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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

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

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.

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.

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

Photo Credit: CrGregAdermann/Facebook

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.

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.

Brisbane Show 2024 — *Photo Credit: Boutique Street Entertainment/Facebook*

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.

Brisbane's Coomunity Event of the Year — *Photo Credit: CrGregAdermann/Facebook*

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

Photo Credits: CrGregAdermann/Facebook

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.

Australia Men's Shed Association — *Photo Credit: Australia Men’s Shed Association*

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.

*Photo Credit: Australia Men’s Shed Association*

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

Photo Credit: Clean Up Australia

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.

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.

Kenmore Clean Up Australia Day — *Photo Credit: CrGregAdermann/Facebook*

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.

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

Woman Rescued After Car Crashes into Kenmore Roof

Emergency crews rescued a woman after her car crashed through the roof of a Kenmore home, leaving her trapped for an hour.

On 28 January 2025, the crash occurred around 5:00 p.m. on Kersley Road in Kenmore. The vehicle became wedged in the home’s roof, requiring emergency crews to stabilise it before freeing the driver. Queensland Police confirmed that the woman was uninjured but needed assistance safely exiting the vehicle.

Kenmore - car crashes into roof — *Photo Credit: Paul Turner/Facebook*

Queensland Fire Department crews worked an hour to free the driver from the damaged vehicle. A spokesperson said the home’s roof was not destroyed but sustained significant damage. After securing the scene, the car was removed using a crane at approximately 7:30 p.m.

A neighbour, who asked to remain anonymous, described hearing a loud bang before seeing the street fill with emergency service vehicles. The neighbour expressed relief that the driver was not seriously injured.

Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. No further details about the circumstances leading to the incident have been released at this time.

Published 29-January-2025

Kenmore Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony Moves To Moggill State School

For many years the Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony has been held at the Old Lady of the Rosary School in the Assembly Hall. However, due to Australia Day falling on a Sunday in 2025, car parking became a challenge given the expectant congregation for the neighbouring Church. So in 2025, the event will be held at Moggill State School, which stepped in at late notice, to host the event, from 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 26.

The presiding officer will be local councillor, Greg Adermann. Local State MP Christian Rowan will attend on behalf of the Department for Home Affairs, welcoming approximately 60 new Australians who have already been through the citizenship tests.

Dave Patmore, President of Kenmore Rotary, will be the emcee for the event. Music will be provided by the Brisbane Citizens Concert Band and Kelsey Giarola, a wonderful local singing talent who has graced the event for many years and performs a rousing National Anthem, as well as some other songs in her repertoire.

Kenmore Rotary Citizenship Ceremony — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

In 2024, 51 conferees from 16 countries attended the ceremony, along with their family and friends.

The event is funded by the National Australia Day Council and hosted by Kenmore Rotary, whose volunteers are organised into a support team to enable the event to run smoothly.

A new venue will bring new demands to the running of the event, as the sound system will be different as well as other small details, though Kenmore Rotary has a long history of delivering professional service whilst raising funds for good causes. The club is always looking for new members to join the mission.

LEARN MORE ABOUT KENMORE ROTARY

Despite the difficulties of this year’s major fundraiser, the Christmas Raffle, the continued support of Kenmore Village and Kenmore Plaza as well as the support of residents proved to help the Club deliver a strong performance.

The 2024 Christmas Raffle raised $16,000 despite a slow start and the renovations at Kenmore Village. Lisa Jarrold, Kenmore Village Shopping Centre manager, provided a strong location for the raffle ticket sales, which the Kenmore Rotary members used to great effect.

“Kenmore Rotary wants to thank the support of our local community in purchasing the raffle tickets it is through this major fundraiser each year that support our many programs,” said Patrick Cook, a senior member of Kenmore Rotary.

“The good causes for 2025 include youth leadership & empowerment programs, such as mentoring programs at Kenmore State High School, the sponsorship of Year 11 students to the National Youth Science Forum, and the Solar Buddy program at local primary schools.

“We are also supporting victims of domestic violence through Women’s Crisis Support Service and food hampers collections in collaboration with Kenmore Village.”

Kenmore Rotary Club meetings are held every Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. at the venue below:

Published 21-January-2025

No More Knives on Shelves at Coles Kenmore and Other Coles Stores Nationwide

Photo Credit: QPS/Facebook

Coles in Kenmore will be removing kitchen knives from its shelves, in keeping with a nationwide ban that Coles is implementing across all stores in the wake of a recent stabbing incident at Yamanto Shopping Centre.

Woolworths, a rival retailer, took similar steps after past untoward incidents. Over 60 Woolworths stores in Queensland no longer sell kitchen knives.

Kenmore Coles knife ban — *Photo Credit: Coles*

Ipswich Tragedy Sparks Nationwide Action

The decision was made after a serious incident on Monday, 13 January 2025, at Yamanto Central Shopping Centre in Ipswich. Claudia Campomayor Watt, a Coles employee, was allegedly attacked by a 13-year-old boy who used a knife taken from the store. The victim remains in critical condition at Princess Alexandra Hospital. Police have charged the boy with attempted murder.

Coles announced on Wednesday, 15 January 2025, that all kitchen knives would be pulled from shelves across the country. This precaution aims to prioritise the safety of staff and shoppers. Coles in Kenmore, located at Kenmore Village Shopping Centre on Brookfield Road, is part of the nationwide ban.

Kitchen knives removed from Coles shelves nationwide. — *Photo Credit: Reddit*

Safety Measures and Local Reactions

Coles stated the ban was implemented “out of an abundance of caution.” While SMEG-branded knives can still be redeemed at service desks until 21 January, all other kitchen knives have been removed indefinitely.

Residents have expressed mixed feelings. Some see the move as a vital safety measure, while others question its effectiveness in addressing the root causes of violence. Discussions on platforms like Reddit highlight concerns that banning knives might shift the problem to other tools rather than solve it.

Kitchen knives ban — *Photo Credit: Pexels*

Looking at Alternatives

Suggestions have surfaced about locking knives in secure cabinets, similar to measures used for spray paint and cigarettes. Others believe tackling issues like youth crime and mental health is essential for long-term solutions.

What’s Next for Kenmore Coles?

Coles has confirmed the ban will stay in place while it reviews its knife sales policy. In the meantime, security measures have been tightened in stores, including Kenmore. Local police patrols have also been increased to reassure the community after the Ipswich attack.

As Kenmore adjusts to these changes, broader discussions continue about youth crime laws and how to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Published 15-Jan-2025

Colleges Crossing Closure Expected Due to Potential Flooding: Warning Issued for Kenmore and Surrounding Suburbs

Residents of Kenmore and surrounding suburbs should be aware of potential disruptions as persistent rainfall and dam releases threaten to inundate Colleges Crossing.

Read: Calls for Tougher Guidelines After PFAS Found in Mt Crosby Supply

Seqwater’s Flood Operations Centre was mobilised at 9 a.m. on Thursday, 2 January 2025, in response to persistent rainfall in the Wivenhoe and Somerset Dam catchments. Low-flow flood releases from Wivenhoe Dam, combined with river and creek flows downstream, caused water to rise over crossings, including Twin Bridges and Savages Crossing, by late Thursday.

By Friday morning, Colleges Crossing was fully inundated, rendering Mount Crosby Road impassable. The Bureau of Meteorology had forecast additional showers and thunderstorms, further complicating conditions for the region.

A Bridge Under Threat

Photo credit: CC BY-SA 3.0/Kgbo/Wikimedia Commons

Colleges Crossing is a low-level bridge over the Brisbane River at Chuwar in Ipswich. Opened in 1894 to replace a flood-damaged structure, it holds a significant place in local history. However, its low-level design makes it highly vulnerable to flooding—a challenge familiar to both residents and commuters in the area.

Colleges Crossing, which is traversed by Mount Crosby Road, becomes impassable during major floods or water releases from Wivenhoe Dam.

Impact on Kenmore Residents

For Kenmore locals who rely on Mount Crosby Road for travel to Ipswich or surrounding areas, this closure serves as a reminder of the importance of planning alternate routes. The flooding could also disrupt recreational visits, as Colleges Crossing is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.

Community Preparedness

Residents are urged to monitor updates from Seqwater and the Bureau of Meteorology closely. Travelers should exercise caution and avoid attempting to cross flooded roads.

Read: New Flood-Resilient Mount Crosby Vehicle Bridge Enhances Connectivity in Kholo, Karana Downs, Anstead, Bellbowrie & Surrounds

Colleges Crossing is not just a vital transport link; it’s a bridge steeped in local history. As nature once again asserts its dominance, Kenmore residents and others in the region are reminded of the Brisbane River’s power and the importance of resilience in the face of such challenges.

Published 3-January-2025

From Heartbreak to Hope: Kenmore Mum’s e-Waste Connection Charity Empowers People with Disabilities

Photo Credit: eWaste Connection

What began as a small initiative in Kenmore has grown into a life-changing charity, eWaste Connection, empowering people with disabilities while tackling the environmental crisis of e-waste.

Joshua and Monique, a mother-son duo, created the eWaste Connection charity to change the world, proving that passion and purpose can make a powerful difference.

It all started when Joshua, who lives with an acquired brain injury, discovered a love for taking things apart. In their Kenmore home, Monique noticed Joshua dismantling anything electronic he could get his hands on, from old TVs to computers.

Seeing his passion, she was inspired to create a safe space in their community where he and others with disabilities could thrive. She realised that other people with disabilities could also benefit from a supportive environment to learn new skills and contribute to the community.

Recycling with a Purpose

eWaste Connection Charity — *Photo Credit:* *eWasteConnection*

eWaste Connection accepts all kinds of electronic waste, from old televisions and computers to mobile phones and batteries. Volunteers and participants work together to dismantle the items, separating valuable components for recycling. Nearly 95% of what comes through their doors is recycled, repurposed, or reused. Almost everything is recycled, repurposed, or reused, with some refurbished goods sold to the public at affordable prices or donated to other charities.

The charity operates workshops in Kenmore, Yeronga, and North Booval, providing opportunities for over 250 NDIS participants and numerous volunteers. To date, they have recycled more than 400,000 kilograms of e-waste, a staggering achievement that prevents harmful materials from ending up in landfills.

Benefits for the Community

For participants like Robbie Kennedy, eWaste Connection has been life-changing. Robbie says he loves coming to the workshop and has made many friends. He has learned to use power tools and gained valuable work experience. For Adrian Mateo, who has Down Syndrome, the work has improved his fine motor skills and given him a sense of belonging.

eWaste Connection is good for the environment and fosters a strong sense of community. Volunteers appreciate the opportunity to learn new skills, make friends, and contribute to a worthy cause. Ben Fehres, the manager of the Yeronga facility, started as a volunteer after losing his job during COVID. He now enjoys working in the disability sector and finds seeing the participants accomplish new tasks satisfying.

Looking to the Future

Monique Lowndes is proud of eWaste Connection’s impact on the community and the environment.

She hopes to expand the charity further, providing more opportunities for people with disabilities to thrive and belong. She believes eWaste Connection is an example of how social enterprise can benefit people and the planet.

Published Date 02-January-2025

Kenmore State High School Achiever Recognised for QCE Award

Photo Credit: Google Maps Street View

Congratulations to Parmida Darouei of Kenmore State High School, for receiving the Highest Achievement in Liberal Arts at the 11th annual QCE Achievement Awards, one of only 40 Yr 12 students honoured n the state. Ms Darouei hopes to someday become a specialist doctor focused on supporting vulnerable populations, blending professional expertise and social responsibility.

Prestigious Recognition

Only 38 students in the state were honoured in the 2024 awards, and Ms Parmida was one of them, winning the Liberal Arts category’s Highest Achievement award. Her accomplishment demonstrates her commitment to learning and love of studying, especially in English and history.

As part of a larger celebration of academic achievement in the state, Ms Parmida has been recognised out of the 55,469 students who completed Year 12 in 2024, of which 93% obtained a QCE.

The state’s best Year 12 graduates are honoured by the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) at the biennial Queensland College of Education (QCE) Achievement Awards. This year’s ceremony, will be held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on 15 February 2025.

The honours serve as evidence of the effectiveness of the state’s senior education system, which challenges excellent pupils while offering a variety of options.

QCAA CEO Jacqueline Wilton recognised the critical role that educators and principals play in creating an atmosphere in which students can flourish in addition to stating that the system takes into account each senior student’s particular interests, skills, and goals.

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A post shared by myQCE | QCAA (@myqce)

A Story of Inspiration

Ms Parmida credits her success to the resilience and hard work of her parents, whose determination has been a constant source of inspiration. These values have driven her to achieve excellence in both her academic pursuits and her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

While excelling at Kenmore State High School, Ms Parmida displayed a strong aptitude for the Liberal Arts, consistently performing at the top of her class. Her achievements reflect the high standard of education offered at the school and the dedication of its staff to fostering student success.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Kenmore State High School student receives QCE Award — *Photo Credit: Kenmore State High School*

Ms Parmida has ambitious plans for the future. She intends to study medicine in regional Queensland, combining her academic strengths with her passion for humanitarian work. Her ultimate goal is to become a specialist doctor focused on supporting vulnerable populations, exemplifying a blend of professional expertise and social responsibility.

Published-24-Dec-2024