Kenmore, Brookfield, and Pullenvale Roads Get Smart Flood Warning Systems

In an effort to enhance road safety during extreme weather, Brisbane has installed Automated Flooded Road Warning Systems (AFRWS) in flood-prone areas across western suburbs, such as Kenmore, Kenmore Hills, Pullenvale, and Brookfield. 


Read: Financial Assistance Opens for Brisbane Residents Affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred


This initiative is designed to prevent motorists from accidentally entering floodwaters, particularly during severe rainfall events like those caused by Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

How AFRWS Work

The AFRWS are equipped with highly visible LED road signs that activate automatically when water levels exceed a pre-set safety threshold. These signs display warnings such as “ROAD CLOSED AHEAD” or “ROAD CLOSED – NO ENTRY,” ensuring drivers are alerted in real time. 

Photo credit: CrAdrianSchrinner/Facebook

Placed strategically at road approaches, the signs remain visible both day and night. Some locations also feature cameras for remote monitoring, allowing authorities to assess conditions and respond as needed. The systems are solar-powered, offering continued functionality even in areas without mains power and improving resilience during extreme weather events that may cause power outages.

AFRWS Locations in West Brisbane

Several key roads in western Brisbane have been identified as high-risk areas and are now equipped with AFRWS, including:

  • Brookfield: Boscombe Road, Rafting Ground Road (Moggill Creek)
  • Upper Brookfield: Upper Brookfield Road (Moggill Creek)
  • Pullenvale: Grandview Road, Lancing Street (Pullen Creek)
  • Pinjarra: Pinjarra Road (Farm Creek)
  • Kholo: Kholo Bridge (Brisbane River)
  • Kenmore Hills: Gap Creek Road (Gap Creek)

These locations are prone to flooding due to their proximity to major creeks and waterways, making AFRWS a crucial safety measure.

The Impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred

The recent arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025 reinforced the necessity of such systems. The cyclone brought intense rainfall and strong winds, leading to widespread flooding, road closures, and power failures. Several roads in western Brisbane were temporarily submerged, but the AFRWS helped alert motorists in real time, preventing accidents and vehicle strandings.


Read: Moggill Creek Overflowed: Roads Blocked and Community Services Affected in Kenmore Hills & Brookfield


Looking Ahead

Brisbane continues to assess additional locations for AFRWS installation, ensuring more flood prone roads are equipped with these life-saving warnings. As climate change increases the frequency of extreme weather events, proactive measures like AFRWS will remain critical in safeguarding both motorists and infrastructure.

With ongoing investment in flood prevention and road safety, Brisbane’s western suburbs are better prepared for future storms and heavy rainfall events. This initiative demonstrates the city’s commitment to leveraging technology to protect its communities and ensure safer travel during unpredictable weather.

Published 19-March-2025

Staff Unpaid, Parents Scrambling: Genius Childcare Crisis Hits Kenmore

A Genius Childcare centre in Kenmore is among those caught in the sudden collapse of one of Australia’s largest childcare providers, leaving staff unpaid and families scrambling for alternatives. The financial troubles of Genius Childcare’s parent company, Vertical 4, have triggered widespread closures, with educators and parents in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, and the ACT facing uncertainty.



On 13 March, administrators were appointed to Vertical 4 Pty Ltd, the company responsible for 13 Genius centres across multiple states. Among them is the Kenmore centre, which is currently in the process of being sold to a third party. 

The collapse follows months of financial instability, with reports of unpaid wages, missing superannuation payments, and unexpected closures. Some staff say they are owed thousands of dollars, and others, particularly those on visas, are struggling to stay afloat.

A Childcare Crisis Unfolds

Many educators and staff members claim they have not been paid since early February, forcing some to seek assistance from food banks. The United Workers Union (UWU) has launched legal action in the Federal Circuit Court on behalf of 57 affected employees, aiming to recover unpaid superannuation and seek penalties for late wages.

According to the union, the company’s director, Darren Misquitta, has been unreachable for months. Rumours suggest he may be in Hong Kong, Japan, or even the Gold Coast, but no official confirmation has been made. Court papers were served to him through his lawyers in Melbourne, yet concerns remain over his whereabouts and accountability.

Genius Childcare in Kenmore
Photo Credit: Genius

Families Left in Limbo

Parents have been left frustrated by what they describe as poor communication from Genius Childcare. In some cases, families were still charged fees even after centres had closed. One parent, whose child attended a now-closed Canberra centre, described the experience as “dismal”, saying families had no warning before services were abruptly shut down. Another parent in Sydney’s Pyrmont reported being assured the centre would remain open, only to receive an email days later stating it would close intermittently due to staff shortages.

Some educators at Genius centres say they warned potential new hires about the company’s issues, advising them to “run a mile” before accepting jobs. One early childhood educator shared that wages were routinely paid late, often arriving days after they were due. Mortgage payments were missed, and financial stress became a common struggle among staff.

Administrators Step In

With administrators now in control, there is hope that operations can stabilise. WLP Restructuring, the firm handling the administration process, has stated that their priority is to resume trading, reinstate staff, and seek buyers for the centres.

Kenmore’s centre is among five locations currently in the process of being sold. Others include centres in Mount Albert, Beaumaris, and Reservoir in Victoria, and Gowrie in the ACT. A spokesperson for the administrators confirmed they are also negotiating an extension of the company’s debt facility to allow some centres to continue operating during the transition.

Despite these efforts, uncertainty remains. Staff at some Genius centres that have not been placed under administration say they have been left in limbo, with no clear answers about their futures. At one Melbourne centre, nearly 20 educators refused to work due to four weeks of unpaid wages. Many of them are unsure if they will ever recover what they are owed.

Industry-Wide Concerns

The collapse of Genius Childcare is part of a broader crisis affecting Australia’s early childhood education sector. Another childcare provider with 320 staff went into administration in February, adding to concerns about financial stability in the industry. Experts and educators are calling for greater regulation to ensure that childcare centres are financially secure before being allowed to operate.



One worker involved in the recent shutdowns said the situation has left staff and families feeling helpless. She believes childcare providers should be held to stricter accountability standards.

Published 19-March-2024

Financial Assistance Opens for Brisbane Residents Affected by Tropical Cyclone Alfred

To help communities impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred in March 2025, Queensland has launched the Personal Hardship Financial Assistance program. This initiative was intended for all affected areas across Brisbane, including Kenmore.


Read: Cyclone Alfred Aftermath: Urgent Flood Warnings Issued for Kenmore Residents


Kenmore was among the suburbs affected by flooding in the wake of Cyclone Alfred. Prior to the storm, Brisbane released an updated flood map identifying new at-risk areas, including parts of Kenmore. 

Tropical cyclone alfred

Heavy rains following the cyclone confirmed these concerns, leading to an emergency alert for the suburb. Flash flooding also affected several key locations, including Centenary Motorway, Gap Creek Road, Kenmore Hills, and Rafting Ground Road, where Moggill Creek swelled near Greentrees Avenue.

Queensland’s Grants

The grants aim to assist individuals and families facing financial strain due to flooding, storm damage, and disruptions to essential services.

The Emergency Hardship Assistance grant, one of the available grants, is given for urgent needs such as food, clothing, medication, temporary accommodation, and the replacement of essential household items. Grant amount is from $180 for individuals up to $900 for families of five or more.

Additional assistance is provided for those who have experienced extended power, water, gas, or sewage outages, as well as for safety inspections, structural repairs, and reconnection of essential services.

Photo credit: Community Recovery QLD/Facebook

Community Recovery Hubs are also open to assist affected residents. In addition to grant applications, these hubs provide emotional and wellbeing support, as well as referrals to community organisations and recovery services.


Read: Moggill Creek Overflowed: Roads Blocked and Community Services Affected in Kenmore Hills & Brookfield


With widespread demand for assistance across Brisbane after Tropical Cyclone Alfred, authorities are managing a high volume of applications. Residents are encouraged to remain patient as support teams work to process requests as quickly as possible. More details on eligibility and how to apply can be found through Queensland Government’s website.

Published 13-March-2025

Moggill Creek Overflowed: Roads Blocked and Community Services Affected in Kenmore Hills & Brookfield

Moggill Creek has overflowed, causing road closures, service disruptions, and transport delays including in Kenmore Hills and Brookfield. Recovery efforts continue amid flood-related challenges.



Severe Weather and Flooding Cause Transport Disruptions

Heavy rainfall from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has led to major flooding in Kenmore and surrounding areas, blocking roads and limiting transport options. Moggill Creek has overflowed at multiple locations, including Rafting Ground Road near Greentrees Avenue in Kenmore Hills and Reed Way in Brookfield, where all lanes remain blocked. Authorities have warned residents against driving through floodwaters, urging caution as conditions remain unpredictable.

Additionally, Brookfield Road at Moggill Creek is completely impassable due to flash flooding. The Department of Transport and Main Roads has advised motorists to seek alternative routes while BCC continues to monitor conditions.

Public Services Affected as Cleanup Begins

Local services have been disrupted, with BCC facilities, bin collections, and public transport affected. The regular Monday bin collection in the Pullenvale Ward, which includes Kenmore, did not occur due to flooding at the waste contractor’s Willawong facility and workforce shortages. While BCC is considering a recovery collection, no confirmation has been given. Residents are advised to bring their bins back off the kerb and await further updates.

Public transport services are also experiencing delays and cancellations. While some bus routes remain operational, others have been suspended due to unsafe road conditions. The 444 service, a major route for Kenmore, continues to run, but other local services are subject to ongoing disruptions.

Power Outages and Emergency Alerts

Power outages have affected multiple suburbs, including Kenmore, Kenmore Hills, Pullenvale, Brookfield, and Upper Brookfield. Residents experiencing outages are advised to report fallen power lines to Energex and avoid contact with any damaged infrastructure.

An Emergency Alert has been issued for the Gubberley Creek Detention Basin area in Kenmore, with authorities advising residents to prepare for possible evacuations. The situation remains under review as officials monitor flood levels.

Moggill Creek overflowing
Photo Credit: Ray Edwards/Facebook

BCC’s Response and Recovery Efforts

BCC has mobilised emergency crews to clear roads, address power failures, and assist with flood recovery. The BCC’s Emergency Dashboard provides live updates on road closures, waste collection, and other service disruptions.

Local community disaster groups in the Kenmore and Karana Downs regions are actively coordinating support and information for affected residents. While no evacuation centres have been activated yet, authorities are monitoring the situation closely.

BCC Services: Latest Updates

BCC has provided the latest information on service disruptions and recovery efforts:

BCC Facilities & Community Services

  • Brisbane Business Hub (Level 4, Queen Street, Brisbane City) will reopen on Tuesday 11 March.
  • City Hall and the Museum of Brisbane have reopened with events and tours resuming.
  • Community halls: Most will reopen on Tuesday 11 March, but several, including Acacia Ridge, Bracken Ridge, and Northgate, remain closed.
  • Brisbane Greeter tours will restart from Wednesday 12 March.
  • Immunisation clinics, active and healthy programs, and Visible Ink services will resume from Tuesday 11 March.

Libraries & Archives

  • Open libraries include: Brisbane Square, Indooroopilly, Toowong, Carindale, and several others.
  • Kenmore Library is still under assessment and remains closed.
  • City Archives, Mt Coot-tha, Sandgate, and Inala libraries remain closed.

Waste Collection and Resource Recovery

  • Regular bin collection has resumed in some areas, but Pullenvale Ward collections remain uncertain.
  • Chandler, Nudgee, and Ferny Grove resource recovery centres are open for green waste drop-off.

Parks, Pools, and Recreational Facilities

  • Mt Coot-tha mountain bike tracks and all water play areas remain closed.
  • Victoria Park driving range has reopened, but many golf courses, including St Lucia, Jindalee, and Ashgrove, remain shut.
  • Most pools have reopened, except Dunlop and Acacia Ridge. The 25m pools at Hibiscus and Langlands remain closed.

For assistance or further updates, residents are encouraged to contact the relevant authorities:



  • BCC 24/7 Emergency Contact: (07) 3403 8888
  • QLD Traffic Updates: QLD Traffic or call 13 19 40
  • Energex Emergency Line (Power Outages, Fallen Lines): 13 19 62
  • TransLink Public Transport Information: TransLink or call 13 12 30
  • SES Queensland (Flood & Storm Assistance): 132 500
  • Local Community Disaster Support Groups:
    • 4070 Community Disaster and Coordination Group
    • Karana Downs Region Disaster Community Support

Published 10-Mar-2025

Cyclone Alfred Aftermath: Urgent Flood Warnings Issued for Kenmore Residents

EDITOR’S NOTE: This is a developing story. Last update: 10 March 2025 10:00 a.m.

An emergency alert has been issued for Kenmore amid fears that the Gubberley Creek Detention Basin could severely overflow, sending dangerous floodwaters into surrounding streets and forcing residents to prepare for evacuation as the crisis escalates across Brisbane.



Kenmore, along with multiple suburbs across Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan, and the Gold Coast, has been severely impacted by the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

Despite the recent heavy rainfall, locals said that Gubberley Street remains clear, with the creek flowing steadily but staying well below the Cedar Crossing bridge.

Photo Credit: Faloohfah Genx/Facebook

Traffic, including small sedans, continues to move through the area without issue. Longtime residents note that flooding was not a concern on Gubberley Street even during the 1974 floods. Additionally, conditions on Akuna Street have improved as water levels have receded.

Photo Credit: Faloohfah Genx/Facebook

However, in some areas, the storm dumped over 300mm of rain, causing widespread flooding, power outages, and emergency rescues. Traffic, including small sedans, continues to move through the area without issue.

Floodwaters Overwhelm South East Queensland

Since Sunday morning, 9 March, South East Queensland has been inundated by extreme rainfall, triggering major flood warnings for the Logan, Albert, and Bremer Rivers, as well as Warrill and Laidley Creeks. Streets, homes, and businesses in Kenmore, Oxley, and Indooroopilly have been swallowed by rising water, with some residents forced to evacuate in the middle of the night.

The severe weather has also wreaked havoc on infrastructure, with more than 220,000 homes and businesses losing power and emergency services responding to over 3,600 calls for assistance. The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services have carried out multiple swift water rescues.

Premier David Crisafulli said authorities were working around the clock to assist affected communities, urging residents to stay connected and prepared. He warned that while the worst of the system was moving south, conditions remained dangerous, and flash flooding was still possible.

Drinking Water at Risk as Floods Impact Treatment Plants

In addition to the immediate dangers posed by floodwaters, water quality concerns have emerged across Brisbane and surrounding regions. Seqwater has warned that flood events can introduce sediment, organic waste, and industrial pollutants into the water supply, making treatment more difficult.

While Brisbane’s 30+ water treatment plants remain operational, authorities have assured residents that any significant water safety concerns would prompt a boil water advisory. Residents have been advised to store clean drinking water ahead of future severe weather events and to report any unusual changes in their water’s colour, taste, or smell.

Massive Recovery Effort Underway

With rainfall easing but floodwaters still dangerously high in some areas, recovery efforts have begun. Energex crews are working to restore power to thousands of homes, with extra workers from northern Queensland arriving to assist. Emergency teams are also assessing damaged roads, infrastructure, and homes, while residents begin the difficult task of cleaning up their properties.

Authorities have urged people to remain cautious, avoid driving through floodwaters, and stay informed as conditions continue to evolve. For Kenmore residents and others in flood-affected areas, the priority remains safety, preparedness, and staying informed as the region braces for the lasting impacts of yet another major weather event.

Evacuation Centres Open for Residents Affected by Flooding

Updated: 10 March 2025

Council has opened evacuation centres for residents needing to leave their homes due to flooding.

Evacuation Centres Now Open:

  • Sleeman Sports Complex (Chandler Arena) – 757 Tilley Road, Chandler, 4155 (access via Old Cleveland Road, Car Park 3)
  • Kedron Wavell Services Club – 21 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside, 4032
  • Community-led Evacuation Centre: Riverlife Community Centre – 47 Jennifer Street, Seventeen Mile Rocks, 4073

Safety Reminders:

  • Check alerts and road conditions before evacuating.
  • Leave early and avoid driving through floodwaters.
  • If stopping, avoid parking near trees, creeks, or drains.

What to Bring:

  • Essential items – mobile phone, charger, spare clothing, toiletries, towel, important documents (e.g., insurance papers, passports, medical prescriptions).
  • Medication and infant supplies – formula, nappies, or any special medical needs.
  • Bedding – pillows and blankets are recommended.
  • Before leaving: Inform neighbours, turn off electricity and gas, and lock your home.

Pet Guidelines:

  • Sleeman Sports Complex & Riverlife Community Centre – Pets allowed but must be crated, leashed, and securely transported. Owners must bring food and litter trays.
  • Kedron Wavell Services Club – No pets allowed, except for registered service animals.

Brisbane Council Service Updates Following Cyclone Alfred

As of 10 March 10:00 a.m.

Council has adjusted its services and facility operations due to Alfred’s impact.

Closures Until Further Notice:

  • Cemeteries, City Hall, Community Halls, Libraries, Pools, and Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium
  • Five Council Customer Service Centres (North & South Regional Business Centres, Indooroopilly, Carindale, Brisbane Square)
  • Golf Courses and Off-Street Parking (King George Square & Wickham Terrace)
  • Mountain bike tracks at Gap Creek and Mt Coot-tha Reserve
  • All Council-run playground water play areas
  • CityCat, KittyCat, and most bus services
  • Story Bridge footpaths

Service Suspensions:

  • Brisbane Greeter tours, Immunisation Clinics, Active & Healthy classes (until 11 March)
  • Visible Ink youth hub (until 11 March)
  • Council Cabs and Personalised Public Transport services
  • Kerbside large item collection and bin repair services

Open Facilities & Services:

  • Chandler and Ferny Grove Resource Recovery Centres (offering free green waste drop-off)
  • Regular bin collections (yellow and green bins resume 10 March)


For more information, visit brisbane.qld.gov.au or call 07 3403 8888. For public transport updates, visit translink.com.au or call 13 12 30. Traffic information is available at QLDtraffic.qld.gov.au or 13 19 40.

Published 10-March-2025

Is Kenmore as Safe as It Seems? A Closer Look at Local Crime

Kenmore is known as a quiet, family-friendly suburb in Brisbane’s west. It has a reputation for being safe, but recent crime data shows a more detailed picture. Between March 2024 and March 2025, there were 240 recorded offences, mostly related to theft and property damage. While Kenmore is safer than many other areas, crime is happening regularly.



Crime in Kenmore: What the Numbers Say

Between March 2024 and March 2025, 240 crimes were reported in Kenmore. The most common offences were:

  • Theft (excluding unlawful entry): 101 cases
  • Unlawful entry: 31 cases
  • Property damage: 30 cases
  • Traffic-related offences: 14 cases
  • Assault: 14 cases

Violent crime is low, but property-related crimes are a concern.

Brisbane crime rates
Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

When and Where Does Crime Happen Most?

Crime in Kenmore follows clear patterns:

  • Time of Day: Most crimes happen between 10 p.m. and midnight. Mornings and afternoons see less activity.
  • Days of the Week: Crime is highest on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Saturdays have the least incidents.
  • Seasonal Trends: Crime peaked in March 2024, with other spikes in October, November, and January before dropping in February 2025.

How Kenmore Compares to Other Brisbane Suburbs

Kenmore has fewer crimes than major hotspots like Brisbane City and Fortitude Valley:

  • Brisbane City: 816.87 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Fortitude Valley: 577 crimes per 1,000 people
  • Kenmore: Crime is significantly lower but still occurs steadily

Kenmore’s crime patterns are similar to North Lakes’s. Property-related offences are rising due to urban growth. This creates more opportunities for theft.

What’s Being Done to Keep Kenmore Safe?

To help reduce crime, law enforcement and the community are taking action:

  • Neighbourhood Watch programs encourage crime reporting and prevention
  • Increased police patrols in high-risk areas
  • Crime prevention campaigns teaching residents how to secure their homes
  • More CCTV surveillance as part of a crime prevention strategy
Kenmore crime
Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

Will Kenmore Stay a Safe Suburb?



Kenmore is still one of the safer suburbs. However, theft and property crimes remain an issue, especially late at night. Police and community efforts are working to keep the suburb secure. How well these strategies work will determine if Kenmore continues to be a safe and family-friendly place in the future.

Published 4-Mar-2025

Kenmore Village Shopping Centre Welcomes Shoppers with a Modern Makeover

Kenmore Village Shopping Centre has officially reopened, after more than a year of redevelopment, revealing a line-up new retail outlets, enhanced accessibility, upgraded amenities, and a refreshing, new aesthetic that still manages to preserve the Centre’s familiar charm.


Read: New Look For Kenmore Village Shopping Centre If Redevelopment Plans Push Through


The grand reopening was celebrated in true Carnival style, complete with stilt walkers, a hula hooper, and a magician to entertain visitors.

Photo credit: Kenmore Village Shopping Centre/Facebook

Kenmore Village
Photo credit: Kenmore Village Shopping Centre/Facebook

As part of the celebrations, Kenmore mum Bianca Harvey took home the major prize—a brand-new Haval Jolion SUV, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event. Cr Greg Adermann also attended the festivities, showing support for the revamped shopping destination.

A Modern Makeover with Familiar Charm

Photo credit: kenmorevillage.com.au

Visitors to the Centre will immediately notice the improved facilities, including easy-access parking, designated disability spaces, a new taxi rank, and upgraded toilet amenities.

Kenmore Village
Photo credit: kenmorevillage.com.au

Key upgrades include new car parks, covered walkways to the northern and western entries, and a completely refreshed interior.

One of the most significant changes to the Centre has been the demolition of the two-storey north mall, which allowed for the construction of a new ground-floor retail entrance and additional car parking spaces. The redevelopment aimed to blend modern features with the Centre’s original character, ensuring it remains a beloved community hub.

The all-new amenities area now boasts a well-equipped parent’s room, featuring adult and child toilets, a baby change bench, and private feeding booths. These additions reflect the Centre’s commitment to providing a comfortable and convenient experience for all visitors.

Photo credit: kenmorevillage.com.au

The extensive renovations focused on enhancing accessibility, convenience, and aesthetics while preserving the familiar charm of the Centre.


Read: Kenmore Community Bands Together to Deliver Hampers to Families in Need


The reopening also marks the arrival of new retail outlets, expanding the Centre’s offerings and bringing fresh shopping opportunities to the local community. More stores are set to open in the coming months, further enhancing the Centre’s appeal.

The refreshed space is now ready to welcome shoppers and families, offering a blend of convenience, entertainment, and an inviting shopping experience.

Published 27-February-2025

Brookfield Show 2025: Award-Winning Event Returns with New Attractions

The Brookfield Show has been officially recognised as Brisbane’s Community Event of the Year 2025 at the Australia Day Awards, celebrating its ongoing significance as one of the city’s most cherished annual events.



Following this recognition, organisers have confirmed exciting new additions for the 2025 Brookfield Show, set to take place from 23 to 25 May.

Brookfield Show 2024: A Standout Success

Recognised as Brisbane’s “Best Little Country Show”, the Brookfield Show continues to be a highlight in the city’s event calendar. In 2024, it attracted over 30,000 attendees across three days, reinforcing its role in preserving Brookfield’s connection to its rural heritage.

Best Little Country Show
Photo Credit: LS Trickrider/Facebook

Held from 17 to 19 May 2024 at the Brookfield Showgrounds, the event delivered a packed program featuring traditional competitions such as Horse, Horticulture, and Needle Craft, alongside newer attractions including LEGO displays. Visitors explored woodwork exhibits, pig races, trade stands, and a variety of food options, while Sideshow Alley provided a classic fairground experience. The Brookfield Museum added a historical touch, offering insight into the region’s rich past.

Family-friendly entertainment was a major drawcard, with magicians, puppet shows, reptile encounters, baby animals, and live music. The Mini Moshers band, roving performers, school bands, and the Talent Quest ensured lively daytime entertainment.

The event came alive at night with a daredevil rodeo, trick horse riders, and a Cirque Du Soleil-style circus show, showcasing some of Queensland’s top performers. Attendees enjoyed an evening cocktail bar and live music from Gold Creek Band, with the festivities culminating in spectacular fireworks displays across the weekend.

What’s New for Brookfield Show 2025?

With the 2025 Brookfield Show scheduled for 23 to 25 May, organisers have announced fresh highlights, particularly in the Horse Section:

  • Expanded Off The Track Show Jump classes, proudly sponsored by Queensland Off The Track
  • Shetland Pony Feature Show on Sunday
  • Junior and Senior Smartest on Parade on Open Day (Saturday), introduced due to popular demand

These additions reflect the Show’s commitment to evolving while maintaining its deep-rooted traditions.

Celebrating Community and Volunteers

The Community Event of the Year Award recognises the hard work of local volunteers and community groups. Their dedication has played a key role in the event’s success. Their contributions also ensure the Show remains a vibrant and inclusive experience for all attendees.

The city officials have also been a long-time supporter, reinforcing the Show’s place as a major cultural and social event for Brookfield and Brisbane.

Brookfield Show 2025: Save the Dates

The Brookfield Show returns in May, promising a three-day program filled with competitions, entertainment, and community experiences. For details on event schedules, membership, or venue hire, visit the Brookfield Show website.



For general enquiries, contact secretary@brookfieldshowsociety.org.au.

Published 11-Feb-2025

Beyond the Award: How Shedder of the Year Graham Barnard Continues to Build Community in the Western Suburbs

Kenmore and Bellbowrie Moggill Shed West founder Graham Barnard was named the inaugural Shedder of the Year at the National Shed Awards, but his work hasn’t stopped there. Months after receiving the recognition, he remains deeply involved in ensuring that Brisbane’s western suburbs have thriving Men’s Sheds that provide support, skills, and camaraderie.



For nearly two decades, Mr Barnard has played a central role in the Men’s Shed movement, creating spaces for men to connect, learn new skills, and support each other. His efforts led to the founding of Shed West Community Men’s Shed in Kenmore, a facility that has grown into a thriving hub for local men, as well as the establishment of the Bellbowrie Moggill Community Men’s Shed, which continues to grow.

Recognising his dedication, Mr Barnard was awarded Australia’s first Shedder of the Year at the National Shed Awards. The new category was introduced due to overwhelming support from men’s sheds nationwide, with Mr Barnard selected from a pool of 50,000 members for his contributions to Kenmore and the wider Brisbane community. But for Mr Barnard, the real reward isn’t the title—it’s the impact that these sheds have on their members and the wider community.

Building on a Legacy of Connection and Support

Mr Barnard’s involvement began when he joined discussions at the local RSL branch about establishing a men’s shed in Kenmore. By 2007, he was instrumental in securing a site and funding, leading to the official opening of Shed West in 2010. The shed quickly became a centre for woodworking, metalworking, computing, leatherwork, and community support activities.

Shed West also provides a space for social connection, offering daily morning teas and guest speaker sessions at the BCC Library. Members regularly gather for discussions on various topics, reinforcing the shed’s role as a support network.

During the 2011 Queensland floods, Kenmore and surrounding suburbs faced significant challenges. Mr Barnard and Shed West members played an active role in assisting residents with clean-up efforts, demonstrating the shed’s importance in times of crisis.

Today, while some changes have taken place, the legacy of these sheds continues to grow. The Bellbowrie Moggill Shed remains a thriving community hub, and Mr Barnard continues to be involved in mentoring new members, strengthening community ties, and advocating for resources to ensure the sheds’ long-term success.

Expanding the Men’s Shed Movement Beyond Kenmore

As Shed West’s membership grew, Mr Barnard recognised the need for additional facilities in Brisbane’s western suburbs. With support from the Lions Club, he helped secure temporary premises for a new shed in Bellbowrie in 2012, before successfully negotiating a long-term lease. By 2018, the Bellbowrie Moggill Community Men’s Shed was officially incorporated and continues to thrive.

Now, the Kenmore Community Centre—home to Kenmore’s Men’s Shed—is set for a major redevelopment. Under a $1.6 million plan led by the local council, the Men’s Shed will receive key upgrades, including a new dust extraction system and a refurbished kitchenette. The revamped community space will also feature a new communal meeting area, a tech hub, and additional amenities, ensuring that shed members have an improved and modernized environment.

With construction set to begin in early 2025, Mr Barnard and his fellow shed members are looking forward to these enhancements, which will provide even better facilities for woodworking, repairs, and social activities. These upgrades highlight the continued investment in the Men’s Shed movement and its importance to the local community.

A Lifelong Commitment to Shed West and Community

Mr. Barnard has worked tirelessly to ensure both sheds’ long-term success, securing vital funding and forming partnerships with local, state, and federal representatives, as well as Lions, Rotary, and the RSL. His leadership has helped maintain strong and financially stable men’s sheds.

Shed West and the Bellbowrie Moggill Shed offer a wide range of activities, including woodworking, toy making, vehicle restoration, computing, and community repair projects. Members also take part in monthly BBQs, excursions, and card games, creating a welcoming environment for all.

His efforts go beyond administration and funding—he actively checks in on members facing health challenges, providing support and ensuring they stay connected to their shed communities. The strong sense of mateship that defines these sheds is a direct result of his leadership.

A Well-Deserved Honour for a Kenmore Leader

Receiving the award was unexpected recognition for Mr. Barnard, who has always been focused on giving back to the community. His contributions to establishing and growing men’s sheds in Kenmore, Bellbowrie, and Moggill have made a lasting impact.



But for Mr Barnard, it’s not about past achievements—it’s about the future. With new infrastructure improvements on the horizon and a growing membership, he remains committed to ensuring that men in Brisbane’s western suburbs continue to have a place to connect, contribute, and thrive.

Published 5-Feb-2025

Volunteers Needed for Kenmore Clean Up Australia Day 2025

Kenmore locals are being urged to step up and volunteer for Clean Up Australia Day 2025, helping to remove litter and protect the local environment. Volunteers are needed in key areas, including Cubberla Creek and the space behind Kenmore Tavern Shopping Centre, where rubbish often accumulates.



For 34 years, Clean Up Australia has inspired communities across the country to take action against waste. More than 22 million Australians have contributed a combined 38.5 million hours to keeping public spaces clean and protecting local ecosystems.

Clean Up Australia
Photo Credit: Clean Up Australia

The 2025 campaign continues this mission, calling on businesses, schools, and community groups to participate.

Join a Clean-Up Event in Kenmore

Business Clean Up Day – Tuesday, 25 February 2025
Schools Clean Up Day – Friday, 28 February 2025
Community Clean Up Day – Sunday, 2 March 2025

Each event targets different groups, with businesses encouraged to engage staff, schools provided with curriculum-linked lesson plans, and local groups invited to restore parks, streets, and bushland.

Help Clean Up Cubberla Creek

City official Greg Adermann will join the Cubberla-Witton Catchments Network for their clean-up efforts on Community Clean Up Day. Volunteers are encouraged to help remove rubbish from Cubberla Creek and the area behind Kenmore Tavern Shopping Centre, where litter accumulation is a recurring issue. 

Cleaning up the area behind Kenmore Tavern Shopping Centre is essential to prevent plastic, glass, and other debris from being washed into Cubberla Creek, which connects to Moreton Bay. Pollution from urban runoff can degrade water quality, harm aquatic ecosystems, and introduce microplastics into marine environments. 

Community Clean Up Day
Photo Credit: CrGregAdermann/Facebook

How to Get Involved

Volunteers can register a clean-up site or join an existing effort via www.cleanupaustraliaday.org.au.



By signing up, Kenmore residents can directly impact their local environment and contribute to a cleaner, healthier community.

Published 5-Feb-2025