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Mansfield State High Draws Families From Across Brisbane

Mansfield State High, a large state school in Brisbane, attracts families from far and wide. Nearly a third of its students travel outside the local area to attend.

High Demand for State Schools

The popularity of state schools like Mansfield State High and Brisbane State High School (BSHS) is changing the property market in certain Brisbane suburbs. In West End, the area linked to BSHS, real estate agents often highlight the school’s catchment zone in property advertisements.

This demand has pushed housing prices, with the median house price in West End reaching $1.65 million. Families are renting in the area simply to gain access to the school, despite the strict enrolment policies in place to prevent those who do not live within the catchment from enrolling. These policies require substantial proof of residency, including lease agreements and utility bills.

Capacity and Overcrowding

Despite having a maximum capacity of 3,000 students, BSHS had 3,521 students enrolled last year. Mansfield State High, which can hold 3,252 students, also exceeds its capacity with 3,651 students. This overcrowding concerns local community groups, who worry that planned high-density developments in areas like the Kurilpa peninsula will put even more pressure on schools and local infrastructure.

The P&C groups from both BSHS and West End State School have raised concerns about the impact of increased residents on schools, green spaces, and transport.

Alternative Schooling Options

While state schools are popular in areas like West End and Mansfield, other suburbs prefer private education. Suburbs such as Sandgate, Ashgrove, Kedron, and Camp Hill have more students attending Catholic high schools. Ascot, Gumdale, Chelmer, Bulimba, and East Brisbane have more students attending independent schools.

Interestingly, the median income of families in West End, who prefer state schools, is higher than that of some of the suburbs, which favour private schools. This shows that school choice is not solely based on income.

Planning for the Future

The Queensland school planning reference committee has indicated that a new primary school may be required in the South Brisbane, West End, Highgate Hill area within the next ten years. The government opened Brisbane South State Secondary College in Dutton Park in 2021 to relieve pressure on BSHS.

This new school has a capacity of 1,524 and currently has 968 students. 62% of its students live outside its catchment area. Brisbane’s ongoing population growth means careful planning is needed to ensure all students have access to quality education.

Published Date 25-March-2025

Set Sail for Brisbane Race Week 2025: Thrilling Races and Festivities Await

The thrill of the open water returns to Moreton Bay this May as Brisbane Race Week 2025 sets sail for another spectacular showcase of skill, speed, and camaraderie. From 2-7 May, sailors and spectators alike will converge for five days of exhilarating racing and lively celebrations both on and off the water.

Read: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Welcomes Over 230 Sailors for Sail Brisbane

Now in its third year, the regatta continues to grow in prestige, attracting a diverse fleet of racing yachts, cruising monohulls, and multihulls.

Photo credit: Brisbane Race Week/Facebook

The event is set against the picturesque backdrop of Moreton Bay, with much of the action centred around Manly, the home of the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. As one of the premier sailing events in South East Queensland, Brisbane Race Week fosters a sense of friendly rivalry between regional sailing clubs, each vying for victory in a range of unique and challenging courses.

Committee member and competitor Anton Prange highlights the event’s growing appeal, noting its combination of competitive racing and a vibrant social scene as key reasons for its popularity.

The regatta kicks off in high-energy fashion on Friday, with a Formula-1-style “hot laps” race around Green Island, where crews will compete to complete the most laps in a three-hour window. The excitement continues onshore with an opening fiesta featuring Mexican cuisine and live entertainment at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.

Saturday and Sunday will see crews navigate handcrafted short courses, testing their skill and coordination as they race against the clock. Evening festivities will keep the energy high, with themed celebrations at both the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and neighbouring Wynnum Manly Yacht Club. The much-anticipated Texan Night at Wynnum Manly Yacht Club on Sunday reinforces the playful cross-club rivalry, offering a fun-filled evening of food, music, and camaraderie.

Monday’s long passage race provides an opportunity for yachts to stretch their legs against the stunning backdrop of Brisbane and Moreton Island. The day concludes with a community fundraiser—Burgers, Beer, and Bingo—supporting the Making Waves Foundation, which promotes inclusivity in sailing through programs for people with disabilities and disadvantaged youth.

Read: Freedom Boat Club in Manly Joins EcoMarines in Moreton Bay Cleanup Mission

Following a well-earned rest on Labour Day, the final race on Wednesday promises to be the ultimate test of strategy and endurance. The pursuit race, with staggered start times based on handicaps, will be a thrilling spectacle as crews battle to be the first across the finish line. The week culminates with a closing celebration and award presentations at the newly renovated Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Bistro.

With early bird registration available until 26 April 2025 and daily casual passes for $38, Brisbane Race Week 2025 invites sailors of all backgrounds to take part in an unforgettable week of racing, rivalry, and revelry. For more information and to register, visit brisbaneraceweek.au.

Published 25-March-2025

Wynnum Manly Seagulls Extend Mathew Head’s Contract Through 2028

Head coach Mathew Head is staying with the Wynnum Manly Seagulls for another three seasons, staying at the helm until the end of 2028 and providing the club with continuity and stability as they continue to build on recent progress.

A Club on the Rise

Since joining Wynnum Manly in 2023, Head has played a key role in reshaping the Seagulls’ football program, bringing experience from his time with the Dragons and Tigers in the NRL.

Under his leadership, the club has strengthened its player development, fitness programs, and overall professionalism. His influence has also contributed to multiple Seagulls players earning contracts with NRL teams, reinforcing the club’s status as a strong development pathway.

The Seagulls have undergone a significant transformation over the past two years, with Head and his staff overseeing an influx of high-calibre players and staff. As the team prepares for the 2025 season, the extension of Head’s contract is seen as a major boost for the club’s long-term vision.

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A post shared by Wynnum Manly Seagulls Official (@wynnummanlyseagulls)

Commitment to Continued Growth

Head expressed his excitement about staying with the Seagulls, stating that the club is heading in the right direction and he is eager to build upon the foundations already in place. He emphasised that the changes introduced over the past two years have positioned the Seagulls for future success and that he is committed to ensuring those improvements are fully realised.

The Seagulls’ partnership with the Brisbane Broncos remains a key factor in their development, providing additional resources and opportunities for player growth. Head acknowledged this affiliation as an advantage but stressed that the squad’s core strength lies in the players they have assembled within the club itself.

Season Opener and Future Aspirations

With the 2025 season kicking off this Sunday against Burleigh at home, the Seagulls are eager to start strong. Head and his team believe they have built a squad capable of contending for the Hostplus Cup premiership, with the ultimate goal of winning the competition.

The timing of Head’s re-signing provides stability for the playing group, coaching staff, and the wider Wynnum Manly community. As the club looks to build on recent progress, securing his leadership for another three years signals confidence in the direction they are heading.

Publsihed 18-March-2025

Silky Oaks Sells Manly West Property, Early Learning Centre to Close by 2025

Photo Credit: Silky Oaks Children's Haven/Facebook

The Silky Oaks Children’s Haven property in Manly West has been sold. The charity will continue operations for at least another year. However, the organisation’s Early Learning Centre (ELC) is set to close permanently in December 2025.

Historic Silky Oaks Site Changes Hands

For nearly 80 years, Silky Oaks Children’s Haven has served the Wynnum-Manly community, providing crucial support to children and families in need. The organisation has confirmed the sale of its 218 Manly Road, Manly West property to the State, ensuring its services remain operational while allowing for future redevelopment at the site.

Although the sale marks a major transition for Silky Oaks, the organisation has emphasised its commitment to maintaining services beyond this change. The property will remain operational for at least 12 months, with a possible extension as relocation plans are finalised.

Closure of Early Learning Centre Announced

As part of the transition, Silky Oaks’ Early Learning Centre (ELC), which has supported families for 35 years, will permanently close on 12 December 2025—the last day of the school term. The organisation acknowledges the significant contribution the ELC has made to the community and is working to ensure a smooth transition for families and staff.

property market — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Why Was the Sale Necessary?

While the decision was not made lightly, Silky Oaks stated that selling the Manly West site was necessary to maintain its operations’ strength and sustainability. The sale will also allow the State to implement future developments, though specific plans have yet to be detailed.

Community Reaction and Next Steps

The announcement has stirred mixed emotions among the Silky Oaks community. Long-time supporters recognise the site’s historical significance while understanding the need for adaptation. Despite the sale, Silky Oaks has reassured families and staff that its mission to support vulnerable individuals will remain unchanged.

The organisation will continue operating at 218 Manly Road for at least a year. Further relocation details are expected to be announced soon.

Published 15-Mar-2025

Manly and Nearby Suburbs Eligible for Cyclone Alfred Relief Payments

Photo Credit: Kara Cook/Facebook

Residents of Manly and surrounding suburbs (Manly West, Lota, Lytton, Belmont, Gumdale, Tingalpa & Wakerley) are now eligible for disaster relief payments following the devastating impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. This includes direct payments, hardship grants, and income support measures.

Cyclone Alfred’s Impact

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred swept through south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales. It caused widespread damage, loss of essential services, and economic hardship for many residents. In response, the local officials and the State have announced financial aid programs to assist individuals and businesses affected by the disaster.

*Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only*
*Photo Credit: Kara Cook/Facebook*

Types of Financial Assistance Available

Residents in Manly and surrounding areas (Manly West, Lota, Lytton, Belmont, Gumdale, Tingalpa & Wakerley) impacted by Cyclone Alfred can access several forms of financial support, including:

Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP): It is a one-off, non-means-tested payment worth $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per eligible child for individuals significantly affected by the disaster.
Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA): Up to 13 weeks of income support for workers and sole traders who have experienced a loss of income due to the cyclone. Paid up to $1,007 per fortnight.
Queensland Government Personal Hardship Grants: Covering immediate needs such as food, clothing, and temporary accommodation. Payments of $180 per individual and up to $900 per family.
Essential Household Contents Grant: Up to $1,765 for individuals and $5,300 for families. It can be used to replace essential items lost in the cyclone.
Structural Assistance Grant: Providing up to $80,000 for uninsured low-income homeowners needing to repair their homes to make them safe and habitable.

CHECK AGDRP ELIGIBILITY

How to Apply for Assistance

Residents can apply for financial aid through official government channels:

AGDRP and DRA applications: Via myGov account.
Queensland Government grants: Through the Community Recovery Hub or online.

CHECK QLD GRANTS ELIGIBILITY

Community Recovery Efforts in Manly and Surrounding Suburbs

Community Recovery Hubs have been established in several affected areas, including Manly, Gumdale, Tingalpa, and Wakerley, to provide residents with in-person assistance. These hubs offer support with applications and referrals to other relief programs.

LOCATE THE NEAREST COMMUNITY RECOVERY HUB

Looking Ahead: The Road to Recovery

Emergency financial support is now available. Residents of Manly and neighbouring areas can begin the process of rebuilding. However, challenges remain, particularly for those who have suffered significant property damage or income loss. Authorities continue to assess the long-term needs of affected communities to provide ongoing support.

Published 13-Mar-2025

Flood Warning Systems Prove Effective in Belmont, Tingalpa, and Ransome

Photo Credit: LMAdrianSchrinner/ Facebook

During ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the Automated Flooded Road Warning Systems (AFRWS) in Belmont, Tingalpa, and Ransome enhanced road safety by preventing motorists from entering dangerous floodwaters and providing timely alerts and road closures

System Operation and Purpose

New Flood Warning Systems Operational in Belmont, Tingalpa, Ransome — *Photo Credit:* *CrRyanMurphy/ Facebook*

The AFRWS are designed to automatically activate when floodwater reaches a level considered unsafe for vehicle passage. The highly visible LED signs display messages such as “ROAD CLOSED AHEAD” and “ROAD CLOSED – NO ENTRY,” alerting drivers to the hazardous conditions.

These systems are powered by solar energy and batteries, ensuring they remain operational even during severe weather events that may cause power outages. Cameras have also been installed at these locations, allowing council staff to monitor and respond remotely. The purpose of these systems is to stop drivers from entering dangerous flood waters.

Locations and Expansion

The AFRWS are currently operational in various locations throughout Brisbane. In the eastern suburbs, residents will find them at Billan Street/Gray Street in Carina, Boston Road and Formosa Road in Belmont, Fursden Road in Carina, Gladys Street in Stones Corner, Manly Road in Tingalpa, Molle Road in Ransome, and Wynnum Road in Tingalpa.

Other locations across Brisbane include north, south, and west areas, covering many flood-prone roads. Brisbane City Council has stated that they will continue to investigate additional locations to install these systems, aiming further to enhance road safety during periods of heavy rainfall.

Other Road Safety Initiatives

In addition to the AFRWS, the council has implemented other road safety measures. Wildlife Awareness Monitors (WAMs) have been installed to warn drivers of potential wildlife crossings, and Speed Awareness Monitors (SAMs) are in place to encourage adherence to speed limits. The council emphasises its commitment to making Brisbane roads safer for all users.

Other Road Safety Initiatives

Published Date 12-March-2025

Cyclone Alfred Aftermath: Road Closures and Recovery in Tingalpa

Photo Credit: Skyshots Photography/YouTube

Tingalpa and surrounding suburbs are grappling with the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which caused severe flooding, road closures, and disruptions to essential services. Recovery efforts are underway as authorities work to restore normalcy while urging residents to follow safety advisories.

Cyclone Alfred Aftermath — *Photo Credit: Skyshots Photography/YouTube*

Major Roads Reopened After Flood Disruptions

Heavy rainfall from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred led to significant flooding across Tingalpa, Manly, and Lota, leaving several roads submerged and inaccessible. Authorities reported multiple closures, including Manly Road between New Cleveland Road and Leon Street and key sections of Wynnum Road, Creek Road, and Murarrie Road.

On recent news, city official Lisa Atwood confirmed that as of 2:30 p.m. on 10 March, all major roads previously closed due to flooding have now reopened. This comes after days of significant disruptions following heavy rainfall that submerged key transport routes.

Recovery in Tingalpa — *Photo Credit: Skyshots Photography/YouTube*

Despite this progress, localised flooding continues in residential streets, and authorities are urging residents to remain vigilant and avoid driving through affected areas.

Bin Collections and Waste Management Adjustments

Bin collections resumed across the Doboy Ward, although flood-affected areas may experience delays. Residents were advised to secure their bins to prevent them from being swept away by floodwaters. Missed collections will be rescheduled later in the week. Additionally, kerbside collection remains suspended, with flood-affected households expected to receive special pickups from Monday, 17 March.

BMD crews will provide residents with free collection services to assist with green waste removal. Local city officials encouraged residents to register via an online form.

Tingalpa flooding — *Photo Credit: Skyshots Photography/YouTube*

Public Transport and Infrastructure Updates

The severe weather event forced the suspension of Brisbane’s public transport network, including buses, trains, and CityCats. Limited bus services were expected to resume from Tuesday, 11 March, depending on road conditions. However, most ferry services remained suspended until further notice.

Traffic light outages at major intersections, including Wynnum Road at Kianawah Road and Bognor Street, added to congestion concerns. City officials and energy providers were working to restore electricity in affected suburbs, including Belmont, Hemmant, Carina, and Tingalpa.

Community Recovery Efforts Underway

Authorities and volunteers mobilised to assist more than 150 homes and businesses impacted by floodwaters. Local community hubs, including the Doboy Ward Office, opened their doors for residents needing power, internet access, or essential services. An evacuation centre was also set up at Sleeman Sports Centre in Chandler for those displaced by flooding.

CHECK WHEN YOUR POWER WILL BE RESTORED

Support for community recovery payments has been requested to the State. Further updates are expected in the coming days. In the meantime, residents requiring assistance with cleanup or waste disposal were encouraged to access council resources and volunteer programs.

Next Steps for Recovery

While major roads have reopened, residual flooding persists in residential streets. Residents were urged to exercise caution and report hazards. With forecasts predicting further rain, authorities remain vigilant, focusing on long-term recovery and mitigation strategies.

Community members are encouraged to stay updated via Brisbane City Council and TransLink for the latest transport and service updates.

Council Services and Facility Updates

BCC has announced temporary closures and disruptions across several services and facilities:

emergency dashboard

Libraries:

The following libraries remain closed:

Holland Park
Inala
Sandgate
Mt Coot-tha
City Archives

Libraries being assessed for reopening include:

Banyo
Corinda
Everton Park
Fairfield
Grange
Kenmore

Community Halls Closed Until Further Notice:

Acacia Ridge
Archerfield Wetlands Community Hub
Bracken Ridge
Forest Lake
New Inala Hall
Northgate
Sunnybank
Toombul Shire Hall

Pools and Recreation:

All pools will reopen from Tuesday, except Dunlop and Acacia Ridge pools, which remain closed.
Hibiscus and Langlands 25m pools remain closed until further notice.
All mountain bike tracks in Mt Coot-tha are closed.

Transport Infrastructure:

The Story Bridge footpaths are closed.
Limited bus services will resume from Tuesday, subject to road conditions.
Council Cabs will also resume from Tuesday.
Personalised Public Transport services are now operating.

Cemeteries:

Hemmant Cemetery and Crematorium remains closed.
Toowong Cemetery is open, but its customer service office will reopen Wednesday.

Business and Council Facilities:

Brisbane Business Hub (Queen St) will reopen Tuesday.
City Hall and the Museum of Brisbane will reopen Tuesday.
The South Regional Business Centre will remain closed due to site damage.

Published 10-Mar-2025

Speeding Alleged in Wakerley Fatal Car Crash That Killed Son

A father faces trial after his 11-year-old son died in a car crash in Wakerley, with evidence suggesting the father was speeding and performed an illegal U-turn before losing control of the vehicle.

The Incident and Court Proceedings

Speeding Alleged in Wakerley Fatal Car Crash That Killed Son — *Photo Credit:* *Queensland Police*

Phillip Andrew Bale is facing charges of dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death and driving with a relevant drug present in his blood, following a crash that resulted in the death of his son, Jasper Bale. The incident occurred on Manly Road in Wakerley.

The court heard that Jasper was seated in the back of the family’s Holden Commodore when the vehicle crashed. The prosecution presented evidence suggesting that Mr Bale exceeded the speed limit, with video analysis indicating 87km/h, 74km/h, and 65km/h in a 70km/h zone.

Witness Accounts and Evidence

Witnesses at the scene reported that the vehicle had performed an illegal U-turn at the intersection of Hargreaves Road. One witness, Timothy Barrens, stated that the road was wet at the time of the incident, with some water on the surface.

He described seeing Mr Bale accelerate hard to correct the vehicle’s position after the U-turn, which is difficult due to the road’s narrowness. Further witness accounts indicated that the car veered to the left, hit a traffic island kerb, and spun approximately 360 degrees before colliding with a traffic light pole. The court was told that the car had no mechanical faults.

Legal Arguments and Trial Details

During earlier court proceedings, the defence argued that the vehicle may have aquaplaned due to the wet conditions and that police observations were consistent with this. However, the magistrate determined that witness testimony regarding the vehicle’s speed provided sufficient evidence to proceed to trial.

The prosecution also presented evidence that the vehicle had run a red light before the crash. The case was committed to the Brisbane District Court, where Mr. Bale’s trial is now underway. The court heard Mr Bale was travelling westbound, where U-turns are prohibited. His bail has been continued.

Published Date 05-March-2025

Cyclone Alfred Warning: Chandler Arena Among Shelters for Displaced Residents

As Cyclone Alfred barrels towards South East Queensland, authorities have designated Chandler Arena at Sleeman Sports Complex in Chandler as an emergency refuge shelter for residents in flood-prone and high-risk areas. The facility will be open from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, 6 March, providing temporary shelter for those who have no safer alternatives as the storm intensifies.

Chandler Arena Among Emergency Shelters for At-Risk Residents

Brisbane City Council has set up three short-term shelters ahead of Cyclone Alfred’s expected landfall. Alongside Chandler Arena, RNA Showgrounds in Bowen Hills and Kedron Wavell Club in Chermside will also accept evacuees. These locations are designed as last-resort options for those unable to stay in their homes due to extreme weather risks.

Residents using these shelters should bring their own essentials, as no beds, food, or cooking facilities will be available. The facilities will provide only basic amenities, such as seating and access to drinking water. Upon arrival, all evacuees must register and present identification before being allowed entry.

Authorities have warned that once the shelters close at midday, they will go into lockdown, meaning residents should make arrangements in advance and not wait until conditions deteriorate.

Cyclone Alfred: Latest Tracking and Expected Impact

As of 1:00 a.m. on 6 March, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) placed Cyclone Alfred 325 kilometres east of Brisbane, moving slowly northwest at 7 km/h. While originally predicted to make landfall Thursday night, the cyclone has slowed down, and meteorologists now estimate landfall could happen Friday afternoon instead.

Forecasters warn that Alfred may intensify into a Category 3 system before impact, bringing 155 km/h wind gusts near its core. The warning area stretches from Double Island Point (north of the Sunshine Coast) to Grafton in northern NSW, with destructive 120 km/h winds expected across the entire region.

Forecasters say Cyclone Alfred is moving slower than expected, pushing back its predicted landfall and temporarily easing severe conditions on Thursday. While this gives residents extra time to secure their homes and make evacuation decisions, it also raises concerns that the cyclone could strengthen further over warm waters before eventually hitting land.

Authorities are most concerned about severe flooding, particularly in areas south of Alfred’s core. Some locations could receive 300 to 400 mm of rainfall in a single day, with total accumulations exceeding 800 mm in flood-prone regions. The storm is also expected to generate dangerous storm surges and abnormally high tides, raising concerns for low-lying coastal communities.

Current projections still place Alfred on course for South East Queensland, but officials continue monitoring for any shifts in trajectory.

Stay alert and keep track of the latest developments regarding Cyclone Alfred:

BRISBANE EMERGENCY DASHBOARD

Major Flood Risks and Transport Shutdowns

Flood alerts are now in place for 6,000 properties on the Gold Coast, and authorities in northern NSW have urged residents in Pottsville, Fingal Head, and Chinderah to prepare for evacuations. In Lismore, where residents are still recovering from devastating floods three years ago, concerns are rising over whether the town’s levee system can withstand the incoming rainfall.

Meanwhile, Brisbane’s public transport system has shut down as a precaution.

CityCat and ferry services are suspended indefinitely.
Buses have ceased operations as of 6 March.
Story Bridge footpaths closed at 5:30 p.m. on 5 March.
More than 1,000 schools have been closed across the region.

Council officials have also suspended waste collection, while libraries, community centres, pools, and sports facilities will remain closed until further notice. Energex has advised that power outages could last up to two weeks in heavily impacted suburbs.

Government and Emergency Response Efforts

Authorities are mobilising emergency personnel and rescue teams in preparation for the cyclone’s impact. More than 125,000 sandbags have been distributed, while swift-water rescue teams and Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel are on standby to assist in emergency evacuations.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli reassured residents that critical response plans were in place, with emergency resources pre-positioned to ensure a swift recovery once conditions allow. He acknowledged Queenslanders’ resilience in the face of disasters and urged residents to take the warnings seriously.

With conditions set to worsen over the next 24 to 48 hours, residents are advised to finalise their preparations, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay updated through official emergency channels.

Published 6-March-2025

Imogen Dubbels: The Teen Pageant Finalist Making a Difference in Manly

Photo Credit: Imogen Dubbels/Instagram

Imogen Dubbels is the reigning Miss Teen Manly West and a Miss Teen Galaxy Australia National Finalist. She dedicates her time to promoting domestic violence prevention, mental health awareness, and community support initiatives.

She is making a significant impact by volunteering at Wynnum’s Do-Op Shop and raising funds for Batyr, a youth mental health organisation.

A Passion for Fashion and Philanthropy

Ms Dubbels is an aspiring fashion designer from Brisbane. She plans to pursue a Bachelor of Design (Fashion) at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) next year. However, her creative aspirations go beyond the runway. She is working on a project to sew 500 scrunchies from upcycled clothing. She will sell the products at the Manly Markets to raise funds for youth mental health initiatives.

Miss Teen Galaxy Australia National Finalist — *Photo Credit: Imogen Dubbels/Instagram*

Her long-term goal is to launch a business. Ms Dubbels looks forward to reinvesting profits into providing essential clothing. She aims to help women in need, particularly those affected by domestic violence. This mission aligns with her advocacy work, ensuring fashion becomes a tool for empowerment and change.

Ms Dubbels also plans to make a start-up page named “Pretty in Purpose.” This upcoming platform is where she will express her love for cosmetics and fashion while also voicing out her advocacies.

Committed to Community Service in Manly and Beyond

Ms Dubbels volunteers every Wednesday at the Do-Op Shop in Wynnum, a charity op-shop focused on people over profit. The organisation donates directly to local causes, and Ms Dubbels actively participates in redressing mannequins, assisting customers, and handling daily store operations.

Her enthusiasm for volunteering doesn’t stop there. She recently attended the Hearts of Gold Gala, hosted by Childhood Cancer Support Australia, where she helped with guest greetings, auctioning, and pledge collection. Ms Dubbels has expressed her commitment to continuing her work with Childhood Cancer Support in the future.

*Photo Credit: Imogen Dubbels/Instagram*

Australia Galaxy Pageants and Fundraising for Mental Health

As part of the Australia Galaxy Pageants 2025, Ms Dubbels has been actively fundraising for Batyr, an organisation dedicated to preventing youth suicide and promoting mental health education. Batyr’s mission is to equip young Australians with the skills and confidence to handle mental health challenges, encouraging peer-to-peer education and lived experience storytelling to prevent crises.

The Australia Galaxy National Finalists have collectively raised $5,894, with Ms Dubbels among those working to increase awareness and financial support for the cause.

Miss Teen Manly West — *Photo Credit: Imogen Dubbels/Instagram*

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What’s Next for Imogen Dubbels?

With the Miss Teen Galaxy Australia finals approaching, Ms Dubbels continues to balance pageantry, advocacy, and community service. Whether volunteering, fundraising, or designing fashion with purpose, her focus remains on supporting vulnerable communities.

Ms Dubbels hopes to create a lasting change. Her work in Manly, Wynnum, and Brisbane serves as an example of how young Australians can use their voices and actions to drive meaningful impact.

Published 19-Feb-2025