A 25-year-old Chermside man was apprehended following a high-speed pursuit through local streets last Friday night. The incident, which began shortly before 10 pm on August 23, involved a white Holden Colorado utility that had been reported stolen from a Banyo business on August 21.
Police first spotted the allegedly stolen vehicle speeding along Rode Road. The driver, attempting to evade capture, made a sharp left turn onto Sydney Street, continuing to drive dangerously through the suburb. The chase came to an end when the vehicle stopped at the Carseldine rail station carpark.
In a desperate attempt to escape, the sole occupant fled on foot, prompting a coordinated response from local police and the Dog Squad. Their efforts led them to a residence near Bellara Street, where the suspect was successfully apprehended.
The 25-year-old Chermside resident now faces multiple charges, including entering premises and committing an indictable offence, receiving tainted property, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and dangerous operation of a vehicle. He was remanded in custody and scheduled to appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court on August 26.
This incident highlights the ongoing issues of vehicle theft in the area and the swift response of local law enforcement. Residents of Chermside and surrounding suburbs are advised to remain vigilant and secure their vehicles properly.
As part of World Princess Week celebrations, Westfield and Disney are set to bring the “Spark Magic” event to Westfield Chermside, featuring storytelling sessions and interactive experiences with beloved Disney Princess characters.
Starting the 14th of September, Westfield Chermside will transform into a fairy-tale hub where young fans and families can enjoy an up-close experience with Disney’s Cinderella. The event promises several days of enchantment, with scheduled appearances of Cinderella on the 14th, 15th, 17th, 18th, and 19th of September.
This unique opportunity allows attendees to interact directly with one of Disney’s most iconic princesses, fostering a memorable connection between the characters and their admirers.
Community Engagement and Impact
The meet-and-greet sessions are designed to entertain and give back to the community. A booking fee of $5 per group is required, and all proceeds will go towards Make-A-Wish Australia.
This collaboration highlights Westfield’s commitment to community enrichment through exciting and meaningful events.
“We are thrilled to bring the magic of Disney Princesses to Chermside,” said Jacqui Waine, Westfield’s General Manager of Marketing and Community. “It’s a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories while supporting a fantastic cause.”
Event Details and Booking
Booking is essential for those wishing to meet Cinderella, ensuring an organized and enjoyable guest experience. Families interested in attending are encouraged to secure their spots early to avoid missing out on this special occasion.
To enhance the magical experience, Westfield Chermside has planned various activities around the Cinderella meet and greet. These include Disney Princess-inspired face painting, storytelling sessions, and craft activities such as wand-making and crown decorating.
Throughout the event, Westfield Chermside will also feature Spark Magic Stations, designed to enhance the enchanting atmosphere of the Disney Princess celebrations. These stations are crafted to provide a hands-on experience that allows children to engage creatively with the themes and characters they adore, making their visit to Westfield Chermside even more memorable and magical.
Dream Holiday Competition
In conjunction with the Disney Princess event, Westfield Chermside offers an extraordinary opportunity for attendees to win a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. This prize includes a one-night exclusive experience in the Cinderella Castle Suite, a dream come true for any Disney fan.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
The competition runs from the 12th of September until the 13th of October, with the winner announced on the 18th of October. This competition highlights the partnership between Westfield and Disney and provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience that promises to delight and amaze the lucky winners.
This Disney Princess event is part of a larger series of activities at Westfield locations across Australia, celebrating the magic and inspiration of Disney characters. Following the success of similar events centered around Star Wars and Marvel characters earlier this year, Westfield continues to provide exclusive entertainment experiences that attract families from all over the region.
Now in its seventh year, the programme acknowledges and celebrates the tireless dedication of individuals and organisations working to enhance their communities and the environment.
Each Westfield centre will grant $20,000 to the finalist receiving the most votes, while the remaining finalists will each receive a $5,000 grant to further their impactful work. This year, Westfield is set to award $AUD1.25 million in community grants across Australia and New Zealand.
Benjamin Bjarnesen, founder of the LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Foundation, addresses critical service gaps within LGBTQ+ communities. The foundation’s education and resources reached over 7.3 million people last year, fostering safer support systems. With the grant, Ben aims to expand the foundation’s e-learning package.
Bianca Campling, Baby Bundle Coordinator at A Brave Life, assists vulnerable new mothers facing challenges like domestic violence and homelessness. By providing essential baby items to over 1,500 mothers annually, Bianca empowers them to care for their newborns. The grant would enable Bianca to expand the Baby Bundle programme, reaching over 3,500 mothers annually.
Jodi Traves, CEO of Bridgecare Ltd, leads a team offering compassionate support to those in need. Bridgecare aids homeless individuals, provides weekly food hampers, and assists with household tasks. The grant would allow Jodi to bolster Bridgecare’s capacity to purchase and store food, including fresh and frozen items from OzHarvest.
Centre Manager Pietta Lacey encourages customers to take a moment to vote and acknowledge the finalists’ exceptional contributions. She highlighted that every vote counts and can significantly impact the positive change these individuals and organisations drive in the community.
Voting is open until Monday, September 9th, and the winners will be announced on Tuesday, 15 October. Thanks to Scentre Group’s generous support, the Westfield Local Heroes programme is more than just recognition; it’s an investment in the future of our communities.
A 39-year-old Chermside man allegedly attempted to flee the scene after his vehicle struck multiple cars and a light pole at a busy intersection in Chermside, causing injuries and prompting a police investigation.
The incident occurred on Saturday night at approximately 9:30 p.m. at the intersection of Gympie Road and Banfield Street in Brisbane’s north.
Details of the Crash
According to a Queensland Police Service spokesman, early investigations suggest a Holden Trax was travelling north on Gympie Road when it side-swiped three other vehicles before colliding with a light pole. The driver, a local Chermside resident, reportedly tried to flee the scene but was quickly found nearby by authorities.
The Queensland Ambulance Service attended the scene, assessing six people for injuries. The driver was taken to the Prince Charles Hospital in a stable condition with minor injuries. Additionally, a child involved in the crash was transported to the Queensland Children’s Hospital, also in a stable condition.
Ongoing Investigation
Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident. The police have not yet released information about potential charges or the cause of the crash.
The multi-vehicle collision has raised concerns among Chermside residents about road safety in the area. In the coming weeks, local community leaders are expected to discuss potential measures to improve traffic safety at the busy Gympie Road and Banfield Street intersection.
Located at 470 Rode Road, the proposed new structure, designed by Red Door Architecture, aims to enhance the club’s facilities while maintaining its current footprint and usage.
Photo credit: Red Door Architecture
The single-storey building, standing less than 6 metres tall, will feature an elongated design along the fence line, efficiently utilising the available space.
Key aspects of the development include:
Demolition of the existing clubhouse and associated buildings
Construction of a new, consolidated facility
Redesign of the car park, resulting in the loss of 4 parking spaces and some landscaping
Retention of existing netball courts
The BNA emphasises that this development is not intended to intensify land use or increase patronage. Instead, it focuses on improving facilities for existing members and visitors.
Photo credit: Red Door Architecture
Documents submitted to the Council state, “The proposed development does not involve an intensification of the current use on the site and will not result in an increase in people on site, as development is for the improvement of the existing BNA clubhouse only.”
Regarding parking concerns, the planners noted, “The proposal’s intent is to achieve no net loss of car parking.” This approach aims to balance the minor reduction in parking spaces with the improved facilities.
Site plan (Photo credit: Red Door Architecture)
The project will be funded through a State Government grant, underlining the importance of the BNA to the local community. The association offers year-round netball activities, catering to families with games on Tuesday and Wednesday nights in summer, and Wednesday nights and all-day Saturday during winter.
This development represents a significant step forward for the Brisbane Netball Association, promising to enhance the netball experience for players and spectators alike, while maintaining the club’s commitment to the local community.
As the plans progress through the Council approval process, local residents and netball enthusiasts will be eagerly anticipating the transformation of this popular sporting facility in Chermside.
A report published in 2021-2022 stated that 177,000 people were hospitalised with back problems.
Further research has found that the prevalence of chronic back pain increases with age, from less than 1% for people aged <14 to 27% for people aged 65-74.
The burden of back pain is higher for females than males, particularly for females aged 20-24 and 75 and over.
Most people with chronic back pain are of working age (15-64).
The Wellness Practice: Pioneering Holistic Health in Chermside
For over 25 years, The Wellness Practice by CHM has transformed lives by offering personalised, high-quality health and wellness services. From its humble beginnings as a single practice, The Wellness Practice by CHM has expanded into a trusted network across Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria, including a thriving location in Chermside, which opened in 2023.
Photo Credit: The Wellness Practice CHM
With its multidisciplinary approach and focus on innovation, the practice addresses a wide range of health challenges, including one of the nation’s most prevalent issues: chronic back pain.
A Comprehensive Approach to Chronic Pain
Dr Dana Mir Photo Credit: The Wellness Practice CHM
At The Wellness Practice by CHM, chronic back pain is one of the most common issues addressed by practitioners like Dana Mir, an Osteopath. The team takes a holistic approach to treatment, combining manual therapies, exercise programs, and patient education to deliver long-term relief.
Dana explains: “Back pain often results from underlying joint restrictions, muscle imbalances, or poor posture. We can create a tailored treatment plan by identifying the root cause through a detailed assessment. For many clients, this involves a combination of soft tissue therapy, joint mobilization, and exercises to improve core stability and restore balanced movement.”
Success Stories: From Pain to Recovery
One recent case involved a client who had been living with chronic lower back pain for years. Despite trying multiple treatments, they experienced limited relief. After seeking help at The Wellness Practice by CHM, a comprehensive assessment revealed muscle imbalances caused by prolonged sitting and poor posture.
Dana recalls: “Through targeted manual therapy and a personalized exercise program, the client not only regained full mobility but also reported being pain-free for the first time in years. These success stories drive our commitment to helping people live healthier lives.”
Migraines: A Widespread but Underestimated Challenge
Migraines, often misunderstood as “just a bad headache,” are a debilitating condition that affects approximately 4.9 million Australians annually, and can include nausea and visual disturbances. For many sufferers, the intensity and frequency of migraines can disrupt daily life, work, and relationships. Women are particularly affected, experiencing migraines at rates three times higher than men, primarily due to hormonal factors. Despite their prevalence, migraines are frequently underdiagnosed and inadequately treated, leaving millions to endure unnecessary suffering.
Photo Credit: Pixabay
How The Wellness Practice by CHM Treats Migraines
At The Wellness Practice by CHM, treating migraines starts with understanding their root cause. Many migraines are linked to musculoskeletal tension in the neck, jaw, or upper spine — areas that are thoroughly assessed during consultations. The team employs a combination of osteopathy, physiotherapy, and patient education to address these underlying issues.
Dana explains: “Through targeted manual techniques, we work to release tension in the neck, jaw, and upper back, which can significantly reduce both the frequency and severity of migraine attacks. Our approach also includes educating patients on postural habits and lifestyle adjustments to prevent triggers.”
This holistic approach alleviates symptoms and empowers patients to manage their condition effectively. Success stories abound, with clients reporting fewer attacks and returning to their routines after individualized care at The Wellness Practice by CHM.
Conditions The Osteopaths Can Help With
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Health
In addition to chronic back pain and migraines, The Wellness Practice by CHM’s busiest services—psychology, physiotherapy, and osteopathy—address a range of health concerns. Common conditions include migraines, sports injuries, jaw dysfunction, and sciatica. The Chermside location exemplifies the practice’s mission to offer holistic, multidisciplinary care under one roof.
Psychology services, for example, support individuals dealing with the mental health challenges that often accompany chronic pain. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, nearly 13% of adults reported high or very high psychological distress in 2020-2021, a statistic closely linked to physical health issues like back pain.
The Wellness Practice by CHM is about treatment, prevention, and education. It offers corporate wellness programs, on-site skin checks, and health coaching, emphasizing proactive care. By addressing physical and mental health, the practice empowers clients to take control of their well-being.
With chronic back pain and other health challenges rising, The Wellness Practice by CHM remains committed to innovation and inclusivity. The Chermside location stands as a testament to the practice’s mission: to deliver accessible, high-quality care that improves lives.
In the spirit of community and charity, Stacey Ward-Miles, a Moreton Bay mum and Australian Federal Police officer, will brave the icy waters of the Chermside Aquatic Centreas part of the Polar Plunge 2024.
Ward-Miles, also the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) treasurer for Special Olympics Queensland, will take the plunge in her AFP uniform to raise funds for Special Olympics.
The event, known as the Polar Plunge, invites participants to jump or slide into a chilly outdoor pool to raise money for this worthy cause. While Ward-Miles will be joined by fellow AFP colleagues and law enforcement personnel, she encourages everyone to participate, stating that “jumping into cold water is all it takes.
This year marks the first nationwide Polar Plunge event, held on the same weekend across Australia. Organised by LETR, the largest grassroots fundraiser for Special Olympics, the challenge aims to raise awareness and funds for the organisation, which promotes inclusion and enhances the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities through sport.
Special Olympics Australia CEO Pierre Comis highlights the importance of LETR’s fundraising efforts and the optimistic impact law enforcement officers have as inclusion champions. The partnership is seen as a win-win for everyone involved.
Registration is $25 or $10 for Special Olympians to participate. Participants are further incentivised to raise funds with exclusive merchandise rewards. Those raising $75 receive a beanie, and the first 200 also receive a limited-edition t-shirt. Raising $175 earns participants a hoodie as well.
The Brisbane Polar Plunge starts at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, 4 August, at Chermside Aquatic Centre. Interested individuals can register to participate or donate to a participant or team through the provided link.
Chermside West is set to significantly expand its aged care facilities as retirement living developer Tricare proposes substantial modifications to its existing Stafford Lakes Retirement Community.
The proposed changes, submitted to the Brisbane City Council, aim to cater to the growing demand for senior living options in the area and align with the council’s ambitious target to increase such housing by 50 per cent before 2027.
The existing community, located at 642 and 682 Rode Road, received initial approval in 2019 for a six-storey building with 44 assisted living units. However, following a design review considering evolving industry trends towards ‘ageing in place’ and ‘continuum of care’, Tricare plans to add six assisted living units in Building 10. This expansion will necessitate a minor increase in the building’s footprint and envelope while remaining within the approved height and setback restrictions.
In their development application (DA A006559474) , Tricare asserted that the proposal “continues to present a compatible built form outcome by way of bulk, scale, and appearance to the current approval.” With nine retirement communities and 17 residential aged-care facilities across Australia, Tricare boasts extensive experience in the sector. The Stafford Lakes community, nearing completion, has already seen the submission of Stage 5 and a proposal for an additional building in 2018.
The site’s strategic location, close to the Rode Shopping Centre, Westfield Chermside, and the Prince Charles and Holy Spirit Northside Hospitals, further enhances its appeal. As Brisbane’s ageing population continues to grow, the expansion of Tricare’s Chermside West facility promises to provide much-needed accommodation and care options for the city’s seniors.
Since its establishment in 1994, Chermside Early Education Centre has built strong relationships with families in the local community, providing a nurturing environment for young minds to explore, learn, and grow.
Centre Director Angela Robertson expressed pride in the centre’s history, stating, “This milestone is not just about the years we have been in operation but the relationships and trust we’ve built with families in our local community.”
Photo Credit: Supplied
Innovative Programs and Curriculum
The centre’s comprehensive curriculum fosters cognitive, social, and emotional development, ensuring each child receives the personalised attention they need to thrive. Programs such as Bush Kindy, Healthy Bodies, and Grandfriends have fostered confident, considerate, and compassionate young minds.
“Our experienced and passionate educators create a positive and enriching learning atmosphere where every child feels valued and supported,” Ms Robertson noted.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Photo Credit: Supplied
Over the years, Chermside Early Education Centre has adjusted to meet the changing needs of the community by embracing innovative teaching methods and utilizing valuable resources. This dedication to excellence guarantees that children receive a top-notch education, preparing them for future academic and life challenges.
“We have consistently adapted to the evolving needs of our community, embracing innovative teaching methods and resources,” Ms Robertson said.
Photo Credit: Supplied
Commitment to Excellence
This 30-year milestone is evidence of the center’s long-standing dedication to providing outstanding early childhood education and care. Ms Robertson expressed gratitude for the community’s trust and support.
“We are grateful for the trust and support of our community, and we look forward to continuing to build a stronger, more vibrant Chermside together.”
Photo Credit: Supplied
About QCCS
Chermside Early Education Centre is part of a network of 24 childcare centres across South-East Queensland under Queensland Childcare Services (QCCS), which is committed to providing safe, inclusive, and stimulating early learning environments where children can thrive and grow at their own pace.
The 30th-anniversary event, held on Saturday, 22 June from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., invited local parents and children to explore the centre’s comprehensive programs and classrooms. It allowed families to discover a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for their young ones.
ANA Architects designed an ambitious project, proposing a towering residential development with sixty-two units that promises to redefine urban living in the area. Located adjacent to the bustling Chermside Shopping Centre, this new development will occupy the site currently home to three single dwellings, which are slated for demolition.
62 dwelling units comprising 40 three-bedroom units, 20 four-bedroom units, and 2 luxurious five-bedroom penthouse units.
A total Gross Floor Area (GFA) of 9,130.4 square metres.
Site coverage of 1,435 square metres, accounting for 75% of the total site area.
Generous communal open spaces, including a rooftop garden and a health and wellness centre on the ground floor.
In terms of amenities, the development will provide extensive facilities aimed at enhancing the residents’ quality of life. These include a gym, deep planting areas, and significant landscaping totalling 750 square metres, which equates to 39.5% of the site.
Parking will be plentiful, with 162 car parking spaces planned, of which 146 will be designated for residents and 16 for visitors. Additionally, the development will feature 284 bicycle parking spaces, ensuring ample provision for both residents and guests.
The planners at Be Spoke P&D highlight the strategic location of the development, leveraging its proximity to key regional activity centres like Prince Charles Hospital and Chermside Shopping Centre. The area’s rich array of employment, cultural, entertainment, retail, and service opportunities make it an attractive location for this development.
The inclusion of a variety of larger dwelling units—three, four, and five-bedroom options—aims to attract a diverse range of families and individuals. This mix is intended to provide an alternative to traditional detached or semi-detached homes, promoting a low-maintenance lifestyle within high-quality, spacious units.
The development is designed with an emphasis on delivering generous private and communal open spaces, ensuring residents can enjoy both the privacy of their homes and the benefits of shared recreational areas. The rooftop communal space is particularly notable, offering a unique vantage point over the Chermside area.
