Yeronga Archives - Page 3 of 6

St Sebastian’s Parish Commemorates Centenary with Joyful Celebration

St Sebastian’s Parish in Yeronga marked a major milestone this May, celebrating 100 years of faith and community with a joyful centenary Mass and gathering.

Read: St Sebastian’s Yeronga Invites Community to Open Week

The centenary event brought together generations of parishioners, clergy, and local families in a moving tribute to a century of shared belief and resilience. Among the 220-strong congregation were students and families from St Sebastian’s Primary School Yeronga, whose vibrant participation embodied the parish’s enduring spirit and the hope it places in the next generation.

Long-time parishioner Margaret Smith said the celebration was a truly special occasion, noting the beauty of the liturgy, music, and the strong sense of community. She reflected on the importance of honouring those who had come before—individuals who had given so much to the parish and helped shape its role in the broader community.

Mrs Smith, a respected figure at the St Sebastian’s Parish, also contributed research to a commemorative book released for the occasion, 100 Years in Faith, Hope and Love, written by local author Patricia Baker.

Brisbane Archbishop Mark Coleridge led the centenary Mass, assisted by Deacon Andrew O’Brien, parish administrator since the parish adopted a deacon-led model in 2015. According to Mrs Smith, this model has worked well for the community and provides a meaningful and effective way to live out the Church’s mission.

A particularly touching moment came with the participation of centenarian Josie Layden, often affectionately described as being as old as the parish itself. Baptised in Kadumba House in September 1925, she was invited to cut the centenary cake—an honour that brought smiles and applause from those in attendance.

Read: Annerley Community Centre Opens, Supporting Local Initiatives

As voices rose in song and laughter filled the air, the celebration stood as a living testament to the strength of community and faith that has defined the Yeronga Catholic Parish for 100 years—and will continue to guide it into the future.

Published 9-June-2025

Yeronga Water Polo Club Among QLD Junior Sport Grant Recipients

Photo Credit: Mermaids Water Polo

A junior water polo club based in Yeronga has received a grant for equipment and uniforms, as part of a broader $160,000 boost awarded to more than 50 Queensland junior sports clubs.

Background of the Grant Program

The 2025 Active Kids Grant, delivered by the Australian Sports Foundation with backing from The Dickinson Foundation, distributed more than $600,000 worth of equipment and uniforms nationwide. In Queensland alone, over 50 junior sports organisations were funded, with an average of approximately $3,000 allocated per club. Yeronga’s Mermaids Water Polo Inc was one of the few to receive the upper end of the distribution, securing $5,999 in support.

The grant program has been running since 2020, delivering more than $2.4 million in support to over 600 grassroots clubs across Australia.

Yeronga Club Profile and Growth

Founded in 2013 by former Australian water polo player Nicola Johnson, Mermaids Water Polo started with just 13 players. Over the past decade, it has expanded into one of Brisbane’s largest junior water polo organisations, now fielding around 30 teams across different competition levels. Based at the Yeronga Pool, the club supports athletes from beginner to elite level.

Young players from the club have competed in Brisbane Water Polo competitions and earned representation at both state and national levels. In 2024, Mermaids won under-12 and under-14 state titles, and also claimed the under-12 national championship.

Mermaids Water Polo Club — *Photo Credit: Mermaids Water Polo*

Equipment Needs and Impact

The funding will be used to supply updated uniforms and equipment to support players of all abilities. Items will be delivered through official suppliers HART Sport and ISC Sport. The grant is expected to ease financial pressure on families and volunteers, helping maintain access to competitive and developmental sport.

According to the Australian Sports Foundation, many clubs face challenges in acquiring necessary gear. The grant aims to improve inclusion by reducing cost-related barriers and encouraging broader participation in community sports.

Looking Ahead

Applications for the 2026 round of the Active Kids Grant will open early next year. In the meantime, clubs like the Mermaids Water Polo in Yeronga can continue accessing support through the Australian Sports Foundation’s fundraising platform.

Published 5-June-2025

Yeronga Junior Sports Club Score Significant Funding Boost

Photo Credit: Yeronga FC

Yeronga Eagles FC is set to benefit from a major financial injection, securing approximately $2,700 for new equipment as part of a state-wide initiative.

Queensland junior sporting clubs, stretching from Cairns to Longreach and across to the Gold Coast, are sharing in over $160,000 worth of uniforms and equipment, designed to support the physical and mental well-being of young people.

This significant boost is a result of a partnership between the Dickinson Foundation and the Australian Sports Foundation, with an average of around $3,000 allocated to more than 50 clubs throughout the state.

Community Impact

Yeronga Eagles FC — *Photo Credit:* *Yeronga FC*

Grassroots clubs like those in Yeronga are recognised as vital to Australian sport, fostering healthier and happier communities. The funding aims to provide essential uniforms and sporting equipment, sourced from HART Sport and ISC, to a wide array of sports including soccer, netball, rugby union, tennis, and Aussie rules, alongside numerous smaller sporting organisations.

The Australian Sports Foundation’s chief executive stated that the organisation is proud to collaborate with partners and generous donors to offer practical support such as uniforms and equipment. They also aim to provide clubs with the necessary tools to fundraise effectively through their platform.

Easing Financial Pressure

A representative from the Dickinson Foundation explained that their family’s donation, with roughly one-third directed to Queensland clubs, will help to ease the financial strain on families trying to keep their children involved in sport.

They further commented that these grants are crucial in helping local clubs provide the uniforms and equipment young Australians require to feel included, remain active, and succeed in their chosen sport, especially during a time of increased financial pressures on households.

Yeronga Eagles Identity

It is important to note that when referring to “Yeronga Eagles FC,” there are at least two prominent sporting clubs in Yeronga, QLD, that use “Eagles” in their name or have a connection to the area.

One is the Yeronga Eagles Football Club, which is a soccer club involved in various Football Queensland leagues, known for its community-driven culture. The other is the Yeronga South Brisbane Football Club, often called “Yeronga” or the “Devils,” which is an Australian Rules Football club playing in AFL Queensland leagues.

Published Date 02-Jun-2025

St Sebastian’s Yeronga Invites Community to Open Week

Photo Credit: Brisbane Catholic Education/ Facebook

St Sebastian’s Catholic Primary School in Yeronga will host an upcoming Open Week event inviting local families and residents to explore its distinctive community spirit and research-supported learning environment.

Open Doors for Local Families

Staff and students are preparing to showcase their school between 8 April and 4 May 2025. This initiative is part of the broader Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) Open Week, which sees over 100 schools across the region opening their gates. St Sebastian’s encourages interested community members to experience the school firsthand.

Emphasis on Partnership

Photo Credit: Brisbane Catholic Education/ Facebook

Principal Angela Moore stated that a special aspect of the school is the strong working relationship between its dedicated staff and its involved parent community, which create a supportive educational setting.

She explained that parents and caregivers are considered partners in education and are frequently present in the school. Examples include joining staff for tea after assemblies or taking turns to run the weekly Friday sausage sizzle, helping families feel connected to the school and their child’s learning journey.

Wellbeing as a Foundation

The school places a high priority on student wellbeing. Primary Learning Leader Kathleen Jenkins indicated that the school recognises learning is most effective when students feel secure and supported.

She mentioned that teachers are given time to consider each child’s development and work closely with their families. Jenkins added that the school’s open relationship with parents allows teachers to easily communicate concerns and ensure families actively participate in their child’s education.

Research-Based Teaching Approach

St Sebastian’s approach to teaching is informed by evidence, ensuring classroom activities are grounded in scientific research. Principal Moore reported that using evidence-informed teaching practices has led to noticeable improvements in student performance and increased teacher job satisfaction.

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Focus on Reading Skills

During the Open Week, the school plans to host specific events for the community, including a coffee morning and an information session for parents focused on how reading is taught. Moore acknowledged that methods for teaching reading have changed significantly since many current parents were students.

She expressed the school’s desire for parents and community members to understand the current, research-based, structured literacy techniques used in their classrooms today. Those interested in learning more or registering for events can find details at bceopenweek.com.

Published Date 23-April-2025

Yeronga Gem: 1888 Colonial Residence Up for Auction

Photo Credit: Real Estate

A rare piece of Brisbane’s history has hit the market by listing “Wyetah,” a magnificent colonial home in the heart of Yeronga.

Wyetah in Yeronga — *Photo Credit:* *Real Estate*

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.

Published 23-Jan-2025

Street Spotlight: Brisbane Corso, Yeronga

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Brisbane Corso in Yeronga presents a fascinating snapshot of Brisbane’s riverside development. Historical records from 1936 reveal a sparsely populated street that terminated at Victoria Street, with only a few properties dotting its length and a single riverfront dock gracing the shoreline.

Today’s streetscape stands in stark contrast, with numerous residences and private docks lining the waterfront, highlighting the area’s transformation over nearly nine decades. The current demographic shows a strong sense of place, with 100% owner-occupancy among its residents, though all homeowners are relatively new to the street. Below, an aerial photograph from 1936 captures this historic waterfront precinct in its early stages, providing a remarkable window into Yeronga’s past.

Brisbane Corso, Yeronga Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 3
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 100%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: –
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 0%

Brisbane Corso, Yeronga – As It Looked in 1936

Brisbane Corso, Yeronga in 1936

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Yeronga in 2024 was $1,201,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Yeronga in 2020 was $780,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN YERONGA SINCE 2020 : $421,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Yeronga in 2024 was $1,460,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Yeronga in 2020 was $1,220,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN YERONGA SINCE 2020 : $240,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Yeronga in 2024 was $1,778,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Yeronga in 2020 was $1,710,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN YERONGA SINCE 2020 : $68,000

The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Yeronga in 2024 was $630,000
The median price of a 2 Bedroom Unit in Yeronga in 2020 was $430,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 2 BEDROOM UNIT IN YERONGA SINCE 2020 : $200,000

The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Yeronga in 2024 was $835,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom Unit in Yeronga in 2020 was $606,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM UNIT IN YERONGA SINCE 2020 : $229,000

If you know Brisbane Corso, Yeronga well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Yeronga and Dutton Park Among Key Locations in Bridge Strike Prevention Blitz

A major enforcement and education campaign is underway across South East Queensland, including key locations like Yeronga and Dutton Park, to tackle bridge strike caused by over-height vehicles.

Read: Brisbane Metro to Begin Permanent Operations in 2025: What it Means for Commuters in Yeronga and Fairfield Areas

Led by Queensland Rail, the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), and the Queensland Police Service (QPS), the blitz follows 386 incidents over the past year that have caused significant damage to rail bridges and protection beams.

From 1 October 2023 to 10 October 2024, Yeronga and Dutton Park were among the locations identified as high-risk areas for bridge strikes, which is why they are part of the targeted enforcement campaign. Other locations like Wynnum and Rocklea are also included in the blitz.

Targeted Enforcement Across High-Risk Locations

Annerley Rd, Dutton Park (Photo credit: Google Street View)

During the two-week blitz, officers are stationed at high-risk locations, including Yeronga and Dutton Park, where they will stop drivers to check vehicle heights and ensure proper route planning. The goal is to prevent incidents before they happen by educating drivers about clearance limits and the risks of low-clearance bridges.

Queensland Rail senior manager Travis Cooper explained, “We’ve seen 101 bridges and 285 protection beams struck by over-height vehicles between October this year and last, and while, thankfully, no one has been seriously injured – every strike has that potential. Just last month we saw a car narrowly miss being crushed after a truck got wedged at Corinda – next time maybe we won’t be so lucky.”

Preventing Costly and Dangerous Incidents

NHVR operations manager Jarrod Wilson said, “These incidents not only pose a serious and potentially deadly risk to the driver and other motorists but can also cause costly damage to important infrastructure and create significant headaches for commuters and travellers.”

“Fortunately, these incidents are entirely avoidable by accurately measuring your load before you get behind the wheel, and thoroughly planning your route using the NHVR’s National Network Map.”

Penalties for damaging rail infrastructure are steep, starting at $1,290 and escalating to over $12,000 if the matter goes to court. Drivers may also face a dditional penalties for violating clearance signs or careless driving, making it crucial for drivers to follow the rules and take the necessary precautions.

Public Education and Awareness Efforts

As part of the campaign, high-visibility message boards have been set up in key areas like Yeronga and Dutton Park, along with a social media initiative titled Truck Load of Trouble, to raise awareness about the dangers of bridge strikes and promote safer driving practices.

Senior Sergeant David Wheatley from the QPS Railway Squad added, “Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. During this bridge strike prevention blitz, we’ll be asking heavy vehicle drivers ‘how high is your vehicle and load?’ and then we will measure it.”

Transport and Main Roads general manager Joanna Robinson commented, “Bridge strikes are not only dangerous for the driver of the over-height vehicle, but they’re also dangerous for those using the train network and other road users. Falling debris from the bridge can damage other people’s cars, or in worst case scenarios, serious injury, cause a road crash or kill someone.”

Read: Yeerongpilly Line: A Forgotten Link in Brisbane’s Rail Network

The bridge strike prevention blitz will continue through December, with ongoing enforcement and education efforts aimed at reducing the frequency of bridge strikes and ensuring the safety of both road and rail users in areas like Yeronga, Dutton Park, and beyond.

Published 10-December-2024

Brisbane Metro to Begin Permanent Operations in 2025: What it Means for Commuters in Yeronga and Fairfield Areas

Brisbane’s public transport system is about to undergo a major transformation, with the highly anticipated Brisbane Metro set to begin permanent operations in January 2025.

Read: Yeerongpilly Line: A Forgotten Link in Brisbane’s Rail Network

After a successful four-week trial between UQ and Eight Mile Plains, the new Metro services will officially launch, bringing fully-electric, state-of-the-art transport options to the city.

For residents in Yeronga, Fairfield, and the wider Brisbane area, this marks a significant shift in how people will travel around the city. New and redesigned routes will improve access to key destinations, including the Princess Alexandra Hospital, making it easier for locals to connect with central Brisbane and other key hubs.

Metro Services and New Routes

The Brisbane Metro will feature two key services:

– Metro 1: Connecting Eight Mile Plains to Roma Street

– Metro 2: Running from RBWH (Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital) to UQ (University of Queensland)

In addition, five new routes will help expand connectivity across Brisbane:

– Route 26: Upper Mt Gravatt station (Garden City) to RBWH via Woolloongabba and Fortitude Valley

– Route 127: Indooroopilly to Fairfield Gardens Shopping Centre via Yeronga

– Route 182: Upper Mt Gravatt station (Garden City) to Holland Park West

– Route 197: Stephens Road to City Shuttle

For those in Yeronga and Fairfield, the new Route 127 is particularly noteworthy. It will provide a direct link from Indooroopilly to Fairfield Gardens Shopping Centre via Yeronga, offering a more efficient and reliable travel option for shopping, services, and commuting. The introduction of Route 172, connecting Upper Mt Gravatt to PA Hospital via Yeronga, will also be a key improvement for those needing easy access to the hospital.

Improved Connections to PA Hospital

The PA Hospital Station will become a central hub in the new Metro network, with several redesigned suburban routes connecting to it. These changes are set to make it much easier for residents from surrounding suburbs to travel to and from the hospital. Routes like 105, 110, and 113 will link areas such as Indooroopilly, Inala, and Mt Gravatt to PA Hospital, making healthcare access more convenient for those in the area.

Wider Brisbane Impact

While the changes will be most immediately felt in Yeronga and Fairfield, the wider Brisbane area will see substantial benefits as well. Starting on 28 January, the Metro will replace the popular Route 66, running from UQ to RBWH, with the new Metro services, offering faster, more frequent connections. This change will coincide with the start of Term 1, bringing enhanced options for students, commuters, and anyone traveling through these major areas.

Looking ahead to 2025, further expansions of the Brisbane Metro network are planned, including new connections, such as the M1 Metro Line linking Eight Mile Plains to Roma Street. A new tunnel under Adelaide Street will also be introduced, adding even more capacity and convenience to the system.

Future Expansion Plans

The Brisbane Metro network is expected to continue growing in the coming years, with future expansions north to Carseldine, east to Capalaba, south to Springwood, and even to Brisbane’s airport. These ongoing upgrades will continue to improve travel times, ease congestion, and offer Brisbane residents a more modern, efficient public transport system.

Read: E-Scooter Safety Concerns Highlight Urgent Need for Reform in Brisbane

For Yeronga, Fairfield, and the rest of Brisbane, the launch of the Brisbane Metro marks a new era of improved connectivity, making travel around the city easier, faster, and more sustainable. As the Metro expands, it will become an even more integral part of Brisbane’s transportation landscape.

Published 2-December-2024

Hundreds of Dead Fish Found in Yeronga’s Stretch of Brisbane River, Investigation Underway

Hundreds of dead fish have been found in Yeronga, raising serious environmental concerns and prompting an urgent investigation by Queensland Environment.

Read: Jacaranda Trees: Beautiful Blooms or Ecological Threat?

The agency announced the disturbing discovery on November 22, revealing that their team is now actively collecting water and fish samples to determine the cause of the mass fish death.

“We’re currently investigating reports of dead fish found in the Brisbane River,” officials stated in a Facebook post. They urged residents to report any additional observations by calling their pollution hotline at 1300 130 372.

As the investigation unfolds, the incident has broader implications. It was soon discovered that the fish deaths were not limited to Yeronga, with similar findings reported in nearby suburbs of St Lucia and Indooroopilly.

This is not an isolated incident, as similar fish deaths were reported earlier this year in the same river system. Experts are currently exploring potential causes, with preliminary theories suggesting environmental factors may be responsible.

Preliminary hypotheses include:

– Recent heavy rainfall potentially carrying organic matter into the river

– Reduced oxygen levels in the water

– Possible contamination from construction debris

– Potential chemical run-off

dead fish — Photo credit: Phut Roog/Google Maps

The Brisbane area experienced significant rainfall, with 24 millimetres recorded on Friday night alone, adding to a week of consistent precipitation. Weather experts are predicting a wetter-than-average summer, with potential cyclone activity expected in January or February.

However, some experts argue that these incidents could be indicative of broader environmental stress and potential pollution issues that require immediate and sustained attention.

Read: Fairfield Road in Yeronga: A Snapshot of Devastation After 1973 Tornado

Queensland Environment has committed to providing updates as their investigation progresses and more information becomes available.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and report any unusual environmental observations to the authorities.

Published 27-November-2024

Stephens Croquet Club in Yeronga Celebrates a Century of Community and Camaraderie

Photo Credit: Stephens Croquet Club/ Facebook

Can you believe it? Hidden away in Yeronga Memorial Park, a club has been around for over a century! Stephens Croquet Club is turning 101, and they have a story to tell.

Humble Beginnings on Yeronga Park

*Photo Credit:* *Stephens Croquet Club/ Facebook*

Established in 1923, the club has witnessed the sport’s fascinating evolution from its genteel beginnings to the dynamic and inclusive game enjoyed today.

The club’s story began with a horse and plough, turning the first sod for the croquet lawns in Yeronga Park thanks to the efforts of Mr. F. Stimpson, Chairman of Stephens Shire Council. The founding members, prominent women of Stephens Shire, played Association Croquet in traditional white attire, their skills honed by mentors from the East Brisbane Croquet Club. A small clubhouse was erected, and the club commenced with a membership of 18, with Mrs. Stimpson taking the helm as the first president.

Overcoming Challenges in the Early Years

Photo Credit: Stephens Croquet Club/ Facebook

The early years were not without their challenges. The Great Depression significantly impacted the club, leaving it in debt to its founders by the end of the 1930s. Despite financial constraints, the club persevered, even installing a septic tank! Membership steadily grew, reaching 94 by 1939.

Post-War Growth and Modernisation

Post-war Australia saw croquet flourish at Stephens. Clubhouse improvements, like new curtains and paint, enhanced the members’ experience. Interestingly, a ban on dark-coloured cardigans was implemented in the 1950s, highlighting the importance of maintaining a certain aesthetic. While the idea of admitting men into the club was discussed in 1961, it wasn’t until sometime before 1976 that they were finally welcomed as players.

Embracing Change in the Late 20th Century

The 1980s marked a period of significant growth and transformation for Stephens Croquet Club. Men became active members, the dress code relaxed, and mallet technology advanced. The 1990s heralded the rise of Golf Croquet, which quickly gained popularity and now flourishes at a highly competitive level. The club also expanded its repertoire to include Ricochet and Gateball, catering to diverse interests and skill levels.

A Century of Community and Camaraderie

Through all the changes, Stephens Croquet Club has remained a constant in the Yeronga community. It has provided a welcoming space for individuals to forge lasting friendships, enjoy healthy competition, and achieve personal satisfaction through casual games, interclub pennants, or even representation at state and world championships.

Today, this is a testament to this captivating sport’s enduring appeal. It continues to attract players of all ages and abilities, offering a unique blend of skill, strategy, and social interaction in the idyllic setting of Yeronga Memorial Park. As the club embarks on its next century, it remains committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment where everyone can experience the joy of croquet.

Published Date 28-October-2024