Annerley is the proposed location for new residential apartments on Waldheim Street. A development application has been submitted for the four-storey structure, which would house a mix of one and two-bedroom units.
The development aims to provide various living options, with five two-bedroom units and six one-bedroom units planned. A key feature of each dwelling will be a private courtyard, ranging in size from 21.6 to 46.6 square metres.
The building’s design includes a new driveway to access the 18 car spaces, some designated for visitors. Twelve bicycle spaces will also be available for residents choosing more sustainable transport.
The project emphasises green spaces, with landscaped areas and deep planting planned for 85 square metres of the site, representing 10% of the total area. The building’s site coverage is estimated at 64%.
Residents will also have access to a rooftop recreation area, complete with a swimming pool, dining space, and barbecue facilities. The submitted application is now under consideration by local authorities.
Shiloh Kayondo, an aspiring singer from Annerley, has secured a coveted spot in the Top 30 of the 2025 season of Australian Idol, beating out thousands of hopefuls from across the country.
Kayondo’s journey to the Top 30 began with her audition, during which she performed “Beneath Your Beautiful” by Labrinth ft. Emeli Sandé. Clips of her performance have circulated online, drawing praise for her vocal skills and stage presence.
The judges, Marcia Hines, Kyle Sandilands, and Amy Shark, faced a tough decision in narrowing down the thousands of auditionees. Hines noted the exceptionally high standard of talent this year. Shark emphasised the need for resilience in the challenging music industry, a quality essential for those hoping to make the Top 30 and beyond.
Sandilands bluntly stated the competitive nature of show business and the judges’ responsibility to select the best.
They weren’t just looking for good singers; they sought performers with star power, stage presence, and that indefinable “X factor.”
Kayondo now faces even stiffer competition as she progresses through the next stages of the show. The judges have clarified that only the most resilient and talented will survive the challenges ahead. The Top 30 contestants will be put through their paces, showcasing their abilities and proving they have what it takes to succeed in the music industry.
The journey on Australian Idol is far from over, and Kayondo’s performance in the coming weeks will determine whether she can rise to the top and achieve her dreams.
The request highlights the road’s proximity to two schools, high pedestrian traffic, challenging road conditions, and a history of accidents.
Safety Concerns Around Schools and Other Facilities
Photo Credit: Google Map
The petition emphasises the high volume of pedestrians, especially students from Dutton Park State School and Brisbane South State Secondary College, who use Annerley Road. With enrolments increasing, the number of students crossing and using the road is also rising.
Residents also pointed out the road’s proximity to the Mater Hospital and a large aged care facility, noting the vulnerability of pedestrians in these areas. They expressed concern that current driver behaviour makes it unsafe for pedestrians and cyclists.
Road Conditions and Traffic
According to the petitioners, Annerley Road’s winding and undulating design, limited visibility, and complex intersections make it difficult for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. They described the road as having abrupt turns, many concealed driveways, and on-street parking, all contributing to a poor accident record.
The petition also notes that the northern section of Annerley Road, from Cornwall Street to Stanley Street, is a designated Primary Cycle Route. In contrast, the southern section is a Secondary Cycle Route. They believe lower speed limits would improve safety for cyclists, especially older riders and families.
Increased population density, commercial activity, and residential growth, including developments like Boggo Road Village, have also led to more traffic and a greater need for safe passage, particularly for children and families.
Consistency with Surrounding Roads
Photo Credit: Google Map
Residents pointed out that Annerley Road’s current speed limit is inconsistent with nearby streets like Gladstone Road, Ipswich Road, Stanley Street, and Park Road, all of which have lower limits. They argue that Annerley Road stands out as an exception in the area.
The petitioners also highlighted the frequent speed limit changes drivers face travelling from Chardons Corner to the Mater Hospital, with seven changes over less than 5km. They believe a review is needed to align Annerley Road’s speed limit with these surrounding roads. They stated that Queensland’s speed limit criteria, which considers community safety, road design, crash history, and active transport use, should be applied consistently.
The petitioners are urging Brisbane City Council to prioritise a speed limit review of Annerley Road due to the safety risks to schoolchildren, pedestrians, and cyclists, increased traffic, challenging road conditions, and the inconsistency with speed limits on adjacent streets. They believe a review will improve safety, sustainability, and quality of life for all residents and road users.
The city is expanding its initiative to boost housing affordability by drastically reducing car parking requirements for new developments in inner-city suburbs, including parts of Dutton Park.
The council is proposing changes to the Brisbane City Plan to decrease the number of car parks developers must provide in new high-density housing projects. This initiative aims to make housing more affordable by cutting construction costs, which are often passed on to buyers and renters.
The changes will apply to two categories of inner-city areas: “core” suburbs and “city frame” areas. Dutton Park falls within the “city frame” classification.
Details of the Changes
In “city frame” areas like parts of Dutton Park, the new rules propose a minimum of 0.9 car spaces for one-bedroom dwellings, 1.1 spaces for two-bedroom houses, and 1.3 spaces for homes with three or more bedrooms. Visitor parking requirements will also be reduced to one space for approximately every seven houses.
These changes represent a less drastic reduction than in the “core” areas, where parking requirements could be halved. The council believes that these reductions are justified by declining car ownership rates in inner-city areas.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has stated that the council’s consultation with the community indicated a decline in inner-city car ownership. He emphasised that current parking requirements significantly cost new apartment buildings, making housing less affordable.
The council believes reducing these requirements will help deliver more affordable homes in well-connected areas. They argue that the cost of car parking is embedded in the price of new housing, and reducing these requirements could save developers up to $100,000 per apartment, although it is unclear how much of this saving will reach the consumer.
Concerns and Considerations
While the Property Council supports the move, some, like Opposition Leader Jared Cassidy, have raised concerns about whether developers will pass the savings on to buyers and renters. Mr Cassidy has called for mechanisms to ensure that the cost reductions benefit those seeking housing rather than increasing developer profits. He also stressed the importance of improving public and active transport infrastructure in these suburbs to support the reduced parking availability.
Some planning experts have also expressed concern that developers will reap the benefits, not those seeking housing. A QUT senior lecturer, Mark Limb, suggested that the changes may not significantly impact housing prices.
The proposed changes will require state government approval before they can be implemented. The council has stated that the amendment will be tailored to support local and Queensland government strategies to increase housing supply and affordability in inner-city areas with good access to public transport and active travel options.
Built in 1888, this grand residence at 25 Belfast Street offers a unique opportunity to own a slice of the city’s heritage, all within 10km of the CBD.
Originally part of the sprawling Killarney Estate, Wyetah is a testament to Yeronga’s rich past. Once encompassing 3.6 hectares, the estate was subdivided into numerous lots, many of which now boast heritage-listed homes. Wyetah was constructed for prominent sharebroker Albert Giraud and his wife, Leona.
The home’s striking architecture blends classic colonial design with distinctive asymmetry. Its rectangular structure and gabled roofs evoke the traditional Queensland vernacular, while unique design elements set it apart from its contemporaries. Inside, modern renovations have transformed the space to maximise functionality and comfort.
Previous owner Chris Edlond emphasised the home’s remarkable capacity to accommodate a large family without feeling crowded. Even with six occupants, the house provided ample space for everyone. He attributed this to the clever design, allowing for communal living and individual privacy.
Painstaking restoration efforts have breathed new life into Wyetah and highlighted its original features. Soaring twelve-foot ceilings, intricate timber fretwork, and graceful archways transport residents back to a bygone era. Wraparound verandas offer a tranquil escape, leading to a charming central fountain in the yard.
The home seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. A spacious, entertaining patio overlooks a sparkling self-cleaning saltwater pool, creating an idyllic setting for relaxation and recreation. Adjacent to the patio is a guest retreat, easily adaptable into a granny flat.
For the Edlond family, Wyetah was more than just a house; it was a cherished home filled with memories. Chris Edlond fondly recalled raising his three sons in the house and bringing two of them home from the hospital within its walls. He hoped the new owners would appreciate the home’s historical significance and maintain its legacy.
Place Bulimba agent Matthew Hackett will conduct the auction on February 8th. This is a rare chance to acquire a piece of Brisbane’s history and contribute to the ongoing story of this remarkable home.
If you’ve ever driven past Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH) in Woolloongabba, you might have noticed a curious red structure perched on top of the building.
It sparked curiosity on a Reddit thread recently, where locals speculated on its purpose. The conversation revealed a mix of practical insights, personal anecdotes, and a discussion on the hospital’s future.
Photo credit: @No-Opportunity719/Reddit
One commenter, a former junior doctor at PAH, identified it as a lift to the helipad, linking directly to the Emergency Department. They shared a nostalgic story: “I still remember on my last night ward call shift as a resident, I went up there with three of my friends to watch the sunrise during a quiet moment. It was lovely. Then a bloody chopper arrived, and we all got a serving.”
Photo credit: Hans Muhs/Google Maps
Another commenter added an interesting engineering detail: “It’s a lift. Also, it’s built in a way that can withstand the impact of a helicopter that has a mechanical failure as it’s landing or crashing.”
But the thread didn’t just focus on the lift. It also turned to the hospital’s future. Some users speculated about the site’s potential role in the PA Hospital’s recently announced $748 million expansion project.
A Major Upgrade for Brisbane’s Healthcare
The expansion project at PAH promises significant improvements to the hospital’s infrastructure and services. The upgrades include:
New inpatient beds
Extensions and renovations to existing buildings
New cancer and kidney disease treatment services
Expanded health services
A key part of the expansion will be the addition of five new levels above the Emergency Department, creating space for 249 extra beds. This development marks a significant step forward for the hospital and the broader Brisbane community.
David Thorne from John Holland Group, A/Executive Director PAH Dr Brian Bell, Cultural Capability Officer Celestine Fisher, and Uncle Steven Coghill (Photo credit: metrosouth.health.qld.gov.au)
In July 2024, the hospital’s construction program was officially launched with a traditional water blessing, a ceremony that holds spiritual significance. Jagera elder Uncle Steven Coghill led the welcome to country and the blessing, symbolizing a fresh start, rebirth, and good-will for a safe construction process.
Dr Brian Bell, Acting Executive Director of PA Hospital, emphasised the importance of the ceremony. “This is a huge milestone in the life of PA, and we embrace this traditional custom of the Jagera and Turrbal people for the best possible beginning to the project. This is a great step for our community by beginning with the custom of Australia’s first inhabitants,” he said.
The Future Looks Bright
The ongoing expansion of PAH reflects the hospital’s commitment to meeting the growing healthcare needs of Brisbane’s population. While the red structure atop the hospital serves its functional purpose as a lift to the helipad, it’s also a symbol of the hospital’s role as a vital hub for emergency care and its bright future as a state-of-the-art healthcare facility.
Next time you spot that red thing, you’ll know it’s more than just a curious structure. It’s a gateway to lifesaving care and a reminder of the hospital’s ever-evolving story.
A dramatic confrontation in Annerley between police and a man acting erratically resulted in a police officer being shot and the man being critically injured.
The incident occurred on Friday morning when police were called to a home on Tamar Street in Annerley following reports of a man trespassing and behaving strangely.
Two officers, Acting Sergeant Liam Bailey and First Year Constable Boyd Harrington-Karaitiana, arrived and attempted to de-escalate the situation. However, the 26-year-old man, armed with a piece of timber, lunged for Acting Sergeant Bailey’s gun.
In the ensuing struggle, the gun discharged, injuring Bailey in the leg. Constable Harrington-Karaitiana then shot the man twice in the stomach. Despite his injuries, the man remained agitated and was tasered by other officers before being arrested.
Both officers and the man were taken to Princess Alexandra Hospital. Acting Sergeant Bailey underwent surgery and is in stable condition. Constable Harrington-Karaitiana was treated for a bite wound and has since been released. Doctors credited Constable Harrington-Karaitiana’s quick thinking, which allowed him to apply a tourniquet to his colleague’s leg, with saving Acting Sergeant Bailey’s life.
Queensland Police Union boss Shane Prior praised the officers’ bravery and highlighted the importance of the tourniquet in preventing a potentially fatal situation. He revealed that Constable Harrington-Karaitiana personally purchased the life-saving tourniquet and called on Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski to provide all frontline officers with personal tactical first aid kits, including tourniquets. Mr Prior stated that if the tourniquet hadn’t been applied immediately, Acting Sergeant Bailey could have died.
Girl Guides Queensland is the state’s largest organisation for girls and young women, boasting around 3,000 members and approximately 1,000 volunteers.
Meeting every Tuesday night from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Yeronga Girl Guide Hut on Villa Street, the Yeronga Girl Guides engage in community volunteering, outdoor exploration, and skill-building activities that develop confidence and leadership.
Historical Context
Girl Guides Queensland has a rich history of fostering young leaders going back to 1919, when it was founded. Established to provide girls and women with a supportive environment, the organisation welcomes members from all racial, ethnic, religious, and socio-economic groups.
The program is girl-led and encourages members to be the change in their world. The flexibility of the program ensures it can be tailored to each individual’s goals.
Activities and Benefits
The Yeronga Girl Guides engage in a diverse range of activities including volunteering, camping, kayaking, hiking, and participating in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) projects.
These activities aim to foster confidence, environmental respect, and community involvement. To ensure the safety of all members, robust background checks, such as the Blue Card system, are diligently implemented.
Photo Credit: Girl Guides Queensland/Instagram
Social Enterprise Programs
Girl Guides Queensland operates as a social enterprise and charity, delivering personal growth and leadership programs in the outdoors for girls and young women. Their vision is to grow by delivering a fun-based program of personal growth and responsible citizenship that can be enjoyed by all girls and young women throughout Queensland.
These programs aim to empower young girls and female volunteers, reduce the long-term impact of trauma, and promote healthier futures.
Photo Credit: Girl Guides Queensland/Instagram
Community Sentiment
Community reaction has been positive, with many praising the Girl Guides for providing a platform where girls can develop essential life skills.
Parents appreciate the safe and supportive environment, and the girls enjoy making new friends and exploring new interests.
Future Implications
Yeronga Girl Guides is currently welcoming new members. Interested families can call 0402 201 429 or email yerongaguides@hotmail.com for more information.
Did you know that Fairfield got its name from the arrowroot farm of brothers George and Samuel Grimes, who arrived in Queensland on the Chaseley in 1849 and went on to become prominent figures in the early development of the area?
George and Samuel Grimes, brothers who arrived in Queensland on the Chaseley in 1849, established an arrowroot farm they called Fairfield, which ultimately gave the suburb its name. The Grimes family were prominent figures in the early development of Fairfield and the surrounding areas.
The Grimes brothers were involved in farming, politics, and community life. George even served as a member of parliament and was a founding member of the East Moreton Farmers’ Association.
The Grimes family also established the Fairfield Baptist Church in 1865. The church, originally located on the corner of Dudley Street and what is now Lagonda Street, served as a vital community hub. 1935, the church was relocated to Ipswich Road in Annerley to accommodate the growing congregation.
As Fairfield grew, more residents were drawn to the area. 1914, the Railside Estate was established, offering 28 residential lots near the Fairfield railway station. This development reflected the suburb’s increasing urbanisation.
Fairfield’s location near the Brisbane River has meant a history of flooding. The suburb faced significant floods in 1974 and again in 2011. Despite these challenges, Fairfield has continued to evolve. In 1988, the Fairfield Library opened its doors, providing a valuable resource for the community.
Fairfield Today
Photo Credit: Google Map
Fairfield is a diverse suburb with a mix of residential and commercial areas. Although there are no schools within Fairfield, residents can access several nearby primary and secondary schools in neighbouring suburbs. The suburb also offers amenities such as a skate park and the Fairfield Gardens shopping centre, which houses a supermarket and various other shops.
One of Fairfield’s most significant landmarks is Ashby House. Built in the 1890s by George Grimes, this historic home reminds us of the suburb’s pioneering past. Ashby House was one of the first grand residences in Fairfield, located on a hilltop with views of the Brisbane River. Although no longer a family home, the building remains a significant part of the suburb’s heritage.
Located near the intersection of Gladstone Rd and Denbigh St, Dutton Park is now home to “Brisbane Birdsong”, a stunning mural created by Year 9 students from Brisbane South State Secondary College under the Artforce Brisbane initiative.
This vibrant artwork celebrates Brisbane’s native birdlife, featuring iconic species such as curlews, magpies, and golden wattles.
The mural, supported by teacher Chrissa Stalianos, showcases the creative contributions of students Milla Powell, Kayla Doughty, Neve Bethany Loom, Nikka Strickland, Penny Grodecky, and Halle Poke. It serves as both an artistic statement and an educational piece, reminding passers-by of the beauty and importance of Brisbane’s natural environment.
A Canvas of Brisbane’s Birdlife
Completed in 2024 November, “Brisbane Birdsong” captures the vibrant energy of the city’s birdlife. The students brought each species to life with intricate details and bright, harmonious colours, creating a sense of connection between urban spaces and nature.
Each bird featured in the mural tells a story, symbolising the resilience and vibrancy of Brisbane’s ecosystem
“Brisbane Birdsong” was brought to life through Artforce Brisbane, an initiative managed by Urban Smart Projects. The program provides artists and community groups with a platform to transform traffic signal boxes and public spaces into creative landmarks.
Empowering Young Artists Through Artforce Brisbane
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane
Artforce Brisbane empowers young artists like these students to share their unique visions while fostering a stronger sense of pride and connection in their local communities.
The mural has quickly become a point of pride for Dutton Park residents and students from Brisbane South State Secondary College. Public art projects like “Brisbane Birdsong” highlight the importance of creativity in fostering connection and community spirit.
For students and locals alike, the mural serves as a daily reminder of the delicate balance between urban spaces and Brisbane’s diverse wildlife.
Photo Credit: Artforce Brisbane
“Brisbane Birdsong” stands as a visual celebration of the city’s native bird species. Each brushstroke captures the personality of these birds, ensuring their stories are preserved and shared with future generations.
Projects like “Brisbane Birdsong” showcase the powerful role public art plays in connecting people with their surroundings. As Artforce Brisbane continues to grow, murals like this will serve as lasting reminders of the city’s creativity and natural beauty.
