90-Year-Old Baptised in Wishart Seniors Community

A 90-year-old resident of a seniors community in Wishart has undergone baptism, marking a significant personal milestone in his Christian faith journey.

Personal Commitment Realised in Wishart

A longstanding member of the Carinity Wishart Gardens retirement village has chosen to publicly confirm his Christian faith through baptism. The ceremony drew close to 70 attendees, including friends, family members, and fellow residents.

Wishart seniors baptism — Caption: Alvin McHugh was baptised at the Carinity Wishart Gardens seniors’ community in Brisbane by Pastor Tracey Valentine and Reverend Tim Winslade
Photo Credit: Supplied

Life Experiences Shaped Faith Journey

The resident, Alvin McHugh, reflected on his personal experiences and how they shaped his relationship with faith. He recalled facing difficulties in his youth, including the death of his father—a Baptist pastor—when he was 17. This loss led to a period of spiritual distance, which later shifted after recommitting to his beliefs in his 40s.

Over time, he faced mental health challenges following the breakdown of his first marriage and later became a carer for his second wife, Elaine, who lived with depression and dementia. Mr McHugh attributed his ability to cope during these periods to his continued faith and prayer.

Ceremony Held at Wishart Gardens

The baptism took place at the Wishart Gardens pavilion and was conducted by Pastor Tracey Valentine alongside Reverend Tim Winslade. Both are involved in faith services within the Carinity seniors’ community.

Pastor Valentine described the experience of preparing for the baptism as joyful and reflected on Mr McHugh’s life journey, including hardships following the war, meeting his wife, and navigating difficult seasons with faith.

*Caption: Alvin McHugh pictured with Chaplain Warren Prescott, Pastor Tracey Valentine, and Carinity Wishart Gardens residents Marie Withers and Eve Campbell following his baptism.*
*Photo Credit: Supplied*

The ceremony was described as a collaborative and supportive moment within the community, where the resident acknowledged the role of prayer and religious guidance in his decision.

Community Support After Loss

Mr McHugh expressed appreciation for the community at Carinity Wishart Gardens, particularly following the recent passing of his wife in September. He said that the local church services at the village played a key role in his renewed connection to faith.

A Life Review and Resolution

In addressing those present, he noted that although he had not previously undergone baptism, reflection on his life led him to take this step as an act of obedience and resolve.

Published 13-May-2025

Wishart Residents Count Their Luck After Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s Destruction

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Wishart residents are assessing the damage and counting their luck after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred swept through Brisbane, bringing down trees, cutting power, and disrupting services. While some homes narrowly avoided destruction, the aftermath has left streets blocked and essential services strained.

Wishart destruction from cyclone — Caption: Bulimba Creek last 8 March 2025.
Photo Credit: CrStevenHuang/Facebook

Close Calls and Narrow Escapes

The storm’s strong winds caused widespread destruction, bringing down trees across Wishart and other parts of Brisbane. In one case, a large tree collapsed, dragging powerlines and street signs with it. The direction of its fall spared nearby homes from major damage, but it left the street blocked and residents without power.

Elsewhere, families sheltered as the winds roared, experiencing moments of fear as trees crashed down around them. Many had long feared that aging trees posed a risk, and for some, their concerns were realised when the storm hit.

Fallen Trees and Power Outages Disrupt Daily Life

The storm left thousands of homes in South East Queensland without electricity, with fallen powerlines making recovery efforts difficult. Energy crews have been working to restore power, but many households in affected areas are still waiting for full services to resume.

Across Wishart and surrounding suburbs, fallen trees have blocked roads, forcing drivers to take long detours or turn back. Emergency crews have been working to clear major routes, but the scale of the debris has made the task challenging.

Wishart storm damage — *Caption: Tree uprooted due to ex-Cyclone Alfred’s winds.*
*Photo Credit: Energex/Facebook*

Council Services Impacted by the Storm

BCC has announced disruptions across multiple services due to the storm’s impact:

Libraries: The Mount Gravatt Library remains open, but other locations are under assessment or remain closed.
Parks and Playgrounds: Water play areas are shut down, and all mountain bike tracks in the Mt Coot-tha Reserve are closed until further notice.
Public Transport: Limited bus services have resumed, but most ferries and some bus routes remain suspended due to road conditions.
Waste Collection: Regular bin collection is ongoing, but repair services for damaged bins are currently unavailable.

To assist residents with storm clean-up, Council has opened temporary green waste drop-off sites at Mt Coot-tha car park and White Hills Reserve.

Local Businesses Step Up Amid Power Outages

With much of the region left in the dark, a Redland Bay petrol station with a backup generator became a vital hub for the community. It remained open while others shut, offering fuel, ice, and hot coffee to those dealing with power loss.

The demand was so high that extra hands were needed to keep up with customers seeking basic supplies.

Emergency Services Work to Clear Roads

Emergency response teams have been deployed across the region to deal with fallen trees and road blockages. Crews have been using chainsaws to cut through large fallen branches, clearing debris where possible and cordoning off areas that remain unsafe.

The main road between Redland Bay and Victoria Point had to be closed in both directions at the height of the storm, with emergency workers focusing efforts on clearing vital transport routes first.

check when your power will be restored

Residents Find Ways to Adapt

Despite the damage, some have found ways to make the best of the situation. With parks and beaches inaccessible due to debris and flooding, local children have turned flooded fields into makeshift play areas. In one instance, two teenagers took to the water with skimboards, making use of the storm’s impact in their own way.

EMERGENCY DASHBOARD

What Comes Next for Wishart?

Recovery efforts are expected to continue in the coming weeks, with BCC and emergency services working to clear blocked roads and restore services. Residents are advised to stay updated through official channels and take precautions while travelling through affected areas.

The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, and while power is gradually being restored, some households may face ongoing disruptions. Authorities are urging the community to report any hazardous trees or debris that may still pose a risk.

Published 10-Mar-2025

Wishart: Brisbane’s Top Suburb for Long-Term Homeownership

Did you know that Wishart stands out as a suburb where homeowners just can’t seem to say goodbye? With an average property tenure of 19 years, Wishart leads Brisbane in terms of long-term homeownership.

Read: Scorched Wishart Property Creates Heat, Interests Renovators

This is a remarkable statistic when compared to Brisbane’s overall average of 9 years and the national average of 10.5 years, according to Karen Dellow, Senior Data Analyst at realestate.com.au.

Why Homeowners Stay

Long-Term Homeownership — Wishart Community Park (Photo credit: Xavier Chng/Google Maps)

The prolonged tenure in Wishart is driven by several factors. Strong community bonds, proximity to excellent amenities, and significant financial investments make it an area people are reluctant to leave.

Historically low interest rates have also played a role, making mortgage repayments more manageable and reducing the need to sell. Neighbouring suburbs like Belmont and Sunnybank Hills show similar trends, with average property tenures of 17.6 years and 17.1 years, respectively.

A Spotlight on 52 Winthrop Street, Wishart

One property that encapsulates Wishart’s appeal is the residence at 52 Winthrop Street. Recently sold at auction on 18 January, this property last changed hands in 2009 for $650,000.

Located in an elevated cul-de-sac within the sought-after Mansfield High and Mansfield State School catchments, the home features multiple living areas, hardwood floors, a practical kitchen, five spacious bedrooms, and private outdoor entertaining areas. Minor cosmetic updates could further enhance its value, making it a prime example of Wishart’s enduring appeal.

The Wishart Lifestyle

Wishart offers more than just beautiful homes. It provides convenient access to essential amenities, including express bus transport to Garden City and Brisbane’s CBD, parks, shopping centres, and major motorways like the Gateway and M1. The family-friendly environment and strong sense of community contribute to the area’s enduring appeal.

Read: Mt Gravatt: A Co-living Hotspot Amidst Rental Crisis

A Desirable Trend

As Brisbane’s suburbs continue to evolve, Wishart remains a standout for its stability and desirability. Its long average tenure reflects not just a financial decision but a lifestyle choice, cementing its status as one of the city’s most beloved areas to call home. Properties like 52 Winthrop Street exemplify the charm and functionality that make this suburb a lasting favourite among Brisbane homeowners.

Published 23-January-2025

Mount Gravatt East Man Faces 41 Charges in EFTPOS Scam

Photo Credit: myPolice Centenary

A 38-year-old Mount Gravatt East man has been charged with 41 offences related to an alleged EFTPOS scam that netted over $670,000 from Brisbane medical businesses.

The suspect was arrested on November 6 after Mount Gravatt Highway Patrol officers spotted him on a reportedly stolen motorcycle in Wishart at approximately 6 PM. Police took him into custody at a fuel station near Delavan Street and Newnham Road.

According to police, the alleged offences occurred between October 1 and November 2, primarily targeting Brisbane’s southside. The man is accused of breaking into medical businesses and stealing EFTPOS terminals, which were then allegedly used for fraudulent reimbursement transactions.

The charges include:

17 counts of enter premises and commit by break
13 counts of fraud
4 counts of receiving tainted property
2 counts of possess dangerous drugs

Single counts of unlawful use of motor vehicle, stealing, dealing identification, possess tainted property, and possess utensil

The accused was remanded in custody and appeared at Brisbane Magistrates Court on November 7.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Published 7-November-2024

Bus Crash in Wishart Leaves One Hospitalised, Causes Traffic Disruption

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A multi-vehicle crash involving a bus in Wishart this morning has resulted in one person being hospitalised and caused significant traffic disruptions in the area.

The incident occurred at 7:03 AM at the intersection of Newnham Road and Colwyn Street. According to the Queensland Fire Department, one person was trapped in a vehicle and required extraction by firefighters.

Queensland Ambulance Service reported that paramedics assessed five people at the scene. One patient was subsequently transported to Princess Alexandra Hospital in stable condition.

The crash has led to traffic delays in the Wishart area, with commuters advised to seek alternative routes.

This incident was followed by another bus-related crash in Taringa about an hour later, compounding traffic issues across Brisbane.

The Wishart crash adds to a concerning trend of bus-related incidents in Brisbane in recent months. On July 7, a Brisbane City Council bus collided with a concrete barrier at MacGregor. In a more severe incident on March 8, a pedestrian was fatally injured when a bus mounted the footpath in the city centre.

Local authorities are investigating the cause of the Wishart crash and are urging drivers to exercise caution, particularly around larger vehicles like buses.

Residents and commuters in the Wishart area are advised to stay updated on traffic reports and plan their journeys accordingly as cleanup and investigation continue at the crash site.

Published 19-July-2024

Scorched Wishart Property Creates Heat, Interests Renovators

Photo Credit: Ray White

A scorched and fire-damaged Wishart property is set to go under the hammer this weekend, presenting an enticing opportunity for budding renovators and first-home buyers.

The three-bedroom, two-bathroom house at 340 Mount Gravatt Capalaba Road sustained significant fire damage to its upper level caused by an electrical fault, leaving ceilings charred and walls coated in soot.

Despite its dilapidated state, the listing has sparked heated interest from prospective buyers eager to tackle a renovation project in the supply-constrained Wishart market. Ray White Marsden AKG agent Aidan Knox reports receiving a staggering 12 offers within just a week of listing, with 8 parties pre-registered for Saturday’s auction conducted by Apollo Auctions.

**Walls are coated in soot from the fire.**
Photo Credit: Ray White

“It’s a case of what you see is what you get — the top floor has significant fire damage, but with its prime location and ever-growing demand in the area, this property represents either a knockdown opportunity, or potential to recreate what was once a beautifully kept home,” said Knox.

“The appeal here is the prospect of a cheap property in a demographically diverse marketplace, and there are a lot of first-home buyers and builders, renovators alike out there who have been missing out on other properties and are ready to have a go at the auction and get hands-on to make this their own.”

House prices in Wishart soared to 13.5 percent over the past 12 months, to a median of $1.225m, according to PropTrack data.

**A bedroom remains unscathed.**
Photo Credit: Ray White

**This bathroom survived the fire with no damages in sight.**
Photo Credit: Ray White

Situated on a generous 546 square meter lot, the lower level escaped the blaze largely unscathed, offering a separate rumpus room and kitchenette as a starting point for renovations. However, Knox notes the sellers prefer not to discuss further details surrounding the “unfortunate circumstances” of the fire.

**Damages are not seen outside as well.**
Photo Credit: Ray White

In the heated Wishart market, where just 28 houses were listed over the past month despite over 1,800 prospective buyers per property, the auction of this charred residence is shaping up to be a hotly-contested affair. First-home buyers and ambitious renovators alike are lining up for a chance to breathe new life into one of Brisbane’s smouldering investment opportunities.

Published 29-March-2024

Harmonious Generosity: Del and Basil Wood’s Gift of Music to Carinity Wishart Gardens

Locals Del and Basil Wood have made a significant contribution to the Carinity Wishart Gardens seniors community. The couple, deeply intertwined with the fabric of this aged care community, recently donated a piano and organ, adding a melodious touch to the lives of residents at the aged care facility.

Del’s mother, Mabel Grace, was among the first residents of Carinity Wishart Gardens and Del herself has been a dedicated volunteer there for years. Basil, a former chemist, had a pharmacy that supplied medication to aged care communities.

Their long-standing association with this community took a significant turn when they moved into the adjacent Wishart Gardens retirement village after waiting for more than 15 years.

Before relocating to the retirement village, the Woods had already known approximately 15 people who resided there, including their long-time friend, Jean Miller. Del and Jean’s friendship spans over half a century, and they once formed part of a Christian vocal trio called Celebration, which performed over 300 shows at aged care homes, retirement villages, and prisons.

Even today, they continue to share their musical talents at chapel services in Wishart, with Del playing the organ and Jean accompanying her on the piano—two instruments generously donated to the Wishart Gardens aged care community by the Woods.

Carinity Wishart Gardens - Basil and Del Wood — Photo Credit: Carinity Wishart Gardens

As part of their downsizing efforts in preparation for their move to a retirement villa, Del and Basil decided to part with their beloved Kawai grand piano and the American-made Gulbransen Rialto organ. Basil noted that this particular organ is rare in Australia. The suggestion to donate these instruments to the aged care home came from someone who believed that others could also enjoy and make use of them.

Now, these keyboards have found a new home in the Wishart Gardens aged care pavilion, where Del plays hymns during the weekly chapel services.

Solomon Shekede, the Residential Manager at Carinity Wishart Gardens, expressed his deep gratitude for the donated organ and piano. He praised the Woods’ “commitment to fostering the arts and enhancing the worship experience” for the residents.

“This thoughtful contribution will resonate through the halls of Carinity Wishart Gardens, bringing joy and inspiration to all who gather here. The piano and organ will serve as a constant reminder of Basil and Del’s kindness and dedication to the spiritual well-being of our community,” Mr Shekede said.

Published 3-Jan-2024

Community Support Pours In For Wishart Teen Joshua Ditchmen

An outpouring of community support has emerged for Joshua Ditchmen of Wishart, who remains hospitalised after suffering a devastating stroke and being involved in an ATV accident earlier this month.

Read: Mt Gravatt East Local Walking 72km to Support Dad with Cancer

The 17-year-old football player was taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital in critical condition following the incident, which occurred on private property on Kavanaghs Road in Buaraba on October 1. Police confirmed they responded to reports of an ATV crash around 12:45 p.m. that day.

The Forensic Crash Unit is still investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. Meanwhile, Joshua remains hospitalised as of Oct 10.

According to his mother, Sonja Ditchmen, Joshua suffered a stroke which caused him to fall off the quad bike he was riding. The fall resulted in additional head injuries.

Joshua’s mum said he had multiple bleeds in his brain and was placed in a medically-induced coma to help him breathe. However, he developed a chest infection during his time in the coma.

More than a week since the crash, Joshua has made significant improvements, according to his mother. He has opened his eyes, can say his name, gives a thumbs up response, and has mostly been taken off his breathing tube.

In an online post, Mrs Ditchmen pleaded for prayers and support for her son’s recovery.

The Carina Junior Rugby League Football Club, where Joshua plays on the U17 team, will be collecting donations to help aid his recovery. The 17-year-old has played for the club for 12 years and is also a referee. His twin brother and older brother also play for Carina.

Photo credit: Jessica Gregg – Carina JRLFC/Facebook

“As GoFundMe takes a percentage of each donation and we know all families are struggling we have decided the best way to rally together and to get all monies to Joshua and to do this via Carina where people are not pressured to contribute with names and messages being posted,” the club said in a social media post.

Read: Margaux Parker Applauds Matildas, Calls on Fans to Support Women’s Sport

Friends, teammates, and loved ones are all wishing Joshua a full recovery as he continues to fight through extensive injuries and illness.

Published 10-October-2023

Wishart State School To Build More Classrooms For Extra Students

In order to meet future in-catchment enrolment demands, Wishart State School will be building eight new classrooms which can accommodate up to 200 extra students.

Read: New Binoculars At Mt Gravatt Outlook Offers Panoramic Views Of Brisbane

Four new classrooms will be constructed in late 2022 whilst future in-fill of ground level would create four more classrooms, amenities, breakout spaces, office spaces for staff, one teacher preparation room, and a covered outdoor area.

The future in-fill of the ground floor, however, is still subject to future enrolment demands and availability of funding.

Ground floor in-fill plan (Photo credit: planning.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au)

Also part of the plan is the replacement multipurpose court (also subject to funding), a new covered walkway and a carpark off an existing internal road linking to Morella Street.

The new learning spaces are part of the Department of Education’s Infrastructure Proposal to the Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning for a two-storey ‘General Learning Centre.’

Artist’s impression of the new general learning centre (Photo credit: planning.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au)

The proposal includes provision of a new car park with capacity for five spaces and landscaped areas in proximity to the new General Learning Centre.

Based on the assessment report for the proposal, the Wishart local area has experienced increased growth in the school-aged population and that the school now requires additional facilities to continue to meet in-catchment enrolment demands.

A spokesperson from the Education department stated that Wishart State School has grown by more than 300 students since 2017, with further growth forecast over the next five years.

Wishart State School (Photo credit: education.qld.gov.au)

Wishart State School can accommodate up to 1,061 students at present and based on records, student enrolment at the school continues to grow each year, from 901 in 2020, to 968 total in August 2021.

Whilst the project is still in the planning and consultation stage, works are anticipated to start later this year, for it to be complete in time for the 2024 school year.

The public can make a submission to DoE’s proposal via planning.statedevelopment.qld.gov.au until 15 August 2022.

Wishart Travel Buff Joins Exclusive 100 Club

At 100 years old, one could say that Dorothy Sharrock has been living her life to the fullest, travelling across Australia and overseas, including a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Antarctica.

The newest member of the exclusive centenarian club within the Carinity Wishart Gardens celebrated her birthday on 1 July. Turning 100 years old has been another milestone in Dot’s life of adventure.

Born in Hughenden in north-west Queensland, Dot loved playing basketball and vigoro as an active child and was a member of the Salvation Army youth group in her community. Working since she was 14 years old, Dot moved to Brisbane in her young adult years and worked at the Brisbane Girls Grammar School for 25 years. Older students of the Spring Hill school will likely remember Dot as she also lived inside the campus.

When Dot retired in her mid-60s, she spent her time travelling around the country and also visited New Zealand, China and Japan. She also spent an unforgettable day flight over Antarctica.

Now a resident of the Carinity Wishart Gardens since 2014, Dot still keeps active by playing indoor bowls. She also enjoys watching games of cricket and tennis on television. During her downtimes, Dot loves sewing, crafting, reading a good book, painting her nails or lounging in the garden where she listens to the native birds sing.

Her nephew Rod Schafferius said that longevity runs in the genes as Dot’s four other sisters ar, between the ages of 88 to 97, are still alive. Rod said that her aunts embrace “a strong constitution, a healthy diet and everything in moderation.”

Dot has been the second person to celebrate her 100th birthday at the Carinity Wishart Gardens after Bessie Conomos OAM in April.