Take it to the Streets Program to Reach Chermside Youth

A new youth program is set to make a difference in Chermside by meeting young people where they are, providing mentorship, engagement, and an opportunity to develop their skills through sport. Take it to the Streets, an initiative targeting at-risk youth, is expanding its reach across North Brisbane, and Chermside is the next location on its map.


Read: New Community Partnerships Target Youth Anti-Social Behaviour


The program aims to empower young people aged 13 to 18 by using 3×3 basketball as a tool for positive change. More than just a sport, basketball serves as a bridge—breaking down social barriers, boosting confidence, and fostering discipline. For those at risk of disengaging from education or engaging in anti-social behaviour, this initiative offers an alternative path towards personal and community growth.

Run by professional 3×3 basketball player Deola D’Brown, the program does more than teach technical skills—it provides consistent mentorship. Participants develop emotional regulation, community engagement, and mental wellbeing through structured activities and support networks. With over 130 young people already involved and an average of 22 attending each session, the impact is clear: youth engagement is rising, and lives are changing.

Chermside’s Turn to Shine

Photo credit: Department of Sport, Racing and Olympic and Paralympic Games

From 8 May to 26 June 2025, Chermside will host weekly sessions, ensuring that local youth have access to this free program without the need to travel far. By bringing the initiative directly into the community, organisers hope to reach those who might otherwise miss out on crucial guidance and support.

Youth Programs Unit Acting Inspector Lester Brooks emphasised the importance of such initiatives, highlighting how structured engagement significantly reduces the risk of young people reoffending or dropping out of school.

“Evidence shows that when disengaged or at-risk young people are engaged through programs and given the tools to change their behaviour, their risk of reoffending or leaving school reduces,” he said.

“This means not only a better future for our young people, but a safer community.”

Beyond immediate mentorship, Take it to the Streets could also provide young athletes with a pathway towards Brisbane 2032. The Olympic dream is closer than ever for some participants, with organisers already identifying outstanding talent among the program’s attendees.

“These young people could not only change their lives but become the local Olympians of our future,” D’Brown said.


Read: Chermside Man’s Story Sheds Light on Public Housing Challenges


Funded through the Queensland Government’s Youth Development Partnership Fund, Take it to the Streets is among 26 programs designed to create long-term, positive community change. By investing in early intervention and grassroots programs, Queensland is strengthening its future—one young person at a time.

For more details about the program or how to get involved, visit Queensland Government’s Youth Development Partnership Fund.

Published 7-February-2025

Prince Charles Hospital Foundation to Stop Serving Strawberry Sundaes at Ekka

After 35 years, Chermside’s Prince Charles Hospital Foundation has decided to end its tradition of serving strawberry sundaes at the Ekka, to prioritise other fundraising initiatives.



This decision marks the end of a long-standing partnership that has raised millions for vital medical research and patient care initiatives.  The foundation will now concentrate its efforts on new, sustainable programs.

For over thirty years, the foundation’s involvement with Ekka’s iconic dessert has been a major fundraising effort. The operation grew into a large-scale undertaking, requiring nine months of planning and the dedication of over 2,000 volunteers annually. These volunteers scooped more than 100,000 sundaes each year, contributing to a grand total of over three million sundaes served since the late 1980s.

Ekka's Strawberry Sundae to Continue Despite Withdrawal of Prince Charles Hospital Foundation
Photo Credit: Ekka/ Facebook

The funds generated by the sundaes have supported numerous important causes.  These include a world-first ICU redesign at the Prince Charles Hospital, the development of Charlie’s Village, a dedicated space for dementia patients, advancements in donor heart transportation, and the establishment of Queensland’s first child life therapist.

The foundation’s chief executive, Steve Francia, acknowledged the difficulty of discontinuing the program.  He emphasised that the move will allow the organisation to concentrate on initiatives with the greatest potential to improve lives.  He deeply appreciated the volunteers whose hard work made the program successful.



RNA chief executive Brendan Christou expressed sadness at the end of the partnership with the Prince Charles Hospital Foundation. He recognised the foundation’s long-standing contribution to the Ekka.  

He also confirmed that the Strawberry Sundae will remain a fixture at the Ekka, with the RNA taking over its preparation and service.  He assured Ekka visitors that the beloved treat will continue to be available.  The RNA understands the foundation’s need to explore new fundraising avenues.

Published Date 31-Jan-2025

Chermside Man’s Story Sheds Light on Public Housing Challenges

Wayne McGee, a 46-year-old man, has shared his decision to live in a tent in Samford Valley rather than return to a public housing unit in Chermside, where he says he was subjected to a brutal attack. 


Read: Chermside Residents Urged To Be Vigilant After Series of Car Park Thefts in North Brisbane


According to police documents, on 21 March 2024, another resident allegedly entered Mr McGee’s unit while under the influence of methamphetamines, shackled him to a toilet, and assaulted him over several hours. Mr McGee was allegedly threatened with a knife, told not to report the attack to authorities, and later discovered that several of his belongings had been stolen.

public housing
Photo credit: Northwest Community Group Inc/Facebook

In the aftermath of the assault, Mr McGee expressed deep fear for his safety and chose to live outdoors, refusing to return to the unit. 

Following the attack, Queensland Police requested the Department of Housing to urgently relocate Mr McGee, citing concerns about the ongoing threat. 

In January 2024, the Department of Housing approved a transfer for Mr McGee. However, as of January 2025, he remains on the waiting list with no clear timeline for when another unit will be available. 

Mr McGee has also highlighted his ongoing struggles with living in the public housing complex, describing it as a “living hell.” He reported frequent incidents of theft, abuse, and violence, particularly during the night when drug activity and disturbances were common. Though living in a tent has been challenging, he feels it is safer than returning to the unit. 

Paul Slater, a homelessness volunteer and founder of the Northwest Community Group Inc, has been supporting Mr McGee by providing essential supplies and emotional assistance. He emphasised the severe isolation and frustration Mr McGee is experiencing, pointing out the lack of emergency accommodation or substantial support from housing authorities.

Mr Slater has actively contacted government agencies and homelessness support organisations, including mental health outreach teams and crisis response units, to advocate for urgent intervention.

This situation brings attention to the broader issue of Queensland’s social housing crisis, with nearly 48,000 people waiting for accommodation as of December 2024. The challenges faced by vulnerable individuals like Mr McGee reflect ongoing concerns about safety, housing availability, and the adequacy of support for those in need.


Read: Chermside Welcomes 34 New Homes for Seniors and Essential Workers


While Mr McGee’s case is a personal tragedy, it also raises important questions about the capacity of the state’s social housing system to address the needs of its most vulnerable residents and the resources required to ensure safe and stable living conditions for all.

Published 23-January-2025

Chermside Welcomes 34 New Homes for Seniors and Essential Workers

Thirty-four new social and affordable housing units have been completed in Chermside, providing much-needed accommodation for seniors, people with disabilities, and community workers.



The newly completed development on Ethel Street, Chermside, includes 28 one-bedroom and six two-bedroom apartments. Designed by Brisbane-based architectural firm Ultralinea, the building incorporates environmentally sustainable features such as rainwater collection for garden irrigation and solar panels to power communal areas. 

The development also includes communal spaces, such as an alfresco rooftop and ground-floor common areas, to encourage social connection among residents.

Supporting the Community

Chermside development
Photo Credit: DA A006215374

The project aims to provide long-term housing for those on the social housing register, including individuals at risk of homelessness, seniors, and people with disabilities. The social housing component, consisting of 17 units, is allocated to tenants paying rent at 25% to 30% of their household income.

The development also features 17 affordable units aimed at essential workers, such as retail and healthcare staff, offering rents set 25% below market rates.

The building has been constructed to meet accessibility standards, with 31 units achieving Gold level and one unit achieving Platinum level under the Livable Housing Design Guidelines. These features include wider hallways, step-free access, and provisions for grab rails to accommodate mobility aids.

Sustainability and Accessibility

Chermside development
Photo Credit: DA A006215374

Sustainability has been a key focus in the development’s design, with the building targeting a 7+ star NatHERS energy efficiency rating. Bike storage facilities, natural ventilation features, and proximity to public transport aim to reduce reliance on private vehicles. The development offers 31 car parking spaces, including 22 for residents, 9 for visitors, and 43 bicycle spaces.

The housing complex’s location provides easy access to essential services, with the Prince Charles Hospital, Chermside Regional Centre, and various public transport links nearby. Residents will also have convenient access to supermarkets, medical centres, and community facilities such as the local library and aquatic centre.



Future Housing Plans

Completing the Chermside project is part of a broader initiative to increase social and affordable housing across Queensland. To address the housing shortage, the government has committed to building new homes rather than purchasing existing properties.

More projects are expected to follow, with partnerships between community housing providers and financial institutions playing a key role in expanding housing options for vulnerable Queenslanders.

A spokesperson from BHC, the community housing provider involved in the project, expressed enthusiasm about the development and indicated plans to deliver an additional 600 homes as part of their ongoing efforts to tackle the housing crisis.

Published Date 20-Jan-2025

Chermside Man Plans New Car Surprise for Wife with $75,000 Windfall

A $75,000 windfall has brought immense joy and excitement to a Chermside family as the recipient plans to surprise his wife with a brand-new car.



The ticket, purchased at Kedron-Wavell on Kittyhawk Drive, secured the financial blessing through a combination of chance, thoughtful play, and sheer luck, making it an unforgettable moment.

Chermside man windfall
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

The news of the win quickly spread across Kedron-Wavell, with staff and patrons expressing excitement for the fortunate winner. Management at the venue was delighted to see such good fortune within their community, describing the atmosphere as electric when the win was confirmed.

General Manager Vjorn Bradow highlighted the shared joy and elation among staff, guests, and the winner, noting how such moments foster positivity and unity within the local community. The multiplier feature on the ticket made it a particularly memorable event for all involved, creating a buzz of excitement and leaving everyone thrilled.

Details of the $75,000 Win

The Chermside man secured his $75,000 prize through a Keno Classic ticket with a x3 Bonus multiplier in draw 111, held on 12 January 2025. The inclusion of the Bonus feature significantly increased the prize amount, turning it into a life-changing moment for the lucky winner.

Keno data from FY24 highlights the popularity of the game, with Queensland players enjoying over 28.5 million wins, totalling $441.6 million. The state also produced nine major prize winners during the year, sharing a combined $46.7 million in winnings.

Chermside man wins $75,000
Caption: For Illustration Purposes Only
Photo Credit: Pexels

Future Plans



With the funds allocated towards a new car, the Chermside man views the win as a chance to enhance his family’s life and begin the year with an unforgettable milestone. The win joins a growing list of Queensland success stories, showcasing the joy and happiness such financial blessings can bring to local families, making a significant difference and creating long-lasting memories.

Published 18-Jan-2025

Unsolved Case in Chermside: Was It Suicide or Murder?

A Swedish national was found dead in a Chermside paddock under mysterious circumstances in 1971, raising questions about whether the case was a tragic suicide or an unsolved murder.



The Discovery

On the morning of 7 June 1971, police were called to a paddock in Chermside, Brisbane, where they discovered the body of a man lying face down near the base of a tree. A .22 calibre Anschutz auto-loading rifle was found approximately two feet away from the body. 

Nearby, detectives uncovered nine discharged cartridges, a synthetic cord around the man’s thigh, and an empty beer bottle with a thumbprint. There were no visible signs of struggle, and no suicide note was found in his belongings.

Chermside mystery
The Chermside paddocks before redevelopment into residential and commercial precincts
Photo Credit: State Library of Queensland

Forensic Findings

An autopsy revealed that the man had sustained seven gunshot wounds to the heart and two further bullets had pierced his pericardium. Forensic experts noted that all the bullets were fired from the rifle found at the scene. The nature of the injuries, however, raised immediate doubts among investigators. 

Detectives highlighted that the rifle required the trigger to be pulled individually for each shot, making it highly improbable for someone to inflict such precise and repeated wounds on themselves.

Chermside mystery
For illustration purposes only: a.22 calibre Anschutz
Photo Credit: Nechako River/Flickr

Detective Les Bardwell, a leading forensic scientist from Brisbane’s Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), conducted extensive tests on the weapon. Over 2,000 rounds were fired during experiments, with no mechanical malfunctions observed. The rifle, an autoloader and not a fully automatic weapon, functioned properly in all tests. Bardwell’s team ruled out the possibility of accidental continuous fire, which could explain the clustered shots.

Chermside mystery
Brisbane’s Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB)
Photo Credit: Queensland Museum

Expert Opinions

To verify their findings, Bardwell sought opinions from forensic experts around the world. Authorities in Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, France, and West Germany reviewed the case and unanimously stated that such injuries were improbable in a suicide scenario. None had encountered a case where multiple gunshots, particularly to the heart, were self-inflicted.

Despite the global consensus among experts, the coroner’s inquiry ultimately ruled the death as a suicide. The decision relied heavily on the findings of the government pathologist, who maintained that the physical evidence supported a self-inflicted cause of death.

Community Reaction

The ruling sparked widespread scepticism among Brisbane residents and law enforcement officers alike. The improbability of self-inflicted wounds, combined with the lack of clear motive or suicide note, left many questioning the case’s conclusion. 

The term “murdercide” was coined by Queensland’s legal community to describe the ambiguity of cases like this, which blur the line between murder and suicide.



More than 50 years later, the Chermside case continues to captivate the public and forensic experts. The circumstances remain shrouded in mystery, with no suspects identified and no definitive answers about what truly happened in Chermside that day. 

Published 6-January-2025

Affordable Downsizer-Friendly Projects Shape The Future of Chermside

Chermside is emerging as a key hub for affordable housing and downsizer-friendly developments with multiple projects set to reshape the suburb’s housing landscape.



Located approximately 10 kilometres north of CBD, Chermside has long been recognised as a major suburban hub. Known for Westfield Chermside—one of Australia’s largest shopping centres—and its well-established transport links, the suburb has become a focal point for residential growth. Recent years have seen increasing demand for downsizer-friendly homes and affordable housing solutions, leading to several key development projects.

Key Developments Addressing Housing Needs

Based at 75-81 Kittyhawk Drive, Gardner Vaughan Group’s Estilo on the Park is one of the main ongoing projects. Situated opposite Westfield Chermside and next to the 7th Brigade Park, this development boasts three towers providing one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments. Emphasising the mix of natural surroundings and urban convenience, the development features communal areas fit for modern life, rooftop terraces, and landscaped gardens. Building is happening steadily; completion is expected early in 2025.

Apart from private property developments, an affordable housing project is scheduled to produce 92 units on Rode Road close to Prince Charles Hospital. Comprising 46 affordable and 46 social housing units, the project is a joint venture between Brisbane Housing Company (BHC) and Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC). The expected completion is by mid-2025. This programme seeks to give senior citizens, people with disabilities, and families at risk of homelessness among other vulnerable groups safe and secure housing choices.

While nearby public transportation choices and retail stores provide extra convenience, the strategic location close to Prince Charles Hospital guarantees residents have access to necessary healthcare services. The initiative shows a more general state-level will to solve housing affordability and build inclusive communities.

Balancing Growth with Community Concerns

While these projects aim to address the suburb’s housing needs, they also raise questions about infrastructure and liveability. Long-term residents have expressed concerns about increased traffic congestion and potential strain on local amenities. Urban planners and developers are working to balance growth with sustainable practices to ensure the suburb maintains its appeal.

Affordable housing Chermside
Photo Credit: QLD Gov

Future Outlook for Chermside

Chermside is likely to stay among Brisbane’s most sought-after suburbs given continuous infrastructure and housing investments. As the affordable housing initiative is near completion, it is expected to provide much-needed housing solutions for both downsizers and low-income residents.

Strategic urban planning and ongoing community involvement will be absolutely vital in controlling development and ensuring Chermside stays a vibrant, easily accessible suburb.



Published 2-Jan-2024

The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside Saves Mum’s Life with Groundbreaking Transplant

A mother with cystic fibrosis was saved by a pioneering heart and double lung transplant, a complicated and rare procedure, at the Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside.



Since birth, Tina Lee, a 39-year-old Yeppoon teacher, has had cystic fibrosis (CF). A genetic disorder that affects the lungs and other organs, CF frequently results in serious health complications. Ms Lee received a second chance at life after undergoing a double lung transplant last 2015, in her early 30s.

In 2023 February, she and her partner, Tom, found out they were expecting their first child years later, they were ecstatic. However, Ms Lee was in critical condition after a severe rejection of her transplanted lungs at 34 weeks into her pregnancy.

Her baby, Henry, was delivered by emergency caesarean section and was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) right away. But Ms Lee’s health kept getting worse.

The Prince Charles Hospital Takes the Lead

As her condition deteriorated, Ms Lee was moved to The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside, which is renowned for its proficiency in cardiothoracic care. With limited traditional treatment options available, her case became urgent.

Under the direction of Professor Peter Hopkins, the hospital’s medical staff decided to try tocilizumab, a drug typically used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. This medication had never been tested on cystic fibrosis patients in Australia before. To everyone’s relief, Ms Lee’s condition stabilised within just one day, giving her much-needed time for further treatment.

A Record-Breaking Transplant

In 2024 May, Ms Lee was added to the transplant waiting list. Amazingly, donor organs were available six hours later. She had a heart and double lung transplant at The Prince Charles Hospital, a rare and difficult procedure that went well.

With medical professionals like Professor Hopkins highlighting the impact that prompt donations can have on patients in critical condition, Ms Lee’s story serves as a reminder of the significance of organ donation for critically ill patients.

Chermside Community and Family Support

The Prince Charles Hospital has long been acknowledged by the Chermside community as an essential local centre for cutting-edge medical care. Ms Lee’s experience serves as more evidence of the hospital’s commitment to offering patients state-of-the-art treatment.

Ms Lee attributed her persistent perseverance during her recovery to her baby boy, Henry. Seeing him, she claimed, gave her the willpower to keep going.

A Call for Organ Donors

Ms Lee’s story highlights the continued need for organ donors. Many of the thousands of Australians waiting for transplants depend on the generosity of donors to stay alive, according to DonateLife.

Her story demonstrates the importance of these contributions and the efforts made by institutions such as The Prince Charles Hospital to oversee such life-saving operations.

A Brighter Future

Ms Lee is loving being a mother today and treasures her time spent with her family. She continues to promote organ donation and urge others to do the same.



Stories like Ms Lee’s attest to the commitment of the hospital’s staff and the value of community health resources, demonstrating the exceptional medical care that The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside continues to provide.

Published 26-Dec-2024

Brisbane Measles Alert: Chermside Community on High Alert

A two-year-old boy from Brisbane’s northern suburbs has tested positive for measles. Health authorities have identified several public exposure sites, including Chermside. Learn more about symptoms, prevention, and vaccination services.



According to the experts, the child was infectious from 7 to 13 December 2024, in which he visited various public places.

Exposure sites and timeline

The Metro North Public Health Unit has identified multiple sites the child visited while infectious:

  • December 7 and 8: Flight TG346 from Lahore to Bangkok
  • 8 December: Flight TG461 departs Bangkok for Melbourne; arrives at Melbourne International Airport between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM.
  • 9 December: Melbourne Domestic Airport from 5:00 to 7:30 a.m.; Flight JQ562 from Melbourne to Brisbane; Brisbane Domestic Airport from 8:20 to 9:30 a.m.
  • 10 December: Visited the Prince Charles Hospital Paediatric Emergency Department from 8:00 to 9:40 a.m.; attended a QUT graduation ceremony at The Star Brisbane from 4:40 to 10:00 p.m.
  • 12 December: visited Nundah Family Practice at 12:30 PM and 1:15 PM; Lumus Imaging in Nundah from 1:00 PM to 1:50 PM; returned to the Prince Charles Hospital Paediatric Emergency Department at 6:20 PM and stayed until 12:15 AM.

Residents in Chermside and surrounding suburbs are advised to remain vigilant for symptoms, particularly if they visited any of these locations during the specified times.

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that spreads through respiratory droplets expelled during coughing and sneezing. Symptoms usually appear between 7 to 18 days after exposure, beginning with fever, fatigue, a runny nose, a wet cough, and sore, red eyes. These are followed by a blotchy red rash that usually starts on the face and spreads throughout the body.

Brisbane Measles Alert: Chermside Community on High Alert
Photo Credit: Metro North Health

People who have spent time at the locations above during the times listed above should be vigilant for symptoms up to 31 December, 2024. Anyone with symptoms should self-isolate indoors and consult their GP for advice straight away. Secondary transmission should be avoided by telling the health facility of a suspected case of measles infection before going there.

Health authorities recommend that individuals born during or after 1966 ensure they have received two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, as this is the most effective protection against measles.

Those uncertain of their vaccination status should consult their healthcare provider. The MMR vaccine is available through general practices, some pharmacies, and community immunisation clinics.

Free Measles Vaccination in January 2025

The city provides free vaccination services to eligible citizens at community clinics, including at the Chermside Library. These clinics offer immunisations to those aged six weeks and above, protecting them against illnesses including measles, influenza, whooping cough, polio, and tetanus.



This is the second measles notice in Brisbane within a period of three weeks, with a case reported in the Sunshine Coast. Authorities are working closely with the hospitals and places the affected child would be found in tracing contacts and advising whoever could be infected.

As the community takes preventive measures so that another event does not occur, they are encouraged to be careful and to check their immunization status.

Measles can lead to serious complications, especially in children and other immunocompromised individuals. It protects not only the individual but also contributes to community immunity, which helps to control the spread of the virus.

Public health efforts still target immunisation campaigns, raising awareness about the importance of the vaccine and encouraging quick access to medical attention should the symptoms appear.

Published 19-Dec-2024

Brisbane’s Suburban Shift: Why Chermside is Poised to Thrive

With its established health precinct and strategic location, Chermside is seen as a strong candidate to evolve into a major employment and lifestyle hub, contributing to solutions for Brisbane’s housing and infrastructure challenges.


Read: New Health Care Facility Proposed for Chermside


According to Ross Elliott, Suburban Futures director and chair of the Lord Mayor’s Better Suburbs Initiative, Chermside has the potential to become a regional powerhouse similar to Parramatta. He noted that the suburb, currently home to 16,000 jobs, primarily in health, could grow to support 50,000 jobs with the right urban planning and investment.  

Photo credit: Zeglar “Zeg” Fergus/Google Maps

Mr Elliott highlighted the untapped potential of Chermside’s green spaces, such as the Downfall Creek corridor and the nearby Marchant Park. These areas, he said, could serve as active transport routes linking residential neighborhoods with employment hubs. He emphasized that urban renewal efforts must integrate job creation and social infrastructure alongside addressing housing needs.  

The Vision for Chermside  

Photo credit: The Prince Charles Hospital/Google Maps

Chermside’s transformation could build on its existing strengths, including The Prince Charles Hospital and Westfield Chermside, one of the country’s largest shopping centers. These institutions provide a foundation for further development, such as mixed-use precincts and high-density housing designed to support modern urban lifestyles.  

Mr Elliott suggested that improved transport links, such as expanded busways and cycling corridors, could enhance the suburb’s connectivity, making it an even more attractive place to live and work. He also pointed to the importance of leveraging natural assets like Marchant Park and Downfall Creek to create a sustainable and vibrant urban environment.  

A Suburban Strategy for Growth  

Moorooka’s Magic Mile (Photo credit: Google Street View)

While Chermside leads the charge in Brisbane’s suburban renewal plans, other areas, including Moorooka and Mount Gravatt, are also being considered for transformation. For example, proposals for Moorooka’s Magic Mile include replacing car yards with bike paths and mixed-use developments, reflecting the city’s focus on sustainable, community-centric growth.  

Mr Elliott underscored the importance of investing in suburban areas, pointing out that the vast majority of Brisbane residents live and work in these neighborhoods. He argued that for Brisbane to thrive, it must focus on where its population actually resides and operates. 


Read: Hidden Family History Inspires Local to Create New Chermside Ancestry Group


As Brisbane prepares for the 2032 Olympics, Chermside’s potential rise as a mini Parramatta could become a model for suburban renewal, helping the city grow as a balanced and inclusive metropolis.

Published 3-December-2024