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Jardinia by Pradella Sets A New Standard In Yeronga Living

With the launch of Pradella’s newest residential project, Jardinia, for 2024, Brisbane’s thriving real estate market is a hive of activity. Tucked away in the energetic Yeronga suburb, Jardinia is a stunning new urban living space with lots of greenery, modern conveniences, and exquisite design.

The name Jardinia comes from the Spanish word for garden. This building is a great example of how modern design and nature can live together. This five-story building at 26–36 Shottery Street has 87 well-designed flats and is in a great spot, close to Yeronga Station and all the great things to do on Fairfield Road.

The well-known architecture company Wiltshire Stevens made Jardinia. Its unique living green facade makes it blend in perfectly with its surroundings. Private foyers welcome visitors as they enter their homes and lead to sizable, open-plan living rooms that effortlessly flow onto sizable terraces. This creates a sense of community and openness.

The flats at Jardinia have the best SMEG appliances on the market and have sleek stone countertops with sinks set into island benches. The large master suites have walk-in closets that are a good size and luxurious baths with double vanities, freestanding bathtubs, and separate showers. If you have different living needs, the extra bedrooms can fit them with built-in closets and easy access to the main bathroom.

Some homes also have rooms that can be used for more than one thing, like an office, a media room, or an extra bedroom, based on what a modern family needs.

Residents of Jardinia can choose from two current colour schemes that let them express themselves and make their homes unique.

The rooftop terrace at Jardinia, which draws inspiration from the riad gardens of exotic palaces, makes life even better. With entertainment areas, chairs, and a resort-style pool, it’s a peaceful haven in the middle of the city’s chaos.

Health and well-being are important to Jardinia, so they have features like a fully-stocked gym and a media room that can be used for different things. These let residents stay busy and calm in the comfort of their own homes.

Position Property is in charge of Jardinia’s marketing effort. At $559,900, it’s a great choice for picky buyers who want to live in style in Brisbane’s inner-ring areas.

Pradella has been an important part of Brisbane’s growth since its start in 1956, when Kim Pradella was in charge. The company is known for big projects like the $1 billion Montague Markets area in the West End. They are excited about their newest project in Toowong and are working on a development application right now.

Jardinia is the best example of Pradella’s commitment to quality. It is a lush oasis in the middle of the city where people can live, work, and enjoy a refined and peaceful way of life.

Published Date 04-April-2024

Million-Dollar Pledge to Enhance Brisbane’s Sports Clubs in Yeronga, Other Suburbs

A million-dollar commitment to upgrade facilities at various sporting grounds and parks in Brisbane, including Yeronga, has been unveiled amidst the city’s increasing demand for quality sporting infrastructure.

The $1.8-million plan will include replacing outdated halogen lights with state-of-the-art, energy-efficient LED lights at seven key parks utilized by 11 sporting clubs citywide.

This strategic investment not only promises to modernise lighting infrastructure but also holds the potential to yield substantial financial savings for community clubs. With estimated annual electricity bill savings of up to $4000 per club, the initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens, empowering clubs to direct resources towards enhancing grassroots sporting initiatives and community engagement.

Moreover, the transition to LED bulbs is projected to deliver significant environmental benefits, with a staggering 70 per cent reduction in carbon emissions per location. This substantial decrease translates to an equivalent of emissions from an average Brisbane household over a year, underlining the initiative’s contribution toward the city’s broader sustainability goals.

Leyshon Park, Yeronga

Among the prominent locations slated for lighting upgrades is Leyshon Park, nestled in the heart of Yeronga and serving as the cherished home ground for the esteemed Yeronga Eagles Football Club (YEFC). This green space holds a special place in the hearts of residents and sporting enthusiasts alike.

Beyond its lush fields and pristine facilities, Leyshon Park is a melting pot of camaraderie, diversity, and sporting excellence, where individuals from all walks of life converge to celebrate the joy of football.

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A post shared by Yeronga Eagles Football Club (@yerongaefc)

YEFC has been synonymous with passion, dedication, and sporting prowess for decades, nurturing generations of athletes and fostering a sense of belonging within the community. Guided by a steadfast commitment to inclusivity and opportunity, the club’s mission is to provide football pathways for both seasoned players and eager newcomers.

The rest of the parks included in this initiative are:

Bill Cash Memorial Park, Cannon Hill
D.M. Henderson Park, Sunnybank
Gibson Park, Stafford
Giffin Park, Coorparoo
Keperra Picnic Ground Park, Ferny Grove
Mitchelton Park, Mitchelton

Commitment to Sporting Communities

The announcement of this comprehensive sports infrastructure overhaul reflects the local council’s unwavering commitment to addressing the evolving needs of Brisbane’s diverse sporting community.

Re-elected Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, spearheading this initiative, reiterated its significance in empowering clubs to thrive in an ever-changing landscape. By providing essential support and modernizing facilities, the Better Sports Lighting Program is poised to catalyse positive change, ensuring that sports clubs can continue serving as vibrant community activity and well-being hubs.

Published 18-March-2024

An Annerley Mum’s Courage: Navigating Breast Cancer with Determination and Girl Power

Corinne Kelleher, a resilient mother from Annerley, draws strength from her daughters as she navigates her battle with breast cancer. Her touching story of courage and determination resonates with thousands as she prepares to participate in the 2024 International Women’s Day Fun Run, proudly presented by Queensland X-ray.

The anticipated event, set to unfold on Sunday, 10th March 2024, will witness a remarkable gathering of 23,000 individuals on the streets of Brisbane. Their collective efforts aim to raise crucial funds for breast cancer services, equipment, and research at Mater Hospital.

While the CBD event is already at capacity, Ms Kelleher invites fellow Queenslanders to partake in virtual fun runs within their communities. This inclusive initiative promotes awareness and fosters solidarity in the fight against breast cancer.

Ms Kelleher, 40, candidly shares her journey, describing her initial diagnosis as “scary as hell.” However, her daughters, Harper, aged 7, and Sloane, aged 3, serve as inspiration, propelling her forward with unwavering resolve.

“The girls absolutely inspired me to keep positive, to keep going, and to keep at the forefront of my mind that I can and will get through this,” Ms Kelleher affirmed, reflecting on the unwavering support of her family.

Corrine Kelleher Annerley mum breast cancer — Corinne Kelleher, Steve Kelleher with Harper, 7, and Sloane, 3 pictured at their home in Annerley, Brisbane 6th of February 2024.
*Photo Credit: Supplied/Josh Woning*

Despite the challenges of treatment, the Annerley mum remains transparent with her daughters about her condition, navigating their inquiries with grace and honesty. She emphasises the importance of raising awareness, particularly among women in her age group who may not undergo routine mammograms.

Her participation in the fun run marks a personal milestone, symbolizing her commitment to the cause. Alongside her supportive husband, she endeavours to complete the run, buoyed by the cheers of her daughters awaiting the finish line.

Ms Kelleher’s journey underscores the critical role of early detection and intervention in combating breast cancer. Despite the absence of a family history, she underwent extensive treatment, including a bilateral mastectomy and chemotherapy.

Guided by the expertise of Mater Private Hospital‘s dedicated healthcare professionals, Ms Kelleher remains steadfast in her fight against invasive ductal carcinoma. With six cycles of chemotherapy remaining, she embraces each day with resilience and optimism.

Reflecting on her journey, M. Kelleher acknowledges the profound impact of her support network, including family, friends, and healthcare providers. Her determination to maintain a semblance of normalcy amidst treatment speaks volumes about her strength of character.

Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas aptly observes that the outpouring of support for the virtual challenge underscores a collective commitment to effecting change. Through grassroots initiatives and community engagement, individuals across Queensland unite in solidarity against breast cancer.

Funds from the event will facilitate groundbreaking research and provide vital support services for breast cancer patients across Mater hospitals statewide. Participants reaffirm their dedication to improving outcomes and fostering hope for those affected by this pervasive disease with each step taken.

For those eager to contribute to the cause, registration for the virtual event remains open at www.womensdayfunrun.com.au. Together, Queenslanders embark on a shared journey of resilience, compassion, and empowerment, epitomizing the enduring spirit of unity in the face of adversity.

Published 4-March-2024

Construction Set for $350-M Vertical Expansion of Princess Alexandra Hospital in Woolloongabba

Princess Alexandra Hospital is set to undergo a significant expansion, with state allocation of $350 million to add five storeys atop its existing three-level structure. This expansion, slated to commence before the year’s end, promises minimal disruption to patient care.

The project, anticipated to conclude in 2026, will introduce 249 additional beds, comprising 219 acute inpatient beds and 30 intensive care units (ICU). Notably, this endeavour marks the second instance of a Queensland public hospital undergoing vertical expansion, following Logan Hospital.

The public has been assured of of minimal disruption to emergency department operations during construction, with plans in place to ensure the continued safe operation of the hospital’s helipad. Despite the project’s challenges, proponents emphasise a cautious approach to ensure completion by 2026.

Constructed initially with vertical expansion in mind, Princess Alexandra’s emergency department, completed over a decade ago, now paves the way for this ambitious development. The expansion is expected to substantially boost the hospital’s capacity, equivalent to nearly three full rugby league fields.

“The Princess Alexander Hospital is one of our busiest hospitals and we want to make sure our hospitals can continue to provide quality healthcare for our growing community now and into the future,” Hon Shannon Fentiman said.

“I’m so proud of our landmark investment in the PA – this is the greatest investment in the PA in more than 20 years.

“The Princess Alexandra Hospital already provides an exceptional level of healthcare, but it is critical we take action now to ensure it can continue to do so.”

Upon finalisation of the contract, the government has pledged transparency regarding any potential adjustments to the initial $350 million budget. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure to meet the needs of Queensland’s growing community.

“The capacity expansion project at Princess Alexandra Hospital is essential given the vital role PA plays in delivering specialist services to the state,” Chief Executive Metro South Health Noelle Cridland said.

“As a provider of tertiary level surgical and transplant services, cancer care, trauma and rehabilitation, PA needs the additional capacity to continue to deliver more of these services for the growing community.

Princess Alexandra Hospital Brisbane — Photo Credit: Metro South Health

“Our expansion project team and clinicians across our specialist areas are working together with Queensland Health to co-design new health infrastructure that will deliver modern models of care and services that improve the patient experience and outcomes.

“As always with projects of this size, significant contingency plans are in place to ensure patients and hospital services experience minimal disruptions.”

The expansion aligns with the broader $10 billion Capital Expansion Program, a testament to the Queensland Government’s dedication to bolstering health and hospital facilities across the state.

Published 1-March-2023

Power Move: Gold’s Gym Takes Over Former World Gym Site in Yeerongpilly

Did you know that Gold’s Gym has acquired the former site of World Gym Brisbane in Yeerongpilly, establishing its second location in Queensland there?

Club Manager Ruby Warren revealed that transitioning to Gold’s Gym at Yeerongpilly entails more than just a change in banners and signage. It signifies a profound shift towards amplifying what the community values in fitness.

Drawing inspiration from the spirit of Gold’s Gym in Venice Beach, the new establishment will adopt an indoor/outdoor ambience, complete with the introduction of Muscle Park.

The move is poised to bring about a notable transformation, not just in terms of aesthetics but also in the overall fitness experience for members and the wider community.

With over 700 locations worldwide, Gold’s Gym stands as a global fitness juggernaut, and this strategic shift signals a monumental moment for both the gym’s members and Brisbane’s fitness landscape.

Ms Warren began her journey with the gym at 14 years old with her father and has since risen to a managerial position.

Gold's Gym Yeerongpilly — Photo Credit: Supplied

She expressed excitement about bringing a strong slice of the iconic beach atmosphere to Brisbane, ensuring current and prospective members have a robust, bold brand to align with.

This expansion to Yeerongpilly marks a significant stride for the renowned fitness brand, extending its reach and influence within Brisbane City. For individuals seeking to join this fitness revolution or learn more about the new establishment, further information can be found at Gold’s Gym Yeerongpilly.

Construction Delays Keep Tours of Boggo Road Gaol from ‘Boy Swallows Universe’ on Hold

Tours of Brisbane’s Boggo Road Gaol in Dutton Park, featured in the Netflix series “Boy Swallows Universe,” remain suspended due to some ongoing construction works nearby.

Despite the jail’s international attention following its portrayal in the popular show, the temporary closure, initiated in March 2022 due to adjacent development, has persisted.

The Boggo Road Village project, originally slated for completion in 2023, has yet to commence major construction, leaving the state government to impose safety restrictions on the jail. These restrictions, related to nearby water and sewerage pipe work as well as construction vibrations, have hindered the resumption of tours.

It appears that the prolonged closure has led to numerous disappointed inquiries from eager visitors, including schools and cruise ship companies, who have been denied access for over two years.

With the recent surge in interest fueled by “Boy Swallows Universe,” online harassment directed at tour operators has escalated.

“We’re being harassed online by people wanting to gain access to the prison since Boy Swallows Universe,” Tour Guide and Historian Jack Sim said in a radio interview.

Mr Sim has been running tours at Boggo Road Gaol for nearly a decade.

Boggo Road Gaol Boy Swallows Universe — Photo Credit: Netflix

Developer Mark Stockwell attributed the project delays, now expected to extend until mid-2025, to complications arising from concurrent state government initiatives such as Cross River Rail and the underground bus tunnel. Expressing frustration at the prolonged timeline, Stockwell acknowledged Mr Sim’s efforts in preserving Brisbane’s heritage.

Mr Sim, who typically sees peak visitation during school holidays, emphasised the necessity of resolving the construction delay, noting the significance of the jail’s historical and cultural value.

He underscored the urgency of establishing a concrete completion date to facilitate future planning, including the proposed establishment of a museum within the jail premises.

Mr Sim is advocating for collaboration between the Queensland government and developers to expedite the project’s progress, emphasising the importance of capitalizing on the heightened global interest in the jail’s narrative. He urged authorities to address the issue promptly, citing its adverse impact on tourism in Queensland.

Published 9-Feb-2024

Charities Overwhelmed As Cost Of Living Drives Hunger Crisis

Did you know that food insecurity and hunger have reached concerning levels over the past year, according to a new report from Foodbank Australia? Melinda McInturff, a community resilience coordinator who started the Yeronga community centre with volunteers after the 2011 floods, said that the daily need for food aid they are seeing now surpasses anything in the past decade.

Read: New Affordable Housing Development Underway at Former TAFE Site in Yeronga

Community Plus+ Queensland, a community development organisation that works across Annerley, Yeronga, and West End, revealed demand for food relief is the highest they have seen in over 12 years.

Like Community Plus+ Queensland, OzHarvest also observed the unprecedented demand last year. Over 180 charities in Queensland are currently waitlisted for OzHarvest’s service, which collects unused fresh food from businesses and delivers it to charities.

The 2023 Hunger Report estimates that around 3.7 million households battled food insecurity to some degree in the past 12 months.

Photo credit: Foodbank Queensland/Facebook

The rising cost of living was cited as the predominant reason, with 79 percent of respondents noting high living expenses and 42 percent citing reduced income or government benefits.

Photo credit: Community Plus+ Yeronga Community Centre/Facebook

With many households stretched financially, food rescue organisations and charities revealed demand is unprecedented.

To manage, people have cut spending on food and groceries. Some have also reduced housing and finance costs over the past 12 months.

Many cited the rising cost of living as tipping them over the edge financially. One local resident said a combination of factors like pensions, taking in family members and using credit cards to pay increased expenses has depleted their savings. Another resident coped by not eating so their children could.

Read: The Beginnings of Collins Estate, the ‘Most Cheerful’ Address in Annerley

However, ensuring food access during these difficult economic times will require a coordinated response between charities, government services, and the wider community to make sure no one falls through the gaps. With compassion and collective effort, Australia can address this hunger crisis driven by inflation.

With rising costs straining household budgets across Australia, the steep increase in food insecurity highlights the real-world impacts of the cost of living crisis. As more employed Australians are forced to turn to charities to feed their families, organisations like OzHarvest and Community Plus are working overtime but still struggling to meet demand.

Published 13-January-2024

Delays and Disruptions in Dutton Park: Cross River Rail Project Impact on Commuters

Photo Credit: Cross River Rail

Workers in Dutton Park, Yeronga, and Fairfield are facing significant delays in their daily commute due to ongoing disruptions caused by the Cross River Rail construction project and frustration is mounting.

Train lines are operating on a “special timetable,” and multiple rail replacement buses have been deployed to assist commuters travelling to and from the city. Translink and Queensland Rail had previously warned commuters about potential delays. However, the situation has already prompted frustration among passengers, with some experiencing lengthy wait times for buses.

The Commuter Struggle

On the first day back at work in the new year, commuters encountered substantial delays and inconveniences.

“I’m at a train station waiting for the rail replacement bus with the equivalent of about 2-3 bus-loads of people. So far in 40 minutes, 1 full bus has turned up, didn’t let anyone on, and f***ed off. Another just turned up and let on maybe 10 people. Good luck out there…” a commuter posted on Reddit.

Frustrations grew as one commenter revealed they chose to extend their commute by taking another bus route to avoid the rail buses altogether. The situation was described as “ridiculously inconvenient” for a workweek, and many individuals were compelled to work from home due to the disruption.

“While I was well aware of the track closures, I was not prepared for how inadequate the rail buses would be. TransLink really should have made more of a point that buses could only accommodate limited numbers and that passengers should drive instead, or reconsider travelling altogether. Lesson learned, thankfully my employer is paying for our parking until this is over,” another commuter said.

Duration of Delays

The State government had previously committed to building 200 rail replacement buses, with an investment of $133.8 million. These buses were intended to ensure that South East Queensland public transport users could travel across the network during track closures on the train network. However, the delivery of the first bus is not anticipated until March 2024, and the full fleet of 200 buses is not expected to be available until the end of the year.

Meanwhile, several train stations in the area have been closed since 23 Dec 2023, affecting approximately 49,000 customers.

Dutton Park station is currently under construction, with ongoing work on platforms 1 and 2, including the installation of platform shade canopies and lift structures.

Cross River Rail Dutton Park — Photo Credit: Cross River Rail

Annerley Road has been temporarily closed during this period, leading to bus diversions via Fairfield Road and Fenton Street. On-street parking is restricted in specific areas while these diversions are in place.

Yeerongpilly station is also closed until late 2024 due to major construction, with temporary relocations of bus stops on Wilkie Street. Commuters in the affected areas are advised to stay updated with the latest information on the Cross River Rail and Translink websites, as these details are subject to change.

Published 9-Jan-2024

Man In Hospital After Multiple Stabbings

Photo Credit: Pixabay

A 46-year-old man sustained multiple stabbings to his chest and abdomen, in a terrifying attack near a service station on Ipswich Road in Annerley.

**Princess Alexandra Hospital**
Photo Credit: Metro South Health

The man was rushed to Princess Alexandra Hospital in a serious condition after the distressing incident on 14 December 2023.

Emergency services swiftly responded to alarming calls, with paramedics arriving at the suburban street to attend to the badly wounded man.

Queensland Ambulance confirmed the severity of the injuries, emphasising abdominal and chest wounds requiring urgent medical attention.

According to a spokesperson from Queensland Police, the injured man was discovered near a service station on Ipswich Road. A significant area, particularly an address on Lambton Street, has been cordoned off as a crime scene, prompting an active investigation by law enforcement officials.

“Investigations are continuing to establish the circumstances of the incident,” stated the Queensland Police spokesperson. No charges have been laid.

Residents of Annerley are urged to remain vigilant as the Queensland Police work diligently to determine motives and apprehend those responsible for this disturbing assault.

This incident has shaken the local community, prompting a heightened awareness of safety and security in the area. The police reassured residents of their commitment to ensuring the safety of the neighbourhood.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are focused on bringing clarity to the incident and reassuring residents on their safety and security.

Published 28-December-2023

Mapping Brisbane’s Risky Roads for Cyclists: BikeSpot App Offers Insights

The Cornwall Street and Annerley Road intersection in Annerley now ranks 8th among BikeSpot app users as an unsafe spot for cycling in Brisbane due to the glaring absence of bike lanes in the area.

Since its introduction in October, BikeSpot has captured the opinions of over 4,000 Queenslanders who have highlighted areas they perceive as high-risk for both cyclists and drivers and provided vital insights to road safety.

The community rallied together to transform this problematic intersection to make the area not only safer but more accessible for all, ensuring that pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists can coexist harmoniously. Their vision included reduced speed limits, closing slip lanes, and the creation of safer crossings and dedicated bike lanes.

In March 2023, local MP Amy Macmahon highlighted the pressing need to address the treacherous Annerley Road-Cornwall Street intersection. A headache for motorists and a danger zone for pedestrians and cyclists, this intersection’s issues were poised to escalate with the upgrade of Dutton Park Station.

A Vision for Safer Roads

The BikeSpot map, which originated in Victoria and has become live nationwide, is not just a tool for identifying problems but a mechanism for catalysing change. It was born in response to the tragic death of cyclist Amy Gillett in 2005.

Users are encouraged to mark locations they deem in need of improvement, whether it be for narrow lanes, excessive traffic speed, or missing connections. Amy Gillett Foundation Chief Executive Dan Kneipp emphasises the importance of addressing “bad road design” and underscores the app’s potential to guide Brisbane City Council in preparation for the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Topping the list of danger zones in Brisbane is Sylvan Road in Toowong and it’s followed closely by the intersection of Western Freeway Bikeway and Dean Street, within the same suburb.

Here are the 10 streets cited by the app’s users:

1. Sylvan Rd, Toowong

2. Western Freeway Bikeway and Dean St, Toowong

3. Dickson St, Wooloowin

4. Western Freeway Bikeway and Miskin St, Toowong

5. Wynnum Rd corridor

6. Kurilpa Bridge, West End

7. Kate St and Witton Rd, Indooroopilly

8. Cornwall St and Annerley Rd, Annerley

9. Bicentennial Bikeway and Archer St, Toowong

10. Land St, Toowong

BikeSpot is part of the Australian Government’s Safe Roads for Safe Cycling Program. Its mission aligns with the broader goal of ensuring safer, more accessible roads for all.

Published 22-Dec-2023