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Kenmore, Brookfield, and Moggill Named Queensland’s Best Suburbs for Families

Kenmore, Brookfield, and Moggill have been named the top places to raise a family in Queensland, according to new research ranking the state’s most liveable suburbs for children.

Read: Kenmore State High School Achiever Recognised for QCE Award

The West Brisbane trio claimed the top spot in a study by iSelect, which assessed suburbs based on childcare access, affordability, and early childhood development outcomes across 80 locations.

What set Kenmore, Brookfield, and Moggill apart was their balance of key factors, including excellent childcare availability—at 1.39 places per child—and a higher-than-average fertility rate of 1.58 births per woman. These indicators suggest that families aren’t just moving in, but choosing to stay and grow in the area.

Southeast Queensland suburbs dominated the top rankings, with Sherwood and Indooroopilly placing second. That region stood out with the highest child development score among the top five at 88.5 per cent. Brisbane’s Inner West followed in third, performing strongly in both child development—at 87 per cent—and affordability, with childcare costing an average of 25.9 per cent of household income.

Top 10 Australian regions for raising a child (Photo credit: iselect.com.au)

iSelect conducted the study using publicly available government data to determine the most family-friendly regions across Australia. Each area was assessed based on five key indicators: the percentage of children meeting developmental milestones, the availability of childcare places, average childcare expenses, the quality of local healthcare services, and the average fertility rate per woman.

iSelect spokeswoman Sophie Ryan said the results reflect broader community strengths, including well-established infrastructure, quality schools and strong local support—all factors that contribute to a stable and family-friendly environment.

While lifestyle destinations like the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast remain attractive, the study noted they were let down by low childcare availability, which affected their rankings.

For one Brisbane family, the decision to move to Kenmore earlier this year after returning from Victoria was an easy one. Their youngest daughter now attends the same kindergarten her father once did, and they were drawn to the suburb’s green spaces, family connections, and semi-rural charm.

Read: New Subdivision in Moggill Set to Boost Housing Options

With a mix of lifestyle, accessibility, and strong community foundations, Kenmore, Brookfield, and Moggill continue to lead as some of Queensland’s most family-friendly suburbs.

Published 18-June-2025

Kenmore Favourite iFruit Fresh Changes Hands After 8 Years

Photo Credit: iFruit Fresh

After nearly a decade serving the Kenmore community with fresh produce and friendly service, local grocers Mario and Maree of iFruit Fresh have stepped away from the local business they built with their family. The store, located in Kenmore Plaza, has been handed over to new, yet familiar, owners, marking a quiet but significant change for loyal customers.

A Local Staple Comes Full Circle

Mario and Maree ran iFruit Fresh for eight years, rarely taking a day off. They stayed open through the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring their customers could still access fresh fruit, vegetables, pantry staples and household essentials when larger chains faced shortages. The couple supported local farmers and producers, offering a range of products, including handmade pasta, deli goods, and gluten-free and vegan items.

During their time at the helm, they also became well-known supporters of local clubs, sports teams and fundraising drives, often donating raffle prizes or helping out where needed. Their dedication to the area made them a reliable part of the Kenmore daily routine.

iFruit Fresh family — *Photo Credit: iFruit Fresh/Facebook*

The new owners are no strangers to the shop. According to a community post, they previously ran iFruit Fresh 15 years ago and have now returned to continue its legacy. Locals are encouraged to keep supporting the store during this transition period.

More Than Just a Grocer

iFruit Fresh isn’t your average fruit and veg outlet. It’s a community business that puts quality and connection at its core. The store offers a wide range of premium Australian produce and select international items, carefully chosen to balance both health and taste. Located conveniently with front parking at Kenmore Plaza, the open-style shop is designed for easy, quick visits.

The business also provides online ordering for local delivery seven days a week (excluding public holidays), serving the 4069 area. Customers can click and collect their orders in-store or arrange for them to be delivered to their doorstep.

Mario, Maree, their children, and their team made it clear that their goal was always more than selling produce. It was about creating a positive shopping experience and being part of the neighbourhood. Their departure has sparked a wave of gratitude and warm messages from customers online.

Staying Connected

While the shop changes hands, the focus on fresh, ethical, and locally sourced products remains unchanged.

Customers can still reach the store by calling (07) 3878 9995 or emailing orders@ifruitfresh.com.au. The address remains at Kenmore Plaza on Moggill Road.

iFruit Fresh also remains active on social media and continues to encourage feedback from the community — especially from local producers who may be interested in supplying goods.

Published 2-June-2025

Brookfield Cricket Clinic to Boost Junior Skills as Kenmore Club Celebrates 50 Years

Photo Credit: DrChristianRowanMP/Facebook

Kenmore Cricket Club is ramping up its junior development efforts with a specialised winter holiday cricket clinic in Brookfield this July, following recent milestone celebrations marking its 50th anniversary.

Winter Holiday Program at Brookfield United Cricket Club

The Henschell Cricket Academy, led by former Queensland cricketer Brett Henschell, will conduct a four-day winter clinic at Brookfield United Cricket Club from 7 to 10 July 2025. Open to boys and girls aged 6 to 17, the program is designed to support players across all skill levels, from beginners to representative-level athletes.

Participants will train under Cricket Australia-accredited coaches in structured age and ability-based groups. The program includes three tailored streams: beginner, club player, and representative player. Sessions will run daily from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with each participant receiving a written assessment at the end. A Fletcher cricket bat will be awarded to one attendee.

The clinic fee is $220 (GST included), with family rates available.

Kenmore Cricket Club Recognises Half a Century of Community Cricket

Kenmore Cricket Club recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a community luncheon held at West’s Rugby Club in Toowong on Friday, 16 May 2025. The event brought together past and present members, including current President Christian Sulisz and Club Founder Cliff Hemsworth.

Local official Christian Rowan presented a commemorative plaque in recognition of the milestone. Rowan, who played for the club between 1979 and 1983, joined other guests including former cricket figures John Buchanan, Brett Henschell, Michael Kasprowicz, Stuart Law, and Chris Hartley.

The Lunch & Legends event featured a two-course meal with drinks, raffles, auctions, and was hosted by MC Evan Bancroft. Funds raised contributed to the club’s ongoing operations and junior programs.

Year-Round Junior Cricket Pathways

Kenmore Cricket Club continues to offer a wide range of junior cricket opportunities through seasonal competitions. During summer, the club fields teams in the MSW Junior Cricket competition on Saturdays and in the BMC T20 Competition on Sundays. These cover under-12 to under-16 age groups with match formats ranging from 20 to 55 overs.

In winter, the club participates in Warehouse Cricket, offering one-day and two-day matches depending on the age group. Weekly training is held at times set by each team’s coach, with registrations typically opening in March for an April start.

Kenmore winter cricket clinic — *Photo Credit: DrChristianRowanMP/Facebook*

Community Commitment to Future Development

Through year-round programming, school holiday clinics, and milestone events, Kenmore Cricket Club remains committed to grassroots sport and community engagement. The July clinic at Brookfield highlights its continued investment in young players and in strengthening cricket participation across Brisbane’s western suburbs.

Published 23-May-2025

Street Spotlight: Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore

Photo Credit: qimagery.information.qld.gov.au

Kingfisher Place in Kenmore tells a compelling story of Brisbane’s suburban evolution, from its humble beginnings to the tight-knit community it is today. In 1936, this pocket of Kenmore was largely undeveloped, with only scattered properties along what would later become Gem Road and Scenic Road — Kingfisher Place itself was yet to be established.

The street’s remarkable 95% owner-occupancy rate and average residency of over 15 years speaks volumes about its enduring appeal, with an impressive 71% of residents calling it home for more than a decade. This strong sense of permanence is particularly noteworthy given the area’s historical property values, exemplified by the 1998 sale of 8 Kingfisher Place for $89,000. Below, you will find an aerial image taken in 1936, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s transformation from sparse settlement to the established community of 20 properties it is today.

Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore Residents

NUMBER OF PROPERTIES: 20
% OF OWNER OCCUPIERS ON STREET: 95%
AVERAGE TIME FOR OWNER OCCUPIERS: 15 years and 9 months
% OF PEOPLE 10+ YEARS: 71%

Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore – As It Looked in 1936

Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore in 1936

SOME RECENT SALES ON KINGFISHER PL, KENMORE

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
52 Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore	$5,000,000	Mar 2025
20 Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore	$1,470,000	Nov 2024
51 Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore	$5,200,000	Aug 2024

SOME TYPICAL PROPERTY SALES ON KINGFISHER PL FROM YESTERYEAR

Property Address	Sale Price	Sale Date
08 Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore	$89,000	Apr 1998
43 Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore	$300,000	Jun 1999
44 Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore	$105,000	Oct 1999

SUBURB PROFILE

The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kenmore in 2025 was $1,075,000
The median price of a 3 Bedroom House in Kenmore in 2020 was $693,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 3 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KENMORE SINCE 2021 : $382,000

The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kenmore in 2025 was $1,330,000
The median price of a 4 Bedroom House in Kenmore in 2021 was $815,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 4 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KENMORE SINCE 2021 : $515,000

The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kenmore in 2025 was $1,578,000
The median price of a 5 Bedroom House in Kenmore in 2021 was $920,000
TYPICAL INCREASE OF A 5 BEDROOM HOUSE IN KENMORE SINCE 2021 : $658,000

If you know Kingfisher Pl, Kenmore well and you have some anecdotes or details to add, please email us at editor@brisbanesuburbsonlinenews.com.au.

Kenmore Road Modernisation to Begin in 2025, Enhancing Safety for Motorists and Cyclists

Work on the Kenmore Road modernisation project is set to commence in mid-2025, with improvements aimed at enhancing safety for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians at key intersections.

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

This initiative is part of Brisbane’s Suburban Corridor Modernisation (SCM) program, which focuses on minor works at intersections to improve overall road safety.

Local officials conducted community consultations in 2022 and 2023, incorporating local feedback into the final design alongside technical reviews. As a result, several key upgrades will be implemented on Kenmore Road, including:

Two pedestrian refuge splitter islands and kerb ramps at the Kenmore Road and Gilruth Road roundabout
Upgraded kerb ramps on Crestview Street at Kenmore Road
Line marking and two traffic islands on the bend between 50 and 54 Kenmore Road
Upgraded lighting to improve visibility
Additional line marking, including yellow “No Stopping” islands to enhance traffic safety

In response to community feedback, Council is also conducting initial investigations into the feasibility of an off-road shared path on Kenmore Road, between the Centenary Motorway overpass and Sunset Road.

Potential improvements identified through this process will guide the city’s future planning and design efforts, ensuring that ongoing investigations and upgrades align with broader citywide goals.

Read: Explorers Bridge: Mt Crosby’s New Weir Bridge Honours 200-Year Legacy

To ensure safety, on-street parking will not be permitted in areas marked with yellow “No Stopping” lines. This measure aims to maintain clear sightlines, improve visibility at crossings and intersections, and ensure lanes are wide enough for vehicles to pass safely.

For more information about the project, residents can visit Council’s website or contact the project team on 07 3178 5413 during business hours.

Published 27-March-2025

Kenmore Students Raise Over $18,000 in World’s Greatest Shave

Photo Credit: Kenmore State High School/Facebook

Kenmore State High School students have raised over $18,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation through the World’s Greatest Shave, topping all state school efforts in Queensland.

Record-Breaking Local Effort

Kenmore State High School has emerged as the top state school fundraiser in Queensland during this year’s World’s Greatest Shave, contributing more than $18,000 to the Leukaemia Foundation. Fourteen student volunteers participated in the fundraising effort, backed by the school’s Environmental and Community leadership team and supported by the broader community.

Background on the World’s Greatest Shave

The World’s Greatest Shave is a national initiative aimed at combating blood cancer, one of Australia’s most pressing yet under-recognised health crises. In 2025 alone, more than 9,500 participants across the country have raised close to $6 million in support of families affected by blood cancer and in aid of life-saving research.

Community and Local Support

The Kenmore initiative received strong backing from local supporters, including hair stylists from Cru.hair in Chapel Hill who volunteered their services on the day. Dr Christian Rowan also contributed by donating raffle prizes to boost fundraising totals. Community appreciation was reflected in several social media comments, praising the students’ dedication and sacrifice.

Public Response and Recognition

The school’s youngest and oldest students were among those who took part, generating widespread commendation online. Comments highlighted the “enormous amount raised” by a relatively small group and recognised the leadership team, particularly Lucinda, for organising the event.

top state school fundraiser — *Photo Credit: Kenmore State High School/Facebook*

National Impact

According to official figures, more than 150,000 Australian families are currently facing blood cancer, with 17 lives lost to the disease each day. The funds raised through the World’s Greatest Shave provide critical patient support and advance research efforts toward a future free of blood cancer.

Looking Ahead

While Kenmore’s 2025 contribution stands out, the broader campaign continues with thousands of Australians still participating. The school’s strong community engagement sets a local example of how targeted efforts can contribute meaningfully to national health challenges.

Published 27-Mar-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

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 Community Bands Together to Deliver Hampers to Families in Need

Photo Credit: Clubrunner

The Kenmore community has come together to deliver hampers filled with food, toys, and essential items to families and individuals in need across South East Queensland, reaching areas as far as Toowoomba, Lowood, and South Brisbane.

Another Win for Kenmore’s Superstar Volunteers

Every year, Kenmore Rotary collects a range of food and packages it into Christmas hampers to distribute to those who would greatly appreciate it via a network of charities. This year, Ricky Haberfield and her team of volunteering superstars put together 63 hampers.

The Giving Tree, proudly supported by Helloworld Travel in Kenmore Village and the management of Kenmore Village Shopping Centre, along with the collection box, accrued several hundred items from generous local shoppers.

The St Vincent de Paul Society (SVDP) was one of the beneficiaries of Kenmore Rotary’s work. Vinnies also received significant contributions from OLR Parishioners, OLR School, Brookfield State School, and Ray White Metrowest. This combined effort enabled Vinnies to distribute a wide range of hampers and goods this Christmas.

Michael Fitzgerald, President of The St Vincent de Paul Society Qld (Our Lady of the Rosary Kenmore Conference), shared that the support had a significant impact on families and individuals in need. Mercy at Lowood expressed their appreciation, noting that hampers and vouchers had been provided to companions in the Lowood area and surrounding towns, where support is often limited.

Ipswich Accommodation Services also highlighted the gratitude of families in their Crisis Accommodation program, thanking the Kenmore Parish and Conference for reaching out once again during the festive season.

One recipient, a companion living with three children in the Parish area, expressed heartfelt thanks, saying the gifts brought complete joy to her family. She shared that the kindness of the donations arrived at a time when they needed it most, offering both relief and happiness during the challenging Christmas period.

Support Across Regions

The SVDP OLR Kenmore Hamper Appeal, completed on 11 December, successfully delivered hampers and support to multiple groups, including the Inala Family Support Centre, Mercy Centre in Lowood, Ipswich SVDP Family Centre, and Emmanuel City Mission for the homeless in South Brisbane. Families in the Toowoomba and Roma regions also received support through hampers and gift cards.

These hampers contained baby goods, pantry items, clothing, toys, books, and gift cards. In addition, donations of cash enabled further support for those experiencing financial hardship during the holiday season.

Generous Community Efforts

The appeal was made possible through donations from the OLR parish and school families, Kenmore Rotary, Brookfield Primary School, and Ray White. Their combined efforts ensured hundreds of families and individuals could access much-needed supplies. Volunteers from the St Vincent de Paul Society (SVDP) played a crucial role in organising and delivering the hampers.

Volunteers shared stories of gratitude from recipients, with many families expressing amazement and joy upon receiving the hampers. Some volunteers noted the emotional responses during deliveries, reflecting the impact of the community’s support.

Spreading Hope and Support

The hamper appeal provided material support and brought the community together in a shared effort to help those less fortunate. The initiative reached a wide range of people, from local families to homeless individuals, who needed assistance.

The OLR Kenmore Hamper Appeal serves as a reminder of what can be achieved when communities come together. Thanks to the dedication of local families, schools, and organisations, the appeal delivered practical support and a message of care and compassion to those in need this holiday season.

Published 17-Dec-2024

Kenmore Paramedic Wins Award for Life-Saving Children’s Book

A critical care paramedic from Kenmore has been recognised as an Achievement Finalist by the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards for her work writing a children’s book aimed at easing kids’ anxiety around medical emergencies and raising funds for important causes.

Critical Care Paramedic Amy Gomes received the Achievement Award at the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards, held on 11 October 2024. The awards celebrate exceptional contributions from Queensland’s frontline workers and volunteers.

Amy, a Kenmore resident, wrote and self-published the book “What Paramedics Do” in late 2023 after noticing how often young children were scared during medical emergencies. The book educates children on the role of paramedics and has been used to reduce medical anxiety by making the unfamiliar more approachable for kids.

Amy Gomes QBank Everyday Heroes — *Photo Credit: Amy Gomes/Instagram*

Recognition at the QBANK Awards

Amy was one of 23 finalists recognised at the QBANK Everyday Heroes Awards, an event celebrating Queensland’s frontline workers from fields such as police, fire, health, and education. These awards, now in their 10th year, honour individuals who go above and beyond to serve and protect their communities.

While Amy took home the award for Achievement, other winners included a far north Queensland ambulance officer who used cultural knowledge to help evacuate a town during a cyclone, and a volunteer firefighter from Coomera who has dedicated eight years to protecting his community. All the winners received $2,000, plus an additional $2,000 to donate to a charity of their choice.

“What an absolute honour. I have been advised that two wonderful humans took the time to nominate me for a @qbank_au everyday hero award and I have been absolutely so fortunate to now be named a finalist,” Amy said. “While they wouldn’t tell me who, I hope you know you made me feel very much appreciated 🥺 Thank you for taking the time to acknowledge someone else. It really is a truly special thing to make someone else feel valued – thank you, unknown, beautiful souls”

Amy said she was honoured to be recognised alongside so many other dedicated Queenslanders. She plans to donate her prize money to Heart of the Nation, a charity focused on improving access to AEDs, furthering her commitment to community health and safety.

Community Impact

Amy has been a paramedic for 15 years, working across Queensland and around the world. Her experiences, particularly in rural and remote areas, inspired her to write the book, which has now been adapted for international audiences. Through her small business, One Little Heart, Amy donates part of the proceeds from the book to charity, raising tens of thousands of dollars for over 25 organisations.

Amy’s work doesn’t stop at writing. She has been instrumental in facilitating the donation of four public-access Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) in Queensland communities, with two more ready for installation. She is also advocating for a public-access AED Bill through the state government, hoping to improve Queenslanders’ access to these life-saving devices and embed AED education in schools.

Looking ahead, Amy is already working on her next children’s book, “What Police Do,” which aims to provide similar education and anxiety-reducing benefits for kids when interacting with law enforcement officers. She hopes to continue expanding her series and bringing awareness to the important roles of frontline workers.

Published 11-Oct-2024