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Community Engagement Wraps Up on Planned Cambridge Parade Intersection Upgrades

Community consultation has concluded for proposed improvements to the intersection of Cambridge Parade, Melville Terrace, and Arnold Street in Manly.

Read: Community Input Sought on Concept Plans for Cambridge Parade Intersection Upgrade

Brisbane released two concept designs—Design A and Design B—for feedback, with the majority of respondents supporting Design A.

Design A Gains Community Support

Design A features a raised speed platform on Cambridge Parade, specifically designed to accommodate vehicles towing boat trailers. The platform aims to reduce vehicle speeds as motorists enter the Manly precinct, improving safety for all road users.

Design B, which proposed new colored road markings for the 40km/h speed zone and a garden bed island to the north, received less support from the community.

Next Steps for Design A

Brisbane’s project team will now undertake technical investigations to finalize Design A. While funding for construction will need to be assessed against other city-wide priorities, Brisbane has confirmed that the project remains a high priority.

On its website, BCC stated:
“While budget to construct the improvements will be considered against other city-wide priorities, the project remains high on Council’s priority list. More information about timeframes for construction will be shared once budget is confirmed.”

Benefits of the Project

The proposed improvements aim to deliver the following benefits:

Improved Safety: Enhancing motorist compliance with the 40km/h speed limit by installing a raised speed platform designed to accommodate heavy vehicles and boat trailers.
Enhanced Visibility: Increasing safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers by removing select informal on-street parking spaces.
Formalized Parking: Adding white line-marking to create 30 formal on-street car parking spaces along Cambridge Parade, between Melville Terrace and Stratton Terrace.

Read: E-Scooter Safety Crisis: Experts Call for Full-Face Helmets and Sit-Down Designs

Brisbane’s planned upgrades demonstrate its ongoing commitment to enhancing safety and accessibility in key local precincts. Construction timelines will be shared once funding is secured.

Published 6-January-2025

Moreton Bay Boys’ College Student Recognised as Distinguished Achiever at QCE Awards

Harry Naumann, a standout student from Moreton Bay Boys’ College in Manly West, has earned recognition as one of the top academic achievers at the 11th annual Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) Achievement Awards.

Read: Moreton Bay College Dominates at 2024 National Schools Challenge

Naumann is among the select few who have been recognised as Distinguished Academic Achievers, a recognition given to students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement across a variety of learning areas.

Photo credit: Moreton Bay Boys’ College/Facebook

Naumann’s future is set for great achievements. He plans to pursue a vertical double degree in Engineering at The University of Queensland, enrolling in the Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and Master of Engineering programs.

His career goal is to contribute to innovative research and development, specifically in the field of mechatronics engineering. He aspires to design and program robots, driven by his deep interest in the growing realm of robotics and the Internet of Things (IoT).

“My love for STEM and encouragement from my family inspired my interest in robotics,” Harry shared. His passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) has shaped his academic journey and fuelled his desire to work at the cutting edge of technological advancements.

The QCE Achievement Awards

Photo credit: Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority/Facebook

The QCE Achievement Awards celebrate the exceptional academic achievements of Year 12 graduates across Queensland. The awards reflect the flexibility, credibility, and high standards of the QCE, acknowledging the hard work and academic dedication of students.

At the celebratory event held last December 11 at Queensland’s Parliament House, Naumann was among the award recipients, an event joined by their families and dignitaries, including the Minister for Education and the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek, and officials from the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA).

The QCE Achievement Awards are not only a recognition of academic excellence but also a testament to the dedication and hard work of students like Naumann, whose achievements reflect the high standards of Queensland’s education system.

QCAA CEO Jacqueline Wilton emphasized that the QCE is designed to cater to the diverse needs of senior students, offering various pathways that allow them to explore their interests and abilities.

“It also challenges students distinguished by their academic ability, work ethic and ambition,” said Ms Wilton.

“I thank the principals and teachers who shaped the learning environments in which the Year 12 class of 2024 flourished.”

Read: Manly West School to Expand with New Creativity and Arts Centre

The upcoming QCE Achievement Awards ceremony on 15 February 2025 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre will continue to celebrate the exceptional students of 2024. It’s sponsored by Griffith University, The University of Queensland, and the University of Southern Queensland.

Published 2-January-2025

Brisbane Bayside Warning: Manly’s Melanoma Rates Among Highest in the City

Manly may be known for its stunning coastal views and vibrant marina, but it also carries a troubling distinction: one of the highest melanoma diagnosis rates in the city.

Read: Cancer-Causing Chemicals Found in Tingalpa Creek Drinking Water

Alongside nearby Birkdale and Ashgrove in the city’s west, Manly has been identified as a melanoma hotspot, according to the Australian Cancer Atlas.

The Grim Reality of Queensland’s Skin Cancer Rates

Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, remains a significant health concern in Queensland, which continues to bear the title of the “skin cancer capital of the world.” Despite some progress in reducing cases among younger Australians, the prevalence of melanoma in areas like Manly highlights the ongoing challenge.

The bayside’s sun-drenched lifestyle, while enviable, is a double-edged sword. Long hours outdoors, coupled with high UV exposure, put residents at increased risk. Experts emphasize that while anyone can develop melanoma, certain factors significantly heighten the risk.

Risk Factors for Melanoma

Individuals living in high-incidence areas like Manly often exhibit one or more of the following risk factors:

Unprotected exposure to UV radiation, particularly during childhood.
High numbers of moles (naevi), especially those with irregular shapes and uneven colors.
A personal or family history of melanoma.
Fair skin that burns easily, light-colored eyes, and red or blonde hair.
Weakened immune systems due to prolonged use of immunosuppressive medications.

A Persistent Challenge for Queensland

Over 4,180 Queenslanders are diagnosed with melanoma each year, making it the second most common cancer in both men and women in the state.

Efforts to combat skin cancer—from public awareness campaigns to encouraging daily sunscreen use and protective clothing—have shown promise, particularly among younger generations. However, Queensland’s high UV index and outdoor-centric lifestyle ensure that skin cancer remains a pervasive issue.

Why Are Rates Higher in Manly?

While exact causes for Manly’s elevated rates remain under investigation, its demographics and lifestyle patterns offer clues. Cancer Council Queensland suggested that the lower melanoma rates in certain areas may be linked to a higher proportion of non-European residents, but further research is needed to understand the cause.

The outdoor culture inherent to bayside living may also play a significant role. Given the nearly year-round intense sun exposure, residents and visitors in Manly must be particularly vigilant about sun protection.

What Can Residents Do?

Cancer Council Queensland continues to stress the importance of sun safety, especially for residents in high-risk areas. Key recommendations include:

Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
Wearing broad-brimmed hats and UV-protective clothing.
Seeking shade during peak UV hours.
Regularly checking skin for new or changing moles and seeing a doctor promptly for any concerns.

Read: Manly Pharmacy Joins Queensland’s Community Pharmacy Hormonal Contraception Pilot

Looking Ahead

As researchers delve deeper into the factors driving melanoma rates in hotspots like Manly, public health campaigns will need to evolve to address these localized challenges. For now, residents are urged to remain vigilant and proactive about their skin health, ensuring that the sunny bayside lifestyle doesn’t come at too high a cost.

Published 26-December-2024

Wakerley Woman Wins Raffle Worth $250,000 Play For Purpose Prize Pack

Photo Credit: Pexels

A Wakerley woman has given the community something to celebrate this Christmas, taking home an incredible $250,000 prize pack from the latest Play For Purpose raffle.

The winning ticket, gifted by her husband, was bought to support National Seniors Australia, a charity that advocates for older Australians.

A Christmas Surprise for a Wakerley Local

Wakerley Local Wins Raffle — *Photo Credit: Unsplash*

The Play For Purpose raffle, known for giving back to communities, brought an unforgettable surprise to the Wakerley family. The prize pack featured a stylish BMW X4 xDrive 30i, an eco-friendly Mini Cooper SE (electric), and an impressive $60,687 in gold bullion.

When she received the news, the winner was overwhelmed, saying, “Is this really happening? Two cars? And gold? It’s such an unbelievable surprise!”

Reflecting on the difficult year she and her family have endured, she added, “It’s been such a hard time for our family, and to have this happen is just incredible. It’s given us so much to look forward to—what a way to end the year.”

Her husband, a car enthusiast, couldn’t contain his excitement about the prize, particularly the two new vehicles joining their garage.

How Play For Purpose Gives Back

The Play For Purpose raffle has become a favourite in Wakerley and beyond for its unique approach to fundraising. Tickets are $10, with $5 going directly to the buyer’s chosen charity.

Wakerley Woman Celebrates Raffle Winning — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

This time, the winning ticket supported National Seniors Australia, a group dedicated to improving the lives of older people across the country.

Since its launch, Play For Purpose has raised over $9 million, with funds going to a variety of causes. This draw also celebrated winners from Aveley, Yandina Creek, Newtown, and Carbrook, supporting charities like Heart Research Australia, Love Your Sister, and Animal Welfare League Queensland.

A Holiday to Remember

This is inspirational story is a reminder that there is indeed good in every little act. One small ticket, care-fully passed along, has made for one life-changing win to a family while making an important cause close to their hearts come to life as well.

Wakerley Celebrates Happy Holidays With Big Raffle Winnings — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Play For Purpose is still working to connect people with what matters to them, in their communities like Wakerley. For this local family, the win is more than a prize-it’s a light at the end of what has been a pretty grim year.

Published 22-Dec-2024

Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Welcomes Over 230 Sailors for Sail Brisbane

As summer reaches its peak, the waters off Moreton Bay have been transformed into a vibrant stage for sailing excellence with the commencement of Sail Brisbane 2024. This prestigious regatta, co-hosted by Manly’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron and Australian Sailing, has drawn over 230 sailors this week, solidifying its position as one of the most significant events on Australia’s sailing calendar.

Read: Former Manly Hospital Site to Become Health and Wellbeing Precinct

A unique blend of youth and experience at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Reflecting sailing’s inclusive spirit, Sail Brisbane has united an extraordinary range of competitors. The boat park at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron is alive with activity, as seven-year-old novices prepare their dinghies alongside seasoned Olympians. This dynamic environment fosters unique opportunities for mentorship, inspiration, and a shared passion for the sport.

Championship racing across multiple disciplines

Running from 17 to 21 December, the regatta features four distinct racing courses spread across Moreton Bay’s pristine waters. The Alpha course is home to the high-performance classes, including the 49er and 49er FX, while the Bravo course hosts traditional single-handed classes such as Finn and ILCA. On the Charlie course, junior sailors in Flying 11s and Optimists compete, while the Delta course showcases cutting-edge foiling vessels that push the boundaries of sailing technology.

Inspiring the next generation of sailors

Sail Brisbane plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of sailing champions. By racing alongside their sporting heroes, young competitors witness firsthand the dedication and skill required to excel in the sport. The regatta’s inclusive format not only inspires but also prepares aspiring athletes for future success on national and international stages.

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

As the final major sailing event of 2024, Sail Brisbane is a celebration of the strength and vitality of Australia’s sailing community. With racing continuing through to Saturday, 21 December, the waters off Moreton Bay will shine as the backdrop for intense competition and camaraderie.

Published 17-December-2024

Moreton Bay College Dominates at 2024 National Schools Challenge

Students from Moreton Bay College in Manly West have made their mark on the national stage, excelling at the prestigious 2024 Chemist Warehouse National Schools Challenge Final.

Read: Manly West School to Expand with New Creativity and Arts Centre

The event, held on Monday, December 9, at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre, brought together Australia’s top school athletics programs for a day of intense competition.

Photo credit: Moreton Bay College/Facebook

Moreton Bay College’s Intermediate Girls team emerged victorious, securing the top spot in their category with an impressive score of 175.5 points. While the Junior Girls’ team didn’t claim first place, they achieved a commendable third-place finish, amassing 184 points and demonstrating the depth of talent across the school’s programs.

The school celebrated the students’ achievements with a heartfelt post on social media, highlighting their determination and resilience. “Their grit, perseverance, and passion were evident throughout the competition, showcasing their determination,” Moreton Bay College wrote. “Congratulations to our outstanding students on their remarkable achievements!”

About the National Schools Challenge

Organised by Athletics Australia, the National Schools Challenge is a team-based competition designed to foster teamwork and showcase young talent in track and field events. The event features three divisions for each gender: Junior (U15), Intermediate (U17), and Senior (U19). Teams from across the country competed fiercely, with each point hard-fought and every event carrying significant weight in the final standings.

The Intermediate Girls’ victory is a milestone for Moreton Bay College, underscoring the school’s commitment to cultivating a culture of excellence in sports. The students’ achievements not only bring pride to their school community but also inspire young athletes to aim high and embrace the values of perseverance and teamwork.

Read: Manly State School Students Roar to Life in ‘The Lion King’ Musical

As the dust settles on this year’s competition, Moreton Bay College can reflect on a job well done, with their athletes’ hard work and determination paying off on a national stage. Their success at the 2024 Chemist Warehouse National Schools Challenge Final is sure to leave a lasting legacy, both within the school and the broader athletics community.

Published 13-December-2024

E-Scooter Safety Crisis: Experts Call for Full-Face Helmets and Sit-Down Designs

Experts at the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) and Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) are pushing for major safety reforms in the e-scooter industry, suggesting the use of full-face helmets for private riders and a transition to sit-down scooter designs for rental devices.

Read: Manly Included in Neuron’s E-Scooter Comeback Across Brisbane

These recommendations come in response to mounting evidence of serious injuries and fatalities associated with current e-scooter designs and usage patterns. A Jamieson Trauma Institute study, funded by the RACQ and the RBWH Foundation, has exposed critical e-scooter injury trends.

The research revealed that over one-third of emergency presentations involved riders who were traveling at speeds exceeding the legal 25 km/h limit. Significantly, more than half of these injured riders were classified under the second-highest urgency triage category, indicating the severe nature of their injuries.

It’s also revealed that there were eight fatalities from Personal Mobility Devices in Queensland in 2024, with one-third of emergency room patients exceeding legal speed limits. Most concerningly, standard helmets are failing to prevent serious facial injuries.

Dr Michael Kane, Head of Public Policy at RACQ, said that the research underscored the urgent necessity for comprehensive reforms to mitigate the risk of devastating facial and head injuries associated with both privately owned and rental e-scooters.

“It’s clear many riders on privately owned e-scooters are speeding, and sustaining more severe injuries, but riders on hired devices are still getting seriously injured,” Dr Kane said.

Professor Michael Schuetz, JTI Director and RBWH Orthopaedic Surgeon, highlighted the alarming prevalence of severe injuries directly linked to excessive speed, noting that upper limb fractures and head trauma emerged as the most frequent and serious types of e-scooter-related injuries in the study.

Response from the E-Scooter Industry

Responding to critical medical research, Lime Mobility, a key e-scooter provider operating across multiple Brisbane suburbs, including Manly, is taking proactive steps to address growing safety challenges.

A Lime Mobility spokeswoman revealed that their new seated scooter design, which will be released in Brisbane soon, is fundamentally constructed with rider protection in mind. Lime’s latest seated scooter model features enhanced suspension technology and wheels with a larger diameter, designed to provide riders with improved stability and better ground contact.

Read: Man Charged with Dangerous Driving in Manly

Dr Kane urged the new government to factor in the findings of the JTI research when implementing the next set of e-scooter reforms and encouraged consumers to reassess which scooter model is safest for them.

Published 29-November-2024

Cancer-Causing Chemicals Found in Tingalpa Creek Drinking Water

Photo Credit: Paul Felstein/Google Maps

Tests have detected unsafe levels of cancer-causing “forever chemicals” in drinking water at Tingalpa Creek and other Brisbane treatment facilities, sparking concerns over public health and information transparency.

What Are “Forever Chemicals”?

The chemicals in question, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), are synthetic compounds used in products like non-stick cookware, firefighting foam, and water-resistant materials. PFAS, including PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate), are highly persistent in the environment and linked to serious health risks such as cancer.

The World Health Organisation classified PFOA as a carcinogen in 2023.

Tingalpa Creek and Surrounding Areas Affected

Seqwater documents reveal that PFOA levels at treatment sites, including Tingalpa Creek Channel, were measured significantly above US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines.

Aside from Tingalpa Creek, the following bodies of water and treatment facilities in Queensland also show high detection of PFAS chemicals:

Mount Crosby Westbank and Eastbank Treatment Plants – Key facilities that produce most of Brisbane’s drinking water. Recorded PFOA levels up to 36 parts per trillion.
Lowood Treatment Plant – Another site with significant detections exceeding US standards.
Camerons Hill – Cited multiple times for PFAS exceedances.
Lockyer Catchment – Also reported to have PFAS contamination.

While US regulations limit PFOA in drinking water to 4 parts per trillion, Seqwater recorded readings up to 36 parts per trillion at multiple sites across Brisbane. The Australian standards allow a much higher threshold of 560 parts per trillion, meaning national guidelines were not breached.

Experts have pointed out the discrepancy between Australian and international standards, noting that such levels would be deemed unsafe in other countries. Western Sydney University water scientist Ian Wright described the findings as “alarming” and stated he had not encountered higher levels in Australian drinking water before.

Transparency Issues and Public Concerns

Despite the high readings, Seqwater did not publicly release the results until compelled by a Right to Information request. Internal documents show Seqwater staff debated the need for transparency, ultimately deciding not to share the findings since Australian guidelines were not exceeded.

Residents who sought clarity were given generic responses, while media inquiries were deflected with prepared statements emphasising compliance with Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

Seqwater defended its actions, stating that all water quality testing met national standards and that it began publishing PFAS results online from November 2024. However, past exceedances, including those at Tingalpa Creek, remain unpublished, raising questions about accountability.

Community Impact and Expert Criticism

Local residents expressed concerns about the potential risks to their families, particularly given PFAS chemicals’ long-term persistence in the human body and environment. Some have sought advice on whether home filtration systems are necessary. Experts argue that withholding such data undermines public trust and limits the community’s ability to make informed health decisions.

Environmental campaigners and health researchers have called for stricter Australian regulations and greater transparency. One expert noted that PFAS could become the “new asbestos” due to its widespread presence and serious health implications.

Moving Forward

Seqwater insists it has complied with all regulatory obligations, but calls for reform and an independent inquiry into its handling of PFAS data are growing louder. With the Brisbane 2032 Olympics on the horizon, concerns about international scrutiny and public safety remain in focus. Experts urge water authorities to prioritise transparency and align with stricter global standards to rebuild trust and protect public health.

Published 29-Nov-2024

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

In an inspiring collaboration to protect marine environments, the EcoMarines Foundation has partnered with Manly-based Freedom Boat Club to conduct a waterway cleanup initiative in Moreton Bay.

Read: Belmont Healthcare Worker Claire Lee on a Mission to Address Youth Eco-grief Crisis

Students from a local Bayside school recently participated in an environmental conservation effort, boarding a Bayliner Trophy centre console boat to remove floating waste between Manly Boat Harbour and Lota housing canals. The expedition was part of the EcoMarines Foundation’s educational program, which currently engages over 200 Queensland schools in environmental stewardship.

Photo credit: Freedom Boat Club – Brisbane/Facebook

Brett Bolton, owner of Freedom Boat Club – Brisbane, said: “We are so proud to be one of the first EcoMarines Corporate Crew partners and help students put their classroom learnings into real-world practice out on the water.”

“Our boat club members understand the value of maintaining pristine waterways so it was great to team up with some budding young environmental custodians to keep the bay clean,” he added.

Mr Bolton highlighted the marine life’s activity, noting, “Marine life has been unbelievably active this year with turtle, dolphin and dugong sightings a regular occurrence on every member boating trip. Whales have also been out in force with hundreds of sightings deep in the Bay between Green and Moreton Island.”

He emphasized the importance of conservation, stating, “It is our duty to protect this world-class environmental playground and all our members are educated on the protection of wildlife and the environment during their compulsory induction training. We need to protect this sensitive ecosystem so our children and their children can also enjoy what we have today.”

EcoMarines Foundation CEO Angela Massy said: “Our collaboration with Freedom Boat Club aligns with our long-term vision to care for and preserve the environment.”

“Clean waterways are essential not just for aesthetics but for the health of our ecosystem and the survival of all living beings. Partnerships like this offer students meaningful, hands-on experiences that show them the tangible impact of their actions. Together, EcoMarines and Freedom Boat Club are making a lasting difference in preserving Moreton Bay’s natural beauty and biodiversity,” she added.

Read: Manly Pharmacy Joins Queensland’s Community Pharmacy Hormonal Contraception Pilot

The initiative provides students with a unique, hands-on experience that demonstrates the direct impact of environmental conservation efforts, combining educational outreach with practical action to inspire a new generation of environmental custodians.

Published 28-November-2024

Brisbane Metro Expansion Targets Belmont Rifle Range Connection

The Belmont Rifle Range will become significantly more accessible through the Brisbane Metro expansion, aiming to connect key Olympic venues to the city’s growing public transport network.

The Brisbane Metro expansion, part of Brisbane’s plan to deliver a long-term transport legacy for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, will introduce 22 new stations. These stations will extend bus rapid transit services north to Carseldine, south to Springwood, east to Capalaba, and west to Brisbane Airport.

Belmont Rifle Range, a venue slated to host shooting events, is one of the precincts to benefit directly from this improved accessibility.

Increased Capacity for Olympic Crowds

Brisbane’s public transport upgrades are essential to accommodate the increased traffic expected during the Games. Current estimates suggest that up to 90% of trips to Olympic venues must rely on public and active transport to meet demand.

However, Brisbane’s existing network can only serve half the anticipated one million daily passenger trips. The Brisbane Metro system, which already promises to add 30 million seats annually through existing routes, is expected to deliver 41 million seats with this expansion.

Brisbane Metro could include route to Belmont Rifle Range — *Photo Credit: BCC*

The Belmont Rifle Range, situated in the eastern suburbs of Brisbane, will gain direct links to the city’s mass transit system. This enhanced connectivity is designed to ease congestion, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and provide a faster, more sustainable way for spectators, athletes, and officials to access the venue.

Benefits Beyond the Games

Brisbane’s rapid growth and increasing population make these upgrades essential for the Games and the city’s long-term future. Residents around Belmont are expected to benefit from improved public transport options, easing commutes and making the area more accessible for recreational use. The upgrades align with the Council’s push to prioritise bus rapid transit as a cost-effective alternative to expanding heavy rail infrastructure.

The Belmont Rifle Range will also be better connected to other Games locations, such as the Sleeman Sports Complex in Chandler and the planned Northshore Hamilton athlete’s village. This integrated network will help streamline movement between venues and improve overall transport efficiency.

Funding and Collaboration

The Brisbane Metro project requires collaboration across all levels of government to ensure timely completion. The Brisbane City Council and Queensland Government have approached the Federal Government for additional funding to accelerate planning and construction.

Existing City Deal funds are being targeted to progress the business case rapidly. The Council has emphasised the importance of completing these expansions before 2032, framing the upgrades as a necessary investment in Brisbane’s future.

Leaders involved in the project, including LM Adrian Schrinner, have expressed confidence in the ability of federal, state, and local governments to deliver a transport system that meets the city’s needs during and after the Games.

Published 26-Nov-2024