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The Heartfelt Tale of Amy Gomes: Kenmore Author with a Lifesaving Pen

Amy Gomes isn’t your typical children’s book author. This Kenmore local is a critical care paramedic whose mission to publish a book about her work matches the size of her heart.

The idea for her book arose from a simple yet profound realisation that there were no children’s books explaining her profession in a way that young minds could understand.

In “What Paramedics Do,” Ms. Gomes aimed to change that. With her paramedic background, she was uniquely qualified to tell the story of these everyday heroes. But she didn’t stop there as she chose to infuse her book with a social conscience.

A Book with a Mission

“What Paramedics Do” is not merely a children’s book; it also seeks to educate and offer hope. Its purpose is to teach children about the emergency number 000 and, more importantly, raise funds for a noble cause—the Heart of the Nation. This charity’s mission is to provide more communities with access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), devices that could potentially save lives.

Ms. Gomes’ work isn’t fiction; it’s a tool to impart knowledge and empower children with crucial information that might one day make a difference in an emergency. Her dedication to her craft is inspiring, and she understands the importance of rapid response and early defibrillation in cardiac emergencies.

“What Paramedics Do” is suitable for children aged 2 to 6, thoughtfully crafted with age-appropriate yet realistic illustrations. The aim is to reduce medical anxiety in children by making them familiar with the world of paramedics. It features special components with a Greg Page, the CEO of Heart of the Nation, and a cardiac arrest survivor. The book’s message ensures that health and emergency response reaches even more hearts.

Giving Back to the Community

Ms. Gomes’ desire to help others has always driven her. From childhood fundraising efforts to founding One Little Heart in 2014, her commitment to philanthropy has been unwavering. One Little Box, her previous project, allowed people to purchase a box filled with thoughtful items, with the proceeds going to charity.

For this author, her book is more than just a project; it’s an opportunity to give back. Partnering with Greg Page’s charity, Heart of the Nation, means that £1 from every book sold supports a cause close to both their hearts. Additionally, for every 1,000 books sold, a portion of the profits will be donated—a tangible impact on her community.

The journey of Amy Gomes from childhood fundraising to becoming a critical care paramedic and author is a testament to her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. With “What Paramedics Do,” she has found a way to combine her passions, ensuring that every book sold contributes to the greater good. It’s a labour of love that brings joy to her heart, a respite from the challenging workdays that define her profession.

Published 25-Sept-2023

See The Super Mario Bros Movie at Akuna Oval’s Free Movie Night

Did you know that the Kenmore Districts Rugby Club and Kenmore Bears Junior AFL are hosting a FREE movie night at Akuna Oval in Kenmore, featuring 2023 animated film The Super Mario Bros Movie?

Read: Proposals for Heritage Trail and Footbridge at Rafting Ground Park in Brookfield Receive Overwhelming Community Support

Happening on November 25, this fun community event will raise funds for both sports clubs through food and drink purchases.

About the Film

In this popular animated film, two brother plumbers, Mario (Chris Pratt) and Luigi (Charlie Day), are transported to a magical new world while working underground to fix a water main pipe. The brothers become separated in this new world, leading to an epic adventure as they try to reunite.

“Audiences under a certain vintage will have fond memories of manoeuvring a little bouncing plumber in red, whether it was 30 years ago on those old, grey Game Boy bricks or last week, drunkenly challenging your mates to Mario Kart, insistent that you are the champion of the Yoshi Circuit. So, when there’s an animated movie adaptation, there’s no doubt you’ll get a kick out of seeing bits of gameplay incorporated on the big screen. Eating a power-up mushroom, jumping atop a speeding Bullet Bill or throwing a Koopa shell at an opponent will unlock a little “wahoo” from your inner child.”
Wenlei Ma, news.com.au

Gates open at 5:00 p.m., with the movie starting at 7:00 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to come early and enjoy food offerings from the club. The rugby club bar will also be open for adults to purchase drinks. BYO will NOT be allowed.

All proceeds from the food and drinks sold will go directly to support the Kenmore Districts Rugby Club and Kenmore Bears Junior AFL clubs. This helps the clubs provide programs and equipment for local youth interested in rugby and AFL.

Photo credit: Kenmore Bears Junior Australian Football Club/Facebook

The family-friendly event is proudly supported by the Lord Mayor’s Community Fund and the Pullenvale Ward Councilor. The Lord Mayor’s Community Fund provides money to community projects across Brisbane that bring people together, and the Pullenvale Ward Councilor advocated for supporting the clubs.

The movie night presents a perfect opportunity for families in Kenmore and surrounding suburbs to come together for a night of entertainment, whilst also supporting two worthwhile sports clubs in the community.

Read: Low Crime Rates Make 4069 Among Brisbane’s Safest Postcodes

So round up the kids and head to Akuna Oval on the evening of November 25 for the free movie night. Come have fun with neighbours and friends whilst fundraising for two great organisations. With free admission and movies under the stars, this is sure to be a memorable community event for families.

Other Options
for Movie Night

Published 21-September-2023

Brookfield State School Choir Topped Choral Fanfare 2023

Did you know that the Brookfield State School choir bested over 200 choirs from all over the state at the Choral Fanfare 2023?

Choral Fanfare, a biennial program that commenced in 2001, offers students a unique platform to gain valuable performance experience, hone their teamwork skills, and receive well-deserved recognition.

This year’s competition witnessed almost 10,000 students from 213 choirs, representing 137 state schools, participating in regional festivals held across Queensland.

Out of this massive pool of talent, only ten choirs were selected for the state final, and Brookfield State School’s choir emerged as the undisputed champions at the final concerts held at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University on Tuesday, 22 Aug 2023.

Consisting of exceptionally talented students, the Brookfield State School choir performed under the baton of their dedicated conductor Mrs. McMillan, with the support and guidance of the school’s choral coordinator Tamsin Eades.

The selection of the choir for the top honour is reflective of Brookfield State School’s robust choral program, which spans Year 1 to Year 6. The comprehensive program allows students to participate in junior, intermediate, and senior choirs, providing them with numerous performance opportunities both within the school community and beyond its gates.

When the choir became one of the finalists, Principal Leanne Duncan expressed her pride and confidence in her students and their conductor.

“Our senior choir students and their parents are incredibly humbled and incredibly excited by the news that we are state finalists. It is a testament to the quality, support, and passion for music our conductor has,” she said.

This recognition is not only a celebration of Brookfield State School’s outstanding achievement but also a testament to the power of music education in fostering excellence and teamwork among students.

Choral Fanfare continues to be a prestigious event in the Queensland educational calendar, providing students with a platform to nurture their musical talents, receive constructive feedback from professional adjudicators, and witness the performances of other choirs.

Published 3-Sept-2023

Proposals for Heritage Trail and Footbridge at Rafting Ground Park in Brookfield Receive Overwhelming Community Support

Proposals to establish a heritage trail and rename a footbridge at Rafting Ground Park in Brookfield have gathered overwhelming community support.

Proposed Heritage Trail

The proposed heritage trail at Rafting Ground Park is intended to honour the legacy of the bullockies who operated in the area and played a crucial role in sending timber down the river for the early development of the city.

Community sessions were held to seek local inputs and feedback on plans for a proposed path from the park’s entrance to the footbridge; the incorporation of five to six storyboard plaques along the trail to tell the story of the bullockies; and the inclusion of a recognition of the traditional owners on the first sign at the entry to the trail. The type of path, whether a natural rock/gravel path or a concrete path, is also under consideration.

“There was majority support for a heritage trail at the Park and some great suggestions that we will incorporate in the developing a concept for the trail,” Cr Greg Adermann said, while expressing gratitude to those who participated in the community sessions.

Judy Magub, President of the Kenmore and District Historical Society, played a pivotal role in developing the concept for the heritage trail. All of the feedback received have been shared with Ms Magub, who is working on the proposal to be presented to BCC for advice and costing in the coming weeks.

Renaming a Footbridge

In another significant development, a recommendation to name the footbridge in Rafting Ground Park in honour of the late Emeritus Professor Ludvik Bass has received considerable local interest and support. Of the 81 responses received, only 2 were opposed.

Professor Bass had a profound connection with the park, and his family had been associated with the area for over 50 years. The naming of the footbridge stands as a tribute to Professor Bass’s dedication and advocacy for the park.

Professor Bass’s connection with the park dates back to the 1970s when his family frequently visited for picnics and leisure activities. His involvement in advocating for the construction of the footbridge was pivotal in connecting different parts of the park and improving accessibility.

The developments mark a significant step forward in recognizing the historical significance of Rafting Ground Park and ensuring that its stories continue to be shared for generations to come.

Published 23-Aug-2023

Jacaranda House Charms, Wins House of the Year

Photo Credit: Creative Force Ltd 2023 / mbqld.awardsplatform.com

At this year’s Master Builders Brisbane 2023 Housing & Construction Awards, Corella Construction was awarded the prestigious Xact Accounting House of the Year for the charming beautiful Fig Tree Pocket riverfront family home, Jacaranda House.

The Master Builders Brisbane described the Jacaranda House as “an exceptional build oozing style and old-school craftsmanship.” The Hamptons-style riverfront abode boasts a 57–metre-wide frontage and is divided into various components such as dormer windows, elongated patios, and glazed gable ends.

Jacaranda House Charms, Wins House of the Year — *Photo Credit: Creative Force Ltd 2023 /* mbqld.awardsplatform.com

“The detail was exceptional boasting an old school craftmanship almost forgotten,” the judges’ comments state.

“It was a moving experience visiting this project. The builder created an icon on the Brisbane River for future generations to admire.”

The master bedroom features a walk-in closet and a nursery room. There’s also an ensuite with a freestanding Victoria and Albert bathtub that offers a view of the abundant Jacaranda trees lining the riverside of the property.

Jacaranda House was further described as “an entertainer’s dream” for its expansive outdoor space that can be accessed from the dining, living, and bedroom sections. An all-inclusive outdoor kitchen complements the pool area that’s further complemented with an integrated spa and an infinity edge.

And making this home extra special is the alfresco area that affords uninterrupted views of the descending lawns leading to the river.

“The builder considered the vegetation with every angle looking onto the river or Jacarandas and tennis court in the back garden,” the judges said.

“Jacaranda House is a shining example of what can be delivered when the owner has a vision, and the builder has the dedication to meet the vision.”

“Jacaranda House boasts a spectacular presentation that takes your breath away.”

The luxurious riverfront home also bagged the ABI Interiors Individual Home over $3 million Award.

Other major winners at the Master Builders Brisbane 2023 Housing & Construction Awards include Jubilee Place by BESIX Watpac (Winner of the 2023 Brisbane Professional Certification Group Project of the Year) and Larc by Graya Construction (Winner of the 2023 Brisbane BUSSQ Building Super President’s Award).

See all Brisbane winners here.

Published 22-August-2023

Fifteen-Year-Old Snooker Phenom Lilly Meldrum Claims Historic National Title

Year 10 Kenmore State High School student Lilly Meldrum made history when she defeated defending champion Jessica Woods 4-2 to become the youngest ever winner of the Australian National Women’s Snooker Championship in Albury.

Meldrum, 15, first started playing snooker at the age of 9 on her family’s home table. Despite needing a jigger to reach across the full-size table, she quickly demonstrated a prodigious talent for the sport.

By 2019, Meldrum was already ranked 4th in the world in the under-16 age group. Her recent victory over seven-time national champion Woods underlined her rapid progress in snooker.

Lilly Meldrum defeats fellow Queenslander in comeback fashion

Woods, also from Queensland, jumped out to a 2-0 lead over Meldrum in the championship final. However, the young phenom showed resilience beyond her years and captured the next four frames in a row to claim the national title.

In doing so, Meldrum became the first player other than Woods to win the Australian women’s championship since 2018.

World championship in sights

Earlier this year, Meldrum was a semi-finalist at the World Under-21 Snooker Championship in Thailand.

At just 15 years of age, Lilly Meldrum has already etched her name into the record books and hinted at greater things to come. Her historic national title highlights the arrival of an exciting young player on the global snooker stage.

Published 19 August 2023

Riding into the Sunset: Why McIntyre Centre Had to Close

Photo Credit: HELP ENTERPRISES / helpenterprises.com.au/

Eagle Farm-based charity HELP Enterprises has issued a response to criticisms stemming from the closure of the beloved McIntyre Centre Riding for the Disabled in Pinjarra Hills.

Some residents could not help but express disappointment over their decision to shut the facility. HELP Enterprises, hence, stated to clarify its position and reasoning behind the move.

HELP Enterprises revealed that six different groups had expressed interest in taking over the operation of the McIntyre Centre. Since none of the not-for-profit organisations and allied health providers met the requirement stated under charitable trust, they decided to pause the process.

Taking into account various factors, the charity clarified its decision to shut down the disabled riding centre. These factors include changes in the funding landscape due to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) rules as well as the transition from a volunteer-led operation to a centre requiring qualified, paid staff.

According to the statement, the Deed of Gift that transferred the centre to HELP Enterprises in 2017 necessitated substantial investments, and since then, the organisation has spent around $4 million on infrastructure and maintenance.

They also clarified that the organisation’s commitment to its charitable trust obligations prevented any alterations without court approval.

However, the transition to a blended model of staff and volunteers in accordance with NDIS guidelines, along with other funding changes, led to a drastic drop in the number of rides provided annually – from 7,500 to 2,800.

HELP Enterprises emphasised that the decision to cease services was not taken lightly, and they share the concern for the participants and horses. Furthermore, they were planning on finding appropriate homes for the horses. It was clear to them that they were not planning on selling them at auction.

Whilst acknowledging the difficulty of the decision, HELP Enterprises assured that it is committed to finding the best possible outcome for the McIntyre Centre’s future.

They expressed the belief that it could take up to six months to identify a new operator, and in the interim, the sale of assets including horses would fund essential maintenance of the property.

Published 17-August-2023

Brookfield Community Monitors Installed to Address Flight Plan Noise Impact

Photo Credit: PXFUEL

Amidst the mounting concerns about escalating aircraft noise in the Brookfield and Upper Brookfield areas, temporary noise monitors have been installed to capture data and analyse the impact of flight operations.

The move comes as part of a broader initiative by Airservices Australia (ASA) to address the growing issue of aircraft noise across Brisbane. The results from these monitors will be shared with the community after three months of data collection via the WebTrak platform.

The temporary monitors have been strategically positioned at Jones Rd in Brookfield and Carbine Rd in Upper Brookfield. These locations were chosen to assess the noise impact of aircraft departure and arrival operations, respectively. The initiative underscores ASA’s commitment to addressing community concerns and involving residents in the decision-making process.

Community Engagement Sessions to Discuss Flight Path Options

To foster open dialogue and gather valuable input from residents, ASA has announced a series of engagement sessions starting 8 Aug until 10 Sept 2023. These sessions will provide an opportunity for residents to discuss and provide feedback on the proposed flight path changes.

Among the options being explored are strategies to increase flights over Moreton Bay, reduce nighttime operations’ impact, and distribute flight paths more evenly across affected communities.

Residents of Brookfield, Upper Brookfield, and the nearby suburbs are invited to participate in the community engagement session scheduled for Monday, 14 Aug 2023, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Brookfield Hall within the Brookfield Showgrounds. Additionally, ASA is organising online sessions from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for those unable to attend in person, ensuring that as many voices as possible are heard.

Online Sessions

Tuesday 22 August

Thursday 31 August

Tuesday 5 September

Resurgence of Controversial Flight Path Plan

As part of a comprehensive Noise Action Plan, ASA has unveiled a revived proposal for significant changes to Brisbane Airport’s flight paths. One of the most contentious aspects of the plan involves permitting round-the-clock simultaneous takeoffs and landings from both runways at the airport. The proposal, known as Simultaneous Opposite Direction Runway Operations (SODPROPS), is aimed at addressing the noise issue.

Initially proposed over two decades ago and subsequently abandoned, the SODPROPS plan was revisited following persistent noise-related complaints from residents. While ASA had initially considered implementing SODPROPS only during nighttime hours, the current proposal envisions extending this practice throughout the day, depending on favourable wind patterns, weather conditions, and air traffic volume.

READ THE FULL REPORT

Brisbane Flight Path — Photo Credit: Airservices Australia

Community Responses and ASA’s Approach

The resurgence of the flight path plan has elicited mixed reactions from the community. Marcus Foth, the spokesperson for the Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance (BFPCA), welcomed the 24-hour implementation of SODPROPS but expressed reservations about ASA’s communication strategies. Foth criticised the agency for inundating the public with technical terminology, hindering meaningful public engagement.

ASA’s broader proposal includes a commitment to exploring alternative flight path options over the next two years. These options aim to distribute noise impact more equitably across the city without increasing the airport’s overall capacity.

Whilst the plan is still under review, Brisbane Airport Corporation has expressed support for ASA’s efforts to mitigate noise impact, particularly during nighttime operations. The final decision, shaped by community feedback and revisions, will determine the future trajectory of Brisbane’s flight paths and their potential to alleviate residents’ noise concerns.

End of An Era: Kenmore Cycles Tracks Closure After 27 Years

Kenmore Cycles, a favourite westside landmark and cycling institution, is tracking the end of an era after its owners announced its impending closure, after 27 years of serving the local community.

Alison and John Forbes, along with their son Ben, made the difficult decision to end the lease of their popular store on Moggill Rd, citing insurmountable challenges in finding an appropriate new location for the shop. They were told to vacate the place as early as August 2021 because the owner had plans for the building but have been unable to find another suitable place for the shop.

The Forbes family expressed their gratitude to their loyal customers and shared their future plans as they bid farewell to the shop that has been a cornerstone of the cycling community. The announcement comes as a disappointment to many cycling enthusiasts who frequented the store for its wide range of bikes, accessories, and repair services.

Alison and John also expressed their concerns about the escalating rents in the region, particularly given the unique nature of their business, which relied heavily on destination visitors more than walk-in customers.

Over the years, Kenmore Cycles became known not only for its comprehensive selection but also for the personalised service and expertise that the shop offers to its customer.

Throughout its 27-year run, the shop navigated challenges such as the rise of online shopping by focusing on building lasting relationships with their patrons.

Despite the difficulties, the Forbes family maintained a six-day workweek, with only limited breaks, ensuring that their customers’ needs were always met. Kenmore Cycles had even managed to weather the storm of online retail, adapting to changing times without compromising the essence of their business.

John said that whilst the decision to close was a tough one, he looks forward to spending more time with his family and potentially assisting his son Ben with his growing coaching and bike hire business, Forbes MTB. This venture has been gaining traction and presents an opportunity for the Forbes family to remain connected to their passion for cycling and the local community.

In October 2022, a Development Application (DA A006134569) was lodged to redevelop the property as a retail and food site. The application is still being assessed as of press time.

Moggill Road development — Photo Credit: DA A006134569

Published 9-Aug-2023

Safe and Sound: Anstead Ranked Among Safest Suburbs in Brisbane

Photo Credit: Pexels from Pixabay

Anstead, Bellbowrie, Moggill, and Priors Pocket have emerged as some of the safest suburbs to reside in Brisbane. Recent data shows that postcode 4070 is the second-ranked area code within the city and 34th across Queensland as a whole.

The analysis, conducted by Budget Direct, utilised property crime data from 2017 to 2020, obtained from the Queensland Police. The specific crime categories examined were “Unlawful Entry” and “Other Theft-Excluding Unlawful Entry.” Additionally, household data from the most recent Census trends was also taken into account.

Among the postcodes analysed, 4070 secured the second-highest position on the list, with a mere 17 crimes per 1,000 properties recorded. This places the area as the 34th safest postcode in all of Queensland.

Examining data from the Queensland Police Services – Online Crime Map covering the period from April 13, 2023, to July 12, 2023, Anstead experienced three reported offences during the last quarter – all falling under the category of “Other Theft-Excluding Unlawful Entry.”

In contrast, the entirety of postcode 4070 saw 53 reported offences within the same period. This figure includes nine cases of “Unlawful Entry” and 15 incidents of “Other Theft-Excluding Unlawful Entry.”

Safe and Sound: Anstead Ranked Among Safest Suburbs in Brisbane — Trend line showing how 4070 has changed over the past 4 whole calendar years, as well as how it compares to the Queensland average | Photo Credit: Budget Direct / budgetdirect.com.au

Below are the top 5 safest area codes in Brisbane.

At the top is postcode 4055, which encompasses the suburbs of Bunya, Ferny Grove, Ferny Hills, and Upper Kedron. With a remarkably low rate of only 14 incidents per 1,000 properties, it ranks at number 25 in the state for safety.

After postcodes 4055 and 4070, we find The Gap (Postal Code 4061) in the third spot. With 21 incidents per 1,000 properties, it ranks at number 41 in the state for safety. In area code 4037, which includes Eaton Hills, the safety record remains impressive. With only 23 incidents per 1,000 properties, it secures the 22nd spot in the state rankings.

Rounding out the top five is the area code 4154 which covers the suburbs of Gumdale, Ransome, and Wakerley, and it also stands as a safe haven for residents. With 24 incidents per 1,000 properties, it ranks at number 53 in the state for safety.

All of the top postcodes on the list exhibited fewer than 60 crimes per 1,000 properties, a significantly lower figure compared to the state average of 130 crimes per 1,000 properties.

Property crime rates attributed to the respective postcodes represent collective statistics encompassing all the suburbs within each postcode. Therefore, these figures may not accurately reflect the individual suburb’s property crime rates.

Published 13-July-2023