TotalFusion Opens Luxury Rooftop Wellness Spot in Chermside

Chermside residents now have access to a unique wellness experience, with TotalFusion launching a premium rooftop sanctuary boasting eleven saunas, plunge pools, and even a rooftop bar.



This new space, located within Westfield Shopping Centre in Chermside, aims to provide a social environment focused on relaxation and recovery for both members and casual visitors.

New Wellness Space in Chermside

TotalFusion’s founder, Leon McNiece, said they designed the Chermside location to help the local community connect and better balance their work and personal lives. He believes the rooftop area will foster an inclusive social wellness atmosphere where people can unwind and feel happier.

The space design intends to evoke the feeling of a high-end rooftop in Greece, offering a luxurious escape within the convenience of the shopping centre.

Features of the Rooftop Sanctuary

The rooftop wellness area includes various facilities designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. There are eleven saunas, ranging from traditional Finnish saunas to larger infrared saunas that can accommodate up to eight people. Guests can also enjoy both hot and cold plunge pools and a steam room.

Luxury day beds are available for those looking to relax further. A rooftop bar will serve health-focused drinks, adding a social element. The centre also offers advanced biohacking technologies like red light therapy and cryotherapy.



Accessibility for the Community

The expansive rooftop at TotalFusion Chermside welcomes existing TotalFusion members and casual visitors. A creche service is available on-site to support busy parents. Those interested in experiencing the new facilities can now book tours to see the space.

Guest passes will also be available to the general public this week, allowing everyone to try the rooftop sanctuary. TotalFusion describes the new area as offering a premium bathhouse experience unlike anything else in Brisbane, providing a modern take on the traditional bathhouse concept where wellness feels easy and deeply restorative.

Published Date 14-May-2025

The Former Iron Woman that Paddled Around Australia in 254 Days

Bonnie Hancock is an extraordinary lady.

She covered over 12,700 kilometres on a surf ski around Australia.

Over 254 days at sea.

In the modern world where resilience in children is under question, Bonnie is a wonderful example of the highest standards of mental strength and resilience.

She started nippers at Sawtel from the age of five, and dreamt from the age of 12 to become Karla Gilbert (she won the Kelloggs Ironwoman Series seven years in a row from 1995 to 2003) and at the age of 17, she became a professional Iron Woman competitor, as did her sister, Courtenay. She waitressed through uni and trained every day, 6.5 km in the pool every morning under the eye of legendary coach, Denis Cotterell. After uni each day she would do 10-20 km on the surf ski, and some running on the soft sand to complete her day that tended to be complete by 7:00 p.m., with competitions at the weekends. That gruelling schedule shaped her life daily until the age of 25.

She then evolved from Iron Woman competitions into a ski paddler on an 18 kg craft, typically racing over five-minute races, whilst embarking on a career as a dietician.

Her ultra endurance journey began at Broadbeach Library, reading a book about a lady who had written a biography about it. She had 25 rejections for sponsorship before she signed her first sponsor.

Her incredible journey paddling around Australia for over 254 days began when she paddled 73 km on her first day. Then, after about a week in, the daily target was scheduled to be 90 km on that day; but half way through a few hours, she was told it had to be increased to 120 km that day as it was decided she had to go around an island. After a month of constant paddling she had bulging discs and various other illnesses, but nothing would stop her, including the crocodiles encountered.

The mental hurdles she smashed through were endless. “Being prepared to adapt your plan” was front and centre in her amazing journey. Everytime a headwind came, she became stronger, and she would realise that when the headwinds dropped.

Lemons into Lemonade!


In the interview, Bonnie talks about a lot of the challenges along the way, including some good and bad decisions she made, how she developed her work ethic, and the joy of working to a plan.

This included a discussion around parenting and sport, managing finances, how she got into ultra endurance and many other fascinating anecdotes.

It’s an amazing story.

You can watch the interview with Barry Wilkinson of Milton based SW Brokerage here:

Barry’s podcast series is full of some great information about life and finances.
It covers many things including little-known tips and tricks around finance.

You can see the 25 previous episodes here.

What the Hospital Rescue Plan Means for Prince Charles Hospital

Queensland has announced the Hospital Rescue Plan to address growing pressure on the state’s health system, promising three new hospitals, a new Queensland Cancer Centre, and major upgrades at 10 existing facilities. The plan, announced this week, aims to correct years of mismanagement and bring long-term improvements to healthcare delivery across the state.


Read: The Prince Charles Hospital Expansion Moves Ahead in Chermside


Among these expansions is a significant upgrade to The Prince Charles Hospital, which will receive at least 93 new beds and a broader expansion to meet growing patient demand in Brisbane’s north. The investment aims to boost capacity and reduce pressure on emergency departments and elective surgery waiting lists.

Hospital Rescue Plan
Photo credit: The Prince Charles Hospital/Google Maps

The plan follows the release of an independent review into past hospital infrastructure projects, which highlighted serious issues in planning and delivery. According to the review, several projects were developed with limited preparation time—some in as little as six weeks—and governed in a way that placed unrealistic timelines ahead of other critical considerations. This approach led to cost blowouts, missing services, and late-stage design flaws.

The Prince Charles Hospital project was identified as one of the most affected, currently running $428 million over budget. The review noted a “disproportionally high number of scope risks and unresolved scope decisions,” warning that these unresolved elements could continue to push costs higher.

Hospital Rescue Plan
Photo credit: The Prince Charles Hospital/Google Maps

Despite the challenges, the review supported the continuation of the current stage of the Prince Charles Hospital project, while recommending a thorough reassessment before moving forward with stage two. The aim is to ensure that future stages are delivered with stronger planning and oversight.

Locals and healthcare workers have long called for an expansion of The Prince Charles Hospital, which serves as a major referral centre for cardiac and respiratory care in the state. The upgrade is seen as vital to future-proofing services in Brisbane’s growing northern corridor.


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


As Queensland’s population continues to grow and age, the stakes for getting hospital infrastructure right are higher than ever. The Hospital Rescue Plan, if delivered with the care and diligence promised, could mark a much-needed reset—starting with getting projects like Prince Charles Hospital back on stable ground.

Published 24-January-2025

Local Restaurant Guide – 4032

From sizzling mains to sweet finishes, Chermside’s dining scene is full of surprises. We’ve scouted the top spots earning rave reviews of places where people don’t just eat, they celebrate their meals. If you’re looking for your next go-to, these local favourites deserve a place on your list.

1. The Bavarian Chermside


ABOUT THE BAVARIAN CHERMSIDE
4.6 Google rating


Gympie Rd, Chermside QLD 4032

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Michael Ladilaw
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
WE ABSOLUTELY LOVE OUR BAVARIAN RESTAURANTS. Shame that the Rockhampton branch has folded recently. This one is very quiet, but it is an extremely wet day. Enjoyed the meals just the same. Chicken schnitzel is to die for and the burgers go down well also. Cheers big ears

Leoni van Nieuwenhuizen
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Huge portion sizes and friendly staff. Bavarian platter could have easily been enough for a family of 4. Pork snitchel was as big as my 10year olds head

Lok Lowe
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Booked online for the 2 for 1 Tuesday schnitzel special for our lunch date. Friendly & prompt service and the servings were generous sizes… We left with full & contented tummies and will definitely be coming back again.

2. El Camino Cantina Chermside


ABOUT EL CAMINO CANTINA
4.6 Google Rating


Gympie Rd, Chermside West QLD 4032

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Federico Arboleda
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I recently had the pleasure of dining at El Camino, a fantastic spot that truly knows how to serve up a delicious meal. The manager, Efendi, was incredibly welcoming, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere from the moment I walked in. The highlight of my meal was the tacos – they were absolutely amazing! Fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned, each bite was a delight. A huge shoutout to the chef for crafting such a memorable dish! The combination of quality ingredients and expert preparation really stood out. Whether you’re a taco lover or just looking for a great meal, El Camino is definitely a place to check out. Highly recommended

Samuel
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We ordered the taco tower and Our waitress Kate was incredible. She made sure we were looked after during our dining time, fish and chicken tacos were the best and again Kate’s service topped the night off! Thank you Kate and staff

Nikki Maree
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Alejandra was amazing!! She gave our table great service and fit our vibe perfectly 💕 Am definitely coming back here for the Tex-mex deal! Bottomless margaritas, amazing wings, tacos and churros! You can’t go wrong.

3. Motto Motto Japanese Kitchen


ABOUT MOTTO MOTTO JAPANESE KITCHEN
4.6 Google Rating


Westfield Chermside Cnr Gympie &, Outdoor Dining Precinct
Level 2 Hamilton Rd, Chermside QLD 4032

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Grace Wilson
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The classic tonkotsu ramen is my favourite in motto motto It’s perfect for me anytime of the day or season. Service is very good especially with their staff name Chisato. She is a gem!

Mitch Cole
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
AWESOME! Great selection of food, Service very prompt and friendly, and such an awesome atmosphere! – Tried their new katsu curry this time, it was amazing!!

Amanda chah75
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We went together with our baby today. The Unagi Don and the Ramen was so yummy! And we would like to say thank you to the waitress, Chisato who made our day! Chisato was so lovely, she kindly offer us the baby chair, super helpful and super friendly. Highly recommended!

4. Bombay Bliss


ABOUT BOMBAY BLISS
4.4 Google Rating


634 Gympie Rd, Chermside QLD 4032

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Krishna Chandra
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great food choices. Friendly atmosphere and beautiful Indian music to accompany a pleasant dining experience. My best choice is biryani and a big choice of Indian sweets. Love this place and we strongly recommend it to everyone.

Aashika Khadka
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Today I get biryani chicken and goat it was so delicious i definitely recommend chicken and goat biryani is in a brisbane …. the staff friendly …. service andquality then others places Staff look after everything 😍😍😍that i love it everything is perfect.. its too hot today outside but she having smile on face and serving food to my family

Moira Mahony
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Late lunch on a Tuesday: it’s a tiny cute cafe with authentic decor and indoor & outdoor tables. I had lamb samosas, which were tasty and had great pastry covering. The Bengali gulab jamun were sweetly spiced, and good mango lassi. My friend had Kashmiri rogan josh, with the gulab jamun and mango lassi. The rogan josh lamb was tender, and all the spices could be tasted at once; good. Would come again.

5. Thai Ayuthaya


ABOUT THAI AYUTHAYA
4.3 Google Rating


Chermside Place, 725 Gympie Rd, Chermside QLD 4032


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Varun Sanil
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
The food is great value for money.. and lots of veggies. Perfect balance of taste, cost and portion sizing. Green curry is a must try! Very strong flavours and aromas.

John McKenna
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very enjoyable meal with friends last night. Service was prompt and a great selection. Coconut prawn entree and Masaman beef melt in your mouth were my favourites. Will definitely be back.

John Burgers
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fried rice with seafood was absolutely delicious, and I have tried quite a few Thai fried rices around Brisbane. Will recommend to anyone who is partial to Thai 🙏👍 Only thing that brings the atmosphere down 1 star is the proximity to the road, otherwise perfect dining experience 🤌

Gympie Road Named Among Brisbane’s Worst Peak-Hour Routes

A new report from RACQ has identified a section of Gympie Road as one of Brisbane’s most congested peak-hour routes, with traffic experts urging immediate action to address worsening delays across multiple northern suburbs.


Read: Chermside Crash: Driver Allegedly Flees After Multi-Vehicle Collision


The affected stretch, between Hamilton Road and Rode Road, spans just 0.85 kilometres but impacts a few suburbs along the busy corridor — including Chermside. During weekdays, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m, the average speed along this section has slowed to just 26 km/h, marking a -31.9 per cent drop since 2019 (with 38.2 km/h average speed)

Photo credit: Google Street View

RACQ’s head of public policy, Dr Michael Kane, said the situation on Gympie Road is a clear sign that urgent planning and intervention are needed. He pointed to the broader implications for the region’s transport system and suggested that solutions such as expanded Brisbane Metro services, stronger links to Brisbane Airport, and better cycling infrastructure should be prioritised.

He noted that while many Queenslanders are looking forward to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, public support will likely grow further if people begin to see lasting transport improvements as part of the event’s legacy.

Photo credit: Google Street View

Dr Kane also highlighted the absence of a cohesive, long-term transport strategy for South East Queensland. He said gaps in the region’s ring road network are forcing excessive traffic into the CBD, exacerbating congestion and impacting both productivity and quality of life.


Read: Enforcement Cameras Coming to McDowall to Tackle Illegal Parking


The latest findings from RACQ add to growing calls for investment in future-ready infrastructure to ensure Brisbane’s transport network can support a growing population and ease pressure on key commuter corridors like Gympie Road.

The report also serves as a reminder that while major infrastructure projects are often planned with future events in mind, it’s the everyday experience of commuters that reflects whether these investments are truly meeting public needs.

Published 14-April-2025

How Marchant Park Went From War Camp to Community Hub

In the heart of Chermside, Marchant Park looks like any other suburban green space. But more than a century ago, it echoed with the sounds of hooves, boots, and military drills as young men from across Queensland prepared for the First World War.



From Marchant’s Paddock to Military Grounds

Before it became a public park, the land known as Marchant’s Paddock was transformed into “Camp Chermside” during WWI. It was a major training ground where soldiers, including the 2nd Light Horse Regiment, camped, drilled, and broke in horses before heading to war.

Photo Credit: National Library of Australia


Records show Marchant Park was a key training site in Queensland during 1914–1918. Soldiers learned to handle weapons, navigate rough terrain, and work with animals used in war zones. Life was harsh—tents for shelter, long marches in the heat, and basic meals.

Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

A Gift to the People

In 1917, soft-drink maker and philanthropist George Marchant offered to donate the land, on the condition it remain a public park that honoured those who served. The gift was finalised after the war, fulfilling his wish to preserve the site as a lasting tribute to the soldiers who trained there.

Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

Brisbane City Council records show Marchant’s gift came as memorial parks were becoming popular in Australia, spaces that honoured war service while serving the community. Marchant Park became one of Brisbane’s earliest examples.

Preserving a Legacy

Over time, the community added features to honour the park’s military past. The Kedron Shire War Memorial Gates were built in 1924, listing local soldiers, and the park later became part of Seventh Brigade Park—named after a WWI unit that trained in Queensland. These reminders still stand, though many may not know their full meaning.

Photo Credit: National Library of Australia
Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

During World War II, nearby Sparkes’ Paddock became an army camp, and Marchant Park was used for vehicle testing and driver training. The park stayed public land, though soldiers used the George Hastie Cricket Pavilion during that time.

Photo Credit: National Library of Australia

Today, Marchant Park is a place for families, sporting groups, and weekend barbecues. Yet underneath the grass where cricket players now run, history is buried, stories of young men who trained there before being sent far from home.

A Community Connection

Photo Credit: Google Maps

The Chermside & Districts Historical Society has spent years researching the park’s past. Their work, along with articles archived on Trove from 1917, helps paint a full picture of how the park went from military ground to community treasure.



Locals who walk through Marchant Park may not know the full story, but its legacy is woven into the suburb’s identity. From horse drills to playgrounds, the land has changed but the community’s commitment to remembering those who served has stayed the same.

Published 11-April-2025

Enforcement Cameras Coming to McDowall to Tackle Illegal Parking

In a proactive move to alleviate traffic congestion and enhance safety, Brisbane is expanding its enforcement measures to include McDowall’s Mayer Street and Metro Street, both situated near the bustling Chermside area. 


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


This initiative involves the installation of signage and enforcement cameras to deter illegal parking practices that have been a source of concern for residents and commuters alike.

Photo credit: Google Street View

The decision to target these specific streets comes in response to a significant number of complaints regarding vehicles parked illegally in clearways, no-stopping zones, bus zones, loading zones, and areas marked with yellow lines. Such infractions not only disrupt the smooth flow of traffic but also pose safety risks to pedestrians and other road users.

Photo credit: Google Street View

A recent trial conducted by the Council revealed substantial non-compliance in certain areas, leading to congestion and forcing motorists to navigate around improperly parked vehicles. The success of this trial has prompted BCC to extend the use of enforcement cameras to additional locations, including the 16 newly identified sites across the city.

Councillor Sarah Hutton, Chair for City Standards, noted the importance of adhering to parking regulations, stating that illegal parking can significantly reduce road capacity and cause delays for numerous commuters. She urged motorists to consider the broader impact of their parking choices, noting that even brief stops in prohibited areas can have substantial consequences on traffic flow and safety.

Mayer Street, McDowall (Photo credit: Google Street View)

Local residents have expressed support for the initiative, hoping it will lead to more disciplined parking behaviors and a reduction in traffic issues. The installation of enforcement cameras is anticipated to serve as a deterrent against illegal parking, thereby contributing to a safer and more efficient transportation environment in the area.


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


As Brisbane continues to grow, such measures are crucial in maintaining order on the roads and ensuring that the city’s infrastructure can accommodate the increasing number of vehicles. Brisbane’s commitment to addressing parking violations reflects its dedication to enhancing the quality of life for all residents and visitors.

Published 9-April-2025

The Prince Charles Hospital Expansion Moves Ahead in Chermside

A $360-million expansion is underway at The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside, with upgrades planned for Acute Services, emergency care, the operating theatre and other facilities, plus adult and paediatric care. Once complete, the facility will become Queensland’s second-largest paediatric health service.



The expansion is progressing under Queensland’s statewide hospital infrastructure program, despite a $6 billion cost blowout affecting the overall scheme.

Project Details

As part of a $2.3-billion investment in Metro North Health infrastructure, the $360-million upgrade being delivered at TPCH includes a new Acute Services Building, 94 new beds for adult and paediatric patients, expanded emergency departments for both groups, new paediatric outpatient and operating theatre facilities, and additional green spaces.

Once complete, the facility will become Queensland’s second-largest paediatric health service.

The Acute Services Building is expected to open in late 2027. Hutchinson Builders was appointed as the managing contractor in June 2023.

Additional Infrastructure at the Chermside Site

Alongside the clinical expansion, a nine-storey car park is under construction at the TPCH campus. Once complete, the new facility will add 1,500 spaces, increasing the total number of multi-storey parking spots on site to 2,000. The structure is being built next to the existing car park on Main Road and is designed to support future growth at the hospital.

The Chermside campus also recently opened the $14-million Nujum Jawa Crisis Stabilisation Unit, addressing the growing number of mental health crisis presentations. Opened in September 2024, the modular building facility offers 24/7 support in a culturally informed, home-like setting, developed in collaboration with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

The Prince Charles Hospital
Photo Credit: Metro North Health

With construction set to intensify through 2025 and the new Acute Services Building slated for completion in 2027, the Chermside community is expected to see sustained development activity at the TPCH site. 

Statewide Comparisons and Broader Implications

Queensland’s Capacity Expansion Program (CEP), introduced first in 2022, aims to deliver 2,200 additional hospital beds across the state by 2028. The program includes three new hospitals in Bundaberg, Toowoomba and Coomera, a new Queensland Cancer Centre, and 11 hospital expansions, including the project in Chermside. Originally announced under a $9.78 billion plan, the estimated cost has since risen to $16 billion.

Despite the budget escalation, the State has confirmed it will continue with the projects. Health Minister Tim Nicholls reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the program, which includes the Chermside hospital expansion.



The TPCH expansion is one of 15 major projects under the CEP, which includes hospital developments and upgrades in Townsville, Ipswich, Logan, Cairns, Mackay, and Hervey Bay, among others. While several projects have faced delays and funding gaps, Nicholls indicated that an independent review was underway to determine funding reallocations and ensure project completion.

The Prince Charles Hospital expansion is delivering 94 of the planned 2,200 beds, making it a key component in the government’s plan to address healthcare demand in growing urban areas like Chermside.

While funding shortfalls remain across the broader program, the city officials have confirmed its intention to continue delivering the expansion projects to meet rising healthcare demand statewide.

Published 26-Mar-2025

Increase in Flu Cases Reported Across Queensland’s Metro North Hospitals

Hospitals in Queensland’s Metro North region are grappling with a significant surge in flu cases, with Queensland Health reporting numbers that are 3.1 times higher than the average for this time of year. 


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


Metro North hospitals include The Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in Herston, Caboolture Hospital, Redcliffe Hospital, Kilcoy Hospital, and the Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation Service (STARS) in Herston.

The Prince Charles Hospital (Photo credit: Metro North Health)

The spike in cases has led to immense pressure on the healthcare system, with some families experiencing the strain firsthand. One mother of three described the difficulty of having two of her children admitted to different hospitals due to a shortage of available beds, all while she was battling the flu herself.

Health experts warn that the current wave of respiratory illnesses is particularly severe. Dr Krispin Hajkowicz, an infectious diseases specialist at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, highlighted that 2024 has seen significant increases in cases of COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza, and pertussis (whooping cough). 

Dr Hajkowicz noted that while some respiratory illnesses follow a predictable seasonal pattern, others have been disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to unpredictable spikes.

Photo credit: PIRO/Pixabay

In previous years, Queensland has seen RSV peak in autumn, followed by flu in winter, and other viruses like human metapneumovirus (HMPV) emerging in spring. However, ongoing disruptions mean that respiratory disease patterns remain erratic. COVID-19, in particular, has yet to settle into a seasonal pattern, continuing to spike unexpectedly.

According to the Health Department, rhinovirus—the common cold—was the most frequently reported illness last year, accounting for about one-third of cases. Influenza and COVID-19 followed closely, with RSV making up 8.1 per cent of cases and HMPV at 7.8 per cent.

Metro north
Photo credit: Myriams-Fotos/Pixabay

Medical professionals stress the importance of preventive measures, especially for young Queenslanders who may have missed routine exposures during the pandemic that could have strengthened their immune systems. Vaccination remains a key tool in reducing the spread and severity of infections like flu, pneumonia, and whooping cough, which can be particularly dangerous for infants and other high-risk groups.


Read: Prince Charles Hospital Foundation to Stop Serving Strawberry Sundaes at Ekka


As hospitals continue to manage the surge, authorities urge residents to take necessary precautions, including staying up to date with vaccinations, practising good hygiene, and seeking medical advice early if symptoms worsen. With respiratory illnesses placing increasing strain on the healthcare system, early intervention and preventive care remain crucial in reducing severe cases and hospital admissions.

Published 22-March-2025

Chermside and Surrounding Suburbs Eligible for Cyclone Alfred Recovery Grants

Residents in Chermside and neighbouring suburbs impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred can now apply for disaster recovery payments. Financial assistance available through relief programs.



Chermside disaster relief due to flooding
Caption: Flooding in Huxtable Park, Chermside West due to Cyclone Alfred.
Photo Credit: CrDanitaParry/Facebook

Background: Cyclone Alfred’s Impact

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has caused widespread disruption across south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales. It prompted the activation of government relief measures. The Australian and Queensland authorities have jointly announced financial assistance for affected individuals and families, particularly in the Brisbane Local Government Area, including Chermside and Chermside West.

Available Financial Assistance

Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment (AGDRP)

The AGDRP provides a one-off, non-means-tested payment. It offers $1,000 per eligible adult and $400 per child for those significantly affected by Cyclone Alfred. This financial aid aims to assist short-term recovery efforts for individuals and families.

Disaster Recovery Allowance (DRA)

Workers and sole traders in the impacted areas who have lost income due to the cyclone can apply for the Disaster Recovery Allowance. It provides up to 13 weeks of financial support, paid fortnightly (maximum $1,007 per fortnight).

State Grants

Residents in Chermside and Chermside West may also be eligible for state-level financial assistance, including:

  • Emergency Hardship Assistance: Up to $180 per person or $900 per family to cover essential needs such as food, clothing, and temporary accommodation.
  • Essential Services Hardship Assistance: Available after five days without essential services such as power, water, or gas. Grants range from $150 per person to $750 per family.
  • Essential Household Contents Grant: Financial aid between $1,765 for individuals and $5,300 for families to replace essential household items lost due to the cyclone.
  • Essential Services Safety and Reconnection Scheme: Up to $4,200 for uninsured homeowners to restore electricity, gas, water, and sewage services.
  • Structural Assistance Grant: Uninsured, low-income homeowners can receive up to $80,000 to repair or rebuild cyclone-damaged homes.
Flooding in Downfall Creek
Caption: Flooding in Downfall Creek, Chermside West due to Cyclone Alfred.
Photo Credit: CrDanitaParry/Facebook

How to Apply for Assistance

Residents in Chermside and other affected suburbs can apply for financial aid through myGov or call 180 22 66. Queensland-specific grants can be accessed through the Community Recovery Hubs or contact 1800 173 349.

Community Response and Recovery Efforts

Community Recovery Hubs have been set up in affected areas. It aims to support and guide residents navigating the financial aid process. Due to the high volume of applications, processing delays are expected, but efforts are underway to expedite relief distribution.

Next Steps for Chermside Residents



Chermside and Chermside West residents are encouraged to check their eligibility. Residents are urged to apply for available relief payments. The financial assistance aims to support affected communities in rebuilding and recovering from Cyclone Alfred’s impact.

Published 13-Mar-2025