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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

Community Consultation: A Barrier to Affordable Housing in Wakerley?

Photo Credit: Pexels

Urban planners and economists argue that community consultation processes in Wakerley and across Australia are stalling affordable housing projects by favouring opposition voices. Removing consultation requirements for certain housing developments could accelerate approvals and address the housing crisis.

Urban planner Dorina Pojani asserts that community consultation sessions are often dominated by older, wealthier homeowners who resist change. These residents are usually referred to as NIMBYs (Not In My Backyard). They oppose new housing projects due to concerns about property values, parking, and neighbourhood aesthetics. According to Dr Pojani, these consultations do not fairly represent renters, younger residents, or lower-income groups who would benefit from affordable housing.

Economists Highlight Negativity Bias in Consultation

Economist Peter Tulip argues that community consultation suffers from a negativity bias, where individuals opposed to developments are far more likely to participate than those who support them. As a result, these processes amplify opposition, slowing down housing development approvals and making it harder to address the growing housing shortage. Mr Tulip suggests that the majority of Australians are indifferent or supportive of new housing but do not engage in these forums, allowing a vocal minority to dominate discussions.

Community Pushback Against SFD-01021 in Wakerley

Some Wakerley residents living near a proposed affordable housing (SFD-01021) argue that State Facilitated Developments (SFDs) limit local input. However, SFDs do not always eliminate consultation entirely. Instead, they fast-track approvals for developments deemed critical by the state government, bypassing some standard regulatory processes.

Resident Peter Bingham, who lives next to the proposed site, believes the process was not transparent, with insufficient communication from decision-makers. Residents such as Heather Hill and John Bramley have joined efforts to push for a more comprehensive consultation, citing concerns about potential overdevelopment, infrastructure strain, and the lack of direct engagement with the community.

City official Michael Berkman has criticised SFD approvals, arguing that they benefit developers over residents by allowing housing projects to proceed without public scrutiny. Mr Berkman suggests that removing standard planning regulations and consultation requirements will enable developers to operate without sufficient accountability.

Calls for Exemptions to Speed Up Affordable Housing Approvals

Some urban planners and policymakers advocate exempting affordable housing projects from community consultation requirements to address these concerns. In Queensland, the SFD process was introduced to streamline approvals by limiting specific community consultation steps depending on the project’s classification and importance.

Despite opposition from some community members, housing advocates argue that SFD-01021 and similar projects are necessary to tackle South-East Queensland’s housing crisis, ensuring rental availability for low-income residents.

Future Implications: Reforming the System

As the housing crisis worsens, policymakers face increasing pressure to reform community consultation processes. Some experts propose a middle ground, where consultation remains for large-scale projects but is streamlined or removed for developments meeting strict affordability and planning criteria.

The debate over community consultation is likely to shape future housing policies in Queensland and across Australia, determining whether affordable housing developments can move forward more efficiently or remain stalled by opposition voices.

Published 18-Feb-2025

Manly West Pensioner Struggles with Costly Tree Removal Dispute

Photo Credit: Google Maps

An elderly Manly West woman is struggling with financial hardship as she battles the authorities over the removal of a hazardous 35-metre gum tree on her rental property. The ongoing dispute has left her unable to rent out the home due to safety concerns, compounding her financial stress.

Lesley Beath, 85, owns a cottage on Killarney Avenue but has been unable to lease it due to fears that the towering Flooded Gum tree could collapse, posing a serious threat to tenants. A professional arborist, after assessing the tree and others on the property, deemed it an “extremely high risk,” citing its poor health, leaning structure, and displaced roots.

Despite these findings, BCC refused her initial request for removal, citing a decade-old protection order under the Natural Assets Local Law 2003. The classification of the tree as “significant urban vegetation” meant she was only granted permission to trim smaller branches rather than fully remove the tree.

Ms Beath expressed frustration over the lengthy bureaucratic delays, saying the process had cost her rental income while also leaving her legally vulnerable.

Manly West tree dispute — *Photo Credit:* *Google Maps Street Vie*w

Neighbours Raise Safety Concerns

Local residents, including neighbours, have voiced concerns about the tree’s structural integrity. Several incidents have already occurred where large branches have fallen, including one that crashed into a room on Ms Beath’s property.

In January, another branch, measuring 17 cm in diameter, snapped off and remained suspended in a lower tree’s canopy until a neighbour arranged for professional removal.

Authorities’ Response and Policy Shift

The dispute saw further delays when BCC took four months to respond. Initially, they upheld the protection order, insisting only minor pruning was allowed. However, following recent incidents and renewed pressure, BCC has reversed its stance, now stating that Ms Beath can apply again for removal approval.

Despite this, Ms Beath remains frustrated, having already submitted expert reports and evidence supporting removal. She also refuted claims that she delayed the process by pausing assessments or refusing arborists access.

Flooded gum tree — *Photo Credit: Wikipedia*

Financial Burden and Potential Penalties

Even if the removal is ultimately approved, the cost remains a significant hurdle. Ms Beath is prepared to cover the expenses herself, but the process has already taken a toll, both financially and emotionally.

Compounding the issue is the fact that her insurance only covers tree-related damage if it occurs during an insured event like a storm, meaning she could still be held liable for any injuries caused by falling branches in non-storm conditions.

Neighbourhood concerns, coupled with the impact on an elderly homeowner relying on rental income, have led to calls for BCC to reconsider its rigid approach to tree protection laws, especially in cases involving pensioners and financial hardship.

For now, Ms Beath is left waiting—again—hoping that this time, BCC will allow her to take the necessary action before another costly or dangerous incident occurs.

Published 14-Feb-2025

Manly West crash: 27-year-old Jayke Harlem named as victim as tributes pour in

Photo Credit: Jayke Harlem/Facebook

Jayke Harlem, 27, has been identified as the victim of a fatal crash in Manly West, leaving family and friends devastated.

The young father’s vehicle struck a tree at the intersection of Manly Road and Wondall Road on 5 February afternoon. Emergency services quickly arrived, but Harlem could not be saved due to life-threatening injuries.

Bystanders Rushed to Help

Two bystanders, Tim (Parker) and a woman named Erin, were recognised by the community after stepping to comfort Harlem in his final moments.

Mr Parker acknowledged the message, saying he simply did what any decent person would in that moment. He expressed his shock and disbelief over the tragedy and extended his deepest sympathies to Harlem’s family.

A Devoted Father Gone Too Soon

Harlem leaves behind his two-year-old daughter, Tiabeanie, and his partner, Tayana, who now faces an unimaginable loss.

Close friend Joel Leatherby described him as a bright and loving presence in the lives of those around him.

“It’s with the heaviest heart that I share the devastating loss of one of my best mates,” he said. “No one should have to go through this pain.”

Fundraiser Launched to Support His Family

To help Harlem’s family navigate this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was set up to assist with funeral costs and provide financial support for Tayana and their daughter.

“While we can’t take away their heartbreak, we can come together to support them through this difficult time,” Leatherby said. “Jacob was loved by many, and he would be beyond grateful to see us rally around his family in his absence.”

The community has already started donating, showing the deep love and respect people had for Harlem.

Tributes Pour in from Heartbroken Loved Ones

Social media was flooded with tributes, with many struggling to process the sudden loss.

“Another young life taken far too soon,” one friend wrote.

Manly West Crash Investigations

Harlem was the sole occupant of his blue Ford Falcon, and no other vehicles were involved in the crash. Authorities are investigating the circumstances and have urged anyone with dashcam footage or information to come forward.

Published 12-Feb-2025

Community Debate Over Affordable Housing in Wakerley Development

Photo Credit: Google Maps

A proposed townhouse development (SFD-01021) at 652 New Cleveland Road, Wakerley, has sparked debate among residents and housing advocates. The project, designated a State Facilitated Development (SFD), aims to provide affordable housing but has raised concerns over traffic, infrastructure, and community consultation.

The proposal forms part of Queensland’s commitment under the National Housing Accord, which aims to deliver 1.2 million new homes across Australia by mid-2029. The State’s $3.1 billion Homes for Queenslanders plan supports this initiative, introducing SFD as a streamlined approval process for residential projects that include affordable housing.

Affordable housing development in Wakerley under review — *Photo Credit: SFD-01021*

Located in the Community Facilities Zone under the Wakerley Neighbourhood Plan, the site at 652 New Cleveland Road is owned by The Corporation of the Trustees of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Brisbane. It houses St Jude’s Catholic Church. The development will be managed through a community housing provider, which aims to provide affordable rentals below market rates.

Development Details

Designed by Ellivo Architects, the proposal initially included 44 townhouses but has since been updated to 47 townhouses, featuring a mix of two- and three-bedroom dwellings. Key aspects include:

85% of homes allocated for affordable housing
Rent capped at 74.9% of market rate
20-year minimum allocation period
Retention of the existing church on-site
79 car parking spaces (including 70 for residents and 8 for visitors)
81 bicycle parking spaces
Communal open space of 455.71 sqm

Proposed townhouses in Wakerley for affordable rental housing — *Photo Credit: SFD-01021*

Community Concerns and Support

Some Wakerley residents have raised concerns about traffic congestion, infrastructure strain, and environmental impact, particularly regarding the removal of established trees and potential overcrowding. Others worry about the long-term maintenance of the development and its impact on the character of the area.

Wakerley affordable housing project faces community concerns — *Photo Credit: SFD-01021*

A petition has circulated among residents calling for a review of all SFDs and a reconsideration of the project’s approval, citing concerns about community consultation and planning impacts.

On the other hand, housing advocacy groups have expressed strong support for the project, highlighting the urgent need for affordable rental housing in South-East Queensland. They emphasise that rising rental prices and limited availability make developments like this critical for addressing housing shortages.

Community debate on housing development — *Photo Credit: SFD-01021*

Planning and Infrastructure Considerations

The former Queensland government designated the project as an SFD in December 2024, which streamlines approval and limits appeal options for residents. The current government has now opened the proposal for community feedback until 25 February allowing residents to submit concerns and objections before final approval.

Several technical aspects are currently under review, including:

Stormwater infrastructure conflicts with proposed access points
Finalising an agreement with a community housing provider
Sewer infrastructure considerations
Vehicular access and manoeuvring adjustments
Tree retention and koala habitat protection measures

Affordable housing Wakerley — *Photo Credit: SFD-01021*

Next Steps and Future Implications

The development remains under assessment, with stakeholders continuing discussions on balancing affordable housing needs with community concerns. The outcome will likely influence future SFD approvals and broader housing policy directions.

Published 6-Feb-2025

Manly West Resident Katelyn Collins Begins Nursing Career Without Tuition Debt

Manly West resident Katelyn Collins, 18, graduated from Mater Education’s Diploma of Nursing program on 24 January 2025 as one of 35 students in the first fee-free cohort. Through the Fee-Free TAFE initiative, she saved nearly $25,000 in tuition fees.

The Fee-Free TAFE initiative, introduced in 2023, aims to strengthen Queensland’s healthcare workforce. It offers up to 3,500 fee-free places in the Diploma of Nursing through select training providers.

The 18-month course at Mater Hospital Brisbane provided Ms Collins with hands-on clinical training. This opportunity gave her the essential skills required to work in hospital wards.

A Cohort Ready for the Frontline

Fee-Free TAFE — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Ms Collins is among a cohort of young, hospital-trained nurses ready to enter the workforce. Her fellow graduates, Laura Barrett and Emma Henderson, both 18, also completed their Diploma of Nursing without the burden of tuition debt.

For Ms Henderson, the fee-free training allowed her to fast-track her nursing career after she graduated from high school at 16. She has since secured a graduate position in the gynaecology ward at Mater Private Hospital Brisbane. Ms Henderson hopes to qualify as a registered nurse through further study.

Ms Barrett, who plans to specialise in midwifery, said the financial relief from fee-free training allowed her to focus entirely on her studies. She hopes to work at Mater Mothers’ Hospital in the future.

Like her peers, Ms Collins also advances her career with further studies.

A Pathway to Further Studies

Ms Collins plans to pursue a Bachelor of Nursing at Australian Catholic University (ACU). Her ultimate goal is to work as a registered nurse in the Mater Emergency Department. She will begin her degree at ACU this year.

Mater Education’s partnership with ACU allows 10 diploma graduates each year to gain direct entry into the university without applying through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC).

Diploma of Nursing — *Photo Credit: Mater/YouTube*

The Plan to Strengthen Workforce

Queensland aims to increase its nursing and midwifery workforce by 19,000 by 2032. The Fee-Free TAFE initiative is key in attracting students to the profession.

To be eligible for the program, applicants must live in Queensland and be Australian citizens or permanent residents. If interested, call 1300 070 350.

Published 30-Jan-2025

Ransome Remembers Chris Vrbesic and Son After Fatal Crash

The tight-knit community of Ransome is reeling after a devastating car crash claimed the lives of Chris Vrbesic, 37, and his four-year-old son Julian on Australia Day.

The collision, which occurred at the intersection of Rickertt Road and Chelsea Road, has left family, friends, and the broader automotive community in shock as they remember a devoted father and his vibrant young boy.

A Life Cut Short

Chris, a well-known figure in Brisbane’s car enthusiast circles, was driving his prized Holden Commodore VK Brock sedan when the crash happened just before 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, 26 January. He died at the scene, while Julian was rushed to the Queensland Children’s Hospital, where he tragically passed away shortly after.

Chris was a regular at local car events, including the monthly “Cars and Coffee” meet at Cafe Elle in Ransome. Cafe owner Ryan Richani described him as a “genuine, stand-up guy” who was always smiling and eager to connect with others. Mr Richani recalled how Chris had attended the event just a day before the accident, leaving behind memories of his warmth and passion for cars.

A Community in Mourning

The loss of Chris and Julian has sparked an outpouring of grief and support from the Ransome community and beyond. Floral tributes, teddy bears, and even a small toy car have been left at the crash site, symbolising the deep impact the pair had on those who knew them.

The Seven of Clubs Mazda Car Club Queensland, of which Chris was a long-time member, expressed their condolences online, calling him a cherished member who would be dearly missed.

Friends and family have also taken to social media to share their memories, describing Chris as a loving father, supportive husband, and a man who always lent a helping hand.

A Family Left Behind

Chris leaves behind his wife Maria and their two children, Myla and Vinnie. The family has been left heartbroken and facing significant financial challenges. A GoFundMe has been launched to support them during this difficult time.

Brittany Claxton, the organiser of the fundraiser, highlighted Chris’s role as the family’s provider and Julian’s close bond with his father. She described Julian as an “old soul” with a cheeky grin and a love for life, who adored his “Tata” (father) and shared an unbreakable connection with him.

As of press time, over $ 119,000 has been raised so far, with 577 donations pouring in to support the Vrbesic family following the tragic loss of Chris and Julian.

Ongoing Investigations

The Forensic Crash Unit is still investigating the cause of the crash. The driver of the other vehicle involved, a 29-year-old man, sustained minor injuries. Police are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage to come forward to assist with the investigation.

Published 29-January-2025