Upper Mount Gravatt Archives - Mount Gravatt News

Powerful Australian Documentary Screening in Mount Gravatt

Southside audiences can experience the new documentary Conquering Breast Cancer when it arrives at Event Cinemas Garden City in Upper Mount Gravatt. The film explores the progress being made in breast cancer research while sharing deeply personal stories from Australians affected by the disease.

Presented beginning 10 June by filmmaker Sue Collins and produced by impact filmmakers Mike Hill and Sue Collins, the feature-length documentary combines expert medical insight with the personal experiences of survivors, advocates and researchers working to reduce the impact of breast cancer in Australia.

Among those featured are Olympic legend and breast cancer advocate Raelene Boyle AM, MBE, First Nations survivor and mountaineer Kristal Kinsela, male breast cancer survivor and former professional basketballer Paul Maley, and podcaster Dr Charlotte Tottman. The film also includes insights from leading experts including Professor Bruce Mann, Professor Kelly-Anne Phillips and Associate Professor Christine Chaffer.

conquering breast cancer documentary — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

More Than 20,000 Australians Diagnosed Every Year

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among Australian women and the second most commonly diagnosed cancer overall.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, more than 20,000 Australians are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Around 56 people receive a diagnosis every day, while more than 3,300 Australians lose their lives to the disease annually — the equivalent of approximately nine deaths every day.

While the majority of cases occur in women over 50, breast cancer also affects younger Australians. Around 1,000 women under the age of 40 are diagnosed each year, highlighting the importance of awareness and early detection across all age groups.

The Survivors, Advocates and Experts Behind the Film

Rather than focusing solely on statistics, Conquering Breast Cancer tells the stories of Australians whose lives have been changed by the disease.

The documentary follows survivors, patient advocates and researchers from across the country, exploring everything from diagnosis and treatment to survivorship, recurrence, genetic risk and the emotional impact breast cancer can have on individuals and families.

breast cancer patient — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The film also highlights the experiences of people living with metastatic breast cancer, as well as Australians making difficult decisions around preventative treatment after discovering they are at high genetic risk of developing the disease.

Early Detection Remains One of the Strongest Defences

A central theme throughout the documentary is the importance of prevention and early detection.

Medical experts featured in the film discuss advances in screening technologies, personalised risk assessment, targeted therapies and clinical trials that are helping improve outcomes for patients.

While Australia has achieved five-year survival rates of more than 90 per cent, the filmmakers argue that breast cancer is far from solved and that ongoing investment in research, screening programs and access to treatment remains essential.

The documentary also examines how researchers are working towards reducing recurrence rates and improving long-term outcomes for those who have already undergone treatment.

researchers working on breast cancer improvements — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The Growing Impact on Australian Families and Communities

Beyond the personal toll, breast cancer continues to have a significant impact on communities across Australia.

More than 160,000 Australians are currently living after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis within the past decade. Research has also shown the disease carries substantial social and economic costs, affecting workforce participation, family wellbeing and quality of life.

breast cancer warriors and supporters — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

The filmmakers hope the documentary will encourage more Australians to understand their personal risk, participate in recommended screening programs and support ongoing efforts to improve prevention, treatment and research.

As the third instalment in the Conquering Cancer documentary series, Conquering Breast Cancer aims to start conversations, challenge complacency and highlight both the progress that has been made and the work that still lies ahead.

For more information and session times, visit ConqueringBreastCancer.com.au.

Published 9-June-2026

Brisbane’s Build-Your-Own Cake Bar Is Drawing Crowds — But Only for a Limited Time

The Cake Bar

Brisbane’s first build-your-own cake bar has been drawing crowds at Westfield Mt Gravatt since opening on 28 March, but The Cake Bar is only here for three months, making it one of the southside’s most time-limited sweet experiences of 2026.

It was first flagged to return in March, and now that it has arrived, early visitors say it is delivering on that promise, offering freshly assembled, fully personalised cakes in the time it takes to walk from the carpark.

“I ordered a red velvet cake with vanilla icing, caramel sauce and Oreo crumbs on top,” one early visitor said. “I just about melted when I tasted it, and finished the whole thing right there.”

The Idea Behind It

The Cake Bar is the brainchild of Brisbane entrepreneur Raman Singh, who drew direct inspiration from the frozen yoghurt model that made Yo-Chi a fixture in Australian food courts.

The concept applies the same logic to cake: pick your base, choose your frosting, load up your toppings, and watch it come together fresh in front of you. No pre-orders, no minimum numbers, no waiting until tomorrow.

Singh is not new to inventive food concepts. She also runs The Bake Drop, a bakery vending machine she launched last year that dispenses handcrafted treats including gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free options, and La Fleur Macaron, a home-based macaron business that preceded both ventures. The Cake Bar is her most ambitious format yet, and the first of its kind in Australia.

The inspiration from Yo-Chi is visible in how the counter works, but the product is a different proposition entirely. Where a froyo is built around cold, light, fast consumption, a cake from The Cake Bar is the whole occasion: a proper slice of something layered and assembled to your exact brief, made from premium ingredients that never sit pre-made in a display fridge.

What You Can Actually Order

The build starts with a cake base from a solid range of flavours. From there, customers move across frosting options and into the topping selection, where the range spans from crowd-pleasing classics through to full childhood nostalgia territory.

Raspberry jellies, sherbet, sour straps and M&Ms sit alongside marshmallows and more straightforward options for those who prefer a cleaner finish.

Gluten-free and vegan options are built into the menu, so dietary requirements do not mean missing out. The same counter can produce a clean, frosted red velvet for the purists or a tower of colour and crunch for whoever turns eight this weekend.

Three Months, Then It’s Gone

The Cake Bar is running as a pop-up, which means the window is genuinely limited. Opening on 28 March and running for approximately three months, it is on track to close around late June 2026. For Mt Gravatt, Macgregor, Wishart, Mansfield and Rochedale South families who have been meaning to go, that deadline is worth taking seriously.

Westfield Mt Gravatt is at Logan Road, Upper Mt Gravatt, approximately 12 kilometres south of the Brisbane CBD. The Cake Bar is inside the centre. For updates on hours and any extension to the pop-up run, follow The Cake Bar on Instagram and TikTok , or visit thecakebar.com.au.

Published 26-April-2026

Two Charged Over Alleged Property and Vehicle Offences in Upper Mount Gravatt

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

Two men have been charged following alleged property offences and unlawful use of a motor vehicle in Upper Mount Gravatt, after police responded to reports of a stolen vehicle on Dawson Road.

Dawson Road Call Triggers Police Response

Police were called to Dawson Road at approximately 9:30 am on 21 April after receiving reports relating to a stolen vehicle in Upper Mount Gravatt. It will be alleged a man attempted to gain entry to multiple properties in the area before entering a residence along the street.

The man is alleged to have then entered the address while attempting to steal a white Mercedes-Benz.

Upper Mount Gravatt charges — *Photo Credit:* *QPS/Faceboo*k

Police Vehicle Allegedly Struck Before Arrest

Officers attended shortly after the report was made. During the response, it will be alleged the man reversed the vehicle into a police car positioned in front of the residence.

He then fled on foot and was located and taken into custody a short time later.

Second Man Charged During Response

During the initial police response in Upper Mount Gravatt, a second man was also taken into custody. He is alleged to have obstructed police while officers were managing the situation.

Queensland incident — *Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook*

Charges Confirmed And Court Appearance Set

A 25-year-old man from Loganlea has been charged with one count each of enter dwelling with intent, robbery and unlawful use of a motor vehicle. A 28-year-old man from Acacia Ridge has been charged with one count of obstruct police.

Both men have been remanded in custody and were due to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 22 April.

Police have issued reference number QP2600769004 in relation to the Upper Mount Gravatt incident.

Published 23-Apr-2026

2026 College Captains Named At Upper Mount Gravatt School

Clairvaux MacKillop College in Upper Mount Gravatt has announced its 2026 College Captains as part of Brisbane Catholic Education’s broader rollout of student leadership appointments across South East Queensland.

Student Leadership In Mt Gravatt

At Clairvaux MacKillop College, Julieta and Leo have been appointed as College Captains for the 2026 school year.

Their appointment forms part of Brisbane Catholic Education’s confirmation of 86 newly selected College Captains across its 146 schools. The appointments span secondary campuses and Prep to Year 12 colleges throughout the region.

For the Upper Mount Gravatt campus, the focus for 2026 centres on strengthening school connections and reinforcing a supportive environment for students. Julieta and Leo have outlined plans to encourage stronger engagement between students and staff, promote a sense of belonging, and support classmates in their everyday efforts and achievements.

Part Of A Wider Network Announcement

The 2026 appointments were published on 11 February 2026 under Brisbane Catholic Education’s secondary school update. Schools across South East Queensland introduced their newly appointed student leaders at the beginning of the academic year.

College Captains across the network take on responsibilities that include representing the student body, mentoring younger students and upholding the values associated with Catholic education.

School Context In Upper Mount Gravatt

Clairvaux MacKillop College describes its learning community as one focused on student growth and development. The college offers co-curricular opportunities in sport, arts, STEM and service learning alongside classroom programs.

An Academic Excellence Program commenced at the college in 2025, designed to provide an extended learning pathway for students.

The announcement of the 2026 College Captains marks the start of the new student leadership term at the Upper Mount Gravatt campus, placing Mt Gravatt at the centre of this year’s local education leadership update.

Published 16-Feb-2026

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

Yong Real Estate

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.

Koala Luke Fatally Struck on M3 in Mt Gravatt

Photo Credit: Save the Koalas and Wallabies of White's Hill/Facebook

A young koala known as Luke has died after being struck by a vehicle in Mt Gravatt for the third time in under nine months, prompting renewed concerns over habitat safety.

Repeated Incidents on Urban Roads

A koala referred to as Luke was fatally struck on the M3 in Upper Mt Gravatt in July 2025. This marked the third time he had been hit by a vehicle within a nine-month period. The first incident occurred in October 2024 on Creek Road in Mt Gravatt East, followed by a second collision on the M3 in April 2025. While he had previously survived both events and was released with ear tag #1613, the most recent impact proved fatal.

Luke was approximately 4.5 years old at the time of his death and had not yet reached full breeding maturity, raising concerns about the long-term survival of the local koala population.

Mt Gravatt’s Urban Pressures on Koalas

Luke’s death is part of a broader trend affecting koalas in and around the Mt Gravatt region. Conservation groups have pointed to habitat fragmentation, urban road infrastructure, and the lack of safe crossings as key contributors to koala mortality.

In 2024 alone, 113 koala deaths were recorded in the area surrounding Whites Hill Reserve, with nearly 70 percent of those occurring during the four-month breeding season. The region known as “Brisbane’s Triangle of Death”—bounded by Mount Gravatt Mountain, Seven Hills Reserve, and Bulimba Creek—has been identified as a hotspot for incidents, with Whites Hill at its centre.

Koala Luke — Photo Credit: Save the Koalas and Wallabies of White’s Hill/Facebook

Koala Activity Patterns and Risk

Koalas are typically active for roughly 20 percent of the day, mainly between dusk and dawn. During these hours, they move between trees in search of food, territory, or mates. These natural behaviours bring them into increased contact with roads and urban developments.

Community organisations report that even small changes can reduce risks, such as walking dogs on leads, driving cautiously at night, and maintaining trees in yards and footpaths. In particular, planting more trees and creating accessible escape paths for koalas are suggested as simple protective measures.

Public Reaction and Concerns

Local conservation pages have documented strong public responses following Luke’s death, with residents expressing frustration over repeated incidents in the same area. Many community members have raised concerns about the long-term viability of koala populations in suburban environments and questioned the adequacy of wildlife protections and urban planning in koala zones.

Concerns have also been raised about whether current monitoring efforts are sufficient, with uncertainty about the number of remaining koalas in the region and whether the local population may already be nearing functional extinction.

koala death — Photo Credit: Save the Koalas and Wallabies of White’s Hill/Facebook

Outlook for Wildlife in Mt Gravatt

Without changes to road planning, habitat management, and community awareness, conservation groups warn that further losses are likely. Luke’s case has drawn renewed attention to existing blackspots and the consequences of infrastructure intersecting with native wildlife corridors.

As breeding season continues, advocates urge residents to remain alert and take preventative measures to reduce further incidents involving koalas across Mt Gravatt and surrounding suburbs.

Published 29-July-2025

Rediscover the Newnham Hotel: A Fresh Take on Classic Pub Hospitality

South East Queensland is famous for its laid-back charm, balmy weather, and an ever-growing list of must-visit beer gardens. Whether you’re soaking up riverside breezes in Brisbane or heading coastal to the Gold Coast or Bribie Island, a great beer garden is always within reach. In Brisbane, one local gem that’s recently stepped up its game is the Newnham Hotel.

Read: Newnham Hotel Reopens in Mt Gravatt After Major Transformation

Located at 516 Newnham Road in Upper Mount Gravatt, Newnham Hotel opened its brand-new beer garden in February following a major refurbishment—and it quickly became a favourite with locals.

Spacious and fully covered, the revamped outdoor area now features stylish new furniture, upgraded AV and lighting systems, and a welcoming new deck that invites you to settle in and stay awhile.

From classic pub favourites to modern dishes and generous share plates designed to bring people together, the menu offers something for everyone. Pair your meal with an ice-cold beer, a signature cocktail or a carefully curated wine, all served in a vibrant and relaxed setting. Whether you’re dining in the bistro, soaking up the sun in the beer garden, or catching the game in the sports bar, every visit feels like a treat.

Newnham Hotel has also become a top destination for families. A brand-new kids’ playground provides plenty of fun for little ones, while a dedicated kids’ menu makes sure no one misses out at mealtime.

Make Saturdays and Sundays unforgettable with free kids’ entertainment from 11 am every weekend—including face painting, balloon twisting and rotating activities to keep them smiling while you unwind.

Read: Playtime Revolution: Area 51 Garden City Opens in Mt Gravatt

If you’re after a bit of live music, Friday evenings at Newnham bring just the right energy with local artists performing in the beer garden to help you ease into the weekend.

Whether it’s a casual midweek dinner, a weekend family outing, or a relaxed catch-up with mates, Newnham Hotel’s revitalised beer garden is the perfect spot to gather, graze and make the most of Queensland’s outdoor lifestyle.

Published 17-April-2025

Traffic Disruption in Mt Gravatt Following Pacific Motorway Crash

Photo Credit: Facebook / Leticia Moore

A severe crash on the Pacific Motorway near Upper Mount Gravatt has caused significant disruptions to Brisbane’s morning commute today, October 3, 2024. The incident, involving two vehicles, occurred just before 7 AM, resulting in the closure of all northbound lanes near Klumpp Road.

The incident, which saw one vehicle fully engulfed in flames, prompted an immediate response from emergency services. Fire crews successfully extinguished the blaze by 7:20 AM, averting potential further dangers. The Queensland Ambulance Service reported that no patients required hospitalisation.

The impact on local traffic has been severe. Motorists faced delays exceeding an hour, with congestion stretching over 15 kilometres back to Slacks Creek. The closure particularly affected residents of Mt Gravatt and surrounding suburbs, who found themselves caught in the extensive backlog or forced to seek alternative routes.

The incident’s ripple effects extended beyond private vehicles. Several bus services experienced cancellations due to the delays, further complicating the morning commute for public transport users in the Mt Gravatt area.

Queensland Police managed a gradual reopening of the motorway. By 7:30 AM, one lane was operational, followed by two lanes by 8:30 AM. Authorities anticipated the third lane would reopen shortly after 10 AM, offering some relief to the traffic situation.

Published 3-October-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.

View this post on Instagram

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.

View this post on Instagram

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.

View this post on Instagram

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

Mercure Brisbane Garden City Hotel in Upper Mount Gravatt to be Demolished for New Apartments Project

Melbourne-based diversified investment group and property developer, Salter Brothers, is set to make its first development play in the Queensland capital with new apartments right in Upper Mount Gravatt.

The project involves the demolition of the Mercure Brisbane Garden City Hotel in Upper Mount Gravatt and the development of a new 17-level apartment building at 18 Macgregor Street, Upper Mount Gravatt. The 5,356 sqm site is ideally located a mere five-minute walk from Garden City Westfield, one of Brisbane’s largest shopping centres.

**Mercure Brisbane Garden City Hotel**
Photo Credit: Google Maps

The plans for the mixed-use building, created by Bates Smart, a firm with a rich history dating back to the mid-1850s, include 101 apartments above a four-level podium. This podium will house a 90-space childcare centre and parking for 107 cars.

The residential apartments, starting from level six and running through to level 17, are designed as “gently undulating petals,” according to Bates Smart’s submission to the Brisbane City Council. The design is inspired by the native indigenous Tea Tree Flower and Wallum Banksia, two species of flora endemic to the region. Each apartment is expressed as an individual ‘petal’ with a curved edge, spatially and visually separated from the adjacent apartment.

Each floor will house eight apartments, six two-bedrooms, and two three-bedrooms. The living rooms and balconies capitalise on the views and solar access.

A rooftop communal terrace, conceived as an extension of the nearby Toohey Forest Park, will span the entirety of level 18. The rooftop will feature a pool, mineral spa, and a landscaped seating area oriented to the north, offering a primary view outlook towards Mount Gravatt. Additional amenities include a resident gym, an amenity room, and a landscaped barbecue area.

Bates Smart drew inspiration from the local Turrbal and Jagera Peoples’ name for Mount Gravatt, ‘kaggur-madul’, meaning the ‘Place of the Echidna’, or ‘Where Echidnas Rest’, when designing the external shading system. The design mimics the delicate fine grain repetition of echidna spikes, reminiscent of traditional indigenous jewellery making.

Meanwhile, down in its native Melbourne, Salter is currently developing Candela Ivanhoe, a project comprising 62 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments in Melbourne’s northeast.

Published 26-April-2024