Dutton Park Station Set for Accessibility Rebuild to Enhance Commuter Experience

As part of the Cross River Rail project, Dutton Park Station is currently undergoing extensive upgrades, including the construction of a totally new station, improved amenities, and the relocation of a heritage shelter.


Read: Improved Pedestrian Safety: Zebra Crossing Coming to Fairfield’s Mildmay Street


Construction works at Dutton Park Station are being carried out in two stages. The first stage, which commenced in November 2022, involved the closure of Platform 1. Platform 2 remained open for use during this phase. This initial stage allows for the preparation of necessary infrastructure changes.

The second stage, which began in April 2023 and is currently ongoing, involves the complete closure of the station to facilitate major construction works.

dutton park station
Photo credit: Yodaman Solo/Google Maps

For Stage Two, new entry points on Noble Street, Kent Street, and Annerley Road will be constructed, featuring amenities such as shade canopies, seating, drinking fountains, and accessible entry points.

The existing station buildings and Platform 2 will be demolished, making way for the construction of a new, elevated Platform 2 and station buildings. These structures will incorporate facilities like a ticket office, staff amenities, and accessible public toilets.

A new pedestrian overpass equipped with two lifts and stairs will also be built between Noble St and Annerley Rd, facilitating smooth and convenient movement for pedestrians.

The project also entails the construction of platform canopies and the installation of new station furniture, including seating and bins. In-ground services will be relocated, and the heritage shelter will be shifted to the entrance on Annerley Rd.

dutton park station
Photo credit: Yodaman Solo/Google Maps

Various essential components will also be implemented, such as the installation of CCTV cameras, permanent signage, lighting, and ticketing systems. These measures aim to enhance safety and improve the overall station experience for passengers.


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


The station is expected to reopen in late 2024. Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to follow signage and traffic guidance during the works.

Published 11-June-2023

Improved Pedestrian Safety: Zebra Crossing Coming to Fairfield’s Mildmay Street

Finally! After years of trying, the Fairfield community can now expect a much-requested zebra crossing on Mildmay Street.


Read: Annerley’s Stephens Park Estate Turns 100 Years Old


This pedestrian crossing, strategically located in front of Fairfield Station, will provide a secure pathway for commuters and pedestrians navigating the busy area.

Fairfield Road, stretching between Venner Road and Ashby Street, as well as Home Street, and from Brougham St to Stimpson St, are currently undergoing resurfacing efforts.

Ashby St (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Scheduled for completion in mid-May 2023, the resurfacing works on Fairfield Rd and Home St. are taking place during the nighttime hours from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m, Sundays through Thursdays.  These initiatives aim to enhance the safety and overall driving experience for residents and commuters in the area.

About Zebra Crossings (Pedestrian Crossings)

Zebra crossings, marked by distinctive black and white stripes, require drivers to slow down and stop when a pedestrian steps onto the marked crossing. It is essential for drivers to yield to pedestrians at these crossings, granting them the right of way. 

Photo credit: CC BY-SA 4.0/Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons

To enhance visibility and caution, zigzag white lines are painted on the road in areas with poor visibility, serving as a warning to drivers.

In accordance with the Australian Standard (AS), zebra crossings are not permitted on roads with an approach speed greater than 50 km/h. This regulation aims to ensure the safety of pedestrians and prevent potential accidents in high-speed traffic areas.


Read: New Childcare Centre Proposed in Annerley to Address Growing Demand


Fairfield residents and commuters are encouraged to exercise caution and follow the rules of the road when utilising zebra crossings. Pedestrians should always wait for all vehicles to come to a complete stop before starting to cross, and drivers should remain vigilant and yield to pedestrians at these designated crossings.

Published 8-June-2023



New Childcare Centre Proposed in Annerley to Address Growing Demand

A development application has been submitted for the construction of a childcare centre in Annerley, with an aim to meet the growing demand for childcare centres within the area. 


Read: Then and Now: Waldheim, the Stephen Family’s Homestead in Annerley


Plans

Childcare centre
Photo credit: All Design and Drafting

Designed by All Design and Drafting, the building incorporates a combination of timber, tin, and stonework elements to create a distinct detached dwelling appearance at the ground floor entrance.

To accommodate the new development, the existing building at 507 Ipswich Rd, Annerley, currently occupied by Braille House will be demolished. 

Childcare centre
Site plan (Photo credit: All Design and Drafting)

The site will be transformed into a childcare centre comprising seven activity rooms, a spacious 756 sqm outdoor play area, a laundry, and a kitchen. Additionally, the project includes a total of 21 parking spaces, with 13 designated for staff and one for persons with disabilities.

Vehicular and pedestrian access to the site will be established through a new crossover to Norman Street.

Demand for Childcare Centres 

Subject site (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Planning documents indicate that there has been an insufficient supply of childcare services in the area over the past year, mainly due to the closure of the Community Kids childcare centre on Villa Street, Annerley, which was located approximately 750 metres south of the proposed site.

This closure, which occurred in mid-2022 resulted in a reduction in available childcare options, impacting approximately 80-100 enrolled children.


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


“The intent of the proposed childcare centre is to cater to that demand predominantly generated within the defined catchment, with the population within this local area expected to increase from 39,769 people in 2021 to 46,490 people in 2031 and more than 49,800 people by 2041,” planners at Think Economics noted.

Published 19-May-2023

Golly Gosh Yeronga: Great Eats and Treats For You and Your Fur-Babies

Whether it’s for a hearty brunch, a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely visit with your beloved furball, Golly Gosh is a great choice when in Yeronga.



Golly Gosh is a delightful little cafe that has quickly become a local Yeronga favourite. Located on Hyde Road, this charming cafe offers up a cosy atmosphere with a white and blue-themed interior and an inviting alfresco dining area.

Golly Gosh in Yeronga: Where Delicious Eats Meet Cozy Vibes
Photo credit:  Facebook / Golly Gosh Yeronga
Golly Gosh in Yeronga: Where Delicious Eats Meet Cozy Vibes
Photo credit:  Facebook / Golly Gosh Yeronga

At Golly Gosh, you’ll find a menu packed with tasty treats as well as classic brunch options like two soft fried eggs on thick-cut rye toast served with either bacon or smoked salmon, avocado and mushrooms; smashed avocado on rye toast with a hash brown, feta and beetroot hummus and black sesame seeds; and two thick Belgian waffles layered with a choice of maple glazed bacon or mushroom and served with two fried eggs and soft serve ice cream.

Golly Gosh in Yeronga: Where Delicious Eats Meet Cozy Vibes
Photo credit:  Facebook / Golly_Gosh_Yeronga
Golly Gosh’s brunch board, designed to share and pair with your favourite freak shake
Golly Gosh’s brunch board, designed to share and pair with your favourite freak shake | Facebook / Golly_Gosh_Yeronga

If you’re craving some bagels, Golly Gosh has got you covered with their bacon, egg, tomato and rocket bagel; and avocado, feta and rocket bagel. But don’t forget, there’s also a range of Belgian waffles, smoothie bowls, sambos and burgers on offer here.

Mars bar waffles: Golly Gosh in Yeronga: Where Delicious Eats Meet Cozy Vibes
Mars bar waffles  Photo credit:  Facebook / G Golly_Gosh_Yeronga
Elvis bagel with crispy bacon, banana and peanut butter
Elvis bagel with crispy bacon, banana and peanut butter! |  Photo credit:  Facebook / Golly_Gosh_Yeronga

And for kids, there’s a special kids menu waiting for them too. Top of the list is their Unicorn Toastie which is a coloured cheese-toasted sandwich topped with 100s and 1000s. Then there are cheeseburgers and fries, nuggets and fries, Belgian waffles, and bacon and egg with hash brown.

The cafe offers a laid-back vibe with friendly staff that makes it the perfect spot to unwind with a cup of coffee and a good book or catch up with friends over brunch.

Golly Gosh in Yeronga
Photo credit:  Facebook / Golly_Gosh_Yeronga

Plus, the cafe is dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the ride and treat him to some tasty puppucinos and puppy pancakes. So, whether you’re in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a midday pick-me-up, or just a cozy place to relax, Golly Gosh in Yeronga is a must-visit spot. 



Google reviews:

“Food was plentiful and tasted great. I had a burrito bowl and others had a burger. Coffee was lovely with the added tiny teddy as a treat ☕️” – Todd Boniface

“Friendly staff, great coffee, Instagrammable food (that still actually tastes great) and some cool quirks such as Uno decks on tables and sparkling water on tap. Highly recommended for brunch. Cyclist friendly too with outdoor tables and bike parking out the front.” – David Brand

“Food was so well priced. So bloody yum, servings huge and quick and friendly service. Couldn’t fault it at all. Came all the way from Gold Coast to try it out ❤️” – Madeleine Schmidt

So why not swing by and see for yourself what all the fuss is about?

Golly Gosh is located at 1/92 Hyde Rd, Yeronga. Check out their social media and keep yourself updated with new food offerings as well as their trading hours.

Published 1-April-2023

Woman’s Dead Body Discovered Inside Annerley Unit

Tragedy has struck Annerley after a 45-year-old woman was found dead in her unit on Franklin St.



The police were called to the scene at approximately 9:00 p.m. on the 27th of April, following the discovery of the woman’s body. A 53-year-old man known to the deceased woman has been helping police with their enquiries.

Residents in the area have expressed shock at the news, stating that they did not hear any commotion leading up to the discovery. Neighbours also noted that they did not know the woman well and that it had been quiet in the area until police crews arrived on the scene.

“I didn’t hear anything the night it happened. I didn’t know them. I stayed away,” Deseray Allam, a resident of the same unit complex since 1992, said. Another neighbour expressed similar sentiments, stating that they were shocked to hear of the death.

A crime scene has been established, and police forensic units have since left the scene. However, officers remain at the unit to guard the area while investigations continue to determine the cause of the woman’s death. 

The Annerley community is in shock over the tragic incident, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

The police have not yet released any further information, but updates are expected in the coming days as investigations progress.



Published 29-April-2023

Man Hit by Car at Annerley Intersection Sustains Serious Injuries, Rushed to Princess Alexandra Hospital

A man was rushed to Princess Alexandra Hospital, sustaining serious injuries after he was reportedly hit by a car at an intersection in Annerley.



A man in his 30s is in serious condition after reportedly being hit by a car at the intersection of Clive St and Ipswich Rd in Annerley. The incident occurred just after 1.35 pm on Monday, 17 April 2023.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, and Queensland Ambulance Service paramedics transported the injured man to Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Police were called to the scene at 1:40 pm and according to a Queensland Police Service spokeswoman, the incident caused traffic delays on Ipswich Rd, with two outbound lanes closed.



According to the Queensland Government website, in the unfortunate event of a car-pedestrian collision, a pedestrian has a 10% chance of being killed if the impact speed is 30 km/h. There is a 40% chance, however, if the impact speed is 40 km/h, and a staggering 90% chance if the impact speed is 50 km/h.

Recognising the severity of these statistics, the state of Queensland has taken measures to safeguard pedestrians by reducing speed limits in certain areas. 

In school zones and high pedestrian traffic areas, such as particular Central Business Districts, speed limits have been lowered to better protect pedestrians. These efforts aim to minimise the impact speed of a collision in the hope of reducing the likelihood of serious injury or fatality.

To walk safely, the Queensland Government recommends crossing roads, railway, and tram tracks at designated crossings, waiting for the boom to rise, warning lights to stop flashing and bells to stop before crossing railway-level crossings.

Pedestrians should always be alert, avoid distractions like wearing headphones or using a mobile phone, and be cautious of traffic near hills and curves. Pedestrians should also walk facing oncoming traffic when there is no footpath or nature strip, and never walk along tram or railway tracks.

Published 18-April-2023

Ecosciences Precinct: A Hub For Innovation In Environmental Sciences

Did you know that the Boggo Road Urban Village in Dutton Park is home to the Ecosciences Precinct, a state-of-the-art environmental sciences hub worth $270 million?


Read: Annerley’s Stephens Park Estate Turns 100 Years Old


The Ecosciences Precinct’s state-of-the-art research facilities comprise an extensive range of specialised infrastructure, such as laboratories, insect houses, controlled environment rooms, glasshouses, greenhouses, offices, workshops, and a science education centre.

As a cutting-edge research facility, the facility is committed to bringing together leading experts from across different agencies and fields to generate innovative solutions to some of Australia’s most complex environmental challenges.

Photo credit: David Inderias/Google Maps

The Ecosciences Precinct’s research activities are diverse and far-reaching. These include collecting valuable data on the physical and biological processes of the Great Barrier Reef, delivering robust environmental monitoring, and utilising satellite imagery and image analysis to map vegetation, monitor land clearing, improve land-use planning, and assess bushfire risk.

The laboratories at the precinct adhere to rigorous Australian Standards, specifically Physical Containment Level 2 (PC2) and Biosecurity Containment Level 3 (BC3) certifications. 

Ecosciences Precinct
Photo credit: Don Ewart/Google Maps

PC2 certification is granted to a standard, low-risk research environment, whilst the BC3 facilities are designed to enable researchers to conduct secure and highly controlled studies on insects and bacteria. 

This specialised infrastructure is critical for controlling weeds that pose a threat to Queensland’s ecosystems, as well as pests and diseases that can cause extensive damage to crops.

The Ecosciences Precinct provides a collaborative space for research personnel from the Queensland Government, CSIRO, The University of Queensland, and other partner universities.

Ecosciences Precinct
Photo credit: Marrisa Vitale T/Google Maps

At the precinct, researchers are striving to deepen our understanding of the natural environment and resources, and using this knowledge to develop innovative and sustainable growth strategies for key industries, such as agriculture, forestry, and marine industries.


Read: Proposed Changes to New Bus Network Impact Dutton Park State School, Other Schools


Located alongside the historic Boggo Road Gaol and just a stone’s throw away from a major public transport hub, the Ecosciences Precinct is perfectly placed to facilitate collaborative research and innovation in a vibrant urban setting.

The Ecosciences Precinct is located at 41 Boggo Road, Dutton Park.

Published 10-April-2023

Get Ready to Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Grand Opening of Vend Annerley

Get ready for a grand celebration as VEND Annerley opens its doors one day before Easter!



The festivities are sure to be spectacular as they unveil their newest location. VEND has been a beloved retail destination on Brisbane’s northside since 2018, hosting a variety of events such as Christmas markets, plant sales, and even stalls catering to dog enthusiasts. 

Get Ready to Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Grand Opening of Vend Annerley
Photo credit:  Facebook / VEND Market Place

Vend’s expansion to Annerley marks an exciting new chapter for the company, and rest assured, their commitment to canine visitors remains unchanged.

Get Ready to Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Grand Opening of Vend Annerley
Photo credit:  Facebook / VEND Market Place

The market will operate seven days a week, making it the perfect spot to peruse on a lazy Sunday or a quick shopping trip after work. With over 120 local businesses and creatives all under one roof, VEND Annerley is set to become a hub of activity for locals and visitors alike.

Get Ready to Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Grand Opening of Vend Annerley
Photo credit:  Facebook / VEND Market Place

To celebrate its grand opening, VEND Annerley is hosting festivities from 8 am to 4 pm. And there is something for everyone!

An ice cream van will be there to keep you cool while you shop, and face painting for the kids. 

Get Ready to Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Grand Opening of Vend Annerley

But the fun doesn’t stop there! There will be prize giveaways throughout the day and Easter Bunny will make an appearance from 10 am-11 am, so make sure you don’t miss out.

Get Ready to Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Grand Opening of Vend_Annerley
Photo credit:  Facebook / VEND Market Place

VEND is renowned for featuring local vendors who specialize in everything from clothing and homewares to furniture, art, records, and vintage collectables. With over 120 local vendors, it is no surprise that VEND is a shopping destination of choice for many Brisbane locals.

Get Ready to Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Grand Opening of Vend in Annerley
Photo credit:  Facebook / VEND Market Place


Get Ready to Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Grand Opening of Vend in Annerley
Photo credit:  Facebook / VEND Market Place

If you’re looking for a new shopping experience, VEND Annerley is the place to be. With its grand opening party set to be a hit, you’ll want to get in on the action early. So mark your calendars and join the VEND family on April 8th!

Published 6-April-2023

Vend Marketplace To Open Second Brisbane Location In Annerley

Annerley is about to score its own Vend Marketplace, after the popular indoor market, which first made its way to Virginia back in 2018, will expand with a second location, this time in Brisbane’s southside. 


Read: Proposed VEND Market Place Annerley Gets Greenlight


The new Vend Marketplace will officially open on Saturday, 8 April 2023 on the corner of Brisbane Street and Ipswich Road, Annerley.

As with the northside venue, this one will be open all days of the week and will be home to over a hundred local businesses and creatives. The shops will range from ladies and kids fashion to indoor plants, dog accessories, records, vintage collectables, homewares, décor, furniture, art, body products.

Vend Marketplace
Founders Amy Hinschen and Kyle Steele (Photo credit: VEND Market Place/Facebook)

Like the permanent indoor market in Virginia, it’s going to have an upper level which can be hired by locals for events and classes. Founders Amy Hinschen and Kyle Steele are hoping the community will make use of Vend Annerley’s second floor.



Pet parents will love the fact that this indoor market is a pet-friendly venue, so they can bring along their fur babies as they shop!

Beyond the shopping experience, the market will have its own cafe which will feature a large range of dishes for breakfast and lunch and delicious coffee using beans sourced from Locale Coffee Roasters. The cafe will have both indoor and outdoor seating and a playground. 

Vend Marketplace
At Vend Virginia (Photo credit: VEND Market Place/Facebook)

In Virginia, the cafe is a licensed venue so o visitors can enjoy a wine or beer after a day of shopping. They also have juice, smoothies, and milkshakes aside from coffee.

Meanwhile, small businesses who want to have their own shop space at Vend Annerley may send their expressions of interest at info@vendmarketplace.com.au.

Vend Marketplace
At Vend Virginia (Photo credit: VEND Market Place/Facebook)

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


Vend Annerley’s retail marketplace will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. whilst the cafe will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. daily. If you don’t want to miss the updates on this new permanent indoor market in Annerley, make sure to follow them on Instagram @vend_annerley.

Published 21-March-2023

Annerley’s Stephens Park Estate Turns 100 Years Old

Did you know that Stephens Park Estate near the Junction Park State School commemorated 100 years following its public auction as a residential precinct? 

In January 2023, the areas covering the streets of Ipswich Road, Waldheim Street, Blacket Street (formerly Thomas Street), Stephens Street, Linville Lane, Military Close, Dudley Street East, View Street, Lewisham Street (formerly Creek Street), Ekibin Road (formerly Ekibin Street), Willis Street, Arnwood Place (formerly the Road to Greenslopes), Lambton Street (formerly Rose Street), Lothian Street (formerly Jane Street), Bower Street, Real Street and Annerley Road, went up for auction with 95 “beautiful breezy building blocks.” 

Stephens Park Estate
Photo Credit: Suburb Maps/Facebook


Stephens Park
Photo Credit: Suburb Maps/Facebook

The estate was advertised in the newspaper as a “Parklike Residential area immediately surrounding the residences of “Messrs W. and T. Stephens” on Waldheim Street. The residence has been recognised as a local heritage site by Brisbane City Council in 2004.

Thomas Stephens emigrated to Sydney from Liverpool. After marrying Anne Connah, the pair set out to live in Brisbane where they raised 12 children. He became a successful Brisbane businessman, alderman and mayor of the city, who also served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland. 

Thomas Stephens
Photo Credit: Wikipedia

His eldest son, William, also tracked the same path and was regarded as “a real old-time southsider” who was born on Stanley Street.

“In my boyhood, the locality between the Clarence Corner and Fiveways was known as One Mile Swamp, there was little or no settlement at Woolloongabba — it was nearly all forest. There were two or three kilns out there, where they used to make bricks by hand. Bigholes were dug out for clay,” he told The Telegraph in 1923. 

“The site of the Brisbane cricket ground was in lowly lying Government reserve. I can remember that Mr. ‘Paddy’ Perkins, when Minister for Lands, proposed to out up tho reserve into allotments and sell it. There was such an outcry against it, however, that the sale, although advertised was cancelled. The East Brisbane State school occupies part of the original reserve.”

William Stephens
Photo Credit: Wikipedia

Blockside & Ferguson Limited handled the auction and sale of the Stephens Park Estate under easy terms of: “£5 cash deposit, and £1 per month for every £50 of the purchase money or part thereof, interest 6 per cent on half-yearly balance, final payment in 36 months.” 



After three days of the auction, Blockside & Ferguson reported a “very satisfactory” sale of 47 allotments. The rest of the properties were negotiated during private sales. 

Published 12 March 2023