brookfield Archives - Kenmore News

Centenarian Reflects on Rich Life at Brookfield Aged Care

A 100-year-old man has settled into aged care living in Brookfield, sharing a century’s worth of life experiences spanning war, education, and family.

A life of service and experience

William “Henry” Martell has joined the Carinity Brookfield Green aged care community, bringing with him a life that has spanned military service, education, and business. Born in December 1924 in Haberfield, Sydney, Mr Martell’s early years included hiking across the Hawkesbury and cycling along Manly beach.

Educated at Neuchatel Grammar and later Sydney Grammar School, Mr Martell went on to serve in the Pacific during World War II after joining the Australian Army at 19. His duties included delivering ammunition to troops near Japanese-occupied Bougainville.

*Caption: Henry Martell as a Year 12 student at Sydney Grammar School*.
Photo Credit: Supplied

Post-war ventures across continents

Following the war, Mr Martell married Diana Coote in Cornwall, England. While overseas, they ran a 17th-century inn in Devon. They described the years spent there as particularly fulfilling. His career continued with ventures including managing a cocoa plantation in Papua New Guinea.

Caption: Henry Martell pictured when he was a university lecturer in Melbourne in the 1960s.
Photo Credit: Supplied

Mr Martell later transitioned into academia. He became a university lecturer specialising in Asian history. He was part of the inaugural teaching staff at La Trobe University in Victoria.

Returning to Brookfield

Henry and Diana Martell moved into Carinity Brookfield Green aged care after previously living nearby for nearly 30 years. The couple now reside in the facility together. Their birthdays fall one day apart, and their family includes four children, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

About Brookfield Green

Brookfield Green is located on Gold Creek Road in Brookfield, approximately 25 minutes from Brisbane’s CBD. The aged care community offers permanent aged care, dementia support, and respite services in a peaceful, semi-rural environment.

Caption: Henry and Diana Martell at the Carinity Brookfield Green aged care community in Brisbane..
Photo Credit: Supplied

The facility has served the local community for 50 years. Its latest addition, The Residences, opened in 2019 and features private rooms with ensuites in a Hamptons-style setting. Communal areas include lounge spaces, private sitting rooms, and scenic dining areas.

Brookfield Green is operated by Carinity. For further enquiries, you can contact them at (07) 3374 7111 or via brookfieldgreen.org.au.

Marking a century

Mr Martell’s induction into the Carinity 100 Club recognises his centenarian milestone. Reflecting on his life, he credits the people he’s met along the way as central to his experience.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Shovels Ready: Kenmore Community Centre Gears Up for $1.6M Renovation

The Kenmore Community Centre, located at the intersection of Brookfield Road and Branton Street in Kenmore Hills, is set to undergo a $1.6 million redevelopment to enhance its facilities for three key tenant organizations: the Bridge Club, e-Waste Connection, and the Men’s Shed.

Read: Local Groups To Provide Inputs for Kenmore Community Centre Redevelopment on Brookfield Rd

The ambitious project reflects a commitment to improving accessibility and fostering community engagement. Located at the intersection of Brookfield Road and Branton Street in Kenmore Hills, the project represents a substantial investment in local community spaces.

The project has reached a significant milestone with the appointment of a building contractor, aiming to commence construction in January 2025 and complete by late June 2025.

A Spotlight on Inclusion: Kenmore Men’s Shed

At the heart of these renovations lies a celebration of mateship and inclusion, exemplified by the Men’s Shed. Known for its proactive approach to accessibility, the Shed is already home to the “Blue Shed,” a space designed to accommodate members with disabilities.

“We raised the worktable by about six inches so that the guys who use wheelchairs can fit under it and use the table comfortably as a workbench,” Blue Shed supervisor Warren Cameron explained.

“During the summer months if one of the blokes became overheated, he would have to leave, that wasn’t fair to him. So, at the Blue Shed we installed retractable awnings to give extra space and protection from the sun.”

This ethos of inclusion will be bolstered by the upcoming renovations, which include a new dust extraction system and an upgraded kitchenette. These enhancements will ensure the Shed continues to provide a safe, accessible, and welcoming space for all its members.

Tailored Improvements for Each Tenant

Bridge Club: Expanded and Enhanced Facilities

The Bridge Club stands to benefit significantly from the redevelopment. Plans include an expansive playing space capable of accommodating 14 playing tables – a notable increase from their current capacity. Additional improvements include a new kitchen, an ambulant toilet, and a covered outdoor seating area that will provide members with enhanced comfort and functionality.

e-Waste Connection: Operational Expansion

Kenmore Community Centre — Photo credit: Google Street View

For e-Waste Connection, the project includes the acquisition and renovation of an adjacent building. This expansion will provide much-needed additional office and storage space, complemented by a new ambulant toilet. The upgrade will support the organisation’s continued growth and operational efficiency.

Men’s Shed: Technical and Practical Upgrades

The Men’s Shed will receive targeted improvements focusing on both technical capabilities and practical amenities. A new dust extraction system will be installed, addressing potential health and safety concerns, while the kitchenette will undergo a comprehensive upgrade to improve functionality.

Communal Space Development

A central building between the Men’s Shed and Bridge Club will be completely rebuilt, introducing several new collaborative spaces. These include:

– A communal meeting space

– A dedicated card dealing room

– A designated area for the Men’s Shed tech hub

– Improved accessible facilities, including a PWD toilet and two ambulant toilets

Read: Award Nomination for Local Recycling Scheme by Kenmore Rotary

Community Impact: Projects That Make a Difference

Beyond physical improvements, the Shed is a hive of activity, contributing to the broader Brisbane West community through meaningful projects. Members create memory boxes and keepsakes for organizations like Precious Wings, which supports families who have experienced the loss of a child.

Longtime member Syd has been instrumental in crafting these keepsakes, sanding and engraving thousands of wooden love hearts to bring comfort to grieving families.

“When the hearts come out of the machine, they get sanded three times very lightly, and that’s something that Syd does,” said Warren. This work, combined with a strong sense of camaraderie, exemplifies the Shed’s impact on individual members and the wider community.

Cr Greg Adermann has confirmed that the project is within budget, and detailed design plans will be shared with the community soon. The renovations will not only modernise the facilities but also expand opportunities for community projects, creating a hub where inclusivity thrives.

Patrick, an 87-year-old Shed member and advocate for accessibility, reflects on the importance of the renovations. “Social connection – it’s essential. Everyone’s got something to contribute. The Men’s Shed makes sure no one is left out.”

Building a Stronger, Inclusive Community

With construction set to begin in January, the Kenmore Community Centre is on track to become a shining example of accessibility and community engagement. The integration of improved facilities, accessible spaces, and inclusive programs will ensure that every member of the community has a place to belong.

Coinciding with the International Day of People on 3 December, the Kenmore Men’s Shed and the Community Centre exemplify what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared commitment to inclusion and mateship.

Published 26-November-2024

New Flight Paths Set to Increase Aircraft Noise Over Kenmore, Brookfield

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Residents in Kenmore, Kenmore Hills, and nearby suburbs could experience increased aircraft noise if the new flight paths proposed by Airservices Australia get approved. The new flight paths aim to redistribute Brisbane Airport’s traffic and noise impact across different suburbs. Tell us what you think about this here.

The national airways safety provider recently announced five new flight path concepts, inviting public comment on changes that could significantly affect communities.

Kenmore and other suburbs in Brisbane’s inner-west and northwest are particularly affected by one of the proposed flight path changes. The proposal involves redesigning departure paths from the new runway, which would see aircraft splitting sooner and flying different tracks over the western suburbs. This change is intended to reduce the concentration of flights over some areas but could lead to increased noise for residents in Kenmore, as more flight paths are directed over the suburb.

These changes are part of a broader strategy to share better the noise burden introduced by the city’s new runway, which has been operational since July 2020.

Airservices Australia flight path Brisbane north west Kenmore Brookfield — *Photo Credit: Airservices Australia*

Proposed Flight Paths

Airservices Australia seeks feedback on the proposed flight paths until 15 September 2024. The concepts are still in the early stages, with detailed population overflight data and noise contours yet to be fully mapped out.

Affected Suburbs by Set Proposals

Departures Over Land to the West and Northwest
- Affected Areas: Western and northwestern suburbs.
- Details:
  - This set addresses redesigning departure paths to reduce noise over western and northwestern areas.
  - Affected areas would include suburbs like Kenmore, Brookfield, Upper Brookfield, The Gap, Ashgrove, and Bardon.
Arrivals Over Land from the North and West
- Affected Areas: Northern and western suburbs.
- Details:
  - This set involves redesigning arrival paths to reduce noise over northern and western areas.
  - Likely affected suburbs include Samford Valley, Cedar Creek, Bellbowrie, and Pullenvale.
Departures Over Land to the South and East
- Affected Areas: Southern and eastern suburbs.
- Details:
  - This set aims to redesign departure paths to the south and east, potentially impacting suburbs like Woolloongabba, Coorparoo, and Carindale.
Independent Parallel Runway Operations
- Affected Areas: Suburbs near the parallel runways and areas around Bribie Island.
- Details:
  - This set focuses on optimizing flight paths for independent parallel runway operations, which could affect Bribie Island and surrounding northern and southern suburbs.
Non-Jet (Turboprop) Arrivals from the North
- Affected Areas: Redcliffe Peninsula and nearby areas.
- Details:
  - This set is about redesigning the non-jet arrival path to avoid overflying the Redcliffe Peninsula, directly impacting suburbs like Redcliffe, Margate, and Scarborough.

Kenmore residents and those in other affected areas are encouraged to participate in the consultation process to ensure their concerns are heard.

HAVE YOUR SAY

Airservices Australia flight path to reduce aircraft noise — *Photo Credit: Airservices Australia*

Community Reaction

Airservices Australia’s move has been met with skepticism from local community groups, who argue that noise sharing is not a real solution to the problem.

The Brisbane Flight Path Community Alliance (BFPCA), a vocal group advocating for stricter noise controls, has labelled the engagement process as “theatre” and criticised it for prolonging community suffering without implementing meaningful noise abatement measures.

Professor Marcus Foth, chair of BFPCA, emphasised that noise sharing should only be a last resort after exploring all other noise reduction avenues. He and other community leaders are pushing for a curfew and flight caps similar to those in place at Sydney and other major Australian airports. However, these measures are not within the control of Airservices Australia, as they fall under federal jurisdiction.

Published 21-Aug-2024

New Heritage Trail in Brookfield: A Journey Through History

Photo Credit: Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner/ Facebook

Brookfield residents are invited to participate in the official opening of the new Heritage Trail at Rafting Ground Park. This significant event commemorates the early timber industry and the bullock drivers who transported timber to sawmills, contributing to the construction of Brisbane’s CBD.

Funding was provided through the Pullenvale Ward office for the Heritage Trail project led by the Kenmore and District Historical Society. The trail features five informative storyboards placed strategically along a dedicated path within Rafting Ground Park.

The trail serves as a historical reminder of the crucial role that bullock drivers, also known as bullockies, played in moving timber down the river for the earliest buildings in Brisbane. The storyboards along the trail provide visitors with a vivid narrative of this arduous task and the contributions of these early pioneers.

The community is encouraged to join the opening ceremony at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, 13th July. Attendees will have the opportunity to walk the trail, delve into the stories of the bullockies, and enjoy refreshments, including complimentary coffee. The event promises to be a memorable occasion for all who attend.

The creation of the Heritage Trail has been a collaborative effort between the Schrinner Council and the Kenmore and District Historical Society. The newly completed path, soon to feature the installed plaques, marks the culmination of months of planning and development.

Published Date 24-June-2024

Brookfield and Kenmore Hills Report Higher Cancer Survival Rates Amidst Queensland’s Hotspots

Mapping data highlights that Brookfield and Kenmore Hills, along with other Queensland suburbs, not only face elevated cancer diagnosis rates but also show significantly higher survival rates than the national average.

The latest findings from The Australian Cancer Atlas 2.0, developed by Cancer Council Queensland and Queensland University of Technology, have identified several Queensland suburbs with higher than average cancer diagnosis rates.

Notably, whilst suburbs like Brookfield and Kenmore Hills experience higher incidences, they also boast survival rates that greatly surpass the rest of the country’s average.

Brookfield Kenmore Hills Cancer Atlas — *Photo Credit: Australian Cancer Atlas*

The study provides a detailed look at the suburbs with the best 5-year cancer survival rates, all performing better than the national average:

Suburb	Survival Rate (% better than national average)
St Lucia	48%
The Gap	40%
Brookfield – Kenmore Hills	38%
Taringa	36%
Murrumba Downs – Griffin	35%
Fig Tree Pocket	35%

Meanwhile, suburbs such as Mackay, Berserker, and Bundaberg have been identified as the most at-risk areas in Queensland for cancer diagnoses, with rates significantly higher than the national average.

Mackay tops the list with a startling 57% higher incidence of cancer diagnoses compared to the national figure, followed closely by Berserker in Rockhampton and Bundaberg, with 48% and 45% higher rates, respectively.

These figures suggest that the quality of healthcare services, including early detection and access to treatment, significantly impacts survival outcomes. These statistics highlight urgent needs for targeted health interventions and enhanced screening programs in these regions to address the elevated risk and improve the overall health outcomes for their residents.

The data underscores the importance of healthcare accessibility in improving survival rates. The disparities highlighted by the Atlas call for tailored healthcare policies to enhance cancer care across Queensland, especially in hotspots with lower survival rates.

The study also points to socioeconomic and regional disparities affecting cancer outcomes. While some suburbs excel in survival rates, others lag due to varying access to healthcare and lifestyle factors. Addressing these disparities is crucial for equitable healthcare provision.

The ongoing research facilitated by the Atlas will help further understand the dynamics of cancer incidence and survival, aiming to improve outcomes across all affected areas.

Published 11-June-2024

Brookfield Show 2024 Entertainment Extravaganza: What You Need to Know

Brookfield Show 2024, Brisbane’s biggest little country show, promises an unforgettable experience for attendees with a thrilling three-day lineup of entertainment, workshops, and competitions.

From the 17th to the 19th of May 2024, Brookfield Show offers diverse activities and shows guaranteed to amaze and delight visitors of all ages.

Daytime and Nighttime Thrills

First stop, the Children’s Stage, which will feature the Mini Moshers band, magicians, and puppet shows. Adjacent to the ever-popular sideshow alley, spectators can enjoy up-close encounters with an array of reptiles.

During daylight hours, the atmosphere buzzes with the energy of roving performers and school bands and the competitive spirit of the talent show. As night falls, the excitement continues with daredevil rodeo displays and trick horse riding exhibitions.

Brookfield Show rodeo — *Photo Credit: BrookfieldShow/Instagram*

The Showmen’s Guild of Australasia ensures adrenaline-pumping fun at sideshow alley with attractions like the “Wheel of Oz” Ferris wheel, Dodgems, and the Hurricane ride.

Rides to Try

Ride Name	Description
Wheel of Oz	A giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the showground.
Dodgems	Bumper cars for thrilling collisions and laughs.
Hurricane	A fast-spinning ride that whirls around, lifting off the ground for a rush of adrenaline.
Sizzler	A classic spin ride that rotates at high speeds, perfect for thrill-seekers.
Midnight Madness	A ride for those seeking an extreme adrenaline rush, featuring high speeds and intense rotations.
Cup & Saucer	A gentler option suitable for younger children, featuring rotating cups on a saucer-like platform.
Chair-o-Plane	Swinging chairs that rotate around a central pillar, offering a breezy experience.
Kids Roller Coaster	A fun, mild roller coaster designed specifically for young children.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BROOKFIELD SHOW SOCIETY (@brookfieldshowsociety)

Traditional and Novel Competitions

The Brookfield Show remains a bastion of tradition, with competitions in Horses, Horticulture, and Needle Craft. This year, the LEGO competition will be introduced, appealing to creative builders of all ages.

Art, Woodwork, and Cooking exhibitions provide visitors with a glimpse into high-quality craft and culinary delights, with select items available for purchase.

Culinary and Craft Beverages

In addition to a plethora of food options, this year’s show includes a boutique cocktail bar managed by expert mixologists, enhancing the evening vibe. Local music acts like the Gold Creek Band and the sibling duo Liv & Ed will perform, ensuring the entertainment extends well into the night.

Show-Stopping Performances

The highlight of the Brookfield Show 2024 is set to be the ‘Cirque Du Soleil’ style circus show, directed by one of Cirque Du Soleil’s Assistant Creative Directors, featuring some of Queensland’s top circus talent. This full-length extravaganza will cap off each day, accompanied by stunning fireworks displays that promise to light up the night sky.

Recommended Entertainment to See

Entertainment	Description
Mini Moshers Band	Energetic live music performance ideal for families on the Children’s Stage.
Puppet and Magic Shows	Engaging shows for children featuring skilled puppeteers and magicians.
Reptile Encounters	Get up close with a variety of reptiles, a fascinating experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Trick Horse Riders	Watch skilled riders perform stunts and tricks with their horses.
Cirque Du Soleil Style Show	A circus extravaganza by top Queensland performers, directed by a former Cirque Du Soleil creative.
Fireworks Displays	End each night with a spectacular fireworks show, a dazzling display that lights up the sky.
Bobcat Ballet	Delight in a choreographed performance featuring machinery.
Live Music Performances	Enjoy local bands including Gold Creek Band and the duo Liv & Ed, perfect for evening entertainment.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BROOKFIELD SHOW SOCIETY (@brookfieldshowsociety)

Brookfield Show 2024 Full Program

With a mix of new attractions and beloved classics, the Brookfield Show in 2024 is not just an event but a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and entertainment.

Tickets are now on sale, offering an opportunity to experience one of Brisbane’s most anticipated annual events.

GET TICKETS

Published 16-May-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

Jaco Roeleffs Spearheads Unique Sculpture Exhibition in Brookfield’s Serene Landscape

Check out the work of Jaco Roeleffs, a local sculptor whose creations are a fusion between art and the natural world, on display at “Flowing Forms,” a unique art exhibition in Brookfield.

Mr Roeleffs is renowned for his ability to weave organic materials and found objects into sculptures that challenge the boundaries between reality and imagination. His creations are deeply rooted in themes of nature, human connection, and the ephemerality of existence.

Set in the picturesque Brookfield Rose Garden, “Flowing Forms” boasts a collection of 20 sculptures by 10 local artists.

Alongside Jaco Roeleffs, artists such as Antone Bruinsma, John Fegan, Colleen Lavender, Fred Beel, Russell Solomon, and Nina Summers have contributed their unique sculptures. Each piece tells its own story, reflecting the individual style and vision of its creator.

These pieces are crafted from a variety of materials, including stone, steel, aluminium, and bronze, each harmonising with the natural beauty of the rose garden. The venue itself adds an extra dimension to the artworks, providing a natural canvas that enhances their visual appeal.

Flowing Form 2 — Photo Credit: CrGregAdermann/Facebook

Unlike traditional art openings, which officially started its run on 9 Dec 2023, “Flowing Forms” offers a more relaxed and immersive experience.

The exhibition, set until June 2024, invites visitors to embark on a self-guided tour, allowing them to engage with the sculptures at their own pace. Descriptions and videos accompanying each piece provide insight into the artists’ visions and processes.

This event is not just an exhibition but a platform for local artists to showcase their work to a broader audience. It reflects Brookfield’s commitment to nurturing and promoting local talent. The sale of these sculptures also offers an opportunity for art enthusiasts to own a piece of this unique artistic endeavour.

“Flowing Forms” is a must-visit for anyone interested in the intersection of art, nature, and community spirit.

For more information on the exhibition and the featured artists, visit the Brookfield Sculpture website.

Published 10-Dec-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

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.