to explore alternative options.
Instead, Deputy Premier and Planning Minister Steven Miles confirmed that the State Government secured a deal to purchase 64 properties across the state, which will be transformed into housing.
“After consulting with Queensland’s leading housing advocacy group, QShelter, we’ve made the decision to purchase homes directly on the private market to get more people into accommodation quicker,” Mr Miles said.
“We haven’t taken this decision lightly. Many Queenslanders who have never experienced housing stress before are struggling, and we are committed to doing as much as we can,” he added.
The Queensland Government plans to invest $25 million to acquire existing houses and units from various locations throughout the state.
By utilising funds originally earmarked for repurposing the disused student accommodation, the government aims to expedite the process of providing housing for vulnerable individuals and families.
“The allocation of funding to purchase housing directly makes more sense given the challenges presented by the Mt Gravatt site,” Fiona Caniglia, the Executive Director of QShelter, expressed support for the shift in strategy.
“We support any action which achieves homes for Queenslanders faster. In the longer term, this funding will go further and achieve sustainable housing outcomes for as long as people need them. QShelter will be working with the government to ensure that not-for-profit community housing providers assist in any way possible to implement this plan.”
The Department of Communities, Housing, and Digital Economy is already in the process of progressing property purchases in several suburbs across Queensland, including Acacia Ridge, Annerley, Atherton, Bucasia, Cloncurry, Cooran, Eagleby, Emerald, Gladstone Central, Gleneagle, Gordonvale, Griffin, Kawungan, Mount Low, Ormeau, Pimpama, Rural View, Smithfield, Tully, and Urangan.
On Saturday, the 6th of May 2023, the festival will transport you straight to the streets of Rio with its tantalizing mix of Brazilian cuisine, live music, and dance performances.
The doors of the Mt Gravatt Showground will open to the public starting at 4:00 p.m. for an evening filled with tasty food, delicious drinks, and amazing entertainment. Brazilian Night promises a thrilling mix of samba rhythms and Brazilian beats that are sure to get your body moving.
With a wide range of foods and beverages to satisfy every taste, Mt Gravatt Street Food has something for everyone. The event will include a fantastic bar with wines, spirits, beers, and cocktails so you can relax and take in the performance while enjoying your own beverage.
Photo Credit: Mt Gravatt Street Food/Facebook
The entertainment lineup includes an incredible array of performers, such as Lucia Band, who will grace the stage three times during the night with their electrifying sound. In addition, Dance Class Gianne Abbott will showcase their moves along with Batucada Samba Vibes, adding to the high-energy atmosphere.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! Throughout the night, Batucada Lights Samba Vibes and Dancers will rove around the venue, bringing the carnival to life right before your eyes.
So round up your loved ones and make plans to attend the food festival for a night of delectable cuisine, tempting drinks, and nonstop entertainment. Mark your calendars and get ready to party like a Brazilian. The event is sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Work has begun on the transformation of vacant student rooms at Griffith University in Mt Gravatt into a housing complex, with more than 200 beds set to be repurposed as small living areas for short-term stay.
With shared kitchen and bathroom facilities, the former student rooms will provide a safe and suitable temporary home for Queenslanders still looking for private rental accommodation.
The Department of Communities and Housing is in talks with potential service providers to run the operations of the housing complex once the construction is completed in mid-2023.
“This facility will provide a buffer for Queenslanders doing it tough in the current housing crisis before they can get back into the rental market,” Deputy Premier Steven Miles said.
“It will mean a roof over the heads of more Queenslanders when they need it most. The plan to repurpose unused student beds came out of our housing roundtable, showing what can be achieved by working together.”
“This facility is another example of our commitment to work across government and the private sector to house more vulnerable Queenslanders sooner,” Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch said.
“Once complete, the complex will provide vital short-term housing for adults as they are supported into longer-term, more secure accommodation.”
David Jones is set to close shop in Mt Gravatt after SCentre Group, which owns Westfield Garden City, lodged a development application to restructure its retail tenancy.
Under DA A006144550, lodged on the 8th of November 2022, the Scentre Group proposes to demolish and reconfigure two levels of David Jones and turn these sections into seven “mini-major tenancies” and four specialty stores.
The restructure will also entail the removal of the travelators on levels 1 and 2 whilst the facade by the mall entrance will be refurbished and refreshed with a terraced area to take advantage of the natural light.
Photo Credit: DA A006144550/BCCPhoto Credit: DA A006144550/BCC
The parking area will also be reconfigured “to accommodate a new plant room and a connection to a fire corridor egress.”
The plans come years after the operators of the popular department store said they need to restructure and keep pace with its online shopping competition. During the pandemic, David Jones also decided to close its Toowong outlet after 36 years. It shifted its Fortitude Valley site to a smaller store as well.
Despite this, David Jones apparently continues to enjoy strong sales growth post lockdowns, per Woolworths Holdings, which bought the brand in 2014. Shoppers have slowly returned to the stores when the restrictions were eased off.
Woolworths Holdings, however, is said to be reassessing David Jones’ future after paying off the retailer’s debts and turning the company into a self-funding business.
Elon Musk’s popular electric vehicle brand has opened its third location in Queensland! Mt Gravatt Tesla on Logan Road is a one-stop shop with everything that owners need — a showroom, a service shop, and a delivery centre all in one location.
Mt Gravatt Tesla took over the former site of Southside Toyota and had its grand opening on the 5th of November 2022 with over 150 guests. The site is still accepting applications for staff members to join its team.
Photo Credit: Dennis Brown/Tesla Owners of Australia/Facebook
The third Queensland location is accessible and offers more to many local electric car enthusiasts who do not have to go to Fortitude Valley to purchase or have their vehicles serviced, per Arran Blomfield of the Tesla Owners’ Club of Australia in Queensland.
Photo Credit: Dennis Brown/Tesla Owners of Australia/Facebook
Mr Blomfiled already owns two Tesla vehicles and plans to purchase a third unit. He is also the owner of ReGen EV, an electric vehicle charger installer.
It comes as Tesla Australia has released a recall order for 1,012 vehicles due to a steering wheel defect that may put the driver at a risk for accidents. Tesla Model S and Model X bought between 2017 to 2020 are covered in the recall, per the Australian Department of Transport.
Tesla owners are advised to visit the dealer or download software that will fix the problem.
“Owners of affected vehicles may also contact their authorised Tesla dealer to make an appointment to have the firmware updated, free of charge. No further action is necessary from owners whose vehicles are equipped with firmware release 2022.36.5 or a later firmware release,” the recall order stated.
About three new childcare centres in Mt Gravatt are currently under construction whilst a fourth has been granted development approval but will not be built until 2024.
The number of upcoming childcare centres has raised concerns with Jae Fraser, the vice president of the non-profit Australian Childcare Alliance Queensland, who said that the oversupply may bring about problems and create an unsustainable business.
Mr Fraser said that the issue of oversupply has slowly reared its ugly head as currently operating childcare centres cannot even fill up their occupancy. Across the state, most facilities are just over 70 per cent in capacity.
He also said that these centres cannot keep up with the workforce as there are not enough educators and minders to see through the care and development of the children. Thus, these childcare centres could end up delivering sub-par services.
Under Construction: Childcare Centres in Mt Gravatt
Active Kids Learning Centre 54 Morland St 89 to 91 Newnham Rd A005205206 – Approved in October 2020
From a 56-place centre, Active Kids Learning Centre will double its size and have a state-of-art early education facility. The site is due for completion in 2023.
Perfect Beginnings Child Care 53 Klumpp Rd A005967964 – Approved in April 2022
Perfect Beginnings Child Care is also planning a 2023 opening. Pre-pandemic, the centre recognised the need to expand its site after reaching 98 per cent capacity in 2019.
Former Scurrs Hardware Redevelopment 1437 Logad Rd 18 Gowrie St 50, 52 and 54 Tenby St A005722664 – Approved in June 2022
Photo Credit: DA A005722664
The childcare centre will be located on the first level of this mixed-use facility that also includes a convenience store and health care services/medical centre on the ground floor, and an indoor sports and recreation site with a gym and wellness centre on the second floor.
Creek Rd Child Centre 269 Creek Rd 31 Tantallon St A005959235 – Approved in April 2022 but DA extended until March 2024
Photo Credit: Google Maps
This property is owned by the Greek Orthodox Church.
Government Measures Needed
The ACA is hoping that local and state governments establish a measurement for the supply and demand for childcare centres before the development applications are approved in a certain area. The ACA said approvals must be prioritised in communities with a pressing need for facilities.
Property expert Darren Collins of CBRE said that childcare centres in strategic locations are bringing in billions to the economy. Investors also study the location, including its saturation point, before submitting a plan to build a centre.
Collins said that the population of the suburb and the percentage of double-income parents often factor into the decision as these are indicators of high growth areas, thus the high demand for childcare centres.
Lenny Catalano of Spuds and Plums in Mt Gravatt was on the road one early morning on the week of Brisbane’s worst flooding in a decade. With the distribution of fruit and vegetables disrupted by the flooding for at least 48 hours, Mr Catalano wanted to make sure that his customers will not miss out on their essential supplies. Now that’s dedication!
On that day, Mr Catalano and several other independent fruiterers, who also operated as wholesalers at the Brisbane Markets® in Rocklea, worked above and beyond to get everything up and running again.
“We were lucky as we had quite a bit of stock on hand before the floods hit,” Mr Catalano said.
“We were able to manage the situation well, but it took a big effort to make this happen. I was on the road at 4 a.m. to try and source produce and fight the heavy traffic due to flooded streets, but I wanted to make sure my customers could get what they needed.
“With the supermarkets not having much produce at all, we ended up being very busy.”
“The floods are a great example of how local fruit and veg shops and their suppliers did not give up during difficult times. We came together, rolled up our sleeves, and did what we had to do to get the supply chain going and to get stock onto shelves.”
Photo Credit: Glenn Batten/Google Maps
With their efforts, Brisbane Markets® was ready to operate within 24 hours of cleaning up.
Despite the great work done to get trade back up and running, there is much still to do, and consumers can help by buying locally. Supporting independent fruit and veg providers, such as Spuds and Plums in Mt Gravatt, also means supporting the businesses that operate from the Brisbane Markets®, most of which have suffered significant losses from the floods.
Local, independent fruit and veg shops provide customers with a better choice of quality, freshness, and service. They give customers the opportunity to shop as close to home as possible while supporting their local community.
