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$55-Million Chermside Health Hub Opens Doors, Easing Pressure on Northside Hospitals

Photo Credit: Google Map/ Chermside Health Hub

Chermside welcomes a new era in healthcare with the opening of the $55 million Chermside Health Hub, a state-of-the-art facility designed to alleviate the burden on Brisbane’s northside hospitals.

Developed by Cornerstone Group, this expansive 5,500-sqm hub is already 75 percent leased, promising a comprehensive range of medical and allied health services to the community.

The hospital’s diverse offerings include general practitioners, specialists spanning vascular surgery, orthopaedics, cardiology, obesity management, rehabilitation, pathology, and radiology.

Patients can also access dental care, optometry, neurological physiotherapy, psychology, and a bariatric clinic. The building is designed for adaptability, featuring various medical suites and the capacity for future operating theatres.

Cornerstone Group director Simon Heazlewood expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating that their aim is to deliver integrated, efficient, and accessible care that addresses both primary and specialised healthcare needs within the community. He emphasised the importance of ensuring a smooth process for individuals seeking treatment.

Patient Lily Turner praised the hub’s convenient location and ample parking, highlighting the ease of transitioning between seeing her GP, getting bloodwork done, and consulting with a specialist.

The Chermside Health Hub aims to cater to the diverse healthcare needs of the community while reducing the strain on local hospital services. It offers residents an alternative to emergency departments for non-urgent but comprehensive care, operating seven days a week with extended hours on weekdays.

*Photo Credit: Google Map/ Chermside Health Hub*

The hub boasts a team of experienced doctors with diverse specialisations, including general practitioners with interests in chronic disease management, paediatrics, mental health, women’s health, dermatology, and travel medicine. The team also includes specialists in skin cancer, cosmetic medicine, sports medicine, and women’s health.

With its focus on integrated care, convenient location, and extensive range of services, the Chermside Health Hub is poised to make a significant contribution to the health and wellbeing of the local community.

Published Date 16-May-2024

Seven Teens Charged in Alleged Carjacking Incident

Photo Credit: myPolice Queensland Police News

Seven teens have been arrested and charged following an alleged carjacking and stolen vehicle incident in Chermside early Friday morning, May 10, 2024.

According to Queensland Police, the incident began shortly after midnight when a group of seven people approached a ride share driver parked near a fast-food restaurant on Hamilton Road.

The driver was able to exit the vehicle and enter the restaurant, where the group followed, and an altercation ensued involving restaurant staff attempting to aid the driver.

The group then approached a second ride share driver in the parking lot, stole his keys, and drove off in his vehicle, injuring both drivers and two staff members in the process.

After tracking the stolen vehicle through several Brisbane suburbs, police successfully deployed a tyre deflation device in Goodna around 1:40 am, bringing the car to a stop and allowing officers to take all seven into custody.

Charged in the incident are:

A 15-year-old girl from Chermside West was charged with armed robbery, attempted robbery, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and two counts of assault. She was denied bail and is due in Brisbane Children’s Court today, May 10, 2024.
Six other teens between ages 13 and 15 from suburbs across Brisbane were charged with armed robbery in company, attempted robbery, unlawful use of a motor vehicle, and two counts of common assault. They are due in Children’s Court on May 17.

The alleged offences are sure to raise further concerns about a recent spate of car thefts and youth crimes across the Brisbane region.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24 hours per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

Quote this reference number: QP2400793185

Published 10-May-2024

High-Density Housing Planned for Playfield Street in Chermside

Did you know that a high-density residential project could soon rise on Playfield Street, situated just outside Chermside’s major shopping district, near the Chermside Shopping Centre and the Prince Charles Hospital?

Read: Residents Warned: Multi-Residential Carparks Targeted by Thieves in Chermside

The proposed development at 8-12 Playfield Street calls for demolishing the existing detached housing on the 1,890 square metre site and constructing a 12-level apartment building in its place.

The apartment tower, designed by ANA Architects, would contain a total of 62 dwellings including 40 three-bedroom units, 20 four-bedroom units, and two luxurious five-bedroom penthouses.

With a site coverage of 75 percent for the ground floor and 65 percent for the tower levels, the complex provides 151 total parking spaces – 135 for residents and 16 visitor spots.

According to the planning documents, the development aims “to cater for a range of lifestyles (including larger families) and provide apartment living options within proximity to the Chermside Shopping Centre, the Prince Charles Hospital and public transport.”

The mix of larger three, four and five-bedroom units targets residents accustomed to freestanding homes who desire more spacious apartment living.

The developer touts the project’s “contemporary layout” with “a well-articulated and visually appealing design” that “responds proactively to the shape of the site, delivering a coherent and functional built form that addresses the primary street frontage appropriately.”

The planning documents state the development will help “diversify the local workforce in accordance with the Neighbourhood Plan” by offering larger units suitable for families. Careful consideration was given to addressing site constraints like overland flow, allowing the design to comply with flood regulations regarding “immunity, safety, hydraulic impacts and resilience.”

Read: Affordable and Social Housing Project Underway in Chermside

If approved, the 8-12 Playfield Street apartments would introduce a sizable new high-density housing option on the doorstep of Chermside’s major retail and healthcare hubs. The project looks to meet the area’s need for more diverse residential products catering to larger households and multi-generational living.

Published 10-May-2024

Guide Dogs’ Nationwide Fundraiser Launched in Coles Chermside

Coles has launched a new campaign for Guide Dogs at its Chermside location, an initiative that has since been rolled out across all Coles supermarkets nationwide. The fundraising drive aims to provide support to Australians affected by low vision or blindness through the work of Guide Dogs.

Read: Chermside Lass Appeals for Gift of Dignity, Choice and Independence for People With Disabilities

Funds raised will help support the work of Guide Dogs across Australia, to support people like retired Occupational Therapist Anne-Marie Caulton from the Gold Coast.

Anne-Marie, who was diagnosed with slow degenerative vision loss at the age of just nine, said having Guide Dog Jerry by her side has given her freedom and independence to thrive and navigate the world around her.

Anne-Marie and guide dog Jerry (Photo supplied)

“I’ve been a Guide Dog Handler for approximately 16 years and Jerry is my third Guide Dog. With him by my side, I can continue my independence and life a life of my choosing. He gives me confidence to explore new places and navigate my day-to-day,” she said.

Coles will donate 5 cents to Guide Dogs when customers purchase a dog food product in-store and on Coles Online (excluding pet accessories and treatments and to a maximum of $300,000) until May 21.

In addition to purchasing a participating dog food product at Coles during the campaign, customers can also support Guide Dogs by ‘feeding’ a Donation Dog with loose change at Coles supermarkets or selected Liquorland and First Choice Liquor Market stores year-round.

Coles Group Head of Culture & Inclusion Katie Wyatt said Coles is delighted to expand its support for Guide Dogs through the new fundraiser. “Together with our customers, Coles has already raised more than $14 million over 40 years…We hope this new campaign will raise further funds and awareness.”

Read: No More Sweet Treats: Cowch Closes After Trying Times

The money raised from Coles Chermside and other stores will allow Guide Dogs to provide their full range of services, from breeding and training Guide Dogs to other inclusive programs supporting independence.

Published 3-May-2024

Laughing Through Pain at Chermside Hospital: How David ‘Dagwood’ Bissell Battles Hardships

In a hospital bed at the Prince Charles Hospital in Chermside, David “Dagwood” Bissell is waging war against a relentless enemy – his own body. Yet, even as he confronts a multitude of life-threatening conditions, including cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, heart problems, and cancer, this beloved Brisbane clown soldiers on with grace, humour, and hope.

Read: Physiotherapy Expert Makes a Difference in Chermside Women’s Health

Since being admitted in March for his approximately 175th hospital stay, he has chronicled his harrowing health journey through a series of hilarious yet heart-wrenching Facebook posts.

His daily updates, interspersed with witty one-liners and outrageous photoshopped images, have struck a chord with hundreds, offering an inspiring glimpse into the life of a man who refuses to let his circumstances dim his shine.

“When five of your organs are only working at less than 10 percent, it makes life hard,” he wrote candidly. Yet, his indomitable spirit shines through as he adds, “I’m not sure where my strength comes from or why it keeps showing up when I need it the most.”

Born in 1973 with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder that clogs the lungs and digestive system, he and his identical twin Peter “Peebo” Bissell turned to clowning as an escape from the many years spent in hospital wards as children. Their delightful antics brought smiles to countless faces over the decades, but their jovial partnership was tragically cut short when Peebo succumbed to the disease in 2020.

Now, as Dagwood battles a perfect storm of ailments, including a staggering 28 daily medications, gruelling dialysis sessions up to three times a week, and a litany of invasive procedures, his social media diary has become a beacon of hope for those facing their own struggles.

“Life equals hope,” he declares, his words a rallying cry for all to find strength in the darkest of times.

Read: Unsung ANZAC Hero in Chermside: Malvene Dicker and Her Secret Role in the Vietnam War

With each audacious post – from rocking outrageous nail polish to donning a ridiculously photoshopped mullet – Dagwood reminds us that even in the depths of hardship, laughter can be potent medicine. And as he urges his followers to be “not just tough but Dagwood tough,” this indomitable clown’s fight takes on a deeper significance, reminding us all of the resilience of the human spirit.

Published 2-May-2024

Rare Satin Flycatcher Sighted at Chermside Hills Reserve

Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts were thrilled by a rare sighting of the stunning Satin Flycatcher at Chermside Hills Reserve.

On the 24th of April 2024, the bird was observed in the Chermside Hills Reserve, a natural haven that provides lush, serene landscapes within the Brisbane region. Spanning an area of diverse vegetation, the reserve is a hotspot for avian diversity, making it a favourite destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With its peaceful walking trails and varied landscapes, the reserve creates the ideal conditions for spotting a wide range of native birds.

A special sighting at the reserve, the Satin Flycatcher (Myiagra cyanoleuca) stands out for its glossy black and deep blue feathers. Males boast a striking appearance with glossy plumage, whilst females exhibit a more subdued brownish-grey colouration. The bird’s buff fringed wing coverts and secondary feathers give it a unique look that distinguishes it from other flycatchers.

Historically, sightings of Satin Flycatchers in Brisbane have been infrequent, making each sighting a special event for birdwatchers. Satin Flycatchers are rarely sighted for several reasons:

Elusive Behavior: Satin Flycatchers are known for their elusive nature. They prefer densely forested habitats where they can easily blend in with their surroundings, making them challenging to spot, even in areas where they may be present.

Habitat Preferences: These birds primarily inhabit forests, woodlands, and wetlands, often in remote or less accessible areas. As a result, their preferred habitats may overlap somewhat with areas frequented by humans, reducing the likelihood of encounters.

Migration Patterns: Satin Flycatchers are migratory birds, moving between different regions in response to seasonal changes. During migration, they may pass through specific areas, including Brisbane, but their presence is temporary and may not coincide with peak birdwatching times.

Population Size: Satin Flycatchers have relatively small populations compared to more common bird species. Their limited numbers further contribute to their rarity and the infrequency of sightings.

Conservation Status: While not currently considered threatened, Satin Flycatchers may face habitat loss and degradation, which could impact their population numbers and distribution. Conservation efforts to protect their habitats could also contribute to their rarity in certain areas.

Chermside Hills Reserve is home to more than just the Satin Flycatcher. It hosts various bird species that contribute to the vibrant ecosystem. Visitors may spot Laughing Kookaburras with their distinctive calls, Rainbow Lorikeets that bring splashes of vibrant colour, and the ubiquitous Noisy Miner, known for its loud chatter. The Torresian Crow, a notable local species, also adds to the natural chorus that birdwatchers enjoy.

Beyond these, the reserve provides habitats for various honeyeaters, fairywrens, and butcherbirds, each bringing unique beauty and song to the area.

Here are the bird species that have been sighted at Chermside Hills Reserve:

Bird Species	Number Observed	Details
Little Pied Cormorant	1
Whistling Kite	1	Flew over
Laughing Kookaburra	3
Rainbow Bee-eater	3
Rainbow Lorikeet	6
Variegated Fairywren	2
Noisy Miner	7
Blue-faced Honeyeater	3
Striated Pardalote	7
Black-faced Cuckooshrike	5
Golden Whistler	3
Rufous Whistler	3
Gray Butcherbird	1	Heard
Pied Butcherbird	4
Australian Magpie	3
Pied Currawong	1
Gray Fantail	5
Satin Flycatcher	1	Buff fringed wing coverts and secondaries. Also heard it call.
Torresian Crow	5
Welcome Swallow	1
Silvereye	5

Data from Ebird.Org

Published 2-May-2024

Chermside Man Wins Big in National Draw

A Chermside resident is celebrating a windfall of $200,000 after winning in a recent national draw.

The man, who works from home, discovered his good fortune on Thursday, the 4th of April, and was understandably ecstatic.

Officials contacted the winner after the draw, and his reaction was one of pure surprise.

“Wow! That’s fantastic!” he exclaimed. Working remotely proved fortuitous, as he admitted he wouldn’t have been able to contain his excitement in the office.

Sharing his good news with his partner was a priority. He playfully acknowledged her history of good luck, hoping it had finally rubbed off on him.

Plans are already brewing for the newfound wealth. Investment is a key part of the strategy, with the ultimate goal of homeownership. A celebratory dinner, complete with indulging in some luxuries, is also on the agenda.

Published Date 01-May-2024

Unsung ANZAC Hero in Chermside: Malvene Dicker and Her Secret Role in the Vietnam War

Malvene Dicker (nee Cornwell), an 80-year-old former Australian Women’s Air Force teleprinter operator and Chermside West resident, had a vital and top-secret role during the Vietnam War.

Stationed in the Lower Blue Mountains, Ms Dicker spent about eight months handling sensitive communications from Australian forces in Vietnam. Her work involved processing critical information, ranging from battle strategies to air strike plans, disseminated across Australia’s military network.

This crucial role was bound by strict secrecy, with severe penalties for any breach.

Women as Teleprinter Operators During the War

In 1941, due to shortages in RAAF ground staff, women were recruited as wireless and teleprinter operators. The Women’s Auxiliary Australian Air Force (WAAAF) was formed to address this issue. The War Cabinet had been considering this since July 1940, but approval was only granted on February 4, 1941, with the Advisory War Council concurring the following day.

Due to legal uncertainties, women were recruited as auxiliaries on renewable 12-month terms under the Air Force Act. This decision soon prompted other armed services to establish similar women’s units. By October 1944, the WAAAF had expanded to a peak strength of 18,664.

The WAAAF was disbanded in 1947 after World War II. Its role was taken over by the Women’s Royal Australian Air Force (WRAAF), which was established in 1950. The WRAAF continued in operation during the Vietnam War era.

Malven Dicker of the Women's Royal Australian Air Force — **Back row L-R:** Richard (Dick) Pick, Jack Spratt, Howard Marsh, Andrew (Shorty) Dearman, Barry Kirwin, Dennis Henstridge, Bob Snedden.
**Front Row L-R:** Yvonne (Yogi) Yow Yew, Joan Madson, Betty Harding, Pattie Stout, Carole Martin, Malvene Cornwell, Jenny Finn.
Photo Credit: Radschool.Org

During the Vietnam War, members of the WRAAF were not deployed to Vietnam, but they played critical roles within Australia and at overseas bases where Australian forces were stationed, such as in Malaysia and Singapore. Their contributions included clerical, administrative, and support roles, which were essential to the operations of the Royal Australian Air Force during this period.

Malvene Dicker, Post-Service

Despite the high stakes of her military role, Dicker viewed her contributions as part of a broader effort, a mere cog in the expansive machinery of war.

Born in Toowoomba a day after the D-Day landing in 1944, the path taken by Malvene Dicker seemed aligned with military service from an early age. Initially working as a copy girl for Brisbane’s Courier Mail, her career took a decisive turn when she joined the Royal Australian Air Force in 1962, training as a teleprint officer at Signals.

Post-service, her engagement with a fellow serviceman, who returned profoundly changed from Vietnam, led to a cancelled marriage.

Malven Dicker Chermside West — *Photo Credit: Radschool.Org*

Dicker then pursued a career as an air hostess, eventually settling down to raise a family that includes two daughters and six grandchildren.

Now residing at the TriCare aged care facility, Dicker reflects on her service with a mixture of pride and disillusionment regarding the Vietnam War, which she regards as a futile conflict. Yet, nearly six decades later, she holds no fear of retribution for her once-classified work, even as she steps back from the physical demands of the Anzac Day march.

Her life is a tribute to the many Australians whose quiet contributions underpinned historical conflicts with service and sacrifice.

Published 22-April-2024

Westfield Chermside Hosts Unprecedented Star Wars Fan Experiences

Westfield and Disney have joined forces to transport Star Wars fans at Westfield Chermside into the heart of the galaxy with a series of immersive and interactive experiences, marking a stellar celebration of the iconic franchise in Australia and New Zealand.

This collaborative campaign introduces “A Star Wars Experience,” created exclusively for Westfield, alongside large-scale May the Fourth fan celebrations, aiming to connect fans with the beloved saga in the most authentic ways possible.

A Portal to the Galaxy

Running from 15 April to 9 May 2024, “A Star Wars Experience” at Westfield Chermside offers an immersive tour of the planet Batuu, as seen at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort, California.

This exclusive event invites fans to explore a remote outpost on the galaxy’s edge, further deepening their connection to the Star Wars universe.

Additionally, thanks to a partnership between Westfield, Disney, and Flight Centre, visitors can enter a competition to win one of 10 family vacations to the amusement park in California.

Westfield Chermside Star Wars Experience — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Competition Details

Westfield Members can enter to win 1 of 10 family holidays to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort in California thanks to Westfield, Disney and Flight Centre.

Entries open 28 March to 24 April inclusive, with winners announced on 4 May 2024.

Competition Conditions apply, see www.westfield.com.au/terms-and-conditions.  NSW/ACT/WA/QLD/SA & VIC res 16+ only.

Must be a Westfield member with access to the Westfield App. Ends: 29 April, 2024. Max 1 entry permitted p/person p/day p/centre (max 5 entries per day). Draw: 3 Amy Cl Wyong NSW 2259 at 12pm (noon) AEST on 2/5/24. Winners’ names published in the App on 4/5/24.

Spark Stations and More

To combat school holiday boredom, Westfield Chermside and other centres have introduced “Spark Stations,” featuring Star Wars-inspired activities to entertain families and fans, ensuring the Force is strong with visitors of all ages:

Balloon bending to create iconic characters, spaceships and lightsabers
Arts and crafts activities
Face painting of iconic Star Wars characters
And more surprise and delight moments

A Universe of Excitement

Jacqui Waine, Westfield’s General Manager of Marketing and Community, and Tim Everett, Vice President and General Manager of Consumer Products at The Walt Disney Company Australia & New Zealand, expressed their thrill at bringing such a rich tapestry of Star Wars experiences to fans.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing a slice of the Star Wars universe to Westfield destinations with ‘Spark Excitement,’” Ms Waine said. “Through our unique collaboration with Disney, we’re proud to offer experiences for fans and customers of all ages to celebrate the Star Wars universe. It’s going to be a fantastic couple of months, and we know our customers are going to love it.”

“We are so thrilled to continue our collaboration with Westfield, sparking excitement, adventure and bringing the Disney magic to their customers and our fans throughout 2024,” Mr Everett said.

This collaboration is just the beginning. Plans to “Spark Joy in the Everyday at Westfield” throughout 2024 are underway, also celebrating Marvel (“Spark Adventure”) and Disney Princess (“Spark Magic”) franchises.

Published 11-April-2024

Residents Warned: Multi-Residential Carparks Targeted by Thieves in Chermside

Police have identified multi-residential complexes in Chermside and Hamilton as prime targets for theft. Numerous reports of stolen property from storage cages and vehicles, primarily occurring overnight, underscore an escalating concern.

Rash of Break-ins

The latest breach occurred overnight on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, when thieves infiltrated an underground car park on Kittyhawk Street, Chermside. Several storage cages were emptied of their contents in a brazen act of theft

Similarly, on the night of Friday, March 29, intruders broke into a car park on Harbour Road, Hamilton, and stole tools and clothing from a parked vehicle. Chermside saw additional offences that night, with two separate unit complexes on Curwen Terrace reporting break-ins and thefts.

Alarming Crime Statistics

From January 8 to April 7, 2024, Chermside has witnessed a staggering 731 offences, with 78 cases of unlawful entry and 354 instances of other thefts. This category encompasses property theft without force or unlawful entry, revealing a concerning pattern of criminal behaviour in the area.

Chermside Unlawful Entry — *Photo Credit: QPS*

Authorities urge residents to adopt stringent security measures and maintain vigilance. Key recommendations include establishing robust personal security routines, liaising closely with building management, ensuring familiarity with building evacuation and safety protocols, and employing physical security enhancements such as quality door and window locks.

Chermside theft cluster — Theft clusters
Photo Credit: QPS

Residents are also advised to minimise the storage of valuables in accessible areas, secure bicycles and motorcycles effectively, and exercise caution with car security, including the use of anti-theft screws for registration plates.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

Residents who have information regarding these incidents are encouraged to contact Policelink by using the online suspicious activity form available 24 hours a day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. To report crime information anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers by calling 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. Please quote the reference numbers QP2400579472, QP2400553992, QP2400556990, or QP2400562298 when providing information.

Published 8-April-2024