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McIntyre Family Legacy Continues as Racing Hearts Takes Over Brisbane Riding Centre

After a period of uncertainty, the McIntyre Centre Riding for the Disabled in Pinjarra Hills will be reopening, under its new trustee, Racing Hearts Therapy, a registered charity specialising in equine therapy.

Read: Community Mobilises to Help Revive Beloved McIntyre Centre in Pinjarra Hills

The McIntyre Centre, founded in 1973 in Kenmore by local couple Peter and June McIntyre, was forced to shut its doors in May 2022 due to rising costs and funding gaps. The closure was a major blow for the community that relied on the centre’s therapeutic horse riding programs.

However, there is now renewed hope as HELP Enterprises has announced that Racing Hearts Therapy Incorporated, a registered charity specialising in equine therapy, will take over operations and reopen the centre in Pinjarra Hills.

“Peter and June McIntrye established the first ever riding school for people with disabilities in Australia and we are incredibly proud to be gifted the opportunity to continue their legacy and make their beautiful centre thrive,” Racing Hearts announced.

Racing Hearts, which currently runs programs in Victoria, New South Wales and the Northern Territory, is committed to continuing the McIntyre name and legacy built over the past 60 years. Their offerings include individual therapy sessions, autism programs, school holiday camps and women’s empowerment groups – all utilising the healing power of horses.

“This is a terrific outcome for the community, and we are extremely pleased that vital services for people with disability will resume with Racing Hearts,” said HELP CEO Denver Fresser.

“Racing Hearts are best positioned to run the McIntyre Centre. They are a highly regarded organisation with strong financial backing,” he added.

HELP operated the McIntyre Centre from 2017 until its services ceased in July 2023, when the financial gap between its operating costs and fees-for-service from the NDIS made it not viable to continue.

Lisa Coffey, founder of Racing Hearts, expressed excitement about carrying on the McIntyre family’s vision.

“Racing Hearts is delighted to be carrying on the legacy of the McIntyre family and we can’t wait to connect with everyone in the community who is passionate about the centre so we can all work together to make it a huge success,” she stated. “Our mission is to ensure a safe and nurturing space for both humans and horses.”

The Pinjarra Hills reopening will undoubtedly be celebrated by the thousands of lives transformed by the McIntyre Center’s programs over the decades. A cherished community asset has been saved.

Racing Hearts met or exceeded the requirements for all selection criteria as the new trustee of the centre. They have made a commitment to resume services within the next six months. Updates will be provided to the community at large.

Read: Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: A Nocturnal Adventure

Published 4-April-2024

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

Mount Crosby Vehicle Bridge is now open, significantly enhancing traffic flow and improving the area’s flood resilience by safeguarding the surrounding community against natural disasters.

Engineered to be approximately three metres higher than its predecessor, the bridge features a robust combination of steel and concrete guardrails designed to withstand severe flooding. Its construction has not only supported 30 jobs but has also been a boon for local suppliers, utilising locally sourced materials such as ready-mix concrete and quarry materials.

The 187-metre-long and nine-metre-wide bridge accommodates two-way traffic and significantly enhances connectivity across the Brisbane River in Mount Crosby.

This project is a key component of Seqwater’s East Bank Flood Resilience Program, representing a substantial investment exceeding $100 million to improve flood resilience in the Mount Crosby precinct. Additionally, upgrades to nearby water infrastructure, including the East Bank Pump Station, are set further to enhance the area’s defence against flood events.

The project demonstrates a strong commitment to infrastructure resilience and supports the local economy by providing jobs and engaging local suppliers. Quotes from various stakeholders, including the Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher, and representatives from Seqwater, BMD Constructions, and Mt Marrow Blue Metal Quarries, highlight the collaborative effort and the importance of the bridge to the community’s safety and connectivity.

Mt Crosby bridge — *Photo Credit: QLDGovt*

Looking ahead, the original 97-year-old weir bridge is set to be repurposed as a pedestrian and cycle path. Works will commence soon and are expected to be completed in 2025.

Meanwhile, final footpath and landscaping works on the new vehicle bridge will continue until mid-April, after which Brisbane City Council will manage and maintain the bridge.

Published 28-March-24

Pink’s Enchanting Visit to Lone Pine Sanctuary in Fig Tree Pocket

Pink, the renowned American singer, recently embarked on a captivating adventure with her family at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Fig Tree Pocket, Australia.

Accompanied by her husband Carey Hart and their two children, Pink immersed herself in the wonders of Australian wildlife, creating cherished memories amidst the sanctuary’s picturesque surroundings. The sanctuary provided Pink and her family with an unparalleled opportunity to connect with native animals and experience the natural beauty of Australia.

A Day of Discovery Amongst Australian Wildlife

The family’s visit to Lone Pine Sanctuary offered a glimpse into the diverse fauna of Australia’s natural landscape. From cuddling koalas to feeding kangaroos, Pink and her children delighted in the unique encounters facilitated by the sanctuary’s dedicated staff.

As they wandered through the sanctuary’s lush grounds, the kids, Willow and Jameson, marvelled at the fascinating creatures that call Australia home. Their joyous interactions with koalas, dingos, and raptors underscored the sanctuary’s commitment to conservation and education.

Pink and her family — *Photo Credit: Pink/Instagram*

Sharing Moments of Wonder

Pink took to social media to share snapshots of their enchanting day at Lone Pine Sanctuary, captivating her followers with glimpses of their wildlife encounters.

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A post shared by P!NK (@pink)

Through her posts, Pink not only showcased the beauty of Australian wildlife but also highlighted the importance of preserving natural habitats for future generations. Her heartfelt captions reflected a genuine appreciation for the sanctuary’s efforts in promoting environmental awareness and fostering a deeper connection with nature.

Pink’s Summer Carnival Tour in Brisbane

Against the backdrop of Brisbane’s iconic skyline, Suncorp Stadium pulsated with excitement as fans eagerly delighted in Pink’s shows. It showcased not only her musical prowess but also her penchant for delivering unforgettable live experiences, leaving an indelible mark on all those in attendance.

From heart-pounding anthems to soul-stirring ballads, Pink’s repertoire resonated with fans of all ages, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. She soared above the crowd, suspended by aerial rigs, epitomising the spirit of resilience and determination.

Pink In Brisbane — *Photo Credit: Pink/Instagram*

Pink’s dynamic stage presence and genuine connection with the audience transformed Suncorp Stadium into a euphoric arena of shared joy and camaraderie, solidifying her status as a beloved icon among Brisbane’s music lovers.

Published 25-March-2024

Schools in Kenmore Catchment Among Those Affected by Sequel Books & Stationery Collapse

Photo Credit: Pixabay

Kenmore State High School, Brookfield State School, Fig Tree Pocket State School and over 50 other Queensland schools have been directly impacted by the closure of Sequel Books & Stationery, amidst a struggle that has seen the company end up in liquidation, with $5 million in debt.

The shock closure has cast a shadow over the company’s long-standing contribution to Queensland’s education sector, impacting staff, students, and parents who have depended on Sequel’s services for nearly three decades.

A Legacy Unravelled

Originating 102 years ago as Bakers Bookstore and undergoing several name changes, including BCF (Barker, Conlan, and Ferrett), Sequel Books & Stationery had become an integral part of Queensland’s educational supply chain.

With a history of trading under its current name for nearly 30 years, its sudden move into liquidation on 18th of March 2024, signified the end of an era for a company that once carried the book and stationery lists for 55 schools across Queensland.

The Struggle Leading to Liquidation

Before its liquidation, Sequel Books & Stationery was overwhelmed with challenges, notably failing to fulfil outstanding orders in time for the school year’s start. This led to an inundation of customer complaints, culminating in over 1700 emails and the disabling of comments on its Facebook page due to severe customer backlash.

Bowing to the inevitable, the decision to undergo voluntary liquidation was made, with Christopher Baskerville of Jirsch Sutherland appointed to manage the liquidation process.

Impact and Reaction

The liquidation of Sequel Books & Stationery has sent shockwaves through the educational community. In a heartfelt statement, executive director Anna Henderson voiced her deep regret , attributing the closure to insurmountable economic challenges and commending her team’s dedication through tough times.

As the liquidation process unfolds, efforts are concentrated on securing the best possible outcome for creditors, including suppliers who are owed $2.3 million. The investigation into the full extent of the owed amounts and the number of creditors is ongoing.

Sequel Books & Stationery Kenmore State High School — *Photo Credit: Google Maps*

Here are the 55 schools impacted by the collapse:

All Saints Anglican School Aspley State School Aquinas College Bellbird Park State Secondary Belmont State School Berrinba East State School Brisbane Grammar School Brookfield State School Burleigh Heads State School Canungra State School	Manly West State School Mount Alvernia College Mount Kilcoy State School Mt Saint Michael’s College Northside Christian College Our Lady College Annerley Padua College Parklands Christian College Queensland Academy of Science Mathematics and Technology
Citipointe Christian College Centenary State High School Clairvaux MacKillop College Fig Tree Pocket State School Grovely State School Hilder Road State School Hillcrest Christian College Hills College Holland Park State School Jamboree Heights State School Jindalee State School	San Damiano College San Sisto College Seton College St Aidan’s Anglican Girls Schools St Francis Xavier Primary School Goodna St Joseph’s Catholic School Corinda St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School St Mary’s College St Peters Lutheran College Indooroopilly St Philomena School The Lakes College
John Paul College Kenmore State High School Kilcoy State Primary School Longreach School of Distance Education Marist College Ashgrove Marsden State High School Mitchelton State School	Walloon State School West Moreton Anglican College Westside Christian College Wisdom College Wondall Heights State School Yeronga State School

Published 21-March-2024

Treetops at Kenmore: Where Sustainable Living Meets Modern Luxury

A sustainable new community, Treetops at Kenmore, is taking shape and is now selling its stage 3.

Read: Kenmore Business Strip to Get New Restaurants

The final stage of this environment-focused community from CDL Australia is now selling, representing one of the last chances to secure a residence amidst this green oasis.

One of the hallmarks of Treetops at Kenmore is its reverence for the natural environment. The 32,350 sqm community centrepiece is a sprawling 3,100 sqm Environmental Green Zone bordering Moggill Road, where scores of mature trees have been preserved.

Upon completion later this year, Treetops will comprise 96 spacious four-bedroom townhomes nestled under a preserved canopy of towering eucalyptus trees. The residences have been thoughtfully designed to cater to contemporary family needs, with eight different floorplans offering variety and functionality.

Complementing the established canopy will be 100 newly planted native trees, 300 shrubs, and 7,000 ground cover plants integrated throughout the landscaping.

Treetops at Kenmore — Photo credit: treetopskenmore.com.au

Each townhome features an open-concept living and dining area that seamlessly integrates with the sleek kitchen, appointed with marble-inspired stone countertops and integrated Ilve appliances. The luxurious master suite includes an oversized walk-in closet and a bright, dual-vanity ensuite bathroom. Some plans also dedicate space for a media room or study.

Blurring the lines between indoors and out, the homes incorporate decks, balconies, and patios to facilitate an indoor-outdoor lifestyle. But the eco-friendly features don’t stop there – every townhome comes equipped with a 6.6kW solar photovoltaic system and an electric vehicle charging station, enabling residents to truly embrace sustainable living practices.

Residents of Treetops will have access to a wealth of amenities encouraging an active, communal atmosphere, including a central park space, a resort-style swimming pool, barbecue areas, and conveniently located bike racks to explore the neighbourhood’s biking paths.

With its final stages now selling, Treetops at Kenmore offers a unique opportunity to embrace verdant, environmentally-conscious living without sacrificing modern luxury and convenience. For buyers dreaming of a sustainable haven to call home, the time to secure their place in this blossoming community is nigh.

Read: Jacaranda House Charms, Wins House of the Year

With Stage 2 nearing completion by March 2024 and only a few remaining homes available for sale, Stage 3 at Treetops Kenmore is slated for finalisation by April 2024, representing potentially the final opportunity for buyers to join this sustainable community.

Published 20-March-2024

Groundbreaking Koala Chlamydia Vaccination Program Launched in Brisbane

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Queensland koalas, eventually including those at the Lone Pine Sanctuary in Fig Tree Pocket, are set to be vaccinated against chlamydia, as part of a new vaccination program undergoing testing in Brisbane.

Brisbane City Council, in collaboration with leading scientists, has announced its commitment to support the registration of Queensland University of Technology’s groundbreaking chlamydia vaccine. With funding allocated to this cause, the Council aims to partner with the University of Queensland’s Koala Ecology Group to deliver a pilot program for proactive koala vaccination.

This initiative addresses the urgent need for intervention, as chlamydia affects approximately 21 per cent of Brisbane’s koala population, leading to significant fatalities among these iconic marsupials. This bacterial infection may cause infertility, blindness, and urinary incontinence, further contributing to the decline in their populations.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner underscored Brisbane’s status as Australia’s koala capital and emphasised the importance of leveraging this home-grown breakthrough to safeguard the koalas. The pilot vaccination program, as part of a broader koala protection plan, is set for the initial two years, followed by a city-wide vaccination drive.

“This vaccine shapes as a game-changer for koalas and I am proud that our team will be supporting this home-grown break-through,” he said.

“By funding the registration of the koala vaccine we’re dealing with a key threat to our koala population.

“I want to see koala and other native species thrive because our city’s mixture of world-class entertainment combined with access to nature sets us apart and makes Brisbane the most Australian place on Earth.”

Professor Ken Beagley, who works at QUT’s School of Biomedical Sciences, has provided details about the current experimental status of a vaccine. There are ongoing efforts to achieve registration for broader use, which is expected to make it easier for veterinary clinics and wildlife hospitals to access the vaccine.

Professor Beagley Koala Chlamydia Vaccination — Photo Credit: QUT

“We now have enough data to show the vaccine is safe and effective and so the next step is to go for registration.

“Once the vaccine is registered, it will be available more widely, and veterinary clinics and wildlife hospitals will be able to use it without delay.

“We all want the same thing, a healthy koala population that is growing.

“After habitat destruction, dog attacks and car strikes, disease is the next most pressing issue for koalas and chlamydia is a major problem.

“A healthy koala can live for eight to 12 years in the wild. Once you get a geographically isolated population that is stressed, chlamydia can take hold. Infection causes infertility, blindness and urinary incontinence, and local populations can die out.

“Since the early 2000s we have seen a 70-80 per cent decline in many koala populations across Queensland so koalas need all the help we can give them.”

This new technology aims to simplify the vaccination process by eliminating the need for capturing or holding the animals for a second immunization dose.

Furthermore, QUT researchers are developing a booster vaccine using implant technology to combat chlamydia in koalas further. This technology aims to avoid the need to recapture or hold wild koalas for 30 days to receive a second immunization, significantly increasing the ability to vaccinate wild koalas against chlamydial infections.

The implant device, slightly larger than a pet microchip, will release the booster at four to five weeks after the first vaccination. The QUT researchers have the support of the Saving Koalas Fund and they expect this project to be completed by April 2026.

Published 1-March-2024

Ross River Virus: Mosquito Control Efforts Escalated in West Brisbane

Queensland Health has issued an urgent warning about the rising number of cases of Ross River Virus infections in West Brisbane. Mosquito spraying activities will be conducted in at-risk areas like Brookfield, Pullenvale, Anstead, and Pinjarra Hills in the coming weeks.

In the period from 2001 to 2020, the average cumulative incidence in the Greater Brisbane area was approximately 70 cases per 10,000 people. This data highlights the ongoing challenge of Ross River Virus (RRV) infections and the critical need for effective prevention and awareness strategies. Further details on the study are available here.

Residents and visitors, especially in suburbs like Kenmore, Brookfield, Chelmer and Sherwood, are strongly advised to implement protective measures against mosquito bites, the primary means of virus transmission.

Enhanced Mosquito Control Measures Across Brisbane and the Gold Coast

South East Queensland has seen a surge in mosquito populations, with the recent combination of wet weather and high temperatures providing ideal conditions for these pests to thrive. This has led to an unprecedented increase in mosquito activity, compelling the Brisbane City Council to implement extensive control measures, treating up to 2,400 sites weekly. This represents a 140% increase over the usual mosquito management efforts, including seven aerial treatments in just the last nine weeks.

In Brisbane alone, efforts have focused on 136 out of 190 suburbs, with an additional 24 areas on the Gold Coast receiving attention. The Redland City Council has upped their aerial larviciding by 60%, marking the most significant campaign since the 2016-2017 period. Logan City, Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast councils have similarly expanded their control activities.

Recent data from Queensland Health has confirmed several cases of mosquito-transmitted diseases, with 29 instances of Ross River virus and three of dengue reported in the first three weeks of January alone.

About the Ross River Virus

Origin and Spread

Ross River Virus (RRV) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus that is endemic to Australia, Papua New Guinea, and the Pacific Islands. The virus primarily spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes, notably those in the Aedes and Culex genera, which are common in these regions.

Symptoms and Treatment

RRV infection can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild to debilitating. Common symptoms include polyarthritis, rash, fever, fatigue, and muscle pain. These symptoms can significantly affect an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and, in some cases, can persist for months or even years. While there is no specific treatment for RRV, management of symptoms is possible through medication and physical therapy.

Epidemiology

The virus has shown a notable propensity for causing large outbreaks, particularly in coastal regions. The incidence of RRV infection varies seasonally and geographically, with the highest rates typically observed in areas with warmer climates and in proximity to bodies of water where mosquito populations thrive.

Prevention

Preventing RRV infection centres on controlling mosquito populations and minimising individual exposure to mosquito bites. Public health measures include community education on the use of insect repellent, the importance of wearing protective clothing, and the need to eliminate standing water around homes and communities to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

Global Health Perspective

RRV is considered a significant public health issue within its endemic regions. With climate change and increasing global travel, there is a potential for RRV to expand its geographical reach, making it a subject of interest for global health monitoring and research.

Call for Personal Protective Measures

Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr John Gerrard has emphasised the importance of personal protection against mosquitoes and the diseases they carry. With the potential for any mosquito bite to transmit Ross River Virus, increased mosquito activity elevates the risk of infection. Mosquitoes can bite at any time of day, though some species are more active during twilight hours.

To reduce the risk of mosquito bites, it’s recommended to:

Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are most active, especially at dusk and dawn.
Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus regularly.
Wear loose, light-coloured clothing that covers arms, legs, and feet to minimize skin exposure

Published 13-Feb-2024

Trays of Mangoes for $20 to $25 From 98-yr-old Upper Brookfield Farm

As you climb the Brookfield Road from the Moggill Road roundabout at Kenmore, you enter a different world where acreage, hobby farms and larger farming enterprises hold some hidden treasures.

It’s Mango Season and if you drive up Brookfield Rd, you may well come across Jenny Mohr, who sells trays of fruit from their farm in the cutting towards the top of the hill before the Gap Creek Road turn off.

Mohr Mountain Farm. Almost 100 years old and perfecting mangoes, custard apples and avos.

“We dip all our mangoes in water set at 52 degrees for 6 minutes, once they are picked, it seems to protect them from what we call anthracnose and removes any sap,” says Jenny.

“We use organic fertilisers, spray-free but we have never bothered to go for Organic certification.”

“Have you tried the Mohr Mangoes before,” a regular customer asks. “They are incredibly sweet, we go through a tray every few days.”

Trays range from $20 to $25, 14 to 18 mangoes are typical depending on size.

“We pick them green before the flying foxes start to attack them, as soon as they get a tinge of yellow, they become targets; so our timing on picking them is ruled by that. Once dipped in warm water, they are assembled on large benches to ripen naturally and develop a full, rich flavour.”

Jenny says that their crop of mangoes will likely be sold out by the 2nd week of February, as they are also being sold near Nuways in Seventeen Mile Rocks.

They have also been selling through a market at Brookfield Uniting Church and Moggill Markets, where they sometimes also sell limes.

Recently a local operation started producing a mango liqueur and sourced the Mohr mangoes as the best local produce for their product.

Geoff and Jenny are the 3rd generation of Mohrs to run the Mohr Mountain Farm in Upper Brookfield. Over the generations the farm has evolved from pawpaws and bananas to the current mangoes, custard apples and avocadoes.

Geoff also runs Aussie Beaver, which has been woodchipping for the local area since 1994.

The Mohr family settled in Upper Brookfield in 1926 and the farm is now the beneficiary of the 4th generation with Leanne and Sam now running it.

You can stay in touch with the Mohr Mountain Farm through their Facebook page.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: A Nocturnal Adventure

Koalas, Australia’s iconic but increasingly scarce marsupials, are the stars of Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary’s new NOCTURNAL tours in Queensland. Bushfires have sadly diminished their numbers, making sightings rare. However, these tours offer a unique chance to see koalas in their natural habitat.

Equipped with night-vision goggles, visitors can wander through a eucalyptus plantation, where koalas roam freely. As these animals are mainly nocturnal, the chances of spotting them are higher during these tours.

The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the new $1.4-million nocturnal precinct in Brisbane, opened in November 2023. This unique night-time adventure allows visitors to explore Australia’s nocturnal wildlife, including koalas, Tasmanian devils, wombats, and other species.

The experience includes a one-kilometre walk through a Eucalypt plantation on an elevated boardwalk. Visitors use handheld thermal imaging devices to spot animals, with the tour focusing on non-invasive observation and education about sustaining ecosystems.

Located on the outskirts of Brisbane, Lone Pine is recognized as the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary. It’s also home to a variety of Australian wildlife, including tree kangaroos, various bird species, amphibians, and reptiles.

The sanctuary offers two distinct nocturnal tours. The Twilight Tour is a 90-minute journey suitable for children aged 3 and older, while the Nocturnal Night Tour caters to participants aged 13 and above. Both tours run several times a week.

Book a TOUR

Tickets for the tours vary, with the Twilight Tour priced at $53 for adults and $35.50 for children, and the Nocturnal Night Tour costing $79 for adults. These tours provide an immersive experience in discovering Australia’s nocturnal wildlife.

Published 18-Dec-2023

Celebrate Australia Day at Bellbowrie Sports & Community Club

Photo Credit: Bellbowrie Sports & Community Club

Hold onto your sun hats and check out Bellbowrie Sports & Community Club’s ingenious plan to tackle the Aussie summer heat on Australia Day!

The annual celebration, happening on 26 Jan 2024, is all set to make waves as 70 Sugarwood St comes alive with water slides, free water squirters for kids, and a slew of other summer shenanigans for the guests. It’s all about making a splash!

There will be live music, games for all ages, food trucks, a charity Sausage Sizzle, and Aussie food specials at the Bistro.

Australia Day Bellbowrie — Photo Credit: Bellbowrie Sports & Community Club

Australia Day commemorates the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788. Over the years, it has evolved into a national holiday marked by various events and ceremonies.

Initially known as Foundation Day and later as Anniversary Day, it became an official holiday in 1938. Fast forward to 1988, and the 26th of January became a national public holiday.

The date has evolved to recognize the Indigenous nations and their rich culture, ensuring that Australia Day is a day of reflection and celebration for all. So, as you splash and slide through the festivities, remember the significance of this historic day.

Happy Australia Day, Bellbowrie style!

Published 9-Jan-2024