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Remembering Sizzler Annerley: A Nostalgic Journey for Brisbane Food Lovers

Throughout the late ‘80s and ‘90s, Sizzler became a cultural phenomenon with its salad bars, sizzling steaks, and family-friendly atmosphere and its first-ever Australian location, Sizzler Annerley, holds a unique significance for Brisbane food lovers. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the rise and fall of this beloved restaurant.

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

In 1985, Collins Foods, the parent company of Sizzler, Taco Bell, and KFC, opened the doors of Sizzler Annerley. Offering a diverse menu featuring steaks, pasta dinners, and cheese toasts, the restaurant quickly gained popularity among locals and set the stage for the brand’s expansion across the state.

As Sizzler’s success soared, the chain opened several other popular locations throughout Queensland, including Loganholme, Mermaid Beach, Toowoomba, and Ipswich. For years, these restaurants thrived, attracting families, couples, and friends who relished in the casual dining experience that Sizzler had to offer.

However, as time went on, the casual dining sector in Australia faced challenges. In the 2013 financial year, Collins Foods reported stalling revenue for their Sizzler operations, attributing it to the downturn in the industry.

In 2017, Taco Bell set foot in Annerley, taking over the premises of the former Sizzler restaurant.

Sizzler Annerley’s demolition in 2017 (Photo credit: Sizzler Annerley/Facebook)

Then came the unexpected blow of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many other businesses in the hospitality industry, Sizzler experienced a severe decline in customers, leading to the closure of numerous locations.

After 35 years of delighting taste buds and creating memories, the final Sizzlers in Mermaid Beach, Loganholme, Toowoomba, Maroochydore, and Caboolture closed their doors in 2020.

The closures affected not only the restaurants but also the dedicated employees who had served customers for years. Hundreds of employees were either provided redundancy packages or offered new roles at KFC or Taco Bell, as Collins Foods aimed to mitigate the impact of the closures.

Sizzler’s famous cheese toasts (Photo credit: australianfoodtimeline.com.au)

Whilst Collins Foods made the difficult decision to close its Australian Sizzler locations, it continues to licence the use of the Sizzler restaurant brand for use in other countries. Currently, Sizzler restaurants can still be found in Thailand and Japan, carrying on the legacy and taste that many Australians grew up with.

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

Although Sizzler Annerley and its fellow Australian counterparts have become a thing of the past, their memories live on. Generations of Queenslanders will forever cherish the times they spent gathering around Sizzler’s salad bars, savouring mouth-watering steaks, and enjoying the camaraderie that the restaurant fostered.

Published 10-July-2023

Popular Yeerongpilly Gym ‘De-brands,’ Members Surprised and Disappointed

World Gym, a major international fitness brand, has abruptly closed its Yeerongpilly location. The popular gym, one of the first three World Gyms in Australia when it opened in 2008, decided on an abrupt “de-branding”, handing the location over to new management and leaving its members in the area mired in uncertainty.

The closure of World Gym Yeerongpilly was accompanied by a message sent via email to some members, announcing that “World Gym Brisbane is rebranding” and promising “exciting changes.”

The specifics of the rebranding and the duration of any disruptions to members’ fitness routines were not disclosed. The email expressed appreciation for the members’ support and assured them that further updates would be provided.

Fitness Passport members, who had access to World Gym through their membership, received a text message from Yeerongpilly management stating that there were no discussions about removing their access. However, they mentioned the possibility of negotiating with Fitness Passport in the coming weeks to secure their continued access. The responsibility for potential access denial was attributed to Fitness Passport rather than the gym itself.

On Facebook, a notice addressed to the World Gym Brisbane community explained that the gym had been de-branded and would no longer be associated with the World Gym Australia brand. However, World Gym passport members were informed that they could still access any World Gym location in Australia.

However, the change came as a shock to many members. Upon arriving at the gym for their usual workout sessions, some members were taken by surprise to find it closed on Friday, 16 June 2023. It was only then that they discovered the facility had been placed under new management.

A number of members, specifically Home Club members, were informed that they could still access the gym located on Station Rd. However, others had to seek alternative options.

With this development, some patrons decided to transfer their membership to the World Gym outlet in Mt Gravatt, while some expressed their intention to switch to the upcoming Goodlife gym at the Yeerongpilly Green urban renewal site.

TotalFusion, a fitness centre, also submitted a development application for a substantial gym, café, wellness center, and day spa in Graceville, providing another potential alternative for displaced World Gym members. Additionally, Snap Fitness Moorooka extended a discounted offer on access keys to former World Gym Yeerongpilly members, reducing the price from $69.95 to $20.

World Gym, originally established in 1976 by Joe Gold during the era of “Muscle Beach” in California, has been expanding in southeast Queensland over the past five years. Recently, it submitted a development application for a new purpose-built two-story facility in Flagstone. Despite these expansion efforts, the closure of the Yeerongpilly gym has left many members frustrated and disappointed.

Members took to social media to express their grievances and share their experiences. One member commended Snap Fitness for warmly welcoming former World Gym members, while expressing frustration at discovering the closure when his Fitness Passport access was deemed invalid. Another member, who had been with the Yeerongpilly facility since its opening in 2014, claimed that the gym’s quality had declined since 2018. A member also voiced concerns about maintenance issues, such as malfunctioning toilets and taps.

Published 21-June-2023

Urban Renewal Project Breathes New Life Into Former TAFE Site

Photo Credit: Queensland Government / haveyoursay.dsdilgp.qld.gov.au/ /span>

An urban renewal project has breathed new life into a 3-hectare, former TAFE site in a forgotten corner of the Parkside Yeronga precinct, where a disused urban space will soon become a vibrant community hub with a diverse range of housing options and amenities.

Designed by the architectural firm, Archipelago, this transformative project embodies a fusion of functionality, aesthetics, and inclusivity. With 281 homes planned for construction, including 75 units dedicated to social and affordable housing, and a retirement living facility with 169 apartments, Parkside Yeronga is set to become a neighbourhood that caters to the needs of all its residents.

The meticulous planning by Archipelago encompasses not only residential spaces but also commercial tenancies, small-scale retail establishments, a community centre, and over 4,000 square meters of open space. The master plan thoughtfully considers the site’s context, harmonising with the existing surroundings and emphasising a sense of diversity done well.

Notably, the Queensland government has committed $40 million to this ambitious project, forging a public-private consortium led by Economic Development Queensland in collaboration with JGL Properties, Brisbane Housing Company, and Retire Australia. The infusion of around $185 million in the private sector investment underscores the confidence and enthusiasm surrounding Parkside Yeronga.

Deputy Premier Steven Miles applauds the activation of previously underutilised urban land, citing Parkside Yeronga as a prime example of leveraging such spaces to address the growing housing needs of Queenslanders. The project’s significance extends beyond housing supply, with a projected $180 million of private sector investment stimulating the economy.

Meaghan Scanlon, Minister for Housing, underscored the Queensland government’s commitment to providing social and affordable housing, and the partnership with the private sector at Parkside Yeronga exemplifies their dedication to meeting housing demands while fostering a sense of community.

As Bill Bennett, Director at Yeronga Heart, a public-private consortium, states, Parkside Yeronga fulfils the vision laid out in the master plan, offering a diverse range of housing options that cater to the area’s growing needs. The project not only provides homes but also ensures convenient access to transport, new facilities, and ample green spaces.

Published 14-June-2023

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.

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.

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.

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

Photo credit: Facebook / Golly Gosh Yeronga

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

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’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! | 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

Photo credit: Facebook / Queensland Police Service

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.

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.

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